FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS 
NEWSLETTER 

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

FEARRINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY NEWS

GATHERING PLACE UNDERGOES MAJOR REFURBISHMENTS

As many of you are aware, the FHA Board made a decision at the first of the year to refurbish the Gathering Place. Many areas had not been touched for years and needed repair and maintenance. The building gets a great deal of use all year. Most months we have an average of 1,500 people using the building from various groups and private parties given by Fearrington homeowners.

We started with the kitchen as it is used so much. Repairs were made to the refrigerator, stove, blower fan and cabinets, unused audio-visual equipment was removed, walls were repaired, painting was done, etc. Most of the work was done by volunteers and FHA paid only for the supplies. We still have some work to do before completing the kitchen.

The acoustic ceilings in the main room were 14 years old, very dirty and after consultation with the Armstrong Ceiling Technical Support people, we were advised that the only course of action was replacement. They recommended the new acoustic tiles be used for the building. They were kind enough to put us in contact with one of their tile distributors, so we were able to purchase the tiles direct and save quite a bit on the total job. The new tiles are clean and bright and their acoustic value is much better.

The wood floors are in very bad condition. Again with the advice of Armstrong, who made the original parquet floors, we realized we had to refinish the floors sooner than we had expected. They advised that the floors be refinished and sealed with polyurethane coating immediately. If we let them go much longer, they would have to be replaced. The cost of refinishing vs. replacement meant we made a decision to refinish starting on April 29. The whole process will take five days.

Any of you who have used the bathrooms know they are in need of an overhaul. Jules Samitz has offered to rebuild the cabinets in both bathrooms and to put in new sinks, faucets and plumbing where necessary. The rooms will be painted, mirrors replaced or framed, some lighting changes made, etc. We plan to have them both finished by the end of the summer. Jules will make the cabinets in his workshop and then install them to save having to close the bathrooms down for days at a time.

The FHA Board thinks that the Gathering Place is used by many of us for so many different functions and should be a place we can all take pride in. We think you will all be pleased with the results of the refurbishment.

And let’s not forget that the Gathering Place was given to the FHA by R.B. Fitch and his late wife Jennie. – Lisa Stewart, FHA Board
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SMOKEHOUSE, GATHERING PLACE KIOSK LOTS TO BE PAVED

Because of the heavy car traffic at the Smokehouse mail kiosk, the gravel surface has required continued and expensive maintenance. The FHA has therefore decided to have this parking area paved, bringing it up to the same surface quality as the lots at our other mail kiosks.

At the Gathering Place kiosk, there are not only several potholes, but also several large segments of the paving that have broken up into an “alligator surface” that will lead to further potholes. The FHA has therefore decided to have these broken segments removed and repaved.

Both of these jobs will be performed sometime in May; the exact date will depend upon the weather. Drainage at the edges of the two lots will also be improved, in a separate contract, to prevent future water damage to the paving and to protect the old Smokehouse building.

During the paving, which will take two or three days, mail will continue to be delivered. For the Gathering Place, please park in the upper lot and walk down to the kiosk. For the Smokehouse, please park along Village Way and walk along the edge of the lot to the kiosk. – Stephen Bodner, FHA Grounds and Facilities
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FEARRINGTON CARES APPEALS FOR VOLUNTEER DRIVERS

If you haven't already volunteered to be one of Fearrington Cares drivers, we could use you now. Many of our previous drivers are no longer able to volunteer, and we must get replacements in order for Fearrington Cares to continue to provide our driving service.

Volunteer drivers are asked to drive residents to medical appointments and on errands in the Chapel Hill, Durham and Sanford areas for a 3_-day period, once a year.

If you would like to volunteer, please call Faith Reilly (542-5541) or Rowie Samson (545-0666), and we will see that you receive a form to fill out for our database.

The warm feeling you will get from helping your neighbors will be your reward!

HOLIDAY TRASH PICKUP SCHEDULE

Chatham Disposal will not make pickups on July 5, September 6, November 25 and 26 and December 24

For additional information, contact Leon Glosson at 542 -5684.

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WHAT’S GOING ON IN FEARRINGTON

MCINTYRE’S MAY EVENTS

Every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Pre-School Story Time

Saturday, May 1, 2 p.m., local author and chef Karen Barker of Magnolia Grill will discuss and share yummy samples from her new dessert cookbook.

Wednesday, May 5, 7 p.m. Journalist Julia Reed joins us to discuss her new book, The Queen of the Turtle Derby and Other Southern Phenomena, a collection of wise and witty essays. She is a senior writer at Vogue and a regular contributor to The New York Times Magazine.

Saturday, May 8, 11 a.m., Fred Chappell returns to read from his latest collection of poems, Backsass.

Thursday, May 13, 7 p.m., Kristin Ohlson, author of the critically acclaimed Stalking the Divine: Contemplating Faith With The Poor Clares.

Saturday, May 15, 11 a.m., local author John May will discuss his new novel, Poe and Fanny.

Sunday, May 16, 2 p.m., Walter Turner, historian at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, will join us to share his new book, Paving Tobacco Road: A Century of Progress by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

Saturday, May 22, 11 a.m., award-winning historian Timothy B. Tyson will discuss his look at Oxford, N.C., in Blood Done Sign My Name.

Sunday, May 23, 2 p.m., balladeer Sheila Kay Adams shares her new novel, My Old True Love, based on the ballads of England, Scotland and Ireland.

Saturday, May 29, 11 a.m., young adult author and local favorite, Sarah Dessen, will read from her new book, The Truth About Forever.

Sunday, May 30, 2 p.m., Janet Lembke will discuss her new book, The Quality of Life: Living Well, Dying Well.

