FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS 
NEWSLETTER 

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

FHA - HEALTH, SAFETY AND SECURITY (HSS)

BE PREPARED – Fire Prevention Awareness - Be aware that severe drought conditions have intensified concerns about fires in the area. If you use pine straw ground cover, be sure it’s a safe distance from your home, garage, etc. Last month the Chapel Hill Town Council moved to regulate the use of the pine needle-based ground cover that has been an accomplice in a number of local blazes. The ordinance bans the use of pine straw and other fast-burning landscaping materials within 10 feet of buildings with exterior construction such as vinyl or wood paneling. It is said that pine straw burns at a rate four times faster and three times higher than any other landscaping material.

BE ALERT - Community Watch – Be on the alert for suspicious activity in your neighborhood. Several incidents were reported - some involving thefts.

For emergencies, call 911 -- To report other situations, call 542-2911.

BE SAFE - Road Safety – Continue to be aware of safety when you drive, walk, cycle, etc. in our neighborhood. Let’s continue to make Fearrington a pedestrian friendly village.

HSS TIP OF THE MONTH – Going away for the holidays? Tell a neighbor the dates you’ll be away and a telephone number where you can be contacted. Ask someone to pick up your newspapers and packages. Activate interior light timers and a radio. DO NOT turn on your outside lights for the duration; that is an invitation to thieves.

Beginning in January, Peter Thomas will assume the role of FHA Director of Health, Safety & Security and will coordinate the HSS articles for you. Thank you for allowing me to serve you this year.

Mary Lou Einloth, Director of Health, Safety & Security
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WHAT’S GOING ON IN FEARRINGTON

UNITED WAY NEEDS FEARRINGTON CONTRIBUTIONS

Fearrington makes a significant difference for the Chatham County residents served by United Way programs. So far this year, we have donated $87,000! That is almost 76% of our goal. We need your contribution to meet our challenge of raising $115,000 for the many programs supported by Chatham County United Way. In Chatham County, residential communities give over half of United Way funds. Since we have no large industries in our county to provide most of the support for United Way, the residents of Fearrington, Governors Club, and Carolina Meadows are the major givers. Without these generous communities, our neighbors in need could not be helped.

Giving to United Way supports programs that help foster strong, stable families; prevent seniors from being isolated or neglected; maximize the potential of disabled persons with meaningful work; and give children the activities, attention and opportunities to develop self-discipline and responsibility. Remember, your donation to Chatham County United Way remains in Chatham County to insure it is being used to help meet local needs.

Please make your United Way pledge today. For those opening an account at SunTrust Bank in the Village, their “My Cause” campaign designation can go to Chatham County United Way. If you have any questions, please contact Doug McAllister (545-9809).
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AM BOOK CLUB

Join us at the AM Book Club, where men and women meet to discuss selected readings each month. Our choice for December is Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky. We will meet on Wednesday, December 19, at 10:00 a.m. at McIntyre’s Book Store. All residents of Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge are welcome to participate. Please contact Barbara Thompson 542-6021 for more information.
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ARTS & CRAFTS, ETC.

After the fabulous Holiday Luncheon at the Carolina Inn December 11, Arts & Crafts, Etc. will be getting ready for the beginning of a bright new year filled with interesting speakers and informative demonstrations. We will welcome two talented Fearringtonians, Nancy Cherniak and Rita Slotnik, who will present a program dedicated to making soldier quilts and comfort quilts. Everyone can participate in “You, Too, Can Quilt” on the 7th of January.

In the meantime, we wish you all the joys of the season and hope that you spend a delightful time with family and friends during the holidays. See you January 7th!
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ACROSS EASTERN SIBERIA BY TRAIN

Join Henry Castner at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 4, at the Gathering Place to travel, through color slides, from Khabarovsk, on the Amur River, to Irkutsk, on the Angara River, with a stop at the jewel of a lake, Baikal! There will also be some technical stops at Old Believers, Decembrists, beautiful log houses, and some geography and history thrown in.
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GREAT DECISIONS FOR DECEMBER

A Foreign Cleric Speaks about Foreign Policy

The Rev. Canon Dr. Samuel Wells will be the speaker for the Thursday, December 13 meeting of Great Decisions to be held at 1:30 p.m. at the Fearrington Barn. Dr. Wells has been dean of the Duke University Chapel for the last two years and is also Research Professor of Christian ethics at the Duke Divinity School.

