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3 <br />Laurie explained that it is for a trial run and not to be considered a yearly donation. <br />Expectations are more hotel stays, etc. <br /> <br />Chair Pavao reminded Laurie that we must be good stewards of the occupancy tax dollar <br />and that our research showed that arts did not lure visitors here according to the last <br />visitors profile study. Pavao asked that we keep very close measures on the campaign <br />and pull it if it does produce the desired results, which is to increase visitors or generate <br />interest in the arts. <br /> <br />Barry Jacobs suggested Dukes promotion of their football team/games may also be a <br />potential marketing opportunity for us. It was noted that the Siena and other hotels in that <br />area (between Duke and UNC) would probably benefit the most. Laurie noted that <br />business comes more from the web than anywhere else. <br /> <br />Executive Directors Report <br /> <br />Laurie Paolicelli stated the current focus is on economic development, upping sales and <br />occupancy taxes, etc. She also stated that with a near 10% jump in occupancy tax <br />revenue, tourism is performing well even in our slow economy and UNC - initiated <br />business not staying in Orange County. However the Visitors Bureau is still pushing to <br />get new business and old business back in Orange County. The 2006 Black Alumni <br />meeting was held in Durham (cheaper) but met in Orange County in 2007 and has <br />pledged to meet here in 2008 for the next meeting. Linda Ekeland is focusing on this type <br />of business. $75,000 has been budgeted to promote an increase of hotel occupancy this <br />summer. Laurie noted that an extra 12 occupied rooms a night would generate $800,000 <br />more in revenue. Funds are also budgeted for the 5th qtr, a top 10 for summer campers <br />and a collaboration with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough focusing on day-trippers. <br /> <br />Laurie introduced several lead topics for discussion: guided tours through MP3 and CD <br />mediums, December basketball ticket incentives, what to do on Sundays in Hillsborough <br />and hospital relations. <br /> <br /> <br />NEW BUSINESS <br /> <br />A presentation to the Chapel Hill Town Council requesting a $50,000 increase in support <br />from Chapel Hill is scheduled for this afternoon. Town Council does see a strong parallel <br />in the Visitors Bureau and downtown Chapel Hill. <br /> <br />John Pelletier of Equation Research will be the guest speaker in May. <br /> <br />Willie Best informed board members that the EDC position is still in negotiations. <br /> <br />Jon Wilner informed members that Carrboro was named one of the top 100 arts <br />communities in the country. <br />