TOGETHER WITH

If you’re looking to keep the kids active without the sunburn, head over on Wednesdays. Ages 13 and under climb for just $15 per visit. Summer win!

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Here's What's Happening This Independence Day

• Effort to Legalize Bigger Fireworks in NC Fails After Safety Concerns

Fireworks, Parades, and Patriotic Tunes: Here's What's Happening This Independence Day

[WECT] Wilmington and Burgaw are gearing up for a jam-packed Fourth of July week full of patriotic fun. Events include the NC Symphony’s Stars & Stripes concert at the Wilson Center on July 2, a road race at the Pointe at Barclay, and multiple celebrations on July 4—from swing dancing at the Hannah Block Historic USO to a spectacular fireworks show at Riverfront Park. Burgaw will also host a classic Independence Day parade downtown. All events are free or low-cost, offering something for everyone to celebrate America’s birthday.

WECT breaks down the Wilmington and Burgaw events»

Feeling extra-patriotic? Southport is home to one of the largest and oldest Independence Day celebrations in the state. Check out the many Independence Day events happening in Southport from their website: NC4thofJuly.com

Kid’s Open Gym @ Wilmington Rock Gym!

June 18 to Aug 23, 2025 | $15 PER VISIT | Ages up to 13 | 1 - 4PM

Are you looking for something fun for your kids to do this summer? Bring them to the climbing gym! On Wednesdays, we'll have open gym time for them to climb and have fun! We'll have staff available each Wednesday to help them with the ropes if they want to climb higher. This isn't a class/camp but is a great way for children to join in the fun of indoor rock climbing! This is great for first time climbers and more advanced gym monkeys alike! Parents must stay with their kids.

Learn More »

Effort to Legalize Bigger Fireworks in NC Fails After Safety Concerns

[WUNC] A North Carolina bill that would have allowed the sale of larger fireworks—like those legal in South Carolina—failed in a state House committee after strong pushback from safety advocates. The “Patriotism Expression Act,” championed by Rep. Wyatt Gable, was intended to stop the flow of illegal fireworks brought in from neighboring states. But doctors, including a burn surgeon from UNC, warned the bill would lead to more injuries among children. The legislation was pulled before a vote, marking yet another failed attempt to expand fireworks sales in NC despite ongoing industry lobbying.

Read More »

News Roundup

Local News

• Fran’s Fans collects over 2,900 fans for area seniors. The donated fans will be delivered to senior centers in New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, Columbus, and Bladen counties, where they will be distributed.
  WECT

What You Should Know

• Trump is calling for a special prosecutor to investigate the 2020 election, repeating claims that he “won in a landslide.” The remarks were made during a rally in Georgia and come amid renewed investigations into election security and ballot processes.
  Mediaite

• Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi added millions to her net worth in the past year, according to a new financial disclosure report. The increase is largely attributed to stock investments and property holdings, sparking renewed scrutiny over lawmakers' finances.
  New York Post

• Threat of sleeper cell attacks in USA 'never been higher'. The Department of Homeland Security and federal law enforcement agencies warned of an increased threat of terrorist attacks on US soil after the strikes on Iran.
  The Times

Tuesday

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Thursday