FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS 
NEWSLETTER 

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

FEARRINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY NEWS

LONG RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE INCORPORATION

The Long-Range Planning Committee (which advises the FHA Board) in its deliberations about the future of the village has become increasingly concerned about the possibility of annexation of Fearrington by another community.

In recent years five municipalities in this region have attempted to annex nearby areas. The imminent building of a large compact community contiguous to Fearrington now appears to be a reality. A move to annex Fearrington against the residents' wishes seems to be increasingly likely in the next five to ten years. Incorporation is the only way to prevent annexation, and there are several other aspects of village management and development that would support incorporation.

The North Carolina legislature, however, does not recognize incorporation as a valid reason to prevent annexation. State government policy is that "cities and towns are the best entities to provide services that are or will be urban in character." To avoid an unacceptable annexation, the Village would have to incorporate before a specific threat of annexation emerges.

Incorporation allows us to control our own destiny. A petition to incorporate requires the approval of a simple majority of the residents. We would also need the support of our state legislators and the county commissioners. Fearrington Village already has the infrastructure and provides most of the services required for incorporation.

The Long-Range Planning Committee is examining the pros and cons of incorporation including taking a careful look at the economic consequences. We have informed R.B. Fitch of what we are doing, and he acknowledges the timeliness of studying the feasibility of incorporation. Periodically we will share the information and progress of this investigation.
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EXCITEMENT BUILDS ABOUT THE WOMEN’S CLUB BOOK, BAKE, AND BOUTIQUE SALE

Longing for a little bit of Italy? The Women’s Club Book, Bake, and Boutique Sale to be held on Saturday, February 28 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Gathering Place, will feature a Tuscan Café. Under the able leadership of professional food stylist, Debbie DiSabatino, the Café will serve a Continental breakfast from 9:00 until 10:30 a.m. Soups, salads, and bread will be available for lunch from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Coffee and tea will be available all day, and, of course, if you need something sweet to finish off your luncheon or to go with your coffee, home-baked items will be available at the bake sale

Debbie is encouraging all Fearrington gourmet cooks to supply baked goods for the sale. In addition, your delicious donations of potluck specialties, such as soups, chili, stews, quiches, hors d’oeuvres and casseroles would be most welcome. Baked goods and potluck specialties can be fresh or frozen. Did you receive gourmet food gifts this year that you don’t plan to use? Jams, jellies, salsas, chutneys, mustards, olives, olive oils, and vinegars would be welcome additions for the bake sale. These food donations should be dropped off at the Gathering Place on Friday, February 27, between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Questions? Call Debbie at 542-2438.

Madge Hoyt (542-1115) is collecting books, CD’s, and audiotapes. Her garage at 729 Barnsley is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to receive your donations. Boutique items can be left on Carol Vatter’s front porch at 586 Woodbury. It is suggested that you call (542-0270) to make sure Carol is home prior to dropping off your new or gently used items such as artwork, glass jewelry, table linens, kitchen items, lamps, and knick-knacks.

The Book, Bake, and Boutique Sale is one of the biggest fund raising events sponsored by the Women’s Club. All proceeds directly benefit Chatham County charities. Your support of this event helps Fearrington be a good Chatham County neighbor.
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THE GATHERING PLACE QUILT: A FEARRINGTON TREASURE

Editor’s note: The following article by Nancy Rogerson was published in a quilting magazine in the early 1990s.This is the second of two articles reprinted in response to a number of inquiries about the history of the quilt. (For the first article click here.)

PATCHES MAKE PICTURES

A quilt is by definition “a coverlet for a bed, made of two layers of fabric with some soft substance, as wool or down, between them and stitched in patterns to prevent the filling from shifting.”

The quilt that hangs in the Gathering Place in Fearrington Village is 5 by 7 feet and is the ’90s version of the quilt, i.e., a wall hanging. It depicts the Gathering Place itself and the colors were chosen to reflect the muted hues of restful tranquility, which is the essence of Fearrington Village itself.

To begin the project, sketches were submitted by members of the two Fearrington quilt groups, The Fearrington Quilters and the Village Quilters. In all more than 35 quilters participated. Most of the avid stitchers come from other parts of the country and only a few are native North Carolinians. They are all accomplished quilters and one, Ellen Eanes, has co-authored North Carolina Quilts, a definitive book on quilts from the state of North Carolina throughout the years.

Another, Jacqueline Nouveau, has taken prizes in the Houston Quilt Show with her exciting and innovative quilted street wear. Each member brings to the organization talent, friendliness and a desire to learn and grow in the field of patchwork and appliqué. After voting on the design to be crafted, committees were formed to make the pattern, decide on color, pick out fabric, cut and stitch. Each project became an island unto itself and the decision to picture the Gathering Place surrounded by all that makes Fearrington the charming country village that it is was the ultimate goal of all quilters.

The quilt would hang in the foyer of the building in a space that made the 5x7 piece feasible. Then the task of drawing the patterns and transferring them into blocks or quilt squares began.

It was unanimously decided to make people an integral part of the quilt as people are Fearrington. Hence the ‘paper doll people’ form an inside border around the entire perimeter; children are included. After that the special scenes of Fearrington appear. The Country Houses and the individual homes. The bluebirds as mentioned in all R.B. Fitch advertising – alas, we haven’t shown a hollyhock – the Summer House, with its cricket weathervane, and naturally, the barn, silo and world-famous Belted Galloway Cows. These squares are enhanced with embroidery stitches as well as appliqué.

The side borders are large pine trees, giving the quilt the flavor of Fearrington's woods and green areas.

Fabric selection was chosen with the prerequisite from the directors of the Gathering Place that the colors be muted and contain beiges and neutral colors. Therefore, a palate of soft hues with touches of deeper tones, such as the black Beltie and bright bluebird was made. Greens, grieges and muted orange--reds predominate.

