KENLY — Freshman Addyson Garner and junior O’Lora Krupey scored 14 points each to lead Havelock to a 43-18 victory over West Bladen in the consolation game of the Capital Auto/KW Locksmith Girls’ Basketball Invitational at North Johnston High.

West Bladen (1-8) will open Southeastern Conference play at Whiteville on Jan. 9.

Master sports schedule | Standings

Brooklyn Willis drove for a trio of lay-ups in the first period and finished with eight points for the Rams (2-6). Garner bombed in a 3-point basket and an elbow jumper as Havelock built a 12-8 lead.

Senior Kali Allen supplied all eight of the Knights’ first quarter points, popping in a 14-footer then burying a pair of 3-point shots.

Garner banked in a pair of short jumpers and drove for a pair of lay-ups in the second quarter as Havelock’s lead grew to 24-12. West Bladen’s Amiya McCarty drove through the Rams press for a lay-up, then converted an assist from JaNya McKeithan into another lay-up.

Allen drove past the Havelock defense for a lay-up that began the second half. Krupey drained a 3-point shot and a lay-up to push the Rams lead to 29-14 at the quarter break.

Garner made a trio of lay-ups in the final quarter for Havelock. Natalee Sykes fired in a corner jumper and McCarty flipped in a driving bank shot for the final West Bladen basket.

Allen led West Bladen with 10 points and McCarty tallied 6 points.

HAVELOCK (43) – Sarah Leite-Marinho 2, Brooklyn Willis 8, Amari Smith 3, Addyson Garner 14, O’Lora Krupey 14, Elise Matthews 2.

WEST BLADEN (18) – Serenity Council, Haley Taylor, Kali Allen 10, Saniya Martin, Abigail Dew, Amiya McCarty 6, JNya McKeithan, Natalee Sykes 2, Abigail Dicicco.

Ho-Ho-Ho is an encore presentation for the Christmas season.

It’s the chant of jolly green giants and the big guy who lives in the North Pole. I think that they are still both in litigation as to who owns the rights to the mantra.

I’ve taken a lot of pictures of kids and Santa over the years. Oh, not the real Santa as I haven’t seen him since I was somewhere around 8 years old. I’ve noticed that some kids like Santa, some can take him or leave him, and some are horrified of him.

I don’t remember who told me this, but they said that no child feels comfortable sitting on a stranger’s lap dressed in red velvet and fur and having minion elves passing out candy as a bribe to sit in a stranger’s arms – even for a little while.

As I was relaxing after I got home one night last week, I was too wound up to go to bed, so I thought I’d find out what was trending on Netflix. I came across a romcom called “I Believe in Santa,” and thought I’d last about 10 minute as it started out kind of stupid.

I ended up making popcorn, putting tinsel on my tree and drinking hot chocolate – getting my Christmas spirit on. Essentially, it was about a grown man who never quit believing in Santa even though he never saw the man.

According to thereviewgeek.com, “It’s a lighthearted yet thought provoking flick. The storyline, which stars Christina Moore, John Ducey, and Violet McGraw, centers on the significant practical vs imaginative argument. The flick explores the component wherein differing points of view from your partners can cause you to wonder about the sustainability of your union. Furthermore, the festive tone runs through the entire romantic comedy as the audience experience a strong “feel-good” component. It deeply follows the movie’s genre and serves as a pleasant, lighthearted, yet enlightening Christmas movie.

“Every happily married couple can strongly relate to the pair’s disputes and disagreements because they are conveyed in such an honest way. Variations in beliefs and perspectives are relatively common in relationships and serve to emphasize the uniqueness of each partner. The movie presents the challenges and difficulties that most encounter in a relationship. Furthermore, the flick also showcases how for a partnership to thrive; both parties must be able to find common ground on some core principles.”

Well, that reviewer went farther than I wanted to go, but kudos. I noticed one moment in the movie, the child placed on Santa’s lap screaming at the top of his lungs. This column, however is not a review of that movie, but will contain thoughts of the kids who you have to take kicking and screaming to Santa and then have Santa hold the child tight against his or her will while setting off the smoke detectors from the sheer force of their screams.

And, do parents really love to be THAT embarrassed, all the while smiling at the child telling him, “Aww… it’s alright. It’s Santa… come on you love Santa. Just sit on his lap and tell him what you want for Christmas.” Meanwhile the child’s face is red, there are snot bubbles coming out of their nose and they are crying real tears.

Now, I guess that there is something to be said for making your children face their fears, but in the case of the very young, I think the issue of fear is going to be addressed in lifetime therapy after the “Santa incident.”

Santa is feeling awkward, holding on tight to a squirming, screaming child so he won’t fall off the knee, but to the child, it will most likely be addressed as severe abduction in the forementioned therapy sessions in later life.

And then… when it’s all over and the child is safely in the back seat of the car, buckled into their car seat, the mom will turn around and say, “see, that wasn’t so bad was it?” while the only response she gets is loud sniffles.

And it’s probably good to just leave it at that – lesson learned. But then the statement comes somewhere in the following weeks.

“Santa’s going to come to our house…”

In the middle of the night. He’s going to sneak in and shape-shift himself down a chimney with a large sack. And we are going to leave him cookies and if you are good, he will leave you presents. But if not, you get coal. And oh yeah… he might have elves with him or at the very least huge reindeer that can fly.

Now… I don’t know about you, but I could never get to sleep Christmas Eve night because of my excitement, but I wonder about the kids who lay awake jumpy at every noise in a quiet house, perhaps fearing another abduction.

