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Category Posts : Local News

Grape Escape Cycling Event Is Planned for Elizabethtown

By Erin Smith The town of Elizabethtown is gearing up to welcome cycling enthusiasts, for the inaugural Grape Escape Metric Half Century and Metric Century cycling event, planned for Sunday, August 26th. Registration begins at 11 AM at Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery and costs $45 to enter. The ride begins at 1 PM. Town Manager, Eddie Madden, said the bike ride is a fundraiser for the Town of Elizabethtown Grape Escape Scholarship at Bladen Community College. All the funds raised during the event will be put towards endowing the scholarship for Bladen County students. Madden stressed this event is not a race, but rather an event where cyclists can …..

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NCDA&CS declares sweet potato weevil quarantine for  Berkeley and Jasper counties in South Carolina

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has established Berkeley and Jasper counties in South Carolina as quarantine areas for the sweet potato weevil after the highly destructive pest was trapped on wild morning glory by South Carolina regulatory officials. The quarantine is effective immediately. Under the quarantine, the movement of certain sweet potato-related articles from Berkeley and Jasper counties in South Carolina is prohibited or regulated. This includes sweet potato roots, potatoes and plants including ornamental sweet potato plants, sweet potato vines, and vines or roots of other plants belonging to the morning glory family. Sweet potato weevils are generally considered the most serious threat …..

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations Eye Raleigh for Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force

RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announced today that his Office is “proud to partner with Homeland Security Investigations and other top-tier law enforcement agencies to pursue benefit fraud investigations and prosecutions. Immigration fraud is a significant national problem, and we need to address it with all available resources.” Established in April 2006, these task forces, known as DBFTFs focus their efforts on detecting, deterring and disrupting both benefit fraud and document fraud. Investigators from a variety of agencies with expertise in different aspects of document and benefit fraud collaborate with U.S. Attorney’s Offices around the country to formulate a …..

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North Carolina’s July Employment Figures Released 

RALEIGH — The state’s seasonally adjusted July unemployment rate was 4.1 percent, decreasing 0.1 of a percentage point from June’s revised rate.  The national rate decreased 0.1 of a percentage point to 3.9 percent. North Carolina’s July 2018 unemployment rate decreased 0.3 of a percentage point from a year ago.  The number of people employed increased 13,077 over the month to 4,800,661 and increased 70,096 over the year. The number of people unemployed decreased 6,170 over the month to 203,407 and decreased 13,678 over the year. Seasonally adjusted Total Nonfarm industry employment, as gathered through the monthly establishment survey, increased 10,400 to 4,528,900 in July. The major industries with the …..

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Justice Department, DEA Propose Significant Opioid Manufacturing Reduction in 2019

WASHINGTON — The Department of Justice and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have proposed a reduction for controlled substances that may be manufactured in the U.S. next year. Consistent with President Trump’s “Safe Prescribing Plan” that seeks to “cut nationwide opioid prescription fills by one-third within three years,” the proposal decreases manufacturing quotas for the most six frequently misused opioids for 2019 by an average ten percent as compared to the 2018 amount. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) marks the third straight year of proposed reductions, which help reduce the amount of drugs potentially diverted for trafficking and used to facilitate addiction. On July 11, 2018, the Justice Department …..

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Small Business Incubator Project Nearing Completion

By Erin Smith A new small business incubator in downtown Elizabethtown is entering the final stages of construction after more than two years of setbacks. Bladen County Economic Development Director, Chuck Heustess, said the new windows are being installed in the building this week. He said the project experienced delays due to asbestos removal, Hurricane Matthew, the remodeling of the building’s rear entrance to make it compliant with the American’s with Disabilities Act and the project’s original architect, Chris Adams, closed his firm. With the closure of Adams’ architecture firm, the work was stopped until a new architect could be hired. The building, which will house the small business incubator, …..

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Bladenboro Town Hall

Bladenboro Town Board Discusses Future Poultry Processing

By Erin Smith The Bladenboro Town Board met on Monday and discussed the possibility of another poultry processing company locating at the Bladenboro Industrial Park. Town Administrator, John O’Daniel, said the company, which was not named, has requested the town to review its sewer capacity to see if it will support another industry being added. Currently, the town is permitted by the State of North Carolina to discharge 500,000 gallons of wastewater per day. O’Daniel said the amount of water discharged by the town each day fluctuates based on whether or not Carroll Poultry is operating. “We’re looking back at our data and flow information,” said O’Daniel. He said currently, …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for August 17

It’s back to school and off to school for youngsters.  For the most part, the youngsters are excited, anxious to move to the next level of their life.  For those headed off to college, another huge step to adulthood.  For mom and dad, tough.  Mom will shed a few tears and dad may need a few minutes alone. A reminder of the Back 2 School Blast, Saturday (tomorrow) 10 AM to 3 PM at Cape Fear Farmers Market in Elizabethtown.  Free haircuts, free school supplies, free health screenings, free uniform exchange and free hot dogs.  For more information, the numbers to call are 919-606-6350 or 910-862-2066. Then on Sunday, Smithfield Foods and Foundation Bible Church are sponsoring a Back2School Bash.  …..

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Fantastic Shakers draw a crowd

By Erin Smith The Fantastic Shakers drew a crowd for the final concert of the Sunset Jams “Alive After Five” Concert series of the summer. The concert series is sponsored by the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Southeastern Health. The Fantastic Shakers entertained the crowd with such favorites as “Hold Back the Night,” “Lady Soul” and “Cupid Shuffle.” The crowd enjoyed shagging and line dancing. Chamber Executive Director Dawn Maynard said a new item for the final Sunset Jams concert was the inclusion of a screen on the stage that broadcasts the logos of all of the Gold, Silver, and Bronze level sponsors who have helped make concerts …..

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County Residents

By Dora Brogdon This weekend promises to be a busy one for Bladen County residents. Tonight, (Thursday, August 16) beginning at 6 p.m. the final Sunset Jams Concert Series will be at Goldston’s Beach. The band that will be performing are called The Fantastic Shakers. The event is sponsored by the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Southeastern Health. The concert will continue whether it’s rain or shine and admission is free. On Saturday, there will be a Back to School Blast from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Cape Fear Farmers Market in Elizabethtown. The event will help parents to obtain the many items a student needs like: school supplies, free haircuts, …..

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Ribbon cutting held for Bladenboro business

By Erin Smith A ribbon cutting was held on Thursday morning at Down East Pest Control in Bladenboro. The well attended event included a barbecue lunch and free cups, fly swatters and other items. Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dawn Maynard welcomed the company to the town and also welcomed them as a new Chamber member. Down East Pest Control is owned by Jeremy Dowless. He was joined by his family and members of the community for the ribbon cutting. He thanked everyone in attendance for their support. “I want to thank everyone for coming out in support of our business. Our number one goal is to …..