Monday, May 31, 11 a.m., Marc Haddon will kick off his U.S. tour for the paperback release of his novel, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
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THESPIANS CLOSE OUT SPRING SEASON

The final spring meeting of the Thespians will be on Sunday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. For this meeting only, it will be at the Swim & Croquet Club.

Dorothy Birnham is producing one play and three vignettes. The play is Nick and Wendy, starring Gene and Elaine Landriau. The vignettes are It's a Small World, starring Rowie Samson and Bob Leopold; Three on a Panel, starring Irv Rimer, Suzanne North, Emily Halpern and Ivan Remnitz, and A Bench in the Park, starring Owen Compton and Ferguson McKay.
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TENNIS ANYONE?

All members of the Tennis Association and all other residents of Fearrington are invited to attend a Meet the Pro for a Clinic on Saturday, May 8 at 10:30 a.m. His name is Gonzalo Arriagada, and he lives at 17 Benchmark. We could arrange for lessons on Monday or Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or some Tuesday afternoons. His price is $l0 an hour, and he will accommodate 4-6 players at one time. He also offers private lessons. However, you must be a Fearrington Tennis member to take lessons.

Please join us for this pilot program and Swing into Spring.
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ARTS & CRAFTS CONCLUDES A BANNER YEAR WITH LUNCHEON

Arts & Crafts, Etc. has celebrated a banner year with provocative programs at monthly meetings, a delicious and special luncheon at The Lantern, the festive Christmas luncheon celebrated with the Women's Club and an exciting visit to the North Carolina Arts Incubator program in Siler City. And still to come is the end-of-year luncheon at Squid’s on Wednesday, May 12.

The board extends thanks to all who have helped make these events happen and to all residents who have supported Arts & Crafts and its various endeavors. We hope everyone has a wonderful summer and look forward to seeing you next fall.
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VEGETARIANS TO LEARN ABOUT APPLIED KINESIOLOGY

Dr. Stephen Gangemi will present a program on Applied Kinesiology, which utilizes muscle testing to determine imbalances in the body to the Fearrington Vegetarian Club on Wednesday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. All are welcome.

If you would like to attend, please call Margaret George, 542-4609, or Maggie Gaudet, 545-0494.
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BULLS & BEARS LOOKING FOR NEW MEMBERS

The Fearrington Bulls & Bears Investment Club is 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 meetings, which are held at 9:30 a.m. on the second Friday of each month. Please note that we will have a guest speaker from the Charles Schwab Corp. at our May 14 meeting. Please call me if you need additional information. – David E. McGrain, president, 545-2039
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SPRING FLORAL SEMINAR ON TAP IN FEARRINGTON

Join Fearrington Floral Designer Bill Pressley and Vietri’s Frances Gravely on Thursday, May 13, to discover the latest in spring floral trends and tabletop design.

Bill will design fabulous arrangements to complement Vietri’s table settings. Pick up tips for all occasions.

The $85 package includes continental breakfast, a morning floral demonstration and tabletop seminar, presentation of Fearrington Village's Gift Registry, lunch at the Fearrington House, a demonstration by Fearrington House Chef Graham Fox and a question-and-answer session with Bill & Frances.

A full deposit is required and is refundable until May 1. Reservations can be made at Dovecote or by calling 542.1145.
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WOMEN’S CLUB TO HOLD TEACUP LUNCHEON

Get out your hats, gloves, and pearls and join the Fearrington Women’s Club as they celebrate the completion of a successful year of programs, trips, fundraisers and friendship. Under the leadership of President Cathy Hummel, the club had sold-out fundraising events and the most financially successful Book, Bake, and Boutique Sale ever. These events raised money for Chatham County charities.

The club will hold a celebration Teacup Luncheon at noon, on Wednesday, May 19 at the Gathering Place. Reservations are limited to 100. The deadline for reservations is Friday, May 7. The price for the event is $15. Checks should be made payable to the Fearrington Women’s Club and deposited in the FWC box at the Swim & Croquet kiosk. This is a members-only event. Attendees are asked to bring their favorite teacup, a story about the cup, and a smile.

Abundant tea sandwiches in four varieties and delicious desserts such as cream puffs and mocha caramel tartlets will be served with teas and coffee. Wine and sherry will also be provided. Seating will be assigned. Hats, gloves and pearls are optional.

For more information or questions, please call Jean Green at 542-0941.
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GARDEN CLUB TO HOLD PARTY

The May meeting of the Fearrington Garden Club will be held on Tuesday, May 18 at 6 p.m. at the Gathering Place. There will not be any presentation. The new board of directors will be voted in, and will take office following our annual End-Of-Year Party. There will be no charge for members. Guest fee is $10 per person. Check the April issue of Clippings for the fabulous menu created by our able Hospitality Committee of Debbie Disabatino and Karen Marshall.

Reservations must be in by Tuesday, May 4. The Gathering Place can only accommodate 100, so sign up early. You can make your reservation by filling out the party flyer and depositing it, and any checks, in the Garden Club box at the Swim & Croquet kiosk.
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TRAVEL CLUB SPONSORS PROGRAM ON RUSSIAN TRIP

On Wednesday, May19, at 7:30 p.m. in the Gathering Place, the Travel Club will present a digital slide show and discussion by Dale Smith of his recent, unexpected trip to St. Petersburg, Russia. He will share his unusual experience of having his book discovered by a Russian professor, having it published by a Russian state university and participating in lectures and book signings while enjoying the magnificent culture of that city.

All Fearringtonians interested in travel and/or photography are invited to attend. Any questions, call Sue or Don Zehl, 542-4076.
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CHILD CARE NETWORKS MARKS 20TH

What a great day it will be! Sunday, May 23, at 3:30 p.m. at the Barn (following a book signing by Sheila Kay Adams).

