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Category Posts : Local News

Bladen Disaster Relief Distribution Site New Hours of Distribution for Hurricane Relief Supplies

Contributed Bladen Disaster Relief Distribution site was launched as a concerted effort with Foundation Bible Church, Bladen Crisis Assistance, Bladen County United Way, and the County of Bladen. The organization has been staffed entirely by volunteers from many local churches and residents from in-and-around Bladen County. We are pleased to announce that we have served over 9700 residents of Bladen and surrounding counties at least once, thus far. The new hours of distribution, effective immediately, are: Tuesday and Thursday from 2:00 – 5:00 pm Saturday 9:00 – 11:00 am We take this opportunity the sincerely thank all of our volunteers who have assisted in this effort, and welcome any new …..

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BB&T to Build 500-Person Facility & Donate Grants

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – BB&T Corporation today announced it will build an approximately 100,000-square-foot office facility at 301 S. James K. Powell Blvd. in downtown Whiteville, North Carolina. The new approximately $20 million building will consolidate the 500 BB&T associates who currently work in nine locations in the Whiteville area including one of its primary Client Care Centers on James B. White Highway. BB&T expects to begin site work on the project during the first quarter of 2019 with an opening date yet to be determined. In addition, the BB&T Charitable fund announced grants totaling $1 million to Southeastern Community College, Whiteville; Robeson Community College, Lumberton; Bladen Community College, Dublin; and …..

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State/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Bladen County

RALEIGH, N.C. – A disaster recovery center is now open in the town of Elizabethtown in Bladen County. North Carolina Emergency Management and FEMA will open additional centers in affected counties in the coming days. The centers offer in-person support to individuals and businesses in counties included in the North Carolina federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Florence. Representatives from the State of North Carolina, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and other organizations are at the centers to explain available assistance programs and help connect survivors with resources that best match their recovery needs. The center is located at: Powell-Melvin Agricultural Center 450 Smith Circle Elizabethtown, N.C. 28337 Hours: …..

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Governor Cooper Comments on Florence Recovery Package

RALEIGH: Governor Roy Cooper shared the following comment on the Hurricane Florence recovery package that passed the legislature tonight: “I appreciate legislators responding quickly and taking this initial step to help North Carolinians recover from this devastating storm, particularly in the areas of education and the federal match. However, we must continue to work together to provide more for affordable housing and farmers as well as to make real investments to ensure clean water and to lessen the impacts of future storms on our homes, roads, businesses and water infrastructure.” Governor Cooper intends to sign the bill into law soon. Share:

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UNITED STATES ATTORNEY ROBERT J.HIGDON, JR. ANNOUNCES PROGRESS IN MAKING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER THROUGH PROJECT SAFE NEIGHBORHOODS, “TAKE BACK NORTH CAROLINA” INITIATIVE

RALEIGH – One year ago, the Department of Justice announced the revitalization and enhancement of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which Attorney General Sessions has made the centerpiece of the Department’s violent crime reduction strategy. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Throughout the past year, we have partnered with …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Just about every conversation begins with the weather, sooooo, how about the weather?  High today near 80 with a 40 percent chance of rain, low tonight around 65 with a 50 percent chance of rain.  High Wednesday near 74 with 50 percent chance or ‘wet stuff’.  Cooler temps Wednesday night with lows around 49, high in the mid 60s on Thursday and low Thursday night around 44 degrees.  Cool streak could last a few days. As election day draws near, just about everything related to politics causes more confusion.  Our ‘political fuse’ is short.  It’s just another election season.  It comes around every two years for county, state and national elections.  Early …..

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Groundbreaking held for new STEM facility

By Erin Smith Excitement could felt all around the Bladen Community College campus on Monday morning. The prospect of a groundbreaking for a new STEM facility on the campus brightened an otherwise grey morning. BCC President Dr. William Findt welcomed everyone to the groundbreaking and introduced the dignitaries in attendance. “We could not have done this without the partnerships you see here,” said Dr. Findt. The new facility, which will cost about $2 million, will house the college’s science and technology programs. STEM is an acronym that stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The building will house a manufacturing technology lab, industrial/chemistry lab, a computer lab, office space and …..

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Help Available for North Carolina Businesses Affected By Hurricane Florence

RALEIGH: As North Carolina’s strong and coordinated response to Hurricane Florence recovery continues, Governor Roy Cooper today encouraged small business owners harmed by the storm to access loans and other programs that can help. The N.C. Department of Commerce and the Small Business Technology Development Center have partnered with state and federal organizations to compile resources for businesses affected by the storm. Assistance includes help with developing recovery strategies as well as access to capital needed to support immediate cleanup costs and longer-term recovery from physical damage and economic losses. “Small businesses are the economic engine for our local communities. Business owners face more than physical damage to their place …..

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Clarkton Public Library to host Haunted Library Party

Halloween is a time that is enjoyed by many children as they prepare to dress as their favorite characters and prepare for trick or treating. The Bladen County Public Library’s Clarkton branch will host a “Haunted Library Party” on Tuesday, October 30, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The party is for children ages 2-12 and adult supervision is required. Children are encouraged to wear their costumes. Pre-registration is required. To register your child,  call 910-647-3661. Share:

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Bladen County Public Library to Host Children’s Monster Bash

Halloween is a time that is enjoyed by many children as they read spooky stories and dress up as their favorite characters. The Bladen County Public Library’s main branch in Elizabethtown will host a Children’s Monster Bash on Thursday, October 25, beginning at 6 p.m. The party is for children ages 2-12 and adult supervision is required. Pre-registration is required. To register your child,  call 910-862-6990. The main branch of the library is located on S. Cypress Street in Elizabethtown. Share:

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Campbell joins Hilton Auction & Realty for new career 

  Elizabethtown, NC: Charlie and Dean Hilton of Hilton Auction & Reality in Elizabethtown are excited to announce their newest team member. Christian Campbell also from Elizabethtown recently accepted a position at Hilton Auction & Realty to start her new career as a Real Estate Broker. Campbell graduated from UNC Wilmington with a degree in Exercise Science and teaches classes at HealthWorks Fitness & Wellness in Elizabethtown, but she wanted to do more.  “I wanted to come back to the area because I feel like there is a lot opportunity here,” Campbell said.  Residential and commercial sales is the focus of Campbell’s work right now, but she will also be …..

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Arrest made in Bladenboro after narcotics investigation

Contributed   The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit has completed an investigation into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Todd Britt Court area of Bladenboro. During the investigation, it was determined by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit that the below listed individual was responsible for distributing Controlled Substances in and around Bladenboro.  This investigation originated from citizen complaints which prompted Narcotics Agents to the area of 205 Todd Britt Court, Bladenboro, NC.  Agents conducted undercover purchases from the defendant in this investigation where prescription medication was purchased. At the conclusion of this investigation, on October 12, 2018, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office served arrest warrants on the defendant.  The defendant …..

