FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS 
NEWSLETTER 

CONTENTS
(Click on a headline to go directly to the article.)

FEARRINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY NEWS

DEER TOWN MEETING ATTRACTS 200

Approximately 200 Fearringtonians gathered at the Barn for about 21/2 hours on October 17 to hear and discuss the pros and cons of the FHA's proposed deer herd management plan.

The Town Meeting opened at 7 p.m. with presentations by Scott Osborne, a biologist with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission; Fearrington resident Nancy Oram, a retired pathology technician; Gayle Ruedi, a resident presenting The Committee to Stop The Hunt, and John Custer, an FHA board member.

Osborne, who deals with the deer problem across North Carolina, said his commission is always looking for new ways to manage deer herds "and find a way to live in peace with the wildlife around us."

He said Fearrington's deer population "seems stabilized and healthy."

Osborne discussed a number of controls, including fencing, contraceptives, repellants and hunting and said, "Hunting is always our preferred method of controlling deer."

Oram said, "Lyme Disease is now the most common arthropod-borne illness in the United States." More than 100,000 cases have been reported to the Center For Disease Control in the last 20 years. The infection is carried by deer ticks.

"This is one nasty disease!" Oram declared. She has had it, and her husband Bob has had three occurrences. His most recent bout led to a heart problem. "We have friends who can no longer write or even walk. We have lost friends to this disease. Older adults and children are at greater risk. People who enjoy outdoor activities are much more prone to getting Lyme, since the ticks are everywhere. In the two years since I retired, five new tick-borne diseases have been discovered. Deer are the primary carriers. "

"The more deer there are," she continued, "the less natural balance there is. Birds and other insects that eat the ticks simply cannot keep up and so the tick population grows. As it grows, the need for hosts grows also. Since we have so many humans in such a small space and so many deer, the stage is already set for all kinds of tick-borne disease."

She concluded, "For those of you who do not believe we have any Lyme Disease here, I want you to know that as of Monday, in speaking to someone at UNC, they said the incidence of Lyme Disease has increased greatly here in the past two years."

More information on Lyme Disease, Oram said, is available on the Internet at American Lyme Disease Foundation, www.aldf.com; U.S. Center for Disease Control, www.cdc.gov; Lyme net, www.lymenet,org, and WebMD. Her complete remarks are posted at http://www.forrestgreenslade.com/lyme.htm. For a list of deer-resistant garden plants: http://www.athomewithcarol ann.com/deer.htm.

Ruedi's comments essentially duplicated the committee's statement that appears after this article. She introduced three speakers, all Fearrington residents:

• Margaret George, who graphically described a bow hunt and its aftermath.

• Margaret Mullinix, a registered nurse who said that the deer tick is carried by all species of mammals except bats and 49 species of birds. Therefore, thinning the herd will not reduce the chances of contracting Lyme Disease.

• Tom Hauck, who warned that the FHA might not be covered for possible damages and liabilities resulting from a bow hunt. He described the hunt as "an accident waiting to happen" and said residents might have to pay an assessment if the FHA were on the losing end of a lawsuit. He urged the board to amend its insurance contract to get the necessary protection.

Ruedi concluded her presentation by calling the FHA's proposal "inhumane" and saying that it "won't solve or even address the problem."

Both she and Osborne said annual bow hunts would be needed to control the Fearrington herd. "It's not something you do one time," Osborne said.

Custer reiterated the board's support of a bow hunt (reported in the September and October Newsletters). He noted that George Strader, a state wildlife biologist, outlined eight options at the May 9 FHA board meeting and concluded that a controlled bow hunt is the best method to reduce the Fearrington herd.

After a brief intermission, 11 residents asked questions on a variety of topics, including Lyme Disease, liability, projected growth of the Fearrington deer population, covenant controls on anti-deer fencing and disposal of dead deer.

Before the meeting concluded, 13 residents spoke for or against a bow hunt.

Comments included:

• "I have to admit, I have difficulty in driving within the speed limit here in Fearrington. But after reading what we can do to keep our roadsides safe for humans and animals, I resolve to do my part by adhering to the speed limits to make our community safe.
• "By cooperating as a caring community, we can practically eliminate the deer-vehicle collision problem and not kill a single deer-neither with our cars nor with bow and arrow."
• "We have to control the deer herd to protect our health-and theirs."
• "Everything (anti-deer measures) works for a while, then 'Boom.' I'm frustrated and saddened. I strongly support a hunt."
• "The presence of deer was a selling point. We moved to the forest to be with the deer."
• "We can accommodate. Let's leave the deer alone."
• "The FHA should set up a committee to work with individuals to solve their problems."
• "A hunt is a totally illogical and pointless exercise."
• "Trees are part of the beauty of Fearrington. So are the deer."

-Bob Comey
(Return to the Table of Contents)

ANOTHER VOICE ON THE DEER KILL

In the September and October Newsletters, the FHA Board published what it believes to be the facts surrounding the proposed deer kill. In the following, The Committee to Stop the Hunt, composed of concerned Fearrington residents, presents an alternate view. There are three areas that need to be addressed:

• The misinformation and misrepresentations that have been widely communicated about the so-called deer problem.

• The realities of a bow-and-arrow hunt.

• How the Committee to Stop the Hunt believes Fearrington Village should address the deer issue.

MISINFORMATION AND MISREPRESENTATIONS

The herd is too large and is growing rapidly. There is no scientifically sound data to support either of these assertions. The NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) has stated that there is no deer herd in NC that is too large to be adequately sustained in healthy condition. Further, all official reports indicate that the deer population in NC seems to be remaining relatively stable.

Deer are the reason people are getting Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The black-legged tick that transmits Lyme Disease is carried by 49 bird species and all mammals except bats. Therefore, the removal of some or all of the white-tailed deer will not eliminate or even reduce the tick population. The ticks merely switch to other hosts or occur at higher densities on the remaining deer. Deer play no part in Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

Deer present a traffic hazard in Fearrington Village. It is true that a collision between a car and a deer is a serious situation. However, the speed limit throughout Fearrington Village is 25 mph and anyone observing that limit should be able to stop in time to avoid a collision with a deer. This is especially true if good defensive driving practices are observed and extra vigilance is exercised early in the morning and at dusk, as well as during the mating and hunting season.

Deer eat gardens. Deer do eat vegetation, including gardens. But there are many indigenous, drought-resistant plants that deer aren't attracted to. There also are a variety of fencing options, commercially available repellants and other homemade solutions available.

THE REALITIES OF A BOW-AND-ARROW HUNT

Bow-and-arrow hunting is one of the cruelest forms of hunting, wounding far more animals than it kills. Dozens of scientific studies indicate that bow hunting yields more than a 50 percent crippling rate (Adrian Benke, The Bowhunting Alternative, 1989). For every animal dragged dead from the woods, at least one animal is left wounded to suffer. Even the most expert bow hunter will admit that there is not even a remote chance that a deer will simply fall over dead on the spot where it is hit. In reality, depending on where the deer is hit, the hunter is advised to wait up to 12 hours before closing in for the kill. The Humane Society of the United States has stated that bow-and-arrow hunting is both inhumane and ineffective. It points to the fact that many badly injured animals are never retrieved and suffer long, lingering deaths as a result.

