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Thoughts While Shaving For April 1
Was hoping for more rain … could use more rain … but thankful for what we did receive Monday night…
Farmers in the fields preparing for a good crop…
We really do need rain … fields are dry … no burning, based on folks who know… READ MORE
• THOUGHTS WHILE SHAVING ARCHIVE
3 Things To Know For April 1
1. Kindergarten Registration: Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Elizabethtown Primary School.
2. Statewide Star Party: Friday, 7-10 p.m., Brown’s Creek Bike Trail, 1910 East Broad Street, Elizabethtown.
3. Lu Mil Wine Run 5k: Saturday, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Lu Mil Vineyard, 438 Suggs-Taylor Road, Elizabethtown. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
This Day In History For April 1
1853 – Cincinnati became the first American city to employ full-time professional firefighters.
1934 – Clyde Barrow killed two young highway patrolmen, H.D. Murphy and Edward Bryant Wheeler, at the intersection of Route 114 near Grapevine, Texas.
1993 – Reigning NASCAR Winston Cup champion Alan Kulwicki perished in a private plane crash en route to Bristol Motor Speedway for the Food City 500. READ MORE
STORIES FROM MONDAY, MARCH 31
Severe Weather Briefing for Southeast North Carolina and Northeast South Carolina
Staff Report
A line of thunderstorms will move across the area late today, potentially diminishing as it approaches the coast. Primary threat is damaging wind gusts of 60+ mph. READ MORE
A Partnership in Conflict – Bladen
Contributed
Bladen’s Bloomin’ Agri-Industrial, Inc. (BBAI), is a non-profit revolving loan and real estate development corporation whose mission is to create jobs, tax base and business opportunities in Bladen County. BBAI has worked with Bladen County and County municipalities to develop dozens of commercial and industrial projects in our community. READ MORE
Agriculture Commissioner Troxler to announce details on the Crop Loss Disaster Program for agricultural crop losses in 2024
Contributed
On March 19, the N.C. General Assembly approved over $300 million for agricultural crop losses from 2024, with $200 million earmarked for Western N.C. and Hurricane Helene losses and over $100 million for statewide losses from other weather-related events.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler will announce the start of the application period for the Crop Loss Disaster Program and other important details for farmers who suffered ag crop losses in 2024, on Tuesday, April 1st, at 2:00 p.m., at the Gov. Martin Building, 4285 Trinity Road, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. READ MORE
Bringing The Choir Back To Church: A Night Of Worship And Harmony In Bolton
Staff Report
The Greater Bolton Church of God in Christ prepares to host “Bring the Choir Back to Church” on April 26, 2025, at 6:00 PM. This special event, sponsored by the Men & Women United for Youth & Families Scholarship Committee, is set to revive the spirit of traditional gospel music, bringing people together in worship and celebration. READ MORE
NCDMV Set to Further Expand Office Hours Beginning April 7
Contributed
The N.C Division of Motor Vehicles is set to again extend service hours at its driver license offices beginning next week.
On April 7, 42 offices (listed below) will join 50 others opening an hour early at 7 a.m., offering an extra hour of appointments and service time. READ MORE
Bladen group buys four planes amid town-county rancor
By A group affiliated with Bladen County, which is deemed economically depressed under state guidelines, owns a quartet of new airplanes acquired for $2.5 million last August.
Chuck Heustess, the longtime leader of Bladen’s development efforts, orchestrated the purchase for the nonprofit economic development organization, Bladen’s Bloomin’. READ MORE
Agricultural Producers Have Until April 15 to Enroll in USDA’s Key Commodity Safety Net Programs for the 2025 Crop Year
Contributed
Agricultural producers who have not yet enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2025 crop year have until April 15, 2025, to revise elections and sign contracts. Both safety net programs, delivered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), provide vital income support to eligible farmers who experience substantial declines in crop prices or revenues for the 2025 crop year. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving For March 31
Yesterday’s high temp was in the mid 70s … and, oh yes, rainfall at the local weather station measured … a trace … and we need rain…
Back to the normal routine today … Schools back in session … high school athletics daily… READ MORE
• THOUGHTS WHILE SHAVING ARCHIVE
STORIES FROM SUNDAY, MARCH 30
Thoughts While Shaving For March 30
Yesterday’s (Saturday) weather was very good in our area … Temps in the 70s, some wind … and ideal day for whatever…
Seems impossible that ¼ of the year 2025 is over … April 1 arrives Tuesday…
Shriners Fish Fry set for April 9 at Food Lion parking lot in Elizabethtown… READ MORE
• THOUGHTS WHILE SHAVING ARCHIVE
Bladen County Headlines … 50 Years Ago
Here were some of the stories making news in Bladen County in 1975:
• Clarkton Merchants Association elected new officers. They were Harry Prince, President; Charles Little, Vice President; Madeline Clark, Secretary; and Roy Williford, Treasurer. READ MORE
North Carolina’s February Unemployment Rate At 3.7%
RALEIGH — North Carolina’s seasonally adjusted February unemployment rate was 3.7 percent, according to figures released Friday by the N.C. Department of Commerce, which was unchanged from January’s revised rate. The national rate increased 0.1 percent to 4.1 percent.
