FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS 
NEWSLETTER 

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

FEARRINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY NEWS

A LETTER FROM THE FHA BOARD

From the time this FHA Board took office in January 2002, one of the main requests from residents was how to control the deer population and limit property damage in Fearrington while following the Covenants. Jay Olson, Director-at-large, whose main charge is to advise on the Covenants, therefore undertook the responsibility of researching this problem. Many residents resented the appearance of deer fences, which must be at least 8 feet high in order to be effective, in their neighbors' yards and asked the Board to "do something."

After months of research, the Board highlighted the deer problem at the May 9 monthly meeting, not in July as has been incorrectly reported. George Strader, District Biologist, Division of Wildlife Management, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, spoke at length and answered questions of the few residents in attendance. It was the opinion of the Division of Wildlife Management, as stated in its brochure, that controlled hunts offer advantages over all other methods of deer herd management. With the guidance and support of the Wildlife biologist, the Board therefore agreed to consider how such a solution could be implemented.

In response to a petition requesting a special meeting on this issue, the Board met with all interested parties on October 17 in the Barn. Over 200 residents attended the meeting. All points of view were represented and all questions answered. It is totally irresponsible for anyone to charge the Board with "misinformation and misrepresentation" about the "so-called deer problem." In addition, the statement that "any media coverage of such a sensitive issue is not good for Fearrington Village" should perhaps have been considered by the Committee to Stop the Hunt prior to their contacting the local media. No member of the FHA Board contacted any outside media sources.

The Board wanted to conduct a vote on the issue to satisfy the FHA Bylaws and to get an accurate appraisal of the community's opinion about this problem. However, R.B. Fitch's decision to withdraw his permission for hunting on his land made any vote at this time a moot point. This Board considers the matter now closed temporarily; however, some future Board is going to have to confront this issue.

-The Fearrington Homeowners
Association Board of Directors,
November 2002
(Return to the Table of Contents)

DEBIT THE DUES

As the time nears to collect your annual FHA dues, your FHA Financial Manager would like all residents to consider having your dues paid via the bank debit system. This is an easy payment method that assures a timely payment of your dues without having to write and mail the check!

It is simple to sign up. Just fill out the information form (click here for the form), attach a voided check, and deliver or mail to the FHA office. Mailing address is 26 Fearrington Post. We must receive the information by December 31, 2002 in order to use debit for your 2003 dues.

Your account will be debited for the new annual fee amount on January 6, 2003. You will be notified of the amount due in mid-December. If you have any questions about the debit system please contact Peg Perlman, 545-9951, or Richard Bird, 545-9413.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

MARTHA NELL HARDY RECEIVES THE NORTH CAROLINA AWARD

Fearrington's Martha Nell Hardy is one of seven North Carolinians to receive the prestigious 2002 North Carolina Award, the highest civilian honor the state can bestow.

She received her award in the area of fine arts on November 19 at the North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh. Martha Nell was cited "for her lifetime achievement in the theatre and for the countless lives she has touched as a teacher."

The citation went on to say that Martha Nell "has thrilled audiences around the nation with her stage performances, including more than 2,000 appearances in the acclaimed outdoor drama, Unto These Hills." For more than 30 years, she played the part of Mrs. Perkins, the crowd-pleasing, peppery mountain woman, stepping down in 1999.

"I am overwhelmed and deeply honored by the award," Martha Nell says. "I am also humbled by the list of former recipients (Charles Kuralt, Maya Angelou, Billy Graham, Bill Friday, David Brinkley and Andy Griffith are a few), and I seriously question whether I belong in this group, but it is a wonderful honor."
The award has been given annually since 1964 to citizens who have distinguished themselves in public service, science, literature and fine arts.

Martha Nell landed her first theatrical role in the third grade-as a silent sunflower. Since then, she has thrilled audiences across the state and nation in stage, film and television performances. Until her retirement in 1990, she was a professor in the UNC-Chapel Hill Department of Speech Communication for 25 years, including 5 years as its chair.