Dr. Wells is a fourth-generation Church of England priest. He was born in Ontario, Canada, but grew up in England. He earned a master’s degree in modern history from Oxford University, a bachelor of divinity in systematic theology from Edinburgh University, and a PhD in theology from the University of Durham (England). He has published seven books as well as many scholarly articles. In January of this year Dr. Wells presented a paper to the first Tehran International Conference on Religion and Drama.

Duke Chapel is interdenominational and has the largest congregation of any university chapel in the United States where more than 1,000 people worship regularly. Before joining Duke University, Dr. Wells had been a priest for 14 years, serving churches in Newcastle, Norwich, and Cambridge, England. While in Norwich he helped to establish the first organization in the East of England devoted to community-led urban regeneration. He also established a non-profit organization offering disadvantaged children opportunities for creative play.

Dr. Wells is speaking so that donations can be collected for CORA (Chatham Out Reach Alliance). During 2006-2007, CORA served over 2400 families (8240 people) distributing the equivalent of over 176,000 meals. The Barn is being donated by R. B. Fitch. Questions about this Great Decisions lecture can be addressed to Jean Hjelle, jhjelleATembarqmail.com or 545-0432
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GREAT DECISIONS IN JANUARY

On January 10, Great Decisions welcomes Charles Waldren, PhD, to speak on “The long-term effects of the atomic bombs on people exposed in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.” Dr. Waldren moved to Fearrington from Japan, where he served as the Chief Scientist, Chief of Research and Permanent Director of the Radiological Effects Research Foundation, Hiroshima/Nagasaki, Japan.His overall research interest has been in “Genetic and biochemical effects of environmental agents (especially radiation) on human cells”.

This meeting of the Great decisions program will be at The Gathering Place on January 10 at 1:30 p.m. This event is free. Please contact Ken Heisig via email at khesig1ATnc.rr.com or call at 533-3006 if you have any questions.
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LECTURE SERIES OFFERED BY TRAVEL/HISTORY CLUB

During the Middle Ages relations between the Western world and the Dar al-Islam were forged and the complex connection at that time continues to influence today's world. During this course the foundation of this link will be examined (600-1350 CE*) to better understand Christian-Muslim relations.

Dr. Carolyn Pumphrey, Teaching Assistant Professor of History at North Carolina State University and Coordinator for the Triangle Institute for Security Studies, will lead the series. She received her Doctorate in history from Duke University and is delightful, enlightening and thoroughly engaging.

Classes for seven weeks will be at the Gathering Place every Thursday, Jan 24 through March 6, from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. The fee is $60 and your check should be made out to Dr. Carolyn Pumpfrey. Deliver checks by Dec. 20 to Carol Kurtz, 27 W. Madison or Bob DeVido, 851 Millcroft..*Common Era
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HEAR DONALD DAVIS AND HELP FEED THE HUNGRY

Courtesy of McIntyre’s Fine Books, Donald Davis, North Carolina’s premier storyteller will return to the Fearrington Barn at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 15.

Please join him and his many fans AND bring along a donation of canned goods for Chatham’s food pantry. CORA volunteers will be standing near the main door to accept your gifts and speed them to the pantry’s shelves. For those preferring to make cash contributions, there will be a container for that purpose. Volunteers also have handouts advising Lowe’s shoppers how they may transfer some of their Green Points to CORA’s account.
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FEARRINGTON HOLIDAY MARKET AT THE BARN

Sunday, December 2, from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m., Rosie’s Beads, one-of-a-kind necklaces featuring beads from around the world will be available for sale. The necklaces are made by Fearrington resident Rosie Batcheller and the beautiful beads used are donated by the Batchellers. One hundred percent of the purchase price goes to the Family Violence Rape Crisis, a non-profit agency providing services and shelter to families dealing with domestic violence and sexual assault.
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FEARRINGTON HAVURAH

On the evening of December 4 Jewish people around the world will commence celebration of the eight-day holiday of Hanukah. historical record of events leading to this celebration is contained in the books of First and Second Maccabees. On Tuesday, December 11, Professor Emeritus James M. “Mickey” Efird of the Duke Divinity School will explicate these texts for the Fearrington Havurah. Professor Efird, who is the author of 13 books and over 60 articles, has a non-theological style which is richly informative and highly entertaining.

