02 Jan FHA Newsletter January 2023
FEARRINGTON HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
January 2023 Volume 42 Number 1
President’s Message
I always find the start of a new year to be quite exciting. Even if resolutions are made to be broken, I still make a few because it feels good to start with a clean slate. After all, this may be the year—who knows!
The Board also starts January with some new members and a renewed commitment to get things done. Along those lines, let me remind everyone that you should have received your invoice for the 2023 dues. Every home in the Village pays dues to the FHA, so if you didn’t receive one, please let someone with our management company know. We had more than 100 homes turn over in 2022, and new residents do not always realize that they must pay the annual FHA dues even if they are also paying monthly dues to their service group. This leads to confusion and late fees, which add up quickly. So, if you haven’t yet written your check to the FHA, please do so today. You are welcome to drop it off at the business office in The Gathering Place if you find that preferable to mailing it to the Associa drop box in New Jersey.
The Board has also decided it’s time to pay more attention to covenant enforcement (see the brief notice below from Ric Frank, our covenants director). Our covenants are not restrictive in comparison to those of many other communities, but we do need to make sure that people maintain their property in an acceptable manner, that they get approval before making changes or additions to their homes or cutting down trees, and that they don’t keep unlicensed, damaged, or commercial vehicles on their property. As our community grows and ages, this becomes even more important. Over time, it’s easy to put off cleaning up your yard or fixing your broken fence. You may not even “see” it anymore, but I can assure you that your neighbors do. Moreover, I have learned that those who live near you often don’t want to confront you face to face about the problems they see, so they call the homeowners association. Of course, every covenant violation has a different story behind it, but our job as Board members is to apply the rules consistently. So, if you get a letter in the next few months saying that an issue on your property needs addressing, we hope you will take care of it in a timely manner. Remember, all of us want to ensure that we maintain the unique ambience of the Village so that our property values remain high.
Our new directory will be out in a few weeks, in both printed form and on our website. It contains a wealth of information besides names, addresses, and phone numbers, so please take a few minutes to read it carefully. It lists all our clubs, instructions on renting The Gathering Place, maps to help you get around, and so much more. It also lists the email address for each Board member. If you need to communicate with us, it is helpful if you use our Board addresses, so your concerns don’t get lost somewhere in our personal email inboxes.
Last but not least, let me wish all of you a happy and healthy 2023. And remember, if you are making your resolution list, consider adding this one: “Volunteering some time to help my community.” Trust me, it will be very rewarding. Cheers!
—Rose Krasnow, president@fhaboard.org
Report of the Covenants Director
The FHA Board and Covenant Concerns Committee would like residents to know that we are going to increase our focus on covenant violations. Items such as abandoned vehicles or recreational equipment (boats, kayaks, trailers) that are left in front of homes will be subject to removal notices. Front yards will also receive closer attention generally. Our covenants benefit all of us as a community, and we as a community deserve to have them followed.
—Ric Frank (covenants@fhaboard.org)
Scene Around Fearrington
Winter in the Village
January brings the snow, makes your feet and fingers glow. February’s ice and sleet freeze the toes right off your feet.
Flanders and Swann, A Song of the Weather
Mention winter, and we shudder at the thought of bitter cold, deep snow, and ice. But there is more to this season than bad weather. Although visibility is hampered by falling snow, cold weather subsequently adds a crispness and clarity to the scene. Fallen snow on familiar objects creates a new perspective. Trees shed leaves, and we see the stark beauty of their naked branches. We become depressed by shorter days and longer nights but are cheered with signs of the holiday season: the traditional gifts and bright lights. Like the birds, we struggle to cope with snow and ice, but children and dogs romp happily. So here is a sampling of how village photographers see this season of contrasts.
Click on a caption for a larger view of the photo. Left to right, top to bottom:
- Betty King, Snow drapes a blanket over Brampton Close
- Tony Daniels, Ice adds a fresh dimension to our local scenes
- Jim Fink, A welcome sight of home in the snow
- Tony Daniels, Falling snow transforms the usual into an eerie scene
- Priya Jain, Ice creates a different view of a village fountain
Click on a caption for a larger view of the photo. Left to right, top to bottom:
- Jim Fink, Creekwood Trail: Snow on the tushrooms
- Diane Frazier, Cookies at the Women of Fearrington Holiday Market
- Diane Frazier, Garden Club poinsettia sale
- Priya Jain, Winter woods
- Gordon Pitz, Lights in Fearrington Village Center
Click on a caption for a larger view of the photo. Left to right, top to bottom:
- Betty King, Purple and gold: Finches feeding in the snow
- Jim Coplan, Snow on the Fearrington Light Railway
- Jim Coplan, Christmas on the Fearrington Light Railway
- Priya Jain, Ducks on ice
- Gordon Pitz, Making the most of the snow
Do you have any suggestions for potential topics for future Scene Around Fearrington articles? Do you have photographs you would like to submit? Can you suggest a local photographer whose work you would like to see featured? Please send your ideas to Gordon Pitz (gfpitz@gmail.com).
