Tuesday, February 23, 2010
"Poll finds support for cell-phone restrictions" - Road Worrier - NewsObserver.com
If people feel this way, why don't they stop using the phones when they drive? Are they all idiots? Sadly, that's the only explanation that seems to make sense.
Monday, February 22, 2010
"Sales aim to undergird Harrington Bank" - San Francisco Business Times
This links provides the full text.
Obesity in Southern Village
When I walked up to the Southern Community Park yesterday, I was struck by their being a lot of peopel there, at least for the children's playground, and even some on the basketball courts and hockey rink. That was nice to see.
What was interesting was to see an apparent direct correlation between the amount of moving around everyone was doing and whether they seeme to be at health weights. Many of those who sat were quite clearly into the obese camp, while the kids who ran the hardest looked like they deserved a big meal when they got back home.
What was interesting was to see an apparent direct correlation between the amount of moving around everyone was doing and whether they seeme to be at health weights. Many of those who sat were quite clearly into the obese camp, while the kids who ran the hardest looked like they deserved a big meal when they got back home.
Rust color in the creek by Scroggs
I got an answer to the quesiton I raised about the rust-colored sediment in the creek that runs to the west of the garden and fields behind Scroggs. In fact, Dave ALMOND of Chapel Hill Stormwater Management came out and took a look. Very impressive! See below for full text of his report.....
The link form this page is to a good discussion of what he says it is - iron bacteria! It poses, it seems, no risk to anyone, and frequently happens around here.
The relevant portion is this:
"Description.
Iron Bacteria (Ferrobacillus, Gallionella, Thiobacillus, Leptothrix and Sphaerotilus) are a group of small (0.5 to 1.5 um), unicellular, organisms which grow in chains and excrete a mucilaginous sheath. (Image 1) This sheath becomes light brown from iron oxide (Fe (OH)3) and appears as a fuzzy coating on any available substrate (Image 2). Iron oxide is formed as the bacteria oxidizes ferrous iron (Fe2) to ferric iron (Fe3). The ferric iron becomes iron oxide when it is exposed to air (O2) and water (H2O). It is the oxidation of ferrous to ferric that produces the energy needed for the bacteria to survive. This makes them autotrophic, or self feeding, as opposed to heterotrophic. Heterotrophic organisms require a food source produced by others, like animals do.
Ecological Implications:
Iron Bacteria can be found in streams, lakes, ponds and ditches throughout the North Carolina. They are indicative of iron rich water, ground water seeps and low flow conditions. These waters are often acidic or in contact with an anaerobic sediment layer because ferrous iron is favored in these conditions. Although unsightly, Iron Bacteria are not known to pose any environmental or human health risk."
If anyone sees anything in the streams that could constitute a spill or other pollution, it is his office that should be called - 969-RAIN or 969-7246.
If anyone wants to rely on Wikipedia, here is its entry on the subject.
Dave ALMOND's e-mailed report:
"I checked on the discharge at Scroggs Elementary and it is a large colony of iron-fixing bacteria called Gallionella ferruginea. These colonies occur when you have groundwater flowing through iron-rich soils or in areas where there is prolonged inundation or saturation of iron-rich soils. When the anoxic groundwater carrying iron particulates mixes with the oxygenated surface water, conditions are right for Gallionella to convert the soluble ferrous iron(Fe2) into insoluble ferric iron (Fe3). The bacteria form helical chains of ferric hydroxide as they convert the iron, so the combination of bacteria colony and flocculated helical chain byproduct forms a rust colored voluminous mass. There is no spill at this location, these are naturally occurring conditions.
Dave Almond
Stormwater Technician
Stormwater Management Division
Town of Chapel Hill
405 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Chapel Hill, NC
(919)969-2042
dalmond@townofchapelhill.org"
The link form this page is to a good discussion of what he says it is - iron bacteria! It poses, it seems, no risk to anyone, and frequently happens around here.
The relevant portion is this:
"Description.
Iron Bacteria (Ferrobacillus, Gallionella, Thiobacillus, Leptothrix and Sphaerotilus) are a group of small (0.5 to 1.5 um), unicellular, organisms which grow in chains and excrete a mucilaginous sheath. (Image 1) This sheath becomes light brown from iron oxide (Fe (OH)3) and appears as a fuzzy coating on any available substrate (Image 2). Iron oxide is formed as the bacteria oxidizes ferrous iron (Fe2) to ferric iron (Fe3). The ferric iron becomes iron oxide when it is exposed to air (O2) and water (H2O). It is the oxidation of ferrous to ferric that produces the energy needed for the bacteria to survive. This makes them autotrophic, or self feeding, as opposed to heterotrophic. Heterotrophic organisms require a food source produced by others, like animals do.
Ecological Implications:
Iron Bacteria can be found in streams, lakes, ponds and ditches throughout the North Carolina. They are indicative of iron rich water, ground water seeps and low flow conditions. These waters are often acidic or in contact with an anaerobic sediment layer because ferrous iron is favored in these conditions. Although unsightly, Iron Bacteria are not known to pose any environmental or human health risk."
If anyone sees anything in the streams that could constitute a spill or other pollution, it is his office that should be called - 969-RAIN or 969-7246.
If anyone wants to rely on Wikipedia, here is its entry on the subject.
Dave ALMOND's e-mailed report:
"I checked on the discharge at Scroggs Elementary and it is a large colony of iron-fixing bacteria called Gallionella ferruginea. These colonies occur when you have groundwater flowing through iron-rich soils or in areas where there is prolonged inundation or saturation of iron-rich soils. When the anoxic groundwater carrying iron particulates mixes with the oxygenated surface water, conditions are right for Gallionella to convert the soluble ferrous iron(Fe2) into insoluble ferric iron (Fe3). The bacteria form helical chains of ferric hydroxide as they convert the iron, so the combination of bacteria colony and flocculated helical chain byproduct forms a rust colored voluminous mass. There is no spill at this location, these are naturally occurring conditions.
