In this Chapel Hill Insider Issue…

⛅Chapel Hill Local Weather- High 67^o and Partly Cloudy

📰Join the Literary Celebration: Independent Bookstore Day This Saturday

📰Controversy Erupts in UNC System Over DEI Policy Overhaul

📰Heightened Alert: Vehicle Break-Ins Spike at Orange County Nature Parks

🗓️Upcoming Events (UPDATED)

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Join the Literary Celebration: Independent Bookstore Day This Saturday

Independent Bookstore Day is this Saturday, April 27, 2024 and is sure to be a delightful celebration of literary culture and community spirit. Filled with gems for book lovers and havens for bibliophiles, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Pittsboro and Durham boasts several independent bookstores that are sure to participate in this special event:

• Flyleaf Books, 752 M.L.K. Blvd, Chapel Hill, is having a major celebration which includes trivia, tie dye t-shirt activity, a Golden Ticket prize and much more!

• Epilogue Books Chocolate Brews, 109 E. Franklin St. Chapel Hill, is celebrating with discounts on books, drinks and pasteries and also has a Golden Ticket prize to find!

• McIntyre’s Books in Pittsboro, is celebrating 35 years in business by giving away cookies from Fearington House and has a Golden Ticket prize as well.

Other Indie bookstores and businesses nearby that are participating (and some that may not be):

• Golden Fig Books, 200 N. Greensboro St., Carrboro

• Peel Gallery & Photo Lab, 708 W. Rosemary St., Carrboro

• Purple Crow Books in Hillsborough

• Circle City Books & Music, 121 Hillsboro St., Pittsboro

• The Regulator Bookshop, Durham

• Rofhiwa Book Cafe, 406 S. Driver St, Durham

• Letters Bookshop, Durham

Controversy Erupts in UNC System Over DEI Policy Overhaul

Faculty and students throughout the University of North Carolina System are expressing their dismay and frustration following the unexpected introduction of a new policy aimed at eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across campuses. The policy, which was swiftly added to a Board of Governors meeting agenda, proposes to dismantle existing DEI structures mandated by a 2019 initiative. This earlier policy required all UNC campuses to employ DEI officers and staff.

The University of North Carolina System faces controversy over a proposed policy to eliminate DEI initiatives, introduced without prior discussion or transparency. This policy aims to replace the 2019 mandate for DEI officers with "institutional neutrality," leading to cuts in DEI funding and staffing. Faculty and students are mobilizing to oppose the change, citing concerns over governance, inclusivity, and the broader impact on university culture and operations. A decisive Board of Governors meeting is scheduled for May 23, where the policy will be up for a final vote.

Vehicle Break-Ins Spike at Orange County Nature Parks

In Orange County, authorities are actively seeking a man linked to multiple vehicle break-ins at local hiking trailheads. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has released surveillance images of the suspect and a vehicle, believed to be involved in the crimes. The specific incident under close investigation occurred on April 9 at Hollow Rock Nature Park, situated between Chapel Hill and Durham.

The suspect, captured in the released images, is described as a tall male, around six feet two inches, with a medium build. He is associated with a black Chevrolet Tahoe, model years 2001-2006, notable for its tinted windows. This vehicle was also identified in another recent break-in by a hiker who provided a photo of the suspect vehicle, confirming its involvement in the ongoing thefts.

Recent reports from other local nature spots, including Johnston Nature Preserve and New Hope Creek Trail, suggest a pattern of similar incidents occurring within a short span of time. The consistent reports and proximity of these incidents have led investigators to believe they are interconnected.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office urges the public to stay vigilant and report any sightings of the suspect or the described vehicle by contacting Investigator Stewart at (919) 245- 2925 if you recognize the man, or if you see a similar vehicle at area trails and nature parks. Please remember this is a suspect and to not engage.

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.

Chapel Hill Community Park 120 South Estes Dr, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Date: April 27, 2024 Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Chapel Hill Community Center Park will transform into an enchanted wonderland for "A Magical Day of Art, Adventure, & Nature." This family-friendly event will offer free activities such as fairy hair styling, face painting, fortune-telling, and more. Food trucks and various art and adventure activities will also be available. If you have ever wanted to walk around dressed as a fairy or an elf and feel perfectly natural, now’s your chance.

Saving 20th-Century Music

The Prime Time Players are set to honor 20th-century music this spring, featuring everything from barbershop harmonies to Vaudeville classics. Participate in singing, playing instruments, and dancing along to Tin Pan Alley ballads. The lineup will also encompass beloved country music hits, folk revival selections, and cinema's most cherished songs. Get ready to groove to rock-and-roll and reggae rhythms at this free event!

Fridays on the Front Porch

Experience the charm of Chapel Hill each Friday at the Carolina Inn’s “Fridays on the Front Porch” event. Located at 211 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill, the event is sure to be a great way to enjoy the season. Running every Friday from April 19 through October 25, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this local favorite is the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Although the first event on April 19th has been canceled due to anticipated bad weather, the series promises plenty of excitement with live music, handcrafted cocktails, North Carolina beers, and a diverse selection of food from local food trucks. The event caters to all age groups, making it an ideal outing for everyone looking to unwind in a festive atmosphere. Click here to see the lineup. This Friday, April 26th, listen to the Jimmy Hayes Band and enjoy Don Taco y Su Pandilla and How Bout Burger food trucks!

Cat’s Cradle

@ The Cave

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