This meeting will take place at the Gathering Place, beginning with refreshments at 7:15 p.m. and followed by Professor Efird’s talk at 8:00 p.m. Newcomers and guests are always welcome. For further information call Bob Glass at 542-1426.
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THE ANNUAL WOODS HOLIDAY PARTY

The Annual Woods Holiday Party will be Saturday, January 26, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. in the Gathering Place

Save the date!!!
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‘TIS THE SEASON OF GOOD CHEER FROM THE VILLAGE VOICES AND THE HARMONY GRITS

Once again the holiday season is at hand and what better way to enjoy this festive time of year than to come and hear the Holiday Concert presented by the Village Voices and Harmony Grits. On Wednesday evening, December 12, at 7:30 p.m. in the Barn, the combined voices of these two popular groups will sing a varied program of songs guaranteed to drive the “humbug” out of the most cynical of Scrooges!

Under the direction of Matt Fry and accompanied by Dan Hadley, the ninety-voice choir will perform not only some old standards but also a few lesser known tunes which will have your toe tapping and your voice humming. As we march through this busy season, why not pause, sit back and listen to seasonal music which will put you in the best of holiday moods.

To defray the cost of music, rental and tuning of the piano, a small donation of $5.00 is suggested. This concert is always popular – often a standing-room-only performance - therefore, you might want to come early to insure that you get a good seat.
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CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT GALLOWAY RIDGE

The Galloway Ridge Choral Singers will host this concert on December 23, at 5:00 p.m. in the Galloway Ridge auditorium. Cristiane Young (contralto of the New York City Opera) will be the guest soloist. Her program will include popular operatic arias, a Gilbert and Sullivan selection, several beloved Broadway songs and inspirational selections marking the season. Ms. Young and the Singers will lead the audience in singing Christmas carols. Dan Hadley, well known pianist in our area, will accompany Ms. Young and the Singers. Walt Shur, Galloway Ridge resident, will accompany Dan Hadley on an opening instrumental piece.
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VILLAGE EVENTS AND McINTYRES

Saturday, December 1, at 11:00 a.m. Author Event: William Barney, The Making of a Confederate

Friday, December 7, at 2:00 p.m. Author Event: Nancy Smith Thomas, Moravian Christmas In The South

Sundays, December 2, and 9 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Barn. The Fearrington Holiday Markets! Discover a fabulous variety of fine, holiday gifts and decorations from local artisans and our charming village shops. Attendance is free and open to the public.

Saturday, December 8, at 11:00 a.m. Author Event: Lou Ureneck, Backcast: Fatherhood, Fly-Fishing and a River Journey Through The Heart of Alaska.

Saturday, December 15, at 11:00 a.m. Holiday Storytelling with Donald Davis, one of the foremost storytellers in the country. Instead of admission, we ask that our guests donate cans of food which will be given to Chatham County's CORA group (Chatham Outreach Alliance).

Tuesday, December 18, at 7:00 p.m. Author Event: Marvin Hunt, Looking For Hamlet.

For further information please contact Sarah Matista at (919) 542-4000 ext. 270.
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CAROLINA ALUMNI

The Fearrington Village Carolina Alumni Club will hold its annual holiday party on Saturday, January 5, 2008,6:00 p.m. at the Gathering Place. Please mark your calendars. Details will be announced by email and postcard. If you need further information please call Liz Swaringen at 545-9460.
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VEGETARIAN CLUB

The Vegetarian Club will meet Wednesday, December 12, for dinner at the Jade Palace Restaurant. For all details call the Traywicks, 967-0355, or the Bairds, 542-6141, by Dec. 6 for plans.
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FEARRINGTON WOMEN’S CLUB

The first edition of the Fearrington Collectible Ornaments is now available for purchase ($15). The collectible is dark blue glass with an image of the Fearrington Inn. It is suitable for display any time of year and will make a perfect gift! Acrylic stands are available ($5) for tabletop display, as well.. FWC plans to feature an annual Fearrington Collectible with a different Village scene each year with proceeds going to Chatham County Charities. To purchase, call: Jeanne McNeill (542 9859), Nancy Tarr (542 5506), Barbara Thompson (542 6021), or Linda Taft (542 6237).

