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Chipotle open for business, adds some spice to Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – The Port City just got a little spicier – Chipotle opened for business in Wilmington Tuesday.

The Mexican restaurant is about 2,000 square feet and is located in the same plaza as Whole Foods near Independence Mall off of Oleander Drive.

Chipotle's menu includes things like burritos and tacos.

Chipotle is the third burrito styled restaurant within two miles of the area, joining Flaming Amy's and Moe's Southwest Grill, also on Oleander Drive.

Copyright 2013 WECT. All rights reserved

UNCW 'favorite' says goodbye to students

Ms. Julia spent Monday serving some of her favorite customers on her last day of work.

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – One of UNCW's most well-known employees is calling it quits and starting a new chapter of her life.

Students on campus know Ms. Julia by her first name and first name only.

Julia's been a member of the Einstein Bros. Bagel Company on campus since the day it opened.

For more than ten years, Ms. Julia has greeted, served and laughed with hundreds of customers that order from the popular bagel shop.

The Wilmington native said it is with a heavy heart that she has decided to retire from her career at UNCW.

Students on campus said it only took a few words from her, or even a smile, to help turn their mornings around at UNCW.

 Monday marked Ms. Julia's last day at the bagel shop.

Students came by to order their favorite meal from their favorite employee.

Ms. Julia plans to travel, spend time at the beach and sleep in during retirement.

Whiteville grill recommended by 'Our State' as a place not to miss

Ward's Grill was featured in "Our State" magazine.

WHITEVILLE, NC (WECT) - In each monthly issue, Our State magazine features a variety of food topics. Included in the March issue is Roadside Eats, a list of 70 locally owned food serving places, from the mountains to the coast, they recommend trying -- and on the list is a Whiteville institution, Ward's Grill.

Most mornings, this is where you will find Junior McKeel, behind the grill of the business he has owned and operated for over 40 years. In the early 70s, McKeel bought Ward's Grill. For the past four decades, McKeel has been serving up what many say are the best burgers and hot dogs you'll find for miles around.

"We have a lot of people who have been coming here for years," said McKeel. "We have a lot of people coming in from Fair Bluff, Hallsboro, Delco, Tabor City, Nakina, Williams and Riegelwood, a lot of people from Riegelwood."

Chipotle scheduled to open in mid-March

Chipotle scheduled to open in mid-March

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - The Port City's first Chipotle is expected to officially open its doors by mid-March, according to Chipotle officials.

The Mexican restaurant will be about 2,000 square feet and will be located in the same plaza as Whole Foods near Independence Mall just off of Oleander Dr.

Chipotle's menu includes burritos, tacos and even a kid's menu.

Copyright 2013 WECT. All rights reserved.

Port City Community Church to host 'Purple Carpet Event'

Port City Community Church to host 'Purple Carpet Event'

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Port City Community Church will host a Purple Carpet Event on Saturday, Feb.23.

According to a news release, this event will be a special lunch for children and families that have gone through are currently going through treatment for a life threatening illness. Entertainment and prizes will be provided by the church. This event takes place at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

If you are interested in attending, email, thepurplecarpet2013@gmail.com.

Copyright 2013 WECT. All rights reserved.

Support of NHC businesses needed for school fundraiser

Support of NHC businesses needed for school fundraiser

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC(WECT) - Volunteers with the Murray Middle School PTA are organizing a dinner theater and silent auction on April 4, but they need help from the New Hanover County community -- specifically, local businesses.

The dinner thater and auction will be a unique event that includes a catered dinner, performance, a dessert social and silent auction.

Final deadline to apply for 'Biggest Loser' competition

Final deadline to apply for 'Biggest Loser' competition

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – Today is the deadline to apply for a spot in a local “Biggest Loser” competition.

Anita Harrell, owner of Fitness Motivation, has invited those who are obese to come to her studio to apply for a spot in the challenge.

"This challenge isn't for someone who wants to lose 20 pounds," said Harrell. "It's for people who have gone off the tracks with their fitness. It's for people who need large-scale weight loss in their life."

Six applicants will be selected to win 12 free weeks of personal training. Those selected will be working out with Anita five to seven days a week.

Applications must be turned in by February 11. The program will start at the end of February.

Go to www.fitnessmotivator4u.com for application details. Turn in your application at Fitness Motivation located on 709 North 4th Street, Suite 101, (910) 471-1356.