The drafting of patterns was a tremendous job. Graph paper was used to draw the design, and then it was sized to fit. This took aligning and realigning to make the whole the sum of its parts. Once paper patterns were completed, the scenes were transferred to fabric.

Appliqué is the art of cutting fabric representing whatever it is you want to show and then stitching it to the background fabric. An excellent quilter applies the pieces in such a way that the stitches do not show. With the appliqué method, pieces can be stuffed with extra batting for a more three-dimensional look.

Many of the scenes were appliquéd and the combination of appliqué and patchwork gives the piece an exciting interest. The designing and piecing of the Gathering Place Wall Hanging took over a year to complete. When ready for quilting, each member of both groups had a chance to have the quilt in their home while they did their share of the quilting. We did not have the usual ‘quilting bees’ as in olden times.

The quilt was officially presented and hung on April 28, 1991. It hangs on a frame and behind Plexiglas to preserve the cotton.

Patches make pictures, pictures give pleasure, pleasure is lasting, quilting is art. – Nancy Lee Rogerson
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WHAT’S GOING ON IN FEARRINGTON

WALK FEARRINGTON

If you are someone who walks around Fearrington, regularly or irregularly, and would like to share your experiences and views on ways of improving the walking conditions in Fearrington, please contact one of the names below so that we might add your name, telephone number and email address to our growing data base of interested residents.

Henry Castner at 542-1602 hcastner@mindspring.com or
Lovick Miller at 542-7386 lovickmill@mindspring.com
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THANKS FROM THE COOKBOOK COMMITTEE

The recipe committee for the upcoming cookbook about Fearrington Village thanks all those who have submitted recipes. Those recipes are now being tested by the testing committee. Your assistance has proven what we always thought about this community and reflects the story we hope to share in the cookbook.

The cookbook will contain more than recipes. We intend to demonstrate the quality of life here in Fearrington Village. We continue on target toward publication next fall in time for Christmas. You will be hearing more soon about how to get a copy of the book.

Fundraising for the book has reached $12,000! Several special fundraising events are planned for later in the spring. Thanks to everyone who has offered their support is so many ways!

One of our goals is to create a webpage about the book. We are looking for someone with experience in creating and maintaining a webpage. If you are interested and have experience with that, please contact one of the three founders of the cookbook--Janet Lorant, Joyce Mason or Barbara Terry.
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FEARRINGTON BULLS & BEARS

The Fearrington Bulls & Bears Investment Club is currently seeking new members. The members of this partnership are residents of Fearrington who have joined together to invest in equity securities. With this group it has been possible to make investments that are more practical to undertake than those on an individual basis. The partnership purchases common stock and does not invest in mutual funds, options, bonds or derivatives. In 2003 our performance reflected an equity increase of 23+%.

Guests are encouraged to join us at the Gathering Place for one or more of the meetings, which are held at 9:30 a.m. on the second Friday of each month. Please call me if you need additional information. David E. McGrain, President, 945-2039
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AN INVITATION TO FEARRINGTON WIDOWERS

There is a group of widowers in Fearrington that meet weekly for fellowship. It starts with a social hour with drinks and snacks followed by carpooling to dinner. The meetings are held on Wednesday evenings starting at 5:30 p.m. The host for the evening picks the restaurant for the night. It is all very informal, no dues, no rules. If you would like to learn more about this group, we would like very much to hear from you. Please contact Stephen Hudak —542-3757 or Joe Prendergast— 542-6275.
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THESPIANS

The next Thespian plays will be at the Gathering Place on Sunday, February 1 at 4:30 p.m. Eric Goodman is producing "West of Stupid" by Cusi Cram, starring Carl Berg and Barbara Goodman. Note: adult themes and strong language - no children should attend. The second play will be "Relative Strangers" by Sheri Wilner, starring Joyce Berg, Betty Sher and Lena Quinn. Questions? Call Carol Girton 542-0992. Please note the early performance time due to the Super Bowl.
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ARTS & CRAFTS, ETC.

On Monday, February 2, Karen Jessee of the Color Foundry, in Pittsboro, will be the guest at the meeting of Arts & Crafts, Etc. Karen interprets architectural spaces for the people who live or work in them. She enjoys bringing her enthusiasm for homes to people wanting guidance in revisioning their environments. Some of her clients have been Claire Levitt of Fearrington and Mark Hewitt in Pittsboro.

She will help us envision our living spaces and encourage us to try something new, something bold, and integrate fresh concepts with our familiar surroundings. The meeting starts at 1:30 at the Gathering Place.

On February 24, at 10:00 a.m., Nancy Oram will give a workshop on Scrap Booking. This workshop will help you organize your photos and memorabilia of family, vacations, and special occasions that seem to gather dust and are always on the "to do" list. For more information call Nancy at 542-2662.
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PALETTEERS TO HOLD ART EXHIBIT AND BIN SALE

The Fearrington Paletteers cordially invite you to their Tenth Annual Art Exhibit and Reception at the Gathering Place. Wine and Refreshments will be served from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, February 8.

While you are there, please stop by the 'bin sale' room where matted but unframed works will be for sale the day of the exhibit only. Contact Diana Farley, 542-3814
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HAVURAH MEETING

Professor Sally Ann Drucker will be the featured speaker for the Fearrington Havurah meeting on Tuesday, February 10, at 7:30 p.m. in the Gathering Place. She will present a slide show and discussion entitled "Jews of the Lower East Side". Professor Drucker teaches in the English Department and coordinates Jewish Studies at Nassau Community College in New York. Her slide program will include photography exhibited at the Jewish Museum of New York. Professor Drucker's work focuses on writing of immigrant Jewish women, the most notable being Emma Goldman. Refreshments are available at 7:30 and the program begins at 8:00. Guests are welcome.
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VEGETARIANS TO HEAR ABOUT AROMATHERAPY

Barbara Terry will present a program on Aromatherapy, the art of using pure essential oils to enhance physical and mental well being, to the Fearrington Vegetarian Club at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11 at the Gathering Place. If you would like to attend please call Margaret George at 542-4609 or Maggie Gaudet at 545-0494. All are welcome.
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FEARRINGTON GARDEN CLUB

The Tuesday, February 17, meeting of the Fearrington Garden Club will have Lee Calhoun as its guest speaker. The meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. Calhoun was born and raised in North Carolina and graduated from NC State University where he was commissioned a second lieutenant via the ROTC program. He retired 20 years later as a lieutenant colonel with seven years of overseas assignments.