Fearrington's deer population is not a "closed herd." Deer come into and out of Fearrington at will. Therefore, even if we use this brutal method to thin the herd, other deer will seek the abundant vegetation. Also, Mother Nature's inevitable quest to seek balance will cause a thinned herd to produce more young in subsequent years, meaning that the hunt would become an annual event.

There is a possibility of liability for Fearrington residents. If the hunt proceeds at the invitation of the FHA Board and someone is hurt or killed as a result of the hunt, all of us could be liable for a large lawsuit judgment. The FHA Board has no insurance covering this situation.

So far, there have only been a few brief clips on local TV news and some letters to the editor, editorials and short articles in newspapers about the Fearrington deer hunt. But any media coverage of such a sensitive issue is not good for Fearrington Village.

WHAT DOES THE COMMITTEE TO STOP THE HUNT RECOMMEND?
1. Plant "deer resistant/compatible" gardens, as a number of Fearrington residents have already done.
2. Reinstate fencing. This is an important issue that needs to be re-visited.
3. Take precautionary steps in what you wear when gardening and check thoroughly for ticks after returning to the house.
4. Drive defensively.

TO SUMMARIZE:
1. There has been considerable misinformation on the so-called deer problem.
2. The proposed bow-and-arrow hunt is inhumane and will not solve or even address the issues that concern some Fearrington residents.
3. We, as a community, should commit much more energy to other alternatives that would more directly address some of the issues.
4. Undertaking the proposed bow-and-arrow hunt to thin the deer herd will have far-reaching and long-term adverse effects on all aspects of life at Fearrington-home values, the success of Fearrington Village businesses and how we are viewed by the larger community around us.

We urge you to vote "no" to the proposed "deer herd thinning" at the November 24 meeting. In the interim, learn all the "true facts" that you can so that your vote is an informed one. The Committee will be glad to provide information to anyone who calls 542-6448 or 542-1867, or e-mails gruedi@mindspring.com  or Bhanly@aol.com.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

VOTING PROCEDURE FOR DEER MANAGEMENT ISSUE

The FHA Board has discussed the best way of assuring a fair method for residents to express their opinion regarding deer management. After the October 17 special meeting, the board will develop a ballot with a proposal for managing the deer. A sample ballot will be posted in the kiosks and mailed to non-resident owners.

Residents will be asked to vote on the issue at the Annual Meeting on November 24 in the Barn. A ballot for Officers and a separate ballot for the deer will be issued to the lot owner between 2 and 3 p.m. Only one ballot per lot will be issued and the owner is asked to sign and date the ballot. Depending on the number of ballots cast, the results will either be announced at the meeting or soon thereafter. A simple majority of lot owners will decide the issue.

Resident owners who will be out of town at the time of the meeting will be able to complete an absentee ballot at the Gathering Place on a date and time to be announced. Non-resident owners will receive a ballot by mail and can return it to the Secretary with their proxy votes for officers. Questions? Please contact Mary Hammond or Ed Farnan.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FHA ANNUAL MEETING

The Annual Meeting of the Fearrington Homeowners Association

Is scheduled for November 24, 2002, at 3 p.m. in The Barn

Voting from 2 to 3 p.m. for Officers, Directors and Deer Management Issue
(Return to the Table of Contents)

NOTEWORTHY CONTRIBUTIONS RECOGNIZED

Four Fearrington residents-Ottilie Condolff, Robert Leopold, Betty Ann Miller and David Stallard-are among 15 recipients of 2002 Chatham County Outstanding Volunteer Awards. They were honored at a Community Celebration on September 16 for their noteworthy contributions to the quality of life in Chatham County.

Ottilie Condolff was recognized for providing more than 1,500 hours to UNC Hospice over the past nine years. She has touched many lives in Chatham County by providing valuable, "behind-the-scenes" administrative support to the Hospice office, which has allowed staff to provide more hours of direct support to the agency's terminally ill clients and their families.

Robert Leopold has volunteered for more than six years to provide blind, elderly and print-impaired people with access to printed news and information. Each week, he reads newspapers and other published information for the Triangle Reading Service, a Raleigh-based agency that broadcasts his recordings (including humorous comments) over a special radio signal throughout the Triangle.

Betty Ann Miller has provided much leadership over the years to help Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library support library services in Pittsboro. During her tenure as president, she enlarged and diversified its membership and encouraged innovative educational, artistic and fundraising programs. Betty Ann has also volunteered with the Chatham Habitat for Humanity Home Store for five years and is active in Fearrington Cares and the Fearrington Homeowners Association.

David Stallard is a retired electrical engineer who over the past five years has volunteered hundreds of "hands-on" hours to assisting Chatham Habitat in providing 14 new homeowners and their families with affordable housing and improved quality of life. His exemplary volunteer service averages 16 hours per week and includes many stages of the construction process such as planning and installing electrical systems, paperwork and procuring materials.

Later this year, the Volunteer Center, a program of the United Way of Chatham County, will announce the county's five 2002 North Carolina Award honorees. The statewide volunteer recognition program was formerly known as the Governor's Award.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WHAT'S GOING ON IN FEARRINGTON

LIBERTARIAN TO ADDRESS REPUBLICAN CLUB

On Wednesday, October 30, at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place, the Republican Club of Fearrington will hold its last meeting of 2002.

Our main speaker will be Libertarian Michael P. Coffee, running against Democrat Bunkey Morgan for Chatham County Commissioner in District 4.

Coffee lives on a 15-acre farm outside Siler City and opposed the actions of the county commissioners who voted to impose "extraterritorial jurisdiction" on his property despite the Planning Board's contrary recommendation. His philosophy is that five commissioners should not decide what is best for the county (with their own personal objectives) without input from the thousands of people living in the county.

He lived in Asheville for many years and worked there for Bell South until he was promoted to the Chapel Hill central office as an electronic technician and moved to the Siler City environs. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve.

We will also hear from Dawn Stumpf, director of the Board of Elections in Chatham County and learn more about "no excuse" early voting.

This will be Gloria Lambert's last meeting as president of the club. A large turnout will reflect our gratitude for her revitalization of the Fearrington Republican Club. She will introduce the new officers for 2003. All Fearringtonians are invited.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON PALETTEERS EXTEND AN INVITATION

The Fearrington Paletteers were organized in l994 for the purpose of bringing together Fearringtonians who are interested in drawing and painting (water-based media only). The group meets every Tuesday in the Gathering Place from 1 to 4 p.m. from September through June. Dues are $30 per year.

