Think you know downtown's history, legends, hidden secrets?

Well, grab some friends and enter the annual Love Chapel Hill Scavenger Hunt on Friday, April 8 from 7PM to 10PM. Teams of 2 to 5 people will race around campus & downtown and compete to solve clues and win some great prizes from downtown restaurants and shops! This event is FREE and open to all ages. For more information, and to register your team, visit www.lovechapelhill.com.

FREE Marketing Seminar for Businesses

Main Street Goes Interactive: How Small and Large Businesses Use the Internet to Grow

1360 WCHL has commissioned an exclusive report on Interactive Advertising in Orange County… and are bringing to town the nationally renowned Gordon Borrell of Borrell Associates who will lead a one hour seminar that will give businesses a decisive edge when it comes to competing on the internet.

At the seminar, businesses will also hear an exciting announcement from 1360 WCHL. They are getting ready to launch something that they believe will be of significance to business owners - both as marketers and consumers.

When: Tuesday, April 12

Where: Aloft Chapel Hill Hotel

Times: 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm

Please RSVP by email or phone: sdolan@1360wchl.com or call 919-933-4165.

New Parking Pay Stations for Downtown

New parking pay stations will be installed in downtown Chapel Hill this spring, making parking more convenient - you'll be able to pay with credit cards and mobile phones, as well as coins. Who carries cash anymore?

Last fall, the Town installed two pay stations to test them - then sought feedback. The new stations will be installed this spring and should be completed by summer, replacing about 240 single space parking meters with 40 multi-space pay stations. One pay station will be installed for every eight to 10 parking spaces in most applications. When you leave your vehicle, take note of space number on the curb. At the pay station, key in the space number and pay the amount for your allotted time. The Town made a YouTube video to show you how to use the new stations:www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MMrjGZnGFM

Interestingly - the new stations won't shoot out a receipt - a green way to reduce paper usage and litter on the sidewalks downtown!

REMEMBER: On-Street metered parking is FREE after 6 p.m. daily and all day Sunday!

For more information on all the parking options available downtown - CLICK HERE

Spring brings more than just beautiful weather, blooming nature, and UNC victories -- there is so much going on downtown this time of year. Sales, events, art exhibits, great food & drink specials, and so much more.

Check out this week's email:

What to Do & See Downtown This Week!

SPRING INTO THE NEW SEASON

Spring is here, Carolina blue skies abound -and all good thoughts turn to digging into the earth! The Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership's groundskeeper B. J. Johnson, maintains the 60+ raised brick planters downtown year-round. But this time of year his hard work is evident to all. He's begun adding planting material to the planters and will soon complete the mulching process. Johnson plans to add the seasonal color in mid-April.

According to Johnson, the Downtown Partnership has updated its landscaping plans throughout the past year to create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance in the downtown area that lasts throughout the entire year. Johnson is using more plant material native to this area as well as increasing the number of summer annuals planted for additional color. “I am a firm believer in the idea that the appearance of an area really impacts people’s feelings and perceptions,” Johnson said. “With all of the concrete and asphalt, it is great to have some interjections of nature and beauty blended in.”

Unfortunately, the urban environment often presents challenges for the landscaper as well as the plants. A truck bed is required for several important tasks, and the landscaper can only complete this work in the late hours of the night and the early hours of the morning. Additionally, B.J. must cope with a limited budget for each planting project. The plants, on the other hand, are frequently damaged by pedestrians and pets. Chaotic celebrations (we'll take those Carolina victories anyday!), poor pet behavior and litter accumulation all threaten the health of the plants and the overall appearance of downtown Chapel Hill.

However, Johnson said, “The work that goes into the downtown area from the Town and myself in keeping it clean and landscaped, gives downtown Chapel Hill the appearance that distinguishes it from other urban areas across the state.”

Johnson has worked as the Downtown Partnership’s main landscaper for the past three years. “I am really lucky and blessed to be able to do something that I enjoy,” Johnson said. “I believe the best part about the work is the satisfaction that comes when everything looks its best and knowing how many different people get to go by and enjoy it.” In addition to maintaining the beds downtown, B.J. sets up and takes down the 22' Christmas tree that the Partnership puts up every year at University Baptist Church to celebrate the holidays. Not to mention B.J. is always open to answering any questions and guiding a certain Partnership staff member through her gardening every season!

Thank you B.J. for all of the incredibly valuable (and hard) work you do!

