FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS 
NEWSLETTER 

CONTENTS
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COMMUNITY NEWS

UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN REACHES GOAL

In spite of these difficult economic times, residents of Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge have demonstrated their compassion for others by supporting this year’s Chatham County United Way campaign.  As of the first week of January, pledges for the many programs supported by Chatham County United Way totaled $115,123 or 100.1 % of goal.  For many years Fearrington residents have signaled their willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need by pledging their dollars to the local United Way.  On behalf of the many men, women and children in Chatham County who will benefit from this year’s contributions, thank you.

All who participated in this year’s campaign have the satisfaction of knowing that their support will make a difference in so many lives – that their contribution will go a long way towards helping many improve their lives and the lives of their families.  Many folks helped to make this year’s effort a success including area captains John Adams, Guy Baird, Marty Cryan, John Custer, Jack de Vries, Ian Dunn, Bob Eby, Chuck Giardino, Bob Goetz, Art Halpern, Craig Heckert, Bob and Sandy Kelley, Lowell Kennedy, Sally Miller, Sallye Patterson, Peg Perlman, Jeanette Shaw-Lynch, John Singletary, Phil and Julie Smith, Joanne Stoller, Barbara Sweet and Kay White.  In addition, campaign support staff, which included Dianne Birch, Joanne Cotter, Trisha Meketa, Farrel Potts and Jack Zollinger, provided many hours of creative and positive support.

But the most important participants in this year’s successful campaign were all of you who pledged your financial assistance during these difficult times.  A sincere thank you - Doug McAllister, Campaign Chair.
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BOOK, BAKE, AND BOUTIQUE SALE

Be sure to come to the Book, Bake, and Boutique Sale to be held on Saturday, February 21 at the Gathering Place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  It is a fun event! You can buy baked goods, potluck specialties, soup and chili, spaghetti sauce, casseroles and stews, quiche, hors d’oeuvres, jam and jelly.  Also books and books on tape, and boutique items such as mirrors, lamps, paintings and prints, glassware, dishes, serving pieces, jewelry, table linens, decorative pillows, garden  items.  Light breakfast and lunch items will be served.

The sale is the Women of Fearrington’s major fundraiser to support County agencies. In February, call Anne Williamson at 542-0732 before dropping anything off.  We are continuing to accept donations through February 18.
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COMMUNITY READ ‘09

The Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library, Inc., and McIntyre’s Bookstore are co-sponsoring “Community Read 2009: Exploring Our Shared Racial History.” We invite you to join in looking at the history of the American struggle for racial equality and discussing how these events continue to shape our goals and relationships today.  We welcome those of different races, faiths, and economic backgrounds to participate in reading and discussing our separate and shared past in the light of the present moment.

We’ve selected two books to help us rethink our assumptions and learn from one another:  The Help, a novel by Katherine Stockett, to be released February 10, and Blood Done Sign My Name, a work of non-fiction by Timothy Tyson.  We are excited that both authorshave agreed to join us for discussions.  Related programs and activities from March through November will include summer programs for children. Books and a suggested reading list will be available at the library and at McIntyre’s.

Additional programs throughout the year will include panels, oral history presentations and a dramatic reading of poetry of George Moses Horton, Historic Poet Laureate of Chatham County.   We are delighted to note that the ChathamArts Film Forum, “Race in North Carolina”, scheduled for March 21 and 22 ties in perfectly with our Community Read09.
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NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL ARTS FUNDRAISER

Join the NHS Arts Education Foundation on Sunday, February 8 for the Valentine’s Fashion Show & Brunch, from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at Pittsboro’s General Store Café, co-sponsor of the event. In addition to seeing a wide variety of spring fashions and enjoying a wonderful brunch, there will be door prizes, raffles, and a silent auction. Find the perfect Valentine's gift for that special someone.

Tickets are $20 for adults ($17 in advance) and $15 for students ($12 in advance). Get advance tickets from NHSAEF board members, at the General Store Cafe in Pittsboro, and at La Vita Dolce in Southern Village. Proceeds will fund five $1000 college scholarships (one each for achievements in Choral Music, Dance, Instrumental Music, Theatre Arts, and Visual Arts). NHSAEF hopes to establish an endowment to fund these scholarships in perpetuity.

More info about the show is available online at the NHSAEF website: www.NHSAEF.org
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THANK YOU FEARRINGTON FRIENDS

Dear Fearrington and Galloway Neighbors,

Many many thanks for your generous support of CORA Food Pantry this holiday season. In this unprecedented year for CORA we have struggled to keep up with the heavy growth in demand for food assistance.  From July 1 to December 31 CORA provided weekly food rations to more than 2,000 families comprising more than 7,500 individuals.  That’s 50% more than a year ago.  It effectively translates into providing enough food to make 158,000 meals!

Your gifts – large and small – and your donations of food have been a big factor in helping us to make this possible.  Also this year, Lowes Foods’ Friends Feeding Friends annual food drive resulted in 9,300 pounds of canned goods for CORA.  Fearrington Villagers represent an important contingent of the Lowes’ shoppers who contributed.

Village residents are also among CORA’s most active volunteers.  Their work contributions include provisioning, coordinating food drives, stocking shelves, and serving clients – all of which are necessary to keep our pantry operations going.