From time to time workshops are given by local artists, although no formal instruction is arranged on a regular basis. The group meets because of a mutual interest in art and to interact with others of a similar bent. It is envisioned as an activity to "enrich those participating and to be inclusive of all those interested." All are invited to join or to just stop in to say "hello" and find out what it's all about.

Every year, The Paletteers hang a show in the Gathering Place of works the members have produced during the previous year. Always enthusiastically received, this year the show will be held in February. Details will appear in the January Newsletter. The show is open to all Fearringtonians and we hope to welcome a large group of art lovers. It's been said that there has been a huge improvement in the quality of work displayed since l994.-Anne Botto
(Return to the Table of Contents)

MCINTYRE'S NOVEMBER EVENTS

• Saturday, November 2, 11 a.m., Michael Malone will read from his just-published novel, The Last Noel. In order for any books to be signed, the store requests that one of the author's titles be purchased from McIntyre's.
• Friday, November 8, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Open Mike Literary Night. Share and support local creative talent with friends and neighbors. For more information, call 542-3030.
• Saturday, November 9, 11 a.m. Lee Smith's forthcoming novel, The Last Girls, recently landed its third starred prepublication review. Publishers Weekly said, "The Big Chill meets Huckleberry Finn in a moving novel inspired by a real-life episode." In order for any books to be signed, the store requests that one of the author's titles be purchased from McIntyre's.
• Friday, November 15, 6:30 pm., Pat Conroy will stop by to sign copies of his new memoir, My Losing Season, a book about his ill-fated year playing basketball for the Citadel. He will only sign books purchased from McIntyre's.
• Saturday, November 16, 11 a.m., Chef and author Anthony Bourdain will read from the recently issued paperback version of A Cook's Tour: In Search of the Perfect Meal. For any books to be signed, the store requests that one of the author's titles be purchased from McIntyre's.
• Saturday, November 23, 11 a.m., Silas House will read from his latest novel, A Parchment of Leaves.
• Saturday, November 30, 11 a.m., Joe Ashby Porter will read from his new collection of stories, Touch Wood: Short Stories. For any books to be signed, the store requests that one of the author's titles be purchased from McIntyre's.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

THESPIANS PRESENT 'LOVE LETTERS'

The Thespians will meet on Sunday, November 3, at the Gathering Place. Bob and Phyllis Barr will produce and star in Love Letters.

All Fearringtonians are welcome.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

LECTURES OFFER INSIGHTS ON GOSPEL OF MATTHEW

James M. Efird's lectures continue at the Gathering Place on Tuesdays, November 4, 11 and 18, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Dr. Efird will present more insights on the Gospel of Matthew. Dr. Efird continues to serve as a professor of biblical interpretation at Duke Divinity School, where he has been a faculty member for 41 years.

In previous lectures at Fearrington, he has succeeded in making the Bible less mysterious for his listeners by introducing historical and cultural information many of us haven't heard before.

What's more, Dr. Efird almost always leaves us laughing.

Come hear this scholar with the twinkle in his eye. The lectures are free and are arranged by members of Christian Bible Study Groups in Fearrington. All residents are welcome.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

ARTS & CRAFTS TO HEAR TALK ON FASHIONS

At our meeting on Monday, November 4, at 1:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place, Pam Smith, owner of Beggars and Choosers in Pittsboro, will give a program on 1800-1900 accessories and the role they played in women's fashions.

Also, members may pick up tags identifying the children in our annual foster children project for whom we will buy holiday gifts. We will also appreciate checks to help fund gift shopping for the Chatham County patients at John Umstead Hospital in Butner (see separate article in this newsletter).
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON UNC CLUB TO TOUR RIZZO CENTER

Please join your fellow alumni in our fall activities:

• Tuesday, November 5, 10 a.m.-a tour of the Rizzo Center.
• First or second week in November-a service day to help clean up the main roads in Fearrington.
• Friday, December 13-a Holiday Party at Rea and Sandra Hinson's home.

Call Philip Cree (545-9794) or Harriet McGraw (542-7342) for information or questions.

Dues of $15 per household can be paid to Philip Cree.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

AN INVITATION TO PLAY BRIDGE

The Duplicate Bridge group welcomes everyone to the November games, on the 6th and 13th, at 1 p.m. George and Lucy McKinney are co-chairs. Maxine Margolin is treasurer, and Elly Kealey is publicity chair. Do come!
(Return to the Table of Contents)

TRAVEL FROM TURKEY TO BANGKOK

On Wednesday, November 6, at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place, the Fearrington Travel Club will present a professionally produced video and commentary by Ann and Charlie Smith-"World Cruise With Princess Lines." Travel by cruise ship from Turkey to Bangkok via the Suez Canal with stops in Greece, Israel, Egypt, Oman, India, Singapore and Malaysia.

All Fearringtonians interested in travel and/or photography are invited to attend. Any questions, call Sue or Don Zehl at 542-4076.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

NEW DEVELOPMENTS AT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Charlotte Jones-Roe from the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill will speak to the Fearrington Garden Club on Tuesday, November 19, at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place.

The main emphasis of her talk will be the 100th birthday party for the Coker Arboretum on April 11, 2003. She will also bring Fearrington gardeners up to date on important programs of the Botanical Garden.

Ms. Jones-Roe has worked at the Botanical Garden since 1974 and has served in a variety of capacities, including curator of the Coastal Plain and Fern Collections; assistant director for conservation and development and currently, assistant director for development. Jones-Roe received a bachelor of arts degree at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and a master of arts from Goddard College in Vermont.

All Fearrington residents are welcome.

The December meeting will be the Garden Club's much heralded Holiday Party for members, so be sure to come and join the Garden Club in November. Dues are $9 per year.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WOMEN'S CLUB TO HEAR TALK ON CHAPEL HILL PRESERVATION

You've heard the history of Fearrington and Chatham County, and now it's your chance to hear about our northerly neighbor-Chapel Hill. The Fearrington Women's Club will feature a presentation on the Chapel Hill Preservation Society at its regular meeting at 2 p.m., Wednesday, November 20, at the Gathering Place.

Beth Isenhour, president of the Chapel Hill Preservation Society, will be our guest speaker. The society, which endeavors to preserve the unique identity of Chapel Hill, is headquartered at the Horace Williams House, a home of historical significance and cultural center for our community. The society offers a wide range of attractions and services and regularly features art exhibits, concerts, lectures and other events, usually free of charge. Do not miss this upcoming event.

Also, be sure to check the FHA website from time to time for other information.

The Women's Club makes an effort to invite all newcomers to Fearrington to casual coffees. A wealth of material relating to Carolina living is made available at the coffees: community services and activities, education and cultural offerings, etc. If you have a new neighbor or know of someone new to the area, contact either Julie Smith (545-0790) or Dody Tredinnick (545-2058) and let them know the name, address and phone number of the newcomer. They will do the rest.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HAVE A GREAT EVENING-AND SUPPORT A NEEDED SERVICE

Please join the Family Violence and Rape Crisis Services for an evening of celebration on Friday, November 22, at 5:30 p.m. at the Barn.