She is the recipient of numerous other awards, including the Distinguished Alumna Award of UNC-CH and the N.C. Woman of the Year in the Arts. In 2001, UNC-CH honored her by establishing the Martha Nell Hardy Professorship.
Although retired from the classroom, Martha Nell continues acting. Her husband, Bill Hardy, is a former director-producer of Unto These Hills and retired UNC-CH professor in the Department of Radio, Television and Motion Pictures. They have three children, five grandchildren, and hundreds of "near-kids" from Martha Nell's years as a teacher and performer.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

UNC-CHAPEL HILL INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP PROGRAM

The UNC International Friendship Program needs hosts to assist new international students and scholars in their adjustment to UNC and Chapel Hill. A host does not provide housing, just friendship and hospitality. For information, call 933-7451 or the International Center at 962-5661 or visit our web site: http://internationalcenter.unc.edu/get_involved/friendship.html.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FRIENDS OF THE NC ART MUSEUM ANNOUNCE PROGRAM FOR 2003

Friends of the North Carolina Museum of Art enthusiastically announce our 2003 program in Art Experiences. There will be two lectures at the Gathering Place and two bus trips to the Museum in Raleigh.

On Thursday January 30, at 2 p.m., here at our Gathering Place, we will see and hear a lecture based on the Museum's Egyptian art collection. The speaker will be Dr. Mary Ellen Soles, Curator of Ancient Art. On March 6, at the Museum, the talk will illuminate the Augustus Saint-Gaudens; Sculptor of the Gilded Age currently featured exhibit.

In April, there will be a presentation here and in November, a trip again to the Museum. Details to follow, of course.

The charge for Museum members for the four "happenings" is $10, for non-members $20. Come join us, and encourage your friends to become our friends.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WHAT'S GOING ON IN FEARRINGTON

DECEMBER READINGS AT MCINTYRES

• Sunday, December 1, 2 p.m. Join Louis D. Rubin Jr. (My Father's People: A family of Southern Jews) and Stella Suberman (author of The Jew Store) to discuss growing up Jewish in the South and telling your family's story.
• Thursday, December 5, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Open Mike Literary Night. C'mon out! Share and support local creative talent with friends and neighbors.
• Saturday, December 7, 11 a.m. Nicholas Delbanco, author of The Suitcase and The Countess of Stanlein Restored, and his brother, writer Andrew Delbanco, author of The Real American Dream: A Meditation on Hope and The Death of Satan, will read from their works.
• Saturday, December 14, 11 a.m. Photographer and writer Rob Amberg will talk about compiling Sodom Laurel Album, a photographic journal of words, songs, and oral histories in the North Carolina mountains. Sodom Laurel Album is the companion publication to a traveling exhibition that will open at the Asheville Art Museum in 2002.
• Saturday, December 21, 11 a.m. Nationally renowned storyteller Donald Davis makes his annual holiday appearance. We request for admission a donation of canned goods for local food banks.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON MARATHON BRIDGE

Players meet monthly at team members' homes from November thru May. There is still an opening for one pair. It's a pleasant evening and an enjoyable way to meet other bridge players in the village. Call Pat Goetz at 542-6248 if you would like to join the group or want to know more about marathon bridge in Fearrington
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON DEMOCRATIC CLUB

The Fearrington Democratic Club is very pleased to host Gene Nichol, Dean and Burton Craige Professor of Law, UNC School of Law, on Monday, December 2, at 7:15 p.m. at the Gathering Place. Dean Nichol will discuss, "Where Does the Democratic Party Go From Here?" All Fearrington residents are invited to attend. For further information contact Rex Tucker, 542-4060.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB

Duplicate Bridge will meet Wednesdays December 4, 11 and 18 at 1 p.m. In the holiday spirit, there will be no fee on the 18th. And on the 18th, all are asked to bring something good to eat! It's been very tasty in past years! Elly Kealey, 542-5097.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

TRAVEL CLUB

On Thursday (note change of meeting day), December 5, at 7:30 p.m. in the Gathering Place, the Fearrington Travel Club will present a slide show and discussion by Henry Castner (164 Windstone)-"Visions of Cuba." Images that reveal life, and insights into history, religion, and culture of an island so close and yet so far. As a trip sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department, March 2002, there will be no pictures of beaches where all the "other" tourists can be found! Travel from Vinales in the east to Santiago in the western end of the island. All Fearringtonians interested in travel and/or photography are invited to attend. Questions, call Sue or Don Zehl at 542-4076.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON THESPIANS

Fearrington Thespians will meet on Sunday, December 8 at the Gathering Place at 7:30 p.m. Fred Levitt is producing two short plays from Neil Simon's London Suite, starring Frances Gerngross, Gail Rummell, Phil Penberthy, Bob Leopold and Fred Levitt. All Fearringtonians are welcome.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

ARTS & CRAFTS, ETC.