In 1982, he and his wife began searching for so-called antique or heirloom Southern apples, thinking there were perhaps a dozen or so different kinds. They now have over 450 old Southern apples in or preservation orchard and are still finding old varieties. In 1985, his book, Old Southern Apples, has sold over 5,000 copies.
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FEARRINGTON WOMEN’S CLUB THE YEAR OF THE UNC WOMAN AT WORK

This year’s program chairperson for the Fearrington Women’s Club, Beverly Long, Professor of Communications at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has arranged another blockbuster program for the February meeting of the FWC. The meeting to be held on Wednesday, February 18 at 3:00 p.m. at the Gathering Place will feature a presentation by Barbara Harris, Professor of History and Director of Women’s Studies at the UNC Chapel Hill. “Their Brilliant Careers: English Aristocratic Women” is the title of Ms. Harris’s program. All Fearrington women are invited to take advantage of this exciting opportunity to learn more about the role of women in English society.

On February 28, you are invited to attend the Book, Bake, and Boutique Sale. See the Newsletter entry for details. This fundraiser is held annually by the Women’s Club to raise money for Chatham County charities.

Did you know that Fearrington license plates featuring the Belted Galloway cow are available for $12 from Connie Rende, 542-5556?

Looking Ahead

Wednesday, March 17, 2004, 3:00 p.m., Gathering Place, “Is It a Human or Is It a Girl? Women in Ghana and Human Rights”. Soyini Madison, Associate Professor of Communication Studies and African, Afro-American Studies at UNC.

March 29, 2004. Deadline for member reservations for April 14 trip to Pinehurst for the Home and Garden Show. Trip will include bus transportation, admission to home and garden show, and lunch. More Information? Call Nancy Foster at 542-0407.
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FEARRINGTON WRITERS GROUP TO MEET

The Fearrington Writers Group will meet at the Gathering Place on Monday, February 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. Meetings are open to any Fearrington resident who is writing or just thinking about writing. If you would like to learn more about the Writers Group, visit the FHA Website and click on "organizations." If you would like to read a poem or short story at the February meeting, contact Barry Reece at breece@mindspring.com or Forrest Greenslade at fgreenslade@nc.rr.com.
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FEARRINGTON DEMOCRATIC CLUB TO DISCUSS PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES

The Fearrington Democratic Club will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, February 24 at 7:15 p.m. in The Gathering Place. Our discussion will center on the contest for the 2004 Democratic Presidential candidate. Jerry Meek, First Vice Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, will join us. Jerry will bring news from the Democratic State organization and will moderate our candidate forum. The program will conclude with our own Fearrington candidate preference “straw vote”. It should be an informative and fun evening so please join us.

Looking ahead, our next regular meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 23 at 7:15 p.m. at The Gathering Place.
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FEARRINGTON REPUBLICAN CLUB TO HOST RICHARD VINROOT

The Fearrington Republican Club is pleased to host Richard Vinroot, candidate for Governor, on Wednesday, February 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. Mr. Vinroot will speak, followed by a question and answer period and refreshments.

Mr. Vinroot was born in Charlotte, attended UNC - Chapel Hill as a Morehead Scholar, graduated from the UNC Law School and won a Bronze Star in Vietnam. He has been with the same Charlotte law firm for 34 years and is now senior partner. Richard was elected to the Charlotte City Council in 1983 and Mayor of Charlotte in 1991 and 1993.

Mr. Vinroot was the Republican candidate for Governor in 2000. He is now running on a platform of spending limits and tax reductions including making manufacturing tax-free. Other planks in the platform include medical malpractice reform and computerized Medicaid fraud detection program.

We will try to bring many of the Republican candidates to you so that you may make an informed choice in the primary. More candidates will come if there is a large turnout among Fearrington's 400 Republicans. All Fearrington residents are invited. If you would like more information or a ride to the meeting, please call Tom Hauck (542-5499) or John Milliken (545-0133).
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MAKE MONDAY MORNINGS MEANINGFUL

Come to the Gathering Place March 1, 8, 15 and 22 from 10 until 11:30 a.m. Hear Dr. James "Mickey" Efird lecture on the Passion narratives in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Don't let these Monday mornings slip away. The laundry will wait. You don't need to watch more TV. Banish mundane Mondays and instead, study the same material from the same book that inspired Mel Gibson to produce his controversial new film The Passion of Christ.

Your study will be led by a professor of biblical interpretation at Duke Divinity School. Dr. Efird has been on staff at Duke for 41 years. Mel Gibson couldn't have had a more knowledgeable guide through these dramatic and important books of the bible than you will have in Dr. Efird.

These lectures are brought to you by members of bible study groups in Fearrington. There is no charge and reservations are not necessary. All Fearrington residents are welcome to attend, so come and prepare to be inspired.
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FEARRINGTON TENNIS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING

The Fearrington Tennis Association Annual Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 7, 2:00 p.m. at the Gathering Place. -Judy Wurster
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FEARRINGTON GOLF CLUB

There will be a 3-Day Golf School at the Hillandale Golf Course April 26 - 28 - 30. Cost is $95.00 (including 9-holes of golf with cart after lessons) for men and women members of the Fearrington Golf Club. For details or to sign up call Bob Shock (542-2018).
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FEARRINGTON HOUSE TOUR

The Sixth Benefit Tour of Fearrington Homes will be held on Saturday, May 1. 2004, John Webster, Chair for this year’s event, invites Fearrington residents and their guests to save the date and plan to tour 8 outstanding homes in the village.