These ramblings of mine this week are tongue-in-cheek and not to be taken too seriously and of course, to poke some lighthearted fun at our holiday traditions. From my family to yours, Have a Merry Christmas.

I must be going as I have a therapy session to attend as I WAS the kid in the back seat with the snot bubbles. And to all… a good night.

DUBLIN– After 17 years, Christmas is not just about the presents under the tree, but also a time to rejoice over the true gift of family and time to reflect on all that has changed.

This year’s Christmas should go down in the records I can never keep up with, for it’s my last one before I officially enter adulthood. I almost wish there was a time capsule to put this Christmas in and to savor later.

And… I suppose this feeling is not much different from the one a parent feels as they take pictures of their children around the Christmas tree.

The picture does an excellent job at showing how Jane’s blonde hair has gotten darker and Billy’s front teeth have come in since the prior Christmas. While more hazy, the picture will capture how Jane asked for makeup for herself this Christmas, not for the doll she once wished for. Or how Billy stopped sending letters to Santa, and instead, started to answered the letters he received from children come to life.

However, the picture will never capture the underlying feelings, experiences and desires behind these changes.

I resonate with the older versions of Billy and Jane, and I hope my words can do a better job at capturing the feelings of this Christmas than the disposable cameras my parents refused to leave behind in the 90s.

The plans that I’ve made for this Christmas seem perfect to the brain I’m carrying right now. However, my wants and plans for this Christmas compared to the ones I used to make as a child would make even the FBI question whether we were talking about the same person.

Where once I was excited for barbie dolls under the Christmas tree, I now can’t wait to have my own copies of the classics of literature, with analyses from scholars, to read and prepare before I go to college in August.

I still remember how my parents would have to drag me away from the unlimited cartoons I would watch at my grandma’s house next door… when I took full advantage of having no bedtime.

Now that house is decomposing along with my grandma’s body, and I wish I had a bedtime everyone still respected.

In other words, the child version of me would be repulsed by the eagerness of the meals I’ll have more time to cook in the evenings and the peace of mind I’ll now have in between the sets of my workouts in the gym.

And we must remember that it’s not only the ones in the pictures that change, but the ones behind the camera as well.

I’m 17 now and the youngest of my siblings, but my parents have been creating Christmas magic for much longer than that. It’s been 32 years for them, ever since my older sister was born, to be more accurate.

I stayed strong in convincing my brother to help my father bring down the containers from the attic to set up the Christmas tree this year, after not decorating at all the prior year and I’m not going to lie, that felt kind of good.

While the lack of a Christmas tree and lights didn’t take away from the feeling of Christmas once my family all got together; it did make me realize that it’s my brother’s and my turn to make things burn bright. Still and all without having to pay for the electric bill.

This Christmas will also be the last one before a close friend of mine goes off into the military.

Therefore, when the gift exchange happened on his last day of school and he told me a date that will always be more than just numbers to me, I finally understood what the child version of me could never fathom.

When I knew my younger self would take any materialistic thing given to me, I asked for the valuing of each precious moment; that price tag is without a dollar sign.

So, this year’s Christmas will look different from the ones where I was a child.

I won’t be waking up early on Christmas morning to run to the tree to see what Santa has brought me. Instead, I’ll sleep in, and walk to the tree just to appreciate the lights I was always too busy opening presents to admire. But having decorated it, I now have skin in the game. I think that the things you invest in will never cease to be special or taken for granted.

The steps I used to take to find the elf on the shelf will now be the steps I take outside in this exceptionally cold December, as I deliberate on my next best decision I could make going into the impending adulthood years.

Furthermore, this year won’t be about the presents, but about the parents who are aging and the friends who are splitting in their own paths.

This Christmas is for one last memory to be made, one last chapter to be written and one more picture to be taken.

ELIZABETHTOWN - More candidates have continued to file for office as the filing period for the 2026 primary election has reached the end of the filing deadline Dec. 19.

The 2026 election will be comprised of races at the county, state and federal level.

The primary election will be held March 3, 2026, before the general election Nov. 3.

The following is a list of candidates who have filed.

US SENATE (DEM)

Cooper, Roy Asberry III Roy Cooper DEM 12/03/2025

Farrow, Daryl Trent Daryl Farrow DEM 12/05/2025

Williams, Marcus Whittman Marcus W. Williams DEM 12/12/2025

Quick, Orrick Romaine Orrick Quick DEM 12/17/2025

Dues, Justin Edward Justin E. Dues DEM 12/18/2025

Colon, Robert John Robert Colon DEM 12/18/2025

US SENATE (LIB)

Bray, Shannon Wilson Shannon W. Bray LIB 12/17/2025

US SENATE (REP)

Temple, Elizabeth Anne Elizabeth A. Temple REP 12/01/2025

Brown, Donald Mitchell JR Donald M. (Don) Brown REP 12/01/2025

Whatley, Michael David Michael Whatley REP 12/02/2025

Dupre, Margot Patrice Margot Dupre REP 12/11/2025

Johnson, Thomas Lee Thomas Johnson REP 12/15/2025

Morrow, Michele Marie Michele Morrow REP 12/18/2025

US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 07 (DEM)

Hardy, Kimberly Michelle Kimberly Hardy DEM 12/04/2025

US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 07 (REP)

Rouzer, David Cheston David Rouzer REP 12/15/2025

NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE SEAT 01 (DEM)