North Carolina’s unemployment rate increased 0.2 percent from a year ago. READ MORE
STORIES FROM SATURDAY, MARCH 29
UPDATE: Bladen County Road Closures
Staff Report
All crossings in Bladen County are currently open. On Monday morning, CSX will close Richardson Road and the other end of Pine Ridge Circle. Expect these to be closed until Thursday. READ MORE
NC Prepares for Measles Prevention Amid National Increase in Cases
Contributed
As measles cases continue to rise across the country, NCDHHS is taking proactive steps to ensure the state remains prepared for any potential cases or outbreaks. In the United States, measles cases surged from 59 cases in 2023 to 285 cases in 2024. READ MORE
State Board of Education Meets April 2-3
Contributed
The State Board of Education will meet Wednesday, April 2 at 10 a.m. and Thursday, April 3 at 9 a.m. in the 7th floor Boardroom, Education Building, 301 N. Wilmington St., Raleigh, for its monthly meeting.
The agenda for this meeting and executive summaries are available online. READ MORE
NCDHHS and Positive Childhood Alliance Hold Public Event to Recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month
Contributed
NCDHHS is partnering with the Positive Childhood Alliance (PCANC) to host a free, family-friendly event on April 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pullen Park in Raleigh to recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
The event on April 1 will feature a pinwheel planting and speakers from NCDHHS, including Secretary Sangvai, NCDHHS Director of Human Services Lisa Tucker Cauley, Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina President and CEO Sharon Hirsch, and Parent Leader Sanaa Sharrieff. READ MORE
Cape Fear Valley Health honors four at Doctors’ Day event
Contributed
FAYETTEVILLE, NC – March 28, 2025 – Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation’s Caduceus Society honored several providers Thursday, when Cape Fear Valley Health Medical Staff Services held its 2025 Doctors’ Day celebration at the Center for Medical Education and Neuroscience Institute. Three awards were presented – Advanced Practice Provider (APP) of the Year, Resident of the Year, and Physician of the Year. READ MORE
NCDHHS Partners with Hazel Health to Provide Virtual Mental Health Services for K-12 Students in North Carolina
Contributed
This week, NCDHHS announced that students across North Carolina will soon have access to high-quality virtual mental health care through Hazel Health.
This initiative, supported through an investment by UnitedHealthcare, is part of a broader effort announced last year to provide virtual school-centered mental health care for up to one million students across select states nationwide. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving For March 29
Not complaining … Never dreamed a life time of earnings could evaporate so quickly…
Another honor for West Bladen’s boys basketball coach … Coach Travis Pait just keeps adding to his trophy chest … and he should…
Hope your weekend is the best… READ MORE
• THOUGHTS WHILE SHAVING ARCHIVE
STORIES FROM FRIDAY, MARCH 28
Routine Weather Briefing Friday March 28 – Sunday March 30
Staff Report
OVERVIEW:
High pressure off the coast will result in warm, southerly flow and gradually increasing moisture through the weekend. Shower activity is expected to increase Sunday and Sunday night. READ MORE
Bladen County Announces Freedom Art Contest
Contributed
Bladen County Call to Artists 2025-2026 NC First in Freedom Festival Regional Art Contest
Deadline for Submission is May 25, 2025
What is your definition of Freedom?