Since the first House Tour in October 1993 nearly 40 homes have been opened for the enjoyment of those taking the tour. In all, close to $15,000 has been raised for the HIV/AIDS Council of Chatham County, now known as the Chatham Social Health Council.

This year in conjunction with the Fearrington Garden Club “May Day Flowers” will be the theme for the tour. The Garden Club is encouraging it’s members to revive a once annual May Day event in Fearrington Village by placing baskets of flowers at all mail kiosks and at the end of walkways and driveways. Non-member residents are encouraged to do so as well.

The Tour of Homes has been one of the most looked forward to events in the village and this year’s tour will not disappoint. Tickets go on sale in late March. Contact John Webster, 542-1139, jrwebster@suscom-maine.net
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FEBRUARY READINGS AT McINTYRE'S

Sunday, February 1 at 2:00 p.m. Mystery author Blake Crouch will read from his new book Desert Places: A Novel of Terror.

Saturday, February 7 at 11 a.m. Author Adam Braver will be at McIntyre's Bookstore to celebrate the paperback release of his novel Mr. Lincoln's Wars.

Sunday, February 8 at 2:00. p.m. Join Mark & Cathy Dubowski will discuss their children's book A Horse Named Seabiscuit..

Friday, February 20 at 7:00 p.m. Award-winning writer Ann Vanderhoof will read from the chronicle of her experiences, An Embarrassment of Mangoes: A Caribbean Interlude .

Saturday, February 21 at 11:00 a.m. Join Gordon Rhea to discuss his new civil war book Carrying the Flag: The Story of Private Charles Whilden, the Confederacy's Most Unlikely Hero.

Sunday, February 22 at 2:00 p.m. A. Everette James will join us to read and discuss his book North Carolina Art Pottery.

Sunday, February 29 at 2:00 p.m. Duke Professor Orin Starn will join us for a reading from his new book Ishi's Brain: In Search of the Last "Wild" Indian.
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AN ODE TO BRIDGE

Winter is Bad
But don't be sad
Duplicate Bridge is here

Most Wednesdays at 1:00
Pretend there's some sun
And you'll have fun, that's quite clear.

Come join and you'll find
Players of your kind
Bridge'll keep you up on your toes

So ladies and gents
A few dollars, no cents
You'll compete as friends and not foes
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WHAT’S GOING ON OUTSIDE FEARRINGTON

FEARRINGTON ACTORS TO STAR IN THE CHOSEN

Veteran Fearrington actors Bob Barr and Herb Wolff have prominent roles in Theatre Or’s upcoming debut production of The Chosen, based on the novel by Chaim Potok. Theatre Or, a new, non-profit theater company, will present the play at Judea Reform Congregation in Durham Saturday, January 31-Sunday, February 8, and at Beth Meyer Synagogue in Raleigh on Saturday, February 14, and Sunday, February 15. Bob will play the part of Hasidic Reb Saunders, and Herb will portray Malter, the intellectual.

Information and tickets for all performances ($10-$20) are available through e-mail at dgilboa@theatreor.org or by calling 990-1994. Seating will be limited. Performances are planned for Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. at Judea Reform and 8:30 at Beth Meyer, Sunday matinees at 2 p.m., and Sunday evenings at 7:30.

There will be no Friday evening performances.
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CALLING ALL BAKERS!

The sixteenth annual Chocolate Cake Bake Off will be held on Sunday, February 8 from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. at the Council on Aging, 365 Highway 87 North in Pittsboro.

It is time to discover who bakes the best chocolate cake in Chatham County. Is it you? The grand prize will be $100.00, so find that award-winning recipe that you have stashed away! Five secondary prizes will be awarded.

To enter the Chocolate Cake Bake Off, simply call the Council on Aging at 542-4512 to sign up. You will need to give your name, phone number and the name of the cake to be entered in the contest. Cakes need to be all chocolate and made from scratch. Contestants are to bring their cakes on disposable dishware to the Council on Aging on Saturday, February 7 between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Judging will take place Sunday, February 8, before the event. Late entries will be accepted for auction but cannot be included in judging.

Winning cakes will be served along with coffee for $4.00 ($1.50 for children). Participants may try one or all of the prize-winning cakes. After the winning cakes are served the remaining cakes will be auctioned off. Proceeds will support the Council’s programs and services for Chatham County’s older adults. Contact: Dina Reynolds, Director of Development, Chatham County Council on Aging 919-542-4512.
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UN ASSOCIATION TO HEAR ABOUT CENTRAL ASIA

With the fall of the Soviet Union more than a decade ago, its Central Asian republics, located in a far-off corner of the world and virtually forgotten, unexpectedly became independent. But they were practically ignored until the infamous "9-11" attacks on the United States sharpened America's interest in them because of their proximity to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran. They had suddenly become important players in America’s war on terror.

Michael Cotter, currently Associate Publisher of American Diplomacy Publishers, which operates the online journal American Diplomacy, is a former United States Ambassador to Turkmenistan. An expert on that area who retired to Fearrington Village after a long career in the United States foreign service, he will discuss "The New Face of Central Asia: Implications for the 21st Century" at the UN Association's February Lunch and Learn meeting.

The meeting will take place at noon on Wednesday, February 18, at the Holiday Inn on 15-501 Bypass in Chapel Hill (opposite Eastgate Shopping Center). Reservations may be made by sending a check in the amount of $15 payable to "UNA-West Triangle Chapter" to Barbara Walburn, 247 Carolina Meadows Villa, Chapel Hill, NC 27517. The deadline for reservations is Friday, February 13. Questions to Barbara at 967-6853.
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CHAPEL HILL NEWCOMERS MEN’S LUNCHEON

Our speaker for February will be Mr. Paul Frellick, Artistic Director of the Deep Dish Theatre Company, here in Chapel Hill. Paul has an extensive background in theatre having graduated from Yale University cum laude. He directed and performed in such theatres as the Denver Center, Indiana Repertory, Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Seacoast Repertory Theatre in New Hampshire and San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre. He lived in Chicago for eight years serving as Artistic Director of the Organic Theater and directing productions on several other stages in the city.

