|
|
FHA GENERAL
MEMBERSHIP
MEETING
NOVEMBER 13
The Barn
Voting 2-3PM
Meeting 3-5PM
Candidate
Biographies
(Click Here)
Sample Ballots
Officers/Directors
(Click Here)
Bylaw Chages
(Click Here)
|
|
FALL CLEANUP
NOVEMBER
7 to 14
Phases I to V
Weathersfield
The Woods
Bush Creek
(See here)
|
NOTE REGARDING
EMAIL ADDRESSES
The email addresses in
this on-line version of the newsletter have been modified to
substitute "AT" for the "@" symbol. This is done to reduce the
likelihood that spammers will be able to pick up the address. When you
click on one of these addresses and your mail software formats a
message, you will need to modify the address field in the message by
replacing the "AT" with "@."
|
|
FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS
NEWSLETTER
CONTENTS
(Click on a headline to go directly to the
article.)
FEARRINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY NEWS
A POST OFFICE IN FEARRINGTON?
NOT YET
The proposal to have a Contract Postal Unit in the Gathering Place has been
abandoned because of restrictions on commercial operations in the Gathering
Place. Another Fearrington location is being sought. R.B. Fitch has agreed
to work with the FHA on finding a potential site. The FHA Board then will
need to confirm that the potential site meets state regulations.
(Return to Table of Contents)
BOARD AND RESIDENTS DISCUSS
INCORPORATION
The following was prepared from minutes of the FHA Board meeting of October
4 and summaries of the October 4 and 10 meetings by Bob Comey.
EXTRACT FROM MINUTES
Note from Secretary Maggie Frantz: Additional comments were added to the
minutes after the meeting to ensure that complete and correct information
was disseminated to the community. In all cases, a note is included to that
effect.
Documents were passed out to all attendees: a summary of the findings of the
Annexation & Incorporation Committee (ANINC) (Click
Here) and a Q&A sheet of most commonly asked questions about
incorporation (Click Here).
Bill Sommers, board member and ANINC chair, spoke about the documents and
then opened it up for questions, which included:
What is R.B. Fitch's relationship and what is his opinion of
incorporation?
He would have one vote. Members of the FHA Board met with him last week and
he said he does not yet believe we need to incorporate yet but he has an
open mind. (Tom amended this comment at the October 10 meeting: "He did not
feel it was necessary but wouldnt oppose it. But after reading recent press
reports, he now favors "putting it off." He "does not want to introduce a
second layer of government and is against higher taxes.")
What is the population of the area outside of Fearrington and how do we
communicate to them?
An FHA board member spoke with the county manager to set up a meeting at 7
p.m. on November 9 at the Chatham County Courthouse in Pittsboro for people
impacted outside Fearrington. There are approximately 150 registered voters
in this area. The petition must be signed by 15% of registered voters in the
area of incorporation. Residents outside of Fearrington will be notified.
(Data received after the October 4 meeting indicates there are 85 residents
and 64 registered voters outside Fearrington .)
Wouldn't the commercial area of Briar Chapel that is in the incorporated
area pay the majority of taxes since it would have a higher tax rate?
It has not been determined what that areas tax rate would be. We cant say at
this time that they would pay the majority of taxes. (Notes added after the
meeting: It has not been determined what the rate would be and since nothing
is currently built there, we cant get a good estimate. When fully developed,
taxes would be based on the assessed valuation and the tax rate set by
governing board of the new municipality.)
Have you been able to ascertain how many incorporation requests have been
submitted in North Carolina and how many were approved?
About 25 have been and 14-15 were accepted. (Numbers confirmed after the
meeting were from 1999-2004: 24 applications; 13approved; 11 did not pass.)
Would incorporation replace the FHA and volunteers?
No. The FHA would remain intact. The covenants by and large would remain
intact. The incorporated municipality might take over some of the more
public functions being done by service groups. An example might be garbage
collection.
It seems the reason for incorporation is based on fear. Maybe in 10 years
Chapel Hill will want to annex us. Please talk about the cons. You are only
presenting the positive side.
The cons are that another layer of government would be created and it would
cost the residents something. (Additional comments added after the meeting:
The basic negative side is having to pay increased taxes. Many people do not
want another level of government thrust upon them and would prefer to wait
until there was more concrete evidence of a real problem. Many of these
objections are summarized in the Final Report on page 35, item 3.)
In terms of the political process at the state level, how does it look
for local positive support? Will we be successful if our senator and/or
representative are against it?
If Chatham County could pass a resolution, that would have some influence.
If Chapel Hill or Carrboro raised a strong opposition, we would have a
difficult time. (Comments added after the meeting: And of course we need the
backing of our state senator and representative. If they do not back it or
have an equivocal stand, then the proposed incorporation would not survive.)
We appreciate the observation that this might look like a whitewash. The
committee worked very hard to provide a Q&A sheet. Please review that very
closely.
In order for this to pass, are we going to have a vote of everyone in the
community?
That comes later. First, the community has to indicate in the preference
poll that it would like the process to continue. Then a petition signed by
15% of the registered voters in the proposed incorporated area must
accompany the petition to the Joint Commission on Municipal Incorporation.
The petition would contain the legally required details. Even if the General
Assembly were to approve the petition, it would also require that a
referendum be held on incorporation; 51% of the registered voters who vote
in the referendum must approve it. A negative vote would end the
incorporation effort.
Fran Sherwin, reporting for the Long-Range Planning Committee (LRPC), said
the group unanimously endorses the Annexation and Incorporation Committees
March report and recommends proceeding with incorporation. She commended the
latter committee for "a superb job." Other LRPC members are Bob DeVido, Dale
Smith, Evy Barrow, Ed Farnan and Paul Ising.
If Chapel Hills population goes above 50,000, what happens?
In 2010, the new census will most likely identify that Chapel Hill has over
50,000 people and the town would be able to annex Fearrington. (Comments
added after the meeting: By law an area seeking incorporation must not be
within 5 miles of a municipality that has a population of 50,000 or more
based on the federal census. Right now Chapel Hills official population is
48,000 plus. But if our incorporation petition were delayed until after the
2010 census when Chapel Hill will have its 50,000-plus number then an
incorporation proposal from the Fearrington area would have a nearly
impossible chance of going ahead.)
The pace of development is very rapid and the chance of us being annexed by
someone within the next 5 years is a cinch.
Cary can't annex us because Jordan Lake is a natural barrier; if Cary tried,
Chapel Hill and Chatham County would oppose it. Incorporation doesn't
guarantee that Fearrington would have the autonomy to influence the areas
around it. The services provided would have to be contracted and they could
be at the same or an increased cost.
How long would it take to get the papers together for the next session of
the legislature in 2006?
We could prepare them for the upcoming session, although once it gets there
it may be held over to another session. If the community gives its OK by the
November 13 annual meeting, then the ANINC committee will be able to put
together the required material for the petition.
Do we have the support of our representatives?
They have been informed all along the way. It is suspected they would
support it; they have not said, "Stop it." (Comments added after the
meeting: They have received copies of the Final Report and will be consulted
all along the way. We are working for their support.)
The terms city and municipality have been used. What is the difference?
They are interchangeable.
The ANINC committees work was commended, as was the FHA for looking
forward. Has any thought been given to what will happen if incorporation is
successful?
