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Category Posts : Opinion

Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Be aware of youngsters, full of energy, headed back to school, that may not think about darting into your pathway today, tomorrow and for days to come..  Just be aware and careful. And, today is the long awaited time for the total eclipse.  Residents of 14 states, (including NC) have an advantage, they are in, or near the path of this unique event.  Thousands from across the state and nation are in western NC to observe this phenomenon that will last less than 3 minutes, near Columbia S.C at about 2:44 PM, EST and depart  the US near Charleston, SC minutes later. 1,300 tickets have been sold to view from Clingmans  Dome in …..

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YOU DECIDE: WHAT EXPLAINS RISING COLLEGE COSTS?

Dr. Mike Walden It’s the beginning of a new academic year on college campuses. It’s my 40th as a faculty member at North Carolina State University. I see the eager, young students venturing onto the campus for the first time and tell myself – that was me a long, long time ago! Of course new students face many challenges, including: deciding on a major, adjusting to the rigors of college courses and balancing “study time” with “fun time.” Then there’s the matter of money. It’s been well publicized that college costs have risen much faster than other costs in our economy. Data from the federal government show a 52 percent …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Every day is a good day. Rest today, tomorrow begins a busy week for many, like Back To School for Bladen youngsters and an eclipse that should be visible in this area tomorrow afternoon. Remember, no peeping without special shades, there are some homemade remedies. Google for info. Enters from the west coast and exits near Charleston, SC. Re-districting in North Carolina is going to happen and soon, either by leaders of the Legislature or by the court system. Court system may be best. Gerrymandering needs to halt. Democrats were the authors for years, Republicans continue, but the threat of court action is not bad. Spent a couple of days …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

  I have numerous reminders posted all around me in my corner of the Hester household, examples…. What cancer cannot do… It cannot cripple Love It cannot shatter Hope It cannot corrode Faith I cannot destroy Peace It cannot kill Friendship It cannot suppress Memories It cannot silence Courage It cannot invade the Soul It cannot steal Eternal Life It cannot conquer the Spirit Author Unknown 7 Keys to Life: #1 God first #2 Love one another #3 Never Hate #4 Give generously #5 Live simply #6 Forgive quickly #7 Be kind always (not sure of author) Thoughts to live by. Share:

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Sandra Cain

For Better Living: Time for School Lunches

Sandra R. Cain Buying lunch at school may be the first time your child gets to call the shots about which foods he or she will eat. The good news is that school lunches have improved over the years, both in taste and nutrition. School lunches meet the standards for protein, vitamins, calcium, and iron. Most schools also have made an effort to serve better dishes, such as grilled chicken sandwiches and salads. Use school lunches as a chance to steer your child toward good choices. Start by explaining how a nutritious lunch will give them the energy to finish the rest of the school day and enjoy after-school activities. …..

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Congressman Pittenger’s Statement on Barcelona Terror Attack

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) issued this statement after learning of today’s terror attack in Barcelona: “The Barcelona attack is another tragic, grisly reminder that radical Islamic jihadists don’t want world peace, sensitivity training, or understanding.  They want us dead, along with eradicating our freedoms and way of life.  This is why I’m currently on a national security trip working to increase efforts to identify and cut off the funding terrorists use to carry out their evil.  My prayers are with the people of Barcelona.” Congressman Pittenger is Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Terrorism and Illicit Finance, and Chairman of the Task Force on Terrorism and …..

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Thoughts While Shaving for Aug. 18

Love great one-liners: “Did think I would last longer than a quart of milk”–Anthony Scaramucci on lasting just 10 days on President Trump’s White House staff. Artificial intelligence is not match for natural stupidity. “The streets are safe in Philadelphia. It’s only the people who make them unsafe”, Frank Rizzo, ex-police chief and mayor of Philadelphia “I haven’t committed a crime. What I did was fail to comply with the law.” David Dinkins, New York Mayor, answering accusations that he failed to pay his taxes. “They gave me a book of checks. They didn’t ask for any deposits.” Congressman Joe Early (D-Mass) at a press conference to answer questions about …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

What would you do if you were to win the lottery?  Many say they would quit work, pay off debts, send children to college, etc.  If I were to win (fat chance) I am currently unemployed, on a fixed income and not looking for work.  Children are grown and gone.  One grandchild has graduated from college and gainfully employed and the other is a second year student at ECU Dental School.  I could/would gladly assist them.  Just thinking out loud and do not have a lottery ticket…..yet. I know I have ask this question before, remember David Bone, former Elizabethtown City Manager, left in late 2000s for Wendell, NC position, …..

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Congressman Pittenger’s statement on Durham Vandalism

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) issued this statement after learning protestors pulled down a Confederate statue in Durham on Monday evening: “The anarchy displayed in Durham should be condemned by all who cherish the rule of law and the spirit of Martin Luther King.  The despicable, reprehensible hatred displayed by white supremacists in Charlottesville has no place in America, but we cannot drive out that hate with more violence.” Following the riots in Charlottesville, Virginia, Congressman Pittenger released this statement on Saturday: “The hate and violence displayed in the Charlottesville riots which caused loss of life is reprehensible.  Those who perpetuated these actions should be held fully responsible and accountable.  We must be …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

So easy to get ‘wrapped’ up in the here and now. Think back for a short time! Remember???? When there were no phones in rural areas Collect phone calls Telephone booths Collars and halters for mule or horse 1 or 2 horse/mule turn plow Peanut weeder Mule/horse and drag and barn crew for ‘barning’ tobacco Cropping tobacco by hand, stacking peanuts, picking cotton by hand, breaking corn and tossing into wagon to move it to the barn? Playing Hop Scotch Using grains of corn to play bingo Skip a rope Shooting marbles 2 man crosscut saw Wood fired stove and heater No air conditioning, not fans except hand fans mostly from …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving for August 14

Charlottesville, Va. was an ugly scene Saturday.  At least 3 killed and a total of 34 injured, some critically. We are so divided in this country, didn’t just get there, but recent events gives little hope for better days ahead, soon.  We can change it overnight, if we begin to treat others as we would like to be treated.  You know, like the Golden Rule.  Starts at the top and trickles down. We are a week away from a total eclipse.  Maps indicate the best place in North Carolina will be the most western tip of North Carolina (Sylvia to Murphy) then through the heart of South Carolina from Clemson, Columbia, …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving for August 13

Had a great Saturday.  I attended the 110th Annual meeting of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners in Durham, and enjoy every minute. I know, some say just another meeting and I say phooey, don’t have any idea what you are talking about.  Democrat and Republican commissioners from all across the Tar Heel State meet, and deal with issues. Real issues that have a drastic affect on 10 million North Carolinians. County governments deliver services, not just talk about it.  Think about it, how many federal or state schools have you heard about, same for health departments, social services, libraries and much more.  I repeat, county governments deliver services–some partially paid …..