The Newcomers Men’s Luncheon group meets on Friday, February 20, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the lower meeting room of the Chapel Hill Country Club on Lancaster Road in the Oaks. All newcomers and alumni are welcome. Advance cost for a Soup’n Salad buffet and an interesting speaker is only $11.00. Please RSVP to Warren Wagner (542-6043) by February 10. Checks should be payable and mailed to Warren at 141 Fearrington Post, Pittsboro, NC, 27312. If you pay at the door, bring $12!!!
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FRIENDS OF PITTSBORO MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Upcoming activities sponsored by the Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library include: Lu Ann Jones, author of "Mama Learned Us to Work: Farm Women in the New South," will speak on Sunday, February 22, at 2:30 p.m. at the Pittsboro Memorial Library. Jones' book builds on oral histories of farmwomen in the Twentieth century South. This program is the first of three seminars made possible by a grant from the North Carolina Humanities Council.

An exhibit of African quilts, as assembled by Wendy DuFour of The French Connection shops in Pittsboro is on display in the library auditorium now through February.

Book sale in late March: Donations of hardback and paperback books in good condition are needed. Please bring your donations to the circulation desk at the library, where you may request a receipt for tax purposes. Call Bev or Jim Wiggins at 542-4478 for more information or to arrange pickups of large donations.
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“WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE AND NOT A DROP TO DRINK.”

The Chatham unit of the League of Women Voters is sponsoring a program on water quality on Monday, February 23 at Carolina Meadows at 10 a.m. The presenter is Daniel Okun, Kenan Professor of Environmental Science and Engineering, Emeritus, UNC. The title of Mr. Okun’s talk is “A ‘New’ Source of Water”.

Urban populations are growing at a rapid rate and per capita use is increasing while water resources are fixed. A "new" source emerged on a large scale some 30 years ago; the reclamation of urban waste waters, which currently are treated for disposal into the aquatic environment but are used to create a dual system; one system for drinking water and the other system using reclaimed wastewater for myriad non potable purposes such as urban environmental enhancement, cooling, toilet flushing, industry, etc. The principle is that "No higher quality water, unless there is a surplus of it (a very unusual situation), should be used for a purpose that can tolerate a lower grade."

Initially being adopted in arid areas such as the American southwest, it has become standard practice in water-rich areas and is now being recognized as an approach that needs to be examined by every urban community. According to Dr. Okun, this system is being planned for the UNC campus and Carolina North. In view of the fast paced development in Chatham County, reclamation of wastewater and the preservation of streams and lakes is of prime importance. The presentation uses slides to illustrate the practice in the US and abroad.

All Fearrington residents are invited to this meeting. For information or questions call Chris Farnan 545-0657
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V-DAY CELEBRATION

As part of the V-Day Worldwide campaign, benefit productions of "The Vagina Monologues" will be given on Saturday, February 21 at 8:00 p.m. at the Carrboro Century Center, and on Sunday, February 29 at 8:00 p.m. at the Barn in Fearrington Village.

Proceeds from these performances will go to The Family Rape & Crisis Center in Pittsboro in an effort to stop epidemic violence against women and girls. Tickets ($25 and $50) will go on sale the beginning of February at Edwards Antiques and Beggars & Choosers in Pittsboro, and the Weaver Street Market in Carrboro. Fearrington residents Fran Schultzberg and Claire Levitt are members of the cast.
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SECOND BLOOM SCHEDULES OPEN HOUSE

"Second Bloom" an upscale thrift shop located at 68 Hillsborough Street in downtown Pittsboro is celebrating its first anniversary on March 5 with an open house from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. We invite everyone to join in the festivities.

"Second Bloom" is a non-profit thrift shop operated by the Family Violence and Rape Crisis Center of Chatham County. Your donations of clothing for all ages, excluding men's clothing, are needed. Call the store at 545-5565 for details concerning drop-offs or call Anita Martin at 545-0095. Volunteers are always welcome. The store is opened Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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SAVE THE DATE: ART AUCTION ON MARCH 28

Start planning now: The Second Annual Chatham County Art Auction is set for Sunday March 28 in the Barn at Fearrington, featuring original jewelry, metalwork, painting, photography, pottery, textiles and more from numerous local artists. Silent auction begins at 2:00 p.m., live auction at 4:15 p.m. Admission: $5 donation. Proceeds from the sales will benefit the artists as well as Chatham Arts, a nonprofit organization that supports arts in the schools, a public art gallery promoting local artists, and various arts and cultural events.

The Art Auction is co-sponsored by Chatham Arts and Fearrington Village. Updates and details will be available on-line at: www.chathamarts.org or www.fearrington.com. To learn more about Chatham artists and their work, visit the Chatham Arts Gallery at 115 Hillsboro Street in Pittsboro. (919) 542-0394. arts@emji.net
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FEARRINGTONIANS STRIKE GOLD IN STATE SENIOR GAMES

Don Brennan and Henry Castner joined forces with the Orange County Knots to win the gold medal in the 3-on-3 basketball tournament held at East Carolina University in Greenville last October. The “Knots” captured the title in the 70-74 age group defeating teams from Charlotte, Ashville, Hendersonville, and the home team from Pitt County.
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CHECK IT OUT, CHECK IT OFF!

The League of Women Voters wants to remind you to look on your 2003 state income tax form for the NC Public Campaign Fund check off, and to check "YES" in the box when you file your form. The Public Campaign Fund sets up a new way for candidates for NC Supreme Court and Court of Appeals to run for office using public financing.

The most important points of the new legislation are:

There will be a $3 check off option on your NC income tax form. It does not cost the taxpayer anything to check it off.

