BladenOnline.com

Bladen County's leading website for news, sports, advertising and more!

Category Posts : Local News

Cape Fear Hurricane Season could be active one

By Erin Smith For a number of years, Bladen County residents would look to Hurricane Hazel as the most catastrophic storm to strike our area. Since the 1950’s, more than 88 tropical weather systems have passed close enough to the North Carolina coastline to cause direct impacts to our region, according to National Weather Service Meteorologist Tim Armstrong.  He said of those 88 storms, 61 have been classified as tropical storms and 26 have been classified as hurricanes. Hurricane Hazel was the storm many Bladen County residents would refer to when discussing hurricane season and the potential for damaging storms striking the area. However, in recent years, storms such as Fran, …..

Read More
National Weather Service

Heat indexes to climb above 100 this week

Erin Smith The National Weather Service Office in Wilmington is forecasting hot temperatures for the week ahead. Meteorologist Stephen Keebler said there may be a need for heat advisories to be issued later this week. Temperatures are forecast to climb to the upper 90s each day with heat indexes reaching between 100 and 104 degrees daily. Keebler says thunderstorm chances will increase each day throughout the week. Those who work outdoors are encouraged to wear light colored clothing, take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water, according to the National Weather Service Office. Share:

Read More

East Bladen High School Senior Decision Day

Contributed On Friday May 11, 2018, East Bladen College Adviser, Alexis Ruth Frady, hosted a College Signing Day, better known as Senior Decision Day. This event was created to celebrate the commitment of East Bladen seniors to attend college, join the military, or enter the workforce immediately after graduation. Former First Lady Michelle Obama started celebrating College Signing Day at the White House as part of the Reach Higher initiative. As the tradition continues, Ms. Frady was thrilled to take part in a network of over 1,500 events nationwide right here in Elizabethtown. Celebrating our seniors’ success means more than a party; it means they know we are proud of …..

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 18

This promises to be a busy week for many. Bladen County Commissioners meet tonight at 6:30 PM for regular meeting and will likely schedule at least one more budget workshop prior to the end of the month.  The budget must be approved before July 1.  Tonight’s meeting will be held at the usual meeting place, in the commissioners meeting room in the basement of the courthouse.  It is open to the public. Tomorrow evening, the annual meeting of the Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber of Commerce will be held at Lu Mil.  Numerous awards will be presented.  The speaker will be Kenny Flowers, Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development.  Reservations are required, cut off date June 18 and the cost is …..

Read More

How The Work Rules Work for You

By Brenda Brown Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Fayetteville, NC Retirement does not have the same meaning for everyone. Some people plan to retire and never work again. Some people plan for second careers in occupations that would not have adequately supported their families, but they do the work for pure enjoyment. Some people, whether by design or desire, choose to work part-time or seasonally to supplement their retirement income. Retirees (or survivors) who choose to receive Social Security benefits before they reach full retirement age (FRA) and continue to work have an earnings limit. In 2017, the annual earnings limit was $16,920 for those under FRA the entire …..

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

HAPPY FATHERS DAY to all fathers! How long have we been celebrating Father’s Day? Father’s Day is a celebration honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society in Catholic Europe.  This celebration was brought by the Spanish and Portuguese to Latin America, where March 19 is often still used for it, though many countries in Europe and the Americas have adopted the U.S. date, which is the third Sundayof June.  It complements similar celebrations honoring family members, such as Mother’s Day, Siblings Day and Grandparents Day. As long as I can remember, Father’s Day was special, most often celebrated by all family members coming together to celebrate …..

Read More

You have to stand for something

Contributed Courtlyn Smith, a Bladen County resident, wanted to show support for her Papa and Grandma this weekend. A ‘Stand for Hog Farmers’ sign had the toddler very excited. “Courtlyn is concerned for our local farmers and her grub,” said Courtney Smith, mom to the concerned youngsters. Related articles: https://bladenonline.com/lawsuits-against-smithfield-foods-are-a-dangerous-threat-to-all-north-carolina-farmers/ https://bladenonline.com/smithfield-foods-to-appeal-nuisance-lawsuit-verdict/ https://bladenonline.com/jury-awards-plaintiffs-more-than-50-million-in-historic-hog-nuisance-lawsuit/ Share:

Read More

Planning Considerations for Emergency Managers

FEMA Releases Guide to Engaging Faith-Based and Community Organizations: Planning Considerations for Emergency Managers FEMA released the guide on Engaging Faith-based and Community Organizations: Planning Considerations for Emergency Managers. Faith-based and community organizations offer a wide variety of human and material resources that can prove invaluable during and after an incident. This guide provides a methodology for emergency managers to engage with faith-based and community organizations in enhancing the resiliency of our nation. By identifying, engaging, and building partnerships with these groups, particularly those in racially, ethnically, economically, and religiously diverse communities, emergency managers can provide training and technical assistance to strengthen their skills, connect them with existing partners, and …..

Read More

Heat Safety for Vehicles

Learn how the temperature outside may affect the temperature inside your vehicle. With the summer months upon us, now is the time to learn about the dangers of heatstroke and being trapped in a hot car. Heatstroke is dangerous and can be deadly. Never leave children, pets, or older adults unattended in a parked car. Use the following life saving tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to remind yourself and others to check the back seat before walking away from a vehicle. Children mistakenly being left in hot vehicles make up many of the tragedies reported each year. Look Before You Lock. Get into the routine of always checking the back …..

Read More

Thoughts While Shaving for Saturday, June 16

Had positive reaction to my most recent Thoughts, related to ‘hog killin’ and “making lye soap”. Never totally understand unless you lived it… Did receive a nice article from a reader related to the topic: “Forklife: The Last Tradition of Lye Soap and Hog Killin’ Day”. Hope Thompson was the author. Google it, good reading. A reminder of Father’s Day on Sunday and the Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber of Commerce annual meeting next week. Had a couple of meetings recently on topics never dreamed of when we were ‘killing hogs and making lye soap”. Typical topic in today’s environment, “Cybersecurity” and “Anti-Sexual Harrassment”. It is a wise father that knows his …..

Read More

Bladen fire departments to offer smoke detectors

By Erin Smith Bladen County’s fire departments are teaming up with the NC Fire Marshal’s Office to install smoke detectors in homes throughout the county on Saturday, June 23. Bladen County Fire Marshal Kenneth Clark said each fire department in the county is planning to go out in their communities to install the smoke detectors on that date. From Jan. 1, 2018, to May 1, 2018, there have been 1,339 fire-related deaths in the United States, according to the US Fire Administration’s website. Of that number, 69 deaths occurred in North Carolina. In Bladen County, there have been two fire-related deaths so far this year, said Clark. “Smoke detectors save …..

Read More

Division on Aging marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

  By Erin Smith Elder abuse and neglect are issues that face many families. The Bladen County Division on Aging held an Elder Abuse Awareness Day to help their clients to be able to recognize the signs of abuse or neglect. Christina Brewington with the Bladen County Department of Social Services addressed those in attendance and went over some signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect. She stated that in the 2014-15 fiscal year 24,500 cases of elder abuse and neglect were reported to Social Services Departments. Brewington noted that is a 60 percent increase since 2008. Brewington asked those in attendance to give her some reasons for the increase …..

