Graduation Day for Bladen Early College High School Class of 2024
Celebrating the BECHS Class of 2024!
Contributed photos by Bladen County Schools/BECHS
Dublin, NC – The graduation ceremony for Bladen Early College High School (BECHS) Class of 2024 was a resounding success. Held on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at Bladen Community College, the event began promptly at 10:00 AM and was livestreamed on the Bladen County Schools and BECHS Facebook pages, as well as the district’s YouTube channel. READ MORE
North Carolina Department of Transportation Notice
Elwell Ferry: Closed until further notice. We will update you as soon as NCDOT opens the ferry.
Clarkton’s Memorial Day Parade Revives Community Spirit
A staff reportThis Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2024, the town of Clarkton proudly celebrated Memorial Day with its first Community Day Parade in 25 years. The parade was organized by Mayor Jerome Myers to honor the nation’s heroes and bring the community together in a show of patriotism and unity.
“This is a glorious day. This is a great event,” said Mayor Myers. “I think there’s a lot more participation than I expected. So, maybe next year when we do this again, or maybe in the fall, it’ll be an even greater success.” READ MORE
May Bladen County Board of Education Meeting Highlights: Celebrating Student Achievements and Community Involvement
A staff report
The May Bladen County Board of Education Board of Education (BOE) meeting was filled with moments of pride and recognition, showcasing the remarkable accomplishments of students from various schools in the district. The meeting began with a heartfelt thank you to the students from Bladenboro Middle School for leading the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a tone of community and patriotism. READ MORE
Bladen County Schools Announces Key Personnel Changes
Contributed
Public Hearing on Proposed Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget
A staff report
Town of White Lake Announces Public Hearing for Proposed Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget
White Lake, NC – The Town of White Lake invites all residents to participate in a public hearing regarding the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. This important event will be held on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the White Lake Municipal Building, located at 1879 White Lake Dr., White Lake, NC. READ MORE
Bladen Community College BOT Public Notice
Contributed
Bladen Online High School Senior Spotlight – Andre Moore
By: Jair McElveen
West Bladen High School Student-Athlete Andre Moore takes the spotlight this week, showcasing his high school journey. Andre Moore is a dedicated and hardworking scholar who has gone through high school with a focus on sports and a clear vision for his future. READ MORE
Notice of Special Called Meeting
A staff report
The Bladenboro Board of Commissioners has scheduled a Special Meeting to be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall. The primary purpose of this meeting is to conduct a work session on the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget. READ MORE
Weekly Horoscope: May 26 – June 1
by Kayla Bell
As we move from late May into early June, the stars have aligned to bring a mix of opportunities, challenges, and insights for each zodiac sign. Here’s what the cosmos has in store for you this week. READ MORE
Community Blood Drive at Hickory Grove Baptist Church
A staff report
Bladenboro, NC – The American Red Cross, in partnership with Hickory Grove Baptist Church, is pleased to announce a Community Blood Drive on Tuesday, June 4, 2024. The event will take place in the Fellowship Hall of Hickory Grove Baptist Church, located at 6414 Center Rd, Bladenboro, NC 28320, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. READ MORE
10 Fun Facts of The Day: Earth Edition
by Kayla Bell
Earth is a remarkable planet, filled with wonders and mysteries that ever amaze us. From its unique place in the solar system to the diversity of life it supports, here are ten fun facts about our home planet: READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Checking weather … Yesterday’s high temp was 89 degrees at the local weather station, 2/100th of an inch of rain over the past 24 hours … Windy, wet and messy, not that far away … mostly north of us … late yesterday…
Huge crowd at White Lake over Memorial Day holiday weekend … appeared to be mostly orderly … Clarkton area residents celebrated Memorial Day with a parade… READ MORE
3 Things To Know For Tuesday
1. Hangout Hub Digital Art Workshop: Friday, 3:30-5:30 p.m., Bladen County Public Library, 111 N. Cypress St., Elizabethtown.
2. Dove Brothers Concert: June 8, 5-6:30 p.m., Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home, 800 North Main Street, Bladenboro.
3. Fort Fisher Aquarium: June 11, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., ages 5-8. Bladen County 4-H program. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
This Day in History For May 28
1892 – Sierra Club formed by John Muir and others in San Francisco for conservation of nature.
1972 – White House “plumbers” first break in at the Democratic National Headquarters and install listening devices at Watergate Complex in Washington, D.C.