The annual Book, Bake and Boutique Sale, a fundraiser for Chatham County charities, will be February 23. This is a great opportunity to donate gently used treasures and books. During December, Diane Taylor (542 7133) is accepting donations of gently used treasures and books. (For those who do holiday baking, why not make an extra batch of goodies and freeze them for the sale?)

The Fearrington Women’s Club is open to all women residing in Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge. There are terrific programs planned, including the Holiday Luncheon with Arts & Crafts, Etc., on December 11. If you haven’t paid your dues yet, place your check ($15) in the FWC box at the Swim and Croquet kiosk.
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THESPIANS

Fearrington and Galloway Ridge will again come together on Friday, December 14, at 7:30 p.m. to celebrate coming into the New Year. The program will feature our own Bert Fraser-Reid playing jazz/Gershwin, etc at the piano as well as a wonderful reading by Jane Gribbon, JeanHjelle and Gail Rummell. Look for further information at your individual kiosks. Refreshments will be served and we hope to see you at the Gathering Place. For more information call Dorothy Birnham, 542-4046, or Evy Barrow, 542-7171.
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FEARRINGTON CASUAL DINNER CIRCLE

The Fearrington Casual Dinner Circle will meet for the second time during ’07-‘08 on Saturday, January 19, at 6:30 p.m. Please note that this is a change from the earlier announced January date.

The Dinner Circle is a great way to get together over home-cooked meals while meeting new Fearrington neighbors. Participants dine in groups of 8, 10 or 12 depending on the number that a host can accommodate. Host couples are needed to offer their homes for the evening and are responsible for preparing the entrée and providing the wine and coffee. The rest of the cooking is divided and assigned to the attending guests. The menu is pre-selected and recipes assigned to attending couples by the organizers of the event. At the end of the meal the cost of food and wine is totaled and shared equally by all those attending.

All Fearrington couples and singles are welcome. If you would like attend and/or host the January Dinner Circle please email Linda Nelson at lnelson1144ATnc.rr.com by January 7 to register the number of people in your party.
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HOLIDAY SHOPPING !

The Fearrington Garden Club will travel on Wednesday, December 5, to the Bear Creek area of Chatham County. Our first stop will be Chatham Central High School, where the greenhouses are full of poinsettias. Julian Smith’s students have been working to bring these plants to perfection and their sales support the high school horticulture program. After buying flowers, we will head to Southern Supreme (www.SouthernSupreme.com) to sample and shop for their world-famous fruitcake and many other good foods. We all can get a head start on holiday shopping and baking!

We will meet in the Gathering Place parking lot at 12:15 p.m. We will car pool together (allowing room in cars for plants and purchases) to Bear Creek. If you have any questions, please contact Orv Conner (545-9115) or Dianne Birch (542-2675).
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WHAT’S GOING OUTSIDE FEARRINGTON

BARBERSHOP HARMONY HOLIDAY SHOW

"Songs of the Season", a holiday show put on by the RTP Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society in Raleigh is always a popular event. This award winning a cappella group and its General Assembly Chorus will be having two shows on December 1, 2007 in the Fletcher Theater at the Progress Energy Center on South Street. Shows will be 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.. Tickets for both shows are only $15 for reserve seats and $10 for general admission when purchased in advance.

This year's shows will have the added feature of the Carolina Harmony Chorus of the local Sweet Adelines Chapter in Raleigh., Janet Clarke, local jazz artist, chapter quartets, a young men's chorus and the large 80-man Community Holiday Chorus For tickets and information, please contact John Adams at 545-9101, or jjadams2ATnc.rr.com.
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AAUW HOLIDAY LUNCHEON DECEMBER 8

All AAUW members are invited to attend our annual holiday luncheon Saturday, December 8 at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon will be held at Parizade, a restaurant in Durham, located at220 West Main St. There are 3 entree choices for lunch: salmon, chicken and shrimp. Entertainment will be provided by an ensemble from the N.C. School of Mathematics and Science.

