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  • PCP Fri Apr 24: Wilmington’s New Pickleball Facility Is Open

PCP Fri Apr 24: Wilmington’s New Pickleball Facility Is Open

New courts, free play, and something new to try

Pickleballers — there’s a new place to play.

The Underground East is opening with free pickleball, live demos, and a chance to try TYPTI — a new racquet sport gaining traction.

Spots are limited, but even if you’re not playing, it’s worth stopping by to check out this new place to play 🥒🎾!

In today’s Port City Pulse:

  • Local Teen Launches Eco-Friendly Swimwear Line

  • Zora’s Market Blends Seafood and Community Support on Castle Street

Local Teen Launches Eco-Friendly Swimwear Line

WECT A teen entrepreneur has launched a swimwear line made from recycled ocean plastic, combining sustainability with fashion in an effort to combat pollution. The initiative highlights growing environmental awareness among young innovators, with the creator aiming to reduce ocean waste while building a business that promotes eco-friendly practices and inspires others to think creatively about sustainability.

Zora’s Market Blends Seafood and Community Support on Castle Street

WilmingtonBiz Zora’s Market & Kitchen on Castle Street is doing more than selling seafood—it’s building a community-focused mission by offering free, sustainably sourced fish to residents in need. Led by chef Dean Neff, the initiative partners with UNCW’s aquaculture program to provide safe, farm-raised fish while addressing concerns about pollution and food access, all while honoring the legacy of the neighborhood staple and its history of serving the community.

News Roundup

Local News

More than 30 stormwater covers have been stolen across Wilmington this month, creating dangerous open holes. City officials warn the thefts are costly and pose public safety risks, urging residents to report suspicious activity. WWAY

Wilmington Police’s marine unit is enhancing training to improve safety and response on local waterways. The upgraded program focuses on tactical readiness and coordination as boating activity and public safety demands increase. WWAY

A Chapel Hill police officer is under investigation after allegedly making violent, racist comments referencing a mass shooting. Officials say the remarks, which included threats against Black individuals, have sparked outrage and prompted an internal review. WUNC

What You Should Know

A U.S. Special Forces soldier has been arrested over an alleged plot tied to a raid connected to Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro. Authorities say the case involves weapons and international implications, raising concerns about unauthorized military-style operations. CNN

Don’t Miss

007 Casino Night

SAT APR 26: 6Pm @ The Eagle's Dare - DT
A Night of High Stakes & Compassionate Hearts

Join us for an electrifying evening where the elegance of James Bond meets the vibrant energy of downtown Wilmington. First Fruit Ministries invites you to our glamorous 007 Casino Night—a thrilling way to support our mission of helping neighbors in need with compassion and care. $100

The Underground East Grand Opening

SAT APR 26: 9AM @ Underground East - ILM
Join us for the Grand Opening of The Underground East — Wilmington’s newest indoor pickleball facility. Come celebrate with us and experience everything we have to offer, including free pickleball open play and an introduction to TYPTI, a fast-paced new racquet sport. Whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new, this is your chance to check out the space, get on the court, and be part of something new.

Weather

Fri Apr 24: 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 87° / 62° | 0% | WSW 13 mph
Sat Apr 25: 🌤️ Mostly Sunny, Stray Shower / Storm | 87° / 62° | 10% | SW 12 mph
Sun Apr 26: 🌧️ Very Cloudy, Shower / Storm Risk | 75° / 50° | 30% | N 13 mph

Live Music

Live Music

Friday

Nate Van Winkle and The Cape Fear Riders

5:00 PM @ Waterline Brewing Co. - DT

UPDATED: Dirt Brown Cowboys

6:00 PM @ Pier 33 at Port City Marina - DT

Free Jazz Friday

7:30-10:30 PM @ Bottega Wine Bar & Art Gallery - DT

The Radford Carrick Trio

7:30 PM @ Avenue B - DT

Open Mic with Wes Sayer

8-11 PM @ The Harp - GFL

Maggie’s Kitchen

8:00 PM @ The Rusty Nail - DT

Saturday

Crowley’s Basement

Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill - ILM

Sips & Songs

2-5:00 PM @ Wilmington Distillery  - DT

Mac & Juice

6:00 PM @ Moe's BBQ - ILM

Paul from Dirty Dead

7:00 PM @ Fermental - CD

Claymore + DJ

10:00 PM @ The Bend - OGD

Thunderbeard: ZZ Top Tribute

7:00 PM @ Bowstring - SPD

Jay Killman Trio: Duke Ellington Tribute $20

8:00 PM @ Live at Teds - ILM

Sunday

Dead on Deck

2-5 PM @ Katy's Grill & Bar- ILM

The Rhythm Bones

3-6:00 PM @ The Rusty Nail - DT

Dram Fam Jam Band

3:00 PM @ Dram Tree Tavern - GFL

If you love pickleball — or want to learn — the Cape Fear Pickleball Club offers free beginner workshops every Saturday from 8–9AM at Greenfield Lake Park.

They also host Sunday sessions at Beau Rivage from 8–9AM and 9–10AM. Just show up and jump in — it’s a great group. Membership is $35/year and includes discounts, equipment access, and social events.

If you’re looking for more live music. Lots of music news and events in today’s issue of Port City Jams!

-Jason