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Southeastern Medial Center

Saturday Morning Injury Clinic begins Saturday, Aug. 19

Southeastern Orthopedics and Southeastern Health’s Athletic Training Department are offering Saturday Morning Injury Clinic for student athletes beginning Saturday, Aug. 19 and continuing through November. The Injury Clinic will be held at the Southeastern Health Mall Clinic located at 2934 N. Elm Street on the campus of Biggs Park Mall in Lumberton. Athletes are asked to arrive at the clinic at 8 a.m. and may contact their school athletic trainer for more information. Share:

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NC DOT issues updated road closing

Faye Boyne, NC DOT The North Carolina Department of Transportation has issued an updated listing of road openings in Bladen County. The listing is as follows:   OPENINGS: Chicken Foot Road Chicken Foot Road remains closed and will open Thursday, August 16, by 5 pm. It was closed .019Mi. S. of SR1005   Center Road Center Road is open. Road was closed for bridge construction and miscellaneous roadway work. It is open.   UPCOMING CLOSINGS: Chicken Foot Road Chicken Foot Road will close Monday, August 20, at 8:00 am through Friday, August 24 at 5:00 pm. This is closed for crossline repair. It is closed ¾ Mi. S. of  NC20   ELWELL FERRY:   …..

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Bladen County Schools to conduct Open House 

Bladen County Schools will have Open House on Thursday, August 23, from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. Check the schedule below for Open House times for your child’s school. The Open House times are as follows: Bladen Lakes Primary will have Open House from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. Bladenboro Middle School will have Open House from 3:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. Bladenboro Primary School will have Open House from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Clarkton School of Discovery will have Open House from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. Dublin Primary School will have Open House from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. East Arcadia School will have Open House from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. East Bladen High School …..

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Road Closing

Road Updates

OPENINGS: SR1300 (Chicken Foot Road) SR1300 (Chicken Foot Road) remains closed will open Thursday, August 16 by 5:00 pm. It was closed .019Mi. S. of SR1005     CLOSINGS: SR1100 (Center Road) SR1100 Center Road is closed with a posted detour in both directions. Road is closed for bridge construction and miscellaneous roadway work. It is expected to open by 09/30/2018.     UPCOMING CLOSINGS: SR1300 (Chicken Foot Road) SR1300 (Chicken Foot Road) will close Monday, August 20 at 8:00 am – Friday, August 24 at 5:00 pm. This is closed for crossline repair. It is closed ¾ Mi. S. of  NC20     ELWELL FERRY: The Ferry is Closed due to high water.   Share:

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White Lake FFA Camp Construction Is Topic of Chamber Luncheon

By Erin Smith Construction of the new women’s dormitory and a men’s bath house at the White Lake Future Farmers of America (FFA) camp, were the topic of the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon meeting on Tuesday. Alycia Thornton, Director of Development with the North Carolina FFA Foundation, spoke to the group about the changes planned for the camp. A groundbreaking for the new facility was conducted on August 1st at the camp. Thornton said the project is expected to cost $1.5 million. She said $700,000 of the funds needed for the project have been raised through donations. The State Employees Credit Union made a $400,000 grant and …..

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Volunteers prepare backpacks for Saturday

Contributed The Elizabethtown Town Hall’s Council Chambers was filled with activity on Wednesday afternoon as a group of volunteers gathered to prepare backpacks for Saturday’s Back to School Bash. The backpacks filled with school supplies will be given away on Saturday at the Cape Fear Farmers Market from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. There will also be an opportunity for your child to receive a haircut and for those needing school uniforms, a school uniform exchange will be set up. There will also be free health screenings and free hot dogs. Everyone is encouraged to come out and enjoy the day. Share:

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Bladen Community College celebrates groundbreaking

Contributed DUBLIN – Bladen Community College has broken ground on the construction of a new 19,967 square feet building to house continuing education programs. The structure will feature a 125-seat teaching auditorium, a conference room, 2 EMS labs, 2 science labs, and 5 classrooms, as well as faculty and staff offices for the continuing education department. “We are excited to begin construction on a $6.5 million, 20,000 square feet Continuing Education and Workforce Development Building,” stated BCC president, William Findt. “This will enable the college to continue to serve students in the allied health, emergency medical, and general education fields for years to come.  We are pleased for the support …..

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Bladen Community College breaks ground on new classroom building

By Erin Smith Bladen Community College was filled with excitement on Wednesday morning as a groundbreaking ceremony was conducted for the construction of a new classroom facility. The building, when completed, will measure 19,967 square feet and will feature a 125-seat teaching auditorium, a conference room, two EMS labs, two science labs, and five classrooms as well as faculty offices and offices which will house the continuing education department staff. Sondra Guyton, Vice-President for Continuing Education, said the building will be “a great resource for the county and will also be a great resource for the students” who will take classes in the building. In her remarks Guyton siad the …..

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Event: An evening with author Sam Quinones

Judge Lewis and The Brunswick County Treatment Courts are proud to announce an evening with Sam Quinones, author of “Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic”.  This event will take place on Thursday, August 23rd, 2018 at 7 p.m. at the Odell Williamson Auditorium, located on the campus of Brunswick Community College.  Admission is FREE and the first 250 attendees will receive a free copy of the book (1 per family).  We would love for all to come! Share:

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for August 14

The final concert of the Sunset Jams “Alive After Five” concerts for 2018 will be held Thursday at Goldston’s  Beach, White Lake.  The Fantastic Shakers will be entertaining beginning at 6 PM.  It’s free, sponsored by numerous local businesses and the Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber of Commerce. I rise early each morning to share my ‘Thoughts’ and the last thing I want to see is “Please do not power off or unplug your machine….Installing updates”, but it does happen. Interesting announcement related to repair work, in the future, to US 701 bridge over the Cape Fear River, has to do with the surface of the roadway.. A couple of events are planned for youngsters heading back …..

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White Lake Recognizes Woodmen of the World Donation

By Joy Warren During their regular monthly Board of Commissioner’s meeting Tuesday evening, the White Lake Town Board recognized The Woodmen of the World organization for providing new flags for the Police Department, Town Hall and also for their latest donation of flags and poles at the entrance to White Lake on 701 across from the Wam Squam. Mayor Womble presented a copy of the adopted proclamation and thanked the organization for their continued support and contributions to the Town. Alycia Thornton, Director of Development for the NC FFA Center, gave a brief presentation on the expansion of the NC FFA Camp. The NC FFA Camp plans to start construction …..

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Bladen County Schools

Board of Education hears update on sales tax referendum 

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Education met on Monday night and heard an update regarding the quarter-cent sales tax referendum. Bladen County Schools Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor updated the board regarding issues that will need to be addressed by the Board of Education. Dr. Taylor said a quarter-cent sales tax, if approved by the voters, would generate $500,000 per year. He said, as the ballot issue moves forward, there are a number of things the Commissioners want the Board of Education to review and address. He said some Commissioners felt that by specifying issues such as which schools would have projects and a listing of exactly how the funds …..