This lunch is our annual fundraiser for the Carrie Heath Schwenning Scholarship Fund. This scholarship was begun in 1928 for a graduate woman at UNC-Chapel Hill. At that time, no women were allowed as undergraduates, but women could attend the graduate school, so the AAUW-Chapel Hill branch initiated this scholarship for a graduate woman. Please come and help support this worthy cause with a contribution.

Members should have received a luncheon form with their monthly newsletter. However, if anyone needs another form, please contact Kay White, 542-1138.
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UN ASSOCIATION

Our newspapers and television stations tend to report only about the United States' triumphs and tribulations with the United Nations. However, America is not the only nation with a major stake in the world body. The UN Association's December speaker is Shoji Ogawa, Counsel General of Japan in Atlanta. Japan is the UN's second largest contributor, and Consul General Ogawa will speak about "World Problems and the United Nations: How the United States and Japan Can Make the United Nations More Effective"

The meeting will take place on Wednesday, December 19, from noon to 2:00 p.m. at Carolina Meadows on Whippoorwill Road in Chapel Hill. Reservations may be made by sending a check for $17.00 to Barbara Rodbell, 404 Carolina Meadows Villa, Chapel Hill, NC 27517. The deadline for reservations is Friday, 14.
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SALVATION ARMY AND CHATHAM COUNTY

It is time once again to Ring the Bell at Lowes grocery store between Thanksgiving and Christmas for the benefit of The Chatham County Salvation Army. This year we are serving for an hour and a half instead of two hours and we will start 11:00 a.m. During Thanksgiving week and Christmas week we hope to add an evening shift from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

If you are unable to reserve any time to ring the bell, your check to the Salvation Army would be most appreciated. You will get a receipt confirming your donation.

Please call Joan or Ken Richardson, 542-2313, to reserve your time.

This is a long-running Fearrington tradition. Let’s make it the best!
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CHATHAM OPEN STUDIO TOUR 2008

The 15th Annual Chatham Open Studio Tour will be held the first two weekends in December. Tour hours are: Saturdays, December 1 and 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays, December 2 and 9, from noon to 5:00 p.m. Nine Fearrington artists are on this year’s tour:

#30 Carol Owen at 54 Trestle Leaf (1st weekend only);
#31 Rita Spina at 12 Matchwood;
#32 Leslie Palmer at 110 Creekwood (1st weekend only);
#33 Forrest Greenslade at 149 Tinderwood;
#34 Vidabeth Bensen at 601 Stoneview;
#35 Anne Bigelow at 726 Barnsley;
#36 Eamon Kennedy at 687 Spindlewood;
#37 Jane Bruce at 23 Caldwell;
#38 Roy Lindholm at 3 Speyside Circle.

The work of all artists on the Tour will be shown at the Arts Center in Carrboro through December 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

For more information please visit www.ChathamArtistsGuild.com or pick up a brochure, including a map, at your mail kiosk.
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FRIENDS FEEDING FRIENDS

The Chatham Crossing Lowes Food store is continuing its Friends Feeding Friends food drive in support of the CORA food pantry through the end of December.

Supporting the drive is easy. The store packs into grocery bags items from the pantry’s essential foods list. Those bags go on a special display in the store where shoppers can pick them up en route to checkout. After paying for them, customers can deposit the bags in one of the two barrels near the exit. Donors may also pack their own bags with items of their choice and place them in the same two barrels near the exit door. Everything received will go to a hungry Chatham family.

A recent study by the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina revealed that nearly ten percent of Chatham residents live at or below the poverty level. Of those in need of assistance, thirty percent are children and twenty percent are elderly. During a typical, week the pantry distributes almost a ton of food to hungry families.

Please consider purchasing some of those bags when you shop at Lowes and become one of the “Friends Feeding Friends.” Many thanks.

Jim Abrahamson
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CALLING ALL BOWLERS!!!

