🌱 Bicyclist Killed In Crash Identified + Junior League Grants $23K

Hello all. I'm back with your fresh copy of the Wilmington Patch newsletter. Let's get this Friday started off right, with a quick guide to everything you need to know about what's happening in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Friday: Periods of rain. High: 73 Low: 64.
• Saturday: Warmer with a thunderstorm. High: 84 Low: 66.

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Here are the top three stories today in Wilmington:

1. A man who was involved in a fatal crash in Wilmington has been identified by the Wilmington Police Department. The collision occurred on May 16 at around 7:00 p.m. at the intersection of Independence Blvd and Oleander Dr. Despite efforts from a WPD Corporal and the driver involved, the bicyclist, identified as 79-year-old Edward Lillis, passed away at the scene. According to the police, Lillis was crossing westbound traffic on Oleander Drive without the right of way, and no criminal charges have been filed in relation to the incident. (WWAY NewsChannel 3)
2. The Junior League of Wilmington has awarded $23,350 in grants to five local nonprofits. The grant aims to support the programs, training, and development of these organizations to make a positive impact in the community. Recipients include the 4th Trimester Mission, which will create a scholarship program for mothers in need of support, and The Diaper Bank of North Carolina, which will fight period poverty by providing period products. Good Shepherd Center will use the grant to provide internet access to those they support, Operation Pretty Things will provide self-care essentials and education on teen domestic violence, and United Way of Cape Fear Area's Kids Get Books Program will provide books to local students. (WWAY NewsChannel 3)
3. A collision occurred between a school bus and a minivan at the intersection of Wooster and S 17th streets in Wilmington. The incident took place at around 5:56 a.m. on May 18, and there were no children on the bus at the time. One minor injury was reported, and the injured individual was taken to a local medical center for treatment. Further details about the incident have yet to be provided. (WECT)

Today and tomorrow in Wilmington:

Friday, May 19

• Free Concert Friday At The Eagle's Dare (5:00 PM)

Saturday, May 20

• Black Water Adventure Cruise At Wilmington Water Tours (10:00 AM)
• North Carolina Symphony: Romeo and Juliet Wilmington At Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College (7:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• A new dog is up for adoption! Max, a 3-year-old neutered male, was brought in as a stray. He now interacts with others, has gained self-confidence, and experiences the joys of attention, regular meals, and treats. It is recommended that Max be placed in a home without young children, and if there are other dogs, a meet and greet is necessary. (New Hanover Sheriff's Office Animal Services Unit via Facebook)
• Celebrate Memorial Day weekend in Wilmington and Island Beaches with a range of activities, including kid-friendly events, live music performances, fireworks shows, and exploring historic sites that highlight the area's military history. Enjoy coastal dining experiences and find the perfect place to stay, but make sure to book in advance due to high demand. (Visit Wilmington, NC and Beaches via Facebook)
• OLLI of the University of North Carolina Wilmington is hosting a virtual wine-tasting event on Zoom next Wednesday, May 24, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. The event will focus on exploring a variety of rosé wines from different countries, ranging from sweet to bone dry, and participants can register by emailing Megan at mlanier@nhcgov.com. A wine list with suggested food pairings will be provided in advance, and responsible drinking is encouraged. (New Hanover County Senior Resource Center via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Friday. I'll catch up with you soon with another update!

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.