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Judge Issues Order to Comply with Defense Request in Crash Suit

By Erin Smith The civil session of Bladen County Superior Court was conducted on Monday, and Judge Tanya Wallace presided over the proceedings, which included a case involving a Bladen County Sheriff’s Deputy who was involved in a crash in 2015. According to court records, the deputy was involved in the crash while he was responding to a call. The lawsuit was brought on by Lorenzo White, alleging negligence. He is represented by the Anglin Law Firm in Raleigh. The County of Bladen, Sheriff Jim McVicker, and Deputy Duggan, are represented by Kendra Stark with the law firm of Teague, Campbell, Dennis and Graham of Raleigh. A motion, which was …..

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Dublin Peanut Festival applications for pageant, car show and vendors now being accepted

Contributed Plans are under way for the 26th annual Dublin Peanut Festival which is scheduled for Saturday, September 15th. Applications are being accepted for craft and food vendors, the Classic Car Show and the Dublin Peanut Festival Pageant. The Dublin Peanut Festival is now accepting applications for Craft and Food Vendors. Those who are interested in becoming a vendor can email dublinpeanutfestival@gmail.com for information. The Classic Cruisers Car Club is now accepting registrations for the car show. All antiques, classic cars and trucks are welcome. For registration information, email dublinpeanutfestival@gmail.com. Applications are now being accepted for the Dublin Peanut Festival Scholarship Pageant which will be held on Saturday, September 8th, …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History – August 14

1820 – 1st US eye hospital, the NY Eye Infirmary, opens in NYC. 1846 – Henry David Thoreau jailed for refusing to pay taxes. 1862 – Abraham Lincoln receives the first group of African Americans to confer with a US president. 1873 – “Field & Stream” begins publishing. 1912 – 2,500 US marines invade Nicaragua; US remains until 1925. 1932 – Philips makes 1 millionth radio. 1935 – Social Security Act becomes law. 1941 – US President Franklin Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill issue the joint declaration that later becomes known as the Atlantic Charter. 1947 – Babe Didrikson Zaharias gives up her amateur golf status for $300,000. 1962 …..

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No more hogs for some farmers

By Charlotte Smith Smithfield Hog Production, doing business as Murphy-Brown has lost three lawsuits in the last few months with jurors awarding multi-millions of dollars to the plaintiffs in the cases. Farmers and Legislators have been saying these hog industry lawsuits threaten agriculture; now there is proof. Some hog famers say they had to take out loans when they decided to go into the farming business. The farmers caught in the middle of the trials have contracts with Smithfield Hog Production/Murphy-Brown. The contracts are a peace of mind for farmers who took out loans, have payroll to meet and have other operating expenses from their hog farms. The jurors from …..

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Smithfield, Bladen Released Time and Foundation Bible Back 2 School Bash

Contributed Foundation Bible Church, the coordinator of the Back 2 School Bash, would like to thank Smithfield Foods, Inc.  for their generous donation to Bladen County Released Time for the purchase 1,000 backpacks and school supplies.  This event is designed to support the students of Bladen County as they start the new school year. Pictured is Ryan Godwin, MD at Foundation Bible Church, Rhonda Campbell, Sustainability Coordinator  of Smithfield Foods and Dean Hilton, Board Member of Bladen Released Time. Share:

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Benefit planned for Ayven’s Sunny Place

Contributed A benefit is planned to support Ayven’s Sunny Place which is a non-profit group offering support to families with critical ill children. The event will take place on Saturday, September 8th, at the Lumber River Camp Ground located at 570 Tar Landing Road, Evergreen. According to the Facebook page for the non-profit, the funds raised will be used to construct the first house in Brunswick County for critically ill children and their families to enjoy a trip to the beach between their treatments. The event will include plenty to see and do. On Friday, September 7th, there will be a spaghetti plate sale and corn hole tournament. Cost fo plates is …..

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Elizabethtown - White Lake Chamber of Commerce

Chamber meeting held at White Lake

The Elizabethtown-White Lake monthly lunch meeting will be held at Goldston’s Beach in White Lake tomorrow at 12 Noon according to an announcement made by Dawn Maynard, Executive Director of the chamber. The guest speaker will be Alycia M. Thornton, Director of Development College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Advancement NC State University. According to Maynard, Thornton will update us on the NC FFA Center Initiative and future additions to our FFA Center located in White Lake and how it impacts Bladen County! Everyone is invited to join the meeting and take advantage of this networking opportunity.   Share:

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Sunday storms leave damage in their wake

By Erin Smith Update:  Strong thunderstorms rolled through Bladen County Sunday afternoon and resulted in damage at least three locations in the county. Bladen County Fire Marshal Ken Clark said a fire at 6 LC Street in White Lake resulted in two campers being damaged in Camp Clearwater. The damage was contained to electrical components and there was no electrical fire.  Clark said a second fire was reported at 654 Mitchell Ford Road near Clarkton. Clark said lightning struck a storage building at that location and it burned.  Clark said electrical damage and a small fire was reported following a lightning strike at 240 Gilbert R. Edge Road in the Live Oak community.  No injuries were reported in any …..

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Dennis Pait Fundraiser

A barbecue plate sale and cake auction fundraiser is planned for Dennis Pait for Saturday, September 8, at 11 am at the Center Road Baptist Church Community Building. Cost is a donation.     Share:

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Odd Tools for Odd Jobs

Many of these tools are designed to accomplish specific jobs that would otherwise be very time consuming and much more frustrating. The right tools can definitely make the job easier and more enjoyable. Here is a quick look at some of the equipment out there and how to decide what you really need. The first rule of thumb is not to set out to stock up on all of these more obscure implements before you have the basics. Once that’s done, you can begin collecting specialty gardening tools. While there are about as many tools out there as there are gardening chores, some are practical choices that you will use …..

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Bladen County Headlines... 35 Years Ago

Bladen County Headlines…35 Years Ago

Bladen County Hospital was seeking approval for a $5.5 million expansion program. Thomas Ellis from White Oak was named to a Land Conservancy Position. June unemployment in Bladen County was 14.2%. The Red Cross Bloodmobile was scheduled to be at Center Road Baptist Church. Share:

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Bladen County Commissioner enters plea in Brunswick DWI case

By Erin Smith Update: Bladen County Commissioner Ashley S. Trivette entered an Alford plea in Brunswick County Superior Court on Friday afternoon. According to US Legal,  in an Alford Plea, the criminal defendant does not admit the act, but admits that the prosecution could likely prove the charge. The court will pronounce the defendant guilty. An Alford plea allows defendant to plead guilty even while unable or unwilling to admit guilt. Superior Court Judge John Nobles sentenced Trivette based on the plea bargain. According the defendant’s attorney, Bill Powers, Trivette plead guilty to the DWI charge and the misdemeanor Child Abuse charge was dismissed. She received 120 suspended and 12 months of …..

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DOT openings and closings for Bladen County roads

By  Faye M. Boyne, Administrative Specialist I, Division of Highways, North Carolina Department of Transportation Following are the latest in roads opening and closing announcements made by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. OPENINGS:   SR1150 (Peanut Plant Road) SR1150 (Peanut Plant Road is open. It was closed for crossline repair.       CLOSINGS:   SR1100 (Center Road) SR1100 Center Road is closed with a posted detour in both directions. Road is closed for bridge construction and miscellaneous roadway work. It is expected to open by09/30/2018.   SR1300 (Chicken Foot Road) SR1300 (Chicken Foot Road) remains closed will open Monday, August 17 at 5:00 pm. This is closed for crossline repair. …..