Earls, Anita Sue Anita Earls DEM 12/01/2025

NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE SEAT 01 (REP)

Stevens, Sarah Suzanne Sarah Stevens REP 12/03/2025

NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 01 (DEM)

Arrowood, John Stanley John S. Arrowood DEM 12/01/2025

NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 01 (REP)

Smith, Matthew Brian Matt Smith REP 12/01/2025

Byrne, Michael Christopher Michael C. Byrne REP 12/03/2025

NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 02 (DEM)

Hampson, Tobias Samuel Tobias (Toby) Hampson DEM 12/01/2025

NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 02 (REP)

Bell, George Cooper George Cooper Bell REP 12/05/2025

NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 03 (DEM)

Whalen, James Weldon James Weldon Whalen DEM 12/01/2025

Walczyk, Christine M. Christine Marie Walczyk DEM 12/01/2025

NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 03 (REP)

Collins, Craig Robert Craig Collins REP 12/02/2025

NC STATE SENATE DISTRICT 09 (REP)

Barbour, William Wilson William W. Barbour REP 12/03/2025

Jackson, William Brent Brent Jackson REP 12/09/2025

NC HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 022 (REP)

Kivett, Robert Jerol Jerol Kivett REP 12/01/2025

Jackson, James Wellie Wellie Jackson REP 12/08/2025

NC DISTRICT COURT JUDGE DISTRICT 15 SEAT 02 (REP) (BRUNSWICK SEAT)

Wilson, Bryan David Bryan D. Wilson REP 12/01/2025

NC DISTRICT COURT JUDGE DISTRICT 15 SEAT 05 (REP) (COLUMBUS SEAT)

Callihan, Willie Morris JR Will M. Callihan, Jr. REP 12/02/2025

NC DISTRICT COURT JUDGE DISTRICT 15 SEAT 07 (REP) (BRUNSWICK SEAT)

Mcpherson, Sarah Bess Sarah McPherson REP 12/01/2025

DISTRICT ATTORNEY DISTRICT 15 (REP)

Earley, Jenna Marie Onusko Jenna Earley REP 12/01/2025

Somers, James Kelly J.K. Somers REP 12/04/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 01 (DEM)

Bullock, Arthur Alexander Arthur A. Bullock DEM 12/10/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 02 (REP)

Peterson, Charles Ray Charles Ray Peterson REP 12/09/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 03 (REP)

Allen, Joe R. JR Joe Allen, Jr. REP 12/01/2025

McGill, Cameron Lee Cameron McGill REP 12/15/2025

Bowen, Judy Watson Judy Brown REP 12/19/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION COUNTY-WIDE (DEM)

McLean, Gloria Blanks Gloria B. McLean DEM 12/01/2025

Davis, Harfel Clementa Harfel Davis DEM 12/02/2025

Esters, Kimbrie Elizabeth Kimbrie Esters DEM 12/16/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION COUNTY-WIDE (REP)

Long, Matthew Kyle Matthew Long REP 12/01/2025

Edwards, Dennis Ray Dennis R. Edwards REP 12/15/2025

Carroll, Roger Anthony Roger A. Carroll REP 12/17/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 01 (DEM)

Rhoda, Gary N. Gary N. Rhoda DEM 12/02/2025

Jacobs, Theresa Bethea Theresa Jacobs DEM 12/04/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 02 (REP)

Hester, Walter Muriel Jr. Walter Hester REP 12/01/2025

Singletary, Mcadoo III Mackie Singletary REP 12/16/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 03 (DEM)

Purdie, Jerome Jerome L. Purdie DEM 12/18/2025

BLADEN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 03 (REP)

Russ, Aaron Michael Aaron Russ REP 12/17/2025

BLADEN COUNTY CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT (REP)

Hursey, Vira Cristin Cristin Hursey REP 12/01/2025

BLADEN COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS (REP)

Martin, Wendy Atkins Wendy A. Martin REP 12/01/2025

BLADEN COUNTY SHERIFF (DEM)

Edwards, Gary Scott Gary Edwards DEM 12/04/2025

Hunt, Talmadge Christopher Chris Hunt DEM 12/09/2025

BLADEN COUNTY SHERIFF (REP)

McVicker, James Atlas Jim McVicker REP 12/02/2025

Yonge, Carl Milton Jr. Carl Yonge REP 12/04/2025

The 2025 Festival of Trees overall winner was the team from the Bladen County Health Department who, among other creative ornaments had blown-up rubber gloves, masks turned into angels and Bladen County Health Department balloons. The winner of the Grinch Christmas Tree raffle was Linda Carey. All the trees were impressive and will be around through Christmas. The Bladen County Public Library will be closed from Dec. 24 - Dec. 28. Kudos to Sheila Nance BCPL director and her staff for fill the season with color, light and excitement.

CLARKTON - Bladen Community College (BCC) announced a new family centered educational initiative called “Bladen Together.”

The program is designed to bring families together through learning every Tuesday evening at the Booker T. Washington School in Clarkton. Bladen Together provides an innovative approach to education by supporting both parents and children at the same time.

While adult participants are engaged in college-level coursework, children ages 5 and up will take part in structured learning activities, tutoring, homework assistance, and fun, enriching experiences in a supportive environment.

Participants may choose from the following adult classes offered on Tuesday evenings: English111 and Psychology 150 from 5:30–6:30 p.m., College Transfer Success122 and Introduction to Computers 110 from 7:15–8:15 p.m.