Checking it off will add $3 to the Public Campaign Fund for judicial elections. It will fund a nonpartisan voter guide to inform North Carolina voters about judicial candidates.

It will ensure a level playing field by providing financial aid to qualified judicial candidates who agree to strict campaign spending limits.

It will help keep special interest money out of our courtrooms

If you have any questions about CHECK IT OUT, CHECK IT OFF, please go to the NC State League of Women Voters’ website at www.lwvnc.org/. For information about the local LWV chapter go to http://odc.nc.lwvnet.org/.
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VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES

SALVATION ARMY 2003 RESULTS

Many thanks and congratulations to our 85 bell-ringing volunteers who made it possible to donate $8,500 to the Chatham County Salvation Army. This represents an increase of 2% over 2002. As always it is such a joy to see our friends and neighbors give so willingly for such a good cause.

Fearrington Village residents have been serving The Salvation Army for the past 24 years and it is our hope that this will continue. Joan and I have coordinated this effort for four years and feel it is time for somebody else to step forward. It is an assignment of 21 days spread over a 4-week period. You will find that people are happy to donate their time and find it a very rewarding experience. We will be very glad to train you. Lowes has always been very cooperative and pleased to be a part of this success story.

Please call me if you will take the challenge next year. Please call at 542-2313 or our new e-mail krichardson11@nc.rr.com. Many thanks and God Bless. Ken Richardson
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RESULTS OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD FOOD BANK CHALLENGE

The Neighborhood Challenge consisted of fifteen groups ranging in size from Chesley with 50 units to Southern Village with 1250 units. The Chapel Hill High Schools also participated and were included in the count. The total was 23,991 pounds of food and food equivlent in Green Points and cash.

Fearrington residents contributed 4612 pounds or almost twenty percent of the total and we were awarded a Certificate of Appreciation as well as the thanks of many people who received our donations. Thank you to everyone who participated and aided in the Neighborhood Food Bank Challenge. -Tom Hauck
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WE DID IT!!

What a pleasure it is to announce that the 2003 Chatham County United Way Campaign went over the top of our $81,000 goal! Many thanks to all those who generously supported this effort. We can take pleasure in knowing that we are helping our less fortunate neighbors through the twenty-one agencies that are supported by the Chatham County United Way. On behalf of the Co-Chairmen, we are grateful to all those who gave and to the Captains who helped us. Peg Perlman and Julie Smith
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The expansion of the UNC Hospitals-Chapel Hill has created a demand for additional volunteers. There are many different areas in which you can choose to serve and the hours are flexible to fit your available time. There are opportunities to even provide you with exercise if you don’t like walking in the cold or are not fond of mall walking. You and a friend can brighten the day of a patient by delivering a morning newspaper. If you prefer something in the evening, you can help serve dinner to the parents of our pediatric patients. Many of these parents don’t eat properly while their children are in the hospital, so on Tuesday evening we provide a nourishing meal for them from 5-7 and include friendly smiles and adult conversation.

If you are looking for a rewarding way to spend a few hours each week in service to the community please contact Armin Hagen 542-0927 or you may call the Volunteer Services Department at 966-4793 and speak with Linda or Suzanne.
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HEALTH AND FITNESS

ARE YOUR FEET GETTING THE ATTENTION THEY DESERVE?

Did you know that 80% of individuals 65 years and older have a type of foot dysfunction that can impair mobility? Foot problems can cause loss of independence, severe alterations of lifestyle and can further effect the aging process by increasing the likelihood of falls. Please join us on Wednesday, February 11 at 10 a.m. in the Gathering Place for a one-hour session to learn proper foot care in order to maintain an active lifestyle. We will provide tips for choosing appropriate foot wear, safely trimming toenails and dealing with common foot problems.
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IMPORTANT LECTURE SCHEDULED

On March 24 at 7:30 p.m. Fearrington Cares will present a lecture on Medicare and Prescription Drug Coverage. Jonathan B. Oberlander, Associate Professor of Social Medicine at UNC will address the new provisions of the bill recently passed by congress covering prescription drugs. Dr.Oberlander will address both good news and bad news brought about by the bill. Please join us at The Gathering Place to learn what is in store for prescription drugs
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STUDENT NURSE NEWS

On January 12 we welcomed a new UNC student nurse to Fearrington Cares. Sondra Soloman will be with us on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for a 7-week community health rotation. In conjunction with the March opening of our foot care clinic, Sondra will be developing a one-hour seminar for Fearrington residents on proper care of feet. She will also contribute to the nurse training being planned for the nurses who have volunteered to provide foot care to those who need help with caring for their feet. Please drop by the nursing office to meet Sondra and welcome her to Fearrington Cares.
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THANK YOU, FEARRINGTON CARES VOLUNTEERS

A big THANK YOU to telephone answerers, drivers and office receptionists who volunteered in January: Michael Cotter, Patricia Hoover, Barbara and David Kowalke, John and Barbara Stoddard, Sydney and Gerald Gura, Ruth and Leonard Kreisman, Peg Shultz, Bob and Pat Goetz, George and Carol Girton, Larry Myers, Julia Salisbury, Vera Graye, Sue Steward, Edie Lange, Barbara Wilburn, Floydine Roberts, Mary Ann Tharaldsen, Marlene Conner and Elaine Alexander.
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URGENT BLOOD DRIVE

Due to a critical blood shortage at the blood bank, Fearrington Cares will sponsor an early spring blood drive at the Gathering Place March 5, 9 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. We had a great response in November so let's do it again! Please mark your calendars and call Martha Wilson at 542-0312 for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome but delays may be encountered. Thank you. Martha Wilson
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FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR

Walking Group – Monday/Wednesday/Friday 8 a.m., Nursing Office

Blood Pressure Clinic – Wednesday, February 4 and 18, 10 a.m. – Noon, Nursing Office

Grief Support – Friday, February 20, 10-11:30 a.m., Small Conference Room – Gathering Place

Fearrington Cares Annual Meeting – Saturday, February 21, 10 a.m. – Gathering Place

Foot Care for Seniors –Wednesday, February 11, 10 a.m.– Gathering Place

Evening Lecture Series – Medicare and Prescription Drug Coverage - Wednesday March 24, 7:30 p.m.– Gathering Place
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HEALTHY HEART DAY

In celebration of Valentines Day, Healthy Heart Day will be held at the Council on Aging senior center in Pittsboro on Friday, February 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and at the Western Chatham Senior Center in Siler City on Tuesday, February 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Focusing on health awareness, the event will offer complementary cholesterol and glucose checks. FirstHealth EMS-Chatham will perform these tests. There will also be an opportunity for blood pressure monitoring.

