Good morning Wilmington!

We all know summers fly by, but there’s still time to help your child have a memorable one. Wilmington Rock Gym’s summer climbing clinic (ages 6–13) has just one opening left. It’s five days of climbing, movement, and fun—and it might just be your child’s favorite week of the summer!

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• New Hanover’s Free Reuse Program Launches July 12

• New Upgrades Coming to Olsen Park

Treasure Island: New Hanover’s Free Reuse Program Launches July 12

[WECT] New Hanover County is launching a free reuse program called Treasure Island, designed to keep viable, usable items out of the landfill. Starting July 12, residents can visit the Recycling and Solid Waste headquarters on Highway 421 to browse items like power tools, books, electronics, patio furniture, and more—completely free of charge. Open the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon, the program allows up to 15 items per household per visit. Items are collected by landfill staff, tested for usability, and made available on a first-come, first-served basis. A liability waiver is required.

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Youth Summer Clinic - One Opening Left!

SESSION 2 AVAILABLE: July 21-25 | Mon-Fri 9AM - Noon | $200 | Ages 6–13

Five fun filled mornings, each focused on new challenges and lessons for kids of all levels. Campers will work on footwork and route reading to develop efficiency and competence in bouldering and top-rope climbing

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New Upgrades Coming to Olsen Park: Pickleball, Trails, and Community Fun Ahead

[WWAY] Wilmington broke ground on Phase II of Olsen Park, with exciting additions on the way: an all-purpose field, four pickleball courts, a new walking trail, and expanded parking. Made possible through the 2016 parks bond, these improvements continue a legacy of citizen-supported park expansion that started with the original 2006 bond and land donation from the Olsen family. Construction is expected to take 10 months, with the new features set to open in January 2026.

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News Roundup

Local News

• Traffic disruptions announced for Wilmington filming: The city is implementing road closures on July 20-21 to accommodate production of RJ Decker, affecting South Churchill Drive between Knollwood Drive and Hillsboro Road. WECT

• House fire in Wrightsville Beach linked to fireworks. Authorities responded to a house fire in Wrightsville Beach early Saturday morning that was caused by discarded fireworks. WWAY

What You Should Know

• President Trump said his administration is considering taking control of Washington, DC, to address crime, which would be a major shift from the city’s current home rule system established in 1973. Trump cited his administration's desire for a "flawlessly" run capital and noted ongoing communication with Mayor Muriel Bowser, despite occasional criticisms of the city’s governance. MSN

What Might Surprise You

• Roger Waters may face prosecution over pro-Palestine actions — Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters is reportedly under investigation by UK authorities over public performances supporting Palestine, potentially facing legal repercussions. The Telegraph

• Elon Musk explores forming a political party — Musk is reportedly discussing plans to create a new political party focused on political reform and civic engagement, signaling his escalating role in U.S. politics. AP News

• Netanyahu and Trump nominated for Nobel Peace Prize — Israeli PM Netanyahu and former U.S. President Trump have been jointly nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, reflecting recent diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. The Hill

Wednesday

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