• Wine tasting (wonderful selection from the event sponsor, Sante Wine Distributors).

• Heavy hors d'oeuvres by talented local chefs.

• Live jazz.

• Retrospective celebration of 20 years of working with the greater Chatham County community to make this a safer place for women, children and families.

Adult tickets: $50 (now); $55 (at the door)

Chances will be available for special prizes, i.e., two round-trip tickets on US Airways. The minimum to enter is a $20 donation

For more information, please contact the FVRC at 542-5445 or Nancy Foster at 542-0407. Inquire about host or sponsor packages.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

VIDEO FEATURES JACK BENNY

The Documentary Film Society will present The Jack Benny Show on Sunday, November 24, at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. The video features two outstanding Jack Benny television performances with the usual cast of characters, including Mary Livingston, Rochester, et al.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON WRITERS GROUP TO HEAR ABOUT 'BEST READS'

The Fearrington Writers Group will meet at the Gathering Place on Monday, November 25, from 1 to 3 p.m. The meeting will feature a presentation, Best Reads of 2002, by Peter Mock. Peter is an experienced bookseller employed by McIntyre's Fine Books. The Writers Group welcomes any Fearrington resident who is currently writing or just thinking about writing.

For additional information, contact Barry L. Reece at breece@mindspring. com or Forrest Greenslade at fgreenslade@nc.rr.com.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WINTER FUN AT THE POOL

Anchors Aweigh for Fearrington Guys and Dolls who would like to sail their radio controlled model sailboats and cruisers on the pool this winter!

The Pool Board has given a "go for it" for two Monday afternoon hours each week, beginning in January.

Eight years ago, our "fleet" went into dry dock due to unstable political weather. Now we're ready for fun again. Visitors welcome to view the action. No dues.

For answers to your questions, call Dick Williamson at 542-0732.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

MOVIE CLUB DARKENS THE SCREEN

Despite the fact that everyone we talked to thought the idea of showing a movie once a month at the Gathering Place was a marvelous idea, the truth of the matter is that we threw a party and nobody came.

Attendance for the September showing of Howard's End was four. In August, we had a grand total of two. The $5 collected from more than 40 people last year to cover the rent on the Gathering Place and the movie rentals were not a problem. Perhaps if we had raised the ante to $50 and shown a movie every week, we would have had a better turnout.

Oh well, it was fun while it lasted. Thanks to Philip and Gilda Cree for their help in renting the films, preparing the room and running the projector. -George Woolfe
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FALL CLEANUP NOVEMBER 11-15

ATTENTION!! FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS ATTENTION!!

Phases I - V Weathersfield The Woods Bush Creek

Our FALL CLEANUP will be held beginning Monday, November 11, and ending Friday, November 17. Leaves, brush, and tree limbs (not over 6 feet in length) should be placed on the shoulder of the road to be picked up throughout this period. Residents are reminded that:

BAGS OR BUNDLES ONLY
• All leaves must be in bags.
• Brush and limbs must be tied in bundles*.
• No garbage should be included.
• This service is for yard debris, not the result of major clearing efforts. Excessive amounts will not be picked up unless you contact Tom Seaton (942-2195), who will bill you for his services.
• Residents should begin putting out debris for pickup during the previous weekend so that collections can begin on the Monday of cleanup week.

*To facilitate the tying, lay two 6-foot pieces of sturdy twine on the ground about 18 inches apart before you start stacking the limbs. When it becomes difficult to tie the knot, you know the pile is too big and you should start another.

Grounds and Facilities Committee: John Custer, 542-1582
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

KICK OFF THE SEASON WITH THE WOODS PARTY

Before we get too busy with holidays or leave town to visit other places and people, plan to get together with your Woods neighbors at the annual Woods Party. We are working hard to make Saturday, November 23, an informal, relaxed and welcoming affair. The party will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place.

We are interested in suggestions and volunteers. (Please contact Ed or Connie Berry or Steve or Anne Bodner.) As usual, finger food for six and $5 per person (checks payable to Ed Berry). Checks and reservation forms go to the Bodners at 689 Spindlewood. Wine, beer and soft drinks will be supplied. And please bring a non-perishable food item that will be donated to the Chatham Council on Aging Food Bank. Make someone else have a warmer Thanksgiving. Please come. Let's kick off the holiday season together.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WEATHERSFIELD NEIGHBORS TO GATHER

Our annual Weathersfield Holiday Party will be held Friday, December 6, at the Gathering Place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Put the date on your calendar, as you won't want to miss the opportunity to gather with your neighbors for this festive event. We will have heavy hors d'oeuvres, entertainment by the Mini Grits and singing along with Dan Hadley on the piano. Watch for a flyer at your door early in November. Questions? Call Julie Smith, 545-0790.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

BUSH CREEK TO CELEBRATE

Save the date! The annual Bush Creek Homeowners Holiday Celebration will be on Saturday, December 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place.

Buffet dinner includes hors d'oeuvres, main course with side dishes, dessert, coffee/tea, wine, beer and soft drinks. The cost is $24 per person.

We need volunteers to serve on committees. Please call co-chairs Jane Palkoski at 542-3429 or Ruth Kreisman at 545-8930.

Invitations will be in your basket soon.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

ARTS & CRAFTS, WOMEN'S CLUB PLAN LUNCHEON

Members of both organizations are invited to our holiday luncheon to be jointly held on Wednesday, December 11, at the Carolina Club, Chapel Hill. Car pooling is a must, as parking is limited. Cash bar will be open at 11:30 a.m., and luncheon will be served at noon.

Cost is $25. Make check payable to either Arts & Crafts or Fearrington Women's Club and deliver to Kaye Zinsmeyer, 540 Weathersfield (for Arts & Crafts) or Carol Vatter, 586 Woodbury (for Women's Club). Reservations must be in by Monday, December 2.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

BE AN 'ANGEL' FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Get into the spirit of Christmas by providing an older adult in need with a memorable and happy holiday. The Chatham County Council on Aging invites you to participate in the sixth annual "Angel Tree" program.

To participate, simply come by the senior center on Highway 87 in Pittsboro to select your angel from the tree. Each angel represents an older adult in need. On the back of the will be a short list of the most needed items of a Chatham County older adult. Your kindness could provide a senior neighbor with a Christmas that they otherwise would not have.

Gifts should be wrapped and labeled with the number on the angel card. Many of these older adults have requested that their "Santa" deliver the gifts themselves, so that they may thank them. Others would like to remain anonymous. These gifts will be delivered by the agency. Your card will specify how the gifts should be delivered.

Angel cards can be selected beginning Friday, November 8. All gifts must be delivered to the council or the adults by Friday, December 6.

You can also participate in door-to-door Christmas caroling December 2 through December 13. To spread holiday joy and song, call Phyllis Reid by Tuesday, November 5.