Read More

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

RALEIGH – Today, as the Department of Justice recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, reaffirms the Eastern District of North Carolina’s commitment to combating elder abuse and financial exploitation.  Mr. Higdon commented: “Our seniors deserve our best efforts to prosecute those who attempt to capitalize on their vulnerabilities.  As the Department of Justice continues to collaborate with other Departments to fight elder abuse on the national scale, the Eastern District of North Carolina continues to pursue justice for elderly victims in its district.” Examples of our commitment to prosecuting crimes targeting our elderly citizens include the …..

Read More

North Carolina’s May Employment Figures Released 

RALEIGH — The state’s seasonally adjusted May unemployment rate was 4.3 percent, decreasing 0.1 of a percentage point from April’s revised rate.  The national rate decreased 0.1 of a percentage point to 3.8 percent. North Carolina’s May 2018 unemployment rate decreased 0.2 of a percentage point from a year ago.  The number of people employed increased 12,280 over the month to 4,774,254 and increased 64,944 over the year. The number of people unemployed decreased 5,969 over the month to 213,611 and decreased 6,727 over the year. Seasonally adjusted Total Non-farm industry employment, as gathered through the monthly establishment survey, increased 21,600 to 4,502,100 in May.  The major industries with the …..

Read More

Elizabethtown PD warns residents to lock your car doors

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown Police Department is warning the town’s residents to lock their car doors at all times. Sgt. Detective T. Davis said the department has received six reports so far of someone entering unlocked vehicles on the east side of town and removing money. “We urge everyone to please leave their vehicles locked at all times,” said Sgt. Davis. He said the individual or individuals responsible have been checking car doors and have only entered the vehicles they found to be unlocked. None of the vehicles have been damaged and no other valuables have been reported missing, according to Sgt. Davis. He said the latest incident happened …..

Read More

64 More Homeowners to Get Housing Help to Recover from Matthew

State Awards Mitigation Grants to Get Matthew Survivors Into More Resilient Homes RALEIGH – NC Emergency Management today announced  that 64 homeowners across central and eastern North Carolina soon will receive $8.5 million in federal and state funds to acquire, elevate or reconstruct homes damaged by Hurricane Matthew. “This is more good news for families who have been waiting for help so they can rebuild their homes and lives,” said state Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry. “We know communities have been eagerly awaiting this funding, and we’re working to get it to them as quickly as possible.” This is the fourth award of Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds and will help …..

Read More

Rotary hears from scholarship winners

The Elizabethtown Rotary Club awarded scholarships to three high school seniors and one Bladen Community College student this year. Three of those students attended a luncheon at Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery on Wednesday and spoke about their future plans. The first student to speak was Janaja McKoy who graduated recently from the Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy. She plans to attend UNC-Pembroke in the fall and major in Psychology. “Psychology has always been one of my passions,” said McKoy. “I aspire to help people to be and feel better.” She hopes to be able to help others be able to achieve their goals. The East Bladen High School scholarship …..

Read More

Clarkton Dixie Youth Celebrate Sincere Smith

There’s an old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.”  That is definitely true for Sincere Smith. Drafted by the New York Yankees last week, Sincere will graduate from East Bladen High School this Saturday and will leave for the Yankees’ rookie camp in Tampa, Florida on Sunday.  He is only 18 years old. Thursday night, the adults from the Clarkton Dixie Youth Baseball league who volunteered when Sincere was a little boy met for supper at San Jose to reminisce and to celebrate Sincere’s accomplishments. None of these adults is coaching any longer, but they all remember when Sincere was a tiny little four-year-old who showed up …..

Read More

Thoughts While Shaving for Friday, June 15

This ‘n that! Remember when ladies had quilting parties. Had wooden frames as big as the quilt, spread out, usually in the largest room in the house. Sewing, treats and some gossip. End product was a ‘one of a kind’ quilt using remnants of all types of fabric. There were also ‘barn raisings’ from time to time. Usually in the late fall or winter. Someone needed a new barn and they were too busy farming during spring and summer season. Invite all the neighbors, friends and family to participate during their ‘down time’. Another tradition seldom observed today were ‘hog killings’. Again, several families comin’ together to kill hogs, usually …..

Read More

Judicial Candidate Filing Begins Monday

RALEIGH, N.C. – The candidate filing period for judicial seats in the 2018 general election begins at noon Monday (June 18) and ends at noon June 29. Statewide judicial seats on ballots November 6 will include one N.C. Supreme Court seat and three N.C. Court of Appeals judgeships. Voters across the state also will elect about three dozen superior court judges and about 120 district court judges. All candidates will file their Notice of Candidacy with the Bipartisan State Board of Elections & Ethics Enforcement. Candidates must pay a filing fee (see chart below) and file paperwork during the filing period. Candidates are reminded that they must receive certification from their county board of elections before filing with the State Board. …..

Read More

Update: Board of Elections discusses security, possible move of Veteran’s Affairs office

By Erin Smith Update:  Larry Hammonds, Director of Bladen County Veteran Affairs said, “I have not been contacted at all about moving the Veteran Affairs office, which is a county office.” “I would be very apprehensive about moving the office because of the stress it may cause my Veterans,” Hammonds added. Previous Story The Bladen County Board of Elections met on Tuesday and discussed several items including building security at the Board of Elections office. Bladen County Board of Elections President Jens Lutz said the board took some steps to implement some changes to the facility such as not allowing unauthorized personnel beyond certain points in the building. The board discussed adding …..

Read More

NC DOT Announces Bladen County Road Closings and Openings

By Faye M. Bowen, NC Department of Transportation The North Carolina Department of Transportation has announced the following road openings and closings. OPENINGS: White-McEwen Road White-McEwen Road is open near Clarkton heading West end time is expected to be June 13, 2018. CLOSINGS: Center Road Center Road is closed with a posted detour in both directions.  Road is closed for bridge construction and miscellaneous roadway work. Is expected to be closed until July 3, 2018. Mercer Mill Mercer Mill Road was closed Monday, February 26th, to replace Bridge 32 and is anticipated to remain for 120 days. It is located just North of the Rosindale Road intersection. It is currently posed …..

Read More

Bladen County Teachers, Staff Retiring

Congratulations to Bladen County Schools retirees. Over 370 years of combined service to the children of North Carolina.   They were treated to a retirement luncheon and recognition on Tuesday at the Bladen County Cooperative Extension Office Auditorium.   “We had the retirees and their principals attend a luncheon and they received a plaque from the Board of Education for their years of service,” said Bladen County Schools Public Relations Director Valerie Newton. Dr. Patricia Faulk, who retired from the Bladen County Schools, spoke to the retirees about the Bladen County Retired School Personnel and how they can join. Bladen County Board of Education Chairman Vincent Rozier thanked the group for their …..