Dave Almond
Stormwater Technician
Stormwater Management Division
Town of Chapel Hill
405 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Chapel Hill, NC
(919)969-2042
dalmond@townofchapelhill.org"
Sunday, February 21, 2010
"Snapshot 2010: Orange - County Health Rankings"
How does Southern Village look as part of this? Are we doing better or worse?
Cell phones
Sent today to the Chapel Hill Town Attorney:
"I have had a couple of exchanges with Penny RICH concerning a possible ban on using cell phones while driving a vehicle in Chapel Hill.
In reading her piece today in the Chapel Hill News, she refers to information she has gathered about what has happened in other states, including noting that some municipal jurisdictions have enacted bans.
Are any of those jurisdictions in NC?
Would Chapel Hill be the first?
You may have seen something that I sent Penny earlier in which I argued that the Council should begin by adopting a firm town “policy” against cell phone use while driving. It would not be enforceable but it could be quite firm, and would send the right signal.
Before getting there, I want to know what the rules are governing all people and vehicles, Town-owned or not, over which the Town has some control through employment, contract or other means --- what are the rules governing all of those people and vehicles when it comes to the use of a cell phone while the vehicle is in motion?
Please forward this to anyone there who can respond if you cannot.
Thanks."
"I have had a couple of exchanges with Penny RICH concerning a possible ban on using cell phones while driving a vehicle in Chapel Hill.
In reading her piece today in the Chapel Hill News, she refers to information she has gathered about what has happened in other states, including noting that some municipal jurisdictions have enacted bans.
Are any of those jurisdictions in NC?
Would Chapel Hill be the first?
You may have seen something that I sent Penny earlier in which I argued that the Council should begin by adopting a firm town “policy” against cell phone use while driving. It would not be enforceable but it could be quite firm, and would send the right signal.
Before getting there, I want to know what the rules are governing all people and vehicles, Town-owned or not, over which the Town has some control through employment, contract or other means --- what are the rules governing all of those people and vehicles when it comes to the use of a cell phone while the vehicle is in motion?
Please forward this to anyone there who can respond if you cannot.
Thanks."
"Spill" - in creek near Scroggs?
Sent today to OWASA's director:
"I am not sure to whom to address this…..
There is a significant amount of rust-colored sediment in one of the tributary streams that flows near Scroggs Elementary School in Southern Village.
It is the very small stream that seems to flow out of drainage pipe just below the vegetable garden that Scroggs has set up behind the school adjacent to the playground. If you walk behind the park, nearest the woods (roughly west side), and down the hill, you will arrive at the trail that Chapel hill paved through those woods that goes to the Southern Community Park. The striking sedimentation begins there, the stream passes under the path, and then the sedimentation continues for perhaps 200 feet until the tributary dumps into a larger stream where it must have dispersed.
If anyone wishes to call me, please do.
If not your responsibility to investigate this, please tell me to whom I should report this.
Thanks.
( I am copying the principal of Scroggs in the event she knows anything about this; I see no sign in the garden of anything that looks to be a spill or, indeed, is anything close to the rust color of the sedimentation.)
"I am not sure to whom to address this…..
There is a significant amount of rust-colored sediment in one of the tributary streams that flows near Scroggs Elementary School in Southern Village.
It is the very small stream that seems to flow out of drainage pipe just below the vegetable garden that Scroggs has set up behind the school adjacent to the playground. If you walk behind the park, nearest the woods (roughly west side), and down the hill, you will arrive at the trail that Chapel hill paved through those woods that goes to the Southern Community Park. The striking sedimentation begins there, the stream passes under the path, and then the sedimentation continues for perhaps 200 feet until the tributary dumps into a larger stream where it must have dispersed.
If anyone wishes to call me, please do.
If not your responsibility to investigate this, please tell me to whom I should report this.
Thanks.
( I am copying the principal of Scroggs in the event she knows anything about this; I see no sign in the garden of anything that looks to be a spill or, indeed, is anything close to the rust color of the sedimentation.)
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Rust?
What's the rust-colored sediment that seems to be on the bottom of the stream that runs from behind Scroggs down to the trail? this is the stream that overflowed during recent storms and left sand on the path.
Friday, February 19, 2010
varsityonfranklin.com
We are lucky to have two theaters so easily accessible and, for anyone in good shape, easily accessible on foot or by bus.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
URGENT: Help bring the N.C. Symphony back to Southern Village this summer « Southern Village Marketplace
John FUGO promised to provide all of the numbers - the total amount that the Symphony appearance costs. How much? He through around 10,000 last night, but then said Harrington Bank gives a separate 5,000 and then admitted he did not know the full picture. My understanding was that he said he would provide that and this posting does not do so. Irritatingly, this posting provides no way to ask questions and no way to make a contribution if one is so inclined.
Homeowners' Association Annual Meeting - 17 Feb 2009
There were about 25 people there, with proxies from another 80 or so. The quorum requirement is about 70, or 10% of the residences in Southern Village.
The only two candidates for the two open board seats were elected without a formal vote – Rainer DAMMERS and Cindy GUDEMAN.
Cindy stressed her desire to help look after real estate values and Rainer talked about his role in promoting a more environmentally-conscious Southern Village.
In the course of the 90 minute event, questions were raised about trash cans for dog droppings (there will be one at the basketball court by the swim and tennis club), there was a financial report (we look healthy, with a dues drop of $20/year from last year to this year), a new resident expressed regret that more people do not shovel in front of their homes when it snows, one resident asked if it is possible to close off an alley for a party (answer - yes), and John FUGO made a pitch for money (8,000, he said) to underwrite the cost of the NC Symphony coming to Southern Village in June (otherwise they will not come – and that’s in addition to 10,000+ from the merchants of Southern Village – an e-mail may go out to all of us presenting some options), and then there was discussion of the two issues relating to architectural review board matters.