The council also needs help in restoring its food bank. Bring non-perishable food to the council. For more information, call 542-4512.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

MAKE THE HOLIDAYS MEANINGFUL FOR HOSPITAL PATIENTS

Arts & Crafts, Etc. asks the help of the Fearrington community to provide a meaningful holiday for the Chatham County psychiatric patients who are cared for by John Umstead Hospital in Butner. Volunteer shoppers will purchase gifts for these patients from their wish lists and deliver them in early December. For many, the packages they receive from us will be their only gifts, and the hospital staff reports that they look forward eagerly to this bit of cheer in their lives.

Please make your donation by check payable to "Orange County Mental Health Association" with a memo marked "Operation Santa Claus." Deliver by November 15 to the Arts & Crafts box at the Gathering Place kiosk or to Anne Kirkhoff, 585 Woodbury. Any questions, please call Anne at 542-4390. Your generosity will be gratefully received by Arts & Crafts members as they try to fill wishes and will be greatly appreciated by the patients.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

VOLUNTEERS

RING THE BELLS FOR THE SALVATION ARMY

The time has come once again to ring the bell for the less fortunate people in Chatham County.

We are all so lucky to have and take the time to help so many people in the area in which we live-unique Fearrington Village.

This year we will launch our campaign on Monday, November 25 and will be on post from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We will work Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday in four two-hour shifts per day.

The weeks of December 2 and 9 we will work Monday through Saturday. The week of December 16 we will work Wednesday through Saturday. We will conclude by working Monday and Tuesday December 23 and 24.

We provide the time and talent and our generous residents of the area provide the money.

Our tax-deductible donations also are welcome and appreciated. This has been a difficult year for all of us and also for charities.

Please call Joan and Ken Richardson at 542-2313 with your calendar in hand so we can give you the time to serve and later provide a reminder.

We filled 96 shifts last year and nobody missed their time. Congratulations to you all!

Our donations last year exceeded $10,000.

This year we will have 92 shifts. Good luck to all and "God Bless America."

-Ken Richardson, Salvation Army Board Member, Chatham County
(Return to the Table of Contents)

LIGHTING THE LUMINARIES

Our dates to light the luminaries will be Thursday, December 12, with the rain date, Saturday, December 14.

We are looking for people from Phases 1, 2, 3 and 5 and East Camden to help with the distribution of the informational flyers in early November.

All proceeds from the sale of the luminary kits are donated to help support the Ronald McDonald House.

Please call either Anna Lees Cobb at 545-9400 during the day, or 545-9773 at home in the evening, or Bunny Shillito, 542-1984.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

VOLUNTEER NEEDED: STORIESWORK

Durham-based StoriesWork, an exciting, innovative, non-profit organization, is looking for a volunteer to devote two to three hours a week to handle its finances. The work covers banking, financial record keeping, paying bills and filing tax returns. Select your own hours and work at your own computer.

StoriesWork (www.storieswork.org) is a group of consultants with a common goal of improving the lives of women caught in domestic violence.

For more information, call 489-7711 or contact the organization at info@storieswork.org
(Return to the Table of Contents)

STUDENT HOSTS NEEDED

The UNC International Friendship Program needs hosts to assist new international students and scholars in their adjustment to UNC and Chapel Hill. A host does not provide housing, just friendship and hospitality.

For information, call 933-7451 or 962-5661 or visit the program's website: http://internationalcenter.unc.edu/get_involved/friendship.html.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

TAX ASSISTANCE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The VITA program, under the auspices of the Orange County RSVP (Retired/Senior Volunteer Program), provides free tax assistance to low- and moderate-income taxpayers of all ages in Orange and Chatham counties.

Volunteers work at four locations in Orange and, as in previous years, in Pittsboro. Our goal this year is to extend the program in Chatham to include Siler City, as well as add additional dates in Pittsboro.

We are looking for new volunteers to help fill that need and to work at the traditional locations. Returns are prepared on computers, using tax preparation software provided by the IRS. All volunteers receive training in January in use of computers and the program.

VITA volunteers provide assistance, usually by appointment, from the first week of February until April 15. Work schedules are flexible.

This year VITA will host an orientation session on November 20 to explain the program to potential volunteers. If interested, please call Michael Cotter (542-4414) or Art Lebo (542-5177) for further information.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WHAT'S GOING ON OUTSIDE FEARRINGTON

WATER RESTRICTIONS EASED

Since recent rains have replenished Jordan Lake, Chatham County's main water supply, County Manager Charlie Horne lifted mandatory water restrictions on October 16. A Stage I Water Shortage Alert remains in effect and residents are urged to continue voluntary conservation measures.

"The long-term drought is not over, but the immediate crisis is probably over until next spring," explained Public Works Director Ron Singleton in recommending the change.

Jordan Lake was approximately 61/2 feet above normal water levels in October because of heavy rainfalls.

The county imposed mandatory water restrictions on July 23 and prohibited filling swimming pools and washing vehicles and limited the hours during which residents could do outdoor watering.

While the rainfall has solved the immediate problem, much of the state, including Chatham, remains in long-term drought conditions. Although lakes and rivers may be at or above normal levels, the same is not true for groundwater, which is far below normal levels.

"Water conservation is always a good idea, even when there appears to be plenty of water," Horne said. "There are numerous things our residents can do voluntarily to conserve water." Residents can obtain more information on voluntary conservation from the county's website: www.co.chatham.nc.us.

Additional information concerning the drought may be obtained at http://drought.ncwater.org/.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

LIBRARY EXHIBIT FEATURES SIX CHATHAM TOUR ARTISTS

A preview of the 10th Anniversary Chatham County Tour is the featured exhibit during November at the Pittsboro Memorial Library. The preview show features examples of six artists new to the Tour. Dr. John Shillito, a Fearrington photographer and a studio tour artist, has photographed portraits of each, along with several pictures of them with their work. The six artists are Eva Green, basket weaver; Joe Kenian, stonemason; Stacye Leanza, muralist; Leslie Palmer, graphite artist; Dimitri Resnick, glass blower, and Dawn Stetzel, outdoor sculptor.

Brochures for the December Open Studio Tour will be available at the library during the November exhibit. Fifty-two artists will open their studios this year, which has been extended to two weekends: December 7-8 and December 14-l5. Many artists will be showing both weekends.

The opening reception for the December studio tour will be at the Central Carolina Community College campus in Pittsboro on December 6 from 7 to 9 p.m. The public is invited.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

DEAN SMITH TO BE GUEST AT 'A TASTE OF CHATHAM'

Don't miss your chance to meet former North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith at the ninth annual "A Taste of Chatham." Join the Chatham County Council on Aging for a gala on Sunday, November 3, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Governors Club clubhouse.

Maury O'Dell of WPTF-AM will be master of ceremonies. Joan Ewing, a former congressional aide, will give a short talk about the Older Americans Act. Former Congressman Ike Andrews of Fearrington and Congressmen David Price and Bobby Etheridge are planning to attend.