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Canned food collection challenge to schools

Contributed The Kiwanis Club of Elizabethtown is having a can food drive for the month of October. Since our county has suffered so much the club decided to expand their drive and make it an annual event. The Kiwanians put a challenge out to both East Bladen High School and West Bladen High School. Both, Mrs. Peggy Hester, Principal of West Bladen and Dr. Jason Wray, Principal of East Bladen High School accepted the challenge. The challenge starts today, October 15 and will go through the end of the month. The challenge is the students of the high schools are to collect can goods (can goods only) for the month …..

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NCDMV Seeking Contract Applications for Moore Co. LPA

Applications due by Nov. 15 RALEIGH – The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles is seeking applicants to operate a license plate agency (LPA) in northern Moore County. The agency, located at 101 North Middleton Street in Robbins, is currently operated under a contract that will end following the selection of a new operator.  The policy of the division is to open applications to operate a new or existing license plate agency at a point following the end of a contract or when a current contract is nearing expiration. Completed applications must be returned to NCDMV no later than Nov. 15.  The applications (Form MVR-93 or Form MVR-93AA) are located on …..

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Public hearing scheduled for a Community Transportation Program Application

A public hearing is scheduled for tonight (Monday, October 15th) regarding a Community Transportation Program application.  The public hearing will take place during the Bladen County Board of Commissioners meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the basement of the Bladen Courthouse in Elizabethtown. Also, the Board of commissioners is expected to approve a consent agenda which consists of the following items: the Proposed Agenda, minutes of the October 1, 2018 Regular Meeting, budget amendments, County Attorney Invoices totaling $3,275, Tax Releases No. 9-18, a Solid Waste Disposal Agreement with Sampson County Disposal, Inc., a service agreement with Mobile Communications America in the amount of $50,331.96, Homeland Security Grant Program Notification (Grant #EMW-2018-SS-00053) …..

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Hurricane Florence Recovery Efforts in Bladen County to be topic of meeting

The ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Florence will be the topic of a special meeting of the Bladen County Board of Commissioners this afternoon at 4 p.m. at the Powell-Melvin Agricultural Center located at 450 Smith Circle in Elizabethtown. Topics to be discussed include: County activities; State activities; FEMA activities; Red Cross activities; US Small Business Administration; and the Kelly Water Dike and Drainage District. The public is welcome to attend. Share:

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NC DIT Leader Honored for NC Tech Awards

Raleigh, N.C. – A leader in the North Carolina Department of Information Technology has been honored by NC TECH, a professional association dedicated to promoting technology and innovation in North Carolina. Deputy State Chief Information Officer and Chief Services Officer Tracy Doaks was named Public Sector CIO of the Year by NC TECH for the organization’s annual NC TECH Awards. She is one of eight people recognized for their accomplishments and impact on the tech sector in North Carolina. “Tracy Doaks is a great driving force for The North Carolina Department of Information Technology,” said Eric Boyette, State Chief Information Officer and Secretary of the Department of Information Technology. “Her passion …..

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State Highway Patrol Announces Operation Stop Arm

RALEIGH – While many schools across the state have been in operation for more than two months, the State Highway Patrol is taking proactive steps to ensure school bus safety is not overlooked. Beginning Monday, October 15, troopers statewide will participate in Operation Stop Arm, a week-long event held each year.  Objectives of the campaign include an increase in educational programs and enforcement in and around school zones.  Throughout the week, troopers will ride on school buses and use unmarked vehicles to monitor bus routes to and from school. “Every child should be afforded a safe means of travel as they attend their respective educational institution”, said Colonel Glenn McNeill Jr., commander …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Busy weekend in the rearview mirror, hoping for a normal week. The 2018 General Election begins this week.  In the meantime, Bladen is one of 28 counties where the voter registration deadline was extended through today (Monday-October 15).  The extension was for counties most affected by Hurricane Florence and named by the North Carolina State Board of Elections. One-Stop Early Voting also begins this week, on Wednesday, October 17, and continues through Saturday, November 3, 2018.  For more info, call or visit the Bladen County Board of Elections. Bladen County Commissioners meet twice today, maybe more.  One is a Special Called Meeting and later, 6:30 PM, their regular semi-monthly meeting, at …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for October 15

1789 – First presidential tour-George Washington in New England. 1846 – Dr William Green Morton 1st public use of ether. 1878 – Edison Electric Light Company incorporated. 1883 – Supreme Court declares Civil Rights Act of 1875 unconstitutional. 1919 – 14 horses begin 300-mile race from Vermont to Massachusetts for $1000 prize money. 1924 – US President Calving Coolidge declares Statute of Liberty a national monument. 1933 – 20th Amendment to the US Constitution goes into effect President term begins in January not March. 1939 – LaGuardia Airport opens in NYC. 1952 – Arthur Laurent’s “Time of the Cuckoo” premieres in NYC. 1952 – “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White and illustrated …..

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Achieving Self Support with Social Security

By Brenda Brown Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Work means different things to different people, but it can give you a sense of self, a community to rely on, and much-needed structure. Some people define themselves through their careers, while others enjoy the social aspect of their jobs. If you rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments and want to start working or return to work, we can help. A plan for achieving self-support (PASS) is a plan for your future. This plan lets you use your income or resources you own to help you reach your work goals. You could set aside money to go to school and get …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for October 14

1773 – American Revolutionary War: The United Kingdom’s East India Company tea ships’ cargo are burned at Annapolis, Maryland. 1774 – First Continental Congress makes Declaration of Colonial Rights in Philadelphia. 1834 – First African-American granted a US patent, Henry Blair, for a corn planter. 1884 – George Eastman patents paper-strip photographic film. 1901 – Justin Huntly McCarthy’s “If I were King” premieres in NYC. 1922 – 1st Tom McAn shoe store opens on Third Avenue NYC. 1926 – A.A. Milne’s book “Winnie the Pooh” released. 1943 – US 8th Air Force loses 60 B-17s during assault on Schweinfurt. 1952 – UN General Assembly first meets at its new headquarters …..

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Grape Festival Provides Fun For All

By Erin Smith While the morning air had a crisp feel to it, the atmosphere at Lu Mil Vineyard’s NC Grape Festival Saturday was one of fun and laughter. The well attended event had plenty to offer from the soft sounds of jazz music to the laughter of the Grape Stomp event. Denise Bridgers estimated the crowd in attendance to be 2,500. “I’m just thrilled. I think everything went well,” said Bridgers. She explained that organizers changed the festival layout slightly, and it made a very positive impact. Festivities kicked off with a pancake breakfast sponsored by the Dublin Boy Scouts. The day continued with a food truck round up …..

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Power restored to more than 900,000 Duke Energy customers in the Carolinas 48 Hours after Tropical Storm Michael passes

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — About 1.1 million customers in the Carolinas were affected by power outages from Tropical Storm Michael. As of Saturday afternoon, that number was down to 175,000. At the height of the storm Thursday, about 554,000 customers were without power – the peak number during the event. “We have more than 10,000 people working to restore power,” said Duke Energy Storm Director Rufus Jackson. “We are grateful to our customers for their patience after enduring two major storms in the past month. We have restored nearly one million outages in the two days since the storm passed, and we won’t rest until everyone is back.” Jackson added that all Carolina-based …..