On behalf of the many Chatham families who count on CORA’s support, THANK YOU for your generosity!

Marci Whittaker, Executive Director, CORA, P.O. Box 1326, Pittsboro, NC 27312.  545-3030
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UNITED WAY SURVEY

The United Way of Chatham County is conducting a countywide Community Needs Survey from January 30 through February 20.  We are seeking responses from a broad cross-section of Chatham County residents.  The survey results will help to ensure that United Way funds are addressing the most critical needs in our county.  Assist the United Way to accomplish this goal by taking the time to complete the survey, which is available at: www.nonprofitpages.com/uwcc.  Paper copies are available at Chatham County public libraries.
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WHAT’S GOING ON INSIDE FEARRINGTON

ARTS & CRAFTS, ETC.

Join us on Monday, February 2 for the Art & Crafts Etc. meeting in the Gathering Place at 1:30 p.m. to learn about the fascinating art of felt making.  Candice Waken, a local Fiber Artist and Felt Maker, will share her knowledge of this ancient art that predates more traditional forms of making fabric.  By the use of heat, abrasion and friction, she transforms wool into the type of fabric early peoples used for clothes.

Candice was an assistant handwork teacher at the Emerson Waldorf School in Chapel Hill when she took a workshop in felt making.  She became intrigued by the process and started making the fabric herself.  Since then she has taken many workshops on the art of felt making.  She is also a puppeteer and she uses the process to make costumes for her puppets.  You can enjoy examples of her art that she will bring.  Call Nancy Walker at 545-9884 with any questions.
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WEDNESDAY DUPLICATE BRIDGE

Wednesday Duplicate Bridge will meet February 4, 11 and 25 at the Gathering Place.  On February 4 the short lesson will begin at 12:30 with regular bridge at 1:00.  February 11 and 25 bridge begins at 1:00 p.m.  February 11 will also be a party - those whose names begin with M-Z please bring snacks (not drinks).  Remember not too many crumbly things as it makes more clean up etc.  Please come and join us.  Any questions call Doroty Samitz 542-6811 or Joan Angevine 642-0042.
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FEARRINGTON FILM CLUB PRESENTS

The Major and the Minor (1942, 100 min., comedy/romance)

Thursday, February 5,7:00 p.m., The Gathering Place.

“Why don’t you get out of that wet coat and into a dry martini? – a famous line in this charming movie with Ginger Rogers, Ray Milland and Robert Benchley.  When Susan (Rogers) doesn’t have enough money for the train fare back to Iowa, she dresses as a young girl so she can pass for a minor and pay half fare.  The conductors are suspicious of the deception and the ‘little girl’ ducks into a Pullman compartment occupied by handsome Major Kirby (Milland).  From then on the trials and tribulations of the deception lead Rogers to continue a delicate balancing act. This is the debut film for Academy-Award winning director Billy Wilder.

Fearringtonian Michael Hornblow, son of Arthur Hornblow (producer of the film), will be with us once again.  In his inimitable style he will add background information on this amusing film.

Annual membership is $10 with popcorn and soda provided.  Make checks out to Fearrington Film Club and deposit in the mailbox at the Swim & Croquet kiosk.  Please include the name of the member(s) with the check. Contacts: Carol Kurtz (542-3582) or Artie Lituchy (533-3260)
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CONCERT SERIES TO PRESENT CHAMBER PLAYERS FEBRUARY 8

The Fearrington Concert Series will present members of the Blue Ridge Chamber Players on Sunday, February 8, at 3:00 p.m. at The Gathering Place. The featured performers are Jacquelyn Bartlett, harp; Kay Borkowski, flute; and Eric Koontz, viola.  This is a Fearrington debut for the trio.

Bartlett has performed with several major American symphony orchestras, including North Carolina, Baltimore and Detroit.  She has toured extensively as a soloist and chamber music artist. Borkowski has been principal flutist with the Jacksonville, Ft. Wayne, and Augusta symphony orchestras.  She has been a flute soloist with the Indianapolis and Tampa Bay Chamber Orchestras, and the Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra.

Koontz was principal violist of the Barcelona and Jerusalem Symphony Orchestras.  An active chamber musician, he was a founding member of the Nayades Trio, the Reinecke Trio, and the Quartet Glinka.   He has recorded on RCA, EMI, Ars Harmonica, Columna, Koch and Decca labels.

The program will include works by Prokofiev, St. Saens, and Debussy.  The Fearrington Concert Series is a subscription series.  Non-subscribers may attend the performances, if seats are available, by coming to The Gathering Place shortly before 3:00 p.m.  The charge is $15.
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HAVURAH

On February 10 at 8:00 p.m. at the Gathering Place Jonathan M. Hess, a professor of Germanic language and literature at UNC-Chapel Hill, will address the Fearrington Havurah.  The title of his talk is "Fictions of the Ghetto: The Invention of Jewish Culture in Nineteenth-Century Germany."

Professor Hess is holds the Malkin Chair in Jewish History and culture, is an adjunct professor of religious studies and is the Director of the Carolina Center for Jewish Studies.  His presentation will trace the emergence of modern Jewish literature and culture in nineteenth-century Germany, emphasizing the way it anticipates many cultural forms we are familiar with today.