We haven't laid out a plan as yet. Our focus is getting the proper papers
together for the legislature. (Comments added after the meeting: We will be
working on a definite plan consistent with the legal requirements. The Final
Report did consider this issue and proposes the general process. The
committee will work out the detail for submission to the legislature. This
more detailed proposal will be first presented at a series of public
meetings prior to getting the required signatures.)
Where do we go from here?
There are preference sheets here, and they will also be delivered to each
resident by the block captains. Indicate your preference to have or not have
incorporation. You can return your preference sheet to the FHA office or put
it in your basket for the block captain to pick up when he/she delivers your
November Newsletter on October 28 or 29. The preferences will be tallied and
the results announced at the November 13 annual meeting.
What would it take as a municipality in terms of people, contracts
signed, money and resources? Could we see a projected income and expense
plan?
We are reluctant to commit the time to this only to find out the community
is really not interested in incorporation. Details will be presented before
the petitions are signed.
There is a concern that not enough information is known to make an
intelligent decision. Is it possible to talk to others who have incorporated
to learn their experience?
The ANINC Committee visited two towns that incorporated. (Comments added
after the meeting: The committee visited two towns that incorporated, while
the Long-Range Planning Committee also made one or two trips to recently
incorporated municipalities. The results of these trips are available. All
the detailed information that FHA has is shown on the web site and if there
are additional questions, members of the ANINC will be pleased to provide
answers Any additional paperwork will be at the FHA office and all residents
will be able to get it there.)
Many thanks to Bill Sommers and the committee. In terms of continuity, we
are all used to R.B. being here. If he is not here, it seems incorporation
would be a good thing.
It is a consideration that has been discussed.
Regarding law enforcement and ambulance service, could Fearrington
contract with them without being incorporated?
There could be liability in doing this. (Comments added after the meeting:
While the FHA or Fearrington Cares may contract with an ambulance service
and hire guards, contracting with actual law enforcement support may involve
the FHA in costly liability insurance protection. And all these services
will have to be paid by some organization.)
Tom Hauck thanked everyone for attending and said it is up to the residents
to decide.
(Return to Table of Contents)
OCTOBER
4 MEETING
When the FHA Board announced that incorporation would be discussed at the
October 4 meeting, it urged residents to attend and ask questions.
They certainly did. An overflow crowd of almost 200 residents, including 10
board members, packed the Gathering Place for the almost two-hour session.
The meeting opened with an explanation of the proposed overall Incorporation
area by Bill Sommers, chairman of the Annexation and Incorporation
Committee, which has been studying the possibility of incorporation for
about 18 months.
The area proposed for incorporation extends beyond Fearrington and is
bordered roughly by U.S. 15-501 on the west, part of Jack Bennett Road on
the north and part of Mount Gilead Road on the south. The western boundary
would follow property lines from Jack Bennett near Wild Ginger Trail south
to Mount Gilead near Big Hole Road and then follow Mount Gilead to 15-501.
The total estimated area is 2,300 acres, or about 3.6 square miles.
Residents of the extended area will be invited to a meeting in November at
the Chatham County Courthouse in Pittsboro.
Bill said the wider area would give an incorporated Fearrington greater
control over its surroundings. He noted that Briar Chapel owns commercially
zoned property bordering Fearrington. Briar Chapels waste treatment plan
includes spraying effluent throughout the development.
"We could have had a lot more control" over that situation "if we were an
incorporated city," he said. "Incorporation is not a panacea, but it would
give us stature and a voice."
Bill, FHA President Tom Hauck and David Monroe, a Fearrington resident and
Pittsboro's town planner, downplayed annexation fears. Monroe said that
annexation is not a real possibility and incorporation will be costly and
will not solve all the problems.
"I don't think we will have a major voice" as an incorporated community, one
resident said. "There are lots of cons," to which Bill responded. "We have
pointed out in the March 16 report that annexation is not an immediate
possibility. Incorporation will cost something in addition to what we are
all paying now and it is by no means a cure for all our problems."
Residents asked questions on numerous topics, including police and fire
protection, waste disposal, road maintenance, sewers, the roles of the FHA,
service groups and covenants, comparative costs to residents under the
status quo vs. incorporation.
"We are trying to get a consensus now," Bill said.
"The FHA Board is not pushing incorporation down the Fearrington community's
throat. We are asking the community to decide if they wish the board to
spend a lot more time and effort preparing the official petition and all the
documents that go with the submission to the legislature," Tom said in
conclusion.
(Return to Table of Contents)
OCTOBER 10 MEETING
Another overflow crowd of about 200 residents came to the Gathering Place on
Monday, October 10 for the FHA Boards third presentation on incorporation.
The featured speakers were board member Bill Sommers, chair of the boards
Annexation and Incorporation Committee (ANINC), and David Monroe,
Pittsboro's town planner and a Fearrington resident.
Bill said that the most important reason for incorporation is the rapid
growth of the area near Fearrington, over which we have has little control.
"North Chatham is the focus of uncoordinated planned growth," he said.
"Is incorporation free?" Bill asked. "Its not. It does cost. There is no
getting around that." Property in Fearrington is assessed at roughly $385
million, he said, so a tax rate of 15 cents per $100 of assessed valuation
would produce a probable operating budget of $575,000-$580,000. The state
requires a minimum tax of 5 cents per $100.
David emphasized that he was not speaking as an opponent of incorporation.
"We need more information to reach a rational decision," he cautioned.
In response to a question, Bill said that an incorporated Fearrington would
have to provide at least four municipal services chosen from a list of eight
services contained in the law on municipal incorporation. ANINC has proposed
water, fire service and police protection, plus zoning. The first three
services are already in place and we pay both a county tax and a fire
protection tax for these services. This applies to the whole of the proposed
incorporated area. The ANINC recommended that we adopt our own zoning and
subdivision code based on that of Chatham County but that the proposed
incorporated municipality do its own zoning and planning review which would
give us the fourth service.
Bill also responded to David's suggestion that a new municipality might have
unforeseen expenses with water extensions and requirements for new sewers.
First, all the proposed incorporated area is served by the Chatham County
Water Utility and the new municipality would not need to have such a
service. As to sewer or wastewater, the proposed incorporated area has two
kinds of wastewater service. Most of the Fearrington Village subdivision is
serviced by the Fearrington Sewer Utility, which is a private sewer system,
authorized by the state Utilities Commission and which charges an annual
sewer utility fee. The first three phases of Fearrington Village have
approved septic systems. The residential area outside of Fearrington but
within the proposed incorporated area also relies on approved septic
systems. Moreover, the law on incorporation does not include sewer/waste
water service as one of the eight services from which the proposed
incorporated municipality must chose. Thus, the proposed incorporated
municipality does not need to include either water or sewer in its service
delivery plan.
A questioner asked about salaries for government officials. Bill said they
had not been discussed. David noted that Pittsboro's town commissioners are
paid $25 a meeting and Planning Board members are reimbursed only for travel
expenses.
In his summation, David cautioned, "You need to examine the costs of
services, new fees and taxes." He predicted that the state would no longer
maintain Fearrington's 10+ miles of state roads and therefore state funds
would not be available. However, Powell Bill funds might be available for
maintenance and some administrative costs.
David also said Fearrington might want an increased police presence, either
our own force or through negotiations with the sheriff. "This is something
the community would have to determine," he said.
Chatham County would manage elections in Fearrington, David said, and
provide ballots and other paperwork. The expenses would be nominal.
He also said the county could continue to collect motor vehicle and property
taxes. "This would probably be more efficient than hiring a tax collector."