There will be no regular meeting on Monday, December 2. The holiday luncheon to be held jointly with the Fearrington Women's Club is scheduled for Wednesday, December 11, at the Carolina Club in the George Watts Hill Alumni Center on the UNC campus. Cash bar will be available at 11:30, lunch will be served at 12, and cost is $25. Seating will be assigned. Deadline for reservations is December 2. Call Kaye Zinsmeyer (542-7042) regarding availability.

Because of construction in the area, car pooling is a must. Those planning to attend should meet at the Gathering Place at 10:15. Maps and directions will be provided. We will be parking at the Dogwood Deck across from the hospital. The Carolina Club has arranged for a shuttle at 11 to take us to the Club. Any questions regarding car pooling, call Cathy Hummel (542-1953) or Nancy Foster (542-0407).
To our members who are shopping for our holiday gift program for foster children in Chatham County, please remember that the gifts (wrapped and tagged) should be delivered to Anne Kirkhoff (585 Woodbury) no later than December 5.
Happy holidays to all!

FEARRINGTON WOMEN'S CLUB

The Fearrington Women's Club would like to extend to each and everyone, a happy and healthy holiday season that began with the beautiful foliage display we have been enjoying recently.

The club has had a busy and enjoyable fall, including the Italian Night dinner and opera entertainment on October 25, which was enjoyed by a full house. Members of the Women's Club prepared the dinner and hors d'oeuvres. Aren't we lucky to have such talent right here in our midst? The club profit was over $1,300 that we have available to give to local charities next spring, so thank you all for supporting these efforts.

The Women's Club and the Arts & Crafts clubs are combining to offer the Holiday Luncheon, which will be held on December 11 at the Carolina Club in Chapel Hill. Complete details are included in the preceding Arts & Crafts article.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

February 22 is just around the corner! This is the date of the Women's Club Annual Book, Bake & Boutique Sale. Start now to clean out your closets and storage places for items that you can provide. Boutique items should be delivered to Carol Vatter (586 Woodbury) and books go to Madge Hoyt (729 Barnsley). This sale is eagerly anticipated by all of Fearrington and your items help to make it the success it has been in the past. Let's do it again. Remember, all proceeds go to local charities.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

CHORALE TO PERFORM

The 40-member Durham-Chapel Hill Jewish Chorale will present a one-hour musical program in English, Hebrew, Yiddish and Ladino on Tuesday, December 10, at The Gathering Place.

The evening begins with coffee and conversation at 7:30 p.m., followed by the program at 8 p.m.

Guests are welcome.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON UNC ALUMNI CLUB

Join your fellow UNC Alumni at Rea and Sandra Hinson's home (703 Spindlewood) on Friday, December 13, from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. for our annual holiday party. You will be receiving an invitation in the mail by early December. If you have not received it, or if you have questions, please call Philip Cree at 545-9794 or Harriet McGraw at 542-7342.We are asking everyone to bring a can of food to be donated to the Chatham County Council on Aging.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

DOCUMENTARY FILM ASSOCIATION

On Sunday, December 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place, we will show the Tribute to Fred Astaire, a warmly entertaining collage of tributes and scenes from the myriad of Astaire movies, which include, among other well known entertainers, comments by and footage of Ginger Rogers, Eleanor Powell and Cyd Charisse.
-Sam Gross and Ray Mones
(Return to the Table of Contents)

TENTH ANNUAL CHATHAM COUNTY OPEN STUDIO TOUR

Eleven Fearrington artists will participate in the Tenth Annual Chatham County Open Studio Tour this year. The Tour will take place Saturday and Sunday, December 7 and 8, and Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15. Tour hours are: Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays noon-5 p.m.

You are invited to view participating artists' work at three sites: Center Gallery at the ArtsCenter in Carrboro (November 13-December 8), Central Carolina Community College, U.S. 64 West during the first weekend of the tour, December 7 & 8 and the Chatham County Arts Council at the Wade Ferguson House, 6285 Hwy. 64 West, during the second weekend of the tour, December 14 & 15. There will be a reception to open the tour on Friday evening, December 6, from 7-9 p.m. at the Central Carolina Community College Gallery.
The participating Fearrington Artists are:

* The artist's studio will be open only during the first weekend. We appreciate your patronage during past tours and look forward to seeing Fearringtonians at this year's tour.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

AN INVITATION TO FEARRINGTON WIDOWERS

There is a group of widowers in Fearrington that meets weekly for fellowship. It starts with a social hour with drinks and snacks followed by car pooling to dinner. The meetings are held on Wednesday evening starting at 5:30 p.m. The host for the evening picks the restaurant for that night. It is all very informal, no dues, no rules. If you would like to learn more about this group we would like very much to hear from you. Please contact one of the following: Stephen Hudak 542-3757, Phil Penberthy 542-0013, or Joe Prendergast 542-6275.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FHA WEBSITE?

