One of the things I talk about constantly in this campaign is the need to bring Boulder back to life.

We have too many empty storefronts, and small businesses are struggling due to declining foot traffic.

That’s why - over the next couple of months - Jill for Council is hosting a series of events where the price of admission is simple: support a local business or activate a vacant space.

Please join us and spread the word!

FREE ICE CREAM FRIDAY - Tomorrow, August 21

We’re starting tomorrow. We are supposed to have near-record-breaking heat, and our kiddos just finished their first week of school, so I have teamed up with Lindsay’s Deli to give away ice cream.

Spend $20 or more after tax at any locally owned shop or restaurant in Downtown Boulder or on The Hill, bring your same-day receipt to Lindsay’s Boulder Deli, and my campaign will buy you an ice cream.

Cool off during a very hot Friday, celebrate the first week of school, and put some money into a local business.

A KIDS’ SCAVENGER HUNT ON PEARL

Next up, I’m teaming up with Brighter Start for a family scavenger hunt through downtown Boulder.

Kids and families will make their way through Pearl Street, visiting local businesses, completing clues and activities, and discovering some places they may not have been before.

End of September. More details soon.

ALLISON LORENZEN - LIVE IN A VACANT SPACE

In early October, we’re going to try something a little different.

Musician Allison Lorenzen will play a pop-up show inside a currently vacant space on Pearl Street. Think twinkle lights, thrift store couches, and synthy sounds.

And once again, you won’t buy a ticket from us. Your ticket will be a receipt showing that you spent money that day at a local business or restaurant Downtown or on The Hill.

THE GOONIES - LIVE DOWNTOWN

Then, in mid-October, we’re doing it again, this time with The Goonies at a downtown music venue. If you have never been to a Goonies show, you are in for a real treat. Think 80s, neon, and dancing like there’s no tomorrow.

Same deal: support a local Downtown or Hill business or restaurant, show us your receipt, and come to the show.

**Subscribe to my Substack and keep an eye on my website and socials for details about these special events.

It’s the little things that count.

These are small events. They aren’t going to solve Boulder’s commercial vacancy problem or transform the local economy by themselves. I have actual policy proposals for that (read through my Substack or check out my website at www.jillforcouncil.com

These events reflect something I believe strongly: Boulder should be a place where local businesses can thrive, where our commercial spaces are full of people and ideas, and where more of the money we spend here stays here.