There will be culinary delights, dancing and a live auction, including artwork from local artists, including Fearrington's Doris Dunlap and Rita Spina.

Tickets are $40 per person. For tickets, mail your request with your check made out to the Council on Aging, P.O. Box 715, Pittsboro 27312. For more information, please call Dina Reynolds at 542-4512.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

AAUW CARD PARTY BENEFITS SCHOLARSHIPS

American Association of University Women will sponsor an autumn card party at the Church of Reconciliation, 110 N. Elliot Road, Chapel Hill, on Thursday, November 7, from 12:30 to 4 pm. Tickets are $10 per person.

This is a benefit for the AAUW Educational Foundation Scholarships. You may bring your own group or we can add you to other players for an afternoon of fun.

Refreshments, door prizes, and raffle tickets will be provided.

For tickets call Doris Dunlap, 542-4220, or Dee Little, 542-3149. Everyone is welcome. Parking is readily available.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

'GHOST SHIP OF DIAMOND SHOALS'

The Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library present author Bland Simpson on Thursday, November 7, at 7:30 p.m. at the Pittsboro Library's Reeves Auditorium. He will be promoting his new book, Ghost Ship of Diamond Shoals: The Mystery of the Carroll A. Deering. Mr. Simpson will talk about the book, answer questions and sign books.

This book is the first treatment of one of the great unsolved mysteries of eastern North Carolina history-the shipwreck of the five-masted schooner, the Carroll A. Deering, on Diamond Shoals in January 1921, and the unexplained disappearance of its crew. Mr. Simpson assembles the known facts into a reconstruction of the final voyage and its baffling aftermath. Using contemporary sources including newspapers, ship's logs and personal and official correspondence, he weaves together historical narrative with the voices of the key participants in the drama.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

AUCTION, SCAVENGER HUNT BENEFIT MEDIATION PROGRAMS

A reminder-Deep River Mediation Silent Auction Scavenger Hunt, Sunday, November 10, from 1-5 p.m. at the Sanford Antiques Mall on South Moore Street, Sanford. This benefit's proceeds fund conflict resolution programs and services for Chatham and Lee county residents. For more information, call Cheryl Gallan, 968-3989.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

SCAMJAM 2002 OFFERS INFORMATION ON FRAUDS

Chapel Hill/Carrboro/UNC Crime-stoppers and UNC Health Care are sponsoring ScamJam 2002, a free set of presentations on the types of scams and frauds that consumers encounter today. The idea is for attendees to gain a heightened sense of awareness and empowerment and thus reduce the possibility of victimization in their lives and communities. Presenters will include North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper and Jennifer Julian, consumer advocate for WTVD-TV.

The program will take place at the Chapel Hill Sheraton (Europa Drive just off of U.S. 15/501) from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Thursday, November 14. The event is free, including lunch, to participants who register before November 7.

For more information, call Joe Geoghegan at 545-0710 or contact the Chapel Hill Police Community Services Unit at 932-2929 or cblue@townofchapelhill.org.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

'ANOTHER LOOK AT CENTRAL ASIA'

Fearrington resident Mike Cotter, a retired Foreign Service officer, will speak on "Another Look at Central Asia" at the November Men's Luncheon of the Greater Chapel Hill Newcomers Club. He will build upon some of the factors, cultural items and local color he initially spoke of last January.

The program will be held on Friday, November 15, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Chapel Hill Country Club. The cost of a Soup 'n Salad buffet lunch is $10.75. RSVP with checks payable to Warren Wagner, 141 Fearrington Post, by Friday, November 8.

Spouses, guests, alumni and others are welcome as long as space permits.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

U.N. ASSOCIATION TO HEAR ABOUT WOMEN'S PLIGHT

The plight of women in the developing world is well known. Generally occupying an inferior social status, they are also economically disadvantaged in a world where 1.2 billion people live in poverty on incomes of $1 per day. In recent years-although the phenomenon has long existed-it has become clear that they also suffer disproportionately from armed conflict, even to the point of being used, through rape and slavery, as pawns in war.

Dr. Yasmin Saikia, of UNC-Chapel Hill's History Department, specializes on South Asian history, focusing on nationalism, history and memory and identity movements in the area. Her studies have included one of the poorest countries in the world, Bangladesh, whose war of liberation against Pakistan, little remembered in the West, was one of extreme violence.

She'll be speaking about the effects of that war on Bangladeshi women and its echoes today in a talk to the United Nations Association's West Triangle Chapter at its Lunch and Learn meeting on Wednesday, November 20, at noon at the Holiday Inn in Chapel Hill. She has titled her talk "The War of Liberation of Bangladesh: Women's Perspectives."

Reservations can be made by sending a check for $15, payable to UNA-West Triangle Chapter, to Elizabeth Hankin, 111 W. Seeman St., Durham 27701. The deadline to receive checks is Wednesday, November 13. Questions? Please call Elizabeth at 688-4017.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HEALTH & FITNESS NEWS

FEARRINGTON CARES NEWS

DON'T FORGET THE BLOOD DRIVE

The American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held on Friday, November 1, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. To sign up, contact Betty Lou Cobb at 545-9773 or alcblc@mindspring.com.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

MEDICAL SCREENING PROGRAM

Fearrington Cares will hold a Medical Screening Program on Wednesday, November 6, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Fearrington Cares' objective in providing these screenings is the early detection of disease or physical problems for successful treatment and possible cures.

The screenings will include:
• Skin, by Dr. Mark Fradin, dermatologist. Screenings, registration and exams given on a first-come basis.
• Eyes, by Duke Eye Center. Screenings, registration and exams given on a first-come basis.
• Blood Pressure, on a first-come basis.
• Hearing. Registration with specific appointments. One person will be tested every 15 minutes. A waiting list will be made after 15 slots are taken.
• Cholesterol and glucose. These tests will be conducted with an explanation of the results given to each individual. Three individuals can be screened every 15 minutes.

Volunteers will be available to assist all those attending. The doors will not open until 9 a.m.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

NEW RULE FOR AMBULANCE SERVICE

As of April 1, all ambulance companies must accept Medicare assignment. This is an important change in policy, because many times the ambulance that responds to a 911 call is from a volunteer squad or a company that does not contract with Medicare. This is common in most rural areas, where only the local fire department and a few ambulance squads contract with Medicare.

In the past, if an ambulance company did not contract with Medicare, it did not have to submit a claim to the carrier and could bill a person with Medicare any amount. Due to this new regulation, any ambulance company that provides services to a person with Medicare must accept Medicare payment and cannot bill the person more than 20 percent of the Medicare amount.

This is information comes from SHIIP, the Senior Health Insurance Information Program run by the North Carolina Department of Insurance.

Any questions, call Joe Geoghegan at 545-0710.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

OTHER HEALTH AND FITNESS NEWS

GIVE YOGA A TRY

"Stars do it. Sports do it. Judges in the highest courts do it. Let's do it: that yoga thing."*

Although yoga's been around for over 5,000 years, it has recently enjoyed prominence as an important exercise choice for millions of Americans. Why not join us and see for yourself? We're led by a yoga professional, and our sessions touch on stretching, balance and relaxation.

