Wednesday, October 1st, 2025
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 1st of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Endowment awarded 16 grants worth over $20.3 million to organizations across New Hanover County to support education, health services, community safety, and affordable housing initiatives — part of 158 grants totaling over $45.2 million given this year. WECT
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ A 40-year-old suspect from Michigan and another near the North Carolina coast—both with Camp Lejeune and Iraq service—are linked to shootings that have led military advocates and VA specialists to call for improved veteran mental health care. WWAY
- ➤ Saturday’s suspect Nigel Edge, a decorated veteran with mental health issues, shot at a bar in Southport, killing three and injuring five, while veteran mental health expert Tony Vivaldi said more help is needed for veterans facing stigma—Governor Stein visited Southport Monday to review mental health services. FOX Wilmington
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A TV pilot shot in Wilmington this summer will be turned into a full series for ABC, featuring Canadian actor Scott Speedman as a private investigator in a crime procedural with humor. Johnny Griffin from the Wilmington Regional Film Commission said the filming location will be announced by the end of November—raising hopes for more work for local film crews. Wilmington Star-News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ State recreational water quality officials caution swimmers and surfers to avoid the ocean near Crowell Street in Oak Island after floodwaters from heavy rains, which may carry pollutants, were pumped into the surf—signs remain at the site until 24 hours after pumping stops. Officials will update the public when the notice is removed. WWAY
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ WECT, WHQR Public Media—and Port City Daily are hosting two candidate forums on October 8 at the WHQR Studio at 254 Front Street for mayor and city council races ahead of the November 4 Municipal Elections. The city council session starts at 6:00 p.m. and the mayoral session begins at 7:00 p.m., with both events streamed live online. WECT
- ➤ Governor Stein offered condolences after Saturday night's mass shooting in Southport and urged a systematic review of mental health care integration—aiming to improve support for law enforcement and community safety. FOX Wilmington
- ➤ Wrightsville Beach residents began receiving CFPUA water and sewer service on Sept. 30—this change moves billing from bimonthly to monthly and starts a multi-year $25-million upgrade plan to fix issues like saltwater intrusion and aging pipes. CFPUA will provide a detailed rate schedule this week and plans to begin major infrastructure work by the end of 2025. Port City Daily
- ➤ Cassidy Santaguida, a software product manager and former teacher, is running for one of three seats on Wilmington City Council and says new voices are needed to solve issues like homelessness and traffic—she outlines plans for sustainable growth and better public services. Early voting starts Oct. 16 with election day on Nov. 4. Port City Daily
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ M.J. Rice, a top basketball recruit who played at Kansas and NC State, will join CFCC to restart his college career after taking last season off for personal reasons. Head coach Mark Lane said Rice brings strong skills and leadership to the team — a boost as they work toward a championship. WWAY
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JJ Grey & Mofro Concert
5:45-7:15 p.m. — Greenfield Lake Amphitheater — Ticket information not provided — Experience an evening of soulful music from a notable Jacksonville artist.
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Gavin Adcock Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Live Oak Bank Pavilion — Last-minute concert tickets available — Enjoy an evening of live music with Gavin Adcock.
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Wilmington Riverfest
10 AM – 6 PM — Wilmington Downtown Incorporated — Free entry — Celebrate community spirit along the beautiful Cape Fear riverfront with music, food, and activities for all ages.
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The 502s Concert
6-7:30 p.m. — Greenfield Lake Amphitheater — $25+ — Experience the energetic beach folk sounds of Florida's
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DUBTOWN COSMONAUTS Live Dock Party
6-10 p.m. — Marina Grill — Free entry — Experience high-energy tunes from the beachy Dubtown Cosmonauts in a festive dock atmosphere.
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Gunhild Carling Concert
7-9 p.m. — Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts — Tickets available — Experience the swinging jazz standards of Swedish musical sensation Gunhild Carling live in concert.
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Phantogram Concert
6:00-7:30 p.m. — Greenfield Lake Amphitheater — Cost info not provided — Experience the genre-defying sounds of experimental band Phantogram in a beautiful lakeside setting.
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Mike Oregano Live Performance
6-10 p.m. — Fermental Beer & Wine — Free entry — Experience a unique one-man band act blending Jazz and Rock in an unforgettable performance.
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Eric Johnson Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Kenan Auditorium — Cost info not provided — Experience the musical journey of Eric Johnson across genres.
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Big Gigantic Live Performance
5:30-7:30 p.m. — Greenfield Lake Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique blend of electronic dance music with live instruments by Big Gigantic.
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