Where’s Sophie the Duck?
Sophie oversees the Lower Camden Pond before showing signs of disease. Photo by Doug Zabor
Many Fearrington walkers have missed seeing Sophie, the Muscovy duck, in the lower pond of Camden Park. Sophie appeared on the pond over four years ago. Two years ago, Dave Reynolds, a nonresident, took an interest in Sophie. Working with Fitch Creations, Dave built Sophie’s fine house and has provided the right food for him. Him? Yes, we were informed by the Carolina Waterfowl Rescue that Sophie is in fact a male. Dave concluded that Sophie is short for Sophocles! (See https://fearringtonfha.org/g2021-newsletter-march/#feature3).
Sophie in his prime. Photo by Gordon Pitz
Doug Zabor reports that conditions in the pond required he be moved to a safer environment at the Waterfowl Rescue. A comparison of photos taken early in his tenure on Camden Pond and at the Waterfowl Rescue show how unwell he has become. A visit to the vet revealed that Sophie is blind in one eye and was losing sight in the other from bacteria in the pond due to the lack of recirculating water during the dry summer.
Sophie at the Waterfowl Rescue. Photo courtesy of Carolina Waterfowl Rescue
This very lucky duck is now enjoying his new home at the Waterfowl Rescue, where he’ll be safe from predators. We owe Sophie’s wonderful care to Dave Reynolds and Abigail English.
Sophie is now well cared for. Photo courtesy of Carolina Waterfowl Rescue
Oh, one other news item of interest. The vet who examined Sophie is convinced that Sophie is female. Anyway, we wish her, or him, a speedy recovery.
Food Trucks for January
By Leigh Matthews
These visiting food trucks will provide a nice break for you from holiday cooking! Here’s who is coming this month:
January 4 Bulkogi Korean BBQ, featuring authentic Korean BBQ
January 11 Doherty’s Paddy Wagon, featuring the “best fish & chips in the Triangle”
January 18 Green Onions Bistro, featuring Asian-Hispanic fusion fare, including dumplings, tacos, noodles, and more
January 25 Cousins Maine Lobster, featuring, well, you know!
You can preorder on our hotspot page for all vendors except Cousins Maine Lobster, which has its own app for ordering (found in the App Store or Google Play). Pick up is between 5 and 7:30 pm in The Gathering Place parking lot.
If you would like to volunteer to help coordinate the food truck when it arrives, please email drepplier@gmail.com. If we have 4 volunteers, that is only an hour once per month volunteer time!
Thank you.
This Month’s Announcements
Please use the Announcement Submission Form to submit club and organization announcements, and email the form to editors@fearringtonfha.org.
Fearrington Clubs and Organizations
Please use the Announcement Submission Form to submit club and organization announcements, and email the form to editors@fearringtonfha.org.
AM Book Club
AM Book ClubJoin the AM Book Club to discuss Portrait of an Unknown Lady by María Gainza. In the Buenos Aires art world, a master forger has achieved legendary status. Rumored to be a woman, she specializes in canvases by the painter Mariette Lydis, a portraitist of Argentinean high society. We will meet at McIntyre’s Bookstore, Wednesday, January 18, at 10:15 am. All residents of Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge are welcome to participate. If you have questions, contact Cathy Clare, catfearr@gmail.com. Please wear a mask.
Bulls & Bears Investment Club
The Fearrington Bulls and Bears Investment Club is a group that is interested in improving our investment knowledge and capabilities. We do this through managing a small portfolio of stocks, making buy and sell decisions, and monitoring the US stock markets and trends. We meet monthly during non-summer months to share information, insights, and ideas about investing with fellow members.
Guests are welcome to participate in a meeting or two to gauge their interest in joining the Club. The next meeting will be on Friday, January 13, at 10 am at The Gathering Place and also via Zoom.
For more information about the Club or to join our meeting, please contact:
Anna Shearer, president, at 703-217-0322 or ashearer1219@gmail.com.
Concert Series
The Fearrington Concert Series begins a new year with a performance by the Mordecai Brass Quintet on Sunday, January 15, at The Gathering Place at 3 pm. The ensemble takes its name from a historic district in Raleigh and includes musicians playing two trumpets, a French horn, a trombone, and a tuba. The group will be offering rousing performances of traditional brass quintet literature spanning many genres such as jazz, classical, Latin, and baroque. The ensemble will also perform works by new and emerging artists in a fresh and exhilarating fashion.
Individual tickets may be purchased on a space-available basis at the door for $25 per person.
We hope that attendees will be fully vaccinated and “boosted.”
For more information, please contact Sheila Creth at sheilachapelhill@gmail.com or Judy Morris at jwmsings@gmail.com. Galloway Ridge subscribers should contact Nina Alperin at 919-704-8796.