We meet at the Gathering Place every Wednesday, 8:15-9:30 a.m. For more details, call Laura Hyer, 545-9607.

* The Power of Yoga by Richard Corliss
(Return to the Table of Contents)

SLIM JANES...AND NOT SO SLIM JANES!

If you have been-or would like to be-involved with this group, please come to a meeting at the home of Janet Reilly, 7 Caswell, 542-5893, on Monday, November 18, at 7:30 p.m. Janet would appreciate a phone call to tell her that you are planning to come.

It is time to evaluate and plan for the coming year-New name? Expanded purpose? Leaders? Program ideas? We need to hear from all interested women. For newcomers, this is a very easy informal group of women who have met monthly for a couple of years. We began with a diet/exercise focus but in fact have branched out into many kinds of health issues of interest to mature women. Every woman in Fearrington is welcome to participate.

Join the discussion on November 18. If you need more information, please call Nancy Foster at 542-0407.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

MUSIC NOTES

VILLAGE VOICES SCHEDULEFALL CONCERTS

Village Voices, a chorus of women music lovers, opened its fall season with a concert at Glenaire in Cary. Performances are also scheduled for November 13 at Carolina Meadows and November 21 at Shepherd House. In addition, a small group from the choir will sing at the Chapel Hill Senior Center on November 1.

Village Voices, with it male counterpart, The Harmony Grits, will climax the season with a holiday celebration on Monday, December 9 at the Barn. Mark your calendar and look for details in the December Newsletter.

Singing with a group is a wonderful way to express your pleasure in music. You don't have to have experience, you don't even have to read music and it's not too late to share your enjoyment with other Fearrington women this year. We are just beginning to rehearse the holiday music that is new to everyone. You will be welcome at rehearsals in the Gathering Place every Monday from 3:45 to 5:30 p.m.

Vice President Carol Girton takes the biographical spotlight this month. She was born and grew up in Chicago. Her father was in international business, which meant Carol spent much of her childhood "on the high seas" traveling to Australia, New Zealand, South America and Europe. On one of these trips, at 12, she met her future husband in England as he, too, lived abroad until coming to Harvard. Carol graduated from Smith in 1945 and was married in 1947. The Girtons lived in Chicago, Milwaukee and Ogden, Utah. They have two sons and two daughters and six grandchildren.

Carol's volunteer activities included several hospital boards and starting and running a county home-delivered meals program. The Girtons moved to Fearrington 10 years ago and have enjoyed the culture/sports atmosphere. In 1998 Carol started Fearrington Thespians, a play-reading group. The Girtons spend four months in the summer in Lakeside, Mich.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HARMONY GRITS ADDS MEMBERS, DIRECTOR

New members, a talented new director and the energy of Fearrington's fun-loving men's singing chorus have all contributed to making this fall term one of our best yet.

Our new director, Matt Fry, has 15 years experience teaching and directing music and is music director at Jordan Matthews High School in Siler City. A talented singer himself, Matt is a member of the Vocal Arts Ensemble of Durham and the Duke Chapel Choir. He and Grits member Paul Stiller just returned from a tour of South Africa and Namibia, singing with the Triangle Africa Choral Exchange under the direction of Rodney Wynkoop.

Matt hails from Missouri. His college major was choral music, and he was named outstanding graduating senior in vocal music. Along with his new role with the Grits, he has recently acquired a new family, including three daughters.

Matt and Dan Hadley, the Grits' professional accompanist, are intensely rehearsing the Grits for the holiday concert to be held in the Barn on December 9, where we will perform with the Village Voices. We also have December bookings for a Gala Arts Concert at Matt's high school and for performances at Shepherd House in Carrboro and Carolina House in Chapel Hill.

The Grits rehearse at the Gathering Place on Thursdays from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. Please come by if you enjoy singing and would like to join us. No auditions-just bring your voice and a smile. Call Bob Bogle for further information-545 3027.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

JAZZ AT THE GATHERING PLACE

The Lenny Marcus Trio is returning to Fearrington after a two-year absence. The trio features Lenny Marcus on piano, Peter Ingram on drums and Ed Mikenas as bassist. They will play jazz standards and some original compositions. They have a large following in the Southeast, and we are privileged to have them back. The concert will take place on Sunday, November 3, at 2 p.m. Checks to reserve your seats may be sent to Kay Atwater at 512 Fearrington Post. The price is $12 for each person. Questions will be answered by Kay (542-6819) or Margaret George (542-4609).
(Return to the Table of Contents)

TRIANGLE BRASS BANDRETURNS TO CHAPEL HILL

For several years, Fearringtonians thrilled to the warm, magnificent sounds in the Fearrington Barn generated by the Triangle Brass Band. This 43-piece ensemble, using the British brass band unique instrumentation, will be appearing at the United Church of Chapel Hill, 1321 Airport Road, Chapel Hill, to present a concert that will electrify the audience. The date is Friday, November 8, at 8 p.m.

A love offering will be taken and shared by the band and the Interfaith Council for Social Service. As a Fearrington resident and a proud member of this band for the past 11 years, I am thrilled to be able to provide this unparalleled opportunity to you, just 30 minutes away. Ample parking is available off Homestead Road. Wait until you experience the superb acoustics that this church sanctuary possesses!

-Bob Lawton, bjlawton25@aol.com
(Return to the Table of Contents)

PAULINE LEDERER TO OFFER COURSE

Pauline Lederer, well-known concert pianist, will be offering a two-week course to Fearrington residents on Friday, November 15, and Friday, November 22, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Gathering Place.

She will discuss 19th-century romantic piano music and will focus on five important composers-Mendelssohn, Schumann, Chopin, Liszt and Brahms. She will play selections of each of these masters and discuss the stylistic features of the music, as well as give biographical background.

To register, make check payable to Arts & Crafts for $12 (or $6 if you can attend only one class) and deliver to Cathy Hummel at 594A Woodbury.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

RALEIGH CONCERT FEATURES STRING QUARTET

The Raleigh Chamber Music Guild Master Series presents its 61st season with all concerts held in the BTI Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Raleigh. The program on Sunday, November 17, at 3 p.m. presents the Miro String Quartet in works by Mozart, Shostakovich and Dvorak. For tickets please contact Nancy Lambert at 821-2030. For information on car-pooling to the BTI Center from Fearrington, call Carol Feuer at 542-2626.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

BOARD BRIEFINGS

OCTOBER BOARD MEETING NOTES

President Ed Farnan called the October 3 meeting to order at 7 p.m. Treasurer Walter Koehler reported that the finances of the association were in good shape and on target with the approved budget for the year. He also circulated a first draft of the proposed FHA budget for 2003 and requested input from board members.