There will be a fabulous show by renowned entertainers Laura Boosinger and Sheila Kay.

Laura’s concert performances and recordings have earned a well-deserved repu-tation as one of North Carolina’s most talented singers and interpreters of the music of the South. She is proficient on multiple instruments used in folk/mountain singing and has quite a reputation with the children for her “young” songs as well as a great voice for adult ballads born in the mountain heritage.

Sheila Kay (who will be bringing her daughter Melanie to perform as well) is a fascinating storyteller, author and singer of folk tunes for listeners of all ages. She is the seventh generation of her family to live in the mountains of North Carolina and has a tapestry of tales to tell.

This event celebrates 20 years that Child Care Networks Inc. of' Pittsboro has been functioning in behalf of the children of Chatham County.

Come and enjoy the entertainment and the celebration. Children 12 and under are free! Grab those grandchildren and have a great time! Everyone over the age of 12 will be $10 (family maximum $25).

If you have questions, contact Child Care Networks board member Tina Patterson (545-0977).
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DEMOCRATIC CLUB TO HOST FORUM FOR COUNTY CANDIDATES

The Fearrington Democratic Club will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, May 25 at 7:15 p.m. in The Gathering Place. We will continue our “election-year coverage” with a candidate forum for Democratic candidates for Chatham County offices. There are several contested races for the Board of Commissioners. With all the challenging issues facing our county, it is important to know as much as we can about our candidates. All Fearrington residents are welcome. Hope to see you then.

Looking ahead, on our annual picnic will be held on Saturday, June 6, at Jordan Lake.
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FEARRINGTON REPUBLICAN CLUB TO HEAR TREASURER CANDIDATE

The Fearrington Republican Club is pleased to host Ed Meyer, candidate for state treasurer, on Wednesday, May 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place.

The state treasurer is the sole fiduciary for the state employee pension fund and the pension funds of many county employees. Ed will not accept campaign contributions from executives or employees of the companies that manage the state’s pension funds. He has built a legal career fighting fraud and abuse in government programs and has an “exemplary reputation” among his legal colleagues, according to the largest attorney-rating agency in the country.

Ed served in the Reagan administration’s Department of Health and Human Services and is currently secretary-treasurer of the North Carolina Society of Health Care Attorneys. He advises doctors and hospitals

As state treasurer, he would seek greater investment in North Carolina’s economy, consistent with his fiduciary role and prudent investment decisions, and fight any attempt by the state legislature to borrow from the state employee pension funds.

Ed is a graduate of Stanford University and Georgetown Law School, married with two children and practices business and health-care law in Greensboro.

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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UNC ALUMNI CLUB PLANS PICNIC

All Fearrington UNC alumni, faculty and staff are invited to attend our final event of the year. Plan to join us on Friday, May 28 at 5 p.m. for a picnic at the Swim & Croquet Club. The cost will be $15 per person. Your check will be your reservation. Please send it to Philip Cree at 894 Fearrington Post by Saturday, May 22. If you have questions, call Philip at 545-9794 or Harriet McGraw at 542-7342.
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MAY IS COOKBOOK MONTH!

The gala fundraiser for the Cookbook Project has already had astounding success! Reservations came in early at a rapid pace, and all 25 tables were filled by the end of March. To add your name to the waiting list in case of cancellations call Ginny Mellencamp 545-0967.

The gala, to be held Wednesday, May 12 at the Barn, will be an elegant affair with gentlemen in jackets (ties not required) and lovely ladies on their arms. The champagne and hors d’oeuvres hour begins at 5 p.m. with live harp music. The dinner buffet follows at 6:15, featuring beef tenderloin with vegetables, a pasta station with your choice of sauces, and a Caesar-salad station. To complete the repast, tables will receive platters of desserts showcasing delicious recipes that have been submitted for the cookbook.

From 5 to 7, the Silent Auction will be in progress followed by a Live Auction with auctioneer Jerry Harris. Outstanding auction items include: A vacation week in an Oak Island condo near Wilmington, an antique French brass bowl with a Bill Presley fresh flower arrangement, an elegant French dinner for 6, jewelry by a talented Fearrington artist, a facial plastic surgery consultation, 6 first-edition autographed books, a night at the Fearrington House Inn, an Afternoon Tea cooking class and a beautiful Vietri pottery item. The week before the event a preview listing of all auction items will be distributed to those with reservations. Arrangements have been made for absent bidding. If you would like to be part of the auction but are not attending the gala, please call Barbara Terry, 542-6554, for information.

To donate items or services for the auction, contact Vera Graye, 542-9888 or alexandvera@hotmail.com or Julie Snyder, 545-0194 or snyderjl@earthlink.net

Our thanks go to those who have donated dollars toward the gala event and the cookbook project. If you will not be attending but would like to donate, Ginny Mellencamp will take your check made out to Fearrington Cares Cookbook Project. Her address is 32 West Camden (1130).

Remember that Saturdays, May 15 and 22, are the days for prepublication sales of the cookbook in the Village Center. See the book mockup and reserve your copies between 1 and 4 p.m.

The reason for it all is Fearrington Cares.
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CONGRATULATIONS TO…

… James Harrelson of 723 Barnsley, who graduates from Cary Academy on May 21. James will attend North Carolina State University and plans to study mechanical engineering. James is almost a lifelong resident of Fearrington, having moved here in 1987. He will relocate to Raleigh over the summer. The Harrelson family would like to thank all of our Fearrington neighbors who have taken an interest in James over the years.