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Letter to the Editor: Fighting for heritage

Dear Editor: I don’t hate anybody! I love all people and all races! I do have righteous anger when radical Islamic terrorists kill innocent people. The American Civil War was fought for many reasons. The freeing of black slaves was just one of them. Ninety percent of the Southerners who fought and died in that war didn’t own slaves. Back then people looked at their states as their countries. Many southerners fought because they felt their countries were being invaded by the North. Many good men & women on both sides died because the hot heads North and South ruled the day! I’m not a violent person and never have been but I’ll fight …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Congratulations to Judy Harrelson, retiring after 47 years with Bank of Elizabethtown, Wachovia, and Wells Fargo.  No, same company, she worked through all the mergers, never changed jobs, just adjusted to all and performed as a loyal employee should. Now, she can work full-time in her yard, accompany Herschel as he takes his daily stroll down Happy Valley Road and spend more time with family.  They were our neighbors for many years, non finer.  Enjoy, you earned it. It’s August, means September and time for the Dublin Peanut Festival, it’s just around the corner.  Mark your calendar….Saturday, September 16.  Volunteers doing the job they have done for years, then sharing the financial proceeds with worthy projects throughout the …..

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Countering America’s Adversaries

By Congressman Robert Pittenger Russia, Iran and North Korea – three very different countries, each posing a different and unique threat to the United States national security. Did you know that North Korea has fired 18 missiles over 12 tests since February of this year? What’s their ultimate goal, you might ask? To create a ballistic, possibly nuclear missile capable of reaching the United States. Regarding Russia, under President Obama, we allowed them to undermine Ukrainian sovereignty and violate their human rights by annexing the southern region of Crimea. We balked at our own bilateral protection treaties with Ukraine and allowed the Russian government to invade.   The Russian government …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

If you enjoy good health, give thanks. Visited a friend recently suffering from COPD, then learned of another diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. When you think you have problems, look around you. I am among men so richly blessed. Stock market has stumbled recently, looking for a turn around. So many retirees living off 401Ks and Social Security, others are hopeful, one day. Looking forward to meeting many old friends and new ones this weekend at the conclusion of the 110th Annual Meeting of County Commissioners in Durham, my employer for 25 years and prior to that I was active for 8 years as a Bladen County Commissioner. A great …..

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Tillis, Heinrich Lead Bipartisan Letter Opposing Tariffs That Would Harm Solar Industry

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) led a bipartisan group of senators urging the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to not impose tariffs that would negatively affect the American solar industry. In a letter to Chairman Rhonda Schmidtlein, the lawmakers—who both represent states that have a growing solar industry—expressed their deep concern with the pending Section 201 global safeguard case regarding solar cell and module manufacturing in the United States. The ITC will hold a public hearing on the matter on Tuesday next week. “The petition requests that the President impose high tariffs on imported solar cells and high minimum prices for imported …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

  Having retired several years ago, I enjoy reflecting on my early days.  ‘Bout this time of year, before any of my 5 siblings left home, my dad was concerned that the 3 or 4 acres of tobacco we farmed was not completely out of the field and school would begin soon.  There was grading, and other preparation for market, to deal with.  Peanuts, cotton, corn, soybeans, all to be harvested and  his helpers preparing for back-to-school.  Needed to visit Rayless Department store in Lumberton to shop for pants, shirts, shoes and dresses for sisters.  Why Rayless?  Our aunt worked at the Lumberton store, and she could assist us.  And mom needed to …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

One more look at BladenOnline stats from the week of July 30-August 5.  It was a great week! Most read stories: 7,787: Crash shuts down NC 211 7,672: Lumberton trio charged with two home break-ins 4,634: Preparing to enjoy retirement, saying farewell to staff and friends 3,697: One arrested in Bladen Hardware break-in, three suspects still at large 2,967: Familiar faces, New roles 2,606: Man charged with stealing items from employer, homeowner 2,473: Bladen Young Professions: Returning home was an easy choice 2,286: Sheriff’s Office seeking help identifying suspect Recap: Page Views: 153,318 Visits:   30,480 Users:  17614 Thank you to the staff of BladenOnline, and if you would like your business included …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Recently received a ‘help wanted’ solicitation on Google from Walmart, not just to me, but a general solicitation.  Jobs are available for those willing to work. A friend shared an article from the Washington Post alleging Disney apps are spying on your kids.  According to the article, a class-action suit targets Disney and three other software companies alleging the “Walt Disney Co.” secretly collects personal info on some of their youngster customers and shares that data illegally with advertisers without parental consent.”  The federal lawsuit was filed late last week in California.  What’s next? Civitas Polling recently released results from their May polling in North Carolina.  Google it, interesting reading. Saw …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Area farmers, for the most part, should be pleased with the crop season, seems rain came as needed. We do need rain now in many locations.  We did record 4/10s of an inch of rainfall Sunday morning at the Hester household on Happy Valley Road, near Elizabethtown. Our chance of rain is 20% today; 60% tonight, 80% Tuesday. Some year round schools are beginning week 2.  Bladen County public school students return Monday, August 28. East Bladen’s football team will be competing in the Battle of the Carolinas at Lumberton High School, Thursday, August 10.  Other NC teams will include Scotland, Fairmont, West Brunswick, Lumberton and  Purnett Swett.  South Carolina teams include Dillon, Lakeview, Latta, and Marlboro. The scrimmage …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

We are entering hurricane season, if past history is any indication of what lies ahead.  Remember hurricane Hazel?  It roared through our area in October,1954, 53 years ago.  It made landfall near Calabash, NC, wiped out several nearby beach communities, then traveled north into Canada causing nearly $400 million (1954 numbers) in damage and caused 95 fatalities in the US, following at least 400 deaths in Haiti and later, another 81 in Canada. Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June 1 to November 30.  Storms outside those dates are not unheard of, based on the average over the past 150 years.  Activity ramps up in August, and peaks in …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

We need rain!  Our forecast for the next week is about a 40 to 50 percent chance of a shower, daily.  Lawns are beginning to turn brown. If you have not traveled NC 410 & NC 41 near Bladen Community College recently, be prepared to stop, from either direction.  A 4 way stop is the first step to what is likely to become a traffic circle. Weather much improved over recent past years for high school football practice. Wish Maria Lopez Gonzalez the best in her efforts to raise money so she can enroll at NC State.  Her goal is $5,000, as of early Saturday morning friends have contributed $1,505.  Look …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Average temp comparisons for Bladen County, NC: Month          High      Low August           88        68 September    83        62 Average temperature in Death Valley during the month of July was 107.4, the hottest month ever in the US, and the second hottest in the world, by a fraction of a degree. Latest unemployment rates for June 2017: State of North Carolina:   4.2% Bladen County:        5.7% Columbus County:   5.2% Robeson County:     6.2% Sampson County:    4.5% Low in the state was Buncombe County (Asheville) 3.2% High was Scotland County: 7.6%. And, there are more jobs available…Carroll’s Foods will be opening a chicken processing business in Bladenboro soon, and Sanderson Farms in St. Pauls continues to hold Job Fairs, looking for workers. …..

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Tillis & Coons Introduce The Special Counsel Integrity Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Special Counsel Integrity Act, bipartisan legislation that supports the integrity of independent investigations by allowing judicial review if a special counsel is removed. In the event that a special counsel is removed, the Tillis-Coons legislation allows the special counsel to challenge the removal in court, which would be heard and determined by a panel of 3 federal judges within 14 days of the filing of the action. The panel of judges would determine whether or not there was good cause for the removal of the special counsel. In the event that the panel of judges finds there was no …..