This event will commence with refreshments at 7:15 and, as usual, guests and visitors are welcome.  Please call Bob Glass at 542-1426 with any questions
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VEGETARIAN CLUB

The Vegetarian Club will meet on February 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. Our program will be a chocolate tasting. Chocolate tastings are like wine tastings...only better! Karen Pullen, innkeeper at Rosemary House B&B in Pittsboro, will lead an interactive presentation on the history, manufacture, and the health benefits of chocolate (Yes, health benefits!) Then we will sample and rate a dozen milk, dark, and dark-milk chocolates to discover your favorites. Due to the cost of chocolate, Vegetarian Club members are asked to pay $2 to defray the costs; guests, $5.

The Vegetarian Club meets the second Wednesday of the month at the Gathering Place with appetizers, wine and/or punch, followed by a potluck dinner and a short program. You do not have to be a strict vegetarian to attend but dishes for the potluck dinner should contain no seafood, meat, fowl, or gelatin. Eggs and dairy products are acceptable. Please remember to bring your own place settings and any additional wine or drinks to go with the meal.

Guests are always welcome but should contact Sandy Gapin at 542-3076 prior to attending the meeting.
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FEARRINGTON RAILROAD CLUB

The next informal gathering of the Fearrington Railroad Club will take place on Wednesday, February 11, between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m.  All Fearringtonians and non-villagers interested in railroads and trains who would like to join together to share their interests in this loosely-knit, like-minded group are invited to gather at my home at 880 Millcroft in the village.  For additional information please contact Gary Carlson via E-mail at shortlineoneATearthlink.net or by telephone at 542-2022.
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GREAT DECISIONS

The Communist regime in Cuba, founded by Fidel Castro, marked its 50th anniversary in January 2009.  Cuba, an island just 90 miles south of Florida, has fascinated and irritated American officials ever since.  It has sent the U.S. waves of refugees.  It has also supported governments and political movements Americans oppose in Latin America, Africa and even the Middle East.  Great Decisions welcomes Lars Schoultz, WR Kenan Professor of Political Science at UNC Chapel Hill and a past president of the Latin American Studies Association to discuss this island which has regularly given Washington a headache.  The title of his talk and also of his most recent book is “That Infernal Little Cuban Republic:  The United States and the Cuban Revolution”.   The book is scheduled for publication in April.  Professor Schoultz has written widely, including two other books, about Latin America.

Please join us at The Gathering Place on February 12 at 1:30 p.m. to hear Professor Schoultz share his views on the current estrangement and the changes we can expect in the years ahead.  For background, you may want to read “Cuba on the Verge” in the 2009 Great Decisions book.  A copy of the article is available at McIntyre’s Book Store.
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PALETTEERS' EXHIBIT

The 15th annual Paletteers' exhibit will be held on Sunday February 15 at the Gathering Place with a reception from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and everyone is invited. Paintings, pastels, collage and a bin sale will be featured.  A drawing will be held for a painting by Florence Johnson.

Do plan to attend this popular event to meet Fearrington's many talented artists and enjoy their paintings.
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FEARRINGTON WRITERS MEET

The Fearrington Writers Group will meet on Monday, February 16 from 1-3 p.m. in the Gathering Place. Meetings are open to any Fearrington resident who is currently writing or just thinking about writing. In addition to regular meetings, the Writers Group sponsors self-directed workshops for persons who have an interest in writing poetry or prose. These two groups hold monthly meetings.  To learn more about the Writers Group, visit the FHA Web page and click on “organizations.” You are also welcome to contact Barry Reece at breeceATmindspring.com or Forrest Greenslade at fgreensladeATnc.rr.com.
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WANTED- LADY GOLFERS

On Tuesday, February 17 at 9 a.m. in the Gathering Place there will be a coffee for all ladies interested in knowing more about the Fearrington Golf League. There are opportunities for both 9 and 18 hole players. Please come with your questions and suggestions.  Play begins in March. If you have questions, call Pat Skiver at 533 6142 or Judi Fiorini at 533-6176.
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GARDEN CLUB FOR FEBRUARY

Somehow, our meeting time was changed in the FHA Newsletter Calendar again. NOT BY US. We meet at 3 p.m. on the 3rd Tuesday of each month in the Gathering Place. In February, we have not one, but TWO exciting events.  Program#1: Presentation by Jeff Baldwin of Orchids by Hank Chapel Greenhouses on Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 3 p.m. in the Gathering Place demonstrating how to grow, transplant and care for orchids. And I’m sure Jeff will bring some orchids to look at.

Program #2: Visit to Plants Delight Nursery in Raleigh featuring Winter Open House with “spectacular displays of flowering hellebores and other winter flower plants” with proprietor Tony Avent available to answer questions. This program is open only to members of the club. It will take place on Friday, February 27 at 1 p.m..  Carpools will start from Gathering Place at 12 p.m. If you have any questions or want to sign up contact President Ruth Bierhoff at 533-0124 or Ken Talbot at 542-9986.
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AM BOOK CLUB FOR FEBRUARY.