2006 – Barry Bonds hits his 715th career home run, passing Babe Ruth on Major League Baseball’s all-time list. READ MORE
STORIES FROM MONDAY, MAY 27
Honoring the Fallen: Memorial Day 2024
By Charlotte Smith
Memorial Day, a federal holiday in the United States, is dedicated to remembering and honoring those who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Observed on the last Monday of May each year, today, May 27, 2024, marks this solemn occasion. READ MORE
10 Affordable Sustainable Swimwear Brands for Summer 2024!
by Kayla Bell
Beach Getaways in North Carolina: Your Guide to Sun, Sand, and Surf!
by Kayla Bell
Thoughts While Shaving
Today is Memorial Day … A time to remember those who gave their all … for our great nation…
Expect a huge day for visitors to White Lake today…
“Home of the free because of the brave.” READ MORE
STORIES FROM SUNDAY, MAY 26
Honoring Our Heroes: A Memorial Day Reflection
Contributed
As Memorial Day approaches on Monday, May 27, 2024, it is a time to honor and remember the courageous men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.
Just as these heroes have protected the nation, many believe that they are called to be part of God’s Army, standing firm in faith and spreading His love and light in the world. READ MORE
Memorial Day Movie Review: A Tribute to Sacrifice and Service
A staff report
Title: Memorial Day
Director: Samuel Fischer
Starring: James Reynolds, Sarah Connors, Michael O’Neal
Genre: Drama/War
Rating: PG-13
“Memorial Day” is a powerful drama that weaves together the past and present in a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by service members and their families. Directed by Samuel Fischer, this film stands out for its emotional depth and compelling storytelling. READ MORE
Rise and Shine: Summer Breakfast Recipes!
by Kayla Bell
As the sun peeks over the horizon and the birds begin to sing, there’s no better way to greet the day than with a mouthwatering breakfast that celebrates the flavors of summer. From fresh fruit-filled bowls to decadent pancakes and savory egg dishes, we’ve rounded up the ultimate collection of summer breakfast recipes to kickstart your day with a smile. READ MORE
The Inaugural India Alexus McLaurin Scholarship Gala
by Kayla Bell
The community of Elizabethtown is set to gather for a special event that holds deep emotional significance: the inaugural India Alexus McLaurin Scholarship Foundation Gala. Scheduled for Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 6:30 PM, this gala will be held at The Ballroom at Whimsical, located at 314 S Poplar St. READ MORE
Staying Connected: The Power of Social Media
by Kayla BellMarine Fisheries Commission agrees to broader look at submerged aquatic vegetation protection
Contributed
MOREHEAD CITY – The N.C. Marine Fisheries Commission agreed this week that the Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Marine Fisheries should take a broader look at the protection of submerged aquatic vegetation. During its quarterly business meeting, the commission voted to request that the Division work with the Commission’s Habitat and Water Quality Advisory Committee to develop more comprehensive options for protecting Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) that consider all activities under the Commission’s authority, rather than just shrimp trawl area closures. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Many visitors at the lake for the Memorial Day holiday weekend … Enjoy, be safe…
As I grow older, I am getting stronger … I can now carry $100 worth of groceries in one hand…
I have observed … one pain pill every 6 hours … can be painful. READ MORE
STORIES FROM SATURDAY, MAY 25
Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy is the Only Military Charter School in North Carolina
By Trever Lloyd
The history of the Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy is unique. Bladen County’s very own Carl T. Lloyd, the Commandant of Cadets of the Academy, worked at private military schools from 1992-2013. Around 2008-2009, he started a plan to one day give students and families from his community a new opportunity. READ MORE
Spring Reading Suggestions from Bladen County Library Director Sheila Nance
A staff report
As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, spring offers the perfect backdrop for diving into a fresh pile of books. Bladen County Library Director Sheila Nance has curated a list of must-reads that promise to enchant, entertain, and provoke thought as the season unfolds. From heartwarming tales to gripping narratives, this selection is composed to accompany you through the new spring season. READ MORE
Why You Should Limit Your Time on Social Media
By Kayla Bell
These days, social media is a big part of our everyday lives, so it’s easy to forget about the possible risks associated with using these platforms excessively. Even if social media has many advantages, such as helping you stay in touch with loved ones and access a multitude of information, there are strong arguments against spending too much time online. Here’s a closer look at the reasons why using social media in moderation can result in a balanced, happier existence. READ MORE
Outdoor Date Ideas for a Magical Summer
By Kayla Bell
Bladen County Headlines… 50 Years Ago
*W.C. Daniels, Jr. of Clarkton graduated with honors from UNCC and earned a Bachelor of Engineering Technology degree.
*SBI officers and sheriff deputies raided a house in the Sugar Loaf area and arrested eight persons, five boys and three girls, on a marijuana charge.