At the midpoint of the evening, families will enjoy a shared dinner prepared by BCC’s Culinary Arts program, providing a warm, welcoming space for families to connect. At the end of the evening, families leave nourished, supported, and prepared for the next school day.

In addition to the Bladen Together programming, BCC also offers Culinary Fundamentals, Adult High School, English as a Second Language (ESL), and training programs for childcare workers. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of these valuable educational opportunities.

Call today to speak with an advisor or to enroll in one of BCC’s many programs. Bladen Community College remains committed to strengthening families, empowering learners, and building a brighter future for the Bladen County community.

For more information or to enroll, please contact Bladen Community College at 910.879.5500 or visit our website at BladenCC.edu.

DUBLIN - Bladen Community College has announced the addition of a cutting-edge ‘Ambulance Simulator’ designed to elevate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) education by safely replicating the challenges of real-world transport operations.

The new simulator precisely mimics the interior and operational environment of an ambulance, allowing students to refine critical skills in patient assessment, overall patient management, and decision-making during transport.

Transport operations are among the most difficult aspects of EMS training to simulate safely due to the inherent risks of a moving vehicle. This advanced simulator overcomes that challenge by using hydraulic technology to simulate realistic movement while remaining stationary, ensuring a safe and controlled learning environment for students.

Equipped with interior cameras and a large external monitor mounted on a tripod, the simulator allows instructors to observe scenarios from outside the unit while students operate independently inside.

This setup eliminates reliance on instructor guidance during scenarios, fostering clinical confidence, autonomy, and readiness for real-world EMS practice from day one. Designed for versatility, the simulator is mounted on a trailer and powered by a generator, enabling full functionality in virtually any location.

This mobility allows the college to conduct simulations and training scenarios off-campus, enhancing realism and expanding training opportunities. The simulator was funded through a North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) grant supporting start-up or expansion needs within healthcare education programs, including Nursing, Allied Health, and EMS.

With an already established EMS program, Bladen Community College pursued the expansion option, using the grant to significantly grow program capacity and resources. The impact has been substantial.

Enrollment increased by 89% from the 2023–2024 academic year to 2024–2025, with further growth expected for 2025–2026. The grant also enabled the addition of key faculty and staff, strengthening instructional support and program quality.

As a result of these combined efforts, the EMS program has achieved an impressive 91% first-time pass rate on credentialing examinations.

“This simulator represents a major step forward in preparing our students for the realities of EMS work,” said Brian Hehl, Director of Emergency Services “By combining advanced technology, realistic training environments, and expanded faculty support, we are ensuring our graduates are confident, competent, and ready to serve their communities.”

For more information about the EMS program or the new Ambulance Simulator, please contact: Brian Hehl, Director of Emergency Services Bladen Community College 910.879.5648 - [email protected]

ELIZABETHTOWN - Since 1947, the Voice of Democracy has been the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW’s) premier scholarship program.

Each year, nearly 40,000 high school students compete for more than $2 million in scholarships and incentives. Students compete by writing and recording an audio essay on an annual patriotic theme. The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school.

This year’s theme was, “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

VFW Post 8062 had the distinct pleasure of presenting the Post level Voice of Democracy scholarship program winner, Jackson Bridgers, a certificate of achievement and a $100 honorarium. The presentation took place during the December Bladen County Board of Education meeting.

Bridgers’ submission has now moved on to the district level of competition.

“We wish him the very best of luck in the competition and look forward to hearing about the things he will go on to accomplish,” said the members of the local VFW. “Also, a special thank you to Bladen County Schools for allowing us to promote our scholarship program within their district.”

CLARKTON - Bladen Community College is offering a “No-Cost child care Academy” at Booker T. Washington School’s Century Campus in Clarkton.

The launch of a child care Academy at the Booker T. Washington School in Clarkton is designed to help individuals take the first steps toward a career in early childhood education. Three academies will be offered over the next several months, with the first beginning the last week in January.

Each child care academy is a two-week program totaling approximately 30 hours. 16 hours of the program are required to meet in person at the Booker T. Washington School, with the remaining hours online.

The academies are designed to prepare individuals for employment in a child care facility. Participants who successfully complete the program will earn certifications in CPR, First Aid, Playground Safety, and Infant Toddler Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (ITS-SIDS).

Students will also be introduced to the North Carolina Foundations Program and learn about common issues, expectations, and responsibilities they may encounter while working in a child care setting.

Eligibility requirements include being 18 years of age or older at the time of enrollment and holding a high school diploma or its equivalent. This program does not replace the North Carolina credentials required to serve as a lead teacher; rather, it is designed to support and guide participants through the credentialing process and help them begin a career pathway in early childhood education.

The child care academy is offered as a no-cost program to participants, made possible through a grant from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Child Development and Early Education, and includes a complimentary background check through the Sheriff’s Department (a $25 value) as well as First Aid and CPR training and certification valued at $58.

Community members interested in working with children and building a foundation in early childhood education are encouraged to enroll. For more information or to register for an upcoming academy, please contact Bladen Community College at 910.879.5500 or visit their website at BladenCC.edu.

Bladen Community College remains committed to expanding access to workforce training, supporting families and strengthening the local community.

ELIZABETHTOWN – Adding to the number of many people that have been born in Southeastern North Carolina, decided to make it their lifelong home and have decided to work here, there is The Ship Group’s Meredith Barnes Cain.

The mission is to promote mental wellness, emotional well-being, and social connectedness through evidence-based behavioral health services and community programs. The organization strives to remove barriers to care and create a welcoming environment where individuals from all walks of life feel respected, supported, and empowered on their journey to healing and personal growth.