The FHA Computer Committee is eager to teach you. Committee members will offer two evening demonstration and instruction sessions at the Gathering Place, tentatively planned for the third and fourth weeks of January. The session will require approximately 2 hours.

Please provide the following information to the FHA office by Sunday, January 5 if you want to attend.


First and second choices of dates:
Name
Phone number
E-mail address
(Return to the Table of Contents)

UNITED WAY ANNOUNCES CHATHAM COUNTY WOMEN'S NETWORK

The Chatham County Women's Network has just marked its first anniversary and is now ready to introduce itself to the county at large. This active group of women has been charting its course over the past year and promises to become an important networking, service and mentoring entity for Chatham County.

The Women's Network was formed under the direction of the United Way's former Executive Director, Beth Burkes. Focusing on the large and growing pool of professional working women dispersed throughout the county, its purpose is to bring women together for social, business, civic and personal growth. As an offshoot of the United Way, proceeds from any fundraising activities will go to help UW agency programs focusing on "Families in Crisis." The WN is a volunteer resource available to all United Way agencies upon request, while at the same time raising money in creative ways that do not compete with existing fundraising efforts. The enjoyable business and social networking component of the group's gatherings has already proven to be of considerable benefit to its members.

The WN's main public project this year is to compile and publish a Directory of Women in Business in Chatham County. This Directory will serve as a resource for all Chatham residents by highlighting the many women in business within the county. WN is currently gathering listings and ads for the premier issue, slated for publication in early 2003. It will be published twice annually and will be free, distributed throughout the county. Listings ($5 per member) and ad fees (beginning at $25 for 1/4 page) are tax-deductible contributions to the United Way. Deadline for entries is December 15.

The Women's Network meets once a month, usually on the second Thursday from 6:30-8 p.m. (Locations, determined each month, will be publicized.) The typical agenda includes time for socializing, a feature presentation, and Network business. Each month WN features a guest speaker from one of the United Way member agencies to describe that agency's mission and volunteer needs.

The Women's Network welcomes all women, regardless of age and employment status, to join their group. Chatham County residency is not required for membership but WN's resources will stay within the county. Anyone interested in meeting a great group of people and helping an even greater group of people along the way is welcome.

For more information on the Network or for a Directory application, please contact Gilda McDaniel at gilda@fearrington.com or 545-5734.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN SHORT OF GOAL

As of press time (11/15), the Fearrington Village United Way campaign has raised a little over $66,000, which is $18,000 short of the $84,000 goal. Last year at the same time, with the same goal, the campaign was at $75,000. The number of contributors by this date is down from 452 to only 388 out of our 1,000 or so households. This is not good news, but many campaigns locally and nationally are having similar experiences. Right now, it does not appear likely that United Way of Chatham County will reach its dollar goal of $520,000.

According to the United Way office, many former Fearrington contributors have increased their gifts, but more have decreased. Fortunately, total first-time gifts from community residents are almost equal to total losses due to contributors who have moved away. Many household budgets have been affected by the weak stock market, which may explain the number of reduced and missing gifts. But surely a token participation gift of even $25-about $1 for each Chatham County agency our United Way supports-is worth everyone's consideration. Every little bit helps-it's not the amount that is important, it's your participation that counts.

Some former contributors may be concerned about the United Way board of directors' decision this past spring to continue funding Boy Scouts for another year. They may not understand that is possible to "negatively" designate their contribution-just write on the pledge card that none of your money is to be sent to a specific agency. That way you are not penalizing the important work being done by the other human service providers in the county. Your contribution will then be divided proportionately among all the other agencies receiving funds this year.

All money raised from this campaign will be distributed to local agencies by groups of trained volunteers. Meetings to review agency applications will take place next May, after United Way knows how much will be available from cash, payroll deduction gifts and designations received through other United Ways. There is always a need for new volunteers for this activity. If you are interested in serving on an allocations panel and forming your own first-hand opinion of UW-funded agencies and programs, call Executive Director Jody Minor at 542-1110, or indicate that on your pledge card.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

SALVATION ARMY 2002 BELL RINGERS NEEDED FOR LOWES

The time has come once again to ring the bell for the less fortunate people in Chatham County. We still need more volunteers. The time is right. The Salvation Army is calling us to help our neighbors. Please call and we will coordinate your efforts.