Read More

Local High School Student to Attend Workshop

Contributed Khalil McKoy, a rising junior from East Bladen High school, has been chosen as this year’s Bladen Soil and Water Conservation District representative to the annual Resource Conservation Workshop.  Students are selected by the District’s Board of Supervisors based in part on their interest in conservation and the environment.  Pictured with Khalil is Earl Miller, an agriculture teacher from East Bladen, who will serve as a counselor. The Resource Conservation Workshop is a week-long workshop and involves study and hands on participation in a wide range of conservation topics. Students are housed at NC State University campus dormitories under the guidance of live-in counselors.  The primary objective of the …..

Read More

Second man charged in Clarkton murder has case continued

By Erin Smith A second man charged in the murder of a man on Ida’s Lane in Clarkton appeared in Bladen County Superior Court and had his case continued. Raliek Tyree Lapaix is facing a charge of first degree murder in the death of Charles Leon Leach of Clarkton. He is scheduled to appear in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday, July 9th. Lapaix is charged along with Gabriel James McDowell and Malik Sharmaine Riggans with robbing and killing Leach, 60, who lived on Ida’s Lane near Clarkton. Share:

Read More

World Elder Awareness Abuse Day to be observed at Division on Aging

By Erin Smith Elder abuse and neglect are issues that affect families through the United States. The Bladen County Division on Aging will take part in marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Friday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Bladen County Division on Aging Director Kelly Robeson said there will be Corn Hole and Bingo games and a lunch will be provided. The games will begin at 10 a.m. with a lunch from Subway beginning at 11:15 a.m.and the program will start at 11:45 p.m. Elder abuse and neglect can take on many different forms from physical and psychological abuse to neglect of their welfare by the ones who are supposed to care for them. Robeson …..

Read More
West Bladen High School Logo

West Bladen High offering Girls Soccer Camp

The West Bladen High School is offering a mini soccer camp for girls ages 7 to 14. The camp will be held July 23-25 from 8 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Early registration is $30 and includes T-shirt. Registration is open the day of the camp and cost is $40 but does not guarantee a T-shirt. Make checks payable to WBHS Girls Soccer. Forms can be mailed to Kristen Parker at Bladenboro Middle School, 910 S. Main Street, Bladenboro, NC 28320, by June 29th to ensure a T-shirt. Click here to print an application. Share:

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

My long time favorite computer is having the same problem I suffer from….slowing down, can’t remember and occasionally just goes blank. Financial news, the fed announced a rate increase, the national debt is growing at a rate of $45.486 dollars per second and Social Security is running out of money.  Crank up the press. Fayetteville Observer had a thought provoking article yesterday.  25% of the Bladen County children in foster care are result of the Opioid crisis.  The only good thing about the article was Bladen’s rate was the lowest among area counties.  Sampson’s rate was 65%, Robeson 59% and Columbus was at 43%.  Pitiful. East Bladen graduate, Sincere ‘Skippy’ Smith departs for Tampa, …..

Read More

Bladenboro Middle School 4th Quarter Honor Roll

5th Grade Superintendent’s List:  (96 +) Holland Davis, Erin Hewett, Deikan Moretz, Richard Severine A Honor Roll (90+) Cade Allen, Cole Dowless, Kara Gause, Chason Harris, Flor Jacome Duarte, Addison King, QuinAsia Lee, Joshua Lennon, Valeria Lopez-Martinez, Luke Pait, Alayna Parnell, Dorian Rivera, Hillary Roblero Sandoval, Eileen Rojas Sandoval, Aiden Russ, Leigha Sellers, Nevaeh Singletary, Marissa Taylor, Madison Wilkins A/B Honor Roll (80+) Jerrah Babson, Kallie Bass, Jade Black, Travis Campbell, Danny Chavez-Ortiz, Jack Combs, Alanna Dowless, Emma Dunn, Nicholas Forehand, Laura Garcia Martinez, Jonathan Guijosa-Santiago, Hailey Hunt, Lashantiana Jackson, Dallin Johnson, Noah Johnson, Josiah Lewis, Kylie Long, Faith Marlowe, O’Mara McDonald, Lamaiya Morgan, Issac Munoz,  Jackson Pait, Nicholas Rich, …..

Read More

Bladen County Pet of the Week

By Dora Brogdon This week a 5 to 6 month old male Shepard and pit mix by the name of Jiggy has been selected as Pet of the Week. He’s a sweet and affectionate puppy that just loves to play! This little guy is waiting for his forever family to come and take him to his forever home! The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday to Friday at 12:00 noon until 5:00 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 Smith Circle, Elizabethtown. For more …..

Read More

Lumberton Man Sentenced for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm

GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced Roderick McNeill, 23, of Lumberton, North Carolina to 40 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. McNeill was named in an Indictment on June 22, 2017.  On March 12, 2018, McNeill pled guilty to one-count of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. On April 4, 2016, Lumberton Police Department officers responded to a complaint of shots fired in the vicinity of a business which had both a restaurant and convenience store in the same building.  Upon their arrival, investigators …..

Read More

Family and Friends Day at Mt. Hebron Church

The McKoy and Elliott families will be celebrating their annual Family and Friends Day on Sunday, June 24, at Mt. Hebron AME Zion Church located at Highway 211 East, Bladenboro. The Rev. Carl Ballard, Rev. Fannie Dooley, Pastors. Sunday School will begin at 10 a.m. followed by the Worship Service at 11 a.m. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Dr. Florence S. Brown, Presiding Elder of the Clarkton District. Dinner will be served immediately after the service. Everyone is invited to come fellowship with our family. Share:

Read More

Summer Learning program to take place at Bladen County Public Library system

The Bladen County Public Library will conduct a Summer Learning program, Libraries Rock, beginning July 9 and continuing through August 1. The Summer Learning program is open to children ages 2 to 12 years old. The Bridger Memorial Library in Bladenboro will conduct their Libraries Rock program on Mondays at 3 p.m. The Clarkton Library in Clarkton will conduct their Libraries Rock program on Tuesdays at 3 p.m. The main library in Elizabethtown will conduct their Libraries Rock program on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. You can contact the individual library to register your child. The registration period begins June 8. Share:

Read More

Summer Learning program to kick off Saturday

The Bladen County Public Library will conduct a Summer Learning program. The program will kick off on Saturday, June 16, at 11 a.m. at the Elizabethtown library with an appearance by Scooter Hayes known as Melvil Dewey, the hip-hop librarian. No registration is required. For more information call 910-862-6990.   Share:

Read More

Quilt exhibit in Bladenboro Historical Society Art Gallery

Contributed A display of fancy handmade quilts made by Mary Pittman is now on exhibit in the Bladenboro Visual Arts Gallery in the Bladenboro Historical Society Building, 818 South Main Street, Bladenboro, NC. Bladenboro Visual Arts Gallery hours are 2 until 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. This exhibit will continue until July 29th. Mary Pittman was born in Bladen County in 1923, the daughter of William McCoy “Coy” Smith and Lilly E. Singletary.  Her quilts were made from 1945 through 1980.  The display of the quilts was prepared by Mrs. Pittman’s daughter, Mary Lou Davis Share:

Read More
NC DOT

Build NC Headed to Governor Cooper for Signature

RALEIGH – Build NC, a new financing tool for highway projects, was voted out of the General Assembly today and is headed to Governor Roy Cooper for his signature. “Build NC is a critical tool North Carolina needs to ensure we can continue strong project delivery,” said Department of Transportation Secretary, Jim Trogdon. “Our transportation system is the backbone of our economic competitiveness and our quality of life.” In the last year, NCDOT has made process improvements that have led to the acceleration of 350 projects, and made room for an additional 144 projects in the 10-year plan. This level of project delivery is critical to making sure North Carolina citizens …..