"All of these things are things we ought to examine," David concluded. "We
need to gather enough information to make an informed decision and not be
surprised down the road."
"What would I be getting from incorporation?" a resident asked. "Nothing but
protection from annexation," David replied. "Its an insurance policy against
serious consequences."
Bill responded to a number of David's comments. For example, the ANINC
committee has been told by the DOT Office in Asheboro that the state would
continue to maintain the 10.6 miles of road within Fearrington it now
maintains. But new roads added after incorporation would be the
responsibility of the municipality. However, if these roads are up to
standard, then the new municipality can apply to the state for Powell funds.
The new municipality would receive the same police protection it now gets
based on county taxes. If, however, the new municipality would like to add
additional protection, it could a) contract for the additional service with
the county sheriff or b) hire its own police personnel if it so desired. In
addition, the ANINC has already discussed tax collection costs with the
current county director and has received a quote from the tax administrator
that her office could collect taxes for the new municipality based on a
contracted price of .2% of the taxes collected.
Responding to a general question asking for more details on the proposed
budget, tax rate, governmental organization, etc., Bill replied that the
exact details will be developed if the community indicates through the
preference voting that it would like the process to continue. If this
occurs, then the ANINC will develop the full proposal required by the Joint
Legislative Commission on Municipal Incorporation, which also requires that
this data by submitted with the petition signed by 15% of the registered
voters within the proposed incorporated area. When this full proposal is
completed, the FHA will schedule another round of public meetings to review
the details. The FHA could still make changes and when this process is
completed, registered voters in the proposed incorporation area will be
asked to sign the petition. If the 15% figure is obtained, the petition will
be sent to the commission.
In his summation, Bill expressed concern that Fearrington will be affected
by increased storm water because of development within and outside the
Village and runoff from U.S. 15-501 construction. "Fearrington is fairly
vulnerable," Bill said. "Peripheral streams are taking a terrific amount of
storm water."
"There is not a master plan of storm drainage, just piecemeal development, "
he continued. "We would have a greater handle on the aspects of storm water
management if we were incorporated and required developers to file complete
storm water management plans."
(Return to Table of Contents)
FHA WEB SITE PROVIDES
PAGE FOR YOUR COMMENTS
Since it is expected that that the incorporation question will occasion
Bulletin Board postings by residents over an extended period, a separate
page has been created for such comments. The link to that page from the main
Bulletin Board is COMMENTS
ON INCORPORATION.
(Return to Table of Contents)
WHATS GOING ON IN FEARRINGTON
MCINTYRES ACTIVITIES FOR
NOVEMBER
Activities are at the store unless otherwise noted. Please check
www.fearrington.com/calendar.asp for more details and additional
listings.
Wednesday, November 2, 7 p.m. Authors and restaurateurs Bob and
Melinda Blanchard celebrate the publication of two new books, Cook What You
Love and Live What You Love. There will be a cooking demonstration and
readings from Live What You Love.
Saturday, November 5, 11 a.m. (Barn). Clyde Edgerton reads from his
new memoir, Solo: My Adventures in the Air.
Sunday, November 6, 2 p.m. Craig Conley reads from his new book,
One-Letter Words.
Thursday, November 10, 1 p.m., Market Cafe. Editor, publisher and
writer Louis Rubin Jr. reads from his latest book, Where the Southern Cross
the Yellow Dog: On Writers and Writing.
Saturday, November 12, 11 a.m. Humorist and author Nan Graham reads
from new book, In a Magnolia Minute: Secrets of a Late Bloomer Sunday,
November 13, 2 p.m., Ann Palmer discusses her new book, Realizing the
College Dream with Autism or Asperger Syndrome.
Wednesday, November 16, 7 p.m. Lynne Hinton reads from her latest
novel, The Arms of God.
Saturday, November 19, 11 a.m. Chef and restaurateur Bill Smith
celebrates the publication of his first cookbook, Seasoned in the South:
Recipes from Crook's Corner and from Home.
Sunday, November 20, 2 p.m. (Barn). Local entrepreneur and biodiesel
expert Lyle Estill marks the publication of his new book, Biodiesel Power:
The Passion, the People, and the Politics of the Next Renewable Fuel.
Saturday, November 26, 11 a.m. Children's author C.M. Rubin reads
from Ellie: The Perfect Dress for Me. The publisher has joined forces with
the children's dress manufacturer, Bonnie Jean Dresses, to launch a national
"Design Your Perfect Holiday Dream Dress" contest for kids. Come to the
reading with a picture of your "perfect" dress and have a chance to win. The
three national winners will have their dresses custom made and revealed on
one of the network morning shows in December.
Sunday, November 27, 2 p.m. Author and journalist George Taber reads
from his new book, Judgement of Paris: California v. France and the Historic
1976 Paris Tasting that Revolutionized Wine.
(Return to Table of Contents)
TRAVEL CLUB TO EXAMINE VAN DIEMEN'S LAND: THE OTHER AUSTRALIA
Tasmania, Australia's island state, shares many attributes of geography and
history with its near-antipode Newfoundland. Both were former colonies of
England, have distinctive mid-latitude climates and convey a feeling of
happy independence from the mainland.
In this journey in slides, Henry Castner will illustrate some of the themes
that define this distant island. The program will be at the Gathering Place
on Wednesday, November 2 at 7:30 p.m.
The Travel Club hopes that others will come forward to share their recent
travels in illustrated ways at one of our Wednesday evening meetings. If
interested call Bob DeVido at 542-1188 or Henry Castner at 542-1602.
(Return to Table of Contents)
THESPIANS TO MEET
The next Thespians meeting will be on Sunday, November 6 at the
Gathering Place at 7:30 p.m. Gene and Elaine Landriau will produce
and star in "Dolorosa Sanchez" by Stanley Taikeff. All Fearringtonians and
Gallowayans are welcome.
(Return to Table of Contents)
AUTHOR/DESIGNER TO SPEAK AT ARTS & CRAFTS MEETING
Nancy Worrell, co-owner of Paisley & Co. in Southern Village, will present a
program about creating exciting home accessories using paper and fabric at
the Monday, November 7 Arts & Crafts. etc, meeting.
Ms. Worrell is a freelance author/designer who combines a variety of
techniques and media to create unique paper, needlework and fiber art
designs. Her work has appeared in books and magazines in the United States
and Great Britain. She is also the author of two books: Paper Plus: Unique
Projects Using Handmade Paper and Beautiful Wedding Crafts.
The bus trip to the N.C. Museum of Art in Raleigh is scheduled for
Tuesday, November 8. The trip includes a docent-led tour of "The Potters
Eye: Art, Craft, and Design in North Carolina" exhibition and lunch at the
museum. The museum is handicap friendly and wheel chairs are available. The
fee for this trip will be $32, with an extra charge of $3 if you are not a
member of the museum. Residents of Galloway Ridge are invited to join us.
Call Laverne Troutman at 542-0534 for additional information.
It has been a tradition for members of Arts & Crafts, etc to provide
presents to foster children in Chatham County during the holiday season.
Last year over 50 foster children received gifts from members. Sign up will
be available at the November meeting for this very worthy and rewarding
activity for the coming gift-giving season.
The annual Holiday Celebration Luncheon with the Fearrington Women's Club
will be held on Thursday, December 8 at the Carolina Club in Chapel
Hill. The cost will be $25, and there is ample parking in the deck next to
the club at $1.25 per hour.
If you sign up for the luncheon at the meeting, checks should be made out to
Arts & Crafts, etc.
