Good morning Wilmington!

It feels like every third person you meet in Wilmington these days just got here — and they’re all looking for the same thing: connection.

This past Sunday, I met Ron, Val and Leslie — three newcomers who found each other (and a whole lot of fun) through pickleball. It’s one of the most social, low-pressure ways to plug into Wilmington life — and it’s growing fast.

If you're curious, check out the free beginner lessons every Saturday from 8–9 a.m. at Greenfield Lake Park, hosted by the friendly folks at the Cape Fear Pickleball Club. No gear or experience needed — just show up and see what it’s about.

You’ll laugh, move, and probably leave with a few new friends.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• $4.7M Medicaid Fraud Uncovered

• Netflix Drops Trailer for The Waterfront

$4.7M Fraud Uncovered: NC Cracks Down on Bogus Medicaid Billing Scheme

[WECT] Attorney General Jeff Jackson has secured a $4.7 million consent judgment against Steven Osbey, co-owner of Reign & Inspirations, a behavioral health firm accused of defrauding North Carolina’s Medicaid program. Investigators found the company billed for thousands of fake house calls from 2017 to 2020—at times claiming over 100 one-hour visits in a single day. The case involved joint efforts from state and federal agencies including the FBI and IRS. Co-owner Aljihad Shabazz has already been sentenced to prison. Jackson says his office will continue pursuing those who abuse the Medicaid system.

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Netflix Drops Trailer for Kevin Williamson’s “The Waterfront,” Shot in Wilmington and Southport

[Netflix] Netflix has released the trailer for The Waterfront, a gritty crime drama shot in Wilmington and Southport and premiering June 19. Created by Kevin Williamson (Scream, Dawson’s Creek), the series follows the Buckley family as they spiral into crime after their fishing business collapses. With stars like Holt McCallany, Melissa Benoist, and Topher Grace, the show promises high drama—and local viewers will spot familiar places like Southport’s waterfront and Wilmington’s Cotton Exchange. Inspired by "true events," the series showcases Southeastern NC in a new, darker light.

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News Roundup

Local News

• Former Burgaw finance officer Hans Kalwitz is now facing two new charges — hit-and-run and assault with a deadly weapon — stemming from an April incident. Authorities say Kalwitz struck a 14-year-old bicyclist in Hampstead while intoxicated and fled the scene. He was previously charged with DWI and failing to report the accident and has since been terminated from his role with the town. WECT

What You Should Know

• Russia launched its largest-ever drone and missile assault on Ukraine. The attack, involving over 350 drones and nine cruise missiles, comes as tensions rise between the Kremlin and U.S. leadership. Wall Street Journal

• Publix has recalled some baby food pouches due to elevated levels of lead. Parents are urged to check product codes and return affected items for a refund. WRAL

• Russian forces have seized four villages in Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region as part of President Vladimir Putin's directive to establish a buffer zone along the border. This move follows intensified drone and missile attacks, including a record 355 drones launched in a single night, though the bombing campaign has since slowed. Despite recent peace talks yielding minimal progress, clashes continue in Sumy, with Ukrainian troops striving to maintain their positions amid the latest Russian advances. AP News

What Might Surprise You

• Billy Joel has canceled all upcoming shows after revealing he’s battling a serious neurological condition called normal pressure hydrocephalus. The 76-year-old singer said the disorder, which affects balance, vision, and hearing, was worsened by recent performances. He is undergoing physical therapy and stepping away from the stage on doctors’ orders The Sun

• U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey was denied access to a jailed U.S. citizen in El Salvador. Ivey had traveled to meet Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who faces terrorism charges in a controversial crackdown by the Salvadoran government. The Hill

National News

• Phil Robertson, the patriarch of 'Duck Dynasty,' has died at 79. Known for his outspoken Christian faith and conservative views, Robertson helped turn his family's duck call business into a media empire. People / USA Today

Tuesday

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