Read More
Elizabethtown - White Lake Chamber of Commerce

Chamber banquet planned for Tuesday

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce will conduct their annual banquet on Tuesday, June 19th, at Lu Mil Vineyard. There will be a social at 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner and a program at 7 p.m. The keynote speaker for this year’s event will be Kenny Flowers, Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development for the NC Chamber of Commerce. Chamber Executive Director Dawn Maynard said Flowers presentation should be one of great interest especially with Bladen County being a rural county. The Chamber will recognize the following individuals: The Honorary Lifetime Chamber Member of the Year Award will be given to Dr. William Findt, President of Bladen Community College. Dr. Findt …..

Read More

Former Elizabethtown Rescue Squad building demolished

By Erin Smith The building which once housed the Elizabethtown Rescue Squad on Mercer Mill Road is no more. The building was damaged by flood waters during Hurricane Matthew. Currently, the rescue squad is sharing space with the Elizabethtown Fire Department at their building located on Swanzy Street. Plans are under way to construct a new building on East Broad Street where Jessup Motors once stood. The proposed building would have accommodations for both the rescue squad and the fire department. The construction of the new fire and rescue station is being funded by a Disaster Recovery Grant from the Golden Leaf Foundation. The cost of the new building is …..

Read More

NCDOT Seeking Input on Projects to Pursue in Fayetteville Area

Open house is June 18 in Fayetteville FAYETTEVILLE – People are invited to a meeting Monday to share their opinions on which proposed projects the N.C. Department of Transportation should build in its five-county Highway Division 6. Staff in the department’s Division 6 (Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Harnett and Robeson counties) will hold the informal public meeting from 5-7 p.m. in the division conference room at 558 Gillespie St., Fayetteville. The department wants public feedback on which regional and division-level projects should become top priorities in the next cycle of the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), a 10-year vision for funding and completing projects. The department is drafting the 2020-2029 STIP using a combination of data and local input. The department …..

Read More

Campbell University releases Dean’s List for Spring 2018

Campbell University has released their Dean’s List for the Spring 2018 semester and several Bladen residents were named to the list. They are as follows: Madison Singletary of Bladenboro; Hannah Allison and Summer Cain, both of Elizabethtown; and Kathryn Alphin of Kelly. The requirements for the Dean’s List are as follows: *A minimum class load of 12 semester hours. *An average of 3.50 or better on work completed during a semester. *No grade below a “C”. *No more than one “C” grade. *No incomplete grades. *Satisfactory social standing. Share:

Read More

UNC Chapel Hill issues Dean’s List for Spring 2018

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has released their Dean’s List for Spring Semester 2018. Several Bladen residents were named to the list. They are as follows: Gabriel Barnes and Lesly Portillo Ramirez, both of Elizabethtown and Haley Hall and Lauren Norris, both of Bladenboro. Share:

Read More

Thoughts While Shaving for June 13

Was up early this AM, lots of thoughts, was reviewing, scribbled them down and lost them due to a glitch, they just went away.  Guess it was not meant to be, but OK.  After all, I’m retired, can do it again. My high school classmates are beginning to be old folks, our conversations are dominated by health issues, doctor appointments, grandchildren, etc. I no longer discuss politics, the whole world is polarized, it seems and I do not care to add to the situation.  Spent many years in the political arena as an elected official and later representing a non-partisan organization.  Loved it. Different today, many Republicans, Democrats and Independents think …..

Read More

White Lake Approves FY 2018-19 Budget With 4-Cent Tax Increase

By Joy Warren The Town of White Lake Board of Commissioners met in regular session Tuesday evening. A public hearing was held to allow the public to comment on the proposed FY 2018-19 Budget. No citizens signed up to speak and the Board approved the Budget as presented. Mayor Goldston Womble stated that the Town’s staff and elected officials worked diligently in analyzing and compiling the budget requests for the new fiscal year. He went on to say “The Town currently has a strong fund balance and is in good financial condition. The challenge we face with restoring the lake water will, at some point, have an impact on those …..

Read More

BCC Small Business Center offering June Seminars

The Bladen Community College Small Business Center is offering seminars during the month of June. Tuesday June 19, 2018 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Implementing a Social Media Strategy Implementing a Social Media Strategy is a straight-forward seminar for small business owners and entrepreneurs designed to answer all the questions that come with creating an online, social presence for your company. In just one hour, we’ll take the mystery out of launching and monitoring your social media plan. Click here to register. Thursday June 28, 2018 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Strategies for Better Engaging Your Employees Join us for an amazing one-hour as Dr. Bob Nelson, best-selling author of 1,001 Ways to Engage …..

Read More

BCC Small Business Center offering June webinars

The Bladen Community College Small Business Center is offering webinars for the month of June. Tuesday, June 19, 2018 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Fueling Your Business Webinar is designed to help small business owners and prospective entrepreneurs understand how to access credit and capital for their businesses. It will review the six basic principles many leaders use to make credit decisions and provide an overview of the resources available to North Carolina for small businesses. Finally, the webinar will cover the Rural Center’s Microenterprise Loan Program and provide details about its lending criteria and application process. Click here to register Wednesday, June 20, 2018 from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Choosing …..

Read More

Bladen County Hospital Designated Lung Cancer Screening Center

ELIZABETHTOWN – Bladen County Hospital has been designated a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR Lung Cancer Screening Center designation is a voluntary program that recognizes hospitals and facilities that have committed to practice safe, effective diagnostic care for patients who are at the highest rick for lung cancer. Bladen County Hospital uses low-dose CT scans to help detect lung cancer at earlier stages, when patient treatment options are optimal. Lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography scans, and appropriate follow-up care, significantly reduces lung cancer deaths. Experts recommend annually screening people age 55 to 77 who have smoked one pack a day …..

Read More

Cape Fear Valley Receives STEMI Award

FAYETTEVILLE – Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline STEMI Receiving Center Gold Plus Award for implementing specific quality measures to help treat heart attack patients. More than 250,000 people a year suffer an ST-elevated myocardial infarction, the deadliest type of heart attack. The attacks are caused by blood blockages to the heart. Restoring blood flow as quickly as possible is vital, either by mechanically opening blocked vessels or providing clot-busting medication. Mission Lifeline’s goal is to reduce system barriers to prompt treatment, from 911 calls to hospital treatment. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center was recognized for having an 85 percent adherence rate and …..