Jeremy PURBRICK, as president, asked for a committee to study the matters further and develop new proposed rules. He got three volunteers. Rather than simply deciding on the questions – whether to change or eliminate the rules regarding what we can plant between sidewalk and curb, and allowing people to put solar panels on any roof – he asked for more time to be spent on these issues by setting up a committee. The overwhelming sentiment in the room – not directly expressed – was to go with a kind of “reasonableness” test which I previously got both Rainer and Cindy to support (see earlier post here) but on which neither commented last night. In other words, I think they are headed in the direction to wind up with a rule or guideline that simply says – if you are going to put other than grass out front or want to install solar cells on your roof, describe what you plan to do briefly, send to the “ARB” and if reasonable, it will be approved.
The only two candidates for the two open board seats were elected without a formal vote – Rainer DAMMERS and Cindy GUDEMAN.
Cindy stressed her desire to help look after real estate values and Rainer talked about his role in promoting a more environmentally-conscious Southern Village.
In the course of the 90 minute event, questions were raised about trash cans for dog droppings (there will be one at the basketball court by the swim and tennis club), there was a financial report (we look healthy, with a dues drop of $20/year from last year to this year), a new resident expressed regret that more people do not shovel in front of their homes when it snows, one resident asked if it is possible to close off an alley for a party (answer - yes), and John FUGO made a pitch for money (8,000, he said) to underwrite the cost of the NC Symphony coming to Southern Village in June (otherwise they will not come – and that’s in addition to 10,000+ from the merchants of Southern Village – an e-mail may go out to all of us presenting some options), and then there was discussion of the two issues relating to architectural review board matters.
Jeremy PURBRICK, as president, asked for a committee to study the matters further and develop new proposed rules. He got three volunteers. Rather than simply deciding on the questions – whether to change or eliminate the rules regarding what we can plant between sidewalk and curb, and allowing people to put solar panels on any roof – he asked for more time to be spent on these issues by setting up a committee. The overwhelming sentiment in the room – not directly expressed – was to go with a kind of “reasonableness” test which I previously got both Rainer and Cindy to support (see earlier post here) but on which neither commented last night. In other words, I think they are headed in the direction to wind up with a rule or guideline that simply says – if you are going to put other than grass out front or want to install solar cells on your roof, describe what you plan to do briefly, send to the “ARB” and if reasonable, it will be approved.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
"ANSWERING CALL ON CELL PHONE BAN" - Herald-Sun
This is all I find on this so far.
My suggestion to Penny RICH seems to have fallen on deaf ears.
It looks like this is really an effort just to get some attention for the "issue" as one might put it.
If anyone can say that talking on a phone of any kind while driving a motor vehicle is not a safety hazard, I'd love to hear the argument.
And since there is no argument that I can imagine being advanced, why waste all this time?
If the Council cares about the residents here, it should simply adopt a clear and concise statement to the effect that Chapel Hill believes that no one should drive a motor vehicle and use any other electronic device at the same time.
With that policy in place, lots of opportunities open up.
To debate a "ban" is to waste time, and I think possibly lives.
So put it to a vote at the Council, Penny. The adoption of a policy in no way means that a ban could not follow. But get the Council on record in support of the idea that here in Chapel Hill we don't want anyone doing anything other than paying attention when they drive a motor vehicle. That means no phones or any other devices other than those needed to drive the vehicle.
And don't sweat the small stuff like what this means about turning on or off a radio. Ignore that argument, keep it simple and get it done.
My suggestion to Penny RICH seems to have fallen on deaf ears.
It looks like this is really an effort just to get some attention for the "issue" as one might put it.
If anyone can say that talking on a phone of any kind while driving a motor vehicle is not a safety hazard, I'd love to hear the argument.
And since there is no argument that I can imagine being advanced, why waste all this time?
If the Council cares about the residents here, it should simply adopt a clear and concise statement to the effect that Chapel Hill believes that no one should drive a motor vehicle and use any other electronic device at the same time.
With that policy in place, lots of opportunities open up.
To debate a "ban" is to waste time, and I think possibly lives.
So put it to a vote at the Council, Penny. The adoption of a policy in no way means that a ban could not follow. But get the Council on record in support of the idea that here in Chapel Hill we don't want anyone doing anything other than paying attention when they drive a motor vehicle. That means no phones or any other devices other than those needed to drive the vehicle.
And don't sweat the small stuff like what this means about turning on or off a radio. Ignore that argument, keep it simple and get it done.
"Wi-Fi Turns Arizona Bus Ride Into a Rolling Study Hall" - NYTimes.com
Are there lots of students using portable computers around Southern Village? I seldom see any. Where are they?
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
"Gauging Your Distraction" - Interactive Feature - NYTimes.com
Everyone in Southern Village ought to give it a whirl!
Monday, February 08, 2010
"Surfacing - In the Rogers Park Section of Chicago, an Ethnic Mix Keeps It Funky" - NYTimes.com
How does this neighborhood compare with Southern Village?
"County reduces waste rate" - Chape Hill News
I sure hope we get to the point in Southern Village where we can measure our year-to-year progress, apart from the larger area around us.
Sunday, February 07, 2010
"Gyms in Raleigh,Cary,Fuquay Varina,Chapel Hill,Wilmington - Health Clubs and Fitness Centers"
At the gym in Southern Village, and here, the club is promoting Twitter and Facebook and O2 Speaks. At the club, they are also pushing YouTube, too.
I have to say that what one finds on Twitter and Facebook for a place like O2 Fitness sure is a waste of time. Too much junk and nothing - for me, anyway - of any real value.
If they could only get their act together and produce something really crisp and informative, and valuable - and then offer it by e-mail, and - sure - go ahead and post it on the others as well.
This just seems like a wimpy way to stay meaningfully connected with customers and potential members.
I have to say that what one finds on Twitter and Facebook for a place like O2 Fitness sure is a waste of time. Too much junk and nothing - for me, anyway - of any real value.