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Families First, Inc. in need of school supplies

Families First, Inc. is in need of school supplies for clients’ children of all ages. Needed are book bags, lunch boxes, crayons, highlighters, tab dividers, scissors, pencil pouches/boxes, 1 – 3 inch ring binders, index cards, marbled composition books, 3 subject spiral composition books, glue sticks, colored pencils, graph paper, pencil top erasers, wide ruled notebook paper, and red and blue pens. Families First is also trying to help with school uniforms and will accept gently used uniforms. Families First will accept supplies and uniforms  at 103 East Broad St. Elizabethtown NC. The agency is open from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Share:

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National Weather Service

Thunderstorms in the forecast for weekend

Thunderstorms are in the weekend forecast through Monday. The forecast calls for highs to reach into the lower 90s Saturday and Sunday with a chance of thunderstorms both days. The National Weather Service office is also monitoring a disturbance in the tropical Atlantic Ocean. Share:

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Scholarship winner announced

One student has been named as the winner of the Joe Boltic-Lacy West ECU Scholarship. Brinkley Collier was selected for the $1,000 scholarship. Collier is a 2018 graduate of West Bladen High School.  She plans to attend East Carolina University in the Fall. Every year the Bladen County ECU Alumni Association awards a $1000 scholarship to a Bladen County Graduate who is planning to attend East Carolina University. The scholarship is in memory of Joe Bostic and Lacy West who both had untimely deaths but were great contributors to Bladen County and East Carolina University. Share:

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Ribbon Cutting Held for White Lake Medical Clinic

By Erin Smith A ribbon cutting was held on Thursday morning for the new Cape Fear Valley Bladen Medical Associates clinic at White Lake. The clinic is located at 273 White Lake Drive. DeVane Builders constructed the facility on the lot, which was formerly home to Potter’s Seafood. The new facility will be staffed by Dr. Jose Vergara, and Family Nurse Practitioner, Jennifer Smith; other staff will include Nurse Shelly Hill and Front Desk Coordinator, Ann Kinlaw. Cape Fear Valley Health System’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mike Nagowski spoke, as well as Cape Fear Valley’s Breeden Blackwell. Cape Fear Valley Bladen Healthcare’s, President Dr. Roxie Wells, shared some important statistics …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for August 10

Spoofing Telco numbers must be a new profession.  Receive a couple or more calls per week telling me they are returning my call, numbers I have not called.  Then receive a call from what appears to be a local number and further research indicates it is from someone in-state or out-of-state, someone taking a poll or selling something.  Guess it’s all related.  Frustrating! Enjoy reading papers statewide.  Recently observed articles indicating a shortage of Highway Patrol members.  Interested in becoming a Trooper?  Actually, think there has been a shortage for sometime. Was honored when my favorite granddaughter (only granddaughter) mentioned Thoughts While Shaving in a recent Facebook post.  She (Morgan …..

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Legacy Motown Revue livens up the evening

By Erin Smith The Legacy Motown Revue drew a large crowd to the Cape Fear Farmers Market on Thursday evening. The free concert is sponsored by the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Cape Fear Valley-Bladen Healthcare. The band from Kernersville kept the crowd entertained with such hits as “Carolina Girls,” “ABC,” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.” Members of the band joined members of the audience for a sing-a-long and dancing. In addition to enjoying the soulful sounds of the band, the crowd engaged in line dancing and shagging to the beat of the music. The next Summer Sounds Concert will feature an encore performance by the North …..

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County residents

By Dora Brogdon Tonight (Thursday), the Legendary Motown Revue takes the stage at 6 p.m. at the Cape Fear Farmers Market in Elizabethtown. The concert is sponsored by the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Cape Fear Valley-Bladen Healthcare. Admission is free and concerts are rain or shine. This Saturday, beginning at noon, the Mother County Genealogical Society will be meeting at Bladenboro Historical Building at 818 South Main Street in Bladenboro. Albert Shaw will be there to discuss the Shaw family history and the early industries in Bladen County. Everyone is welcomed to come and attend the meeting. Share:

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Whiteville man sentenced for drug offense

NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, Leroy Moore, Jr., 31, of Whiteville, North Carolina, was sentenced by United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan to 60 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release. Moore was named in a two-count Superseding Indictment on November 29, 2017. On January 24, 2018, Moore pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More of Cocaine Base (Crack). On July 1, 2014, deputies with the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office conducted a license check point at an intersection in Whiteville. A Deputy made contact with a …..

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Paratroopers train at White Lake

By Erin Smith Residents at White Lake woke up to the sounds of an airplane and the site of Paratroopers landing in the water on Thursday morning. The Paratroopers from Fort Bragg were practicing their parachuting skills this week at White Lake. The group was practicing jumping from a plane into the crystal clear waters on Thursday morning. The practice helps them to be prepared to respond to any situation any where in the world. The paratroopers could be seen gathered at the former White Lake airport location across from the Scotchman Store as they prepared for their training session. Share:

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Bladen man killed in Columbus County crash

By Erin Smith A Bladen County man lost his life in a fiery crash near Nakina on Wednesday night. According to NC Highway Patrol Trooper M. Gore, a tanker truck driven by Albert Christopher Settlemyer, 39, of Clarkton ran off the roadway on N.C.  905 in an S-curve near Nakina. Trooper Gore said Settlemyer was driving southbound on NC 905 at the time of accident. After running off the road to the right, Settlemyer’s truck struck a ditch and a pole before catching fire and burning. The tanker was owned by Reliable tank line of Winston-Salem, said Trooper Gore. The truck is believed to have been loaded with gasoline, according to …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

In the summer time, when the temps are in the 90s, we long for cold weather, then when temps drop below freezin’, we can’t wait for summer.  Typical, just can’t be satisfied. Remember when cut ‘n sew operations were located throughout the county?  Went the same way as new auto dealerships…closed up and left town.  Our changin’ world. We tend to look back when youngsters could get a job working on a farm. Today, huge machinery has eliminated most.  Can’t look back, focus on the future. Looking for a job or a better job?  One of a couple of options, go to work or go to Bladen Community College and learn …..

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Robert Leon Named Director of Correction Enterprises

RALEIGH – Interim Chief Deputy Secretary Reuben F. Young of the N.C. Department of Public Safety has named Robert Leon director of Correction Enterprises. Leon has spent the past 25 years working for Correction Enterprises and has served as its deputy director since 2012. Prior to that, Leon served as Director of Professional Services, overseeing the day-to-day operations of five industries. “Throughout his career, Robert’s focus and experience has been managing business operations, start-up of new businesses, capital planning and execution, and the successful transition reentry of inmates,” Judge Young said. “He has collaborated with executive leadership to develop strategic initiatives that benefited both Correction Enterprises and DPS. We are looking …..