The Mardi Gras Bowling Center located at 6118 Farrington Road, Chapel Hill in the Falconbridge Shopping Center is hosting a free day of bowling to all Fearrington Village residents! Interest has been shown in beginning a senior bowling league at The Mardi Gras Bowling Center. To make this beneficial to all residents the center is offering a free organizational day of bowling on Friday, December 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. We would like all interested seniors to join us for a fun day of bowling and sign up for the senior league which will start at a date agreed upon. Refreshments will be offered and the staff will be available for some simple coaching instructions. Bowling is a great form of exercise and friendly fellowship. We hope to see you all here on December 7. If you have any questions please call the center at 489-1230 or speak with resident Pat Slamin, 542-2903.
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DURHAM CHORALE

The Durham Chorale Christmas Concert will be held Sunday, December 9, 4:00 p.m., at the Durham Academy Lower School auditorium, located at 3501 Ridge Road in Durham.

The concert is a gift to the community and is free of charge. For more information contact Carol McAlevy at 361-5070 or cmcalevyATaol.com.
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FEARRINGTON CARES

Providing services for health, wellness and independent living for the Fearrington community

BOARD CANDIDATES NEEDED

Would you like an interesting position to help serve the health and wellness interests of the Fearrington community? Please contact us about a position on the Fearrington Cares Board of Directors. You may even be interested in being an officer. For more information please call Barbara Terry at 542-6554 or the Fearrington Cares Center 542-6877.
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NURSES NOTES FROM JOYCE BAIRD

Thanks for your Feedback

To those of you who responded to our recent survey, THANKS!! If you haven’t yet completed the survey, you haven’t missed out. We will “keep the doors open” until December 7 to allow stragglers to get their survey to us. After analyzing the responses, we will publish the results and hold a series of town meetings to discuss what we learned.

Fearrington “Cares” for Chatham Children

The Fearrington Cares office receptionists and volunteer nurses will be collecting new toys to be taken to Chatham County Social Services for distribution to foster children. If you would like to brighten the holidays for a Chatham child in need, please bring a new, unwrapped toy to Fearrington Cares by Thursday, December 6. Let’s show Chatham County how Fearrington “Cares”!!

Cooking for Cancer Survival

Fearrington Cares along with The Cancer Project will again sponsor the popular class, Cooking for Cancer Survival. Classes start on Wednesday, Jan. 10 from 4-6 p.m. and last four consecutive weeks at the Fearrington Cares office. Susan Neulist of The Cancer Project teaches. Classes include lecture/video presentations and cooking demonstrations geared toward each of the following topics:

-- Low-Fat Foods and Favoring Fiber
--Dairy Alternatives and Meat Replacements
--Healthy Meals, Antioxidants & Phytochemicals
--Immune-Boosting Foods and Maintaining a
--Healthy Weight

Class members receive textbooks that include recipes. There is no fee for the class. Enrollment limited to 15 so you MUST sign up by calling 542-6877.

Office to Remain Open During Holidays

The Fearrington Cares office will remain open during the holiday season this year. Office hours will be 9a.m.-1p.m. Monday through Friday. The office will close for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Day. Marion Haywood, our substitute RN, and our regular volunteer receptionists will be in the office to assist you during this time. As always, our volunteer drivers and handymen (and ladies) are available 365 days a year by calling 542-1930.

Funky Flu Season

The flu season is approaching, so be ready. If you haven’t yet gotten a flu shot, vaccine supplies are plentiful, so there should be NO reason why you can’t get immunized.

Some flu prevention tips…

Hand washing is the single most effective thing to do to decrease your chances of catching the flu. So be sure to wash your hands:

1) before handling food,
2) before emptying the dishwasher,
3) after sneezing or coughing,
4) after using the bathroom or changing a diaper,
5) after putting in a load of laundry,
6) before and after caring for someone who is sick or injured.

Are you surprised to see some of these on the list? I’ll bet you hadn’t thought of at least one or two!
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FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR

Blood Pressure Clinic – Every Wednesday, 10a.m. – Noon – Fearrington Cares Center

Grief Support Group –Every third Friday, Dec. 21, 10a.m., Fearrington Cares Center

Independent Living Resources – Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., at Fearrington Cares Center

Toys for Chatham Children – Deadline Friday, December 7. Bring new, unwrapped toys to the Fearrington Cares Center
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HELP WANTED!