If they could only get their act together and produce something really crisp and informative, and valuable - and then offer it by e-mail, and - sure - go ahead and post it on the others as well.
This just seems like a wimpy way to stay meaningfully connected with customers and potential members.
Saturday, February 06, 2010
"Coffee grounds perk up your compost" - HeraldTimesOnline.com
Coffee grounds have worked really well in my composter as well. I still wonder how many people in Southern Village are composting at all?
Friday, February 05, 2010
"Urban farmers fight nationwide to sow green biz" - StarNewsOnline.com
I wonder what the future of vegetable gardens is in Southern Village? How many people are growing vegetables at home and how are they doing it? What does the Architectural Review Board say about all of this?
Monday, February 01, 2010
"Born in China, Electric Bikes Gain a Toehold in the West" - NYTimes.com
Are there any of these in Southern Village?
Sunday, January 31, 2010
"Cell phone use facing backlash" - The Herald-Sun
I guess the issue of whether there should be a rush to judgment depends on how much importance you attached to safety and saving lives. And it should not take a law to do the right thing and refrain from using any such device while driving a vehicle, but probably will in order to protect all of us. At ther very least, the clear policy of Chapel Hill ought to be - When you drive a vehicle, don't do anything else while behind the wheel.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Tar Heel Express
It would be nice to see the merchants of Southern Village taking advantage of the people who will be leaving from and returning to Southern Village tomorrow. I wonder what they have planned?
"Tar Heel Express Shuttle Will Run Sunday
Posted Date: 1/27/2010
THIS SERVICE IS EXPECTED TO BE OPERATIONAL ON SUNDAY
Chapel Hill Transit (CHT) will provide Tar Heel Express shuttle service on Sunday, Jan. 31, for the UNC men's basketball game against the Virginia Cavaliers, scheduled for 7:45 p.m. at the Dean E. Smith Center.
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 6:15 p.m. from the park and ride lots at the Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry Road. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 East Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website at www.chtransit.org or call a customer service representative at 919-969-4900."
"Tar Heel Express Shuttle Will Run Sunday
Posted Date: 1/27/2010
THIS SERVICE IS EXPECTED TO BE OPERATIONAL ON SUNDAY
Chapel Hill Transit (CHT) will provide Tar Heel Express shuttle service on Sunday, Jan. 31, for the UNC men's basketball game against the Virginia Cavaliers, scheduled for 7:45 p.m. at the Dean E. Smith Center.
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 6:15 p.m. from the park and ride lots at the Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry Road. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 East Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website at www.chtransit.org or call a customer service representative at 919-969-4900."
Cellphones
Chapel Hill Town Council member Penny RICH has proposed restrictions on the use of cellphones while driving. Here is what I sent her this morning....
"Alas, I have not taken the time to read whatever I could find about your idea, as I understand it, of banning the use of cellphones by vehicle drivers on Chapel Hill roads.
For whatever it may be worth to you, here is how I see it…..
1. Anyone who does anything other than pay as close to 100% attention to driving a motor vehicle is endangering at least one person, that driver, and likely many more.
2. Sure, there are emergencies that divert a driver from her/his job momentarily and we never can eliminate all of them.
3. But, we can and should reduce or eliminate any that we can.
4. There is always the possibility of a law to prohibit cellphone use, and there are issues as I am sure you have found, related to jurisdiction, etc. To me, that’s not the place to start.
5. The place to start is with the core idea of my point 1 above.
6. Why not get the Town Council to adopt a resolution - with no force and effect other than that all of the people whom we have elected to lead our town agree – saying that it is the POLICY of Chapel Hill that people driving motor vehicles should refrain at all times from using cellphones of any kind?
If you cannot get to 6, then a law, ordinance, restriction, etc. with legal effect is just not going to happen. With such a policy in place, the options are really positive, e.g., signs around town reinforcing the policy with suggestions that passengers remind drivers of the policy, etc. It could be a real community effort as opposed to a “legislative” fight between and among a few people and groups.
In short, get the policy established first and then build from there with publicity and endorsements by other groups and organizations, our schools (including UNC), and businesses, in the town."
"Alas, I have not taken the time to read whatever I could find about your idea, as I understand it, of banning the use of cellphones by vehicle drivers on Chapel Hill roads.
For whatever it may be worth to you, here is how I see it…..
1. Anyone who does anything other than pay as close to 100% attention to driving a motor vehicle is endangering at least one person, that driver, and likely many more.
2. Sure, there are emergencies that divert a driver from her/his job momentarily and we never can eliminate all of them.
3. But, we can and should reduce or eliminate any that we can.
4. There is always the possibility of a law to prohibit cellphone use, and there are issues as I am sure you have found, related to jurisdiction, etc. To me, that’s not the place to start.
5. The place to start is with the core idea of my point 1 above.
6. Why not get the Town Council to adopt a resolution - with no force and effect other than that all of the people whom we have elected to lead our town agree – saying that it is the POLICY of Chapel Hill that people driving motor vehicles should refrain at all times from using cellphones of any kind?
If you cannot get to 6, then a law, ordinance, restriction, etc. with legal effect is just not going to happen. With such a policy in place, the options are really positive, e.g., signs around town reinforcing the policy with suggestions that passengers remind drivers of the policy, etc. It could be a real community effort as opposed to a “legislative” fight between and among a few people and groups.
In short, get the policy established first and then build from there with publicity and endorsements by other groups and organizations, our schools (including UNC), and businesses, in the town."
Friday, January 29, 2010
"Architectural Review: Your Opinion Please" - Southern Village Homeowners Association
This is all so fascinating. Imagine that someone chooses to make the time to move around Southern Village with a camera taking pictures of many of the properties that have chosen to be "deviations" (as the item calls them) from the guideline calling for grass between sidewalk and curb. I think it would be good to add some pictures of the homes that have replaced their original grass with the kind that looks dead in the winter. The photos linked to the attached posting look a whole lot more attractive to me that the looks-dead-to-me lawns that apparently are not "deviations".