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Tillis, Senate Republicans Introduce Border Security Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), Vice Chair of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration, joined Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), John Barrasso (R-WY), and Ron Johnson (R-WI) to co-introduce the Building America’s Trust Act, legislation that increases resources at our borders, boosts trade through ports of entry, and strengthens enforcement of existing laws. “Our government’s prolonged failure to secure the border has had severe consequences, including creating a humanitarian crisis and contributing to the rise of dangerous narcoterrorist organizations that have exacerbated our nation’s heroin and opioid epidemic,” said Senator Tillis. “The Building America’s Trust Act makes the investment we need in personnel, technology and infrastructure to secure our …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

High school football practice is underway, and thanks to a slight dip in temps, more bearable than recent past.  Participants in other fall sports also preparing for the upcoming season. West Bladen is looking for new ladies basketball coach. Rick Rhoda has resigned to take a teaching job in Fayetteville, where he now lives. The Knights also have a new head football coach.  Kris Williams replaced Todd Pait, who resigned after one season on the job. Keep up with sports activity on our Sports Page.  John Clark, with a little help from others, covers the landscape. Congratulations to Cade Hancock, the E-town golfer who has been participating in the Optimist Tournament …..

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Tillis Statement on Confirmation of FBI Director Christopher Wray

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement on the confirmation of Christopher Wray to be Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation: “Throughout the nomination process, Christopher Wray has demonstrated that he will lead the FBI with independence and ensure a healthy separation between the agency and officials on Capitol Hill and in the White House,” said Senator Tillis. “The FBI is often regarded as the world’s best law enforcement agency, and I am confident Director Wray will maintain that proud reputation and pursue justice no matter the circumstances.” Share:

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Tillis Applauds Senate Passage of Comprehensive G.I. Bill Reforms

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, applauded the Senate passage of broad, bipartisan legislation that seeks to improve veterans’ education benefits and enhance the post-9/11 G.I. Bill. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017 includes the following provisions originally introduced by Senator Tillis as standalone legislation: *The Veterans Education Experience Improvement Act of 2017, bipartisan legislation Tillis introduced with Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) that would improve veterans’ experience when using GI Bill education benefits and provide resources and training for the officials at educational institutions who serve student veterans, helping them achieve positive education outcomes. *The Veterans Education Relief and Reinstatement Act of …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Hope you will read BladenOnline, all the articles and sections, but especially ‘Bladen County student seeking help to make her dream come true.’  It’s all about a young, local lady with limited resources, but a huge desire to be all she can be. Another good story about a Bladen County youth, Cade Hancock continues his good play in the Optimist International Junior Golf play in Florida.  The Elizabethtown golfer fired a 73 yesterday in the 3rd round of play for a 228 total, tied for 32nd place.  He tees off today in the final round of play at 7:40 AM in a threesome that includes 2 Puerto Rican youngsters.  The leader is Augustin Errazuriz …..

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Dr. Mark Harris to Seek Republican Nomination for NC’s 9th Congressional District

Harris came within 134 votes of defeating Incumbent Pittenger in 2016 Charlotte, NC – Dr. Mark Harris sent the following video to thousands of supporters across North Carolina today officially announcing his intention to seek the Republican nomination: Harris previously ran for the Republican nomination for the 9th Congressional District in the special primary election in June of 2016. Despite being outspent by a greater than 3 to 1 margin, Harris came within 134 votes of beating the incumbent Congressman, Robert Pittenger, in a three-way race. For more information on Harris and his campaign please visit www.markharrisforcongress.com. Share:

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The wretched month of August

By Jefferson Weaver For nearly 20 years, I have written an annual column describing my loathing for the eighth month of the year, August. As the first date of this dreaded month approached, I was contemplating doing things differently this year. I thought perhaps I should instead praise August, and point out that watermelons are plentiful, dove season is only a month away, and it’s a dandy time to go swimming, either in a cool dark canal or the beach. After all, it would be a nice change to extol the virtues of the last true month of summer. Who am I kidding? I hate August. August is the root …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

I look forward to the weekly and monthly reports of BladenOnline, comparing year over year numbers.  Here are the latest:July 23-29, 2017     Page Views:  100,680 Visits: 17,959 Same time frame, 2016 Page views: 96,219 Visits: 19,167 Most Read Stories: 2,572: Video released in Bladen Hardware break-in 1,601: AFT and Firearms industry Offer Reward in Theft of Firearms from Bladen Hardware 1,471: Emereau Bladen welcomes perspective parents, members of community 1,352: Bladen County Young Professional-She enjoys helping her parents save time and money 1,331: USMC to train in vicinity of White Lake, Elizabethtown in August 1,218: New location, same friendly faces 1,026: Returning to grow Bladen County-an architect draws a new …..

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Congressman Pittenger announces 9 town hall meetings

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is excited to announce nine town hall meetings for August. “So far this year, I’ve worked to pass over 270 bills, including conservative health care reform, major financial reform, V.A. accountability, a crackdown on sanctuary cities, and the largest pay raise for troops in 8 years,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “These town halls are an important part of my ongoing efforts to solicit feedback from constituents as we make plans for the second half of 2017.” Congressman Pittenger has scheduled town halls in all 8 counties of North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District: *Matthews/Mint Hill/Indian Trail/Stallings:  Monday, August 28th, 6 p.m., at Team Church (2301 Stevens Mill Rd., Matthews) *Wingate University’s McGee …..

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Public Hearing on Proposed Election Rules

RALEIGH, N.C. – The Bipartisan State Board of Elections & Ethics Enforcement will hold a public hearing Monday on proposed changes to the Administrative Code regarding various aspects of elections administration. The hearing will be held at noon Monday (July 31) at the office of the State Board, 441 N. Harrington St., Raleigh, NC 27603. Those interested in commenting about the rules may sign up beginning at 11:45 a.m. The proposed rules are available here. This public hearing is for comments on the proposed rules only. General comments on other elections-related matters may be submitted to elections.sboe@ncsbe.gov. Written comments on the rules will be accepted through Monday (July 31). To submit written comments through an online portal, go here. You can …..