Join us at the AM Book Club to discuss “The Soul of Iran: A Nation’s Journey to Freedom” by Afshin Molavi. We will meet on Wednesday, February 18 at 10:00 a.m. in McIntyre’s Book Store. All residents of Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge are welcome to participate. Please contact Barbara Thompson 542-6021 with questions.
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WOMEN OF FEARRINGTON

The Women of Fearrington’s February 18 meeting features Professor Tim Carter speaking on Opera is Fun (Yes Really!).  Carter is the David G. Frey Distinguished Professor of Music and Chair at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  The author and editor of books on music during the late Renaissance and early Baroque period, Professor Carter was formerly at the University of London (UK).  Among many other topics, he has written about Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and Oklahoma! The Making of an American Musical.  What do they possibly have in common?  Or maybe they don’t have much in common.  Come and find out!  At the Gathering Place.  Meet and greet begins at 2:30; program begins at 3 p.m.
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VETERANS OF FEARRINGTON

The Veterans of Fearrington have another fascinating program in store for all Fearrington and Galloway Ridge residents and their friends, who are interested in history. Everyone is invited to join us Thursday, February 19 at 7 p.m. in the Gathering Place.

We are pleased to present Chapel Hill resident Lieutenant Colonel Tom Karnes (Res. ret), adjutant of the 509th Composite squadron of World War II. The 509th Composite Squadron was commanded by Colonel Paul Tibbets, the pilot of the Enola Gay, the historic aircraft that carried the first atomic bomb to Hiroshima with world-shaking consequences. Mr. Karnes, who was with the Squadron until it was disbanded in 1945, will tell of his time with Colonel Tibbets.

Mr. Karnes holds a B.A from University of Colorado with an M.A. and Ph.D. from Stanford University. He served 22 years in the military, 5 on active duty during WW II. He served as a Professor of History at Stanford, Tulane and was chair of the History Department at Arizona State University, retiring in 1984. He is the author of 7 books mostly concerning Latin America and is currently working on a history of the interstate highway system.

Join the Veterans of Fearrington for coffee and refreshments after the presentation.
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FEARRINGTON GREEN SCENE

We have another great program for you at 3:00 on Tuesday, February 24 at the Gathering Place.  Mike Flynn from Flynn & Son Heating & Cooling will offer “Reducing Your Utility Bills and Reducing Pollution.”  The “typical US family spends close to $1,300 per year on home utility bills.  A large portion of that is wasted.”  Mike will give us ideas for changing this in our homes.

Green Scene continues to communicate with our local elected officials and Chapel Hill Transit.  News about the proposed bus route between Chapel Hill and Pittsboro, and our requested stop in Fearrington Village, should be made public soon.  As you might guess, the issue under consideration now is funding.

Green Scene is developing our first ever Green Living Celebration on Earth Day week, April 25.  We expect to have 30 - 40 vendors and services showcased in the Gathering Place to give you ideas about how to “GREEN” your home and lifestyle.  If you would like to have your business or service or club activity to participate in this event, contact Ann Deupree (542-4507).  Please put a large green circle on Saturday, April 25, from 11 - 2:00 p.m.
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FEARRINGTON DEMOCRATIC CLUB

The Fearrington Democratic Club invites all residents of Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge to hear Prof. William E. Leuchtenburg, the William Rand Kenan, Jr., Professor Emeritus of History at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He speak on FDR's coalition from the 1930s to today and how FDR's political base relates to Obama's.

Professor Leuchtenburg has authored more than a dozen books on twentieth-century American history, including The Perils of Prosperity, 1914-1932; The FDR Years: On Roosevelt and His Legacy; In the Shadow of FDR: From Harry Truman to Ronald Reagan; and Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal, 1932-1940, winner of the Bancroft and the Francis Parkman Prizes. He is a past president of the American Historical Association, the Organization of American Historians, and the Society of American Historians. The meeting is at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, February 24 at the Gathering Place. 
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VISIT TURKEY

Martin and Meike Cryan will share with the Travel Club their photos and impressions from a 2008 trip to Turkey. Turkey is a country at the crossroads of history, the bridge between Asia and Europe. Experience her past from pre-historic to Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman times and glimpse the problems besetting modern Turkey. The meeting will be at the Gathering Place, Wednesday, February 25 at 7: 30 pm.
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MCINTYRE’S AUTHOR EVENTS

Friday, February 6 at 2 p.m.  Dr. Barbara Fredrickson comes to McIntyre’s to discuss her book, Positivity: Groundbreaking Research Reveals How to Embrace the Hidden Strength of Positive Emotions, Overcome Negativity and Thrive. In this book, Dr. Fredrickson gives readers the lab-tested tools necessary to create a healthier, more vibrant and flourishing life through a process she calls “the upward spiral.” Dr. Barbara Fredrickson is the Kenan Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Principal Investigator of the Positive Emotions and Psychophysiology Lab at the University of North Carolina.

Friday, February 13 at 2 p.m.  McIntyre’s welcomes author Paul Maliszewski to read from Fakers, a fascinating exploration of the varieties of faking, from its historical roots in satire and con artistry to its current boom. Maliszewski journeys into the heart of our fake world, telling tales of the New York Sun’s 1835 moon hoax, the invented poet Ern Malley (the inspiration for Peter Carey’s novel My Life as a Fake), and Maliszewski’s own satiric letters to the editor of the Business Journal of Central New York (written, unbeknownst to the editor, while he worked there as a reporter).

Saturday, February 14 at 11 a.m. McIntyre’s welcomes author Kate Betterton to read from Where The Lake Becomes The River, which won the 2008 Novello Literary Award. Years ago, Betterton was in a terrible car wreck that brought her right to the edge between living and dying. She later wrote a piece about someone ‘waking back up’ after death. This became the theme of her book; the thin line between this world and the next.