Honestly, aren't there more important things in this community, not to mention the world? I can think of thousands if not more.
I have asked the tow candidates for the homeowners association board how they will vote on the first question. If they reply, I will add that here....
Ok, the responses:
From Rainer DAMMERS: "walking in the neighborhood and looking at several of the cases referenced here as well as many where grass is not growing or looks ugly with lots of weed in it I support flexibility within limits on this matter. On some patches underneath large trees it's virtually impossible to grow grass, or if possible only at the cost of large amount of watering and fertilizer which I can't support. Some low growing ground covers look better and require less maintenance than grass does."
From Cindy GUDEMAN: "If the "green" strip is kept tidy and in keeping with the integrity of Southern Village I see no problem with being reasonable on what is planted in the "green" strip. Should the strip become untidy or unsightly then it would be reasonable for a property owner to voice his/her concern to the ARB."
Very reasonable approaches, I think!
Honestly, aren't there more important things in this community, not to mention the world? I can think of thousands if not more.
I have asked the tow candidates for the homeowners association board how they will vote on the first question. If they reply, I will add that here....
Ok, the responses:
From Rainer DAMMERS: "walking in the neighborhood and looking at several of the cases referenced here as well as many where grass is not growing or looks ugly with lots of weed in it I support flexibility within limits on this matter. On some patches underneath large trees it's virtually impossible to grow grass, or if possible only at the cost of large amount of watering and fertilizer which I can't support. Some low growing ground covers look better and require less maintenance than grass does."
From Cindy GUDEMAN: "If the "green" strip is kept tidy and in keeping with the integrity of Southern Village I see no problem with being reasonable on what is planted in the "green" strip. Should the strip become untidy or unsightly then it would be reasonable for a property owner to voice his/her concern to the ARB."
Very reasonable approaches, I think!
"Calling All Cabbies: Remove Device from Ear. Now" - City Room Blog - NYTimes.com
Smart. The same practice ought to be followed/banned here in Southern Village. The next time you are in a car whose driver uses a phone or any other device, tell him or her, simply, stop or pull over. You will be doing both of you a life-saving favor.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
"Adverse Weather Map" - Chapel Hill Public Works
You can look up your street in Southern Village or anywhere in Chapel Hill.
Monday, January 18, 2010
"When Trying to Preserve the Planet Strains the Relationship" - NYTimes.com
Sound like anyone you know in Southern Village?
Saturday, January 16, 2010
"Driven to Distraction - Pedestrians, Too, Are Distracted by Cellphones" - Series - NYTimes.com
It sure would be nice not to have to listen to all the hot-shots I see walking around Southern Village talking on phones. That said, I learn more about from my neighbors forced to listen to one end of those conversations than I do in other ways! Most important, if they stopped walking and talking on the phone and, most of all, talking on the phone and driving a vehicle, the rest of us would be a whole lot safer.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
The Broad Street Cafe, Durham NC
See the 19 Jan event - why are we not seeing this sort of thing in Southern Village?
"In France, a Drive-Up Grocery Takes Off" - WSJ.com
Why not a variation on this idea for Southern Village - order online, and the store delivers all orders to central pickup point on Market Street. Multiple stores? Skip the refrigereated or frozen items to get started.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
"Campaign to Focus on Dangers of Distracted Driving" - NYTimes.com
Bravo! Let's start in Southern Village by telling anyone we know whom we see driving a vehicle while using a device to do ons simple thing: Stop!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Monday, January 04, 2010
Saturday, January 02, 2010
"Efforts to Curb Cellphone Use While Driving Gain Momentum" - NYTimes.com
Southern Village should impose its own"ban" on the use of any portable device while driving a vehicle.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
"Be the Journalist: Where to Share" - The Local - Maplewood Blog - NYTimes.com
It would be nice to get people in Southern Village and environs thinking about things we'd like to do that we are not, as a community, and things we shouldn't be doing that we are...... Feel free to add them here or anywhere else of your choosing!
"He Delivers Christmas Trees for Rent" - NYTimes.com
What a great idea for Southern Village to do next December!
"Antismoking Program in Mass. Draws Attention" - NYTimes.com
Why don't we declare Southern Village to be a non-smoking community? Of course, we cannot enforce that, but, still, some signs spread around the place declaring it so would be a very good thing, I think.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
"Giorgio Carbone, Elected Prince of Seborga, Dies at 73" - Obituary (Obit) - NYTimes.com
Anything for Southern Village to learn here? I have been to Seborga and can only imagine......
Southern Village HOA
When we first moved here 10 years ago, we had a printed directory of almost everyone else who was living here, and that was updated for a couple of years. Then it stopped.
More recently, I recall that there was an electronic directory of some sort, but I cannot find it on the Southern Village Home Owners Association site. Is it still there, somewhere?
It's hard to imagine having much of a community if we have no way of knowing who all of our Southern Village neighbors are, is it?
More recently, I recall that there was an electronic directory of some sort, but I cannot find it on the Southern Village Home Owners Association site. Is it still there, somewhere?
It's hard to imagine having much of a community if we have no way of knowing who all of our Southern Village neighbors are, is it?
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Cars parked on streets?
When we moved here ten years ago, it was impressive to see that every car had a place to go and that it went there most of the time. Now, the situation has changed. Maybe there are more cars. I hope that is not true but I fear it may be.
What seems more common, though, is that people are parking their cars on the street and not in their garages. This may be pure laziness in some cases. It may be packrats who have filled up their garages to the point of their being no room for their cars.
In any case, it takes a lot away from the streets of Southern Village and I, for one, wish people would put their often very large polluting machines in the garage where they belong and keep them there for every possible minute that they can!
What seems more common, though, is that people are parking their cars on the street and not in their garages. This may be pure laziness in some cases. It may be packrats who have filled up their garages to the point of their being no room for their cars.