(Return to Table of Contents)
DR. NICHOLAS GILLHAM TO
ADDRESS HAVURAH
Dr. Nicholas W. Gillham will speak at the Fearrington Havurah meeting on
Tuesday, November 8. His topic will be "Ethnicity and Genetic Diseases."
Dr. Gillham, James B. Duke Professor of Biology Emeritus, is a geneticist
and former director of the Duke University Program in Genetics. He was also
chairman of Dukes Department of Zoology and is past chairman of the Board of
Directors of the American Type Culture Collection, a biotechnology-related
company. For many years Dr. Gillham taught popular seminars at Duke on the
social and ethical implications of eugenics and human genetics.
He is the author of three books and coauthor of a fourth. His most recent
work is a biography of the eminent Victorian scientist and founder of the
eugenics movement, Sir Francis Galton (Sir Francis Galton: From African
Exploration to the Birth of Eugenics, Oxford University Press, 2001). He is
currently working on a book about the relationship between eugenics and
human genetics. Dr. Gillham and his wife, Carol, live in Fearrington.
The meeting will be in the Gathering Place and will begin with refreshments
at 7:15 p.m., followed by the program at 8. Guests are always welcome.
(Return to Table of Contents)
AM BOOK CLUB TO DISCUSS
MIDDLESEX
The next meeting of this newly formed book club will be held on
Wednesday, November 9 at 10 a.m. at the Market Caf?. We will read and
discuss Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides. Books selected for the months of
December through February are The Good Women of China, My Old True Love" and
Disgrace. The club welcomes anyone who is interested in participating. Call
Jane Ross at 542-3210 if you have any questions.
(Return to Table of Contents)
GREAT DECISIONS
TO DISCUSS TAIWAN-CHINA RELATIONS
Dr. Li-ling Hsiao, assistant professor of Chinese language and pre-modern
literature at UNC-Chapel Hill, will speak to the Great Decisions group on
Thursday, November 10 at 1:30 p.m. at McIntyres. The discussion will
focus on the economic and political relationship between Taiwan and China
based on the article "Our Stake in Taiwan" by Arthur Waldron.
Dr. Hsiao received her bachelors and masters degrees from Taiwan University.
Her doctorate is from Oxford University. This is her fourth year at UNC-CH
after two years at the University of Minnesota for two years. She regularly
teaches Chinese drama of the 16th and 17th centuries, but is currently on
sabbatical. Although her parents are puppeteers, she will complete her
discussion with a demonstration of the guzheng, which is a cross between the
harp and zither.
Copies of the article can be borrowed from McIntyre's front desk. If you
have any questions, please call Jean Hjelle at 545-0432.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTON WRITERS TO
MEET IN NOVEMBER
The Fearrington Writers Group will hold its next meeting on Monday,
November 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Gathering Place. Meetings are open
to any Fearrington resident who is currently writing or just thinking about
writing. If you would like to read a short story, poem, or something else at
the November meeting, contact Barry Reece at
breeceATmindspring.com or
Forrest Greenslade at fgreensladeATnc.rr.com.
To learn more about the Writers Group,
click
here.
(Return to Table of Contents)
GARDEN CLUB TO HEAR
TALK ON WINTER GARDENING
The Fearrington Garden Club will meet at the Gathering Place on Tuesday,
November 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Joann Currier of Unique Plant, Inc. will be the speaker. Ms. Currier, a
Master Gardener, opened her own business, The Unique Plant, nine years ago.
Unique Plant specializes in hard-to-find woody plants, deer- and
drought-resistant plants, grasses and Japanese Maples.
This evening, Ms. Currier will address how to bring interest to the winter
landscape, including deck and patio plantings. Come join us and hear how we
can continue our love and interest for gardening right through the winter
months.
All Fearrington and Galloway Ridge residents are invited. Refreshments will
be served following the program. Contact John Karvazy, president, at
542-6942 for further information.
(Return to Table of Contents)
WEATHERSFIELD
PREPARES FOR ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY
The annual Weathersfield Holiday Party will be held Friday, December 2
at the Gathering Place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Please note the date on
your calendars, as you will not want to miss this opportunity to gather with
your friends and neighbors for this always festive and entertaining event.
Watch for a flyer at your door early in November. If you have questions
please call Tom or Nancy Foster at542-0407.
(Return to Table of Contents)
LIGHT A LUMINARY
BENEFITS RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
The "Light a Luminary" fundraiser to support The Ronald McDonald House will
be held in the Village again this year on Friday, December 16 from 6 to 8
p.m.
Dody Tredinnick is forming her committee for this event and needs help. No
one job is overwhelming. If you are willing to help, please call Dody at
545-2058. Your help will help raise money for the Ronald McDonald House.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTON WOMEN'S CLUB
QUICKSAND FUNDRAISER
Come one, come all the evening of Saturday, November 5 will be a time
of fun, excitement, epicurean delights, cheering for your neighborhood team
and the crowning of Fearringtons 2005 Quicksand champions!
Dont miss the first playing of the exciting new quiz game by six Fearrington
neighborhood teams.
The venue: the Gathering Place. The time: 7 p.m. The tickets: ($20),
available from FWC board members or call Nancy Baker at 545-9884.
All proceeds go to Chatham County charitable organizations.
TRIP TO AYR MOUNT
The club is organizing a car-pool day trip to Ayr Mount, a historic
plantation home in Hillsborough, on Thursday, November 10. This event
will include a docent-led tour of this beautiful plantation built in 1815.
Also included will be a one-mile optional scenic "Poets Walk" along the Eno
River.
Luncheon will be held at the Saratoga Grill. There will be a choice of three
menus. The cost of this event will be $23, including admission to Ayr Mount,
luncheon and the carpool. Please meet at the Gathering Place parking lot at
9:45 a.m. Departure will be at 10 and the day is planned for return by 3:30
p.m.
Join the fun and enjoy North Carolina history. Please contact Susan
Fairbrother at 542-7275 or email at
fairbrothersusanLAThotmail.com to sign up
or to answer questions. Pre-trip sign up is preferred.
PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH TO SPEAK
Connie Eble, professor of English at the UNC-Chapel Hill, will address the
club at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, November 16 at the Gathering Place. All
women of Fearrington and Galloway Ridge are encouraged to attend Professor
Ebles talk on "Creole Girls In Antebellum Louisiana."
Dr. Ebles most recent book, Slang And Sociability: In-Group Language Among
College Students, brings together various strands of her research on college
slang from 1979-93. It is based on more than 10,000 items contributed by UNC
undergraduates. She also is editor of American Speech, a quarterly journal
of the American Dialect Society.
HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
December 8 at 11:30 a.m. is the date and time that the FWC and Arts &
Crafts, Etc. will enjoy a holiday celebration. This event will be held at
the Carolina Club. Begin the holiday with Fearrington friends, music and a
three course feast. The cost is $25 and reservations must be made by Friday,
November 18. Return your reservation form with your payment to the Arts &
Crafts box at the Gathering Place kiosk. Reservation flyers are available at
each kiosk and the November meetings of each club.
If you have questions, please contact Lori Tenser at 545-3098.
STORYTIME WORKSHOP
If you ask a member of the Women's Club StoryTime project what their
favorite day of the week may be, they will respond by saying "it is the day
that I read to Chatham County children." Because teachers and Fearrington
volunteers interact daily and weekly with the children, the academic
progress that these youngsters make in one year is truly remarkable. Most
children enter public school and are mainstreamed into a classroom with very
few academic delays.
A StoryTime Project Reading Workshop was held on October 14. Forty-eight men
and women were welcomed by Norma Berry, FWC president and Amy Rabb,
executive director of Childcare Networks of Chatham County. They expressed
their appreciation for the important work done by volunteers and added that
other schools are requesting inclusion in the project. Barbara Irwin,
founder of StoryTime, discussed its history and background. Carey Ayers
delighted all participants with an interactive demonstration of finger
plays. Joan Richardson and Barbara Terry explained how the groups of readers
were organized to serve the seven schools. Madge Briggs read two stories as
a demonstration of how to read to children.
A reception was held after the formal program. Much enthusiasm and energy
were generated as informal discussion continued about StoryTime.
If you are interested in joining the StoryTime Project and would enjoy
reading to children, please contact Gloria Wilkins at 542-0305 or Tina
Patterson at 545-0977.
BOOK, BAKE AND BOUTIQUE SALE ITEMS WELCOME
The FWC continues to collect items for the February 2006 Book, Bake and
Boutique Sale. If you have items to donate in November and December, please
deliver them to Judy Cameron at 399 Lyndfield Close or telephone her at
542-6916.
(Return to Table of Contents)
WHATS GOING ON OUTSIDE
FEARRINGTON
COMMUNITY READ TO BEGIN
The Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library have selected My Old True Love
by Sheila Kay Adams as their Community Read in the Shannon Ravenel program.
This novel of life, strife and music around the time of the Civil War was
originally published by Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill, where Ravenel was
editorial director.
The first event will be a staged reading with musical excerpts on Thursday,
November 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Central Carolina Community College, Pittsboro.
Seating is limited and will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
Donations for the Pass Christian Library Fund will be accepted.
The author, a North Carolina mountain native, is also a balladeer and
storyteller. Her visit is sure to include the music and stories of her
Appalachian mountain ancestors as well as her reflections as author of My
Old True Love.
Copies are available for loan at the library or may be purchased at Friends
events, Pittsboro First Sundays and at McIntyres.
(Return to Table of Contents)
RETIRED DIPLOMAT TO SPEAK
The Chapel Hill Newcomers Men's Luncheon will be held on Friday, November
18 from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Chapel Hill Country Club. Our speaker
will be Mike Cotter, a Fearrington resident and retired Foreign Service
officer. His subject will be "Greater Central Asia Revisited: Nukes,
Demonstrations and Reforms." He will talk about India's and Iran's nuclear
ambitions, the demonstrations in Uzbekistan and whether reforms in
Kyrgyzstan (and Ukraine) are likely to lead to real democracy.
Mike has had a long and distinguished career in the Foreign Service. He is a
graduate of Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and holds
advanced degrees from the University of Michigan Law School and Stanford
University. He entered the Foreign Service in 1968 and had assignments in
South Vietnam, Chile, Turkey, Zaire and Washington. He was ambassador to
Turkmenistan from 1995 to 1998 and currently is vice president and associate
publisher of American Diplomacy, an online journal. .
All Newcomers, alumni and guests are welcome. Advance cost is $11. Checks
should be mailed to John Dopler, 834 Fearrington Post, by Sunday, November
13. If you're late, please RSVP to John at 542-2815 or Paul Troutman at
542-0534 by November 12. If you pay at the door, please bring $12.
(Return to Table of Contents)
AAUW TOPIC: SOCIAL SECURITY
On Saturday, November 19 at 9:30 a.m., the American Association of
University Women-Chapel Hill Branch will have its third meeting for the
year. We welcome all members and guests who are interested in the AAUW to
attend. Our speaker will be Andy Dobelstein, a professor emeritus at UNC-Chapel
Hill. He holds a Ph.D. in political science from Duke University and taught
social welfare policy at UNC-Chapel Hill. His subject will be "Social
Security." The meeting will be held at the Binkley Baptist Church on Willow
Drive, off U.S. 15-501 in Chapel Hill. If you are interested in attending or
wish more information, please call Kay White at 542-1138.
(Return to Table of Contents)
U.N. GROUP TO DISCUSS GLOBAL
POVERTY
Due to scheduling difficulties, the November "Lunch and Learn" meeting of
the West Triangle Chapter of the United Nations Association of the USA will
take place on Monday, November 21 instead of the usual Wednesday. We
will hear Professor Heidi Hobbs, of N.C. State University, discuss "The
Challenges of Global Poverty: What Will It Take to Realize the U.N.
Millennium Development Goals?" Professor Hobbs, a recognized authority in
her field, is director of the Master of International Studies Program at
N.C. State and member of the Associate Teaching Faculty in the Department of
Political Science and Public Administration. She previously served on the
faculties of Florida International and Illinois State universities.
The meeting will start at noon at the Holiday Inn in Chapel Hill.
Reservations may be made by sending a $15 check, payable to "UNA West
Triangle Chapter," to Barbara Berke, 595B Fearrington Post. Questions? Call
542-0319.
(Return to Table of Contents)
TIMOTHY TYSON TO SPEAK
AT COUNCIL ON AGING
The Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library are pleased to present Timothy
Tyson, North Carolina author of Blood Done Sign My Name, on Tuesday,
November 29, at 7:30 p.m. at the Chatham County Council on Aging in
Pittsboro. Billed as "the haunting true story of the 1970 cold-blooded
murder of Henry Marrow and a town and country that would never be the same,"
Blood Done Sign My Name was selected as the freshman read at UNC-Chapel
Hill. If you have not heard Mr. Tyson speak, now is your chance.
Mr. Tyson was a 10-year old white child when the murder of a 23-year old
black veteran created a racially charged uproar that reverberated far from
the small town of Oxford. He was a professor of Afro-American Studies at the
University of Wisconsin-Madison during the time he wrote this study of
childhood memories and present-day struggles. He is Visiting Professor of
American Christianity and Southern Culture at Duke Divinity School and
Senior Scholar at the Center for Documentary Studies at Duke University.
(Return to Table of Contents)
GRIEF AWARENESS WEEK
MORE RELEVANT THAN EVER
This is the third year that Duke Community Bereavement Services has
sponsored Grief Awareness Week. The purpose for designating this week
November 1-7 is to express our solidarity with those in grief and to provide
grief education in the workplace and community. This observance has grown
steadily into a collaborative effort throughout the state, and we sincerely
hope that you will join us in marking the significance of this week in 2005.
It has perhaps never been more relevant than this year.
The Tree of Life, pictured to the right, is the product of UNC Hospitals
observance of Grief Awareness Week in 2004. Nearly 200 patients, families,
and staff members remembered a loved one by painting a leaf in their honor.
This is just one of many creative ideas used by various organizations and
groups to promote grief awareness, enhance grief support, and provide grief
education.
Educational resources and information to assist you in planning events for
this week are available at www.dhcc.dukehealth.org.
(Return to Table of Contents)
PAT
STEWART, JANET REILLY WINNERS IN SILVER ARTS FINALS
Pat Stewart and Janet Reilly were multiple winners in the North Carolina
Senior Silver Arts finals held in Raleigh on October 1.
Both Pat and Janet, residents of West Camden, won blue first-place ribbons
for their projects at local level held at the Senior Center in Chapel Hill
in August.
At the statewide competition, Pat's basket weaving entry won another
first-place award in that category and Janet's decorative door crown was
awarded a second place in the decorative painting category.
(Return to Table of Contents)
THE MUSIC SCENE
CONCERT SERIES WILL PRESENT
QUARTET FROM BELGIUM
In a concert to be performed at 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 13, the
Fearrington Concert series will present Contrasts, a chamber music ensemble
from Belgium.
The ensemble consists of four members of the faculty of the Royal
Conservatories of Belgium. They have performed together throughout Europe
for more than 20 years and participated at major music festivals of Fladre,
Brasow and Clarfest Paris. Their initial American connection was with the
University of North Carolina at whose summer workshops in Chapel Hill and
Morges, Switzerland they have been the teaching faculty for 10 years. More
recently, they made three American concert tours in Washington, Boston and
the Spoleto Festival in South Carolina.
The quartet is made up of Katy Sebestyen, violin; Freddy Arteel, clarinet;
Dana Protopopescu, piano, and Ervin Shiffer, viola.
The Fearrington Concert Series is a subscription series. Non-subscribers may
attend the concerts, seats available, by coming to the Gathering Place
shortly before 3 p.m. The cost is $12 per person.
(Return to Table of Contents)
GRITS, VOICES CONTINUE
A HOLIDAY TRADITION
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the
Barn. Dont miss this wonderful celebration of the holiday season as the
combined men's and women's choruses of Fearrington present their annual
festival of sacred and secular music.
This year we offer selections in four languages for your enjoyment. We would
like especially to welcome our new neighbors, as well as old friends from
Galloway Ridge. A $5 per person donation will be collected at the door. Join
us for an unforgettable evening.
(Return to Table of Contents)
HOLIDAY RECITAL PLANNED
Gerry and Frank Stutz invite you to a Holiday Gala, a piano recital at the
Gathering Place by Andrew Tyson from the Curtis Institute of Music. The date
is Thursday, December 29. The time will be announced in next month's
Newsletter and on the FHA Web Site. This recital is free and open to all
Fearrington residents and is not connected to the Fearrington Concert
Series.
(Return to Table of Contents)
VOLUNTEER CORNER
HELPING HANDS BRING CHEER AND
HELP BY RINGING THE BELLS
Helping the Salvation Army bring cheer to Chatham County residents who need
our help has been a holiday tradition in Fearrington for many years. Last
year, our volunteers rang the bell at Lowe's at Chatham Crossing and raised
$9,700. This year we begin on Friday and Saturday, November 25 and 26 and
continue Tuesday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Time is divided into 2-hour segments, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and you can do
your period alone, with a friend, standing or sitting, inside or outside,
depending on the weather. Everyone agrees this is a special part of the
season for us. It is satisfying to help our community, we enjoy greeting
Chatham neighbors and friends, and it is heartwarming to see the children
who solemnly drop their coins into our kettle.
It takes many volunteers to fill our schedule. Please call Anne or Jim
Kirkhoff at 543-4390, and we will find a time (or more than one!) that is
convenient for you.
(Return to Table of Contents)
UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN TOPS $60,000
With contributions of more than $60,000 as of mid-October, Fearrington
residents are making good progress toward achieving our community's goal for
the United Way of Chatham County.
Thank you, thank you to those who have already given. If the United Way
pledge card is still on your desk, we encourage you to think about the
impact your donation would have, and get out your checkbook. We hope to
reach or even exceed our target of $82,000 by the end of November.
Questions or comments? Call Fearrington Co-Chair Doug McAllister (545-9809).
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTONIANS
HELP CORA FEED CHATHAM'S HUNGRY
The mid-September Fearrington Village food drive on behalf of the Chatham
Outreach Alliance (CORA), the county's food pantry, resulted in the
collection of 64 bags of groceries and receipt of $2,536 in checks.
Lowe's Green Points transferred from individual accounts to CORA also
"bought" 37 cases of groceries for the food pantry.
What a great result! Residents of Fearrington Village once again
demonstrated their generosity and their compassion for neighbors temporarily
in need of assistance.
Anyone who missed the drive but still wanting to contribute may send checks
made out to Chatham Outreach Alliance to P.O. Box 1326 in Pittsboro. Another
way to assist CORA is to transfer some of your Green Points to its account.
Information on how to do that is posted in the villages four major kiosks.
(Return to Table of Contents)
CHATHAM COUNTY HONORS
FEARRINGTON RESIDENTS
Rosie Batcheller and Bob Hoogstoel were among 22 recipients of 2005 Chatham
County Outstanding Volunteer Awards presented at a reception on September
25.
Rosie was recognized for her weekly service for three years as a volunteer
office assistant for Family Violence and Rape Crisis Services. Her
contributions include working with the business manager on various projects,
responding to phone inquiries and helping to make the office a pleasant
environment for clients. Rosie's special talents for organization and her
willingness to take initiative have allowed FVRC staff to meet community
needs more efficiently and effectively, her citation said.
Bob, a member of the Council on Aging's Board of Directors, has volunteered
for three years in many areas. His citation said he has demonstrated an
outstanding commitment to working with homebound seniors in the
home-delivered meals program by offering friendly visiting and nutritious
meals and assistance with simple household tasks and home repairs. He is a
substitute instructor in the councils wellness program.
Honorees included the Chatham Outreach Alliance (CORA).
The United Way of Chatham County has coordinated the Outstanding Volunteer
Awards Program since 2001.
For more information about volunteer opportunities in Chatham, contact the
United Way at 542-1110 or www.nonprofitpages.com/uwcc.
(Return to Table of Contents)
JOE GEOHEGAN, MIKE COTTER
RECEIVE AWARDS
Joe Geoghegan and Mike Cotter were awarded the 2005 Orange County Key
Volunteer Service Award for acting as judges for the East Chapel Hill Debate
Tournament. The awards were presented by Moses Carey, chairman, Orange
County Board of Commissioners on September 22.
(Return to Table of Contents)
HEALTH AND FITNESS
NURSE'S NOTES FROM JOYCE BAIRD
SIMPLE FLU PROTECTION STEPS
Are you freaking out about the flu? Well, there are some simple steps you
can take to protect yourself this season. Although Fearrington Cares is not
able to sponsor a flu shot clinic this year, there are a number of local
alternatives for getting your vaccination (see below).
You can also decrease your chances for contracting the flu (or any other
viral illness, for that matter) by simply washing your hands frequently.
Try not to shake hands when you are in large gatherings but if you do, dont
touch your face and make a trip to the ladies/mens room immediately after
greeting your friends and neighbors.
Keep tissues readily at hand to use for coughing or sneezing.
If you do become ill, communicate with your doctor or nurse before making a
trip to the office. The fewer times you expose yourself to areas where sick
people gather, the better.
And, above all, drink lots of fluids to prevent the serious problem of
dehydration. Dehydration is one of the leading causes of hospitalization
(and subsequent complications) of elderly individuals.
If you have caretakers who come into your home to assist you, insist that
they get a flu shot. I will gladly write a letter for them to present to a
clinic to document that (s)he should be considered in the "high risk"
category.
FLU SHOT LOCATIONS
Chatham County Health Department
Pittsboro Clinic
Call for an appointment
Phone 542-8220
Siler City Clinic
Phone 742-5641
Call the clinics for more information.
To locate more clinics, see the following web site: www.mrnc.org/fcf/
You will be prompted to enter a ZIP code to locate the closest clinic.
Scroll down the page and locations, times and dates will be displayed.
(Return to Table of Contents)
STRENGTH AND BALANCE CLASS
TO DISBAND
Due to the relocation of many class members of the Strength and Balance
Class, attendance has dropped to a level at which the class is
unsustainable. The final class will be Wednesday, November 16. Fearrington
Cares is fortunate to have had Kathryn Kubiak teach the class for the last
two years. Her commitment and dedication to her students is very much
appreciated. We wish her well as she continues her career in physical
therapy. Fearrington Cares will continue to explore ways to bring additional
classes to Fearrington residents.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR
Blood Pressure Clinic, Every Wednesday in November, 10 a.m.-noon,
Fearrington Cares Office, 28 Swim and Croquet
American Red Cross Blood Drive, Friday, November 4, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.,
Gathering Place. Call Mary Stuneck for an appointment, 542-9985.
Foot Clinic, Monday, November 7, 2-4 p.m., Fearrington Cares Office.
You must have an appointment. Appointments are filled for November and
December. You must make an appointment for the January 12 clinic. Call
542-6877 for an appointment.
Strength and Balance Class. Last class, Wednesday, November 16.
Grief Support Group, Friday, November 18, 10 a.m., Fearrington Cares
Office.
(Return to Table of Contents)
BLOOD DRIVE MORE IMPORTANT
THAN EVER
The American Red Cross and Fearrington Cares will hold their fall blood
drive on Friday, November 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gathering
Place.
Now more than ever the Red Cross needs your help because of Hurricanes
Katrina and Rita. Please call Mary Stuneck at 542-9985 to make an
appointment.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTON CARES
OFFERS A HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Here's something special for holiday giving: Our great Flavors of
Fearrington Cookbook and a bright red Beltie apron, together for just $45
picked up at Fearrington Cares, or $50 if you want them shipped. Save $3 and
help support the organization that cares for us all. The book may be
purchased separately for $30. For more information, call Fearrington Cares
at 542-6877 or Judy Fitzgerald at 542-0056.
(Return to Table of Contents)
OPHTHALMOLOGIST TO SPEAK
ON "THE AGING EYE"
On Wednesday, November 16 at 7:30 p.m., Fearrington Cares will host a
lecture in the Gathering Place by James A. Bryan III, M.D., who will speak
on "The Aging Eye."
He graduated from the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Medicine and served his
residency in ophthalmology at the University of Virginia. Dr. Bryan has been
affiliated with Carolina Ophthalmology Associates in Chapel Hill since 1989.
He specializes in cataract surgery and Lasik. All Fearrington residents are
invited to attend.
(Return to Table of Contents)
YOGA FOR BEGINNERS
There are openings in the Thursday morning class, which focuses on
the individual needs of the student. You will learn the basic elements of
Hatha Yoga practice through breath control, movement and meditation. Enhance
your body and your life. Cheryl Diegel is certified in Body, Mind and
Spirit, an embodied style of Hatha Yoga. No prior experience is necessary.
Please call 545-0659 with your questions.
(Return to Table of Contents)
YOGA GOES ON . . .
With your continued support, Yoga at Fearrington is held every Wednesday
morning, 8:15-9:30, at the Gathering Place. We know you have other
options but we encourage you to join our friendly group and learn some of
the advantages of this form of exercise.
For example, the Wall Street Journal described a recent UCLA yoga research
study focused on the subject of posture in the aging population,
specifically "dowagers hump." The object: Stretch the muscles in the front
of the body and strengthen the muscles that hold the body erect. At the end
of the 12-week study period, the participants were slightly taller, could
reach farther and get in and out of chairs more quickly. As we "mature,"
these issues become more and more important.
Although our yoga instruction is centered on flexibility, strength and
stretching, we don't ignore the fun and contentment we enjoy. We look
forward to seeing you on Wednesday morning. Please call Laura Hyer for more
details at 545-9607.
(Return to Table of Contents)
VEGETARIANS TO HEAR TALK
ON FOOD PHARMACY
"Food Pharmacy: When What We Eat Becomes Our Medicine," is the topic of a
presentation by Pamela Hirsch to the Vegetarian Club on Wednesday,
November 9 at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place.
Pamela is a life coach, writer, herbalist, ritualist and artist. Having
worked for over 25 years in the corporate world, she now works with people
to help them create lives of balance and sustainability. She is the author
of The Travelers Natural Medicine Kit and co-edited Planting the Future with
Rosemary Gladstar. She had been making soap and herbal "concoctions" for 15
years; she enjoys sharing the beauty of the plant world with others through
classes and workshops.
The Vegetarian Club meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.
at the Gathering Place for a home-cooked potluck meal and to hear a speaker
on a topic concerning health and well-being. Visitors and newcomers are
always welcome for the supper, the speaker or both. It is not necessary for
members and guests to adhere strictly to a vegetarian diet, although the
meals are completely vegetarian and may include dairy items. Anyone
interested in attending on November 9 is encouraged to call Anna Louise
Reynolds at 542-4697 or Ellen Shanahan at 545-2230.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FHA AFFAIRS
OCTOBER 10 DVD AVAILABLE
The October 10 meeting on incorporation is now on DVD. The two-disc set is
for all those interested residents to either review the meeting or have
those residents who could not attend to see this most informative document,
which includes presentations For and Against Incorporation.
Some residents might find this video to be an interesting vehicle for
hosting a meeting of concerned friends and neighbors at their own home to
discuss and debate the issues involved. Additionally, clubs may want to play
the DVD in part or completely at one of their meetings.
Copies can be borrowed and picked up at the FHA Office during regular office
hours. See Pat Harkins for your copy. Drew Bratton, FHA Vice President
(Return to Table of Contents)
COMMUNITY WATCH ORGANIZES
The slowly forming Community Watch Program in Fearrington is planning to
have its first organizational meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 18
at the Gathering Place.
About 90 residents have indicated an interest in receiving more information
or participating in this self-help program.
We have had a number of burglaries in Fearrington including the latest,
during the week of October 10. As our community grows and as the area
surrounding Fearrington becomes more populated, we should take the minor
steps necessary to be more aware of possible intruders.
In addition to becoming aware of outside bad guys, we can also become more
aware of our elderly and single neighbors and notice when they might need
help.
If you are interested in better protecting your house and neighborhood or
helping your elderly and single neighbors, come to receive information about
how to do those things. The Chatham County Sheriffs Department will be
involved. Art DeLuca, Chairman, FHA Emergency Response Committee
(Return to Table of Contents)
NEW 15/501 POSES CHALLENGES
About 10 years ago, Fitch Creations developed a promotional video for
prospective homebuyers. One of the Fearrington residents in the video tells
us how hard it was to slow down after moving here. This is a common problem
for many of us who previously lived in communities where the 25 mph speed
limit was often ignored.
In the near future, every Fearrington driver will face a new challenge. U.S.
15/501 will be finished within the next few months, and the 45 mph speed
limit will increase to 55. Many drivers will drive 60-65 once the highway is
finished. Exiting this fast traffic pattern into Fearrington Village will
require a quick resolve to slow down to 25 mph. The 25-mph speed limit will
seem soooo slow after traveling at a much higher speed.
Recently, a Fearrington resident shared her strategy for slowing down: "When
I drive into Fearrington from 15/501, I say to myself, Im home. I dont have
to hurry anymore. I can relax and slow down. " What a wonderful way to slow
down mentally as well as enhance the safety of our Village streets. FHA Road
Safety Committee
(Return to Table of Contents)
SUMMARY OF THE FHA BOARD'S OCTOBER 10 MEETING (NON-INCORPORATION MATTERS)
Complete minutes are available in the FHA office, the mail kiosks and
by clicking here.
All attachments referred to in the minutes may be found with the complete
minutes. Information related to incorporation appears
above.
Tom Hauck, FHA president, called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
The first order of business was a guest speaker from the Chatham County
Water Department
Will Baker, utilities director for Chatham County, said that two contacts
for Fearrington residents questions are himself (542-8270) and Roy Lowder
(542-8219). Mr. Baker said he believes in informing customers of problems as
quickly as possible and explaining what will be done to correct them. He
will shut the plant down immediately if there is any danger to the
customers. The water plant is manned 24/7 with 3 people; they are in the
hiring process and are hampered by a lack of licensed and certified
candidates.
Residents asked many questions. The questions regarding specific chemical
content of the water will not be included. (Information was posted on the
FHA Web Site the day after the meeting.)
If the water is safe, why does it taste so bad? It could be the
chemicals used to treat the water to make it safe. It could also be that if
the customer doesnt use a lot of water, it sits in the pipes and picks up a
taste. Suggestion: Put a filter on your faucet.
Explain why there is a difference in cost between Chatham County water
and Pittsboro city water? The lower cost in Pittsboro is due in part to
the age of the plant; it is older and has been paid for, so the overhead
costs are lower.
Regarding the problems in the recent citation (reported on the web site),
would they be cleared up by filters in our homes on our water pipes, faucets
and in refrigerators? Residents should check with their filter
manufacturer to get the answer. Suggestion: UV filters are probably the best
but they are expensive.
How long should water be boiled to make it safe? Once it is brought
to a boil, it should be boiled for 4 to 5 minutes.
How often should you check a filter on your lines or on your faucet?
Once a week. Sometimes filters trap harmful materials/organisms.
BYLAWS CHANGES
The board recommends that you vote for the bylaws changes at the November 13
annual meeting. Galloway Ridge residents dont own property in Fearrington,
so another level of membership has been set up for them to participate in
the FHA at a 75% dues rate with no voting rights. The second reason is to
bring our bylaws more in line with North Carolina law.
GALLOWAY RIDGE
What benefits will there be to Fearrington residents? Will we be able to use
Galloway Ridge facilities? Not unless we are invited. You can join the
health club, which gives you access to a restaurant.
Treasurers Report
Bob Flower submitted 3 motions for consideration regarding
2006 Annual Dues,
2006 Provisional Budget and
Reserve Fund Management. These motions passed. (The full text of the
motions are included with the unedited version of the minutes or by clicking
on one of the above links.)
Bob also reported that the FHA monthly income was $1,809, expenses $5,523.
The balance in the checking account as of 8/31/05 was $7,372.07. Our liquid
assets total $187,612.34. (The full treasurers report and attachments are
filed with these minutes.) The treasurers report was approved as submitted.
BEAVER POND
Bill Sommers reported that the North Carolina Department of Transportation
has taken responsibility for 30% of the silt in the pond. The next step is
to go to the state Division of Water Quality to get its approval before the
pond can be restored.
FORMS A, B AND C
The forms were available at the meeting. Tom Hauck spoke of a recent
situation where a resident had died and it was necessary to notify the next
of kin. Because Form A/B was on file, the FHA Office had the information.
The door to the residence had to be broken down because no one nearby had a
key.
Form C is important because it enables residents to put their talents to use
in the community.
Forms A, B and C are available in the office and on the FHA Web Site (Forms
A&B, Form
C). A copy will also be included with the incorporation information
distributed to each residence by the block captains.
The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
The next regular board Meeting will be Tuesday, November 1 at 7 p.m. in the
Gathering Place. Maggie Frantz, FHA Secretary
(Return to Table of Contents)
FALL CLEANUP NOVEMBER 7 14
Phases I to V, Weathersfield, The
Woods, and Bush Creek
(The areas where the FHA contractor mows the sides of the roadway)
Also, the newer streets mowed by Fitch Creations contractor
There will be one pickup
in each area, so have your yard waste out by the road by Sunday evening,
NOVEMBER 6.
Leaves, brush, and tree limbs (not over six feet in length) should be placed
on the shoulder of the road.
ONLY
BAGS OR BUNDLES WILL BE PICKED UP
All leaves
must be in paper bags.
Brush and limbs must be tied in bundles. *
No garbage should be included.
This service is for yard
debris, and not the result of major clearing efforts. Excessive amounts will
not be picked up, unless you contact M.J. Barber (524-6124) who will bill
you for his services.
Remember, collections will start on Monday, NOVEMBER 7.
Only one pickup in your area.
* To facilitate the tying, lay two six-foot pieces of sturdy twine on
the ground about 18 inches apart before you start to stack the limbs. When
it becomes difficult to tie the knot, you know that the pile is too big and
you should start another.
Carol-Ann Greenslade, 545-9743, Grounds & Facilities Director:
(Return to Table of Contents)
ATTENTION, OVERSEAS TRAVELERS
The SunTrust branch in Fearrington would like to inform its customers of the
following procedure: If you are planning a trip out of the United States,
please contact SunTrust so that we may activate your debit card for
international transactions. To activate their debit and ATM cards for
international transactions, customers can call: For ATM cards, Customer
Service, 1-800-532-4343, and debit cards, Customer Service, 1-877-864-0197,
Option 2.
If SunTrust is not contacted, your card may not work properly. If you would
like additional information, please contact Laura Burnette or Yvette
Mitchell at 542-5333. Loretta Nash, Vice President
(Return to Table of Contents)
THE VIRTUES OF ECONOMIC
PATRIOTISM
Last November the Newsletter featured an article entitled "Helping With The
Energy Crises." One year later we can add a few exclamation points (!!!) to
that title. At that time the prediction of $3 per gallon gasoline would have
met with ridicule. Today the value of recyclable metals, paper, plastics,
etc. has gone up in response to global demand for raw materials and energy.
However, many people continue sending their recyclables to the landfill.
Here are three ways you can increase your participation in recycling:
Participate in the Wednesday morning pickup service. The recycling
procedures for Chatham Disposal customers are described on page 14 of the
FHA Directory.
Take your glossy magazines and catalogs, corrugated cardboard, and mixed
paper to Cole Park or Pittsboro Collection Centers.
Stop placing items from your mailbox in the plastic containers that have
been placed in some kiosks. These recyclables end up in the landfill.
Everything that arrives in your mailbox can be recycled.
Many Fearrington residents are actively involved in recycling, and they
deserve our sincere thanks. If you have questions regarding recycling,
contact Barry Reece at breeceATmindspring.com.
(Return to Table of Contents)
NEWSLETTER-CALENDAR EDITORS
Bob Comey
542-0842; Fax: 542-0831
rcomeyATmindspring.com
Mary Hammond
545-2026 Fax: same
prinnyATmindspring.com
Layout Editor
Bill Schneerer
Directory Editors
Print Version
Michael Cotter
542-4414
joannenmikeAThotmail.com
FHA Website Version
Michael Cotter
542-4414
joannenmikeAThotmail.com
Bob Comey edited this issue. Mary Hammond will edit the December issue.
The deadline for that issue is Tuesday, November 15.
(Return to Table of Contents)
REMINDERS ABOUT SUBMISSIONS
REMINDERS ABOUT SUBMISSIONS
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 above and submit articles to that months 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. 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.
Please do not leave submissions at the FHA
office. Please send calendar items to the Newsletter editor.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTON MONTHLY CALENDAR |