Your Week in Five

Star-News (Wilmington, NC)

March 06--1. After weeks of daily demonstrations from the SuitUp Wilmington group and local constituents, U.S. Rep. David Rouzer, R-N.C., will hold a town hall at 2 p.m. Monday at Brunswick Community College's Odell Williamson Auditorium (150 College Rd NE, Bolivia). Members of Congress, particularly Republicans, have in the last few weeks seen huge audiences at town halls protesting the planned repeal of the Affordable Care Act and President Donald Trump's policies.

2. Wilmington City Council will hear a request Tuesday to amend official zoning maps for the residential development of the former Galleria site. The meeting is likely to draw several Airlie Road residents who have voiced concern about the development affecting the road. Details: 6:30 p.m., 102 N. Third St.

3. The long-discussed revision of special use permits will go before the New Hanover County Commissioners Monday for consideration and possible adoption. More than 100 residents could attend the meeting, many to show opposition to the revisions. Details: 4 p.m., 310 Chestnut St.

4. The St. Patrick's Day parade will roll through downtown Wilmington Saturday, giving revelers the chance to observe the holiday well before the actual March 17th celebration. The parade will begin 11 a.m. at Red Cross Street and head toward Princess Street. A festival featuring live music, food, vendors and plenty of libations will begin at noon near Riverfront Park.

5. If a haze of smoke clouds the skies over New Hanover and Brunswick counties this week, don't be alarmed. Orton Plantation is starting its annual controlled burns this week and expected to continue through May 1. The burns improve forest health and restore habitats, but can impact visibility on N.C. 133 and remnants could reach Wilmington.

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