...and Murry Handler of 433 Wintercrest East, who will be included in the Chelsea International Art Competition in New York City. The juror of the competition, Susan Cross, associate curator of the Guggenheim Museum, has selected his work as one of the 15 artists to participate in the SoHo Collective at Agora Gallery in New York, July 29-August 18.
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A REMINDER TO CCB CUSTOMERS

If you are going out of town this summer, we recommend that you change your address with CCB. For your convenience, CCB offers on-line banking, which includes E-Statements. This service can be established by coming into the Fearrington branch. We appreciate your business and hope you have a great summer. – Loretta Nash, CCB Fearrington

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EVENTS OUTSIDE OF FEARRINGTON

PLAY BALL!

As the refrain goes, ‘”Take me out to the ball game.”

The Durham Bulls play Pawtucket on Monday, May 17 at 7 p.m. at the Durham Athletic Park.. It is a great night out. All Fearrington newcomers are welcome to attend. The Greater Chapel Hill Newcomers Men’s Club will arrange for a block of tickets ($6 each). Alumni, kids, spouses and friends are welcome.

Please RSVP to Warren Wagner (542-6043) by Saturday, May 1. Checks should be payable to Warren and mailed to him at 141 Fearrington Post. We will meet at gate B between 6 and 6:30 to pick up tickets.
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PARTY TO BENEFIT ALS ASSOCIATION

You are cordially invited to attend a benefit cocktail party on Thursday, May 20 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Carolina Club in Chapel Hill for the “Catfish” Hunter Chapter, ALS Association. The party will be hosted by Fearrington friends of Judy and Paul Ising.

There will be a cash bar with proceeds going to ALSA. Hors d’oeuvres will be served. There will be a short presentation by the chapter. Materials for the Walk to d’Feet ALS on September 25 will be available. Walkers and sponsors are needed. Please plan to sign up.

Please RSVP to Judy Ising at judyising@nc.rr.com or Jean Hjelle at 545-0432.

For parking, enter Stadium Drive (one-way) off South Road off Columbia Street; come to the club and obtain a parking pass; then park in spots reserved for the club.

Guests are welcome to dine in the Grill Room after the event as space permits. Guests can charge with a MasterCard or Visa card.

ALS – amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease – is a tragic disease robbing wonderful people of life. The ALS Association needs your help to fund much-needed research and support victims of ALS.

If you are unable to attend the party and want to make a donation to ALSA, please make your check payable to ALSA and drop if off at the Ising residence, 808 Brookfield or mail it to them.
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U.N. ASSOCIATION TO DISCUSS HOW THE U.S. IS VIEWED ABROAD

Gauging public opinion is well accepted in the United States as a guide to policymaking as well as merchandise marketing. Politically, its importance is graphically demonstrated every four years as we go through the ritual of choosing our president. As has been amply demonstrated by the global reaction to America’s war on terror and invasion of Iraq, the views of other governments and peoples are no less important as considerations for the formulation, implementation and ultimate effectiveness of American foreign policy.

Ole Holsti, emeritus professor of political science at Duke University, one of the world’s foremost authorities on international public opinion, will discuss The U.S. and the World: How the U.S. is Viewed Abroad at the United Nations Association’s Lunch and Learn meeting on Wednesday, May 26, at the Holiday Inn in Chapel Hill. The meeting will run from noon until 2 p.m.

Reservations may be made by sending a $15 check payable to “UNA-West Triangle Chapter” to Barbara Berke, 595B Fearrington Post. The deadline for reservations is Friday, May 21. Questions to Barbara at 542-0319.
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FRIENDS OF THE MUSEUM TO SEE ‘AMERICAN EDEN’

The Fearrington Friends of the North Carolina Museum of Art invite you to join in another stimulating experience at the Museum on Thursday, June 10.

Following the bright contrail of the Defying Gravity exhibit, the museum is unveiling American Eden: Landscape Paintings of the Hudson River School from the collection of the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. Featuring 55 works by 25 artists, the exhibition presents a panorama of 19th century American landscape painting, drawn from the collection of this renowned Hartford, Conn., institution.

To make the day complete, there will be a gallery tour at 11 a.m. or 1:30 p m, by John Coffey, the museum’s deputy director, of collections and programs. Luncheon, at a cost of about $15, is available.

A reservation is a must. Please call Kay Gundlach at 542-1681 or Dorothy Birnham at 542-3219, as space is limited.

The lecture is free for members of the museum, $5 for non-members or join the Friends at this time for $10 and be part of all events at the museum or at home in Fearrington.
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FEARRINGTON TEAM TO JOIN THE RACE FOR THE CURE

“It was a most uplifting experience. I’m looking forward to participating next year and to eventually NOT needing a race for the cure.” These were the words of Lori Tenser, a member of the 2003 Fearrington Village Team, Galloway Gals and Guys.

We invite you to share this experience with Lori and your Fearrington neighbors on Saturday, June 12 at Meredith College in Raleigh.

There is hardly a family that has not had a family member or friend touched by breast cancer. At the 2003 race, many runners wore pink “In Celebration Of” signs on the backs of their race shirts to honor friends and family members who had breast cancer. Some of the most moving said simply, “My Mom” and “Gram, my hero.” Breast cancer survivors are given pink T-shirts, and these participants, young (some pushing baby carriages and strollers) and old, shared stories of hope, fear and love.

To experience the sea of people making their way along Hillsborough Street cannot be adequately described with words; it must be experienced. We invite you to experience this event as part of the Fearrington team. Can’t run or jog? You can walk. Out of town or busy? You can register as a phantom runner. Like to sleep in on Saturdays? You can register to Sleep in for the Cure and still be part of our team.

Thanks to the generous support of R.B. Fitch and Fitch Creations, bus transportation will be available, and team T-shirts will be provided. Registration details, time and place of departure, schedule of events and telephone contacts are listed in the pink flyer included with this newsletter.