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Bladen County Headlines 35 Years Ago

Bladen unemployment was the highest in N.C. with a rate of 18.3 percent. North Carolina DOT announced a grant of $139,426 for road work in 7 Bladen County municipalities. The Bladen Journal announced that their circulation stood at 5,650 subscribers. WestPoint Pepperell announced pay raises for all employees in Bladen County. Share:

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Bladen County residents place in NC State Fair Competition

Contributed Bladen County residents of all ages love the NC State Fair as it is sure sign Fall has arrived. Many Bladen County residents enjoy entering the competitions the fair offers. Andrew Runion II, age 9, of Garland, grew watermelons this year for competition at the local fairs. He won the Cumberland County Fair and the Wayne County Fair, and he placed third in the North Carolina State Fair and 10th in GPC competition which includes other states. Andrew’s sister, Alexa Runion, 6, placed third for her apple. Their parents are Andy and Amber Runion of Garland. “We fought through two hurricanes. We had to store them (the watermelons) in the …..

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Essential Fire Prevention Tips to Share With Your Family

This week is Fire Prevention Week! This year’s theme is LOOK. LEARN. LISTEN. Many deaths and injuries from fires happen in homes, but fires can happen anywhere. Use these fire safety tips to help prevent and respond to a fire in your home: Make sure your smoke alarms work. Choose interconnected alarms so when one sounds, they all sound. Don’t be caught off guard. Place smoke alarms inside and outside every bedroom. Make sure everyone in your home knows how the alarms sound. Smoke alarms don’t last forever. Test alarms every month. If your alarms are 10 years old or older, it’s time to replace them. When you hear a smoke …..

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Mold found in Bladen County Courthouse, remediation under way

By Erin Smith Elevated levels of mold have been found in at least two rooms of the Bladen County Courthouse and Bladen County officials say remediation efforts are under way. Humidifiers are operating in the Jury Deliberation Room and the District Court Room, on the third floor of the Courthouse and the Southeastern Community and Family Services room in the basement of the Courthouse. The District Court Room has been closed since Monday, October 8, and District Court Judge Scott Ussery has been using the Bladen County Commissioners meeting room to hear cases, according to Bladen County Manager Greg Martin. “We had mold testing performed on September 24th and we …..

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NC DOT

NCDOT Seeks Vendors for Disaster Recovery Operations

RALEIGH – As the state recovers from the effects of Hurricanes Florence and Michael, the N.C. Department of Transportation is looking for vendors that can clear debris, provide facility support services, furnish necessary supplies and much more. NCDOT is committed to increasing and expanding diversity participation within the state emergency plan and operations. Certified Disadvantaged, Small, Minority and Woman-owned Business firms interested in disaster response and recovery opportunities should visit the NC Interactive Purchasing System (IPS) to register and have free access to projects in the various affected areas. For contract opportunities, businesses must own preferred equipment for emergency response, be pre-qualified (for assistance visit Connect NCDOT Business Partner Resources), and have worker’s comp …..

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Moores Creek National Battlefield Set to Reopen After Hurricane Florence Recovery

Currie, NC –  On Monday, October 15, 2018, Moores Creek National Battlefield will reopen to the public for the first time since Hurricane Florence hit the area nearly 1 month ago. Nearly 2/3 of the park flooded, with some parts receiving over 15′ of water in places. The park remained flooded for over two weeks. Park staff were able to get in last week and begin the long recovery process. The park’s Visitor Center, Administration Building, and Maintenance Building remained dry and did not receive any damage. However, the Patriots Hall Community Building received over 5′ of water in it. The boardwalk, a part of the History Trail that crosses over …..

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Valley Fine Food Recalls Meat and Poultry Products

WASHINGTON, DC – Valley Fine Foods, a Forest City, N.C. establishment, is recalling approximately 35,516 pounds of heat-treated, not fully cooked meat and poultry products that may be adulterated due to presence of spoilage organisms that have rendered it unwholesome and unfit for human food, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The heat-treated, not fully cooked, refrigerated meat and poultry products were produced on various dates from Aug. 15, 2018 through Oct. 4, 2018. The following products are subject to recall: *12-oz. tray packages containing “SIMPLE DISHES™ Chicken Penne Alfredo” with case code #19034, case UPC code 1-07-42753-34709-0, and “BEST IF USED BY” “10/09/18” …..

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Massage Therapy, Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Stress

Contributed The ancient arts of massage therapy and acupuncture are known all the world over for being methods of stress relief and healing. The members of the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Elizabethtown Massage R & R as a new member during Tuesday’s luncheon meeting. Chamber Members also learned more about the services the company offers. Massage Therapists Judith Brogdon, Carrie Kelly, Wanda Thomas, and Acupuncturist Leslie Brown, discussed the various procedures performed and how they help their clients. Brown spoke first regarding acupuncture. She said while many people fear needles, such as getting shots, the needles used in acupuncture are very different. The acupuncture needles are small …..

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County Residents

By Dora Brogdon This weekend will be filled with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fall weather. On Saturday morning  the Annual NC Grape Festival will begin at 9 a.m. and will continue until 3 p.m. No payment is needed to attend. Vendor spaces will be available and booth spaces are free. The Grape Stomp Competition will begin at 10 a.m. and there is no cost to enter. For more information, please either call  910-866-5819 or go to www.lumilvineyard.com. Also on Saturday, the Mother County Genealogical Society will be having a meeting at the Bladenboro Historical Society Building. Terry Smith will be speaking about Colonel James Gillespie who was a delegate …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

NFL football – Eagles defeat Giants. High School football tonight: 7:30 PM   St. Pauls at East Bladen 7:30 PM   West Bladen at West Columbus Women’s Tennis 10 AM   Three Rivers Conference 2A Class 2A Tournament at East Bladen We survived another Hurricane….a little rain and lots of wind. (Dems blame Rep for the rain, Rep blame the Dems for wind), not really, just seems that way.  One party says hot, other says cold, neither willing to give an inch. Stock market stinks, better days ahead, I hope. Today (Friday) is the last day to register for November 6th General Election. Check out News page and Events page for some of the activities …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for October 12

1609 – Children’s rhyme “Three Blind Mice” published in London. 1773 – America’s first asylum opens for ‘Persons of Insane and Disordered Minds’ in Virginia. 1792 – First celebration of Columbus Day in the USA held in New York. 1836 – 18″ of snow falls in Bridgewater, NY. 1859 – Self-proclaimed Emperor of the USA, Emperor Norton issues edict abolishing the US Congress. 1892 – US Pledge of Allegiance first recited in public schools during Columbus Day. 1900 – The first modern submarine is commissioned by the U.S. Navy as the USS Holland, named for its designer John Philip Holland. 1901 – Theodore Roosevelt renames “Executive Mansion” as “The White …..

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Governor urges continued caution as Michael treks across North Carolina

Tree Falls on Vehicle, Kills One Person In Iredell County RALEIGH: As Tropical Storm Michael’s punishing winds and rains sweep across North Carolina, Governor Roy Cooper announced that the storm has claimed the life of a man who died this afternoon in Iredell County when a tree fell on his vehicle. Governor Cooper warned all North Carolinians to remain cautious and alert and to avoid going out in the storm if possible “As night falls, please don’t go out unless you have to,” Gov. Cooper said. “Falling trees and rising waters, along with landslides in our mountains, are making travel difficult and even life-threatening in some areas.” Flooding remains a serious …..