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Bladen County Commissioner to appear in Brunswick County Court, other cases continued

By Erin Smith Several cases of interest in Bladen County have been or will be heard in court this week. Bladen County Commissioner Ashley S. Trivette is scheduled to be in court in Brunswick County on Friday. Trivette, who is facing charges of DWI and misdemeanor child abuse in Brunswick County Superior Court, is scheduled to appear in court and enter a plea on Friday, August 10, according to court records. A case pending in Robeson County, is that of a former Bladen County Magistrate who was arrested by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, is due in court on September 10. Priscella Dean Dunham, 54, of White Oak, was arrested in July …..

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Chemours Turns down New Hanover Request for Public Meeting

By Erin Smith Officials with the Chemours company have turned down a request from officials with the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County to conduct a public meeting in Wilmington. According to a report, representatives of the company were invited to give an update to the public regarding the company’s efforts to reduce GenX emissions into the air and Cape Fear River. It has been more than one year since scientists started taking water samples in the Cape Fear River, and discovered the presence of GenX along with other PFAs in the water. More than 200 residential wells in the Grays Creek and Tobermory areas have been found to …..

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New Judge named in Hog industry lawsuits

By Charlotte Smith Three lawsuits against Murphy-Brown, LLC were presided over by U.S. District Judge Earl Britt. The outcome of those lawsuits handed down awards in the millions of dollars for the Plaintiffs who are also neighbors of the hog farms Murphy-Brown, LLC contracts with to produce hogs for Smithfield. After farm families complained about Britt’s handling of the first three cases and the awards of the trials increasing to almost half a billion dollars a new judge was announced to take the bench. U.S. District Judge David Faber from West Virginia will preside over the next two cases in the hog industry lawsuits. There are 23 more cases remaining …..

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Columbus County Sheriff’s Office makes Narcotics arrest in Hallsboro

Hallsboro, NC – Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Vice-Narcotics Unit have completed an investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in the Hallsboro community of Columbus County. As a result of the investigation, one individual has been arrested and charged. This individual was also charged for child abuse in a separate investigation. Columbus County Sheriff’s Office received numerous citizen complaints of suspected prostitution and illegal drug activity occurring at 53 Valley Lane in Hallsboro. During the investigation, the defendant sold undercover operatives illegal narcotics from his residence. As a result, CCSO Vice-Narcotics Unit along with the CCSO SWAT Team, executed a search warrant at the above address, early this morning. …..

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NC DOT

I-95/I-40 Interchange Bridge Work Postponed

BENSON – A project to begin restoring the bridges and ramps at the Interstate 95/40 interchange in Johnston County will not start this week as anticipated. Officials for the contractor, Penhall Company of Los Angeles, have informed the N.C. Department of Transportation they need to reschedule the work for a later date due to recent weather delays. The work will include improving the driving surface of the two I-40 bridges that go over I-95. The construction will require lane reductions on the two bridges and for some of the ramps to close to traffic overnight. The project had been scheduled to start tonight. Last year, the department awarded the company a $10.2 …..

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Retirees Celebrate Social Security’s 83rd Anniversary in Wilmington

Wilmington, NC – To mark the 83rd anniversary of Social Security, area retirees with the North Carolina Alliance for Retired Americans will gather in Wilmington on Thursday, August 9. at noon. An anniversary cake will be shared. The event is part of the Alliance’s Anniversary Summer campaign, calling attention to the continued importance of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security to the well-being of older Americans. The event is co-hosted by the New Hanover Senior Democrats. “The guaranteed benefits that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid offer to millions of seniors are in constant danger of cuts and decreased accessibility from callous representatives in Washington,” said Bill Dworkin, North Carolina Alliance for Retired Americans President. “The …..

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Outreach Growing to Help Hurricane Matthew Survivors Connect with Housing Recovery Assistance

RALEIGH – North Carolina Emergency Management is using text messages and social media to reach survivors whose homes were impacted by Hurricane Matthew who still have not applied for housing recovery assistance.  The text messages and social media posts will inform people how to call 2-1-1 to apply for state or federal assistance through the Rebuild NC program. “We know there are still people out there with homes damaged by Hurricane Matthew who need help and don’t know where to get it,” said NC Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry. “We want to get them the help they need, and we want to make sure that everyone who started the application process …..

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Fayetteville man sentenced to more than 12 years for firearm charges

NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced Joseph Luther Lewis, 29, of Fayetteville, North Carolina to 151 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. Lewis was named in an Indictment filed on December 20, 2017. On May 15, 2018, Lewis pleaded guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and Possession of a Stolen Firearm. On June 25, 2017, the Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) responded to a domestic violence call placed by Lewis’ girlfriend at the time. She stated Lewis lost …..

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NCDA&CS issues stop-sale order on tractor hydraulic fluid J303

RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has issued a stop-sale order for tractor hydraulic fluid products labeled, claimed or implied as meeting THF 303, which has no known specifications available. This specification was discontinued in 1974 and it was subsequently replaced with the current JDM-J20C or D specifications. Manufacturers and distributors will have six months to remove these products from retail locations. These products may be relabeled to either remove the J303 specification or include a more recent John Deere specification it does meet. Online sales shall include a note that these products are not legal in North Carolina. The Division’s Motor Fuels Laboratory tested nine …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for August 8

1786 – US Congress adopts silver dollar & decimal system of money. 1844 – Brigham Young chosen as head of Mormon Church following the death of Joseph Smith. 1854 – Smith & Wesson patents metal bullet cartridges. 1898 – Will Kellogg invents Corn Flakes. 1911 – The millionth patent is filed in the United States Patent Office by Francis Holton for a tubeless vehicle tire. 1911 – Public Law 62-5 sets the number of representatives in the United States House of Representatives at 435.  The law would come into effect in 1913. 1925 – 1st national march of Ku Klux Klan (200,000) in Washington, D.C. 1938 – Booneville Dam on …..

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Opinion: Farming Lawsuits Have Potential to Become Debilitating to North Carolina and US

By Erin Smith The lawsuits against hog farmers in North Carolina that have resulted in record damage awards have many economists, farmers and residents alarmed. Everyone should be alarmed with the potential for the loss of many farms. According to the Pacific Standard Magazine, hog farms in North Carolina generated $2.9 billion while hog farms in Iowa generated $6.8 million. The lawsuits don’t just stop in North Carolina. They are reaching into other states and impacting farmers all over the United States. In May 2018, Iowa residents filed a lawsuit against the State of Iowa over air emissions from industrial hog farms. The concerns with these lawsuits is the fact …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving for August 8

My appetite for meetings that last over an hour has greatly diminished, and for a long contentious meeting, an even shorter time. Hope I live long enough for federal and state redistricting to be designated to someone other than politicians.  First the Dems, years ago, and now the Republicans.  Got to be a better way to do it.  Bladen being in a congressional district that stretches to Mecklenburg County is as bad as Bladen in a district as far north as Warren County.  Makes no sense!  Using the same system, with the same type politicians, over and over again is most likely to produce the same type results, over and over again. …..