As part of the America’s 250th Celebration in 2026, the Bladen County A250 Committee along with the Elizabethtown – White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce have announced an art contest, challenging artists to depict their interpretation of “Freedom”. READ MORE
The Need For Explicit Reading Comprehension Instruction
Contributed
When you hear the term “science of reading,” what comes to mind? While it encompasses a wide range of research on effective reading instruction, conversations about the science of reading typically center on phonics and decoding. After completing two years of LETRS training, North Carolina teachers are talking about the science of reading more than ever. READ MORE
Town Of Elizabethtown Public Notice
Contributed
This is notice to the public that the Elizabethtown Town Council will be conducting a Special Called Meeting on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 12 o’clock Noon at the Elizabethtown Municipal Building, 805 W. Broad Street. The purpose of the meeting will be for the purpose of Closed Session. READ MORE
Bladen And Columbus Counties Are Set To Grow By 2030, State Projections Show
By Heidi Perez-Moreno
Bladen and Columbus counties are expected to see significant growth in the next five years, newly released projections show.
Bladen County’s population is projected to grow 5.7% by 2030, according to a February report by the N.C. Office of State Budget and Management. READ MORE
The ACOS Alliance: Protecting A Free And Independent Press
by Kathy K. Im for E&P Magazine
Nearly 10 years ago, the Journalism and Media Program began funding the newly founded ACOS Alliance (A Culture of Safety Alliance), which sought to prioritize the safety and protection of freelance journalists working in hostile environments. The ACOS Alliance was formed in the aftermath of the kidnapping and killing of freelance journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff in Syria, a galvanizing moment for the industry. READ MORE
Status Of The MST Six Months After Hurricane Helene
Contributed
Over 45% of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail has reopened in the mountains in the six months after Hurricane Helene. This has been a collaboration across agencies and volunteer crews to tackle the unprecedented damage that Hurricane Helene caused. READ MORE
NC Office of State Fire Marshal Updates Statewide Response to Western NC Wildfires
Contributed
RALEIGH, NC – NC State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor and the NC Forestry Service briefed Governor Josh Stein on Thursday, at the Tryon Equestrian Center in Polk County on ongoing fire activities and response efforts, including the three largest wildfires burning in the county. Governor Stein has declared a State of Emergency across North Carolina. Mandatory evacuations remain in effect for several communities, with multiple structures damaged or lost. Since the weekend, structure damage has increased, and additional resources have been requested to support suppression efforts. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving For March 28
Yesterday was nice … high in mid 60s, a breeze most of the day, just enough to require a thin jacket, maybe long sleeves…
I remember the Jaycee Creed from years ago … My guess is every such “do-good” group has one as well…
Sometimes I have too much time to “think”… READ MORE
• THOUGHTS WHILE SHAVING ARCHIVE
STORIES FROM THURSDAY, MARCH 27
Bladen Community College Announces Spring Plant Sale, April 9-12, in Partnership with East Bladen and West Bladen High School FFA Programs
Contributed
Dublin, NC – Bladen Community College is excited to announce its annual Spring Plant Sale, taking place April 9-12, 2025, at the Bladen Community College Greenhouse. This year’s sale promises to be bigger and better than ever as we partner with the East Bladen and West Bladen High School FFA (Future Farmers of America) programs to offer a diverse selection of plants and gardening products. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Launches New Hybrid LPN to RN Bridge Program
Contributed
Bladen Community College (BCC) is proud to announce the launch of a new Hybrid LPN to RN Bridge Program, offering a flexible learning option for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who are ready to take the next step in their nursing careers. Building on the success of its traditional LPN to RN Bridge Program, BCC now offers a hybrid pathway tailored to meet the needs of working LPNs seeking a more adaptable learning format. READ MORE
The Wizard of Oz Comes Alive at Harrells Christian Academy
Contributed
From March 13th-15th, Harrells Christian Academy performed “The Wizard of Oz-Youth Edition.” On these three magical evenings, HCA students showcased their talents to family, friends, and members of the surrounding communities. READ MORE
Walden’s next book looks to future of N.C. business
by Dan Barkin
If you have been in business in North Carolina for a while, you probably have heard of Dr. Michael Walden as he was an economics professor at NC State for more than 40 years, focusing on the state’s economy.
He is finishing up his latest book, tentatively called “North Carolina in the Anxious Age.” READ MORE
NC House and Senate bills would raise age for tobacco sales to 21
By Grace Vitaglione
This would put North Carolina in line with federal law, which sets the age for purchasing tobacco at 21 — something that health advocates have been pushing for.
In North Carolina, more than 12 percent of high school students used tobacco products in 2022, and more than 9 percent used vapes, according to the Youth Tobacco Survey conducted by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. READ MORE
Should you delete your 23andMe data? NC attorney general says yes.
By Evan Moore
“Your genetic data is your most personal, confidential data, and you should be able to protect who has access to it,” Jackson said in a statement.
