Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010
"Town of Chapel Hill : News Releases : Chapel Hill-Carrboro-UNC to Apply for Google Fiber for Communities"
I wonder if Southern Village would be a part of this if the application is successful? More background here.
So, I checked with the Town of Chapel Hill e-mail address for the project, and had this exchange, resulting in "yes", Southern Village is included.
"Yes, that is correct.
From: Terry MAGUIRE [mailto:tmaguire@newspaper.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 10:38 AM
To: Catherine Lazorko
Subject: RE: Geographical reach
Just so I am clear – the application at this point would include all of Southern Village? Thanks.
From: Catherine Lazorko [mailto:clazorko@townofchapelhill.org]
Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 9:58 AM
To: Terry MAGUIRE
Cc: Public Information
Subject: RE: Geographical reach
Ultimately that would be up to Google. We are applying for the area within the boundaries of Chapel Hill and Carrboro."
It might be worth imaging all that we want to be able to do, what we might do, how it would work, etc. either with the Google rollout or with an ehanced view of the goals outlined by the Federal Communications Commission this week. (For whatever it's worth, I am a former attorney/advisor at the FCC.)
Just how would Southern Village make use of more capability than it now has? What are the limitatoin on us doing more now? It seems to me that there is a big gap between what we could do today, and choose not to do, and the dreaming of unlikely futures that accompany campaigns like that fostered by Google.
If "it" already is built here and we have not "come", what makes us think that building something faster would make any difference?
So, I checked with the Town of Chapel Hill e-mail address for the project, and had this exchange, resulting in "yes", Southern Village is included.
"Yes, that is correct.
From: Terry MAGUIRE [mailto:tmaguire@newspaper.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 10:38 AM
To: Catherine Lazorko
Subject: RE: Geographical reach
Just so I am clear – the application at this point would include all of Southern Village? Thanks.
From: Catherine Lazorko [mailto:clazorko@townofchapelhill.org]
Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 9:58 AM
To: Terry MAGUIRE
Cc: Public Information
Subject: RE: Geographical reach
Ultimately that would be up to Google. We are applying for the area within the boundaries of Chapel Hill and Carrboro."
It might be worth imaging all that we want to be able to do, what we might do, how it would work, etc. either with the Google rollout or with an ehanced view of the goals outlined by the Federal Communications Commission this week. (For whatever it's worth, I am a former attorney/advisor at the FCC.)
Just how would Southern Village make use of more capability than it now has? What are the limitatoin on us doing more now? It seems to me that there is a big gap between what we could do today, and choose not to do, and the dreaming of unlikely futures that accompany campaigns like that fostered by Google.
If "it" already is built here and we have not "come", what makes us think that building something faster would make any difference?
Public schools
I wonderf what the percentage of kids is who live in Southern Village and attend the Chapel Hill-Carrboro public schools. Is it at the 95% or higher level?
Competition!
There was a great scene on Aberdeen and Graylyn yesterday - competing lemonade stands only a couple of hundred feet apart! I did not explore whether the competition was over quality or price - or both....or neither!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
"Quick Bite - Woodbridge - Health-Conscious Muscle Maker Grill Opens New Shops" - Review - NYTimes.com
What's Southern Village's version of this?
Thursday, March 11, 2010
"Earth Machine"
This is the one I bought from Chatham County many years ago and have gotten excellent service from it.
"Clean Water Education Partnership"
A good resource for all of us in Southern Village and its environs.
Compost census?
Having watched the truck go down our street today collecting leaves, branches, etc. I could not help but think what a waste that is when composting works so well.
Perhaps it is time we did a "compost census" in Southern Village to see just how many people are earnestly composting?
Perhaps it is time we did a "compost census" in Southern Village to see just how many people are earnestly composting?
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
"Buying green, but not for the planet" - Marketplace From American Public Media
This makes a lot of sense, and should be factored into any "green" initiatives for Southern Village.
"Q. and A.: The Economics of Coffee Bars" - Diner's Journal Blog - NYTimes.com
Anything here applicable to Southern Village?
We have a lot of places where one can buy a cup of coffee, no?
We have a lot of places where one can buy a cup of coffee, no?
"Goowill drops Governors Village site" - Chapel Hill News
I'd like to know more about this, but what I read here worries me about a "not in my backyard" approach that is wholly inconsistent with how would look at this if the proposal were to come to Southern Village.
Monday, March 08, 2010
"SpotCrime - Know Your Neighborhood"
Apparently, this site provides a map of crime information for Chapel Hill, kept relatively up to date.
"SunGard Public Sector - Public Safety & Justice Software - OSSI Public Safety Solution"
Chapel Hill Police Lieutenant Kevin GUNTER told me today that Chapel Hill will be getting this capability in place - "police to citizen" - within the next year.