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IRS Continues to Hire Tax Cheats, Bad Actors

Sen. Richard Burr North Carolinians cannot conceive of a scenario where they could be fired for misconduct or lying on their application forms and then get their jobs back. However, the Internal Revenue Service has made a practice of just this and, for the second time, has been caught by the IRS watchdog. A recent report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) found that 200 of the 2,000 employees that were rehired to work at the IRS from January 2015 to March 2016 were originally fired for substantiated performance or conduct issues, including willfully failing to file taxes. While working for the government agency responsible for collecting …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

July 31, 2017 is here, August just ahead.  Football practice, school begins for some, for farmers almost time to harvest what appears to be a very good crop. Attempting to follow the play of Cade Hancock at the Optimist International Junior Golf play at the PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.  Cade is playing in the boys 16-18 age group.  Today is the second day of the 4 day tournament.  He shoot 79 yesterday, tied for 74th position in the 150+ field of golfers from around the world.  Low score yesterday was 67, there was a 68, a 70, 3 tied at 71 and 4 more at 73. He …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

School begins for over 300 area students on Tuesday, August 1 at the new Emereau Charter School, located on Airport Road, east of Elizabethtown. A recent Open House and ribbon cutting attracted a large crowd. Bladen County public school students begin the 2017 school year August 29 and Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy, located on MLK Drive in Elizabethtown, will be begin the new school year soon, as well. Spent some time yesterday catching up on The Optimist International Junior Golf Championship Tournaments underway in Florida, primarily because an Elizabethtown junior golfer teed off this morning in the 16-18 age group. Cade Hancock is one of 155 golfers in that …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Cade Hancock, Elizabethtown, NC high school golfer is set to tee off in the Optimist International Junior Golf Championships at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. He will be competing with junior golfers (ages 16-18) from around the world this weekend. Pairings for Sunday’s 1st round of play in the 4 day event, should be posted around noontime today (Saturday). Activities today includes practice on the Estate, Fazio & Squire courses and the Palmer Golf Long Drive Contest. Hancock, who attends Harrell Christian Academy, is a regular at Vineyard Golf Course, White Lake, NC. He has indicated he hopes to continue his golf career at Wake Forest …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Ever used dynamite?  Remember when folks used it to remove stumps?  Dangerous but effective. Senate votes ‘no’ on ‘skinny repeal’ of Obamacare shortly after 2 AM this morning.  What’s next? Louisiana Republican Senator John Kennedy was quoted as saying, “Never underestimate Mitch McConnell.  He’s tougher than a $3 steak.” John McCain was the difference.  He was quoted leaving the Capitol on why he voted NO: “I thought it was the right thing to do.” President Trump twitted at 2:25 AM: “3 Republicans and 48 Democrats let the American people down.  As I said from the beginning, let ObamaCare implode, then deal.  Watch!” Think of a Yogi Berra quote, “It ain’t over …..

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Pittenger secures $32 million in Hurricane Matthew funding

UPDATE:  Congressman Pittenger has confirmed that 80% of the $32 million in funding announced today must be distributed to the “most impacted counties,” which include Cumberland and Robeson. WASHINGTON – Following a May 25th conference call with Secretary Ben Carson, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) has helped secure $32 million for Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts in North Carolina. The $31,862,000 in Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding is the result of working with HUD to ensure the most up-to-date data was used in calculating North Carolina’s current needs.  Previously, Governor Cooper reported North Carolina received only $6.1 million in funding.  That number was …..

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Tillis, Senators Introduce Resolution Recognizing National Whistleblower Appreciation Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In recognition of the crucial role played by whistleblowers in shining a light on fraud, waste and abuse in the federal government, the Senate Whistleblower Protection Caucus introduced a bipartisan resolution designating July 30, 2017, as National Whistleblower Appreciation Day. The resolution, sponsored by caucus members and colleagues, aims to encourage federal agencies to acknowledge employees who call attention to fraud, waste and abuse and to remind employees of their legal rights as whistleblowers. “Whistleblowers play an important role in government transparency and reducing fraud, waste, and abuse,” Sen. Tillis said. “Far too often, the brave individuals who fight for accountability are punished for the actions, and I am proud to support National …..

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Tillis Supports Imposing New Sanctions On Russia, Iran, North Korea

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, bipartisan legislation that imposes new sanctions on Russia, Iran and North Korea: “These sanctions send a clear and unified message to the Russian, Iranian, and North Korean regimes that America will hold them accountable for their transgressions,” said Senator Tillis. “I encourage the President to quickly sign this much-needed bipartisan legislation into law.” Share:

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Pittenger votes to fund border wall, military pay raise

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) voted to fund President Trump’s $1.6 billion request for a border wall, provide the largest military pay raise in 8 years, and increase Defense spending by 13% to rebuild America’s military. “As Americans, we spend hours debating issues large and small, but too often we forget our freedom to have these debates is paid for by our men and women in uniform,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “Today I voted on common sense legislation to restore military readiness, honor the sacrifices of our troops, and support President Trump’s effort to secure our borders.” The Make America Secure Appropriations Act (H.R. 3219) includes: *$1.6 billion to construct physical barriers along our southern …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

One more reminder of the Summer Sounds Concert Series that continues from 6PM-9PM today, at Cape Fear Farmer’s Market in Elizabethtown.  Legacy Motown Review will provide the music.  It’s FREE and you are invited. High school football practice begins Monday.  Received a note from East Bladen’s Robby Priest that the Eagles will be on the field from 6 til 8 p.m.  See John Clark’s article on our sports page with all the details.  West Bladen’s Knights will also begin practice, but no details. A $15,000 reward is yours if you provide info leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the burglary of Bladen Hardware on Poplar Street, …..

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A Just Legal Victory for Supt. Johnson

By Dr. Erik Root A Wake County Superior Court three judge panel justly pronounced that the State Board of Education (SBE), a body of part-time volunteer appointees, is subservient on policy matters to the people’s elected General Assembly.  SBE brought suit after the Assembly passed several changes to the general statutes streamlining responsibility and granting more authority to the Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI), elected executive officer who is also the chief administrative officer of that body. Despite their counsel’s bewilderment over the meaning of the Superior Court Order when he said, “We’re trying to parse out what all that [decision] means,” the SBE has nevertheless voted to appeal this …..

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Congressman Pittenger’s CFPB legislation approved by House

WASHINGTON – This afternoon, the U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation, co-sponsored by Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09), to nullify a controversial new rule which benefits trial lawyers at the expense of hardworking Americans. H.J. Res. 111, which Congressman Pittenger introduced last week in partnership with Congressman Keith Rothfus (PA-12), uses the Congressional Review Act to repeal the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new “anti-arbitration” rule. “Talk about draining the swamp.  Washington bureaucrats wanted to make it harder for consumers to recover substantial compensation when resolving disputes with banks.  Today, the U.S. House of Representatives joined me in saying ‘no’ to the ‘Trial Lawyers Protection Bureau,’” said Congressman Pittenger. According to the Consumer Financial …..

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Tillis Statement On Procedural Vote To Begin Debate On Health Care Reform Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the motion to proceed, beginning a debate on legislation to repeal Obamacare and reform America’s health care system: “Over the last several years, Obamacare has hit hardworking North Carolina families with skyrocketing premiums and fewer choices, while small businesses have struggled to comply with the law’s costly and burdensome regulations. The status quo of Obamacare is unsustainable, and today’s procedural vote sets the stage for an open amendment process where all Senators – Republicans and Democrats alike – will be able to put forward their ideas to reform our nation’s health care system.” …..

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Tillis Joins Senators To Call For Reopening Of U.S. Poultry Exports To China

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) joined a bipartisan group of 37 senators in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to push the Chinese government to end its ban on the sale of American poultry products. The ban was instituted by China in 2015 due to the detection of a wild duck with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influence (HPAI) and continues to be enforced today, in contradiction of World Health Organization for Animal Health (OIE) standards. “Poultry is produced in almost every state. For communities and states that rely on a thriving and growing poultry industry, these agreements are essential to a strong and vibrant future,” said the Senators …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

I believe the preservation of the United States of America is more important than protecting Democrats,  Republicans, Independents and anyone else, and if someone, some country is attempting to alter our course, it needs to be dealt with……plain and simple. We all have our ideas, but I thought the comments of Sen. McCain yesterday were plain and on target.  Realize, that those on both sides of the aisle will debate the issues, there will always be differences, and that is OK, this is America, nothing wrong with expressing our views, but, at last count, there are 323.1 million of us in the USA, and compromise is important in our way of doing business.  The more ideas shared, hopefully …..