Monday, February 23 from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. In conjunction with Carrboro Yoga Company, McIntyre’s presents an evening of yoga in the Fearrington Barn followed by a book signing with Sharon Gannon. Sharon is co-creator of the Jivamukti Method, which emphasizes vinyasa, scriptural study, devotion, music, chanting and meditation as well as animal rights, veganism, environmentalism and political activism. Tickets for this event are $60, which includes the yoga session and a copy of Gannon’s book. Register and pay through Carrboro Yoga Company: www.mycyco.com or (919) 933-2921. If you are not able to attend the yoga session but would like Sharon’s books, please call Carrboro Yoga Company and pre-order the books.

Tuesday, February 24 at 7 p.m. Join us in The Barn for a screening of the documentary Brushes With Life with director Philip Brubaker in attendance for Q&A. Focusing on the Brushes with Life STEP Art Gallery at the University of North Carolina Hospital, the film includes eight artists who span race and gender lines as well as inform viewers about an array of mental illnesses. Directed by first time filmmaker Philip Brubaker, the film explores Philip’s own battles with Bipolar disorder while creating this film, and examines the link between artists and mental illness. Admission is $5 ($3 for students) For additional information contact ChathamArts at (919) 542-0394 or visit www.chathamarts.org.

Wednesday, February 25 at 2:30 p.m. Enjoy an intimate afternoon luncheon at The Old Granary Restaurant with the mother and son writing team who, as “Charles Todd,” pens the Inspector Rutledge mystery series. The authors will discuss their new book, A Matter of Justice, which has just received a fifth consecutive starred review from Publisher’s Weekly. As with the rest of the series that began in 1996 with A Test of Wills, this mystery is set in the United Kingdom. Tickets for this luncheon are $40 per guest, and include a luncheon with the authors and a signed hardcover copy of their new book. Call McIntyre’s Fine Books at (919) 542-3030 or email books@fearrington.com for tickets and details.

Thursday, February 26 at 7 p.m. McIntyre’s is pleased to host another event in a year-long series of monthly poetry readings featuring poets from the NC Poetry Society. This event will feature poets Dave Manning and Bill Griffin reading from and discussing selected works.
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OTHER VILLAGE ACTIVITIES

Friday, February 13 at 8 p.m. The Fearrington Winter Groove - Join us in The Barn for a night of dancing to the funky sounds of John Brown and The Groove Shop Band. Bring your sweetheart or all your best dancing buddies for this fun evening. Ticket price ($25 in advance, $30 at the door) includes light hors d'oeuvres and a raffle entry for an overnight stay with dinner for two at The Fearrington House. Cash bar available. Call (919) 542-2121 for tickets. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit The Duke Cancer Patient Support Program. The Old Granary will be open for dinner at 5:30pm this evening!

Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The 7th annual Fearrington Folk Art Show -Experience a rare opportunity to meet and purchase artwork from over 30 of the Southeast’s most noted Folk Artists at the Fearrington Folk Art Show! Discover a colorful and whimsical collection of folk art in The Fearrington Barn at this very special annual event. Admission is $5 per person, which includes a raffle entry. Proceeds from admission benefit the local food pantry, Chatham OutReach Alliance.
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WHAT’S GOING ON OUTSIDE FEARRINGTON

SQUARE HEELS SQUARE DANCE CLUB

The Square Heels Square Dance Club cordially invites you to burn away those holiday calories and expand your circle of friends by learning to square dance.  Dances are held every Friday night, and new classes will begin on Friday, February 6 from 7:30 – 8:30 at Binkley Memorial Baptist Church, corner of 15-501 and Willow Drive in Chapel Hill. Friendly dancers (including some of your Fearrington neighbors) will welcome you and gladly guide you through the fun process of learning this musical sport that resembles brisk walking to music.  Be prepared to do lots of laughing as the mentally challenging steps progress from simple to complex. You can sign up for classes with or without a dance partner. For more info you may contact Pat Boswell (933-2771) of 18 Benchmark in Fearrington Village or Rebekah Gunn (542-3708), President of Square Heels.
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DOROTHY LEBEAU WILL SPEAK AT AAUW ON "WOMEN AND MONEY"

AAUW is pleased that Dorothy Lebeau will talk to our group about "Women and Money: Will You Outlive Your Assets ?" A resident of Fearrington Village, Ms. Lebeau is a principal in Lebeau Financial Advisory and holds a Certified Financial Planner designation or CFP. Ms. Lebeau will discuss such topics as (1) how much to spend annually without running out of money, (2) the value of plain vanilla investments and (3) how to restructure your investments. These topics are very timely in lieu of the recent decline in the stock market and the current weakness of our economy.

The event will be held at the Binkley Baptist Church, off 15-501, in Chapel Hill, starting at 9:30 a.m., Saturday morning, February 21. The lecture by Ms. Lebeau will begin at 10:00 a.m.  For those who need a ride or further information, please call Kay White, 542-1138, or Jean Green, 545-0941. This event is open to the public and is free. Coffee and Refreshments will be served. 
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NEWCOMERS CLUB OF GREATER CHAPEL HILL

The Newcomers Club of Greater Chapel Hill offers many opportunities to make new friends and learn more about the Triangle Area community. This non-profit organization sponsors a variety of social activities and interest groups, and promotes involvement in cultural and community service programs. Join many of your Fearrington neighbors who are members of Newcomers.