Fearrington Democratic Club
Fearrington Democratic ClubOur first meeting in 2023 will feature Rob Schofield, always a popular speaker to the Club, on the topic, “Elections Have Consequences: Outlook for the NC General Assembly in 2023.” Rob is the longtime editor and director of NC Policy Watch and is very knowledgeable about North Carolina politics. We will meet in The Gathering Place on Tuesday, January 24, at 7 pm (come early to socialize) and also livestream the event on Zoom.
This event is open to all Fearrington and Galloway Ridge residents. Be vaccinated and boosted to attend in person, please, and masks are recommended in The Gathering Place. To request the link to register for the Zoom, please use the contact form on the Club’s website, https://www.fearringtondems.org/our-club/contact-us, by 5 pm on the day of the event (and sooner is better).
Dog Club
Dog ClubThe Fearrington Dog Club will meet at 1 pm on Thursday, January 19, at The Gathering Place. Starting this month, our meetings will occur on the 3rd Thursday of most months at 1 pm. Afternoon meetings, we believe, will be more convenient for most of our members. We hope you will find our new time preferable.
At this meeting we turn our focus to canine health. In an ideal world, your dog is healthy and injury-free. The reality is, dogs get sick and hurt—gastrointestinal upsets, respiratory illnesses, snake bites, sprained limbs, etc. Do you know how to provide basic first aid for minor problems? How do you know if the problem is a real emergency? And where to seek help? Addressing questions like these, Kristina Douthett, DVM, medical director, Dogwood Veterinary Hospital, will offer guidelines for optimal care for your dog.
Dragons Mah Jongg Club
The Dragons are Ready to Play!!
Fearrington Mah Jongg Dragons play on the second Saturday of the month, January 14, at The Gathering Place, from 1 to 4 pm.
We play under the guidelines of The Gathering Place. As such, we must limit our number to 50, and masks are optional.
Fearrington Dragons places a group order for new Mah Jongg cards each year, which results in a donation to CORA from the National Mah Jongg League. Last year, we raised $190 just by placing the group order.
The 2023 cards can be ordered now (they will be mailed directly to you in the spring). Standard cards are $14; large-print are $15. If you want to order your card through the Dragons, submit your request to Mary Donna Pond. If paying by check, make payable to “Mary Donna Pond”; if paying in cash, put the exact amount in an envelope with your mailing address and email address. Mail or deliver to Mary Donna (1333 Langdon Place, 1333 Fearrington Post). The deadline for ordering is January 15, 2023.
If you do not wish to continue with the Mah Jongg Dragons, please contact Mary Donna Pond so she can remove you from the mailing list.
Contact Mary Donna Pond at mdpond@gmail.com to reserve your place.
Drinks and snacks will be provided!
May the jokers be ever in your favor!!
Contact Robin Weinberger at weinrob@msn.com or 919-219-5228 or Polly Williams at pw82550@gmail.com or 919-478-4260 if you have any questions. Want to learn how to play? Contact Mary Donna Pond at mdpond@nc.rr.com.
Duplicate Bridge Club
Duplicate Bridge ClubJoin us for a face-to-face game every Wednesday in January (4, 11, 18, 25). We play at 1 pm at The Gathering Place. We’re always looking to add new players. Play the first time is free; after that, the cost is $7 to defray the costs. Questions, please contact Dianne Hale at haledianne@gmail.com.
NEW GROUP! Fearrington for Life
After two public FHA meetings about Aging in Place this past fall, a small group of Villagers has formed and decided to first focus on the transportation needs of those of us who intend to age here, in this community.
As we age, many of us are less and less willing to drive at night, to drive to cities like Raleigh or Chapel Hill, and many are not driving at all due to age, infirmity, or personal choice. Our committee intends to focus on transportation needs, from how we can facilitate transportation within the Village, to nearby businesses, and to a variety of cultural activities such as museums, concerts, and games.
Please join us at our initial committee meeting on Tuesday, January 10, 2 pm, at the home of Ann Sherwin Bromberg, 16 Yancey. Due to size considerations, we have to limit attendance to 15 people, but intend to organize other such meetings if interest demands.
To reserve your place at this meeting, please contact Karen Shectman at 785-554-8078 or Karenlshectman@gmail.com.
Garden Club
We’re very excited and looking forward to our January 17 speaker, Ginny Gregory. Ginny worked side by side with Jenny Fitch to create the Fearrington gardens. She was the Fearrington Village head horticulturalist for nine years, so she has wonderful experiences and stories to share.
- Tuesday January 17 at 2:30 pm at The Gathering Place.
- There is no advance registration.
- No fee for Garden Club members.
- The fee for other Fearrington residents and guests is $5, paid at the door.
- Masks are suggested but not required.
- For questions, contact Debbie Liebtag – dliebtag50@gmail.com.
Genealogy Group
Meeting Date: Tuesday, January 10, from 3 to 5 pm
Place: Large Room at The Gathering Place
Special Event: Genealogy Book Fair sponsored by the Friends of the Chatham Community Library. Approximately 50 genealogy books will be available for purchase. Members of the FGG and the Fearrington Village community are invited to participate either by donating or purchasing books. Proceeds will support the Chatham Community Library. Most books are in good condition, and most are priced between $2 and $10. Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card.
