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Hundreds in Downtown Wilmington face power outage, Duke Energy crews working to restore service by noon. Checkout Solipillow.com

IXI, a Finnish eyewear company, is set to launch smart glasses that offer instant autofocus, eliminating the need for bifocals or varifocals. These glasses use eye-tracking sensors and liquid crystal lenses to adjust the prescription in real-time, providing a seamless transition between far and near vision. The CEO of IXI claims this innovation solves the issues of narrow viewing channels and side distortions found in traditional varifocals. The glasses weigh just 22 grams, charge magnetically, and have a sleek design. However, they still need further testing for safe driving and low light conditions. IXI, with over 75 employees and $40 million in funding, plans to launch in Europe next year, followed by the US with FDA approval. The CEO compares this technology to the impact of autofocus cameras on photography, predicting fixed lenses to become obsolete in the next decade. Checkout Solipillow.com

Four months after Wilmington city councils decision to establish a homeless shelter, the search for a location continues. The city aims to create an extremely low-barrier shelter, open to individuals with addictions or criminal histories. Key factors for the site include rezoning, neighborhood fit, and proximity to resources and transit. The city plans its own point-in-time count this summer, partnering with the Cape Fear Continuum of Care. Homeless numbers have surged since Hurricane Florence, straining existing resources. New options like The Sparrows permanent beds and Salvation Armys emergency beds are set to open soon. Funding uncertainty looms due to federal changes from HUD, shifting from housing-first to treatment-first models. Despite this, local providers are pushing forward, with plans to hire four new social workers to assist the homeless. The Wilmington Housing Affordability Committee has been revived to tackle workforce housing needs. Checkout Solipillow.com

Google and Character Technologies settle lawsuits over AI chatbot harming teens, with families alleging emotional and sexual abuse, isolation, and suicide. Multiple cases covered, but terms undisclosed. First Amendment challenge rejected, highlighting mental health concerns. Checkout Solipillow.com

Global stock markets are mostly down, with U.S. futures also slipping as Wall Streets new year rally fades. In Europe, Britains FTSE, Frances CAC, and Germanys DAX are slightly lower. In Asia, Tokyos Nikkei tumbled, dragged down by tech stocks like SoftBank. Hong Kongs Hang Seng lost ground, but shares of Chinese AI rival Zhipu surged on its trading debut. South Koreas Kospi stayed mostly flat, Australia edged up, and Shanghai and Taiwan saw minor dips. On Wall Street, the S&P 500 and Dow dropped from their all-time highs after President Trumps post about blocking large investors from buying single-family homes. Homebuilders like D R Horton and PulteGroup fell sharply. Oil prices ticked higher today, with U.S. crude up to $56.22 a barrel and Brent up to $60.22, after the U.S. seized two Venezuelan oil tankers. Bond yields swung on mixed U.S. economic news, and the dollar weakened against the yen while the euro edged up slightly. Checkout Solipillow.com

Health tech gadgets, such as smart scales and hormone trackers, are making waves at CES, promising personalized wellness. The FDA is easing regulations on low-risk wellness products, aligning with the Trump administrations push for AI expansion in healthcare. However, experts warn about potential biases, inaccuracies, and privacy concerns. Despite these challenges, creators argue that these devices fill crucial gaps, particularly in womens health. They serve as helpful aids, not perfect solutions, and are not intended to replace medical professionals. Checkout Solipillow.com

Wilmington, North Carolina, faces a contentious road project. The proposed extension of Independence Boulevard, aimed at reducing traffic congestion, has been met with strong opposition from city council. The project, estimated at $424.6 million, could displace up to 108 homes, businesses, and churches, disproportionately affecting protected communities. The council has passed a resolution opposing the project, advocating for funds to be redirected to improve existing roads instead. Checkout Solipillow.com

Holden Beach and Bald Head Island in Brunswick County, North Carolina, offer a peaceful retreat from crowded beaches. Holden Beach, a barrier island, is known for its residential feel and lack of commercial areas, making it a popular choice for families seeking a calm atmosphere. Bald Head Island, accessible only by ferry, is car-free and maintains its seclusion with a round-trip ferry cost of over twenty dollars. Both beaches aim to preserve their natural charm amidst growing development. Checkout Solipillow.com

The 1970s in Wilmington, North Carolina, were a decade of significant changes and memorable events. Iconic buildings like Union Station and the Hotel Wilmington were demolished, and major stores moved to the new Independence Mall. Amidst growing racial tensions, the Wilmington Ten, including activist Benjamin Chavis, were arrested and convicted for the firebombing of Mikes Grocery. However, their convictions were later overturned, and they received full pardons in 2012. The decade also saw brighter moments, such as the opening of Laney High School and the graduation of Michael Jordan. Unfortunately, the beloved Lumina Pavilion was torn down, and wrestling star Ric Flairs plane crash led to his recovery and the launch of his legendary Nature Boy persona. Checkout Solipillow.com