Good morning Wilmington!

A Wilmington-shot film is officially stepping into the spotlight — the trailer for Driver’s Ed just dropped, giving a first look at the locally filmed project ahead of its release.

At the same time, a major national story is unfolding, as the Southern Poverty Law Center has been hit with a federal indictment involving fraud and financial crimes. Two very different headlines — both making waves today.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Ben & Jerry’s Debuts in Wilmington

• Wawa Sets Opening Date for First Wilmington Location

Sweet Arrival: Ben & Jerry’s Debuts in Wilmington

WWAY Ben & Jerry’s has officially opened its first Wilmington location at Mayfaire. The new scoop shop takes over the former Cold Stone Creamery space, bringing the brand’s iconic flavors, sundaes, and shakes to one of the city’s busiest retail centers as part of Mayfaire’s continued expansion and refresh of dining options.

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Wawa Sets Opening Date for First Wilmington Location

WECT Wawa has officially announced the opening date for its first Wilmington store, marking a major step in the chain’s expansion into the Cape Fear region. The highly anticipated convenience store and gas station is part of a broader rollout that includes multiple planned locations across southeastern North Carolina, signaling increased competition in the local convenience and fuel market and bringing Wawa’s popular food and beverage offerings to the area.

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News Roundup

Local News

Ben & Jerry’s is replacing Coldstone at Mayfaire with its first Wilmington location. The new shop opens April 22 at the former Coldstone space, marking the brand’s local debut after the previous tenant closed in 2025. WECT

Carolina Beach opens new boardwalk bathrooms doubling capacity. The $2 million, two-level facility features 20 stalls, ADA accessibility, and entrances from both the beach and street level, replacing an older, smaller structure. WECT

What You Should Know

A federal grand jury has charged the Southern Poverty Law Center with fraud and related crimes. The DOJ alleges wire fraud, false statements, and money laundering tied to how funds were handled, with the organization expected to contest the charges. DOJ

Trump claims Iran will spare eight women from execution following his plea. According to the report, four would be released and four face short prison terms, though details remain disputed amid broader tensions. Breitbart

What Might Surprise You

The iconic “Scarface” mansion in Florida has hit the market for $237 million. The luxury waterfront estate in Key Biscayne is tied to the famous film and features high-end amenities reflecting its cinematic legacy. Wall Street Journal

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