Healthy Heart day will also feature guest speakers who will share information on health related issues. To maintain your healthy heart, the Council’s fitness instructor will teach a chair-aerobics mini-session for all fitness levels. A nutritious lunch will also be offered. There will be entertainment during the meal.

The event is free of charge and open to all who wish to attend. If you are not currently a member of the Council’s “Lunch Bunch” program and would like to join us for lunch, please call in advance to reserve your meal. The cost for lunch will be $6.00. Call Pam King at the Western Chatham Senior Center (742-3975) or Dianne McLaughlin at the Council on Aging (542-4512) for more information.
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YOGA IN 2004

We hope you’ve thought of Yoga as something to do just for you in 2004. You deserve it! There are too many benefits – physical and emotional – to list. Discover them for yourself. Our congenial group extends a welcome to anyone interested in this new (or renewed) experience. Join us every Wednesday 8:15-9:30 a.m. at the Gathering Place. For more details, call Laura Hyer 545-9607.
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SUNDAY YOGA CLASSES IN FEARRINGTON

Men's Therapeutic Yoga Class 6:00-7:00 p.m. Gentle and effective stretches and strengthening activities combined with relaxation techniques to meet the needs of senior men experiencing stiffness and discomfort of the shoulders, back, legs, feet, etc.

Beginning Men's Yoga Class 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. A class for men interested in giving yoga a try.

Women's Gentle Yoga 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. A yoga class suitable for woman who want to try yoga and for those with limited experience.

The cost is $11.00 per class and class size is limited to 3 or 4 students. Classes led by Bob and RoseMarie Roth, both certified yoga instructors who teach yoga for Rex Wellness and have over 25 years of teaching experience. 929-3121.
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BOARD BRIEFINGS

JANUARY FHA BOARD REPORT

President Gaudet called the meeting to order at 7 p.m., welcomed guests, and called for residents’ input.

Resident Input- Christine Farnan inquired if the board intended to take action on the issue of the redraft of the proposed Chatham County Board of Commissioners’ Compact Community Ordinance. Jim Granger distributed a handout on the plans and requested that the board consider supporting the Chatham Citizens for Effective Communities through:

1. Support of a meaningful Compact Community Ordinance, Version A
2. Support of due process and of work done by BoC, PB, and citizen groups over the past 18 months
3. Attendance at the Discussion Seminar with Dr. David Salvesen, Director of the Program on Smart Growth and the New Economy at the Center for Urban and Regional Studies, UNC. Tuesday, January 13, 6:30 to 8:30 at CCCC, Pittsboro Campus.
4. Permission to allow a stream evaluation team to sample along Bush Creek inside Fearrington Village, under the supervision of professionals from the Haw River Assembly.

With regard to the stream evaluation, President Gaudet inquired why this should be done, how it would be done, who would do it, what would be their qualifications, and what would be done with the results.

After discussion about the two drafts of the proposals, President Gaudet asked Mr. Granger to draft a position statement for the Board to consider.

Tom Hauck reported on the results of the food bank drive. Final results are reported in the February FHA Newsletter. President Gaudet, on behalf of the Board and the community, thanked Tom for his work on the food bank.

Dik Van Iten gave an update on the last stages of work of the FHA Deer Committee. His committee is preparing a manual for living in peace with wild life that will be available to residents. He announced that his committee would make a recommendation at a later date for a mediation service for contested issues within the neighborhood.

Old Business. Bill Kern and Evy Barrow asked for the results of the postal survey distributed in the December 2003 FHA newsletter. The choices were: A - sort for three names, Fearrington, Fearrington Village, and Pittsboro, or B - change the zip code database to Pittsboro only. The majority of surveys (137) came back in favor of Choice B, Pittsboro only, while 51 were in favor of Choice A, and 15 votes were for no change. The President will inform the post office of the Choice B, Pittsboro only.

Committee Reports

Treasurer’s Report – Frank Chut reported that receipts in most income accounts are consistent with budget expectations. The apparent large deficit in income is expected to be more than offset by the income from dues in December and January, which is the largest source of revenue. Income from interest and dividends will be below budgeted projections because of current money market conditions. Total expenditures for November are well below projections because of a late bill from a vendor who has rendered substantial services. Income is presently above that expected in large part due to the volunteer work on the part of community members, which greatly reduces the costs of repairs. Treasurer Chut predicts a reserve fund of between $11,000 and $14,000.

Financial Officer’s Report – Richard Bird reported that about 90% of the property owners have paid their yearly dues. There are no delinquent dues to date. Homeowner dues must be paid by the end of January. He has initiated action to collect dues for those property owners who have signed on for automated debiting of dues from their checking accounts.

County Liaison Report – Al Lebeau referred to the earlier discussion regarding the Chatham County Board of Commissioners’ Compact Community Ordinance. He added that he had attended the Commissioners’ meeting and filed a complete report. Other items of interest:

Unemployment in the county has decreased while population is increasing.

Chatham County now has one senator rather than two due to redistricting

The estimated completion of the 15-501 is October 2004.

The date of the opening of the new entrance into Fearrington is unknown due to variations in weather.

