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  • PCP Thu Jul 16: Trump Teases "Really Big News" in Tonight's National Address

PCP Thu Jul 16: Trump Teases "Really Big News" in Tonight's National Address

Election integrity is expected to be a major topic during tonight's speech.

Good morning Wilmington!

President Trump is scheduled to deliver a 9 p.m. ET address to the nation, teasing what he has called "Really, really big news." While the White House has not released the full contents of the speech, Trump has indicated it will focus on election integrity and other national issues are expected to be discussed.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

  • USA TODAY Puts Frontier Food to Go on the National Hot Dog Map

  • Two More Teens Charged In Security Assault at Landfall

Local Favorite Named Among the Nation’s Best Hot Dog Destinations

StarNews Frontier Food to Go, a Wilmington institution for nearly 60 years, has been recognized by USA TODAY as one of the nation's best places to grab a hot dog. The iconic red trailer—now with a second location on South College Road—continues to serve its signature Carolina-style dogs while preserving the tradition started by founder Elbert Bradshaw in 1966 and carried on by new owner Todd Champion, who purchased the business in 2024.

Three teens charged in assault of security guard at Country Club of Landfall fireworks show

WECT — Three juveniles have been charged after a fight during the Country Club of Landfall's July 3 fireworks celebration allegedly left longtime security officer Russell James seriously injured. Wilmington police say one teen faces a felony assault charge, while two others have been charged with assault inflicting serious injury and disorderly conduct. The investigation remains active, and authorities say additional charges are possible.

News Roundup

What You Need to Know

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood shortage after supply dropped approximately 25% in June. With hurricane season adding pressure on already strained reserves, the Red Cross is urging eligible donors to give now. Donation appointments are available daily at Southeast NC locations. WECT

What Might Surprise You

The Pentagon is launching annual testosterone screening for all troops aged 30 and older. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the program Wednesday, saying it's about ensuring service members have the "biological foundation to fight." Service members under 30 can opt in; testosterone replacement therapy remains voluntary if recommended by a doctor. The Pentagon did not clarify whether female troops would also receive screening. Military Times

The U.S. Navy's Blue Angels are conducting a safety review after a jet flew dangerously low over beachgoers in Pensacola Beach, Florida. The incident happened Wednesday morning during a "Breakfast with the Blues" event — footage showed the aircraft disrupting chairs and umbrellas on the beach. No injuries were reported. Team leadership says it is reviewing "all operations to adhere to strict Navy and FAA safety standards." ABC News

The U.S. Mint is making a $1 coin with President Trump's face on it — but don't be fooled by the finish. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the "Semiquincentennial" coin Wednesday to mark America's 250th anniversary. It looks gold but is made of non-precious metal with a gold-like finish. The coin will be available this fall. Legal experts note it appears to conflict with federal laws restricting living presidents from appearing on U.S. currency. Spectrum News

National and World News

Argentina rallied from a goal down to beat England 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup semifinal Tuesday night in Atlanta. England's Anthony Gordon put the Three Lions ahead in the 55th minute, but Argentina responded with two late Messi-assisted goals — Enzo Fernandez from distance in the 85th and Lautaro Martinez with a header in the 92nd. Argentina advances to face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday. Fox Sports

Don’t Miss

Come From Away (Opera House Theatre Company)

July 16-26 · 2026: 
THU-SAT 7:30 PM · SUN 2:00 PM
+07/22 WED | 7:30 PM, 07/25 SAT | 2:00 PM @Thalian Hall

Set in the days following September 11, 2001, the musical follows 7,000 stranded airline passengers and the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, whose extraordinary generosity turned strangers into family.

Crosby's Chaos Pickle Shot Launch Party

THU JUL 16 · 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM · Duck & Dive Pub

Duck & Dive Pub hosts the launch party for Crosby's Chaos Pickle Shot. Come celebrate the new product with the crew at one of downtown Wilmington's favorite watering holes.

Weather

Thu Jul 16 ☁️ Overcast | 97° / 74° | 4% | SSW 14 mph
Fri Jul 17 ☁️ Overcast | 99° / 77° | 8% | S 13 mph
Sat Jul 18 🌦️ Light Drizzle | 96° / 78° | 4% | SSW 13 mph

Live Music

Thu Jul 16

Elliot Michael Smith at Wrightsville Beach Brewery

2PM–5PM @ Wrightsville Beach Brewery

Matt Spell at Seven Mile Post

6PM–9PM @ Seven Mile Post

Concerts in the Park: Jack Jack 180

6:30PM–8PM @ Wrightsville Beach Park · Free

Dierks Bentley: Off The Map Tour 2026

7PM–10PM @ Live Oak Bank Pavilion

Eggy - 2026 Tour

8PM–11:59PM @ Bowstring Brewyard

Fri Jul 17

Heavy Traffic at Poplar Grove Historic Plantation

5:30PM–10PM @ Poplar Grove Historic Plantation ($Free-$12.51)

The Motos at Seven Mile Post

6PM–9PM @ Seven Mile Post

Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime & Red Not Chili Peppers

7PM–10PM @ Greenfield Lake Amphitheater

Dirty White Rags @ Cloud 9

7PM–10PM @ Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar

The Asheville Mountain Boys

8PM–10PM @ Live at Ted's ($$33)

Sat Jul 18

Tonight's address is expected to generate plenty of headlines and discussion afterward. If you'd rather hear the remarks directly, C-SPAN will carry the speech live beginning at 9 p.m. ET.
-Jason