Good morning Wilmington!

Happy May Day. Whether you’re celebrating the season of flowers, honoring its roots in labor history, or just glad it’s finally May—enjoy it.

And speaking of seasonal vibes, Southport is back in the spotlight. Filming for The Summer I Turned Pretty is underway, bringing cameras, cast, and plenty of buzz back to the coast. Check out a behind-the-scenes glimpse courtesy of the StarNews.

And… Fire South of the Border!

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• “The Summer I Turned Pretty” Returns to Southport

• Brooklyn Arts District Weekly Saturdays

“The Summer I Turned Pretty” Returns to Southport for Filming

StarNews Filming for the hit series The Summer I Turned Pretty is underway in Southport, bringing renewed attention to the coastal town as cast and crew capture scenes for the upcoming season. The production continues to highlight the area’s scenic waterfronts and charm, drawing fans and boosting local excitement as familiar locations once again take center stage.

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Wilmington Expands Social District to Weekly Saturdays in Brooklyn Arts District

WilmingtonBiz Wilmington’s first social district in the Brooklyn Arts District will now take place every Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. after a 5-2 City Council vote. Previously held only twice monthly, the shift follows requests from local businesses seeking consistency and economic growth. The weekly schedule will run as a six-month pilot through October, allowing officials to evaluate impacts during peak tourist season. Supporters say the change will boost foot traffic, create opportunities for vendors and artists, and strengthen the local economy.

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News Roundup

Local News

North Carolina lawmakers are debating changes to Medicaid funding that could impact coverage and access to care statewide. The proposal has sparked discussion among policymakers and healthcare advocates about long-term costs, expansion, and how federal and state dollars should be allocated moving forward.
Spectrum Local News

A proposed North Carolina House bill would eliminate local sales taxes on groceries, potentially lowering food costs for residents. Supporters say it would ease financial pressure on families, while critics raise concerns about lost revenue for local governments.
Carolina Journal

What You Should Know

Oil prices have surged to near wartime highs amid reports the U.S. is considering military options involving Iran. The spike reflects market fears over potential supply disruptions and escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.
Yahoo Finance

The executive order aims to expand retirement access for millions of workers without employer-sponsored plans, primarily by creating a new federal platform to connect users with low-cost IRAs. It includes incentives like potential federal matching contributions and simplified enrollment, though experts note broader changes like automatic enrollment would require Congress. CNBC

Republican lawmakers are praising a recent Supreme Court decision they say reinforces constitutional principles. The ruling is expected to have broad political and legal implications, drawing both support and criticism across party lines.
The Hill

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