Read More

Plain View Primary honor roll

Plain View Primary has released their Honor Roll for the fourth nine weeks. 3rd Grade A Honor Roll Yoni Dennis, Ethan Wil-Dey, and Oliver Freese. A/B Honor Roll Patrick Elliott, Nery Garrido-Perez and Brandon Hunt. B Honor Roll Alajeh McMillan, Anthony Corbett, David Sanchez, Austin Hunt, Justin Van Valkenburg, Katherine Mejia, Alajah Parker, Miracle Thompson and Jacob Velazquez. 4th grade A Honor Roll Brayden Newell and Ike Nwadiora. A/B Honor Roll Josiah Belle-Robinson, Danasha Bordeaux, Uri Bravo Verdugo, Hayden Dominguez, J’dyn Govan, Abigail Grimsley, Ayana Murchison, Geovani Reyes Gonzalez, Kenai Romero Pena Johani Velazquez Diaz, and Gershon Verdugo-Roblero. Share:

Read More

Looking At National Stocks With A Footprint In Bladen County

Many national firms have a footprint in Bladen County. Here is a look at how these stocks did during the period Jan. 4, 2018-June 11, 2018. Present prices taken June 12, 2018. Stock                High                        Low                    Present BB&T              $56.31                     $43.00                $54.20 Danaher          $104.82                    $78.97         …..

Read More

Bladenboro Board nixes placing beer and wine referendum on the ballot

By Erin Smith Several local church leaders turned out for the Bladenboro Town Board meeting on Monday night as the board addressed whether or not to place a resolution for “off premises” beer and wine on the November ballot. Several local pastors and citizens addressed the board during the open forum. Seven spoke against the measure with one speaking in favor of the addition. Town Commissioner Sarah Jane Benson addressed the crowd and reminded them that even if the board votes against placing the referendum on the ballot, a citizen can take up a petition and have the referendum added anyway. Rev. Larry Hayes said, “I don’t think we need to put …..

Read More
Bladenboro Town Hall

Bladenboro issues fine to Carroll Poultry for third violation

By Erin Smith The Bladenboro Town Board met on Monday night and voted to issue a fine in the amount of $22,050. Town Administrator John O’Daniel said the company has been violating the “flow” they were allowed in their permit. He said this was the third such violation that has taken place at the plant. “Carroll failed to accurately complete their reports,” said O’Daniel. Other issues at Carroll Poultry include the need to have their effluent meter calibrated, according to O’Daniel. He said the company can potentially be fined up to $25,000 per day for each day they remain out of compliance and ultimately their permit can be revoked, said O’Daniel. The …..

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

The long awaited meeting of President Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un is over.  The two leaders signed an agreement after their summit, few details were disclosed.  Hope and pray for the best. Time will tell. Stormy weather returned late in the day yesterday.  Rainfall ranged from very little to substantial amounts in the county, more in the Tar Heel and White Oak areas according to weather folks.  Little over an inch at the Hester household and about a quarter of an inch at the Curtis Brown Airport near Elizabethtown. The forecast calls for more of the same thru Saturday. Mark your calendar, graduation for East and West Bladen Friday evening and Saturday morning.  Check Bladen County …..

Read More

Board of Education Meets and Addresses Possible Loss of Teacher Positions in Consolidation

By Bethany Stephens The Board of Education met Monday where they recognized students for earning their FCLA National Certifications, Bladen Community College’s Dual Graduates, Bladen 5 Conference Champions, and three schools for having the highest student attendance during the Month of May. Sharon Penny, Finance Director, provided a financial summary for information purposes that showed the county’s current finances to be better than formerly expected. Lou Nelon, Maintenance Director, gave an in-depth overview of planned upgrades to Elizabethtown Primary’s traffic, parking, and drainage systems. The new drainage upgrades will consist of cleaning out existing pipes and using a mixture of installing additional pipes and grading land to direct water flow along the …..

Read More

DEQ issues another Notice of Violation, files proposed court order regarding Chemours

By Erin Smith The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has issued a Notice of Violation to Chemours on Monday for 18 additional compounds which have been found at the Fayetteville works facility since January 31, 2018. According to information provided by DEQ, groundwater sampling which take place onsite showed levels of compounds which exceeded allowable limits. DEQ officials say they are exploring all of their options including civil fines and penalties. You can read the Notice of Violation in its entirety here. Also, in further action, DEQ also filed a proposed court order requiring Chemorus to immediately implement numerous measures to eliminate air emissions and water impacts such as …..

Read More

Elizabethtown library to open late tomorrow

The main branch of the Bladen County Public Library in Elizabethtown will have a late opening tomorrow. The main branch of the library will open at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, June 12. This is for the safety of library patrons during the installation of new carpet close to the front entrance. Share:

Read More

Work taking shape at former post office location

By Erin Smith The site of the former Elizabethtown Post Office has become a hub of activity once more. The building is being transformed into a small business incubator to help local entrepreneurs get started. The small business incubator, which was undertaken by Bladen’s Bloomin’ Agri-Industrial, was designed to house a small business temporarily until it grows large enough to move to another larger location in town.  Workers are expected to begin framing the individual office spaces this week, said Bladen County Economic Development Director Chuck Heustess. “We’ve been running into a lot of unknowns. For example, we’ve had to rework the plumbing and we had some structural issues that had …..

Read More

Electrolysis to be offered in Elizabethtown

By Erin Smith   A new service is coming to Healthworks in Elizabethtown in the form of electrolysis. Anna Jacobs, who  is board certified in electrolysis, is booking appointments and is planning an Open House for June 21st. Jacobs said electrolysis is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved permanent hair removal system. The way it works, according to Jabobs, an electronic probe is inserted into the hair follicle and the probe is heated. She said the customer will feel a slight heating sensation. Electrolysis can be performed on both men and women. Jacobs said the most common procedures she performs include mustaches on women and unibrow and back …..

Read More

Elizabethtown Primary School releases honor roll

Elizabethtown Primary School releases the fourth nine weeks honor rolls. 3rd Grade A Honor Roll Emily Campos-Estrada, Ellie Kinlaw, Mallory McDuffie, Brooklyn Skinner, A/B Honor Roll Janice Alvarez-Nunez, Kaylie Atkins, Ta’Mani Brown, Nadya Colon, Mario Covington, Johnny Gonzalez Ortiz, Jaida Harrison, Yurisa Hernandez Lopez, Anette Hernandez-Cruz, Matilda Kinlaw, Aaliyah Monroe, Elijah Morgan, Angie Paredes Palacio, Alayah Powell, Martha Quezada, Khyonna Ripley-Smith, Jordan Robinson, Edwin Rojos, Ariana Rojo-Diaz, Syncere Ross, Landyn Scott, Mikayla Smith, Zy’Asia Smith,  Alejandra Ventura, Kaylee Watson 4th Grade A Honor Roll Leonel Arteaga, Cabria Baldwin, Makayla Caudle, Takyla Cowan, Dajour Davis, Madison Franzeo, Destiny Gore, Isaiah Lee, Joseph Martinez, Olivia Meggs, Alina Rabanales, Grady Starling, Maxwell Tart, Ayden …..