We are all so lucky to have the time to help so many people in the area in which we live. This year we will launch our campaign on Monday the 25th of November and will be on post 9:30 a.m. till 5:30 p.m. We will work Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday in four two-hour shifts per day.

The week of December 2 we will work Monday through Saturday. The week of December 9 we will work Monday through Saturday. The week of December 16 we will work Wednesday through Saturday.

We provide the time and talent and our generous residents of the area provide the money. Our tax-deductible donations are also welcome, encouraged and appreciated. This has been a difficult year for all of us and also our charities.

We filled 96 shifts last year and nobody missed their time. Congratulations to you all! This year we will have 92 shifts. Good luck to you all and "God Bless America." Please call Joan and Ken Richardson at 542-2313 with your calendar in hand so we can give you a shift to ring the bell.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR FOSTER CHILDREN

Arts & Crafts members who agreed to buy a gift for a foster child should deliver the wrapped package to Anne Kirkhoff, 585 Woodbury, by Thursday, December 5. If there are any problems, call her: 542-4390.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

CHRISTMAS CONCERT BARBERSHOP HARMONY STYLE

The General Assembly Barbershop Harmony Chorus of the Research Triangle Park Chapter, SPEBSQSA, Dixie District Champs in 2001, will be having their Holiday Concert, "Songs of the Season," for one show only. This will take place on Saturday, December 7, at 8 p.m. at Meymandi Hall in the BTI Center (Memorial Auditorium) in Raleigh. Also appearing in the show will be the Raleigh Boys choir, a special large community chorus and, of course, quartets.

Tickets are priced at a very reasonable $15 for reserved seats and $10 for general admission. Best thing about it is there isn't a bad seat in the house. Make your plans now to attend and order your tickets by calling member and Fearrington resident John Adams at 545-9101, or by email: jjadams2@msn.com.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

BUSH CREEK HOMEOWNERS TO CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS

Save the date! The annual Bush Creek Homeowners Holiday Celebration will be on Saturday, December 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. Buffet dinner includes hors d'oeuvres, main course with side dishes, dessert, coffee/tea, wine, beer and soft drinks. The cost is $24 per person.

We need volunteers to serve on committees. Please call co-chairs Jane Palkoski at 542-3429 or Ruth Kreisman at 545-8930.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HOLIDAY CONCERT IN THE BARN

On Monday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. the Village Voices and the Harmony Grits will join under the direction of Bob Lawton and Matt Frye to present what promises to be a night of festive and beautiful holiday music. The holiday choral performance at the Barn has become a Fearrington tradition, and this year, as in the past, we will help ring in the joys of yet another holiday season.

This year, for the first time there will be a $5 admission charge and it's important for community members to understand why the boards of both the Voices and the Grits voted to institute this charge.

The Voices and the Grits each began as small groups with volunteer directors and modest overheads. We have grown, and so have our expenses. Each of our directors and our talented accompanist Dan Hadley are paid. We also must pay to use the Gathering Place for every rehearsal and we pay for the purchase of music and for a host of smaller items like binders for every member and even for the rental of a piano necessary for our performance at the Barn.

Each member pays a significant fee for the privilege of singing together, but the membership dues no longer cover our expenses. We are asking our audience to help, beginning this year, by paying a modest admittance fee of $5.

Plan to be at this year's concert in the Barn. It's a holiday tradition and not to be missed.

We appreciate your help and look forward to performing for all of you.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

LIGHTING THE LUMINARIES

Our dates to light the luminaries will be Thursday, December 12, with the rain date, Saturday, December 14. We are looking for people from Phases 1, 2, 3 and 5 and East Camden to help with the distribution of the informational flyers in early November.

All proceeds from the sale of the luminary kits are donated to help support the Ronald McDonald House. Please call either Anna Lees Cobb at 545-9400 during the day, or 545-9773 at home in the evening, or Bunny Shillito, 542-1984.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

COMMUNITY CHORUS CONCERT

Celebrate the season at a Christmas concert presented by the Chapel Hill Community Chorus on Friday, December 13, 8 p.m., at Hill Hall on the UNC-CH Campus. CHCC will be accompanied by brass, percussion, handbells, organ and flute. The program includes Magnificat by Jonathan Wilcocks and a variety of Christmas carols arranged by Walker, Wilberg, and others. Tickets ($10) are available at the door and from Fearringtonians who sing in the chorus: John Boswell, Lance Buhl, Joanne Busiel, Amelia Carew, Sally Earnest, Bob Hoogstoel, Barbara Irwin, Annette Levine, Rolf Lynton, Barb McMullen, Carol Robbins, Joe Salsbury, Alex Tunstall, Carol Vatter, Barbara Wagner and Marci Whittaker. For information about the program or joining CHCC, visit its website: http://www.rtpnet.org/chccc/.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

CAMDEN PARK HOLIDAY PARTY

Camden East and West neighbors are invited to a holiday cocktail party at the Gathering Place on Sunday, December 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. All you have to bring are your beverage of choice and one hearty appetizer to serve eight. Mixers, glasses, ice, nonalcoholic punch, petite ham and smoked turkey sandwiches, and bite-size desserts will be provided. The Fearrington Folk and the Mini-Grits will furnish entertainment.

Further information and a reservation form have been distributed to porch baskets. Make your reservation by December 6 with a check for $7.50 per person payable to Camden Park, Inc. Drop the check off at Ginny Mellencamp's home at 32 West Camden. If you have any questions call Janet Lorant, Camden holiday party chairperson, at 542-5760.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

GARDEN CLUB HOLDS HOLIDAY PARTY

The Fearrington Garden Club will hold its holiday party on December 17 at 7:30 at the Gathering Place. This year it will be a dessert party. Each member is asked to bring a favorite dessert to share. To defray the costs, there will a $2 charge for members and $5 for member's guests who are not members. The club will provide non-alcoholic beverages. Partygoers may bring their own alcoholic beverages if they like.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HEALTH & FITNESS NEWS

FEARRINGTON CARES NEWS

FEARRINGTON CARES UPDATE

Thank you for the many comments concerning our Fall 2002 Fearrington Cares Newsletter. We received many donations, which were not asked for, but were welcome.

Our plan is to:

1) Provide a 2003 Fearrington Cares budget for all the residents in January 2003.
2) Update and provide a Fearrington Cares Mission Statement to the Village residents.
3) Hire a new experienced nurse from the hours 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bertha Williams will help train and hire her replacement.
4) At our annual meeting in February we will have a vote to adopt our new proposed plan and provide contribution cards for the residents. In order to execute our move to the medical center we must be assured we will have adequate financial support.

-Ken Richardson,
President, Fearrington Cares
(Return to the Table of Contents)

THANKS TO BLOOD DRIVE VOLUNTEERS

Fearrington Cares wants to thank Penny Heiser and Sue Ryder for the snacks and their work in support of the Blood Drive. A great big thanks also goes to Betty Lou Cobb who coordinated the drive.

CPR CLASS CANCELED

The CPR class scheduled for December 5 has been cancelled due to the death of Trudy Talner and lack of sufficient personnel.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON CARES NURSE ACCEPTS NEW POSITION

It has been my pleasure to work with the Fearrington Village residents since September 2000. I will be starting a full-time job as Vice President of Marketing for Madison Healthcare January 6, 2003. So many of you have enriched my life. Some have volunteered in the office or at health-related events in the Gathering Place. I have been kept up to date on the latest health-related information by donations of articles and books from residents. Others have given gifts of appreciation, including wonderful snacks and lunch. You have shared information about your families and listened to me talk about my children. For all of your kindness and support I thank you. You have not only been my clients but my friends as well.

I hope I have touched your lives and improved your health and well-being in some way. The new nurse will be very fortunate to come into this warm supportive setting. Please show him/her the same support and patience shown me when I was new to the clinic. You have a wonderful support service in Fearrington Cares. Please continue to support and care for your community organization.

I am looking forward to the new challenge and at the same time sad to leave Fearrington Village. I wish you all good health and happiness.

Affectionately,
Bertha Williams
(Return to the Table of Contents)

GIVE YOGA A TRY

"Stars do it. Sports do it. Judges in the highest courts do it. Let's do it: that yoga thing."*

Although yoga's been around for over 5,000 years, it has recently enjoyed prominence as an important exercise choice for millions of Americans. Why not join us and see for yourself. We're led by a yoga professional, and our sessions touch on stretching, balance and relaxation.

We meet at the Gathering Place every Wednesday, 8:15-9:30 a.m. For more details, call Laura Hyer, 545-9607.