“I’ve been living in Bladen County my whole life,” Cain said. “So did my parents. I went to East Bladen High School and graduated in 2004.”

She said that journalism was her favorite subject at EBHS and she worked for the school newspaper for four years. She had gone on to community college and has many credits, but has yet to earn her degree.

“My husband and I were married in 2012 and had a daughter,” she said. “My husband went to West Bladen and I went to East Bladen. We met when in high school and were friends for eight years before we ever dated. Our only problem now is the house decorated half in UNC blue and half in NCS red. I am planning to go back to school and get my bachelor’s degree in business administration for my current position specifically. I will be getting my degree from Liberty University.”

She attended Clarkton School of Discovery for middle school and she worked for their student news station and was the anchor for the show.

“That all served me and prepared me for the position that I am in now,” she said. “I am kind of the face of the company in this area as the Regional Office and Programs Supervisor. I am able to go out and talk to people and get information from people and network with people. All those skills I had honed from all those years in journalism has helped that.”

After high school, Cain began working in the financial industry.

“I started back in 2010 working with BB&T (Branch Banking & Trust),” she said. “I have worked in the financial industry until recently and I left because I needed a change. I felt like I was a part of the problem – working in banking. I saw grandmothers on Social Security pay all their bills and have like $60 to make it 20 days. And there was nothing I could do to help.”

Cain transitioned to Ship Group because she felt it was a way to actually help people in her community.

The Ship Group offers behavioral health and community services. It is not a part of the arm of Social Services, but the organization works closely with them, according to Cain.

“We work closely with the courts as well,” she said. “We do a lot of court-approved services like DWI and anger management and even sexual predator therapy. We have people on staff that will specialize in these areas. We are also sourcing people from this area right now to begin the work here to be certified counselors, therapists and peer support specialists. Those are the kinds of people we need to be able to work in the programs that we offer.”

The programs from this minority-owned business are secular based, but offer Christian counseling and provide everything from doing resumes to how to save money and everything in between including maintaining good mental health in a world that continues to push your buttons.

At TSG Behavioral Health and Community Services, they believe that addressing behavioral health goes beyond treating symptoms; it involves understanding the interconnections of mental, emotional and social well-being. Their approach integrates evidence-based practices with cultural competence, ensuring that our services are both effective and inclusive.

“Dr. Shipman actually started his career here in the justice system in Bladen County,” Cain said. “The business was started in Charlotte in 2022, so it’s still a fairly new company. They have been very successful in Charlotte. One of the things that I am in the process of is trying to get together a community closet for the area where I’m going to start taking donations of clothing.”

Shipman has family in Dublin and he has recognized a need for the communities in Bladen County, Robeson County, Sampson County and Columbus County.

“My first day here (and with Ship Group) was actually Oct. 13,” Cain said. “It’s just me here in the office and of course I have my team in Charlotte that I work with every day. I am kind of the face of the company here. I have a lot of ties to the community because I have lived here all of my life. A lot of those ties have led to me being able to get in front of other influential people in the community. I am currently in the process of conducting interviews to help build the team here in Bladen. We already do have clients in the area.”

Their team of licensed therapists, psychologists, and counselors will bring expertise in various areas, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationships, and more. They offer individual, group, and family therapy sessions, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each person.

“I am very excited,” Cain said. “I’m really passionate about it because like I said, I really believe I am helping people. I finally get to use the skills that I’ve gained throughout my life and I believe that the ties to the community will make a difference.”

For more information about The Ship Group’s services, you can contact Meredith Barnes Cain at 2816 West Broad Street, Elizabethtown, NC 28337. Phone: (980) 228-9699 ext. 1047.

BLADENBORO – This is a time of year when Jesus really IS the reason for the season, and as He grew, He expressed his desire for humanity to take care of each other as He said in Matthew 25:35, “for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in…”

It’s something that is not done often - inviting an entire community over on Christmas Eve for Christmas dinner.

And… not a potluck meal, but fully cooked with the wishes of a young couple that has decided in their hearts that they not only love their community, but want to give back.

Shannon and Bridget Todd, owners of Aunt B’s Country Kitchen in Bladenboro are excited about having “extended family” for dinner this Christmas at their restaurant located at 131 Main Street in Bladenboro.

“Celebrate the true spirit of Christmas Eve with us,” the couple said. “Our family invites you to a joyous Christmas Eve dinner, complete with festive music and a special visit from Santa for the kids! If you’re facing tough times, know that you’re not alone, and we’re happy to provide a meal for you!”

As 2025 comes to a close, the Todds are giving the gift of love and their talents to their community. They have invited “anyone in financial need, sick, handicapped or simply alone for the holidays, and to anyone providing transportation for our special guests.”

This is the couple’s first official restaurant but they have been in foodservice, beginning with a hot dog cart.

“We had our hot dog cart about three years,” Bridget said. “And we have worked our way up to a brick-and-mortar building. So, January will be a year that we’ve been here.”

The business is in one of the downtown buildings that were rebuilt from the floodwaters of both Matthew and Florence. From the ashes came beauty and in the midst of the beauty comes a spirit to give back.

“It was laid on our hearts, now that we are in town, we can see there is a lot of need here,” she said. “There is a lot of people can benefit from what we are proposing. We are going to have our family here, it’s going to be a homecooked meal and it’s for anybody that needs it, or handicapped or simply doesn’t want to spend Christmas alone.”

