🌦️Chapel Hill Local Weather- High 70^o and Mostly Cloudy.

❗Election Primaries Today, Teacher Workday, NO School (CHCCS)

🚸McDougle Middle Ensures Safety After Threatening Incident

🍽️No School? No Problem! Five Places Nearby Your Kids Will Love

🎭Event Highlight: Murder on the Orient Express Opens This Week

🗓️Chapel Hill Local Events

💫Just for Fun: Voting Trivia

Chapel Hill Voters Set to Make Their Mark on Super Tuesday 

Chapel Hill is gearing up for the primary elections today, March 5, 2024, as a crucial part of Super Tuesday. North Carolina's semi-open primary allows unaffiliated voters, a significant portion of the electorate, to participate in either the Democratic or Republican party's primary. The ballot spans from presidential candidates to local office contenders, making it a pivotal moment for voters in Chapel Hill and Orange County. Key local races include competitive bids for the Orange County Board of Commissioners and the Orange County Schools Board of Education. With early voting concluded, residents are urged to review sample ballots and prepare for Election Day.

Please refer to the official Orange County Board of Elections website for further details on where to vote, a sample ballot, and updates on the election.

McDougle Middle Ensures Safety After Threatening Incident, Parents Confident

In response to concerns over school safety at McDougle Middle School, Carrboro, N.C., following a student's threatening comment last week, the school and community have rallied to reaffirm their commitment to a secure learning environment. Fifteen staff called out sick this week. Principal Chris Horne communicated to parents that despite an expected increase in staff absences, safety measures are in full effect. The school, supported by CHCSS spokesperson Andy Jenk, emphasized their ongoing safety plan, vetted by the district administration, ensuring the well-being of students and staff alike.

Parents have expressed confidence in the school's administration and the proactive steps being taken to maintain a safe atmosphere. The incident has prompted a collaborative approach, involving direct discussions with the student and their family, to address and resolve the concerns raised.

The situation underscores the importance of communication, trust, and community engagement in fostering a secure educational environment where students can thrive.

No School? No Problem!

Five Places To Go Nearby Your Kids Will Love

Chapel Hill offers a variety of activities and places for families with children of all ages to explore, learn, and play. Take advantage of the great weather and head out. Here's a summary of five top recommendations:

1. North Carolina Botanical Garden: A peaceful retreat into nature where families can discover native plants and learn about conservation.

2. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center: Engaging interactive exhibits and planetarium shows ignite curiosity about the universe in both children and teenagers.

3. Kidzu Children's Museum: Tailored for younger audiences, Kidzu fosters imaginative play and learning through a variety of interactive exhibits.

4. Spring Haven Farm: Offers a hands-on experience with farm animals and agricultural learning, perfect for all ages.

5. Hit The Parks: Chapel Hill and Carrboro have some of the best parks in the Triangle! If you haven’t been in a while, visit one of the parks or greenways and enjoy the weather! You can find a list of parks here.

These destinations cater to a broad spectrum of interests and age groups, ensuring that every family visit is both entertaining and educational.

Murder on the Orient Express on Display at Playmakers!

Take in a little theatre this weekend out at our local Playmakers Repertory Company! Enjoy Murder on the Orient Express with discounted tickets to preview performances starting on March 6th, 7th, and 8th, or attend their Opening Night Celebration on Saturday, March 9th at 7:30 p.m. complete with drinks, and light hors d’oeuvres and an artist meet-and-greet. You can even take advantage of the Share the Show option on Sunday that provides childcare while you watch the show and lets the kids in on age-appropriate fun!

Synopsis:

PlayMakers Repertory Company at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is thrilling audiences with its adaptation of Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express." This production, adapted by Ken Ludwig and directed by Tracy Bersley, immerses spectators in a gripping narrative set aboard the luxurious Orient Express train. When a passenger is mysteriously murdered, the remaining travelers are thrust into a suspenseful investigation to identify the murderer among them. This engaging performance, part of the 2023-2024 season lineup that includes notable works such as "Clyde's" by Lynn Nottage and "The Game" by UNC alum Bekah Brunstetter, showcases the exceptional talents of professional and student actors alike. Recognized as one of America's premier regional theaters, PlayMakers Repertory Company exemplifies the highest standards of theatrical production and artistic integrity.

This show runs for two (2) hours with a fifteen-minute intermission. Please arrive at least fifteen minutes before the curtain to allow for parking. Late seating is strongly discouraged. You can buy tickets here or in the Events links below 👇

The production will be performed at Joan H Gillings Center for Dramatic Art,120 Country Club Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27599

⬇️Here is what’s going on in the Chapel Hill local area⬇️

Voting Trivia of the Day

Which of the following facts about Voting in North Carolina is true?

A) Unaffiliated (Independent) voters are allowed to vote in either the Democratic or Republican primaries.

B) Chapel Hill is the largest city in North Carolina by population and was once voted most likely to succeed.

C) Voter ID is required to vote this year. Photo IDs include a driver’s license, UNC student ID, or a state-issued ID.

D) The town's main street, Franklin Street, is named after Sir Walter Raleigh after winning a vote for town mayor.

E) No voter will be turned away from Orange County polling locations.

Correct Answer: A) C) and E)