*Debra White Maynard was elected a juror of the Judicial Board of her dorm, Weaver Hall, for the coming year at Methodist College.
Thoughts While Shaving
Yesterday began with nearly a quarter of an inch of rain around 7 a.m. followed by mostly clear skies, high temp, near 90 degrees.
Read this someplace … and agree. “The easiest way to organize … you need to throw most of it away.”
News release … UNCP to establish a Doctor of Optometry program … READ MORE
STORIES FROM FRIDAY, MAY 24
Memorial Day Weekend Events in Bladen County: Honoring Our Heroes
A staff report
Bladen County, NC – Leon Grimes, with NC Works and Veteran Services, is proud to announce a series of Memorial Day weekend events in Bladen County dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served our nation. READ MORE
Town of Elizabethtown Announces Public Hearing on FY 2024-2025 Proposed Budget
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – The Town of Elizabethtown is pleased to announce that the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025 has been submitted to the Elizabethtown Town Council and is now available for public inspection. Residents and interested parties can review the proposed budget, which is posted on the Town’s official website READ MORE
Big Blue Store Announces Exciting Memorial Day Sale with Incredible Discounts
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – Big Blue Store is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated Memorial Day Sale, taking place from May 24 to May 27, 2024. Shoppers can look forward to an array of amazing deals and discounts across various departments, ensuring significant savings for all. READ MORE
Town of Elizabethtown Announces Public Hearing for Proposed Special Use Permit
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – The Town of Elizabethtown is scheduled to conduct a public hearing on Monday, June 3, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Elizabethtown Municipal Building. The hearing will consider a request for a Special Use Permit submitted by Elizabethtown Christian Academy. READ MORE
Longleaf Academy to Collaborate with Elizabethtown Christian Academy
Contributed
The Elizabethtown Christian Academy Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Longleaf Academy, an Orton-Gillingham Accredited Instructional Program, will be partnering with ECA, beginning with the 2024-2025 school year. The Longleaf Academy provides specialized support to students with language-based disabilities. READ MORE
Embrace the Freedom: Solo Summer Adventures!
by Kayla Bell
There’s something uniquely liberating about setting off on a solo adventure, especially in the warmth and vibrancy of summer. The sun is shining, the days are long, and the world around you is buzzing with life and possibility. READ MORE
Bladen County Public Library Announces Exciting Summer Reading Programs for 2024
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – May 24th, 2024 – Bladen County Public Library is thrilled to announce its Summer Reading Kickoff Event and Summer Reading Program for 2024, featuring a series of engaging activities designed to foster a love of reading and learning among children in the community. The Summer Reading Kickoff Event will take place on Thursday, June 6th, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the Bladen County Public Library located at 111 N. Cypress St., Elizabethtown, NC 28337. READ MORE
Thrills and Fun Await: Six Amusement Parks for Summer in North Carolina
by Kayla Bell
Summer is the perfect time to unleash your inner thrill-seeker and experience the excitement of North Carolina’s best amusement parks. From heart-pounding roller coasters to enchanting kiddie rides and splashy water parks, North Carolina offers a variety of options that guarantee fun for the whole family. READ MORE
UNCP to establish a Doctor of Optometry program
Contributed
PEMBROKE, NC – The University of North Carolina Pembroke will soon be home to the state’s only public doctoral program in optometry––chartering a new path for comprehensive primary care for eye and visual health in North Carolina and surrounding states.
UNCP received unanimous approval Thursday from the UNC System Board of Governors to establish a Doctor of Optometry program and, in doing so, will be the only public university in North Carolina to grant the specialized four-year degree. READ MORE
How To: Planning Your Beach Trip
by Kayla Bell
Imagine the sound of waves crashing against the shore, the feel of warm sand between your toes, and the endless horizon stretching before you. A beach trip is the quintessential summer getaway, promising relaxation, adventure, and memories that last a lifetime. READ MORE
Bladen We Care Foundation Announces 2024 Golf Tournament to Support Community Health and Service Initiatives
A staff report
Wallace, NC – May 24th, 2024 – Bladen We Care Foundation proudly announces its annual Golf Tournament to be held at the prestigious River Landing Golf Course on Thursday, June 20th, 2024. The event promises to be a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and compassion, all for the betterment of community health and service. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Yesterday’s high temp, recorded at the local weather station, was 90 degrees, and no rain … Today, showers and thunderstorms are likely…
Golfers, the field is pretty much set for this year’s Bladen We Care fundraiser … 70 teams are expected … 68 have already registered … READ MORE
STORIES FROM THURSDAY, MAY 23
Elwell Ferry Temporarily Closed Due to High Water Levels
A staff report
In an announcement from the North Carolina Department of Transportation, it has been confirmed that the Elwell Ferry will be temporarily closed until Monday, May 27th at 6:30am. This closure comes as a precautionary measure due to high water levels. READ MORE
Reminder: Clarkton Community Day Parade this Memorial Day!
