Good morning Wilmington!

On Thursday, dads get their night! 🥃
Whiskey & Wisdom and 4th Trimester Mission are teaming up for A Night for the Dads — a relaxed evening of connection, good conversation, and a little whiskey at Azalea Station on Thursday, November 6, from 6–8 PM.

Whether you’re a soon-to-be dad, a dad of littles, or a proud grandad, this event is designed to embolden you in fatherhood while supporting an incredible cause. All proceeds go to 4th Trimester Mission, a local nonprofit that supports moms in the vulnerable postpartum months through home visits, resources, and community care.

Tickets:

• $40 with whiskey tasting

• $20 non-tasting

• $60 VIP

Purchase tickets »

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Lithium Investments Could Make North Carolina a Key Player in EV Supply

• UNCW’s Hatchery Strengthens NC’s Oyster Fishery

Lithium Investments Could Make North Carolina a Key Player in EV Supply

WUNC - North Carolina is emerging as a hub for lithium refining, as U.S. companies look to reduce reliance on overseas production dominated by China. Startups like Minerva Lithium in Greensboro and major investments from Albemarle, Toyota, and Vinfast position the state to supply battery-grade lithium for electric vehicles, greases, and lubricants. Billion-dollar investments and reopened mines signal North Carolina’s growing role in domestic lithium production and the clean energy economy.

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The Science Behind the Shells: UNCW’s Hatchery Strengthens NC’s Oyster Fishery

StarNews Online - UNCW’s Shellfish Research Hatchery plays a vital role in sustaining North Carolina’s oyster fishery. Led by Dr. Ami Wilbur, the hatchery provides oyster larvae (“spat”) to replenish coastal populations while monitoring shellfish and local waters for disease. The facility, located at the UNCW Center for Marine Science, combines research and restoration to support both the state’s seafood industry and coastal ecosystems. Photos by Ken Blevins capture the dedicated team at work cultivating the next generation of oysters vital to marine health and the economy.

Read More >>

News Roundup

Local News

The Wilmington Target on New Centre Drive was fined $1,140 after failing two price-scanning inspections. State inspectors found error rates of 10% and 3.67% in two rounds of testing, exceeding the allowed 2% threshold, and the store will be reinspected until it meets compliance standards. WECT

Southport Cares has raised over $242,000 to support victims of the Sept. 27 mass shooting at the American Fish Company. The nonprofit reports that nearly all funds—over $232,000—have already been distributed to 34 families, wounded patrons, and affected employees, with a finalized report expected later this month. WECT

What You Should Know

Twenty Mississippi law enforcement officers have been indicted for allegedly taking bribes to help smuggle drugs through the Mississippi Delta and into Memphis. Prosecutors say the officers conspired with drug traffickers to provide safe passage for narcotics and cash in exchange for payments, marking a “monumental betrayal of public trust.” Wall Street Apes (X)

A nationwide listeria outbreak linked to precooked pasta meals has killed six people and hospitalized 25. The outbreak has affected individuals in 18 states, including North Carolina, California, Florida, and Texas. The Insider Paper (via X)

Former Vice President Dick Cheney, a central figure in shaping U.S. foreign policy after 9/11 and a key architect of the Iraq War, has died at age 84. Cheney, who served under President George W. Bush, passed away surrounded by family due to complications from pneumonia and heart disease. CNN

The Trump administration is planning a covert military mission to send U.S. troops and intelligence officers into Mexico to strike drug cartels directly. Current and former U.S. officials say the operation, still in early planning stages, would involve Joint Special Operations Command and the CIA under Title 50 authority, marking a major shift from previous U.S. policy of avoiding direct action inside Mexico. NBC News

Today

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