New and prospective members can learn about Newcomers on the first Monday of every month at Spice Street Restaurant in University Mall from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Please feel free to drop in. For further information contact Fearrington resident Sydnie Kunin at 533-3129 or sgskuninATnc.rr.com or check out the website www.newcomersofchapelhill.org.
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UN ASSOCIATION TO DISCUSS RUSSIA

For some two decades following the end of the Cold War, the Soviet Union's successor state - renamed Russia - virtually disappeared from the international stage as the nation "regrouped" and looked toward its future. Much happened domestically during that time as it revamped its economic sytem toward capitalism and established new democratic structures. But many analysts have questioned whether the changes have been more apparent than real. How big are the changes through which it is going? And what do they mean for the United States and the rest of the world?

Professor Jonathan Weiler, Director of Undergraduate Studies and Adjunct Assistant Professor in UNC's Curriculum in International and Area Studies, will help us answer the question, "The New Russia - Same as the Old Russia?" at the UN Association's Lunch and Learn meeting on Wednesday, February 25. The meeting will take place between noon and 2 p.m. at the Carolina Meadows retirement community on Whippoorwill Lane in Chapel Hill. Reservations should be made by check for $17.00 to UNA-USA West Triangle Chapter, sent to Barbara Rodbell, 404 Carolina Meadows Villa, Chapel Hill, NC 27517. Deadline: Friday, February 20.
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SHARED LEARNING LECTURE: HEALTH CARE

Clark Havighurst, William Neal Reynolds Emeritus Professor of Law at Duke University, will speak on Friday, February 27, at 11:00 a.m. in the Shared Learning Meeting Room at the rear of the Church of the Reconciliation, 110 N. Elliott Road, Chapel Hill.

Professor Havighurst's presentation is entitled Fairness in Health Care: Who Pays? Who Benefits? He contends that, because of the tax subsidy for health insurance, consumers do not see with any clarity the costs they bear for the coverage they enjoy.  Employers, industry interests and politicians therefore can make choices on their behalf that systematically neglect economizing possibilities. Thus, the distribution of the cost burden and benefits of Americans' health care has not been sufficiently recognized as the fundamental issue of social justice.

Professor Havighurst has taught courses in health care law and policy, antitrust law and economic regulation at the Duke University School of Law since 1964.  His law school casebook is in it's second printing and he is the author of four other books on health care.  The professor is a graduate of Princeton University and Northwestern University Law School.

This lecture is free and open to the public.  For further information call Bob Glass at 542-1426.
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FRIENDS OF THE PITTSBORO MEMORIAL LIBRARY

The Spring Book Sale sponsored by the Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library is coming up soon!  Thousands of books will be available Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 26, 27, and 28, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. each day at the Pittsboro Kiwanis Building, 309 Credle Street.

Most hard cover books are $3; paperbacks are $0.50 - $2, with some books specially priced.

Come Thursday for the best selection, Friday for half-priced books, and Saturday for "bag day"- $5 for a large grocery bag full.  Proceeds will go toward the new library.

The Friends of the Pittsboro Memorial Library Book Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the library at 158 West Street . Discussions begin at 6:45 p.m. and are open to everyone.

Get a head start on your reading and please join us for some interesting talk about these upcoming selections.

March 3: The Worst Hard Time - The untold story of those who survived the great American Dust Bowl  by Timothy Egan. John Steinbeck graphically told the story of those who fled the Dust Bowl.  Timothy Egan has written an extraordinary story of the endurance and heroism of those who stayed and survived.  The Worst Hard Time is a powerful story of our nation’s greatest environmental disaster and the consequences of trifling with nature.( Non fiction) .

April 7: Lunch at the Picadilly by Clyde Edgerton. Edgerton with his characteristically engaging style writes about the plight of the elderly in a book that tracks the ups and downs of a group of nursing home residents at the Rosehaven Convalescent Center ( Fiction)
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SALVATION ARMY 2008

Our 2008 Salvation Army campaign once again was supported by loyal Fearrington residents as well as the donors putting $8,102.57 in the kettle. Last year was $10, 103.51. We had 76 one and one half hour shifts. Nobody was late or missed. We had two days cancelled due to weather same as last year.

Last year 18 residents put their checks in the kettle and received a receipt for income tax purposes. This year 9 checks were received and will be acknowledged by Salvation Army. Our shoppers were as generous this year as last even though many are suffering from our economic downturn. Governors club once again rang the bell at Lowes and were rewarded with donations exceeding $5.000.

Please someone step forward to coordinate our campaign next year. Joan and I will probably be leaving Fearrington by the end of this year. This has been an extremely rewarding experience for us and for Fearrington Village. –Ken Richardson

BURRITO BASH FUNDRAISER FOR CCEC AND THE ORANGE/CHATHAM SIERRA CLUB

It’s not your “ordinary” Bash… it’s extraordinary.  In addition to the usual burritos, you’ll laugh through the original play (and song) written by Fearrington’s own Carl Granath.  And how about two grand prizes of a one night stay at the Rosemary House B&B in Pittsboro or the Chapel Hill B&B on Mann’s Chapel Road for the lucky Bash ticket holders? (Must be present to win)!  The “Off the Road Band” will perform and Pam Smith will lead a live auction of goods and services donated by local artists and merchants.