Heard of Groupon or LivingSocial? The Chapel Hill - Carrboro Chamber of Commerce and 1360 WCHL have partnered to put the power of the radio behind local businesses. Together they are launching Our Local Deal, a daily deal source that generates revenue and drives new customers to local businesses They will go live with Our Local Deal in April, and are currently looking for businesses interested in attracting new customers. Here's What You Get: · 65% of total sales for Chamber members (compared to 50% with Groupon). Non-Chamber members will get 60% of total sales. · A full day of promotion and marketing for your business on 1360 WCHL; and your deal pushed to Chamber members, their employees, & WCHL listeners through e-mail, Facebook/Twitter. · Fast payment, within days of your deal (compared to 90 days with Groupon or LivingSocial) · New, truly local customers who can easily be converted into repeat customers for your business Here's How It Works:: · You sign up to offer a product or service at 50% off or more · No upfront costs · Consumers purchase the offer before the end of the day and share the deal with friends who might also like to buy · The consumer prints the voucher and redeems it as soon as the next day For more information, or to sign up, contact the Chamber at (919) 967-7075 or info@carolinachamber.org.

What to See and Do this Week!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/What-to-Do---See-Downtown-This-Week-.html?soid=1101424482142&aid=ZCLL3GrVWis

UNC BEATS Duke!

Gear Up to Beat Duke!!!

It goes without saying that the eyes of the Basketball Nation will be on Chapel Hill this weekend with Saturday's game.  Be sure to sport your best Carolina Blue for the game!  Stop in one of our many great fan stores Downtown:

Chapel Hill Sportswear               Johnny T-Shirt                          Tarheel Bookstore

Ram Book & Supply                  Shrunken Head Boutique          Carolina Pride Sportswear

#1 in Our Hearts, #4 in the Polls

Chapel Hill may be #1 in our hearts, but it is currently #4 in the online poll!

The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Chapel Hill as one of its 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations on February 15th at a press conference held at the Carolina Inn.

Chapel Hill was selected for its stately charm, dynamic cultural offerings and its citizens' dedication to protecting and sharing its unique heritage.

Chapel Hill is now competing in an online voting poll to be named FAN FAVORITE. And if this town is known for anything -- it's our stellar ability to be fans of winning teams and causes!


Everyone can VOTE - so encourage family, friends, neighbors, students, alumni, and strangers on the street waiting to become your new best friend! Voters are automatically entered to win a complimentary two-night stay at any Historic Hotel of America.

Need details - CLICK HERE!

The sunshine will return to Chapel Hill soon - and just in time for you to plan what you're gonna do & see downtown this week! CLICK HERE and enjoy!

CD Alley Rules!

X-Men Cover Contest Results and more at Chapel Hill Comics!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Chapel-Hill-Comics--Contest-Results--Signing-this-Saturday-.html?soid=1103578054976&aid=3XmpaG8Egbs

What to See and Do this Week!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/What-to-Do---See-Downtown-This-Week-.html?soid=1101424482142&aid=CvPJMnK91wM

What's Your Fun-A-Day?

The 2nd Annual Fun-A-Day NC encourages all (artist or not) to make a creation every day for the month of February; a seemingly un-fun month! Nightlight will host a reception and show featuring all of the work on Fri, March 11, during 2nd Friday ArtWalk. Are you participating in Fun-A-Day NC? What are you making?

http://funadaync.blogspot.com/

New Businesses Open, Retail Spots For Lease, and More!

There is a lot going on downtown this week!

The Daily Tar Heel has a brief column on two new businesses downtown. Interestingly – both businesses are owned by CURRENT UNC students! Here is the link to the article: http://www.dailytarheel.com/index.php/article/2011/02/all_up_in_your_business_for_february_8_2011

4 Boutique is open at 149 East Franklin Street, upstairs from The Princeton Review. This is a woman's accessories boutique that sells jewelry, handbags, scarves, and other items. Born from a class assignment, 4 Boutique is owned and operated by two UNC students. All profits go to
to four area nonprofit agencies. www.thefourproject.org

Pulse Nightclub opening soon at 136 E. Rosemary Street. More information at http://www.clubpulse.net/.

The Front Porch Bar and Grill is open at 143 East Franklin Street. The restaurant serves American fare including soups, salads and sandwiches; serving wine and beer. Open Mon-Wed: 11AM-11PM; Thurs 11AM-1AM; Fri-Sat 11AM-2AM. For more information call (919) 537-8454 or visit their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Front-Porch-Bar-and-Grill/172614322766220.