In any case, it takes a lot away from the streets of Southern Village and I, for one, wish people would put their often very large polluting machines in the garage where they belong and keep them there for every possible minute that they can!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Town of Chapel Hill : Municipal Parking
This is a useful map of downtown showing both parking lots and metered parking spaces for those times when walking or taking the bus downtown is not possible.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Southern Community Park
How does the Town measure success of the park? With rare exceptions, any time that I walk through the park, the only facility in use is the playground area.
Does the Town calculate any utilization numbers?
Shouldn't we be trying to get more people out there using it?
It increasingly seems to me that tremendous opportunities were lost in not providing facilities that individuals can use as opposed to teams, and the frisbee throwing course seems to be falling into disrepair fueled by lack of use.
Does the Town calculate any utilization numbers?
Shouldn't we be trying to get more people out there using it?
It increasingly seems to me that tremendous opportunities were lost in not providing facilities that individuals can use as opposed to teams, and the frisbee throwing course seems to be falling into disrepair fueled by lack of use.
Friday, December 04, 2009
Brown Alumni Magazine - Car Wreck
Lots to think about here for all the cars, especially the SUVs, that travel our streets far more often than necessary.
Leaf removal cost?
I wonder what it costs Chapel Hill (us) to have all of the trucks run around our streets sweeping the gutters clear of leaves in front of everyone's home? Imagine how much we would save if everyone simply picked up and composted the leaves in front of their homes. There are not many gutters in Chapel Hill that collect leaves naturally that are not in front of someone's home. As the saying goes, if everyone cleans the street in front of their house, the street will be clean. No wasted fuel for the truck, no expense, lots more compost!
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
"Solar Street Lights-Solar Street Lighting"
What a great way to imagine adding more street lights to Southern Village!
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
"Denmark and Better Place in Ambitious Test for Electric Cars" - NYTimes.com
I wonder what we know about how hard it would be to replicate a program of this sort in and around Southern Village? How far do the cars of our area normally travel? Would there have to be a central charging station? How would that work? It sure would help us all to understand this issue better to map out exactly what would change here - given current technology - if most people switched to electric vehicles.
"Clear.com High Speed Mobile - Wireless Internet Service Provider"
Just FYI, in case anyone was wondering... It looks like Southern Village and vicinity are covered. I put in our Graylyn Drive address and it says we are in the zone.
Has anyone signed up yet? Reactions?
Has anyone signed up yet? Reactions?
South Orange Rescue Squad
I'd like to understand better the relationship between the South Orange Rescue Squad and service to Southern Village and environs. If we call 911, do they respond? Or, only if needed? Just how do they relate to us? Perhaps someone knows?
Comments from a friend
A friend who has just moved to Southern Village from another state, and originally, another country had some interesting comments to make about Southern Village.
One was how expensive are the products on sale at Weaver Street Market.
The other was how disappointing it is to find no bus service from Chapel Hill Transit on the weekends.
Sure seems like fair and accurate comment to me.
One was how expensive are the products on sale at Weaver Street Market.
The other was how disappointing it is to find no bus service from Chapel Hill Transit on the weekends.
Sure seems like fair and accurate comment to me.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Street lights
I love our street lights in Southern Village and nearby. In fact, I wish we had twice as many, or even more. It's a long, dark distance between too many of them.
That said, I wonder if the lights are either compact fluorescent of LED or some comparable technology?
And how much does it cost to keep them lit for a year?
I think we should at least know the answers to those two questions.
That said, I wonder if the lights are either compact fluorescent of LED or some comparable technology?
And how much does it cost to keep them lit for a year?
I think we should at least know the answers to those two questions.
Monday, November 23, 2009
"find toilet rebates in North Carolina :: water rebates in U.S.A with toiletrebate.com - toilet rebates - water efficiency - water rebates programs"
Is this program available to us in Southern Village?
Granted, there seem to be funding problems for these programs in other places if not here as well.
Granted, there seem to be funding problems for these programs in other places if not here as well.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Merlion Restaurant
I thought I would simply call attention to some of the websites for people and organizations in or near Southern Village. When I have time, I may add a little commentary....
Light-a-luminary
I think it is wonderful to see money contributed to the Ronald McDonald House. That's what the light-a-luminary effort says it is designed to do and money has indeed been contributed from Southern Village and vicinity.
We got a mailing from the project a week or so ago, and I wonder if spending the 44 cents on a letter to all (I am assuming this went to everyone) is the best way to make the largest contribution. Imagine, instead, that this became a project to see how much we could raise in Southern Village and environs for the House without spending money on mailings and without the fleeting but time consuming exercise of lighting a bunch of candles.
It seems to me that the focus ought to be on raising money instead of lighting candles.
We got a mailing from the project a week or so ago, and I wonder if spending the 44 cents on a letter to all (I am assuming this went to everyone) is the best way to make the largest contribution. Imagine, instead, that this became a project to see how much we could raise in Southern Village and environs for the House without spending money on mailings and without the fleeting but time consuming exercise of lighting a bunch of candles.
It seems to me that the focus ought to be on raising money instead of lighting candles.
Leaf composting
Why would anyone who lives in or near Southern Village want to put their leaves out at the curb for pickup by the town or county? Why not compost all of them and then spread the resulting compost in your yards in a month or two? What's so difficult about that?
I was amazed today in walking around Southern Village to see the number of homes with leaves piled in front. It's worth making a picture album with each house identified so we can talk more about this.
I was amazed today in walking around Southern Village to see the number of homes with leaves piled in front. It's worth making a picture album with each house identified so we can talk more about this.
"Welcome to NC54-I40 Corridor Study"
I'd hazard a guess that everyone who lives or works in Southern Village, or nearby, has a stake in this.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Nature trail and frisbees
I tested out the "nature trail" today, so marked on the Fan Branch Trail behind Scroggs School. It was not clear where it went, but I walked along encountering a number of the frisbee baskets, for whatever that game is called. What I did not encounter was anyone playing this game.
Do we have a map of the "trail" anywhere?