It is a no-strings attached act of goodwill. No presents or food or money required, only someone who wants to share in this historic downtown event. The Todds have invited a community not only to come for a meal, but to come and be a part of their family for Christmas.

“This year, I want to do a toy drive all weekend at Beast Fest,” she said. “Whoever brings a new toy in a box will get an order of funnel cake fries. That will be the toy drive for our Christmas Eve dinner. Last year we had Santa Claus come and we did not expect but just a few kids. We had a ton of kids come. We want to have something that Santa can give each child. We will kick off the toy drive during Beast Fest and then have it going all the way until Christmas Eve dinner.”

The restaurant that is a popular place for locals has home cooked meals at a very reasonable price – and on Christmas Eve you can’t do better than a free family gathering.

If you would like to be a part of the hometown Bladenboro family Christmas dinner, please call the Todds to let them know how many plates you will be needing at 910- 809-0133.

TAR HEEL - The Kappa Rho Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., which proudly serves Bladen, Duplin and Sampson counties, officially kicked off its 2025 Achievement Week Nov. 10, 2025 with a heartfelt tribute to educators and an impactful day of service at Tar Heel School.

Chapter members provided breakfast to school staff, one in each county and spent the morning reading to students across multiple grade levels—including the entire sixth grade, one third grade class, and two kindergarten classes—reminding the community that academic excellence and mentorship remain central to the fraternity’s mission.

A Legacy of Service and Scholarship

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was founded Nov. 17, 1911, on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. by three students—Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper, and Frank Coleman—along with faculty advisor Dr. Ernest E. Just. It holds distinction as the first international fraternal organization founded at a historically Black college.

The fraternity is built upon Four Cardinal Principles: manhood, scholarship, perseverance and uplift

These values shape both its internal brotherhood and its external commitment to service, education, leadership and community empowerment. Chapters across the nation work daily to cultivate young minds, address community needs, and build spaces where opportunity can thrive.

What is Achievement Week?

Achievement Week is a signature national observance within Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. It was established to recognize individuals who have made meaningful contributions to society and to encourage high standards of scholarship and inspired leadership. Throughout this week, local chapters organize programs that promote educational advancement, civic responsibility and cultural enrichment.

For Kappa Rho, the celebration began exactly where the seeds of excellence are planted—inside the classroom.

Returning to Their Roots

Brothers Kimberly Johnson (SPR ’96) and Jerome L. Purdie II (SPR ’23) led the chapter’s mission at Tar Heel School, a place that continues to carry deep significance for both men. Brother Johnson is a proud graduate of Tar Heel High School, while Brother Purdie attended Tar Heel Middle School.

Walking back through the halls where their academic journeys began, the two brothers were moved by the opportunity to serve students who now sit where they once did.

“I am grateful for the chance to return home and uplift the school that helped shape me,” said Bro. Johnson. “Our teachers give so much of themselves, and we wanted to show that their dedication does not go unnoticed.”

Bro. Purdie added:

“Tar Heel poured into me during my formative years. Coming back, representing Omega Psi Phi and the Kappa Rho Chapter, is a reminder that our commitment to service starts with our roots. We stand on the shoulders of the educators who believed in us, and now we pour back into the next generation.”

Honoring Educators, Inspiring Scholars

Staff were greeted with breakfast as a small token of appreciation for their tireless work. Members of the fraternity then dispersed across grade levels, sharing powerful stories, reading age-appropriate literature, and encouraging students to believe in their potential.

The visit emphasized literacy, mentorship and representation. Whether speaking to young children or middle-schoolers on the brink of greater academic challenges, the brothers reinforced a universal truth: education opens doors, and the community plays a critical role in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.

Strengthening Community Ties

The Kappa Rho Chapter’s commitment to uplifting Tar Heel School mirrors the fraternity’s broader mission to invest in youth, foster academic growth, and honor the educators who guide them.

As Achievement Week continues, the chapter will carry out additional initiatives aimed at strengthening families, celebrating achievement, and inspiring excellence across all three counties it serves.

For Tar Heel School, though, the presence of former students returning as accomplished men, community builders, and leaders sent an even deeper message—success is meant to be shared, and true achievement is measured by what we give back.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas (outside and inside the kitchen)!

If you are a coconut lover, you may just fall in love with the cake that shows so beautifully during the holiday season. It is very simple to make and takes little time in the kitchen.

This dessert has good reason to make it for any season.

Here is your shopping list:

1. 4 Large Eggs

2. ½ C Honey

3. 1 C all-purpose flour

4. 1 tsp baking powder

5. ½ C warm milk

6. 1 tsp vanilla extract

7. 1 C heavy cream (and some for brushing)

8. 2 tbsp maple syrup

9. 1 C fine shredded unsweetened coconut (for coating)

10x15 inch baking sheet

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Make the cake:

Beat the eggs and honey until pale, airy and tripled in volume. You should see a lot of bubbles. Stir together the flour and baking powder and then sift into the mixture.

Fold Gently, keeping every bubble that you can. Stream the warm mild and add the vanilla and continue to fold gently until all ingredients are incorporated. Spread the batter into a lined 10 x 15” baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes just until set and lightly golden. Turn the spongecake onto a clean towel dusted with coconut. Roll gently while warm and let it cool completely.

Make the cream:

Take the heavy cream and add it to a chilled mixing bowl. Add the maple syrup and beat until stiff whipped cream. Place in the back of the frig until you are ready to spread onto the completed cooled spongecake.

