Today
in Wilmington
Friday, February 20th, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Ukrainians in the Carolinas will host a rally and vigil for Ukraine at Innes Park on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 4 p.m. Speakers include Mayor Saffo, County Commissioner Zapple, an Army veteran, and a Ukrainian refugee; community members are invited to bring flags, signs, and display blue and yellow. WWAY
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A UNCW sophomore is building the university’s first women’s ice hockey team with 13 players to compete in a fall game on the only local rink — she faces funding challenges for ice time, travel, and equipment but draws strength from Olympic inspiration. FOX Wilmington
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Better Business Bureau of Eastern Carolinas warns residents of tax identity theft scams during tax season — officials urge filing early and securing personal information to prevent unauthorized returns. Taxpayers should shred old documents and avoid public Wi-Fi to reduce risk, with nearly $2,000 lost last year. WWAY
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Sergeant Jodi Redding received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine at the Pender County Board of Commissioners meeting as officials recognized her 30+ years of service with the Sheriff’s Office. Known for professionalism and leadership, she has served in various roles since 1991. FOX Wilmington
- ➤ Local officials and advocates debate teen learner’s permit length as data shows a 13% rise in crashes when permits were shortened to six months during COVID—some urge a return to a 12-month rule while others support the current nine-month period to ease DMV backlogs. FOX Wilmington
- ➤ Melanie Morgan, an award winning library leader, will join the New Hanover County Public Library system on March 31 as its new director. County officials said she earned statewide honors for digital literacy outreach at her previous post and brings valuable experience to the role. WECT
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Jeffrey Beecher of Novant Health explained that poor blood vessel health can lead to heart attacks and strokes, and he detailed plans to open a new clinic focused on prevention thanks to a donation from Michael Jordan and named after his mother. WECT
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Travel + Leisure magazine ranked Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach as the third-best beach towns to live year-round; the coastal towns offer a laid-back vibe and lively downtown with easy beach access and a growing food scene (real estate experts noted the appeal). FOX Wilmington
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The UNCW men's basketball team defeated Monmouth 79-69 Thursday night at Trask Coliseum to improve to a 23-4 record. The Seahawks will travel to Campbell Saturday to extend their winning streak. WECT
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Social District Event
12-5 p.m. — Brooklyn Arts Center — Free entry — Explore the vibrant Brooklyn Arts District with open containers and delightful local brews.
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Danny Gokey Concert with We Are Messengers and Jon Reddick
7:00 – 8:30 PM — Odell Williamson Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting performances that celebrate faith and community.
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Jack and Jill Rise & Run 5K
9 a.m. — Long Leaf Park — Registration fees apply — A heart-pounding 5K supporting children's education and advocacy in the Wilmington community.
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