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Tillis Statement On Attorney General Jeff Sessions

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement on Attorney General Jeff Sessions: “I’ve worked with Jeff Sessions for years, and while we certainly may not agree on the specifics of every issue, I believed he would be a great Attorney General because of his unwavering commitment to the rule of law. In the nearly six months he has led the Department of Justice, he has maintained that commitment every day and demonstrated why he was widely respected during his years as a U.S. Senator. “While some may argue that he should not have recused himself from the Russia …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Jordan Spieth, the winner of this year’s British Open, put on a golfing clinic over the last 4 or 5 holes in Sunday’s final round. NASCAR continues to attract less live, warm bodies to their events, TV ratings continue to slip as well, down by double digits.  FOX reports a 12% decline over the past couple of years with an average of 4.9 million viewers this year, compared to 5.7 million in 2015. Kasey Kane won yesterday’s marathon at Indianapolis.  If you missed it, the race was decided about dark on a track with no lights, following rain delays and numerous wrecks.  Overall, it was exciting. The church as we have known it, continues to change.  …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

The British Open Golf Tournament, the 3rd of 4 major golf tournaments played annually, concludes today.  It has been a great tournament played at the Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Southport Merseysid, England. The final of this year’s major championships, the PGA Championship, will be played August 10-13 at Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, NC. The Masters and U.S. Open were played earlier in Augusta, Ga. and Erin, Wisconsin. If you enjoy hot weather, you should be very happy.  Another Heat Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service for today.  High today near 95, heat values as high as 107 and a 30% chance of late afternoon showers and thunderstorms, southwest winds 8 to …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

What do you do when you can’t sleep?  How many sheep are there? Today should be another hot day with 90 plus degree temps and a heat index of 100-plus. Speaking of weather, how about a ‘kewl’ thought.  Our first frost is just about 3 months away, usually arrives between the 21st and 31st of October. Can’t think of anything better than to hear from a friend you no longer see or hear from on a regular basis.  May come in the form of a surprise visit, call, text or however you communicate. Cancer is a horrible disease, pray for all, especially Sen. John McCain.  Love or dislike him, he is an American …..

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Congressman Pittenger announces $1 million FEMA grant for Robeson

LUMBERTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) today announced over $1 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency funding to assist with repairs to public buildings in Robeson County damaged by Hurricane Matthew. “Bureaucracy can move very slowly, as applications are checked and rechecked, but my office is in regular contact with FEMA to ensure Robeson County receives assistance as quickly as possible,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “Today is just one more step in a process we started last October, and will continue until the job is done.” So far, FEMA has provided North Carolina with: * $100.8 million in Small Business Administration loans * $97.5 million in Individual Assistance * $195.4 million from the National …..

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Made in USA: Supporting American Jobs

By U.S. Congressman Robert Pittenger North Carolina lost 400,000 manufacturing jobs between 2001 and 2015, or nearly 50 percent.  As I travel the 9th Congressional District, I regularly pass abandoned factories and the struggling communities left behind. Manufacturing is vital to North Carolina’s economy.  Yet overseas competition, unfair trade practices, and unnecessary regulations have caused a great loss in manufacturing and our overall economy.  This cannot continue. Surprisingly, some in the mainstream media chose to mock President Trump’s “Made in America Week.”  Apparently, the liberal elite doesn’t realize the heart and soul of America’s economy lies in America’s workers, American products, and the incredible American work ethic.  We should honor …..

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You Decide: Why Can’t We Get The Economy Just Right?

By Dr. Mike Walden My wife is a great cook, and she makes fabulous varieties of soups. My favorite is her lentil soup. It’s both tasty and healthy! Sometimes my wife and I disagree over the temperature of the soup. Remember the Goldilocks saying about the soup not being too hot or too cold, but instead being just right? Well, my wife and I don’t see eye-to-eye over what is the “just right” temperature for soup since she likes it hotter than me. There’s a parallel between the Goldilocks story, my wife’s soup and the economy. It’s that we’d like to get the economy “just right” for everyone but usually …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

One more reminder, noontime today is the deadline for filing for the November municipal election.  Filing fee is $5, and if interested in adding your name to the ballot, you should visit Bladen County Board of Elections, behind the post office in Elizabethtown. The British Open Golf Tournament is always interesting, gives us an opportunity to see some of the best golfers in the world playing some of the oldest courses.  William McGirt, Fairmont native, had a tough opening day, plus 7, needs a miracle today to continue play over the weekend. Another hot day is in store for Bladen and surrounding areas, today….90+ temps expected.  Proceed with caution and …..

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Bay Tree Lakes VFD thanks golf tournament supporters

The 14th annual Bay Tree Lakes Volunteer Fire Department golf tournament was held in June at Vineyard Golf Course in White Lake. The event serves as one of the major fundraisers for the organization. “The department would like to express its appreciation to the many participants and to the people and organizations that donated, in various forms,” wrote Hank Howell, who is the department’s treasurer. “The tournament was a big success.” The tournament winners were: First Flight 58 – Lee Todd, Joey Todd, Bill Edwards and Emery White 60 – Lamarr Johnson, Don Pigffgrie, John Lovette and Tommy Culbreth 63 – Darryl Davis, Roger Davis, Kent Porter and Mark Mendell …..

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Tillis, Colleagues Move to Stop CFPB Arbitration Rule

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, joined Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and his Republican colleagues to file a Congressional Review Act (CRA) Joint Resolution of Disapproval in the Senate against the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) arbitration rule. “Setting aside the looming questions surrounding the constitutionality, this CFPB rule is a boon to trial attorneys at the expense of American consumers,” said Senator Tillis. “The American people decided this past election that they were fed-up with decisions being made by unelected Washington bureaucrats, and I hope that my colleagues will stand up to this abuse of power by supporting …..

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Tillis Joins Colleagues Calling for Greater Retirement Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) joined Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Steve Daines (R-MT), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tom Cotton (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), Todd Young (R-IN), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and David Perdue (R-GA) to urge Department of Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta clear the path for implementation of 401(k) auto portability that would make it easier for Americans to save for their future. Over the past four decades, Americans have cumulatively lost about $2 trillion in retirement savings due to not transferring their 401(k) retirement accounts when transitioning from one job to another. On average, approximately 14 million Americans change jobs each year, …..

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Congressman Pittenger Introduces Resolution To Block CFPB’S Effort To Benefit Trial Lawyers

WASHINGTON – This morning, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and all 33 Republican colleagues on the House Financial Services Committee introduced a resolution of disapproval to nullify a controversial new rule benefitting trial lawyers at the expense of consumers. H.R. Res. 111, which Congressman Pittenger introduced in partnership with Congressman Keith Rothfus (PA-12), uses the Congressional Review Act to repeal the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new “anti-arbitration” rule. “According to CFPB’s own study, consumers recover 167 times more through arbitration than class action.  On average, consumers receive $32 in class action, while the attorney receives nearly $1 million,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “Perhaps we should rename CFPB the ‘Trial Lawyers Protection Bureau,’ because this rule …..