Fearrington Cares is seeking a part-time paid Administrative Assistant to work with the Board of Directors and Joyce Baird, our Nursing Professional. Please call Joyce if you are interested. (919) 542-6877.
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FHA NEWS

COMMUNITY SURVEY

In the third week of January the FHA will distribute to all residents a survey which will provide the Board with critical information about the community, including its demographic composition, its likes and dislikes and its needs and concerns for the future. The information gained will help to guide the Board’s direction going forward.

The survey will be sent electronically to those whose email addresses are in the Directory. Paper copies will be available from the FHA office. More information on the survey will be provided in the January newsletter.

We need your help with this important project and shall be most grateful for your participation.
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2008 HANDBOOK & DIRECTORY COMING – UPDATES NEEDED!!

I've begun working on the 2008 FHA Handbook & Directory, which will come out in early March. A proof of the directory section will be available in the FHA office from about January 2 until the end of the month. I encourage residents to stop by during office hours (weekdays 9:30 a.m. to noon) to check their listing for accuracy if there have been any changes during 2007. 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 sending an e-mail to: joannenmikeAThotmail.com; or by calling me at 542-4414. Please feel free to call with any questions or suggestions for improving the directory or the handbook.

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
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FHA MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING

The following is a brief summary of the minutes. Complete minutes are available in the FHA office and the mail kiosks. [Click here for the website version.]

Approximately 200 residents attended and the proposed slate of Officers was approved as was the by-law change eliminating the position of Financial Officer. Each of the Directors delivered a report and in addition, residents heard reports from the President, the Vice-president’s report, the Treasurer’s report as well as that of the Secretary. Brief summaries of their remarks follow.

President Jim Ackerman indicated that this was the first year that the FHA has utilized Community Association Services (CAS), professional management company. There has been the establishment of an office manager as part of professional management. Among the other major accomplishments this year has been the establishment of a Director’s position dealing with Health, Safety and Security.

A continuing concern regarding the need to coordinate and strengthen communication between the various Service groups in the Village has been addressed by formation of the President’s Council. This Council has been involved in examining trash and recycling issues, architectural and covenant enforcement as well as the possible coordination of professional management for both the Service groups and the areas for which the FHA is responsible. A Survey Committee has been established to devise internet tools to take the pulse of the community. Because not all residents have internet access, paper survey forms will also be made available for the various surveys.

The Vice-President, Gillian Cell, has responsibilities which include oversight of the FHA Office, communications, including the newsletter and directory, and the Survey Committee. The newsletter will continue to be printed in the FHA office with a new copier that will be in place in January. The Board is exploring the possibility of having the directory produced by Athens Publishing in 2009, resulting in a significant saving for us.

The Treasurer, Walter Jernigan, reported that we would finish the year with a small surplus. The 2008 Operations budget calls for a revenue estimate of about $144,000 and expenditures of about $142,000. This includes raising the annual dues from$96.00 to $100.80. The Treasurer noted that this was just the operating budget and did not include any possible capital expenditures.

The Grounds and Facilities Director, Carol Ann Greenslade, is responsible for the major portion of the operational budget, some $50,000. The major expense involves the mowing and trimming of the roadsides and the FHA property as well as the Fall and Spring cleanups, among other maintenance projects. The contract is a three year one and so there is no increase for such services in 2008. The maintenance of the Creekwood, Swim and Croquet and Smokehouse kiosks are also FHA’s responsibility and volunteers keep these facilities neat and tidy. Beaver Pond and its fore bay have been responsible for some additional expenditure this year, with NCDOT making a contribution to this additional expense. The playground is another area of responsibility and this year the picnic tables were replaced and volunteers helped relocate some of the benches. Other activity and replacements are planned for the coming year.

Lowell Kennedy reported on progress in refurbishing the kitchen in the Gathering Place. The redo has been divided into 2 phases. Phase 1 involved the installation of base and wall cabinets on the front wall and this has been accomplished as well as the purchase of a new refrigerator. Phase 2 will involve additional cabinets, a new sink, dishwasher, and disposal. Among the other accomplishments was the conversion of the storage room into the FHA’s administrator’s office, painting and refurbishment of the women’s and men’s rest room.

