Good morning, Wilmington.

Something worth keeping an eye on: a private company has formally proposed replacing the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge — the aging span connecting downtown to the Eastside — with a brand-new $1.1 billion structure, financed and operated by them, paid for through tolls. The Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization heard the pitch from Delivering Bridges LLC earlier this week. Worth noting: WMPO voted 7-5 to reject a similar private toll proposal back in 2021. Read the full details here. 

We're curious what you think — look for a survey at the bottom of today's issue. 👇️ 

Meanwhile, tonight is a great one for live music — the Wilmington Big Band plays The Eagle's Dare at 7PM ($10), with a free swing dance lesson beforehand at 6:30. And tomorrow night is huge: Thalian Hall's Bluegrass Bash at 6PM, Samara Joy at Wilson Center Saturday at 7:30PM, and North Mississippi Allstars at Brooklyn Arts Center Sunday at 7PM — Good stuff!

In today's issue:

• New Hanover County's elections director — hired just two months ago — has been suspended, and the board has petitioned the state to remove her

Hired in January, Suspended in March: The Unraveling of NHC's New Elections Director

WECT Investigates — DeNay Harris was appointed New Hanover County's elections director in January 2026 and officially started February 3rd. Less than two months later, she's on paid suspension — and the county Board of Elections has formally petitioned the state to remove her from the job altogether.

Harris says her suspension is retaliation for raising misconduct allegations against county leadership, including claims of tampering with her email and improper access to BOE systems. County officials dispute that. New Hanover's chief information officer says a preliminary technical investigation found "zero evidence of unauthorized access" and that there is no evidence of administrative manipulation of county data.

Under state law, the county board doesn't have authority to fire Harris on its own — that power rests with Sam Hayes, executive director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections. Harris has 15 days to respond to the petition once she receives it. The story is still unfolding, and WECT has been covering it closely as new details emerge.

Read More >>

News Roundup

Local News

Fire danger is high across North Carolina this week — including our region. The N.C. Forest Service reported more than 30 fires contained over the weekend, with at least 8 still active as of Wednesday. Conditions are especially dangerous during afternoon and evening hours, when fires can ignite quickly and spread fast. Officials are asking residents to hold off on any outdoor burning, check for local burn bans before lighting anything, and keep water and tools nearby if a burn is unavoidable. WHQR

What You Should Know

The Pentagon confirmed elements of the 82nd Airborne Division are deploying to the Middle East amid escalating tensions and ongoing military operations in the region. The deployment is part of a broader effort to bolster U.S. forces following increased conflict activity, with officials emphasizing readiness and deterrence as key objectives. Military Times

A CNN live blog details rapidly evolving developments in the U.S.-Israel war with Iran, including ongoing military strikes, diplomatic tensions, and global economic impacts. Updates highlight continued fighting across the region, Iran’s rejection of ceasefire efforts, rising oil prices, and international calls for negotiations as the conflict escalates with no immediate resolution in sight. CNN

What Might Surprise You

Melania Trump highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in education while appearing alongside a humanoid robot at a White House event, using the moment to promote tech-driven learning for children. The robot, which greeted attendees in multiple languages, symbolized the push for AI-powered, personalized education, while the summit also emphasized global collaboration and raised questions about balancing innovation with potential risks. PBS NewsHour

Don't Miss

🎸 Thalian Hall Bluegrass Bash — TONIGHT

Fri Mar 27: 6:00 PM @ Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St — DT
The 9th annual Bluegrass Bash is one of the best nights of the year in downtown Wilmington — BBQ, craft brews, and three bands under the same roof. Massive Grass headlines, with Tideline String Band and Dear MariBella and the Pigkickers opening. It's an all-ages, well-organized event that fills up fast. Still tickets left!

Event Details >>

⭐ Samara Joy @ Wilson Center

Sat Mar 28: 7:30 PM @ Wilson Center at CFCC, 703 N 3rd St — DT
Two-time Grammy winner Samara Joy is one of the most celebrated jazz vocalists to come along in years — a voice that draws direct comparisons to the classic tradition with a presence entirely her own. One of the best shows coming through Wilmington this season. Don't sleep on this one.

Get Tickets >>

🎵 North Mississippi Allstars @ Brooklyn Arts Center

Sun Mar 29: 7:00 PM @ Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N 4th St — BAD
The Dickinson brothers bring their deep Southern blues-rock to BAC for what should be a loud, loose, and sweaty Sunday night. A great way to close out the weekend.

Get Tickets >>

Thu Mar 26 ⛅ Mix of Sun & Clouds | 74° / 50°
Fri Mar 27 ☀️ Mostly Sunny | 78° / 52°
Sat Mar 28 🌦️ Showers Possible, Cold Front | 62° / 42°

Live Music

Tonight — Thursday Mar 26

Friday Mar 27

Saturday Mar 28 ⭐