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Tillis Co-Introduces Comprehensive G.I. Bill Reforms

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, co-introduced broad, bipartisan legislation that seeks to improve veterans’ education benefits and enhance the post-9/11 G.I. Bill. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017 includes the following provisions originally introduced by Senator Tillis as standalone legislation: *The Veterans Education Experience Improvement Act of 2017, bipartisan legislation Tillis introduced with Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) that would improve veterans’ experience when using GI Bill education benefits and provide resources and training for the officials at educational institutions who serve student veterans, helping them achieve positive education outcomes. *The Veterans Education Relief and Reinstatement Act of 2017 , bipartisan legislation Tillis …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Changed my shaving habits, only shave on ‘special occasions’ and the number of ‘special occasions’ are shrinking as I mature. What is your favorite time of the year?  I enjoy spring and fall, April & October. Favorite time of day for this retiree?  Between 1 and 2 PM, enjoy a bowl of Breyer butter pecan ice cream.  When ice cream gets low, time for a visit to the grocery store. Very good turn-out for the annual meeting of Bladen County Committee of 100.  Excellent speaker, Chris Lloyd with McGuire Woods Consulting, Sr. VP of Infrastructure and Economic Development.  He assist companies in locating sites to expand their business, a match-maker.  What does Committee …..

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Opinion: Back To School … 2017-18 School Year

By Amy Schumacher I remember when summer vacations seemed to stretch on forever. The days were hot and long and offered multiple opportunities for fun, playing with friends, enjoying every minute of sleeping in late and staying up much later than we were ever allowed during the school year. Nearing the end of the summer my parents would begin adjusting my schedule a little at a time to prepare me for the days when I would need to wake up early, the nights when I would need to get in bed early so I could get a good night’s sleep. July is coming to a close and half the summer …..

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Tillis Co-Introduces Bill to Restore Regulatory Accountability

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) co-introduced the Separation of Powers Restoration Act (SOPRA), legislation that would restore accountability to the regulatory process and ensure proper judicial review, empowering the courts—not agencies—to interpret all questions of law, including both statutes and regulations. The Senate bill was also introduced by Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Mike Lee (R-UT), James Lankford (R-OK), Jeff Flake (R-AZ), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Kennedy (R-LA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Ben Sasse (R-NE). “One of the biggest challenges facing our nation is a large and cumbersome regulatory environment that negatively affects hardworking American families and business, and impedes our nation’s economic growth and potential,” Senator Tillis …..

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Tillis Senior Advisor Robert Wilkie Nominated as Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, the White House announced that Robert Wilkie, senior advisor to Senator Thom Tillis, has been nominated to serve as Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. Wilkie has served as Senator Tillis’ senior advisor since he took office in 2015, advising him on national security and military issues. Tillis currently serves as the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, which handles all quality of life issues for servicemembers and military families. Wilkie previously served as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs under Robert Gates and Donald Rumsfeld. He also served as Special Assistant to President George W. Bush for National Security Affairs and …..

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Tillis Statement On Senator John McCain

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on his friend and colleague, Senator John McCain: “John McCain is an American hero and a fighter through and through. Courage and fearlessness have always defined his distinguished career of public service. Susan and I join all North Carolinians in praying for Senator McCain’s recovery and return to the United States Senate.” Share:

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

The deadline for filing for municipal offices is fast approaching and candidates are needed in at least 3 towns. The latest filings were for Clarkton Town Commissioner.  Yesterday, Stephen W. Hester and Jerome Myers paid their $5 filing fee seeking a seat on the Board.  Incumbent Tim Tart filed earlier, incumbent Lawrence McDougald has not filed.  The deadline for adding names to the ballot is 12 noon Friday. Bladenboro, Clarkton, Elizabethtown and White Lake have a full slate of candidates for positions available.  Different story for the other 3 local municipalities. Incumbent Lillian L. Graham has filed for re-election, but 2 seats are available in East Arcadia. No one has filed …..

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“In God We Trust” is a must in Bladen County

By: Charlotte Smith Last week I met with the Bladen County Sheriff, Jim McVicker, and was vexed by a letter he shared with me. Addressed to Sheriff McVicker was a letter from Madeline Ziegler, a staff attorney, writing on behalf of the Freedom from Religion Foundation out of Madison, WI, urging Sheriff McVicker, Bladen County’s highest ranking, duly elected law enforcement official, to remove “In God We Trust” from Bladen County Sheriff’s vehicles. What caught me by surprise was Ziegler’s claim to be representing Bladen County residents and taxpayers. The letter stated, “On behalf of Bladen County residents and taxpayers, we ask that you refrain from promoting religion in your …..

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Congressman Pittenger announces $1.9 million Fayetteville airport grant

WASHINGTON – Fayetteville Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) today announced a $1,925,763 grant for the Fayetteville Regional Airport terminal expansion project.  The grant will be used toward the demolition of the existing Concourse A and construction of the new Concourse A. “Fayetteville’s airport is vital to economic expansion throughout the region, as well as providing local families and the families of our soldiers at Fort Bragg with convenient travel options,” said Congressman Pittenger (NC-09).  “As Fayetteville’s Congressman, I am committed to advocating for local priorities in Washington, and listening closely to the concerns of residents and local leaders.” The U.S. Department of Transportation previously provided a $10 million grant to launch the airport upgrade …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

      No filings in the past couple of days of candidates for the November municipal elections.  A brief recap as of closing time Monday. Bladenboro: Mayor Kenneth Charles Kelly Rufus R. Duckworth, III (I) Larry Waitus Simmons Town Commissioners (3 seats) Kenneth Rodney Hester Billy Ray Benson (I) Jeffrey Duane Atkinson (I) Clarkton: Town Commissioner (2 seats) Tim Tart (I) Dublin Mayor Town Commissioner (1 seat) East Arcadia Town Commissioner (2 seats) Lillian Graham (I) Elizabethtown Town Commissioner (3 seats) Robert Leonard Kinlaw Paula Hobbs Greene (I) Rufus Dewitt Lloyd (I) Herman Leonard Lewis (I) Tar Heel Mayor Town Commissioner (3 seats) White Lake Town Commissioner (3 seats) Paul …..

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Tillis Statement on DHS’ H-2B Visa Interim Final Rule

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced its intention to provide up to 15,000 additional H-2B visas under an interim final rule that it will submit to the Federal Register. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) has been leading bipartisan efforts in Congress to ensure American small businesses have access to temporary, seasonal workers they need to sustain their businesses and support American jobs. Tillis has been directly advocating the Department of Homeland Security to provide additional visas for FY2017. In May, Senators Tillis and Angus King (I-ME) led a bipartisan and bicameral letter to the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Labor urging them to take “swift and decisive …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Been thinking about heaven!  Just wonder how it will accommodate the political right wingers, the left wingers and Independents, the many different religious affiliations/organizations?  Not being an expert on anything, I wonder if one group will have an advantage over another?  What I really think is, if you don’t love your neighbor as your self, treat others as you would like to be treated, respect others, honor and accept God, walk in his likeness, space may be limited.  I know it’s not that simple, but if we can’t do unto others as we would have them do to us, on earth, as we are commanded, may not be room for many earthly, …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

It’s Sunday, see you in church this AM, Sunday School and Worship.  In one of the old folks class at Wesley’s Chapel UMC, the lesson is about Jeremiah. Hard to believe BladenOnline.com has been providing coverage of Bladen County news for all, FREE, for nearly 9 1/2 years.  First edition was February 1, 2008.  Every day, it’s just a little better, thanks to all who work hard to make it happen. I check it several times daily, News, Sports, Regionals, Events, Obits & all the other sections, and if you missed an article, check the Archive section. Our pledge to you, The Best Is Yet To Come. A reminder of the Annual Meeting of …..