Why do we have the frisbee course if no one uses it? Or am I missing the frisbee rush hour somehow?
Do we have a map of the "trail" anywhere?
Why do we have the frisbee course if no one uses it? Or am I missing the frisbee rush hour somehow?
Hello and Bonjour
I divide my professional and personal time between Southern Village and a quartier of Nice in France called Mont Boron.
The similarities and differences continue to fascinate me.
One of the notable differences, however, seems to be lessening.
In France, as I walk about our hilltop, covered with pines and wild olive trees, I pass a few more - but not many more - people than I pass out walking the sidewalks of Southern Village. When I say hello to someone in France, the reaction is often one of being startled as I do not know the person. Recently, my sense is that this has changed. On my last trip, people seemed to go out of their way to say hello. I don't want to overstate this; most did not, but a few really seemed determined to make the effort to exchange a bonjour.
When we moved to Southern Village ten years ago, we were struck by how friendly people seemed to be...both the native North Carolinians and those of us who had moved to town. Recently, my sense here, too, is that things are changing. When I was out for a walk yesterday and today, one couple - whom I know - barely said hello as I greeted them by name. Several whom I passed seemed not to respond at all to my hi or hello. And most simply mumbled in response. Only a few seemed to be uttering a very friendly response.
So, bravo for France, and less so for Southern Village.
The similarities and differences continue to fascinate me.
One of the notable differences, however, seems to be lessening.
In France, as I walk about our hilltop, covered with pines and wild olive trees, I pass a few more - but not many more - people than I pass out walking the sidewalks of Southern Village. When I say hello to someone in France, the reaction is often one of being startled as I do not know the person. Recently, my sense is that this has changed. On my last trip, people seemed to go out of their way to say hello. I don't want to overstate this; most did not, but a few really seemed determined to make the effort to exchange a bonjour.
When we moved to Southern Village ten years ago, we were struck by how friendly people seemed to be...both the native North Carolinians and those of us who had moved to town. Recently, my sense here, too, is that things are changing. When I was out for a walk yesterday and today, one couple - whom I know - barely said hello as I greeted them by name. Several whom I passed seemed not to respond at all to my hi or hello. And most simply mumbled in response. Only a few seemed to be uttering a very friendly response.
So, bravo for France, and less so for Southern Village.
"Driven to Distraction - A High-Tech Nanny to Cut Off Cellphones" - Series - NYTimes.com
What a great notion - disabling the driver's cellphone when behind the wheel and driving! If the jerks who talk on phones and drive cannot be convinced to change their habits, this is a great way to protect the rest of us.
Friday, November 20, 2009
"Town of Chapel Hill North Carolina Executive Summary"
The Morgan Creek Trail project....set for action Monday night.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Reusable bags
I just added my vote to a poll on the CVS site. The results appear below and I wonder if the numbers are much different for the CVS on 15-501?
"Do you shop with a reusable bag at CVS/Pharmacy?
Yes
(1112)
29%
No
(1621)
43%
Sometimes
(1061)
28%"
"Do you shop with a reusable bag at CVS/Pharmacy?
Yes
(1112)
29%
No
(1621)
43%
Sometimes
(1061)
28%"
Friday, November 13, 2009
Speed display?
I was just driving through a town here in France that has erected a permanent device - not very big - on a lamp pole that tells drivers how fast they are going. We see this in NC from time to time, but it is usually only temporary and usually quite large and obtrusive.
Imagine if we could pick the road in Southern Village where there seems to be the most speeding, and erect such a device - with the Town's permission of course? As I watched cars pass this device here in France, almost all of them slowed down.
Imagine if we could pick the road in Southern Village where there seems to be the most speeding, and erect such a device - with the Town's permission of course? As I watched cars pass this device here in France, almost all of them slowed down.
Monday, November 09, 2009
"Transportation For America » Dangerous By Design: Most Dangerous Large Metro Areas for Pedestrians"
Has any pedestrian died in Southern Village in a traffic accident? Note the ranking of Raleigh-Cary metropolitan area. I think we are in a Durham-Chapel Hill metropolitan area but I cannot find anything online that gives a map of the two metropolitan .... or one or the other.
Trees
Southern Village was built at the cost of thousands of trees. So, too, the widening of 15-501, and the Southern Community Park.
How about we now take a tree census? Yes, let's count all of the trees in Southern Village and some defined set of environs and then keep track. If one or many come down for some reason, let's look for ways to replace thenm somewhere else.
How about we now take a tree census? Yes, let's count all of the trees in Southern Village and some defined set of environs and then keep track. If one or many come down for some reason, let's look for ways to replace thenm somewhere else.
Friday, November 06, 2009
"The Backlash Against Cyclists" - Bay Area Blog - NYTimes.com
How do we get cyclists in Chapel Hill to obey traffic rules? That includes stopping when you get to one of those red signs so indicating!
Thursday, November 05, 2009
"OWASA seeks comments on November 11th regarding draft Update of Long-Range Water Supply Plan"
"NEWS RELEASE November 5, 2009
OWASA invites all customers to participate in a Community Meeting on Wednesday night, November 11th regarding the draft Update of our Long-Range Water Supply Plan.
The meeting will begin at 7 PM; will be held in the Chapel Hill Town Hall, 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard; and will be televised on local cable channel 18.
OWASA staff drafted the update in light of the severe droughts in 2001-02 and 2007-08 and significant reductions in water demand in recent years. Key items in the draft update include:
· OWASA’S existing Cane Creek/University Lake/Quarry Reservoir system can meet the community’s needs substantially further into the future than previously thought.
· Expansion of the Quarry Reservoir west of Carrboro continues to offer the most cost-effective increment of additional supply and will provide full control of a substantial amount of high quality water with minimal capital investment. An expanded Quarry Reservoir is expected to meet most anticipated water supply needs for the 50-year planning period.