Last year, more than 17,000 people participated in the various race events. Over $700,000 was raised. Seventy-five percent of this amount stays in our local communities, supporting breast cancer screenings, education, and research. Both the Duke and the University of North Carolina Medical Centers have received large research grants.

Fearrington resident Gloria Preminger, a member of the 2003 Galloway Gals and Guys team, and a 34-year survivor of breast cancer, was quoted in The News & Observer as saying, “It is important that they find a cure.”

You can help. Come be part of the Fearrington Team. as we Race for the Cure!
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SECOND BLOOM NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

A plea for volunteers for The Second Bloom, an upscale thrift shop in Pittsboro operated by The Family Violence and Rape Crisis Center. Our volunteer list needs augmenting and hopefully leaner summer commitments will leave time for giving a few hours a week to the shop. It is a very rewarding and social experience.

Again, we are grateful for your generous donations. To schedule a shift, please call Susan at 545-5565.
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THE MUSIC SCENE

MUSIC IN THE AIR

Music in the Air has scheduled four performances for the spring season. Come and enjoy the concerts. Remember that they take place no matter what the weather. We’ll move indoors to the Market Café in case of rain. Bring a blanket, sun hat, raincoat, picnic, your musical ear and a tip for the musicians.

Thursday, April 29, 4:30-5:15 p.m.: Celtic Jam. A lively and entertaining duo playing Celtic music on a variety of instruments: flute, concertina, piano and fiddle. Come listen to Teeyam Smith and Eileen Regan play their haunting, authentic music. You can also sample some of the products sold at the store Celtic Wonders on Main Street in Carrboro.

Thursday, May 13, 4:30 -5:15 p.m.. Joe Izzo Jazz Quartet. Drums, saxophone, guitar and bass, played by well-known jazz musicians of the area, including Maylin Horde and Kevin van Sant. It’s a special event when such good musicians get together!

Thursday, May 27, 7-7:45 p.m. The Durham Savoyards sing a selection of those wonderful Gilbert & Sullivan favorites. The group is very professional and very entertaining. They usually perform on stage, so this is a special opportunity to hear them at close range!

Thursday, June 10, 7-7:45 p.m. Brass on the Slide. A trombone quartet that plays a variety of familiar songs, from spirituals to folk songs to jazz. Come and hear their unbelievably mellow sound.
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VILLAGE VOICES TO SING LIVELY AMERICANA

“Because you are listening, you’re part of the song.”

You are invited to join your friends and neighbors from Fearrington on Thursday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the Barn to listen to the annual Spring Concert by the Village Voices and become “part of their song.”

This year, Fearrington’s women’s chorus is singing a lively Americana program of folk, gospel, blues and spirituals.

For the past dozen years, the 50-member Village Voices has been directed by Bob Lawton and accompanied by pianist Dan Hadley. The chorus has won both silver and gold medals at the North Carolina Silver Arts Festival.

New members are welcome to join in September when weekly rehearsals are scheduled to resume.

So for an enjoyable evening of song, stroll over after dinner and join us. There will be a $5 admission fee at the door to help defray the costs of the music and piano rental.
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SPRING INTO HARMONY

The award-winning General Assembly Chorus of the RTP chapter of SPEBSQSA will present another set of outstanding shows of barbershop harmony on Friday, May 7 and Saturday, May 8 at the Fletcher Theater at the BTI Center in Raleigh.

Night shows will start at 8 p.m. each evening and there is a Saturday afternoon show at 2 p.m. that appeals to a lot of Fearrington residents.

Reserved-seat tickets in advance are $20 for the night shows and $15 for the afternoon show on Saturday. Specials on tickets include $2 off for seniors and another $2 off for 20 or more as a group

The featured treat of this year’s spring shows will be the Barbershop Harmony Society's 1999 International Quartet Champions, F.R.E.D. This zany outstanding foursome will win your hearts with both singing and comedy. Also on the show will be chapter quartets, the 2004 local high school quartet contest winners and, of course, the General Assembly Chorus.

So make your plans now and talk with your friends about attending this musical highlight. Call John Adams for tickets and/or information at 545-9101.

And remember, Let’s Keep America Singing!
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HAVURAH PRESENTS MUSICAL PROGRAM

Violinist Carol Feuer and Pianist Francis Whang will present a program at the Fearrington Havurah meeting on Tuesday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. in the Gathering Place. The program will feature commentary and music on the styles of Debussy and Schubert.

Mrs. Feuer, a Fearrington resident, is a graduate of Julliard and Bennington and is emeritus first violinist of the Metropolitan String Quartet. She has also lectured and performed at the New School, Marymount Manhattan College, the C.W. Post College Chamber Music Festival and with numerous chamber ensembles in the New York area and has had major roles with the American and Nassau symphonies. Mrs. Feuer continues to free lance in many Triangle area settings.

Professor Whang is emeritus professor and chair of piano, UNC Department of Music. He is active as a soloist and chamber player in the United States, Asia and Europe, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C., the San Francisco Opera House and the Gardner Museum in Boston.

Refreshments are available at 7:30 and the program begins at 8. Guests are welcome
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COMMUNITY CONCERT FEATURES SONGS OF LIGHT AND ETERNITY

The Chapel Hill Community Chorus will perform Brahms’ A German Requiem on Saturday, May 15 at 8

p.m., in a program devoted to “Songs of Light and Eternity.” Music by Fissinger, Tallis and Lauridsen are also in the program. The CHCC Orchestra will accompany the chorus. The director is Dr. Sue T. Klausmeyer.