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Duke Energy restores power to 180,000 customers in Carolinas following Tropical Storm Michael

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke Energy has restored power to 180,000 customers in North Carolina and South Carolina following Tropical Storm Michael. *490,000 customers remain without power in the Carolinas as of 6:30 p.m. ET. *Additional outages are expected as the storm continues to roll through eastern North Carolina tonight. *The company will provide estimated power restoration times once field crews complete damage assessments, which could take up to 24 hours. *Some outages could take several days to repair. *Latest outage numbers can be found here. *6,000 workers – including power line technicians, damage assessors and tree specialists – are responding to the storm’s impact in the Carolinas. *Additional repair crews from Florida and the Midwest are traveling to the Carolinas to …..

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Bladen County Ready for Tropical Storm Michael

By Erin Smith Bladen County Emergency Management officials are expecting few problems with the visit from Hurricane Michael. The forecast calls for winds gusting to 40 miles per hour and up to 4 inches or rainfall in Bladen County for Thursday into Thursday night. “We stand ready to respond,” said Bladen County Emergency Management Director Bradley Kinlaw. Bladen County has not declared a State of Emergency ahead of the storm. Bladen County Schools, Emereau:Bladen, and Bladen Community College cancelled classes for Thursday, as a precaution. He said officials do not expect to see issues like the ones experienced with Hurricane Florence. Hurricane Michael is expected to move quickly through the …..

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Gov. Cooper Urges North Carolinians to Stay Alert and Safe as Tropical Storm Michael Moves Through North Carolina

RALEIGH: As North Carolina feels the impacts of Tropical Storm Michael, Governor Roy Cooper continued to urge all North Carolinians to take this storm seriously, and stay alert as conditions deteriorate during the day due to high winds and heavy rainfall. “For North Carolina, Michael isn’t as bad as Florence, but it adds unwelcomed insult to injury, so we must be on alert,” Gov. Cooper said. “If you have to travel, slow down and leave extra space between your car and others. And never drive through standing or rushing water, or around road barricades.” A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for most of the state through early Friday morning. Flash …..

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NCDA&CS announces fifth phase of voluntary  floodplain swine buyout program

RALEIGH- The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has partnered with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service to continue its program to purchase permanent conservation easements on swine operations within the 100-year floodplain. This will be the fifth time the state has offered this program which began in 2000 following devastating flooding from Hurricane Floyd. The program offers an opportunity for swine production operations with a high risk of flooding to convert to other forms of agriculture more compatible with floodplain locations. A total of 42 swine operations from the 100-year floodplain were bought out using funds from four Clean Water Management Trust Fund grants totaling $18.7 million.  Buyout …..

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Cape Fear Valley Closings Due To Hurricane Michael

FAYETTEVILLE – Due to the arrival of Hurricane Michael, the following Cape Fear Valley Health clinics and services will be closed today, Thursday, Oct. 11. All Cape Fear Valley Health and Harnett Health clinics in Cumberland, Bladen, Robeson, Scotland, Hoke and Harnett counties *Health Pavilion North ExpressCare *Health Pavilion North Pharmacy *Center Pharmacy *Behavioral Health at Executive Place *Stephen A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Cape Fear Valley *Crisis services at Roxie Avenue *HealthPlex *Cape Fear Valley Diagnostic Center The following meetings scheduled for tonight have been canceled: *Pacemaker Support Group *Mended Hearts Program Services at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, Cape Fear Valley Rehabilitation Center, Hoke Hospital, Bladen County …..

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Tillis & Burr Statement on Federal Disaster Assistance Applications

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, North Carolina Senators Thom Tillis and Richard Burr issued the following statement regarding North Carolinians who are applying for federal disaster assistance: “We’ve recently heard stories of North Carolinians who were denied federal assistance for losses associated with Hurricane Florence. Our offices are now requesting additional information from FEMA and local officials to get a better sense of specifics surrounding these reported cases. While not every North Carolinian who suffered property damage will be eligible for federal assistance, we want to make sure everyone who is eligible for assistance receives it. We encourage any North Carolinian having issues with their application for federal assistance to contact our offices by calling 704-509-9087 (Tillis) or …..

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Student artists are invited to UNCSA Open House on Friday, Nov. 9

WINSTON-SALEM – High school and college students who are interested in careers in the arts are invited to visit the campus of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) in Winston-Salem for a day and discover why it is the place for exceptionally talented students to study and thrive. Fall Open House has been scheduled for Friday, Nov. 9, for high school programs in dance, drama, music and visual arts and college programs in dance, design and production, drama, film and music.  Online registration is required. During the Open House, visitors will receive a guided walking tour of the campus that includes movie set facades, music and dance practice rooms, and stunning performance venues and screening spaces. They will also meet the deans, faculty, and current students, …..

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NC Grape Festival On Go for Saturday

By Erin Smith The annual NC Grape Festival is on go for this Saturday, October 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lu Mil Vineyard. Admission to the festival is free. The band for this year’s event is the “Three to Get Ready” jazz band. “Jazz is a type of music we have not relied on before. We’re really excited about that (the jazz band),” said Denise Bridgers. She said the band will perform on Doc’s Deck, near the Grape Stomp competition. There will be a Super Yard Sale, and vendor spaces will be available. Booth spaces are free (call 910-866-5819). The local favorite, the Grape Stomp Competition, will …..

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Baldwin Branch Missionary Baptist Church to offer clothes closet, food pantry

The Baldwin Branch Missionary Baptist Church clothes closet will be open Saturday, October 27, 2018, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.  The food pantry, From His Table to Yours, will be open the same day from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Personal transportation and identifications are required.  No fee is involved in either ministry. Baldwin Branch is located at 4047 NC 242 Highway South, Elizabethtown NC.  Rev. Dr. Louie Boykin is the pastor. Share:

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Sheriff Issues Appeal to Citizens In Fight Against Crime

Contributed Responding to the increasing number of people wanting to assist law enforcement officials and build a stronger partnership in the fight against crime, Sheriff James A. McVicker today announced that Bladen County citizens are being invited to become Honorary Members of the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association. Membership applications go out in the mail this month. Individuals choosing to join the voluntary program can do so for $25, while businesses can show their support with a $50 contribution. The funding provides critically important technical resources, legislative support on key criminal justices issues, support for the NCSA Undergraduate Criminal Justice Scholarship Program at state universities, and additional training for Sheriffs and …..

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Clarkton UMC Responds to Hurricane Matthew

Contributed In the aftermath of Hurricane Florence, Clarkton UMC in Bladen County served as a localized distribution hub for disaster supplies.  They received inputs from United Methodist charities, and distributed supplies to people in need in the Clarkton area.  They also distributed to other nearby churches who in turn distributed them to needy folks in their areas. Pastor Shannon Ross initially offered Clarkton UMC to help as a relief supply distribution point.  Pastor Ross leveraged the contacts she’s made with numerous other churches in the area over the years to make sure the supplies got to the needy. District Superintendent Rev. Edie Gleaves (pictured below with Rev. Shannon Ross) visited Clarkton UMC …..