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Town Of Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown Council Hears About Drainage Problem

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown Town Council met on Monday and heard from Ms. Grimes, who resides on Hill Street, regarding drainage problems at 402 Hill Street. Ms. Grimes told the board she had spoken with Public Works Director Hugh Bedsole regarding the issue. She told the board she was informed the storm drain in front of her house is “…stopped up.” Bedsole was out of town and did not attend the meeting, but Assistant Town Manager, Pat DeVane, did address the board regarding the situation. He explained the drainage issue at Ms. Grimes’ home has been ongoing for several years, and the town has attempted to rectify the problem. …..

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Commissioners Learn About Sharing of Juvenile Information, Update on Litter Pick Up

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Commissioners met on Monday night and heard from Bladen County Department of Social Services Director, Vickie Smith, regarding how information is shared between agencies regarding juveniles in the court system. Smith presented the board with a memorandum of understanding relating it the confidentiality of juvenile court information. She explained all counties have to sign the agreement with the State of North Carolina. Smith said the agreement explains how information shared between the District 13 Guardian Ad Litem Program, the District Court Judge’s Office, and Bladen County Department of Social Services. Smith explained the JWISE reporting system assists Child Welfare workers in tracking …..

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Bladen County Commissioners updated on Hurricane Matthew Hazard Mitigation Programs

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Commissioners met on Monday night and heard from Bladen County Emergency Management Director Bradley Kinlaw regarding the progress of the North Carolina Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The board approved memorandums of understanding for reconstruction of three properties in the amount of $418,881 and the elevation of two structures in the amount of $245,931. Two  of the structures scheduled for reconstruction are located in the Rowan County on NC 210 and the third structure is located on Old Fayetteville Road in the Ammon Community. The two structures scheduled for elevation are located in the Kelly community. Kinlaw and Jessie Miars with Holland Consulting …..

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Bladen County Pet of the Week

Written by Dora Brogdon This week a 2 year old mix breed male by the name of Luke has been picked! He’s very friendly and full of playful energy to share with his forever family. He gets along with people and children but he doesn’t get along with every dog. It would be best if his future forever family did a slow introduction between Luke and other family dogs. Luke is a big dog so it would be best to monitor small children to make sure they don’t get knocked over. The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat which includes the animal’s first …..

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New Judge appointed in Hog Industry lawsuits

By Charlotte Smith Tuesday morning there was an interesting development involving the Hog Industry lawsuits. There will be a new judge to preside over the next two trials involving the hog industry cases according to Naeema Muhammad, with the North Carolina Environmental Justice Network. The third trial which ended on Friday with the jury awarding the six plaintiffs 473.5 million dollars in damages was presided over by U.S. District Court Judge Earl Britt. The next hog industry lawsuit was scheduled to begin the day after Labor Day in Raleigh; however with a new judge on the bench the next case may be heard sooner rather than later.  There were many concerns …..

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Bladen Community College announces scholastic honor students

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College has announced the 2018 summer session honor students. Full-time students who demonstrate academic achievement are recognized in two ways.   Students who have maintained a 4.0 grade point average for the term are named to the President’s List. Those students are Destiny Baker, Danielle Chamberlain, Delmar Deleon, Ethan Fletcher, Racheal Moss, Jennifer Munoz, Jesus Ramos Pacheco, Tracy Steeno, Adriana Tarter, James Thomas, Stacy Tice, Kodi West, and Melina Wilkins.   Students who have maintained a 3.5 grade point average or above for the term and have been named to the Vice President’s List are Elizabeth Allbright, Hannah Arnett, Rachel Dial, Nicholas Dove, Amber Hepple, Samuel …..

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Crash on US 701 at White Lake results in minor injuries

By Erin Smith According to the North Carolina Highway Patrol on the scene, the driver of a red pick up truck was traveling on NC 53 and was attempting to cross US 701 South. The driver of the pick up truck failed to yield the right of way and traveled into the path of a car traveling south on US 701. Names of the victims were unavailable at press time. Share:

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Registration for fall classes is this week at BCC

Registration for fall classes at Bladen Community College continues on Wednesday and Thursday, August 8 and 9, 2018, from 9 A.M. until 2 P.M. and from 3:30 P.M. until 7 P.M. in the Student Services building on the Dublin campus. BCC offers 80 curriculum programs, associate degrees with college transfer, high school credentials, and workforce development careers such as cosmetology, industrial engineering, nursing, information technology, EMS, and welding. The college can transform your life. Talk with a counselor at 910.879.5500. Share:

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Town Of Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown Council approves changes to ordinance governing parades, demonstrations

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown Town Council met on Monday night and approved changes to the ordinance governing parades and demonstrations. Elizabethtown Police Chief Tony Parrish said, “This past year we had an incident where one of our parades went approximately two hours and closed down Poplar Street.” He told the board as a result of the lengthy closure of Poplar Street the town received a letter from the N.C. Department of Transportation stating that Poplar Street was a truck route. Chief Parrish said DOT informed him that any time there is a parade on a DOT owned road there is a “Special Events Request Form” required by DOT which …..

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Town Of Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown to mark 237th anniversary of Battle of Elizabethtown

The Town of Elizabethtown will mark the 237th anniversary of the Battle of Elizabethtown at the newly refurbished Tory Hole Park from  2:00 pm- 3:00 PM on Sunday August 26th. Cannons, muskets, and history lessons are on the agenda for the afternoon! The celebration will recognize the efforts of a small group of local Patriot Whigs who were able to break the hold of the Loyalist Tories in the Cape Fear region in the last months of the Revolutionary War. The historic battle took place around August 27, 1781 in the area of town between the Cape Fear Farmer’s Market location and the natural ravine which runs into the Tory Hole Park behind …..

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Columbus County Sheriff’s Office makes Narcotics Arrests

Tabor City, NC – Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Vice-Narcotics Unit have completed an investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in the Iron Hill community of Columbus County. As a result of the investigation, two individuals have been arrested and charged, along with a third individual who was wanted for unrelated outstanding warrants. During the investigation, multiple undercover purchases of illegal narcotics were completed at the defendants’ residence located at 3094 Reynolds Road in Tabor City. As a result, CCSO Vice-Narcotics Unit along with the CCSO SWAT Team, executed a search warrant at the above address, on July 31st. During the search, agents located multiple dosage units of Oxycodone, …..

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Van Oriental Foods Inc. Recalls Pork Egg Rolls

Van Oriental Foods Inc., a Dallas, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 10,385 pounds of heat treated but not fully cooked and not shelf stable pork egg rolls that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically soft plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The pork egg rolls were produced on May 30, 2018. The products have a shelf life of 12 months if frozen and 11 days if refrigerated. The following product is subject to recall: 5.4-oz. packages containing two pieces of “VAN’S KITCHEN 2 EGG ROLLS PORK GRAB AND GO” with lot code 18150, a Julian date of 18150A and various “FRESHNESS …..