* The Power of Yoga
by Richard Corliss
(Return to the Table of Contents)

WHAT'S GOING ON OUTSIDE FEARRINGTON

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS HOLIDAY LUNCH FEATURES RUTH SHEEHAN

On Friday, December 13, the League of Women Voters' speaker will be journalist Ruth Sheehan whose bi-weekly column in the News & Observer is popular for its perspective on state and local politics. Sheehan will speak on "A Journalist's View of Women in Politics."

The three-course lunch will be held at noon at the Chapel Hill Country Club, and the cost is $15 (all inclusive). Make your reservation by sending a check made out to LWV-ODC to Dorothy Mahan, 590 Fearrington Post, by December 9. For more information, please call Dorothy at 542-7900.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

NEWS FROM THE FRIENDS OF THE PITTSBORO MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Quilts by Peggy Ravitch will be exhibited at the Pittsboro Memorial Library in December and January. Peggy, a native of Pittsburgh, works in the Physics Department of Duke University. She has been quilting for several years and gets ideas for her quilts from books, nature, trade shows, etc. She is a member of the Durham/Orange Quilters.

The Pittsboro Library is continuing two programs for young children: A preschool story hour and a "Toddler Time." Remaining dates for the story hour programs, which are for children ages 3 to 5, are December 6 and 13 at 10. The experienced volunteers for this program are all from Fearrington-Helen Eill, Loretta Gilson, Caroline Resnick and Catherine Hummel. Toddler Time, for children ages 18 months to 3 years, will be held at 9:30 on December 5 and 12.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

UN ASSOCIATION MEETING TO HEAR ABOUT PROMOTING DEMOCRACY

To paraphrase statesman-author Winston Churchill, democracy is the worst form of government-except for all the others. It is the political system that nurtured the United States and all other major Western nations. And it is the political system to which virtually all developing nations aspire.

Our speaker at our Lunch and Learn meeting on December 18 is Professor Andrew Reynolds of UNC's Political Science Department, an expert who teaches about democratization, constitutional engineering and electoral politics, and under UN and other auspices, advises governments throughout the world, from Angola to Fiji to Zimbabwe, and currently Afghanistan, on constitutional design issues. His topic will be "Supporting Democracy Abroad: Applying the Lessons of Medicine to the Art of Constitutional Design."

The meeting will be held at noon at the Holiday Inn in Chapel Hill. To reserve a space, send a check for $15 payable to UNA-West Triangle Chapter to Elizabeth Hankin, 111 W. Seeman St., Durham, NC 27701. The deadline for Elizabeth to receive checks is Friday, December 13. Questions to Elizabeth at 688-4017.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

DOCTOR TO ADDRESS NEWCOMERS

Dr. Fred Spielman of UNC Hospital will speak on "Pain Control" at the December Men's Luncheon of the Greater Chapel Hill Newcomers Club. The program will be held on Friday, December 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Chapel Hill Country Club. The cost of a Soup 'n Salad buffet lunch is $10.75. RSVP with checks payable to Warren Wagner, 141 Fearrington Post, by Friday, December 13. Spouses, guests, alumni and others are welcome as long as space permits. Questions? Contact Terry Crook at 260-2942 or terrycrook@earthlink.net.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

LEE COUNTY CONCERT

The North Carolina Symphony will present its annual Lee County Concert at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center in Sanford on Friday, February 7, at 8 p.m. William Henry Curry will conduct beautiful compositions by Mozart, Sibelius and Elgar in what will surely be a delightful performance.

Ticket prices are: Adult-$15 and Student-$7. They may be purchased at the door and, beginning in January, in advance at The Enrichment Center, Almond's Music Center and the Temple Theater Box Office.

Please call Martha Oldham (775-5031) if you would like to order tickets to give as Christmas gifts. For general information about the Lee County Chapter of the NC Symphony, contact Ed and Linda Stanton (774-6399).
(Return to the Table of Contents)

HABITAT UPDATE

Good news on the Habitat front. The Home Store has been doing great business since it opened its brand new emporium in September. Customers are enjoying the bright, window-lit, sparkling clean building. Best of all, because it is situated on Business 64 West, the Habitat Store is highly visible and getting lots of walk-in customers. Real Estate agents are certainly right when they say, "Location, location, location!"

If you haven't yet visited the new store, please come see it. Who knows; you just might pick up a terrific bargain while you're saying "hello" and meeting our new store manager, Jeff Fogg. The money you spend will help fund the building of a Habitat home in Chatham County. The store is located at 467 West St. in Pittsboro (Business 64 W). Take 15-501 South to the traffic circle in Pittsboro. Go west at the circle; the store is on the left hand side, just past the school building and optometrist's office. The store is open Wednesdays from noon to 6, Thursdays from noon to 8, Fridays from noon to 6, and Saturdays from 10 to 4.