“As 23andMe’s bankruptcy proceedings play out, it’s possible that North Carolinians’ private genetic and other health data could be sold to other companies. READ MORE
STORIES FROM WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26
Get Creative This Easter at the Adult Easter Paint Party
Staff Report
Looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate the season? Join us for the Adult Easter Paint Party at the Clarkton Public Library on Monday, April 14th, 2025, at 6:00 pm! READ MORE
‘Temple to the performing arts’: $25M capital campaign begins for Thalian Hall
Contributed
WILMINGTON — A couple hundred people, including elected officials and arts supporters, were at Thalian Hall on Monday evening to help usher in its next metamorphosis.
As reported by Port City Daily in January, there are major plans to renovate the 167-year-old hall.
It comes as the city’s government organizes its full exit by fall. READ MORE
Empowering Youth: The Second Annual LENS-NC Partnership Meeting
Staff Report
In a world where education is a key to opportunity, ensuring that every student has a fair chance to succeed is paramount. Hosted by Men and Women United for Youth & Families, CDC, this event is set to bring together youth-serving organizations, educators, and advocates to drive meaningful change. READ MORE
Wildfires in North and South Carolina fueled by drought, wind and fallen trees from Hurricane Helene
Contributed
Dry conditions, wind and trees downed by Hurricane Helene fueled wildfires in North Carolina and South Carolina, where evacuation orders were in effect Tuesday. Many people in the area are still getting over the hurricane that hit in September, according to North Carolina Forest Service spokesperson Bo Dossett. READ MORE
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Science Comes to Life at Jones Lake Exploration Expo!
Staff Report
Elizabethtown, NC – Get ready for an adventure where science meets nature at the Jones Lake Exploration Expo! This exciting, hands-on event is part of the North Carolina Science Festival and promises a day of exploration, discovery, and fun for all ages. READ MORE
Ribbon Cutting at Boussias Law Firm!
Contributed
JOIN US for the exciting Ribbon Cutting at Boussias Law Firm, Bladen Co’s newest law firm! Please help us welcome Mr. Boussias and his team April 11th at 11:00 am, at 107 West Dunham Street, Elizabethtown, NC 28337! Refreshment will be served after the ribbon cutting. READ MORE
Rev Up for Fun: Touch A Truck and Family Spring Fling at Bladen Community College!
Staff Report
Mark your calendars and get ready to honk, beep, and explore! Bladen Community College is hosting a FREE family-friendly event that promises big trucks, big fun, and big memories—Touch A Truck and Family Spring Fling is rolling into town on Saturday, April 12th, from 9 AM to 1 PM.
This interactive event is packed with excitement for kids and kids-at-heart. READ MORE
Get Ready for the 17th Annual Camp Clearwater Spring Fest & Easter Weekend!
Staff Report
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 19th, as Camp Clearwater invites you to the highly anticipated Spring Fest & Easter Weekend. This exciting event promises a day filled with family-friendly activities, live music, tasty treats, and vibrant local vendors. Whether you’re hunting for Easter eggs, planting magical jelly beans, or competing in a cornhole tournament, there’s something for everyone! READ MORE
Community Easter Egg Hunt on April 12th
Contributed
Families can expect egg-citing hunt, delicious treats, and a joyful atmosphere perfect for kids and adults alike all free of charge. This is more than just an Easter event—it’s a chance for our community to come together, build connections, and make lasting memories. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Announces Registration for Career Kaleidoscope Youth Summer Camps 2025
Contributed
Dublin, NC – Bladen Community College is excited to announce the opening of registration for its highly anticipated Career Kaleidoscope Youth Summer Camp 2025. This unique and engaging summer camp offers young learners and teens an immersive and educational experience, exploring a variety of career pathways in a hands-on, interactive setting. READ MORE
Kindergarten Registration & NC Pre-K Screening
Staff Report
Bladen County Schools is excited to welcome new students for the 2025-26 school year! 
Kindergarten Registration
Families with children who will be 5 years old on or before August 31, 2025, are encouraged to register for kindergarten at their assigned district school. READ MORE
Bladen County Farmers Invited to “Farming in the New Normal” Workshop
Staff Report
As unpredictable weather patterns and environmental challenges continue to shape the agricultural landscape, local farmers are being given the opportunity to adapt and thrive. The NCCE-Bladen County Center is hosting a vital grower workshop, “Farming in the New Normal,” on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM at the Powell-Melvin AG Center, 450 Smith Circle, Elizabethtown, NC. READ MORE
