Good morning Wilmington!

Thanks for your patience during this difficult time for my family. Thanks also for the kind messages of encouragement. It’s good to be back. Let’s get into today’s issue of Port City Pulse.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• NC Farmers Hope China Trade Talks Bring Relief to Tobacco Industry

• USS North Carolina Inspires New LEGO-Style Building Set

NC Farmers Hope China Trade Talks Bring Relief to Tobacco Industry

Spectrum News North Carolina tobacco farmers are closely watching President Trump’s summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, hoping improved trade relations could boost tobacco exports to China. Farmers say rising fertilizer, diesel, and supply chain costs tied to global tensions and the Iran conflict are squeezing already thin profit margins, while drought conditions add another layer of uncertainty for the 2026 growing season.

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USS North Carolina Inspires New LEGO-Style Building Set

WWAY A limited-edition LEGO-inspired building set modeled after the USS North Carolina battleship will launch Memorial Day weekend at Bricks & Minifigs Wilmington. The 314-piece custom model, created with authentic LEGO parts and designed with input from Battleship North Carolina leadership, celebrates one of Wilmington’s most iconic landmarks and will only be available in-store while supplies last.

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News Roundup

Local News

A 20-year-old man is accused of stealing a Wilmington fire truck and leading police on a chase through the city early Sunday morning. Police say Michael Fanning struck a deputy’s vehicle with the truck, punched an officer, and allegedly tried to bribe another officer with $15,000 while under the influence before being arrested on multiple felony charges. WECT

North Carolina wildlife officials are launching a “sober boating” safety campaign ahead of Memorial Day weekend to reduce impaired boating incidents. The initiative includes increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and public awareness efforts as authorities remind boaters that operating a vessel under the influence is illegal and dangerous. WECT

What You Should Know

A Colorado election clerk convicted in a voting system security breach has been released from prison while appealing her case. Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, a prominent figure in election conspiracy circles, was freed pending appeal after serving time related to unauthorized access to election equipment following the 2020 election controversy. The Hill

Rep. Thomas Massie is facing intense political pressure and a potential primary challenge backed by Donald Trump after repeatedly breaking with the former president. The Kentucky Republican has clashed with Trump on spending and policy issues, setting up what could become one of the GOP’s most closely watched 2026 primary battles. NBC News

National News

Two Navy jets collided midair during an Idaho air show, forcing an Air Force base lockdown, though all four crew members safely ejected. Officials are investigating the crash as dramatic footage of smoke and debris circulated online following the incident. Associated Press