Read More
Dublin Primary

Dublin Primary releases fourth nine weeks honor roll

Dublin Primary School has released their fourth nine weeks honor roll. Third Grade: “A” Honor Roll: Seth Faircloth, Melissa Garcia Ortiz, Lydia Harris, Carly Mejia Frank, Armando Reyna-Vicencio, Dawson Edwards, Noah German, Jaxon Hair, Harley Jordan, Cylee Lugenbell, Evan Melvin, Delton Murdock, Awnnica Ringer “A/B” Honor Roll: Bryce Butler, Syndy Castro mendez, Carson Dowless, Stephanie Maldonado-Ortiz, Harmony Richardson, Eric Rojo Labra, Donavon Sellers, Doris Soto-Suarez, Luke Beck, Chase Braddock, Payton Kinlaw, Alejandro Lopez Sandoval, Emery Phillips Fourth Grade: “A” Honor Roll: Jamaiya Ballard, Norris Trey Benson, Ava Bordeaux, Reagan Hester, Brittany Jacob Ortiz, Jaime Labra-Hernandez, Estrella Vazquez-Aguilar, Carlee Atkinson, Dylan Taylor “A/B” Honor Roll: Nataly Ayala, Jaylyn Clark, Jenna Dove, …..

Read More

Host families sought for exchange students

By Erin Smith Host families are being sought for foreign exchange students in Bladen County. Ayusa, a non-profit promoting global learning and leadership through cultural exchange and leadership programs for high school students is seeking families in Bladen County who are interested in hosting international high school students for the 2018-19 academic year. Recently, Ayusa welcomed Hi Wa “Eva” Lee to Dublin, NC where she stayed with the Thomas Knight family and attended West Bladen High School for the 2017-18 academic year. If you are interested in learning more about hosting an international high school student in your home, contact Connie Lawrence at 919-612-5013 or via email at clawrence@ayusa.org. Share:

Read More
Bladenboro Town Hall

Bladenboro Town Board to meet tonight

The Bladenboro Town Council will meet tonight (Monday, June 11, 2018) at 7 p.m. at the Bladenboro Town Hall.  The board is expected to approve the consent agenda consisting of approval of the agenda, approval of minutes from the last meeting, approval of departmental reports, and approval of a budget amendment. Action items include: 1. Discussion of Sewer Easement or Septic Tank Request. 2. Discussion of Pay and Classification Plan 3. Acceptance and Approval of CDBG-I Award Contract. 4. Discussion of Evaluation Schedule 5. Approval of the 5-year Economic Development Strategic Plan 6. Consideration of Resolution for Referendum on “off premises” Beer & Wine. 7. Consideration of Resolution approving Water …..

Read More

State Board Recognizes Constitution Party as Official Political Party

RALEIGH, N.C. – The Bipartisan State Board of Elections & Ethics Enforcement voted unanimously on Wednesday to recognize the Constitution Party of North Carolina as the state’s newest political party.   That means voters in North Carolina can register as unaffiliated or with any of the following parties: Constitution, Democratic, Green, Libertarian or Republican. It also means the Constitution Party may nominate candidates for the November 2018 general election.   The State Board is modifying voter registration forms to add the newly recognized party. Until then, voters may register with the Constitution Party by checking the “Other” box and writing “Constitution” on the line in the “Political Party Affiliation” section of the voter registration …..

Read More

Steak plate fundraiser planned

A Curtis Jackson Steak Plate Fundraiser will be ​​​conducted on Friday, June 29th, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. sponsored by Mr. James Shaw.  Call (910) 549-7856 or (910) 872-4726 for ticket information.  Plates will include steak, potato, beans, dessert and drink.  It will be held on the grounds of WBLA 1440 AM da Branch Radio Station located at 512 Peanut Road in Elizabethtown.   Share:

Read More

Greater McKoy’s Chapel to celebrate Father’s Day

Greater McKoy’s Chapel, Inc., in Dublin, NC, where Dr. Delora LeSane is the pastor, will be celebrating Father’s Day Sunday, June 17, during the 11 o’clock morning worship service.  Rev. James McKinnon, pastor of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, will be the guest preacher.  Come join us as we celebrate our father’s with the love of the Lord. Share:

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 11

Welcome to my world.  Won’t you come on in?  Miracles, I guess, still happen now and then.  Remember this old, great song from the ’60s.  First recorded by Jim Reeves, later Elvis, Eddy Arnold, Ricky Nelson and more. First day in a while with no school planned, drive carefully, youngsters all around, full of energy, looking for something to do. Had a great weekend.  A party for grandson and his bride-to-be at White Lake.  Rain stopped just in time for outside party. Up early today, received bad news.  A cousin that was for many years my favorite cousin, Wayne Davis, a relative of many in this area, (Bladenboro and Tar Heel), died in Enterprise, …..

Read More
This Day In History

This Day in History for June 11

1742 – Benjamin Franklin invents his Franklin stove. 1776 – Continental Congress creates committee (Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston) to draft a Declaration of Independence. 1838 – Iowa Territory is organized. 1878 – DC is given a new government by Congress, 3 commissioners appointed by president (changed in 1974) 1895 – Charles Duryea patents a gas-driven automobile. 1919 – 23rd US Golf Open: Walter Hagen shoots a 301 at Brae Burn CC Massachusetts. 1927 – Charles Lindbergh is awarded the 1st Distinguished Flying Cross. 1936 – Presbyterian Church of America founded at Philadelphia. 1944 – 15 US aircraft carriers attack Japanese bases on …..

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 10

Ever listened to Les Brown?  For those who do not know, he is a motivational speaker.  Discovered him scrolling through the Internet.  GOOGLE him, good speaker. Bladen County has several large industries that employ hundreds of people, good, but the small and mid-size companies provide hundreds of jobs as well.  Takes all sizes. Ever worked in a sweat-shop?  I did once, but truth be told, it was a little better pay than what I was accustomed to and I ask for the job.  Best I could tell, everyone there was working hard and their pay was based on production. As I look back, thought of the Johnny Paycheck song, “Take This …..

Read More
This Day In History

This Day in History for June 10

1639 – 1st American log cabin at Fort Christina (Wilmington, Delaware) 1760 – NY passes 1st effective law regulating practice of medicine. 1845 – Andrew Jackson’s African Grey Parrot “Poll” is removed from his funeral for swearing at The Hermitage, Tennessee.  Funeral attendee William Menefee Norment recorded: “Before the sermon and while the crowd was gathering, a wicked parrot that was a household pet got excited and commenced swearing so loud and long as to disturb the people and had to be carried to the house” 1869 – ‘Agnes’ arrives in New Orleans with 1st ever shipment of frozen beef. 1902 – Patent for window envelope granted to H F …..

Read More
Bladen County Headlines... 35 Years Ago

Bladen County Headlines 35 Years Ago

East Bladen Band was featured on WECT Television. Scooper’s Delight and House of Quality Pawn Shop opened in Bladen County. More than 400 seniors graduated in Bladen County. The proposed tax rate for the town of Elizabethtown was 59 cents. Share:

Read More

Social Security supports people with cancer

By Brenda Brown Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Fayetteville, NC In 2018, more than a million people will be diagnosed with cancer around the world. This alarming statistic affects people and families everywhere. On June 3, 2018, we observe National Cancer Survivors Day in the United States. In support of this day, Social Security encourages getting checkups to provide early detection, raise awareness through education, and recognize the survivors who have gone through this battle or are still living with the disease. Social Security supports people who are fighting cancer. We offer support to patients dealing with this disease through our disability program. People with certain cancers may be …..