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Duke Energy projects Hurricane Michael could cause 300,000 to 500,000 power outages in Carolinas

Some outages could last several days Crews will begin repairs as soon as conditions safely allow CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy projects Hurricane Michael could cause 300,000 to 500,000 power outages in North Carolina and South Carolina this week, based on the storm’s current forecasted track. The power outage projections are based on the company’s storm modeling tool, which analyzes variables including storm magnitude and track, wind speed, size of the wind field and ground saturation. Historical data and company experience indicate complete power restoration from a storm of this magnitude could take several days – depending on the extent of damage, crews’ ability to access remote areas, and conditions …..

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All North Carolina Disaster Recovery Centers to close Thursday

The North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will close  all Disaster Recovery Centers in North Carolina on Thursday, Oct 11, 2018, due to the potential for severe weather associated with Hurricane Michael. The NCEM and FEMA anticipate reopening the centers at 9 a.m. Friday, weather permitting. Share:

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Weather remains the big story.  Two hundred year storms in two years and now two hurricanes in less than a month. Weather for today…Showers and thunderstorms.  High near 83.  Breezy, with a southeast wind 11 to 20 mph.  Winds could gusts as high as 30 mph and 100 percent chance of rain with new rainfall amounts of 3/4 to 1 inch expected. Tonight, a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m., then a slight chance of showers between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.  Lows around 62.  Breezy with west wind 13 to 23 mph becoming northwest after midnight.  Winds could gust as high as 34 mph, 30 percent chance …..

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North Carolina Readies for Hurricane Michael

45 Counties Now Under Tropical Storm Warning for High Winds, Heavy Rain RALEIGH: With tropical storm warnings expanded to nearly half the state, Governor Roy Cooper this evening urged North Carolinians to stay alert and prepare for the incoming storm. “Hurricane Michael hit Florida with brutal force and is quickly heading for North Carolina,” said Gov. Cooper. “Michael will lose some of its punch before it reaches us but will still pack damaging wind and flooding rain and we need to take it seriously.” A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for 45 counties in eastern and central North Carolina and a high wind warning is in effect for three counties. In …..

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Bladen Community College announces schedule during storm

Bladen Community College (BCC) will be closed Thursday, October 11thdue to the inclement weather event of Hurricane Michael. This includes all activities and workforce continuing education classes.  BCC plans to reopen on Friday. Any closure notices or updates will be distributed through our ReGroup messaging system, on the college website, college social media, and through area media outlets. Share:

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Damages grow at cemetery; no new news with bridge

By Charlotte Smith The damages are growing at the Elizabethtown City Cemetery on Queen Street in Elizabethtown. At first report a couple weeks ago some emergency officials on site and citizens said the geological damages at the cemetery may be a sink whole or a land slide. However, no geological professional has varied exactly what has caused the soil and asphalt damages at the local grave site. Since the first report by BladenOnline.com in September there seems to be more movement in the soil at the cemetery. The ground at the cemetery in some areas has split open to almost three feet in depth. There has been more movement in …..

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It’s Official: New Restaurant Coming to Elizabethtown

By Erin Smith Another restaurant is heading to Elizabethtown, according to officials with Clark Brothers Inc. The franchise company will construct a new facility on the lot that once housed Cape Fear Bar-B-Que and Chicken at 330 S. Poplar Street in Elizabethtown.  The building that housed the bar-b-que and chicken restaurant was demolished to make way for a new facility. David Clark, of Clark Brothers Inc., said, “We have signed a lease with Bojangles.” He said the company now has a 45-day period to perform “due diligence.”  Due diligence is a real estate term meaning the company can use the time period to review documents, perform any necessary calculations, inspect …..

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Gov. Cooper Appoints New District Court Judge for Judicial District 9

RALEIGH:  Governor Roy Cooper has appointed S. Katherine (Kat) Burnette to preside in Judicial District 9. “Burnette’s commitment to serving North Carolina, along with her devotion and experience in the practice of law, makes her an ideal choice to serve Judicial District 9,” said. Gov. Cooper. Burnette will serve as a District Court Judge for Judicial District 9, serving Franklin, Granville, Vance and Warren counties. Burnette has practiced law in North Carolina for over 33 years and has served on the North Carolina Board of Elections, the North Carolina Board of Ethics and the North Carolina State Personnel Commission. She has experience practicing family, criminal, and bankruptcy law as well as …..

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UNC-Wilmington Classes Cancelled for Thursday afternoon

Due to the projected path of Michael and the resulting tropical storm conditions, UNCW will cancel classes as of 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 11, and university offices will close at 1 p.m., when the campus begins operating under Condition 2 (Suspended Operations) of the Adverse Weather Policy. We anticipate resuming classes and reopening campus per usual as of Friday, Oct. 12, at 6 a.m., but a message will be sent to confirm this by 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 11. Information about this closure’s impact on the academic calendar, if any, will be sent in the coming days. Resident students will be expected to shelter in place as of 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 11. This means resident …..

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Bladenboro resident named to Sherman College Summer 2018 Dean’s List

Contributed SPARTANBURG, SC — Victoria Pait of Bladenboro, NC, has been named to Sherman College of Chiropractic’s Dean’s List for grades earned during the summer 2018 academic quarter. Dean’s List students have achieved a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the quarter. Sherman College of Chiropractic provides students with a comprehensive education, preparing them to enter the field as doctors of chiropractic who are highly skilled, compassionate, ethical and successful. On its 80-acre campus in South Carolina, Sherman offers a first professional degree program unique in its approach to health care and known globally for the skill and art of chiropractic delivered by graduates. The college’s on-campus Health …..

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Gov. Cooper Issues Emergency Orders to Prepare for Hurricane Michael

Storm expected to bring strong winds, rain, potential flooding to North Carolina RALEIGH: To prepare North Carolina for Hurricane Michael, Governor Roy Cooper today declared a State of Emergency and waived certain transportation rules. Forecasters expect the storm to bring strong wind and rain to North Carolina. “I’m taking action to get North Carolina ready for Hurricane Michael, and I encourage people across our state to get ready as well,” Gov. Cooper said. “Make no mistake—Hurricane Michael is a dreadful storm, and it poses serious risks to North Carolina.” Gov. Cooper signed Executive Order No. 74, declaring a State of Emergency for 66 North Carolina counties. The order will be expanded to …..

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Governor Cooper Recommends Robust State Funding Package for Hurricane Florence Recovery and Resiliency

Preliminary Estimates Show Florence Caused Almost $13 Billion in Damages; Recommends State Allocate $1.5 Billion to Help Those in Need  Full Budget Recommendation Can Be Read HERE For More Budget Documents Please Click HERE  RALEIGH: Less than one month after Hurricane Florence made landfall in North Carolina, Governor Roy Cooper today shared his state budget recommendations for Florence recovery and future storm resiliency. Gov. Cooper shared that preliminary damage estimates from Florence total almost $13 billion. To cover the state portion of recovery, Cooper recommends a robust $1.5 billion package to tackle a smarter, stronger recovery. “Hurricane Florence devastated our state and left families, businesses and farmers reeling from the impact,” said Governor …..

