Good morning Wilmington!

Get ready to stock up for the holidays! Starting Wednesday, Dec. 10, Aldi’s will have rack of lamb for $9.99/lb., ribeye roast for $7.99/lb., and beef tenderloin for $10.99/lb. These specials run through Tuesday, Dec. 16, so plan ahead and snag the best cuts for your festive meals.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Proposed harvest limits for blue crabs in southeastern North Carolina could drive up seafood prices

• Wilmington Hemp Businesses Brace for Federal THC Crackdown

Blue Crab Population Concerns Spark Potential Price Hikes in Wilmington

WECT – Proposed harvest limits for blue crabs in southeastern North Carolina could drive up seafood prices, according to local restaurant owners. Officials say the restrictions are intended to address declining crab populations, but commercial fishermen argue other factors like water quality and invasive species may be the real issue. Many in the industry fear these limits could discourage younger generations from entering crabbing, while affecting businesses that rely on year-round crab availability. The proposed limits would reduce catches from roughly 50 bushels per trip to 15 bushels during the fall season.

Read More >>

Wilmington Hemp Businesses Brace for Federal THC Crackdown

WWAY – Wilmington hemp businesses are facing uncertainty after a federal crackdown on THC products, which could make many hemp-derived items illegal. Locally owned shops like Hempire Innovations may lose THC-A concentrates, pre-rolls, and other products that helped fuel the industry. The ban targets synthetic THC, citing concerns about intoxication and marketing to minors. Owners are calling for clearer guidance and worry about economic and job impacts if regulations aren’t clarified.

Read More >>

News Roundup

Local News

Over 600 Duke Energy customers in New Hanover County lost power Monday morning after a vehicle crashed into a pole and damaged electrical equipment. Crews are working to restore service along South 17th Street near the New Hanover Medical Park. WECT

A Wilmington veterinary center building that exploded in August after a car ruptured a gas line will be demolished this week, with reconstruction set to follow. The 32,000-sq-ft facility—originally slated to open in September—will be rebuilt with added safety measures, and staff say the demolition marks an important emotional step forward. WECT

What You Should Know

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s political future is in jeopardy as a massive fraud scandal involving hundreds of millions stolen from a federal nutrition program intensifies. With more than 50 convictions and prosecutors suggesting losses may reach $1 billion, even longtime Democratic allies are questioning whether Walz should seek a third term. The Hill

President Trump praised the CDC’s decision to end universal Hepatitis B vaccinations for newborns and ordered a fast-tracked review of U.S. childhood vaccine schedules. He argued babies face “no risk” of the virus, while health experts note infants can still be infected through close household contact. Daily Mail

What Might Surprise You

The Trump administration has removed Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth from the 2026 National Parks fee-free days, replacing them with additional presidential birthdays and Flag Day. The move follows earlier pauses on remembrance days under the administration’s ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Newsweek

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday