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FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS
NEWSLETTER
CONTENTS
(Click on a headline to go directly to the
article.)
FEARRINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY NEWS
ELECTION RESULTS FROM
THE ANNUAL MEETING
The following slate of candidates was elected by
147 residents.
Drew
Bratton President for 2006
Jim Ackerman Vice-President for 2006
Carol-Ann Greenslade Director, Grounds and Maintenance for 2006-7
Bill Sommers Director, County Liaison for 2006-7
William Stempfle Director at large for 2006-7
Lowell Kennedy Director, Gathering Place for 2006-7
Gillian Cell Director, Community Affairs for 2006-7
Nomination committee term of office 2006-7
Anne
Kirkhoff
Doris Bernlohr
Joseph Devan
Article II Change to the by-laws
re Associate Members Galloway Ridge passed by a vote of 120 for, 19 against
Article VII Change to the by-laws re payment of dues and enforcement of the
covenants passed by a vote of 105 to 6
The preference poll regarding incorporation did not pass by a vote of 1,059
potentially impacted residents voting 53% not to continue work on that
initiative.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING IN FEARRINGTON
DECEMBER READINGS AT MCINTYRES
Saturday, November 26 at 2:00 p.m. (barn) Join Chatham County potter
Mark Hewitt as he visits to celebrate his new book, The Potter's Eye: Art
and Tradition in North Carolina Pottery. Hewitt, along with co-author Nancy
Sweezy, has created a lavish new book celebrating the long history and
tradition of North Carolina pottery. The book serves as the catalog for the
North Carolina Museum of Art's first major exhibition on North Carolina
pottery.
Thursday, December 1 at 7 p.m. (bookstore) Open Mike is truly open to
all who are writing, professional and amateur, poetry, nostalgic, fiction,
whatever. Listeners are cordially invited as well and are always needed. See
you there!!!
Sunday, December 4 at 2:00 p.m. (bookstore) Novelist Roland Merullo
will read from his new book Golfing With God, a humorous and uplifting story
of the spiritual education of one soul.
Saturday, December 10 at 11:00 a.m. (barn) Mildred "Mama Dip" Council
visits to discuss her new cookbook, Mama Dip's Family Cookbook. Mama Dip
also offers reminiscences of her Chatham County upbringing.
Sunday, December 11 at 2:00 p.m. (bookstore) Come celebrate the
publication of Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill's third volume of Southern
Christmas stories, A Dixie Christmas, edited by Charline McCord and Judy
Tucker.Authors Michael Parker, Fred Chappell, and Marianne Gingher will join
us to read from the collection.
Saturday, December 17 at 11:00 a.m. (barn) The holiday season
wouldn't be complete without a visit from award-winning storyteller Donald
Davis. He will regale us with wonderful tales that put us in the holiday
spirit. He invites each listener to come along, to pull deep inside for
one's own stories, to personally share and co-create the common experiences
that celebrate the creative spirit. We request cans of food for admission to
go to Chatham Countys CORA food bank.
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REPRESENTATIVE DAVID PRICE TO
SPEAK
The Fearrington Democratic Club welcomes US Rep. David Price who will speak
on "Issues facing the Congress" including how to deal with the quagmire in
Iraq, corruption, cronyism and incompetence in the Bush administration and
the ballooning federal deficit, etc. Please note that the meeting is at a
different time and date from our usual schedule. This was necessary to
accommodate Rep. Prices busy schedule. The meeting will be held on
Thursday, December 1 at 7:15 p.m. in the Gathering Place. All
Fearrington and Galloway Ridge residents are invited to hear their
congressmen speak on the issues of our day.
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THESPIANS
The next Thespians meeting will be on Sunday, December 4 at the
Gathering Place at 7:30 p.m. Dorothy Birnham is producing "A little
Time with Judith Viorst" starring Evy Barrow, Betty Sher, Zina Quinn, Claire
Levitt and Rowie Samson. Questions? Carol Girton 542-0992
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ARTS &
CRAFTS. ETC
The Holiday Celebration Luncheon to be celebrated with the Fearrington
Women's Club at the Carolina Club in Chapel Hill on Thursday, December 8,
will serve as our December meeting.
December 7 is the due date for foster children gifts. They should be
delivered to Marlene Conner, 697 Spindlewood, by that date.
Monday, January 9, is the date of the first Arts & Crafts meeting in 2006.
Our program will be presented by senior design students from the Seesaw Art
Gallery in Durham. We hope all our members and friends enjoy the holidays
and we look forward to welcoming you in the new year.
Residents of Galloway Ridge are welcome at all our meetings.
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FWC TO CO-SPONSOR HOLIDAY
LUNCHEON
The Fearrington Womens Club and Arts and Crafts, Etc. will sponsor a
members-only holiday luncheon on Thursday, December 8 at 11:30 a.m.
at the Carolina Alumni Club. Women in Fearrington and Galloway Ridge who are
members of either club are encouraged to begin the holiday season in a
festive atmosphere with music and a three-course feast. Enjoy the company of
one another and greet old and new friends. If you have questions about
reservations please telephone Mary Leesman (542-3828) or Lori Tenser
(545-3098).
The FWC fund raising event QUICKSAND was a wonderful success. Many
Fearrington residents experienced a fun-filled evening at the debut of
Fearringtons own quiz show on November 5. After tense competition among the
six competing teams, the Camden Fainting Goats representing East and West
Camden, emerged as the 2005 team champions. Approximately $3,000 was earned
for Chatham County charities. Many thanks to the planning committee; to the
twenty-four contestants who enthusiastically participated on the teams; to
those who donated food and wine; and to all who helped with the
organization, set up and clean up of the room. This project was a success
due to the volunteer participation of many people and to the generous
support of Sun Trust Bank.
The FWC Story Time Project is off to an excellent start. There are many
enthusiastic volunteers who are reading to the children of Chatham County.
If you wish to be a reader to children please contact Tina Patterson (545
0977) or Gloria Wilkins (542-0305).
FWCs Book, Bake and Boutique Sale will be held on February 25. It is not too
late to sort through your possessions and select books and boutique items
for this sale. Please deliver your used, but good items, to Judy Cameron
(542-6916) in December and Nora Lake ( 542-2410) in January.
The next FWC meeting will be on January 18 at 3:00 p.m. Professor Laurie
McNeil will discuss Women In Science: Marines, Speed Bumps, And The Swedish.
Please mark your calendar for this interesting presentation.
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BULLS AND BEARS A VERY GOOD YEAR
At its recent November meeting, Frank Mann, treasurer, announced a 20.05%
increase in each partners share for the 3rd Quarter ending Sept. 30 versus
the Quarter ending Sept. 30, 2004. "This was a very good increase," stated
Mann, "and was ahead of other market measurements such as Dow Jones, etc."
He attributed this result to solid research leading to good stock selection
and a little help from the oil patch stocks.
The Club will hold its last meeting of 2005 with a Holiday luncheon at the
Marketplace on December 9 at 12:00. As it looks forward to another
prosperous year it has openings for three new members and invites any
interested Fearrington or Galloway Ridge resident to contact President Marty
Ginsberg at 542-3523 and to join the Club for lunch on Dec. 9.
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CARL BERG TO ADDRESS HAVURAH
Carl Berg will speak at the Fearrington Havurah meeting on Tuesday,
December 13. The title of his lecture will be "Sports and the American
Jewish Experience". Carl grew up in Brooklyn NY and remembers a childhood
dominated by sandlot baseball, football and the Brooklyn Dodgers. He earned
a BA at Brooklyn College and an MA at NYU. After moving through the ranks of
the NY City school system, Carl became a Junior High School Principal and
subsequently a Principal in the Roslyn Long Island System. After retiring,
he earned a second MA from Adelphi and began a second career as a clinical
social worker. Carl and his wife Joyce are residents of Fearrington.
The meeting will be in the Gathering Place and will begin with refreshments
at 7:15 p.m., followed by the program at 8:00. Guests are always
welcomed.
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AM BOOK CLUB TO DISCUSS
"MY OLD TRUE LOVE"
The next meeting of this recently formed book club will be held on
Wednesday, December 14 at 10 a.m. at the Market Cafe. We will read and
discuss "My Old True Love" by Sheila Kay Adams. Please come with
recommendations and brief descriptions for future readings. This book club
welcomes anyone who is interested in participating. Call Jane Ross at
542-3210 if you have questions.
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VEGETARIAN CLUB
"Crisis in Santa Land," a comedy with serious overtones, will be presented
at the December 14 meeting of the Vegetarian Club at 7:30 p.m.
at the Gathering Place. The play, crafted by Jack Traywick, features
Vegetarian Club members and explores such topics as "Has Santa Claus Sold
Out?" and "How Will Mrs. Santa Take Control?" The evening begins with a
home-cooked vegetarian potluck supper at 6:30.
The Vegetarian Club meets the second Wednesday of the month for a meal
followed by a speaker well versed in a particular aspect of health and
wellbeing. Visitors and newcomers are always welcome. Although the suppers
are vegetarian (and may include eggs and dairy), members need not adhere to
a strictly vegetarian diet. Anyone interested in attending on Wednesday,
December 14, for the supper, the play, or both, may call Anna Louise
Reynolds (542-4697) or Ellen Shanahan (545-2230).
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TRAVEL CLUB
Save The Date of Thursday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering
Place. See why Iceland is called a land of " fire and ice". Henry and
Dorothy Meriwether will present slides of glaciers, waterfalls, animals,
thermal activity and more. We hope that many of our Village friends will
come to view this program that will be presented by our new neighbors in
Galloway Ridge.
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LIGHT A
LUMINARY
Save the date of December 16 and plan to come to the village for the
Ronald McDonald House fundraiser. From 6 to 8 p.m., Fearrington Village will
be lined with luminaries. In addition, there will be music on the green. It
will be a festive event providing the opportunity for all of us to join and
greet our neighbors while supporting a worthwhile organization.
While enjoying the luminaries and music, we will be giving financial aid to
the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill. You should receive a flyer shortly
that will give you the details on how to support this event. A
tax-deductible donation of $15 is suggested, though any amount, more or
less, will be gratefully appreciated. The Ronald McDonald House provides a
home, meals and comfort to more than 1,700 needy families each year who are
in Chapel Hill because they have seriously ill or injured children in the
hospital. The Ronald McDonald House receives no federal funding and only 8%
of the $500,000 annual operating budget comes from the McDonald's
Corporation.
That's where we come in folks! Because donations make up a very large
portion of the Ronald McDonald income, we can open our hearts and check
books to give in the generous spirit of Fearrington Village residents. If
you have any questions, call Dody Tredinnick at 545-2058. Hope to see you on
December 16.
(Return to Table of Contents)
THE FFNCMA PLAN
ANNUAL JANUARY KICKOFF MEETING
Fearrington Friends of the North Carolina Museum of Art (FFNCMA) invite
members and non-members to the second annual kickoff meeting at the
Gathering Place on January 20 from 3 to 5 p.m. Find out from NCMA
speakers Larry Wheeler and Linda Dougherty, director and curator of
contemporary art, respectively, what the museum has planned for 2006. And,
hear some of the FFNCMA corresponding activities. Non-members will have an
opportunity to join the FFNCMA and current members to renew their 2006
membership. For membership information call Dorothy Birnham at 542-4046.
Come sip some wine and enjoy the camaraderie.
FFNCMA and NC Museum of Art
members will be visiting the museum in February (date to be announced) for
the much heralded The Potter's Eye: Art and Tradition in North Carolina
Pottery. Masterpieces from the state's 19th century pottery tradition and
the work of six distinguished N.C. potters are featured in this show. More
information in next month's newsletter.
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FEARRINGTON REPUBLICANS
Attention, Republican neighbors living in Fearrington, please be advised
that a new club has been formed called Fearrington Republicans. Meetings
will be held at the Gathering Place on the fourth Wednesday of each month at
7:30 p.m. Plan to join us for an evening with informative and interesting
speakers, socializing and refreshments with your fellow Republicans.
Our first meeting will be on Wednesday, January 25 at 7:30 p.m. at
the Gathering Place. Our guest speaker will be Bill Peaslee, Chief of
Staff/Special Legal Counsel, North Carolina Republican Party. Please mark
your calendars and save the date. RSVP by January 15 to Winnie Weissman, 919
542 3477, WINNIKKatAOL.com.
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WOODS WINTER
PARTY
The Woods Neighborhood Winter Festival Party will be Saturday, January 28
at 6:00 p.m. at the Gathering Place. Invitations and more information
will arrive in early January. If you have questions, please call Caroline
and Michael Hornblow (545-0151) or Bruce and Dianne Birch (542-2675).
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FEARRINGTONIANS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Bob Barr will appear as Escalus in the Folger Theatre production of
Measure For Measure, directed by Aaron Posner January 23 through February 26
at the Folger Theatre, 201 E. Capital St., SE, Washington DC. For tickets or
information, call 202 544-7077.
Selected paintings by Fearrington's Harry Wurster-an untrained
artist-are on exhibit through December at The Spotted Dog Restaurant in
Carrboro. All proceeds from the sale of his paintings will benefit the
Women's Center of Orange County.
Fearrington resident MaryLou Higgins is being honored with an art
exhibit at the North
Carolina Pottery Center December3 - March 25. The
public is invited to an opening reception Sunday December 4 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Her show will include over 60 ceramic works dating from the 1970's to the
present time. This contemporary museum is situated in Seagrove, the heart of
North Carolina's historic pottery area.
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COMMUNITY
OUTREACH
UNITED WAY OF CHATHAM COUNTY
Thanks to the generosity of so many residents of Fearrington Village and
Galloway Ridge, we have achieved great momentum in our campaign for the
United Way of Chatham County. If you haven't yet contributed and would like
to join your neighbors in supporting the worthwhile agencies under the
United Way umbrella, please make a pledge or send in your gift soon.
Fearrington Co-Chairs, Farrel Potts and Doug McAllister
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SALVATION ARMY
The bell is still tolling, loud and clear, inviting all Fearrington
residents to participate in the fundraising activity for the Salvation Army
at Lowe's Supermarket in Cole Plaza. Our schedule will begin Friday and
Saturday after Thanksgiving, continuing Tuesday through Saturday until
Christmas Eve. We will ring the bell, encourage shoppers to fill the kettle,
even wear a Santa hat if you desire. This is our opportunity to meet and
greet our Chatham County neighbors as well as to bring holiday cheer to
those who need our help.
We operate on 2 hour shifts from 9:30 to 5:30 and
you may sit or stand, inside or outside, alone or with a friend. We have
raised money, but we have also had a wonderful time doing it. We honor our
tradition of giving time and money to this cause. Many of your friends have
already signed up, but we need many more to fill our schedule. Please call
Anne or Jim Kirkhoff (542-4390) and we will find a time which is convenient
for your schedule.
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FRIENDS
FEEDING FRIENDS
During November and December the Chatham Crossing Lowes store is conducting
a food drive Friends Feeding Friends in support of Chatham County's food
pantry, known as CORA.
It is easy to contribute: Pick up one of the
pre-packed bags on the display near the checkout area. Prices run from about
five to eight dollars. Pay for the bag at checkout and deposit it in one of
the blue barrels near the exit doors. CORA volunteers pick up the bags daily
and get them to the pantry in time to meet the holiday demand for food.
Donating Lowes S&H green points is another way to aid the pantry.
Information on how that may be done is available in Fearrington's principal
mail kiosks. Those preferring to make a cash contribution to the pantry
should make their checks out to the Chatham Outreach Alliance and mail them
to PO Box 1326, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
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INTER-FAITH
COUNCIL HOLIDAY COUPON CAMPAIGN - 2005
As we approach the holiday season, please consider sharing a holiday meal
with someone who might not otherwise get one. Each year, the IFC offers our
community the opportunity to share the holiday through our Holiday Coupon
Campaign. All through the holiday season, we place coupons in congregation
bulletins, e-mails, through snail mail and at all IFC facilities.
You, the community, have responded enthusiastically to this simple campaign:
Last year you made it possible for us to provide 652 holiday dinners (a 30%
increase over the previous year) that fed3,491 of our neighbors. Its really
easy to start sharing: Just mail the IFC a $20 check along with your coupon
(or multiples of $20 if you decide to share with multiple families), and
well provide a holiday meal consisting of either a turkey or a ham,
vegetables, holiday fixings, and dessert for a family.
If you'd rather pay with your credit card, simply call 929-6380, ext.14 for
John Dorward, or ext.12 for Nicole Mazyck. Holidays are for sharing. Wont
you please consider sharing a holiday meal with a family who really needs it
this year.
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BUILDING WORLD FRIENDSHIPS
Are you interested in learning about other cultures and places, and want to
build friendships with people from other countries? If so, the UNC
International Friendship Program can offer you the opportunity for
cross-cultural exchange with an international student. The International
Friendship Program is designed to match a new international student with a
local family or individual who volunteers to acquaint the student with the
community and to invite him or her to activities such as meals, local
events, and holiday celebrations. A host does not provide housing or
financial assistance to the student.
Adjusting to a new culture and the separation from family and familiar
cultural patterns can often be a difficult and frustrating experience for
the international student. A host can ease that adjustment by helping the
student understand many aspects of American culture and by simply offering
hospitality.
If you are interested in being a host for a new international student, visit
our website: http://oisss.unc.edu/get_involved/friendship.html or call the
UNC Office of International Student and Scholar Services at 962-5661, intlcenterATunc.edu.
(Return to Table of Contents)
ENJOY DON DAVIS &
HELP CHATHAM'S FOOD PANTRY
On Saturday, December 17, storyteller Don Davis will mark the start of the
holiday season with another wonderful presentation in the Barn at 11 a.m.
For that annual event, RB Fitch has again set the "price" of admission as
the donation of "some cans of food" to the food pantry operated by the
Chatham Outreach Alliance (CORA).
Those preferring to make a cash contribution to the pantry can put their
donations in the container provided by the CORA volunteers. Donating Lowes
S&H green points is another way to aid the pantry, and volunteers will have
information available on how that may be done.
(Return to Table of Contents)
WHAT'S GOING ON OUTSIDE OF
FEARRINGTON
FRIENDS PRESENT READERS THEATRE AT
GALLOWAY RIDGE
It is not too late if you missed the Readers Theatre performance of My Old
True Love at CCCC. The Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library Community
Read presents a second performance at Galloway Ridge on Thursday,
December 8, at 8:30 P.M. The performance is free and open to the public,
but reservations are required. Please call Lynn Zempel (919-542-3744) to
make your reservation today!
Performers will include students from Ellen
Bland¹s Readers Theatre class and local musicians: Fiddlin' Al McCanless
from Celtic Jam, Red Clay Ramblers & Bluegrass Experience, Virginia Ryan
from the Shelbys, Janet Place from Brown Mountain Lights, along with David
Misenheimer, Jim Westmoreland, and Millworker playwrights Ellen Bland and
Drew Lasater. Donations for the Pass Christian Library Fund will be
accepted.
As Community Read chair, Jennifer Gillis, describes it, "My Old
True Love spins a spellbinding yarn about a small mountain community. Love,
rivalry, and the coming of the Civil War are recounted in traditional
Appalachian dialect, interwoven with lyrics from traditional songs. It
offers an opportunity for North Carolina natives and newcomers alike to
experience a deeper appreciation for one of the foundations of the culture,
traditions, and language of North Carolina."
Copies are available for loan
at the library. Or, support the Community Read by purchasing a copy at
Friends events (www.pittsborolibraryfriends.org), at Pittsboro First
Sundays, and at McIntyre's Fine Books and Bookends in Fearrington Village. A
portion of the proceeds is generously donated by McIntyre's to support the
Community Read.
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AAUW
HOLIDAY LUNCHEON
On Saturday, December 10, at 11:30 a.m. the American Association of
University Women will hold its annual holiday luncheon at the Carolina Inn
in Chapel Hill. The luncheon is held each year to help raise funds for a
scholarship at UNC for a woman student in graduate studies, the Carrie
Health Schwenning Scholarship, in honor of a former member of the AAUW -
Chapel Hill branch. There is a choice of 3 entrees. Spouses, guests or other
family members are invited. The cost is $27 per person. Those interested in
attending the luncheon, please contact Kay White in Fearrington at 542-1138.
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UN ASSOCIATION TO
DISCUSS US-UN RELATIONS
The United Nations is the world's premier international organization and an
indispensable fixture of international relations. The United States led the
founding of the organization. Yet, since the UN was established the
relationship between the two has been prickly. How did the relationship
begin and why? As part of the West Triangle Chapter's commemoration of the
UN's sixtieth anniversary, Professor Michael Hunt, Emerson Professor of
History at UNC-Chapel Hill will discuss The US and the UN: The Origins of a
Tangled Relationship at the chapter's Lunch and Learn meeting on
Wednesday, December14.
The meeting willtake place at the Holiday Inn in Chapel Hill from noon
until 2 p.m. To reserve send a check for $15, payable to "UNA West
Triangle Chapter," to Barbara Rodbell, 404 Carolina Meadows Villa, Chapel
Hill 27517. The deadline is December 8. Questions (919) 942-1239.
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DECEMBER CHAPEL HILL
NEWCOMERS MENS LUNCHEON
The Men's luncheon group will meet Friday, December 16 from 11:30 a.m. to
1:30 p.m. at the Chapel Hill Country Club. Our speaker will be Rev. Dr.
Peter Thomas who will describe his experience in Houston as one of the
Coordinators of Operation Compassion, a program that cared for the Katrina
evacuees from the Superdome in New Orleans. He will describe the plight of
the people brought into Houston and the efforts to help them. Dr. Thomas
will also contrast the strengths and weaknesses of the aid and caring
efforts of the public (federal, state and local governments), private and
faith communities.
Peter is a retired Episcopal priest, living in Fearrington Village, after 42
years in the ministry. His last position before retirement was Director of
Pastoral Care and Outreach for St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston. He
was involved in coordinating the recovery efforts for tropical storm Allison
which flooded portions of Houston four years ago. The City Government called
upon the faith community once again to respond, and Peter was called back to
coordinate.
All Newcomers, Alumni and their guests are welcome. Advanced cost of the
soup and salad buffet and an interesting speaker is $11.00. Mail a check to
confirm your reservation to John Dopler, 834 Fearrington Post, Pittsboro, NC
27312 by December 13 or RSVP to John at (919) 542-2815 or Paul Troutman at
(919) 542-0534 by December 14 so we can get adequate seating at the
luncheon. Cost is $12 at the door
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SENIORNET COMPUTER CLASSES
FOR SENIORS
Winter 2006 class schedule -
January 9
February 3: (1) Intro to Word Processing; (2) Computer Fundamentals; (3)
Internet/E-mail; (4) Genealogy; (5) Basic Computer Skills ($15); (6) Prepare
Your Taxes Using "Turbo Tax" ($15).
February 6 March 3: (1) Advanced Word Processing; (2) Digital Photography;
(3) Computer Fundamentals; (4) Personal Financial Management; (5) Buying &
Selling on eBay ($15); (6) Search the Internet Using "Google" (a 1-day
workshop) ($10)
March 6 - 31: (1) Intro to Word Processing; (2) Internet/E-mail; (3) Photo
Editing with "Photo Shop Elements 3" (4) Organizing Your Computer Files.
All classes are $25, unless
otherwise noted, plus SeniorNet membership fee of $40 for one year, $60/two
years, $85/three years. Payment is by personal check. To learn more about
the SeniorNet organization, visit their web site at
www.seniornet.org.
Register at the Chapel Hill Senior Center, 400 S. Elliott Road. For more
information consult the Herald Sun "Senior Times" , our website http://home.nc.rr.com/pceducation
or call Art Lebo at 259-7330 or Francis Coyle at 403-6259.
An Open House will be held at the Senior Center on December 16 from 9:00 to
11:00 a.m. SeniorNet volunteers will be on-hand to answer your questions,
assist you with your class choices and accept your registration.
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CHATHAM
OPEN STUDIO TOUR
The 13th Annual Chatham Studio Tour will take place on December 3, 4, 10,
and 11, 2005. Tour times on Saturdays are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and on
Sundays from noon - 5 p.m.
All studios on the Tour are open during those hours. No appointment is
necessary. Fearrington artists on the Tour this year are:
#26 Jane
Bruce: 23 Caldwell-clay and porcelain
#27 Carol Owen: 54 Trestle Leaf- mixed media and painting (1st weekend)
#28 Rita Spina: 12 Matchwood - multi media and 3 dimensional
#29 Leslie Palmer: 110 Creekwood - graphite on paper, mixed media, drawings,
paintings (1st weekend)
#30 Forrest Greenslade: 149 Tinderwood- cement, peat moss, composite
#31 Doris Dunlap: 594 F Woodbury - oil, watercolor, mixed media
#32 Fran Schultzberg: 552 Weathersfield - silver, gold, and other materials
#33 Vidabeth Bensen: 601 Stoneview - original screen prints
#34 Anne Botto: 709 Spindlewood - watercolor and collage (1st weekend)
#35 Zen Palkoski: 867 Millcroft - wood, metal, plaster casting, sculpture
(1st weekend)
There will be a preview exhibition
of works by all Studio Tour artists at the Arts Center in Carrboro from
November 15 - December 11. Everyone is invited to a gala opening reception
and exhibition at Central Carolina Community College in Pittsboro on Friday,
December 2 from 7 - 9 p.m. Come early and vote in the "People's Choice"
award.
(Return to Table of Contents)
HOLIDAY MUSIC
HOLIDAY MUSIC SPECIAL -BARBERSHOP HARMONY
STYLE
Each holiday season brings a wonderful array of music. This year will be no
exception to that usual pattern and Fearringtonian John Adams wants to bring
to your attention a four-part a capella harmony spectacular, "Songs of the
Season". It will take place on Saturday, December 3 at Meymandi Hall
in Raleigh. This is the annual holiday show put on each year by the award
winning General Assembly Chorus of the RTP Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony
Society. For the first time, there will be an afternoon show at 2 p.m., as
well as evening show at 7:30 p.m. The featured highlight will be the
performance of Handel's Hallelujah Chorus sung by the 100 man community
chorus in addition to the beautifully arranged Story of Christmas Medley.
All this follows the GA Chorus and quartets singing many, many holiday
favorites plus the wonderful singing voice of Janet Clarke.
It promises to
be an outstanding pair of shows that you won't want to miss. Tickets
purchased in advance are $13 for seniors ($15 regular) for the afternoon and
$18 ($20 regular) for the evening performance. There is a special for
students of $8 for any seat at either show while those age 8 and under are
free! For tickets or show information call RTP member John at 545-9101 or
email him at jjadams2ATnc.rr.com. You'll be glad you did.
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HOLIDAY CONCERT PRESENTED BY VILLAGE VOICES AND HARMONY GRITS
On Wednesday, December 7 at 7:30 in the Village Barn, Fearringtons
women's chorus and men's chorale will present a combined Christmas concert.
Under the direction of Matthew Fry and accompanied by Dan Hadley, the two
groups will be singing a host of holiday melodies designed to put everyone
in a festive spirit. The program contains some familiar as well as some
not-so-well-known pieces; however, each has been carefully selected to
ensure an evening of holiday joy.
Over 70 voices will join together to give you a jumpstart on the most
favorite time of the year. A word of caution if last years audience is used
as a measure of interest, one might want to consider coming early to get a
good seat. Last year every available seat was taken. A $5 donation will be
collected at the door. We look forward to giving one and all an early,
seasonal present. Hope to see you there.
(Return to Table of Contents)
PIANO RECITAL
Gerry and Frank Stutz invite all Fearrington music lovers to come to the
Gathering Place at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 29 to hear a piano
recital given by Andrew Tyson. Andrew, who grew up in Durham, is presently
studying at the Curtis Institute of Music under the tutelage of Claude
Frank. This recital is free and open to all Fearrington residents. Come and
enjoy this exciting young talent!
(Return to Table of Contents)
HEALTH
INSTRUCTIONAL HEALTH VIDEOS AVAILABLE
Questions about a medical condition or treatment? Fearrington Cares has 73
instructional videos (VHS) prepared by UNC Hospitals to aid patients in
dealing with their health. Among the topics provided are arthritis (3),
cardiovascular disease and cholesterol management (!4), cancer (5),
chemotherapy, diabetes (10), heart surgery (3), hypertension(2), smoking
cessation (2), stroke (2), colostomy care (4) and kidney disease and lupus
(6). These videos are available in the Fearrington Cares Office for you to
checkout and view in the privacy of your home. Please call or come by for
more information.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTON CARES
OFFERS A HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Heres 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 $29 until January 1. For more information, call Fearrington Cares at
542-6877 or Judy Fitzgerald at 542-0056.
(Return to Table of Contents)
FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR
Blood Pressure Clinic Every Wednesday in December, 10 a.m.-12 noon
Fearrington Cares Office, 28 Swim and Croquet
Foot Clinic Monday December 5, 2-4 p.m. Fearrington Cares Office You
must have an appointment Appointments filled for December and January. You
must make an appointment for February 6 clinic Call 542-6877 for appointment
Grief Support Group Friday, December 16, 10 a.m. - Fearrington Cares
Office
Strength and Balance Class Cancelled as of November 16
(Return to Table of Contents)
DUKE CENTER FOR LIVING UP
AND RUNNING
The Duke Center for Living at Fearrington is in full swing after three
months of operation and over 15,000 workouts. With state-of-the-art
equipment and a caring team of professionals, the center is making its mark
on the health and fitness lifestyles of the Fearrington area.
The center offers over 60 group exercise classes a week, from arthritis aqua
and aqua challenge to group cycling, cardio moves, yoga and Feldenkrais.
Additional services have been added, such as free fitness assessments,
Odwalla nutrition products and use of the Weathersfield Cafe at Galloway
Ridge. New programs on the horizon include personal training, massage
therapy and a wellness lecture series.
Joining the Duke Center for Living at Fearrington will get you a head start
on your New Years resolutions. From now until December 31, you can join for
50% off of the initiation fee. From now until December 31, you can join for
50% off of the initiation fee. For more details, call 545-2133 or stop by
the facility for a tour. Duke Center hours are Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.-8 p.m.;
Saturday, 8-4 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m.
(Return to Table of Contents)
MEET OUR
INSTRUCTOR
Ti Harmony has been teaching yoga since his initial Yoga Teacher Training at
the Kirpalu Center in 1993. Ti has studied different styles through the
years, influenced by Erich Schiffman, Angela Farmer and Victor Von Kooten.
He brings insights to his teaching from various traditions combined with a
deep trust in the wisdom of the body. His most profound influence is his
long-term daily home practice, which allows him to bring a depth of
experience to his teaching. Ti continues his studies with nationally and
internationally known teachers in workshops and leads a Yoga
Alliance-registered Yoga Teacher Training program in Carrboro.
Classes at Fearrington have a blend of focus, love and humor. They tend to
be gently challenging with total permission and encouragement to do as your
body requires. They also aim at getting students moving, breathing and
becoming more aware and connected with the Innermost Self. Please join Ti
and the Yoga at Fearrington group on Wednesday mornings 8:15-9:30 at
the Gathering Place. For more details, call Laura Hyer 545-9607.
(Return to Table of Contents)
MIND, BODY & SPIRIT RETREAT
DAY
On Sunday, January 29 join Rose Marie Roth, certified Yoga instructor
and Carol Genovese, culinary school graduate (both Fearrington residents)
for a day of relaxing and restorative yoga sessions, learning about herbal
teas, infusions and decoctions, and chilling out while your lunch is being
prepared during a demonstration herbal cooking class. This is a unique
opportunity to unwind and relax during a peaceful break not too far from
home in a cozy setting in Chapel Hill. Open to all interested individuals.
Call 929-3121 for registration information.
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BOARD BRIEFINGS
2006 DIRECTORY COMING UPDATES NEEDED!!
I've begun working on the 2006 FHA directory, which will come out in early
March. A printed proof of the directory will be available in the FHA office
from about January 9 until early February and residents are encouraged to
stop by during office hours (weekdays 9:30 a.m. to noon) to check their
listing for accuracy. I especially hope folks who have moved to Galloway
Ridge (whether Fearringtonians or others) will provide me with their new
information to ensure their inclusion.
Service Group boards, Area Captains and organization heads should also check
their information in the current directory and submit any changes.
All corrections and new listings can be submitted by completing an
information sheet at the FHA office, by leaving a note for me in the
Directory mailbox at the Gathering Place kiosk, by sending an e-mail to:
joannenmikeAThotmail.com, or by calling me at the number below. Please feel
free to call me with any questions or suggestions for improving the
directory.
By the way, residents (and organization heads!!) should also check the
directory on the FHA website to make sure that listing is correct. Send
changes to that directory to me also. Thanks for your assistance. Mike
Cotter, Directory Editor (542-4414)
(Return to Table of Contents)
PUBLIC HEARING ON BRIAR
CHAPEL APPLICATION
The FHA received official notice from the NC Division of Water Quality that
the latter will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, December 13 at the Chatham
County Courthouse, District Court room beginning at 7 p.m. The hearing is
set to receive public comment on the application of Newland Communities
(Briar Chapel) for a Water Quality Certification based on Section 401 of the
Clean Water Act. The FHA has already delivered comments on this application
to both the Division of Water Quality and the US Corp of Engineers with
particular attention to the storm drainage and soil erosion protection
affecting FHA homeowners in the Creekwood area as well as the Briar Chapel
plan to spray a proposed buffer zone with treated sewer effluent. FHA
residents are urged to attend and give their comments, orally or in writing.
The comments should address only the issues involved in the issuance of the
proposed certification. A copy of the original public notice, the current
public notice and the FHA comments sent to both the Division of Water
Quality and the US Corp of Engineers are available for review or copying at
the FHA Office in the Gathering Place. Questions on the hearing process can
be sent to Bill Sommers, FHA Intergovernmental Liaison, at <bsommersATearthlink.net>
(Return to Table of Contents)
PROGRESS ON BEAVER CREEK &
POND
The FHA together with resident representatives met recently with the NC
Department of Highways on the results of the tort claim filed by the FHA.
DOT field engineers tentatively agreed to shoulder 30% of approved
remediation costs. At the same time, the DOT recommended that any
reconstruction plan be first discussed with the US Corp of Engineers since
the Creek & Pond are potentially a US "wet land" over which the Corp has
jurisdiction. FHA has made arrangement with Todd Tugwel, the Corps area
regulation field engineer to review the site on December 20 in company with
FHA and resident representatives. In addition, FHA will make every effort to
involve Fitch Creations in the remediation since they have an important
right of way reservation in this area and they designed and constructed the
original storm drainage system for this area which has now been shown to be
inadequate.
(Return to Table of Contents)
GREETINGS FROM
THE TAX COLLECTOR FOR CHATHAM COUNTY
As Tax Collector for Chatham County, it's my duty to collect property taxes
billed to our county residents. Sometimes residents do not receive tax bills
due to incorrect mailing addresses. I think many of you may not receive tax
notices from our office since your physical address and mailing address are
different. Recently the Pittsboro post office has returned some tax notices
to our office as undeliverable.
Our office produces the motor vehicle tax notices from information sent to
us from the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. If the address that
DMV has in the registration record reflects only your physical address, then
our account for your vehicle tax notice will reflect the same address. To
insure that you receive your vehicle tax notice in a timely manner, I am
asking for your assistance. Your help with this matter will prevent your
being charged interest if your bill is delayed. Please verify that your
vehicle registration reflects your mailing address as well as your physical
address. If you are not sure if your registration contains both addresses or
if you need to correct the mailing address, you can contact DMV by visiting
the DMV website at:
www.ncdot.org/dmv/contact/ or calling 919
715-7000 or contacting one of the local DMV tag offices.
Should you have any questions pertaining to any of your tax notices, please
feel free to contact me at 919 542 8261 or by email at
frances.wilsonATncmail.net.
Happy Holidays, Frances Wilson, Chatham County Tax Collector
(Return to Table of Contents)
NOVEMBER 1 FHA BOARD OF
DIRECTORS MEETING
Complete minutes are available in the FHA office, the mail kiosks and on the
website by
clicking here. All attachments referred to in the minutes may be found
with the complete minutes.
Tom Hauck, President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and welcomed
all residents in attendance and asked for Resident Input. Opinions were
expressed regarding incorporation. Some residents feel they are being
railroaded, that incorporation is moving so quickly that there is not ample
time to understand the pros and cons. Also troubling to some residents is
the perceived lack of financial information, both what the incorporation
process will cost the community and what it will cost residents as
taxpayers. Despite what has been said, there is a belief that the Board
endorses incorporation and that the cost will be very high.
The Board responded that a 92-page report was published in March 2005 and
was presented at an open resident meeting. Three meetings were held recently
for residents, a DVD was made available, many thousands of copies of
incorporation information were distributed to residents, there is
information on the FHA website by
clicking here and
bulletin board. The ANINC committee recommends incorporation, not the FHA
Board, and the financial information giving a range of costs has been
provided. The Board also said that the Board was only, at this time, asking
the residents if the Board should continue the investigation of the
incorporation issue.
Residents responded that perception is reality and we must move forward.
Perhaps a letter to residents similar to RBs would have been helpful. The
last time incorporation was discussed, a document was prepared including
pros and cons. Something like that would be more helpful than a DVD.
After the meeting the Secretary received a request to enter into the minutes
notice of receipt by the Board of a memorandum signed by the Board of
Country House Service Group-V that detailed their support of the concerns
raised in R. B. Fitch's letter concerning incorporation. "We wish to go on
record as supporting the positions and recommendations made by him (R.B.
Fitch) in that letter, and request that this memorandum be entered into the
minutes of the next scheduled meeting of the FHA." (The signed memorandum
and attachments are filed with the original minutes of the 11/1/05 meeting.)
NEW BUSINESS-Loss or Damage for goods stored in the Gathering Place
by clubs. Drew Bratton explained that many of the clubs that use the
Gathering Place have several very expensive items stored. While every effort
is made to maintain security in the GP, we have a lot of people in and out
of the building and there is the possibility of theft. Our insurance agent
has indicated that they cannot, under our current policy, cover club
materials stored in this building. We have determined it is prudent to tell
all clubs if they continue to store items in the GP it is at their clubs
risk of loss.
The clubs that have materials stored in the Gathering Place will have 3
weeks to decide to either continue to store their materials at their own
risk or to remove the materials. The following policy goes into effect
11/22/05; paragraph 11 of the revised Gathering Place Rental Agreement:
"Renter agrees to indemnify and hold harmless FHA, its members, Board of
Directors and officers, and all committees of FHA and service groups from
and against all claims, liability, losses, costs (including reasonable
attorney fees), and damages whatsoever related to the loss or damage to the
personal property of RENTER, its guest, members, and invitees, and/or any
personal injury, including death, of RENTER, its guests, members and
invitees occurring on or about The Gathering Place and arising out of, or
related to the rental of the Gathering Place."
The existing contracts that have been signed for 2006 will remain in place;
however, Tom Hauck will send an addendum letter indicating this policy is in
place. All new contracts will show this statement. The change to the rental
agreement was approved as presented in quotes above.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
County
Liaison Bill Sommers reported that the Division of Water Quality will
hold a public hearing on Briar Chapel sometime in November. This will delay
Briar Chapels groundbreaking by several months. The FHA submitted a proposal
that before construction begins on the 60 acres of Briar Chapel which abut
FV, their plans must be discussed with us.
Grounds and Facilities Carol-Ann Greenslade reported:
Volunteers, headed up by Douglas and Dinah McAllister, have installed
additional landscaping around the Smokehouse kiosk area. They will continue
to look after and prune. A very attractive little pocket park has been
developed there. Plants and supplies were paid for by the Adopt a Parcel
Program and a resident donation.
Gordon Stewart has spent several weekends working on the lighting at the S&C
Kiosk. He has volunteered his time.
Walk Fearrington Committee prioritized the list of suggested trails based on
safety and connectivity. A path on Weathersfield and a connector between
Windstone and McDowell are the two highest priorities.
Covenants Bob Oram
requested a volunteer from Phase I to serve on that service groups covenant
group.
Treasurers Report Bob Flower reported income for September $1,206.
Expense for the same period was $5,932. The balance in the checking account
as of 9/30/05 was $7,223.31. The total of our reserve funds at the end of
September was $85,516. Liquid assets total $182,980.27. The detailed
Treasurers Report including tables is filed with these minutes.
Quality of Life Drew Brattons report was submitted as follows:"The
programs I participated in during the month of Oct. are the following. These
are summary comments and do not represent final detailed information and
follow-up activities for each program. Incorporation was clearly the major
focus this past month. Between scheduling meetings for the community,
mailing over 200 notices to affected residents outside of Fearrington
proper, and working on the preference poll details, the month has been very
busy. A special thanks to Marilyn Koplik and Darrell Andersen for their
hours of assistance with the mailings. New Gathering Place Rental Policy has
been reviewed and approved by the Board. The policy clearly defines the
liability for clubs and groups storing equipment in the Gathering Place.
Audio
Visual and Repair of the Gathering Place including painting which is now
complete, the soiled chairs have been cleaned, and the window hangings are
being worked on. A special thanks to the team of Maggie Frantz, Bob Flower,
and Carol-Ann Greenslade for their contributions to the project. We have now
purchased a new laptop computer for the purpose of running DVD-CD or Power
Point presentations. Lee Caldwell can further update you on all the other
capabilities we have put in place.
FHA Office. Pat Harkins, Volunteer Office Manager advises Oct.
performance as follows: Total copies for the month of Oct. were 81,712. Over
half of this number was for the FHA based upon the work of Incorporation.
Over 109 Faxes sent and received. Total income for the month was $406.65.
25th Silver Anniversary. We have logo design proposals completed by
Carl Granath. Bob Comey and his team are contacting residents to develop an
anniversary newsletter. Marva Price and her team are contacting people who
may have items we could put on display in the Gathering Place covering our
25 years of FHA governance. Directory options. Mike Cotter has come up with
some exciting new ideas for the Annual Directory. Let me end this report by
indicating we do not have a Secretary for the board position for the 06
Board Year. We need your help to have a volunteer step forward and assist
with this most important function. If we are not able to have a resident
perform this task, we will be forced to use an alternative solution until
such time as we have a board secretary."
Community Affairs Cynthia Jones reported that the block captains have
been asked to submit the name of someone to be on the anniversary party
committee. If there are no volunteers, there will be no party.
The last regularly scheduled FHA
Board Meeting in 2005 will be held Tuesday December 6 at 7:00 p.m. Maggie
Frantz, FHA Secretary
(Return to Table of Contents)
FHA
ANNUAL MEETING MINUTES
Highlights include the yearend reports from each FHA Board Member submitted
prior to the meeting. Complete minutes are available in the FHA office, the
mail kiosks and and on this website by
clicking here.
Tom Hauck called the meeting to order at 3 p.m. A quorum was present at the
meeting.
Reports
President Tom Hauck
The 2005
FHA Directors, individually, and as a unified Board, have performed
extraordinary services for our membership this year. I publicly and
personally thank each Board member for those extraordinary efforts.
Thank you also to the many volunteers in all the organizations who have been
instrumental in keeping the FHA, and its membership so well served.
Fearrington has a wonderful group of volunteers who continue to serve this
community, and the larger Chatham County, in an exemplary manner. From the
FHA Office to the Gathering Place, to the monthly Newsletter and the annual
telephone Directory, to the activities of the clubs, and many other
organizations, they work to keep the Fearrington community and Chatham
County one that other communities envy. Without volunteerism, we would not
be able to accomplish our work.
I have asked everyone to complete FORMS A & B, the Emergency Response Forms
and FORM C, the Volunteer information form. Thank you to those who have
completed the
Those forms have been input into a computer database program, developed by
the Computer Committee. Searching for willing volunteers is now easier due
to this computer program.
The Computer Committee has set up a high-speed wireless network for use at
the Gathering Place and have made the FHA website a very useful tool in
exchanging information among members. The protected side of website,
requiring a password, has the latest comments of residents on the Bulletin
Board and names and addresses in the Directory. The Committee maintains the
website and assures that the computer operations are virus free.
The entire Board and the Annexation Incorporation Committee have worked very
hard to provide the members and our affected neighbors information to help
them decide if they wish us to go forward on an incorporation study. This
information has been given openly and completely and in a friendly manner.
The results have been determined by 1059 registered voters with a result of
560 or 53 % against continuing to work towards incorporation. Those votes
were verified and counted by a diverse group on the Board as well as two
representatives of the affected Fearrington neighbors. The ANINC Committee
will be disbanded with our grateful thanks for their tireless efforts
Vice
President Drew Bratton
This past
year two repetitive themes emerged based upon the services that were given
to the community: "Quality of Life Programs" and "The need for volunteerism
in Fearrington Village".
The Road
Safety Committee was started this year by the FHA and is made up of the
following residents: Guy Baird, Chairman; Ann Deupree, Art Deluca, Joe
Geoghegen, Jim Granger, Margaret George, Patsy LaFoe, Barry Reece and Jack
Traywick They have contributed greatly to the security of our roads by
running programs on driving speed, driving regulations, street lighting,
signage, and a road safety plan for the next two years.
FHA Office programs grew with the transition of the position of office
manger from Bert Crouchley to Pat Harkins. The office increased its
services, added new volunteers, and assisted with groups visiting the
Gathering Place. The super volunteer staff that contributed this past year
include Marilyn Band, Jim Granger, Mary Lou Einloth, Carol Kurtz, Else
Duemmler, Betty Sher, Alexander Graye, Tom Steward, Phylis Kanyra, Madge
Briggs, Ray Mones, Warren Howe, Ed Giess, Dick Harrington, Terrice Doyle,
Karen Vernon, Dick Van Iten, Don Reilly, Mary Matney, Bert Crouchley, Kim
Batchellor.
The FHA Mail Kiosk program is headed by Elaine Alexander. She has
volunteered to help maintain the three FHA mail kiosks. She has given
administrative order to the communication boards in the kiosks.
The Newcomers Fair this past August was attended by over 60 clubs and
institutions meeting and greeting new Fearrington Village residents as well
as Galloway Ridge residents.
Neighborhood Quarterly Service Committee meetings were held by the FHA with
each of the Fearrington Village neighborhoods. The FHA updated the action
programs it was working on and listened to neighborhood representatives as
they outlined their current programs and the support they requested from
FHA.
Support Programs: An audio visual training seminar was run for the clubs
that use the Gathering Place thanks to Lee Caldwell. A Printing seminar was
held for those volunteers that will assist in printing the FHA newsletter,
thanks to Don Reilly. The Communication committee helped in focusing the
flow of community information, thanks to Bob Comey, Mary Hammond, Mike
Cotter, Irving Rimer, Julie Smith, Forrest Greenslade, Barbara Wilson and
Bill Schneerer. The Asset Committee defined the assets owned by the FHA
through the work of Bob Flower, Ron Boyington, John Custer, and Henry
Castner. The Gathering Place team of Maggie Frantz, Carol-Ann Greenslade and
Lee Caldwell freshened up our major facility.
The need for Volunteerism in Fearrington Village. We are in a transition
period in our wonderful community. Our life style is based upon resident
volunteers giving and supporting the programs that make our community
unique. Many of these super volunteers are leaving our community to go on to
the next stage in their lives. We need all residents to step up to the plate
and offer their services to the community. We have Board positions, FHA
office positions, and support committee positions open. Consider giving back
to this wonderful community with some of your time this next year.
Treasurer Bob Flower
The 2005
fiscal year started with a total of $158,228.80 liquid assets and $1,800.00
in security deposits. Of that, operating funds were $80,833.98 and reserve
funds were $77,394.82. In January, $7,000.00 was transferred to the reserve
fund per the 2004 budget. As of October 31, 2005 we have $181,699.85 in
total liquid assets with $96,184.60 in operating funds and $85,515.25 in the
reserve fund. With the increase in security fees, we currently are holding
$1,900.00 in security deposits.
Our 2005 fiscal year is projected to end with a budget surplus of
approximately $5,000 - $7,000 primarily due to lower than forecast expenses
for Grounds & Facilities. Our 2005 budget was established with a target of
$20,500 to be contributed to the reserve fund and we expect to better that
by at least $5,000 barring any major unexpected expenses through the end of
the year.
The focus this year has been to improve financial policies and procedures to
provide for improved budget management, stronger controls and data security.
The following initiatives were introduced and set to practice in 2005:
The budget was timed to the expected income and expense on a month by month
basis to allow the board to more closely and more realistically monitor
financial performance.
A policy was established to require all billings to have a documented
invoice approved by the responsible board member before payment.
A policy was established to require two financial signatories on all
transactions greater than $5,000.
All FHA directors are now covered with a $25,000 employee dishonesty
endorsement to our business insurance policy the equivalent of bonding.
Data security was enhanced with the addition of password-protected financial
software on the FHA office computer. All such files used by Treasurers on
their personal computers are now backed up in the office on a weekly basis.
Also new this year is the establishment of a Reserve Fund Management Plan.
This includes a policy and procedure for identifying, prioritizing and
timing reserve fund expenditures to be managed by a committee reporting to
the board on a quarterly basis. This plan provides for managing replacement
funds, new initiative funds and a contingency fund. We anticipate the
reserve expenditures in 2006 will total approximately $35,000 as we proceed
with the process of prioritizing, estimating and approving replacement and
new initiative ideas.
As we developed the 2006 Provisional Budget with the same fiscal prudence as
this past year, the forecast for income versus expenses allowed us to keep
the dues for next year at the carryover fee of $92.00. The 2006 Provisional
Budget estimates income of $135,280 and expenses of $114,030. This projects
to a transfer to the reserves at the end of the budget year of $21,250..
County
Liaison Bill Sommers
1.
Incorporation: The Final Report of the ANINC Committee was submitted to the
Board in March, 2005 and a public meeting to discuss the report was held on
March 18, 2005. In July copies of the report were sent to the Chatham County
state legislative delegation: Rep. Hackney and Sen. Atwater. Subsequently,
the ANINC Committee, after discussions, including a one day field trip to
Trinity Town and the DOT headquarters in Asheboro, submitted a Follow Up
Report on September 9, 2005. The FHA Board of Directors, after reviewing
both the Annual and Follow-Up Report, without direct endorsement of
incorporation, authorized a series of four information meetings to discuss
the pros and cons of incorporation. The first three meetings were held
during October; a fourth meeting will be held on November 9 for proposed
incorporated areas of Jack Bennett and Mt. Gilead Roads. It is expected that
the results of the preferential voting will be tallied and reported at the
November 13 Annual Meeting to determine whether or not to move forward with
the Incorporation Petition process.
2. Beaver Pond Beaver Creek Runoff Problem: see newsletter article
3. Submission, Discussions With Corp Of Engineers, Division Of Water Quality
(DWQ) Regarding Briar Chapel Work Permit Application: Upon receipt of the US
Corp of Engineers Public Notice of June 14, 2005, the FHA agreed to submit
commentary with particular regard to the proposed development of the 60 acre
tract which abuts the Creekwood Area in Fearrington Village. The main issue
is the sewer, storm drainage runoff and containment. FHA filed six pages of
comments to the Corp of Engineers on July 11and three pages of comments to
the DWQ on July 2. In both commentaries, the FHA requested that a public
hearing be held on Briar Chapels application. The FHA sent copies of these
documents to its Congressional Delegation as well as the General Assembly
delegation. All elected representatives responded positively and letters
were sent through their offices to the District Engineer of the Wilmington
District. The latter sent similar replies noting that the Corp did not think
it advisable to hold a public hearing since all the necessary information
had been gathered by the Corp. The District Engineer did, however, recommend
that a full discussion of the issues involved be held via the Engineers
Regulatory Division. The meeting was held on August 25 at the DWQ Conference
Room in Raleigh with representatives of the FHA, The HAW River Assembly, The
Chatham Citizens for Effective Communities, and the US Corp of Engineers,
DWQ plus other involved DENR divisions, and substantial representation from
Newland Communities (Briar Chapel developers) present. The meeting gave each
of the protagonists, including the FHA, a chance to raise a host of issues
regarding the permit and its concerns on the general environmental affect on
the area but, with FHA, particularly the affected portion of Creekwood Area.
As a result of the meeting FHA submitted a letter dated September 7 to the
Corp of Engineers as well as DWQ to request that in issuing the permit, the
Corp/DWQ should append a condition that would require Newland Communities
before any construction or submission of final plans on the 60 acres of
development "Émeet with the FHA to discuss storm water and non-point source
drainage of the 60 acres before undertaking any construction activity on
that piece of property. This discussion should also include the proposal of
Briar chapel to use the proposed buffer zone as an area to re-water with
treated effluent from its waste water plant." The Corp of Engineers
responded that it had received the recommendation but had made no decision
on whether or not to include it in the issued permit. We have not received
any reply from DWQ. As of this date, so far as we can determine, the work
permit has not been issued. We will continue to follow up on this matter.
4. Wrote a five page summary of the meeting with Roger W. Knight, Attorney
at Law, Wyrick Robbins Yates Ponton Law Office, Raleigh regarding a number
of issues on covenants, their enforcement and the relationship of the FHA
with the other Fearrington Village service groups.
Covenants Bob Oram
I have
enjoyed the year that I have served on the Board as Director at Large.
During that year the following has happened:
We have
made 2 revisions in the directory.
We have made 2 revisions in FHA Covenant Policy.
This year I have attended, to date, 21 scheduled meetings of the Board.
We have had 7 meetings with members of local Covenant Concerns Committees.
We have handled 26 requests for changes from five different Phases.
We have had 3 meetings with attorneys about covenant concerns.
There have been 19 complaints made, either directed or handled.
There were 23 questions on The Covenants, either directed or handled.
Community Affairs Cynthia Jones
First of
all, I would like to thank all of the Area Captains and their Block Captains
for the time they put in distributing the monthly newsletters, Newcomers
packets and other sporadic announcements. We certainly couldn't function
without their cheerful, prompt cooperation. At present we have 13 Area
Captains and 93 Block Captains contributing to helping the community
function smoothly. Thanks to you all from the bottom of my heart. I would
also like to add a special thanks to Pat Harkins, FHA Office Manager, who,
among other things, redesigned the Newcomers packet.
We had a
very successful Easter Egg hunt last spring, thanks to the lovely weather.
Our children and grandchildren and other assorted guests collected 620
plastic eggs, stuffed with jelly beans and marshmallow bunnies, thanks to my
wonderful committee: Bunny Shillito, Pat and Bob Goetz, Carol Reuss, Jeanne
and Frank Gallick. We now invite all children ages 9 and over to come and
help hide the eggs and then to help the younger children in their search.
The Smokehouse Library is alive and well, having celebrated its second
anniversary on November 1. Thanks to faithful co-chairmen Don George and Jim
Granger the Library is always orderly, organized and sorted. Books are
available to borrow and return or to keep if you find a treasure. We would
appreciate NO donations of old textbooks or telephone directories. There is
a sign-up sheet available for your compliments, comments or suggestions.
Thanks to all who participate.
Gathering Place Edie Lange
The
Gathering Place with its meeting rooms, kitchen and FHA Office is a very
busy place. There are not only Fearrington organizations using the facility
but Fearrington residents also reserve rooms for private parties for special
occasions. There are on the average 55-75 reservations per month for various
organizational meetings and we have had also 2 important and timely FHA
meetings where over 200 residents have attended.
I would
like to thank the following persons who have made my year and 3 months term
of office not only easy and manageable but smooth sailing, too. I want to
say a very big thank you to Clairbeth Lehn who not only diligently takes the
calls, makes the reservations, prints the monthly schedules and does the
billing for the Gathering Place. She is truly a Fearrington volunteer par
excellence. I also would like to thank the key ladies who make the key
available to the Gathering Place 7 days a week to those who have made
reservations: Doris Flexner, Barbara Burke, Mary Heisserman, Mary Ann
Clarkson, Caroline Resnick, Pat Aulik and Jeanne Hagan. I also would like to
thank Pat Harkins, FHA Office manager, and Steve Hudak who were always there
whenever their help was needed.
Financial Officers Report Ingram Austin
Currently
there are 1,087 properties that make up the Fearrington Homeowners
Association. Approximately 55% of owners in the Homeowners Association have
signed up for payment of their dues for 2005 by automated draft from their
bank accounts. Of the remainder, dues have been received from all but one
owner. The timely payment of dues by Fearrington property owners is greatly
appreciated. It reduces the administrative efforts we must expend and
assures the availability of funds for the Association to accomplish its
tasks in a timely manner.
For 2006 we hope to see an even larger percentage of the property owners
sign up for the automated drafting of dues. It greatly simplifies our work
and saves the owners the worry and bother of assuring timely payment.
Grounds
And Facilities Carol-Ann Greenslade
Before
leaving the Board, Ron approved a plan for supplementing the landscaping at
the Smokehouse Mail Kiosk. This work was initiated and completed by a group
of volunteers organized by Doug & Dinah McAllister, and funded by our "Adopt
a Parcel" program, and by a private donation. They have created a lovely
pocket park. The kiosk, itself, has undergone some repairs, paid for by
Fitch Creations under the direction of Robert Flynn. Repairs are also in
progress at the Swim & Croquet Kiosk. Gordon Stewart, who installed the
lighting three years ago, volunteered his time to repair the lighting
system.
Vinyl repairs are also pending on the recently pressure-washed Gathering
Place. The walkway along Swim & Croquet has been greatly improved and
extended by RB Fitch, without charge to the FHA.
In September, volunteers Henry Castner and John Custer attacked the kudzu
and wisteria that had invaded the little triangular parcel across from the
Swim Club. We will include it in next years mowing contract in an effort to
keep these vegetative pests and the accompanying stilt grass at bay.
Hopefully adjoining property owners will join us in the effort.
Our interactions with DOT and Progress Energy have been cordial and
productive. They have, however, attended to potholes, driveway pipe
blockages and will be removing a leaning tree from the north side of Village
Way.
Our mowing contractor, 4EverGreen, has been very responsive and will
continue under our current contract which runs through the end of 2006. They
also do the Spring and Fall yard cleanup disposal. Foster Pond Management
continues to monitor the Beaver Pond. Their contract runs through the end of
2007.
Maggie Frantz, FHA Secretary
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DEBIT THE DUES
Dues for the Fearrington Homeowners Association are due on January 1. The
dues are based on a calendar year basis and are paid annually. Notice of the
amount due is mailed in early December of the previous year. Since members
have an annual obligation to pay FHA dues and the dues are essential for the
FHA to conduct its services on behalf of the members, the FHA requests
members to consider paying their dues by permitting the FHA to debit their
bank accounts. This reduces cost for the FHA, which helps to keep dues lower
and avoids members having to remember to mail-in or deliver a check.
To sign-up for bank debiting, just fill out the information on the form
available by clicking
here, attach a voided check and either (1) deliver to the FHA office at
the Gathering Place or drop it in the FHA box in the Swim & Croquet Kiosk
which is just across the parking lot from the Gathering Place or (2) mail it
to: Financial Officer, Fearrington Homeowners Association, 26 Fearrington
Post, Pittsboro, NC 27312-5022.
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NEWSLETTER-CALENDAR EDITORS
Bob Comey
542-0842; Fax: 542-0831
rcomeyATmindspring.com
Mary Hammond
545-2026 Fax: same
prinnyATmindspring.com
Directory Editor
Print and Website Version
Michael Cotter
542-4414
joannenmikeAThotmail.com
Mary Hammond edited this issue. Mary Hammond will edit the January issue.
The deadline for that issue is Thursday, December 15.
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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.
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FEARRINGTON MONTHLY CALENDAR |