· OWASA should develop agreements with neighboring utilities to secure the permanent ability to purchase or sell water under appropriate conditions of supply and demand. Except for the expanded Quarry Reservoir, temporary purchases offer the most cost-effective option evaluated, especially for the infrequent times and limited amounts of water that may be needed in the next 25 years or more. Purchase agreements also provide mutual support when critical facilities are out of service due to maintenance, equipment failure, severe weather, etc.
· All customer groups have significantly reduced their water consumption in recent years. OWASA also began operating a new reclaimed wastewater system serving the University, promoted conservation with seasonal and increasing block water rates and public information, and implemented “process” water recycling at the Jones Ferry Road Water Treatment Plant.
· Investing in an expansion of OWASA’s reclaimed water system or establishing financial incentive programs, such as plumbing fixture rebates, to promote additional conservation is substantially less cost-effective than other options evaluated.
“The Long-Range Water Supply Plan Update presents a positive future for the community we serve. Through aggressive, conservation-focused actions, future generations will be able to enjoy a reliable supply of high quality drinking water with far less capital investment than predicted nine years ago,” said Ed Holland, OWASA’s Planning Director.
The Draft Water Supply Plan Update and a summary of it are available on OWASA’s website, http://www.owasa.org/, and paper copies will be provided on request.
For more information:
Ed Holland, Planning Director, 537-4215; e-mail: eholland@owasa.org
400 JONES FERRY ROAD, CARRBORO, NC 27510
PHONE: (919) 968-4421; FAX: (919) 968-4464
WEB SITE: http://www.owasa.org;/ E-MAIL: WEBMASTER@OWASA.ORG"
OWASA invites all customers to participate in a Community Meeting on Wednesday night, November 11th regarding the draft Update of our Long-Range Water Supply Plan.
The meeting will begin at 7 PM; will be held in the Chapel Hill Town Hall, 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard; and will be televised on local cable channel 18.
OWASA staff drafted the update in light of the severe droughts in 2001-02 and 2007-08 and significant reductions in water demand in recent years. Key items in the draft update include:
· OWASA’S existing Cane Creek/University Lake/Quarry Reservoir system can meet the community’s needs substantially further into the future than previously thought.
· Expansion of the Quarry Reservoir west of Carrboro continues to offer the most cost-effective increment of additional supply and will provide full control of a substantial amount of high quality water with minimal capital investment. An expanded Quarry Reservoir is expected to meet most anticipated water supply needs for the 50-year planning period.
· OWASA should develop agreements with neighboring utilities to secure the permanent ability to purchase or sell water under appropriate conditions of supply and demand. Except for the expanded Quarry Reservoir, temporary purchases offer the most cost-effective option evaluated, especially for the infrequent times and limited amounts of water that may be needed in the next 25 years or more. Purchase agreements also provide mutual support when critical facilities are out of service due to maintenance, equipment failure, severe weather, etc.
· All customer groups have significantly reduced their water consumption in recent years. OWASA also began operating a new reclaimed wastewater system serving the University, promoted conservation with seasonal and increasing block water rates and public information, and implemented “process” water recycling at the Jones Ferry Road Water Treatment Plant.
· Investing in an expansion of OWASA’s reclaimed water system or establishing financial incentive programs, such as plumbing fixture rebates, to promote additional conservation is substantially less cost-effective than other options evaluated.
“The Long-Range Water Supply Plan Update presents a positive future for the community we serve. Through aggressive, conservation-focused actions, future generations will be able to enjoy a reliable supply of high quality drinking water with far less capital investment than predicted nine years ago,” said Ed Holland, OWASA’s Planning Director.
The Draft Water Supply Plan Update and a summary of it are available on OWASA’s website, http://www.owasa.org/, and paper copies will be provided on request.
For more information:
Ed Holland, Planning Director, 537-4215; e-mail: eholland@owasa.org
400 JONES FERRY ROAD, CARRBORO, NC 27510
PHONE: (919) 968-4421; FAX: (919) 968-4464
WEB SITE: http://www.owasa.org;/ E-MAIL: WEBMASTER@OWASA.ORG"
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
"WakeWatch - From grease to fuel in Raleigh" - newsobserver.com blogs
Should we consider doing the same in Southern Village?
Monday, November 02, 2009
"Portland Establishes Climate Action Plan" - Green Inc. Blog - NYTimes.com
Why can't we set up our own community compostable collection plan? I could imagine a bicycle driven cart that could make the rounds with volunteers picking up compostable materials and dumping them in a place to be selected in Southern Village. Skip the not in my backyard argument; we've got plenty of places where we could pu this.
We should also run down the full list in this report and see what we could adapt to Southern Village and environs.
Frankly, I see no reason why we cannot act on most of them in our own way, in cooperation with the town of Chapel Hill and Orange County and North Caorlina, plus any federal government considerations.
We should also run down the full list in this report and see what we could adapt to Southern Village and environs.
Frankly, I see no reason why we cannot act on most of them in our own way, in cooperation with the town of Chapel Hill and Orange County and North Caorlina, plus any federal government considerations.
"Driven to Distraction - Britain Sets Tough New Laws for Texting While Driving" - Series - NYTimes.com
Any driver driving around Southern Village, or anywhere else, using a hand held electronic device is both stupid and selfish. It's a combination that leads to people dying. If the state of North Caorlina is not going to do what it should in banning all such use, we should be telling these jerks (the only term that describes them well) - our neighbors - to stop it. It's not a matter for debate; it's something that we all have the power to change either one-by-one or, even better, by act of our legislature.
So if you see a driver pick up a phone while driving, just say no, and/or get out of the vehicle if you are a passenger.
Fortunately, more and more people are realizing that on this issue there is only one right way to approach it - ban all handheld use while operating a motor vehicle.
So if you see a driver pick up a phone while driving, just say no, and/or get out of the vehicle if you are a passenger.
Fortunately, more and more people are realizing that on this issue there is only one right way to approach it - ban all handheld use while operating a motor vehicle.
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