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 9

Congratulations to all students, another year behind you.  Some will move on to institutions of higher learning, some  will join the workforce and for the younger ones, time for fun in the sun. Bladen Community College is a great place to begin higher education.  Call or visit for details. Graduation ceremonies for West Bladen will be held Friday, June 15, at 6 PM.  East Bladen ceremonies set for Saturday, June 16, at 10:30 AM. Few events you never forget, 16 years of age and drivers license, graduation, first job, marriage and the birth of your children. Congratulations to the Campbell family!  They recently celebrated their 70th anniversary in business. Began as Campbell Oil …..

Read More
This Day In History

This Day in History for June 9

1628 – 1st deportation from what is now US, Thomas Morton from Massachusetts. 1802 – US Academy at West Point founded. 1822 – Charles Graham patents false teeth. 1869 – Charles E. Hires sells his 1st root beer, in Philadelphia. 1909 – Alice Huyler Ramsey, 22-year-old housewife from Hackensack, New Jersey, becomes the 1st woman to drive across the US, in a Maxwell 30, drives 3,800 miles from Manhattan to San Francisco in 59 days. 1915 – US President Woodrow Wilson sends 2nd Lusitania not to Germany protesting sinking of the Lusitania and refuting German claim British blockade illegal. 1924 – “Jelly-Roll Blues” is recorded by blues great Jelly Roll …..

Read More

White Lake is much clearer post treatment

By Erin Smith One White Lake resident says the water is the “the clearest it has been in ten years.” Rev. Cameron McGill says he can see a remarkable difference in the lake’s color prior to the recent alum treatment and today. Rev. McGill is an avid kayaker. He said, “Two months ago, I couldn’t see paddle in the water. Now I can read the letters written on the paddle as it is deep in the water.” Rev. McGill said on Friday morning, as he was kayaking on the lake, he said he noticed the water from Goldston’s Beach and Regal Resort to the FFA Camp is much clearer. He …..

Read More

Treasurer steps down after many years of service

By Charlotte Smith Community service is important. The members of Boost the Boro, Inc., a non-profit organization are dedicated to improving the Bladenboro community. One member, Pat Hasbrouck was recognized for her service at the last meeting. Don White, President of Boost the Boro, Inc., announced after about five years of serving as the Treasurer of the non-profit; Hasbrouck asked to step down from the position. He said not only has Hasbrouck been donating about two hours of work each week to Boost the Boro as Treasurer, but she is also very involved with a lot of other Civic organizations. Hasbrouck is also very involved with the Bladenboro Historical Society, …..

Read More

East Arcadia School Class of 2018

Contributed East Arcadia School held an Eighth Grade Graduation Ceremony and Middle School Send Off for students this week. WECT’s Frances Weller served as the keynote speaker for the  graduation ceremony. The students are looking forward to summer vacation complete with carefree days before returning to the classroom in the fall. Share:

Read More

Bladen County Division on Aging to mark Elder Abuse Awareness Day

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Division on Aging is planning to raise awareness of the seriousness of a crime that many people may not be aware of — elder abuse. The Division on Aging team is planning an Elder Abuse Awareness Day event on Friday, June 15, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Division on Aging office located at 608 McLeod Street in Elizabethtown. Topics of discussion will include elder abuse and medication assistance program. There will also be  food, prizes, Corn Hole and Bingo. If you are planning to attend the event, you are asked to register by contacting the Division on Aging at 910-872-6330 by …..

Read More

Youth recognized during Juvenile Crime Prevention Council luncheon

By Erin Smith There was an air of excitement in the auditorium at the Bladen County Cooperative Extension Office in Elizabethtown on Thursday. Several Bladen County students were recognized Thursday afternoon during the Bladen County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council’s annual Youth Recognition Banquet. Several youth were unable to attend due to their class scheduling. The youth who were receiving recognition or graduating from programs were given certificates and backpacks to mark the occasion. The Life Skills award was presented to Hayden Munn, Alicia Moultrie, Ranier Simmons, Damonty Davis, Marcus Banes, Andre Cotten, Jordan Robinson, Damian Jackson, Micah Cromartie, and Wilson Norton. The Supportive Services for Students and Parents recognition went …..

Read More

Bladen County Sheriff’s Office conducts specialized training class

The Bladen County Sheriffs Office has been conducting training to enhance the safety of our school children, residents, and businesses on a repetitive basis since the Specialized Training Section was established in 2015. On Thursday another initiative was launched to support those goals and objectives, according to Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Gary Turlington. “In preparation for the response to imminent and active threats, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office began the next portion of training to respond to threats such as active shooters in our schools and other public facilities,” said Sgt. Turlington. In this training session, conducted for every member of the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office and local allied …..

Read More

Brunswick County Court continues case of Bladen Commissioner

By Erin Smith The case against Bladen County Commissioner Ashley S. Trivette was continued on Tuesday in Brunswick County Superior Court. No new date has been announced for her return to court. According to court records, she is facing charges of DWI and misdemeanor child abuse. Related articles: Bladen County Commissioner, Ashley S Trivette facing new charge Bladen County Commissioner Trivette’s case continued Commissioner Ashley S. Trivette case continued Bladen County Commissioner Trivette arrested   Share:

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 8

Must admit I get a little excited when a local youngster is drafted in MLB, NFL, NBA, or any other sport, or as in PGA, where you arrive because you have paid your dues and earned it. Congratulations to Sincere “Skippy” Smith, East Bladen graduate, or soon will be.  He was recently drafted by the New York Yankees in the 32nd round, the 967th pick in the 2018 MLB draft.  It’s an honor, a well deserved honor.  He is one of a very few who will have that opportunity. The Hester’s enjoyed the ride many, many years ago.  The highs are offset by the lows, but think of the millions of …..

Read More

Bladen County 4-H offering STEAM activities this summer

Bladen County 4-H will be offering “Growing 4-H: Full STEAM Ahead” for school aged children beginning June 25th and continuing through August 3rd. The program will consist of free STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities for those who are participating in the Summer Feeding program hosted by the Bladen County Schools. Activities will take place from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. For more information, contact Stacie Kinlaw at (910) 862-4591 or email at stacie_kinlaw@ncsu.edu Share:

Read More

Summer Feeding program set

By Erin Smith Bladen County Schools is set to offer a summer feeding program once gain this year. The program will consist of breakfast and lunch. The program is set to begin on June 18th and will continue through July 31st. Feeding sites will include Elizabethtown Middle School, Bladeboro Middle School, and West Bladen High School. Hours for the summer feeding program are 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The meals are free of charge. For more information on how your group can participate in the Bladen County Schools Summer Feeding Program, contact Amy Stanley at 910-862-4136. Share:

Read More
Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County residents

By Dora Brogdon This Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. the Mother County Genealogical Society will be meeting at the Bladenboro Historical Society Building. Bonnie (Bridger) Mittelmaier will be the speaker for the event and will be talking about “Back To England, Digging Bridger Root”. Also on Saturday, the First Missionary Baptist Church will be hosting the Hammond Creek Fun Day. Saturday evening Hickory Grove Baptist Church and the Bladenboro Benefit Committee will be sponsoring a Chicken & Rice Plate benefit for Jessica Allen Ludlum. The fundraiser will begin at 11 a.m. and all proceeds will go to benefit Ludlum. Each plate will cost a donation and bake sale items will be available. Local talent …..