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Bladen County Resident Honored with Congressional Gold Medal

By Erin Smith One Bladen County resident has been bestowed with a Congressional Gold Medal for his service to his country as a former Montford Point Marine. The order for the award was signed by former President Barack Obama. The Congressional Gold Medal was presented to Gunnery Sgt. Henry Grange during a ceremony for the Montford Point Marine Memorial, which was held at Camp LeJeune in Jacksonville in July. Grange had the distinction of being the only living Montford Point Marine who attended the ceremony. When asked about receiving the Congressional Gold Medal, Grange smiled and replied, “It didn’t really shock me or anything. When I first enlisted, I didn’t …..

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The Legacy Motown Revue to Perform at Summer Sounds Concert

By Erin Smith The Summer Sounds Concert Series will continue Thursday night at 6 PM at the Cape Fear Farmers Market in Elizabethtown, as The Legacy Motown Revue takes the stage. The concert series is sponsored by the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Cape Fear Valley-Bladen Healthcare and admission is free. The Legacy Motown Revue of Kernersville is a Motown tribute band. The Legacy Motown Revue includes a six piece horn section as well as four singers. They perform such crowd favorites as “Reach Out, I’ll Be There” and “Singed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.” Sunset Slush of Bladen County will be available offering a sweet tasty treat, and …..

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Town Of Elizabethtown

Town of Elizabethtown to meet

The Elizabethtown Town Council will meet tonight to discuss several items on the agenda. During the noon work session, the board will hear an update from Carter Hubbard with W. K. Dickson regarding the King Street Drainage Project. Tonight, the board will conduct two public hearings. The first hearing will be conducted regarding a special use permit request from Keith Harward of 106 Cromartie Road to construct an RV Carport. The second hearing will consider an amendment to the town’s Code of Ordinances for parades and demonstrations. The board will vote on both matters later in the meeting. Under the section of ordinances, resolutions and proclamations, the board will consider …..

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Cub Scout Pack 600 visits USS Yorktown, Fort Sumter

Contributed Cub Scout Pack 600 of Elizabethtown spent the weekend visiting and learning about history at the USS Yorktown and Fort Sumter in South Carolina. Every year around fall/winter Pack 600 sells popcorn as a fundraiser for the Packs upcoming activities. As a reward the scouts whom sold are treated to a great Summer camping trip, this year we went to USS Yorktown. While visiting South Carolina, Pack 600 rode a ferry to Fort Sumter where they were able to learn about the Civil War. They also toured the historic site. At the USS Yorktown, Pack 600 met Scrappy, the mascot for the ship. The members of Pack 600 also …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for August 6

Another Day, another dollar in the hole, remember the old tune?  Tex Williams wrote the lyrics in 1966.  It peaked at No. 44 on  September 24, 1966, nearly 52 years ago. Did you know Stonewall Jackson was born in Tabor City, NC?  And no, Stonewall is not a nickname.  He was named after the Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson.  Stonewall, is 86 years of age and has sung and recorded Country and Honky Tonk tunes for years.  Wikipedia information indicates he was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame on October 11, 2012.  Same source has him currently living in Brentwood, Tennessee with his wife Juanita.  In 2008 …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for August 6

1787 – Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia begins debate on the first draft of the Constitution. 1819 – Norwich University is founded in Vermont as the first private military school in the United States. 1890 – At Auburn Prison in New York, murderer William Kemmler becomes first person to be executed by electric chair. 1914 – Denis Patrick Dowd, Jr. enlists in the French Foreign Legion, becoming the first American to fight in World War 1. 1926 – Warner Bros premieres Vitaphone sound-on-disc movie system (NY) 1937 – US and USSR sign trade treaty. 1939 – 1st broadcast of “Dinah Shore Show” on NBC-radio. 1943 – US 1st Infantry division occupies …..

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Bladen County Commissioners to meet Monday night

The Bladen County Board of Commissioners will meet on Monday night at 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioners meeting room in the basement of the Bladen County Courthouse. The Commissioners will deal with a busy agenda. The Board will be asked to approve a consent agenda which includes the proposed agenda,  minutes of July 9, 2018 special meeting, minutes of July 9, 2018 regular meeting, minutes of July 23, 2018 special meeting, budget amendments, County Attorney invoices in the amount of $3,275, Tax Releases No. 6-18, fiscal year 2018-19 North Carolina Alliance of Public Health Agencies (NCAPHA) Staffing Agreement, fiscal year 2018-19 On Target Preparedness, LLC Agreement, fiscal year 2018-19 Pharmacy Service Agreement with Anderson’s Pharmacy, fiscal …..

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Social Security when you are self employed

By Brenda Brown Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Fayetteville, NC Most people who pay into Social Security work for an employer. Their employer deducts Social Security taxes from their paycheck, matches that contribution, sends taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and reports wages to Social Security. However, self-employed people must report their earnings and pay their Social Security taxes directly to the IRS. These taxes will help determine your eligibility for benefits later. You’re self-employed if you operate a trade, business, or profession, either by yourself or as a partner. You report your earnings for Social Security purposes when you file your federal income tax return. If your …..

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Include People with Disabilities and Others with Access and Functional Needs in Your Emergency Plan

Last week marked the 28th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Make sure your emergency plan covers all the needs of you, your family, or those in your community. Medical facilities or drugstores may not be open in a hurricane, snowstorm, or other disasters. Include enough supplies for at least three days. The Ready Campaign offers many tips to plan for the needs of people with disabilities: *Create a support network. Keep a contact list in a watertight container in your emergency kit. *Contact your city or county emergency management office. There may be local resources to help you prepare. *Plan for your transportation if you need help evacuating, …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for August 5

I think back to yesteryear….had a friend who over-indulged in stump hole moonshine, mostly on weekends.  Said he didn’t work on any day that touched Sunday. Over the years, bet most can recall a time when our conduct was less than stellar, at times embarrassing.  Remember, as a older teenager, playing poker all night, lost my paycheck, had loaned my car to someone who failed to return, or was tired of waiting on me…whatever the reason, I was walking home, broke and had to go by the church where I knew I should be….trying to figure out what I would say to mom if she saw me.  That my friend, …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for August 5

1846 – Oregon territory divided between US & Britain at 49th parallel. 1861 – President Lincoln signs the first US personal Income Tax into law (3% of incomes over $800) 1864 – Battle of Mobile Bay, won by the Union Army led by Rear Admiral Farragut with the cry “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” (US Civil War) 1882 – Standard Oil of New Jersey is established. 1914 – 1st electric traffic light installed in the USA on the corner of East 105th Street and Euclid Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio. 1924 – “Little Orphan Annie” comic strip by Harold Gray is 1st published in the New York Daily News. 1932 …..

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How to Afford a Pricier House in the Neighborhood You Love

When Danielle and Jimmy returned to their home state after three years in Germany, they spent the next six months looking for their first home. “Location was so important to us. We got used to walking everywhere while we were in Germany. Grocery stores, restaurants, beer gardens and pubs were all within walking distance of our apartment. We wanted to find a neighborhood like that,” explains Danielle, an employee relations attorney. They found the perfect neighborhood: Bay View, Wisconsin. They also found a house in a perfect location, right across from a park, with a lovely view of Lake Michigan.But the house itself wasn’t so perfect: it needed about $20,000 …..