A motion to allocate up to $14,000 to refurbish the Creekwood Kiosk was reviewed. Walter noted that only $5,000 had been budgeted for this expense, but the necessary funds were available in the Reserve Fund. The board has used the Reserve Fund for major capital expenditures in the recent past-i.e., the updating of the Gathering Place audio-visual system. The board voted unanimously to pass the motion.

Grounds and Facilities Chairman John Custer noted that the money would be spent, not just on the kiosk, but also in refurbishing and strengthening the safety/guard rail that surrounds it.

In a related matter, John presented another motion for an expenditure of up to $350 to purchase and install new lighting in the Gathering Place Kiosk. The new system will be operated by motion-sensing devices, which would be activated by anyone entering through any of the three access doors. He noted that a group of volunteers has already made major improvements at the kiosk, including painting, bulletin boards and key replacement, but they need board help with the lighting. The motion passed unanimously.

President Farnan reported on some covenant matters. Letters have been sent to three absentee owners in Bush Creek whose properties look shabby and untended. The letters said that the properties must be cleaned up or the FHA will see that it is done and bill the owners.

Also, letters were sent to the owners of two cats regarding complaints about their failure to confine their cats. If there are further complaints, the cat owners will be fined $25 per incident or per day.

Ed was advised by R.B. Fitch that he has asked the Utility Commission for permission to increase sewage charges. A hearing on this matter will be held in February. He has purchased 40 more acres of land, just east of the plant, behind the Beechmast townhouses.

Gathering Place Chairwoman Joyce Berg reported that there had been some flooding in the Men's Room a few weeks earlier, due to a faulty water heater. A plumber was called and the heater was replaced. Joyce also reported that activity at the Gathering Place was up to speed again after a summer lull.

The board is still looking for a new Gathering Place scheduling person to replace Connie Eby, whose stint will be over in January. If a volunteer were found now, he/she could work with Connie for a couple of months, and the transition would be easier.

John Custer proposed a motion to authorize the expenditure of up to $250 for the initiation of a program for the repainting of street signs by Village volunteers. There are 48 signposts to be done, and the cost for paint should be about $10 per post. John also reported it was decided to postpone the pruning of the Bartlett pear trees until spring, because otherwise they would look bad all winter.

He proposed the establishment of a committee to look into the matter of walks and paths. He suggested that Lovick Miller and Henry Castner be appointed co-chairmen. Other volunteers will be needed.

John noted that work to contain the kudzu along the Village roads continues. He has had a work group of four volunteers who have made some progress, but they need more help. There is a beaver in the Beaver Pond. The pond maintenance people will remove it as part of their service contract.

Vice President Nancy Kern reported that the office computer was down, and the damage was serious. The computer is still covered by warranty, but data on the hard drive was lost.

Community Affairs Chairman Al Lebeau reported that a Regional Rural Planning Commission has been formed at the state level, and Chatham County has joined. It will provide a forum for rural communities to share and coordinate ideas on problems that they have in common, like transportation and water. Al also noted that the Chatham County Commissioners have asked for $3 million in federal funds to improve their various water systems.

Resident Carol-Ann Greenslade asked if anything could be done to improve the appearance of the work area immediately adjacent to R.B. Fitch's property and the maintenance area. She said that she and her husband have noted an ever-increasing number of vehicles and unsightly debris in the area, which can be seen from the road. If it can't be cleaned up, could it be somehow better screened from view? Ed noted that the property is not under the jurisdiction of the board, as it belongs to Mr. Fitch. However, he asked John Custer to talk with Tom Seaton to see if anything can be done, as Seaton uses this area to park equipment.

Ed noted that the next regular board meeting would again be on a Thursday-November 7 at 7 p.m.

-Mary Hammond, FHA Secretary, and Barbara Wilson, Acting Secretary
(Return to the Table of Contents)

DEBIT THE DUES

As the time nears to collect your annual FHA dues, your FHA Financial Manager would like all residents to consider having your dues paid via the bank debit system. This is an easy payment method that assures a timely payment of your dues without having to write and mail the check!

It is simple to sign up. Just fill out the information form at this link: Request for Automated Payment, attach a voided check, and deliver or mail them to the FHA office. Mailing address is 26 Fearrington Post, Pittsboro. We must receive the information by December 31 in order to use debit for your 2003 dues.

Your account will be debited for the new annual fee amount on January 6, 2003. You will be notified of the amount due in mid-December. If you have any questions about the debit system please contact Peg Perlman, 545-9951, or Richard Bird, 545-9413. 
(Return to the Table of Contents)

COMPUTER COMMITTEE SEEKS MEMBERS

The FHA Computer Committee is looking for new members. Computer expertise is not a prerequisite, but a familiarity with computers would be helpful-and it's guaranteed that you will learn lots.

Duties include attending occasional meetings, working with the FHA website and office computer and miscellaneous items as they occur.

Interested? We hope so. For more information, please contact Al Perlman, chair, at 545-9951 or alperlman@nc.rr.com.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

UNITED WAY AND THE OVERHEAD ISSUE

The Fearrington Village United Way campaign is in progress. Watch for changes in the "cow sign" at the Village entrance. If anyone has not yet received their envelope, please call any of the following, and one will be delivered to your door:

Kay Hunt              542-1750
Bob Belden     542-5713
Paul Carew     545-0297
Whit Irwin     542-0463
Jack Zollinger     542-1445

Fearrington residents are deciding right now to give or not to give. When discussing the subject of giving to charities, a widely misunderstood item that frequently comes up is "overhead." Do you know which expenses should be included when calculating a nonprofit organization's overhead?

The Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance has set forth standards to promote informed giving. Its guidelines categorize expenditures for fund-raising and administrative purposes as overhead, and expenditures for activities that fulfill the organization's mission as program expenses. Their motto is "Investigate before you donate."

Any group asking you for a contribution should be able to tell you how it calculates overhead expense. If you are a regular/substantial giver, it should be willing to provide you with a copy of its latest annual report, latest financial statements, and a list of current board members. If you want to know more, visit BBB/WGA's excellent website at www.Give.org.

For United Way of Chatham County (UWCC), program expenses include the funds it allocates to local human service agencies, plus the cost of community services such as the Volunteer Center and technical assistance to member agencies. UWCC's accounting methods and certification standards meet best-practice guidelines, and its "overhead" expenses are just 20 percent, or 20 cents of each dollar raised. This is considered good for a small United Way.

Also, all the agencies supported by the UWCC are required to hold their general administrative costs below 25 percent and must submit financial statements periodically during the year. Overhead expense monitoring is just a small part of what United Way does for you. Using established standards and guidelines, the volunteer-run certification and allocations process assures that your contributed dollars are spent wisely.

The UWCC agency review process is conducted each year, beginning in early March, by donors from all parts of the county. Please consider serving as an allocations volunteer in 2003. You can indicate that on your pledge card. It's a great experience. Be an informed giver!
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON MONTHLY CALENDAR

FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR