Good morning Wilmington!

We’re looking at a sunny Valentine's weekend with a chance of showers Saturday night.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Dawson's Creek Star James Van Der Beek Dies at 48

• NAACP Criticizes School Board

Dawson's Creek Star James Van Der Beek Dies at 48 – Wilmington Filming Ties Stir Local Memories

WWAYTV3 Wilmington's TV legacy takes a sad turn with the passing of James Van Der Beek, the beloved star of Dawson's Creek who played Dawson Leery in the iconic 90s teen drama filmed right here in our Port City from 1998-2003. Van Der Beek died peacefully at 48 after a private battle with colorectal cancer, which he revealed in November 2024. His family's Instagram statement noted his courage and love for humanity, asking for privacy as they grieve their "loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend." Fans from Carolina Beach to Wrightsville Beach remember the show's vibrant shoots along our rivers and beaches – a slice of Hollywood magic in everyday Wilmington life.

Read More >>

NAACP Criticizes School Board’s Vote Against Black History Month Resolution

WECT The NAACP is speaking out after the New Hanover County Board of Education voted down a resolution recognizing Black History Month, instead approving a 4-3 substitute motion to provide year-round access to African American history resources for educators. The NAACP called the decision troubling, arguing it sends the wrong message to students, while some board members said the resolution was unnecessary and could undermine existing efforts. The organization is urging the board to reconsider.

Read More >>

News Roundup

Local News

Early voting begins Thursday for 2026 NC primary election. 319 sites open statewide to select general election candidates. WECT

NC court restores limits on 1,4-dioxane toxic chemical pollution. Ruling enables restrictions protecting drinking water for nearly 1M downstream. WWAY

PFAS regulations face federal/state rollbacks and delays. Impacts ongoing efforts in NC. StarNews

What You Should Know

NC Rep. Deb Butler, Progressive House Caucus call for constitutional amendment requiring timely state budgets. Aims to prevent future delays in legislative sessions. WWAY

FAA closes El Paso airspace over drone fears; party balloon suspected. Pentagon allowed anti-drone laser use beforehand. AP

What Might Surprise You

6ft trans Canadian school shooter wanted to appear 'petite'; questions raised on cross-sex drugs' role in violence. Inquest details Jesse Van Rootselaar case. Telegraph

National News

Two US Navy ships collide near South America. Incident under investigation. WSJ

AI insiders warn of AGI doomsday scenario. OpenAI, xAI execs raise alarms. Axios

World News

Mexican humanitarian aid reaches Cuba amid US blockade energy crisis. Delivery addresses shortages in Havana. AP

Israeli soldiers accused of Polymarket bets on strikes. Military probe launched. WSJ

Thursday

Friday

Saturday