Thursday, June 17, 2004

TO: Wilmington Area Media

DATE: June 16, 2004

FROM: Sarah Briney, University Relations intern

For Mimi Cunningham, UNCW, and Scott Czechlewski, Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce

RE: News conference launching “Paint the Town Teal” campaign 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 23, 2004, FNB Southeast Bank, 704 South College Road, Wilmington, NC

You are invited to attend a news conference designed to launch the joint Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce and UNCW “Paint the Town Teal” campaign at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 23, at the FNB Southeast Bank on South College Road. This event will be the official kick off of the “Paint the Town Teal” effort to show support of the Wilmington business community for University of North Carolina at Wilmington students, faculty, and staff.

With its more than 11,000 students, 1,600 faculty and staff, and an annual $400 million economic impact on Southeastern North Carolina, UNCW also brings visitors to town the equivalent of a major conference each month. This joint Chamber/UNCW initiative was designed to enable businesses to visually demonstrate their welcome and support for those in “Seahawk Country.”

Speaking will be FNB Southeast Bank City Executive Paul McCombie, who will serve as master of ceremonies, UNCW Chancellor Rosemary DePaolo and Chamber President Connie Majure-Rhett. The press conference will unveil Seahawk items that may be purchased by local businesses to show their support. Following the ceremony, Kohl’s will unveil and serve a special “Seahawk” flavor custard in the conference room at FNB Southeast Bank.