Join your neighbors at Pittsboro’s General Store Tuesday, March 3 from 6-9 p.m. for an extraordinary evening of FUNdraising for Chatham Citizens for Effective Communities (CCEC) and The Sierra Club (Orange & Chatham Group).  Advance sale tickets at $12/person may be ordered by mailing a check to either CCEC P.O. Box 412  Pittsboro, NC 27312 or Sierra Club OCG P.O. Box 1303 Chapel Hill, NC 27514.

Please indicate that the check is for the “Burrito Bash Fundraiser,” and enter the number of tickets desired.  Tickets will be held in “Will Call” for pick up at the door.  Tickets purchased  the night of the event will cost $15 each. Questions?  Call 919-932-3132 or email info@chathamcitizens.org.
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FEARRINGTON CARES

JOIN US---AN EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED:

You are cordially invited to the Fearrington Cares Annual Meeting on Friday, February 6, from 3:30 to 5:30 P.M. Features include:

A report on the past year’s accomplishments

Introduction of new board members

A tribute to volunteers and contributors

A thought-provoking speaker

A wine and cheese afterglow

Board president, Linda Stryker-Luftig, who is continuing for a second year, will lead off the meeting with a summary of Fearrignton Cares progress in 2008.

The main speaker will be Dr. James Kurz, Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at UNC School of Medicine. His topic will be “The Looming Crisis in Primary Care.” Dr. Kurz, a well-known primary care physician at Chatham Crossing Medical Center, will be discussing the increasing difficulty of getting timely appointments and why doctors sometimes seem rushed during the actual time when they see their patients. He will also discuss why more and more medical school students are choosing specialties other than primary care (internal medicine).

We will learn what we, as individual consumers, can do to encourage new legislation and policy reform at the state and federal levels. For example, he believes it is crucial for medical schools to provide incentives to increase the number of medical students who choose primary care as their specialty.

Dr. Kurz’s presentation will be followed by a question and answer period. However in order to save time and provide a focus for his remarks, your comments and questions may be sent in advance to fcvolunteers@earthlink.net as soon as possible.

The meeting will conclude with a wine and cheese reception honoring 2008 volunteers, contributors and outgoing board members. We hope to see you there!  Please RSVP to the office (542-6877) if you have not already done so through an E-vite invitation.
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FEARRINGTON FRIENDS

A unique, new program now enables Fearrington residents to find a friend whom they can call as needed. It could be a simple daily phone call to see how things are going, a visit to your home to help out with details, or anything else which might make life easier for you. If you are interested, call 542-6877 and ask for Pat Skiver.
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GREYSHEETERS ANONYMOUS

This newly formed support group of men and women who interact to help themselves and others recover from compulsive overeating will meet on the following dates in February: Wed. Feb. 4 at 4 p.m.,Wed. Feb. 11 at 4 p.m., Sat. Feb.21 at 1 p.m. and Sat. Feb.28 at 1 p.m. For more information, call or e mail Ruth Kreisman at 545-8930; RuthKATnc.rr.com.
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CPR TRAINING

We are considering offering a “Friends and Family” CPR training in the near future and would like an indication of how many people might be interested in this one day workshop which would not lead to certification. The fee would be approximately $35.  Please call 542-6877 and leave your name and number if you are interested.
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MEDICAL LECTURE: “THE BEAUTIFUL MIND---MAKING MEMORIES:”

We are all concerned about episodes of memory loss as we age. On Thursday, February 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place, Dr. Kelly Giovanello, Director of the UNC-CH Cognitive Neuroscience of Memory Lab, will show us how memories are formed and ways to improve our ability to capture and preserve the moment. It will be a lecture to remember!
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SORTING OUT VITAMIN D

There is a lot of talk in the news these days about Vitamin D.  Vitamin D has long been recognized as vital to bone health because the body needs the vitamin to absorb calcium.  The vitamin may also help fend off a wide range of conditions, including colon cancer, diabetes and physical weakness in old age.

So, what’s the “real deal?”  There are widely differing opinions about the upper limit for vitamin D intake (from 1000 IU to 10,000 IU daily) depending upon which “expert” is quoted and pressure is building to revise the recommendations.  Some experts recommend a daily intake of 800-1000 IU for adults.  Current vitamin D guidelines are:

(Harvard Health Letter)
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STRENGTH AND BALANCE CLASS “FULL UP

Fearrington Cares new Strength and Balance class filled up quickly with 15 members enrolled within a couple of weeks.  The class will begin February 2 and be held twice weekly for an 8-week period.  We have a waiting list of 15-20 and hope to offer the class again in the spring if class members progress with their balancing ability and the overall goals for the class are met.  Keep an eye out for future newsletters announcing additional classes.
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MONEY, MONEY, EVERYWHERE!!