A staff report
Get ready to celebrate Memorial Day in honor of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom as the Town of Clarkton proudly presents its Community Day Parade on Monday, May 27, 2024. Join us for a day filled with community spirit, patriotism, and honoring our nation’s heroes. READ MORE
Updated: Elizabethtown Hosts Free Aerospace Camp for Grades 5-8 in June
A staff reportUpcoming Blood Drives: Help Save Lives
Contributed
FAYETTEVILLE, NC – May 23, 2024 – Cape Fear Valley Blood Donor Center is a community blood program dedicated to serve the needs of patients in Cumberland, Hoke, Harnett and Bladen counties through blood donation by individual donors, community organizations and businesses. The center is located at 3357 Village Drive, Fayetteville, in the Bordeaux Shopping Center. READ MORE
Elizabethtown Announces Rules For Temporary Sales, Food Trucks and Pop-Up Retail Merchants
Contributed
To support local merchants and businesses, the Town of Elizabethtown recently introduced new policies dealing with itinerant sales in the town’s area.
Itinerant Retailers are retailers who do not have a fixed dedicated place of business, such as pop-up shops and food trucks. READ MORE
Opportunity to Request a Referendum: Soybean Promotion, Research, and Information Program
A staff report
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announces an important opportunity for soybean producers to request a referendum to determine whether they want the Secretary to conduct a referendum on the Soybean Promotion and Research Order (Order), as authorized under the Soybean Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act (Act).
Participation in the request for referendum is voluntary. READ MORE
Trillium Health Resources Receives Favorable SOC 2 Type II Report
Contributed
GREENVILLE, NC: Trillium Health Resources has received a favorable Service Organization Control (SOC) 2 Type II report. This accomplishment demonstrates our commitment to securely managing and protecting data and the privacy of our members. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
As usual … a quick look at the weather … Yesterday’s recorded high at the local weather station … 87 degrees … and summer has not arrived.
This week is National Safe Boating Week … FYI … And, the National Weather Service has confirmed 7 tornadoes across our area this past Tuesday … READ MORE
STORIES FROM WEDNESDAY, MAY 22
Discovering Bladen County: A Gem in North Carolina’s Inner Coastal Plain
A staff report
Nestled within the Inner Coastal Plain region of North Carolina, Bladen County emerges as a picturesque embodiment of rural charm and agricultural bounty. With its rich, sandy soil, the county is recognized as one of the state’s prime farmlands, offering a serene backdrop for growth and prosperity in various aspects of life. As the third-largest county in North Carolina, covering 879 square miles, Bladen County prides itself on being a safe, welcoming community that cherishes its outdoor amenities and embraces a growing rural atmosphere. READ MORE
Southeastern Economic Development Commission Holds 56th Annual Meeting. Bladen County’s Economic Developer Chuck Heustess elected vice chairman
Contributed
Photos by Kenneth Armstrong, kenarmphoto.com
The Southeastern Economic Development Commission held its 56th Annual Meeting on Tuesday, May 14, at the Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery in Elizabethtown. The Commission’s membership is comprised of Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Pender, New Hanover, Richmond, Robeson, Sampson, and Scotland. READ MORE
Bladen Online High School Senior Spotlight – Zachary Metz
By: Jair McElveen
East Bladen High School Student-Athlete, Zachary Metz makes a great individual for this week’s high school senior spotlight.
Zachary has been a dedicated Eagle and full of Eagle Pride throughout his school years. READ MORE
The Countdown is On at the Cape Fear Regional Theatre: Only Two Weeks Left of “Sister Act”!
