In this Chapel Hill Insider Issue…

⛅Chapel Hill Local Weather- High 74^o and Partly Cloudy

📰 Chapel Hill Tire Invests in Future Mechanics Through Innovative Apprenticeship Program

📰 Boost Carrboro Virtual Business Expo Set to Empower Local Entrepreneurs

📰 Hillsborough Mayor Outlines Vision for 'Village of Villages' in Keynote Address

❎ Results of Poll: Which Orthodontist Would You Recommend?

📢 We Want to Spotlight Local Businesses! Want Your Business to Be in Focus? Apply Here! Want to nominate a business? Email us at [email protected]

🗓️Upcoming Events 

📢Have an Event You’d Like to Share? Let us know! Click Here to Give Us the Deets!

Chapel Hill Tire Invests in Future Mechanics Through Innovative Apprenticeship Program

Chapel Hill Tire with 11 locations in the Triangle is actively addressing the critical shortage of skilled workers in the auto service industry by partnering with the North Carolina Triangle Apprenticeship Program (NCTAP). This collaboration is designed to attract and train the next generation of auto service professionals, providing a vital bridge between young talent and the industry's growing needs.

The NCTAP offers a comprehensive four-year training program that marries classroom learning with real-world experience, tailored to young individuals who might not find their calling in traditional four-year colleges. According to Terry Govoreau, Human Resources Director at Chapel Hill Tire, this initiative not only provides a practical alternative to conventional educational paths but also reassures parents that their children are receiving a robust education geared towards immediate employability.

The apprenticeship program is structured as a hybrid of work and school, allowing participants to engage in hands-on work at Chapel Hill Tire for 32 hours a week, alongside 8 hours of academic instruction. Each apprentice is considered a full-time employee, benefitting from the same full benefits package as other employees, which underscores the company's commitment to their long-term development and well-being.

Govoreau has been a proactive advocate for careers in the auto service sector, personally engaging with students at local high schools and career fairs to highlight the opportunities the industry offers, particularly for those not inclined to pursue a traditional college degree. This partnership with NCTAP is just one part of Chapel Hill Tire's broader strategy to support young people and promote skilled trades, ensuring the industry's vibrancy and resilience.

Boost Carrboro Virtual Business Expo Set to Empower Local Entrepreneurs

The upcoming Boost Carrboro Virtual Business Expo is set to revolutionize the way local businesses and entrepreneurs in Carrboro and its vicinity operate and grow. Scheduled for next Monday evening, April 29, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m., the expo will take place entirely online, providing a convenient platform for accessing critical business resources, expert advice, and networking opportunities.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Town of Carrboro and Infinity Bridges Inc., aiming to present local businesses with practical strategies for growth and expansion. Attendees will have the chance to participate in a workshop led by Funding Strategist LaTasha Best-Gaddy, which promises to offer valuable insights tailored specifically to established business owners. The event will also feature a variety of speaking sessions and virtual exhibitor booths, enabling participants to connect with reputable organizations and service providers to explore new partnership avenues and gain essential industry insights.

Registration for the expo is open and free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all interested local business personnel. Additional details about the event, including information on sponsorship and partnership opportunities, are available through conference curator Chisa Pennix-Brown. This expo represents a pivotal moment for the Carrboro business community, providing the tools and connections necessary to thrive in a competitive market. To register or for more information, click here.

Hillsborough Mayor Outlines Vision for 'Village of Villages' in Keynote Address

Mayor Mark Bell, in his first State of the Town address, highlighted the crucial role of community groups in Hillsborough. He emphasized the town's historical and cultural significance and detailed upcoming challenges like infrastructure upgrades and new capital projects. Bell encouraged residents to engage with local community groups, referred to as 'villages,' to foster a strong community network and contribute to the town's development. The address is available for viewing on the town’s YouTube channel.

Poll Results: Who Do You Trust for Your Smile?

Thank you all who voted and shared your recommendations with other Insiders! It looks like most of those who answered trust Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, followed by Smith & Heymann Orthodontics. There were no write-ins this time, but here’s a comment from one of our voters:

“Clifton & Mauney and every single person on their team is top notch. We've been very happy under their care (of our children's teeth)”

Do you find these polls helpful? If so, what business do you want to know about next? Email us at [email protected]!

Come out to the Tiki Bar for an evening of FUN & Frolic with the Nomads Band!  No cover!

Location of the Event Capt. John’s Dockside Tiki Bar in Cole Park Plaza

Street Address: 11550 US 15 501 Hwy N, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516 (click to navigate in Google Maps on mobile)

Orange County residents will have multiple opportunities to safely dispose of unused or expired medications at several drive-thru events scheduled for this April. On April 18th, from 1 to 4 pm, the Passmore Center in Hillsborough will host one such event, providing a convenient way for locals to rid their homes of unnecessary medications. Following this, on April 27th, there will be two additional opportunities: Wegman’s Grocery Store in Chapel Hill will offer this service from 10 am to 2 pm, and the Walmart in Hillsborough will host a morning session from 9 am to 12 pm.

For those unable to attend these events, Orange County provides a year-round solution through several permanent drop boxes located throughout the area. Residents can find the nearest drop box location by visiting the Orange County website at www.orangecountync.gov/dropboxes. These initiatives are part of the county's commitment to public health and safety by ensuring medications are disposed of in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.

Town Council Meeting

Date and Time: April 24, 2024, at 6:00 PM

Cat’s Cradle

@ The Cave