Contact Linda Grimm at 919-533-6296 for additional information.
Great Decisions
Great DecisionsA Series of Lectures on Current National and World Affairs
1:30 pm in The Gathering Place on Thursday, January 12, 2023
Speaker: Michael Gerhardt, J.D. 
Burton Craige Distinguished Professor of Jurisprudence
University of North Carolina School of Law
“The Roberts Court’s Revolution”
Professor Gerhardt joined the Carolina Law faculty in 2005. His teaching and research focus on constitutional conflicts between presidents and Congress. Gerhardt is the author of seven books, including Lincoln’s Mentors (Harper Collins, 2021) and leading treatises on impeachment, appointments, presidential power, Supreme Court precedent, and the separation of powers. His talk will focus on decisions from the Roberts Court that are altering modern constitutional law in significant ways.
Great Decisions lectures are open to all Village residents.
Green Scene
In January our regular second Wednesday meeting has been moved to the third Wednesday, January 18—still from 11 am to noon in the large room at The Gathering Place.
Come join us as we start the new year exploring some of the many environmental issues that are unfolding in our community and our world. All are welcome. Hope to see you there!
—Jason Welsch, Moderator
Fearrington Green Scene
914-806-4852 (Cell Phone)
PORCH Fearrington
Thank you so much for your generous contributions in 2022! You have helped provide food to so many of our Chatham County neighbors in need. Our 2023 collection date fridge magnets have arrived. If you would like one, please contact your neighborhood coordinator by clicking on the link on our web page:
www.porchfearrington.org/neighborhood-coordinators.
Republican Club
Your first meeting of 2023 for the Fearrington Republican Club is Wednesday, January 25, at 7 pm, at The Gathering Place.
Bill Crawford from the Chatham County GOP has agreed to provide a summary of results and lessons learned from the November 8, 2022, election and entertain a few questions. We will open a discussion and give you an opportunity to express your own thoughts and ideas for programs and activities to augment our own.
New president of the Fearrington Republican Club, Ernie Clarke, has this message for you all: “Thank you for electing me to the job. I will endeavor to uphold the standards set by my predecessor, to provide a forum where principles of constitutional democracy, limited government, and free-market capitalism are debated, promoted, and sought by those we want to support who aspire to public office.”
All Fearrington and Galloway Ridge residents are welcome.
Swim & Croquet Club
The Swim & Croquet Club will hold our annual meeting via Zoom on January 29, 2023. The board of directors will send email invitations to members early in January, and ballots for proposed new and returning board members will be included. At the annual meeting, we’ll be excited to share the Club’s successes in 2022 and organize efforts for things to come in 2023.
Tennis & Pickleball Association
Safe, affordable, outdoor winter sports in your backyard!
With a new January schedule, the Benchmark tennis/pickleball courts are open for joy, laughter, and fun at a bargain price: $75 one-time initiation, $75 annual membership fee.
According to the recent Copenhagen City Heart Study, people who regularly play tennis have the longest life expectancy compared to those who do other sports—an average 9.7 years longer! Want to give tennis a try or start playing again? Email Karen Vaca at khartonallen@gmail.com for more FTPA tennis information. Tennis racquets are available for loan.
Discover why pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America. Try out pickleball at Fearrington Village free clinics (paddles for loan) at 11 am Sunday mornings or 3:30 Wednesday afternoons. Email Stokes Adams at stokesadams63@gmail.com for more information.
Village Singers
Fearrington Village Singers, with over 50 voices, is celebrating its 25th anniversary jubilee this year! We are recruiting new singers to join us as we prepare for two spring concerts in early May. No audition is required, but you must be fully vaccinated and boosted against Covid-19. Pick up one of our brochures, located on the announcement board in your Fearrington Post kiosk. It includes our general rehearsal schedule on Monday and Thursday afternoons. If you enjoy singing in a group, please join us! To inquire, call our membership chair, Donna Corgnati, at 919-696-7353.
Men will pay dues and collect spring music on Thursday, January 5, at 4:15 pm at The Gathering Place. Women will do the same on Monday, January 9, at 4:15 pm at The Gathering Place.
We welcome you and hope you will enjoy making music with the Fearrington Village Singers as much as we do!
Women of Fearrington
Start off the new year by joining or renewing your membership. We always appreciate your support. Click here for a membership form.
Women of Fearrington continues to collect donations for its Wonderful Options Fund, which is dedicated to helping the women and children of Chatham County. Unlike many other funds, 100% of your donation will be passed on to our grantees who are also nonprofit organizations. To donate click here.
Thank you to all donors, workers, and shoppers who participated in the very successful holiday market. We earned over $5,200 for the Wonderful Options Fund.
A small group gathering for a buffet brunch (limited to 6-8 guests) will be held at a member’s home on Tuesday, January 10, 11 am to 12:30 pm. Check the website for more information and registration.