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BCC Groundbreaking rescheduled

Bladen Community College’s  groundbreaking ceremony for the STEM and Advance Technology Training Center scheduled for Thursday, October 11 has been rescheduled for Monday, October 15 at 11:00 a.m. due to the anticipated inclement weather of  Hurricane Michael. Share:

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Bladen County Schools to close on Thursday

Bladen County School’s Public Relations Director Valerie Newton announced with incoming rain tonight (Wednesday, October 10) and increased wind gusts expected throughout the day on Thursday Bladen County Schools will be closed Thursday, October 11, for students and staff; however, all identified essential personnel such as maintenance and transportation are to contact their immediate supervisor regarding their work schedule for Thursday. Additionally, Bladen County Schools will operate on a two-hour delay for Friday. We will be checking road conditions on Thursday after the storm to ensure safe travel for everyone. Should we need to make any changes to Friday’s schedule we will notify you as soon as possible through an …..

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Public Meeting

Bladen County Educational Foundation to meet

The Bladen County Educational Foundation, a non-profit corporation organized and existing to provide financial help for the public schools and educators of Bladen County, will hold its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, October 16, 2018, at 5:30 P.M., in the public meeting room of the Bladen County Board of Education on US Highway 701, South, in Elizabethtown. This is an important meeting and all members and interested parties are urged to attend. Your presence at this meeting will be greatly appreciated and certainly needed, as we will attempt to elect new Officers and members of the Board of Directors, and will discuss plans for upcoming fund raising events, as well as …..

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NC DOT

I-95 Open House in Johnston County Postponed Due to Possible Bad Weather

BENSON – Because of anticipated inclement weather, state transportation officials are postponing Thursday’s public meeting in Benson that was scheduled so people could review plans to widen Interstate 95. Hurricane Michael, which is forecast to make landfall on the Gulf Coast on Wednesday, is expected to bring showers and windy conditions to North Carolina on Thursday. As a precaution, the N.C. Department of Transportation will reschedule Thursday’s meeting for a later date. The meeting was to be held from 5-7 p.m. at the Hampton Inn in Benson to show design maps, answer questions and collect comments on the department’s plans to widen about 25 miles of I-95 from four lanes to …..

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Local 4-H Agent Recognized for Accomplishments

Contributed Stacie Kinlaw, 4-H Youth Development Agent with NC Cooperative Extension, was recognized for an achievement during the 2018 North Carolina Association of Extension 4-H Agents Annual Conference held in Charlotte, NC. Kinlaw was awarded the prestigious TC Blalock Young Agent Award, 4-7 years, for her excellence in 4-H youth development.  She received her award during the evening Awards Banquet held in Charlotte, NC – the Queen City. Kinlaw’s application included highlights of her efforts in providing 4-H county programs in 2017. During the 2017 year, Stacie Kinlaw succeeded in many areas of her job, some highlights of her participation in 4-H include: *Serving as a key team member for …..

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Bladen County: No extra landfill fees

By Erin Smith As residents are working to recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Florence, many Bladen County residents were surprised when they carried debris to the Bladen County Solid Waste Transfer Station and had to pay a fee. Kip McClarey, General Services Manager for Bladen County, said the fee is not a new fee, nor is it an extra fee. “There are no extra fees. The fees being charged are the fees that are typically charged for construction debris and demolition debris; that has always been charged,” said McClarey. He said the reason Bladen County charges for the service, is because everything that is delivered to the transfer …..

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Narcotics investigation leads to arrest

Contributed The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit has completed an investigation into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Elizabethtown area. During the investigation, it was determined by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit that Nathaniel Christian Cotten was responsible for distributing Controlled Substances in and around Elizabethtown. This investigation originated from citizen complaints which prompted Narcotics Agents to go to the area of Broad Street, Elizabethtown, NC.  Agents conducted undercover purchases from the defendant in this investigation where prescription medication was purchased. At the conclusion of this investigation, on Tuesday, October 9th, 2018, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office served arrest warrants on the defendant.  The defendant in this investigation was arrested and processed …..

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Updated: Worker dies in accident at Smithfield

By Erin Smith A worker has died following an accident at the Smithfield Foods Plant in Tar Heel on Tuesday afternoon. Michael Jessup, 55, of Clarkton was killed while he was performing mechanical work on an overhead conveyor at the plant. The line accidentally started up, according to Bladen County Coroner Hubert Kinlaw. The call for help came in to the 911 Call Center at 3:25 p.m., said Kinlaw. Jessup was pronounced at the scene. Smithfield Foods’ Statement Regarding Accident at Tar Heel Facility: SMITHFIELD, Va., October 10, 2018 — Smithfield Foods, Inc. is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our employees following an accident at our facility …..

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Duke Energy to invest $500 million in battery storage in the Carolinas over the next 15 years

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke Energy’s advancement of battery energy storage technologies in the Carolinas includes $500 million of projects in the company’s 15-year forecast – continuing the company’s industry-leading deployment of the technology. “Duke Energy is at the forefront of battery energy storage, and our investment could increase as we identify projects that deliver benefits to our customers,” said Rob Caldwell, president, Duke Energy Renewables and Distributed Energy Technology. “Utility-owned and operated projects in North Carolina and South Carolina will include a variety of system benefits that will help improve reliability for our customers and provide significant energy grid support for the region.” In the company’s recent Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), Duke Energy outlined plans to deploy $500 million in …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

I make every effort to be a positive individual, but past few hours have been a test. Received info related to three different deaths in a short time frame, like less than 24 hours.  A former neighbor and co-worker; the father of a neighbor; and a 55-year-old, who died in an accident mid-afternoon yesterday (Tuesday). Recovery efforts continue following Hurricane Florence, and another storm is on the way. Grandson’s wedding Saturday, planned for outside, but inside is a possibility. While attempting to recover, would be easy to be discouraged.  Gotta hold chin high and move forward.  Many are going through much more difficult times, have lost just about everything.  No doubt, better days …..

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Bladen County Schools

Bladen School Board Approves Giving Property to Bladen County Youth Focus

By Bethany Stephens The Bladen County Board of Education met Monday for its monthly session where they recognized Dr. Fredrica Renee Steele, a teacher at Elizabethtown Middle School, for being selected to participate in the Friday Institute’s North Carolina Digital Leadership Coaching Network for the 2018-2019 school year. Robyn Wilson, who is in accounts payable in Finance Department, was recognized for recently graduating from the NCASBO School Business Management Academy. The board and several members of the school’s past alumni were recognized for being a part in the Bladen County Training School (former location of The School of Extended Hope on Martin Luther Dr.) having been entered into the National …..

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Two men sought for thefts from Bladen County farms

The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office is looking for two men who are wanted for several breaking and entering cases of farms in the county and are asking for the public’s help in finding them. Wesley Keith Carroll, 37, of Clarkton, and Joshua Bryan Evans, 32, of Bladenboro, are accused of the theft of several thousand dollars of property from local hog farming facilities, according to a news release. Warrants are on file for both men for breaking and entering, larceny and possession of stolen goods, The Sheriff’s Office says. Anyone with information about the men and their location are asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 910-862-6960 or text 910-874-6850. …..