Carefully unroll the cake onto parchment paper. Spread the whipped cream. Roll it tightly. Brush the entire outside of the cake lightly with cream. Roll the entire cake onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and a lot of finely shredded unsweetened coconut.

Cover the cake by rolling it with parchment paper. Place in the frig until reach to serve.

This week’s Fun Fact: Did you ever wonder what the difference is when baking or cooking with sweetened or unsweetened coconut and when to use which? Sweetened Coconut has a very sweet flavor with a texture that is moist, soft and chewy because the ingredients contain coconut, sugar, water and preservatives. This is best used for classic desserts, garnishes, cupcakes and pies and boosts the desserts’ appeal. Unsweetened coconut has a more pure, rich coconut flavor with a drier, less chewy texture and made with just coconut (or sometimes with a touch of unsulphured). This is used best with savory dishes like curries, granola, smoothies, and for baking where you can control the sweetness and your carb count!

BLADENBORO – Storied and talented teachers have many stories to tell and many successful legacies that live within the students they teach – often without any fanfare and honor.

Walter Strickland took notice of a life that changed the lives of the students he taught and nominated Gilbert Graham Yarborough, Jr. for the honor of the Long Leaf Pine Award.

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, awarded to individuals for significant contributions to the state and their communities. It was established in 1964 and is granted by the Governor of North Carolina. It recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the state through exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments. Recipients of this honor become honorary ambassadors for North Carolina, with their names recorded in a roster maintained by the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society.

A banquet was held Nov. 20 for the presentation of this prestigious award to Yarborough and County Commissioner, Charles Ray Peterson presented at the Bladenboro Historical Society building in Bladenboro. Honor finally was given where it was due.

There were 65 people in attendance at the banquet to honor Yarborough, including family, friends and co-workers who inspired Mr. Yarborough throughout his life and career.

Yarborough grew up in very close-knit family. His mother was a music teacher and his father was a master craftsman. He spent much of his youth working on father/son projects with his dad. He learned about the importance of attention to detail and doing “quality work.”

This is when Yarborough realized that he aspired to a career in drawing and design. After completing his degree, he realized he wanted to teach as much as he wanted to draw and design. Mr. Charles l. Allen, Sr., principal of Bladenboro high school at the time, gave an inexperienced 24-year-old the chance to do both.

Yarborough went on the teach architectural and mechanical drafting as well as serving as VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of America) advisor at both Bladenboro High School and in Clarkton for 10 years, (1979-1989.)

During his tenure from 1979 to 2006, he was a full-time faculty member of Bladenboro High School, serving as the Career and Technical Education teacher; as well as the VICA/SkillsUSA advisor. In 2006 he finished his teaching career at Gray’s Creek High School as the Architectural and Mechanical Drafting teacher until his retirement in 2010.

He has continued to be involved with SkillsUSA on both the state and national level since his retirement. If that was not enough to keep Yarborough busy, he also served the Lord in many volunteer positions at his church as well as the food bank/food pantry and the Bladenboro Historical Society.

“Yarborough is very well admired in the Bladenboro Community as well as all over the state,” Peterson said. “I’ve received many letters recommending him for this prestigious award. I am honored to be presenting this to him tonight. It is very much deserved.”

KENLY – The North Johnston girls’ basketball team scored 26 consecutive points during an 11 minute stretch Monday night in beating West Bladen 53-14 in the opening round of the Capital Auto/KW Locksmith Invitational.

West Bladen (1-7) will play Tuesday against Havelock in the consolation game. North Johnston (9-0) will play South Granville for the title. South Granville beat Havelock 54-47 on Monday.

A 3-point field goal by Natalee Sykes pulled West Bladen within 7-5 with 2:23 remaining in the first quarter. However, North Johnston went on a 12-0 run, sparked by seven points from Amiyah Grimes, for a 19-5 lead with 6:30 remaining in the second quarter.

A steal and basket by West Bladen’s Hadley Dove and a free throw apiece from Kali Allen and Sykes made it 21-9 with 3:19 remaining before halftime.

The Knights wouldn’t score again until early in the fourth quarter on a 3-pointer by Logan Powers while North Johnston built its lead to 47-9.

Grimes led the Panthers with 19 points. Sykes had six points to lead West Bladen.

WEST BLADEN (14) – Haley Taylor, Harmony Richardson, Kali Allen 1, Hadley Dove 4, Saniya Martin, Abigail Dew, Amiya McCarty, Natalee Sykes 6, Abigail Diccico, JaNya McKeithan, Logan Powers 3, Serenity Council.

NORTH JOHNSTON (53) — Callie Lancaster 2, Kathyn Pitts 6, Makenna Moncrief 8, Tenley Barbour 2, Lexi Barbour 2, Amiyah Grimes 19, Elizabeth Morgan 5, Camden Ford 9.

Jessica Eason has been named the East Bladen varsity volleyball coach, the school announced Friday, Dec. 19.

Easo, an East Bladen alumnus, has served as the school’s junior varsity coach the past four seasons. She replaces Jordan Raynor, who became the head coach during the COVID-shortened 2020-21 season and compiled a 43-71 record in six seasons.

The Eagles were 7-16 last season and lost to Hobbton in the opening round of the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2A playoffs.

“Volleyball has been a sport that I didn’t know I loved until I moved to (North Carolina) and began playing in high school,” Eason said in a statement. “It’s a fast-paced, exciting sport, and I am looking forward to growing the program at EB.