The concert will take place at the Chapel Hill Bible Church, 250 Erwin Road. Tickets are $12, $6 for students. Tickets may be purchased at the door or from CHCC members. The chorus includes over 20 singers from Fearrington.
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AMARYLLIS TRIO TO PERFORM FOR FEARRINGTON CONCERT SERIES

Each year, advanced students from the North Carolina School of the Arts have delighted Fearrington Concert Series subscribers with a variety of concerts.

This year’s performance by The Amaryllis Trio promises to enhance that tradition.

The trio - Elizabeth Young, violin; Holly Attar, viola, and Amy Gillingham, cello - will perform works by Handel, Bach, Beethoven, Reger and McHugh-Field.

The concert will take place at The Gathering Place on Sunday, May 16 at 3 p.m. Non-subscribers may attend the concert, seats available, by coming to the Gathering Place shortly before 3 p.m. The cost is $10 per person.
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THE BRITISH ARE COMING!

Rehearsals for Chapel Hill Community Summer Chorus begin Tuesday, May 25. Sue T. Klausmeyer, director, has announced the theme will be The British Are Coming! Guest instrumentals will be Back Beat Band, a local group that performs Beatles music. The chorus will perform Beatles arrangements, including Yesterday, Here Comes the Sun, and Yellow Submarine. Music includes George Shearing’s Music to Hear, with texts from William Shakespeare and music by Ralph Vaughn Williams and Gerald Finzi, among others. John Rutter’s arrangement of Fiddler Man will also be performed.

The Summer Concert will take place on Friday, July 16, at 8 p.m., at University United Methodist Church in Chapel Hill. Rehearsals will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Binkley Baptist Church, Chapel Hill. Registration is $40, which includes a performance T-shirt. The cost of music is yet to be determined. Pre-registration will be available in May at www.chapelhillcommunitychorus.org.
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NEWS FROM THE FHA

ATTENTION, SPEEDERS...

You will soon notice the radar sign that will notify you of your speed. If you find yourself above the limit, please adjust your speed.

Shortly after the sign is here, the Chatham County Sheriff’s office will commit to have officers patrolling Fearrington periodically. Speeders will be tagged. Hopefully everyone will make the necessary adjustments so that our community will be safer, and walkers and bikers can enjoy our friendly environment. -- FHA Board of Directors
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SPRING YARD CLEANUP PROBLEMS

For reasons that are not worth describing, the scheduling for the recent Spring Yard Pickup moved too quickly, with insufficient advance notice. The FHA apologizes to any residents who were not aware of the pickup. For the Fall Yard Cleanup there will be a notice in the Newsletter several weeks before the scheduled pickup.

There is a second problem that also needs fixing. There is now no scheduled debris pickup for those streets where there is still major house construction and where the FHA has not yet taken responsibility for roadside maintenance. For future Fall and Spring pickups, either FHA will have its contractor pick up the yard debris for these streets, or we will coordinate it with Fitch Creations so that their contractor does the work during the same week (unless yard maintenance is already covered through one of the neighborhood service contracts). – Jerry Gaudet, FHA President
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
THURSDAY, MAY 20,
7:30 P.M.
GATHERING PLACE

The first of our two annual meetings for 2004 will be held as above.

An agenda will be published one week before.

We expect that R.B. Fitch will be the main speaker, providing he has no conflicts in time.

FHA Board members will give an update on their activities from the beginning of the year and what we plan to do for the balance of the year.

Any suggestions for items to be added to the agenda would be appreciated.
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BE WARY ABOUT DOING BUSINESS WITH VENDORS YOU DO NOT KNOW

One of our residents recently approached a vendor who was doing tree removal from a neighbor’s yard and requested the vendor to do the same for them. They agreed to have the vendor remove tree debris, without signing an agreement or contract. When the vendor finished, he gave them a bill for $4,000. The resident was completely taken by surprise, and the vendor became belligerent and threatening, so they paid the $4,000. The work was not completed, and the resident implored the vendor to complete the work. He agreed, and presented them another bill for $1,000. At this point they refused to pay and have taken the issue to state and local government officials. It is doubtful anything can be done at this point, but a

Reminder To All Fearringtonians: Do not do business with anyone you do not know. Check the FHA office listing for vendors other members have done business with and found acceptable. Always have in writing exactly what you want the vendor to accomplish, and get an acceptance of the work, and a price, in writing. If you are the least bit intimidated, go no further, and try to talk to your neighbors about the problem. Let’s not let unscrupulous individuals do business in Fearrington. – Jerry Gaudet, FHA President
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HAVE YOUR HVAC UNIT SERVICED

Recently the FHA Board was made aware of a possible problem with the heating and air-conditioning systems in some of the homes in Fearrington.

The problem is with Tempstar HVAC systems. We have learned there MAY be a problem with their heat exchangers. Seven or eight years after the units are installed, cracks might develop in some seams. We understand that the company has traced this to a problem with the manufacturing process. If the cracks occur and are not discovered and repaired, carbon monoxide could escape into one’s home.

The Tempstar HVAC systems have a 10-year warranty. If a problem is discovered, the company will pay for the replacement of the unit. The owner will need to pay to install the new unit.

Tempstar distributors and service people STRONGLY recommend that anyone with this system have it serviced as soon as possible. In fact, everyone should have their system checked, regardless of the manufacturer. Not all Tempstar units have the problem, but several were discovered in Fearrington this year.

The cost for a service call is usually between $75 and $90. If you need the name of a firm that provides this service, the FHA office has a list in its vendor book.

As an additional precaution, the service people recommend that anyone with a gas system give serious consideration to installing a carbon monoxide detector. If you receive Consumer Reports, there is an excellent article on page 40 of the October 2001 issue on this subject.