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Bladen County voter registration extended to Oct. 15

Bladen County is among 28 counties that have had voter registration extended to 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15 because of the impact of Hurricane Florence. The NC General Assembly passed the legislation and it was signed this week by Gov. Roy Cooper. The registration deadline remains 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12 for the state’s other 72 counties not covered by the legislation. “We do not want this devastating storm to keep people from voting,” said Kim Westbrook Strach, who is the State Board of Elections’ executive director. “Voters may cast ballots by mail or in person during the early voting period or on Election Day. We hope voters take advantage …..

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White Lake Board Receives 2017 Tourism Impact for Bladen County

By Joy Warren During the regular meeting of the White Lake Board of Commissioners on Tuesday evening, Mayor Goldston Womble shared information from Dawn Maynard, executive director for the Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber of Commerce. Her report indicated that visitor spending increased in Bladen County for 2017 at the highest growth rate since 2011. Statistics released recently by Visit NC revealed a 4.78 percent increase over 2016. Maynard also indicated that last summer showed an increase for White Lake visitors. Womble indicated that improving the lake clarity prior to the start of the summer made a difference. The Board approved a resolution to regulate the hours of Halloween trick-or-treating. Hours designated …..

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Bladen County under tropical storm, flash flood watches

Bladen County has been placed under a tropical storm watch and flash flood watch through late Thursday night by the National Weather Service because of expected heavy rainfall from Hurricane Michael. Michael is expected to move across the region as a tropical storm Thursday and into Thursday night. Tropical storm force winds are possible, says the National Weather Service. Based on Michael’s current track, tropical storm winds are most likely to arrive by early Thursday afternoon in southeastern North Carolina. As of 11 p.m. Tuesday, Michael was about 710 miles southwest of Wilmington with winds reaching 125 miles per hour. The storm is moving north and 12 mph. Michael is …..

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Police Chief Honored on Retirement

By Erin Smith The town of Bladenboro honored and recognized a former Police Chief on Monday night for his retirement. Former Bladenboro Police Chief Chris Hunt was given a plaque, a gold badge and his service weapon. Mayor Rufus Duckworth read from the plaque: “Town of Bladenboro Resolution presenting service weapon and badge to retired Police Chief. Whereas Talmadge Christopher Hunt dutifully and faithfully served as Chief of Police for the Town of Bladenboro from January 1, 2011 until his retirement on September 28, 2018. Whereas, he as during his tenure he faithfully executed the duties of his office and Whereas during his service he was assigned a service by …..

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Governor Cooper Encourages North Carolinians to Volunteer for Ongoing Hurricane Florence Relief Efforts

Volunteer information is listed on https://www.nc.gov/volunteer RALEIGH: Governor Roy Cooper urges North Carolinians to volunteer and support communities impacted by Hurricane Florence this week and in the weeks and months ahead. During the week of October 7-13, Governor Cooper, cabinet leaders, state employees, volunteer groups, and corporations are volunteering to help with storm recovery efforts. Projects are planned in the counties of Carteret, Craven, Onslow, New Hanover, Franklin, Bladen, Scotland, Robeson, Brunswick, and Duplin. Organizations involved include Ann Street United Methodist Church, Baptists on Mission, Team Rubicon, Operation Blessing and other faith-based, non-profit organizations. Click HERE for more information. “We must work together during this critical time for our state,” said Governor Cooper. …..

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North Carolina Monitoring Hurricane Michael and Preparing for Impacts

Gov. Cooper Reminds Residents to Update Emergency Plans, Restock Needed Supplies RALEIGH: Governor Roy Cooper today urged North Carolinians to prepare for Hurricane Michael, even as families, businesses, schools and communities continue to clean up and rebuild from Hurricane Florence. North Carolina is expected to start to feel impacts from the storm late Wednesday or early Thursday. State and local emergency management officials are taking steps to prepare for Hurricane Michael, and Governor Cooper today encouraged North Carolinians to update their own emergency plans and supplies. “I know people who weathered Florence last month and other storms before don’t want to even think about another one,” said Gov. Cooper. “But we have …..

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4 tips for HVAC system after a disaster

Contributed Many property owners are still recovering from damage received in Hurricane Florence. Since the hurricane hit, Bladen County citizens have been scrambling to repair and recover communities. The Elizabethtown Rotary Club heard from Cape Fear Heating & Cooling, LLC at their last meeting at Cape Fear Vineyard & Winery. The company’s owner, Daine Smith, prepared four tips for the club members to remember while recovering from any disaster. *If your HVAC duct work was flooded, do not run your HVAC unit and close all your vents. Running an HVAC system that has been flooded may cause mold and mildew issues. *If your HVAC system is ever contaminated by flood …..

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Reconstitution of Six Executive Boards and Commissions

On August 31, 2018, a three-judge panel in Wake County Superior Court declared unconstitutional the statutes which provided for the appointment of members to six state boards and commissions, leaving these boards unable to operate. Those boards are the following: Clean Water Management Trust Fund Board of Trustees; Parks and Recreation Authority; Private Protective Services Board; State Building Commission; Child Care Commission; and Rural Infrastructure Authority. To ensure the continuity of efforts related to Hurricane Florence recovery and the continued operation of these six boards and commissions that have final executive decision-making authority, the Governor today signed six executive orders reestablishing them in accordance with state law and consistent with the court order. It …..

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Bladenboro seeks to revoke wastewater permit

By Erin Smith Issues with capacity and wastewater discharges have led to the Carroll Poultry plant sitting idle in the Bladenboro Industrial Park. The plant has been fined numerous times by the town for exceeding their wastewater discharge permit. On Monday night, the Bladenboro Town Board voted unanimously to initiate the process to revoke the discharge permit for Carroll Poultry. Interim Town Administrator Melanie Hester told the board the company had not paid the last two fines which were levied against them. She added the company is continuing to make payments on the first fine received. The vote to revoke the permit for Carroll Poultry came after the board heard …..

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Department of Public Instruction wins federal grant for pilot program to enhance substance abuse and mental health services

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has awarded an $8.8 million grant to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction in support of NC Project ACTIVATE, a five-year program that increases mental health awareness for students, provides training for staff in recognizing and accommodating students with mental health needs, continues research into early prevention plans for substance abuse, and more.   The federal 2018 Project AWARE (Advancing Wellness and Resilience in Education) grants are awarded to state education agencies with the goal to build or expand their capacity to oversee school-aged youth and local education agencies. North Carolina’s demonstration project will receive a total of $8.8 million …..

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12th Annual NC Grape Festival on tap

The 12th Annual NC Grape Festival at Lu Mil Vineyard is almost here and we are ready to celebrate! This year’s festival is Saturday, October 13, from 9 am until 3 p.m. After all the destruction to our communities recently, we are encouraging everyone to come spend some time with us for a free family fun day.  There is no fee to enter the festival. To kick off the day, there will be a Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Dublin Boy Scouts (7am until) at the General Store. “Three to Get Ready” jazz band will be entertaining on Doc’s Deck throughout the day along with the Lumber River Old Iron …..