Our January general meeting will be Saturday, January 21, at 10:30 am in The Gathering Place. Anita Rao, WUNC radio host of Embodied will present Taking on the Taboo. To register, click here.
Join us on Thursday, January 26, at 11 am for a tour of the artworks on display at Galloway Ridge. The cost is $15, including a light lunch (tax and tip included). Participation is limited, so please register before January 10 by clicking here
Community Agencies
Chatham Connecting
Bringing Together Those Who Need Help with Those Who Can Help
Happy New Year! It is time for fresh starts and new resolutions. If you are a newcomer to Fearrington Village, you may not know about Chatham Connecting, who we are and what we do. Chatham Connecting (www.chathamconnecting.org) is a volunteer-run organization whose website lists numerous government agencies and nonprofits in Chatham County that need volunteers and donations of various kinds. As you browse the mission statements of the organizations, you’ll see that whatever your interest, there is something for everyone. Children, seniors, schools, hunger relief organizations are just the start. There are even opportunities to help out while working from home, and options for youth involvement. Your time, material, or monetary donations let your neighbors in need know that they are not forgotten. If you are thinking about getting involved in 2023, why not find out more? Please be part of the effort—it’s a great way to start the new year.
As we reflect on the events of January 6, 2021, the League of Women Voters of Orange, Durham and Chatham counties (LWVODC) recommits to its efforts to defend democracy. We invite the community to join us as we discuss the Electoral College (our current process for conducting presidential elections) and explore how using the popular vote would affect presidential elections.
On Thursday, January 5, at 7 pm, via Zoom, distinguished speaker, president of Asheville-Buncombe County LWV, and leader of the National Popular Vote Action Team, Suzanne Fisher Ph.D., will explore the merits of the Electoral College compared to direct election through popular vote for the president of the United States.
Our position is that the Electoral College is complicated, rooted in the country’s history of slavery, overrepresents some states, underrepresents others. This program will inform citizens about the system’s shortcomings and compare it to a process where the popular vote plays a prominent role.
Registration required: Register-Here or via our online calendar.
Continuing Education
Peer Learning of Chapel Hill
Peer Learning of Chapel Hill announces its spring 2023 semester courses. Peer Learning is a grassroots organization that provides social and educational opportunities for seniors in the Chapel Hill-Orange-Durham area. For a membership fee of $40 per semester, members can participate in all activities, including discussion groups and classes in history, literature, and film, plus a variety of one-time social and learning events. Classes meet weekdays at Binkley Baptist Church, 1712 Willow Drive, Chapel Hill (corner Willow & Fordham Boulevard). Learn more, including how to join, or contact us at peerlearningofchapelhill.com.
The School of Athens
The School of Athens is a new, independent, unaffiliated, nonprofit, adult academy. http://www.theschoolofathens.net
The School of Athens is inaugurated with its signature course: Ekphrastic Poetry-meeting at The Old Lystra Inn, a historic, 1890s renovated farmhouse, with a distinctly local, literary history.
Ekphrastic poems are written upon inspiration by a visual work of art, such as a painting, sculpture, drawing, or photograph.
Enroll now at http://www.theschoolofathens.net.
Ekphrastic Poetry class:
Dates: Thursdays, March 2 through March 23 (4 classes)
Time: 10 am to noon
Location: The Old Lystra Inn, 1164 Old Lystra Road, Chapel Hill, 27517
Maximum: Limited to 20 participants
Instructor: Blaine Paxton Hall (bio on website)
Cost: $75 (includes coffee and snacks)
Fearrington Cares material is edited by their staff and volunteers. Direct comments or questions to them at (919) 542-6877 or info@fearringtoncares.org. Edited this month by Carolyn & John Boyle |
The Fearrington Cares Center will be closed on January 16 for the Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service.
Monday meetings are also canceled for that day.
The Center may be closed but our volunteers will be busy providing transportation and Handyperson services. If you need assistance with either of these areas, call the Center at 919-542-6877 and leave a voicemail message in the appropriate mailbox; a volunteer will be in touch with you.
Final Reflections from the Director
Indeed, it IS a new year! January is often bemoaned as the longest month of the year, so we counter that with encouraging calls for a “Happy New Year!” and often a personal review of habits and eccentricities. Occasionally this review indicates we would benefit from extinguishing a habit; sometimes, our review indicates that we should consider adding one. It’s popular these days to hear people encourage one another to adopt better “self-care” approaches in order to live with less stress.
You won’t hear me argue against great sleep habits, moving our bodies more, eating less processed food, or starting the day with a book of poetry or other delightful reading. However, I believe everyone will grow and benefit from participating in better “community” care. Care about public education (whether we have children in school or not), clean water, small businesses, and learning to live with less are large examples of community care. Sharing a pot of soup, welcoming newcomers, helping a neighbor with a bit of weeding, visiting neighbors with mobility challenges, and bringing someone who no longer drives to a community event are all small examples of “living in community” and not just “a neighborhood.”
It is with eager anticipation of what the next decade will hold for Fearrington Cares, that I resign my position at the end of the month. It has been both an honor and a privilege to serve as your nurse and director for ten years. I will never be able to adequately convey my gratitude to each of you who has worked alongside me as Fearrington Cares has grown; I am sharing my love from the top and the bottom of my heart!
—Karen Metzguer, RN
Busy Hands Together
Tuesdays, January 3 and 17, 9:30-11:00 am at the Fearrington Cares Center
Do you enjoy handwork or have a button that needs re-attaching? Would you enjoy crafting with others? If you crochet, knit, make cards, scrapbook, needlepoint, or practice any other craft, we invite you to bring your project and join us at Fearrington Cares for a twice-monthly get together on the first and third Tuesday of each month. This is an opportunity to get to know your neighbors and make progress on your favorite craft. If this sounds like something you would like to participate in, then let’s get together for crafting, conversation, and fellowship.
Is There Hope for Living with Less Pain from Arthritis?
Thursday, January 12, 7:00 pm at The Gathering Place and via Zoom
Frustrated by arthritis pain and stiffness? Are you reluctant to use over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers? Wondering about exercise, weight loss, bracing, and physical therapy? Come to our program in person at The Gathering Place or by Zoom when Dr. Gregory Summerville, Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at UNC, will present a complete picture of diagnosis, life-style modifications, and non-pharmacological treatments for arthritis. Dr. Summerville has a special interest in non-operative sports and musculoskeletal medicine and clinical education.
“Short Visit” Home Care Services
Tuesday, January 24, noon in the Fearrington Cares Center
For many individuals (to be honest, for most of us), getting help with activities of daily living at some point in our later years will be necessary; several agencies already provide such services in the Village. Aegis Home Care is initiating an innovative “short visit” program which allows us to get important help without the four-hour minimum shift that is usual and customary. Come to this “Lunch and Learn” presentation to hear about this newly-available service. Call 919-542-6877 before noon on January 20 to register for this program.
Considering Clinical Trials and Research Studies
Thursday, January 26, 1:30 pm at The Gathering Place and via Zoom
Emily Olsson, Program Manager for the NC Translational and Clinical Sciences (NC TraCS) Institute at UNC will discuss the work of the Institute and her role there. She will describe how participants are recruited, educated, and supported during research studies or clinical trials that test medical concepts from development to implementation. This presentation will cover general information about study design and the research process and will show individuals how to explore and consider the pros and cons of participation. She will also cover important issues such as participant rights, consent, privacy, and ethics. There will be ample time for questions and open discussion!
Ms. Olsson has worked at UNC for fourteen years and is a co-author of numerous publications. She enjoys sharing her passion about the importance of research participation with researchers, patients, and the public.
Nurse Consultation Triage Clinic
Same-day appointments, 9:00 am-noon
Please call the Center at 919-542-6877 if you would like to see a nurse in the triage clinic. We will see you on the day you call if you can be here before noon. Fearrington Cares offers free nursing consultation for first aid, blood pressure checks, tick removal, suture removal (if you bring a suture removal kit provided by your surgeon), consultations regarding medical services, and in-home care services.
Concierge Service: Healthy Feet!
A new service, Routine Foot Care, provided by Pedi Cure, is now available (for a fee) in the Center. The new service will provide comprehensive foot care by a professional licensed with the state of NC. Appointments are made through Fearrington Cares when the Center is open (Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-1:00 pm). A resident will contract with the provider and pay directly for these services. More details can be found at fearringtoncares.org/staying-healthy/concierge-services/.
Movement Classes at the Fearrington Cares Center (except as noted)Suggested donation of $5/class session (cash or check to Fearrington Cares)Mondays, 11:30 am—Chair Yoga (at The Gathering Place) (No class January 2, 16.) Wednesdays, 11:30 am—Otago Fall-Prevention Exercises Thursdays, 10:00 am—Chair Tap Dance Thursdays, 11:30 am—Line Dancing Thursdays, 2:30 pm—Intermediate Yoga (No classes in January.) Fridays, 11:30 am—Light Cardio | Support Groups Meeting in Person at the Fearrington Cares CenterAlcoholics Anonymous: Mondays, 10:00 am (No meeting January 16.) Parkinson’s Group: Tuesday, January 3, 17, 1:30—3:30 pm Brainiacs Memory Café: Wednesdays, 10:00 am Meditation: Fridays, 10:00 am |
Health Services Offered at the Fearrington Cares Center By Appointment(9:00 am—12:00 pm, Monday—Friday)Nurse Consultation Triage Clinic: Call 919-542-6877. Same day appointments available | Support Groups via Zoomfearringtoncares.org > Services > Support Groups Caregiver Support Group: Wednesdays, January 4, 18; 1:00 pm Living with Chronic Conditions: Thursdays, January 5, 19; 1:00 pm |
Fearrington Cares Open House
We were pleased that so many residents were excited to see our new building. Four people can no longer claim “I never win anything”: Mr. Green, Mr. Martin, Ms. King, and Ms. Boyle won our prizes during the open house. Fearrington Cares has a lot to offer and we were glad to share that information with the community and welcome each Villager to our new Center. Those that attended enjoyed the Poetry Fox (two days), refreshments (every day), seeing fellow residents’ artwork (gracing our walls everyday), and sharing with one another. All residents are welcome to stop by anytime we are open to learn about Fearrington Cares.