There will be a water quality workshop offered in the county.

Covenant Concerns Report – Anne Bigelow reported that her committee would be offering a workshop covering the covenant rules and regulations in the Village.

Grounds and Facilities Report – Stephen Bodner reported that his committee is looking for a new contractor for lawn cutting. The past contractor is resigning. Some of the kiosks need repair work. Tom Hauck is preparing an emergency procedures document for Fearrington.

Gathering Place Report – Lisa Stewart discussed the problem of security at the Gathering Place with so many keys now out in the community. She moved that the board take the following actions: have a locksmith change the access code to the Gathering Place, have outside doors be re-keyed, and that only people on FHA business be given a key to the building. The cost of these steps would be approximately $300. The cost will include all needed new keys. The motion was seconded and carried. It was suggested that a list of people who have keys to the building be posted outside the building with emergency numbers for contacts.

Lisa also reported that Jules Samitz, a Fearrington resident and retired from his home inspection company, is working with her to find economical ways to remedy a number of existing conditions in the Gathering Place. Mr. Samitz has also offered to inspect the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems in the building as a community service. Lisa moved that the Board accept Jules Samitz offer to inspect the electrical, plumbing and HVAC system. The motion was seconded and carried.

The next meeting is on February 3, 2004 at 7 p.m. at the Gathering Place.

Complete minutes are posted at www.fhafearrington.org.

Submitted by Janet Lorant, Secretary
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NEW COPY MACHINE IN FHA OFFICE

Bert Crouchley reports that we have a new copy machine in the FHA office which is superior, in many respects, to the copy machine we have had for some time. The new machine is faster, quieter and does many more tasks than the previous one for the same monthly leasing and maintenance fees. It is digital rather than an analog. It will not do color, however, as this would increase our monthly costs by about a third.
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2004 DIRECTORY UPDATE

Thanks for all the updates and corrections to the directory. I hope to get it to the printer by mid-month and have it ready for distribution by the beginning of March. Michael Cotter, Editor
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PROCEDURES FOR USING THE GATHERING PLACE

Read the Rules & Regulations in the FHA Telephone Directory to be sure you and/or your group will be able to comply.

2. Contact the Reservations Scheduler to make a reservation. (Clairbeth Lehn at 542-3003)

3. You will be sent some paperwork to complete and return. Please return ASAP to secure your date.

4. At least a day before your event, please call the designated "key" person to arrange access to the building. There is a key person designated for each day of the week. If you cannot reach that person, please call one of the others listed. The names of the key people are listed in the Jan. 2004 issue of the FHA Newsletter or the FHA office has a list of their names.

5. When finished using the building please carry out the tasks on the "Check List" found in a tray on the kitchen counter. Return the key to the key person.

6. If you intend to use the AV system you will need to be checked out on it before you are given a key to access it. Please let the Reservations Scheduler know when you make your reservation.

If you have any questions please call Lisa Stewart at 545-0606
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FHA BOARD ADDRESSES PROPOSED COMPACT COMMUNITIES ORDINANCE

Over the course of eighteen months the Chatham County Commissioners, its Planning Board and concerned citizens worked together to write an ordinance for compact communities. At the point where the Commissioners were about to place the proposed ordinance on their agenda for a public hearing and subsequent adoption, an alternative draft surfaced. The Commissioners are now considering whether this new draft should be the one presented at the public hearing. As a consequence of these actions, the FHA Board sent the following letter to each of the Commissioners. The Board urges Fearrington residents to express their opinions on this matter directly to the Commissioners. The Commissioner’s names and address, both postal and email, can be found in the front of the FHA Directory and at the Chatham County website, www.co.chatham.nc.us. The two versions of the proposed ordinance can also be viewed at the site. “Draft A” is the original and “Draft B” the new one. The Draft B is annotated to show the changes that are being made to the original proposed ordinance. [UPDATE January 26: "The "Draft B" is no longer available at the Chatham County website. It has been replaced by something entitled "Attorney's Recommendations to Draft A (1/14/04 Draft)" This latter document is not annotated to show what changes the attorneys have made to the original proposed ordinance.]

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VENDOR BOOK UPDATED

The FHA Office has updated the Vendor Book. This new book lists many additional services that were not included in the earlier issue. There are now almost 250 listings, and every effort has been made to correct phone listings that might have been incorrect in earlier issues. The FHA Office is always seeking additional names of service providers who have done quality work so that they can be included in future issues. This new issue is now available in the FHA Office for $1.50 per copy.
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NEWSLETTER-CALENDAR EDITORS

Bob Comey
542-0842; Fax: 542-0831
rcomey@mindspring.com

Mary Hammond
545-2026
prinny@mindspring.com

Layout Editor
Bill Schneerer

Directory Editors

Print Version
Michael Cotter
542-4414
joannenmike@hotmail.com

FHA Website Version
John Rimmler
545-0550; Fax 545-0532
jdrimmler@mindspring.com

Mary Hammond edited this issue.
Bob Comey will edit the March issue.

The deadline for March is Sunday, February 15
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REMINDERS ABOUT SUBMISSIONS

Newsletter submissions must be on full sheets of paper to avoid getting lost. Typed items are preferred – in upper and lower case, not caps. And please avoid using caps, boldface and italics in the text.

It is important that only one designated person submit articles for a particular organization.
Please check your copy (particularly the date and time) before submitting it and mark your submissions clearly – “Newsletter” or “Calendar.”

There are two ways to submit items:

_ E-mail (the preferred method). Both editors have e-mail and can easily redirect items if necessary, but it is best to check at the left and submit articles to that month’s editor. Please send in either e-mail message format or as attached documents in MS Word or Rich Text Format (RTF).

_ The Newsletter box at the Gathering Place kiosk.

Please do not leave submissions at the FHA office. Please send calendar items to the Newsletter editor.
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FEARRINGTON MONTHLY CALENDAR