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Room for Improvement at Bladen County Schools

By Erin Smith Each year the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction issues School Performance Grades to schools across the state of North Carolina. These school performance grades are a part of the State’s accountability program. In Bladen County, East Arcadia School earned an F score and three others, Tar Heel Middle School, Elizabethtown Middle School and Booker T. Washington Primary School all earned a D score. Booker T. Washington School closed at the end of the 2017-18 academic year. The remaining schools in the county earned a C grade with the exception of West Bladen High School which earned a B grade. East Bladen High School earned a C …..

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Hurricane Michael to bring rain to hard hit Bladen County

Hurricane Michael is forecast to make landfall along the Florida panhandle this week and make its way northward into the Carolinas by Thursday into Friday. The National Weather Service Office is forecasting southeastern North Carolina will receive between 2 to 4 inches of rainfall, tropical storm force wind gusts and a slight possibility of severe thunderstorms. There is also a slight risk for tropical storm force wind gusts which could topple trees already weakened by Hurricane Florence, according to the National Weather Service.   Share:

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Driver License and ID Services Available at 2018 N.C. State Fair

NCDMV mobile office to provide services for attendees RALEIGH – In addition to taking in the many sights and sounds of the 2018 North Carolina State Fair,attendees will be able to receive driver license services from the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles. The DMV booth and Mobile RV will be located between the J.S. Dorton Arena and the Jim Graham Building. From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, the DMV RV will offer driver license services for fairgoers to renew their licenses or ID cards, order duplicates, update addresses or obtain their N.C. REAL ID. REAL ID is a new, single form of identification that can be used to board commercial flights and enter …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Attendance was good at last night’s Annual Four County EMC meeting.  Their employees, especially outside workers, have had a tough couple of weeks.  Pictures of damage done by the recent hurricane were shared during the meeting.  Four County serves mostly rural Bladen, Pender, Sampson and Duplin counties and maybe small areas of adjoining counties.  Company officials announced no new rate increases for the coming year and Capital Credit checks would be mailed in December.  Baldwin Branch Men’s Chorus provided the musical entertainment. FEMA has opened a disaster recovery center in the Ag Center (Bladen County Cooperative Extension building at 450 Smith Circle Drive in Elizabethtown).  They will be open for 60 …..

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Bladen County animals need homes

Residents from all walks of life were affected by Hurricane Florence. Four legged friends have been left homeless and are being housed at the local shelter. Karen Suggs, Shelter Manager with the Bladen County Animal Shelter announced on Monday adoption fees for all dogs and cats for the month of October will be waived. “We hope this will help displaced animals from the Hurricane that have not been reclaimed find homes,” Suggs stated. There will still be fees involved in the adoption process. Vaccination fees will be charged at a rate of $15 for a cat and $25-$30 for a dog. You may view photos of some of the animals …..

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Tropical system could be headed this way

While Bladen County is still reeling form the effects of Hurricane Florence another storm, Hurricane Michael has now formed in the Gulf of Mexico. While the National Weather Service Office in Wilmington says it is still too early to tell specific impacts the storm may have, residents with roof damage are encouraged to prepare for rainfall beginning overnight Wednesday and continuing into Friday. Southeastern North Carolina could potentially see rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches.   Share:

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Shriners Fall Fish Fry Postponed

The Bladen County Shrine Club’s annual fall Fish Fry has been rescheduled for Wednesday, November 14. There will be two locations once again this year — the Fresh Food IGA in Bladenboro and the Food Lion parking lot in Elizabethtown. According to Phillip Little, one of the event’s many organizers, the reason for rescheduling the event is due to Hurricane Florence. “We had to do that after Hurricane Matthew as well,” said Little. Share:

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FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens

FEMA has opened a disaster recovery center as of today, October 8, 2018. FEMA representatives will be available at the Bladen County Cooperative Extension building, located  at 450 Smith Circle Drive in Elizabethtown. They will be open for 60 days in order to assist citizens with FEMA registrations or check the current status of registrations. Any questions are to be directed to FEMA staff at this location. Operating hours are as follows: Mondays: 9 am – 7 pm Tuesdays: 1 pm – 7 pm Wednesdays: 9 am – 7 pm Thursdays: 9 am – 7 pm Fridays: 9 am – 7 pm Saturdays: 9 am – 7 pm Sundays: CLOSED …..

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Disaster Relief Team Still Accepting Applications

NC Baptist Men Disaster Relief is still accepting applications for assistance regarding storm damage. Assistance offered includes: chainsaw work, clearing large yard debris, emergency roof repairs (tarps), tearing out walls, floors, etc., that were flooded/wet, and spraying for mold. We are not accepting applications for rebuilding, and no building material is available. If you need assistance, please, visit our operations center located at Elizabethtown Baptist Church, 1800 W Broad St. Applications are also being accepted at Natmore Baptist Church, 4157 Natmore Rd., in Kelly. Applications are accepted Monday through Saturday, 8am – 5pm. For questions, please call 910- 874-1084. Share:

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Great Tourist Event Marred by Storm

By Charlotte Smith The Cycle North Carolina Mountains to the Coast Ride took place as originally scheduled bringing around 1,200 tourists through Bladen County. The tourist event started on Saturday, September 29th, in Black Mountain, North Carolina. The tour ended on Saturday, October 6th, with cyclists leaving Elizabethtown and heading to Oak Island. As the cyclists rolled into Elizabethtown on Friday, October 5th, they were greeted by Town of Elizabethtown Mayor Sylvia Campbell, the Chamber of Commerce, business owners and citizens. Elizabethtown was scheduled to be the last overnight stop for the riders. Mayor Campbell and other officials offered a warm reception to Cycle NC on King Street in Elizabethtown …..

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Southeastern Health specialty clinics welcome new providers

Two new nurse practitioners have joined Southeastern Health. Nurse Practitioner Jessica Bell has joined the Southeastern Pulmonary and Sleep Center and Nurse Practitioner Tracy Cox has joined Southeastern Digestive Health Center. Nurse Practitioner Bell, a Pembroke native and current resident, received her master’s degree in nursing from East Carolina University in 2011. She specializes in sleep apnea and was previously with Novant Health Sleep. She as one daughter. To schedule an appointment with Bell at Southeastern Pulmonary and Sleep Center, which is located at 725 Oakridge Blvd., Suite C1, call (910) 738-9414. Nurse Practitioner Cox is originally from Greenville, N.C. She received her master’s degree in nursing from East Carolina …..

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Statement from the family of Sgt. James Allen Slape

Celebrating the Life of Sgt. James Allen Slape We, the family and friends of North Carolina Army National Guard Sgt. James Slape, would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. There are no words to express how much we miss James already. He was a loving husband, a devoted son and a true hero to his country. Sergeant Slape’s mother Trish and father Jim expressed their feelings by saying, “We have always been proud of our son, and have always told him that he was capable of becoming anything that he set his mind to. This is what he chose, and this is where …..

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