If you do not receive Consumers Report, the FHA office will have a master and can copy the article for you.
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THE INS AND OUTS OF RECYCLING

What happens to those recyclable items you put out on Wednesday morning? Why does Chatham Disposal pick up some items, but not others?

Chatham Disposal, a privately owned business, is our licensed waste hauler. The Chatham County Office of Waste Management issues the permit. The hauler is required to offer recycling services to every resident that subscribes to the waste pickup service.

Chatham Disposal currently picks up recyclable items in four “market-driven” categories: newsprint, cans, glass and plastics. These are the items that our hauler can sell to a vendor in this area. (For additional information on recycling procedures see page 14 of the 2004 Fearrington Directory.)

What about glossy magazines and catalogs? Mixed paper? Corrugated cardboard? These items must be taken to the Cole Park Recycling Center. The county waste management office is able to sell these items to a large firm that is not available to Chatham Disposal.

Please continue to support our Wednesday morning recycling pickup service. If you have any questions, contact Barry Reece at breece@mindspring.com
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NO LARGE-VEHICLE PARKING AT THE GATHERING PLACE

Over the past few months, various large vehicles have parked at the Gathering Place, including an 18-wheeler, two pickup trucks, a commercial dump truck, a truck with a mobile home trailer and a vehicle with a boat trailer. This is inappropriate for the following reasons:

1. Most of this parking is not allowed by the FHA Covenants, which is a legal agreement that states: “Commercial vehicles, trailers, or motor homes are not to be parked in the Village, except for the purpose of loading or unloading.” Many residents view these legal covenants as a way of enhancing the mutual enjoyment of living here.

2. These large vehicles have blocked off a large number of parking spaces, limiting both the parking and the maneuverability for other users of the Gathering Place. On one occasion, a large truck parked in a way that forced a landscape contractor to stop working on the hillside behind the parking lot. Private small trucks, which are not covered by the above rule, are also inappropriate if they occupy more than one or two parking spaces; usually they can be parked at the residences.

3. The quality of the paving is uncertain, and continued parking by very heavy vehicles could lead to expensive repairs. As an example, the FHA will soon be contracting to repair widespread damage to the paving at the Gathering Place mail kiosk, at a cost of $2,900.
Please tell your visitors that they have to find some other location for their large vehicles, because we do not allow overnight parking at the Gathering Place, or at any other location within Fearrington Village. – Stephen Bodner, FHA Grounds and Facilities
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BOARD BRIEFINGS: Summary of the April Meeting

President Jerry Gaudet called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. and called for resident input.

Henry Castner informed the board of a proposal for walking paths and distributed a map illustrating proposed routes. While there are no final plans, he asked the board to consider the information. Jerry requested that Henry distribute the information to R.B. Fitch.

Barry Reece reported two trends in Fearrington recycling: 1) with more residents, the Village is generating more waste for recycling, and 2) there is less participation. Participation is also spotty due to different service agreements. He asked the board to consider discussions with service groups to increase participation.

Treasurer’s Report

Frank Chut reported that expenses for February were high, as predicted. This is due to a double payment made to the new landscape vendor for the first two months and to the cost of printing the directory.

Frank also reported that for the first time FHA filed a North Carolina state tax return. In January, FHA received a tax deficiency notice from the N.C. Department of Revenue that income earned on monies is taxable. Thus, FHA filed a state tax return for 2003 and late returns for 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002. He petitioned to forgive late interest payments and penalties. Although the matter is not yet resolved, he does not expect the final amount payable to exceed $2,000. Due to the statute of limitations, FHA does not need to file for the years preceding 1999.

Nancy Kern asked for the amount FHA has in reserve. Frank reported that the group has over $30,000 in the Vanguard Reserve Account and over $40,000 in CDs. After a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, the motion was carried.

Committee Reports

Community Affairs

Cynthia Jones is reviewing the newcomers’ packet and adding the covenants to it. She will send a copy to all block captains and provide packets in the FHA office.

Covenant Issues

Anne Bigelow reported that she held a meeting of covenant groups to work on variances toward the goal of consensus on interpretations and standardization of resulting actions. She foresees a future need to obtain legal counsel on issues where covenants are vague. The covenants in the FHA directory are a summary of the general principles covered by most area covenants and are intended as a reference for residents. A procedural document has been created and distributed to the covenant service groups. She has asked for service group review and comments. With that input, the FHA board will be asked to vote on the procedural guidelines at the next meeting.

County Liaison

Al Lebeau reported that the Cary Town Council approved the annexation of the 509-unit Forest Oaks development that straddles the Cary-Chatham County line and annexes 130 acres of Chatham County. (Click here for complete report.)

Long-Range Planning Committee

Vice President Steve Ruziecki, board representative to the Long-Range Planning Committee, reported that the committee is studying the pros and cons of incorporation, annexation and/or making neither change in the future. The committee will provide the board and community with the results of their study.

FHA Office/Gathering Place Rentals

The board discussed the use of the copier and reiterated that the machine is for residents and groups for nonprofit purposes only.

Frank Chut is studying the cost of maintaining the Gathering Place to determine whether the rentals pay for building upkeep.

Financial Officer

Richard Bird reported that there are five outstanding FHA dues for this year. He has notified the residents.

Gathering Place

Lisa Stewart reported that the bathrooms in the Gathering Place are in poor condition and provided an estimate of $1,500 per room for renovations and repairs. Her motion that the board authorize the expenditure of $1,500 per room for repairs was carried. Lisa reported that the replacement ceiling tiles have been delivered and will be installed beginning April 9. The floors in the large and small conference rooms will be refurbished after the ceiling tiles are complete. The HVAC systems have been serviced, and the audio/video system is being reviewed.