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Bladen County Overdose Awareness Day planned

Bladen County has above average overdose related deaths. Some leaders in the mother county are shedding the light on the issue plaguing all communities in our area. August 31st, 2018 is Overdose Awareness Day and Eastpointe along with the Bladen County Task Force are planning an event to raise awareness and reduce stigma. This Free event will be attended by families personally affected by the issue of prescription medication overdose (fatalities), key stakeholders and Members of the Community. Everyone is invited to the Overdose Awareness Day on August 31st at the Bladen County Courthouse Front Lawn from 4pm-6pm. Cheryl Harris with Eastpointe said, “The vision is to have multiple service providers, …..

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Fire on Marsh Road leaves no damage

By Erin Smith A fire at a home on Marsh Road on Saturday  left no damage. According to Bladen County Fire Marshal Ken Clark, when firefighters arrived on the scene at 4223 Marsh Road the fire was already out and there was a report of smoke in the residence. Clark said the fire was caused by a coffee maker. Bladenboro and Dublin Fire Departments responded to the scene. Share:

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Reward offered for missing service dog

A reward is being offered for a service dog that is missing in the Tar Heel area following a break-in on Friday. “Someone broke in my home yesterday and stole my daughter’s registered service dog. We are devastated,” said Sarah Smith. A reward of $500 is being offered for the return of the dog. If you have any information regarding the missing service dog, call 910-225-2667. Share:

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2018 is Record Year for State Ports

2018 has been a record-setting year for the North Carolina Ports. Over last fiscal year, the North Carolina Ports moved a record number of containers through the Port of Wilmington. Container growth increased by 38 percent while general cargo growth is up 18 percent since the 2017 fiscal year. The Port of Morehead City was also busier, experiencing 20 percent growth in general cargo. 2018 also was a record year for operating revenue – up four percent over North Carolina Ports’ previous high in fiscal year 2016. As a key economic driver within the state, the Port of Wilmington is well-positioned for growth in the fresh and frozen refrigerated markets …..

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East Bladen High School Class of 1988 Plans Class Reunion

The East Bladen High School Class of 1988 will conduct a  Class Reunion on October 19 and 20. The cost is $110 per couple and $60 for individuals. The cost includes the following: *Tailgate before the East Bladen High School Cougars home game *Premier Location for the tailgate “The Venue at Regal Resort” *Catered Dinner by Southern Smoke *Photographer *DJ playing all of the best ’80s songs *Open Bar The deadline for payment is September 1. Rich Glenn a Class of 1988 member and banker is collecting the payments for the class reunion and you can use the following methods to make your payment. CashApp – $RichCGlennJr PayPal – Richglennjr@hotmail.com …..

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Another Bladen County resident receives water sample solicitation

By Erin Smith More residents of Bladen County are receiving mailers from a Greensboro water testing lab soliciting tap water samples. Residents in the Happy Valley area of Bladen County are reporting having received a mailer on Thursday from DVR Labs soliciting water samples. On Thursday, Ellen Gause a resident of Happy Valley, said they had received a mailer from the company in their mail box. The mailers arrive in a plain white envelope addressed to the rural route customer. Inside, there is a return mailer addressed to DVR Labs, care of Carolina Fresh Water of Greensboro and a blue form to be completed by the resident and a small …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for August 4

Hats off to BladenOnline’s Charlotte Smith for her coverage of the trials related to the hog industry.  That is not an easy task, sitting and sitting and listening.  Very time consuming. One final reminder of the fundraiser today for David “Punk” Johnson, all day long at Merritt Brothers business location, 8906 NC highway east, White Lake.  BBQ chicken plates on sale for $8 a plate.  “Punk” suffered a stroke while driving a log truck and is partially paralyzed.  Everyone is invited.  Donations are welcomed.  Neighbors helping a neighbor. East Bladen Booster Club meeting planned for Tuesday, August 7th at Elizabethtown Presbyterian Activity Center at 5:30 PM.  It’s a new school year, …..

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Health Grades

Let’s Eat Out, But Where?

By Cheryl Thurston This year July was great for fun, food and celebrations. The summer weather was (plenty) warm enough, but we got the rain we needed too, so it seemed pleasant to me. I love summer. Its the time of year when folks go on vacation and either want to eat a cold sandwich or throw something on the grill and enjoy the great outdoors. People don’t mind cooking when they’re on vacation, but coming back from vacation is an adjustment to make. Some of us like to stop into local shops and delis to eat a lot of subs and grilled items after we return from the beaches, …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for August 4

1753 – George Washington becomes a master mason. 1821 – 1st edition of American magazine “The Saturday Evening Post” 1862 – US government collects its 1st income tax. 1909 – MLB umpire Tim Hurst instigates a riot by spitting in the face of A’s 2nd baseman Eddie Collins who had questioned a call; 2 weeks later Hurst banned for life. 1914 – US declares neutrality on the outbreak of WWI. 1929 – Cleveland Indians, trailing 6-5 in 9th with 2 outs score AL record tying 9 runs, beat NY Yankees 14-6. 1936 – American athlete Jesse Owens wins his 2nd gold medal at the Berlin Olympics; beats German Luz Long …..

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Fire District Receives New Rating After Inspection

State Officials Award New District Rating North Carolina Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey announced today that the following fire districts completed their routine inspection and received the listed rating, on listing effective dates. The inspection, conducted by officials with the Department of Insurance Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), is required on a regular basis as part of North Carolina Response Rating System (NCRRS). Among other things the routine inspections look for proper staffing levels, sufficient equipment, proper maintenance of equipment, communications capabilities, and availability of a water source. District               Type                      …..

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Bladen County Schools

Opinion: Best Practices Are Not Always Followed

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Education has taken a lot of heat lately regarding the judgement of the board for awarding a one-year pest control services contract which was more than $30,000 higher than the other three bidders. The National State Auditors Association offers suggestions for Best Practices for Contracted Services which were not followed. Normally, when an agency is accepting bids or contracting for services, the idea is to get the greatest amount of services for the smallest amount of dollars. For those who are not sure how a bid process works, think of it like a game of golf, where the low score wins. The lowest …..

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NC DOT issues updated listing of road closings

By Faye M. Boyne, NC DOT The North Carolina Department of Transportation has issued an update to the listing of road closings in Bladen County. They are as follows: CLOSINGS: Center Road Center Road is closed with a posted detour in both directions. Road is closed for bridge construction and miscellaneous roadway work. It is expected to open by September 30,2018.   Peanut Plant Road Peanut Plant Road will close on Monday July 30, at 8:00 and will open August 10 at 5pm. This will be closed for crossline repair.  It is closed 0.46 mi S of NC 87 Business (Near Campbell Oil). UPCOMING CLOSINGS: Chicken Foot Road Chicken Foot Road will …..

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Kinlaw Furniture

Kinlaw Furniture

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