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Accident on I95s NC/SC Border

  A community member, Rick Rhoda, was traveling I95s today and is currently stopped in traffic and has been for over thirty minutes due to a terrible accident. No details have been given at this time but from the photos sent in the accident very likely involves some tragedy.   Share:

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Empty Nester… When your babies start their journey from the nest

By Amy Schumacher Every parent see’s the great potential of their children from the moment they look upon their faces for the first time. We raise them to be strong and independent, to have compassion and show empathy, all knowing that someday they will fly from the family nest and start their journey… they begin living on their own, making their own decisions, and hopefully making their mark on the world. Where does that leave the moms and dads? What do we do once our nest, our comfortable, happy and safe nest is empty? Most students leave for college in August so the parents have that last summer to get …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

In the world of politics, there is much bally-hoo about the first 100 days.  Promises are made in ‘my first 100 days’, some are kept, some are not.  Been that way for about as long as I can remember.  Well, we will soon approach the 200 day mark of the Trump administration.  By my calendar, today marks day #176.  Historians have the advantage of looking back.  Success for President Trump and Congressional leaders will depend to a great degree on repeal and replacement of Obamacare and Tax Reform, especially with Republicans in control of the House and Senate and a Republican in the White House.  Much is riding on those two issues …..

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Tillis & Burr Welcome Nomination Of Bobby Higdon As U.S. Attorney

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at the recommendation of North Carolina Senators Thom Tillis and Richard Burr, President Trump announced his intention to nominate Bobby Higdon to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina. Mr. Higdon has a long and decorated career as a federal prosecutor, handling many high profile cases. He also has significant management experience as former criminal chief in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Mr. Higdon earned his law degree from the Wake Forest School of Law. He is currently a partner at Williams Mullen and resides in Cary, North Carolina. “Bobby Higdon is an incredibly qualified choice for U.S. Attorney, holding decades of …..

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ROUZER STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF FY2018 NDAA

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Rouzer released the following statement following the passage of Fiscal Year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act, an authorization bill considered by Congress every year to set funding levels for the military to continue its operations and remain a global leader: “It is the duty of Congress to ensure our military and troops have the necessary funding and resources to defeat terrorism, combat the growing security threats we face in the world and keep our homeland safe.  During the past several years, our military has just been getting by – enduring major annual cuts to their budgets as our world becomes a much more dangerous place.  Our …..

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Senators Tillis & Coons Statement on the Passing of Liu Xiaobo

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE), Co-Chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, released the following joint statement in response to the death of Chinese dissident and recipient of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize Liu Xiaobo: “As chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, we mourn the passing of Nobel Peace laureate Liu Xiaobo, who dedicated his life to advancing democracy in China through non-violence.  We also call on the Chinese government to end the house arrest of Liu Xiaobo’s wife, Liu Xia, and to ensure her freedom of movement. We are reminded that in his final statement before being sentenced to 11 years …..

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Making America Safe Again

By U.S. Congressman Robert Pittenger Did you know only 50 percent of U.S. Air Force planes are combat ready? That’s not all.  Only 50 percent of Marine Corps and Navy training equipment is functional, and only 3 of 58 Army brigades are ready for combat.  Today, our military’s readiness is at the lowest level since before World War Two. This is a security crisis. Defending America is my number one Constitutional duty.  Military budget cuts by former President Obama put our country at risk against increasing foreign threats including ISIS, North Korea, Iran, and cyberattacks.  We must appropriately increase defense spending to restore our military. That’s why this week, I …..

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Tillis Discusses FBI Director Nominee Wray, Election Meddling on Fox News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) appeared on Fox News Channel to discuss the hearing for Christopher Wray to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the importance of the FBI maintaining its independence, and the need to counter election meddling. Download video of Senator Tillis’ interview HERE. Tillis on the Judiciary Hearing for Christopher Wray on Wednesday: “I think he did an extraordinary job in the committee and will be confirmed. We have already heard Democrats have come out and said that they are going to support him and I think we will move fairly quickly. He’s held over until next week and then he will be moved …..

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U.S. HOUSE UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER’S AMENDMENT TO PUNISH SUPPORTERS OF NORTH KOREAN CYBERATTACKS

WASHINGTON – This morning, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously approved Congressman Robert Pittenger’s amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 2810) to crack down on international businesses that support North Korean cyberattacks. “My amendment is simple – it prohibits telecommunications companies that provide material support for North Korean cyberattacks from contracting with our Defense Department,” said Congressman Pittenger (NC-09) during floor debate.  “While my amendment is simple in nature, it strikes at the heart of what I believe to be the cornerstone of North Korea policy. “For far too long, China has enabled the North Korean government to pursue nuclear development, global provocation, and egregious human rights violations.  The Chinese government is simply …..

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Tillis on Fox Business: American Businesses and Workers Will Be Harmed If H-2B Program Isn’t Fixed

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) appeared on Fox Business Network to discuss the need to fix the temporary visa program to assist American businesses and workers. Download video of Senator Tillis’ interview HERE. Tillis on the consequences of not fixing the H-2B program: “The fact of the matter is, there are positions that aren’t going to be filled, businesses that are going to be harmed, and American workers that will be harmed if we don’t start getting these work visas right. Incidentally, when we go back to the administration, we should keep in mind now President Trump, then candidate Trump, pointed to this as being a problem. Temporary workers, …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

It was hot yesterday and more of the same is expected today.   Filing continues for the November municipal elections at the Bladen County Board of Elections.  Most, maybe all of the filings have been for 4 of the 7 towns in the county, they include Bladenboro, Clarkton, Elizabethtown and White Lake.  No filings, as of mid week, for Dublin, East Arcadia and Tar Heel positions.   One more time, if you are interested in serving, you have until noontime July 21, a week from today.  Bladen County Board of Elections is located at 301 Cypress Street, Elizabethtown, behind the Post Office.  The filing fee is just $5.   Saw where former …..

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“A Great Man and a Prince has Fallen this Day”

By: Pastor Cameron McGill, Dublin First Baptist Church/Lake Church On the day that Abner died (II Samuel 3:38), a broken-hearted King David proclaimed that “a great man & a prince had fallen in Israel”… It seemed that the whole nation was going about their lives as though nothing had happened. This grieved the king immensely. Early last Sunday morning (July 2, 2017), Bladen County lost a great man and a prince when Rev. Don Coley (age 87) passed away peacefully at his home in Cape Owen Manor. While I realize that Rev. Coley’s death did not make the front page headlines, it was recognized as a day of great loss …..