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Another Blood Drive Success!
The Red Cross tells us that our December blood drive was outstanding. They collected 32 units of blood product from 31 individuals, including two first-time donors, potentially helping 100 people! As you know, there is a historic shortage of blood, and the success of our drive will help in many ways. The generosity of the Fearrington Villagers is never in doubt!
MY Home Is NOT Cluttered!
ACTUALLY, yes it is! You may have grown accustomed to it, but it really is. We know you want to keep that National Geographic from the Reagan Administration (first term!) because you’ll get around to reading it some day. You never know when you might need that extra Allen wrench on your coffee table. But seriously folks, clutter can be dangerous. It is not only a fire hazard but could also hinder emergency workers trying to help you escape a fire. Material laying around your house can be a serious tripping hazard for you or your guests. No one needs a twisted ankle or worse—a broken hip.
Your clutter may have a life of its own and resist a head-on declutter attack. In that case, start from the flanks. Begin in just one room by removing small piles of things that you haven’t used (or even noticed) in a while. Devoting even ten minutes a day to tidying will will soon yield surprising results. Take your time; after all, those piles did not appear overnight. But be determined in your efforts! The fire you prevent may be your own!
Welcome to Our New Residents
The following new villagers were added to the Fearrington Village Directory between November 15 and December 14. Want to reach out to your new neighbor? You will find their contact information on our community web page. Go to: FearringtonFHA.org (click Find People under the Directory tab).
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Susan Bone | 344 Weymouth Close |
| Marian B. Copeland & James F. (Jim) Farrington | 434 Wintercrest East |
| Peg Duffy & Leonard Zeller | J-204 J Wing** |
| Cindy Edwards | 31 Caswell Sidewalk (1199*) |
| Frank Ferreira | 177 Windstone |
| Elliott G., William T. (Bill), & Wyatt E. Ferris | 76 Trundle Ridge |
| Newt Heilman & Laura Morgan | 703 Spindlewood |
| James (Jim) & Mary Jones | 4504 Tyrrell |
| Jennifer J. Hertslet & Everett Lindsay (Lin) Jones | 1367 Bradford Place |
| Charlie & Martha Lewis | 4030 South McDowell |
| Lynlee Lambeth Long | 531 Weathersfield |
| Ellen & Steven Minden | 4237 Henderson Place |
| Sally Newbold | 803 Millcroft |
| Beverly & Bruce Pharr | 900 Burwell |
| Earl Settlemire | 94 Meadow Run |
| Hayes Simpson | 346 Weymouth Close |
| Ellen Singer | 50 Speyside Circle |
| Leonard (Lenny) & Sandy Spiegel | 4619 Forsyth |
| Ed Weintraub & Gail Wolwark | 544 Weathersfield |
| Alan & Lynn Zempel | B-307 B Wing** |
*Fearrington Post number
**Galloway Ridge
Are you a new resident? To register your information in the Directory, please visit the FHA website at https://fearringtonfha.org. From the left menu (top right on a mobile device) choose Directory, then select New Residents. To confirm you are not a spambot, answer the two questions (answers: Cow and Fitch), and select Check answers. This should take you to the new resident directory registration page.
To obtain full access to website features, you must also create a website account (available only to residents or non-resident owners). You can do this by selecting the Login/Register link in the top menu. Enter your information and select Register . Once your status as a resident or non-resident owner is confirmed by the Website Resource Team, you will receive an account activation email.
Are you an existing resident whose contact information has changed? Don’t forget to update your listing on the http://www.fearringtonfha.org website. Use the Login/Register link in the top menu if you aren’t logged in yet. Then, click the Directory tab on the left menu (top right on a mobile device), then select Edit My Directory Info. Directory updates can also be sent to directory@fearringtonfha.org. When you update your contact information online, the updates will be included in the Fearrington Village Directory & Handbook printed in January of each year. Stay in touch with your fellow residents by keeping your contact information current.