Joe Geoghegan, a Fearrington Cares and SHIIP (Seniors Health Insurance Information Plan) volunteer helped save Fearrington residents a total of $31,144 for 2009!  So, what’s the scoop?  Joe met with Fearrington residents at Fearrington Cares, reviewed their medication list, and compared their current Part-D plan with other available plans.  Using this information, Joe helped residents determine if their current Medicare Part-D plan was the most cost effective.  And guess what?  Thirty-six of the 38 folks who came to Fearrington Cares and met with Joe switched plans in order to realize an average savings of $820 per person!  Each year in November and December, those on Medicare are given the opportunity to switch medications plans.  And for the past 3 years, Joe has generously volunteered his time to help seniors sort through all of the confusing information to help them save money.  Plans change their monthly fees, co-pays and formulary (list of drugs they provide) on a routine basis, so you must be aware of these changes each year.  If you missed your opportunity this year, be ready to take advantage of this valuable service later in 2009.
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FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR: (Events usually in Fearrington cares office)

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

Grief Support Group –Friday, February 20, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Parkinson’s Support Group –Wednesdays, February 11 and 25, 11 a.m.

Brain Injury Support Group – February meeting dates and times to be announced

AA Meeting – Every Wednesday 7 p.m.

Balance Testing/Screening –Thursday, February 5, 5-6 p.m., you must have an appointment – call 542-6877

Foot Clinic – Tuesday, February 10, 1-5 p.m., you must make appointment – call 542-6877

Strength and Balance Class – Beginning February 2- Class is full. Call 542-6877 to get on waiting list

Fearrington Cares Annual Meeting – Friday, February 6, 3:30 p.m. – Gathering Place

Medical Lecture---“The Beautiful Mind---Making Memories”--Thursday, February 26, 7:30 p.m., Gathering Place
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FHA NEWS

SUMMARY OF JANUARY 2009 FHA OPEN MEETING

President Peter Thomas named all members of the 2009 Board, noting two new members, Ray Andrews, Director of Health, Safety and Security and Carol Kurtz, Director for the Gathering Place.

Board member for Intergovernmental Affairs, John Hammond, then introduced Jeff Scouten and Lee Bowman of Newland Communities, the developer of Briar Chapel.  Mr. Scouten gave a status report on the 1,600 acre Master Planned Community of 2,389 residential units and accompanying commercial/retail development. Mr. Scouten said that development had begun about two and a half years ago and a grand opening was held last September.  Among the highlights of his presentation were that Briar Chapel conformed to Chatham County’s Compact Community Ordinance and that it had the required Conditional Use Permit from the county.  These, he said, set specific covenants and architectural guidelines that “lay with the land” and could not be changed because they are part of the county’s approved Master Plan.  He described Briar Chapel as a “green community” in compliance with the Builders Association “Green Building Initiative”, utilizing Energy Star appliances and native materials, and obtaining the U.S. government’s LEEDS (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification. He stated the hoped for completed build-out of the community is 10-12 years hence.

Of most concern to the nearly 85 Fearrington residents in attendance were the intended land uses for the development of the parcel along the east side of route 15/501, backing up to and abutting Fearrington residential property.  To many residents’ skepticism, Mr. Scouten described the area as being separated from Fearrington by a 300-foot vegetated buffer zone; however, that area would have a treated sewage spray irrigation system incorporated within it. He stated the system was “state of the art” and had been approved as meeting state water quality standards, suggesting that the water quality was “drinkable”.  The same water would be sprayed on landscaped areas in Briar Chapel, including recreation playing fields.  Along 15/501, the parcel would be built out as office and supporting commercial use. President Thomas and Mr. Scouten agreed that a committee of representatives from Fearrington and Briar Chapel would continue to meet on a bi-monthly basis and report in the future.

Under board member reports, Treasurer Walter Jernigan stated that the 2008 end-of-year income of $155,101for the FHA had exceeded expenses of $134,695.  Detailed financial statements will be posted in February. Carol Kurtz reported that the FHA business office in the Gathering Place was renovated in December to be more efficient and present a more positive impression.  She also reported specifications and estimates for an improved audio/visual system in the Gathering Place are being developed.  Carol-Ann Greenslade said that a construction contract had been let for improvements to the Swim & Croquet mail kiosk.  Partial enclosure of corner openings with glass block is intended to reduce the effects of wind and rain within the station.  Vice President Ken Talbot reported that final editing of the 2009 FHA Handbook and Directory is underway and that new directories will be available in early February. President Thomas concluded members’ reports by stating that the Board, together with the Service Groups, is exploring other companies for continuing professional management in the future, and that he will report further details at the March open meeting

Under new business Herb Wolff, resident of The Woods, requested that the Board review its previous actions concerning covenant issues involving his neighbor’s property beginning in March 2007. President Thomas said that the FHA Covenant Review Committee would review the case and report back to Mr. Wolff.  -Ken Talbot, VP (acting Sec. in the absence of Leonard Kreisman)
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NEWSLETTER-CALENDAR EDITORS

Mary Hammond
545-2026 Fax: same
prinnyATmindspring.com

Dinah McAllister
542-4414
dinahATnc.rr.com

Mary Hammond edited this issue. Dinah McAllister will edit the March issue.  The deadline is Sunday, February 15.

Directory Editor; Print and Website Version

Michael Cotter
542-4414
joannenmikeAThotmail.com

Newsletter Printing Team

Paul Niederer, Chair
Ron Davis, Marybeth Hauck, David Hess, Wally Hill, Faye Van Oyen, Carol Kurtz, Barbara Harris, Linda Lang
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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