Mary Lou Einloth presented the report for Health, Safety and Security. One of the major efforts this year has been the development of an Emergency Preparedness Plan. The plan was submitted to the Board in August and is available on the website under Safety and Security and also in the FHA office. A resident Emergency Guide has also been completed and distributed, is available on the website and will be included in the new Directory. The Road Safety Committee is now the responsibility of the director charged with health, safety and security. A new group, the Fearrington Green Scene, has recently been established, headed by Ann Deupree, and hopes to heighten the awareness of residents about the newer technologies. Fearrington Cares has offered space for needed storage of supplies and will be the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in a major Village emergency.

Barbara Thompson delivered the report dealing with Community Affairs. Among the highlights was the significant attendance at the Newcomers’ Fair in March and October.

John Hammond took over from Jim Bond mid-year as head of Intergovernmental Affairs and quickly became involved in the McLean property issue and the desire for access through Fearrington roads primarily impacting Langdon and Bradford Place. Through concerted action the County Commissioners approved the decision of the Planning Board not to allow such access. John is also a member of the Briar Chapel Information Committee which meets with Newland Properties every other month. John emphasized the need for continued vigilance as the many developments that surround the Village begin to take shape.

Harriet McGraw, chairman of the Covenants Committee indicated that the committee had handled issues involving tree removals as well as additions to homes. These have been processed by the representatives from Phases I-IV, The Woods, and Bush Creek. Plans are underway to put the Covenants and Rules and Regulations into an easily readable and accessible form available to both residents and those who will be new residents. A covenant enforcement procedure is also being developed and she emphasized that Bradford Place, Bush Creek Townhomes, Camden Park, Countryhouse and Weathersfield handle their own covenant issues.

Leonard Kreisman, Secretary to the Board then indicated that he was responsible for the minutes of both the Board’s public meetings as well as their work sessions. In addition, a Book of Resolutions has been created to provide easy access to Board decisions. Arrangements have been made to file materials electronically so there is less need for paper files.

Gail Mazzocco then announced the results of the balloting. A special award was given to Don Riley, who will be leaving the Village. It was to thank him for his many and varied services to the Homeowners Association.

Leonard Kreisman, Secretary
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WEAR AN EXTRA LAYER

Cold weather is here and so are higher costs for heating. Fearrington Green Scene hopes to encourage you to help us get a handle on the problem of global warming by managing your thermostat.

Consider replacing your thermostat with a digital model which can be programmed to lower your home temperature at bedtime and raise it to a comfortable level before you get up in the morning. Wear a cozy sweater so you can keep your daytime temperature at 68 - 70 degrees. Nighttime settings should be 3 - 5 degrees cooler. If you’re away from the house for the day, lower your thermostat by 10 degrees.

The cost of a programmable digital thermostat ranges from $35 - $85 (at Ace Hardware); it’s probably best installed by your heating and air conditioner service. You’ll find that these costs will be offset quickly by the savings you’ll see in your energy bills - and you’ll be doing your part to reduce global warming. Fearrington Green Scene thanks you!
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NEWSLETTER-CALENDAR EDITORS

Mary Hammond
545-2026 Fax: same
prinnyATmindspring.com

Dinah McAllister
542-4414
dinahATnc.rr.com

Dinah McAllister edited this issue. Mary Hammond will edit the January issue. The deadline is Saturday, December 15.

Directory Editor; Print and Website Version

Michael Cotter
542-4414
joannenmikeAThotmail.com

Newsletter Printing Team

Paul Niederer, Chair
Ron Davis, Carol Kurtz, Marybeth Hauck, Julie Smith, David Hess, Phil Smith, Joan Hill, Faye Van Oyen, Wally Hill
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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 email and can easily redirect items if necessary, but it is best to check above and submit articles to that month's editor. Please send in either e-mail message format or as attached documents in MS Word or Rich Text Format (RTF).

● The Newsletter box at the Gathering Place kiosk. Newsletter submissions must be on full sheets of paper to avoid getting lost. Typed items are preferred – in upper and lower case. Please avoid caps, boldface and italics.
 

Submissions are limited to 200 words but may be further edited for space requirements. The length of  official FHA submissions is not restricted. Formatting is at the editors' discretion.

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