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  • PCP Tue Apr 21: Rail Wins the Poll 🚆 + Higher Power Bills Ahead

PCP Tue Apr 21: Rail Wins the Poll 🚆 + Higher Power Bills Ahead

Rail support is strong—energy bills, not so much.

Good morning Wilmington!

There you have it – more subscribers would plan on using a passenger light rail to Raleigh than would not…and no subscribers who took the poll thought the light rail was a bad idea.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

  • Duke Energy is planning rate increases this summer

  • Disney is expanding its “Storyliving” concept to North Carolina

NC Customers Could See Higher Energy Bills This Summer

WUNC Duke Energy is planning rate increases of roughly 8% to 9% for North Carolina customers beginning in June, citing rising operational and infrastructure costs. The proposal still requires regulatory approval, but if approved, it could significantly impact monthly utility bills, with consumer advocates raising concerns about affordability while the company argues the hikes are necessary to maintain and modernize the power grid.

Disney’s “Storyliving” Community Planned for North Carolina

WUNC Disney is expanding its “Storyliving” concept to North Carolina with a new residential community called Asteria, designed to blend immersive storytelling with everyday living. The development will feature themed neighborhoods, curated experiences, and amenities aimed at creating a unique lifestyle environment, though questions remain about cost, accessibility, and how it will integrate with surrounding communities.

News Roundup

Local News

A WECT meteorologist completed the Boston Marathon, marking a personal milestone and showcasing dedication beyond the newsroom. The accomplishment highlights the physical and mental commitment required to finish the iconic race, earning praise from colleagues and the local community. WECT

The Topsail Island Ocean Fest earned two awards recognizing its environmental impact and community efforts. Organizers were honored for promoting conservation and sustainability while engaging residents and visitors through educational and eco-friendly activities. WECT

A lockdown at Wilmington Christian Academy was lifted after reports of nearby gunfire prompted safety precautions. Authorities determined there was no direct threat to the school, but the incident underscores ongoing concerns about community safety and rapid response measures. WECT

What You Should Know

Apple has named John Ternus as its next CEO, with Tim Cook transitioning to chairman. The leadership change signals a new era for the tech giant, with Ternus expected to continue driving innovation while maintaining Apple’s strategic direction. CNBC

Don’t Miss

Concealed Carry Fundamentals

THUR APR 23: 6PM @ Sportsman’s Warehouse - ILM
This course will discuss the conditions that must be present to use any level of force. We will also be covering scenarios, where the use of force is justified to protect yourself, your family, and you’re home, and then give you the opportunity to explore legal self-defense options right in the store.

‘This Water is Life’ Record Release Party

FRI APR 24: 8PM @ Satellite Bar & Lounge - GFL
'This Water is Life' is a self-sustained and ongoing series of split EPs with two express purposes: to highlight new hip-hop / indie rock music from Southeastern North Carolina, as well as to provide a platform for Cape Fear River Watch and Coastal Plain Conservation Group to deliver up-to-date authoritative reports on the health of the Cape Fear River Basin for both human beings and wildlife.

Weather

Tue Apr 21: đŸŒ¤ď¸ Mainly Sunny | 70° / 50° | 0% | E 11 mph
Wed Apr 22: đŸŒ¤ď¸ Mostly Sunny | 81° / 58° | 0% | SW 14 mph
Thu Apr 23: đŸŒ¤ď¸ Mostly Sunny | 86° / 61° | 0% | WSW 10 mph

Live Music

Tuesday

Open Mic

6:00 PM @ Burgaw Brewing - BG

Elle Sky

6:00 PM @ The Bend - OGD

Tuesday Drum Jam

6:30 PM-11PM @Barzarre - ILM

Cape Fear Blues Jam

8:00 PM @ The Rusty Nail - ILM

Open Mic

7:00-10:00 PM @ Lulua's, A Pub

Wednesday

Open Mic

7:00-10:00 PM @ Palate - ILM

Damien Lugo and the Halo of Vultures

7:00 PM @ The Harp - GFL

Hump Day Ham Jam

8:00 PM-11:00 PM @ Wilmington Distillery - ILM

Open Mic Night

9:00 PM - Midnight @ Bottega - BAD

Thursday

Ben & Heather

5:00 PM @ Harris Teeter - ILM

Thursday Night Live

6:00-8:00 PM @ South Front Tavern - ILM

Christian Brinkley

6:00 PM @ The Bend - OGD

Open Mic with Tatianna Matthews

7:00 - 11:00 PM @ Tempo.33 - DT

Runaway Gin: Phish Tribute

7:00 PM @ Bowstring - SPD

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-Jason