“We have some of the best athletes in Bladen County, and I am so excited to get to be a part of their journey,” Eason said.

Eason also has coached volleyball at the middle school and recreation levels in Bladen County. She and her family moved to Elizabethtown in 1997. She began playing volleyball at East Bladen and is a 2000 graduate of the high school.

Last season’s Eagles JV team finished 14-4 and finished second in the Carolina Conference, losing twice to league champion East Columbus. The East Bladen JVs have posted a 42-25 record in Eason’s four seasons, according to MaxPreps.

“Coach Eason brings a strong volleyball background and a true passion for the game,” East Bladen principal Dr. Christopher Carroll said in a statement. “We are confident that Coach Eason’s energy, experience and commitment to student-athletes will help grow our program. The future is bright, and the excitement is building as we begin this next chapter together.”

Steven Johnson and Bryant Dixon combined for 33 points as unbeaten Farmville Central rallied from 15 points down to defeat West Bladen 71-64 Friday night in non-conference boys’ basketball action inside Ken F. Cross Gymnasium.

The Knights (5-4) will host Midway at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 27 in their Bladen OffRoad Christmas Tournament.

Johnson, a junior guard, led the Jaguars (8-0) with 17 points, and Dixon battled inside for 16 points. Guard Tobia Moye scored all 12 of his points after intermission.

The Jaguars shot 52% from the field, while West Bladen connected on just 36% of its shots. West forced 20 Farmville turnovers – 10 in the 1st quarter, but the Knights were plagued by 21 turnovers.

Tylik McCall posted a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Knights. Jackson Pait finished with 11 points and seven assists. Jamari Adams-Peterson posted 11 points, seven rebounds and two steals.

Jamari Adams-Peterson stole the ball and raced for an opening lay-up, McCall buried a 3-pointer and Pait sank 2 free throws for an early 7-0 Knight lead. Amarion Williams put Farmville on the board, but Cyncere Jessup and Jaquan Lesane dropped in lay-ups to boost the lead to 11-4.

The West Bladen lead grew to 32-17 when Pait knocked down a 25-footer to start the 2nd period, and Adams-Peterson shucked a defender to flip in a turn-around. The Knights led 37-29 at halftime.

Farmville had a 21-10 run during the third quarter and held a 50-47 lead at the end of the period.

Pait tied the game with a 25-foot 3-ball and two McCall free throws gave the Knights their final lead at 52-50 with 6:54 remaining.

The Jaguars scored 14 of the next 16 points for a 64-54 advantage.

Farmville Central (71) – Amarion Williams 6, Bryant Dixon 16, Khali Whitehead 4, Jordan James 4, Tobia Moye 12, Zay Dixon 2, Zack Draughn 7, Jeremy Scott 3, Steven Johnson 17, K. J. McLawhorn.

West Bladen (64) – Jackson Pait 11, Demarion Bryant 3, Sayvion Covington, Tylik McCall 20, Kendell Lessane 8, Keonta Hill 2, Jaquan Lesane 5, Jamari Adams-Peterson 11, Carnell Lewis, Cyncere Jessup 4, Justin Spaulding.

VARSITY GIRLS: FARMVILLE CENTRAL 40, WEST BLADEN 12

Farmville Central raced to an 18-0 first quarter lead en route to a victory over West Bladen.

Madalyn Cook topped the Lady Jaguars (5-3) scoring with 13 points and Madison Denham followed with 11 points.

Natalee Sykes and Kali Allen each scored four points for West Bladen (1-6).

West Bladen will travel to North Johnston on Monday for a 6 p.m. game.

Farmville Central (40) – Ariyannah Brooks 8, Angel Godard, Madison Denham 11, Madalyn Cook 13, Khalissa Sarrat, Kyniah Barnes, Kayiden Joyner 5, LaRhonda Hines 1, Kylah Smith, Nirvana Kenny, Ayana Smith 2.

West Bladen (12) – Hadley Dove, Amiya McCarty 2, Haley Taylor, Abigail Dew 2, Saniya Martin, Harmony Richardson, Kali Allen 4, JaNya McKeithan, Natalee Sykes 4, Abigail Dicicco, Lauryn Lesane.

JV BOYS: FARMVILLE CENTRAL 57, WEST BLADEN 55

Farmville Central jumped to an early 23-10 lead then held off West Bladen for three periods to escape with a victory.

Shyron Thompson powered inside for 7 of his 13 points in the opening half as the Knights (3-3) rode an 18-12 surge that sliced the halftime margin to 35-28. Gaston Russ buried a pair of 3-balls for West, and Sincere McKinley pumped in a 3-ball and another basket.

Isaiah Minus tossed in five of his 12 points in the third quarter as the Knights closed to within 47-44. McKinley and Jace Lesane finished with nine points each for West. Russ totaled 6 points.

Farmville Central (57) – Zay Bottoms 6, Rondarius M., Tyler J. 13, Jakaleb F. 16, Jaylen A. 8, Nyshawn S., Samuel B., Jayce R. 10, Stephon N. 4, Dejon R.

West Bladen (55) – Parker Bourhill, Drake Gause 2, Jace Lesane 9, Isaiah Minus 12, Nehemiah Cordova, Ussiah Gause, Gaston Russ 6, Sincere McKinley 9, Isaiah Lloyd, Mark’kus Bass 2, Shyron Thompson 13, Sterling Davis, Jarvis McMillian, Jeremiah Bryan 2, Rylan Bordeaux.