RETAIL LOCATIONS AVAILABLE FOR LEASE:
Two primely-located retail spots are now open and soliciting proposals: 142 and 144 East Franklin Street. In the Hill Building, these locations are next door to Sugarland Bakery and the Carolina Coffee Shop; with a major bus stop situated near it.



REMINDER: The Town of Chapel Hill will be holding a public hearing on Monday, February 28 at 7PM at Town Hall to gather public input on potential amendments to Chapel Hill's Town Code and Land Use Management Ordinance to permit food trucks (or mobile food units!), with restrictions, in Chapel Hill. For more information - click here. At the bottom of this link are additional attachments (PDF) with more background information, details on what Chapel Hill currently allows with regards to food trucks, and staff recommendations. The full link is : http://chapelhillpublic.novusagenda.com/Bluesheet.aspx?itemid=1102&meetingid=100).

Have you always wanted to own your a business? Well, the LIMELIGHT Boutique, currently owned by Jennifer Whitehead, is up for sale. LIMELIGHT Boutique is located at 402 West Franklin Street, between db sutton salon and The Bookshop. LIMELIGHT Boutique is a women's designer consignment boutique that offers clothing and accessories, as well as items from local artists. For more information please contact Jennifer at 919-929-8119 or limelight402@gmail.com.

Superbowl Party at R&R Supporting Kidzu!

What To Do & See Downtown This Week!

Controversial art, Aveda beauty specials, bridal couture, The Chocolate Door's first anniversary, old timey jam sessions, Sunday brunch, and more. What are you going to do & see downtown this week? Click here to view this week's email blast!

NEW STORE NOW OPEN: LIGHT Art+Design
OPENING RECEPTION: Saturday, February 5, 2011; 6PM to 9PM.

LIGHT is a design shop offering items hand selected by local designer Cindy Spuria that offers a mix of artwork and functional items for the home. Some selections are the work of local artists and crafts people, others by innovative international design brands. All are chosen for their fine craftsmanship, modern point of view, and commitment to a more sustainable future. Some of the artwork and products offered include ceramics by Mark Hewitt, paintings by Casey Cook, jewelry by Phil Manire, L.E.D. lighting by FLOS, rugs by DellaRobbia, and ventless fireplaces by Eco Smart Fire. STORE HOURS: Wednesday-Saturday, 11am-6pm (and by appointment). Located at Greenbridge, 601 West Rosemary Street. For more information call 919-942-7077 or visit www.LIGHTartDESIGN.com or LIGHT's Facebook page.

UNC's Ally Visibility Week: 1/24 to 1/28

UNC's Ally Visibility Week is sponsored by UNC's LGBTQ Center (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer). Ally Visibility Week is an effort to show appreciation for those who actively support people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions on campus and in our community. Throughout the week The LGBTQ Center will be passing out 'ALLY' pins for anyone to wear in order to denote their visible support for equality. Pins are also available at the LGBTQ table in the Pit. As an extra incentive to wear the button and to show appreciation, downtown businesses will be offereing Allys special discounts and deals!

List of Participating Businesses:
McAlister’s Deli – Free drink with purchase of meal
The Clothing Warehouse – 10% off
The Bookshop – 10% off
Johnny T-shirt – 15% off
Chapel Hill Comics – 10% off regularly priced items
PlayMakers – Free coffee card with ticket purchase
The Chocolate Door – Buy one get one free
Internationalist Books – 15% off any LGBTQ books or magazine
Spotted Dog Restaurant – 10% off
The Daily Grind - Free small coffee on Tuesday
The Global Cup Cafe - Free small coffee on Tuesday
Carolina Carwash – $5 off deluxe ($18)
$6 off prestige ($20)
$7 off works ($26)
$20 off int or rdy detail ($89)
$30 off in/out detail
Chapel Hill Tire Co. Car Care Center
$19.95 Oil change
$37.24 EFO (environmentally friendly oil) change including $2 donation
to NC Greenpower Both oil changes come with free tire rotation,
filter, 21 point inspection, and tire pressure check.

What movies do you want to see?

We are planning the Locally Grown Movies & Concert series for 2011 now! Do you have any suggestions of movies - that have a local connection - that you'd like to see? Visit the Locally Grown website: http://www.locally-grown.com/ to see what we showed last year.

Family Violence Prevention Center Benefit this Friday!

Come out this Friday!