Death Notices: Residents may sign up to receive email notices of the deaths of current and former Village residents by emailing notices@fearringtonfha.org. Survivors wishing to submit a notice or obituary can use the same email address. Notices or obituaries should include the name of deceased, survivors (optional), date (and optionally cause) of death, particulars about funeral or memorial service, and any donations in memoriam.
| Day/Date/Time | Organization | Event | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday January 4 5-7:30 pm | Food truck | Bulkogi Korean BBQ | Deborah Repplier drepplier@gmail.com |
| Thursday January 5 4:15 pm | Fearrington Village Singers | Opening of Spring Season— Men singers | Anne Hummel annedhummel@gmail.com |
| Thursday January 5 7 pm | League of Women Voters of Orange, Durham and Chatham counties | Winter 2023 Lecture— Our Democracy: The Electoral College and Your Vote | Anne Triulzi LWVAnne2021@gmail.com |
| Monday January 9 4:15 pm | Fearrington Village Singers | Opening of Spring Season— Women singers | Anne Hummel annedhummel@gmail.com |
| Tuesday January 10 2 pm Home of Ann Sherwin Bromberg, 16 Yancey | Fearrington for Life | Initial committee meeting | Karen Shectman 785-554-8078 Karenlshectman@gmail.com |
| Tuesday January 10 3-5 pm | Fearrington Genealogy Group | Genealogy Book Fair, sponsored by Friends of the Chatham Community Library | Linda Grimm 919-533-6296 |
| Tuesday January 10 11 am-12:30 pm | Women of Fearrington | Small Group Gathering | Carol Wade wade-a@sbcglobal.net |
| Wednesday January 11 5-7:30 pm | Food truck | Doherty’s Paddy Wagon | Deborah Repplier drepplier@gmail.com |
| Thursday January 12 1:30 pm | Fearrington Great Decisions | Lecture | Fred Welfel 216-299-8241 fredatty@yahoo.com |
| Friday January 13 10 am The Gathering Place & via Zoom | Bulls and Bears Investment Club | Monthly meeting | Anna Shearer 703-217-0322 ashearer1219@gmail.com |
| Saturday January 14 1-4 pm | Fearrington Dragons Mah Jongg | Mah Jongg | Robin Weinberger 919-219-5228 weinrob@msn.com PollyWilliams 919-478-4260 pw82550@gmail.com |
| Sunday January 15 3 pm | Fearrington Concert Series | Mordecai Brass Quintet | Sheila Creth sheilachapelhill@gmail.com Judy Morris jwmsings@gmail.com Galloway Ridge subscribers: Nina Alperin 919-704-8796 |
| Tuesday January 17 2:30 pm | Fearrington Garden Club | Garden Club meeting—presentation by Ginny Gregory | Debbie Liebtag dliebtag@gmail.com |
| Wednesday January 18 10:15 am McIntyre’s Books | AM Book Club | Monthly book group discussion | Catherine Clare 919-704-8806 catfearr@gmail.com |
| Wednesday January 18 11 am-12 pm | Fearrington Green Scene | Meeting | Jason Welsch 914-806-4852 |
| Wednesday January 18 5-7:30 pm | Food truck | Green Onions Bistro | Deborah Repplier drepplier@gmail.com |
| Thursday January 19 1-2:30 pm | Fearrington Dog Club | Monthly Meeting— Canine First Aid & Medical Emergencies | Ann Melchior amelchior@verizon.net |
| Saturday January 21 10:30 am | Women of Fearrington | General Meeting— Anita Rao “Taking on the Taboo” | Carole Breckinridge 919-704-8548 breck130@gmail.com |
| Tuesday January 24 7 pm | Fearrington Democratic Club | Elections Have Consequences: Outlook for the NC General Assembly in 2023 | Cheri DeRosia 919-923-4506 cheri_derosia@hotmail.com |
| Wednesday January 25 5-7:30 pm | Food truck | Cousins Maine Lobster | Deborah Repplier drepplier@gmail.com |
| Wednesday January 25 7 pm | Fearrington Republican Club | Meeting | Ernie Clarke esclarke@charter.com |
| Thursday January 26 11 am | Women of Fearrington | Tour—Galloway Ridge Artworks | Mif Flaharty mifflaharty@hotmail.com |
| Sunday January 29 4 pm | Swim and Croquet Club | Annual Meeting | Andrea Tarpley atarpley6@gmail.com |
| Meeting Multiple Days in January | |||
| Wednesdays January 4, 11, 18, & 25 1 pm | Fearrington Duplicate Bridge Club | Fearrington Duplicate Bridge | Dianne Hale haledianne@gmail.com |
Our Fearrington Homeowners Association (FHA) is a volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to the health, safety, and welfare of residents. In addition to fostering resident participation, the FHA is responsible for maintenance of common property and covenant enforcement. For additional details, including job descriptions, visit the FHA tab on our webpage, fearringtonfha.org.
| The Belted Gazette
| Submissions Content deadlines are the 15th of the previous month. All persons submitting content will receive a confirmation email. Email submissions to: editors @fearringtonfha.org. Do you have content for an upcoming newsletter? Email us at the above address and we will send you the Publishing Guidelines. The Belted Gazette is produced by the Fearrington Homeowners Association (FHA), by and for the residents of Fearrington Village in Pittsboro, NC. The Belted Gazette contains community news, reports from the FHA Board members, items of interest to residents, and announcements of club and neighborhood activities. The Belted Gazette is published electronically 11 times a year (July/August is a combined issue). A link to the current issue is emailed to all residents who have an email address in the FHA Directory. A PDF copy of the current issue and back issues can be found on the FHA website (fearringtonfha.org). | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||