No, that was not a typo! The Home Store is open late on Thursdays until Christmas to accommodate all the working folks who want to shop for holiday bargains.

Which brings us to our next point. The Habitat Home Store needs volunteers. More customers means we need more people, to cover all the shifts, to ring up purchases, to help arrange merchandise and give a friendly greeting to all the nice folks entering the store. It's a great place to volunteer since the hours are extremely flexible. You decide when you want to work and how often. You can volunteer once a week or once a month. Please join our Habitat team. Call the store at 542-0788 to find out more.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

BOARD BRIEFINGS

FHA BOARD WITHDRAWS MOTION FOR CONTROLLED DEER HUNT

The FHA Board met for its regular monthly meeting on November 7, 2002. Walter Koehler, Treasurer, presented his report. At present our income and expenses are consistent with the budget although income on investments is down because of lower interest rates.

Jay Olsen, Director, requested that the motion regarding a deer hunt, which had been presented, but not approved or implemented be withdrawn. The Board approved the motion.

John Custer, Director, reported the results of bids to companies to complete work on the kiosks. Original bids were $20,000 and $15,025. By eliminating the project to enclose the Gathering Place Kiosk, the project would come in around $14,000, which was budgeted. Work should be finished by December.

Ed Farnan reported that the Sewer and Water Committee, chaired by Jim Cochran, is working on a review of a proposal by Fitch Creations to increase the sewer charges. The request is before the Utilities Commission and the committee will prepare a comment for the FHA. Jim Pomeroy has been appointed to the committee.

Walter Koehler, Treasurer, presented two motions regarding the 2003 budget. The first had to do with Annual Dues. As Fearrington Village has grown the annual expenses of the homeowners association have also grown (see Table below). This is largely due to the growth in population and size of land for which the association is responsible. However, more recently we have increasingly had to upgrade aging or obsolete facilities. Some recent examples are the audiovisual equipment at the Gathering Place, renovating the playground and the current upgrading of the Creekwood Mail Kiosk. In addition, due prudence dictates that an adequate reserve fund be developed to meet unexpected future emergency needs.

The FHA Board approved increasing the annual dues by 5 percent to $84 to meet anticipated expenses and provide reserves for unexpected emergencies. The motion was seconded and approved.

Koehler presented a provisional 2003 budget developed with the aid and concurrence of board members. A new projected expense is provision for a professional audit. In the proposed budget we also recognize the need to establish adequate cash reserves for unanticipated capital needs and to meet unexpected emergencies. This budget is expected to fully meet the financial needs of the Association for the coming year. The provisional budget was approved unanimously.

John Custer reviewed the status of contracts for snow removal at the kiosks and the responsibilities of the state for state roads. Sand buckets are available in the kiosks.

Community Affairs chair Cynthia Jones reported on the progress of the computer committee and commended Al Perlman for a marvelous job leading the project. The committee is looking for new members. They plan to encourage use and education sessions in the Gathering Place in January. Only the Directory and the Bulletin board will require a password.

Grounds and Facilities Chair John Custer said that street sign painting is proceeding. There is a sheet for volunteers in the FHA office. Pruning the Bradford pears and reseeding in Bush Creek was delayed by the weather until spring.

County Liaison Chair Al Lebeau reported on several issues. He emphasized the recent Pittsboro planning board activity on Powell Place, a new housing development at the 15-501 and 64 bypass.

Several residents discussed the deer management issue and the proposal by R.B. Fitch to form a committee to research the issue further. The Board will be reviewing that possibility at a future meeting. The possibility of relaxing deer fencing restrictions was also discussed and residents were referred to their local covenant committee.

The next meeting is Tuesday, December 3, at 7 p.m.
--Mary Hammond, Secretary

(Return to the Table of Contents)

EVENT SCHEDULER STILL NEEDED FOR THE GATHERING PLACE

Connie Eby will be stepping down from her duties scheduling events at the Gathering Place the end of this month. This activity is very important to the smooth running of the Gathering Place, which is used by so many of our organizations. If you have some time to volunteer for this very important activity, please contact Nancy Kern or Ed Farnan.
(Return to the Table of Contents)

FEARRINGTON MONTHLY CALENDAR

FEARRINGTON CARES CALENDAR