Read More

White Lake Officer helps Girl Scout

Contributed One intrepid Girl Scout decided the officers at the White Lake Police Department needed a treat. Keana Dowless was able to get the attention of White Lake Police Officer T. Hester to see if he would buy some of the tasty Girl Scout cookies. Officer Hester not only purchased some cookies but he took a minute from his busy schedule to talk with Dowless.   Share:

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Sunset Jams – Alive After Five, sponsored by Southeastern Health, Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber of Commerce and numerous local merchants, begins June 21st at Goldston’s Beach from 6PM to 9PM.  Enjoy the music of Imitations.  Future events are planned for July 19th and August 16th.  They are free, a great time to relax with friends and enjoy the music. Chamber members and supporters are reminded of the Annual Banquet, Tuesday, June 19 at Lu Mil Vineyard.  Social at 6 PM, Dinner and program at 7.  You should RSVP by June 17th.  Contact numbers are 862-4368 or 874-0285.  The cost is $25 per person.  Always a worthwhile event. Boost the ‘Boro committee met recently. The committee awards a scholarship annually to a …..

Read More

Community Health Assessment under way, your help needed completing survey

By Erin Smith A Regional Community Health Assessment/Community Health Needs Assessment is under way in Bladen County. The Bladen County Health Department is partnering with Cape Fear Valley-Bladen Healthcare to complete the assessments. This is a new partnership with East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine. The goal is to receive 380 responses. The Community Health Assessment and the Community Needs Assessment are required to be completed every three years. For the health department, the Community Health Assessment addresses accreditation standards and is tied to state funding. The results of the assessment assists agencies in devising action plans to address the concerns and needs identified in the survey. The document …..

Read More

Campbell Oil celebrating 70 years

By Erin Smith A family-owned Elizabethtown business is celebrating 70 years of service to the residents of Bladen County. One employee has remained with the company for 50 of those years. As of May 2018, Campbell Oil Company began to celebrate their 70th anniversary and Mac Campbell also celebrated 50 years of working at the company his father began. Campbell said the beginning of the company pre-dates himself. He shared how his father had the vision to begin Campbell Oil in 1948 after he had returned from serving in the Army during World War II. Campbell said his father was one of the first men in Bladen County to be …..

Read More

Updated Road Openings/Closings for Bladen County

Faye M. Boyne, NC DOT The North Carolina Department of Transportation has issued an updated list of road openings and closings in Bladen County. The list is 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. Is expected to be closed until July 3, 2018. White-McEwen Road White-McEwen Road is closed near Clarkton heading West and is expected to re-open June 13, 2018. Mercer Mill Road Mercer Mill Road has been closed since Monday, February 26th, to replace Bridge 32. The closing was anticipated to last for 120 days. It is located just North …..

Read More

BCC writing center plans summer events

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College is hosting online, no-cost, summer writing workshops for writers of all ages. Create Your Résumé is scheduled for June 19 at 10 A.M. Writing for Fun is June 20 at 1 P.M. ACT Prep is planned for June 26 at 10 A.M. Online workshops are open to the public and can be accessed at Zoom.us. Use meeting identification number 765-253-5826. The Bladen Community College Writing Center is located in building 8 on the Dublin campus. It is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 A.M. until 5:30 P.M., and can be accessed online on Saturday from 9:30 A.M. until 12:00 P.M., as well as Thursday through …..

Read More

Four County EMC Donates Fans to Help Senior Citizens

Burgaw, N.C.— Four County Electric Membership Corporation has donated fans to facilities that serve elderly citizens. In turn, the agencies give fans to the elderly who do not have access to fans or air conditioned living. Summer months – June through August – inflict considerably high temperatures and humidity in our area. Seniors living in homes without air conditioning or circulating air face a greater risk of heat-related injuries during the summer. “We help as many elderly citizens as possible stay cool during the hot summer months. Long term exposure to the heat without proper cooling equipment can have harmful results,” explains Gay Johnson, Director of Corporate Communications with Four …..

Read More

Bethlehem United Methodist Church Invites Children to Shipwrecked VBS: Rescued by Jesus

White Oak, NC–A summer kids’ event called Shipwrecked VBS will be hosted at Bethlehem UMC from July 15th  to July 19th.  Supper will be served at 5:30 p.m. and classes will begin at 6:15 p.m. At Shipwrecked, kids discover that Jesus rescues them! Kids participate in memorable Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games, make and devour yummy treats, experience one-of-a-kind Bible adventures, and test out Science-Fun Gizmos they’ll take home and play with all summer long. Plus, kids will learn to look for evidence of God all around them through something called God Sightings. Shipwrecked is for kids from Pre-K to Youth and also an Adult class will be available and will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. each day. …..

Read More
Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 6

Our President has been on Amazon’s case about discounted prices by the US Post Office.  Volume must be important to that agency.  Seems I get hundreds of ‘advertising slicks’ in a months time from so many different companies.  Just wonder how much each pays to load up my mailbox, so I can load up my garbage bags and deliver to the Bladen County Solid Waste site. I admire folks who work daily to repair this ‘n that, independent operators, who must provide their own benefits, including insurance, retirement (401Ks), provide their own transportation, tools, and supplies.  They have to be pretty good business folks as well.  Electricians, plumbers, repairman, of all types.  …..

Read More

Bladen County Pet of the Week

By Dora Brogdon This week a 10 month old male pit/mastiff mix by the name of Jax has been picked as Pet of the Week. This affectionate guy just has a good personality! He’s very playful and just a big sweetheart waiting for that perfect forever family to come by and take him home! The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday to Friday at 12:00 noon until 5:00 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 Smith Circle, Elizabethtown, NC 28337. For …..

Read More

Big Blue Stores to mark 40th anniversary

By Erin Smith Big Blue Stores is gearing up to celebrate 40 years in business this weekend. The Big Blue Stores are planning a special sale event for Friday through Sunday. “Our 40th anniversary means the world to us. Being in business for several decades is a major accomplishment and gives us an opportunity to thank our customers and our employees,” said Tim Clifton, General Manager of Big Blue Stores in North Carolina. Clifton said the Big Blue Stores in North Carolina have been locally owned and operated for 40 years and the employee who set the store in 1978 continues to work at the Big Blue Store in Clinton …..

Read More

Commissioners discuss proposed budget

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Commissioners met in a special session on Monday afternoon to continue work on the proposed budget. The board approved budget requests from the Division on Aging and moved funds from contingency line item to the County’s general fund budget. Department heads were offered the opportunity to address the board regarding their budget requests.  Kelly Robeson, Director of the Division on Aging, addressed the Commissioners first and asked to have a part-time Nutrition Coordinator’s position reclassified to full-time. She explained the job was originally fill-time and was reclassified to a part-time position.  “If we could convert it back, it would be very beneficial …..

Read More

Archives