Contributed
Fayetteville, NC—With just two weeks remaining, Cape Fear Regional Theatre (CTR) announces time is running out to catch the spectacular production of “Sister Act”! This week’s tickets are selling fast, with the majority of availability during our newly added extension week. READ MORE
First Bank Empowers East Bladen High School Students with Financial Literacy Education and Donation
A staff reportContributed photo of Brittney Allen presenting the check to East Bladen High School students
Elizabethtown, NC –First Bank’s Elizabethtown branch, led by Michael Davis, is proud to announce its participation in the National Teach Children To Save Day. Brittney Allen with First Bank recently taught three classes at East Bladen High School, focusing on essential financial literacy topics, as part of this national effort. READ MORE
Veterans Bridge Home Hosts Special Women Veterans Day Events at Richard Childress Racing
A staff report
Welcome, NC – May 21, 2024 – Veterans Bridge Home is excited to announce a series of special events in honor of Women Veterans Day on June 12, 2024, at Richard Childress Racing (RCR) in Welcome, NC. This day-long celebration aims to recognize and honor the service of women veterans, offering them opportunities for connection, support, and valuable resources. READ MORE
Public Hearing Scheduled for Bladen County FY 2024-25 Operating Budget
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – May 21, 2024 – The Bladen County Board of Commissioners has announced a public hearing to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2024-25 Operating Budget. The hearing will take place on Monday, June 3, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Commissioners’ Room, located on the lower level of the Bladen County Courthouse at 106 East Broad Street. READ MORE
HCA Graduates to Receive Inspirational Message from Jim Morris
A staff report
Harrells, NC – May 21, 2024—Harrells Christian Academy (HCA) is excited to announce that Mr. Jim Morris, a high school science teacher and coach with an exceptional life story, will be the keynote speaker for the Class of 2024 Commencement Ceremony. The ceremony will take place on Thursday night, May 23. READ MORE
Bladen County Health Department Launches Community Health Needs Assessment Survey
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – The Bladen County Health Department, in collaboration with Cape Fear Valley Health, is excited to announce the release of the Community Health Needs Assessment Survey. This survey is a vital tool for gathering data from residents to gain insights into the health status and needs of the Bladen County community. READ MORE
Public Hearing Scheduled for Bladen County Economic Development Appropriations for FY 2024-25
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – May 21, 2024 – The Bladen County Board of Commissioners has announced a public hearing to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2024-25 appropriations for various economic development activities. The hearing will take place on Monday, June 3, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, located on the lower level of the Bladen County Courthouse at 106 East Broad Street. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
It’s beginning to feel like summertime … Yesterday’s high temp in the low 80s…
East Bladen girls soccer team advances in playoffs … overtime victory last night … Check BOL sports for details … Go ladies go … Congratulations … we wish you the best… READ MORE
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Discover Hidden Treasures at Vanessa McNeill’s Who-Village and Life of Giving Yard Sale in Tar Heel, NC!
A staff report
Tar Heel, NC — Get ready for a day of fabulous finds and community spirit at Vanessa McNeill’s Who-village and Life of Giving Yard Sale, scheduled for June 1, 2024. This eagerly awaited event, taking place at 704 Chicken Foot Road, Tar Heel, NC 28392, promises a wide array of items that are sure to delight every treasure hunter and bargain shopper. READ MORE
Application Period for Ace Academy Open
Contributed
The Town of Elizabethtown and the Curtis Brown Airport will be hosting an aviation summer camp from June 18th through June 21st at the Curtis Brown Airport from 8:00am to 12:00 pm. The camp is open to students in 5ththrough 8th grades. READ MORE
Southeastern Community Action Partnership Hosts Fatherhood Community Resource Fair in Whiteville
A staff report
Whiteville, NC – The Southeastern Community Action Partnership (SCAP) is set to host a Fatherhood Community Resource Fair on Saturday, June 15, 2024. This event, part of SCAP’s Community Services Block Grant Program, will occur from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Mount Olive Headstart Center at 5465 Silver Spoon Road in Whiteville, NC. READ MORE
2024 Bladen We Care Golf Tournament
A staff report.
The 2024 Bladen We Care Golf Tournament will be held June 20 at River Landing Golf Courses on June 20. Anyone interested in playing is ask to go to Bladen We Care website for more information: https://www.bladenwecare.com/
Bladen County Schools Announces Graduation Plans
Elizabethtown, N.C— Bladen County Schools is preparing to congratulate more than 250 graduating seniors in the coming weeks.
The district will host three high school graduations.
Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery Hosts the 2nd Annual Prime Rib Dinner for Charity
Staff report
Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery is gearing up to host the 2nd Annual Prime Rib Dinner to benefit the Jim and Sue Schultz Foundation.
The event is scheduled for June 13 at 6:30 PM in the venue’s Gallery Ballroom. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Presents a Vibrant Array of Summer Camps for All Ages
Contributed
Get ready for an awesome summer of learning and fun at Bladen Community College! From children eager to explore new realms to teens and adults seeking to cultivate skills and passions, there’s an enriching experience awaiting everyone at BCC’s summer camps! READ MORE