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Tillis & Kaine Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Education Experience and Outcomes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced bipartisan legislation that would improve veterans’ experience when using GI Bill education benefits. The Veterans Education Experience Improvement Act of 2017 would provide resources and training for the officials at educational institutions who serve student veterans, helping them achieve positive education outcomes. “For too long, Congress has tasked officials with ensuring that student veterans have successful outcomes when using their VA Education Benefit, but have not committed the necessary resources required to ensure success,” said Senator Tillis. “The bipartisan legislation I have introduced with Senator Kaine ensures that those who serve our veterans are properly trained, resourced, and have a manageable workload …..

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Tillis & Burr Welcome Nomination Of Thomas Farr As District Judge For Eastern District Of North Carolina

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at the recommendation of North Carolina Senators Thom Tillis and Richard Burr, President Trump announced his intention to nominate Thomas Farr to fill the United States District Court vacancy for the Eastern District of North Carolina. Mr. Farr has extensive experience and is extremely qualified. He has tried cases in federal and state courts in North Carolina and has handled appeals at all levels of the North Carolina appellate courts, the Fourth and Sixth Circuit Courts of Appeal, and the Supreme Court. In 2006, Mr. Farr was nominated by President George W. Bush to fill the very same vacancy on the U.S. District Court, and the American …..

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Tillis Statement On Revised Version Of Better Care Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after text of the updated version of the Senate’s Better Care Act was released: “I look forward to carefully reviewing the changes made to the Better Care Act. From what I’ve already seen, major improvements have been made, including a significantly bigger investment to combat and treat opioid addiction, and more funding to help control the rising costs of premiums for individuals and families. “I’m pleased that Senate leaders have committed to an open amendment process, which will allow all senators – Republicans and Democrats alike – to propose additional improvements to the legislation. I hope my colleagues …..

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Congressman Pittenger Honors contributions Laurinburg-Maxton Air Base and Scotland County during WWII

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives in honor of Laurinburg-Maxton Army Air Base, which played a vital but little-known role in World War Two. C   “From 1942 to 1945, Scotland County helped prepare glider pilots for the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, and Italy.  Generals Dwight Eisenhower and George Marshall visited the base during the war to observe glider training.   “On June 6, 1944, when more than 160,000 Allied troops landed during the invasion of Normandy, glider pilots trained in Scotland County were among the vanguard as American soldiers silently soared down the French coastline through thick fog, powered only by the …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Opinion: Thoughts While Shaving

Two more filings yesterday for the November Municipal elections, both Bladenboro incumbent Town Commissioners, Billy Ray Benson and Jeff Atkinson. Still no filings for Dublin, East Arcadia and Tar Heel and only one from Clarkton (2 seats on town board will be open in November). Not uncommon for the filing season to begin with a ‘bang’, drag-on for a while and pick up again just before the deadline.  This year that date is noontime Friday, July 21 (a week from tomorrow). Thanks to the helpful folks at the Bladen County Board of Elections for the update. Browsing the Internet recently, discovered that the new $13M plus construction project at the intersection of NC 87 & US 701 …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

American League over National League in All Star baseball game last night, 2-1 in 10 innings.  Ended when Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano hit home run off Cubs closer Wade Davis for the victory.  Cano was MVP, picked a Corvette over a Chevy pickup, as his prize. 8.6 million viewers watched the Home Run Derby. What a mess we have in the USA. Been reading polls related to R’s and D’s. Most trusted person on Trump team, according to a couple of polls, is Keith Shiller.  He is a Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of Oval Operations.  Not familiar with him.  He is former NY police officer and …..

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Jefferson Weaver

Opinion: Taylor Swift is stalking me

By: Jefferson Weaver I was surprised the other morning to find that the comedic genius Ray Stevens and I have something in common. Yes, I am fairly sure Taylor Swift is stalking me, too. Now, before anyone starts breaking out the syringes full of happy-drugs, let me explain. It just seems like her music is everywhere I turn, and it’s getting a little tiresome. Everywhere I go, I hear her latest song, which I think is called “Shake It Off,” and designed to make people frenetically dance (which I do not do, unless I have fireants in my overalls). Miss Swift has, to her credit, avoided most of the pop-tart …..

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Tillis Statement On The KC-130 Crash In Mississippi

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, issued the following statement after a KC-130 from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point crashed in Mississippi, tragically killing at least 16 on board:   “Susan and I send our deepest condolences to the families of the Marines who lost their lives in service to our nation. Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and the Havelock community are in our thoughts and prayers. This is a tragic reminder of the dangers our servicemembers are confronted with on a daily basis, including the training missions that are needed to help keep our nation safe at …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

Filing for the November municipal elections continues through noontime July 21, 2017. Yesterday, a couple of filings for the Bladenboro political race, one for Mayor and one for Town Commissioner.  Larry W. Simmons became the 3rd candidate for Mayor and newcomer K. Rodney Hester filed for commissioner.  Simmons, a former Town Commissioner, will face incumbent Rufus P. Duckworth, III and newcomer Kenneth Charles Kelly in the fall election. Clarkton incumbent J. Tim Tart filed for re-election as Town Commissioner. Others who filed earlier: Elizabethtown incumbents for Town Commissioner include: Paula H. Greene Rufus D. Lloyd Herman L. Lewis and newcomer and former police chief, Robert (Bobby) Kinlaw. 3 White Lake incumbent commissioners …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

  Recently I Googled, ‘most trusted news sources’, did not specify newspaper, TV or other, just news sources. Discovered some interesting info from numerous sources. New York Times, Wall Street Journal were at the top or near the top in most, including one circulated by Forbes, conducted by The Berlin School of Creative Leadership.  The author was Paul Glader.  There top 5: 1) The New York Times 2) Wall Street Journal 3) The Washington Post 4) BBC 5) The Economist Do your own search, if you are interested. TV news sources tend to appeal to one or more segments of the population, primarily sources that viewers tend to agree with, liberal, conservative, whatever. Holidays are …..

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You Decide: Has North Carolina’s Economy Taken a U-Turn?

by Mike Walden When driving, U-turns can be tricky. The driver often has to turn against oncoming traffic, and, if the turn is at a light, the driver hopes the turn can be made before the light changes to red. Even if the turn is successfully made, the driver must quickly accelerate to merge into traffic. Many times illegal U-turns are made, which is dangerous because oncoming traffic doesn’t necessarily expect the turn to be attempted. So with U-turns being complicated and sometimes treacherous, they don’t have a good reputation. In fact, the term “U-turn” generally has a negative connotation regardless of the application. So when some say North Carolina’s …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

We have heard much about Fake News. What is Fake News? I decided to research the issue, went to Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. “Fake news is a type of yellow journalism of deliberate misinformation or hoaxes spread via traditional print and broadcast news media or online social media. Fake news is written and published with the intent to mislead in order to gain financially or politically, often with sensationalist, exaggerated or patently false headlines that grab attention…………..Fake news often employs eye-catching headlines or entirely fabricated news stories to increase readership, online sharing and Internet click revenue…..Fake news also undermines serious media coverage and makes it more difficult for journalists to …..

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