Grounds and Facilities

Steve Bodner reported that notices are going out to remind residents and their guests to refrain from parking large vehicles on Gathering Place property.

He also confirmed that both the spring and fall cleanup announcements will be made earlier than this past spring and guaranteed that residents in all service areas will be able to participate.

Steve reviewed his study of a proposal to pave the Smokehouse mail kiosk parking area and to repave the deteriorating paving at the Gathering Place mail kiosk. He noted that it would cost $500 to $1,000 per year to add new gravel as it sinks into the wet clay during rainy seasons, and that the total cost of paving over its lifetime would be less than maintaining the gravel. The paving would upgrade the Smokehouse kiosk lot to the same surface quality as already exists at the other FHA mail kiosks in the village. After discussion, it was decided to take no action but to engage a grounds engineer to review the drainage issues.

Nancy Kern requested that Steve survey the users of the kiosk areas to see if paving is a preference and stated that expenses are large for an area not used by all the residents. Steve responded that an informal survey was conducted last year, with the vote strongly in favor of paving.

Additional Resident Input

Florence Shapiro asked if the board had any information on a completion date to the entrance of the Village. The president responded that according to a recent conversation with R.B. Fitch, there was no known date.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, May 4, and the Town Meeting will occur on Thursday, May 20. – Janet Lorant, Secretary

(Complete minutes are available at www.fhafearrington.org/ archives/Minutes2004/ meetingarchive 0404.htm and on the kiosk bulletin boards)
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HEALTH AND FITNESS

NURSE’S NOTES from Joyce Baird

During the month of April, I had both the good fortune and the privilege of meeting quite a few Fearrington residents who are quietly supporting and meeting the needs of their neighbors. These anonymous Fearringtonians take it upon themselves to intervene in many different situations and provide much-needed assistance to those in our community who are experiencing rough times. Even though you are not doing it for recognition, I applaud each of you who unselfishly give of themselves in support of others. Fearrington really does care!

Giggle Your Way to Good Health

We’ve always heard that laughter is the best medicine. Now there is scientific evidence to support the value of laughter.

Stanford University researchers have gathered brain Magnetic Resonance Imagine (MRI) data showing increased activity of the “nucleus accumbens” when a subject is stimulated by something funny. The same part of the brain also lights up when you get an unexpected bonus, a passionate kiss or a big bowl of ice cream. And when that part of your brain gets tickled, all kinds of pleasure-inducing, pain-relieving endorphins are released into your blood stream and disease-fighting substances fuel your immune system.

So, as I tell many of you who stop in my office, “You have to make your own fun.” So get out there and make some fun. Who knows, it may also make you well!

Salt Alert!

Do you like salty snacks as much as I do? Americans eat more than twice the salt they should and don’t get enough potassium, an imbalance that can lead to high blood pressure.

The Institute of Medicine recently released salt intake recommendations of 1,500 milligrams a day and potassium intake of 4,700 milligrams per day. Those over 50 years of age should strive to eat just 1,300 milligrams of salt and those over 70 just 1,200 milligrams. Americans currently average twice the recommended amount of salt in daily diets and half of the recommended potassium.

The biggest culprits are restaurant food and processed foods such as frozen dinners and canned vegetables and sauces. Although the new guidelines will be a challenge to meet, simply putting down the salt shaker is a good (and easy) way to begin.

Caregiver Support Group Moving Forward

Response to our survey about starting a caregiver support group has been good. We will be holding an organizational meeting in May (date to be determined), and we will be in touch with those who want to join. We are still looking for an experienced individual to lead the group, so if you have the time and desire to assist with this important project, give us a call.

Thank You, Volunteers

A big THANK YOU to telephone answerers, drivers, office receptionists and nurses who volunteered in April. Our list of volunteers has simply become too large to publish individually each month, but you know who you are and we certainly appreciate each and every one of you!
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FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR

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

ElderFit – Strong and Steady – Monday and Wednesday, 11 a.m.-noon, Gathering Place

Medication Evaluation/Consultation by CVS Pharmacist – Monday, May 3, 1-2 p.m., Fearrington Cares Office – Village Center

Foot Care Clinic – Monday, May 3, 2-4 p.m., Fearrington Cares Office, Gathering Place. You must make an appointment – 542-6877

Blood Pressure Clinic – Wednesday, May 5, 19, 10a.m.-noon, Nursing Office
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YOGA’S APPEAL

A recent article by Justin Matlick in the Wall Street Journal highlighted several aspects of yoga that hit a cord with those of us who enjoy this practice.

For example: “Yoga classes treat the body as an integrated unit, guiding students through poses that stretch and strengthen not only the big muscle groups but also smaller supporting muscles.” He also mentions, “At its core, yoga is intended to help students achieve balance and serenity in their lives.”

If the possibility of improving balance, serenity, stretching and strengthening appeal to you, please join us. We meet weekly at the Gathering Place, Wednesdays, 8:15-9:30 a.m. For more details, please call Laura Hyer, 545-9607.
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SUNDAY YOGA IN FEARRINGTON

There are a few openings for Sunday afternoon gentle yoga classes in our home at 2 Benchmark with Bob and RoseMarie Roth:

Women’s Class at 4:30 with RoseMarie

Men’s Class at 4:30 with Bob

Men’s Theraputics at 6 with Bob

Please call 929-3121 to register or with questions

A new addition: A Friday Women’s Beginning Class with RoseMarie at Grooves Fitness for Women at Chatham Crossing – 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
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NEWSLETTER-CALENDAR EDITORS

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

Mary Hammond
545-2026 Fax: same
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

Bob Comey edited this issue and will edit the June issue.

The deadline for the June issue is Saturday, May 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