Winston-Salem and High Point are already using this.
Winston-Salem and High Point are already using this.
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Thursday, March 04, 2010
"Injury Prevention" - American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP)
Note the strong common-sense recommendations here, including:
"Never text or use a hand-held cell phone while driving or motorcycling, and use caution even with headsets."
"Never text or use a hand-held cell phone while driving or motorcycling, and use caution even with headsets."
Status of development across 15-501?
Is anyone up-to-date on the project that may get started across 15-501 from the southern entrance to Southern Village? Kapkow and the developer of Meadowmont are or were the principal players, I think.
"Vernon Journal - Vernon, Vt., Finds Good Neighbor in Vermont Yankee Reactor" - NYTimes.com
As the crow flies, how far are we from the nuclear power plant?
"Shifting Soil Is Threat to a House’s Foundation" - NYTimes.com
I don't think this has been a problem here in Southern Village, or nearby, but I wonder how we find out for sure? New developments are at special risk, of course, but we may not be, and I surely hope so!
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
"Symphony concert to fill summer sky" - Music - NewsObserver.com
This version of the story contains no reference to the Southern Village Homeowners' Association commitment of money. I wonder if the Association's board changed its mind, or whether the original story was incorrect -- or it just got left out of this version?
No Cell Phones While Driving Community?
Imagine signs around Southern Village that say:
"This is a No-Cell-Phones-While-Driving community."
"This is a No-Cell-Phones-While-Driving community."
Walking "trails" at UNC
In case you want to know how far you walk on the UNC campus, here is a helpful map with walking distances included.
"Starbucks opens Feb. 16" — Employee News - UNC School of Medicine
A nice healthy walk from Southern Village!
Weaver Street Market tip
Yesterday, I made a small purchase at Weaver Street Market and learned something new.
It seems that VISA charges WSM 50 cents for every transaction, including those for only a few dollars - IF you push the debit option with your VISA card. However, if you opt for credit, it is only a small percentage charge that is less than the 50 cents.
The rule of thumb, the WSM person told me, is that if using a VISA card for something under $15, go "credit". If over 15, use "debit".
Always nice to save a few cents for a highly valued Southern Village whenever we can!
It seems that VISA charges WSM 50 cents for every transaction, including those for only a few dollars - IF you push the debit option with your VISA card. However, if you opt for credit, it is only a small percentage charge that is less than the 50 cents.
The rule of thumb, the WSM person told me, is that if using a VISA card for something under $15, go "credit". If over 15, use "debit".
Always nice to save a few cents for a highly valued Southern Village whenever we can!
"Bow-and-arrow hunt for deer causes hard feelings in NC gated community" - WTKR
Interesting issue confronting another Homeowners' Association nearby. How are our deer doing? I have not seen many lately. Perhaps they have moved to Governor's Club?
"Crime" - dailytarheel.com
If you want to follow crime reports relating to Chapel Hill (and you can zoom in to see only Southern Village or your own street), this is an excellent way to do so, courtesy of the Daily Tar Heel. The map seems to be a month out of date, but current reports for all of Chapel Hill appear as links below the map, organized by day. For example, yesterday there was a report of a "suspicious" vehicle in the Park and Ride lot at 1 AM.....
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Suds, paths and paint
Three things I noted today when out for a short walk.....
One, why does the water that flows into the stream from the pond - run-off - in front of Scroggs look like soapy discharge from a dirty wash load?
Two, isn't about time that we worked with Scroggs and the Town to put in a path around the pond instead of leaving it the way it is?
Three, why isn't the paint that I think was put on some of the roads for a recent running race disappearing? Did they use the right paint? How do we remove it?
One, why does the water that flows into the stream from the pond - run-off - in front of Scroggs look like soapy discharge from a dirty wash load?
Two, isn't about time that we worked with Scroggs and the Town to put in a path around the pond instead of leaving it the way it is?
Three, why isn't the paint that I think was put on some of the roads for a recent running race disappearing? Did they use the right paint? How do we remove it?
Monday, March 01, 2010
"N.C. Go Green - Grow your green skills and find out how others are going green"
This may have some content on it from time to time that would be worthwhile for those of us in Southern Village and environs.
"IRABankRatings.com - Move Your Money Project"
Harrington Bank in Southern Village appears on this list, but in order to find out what rating it got from this group, one needs to pay a fee. All we know is that Harrington got a B or better from this list.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
"Join us for big name speakers performers other notables"
Well worth reading - at least as a reminder - for all who live in and around Southern Village.
"In Westchester County, a ‘Ghost’ Police Car Is on Patrol" - NYTimes.com
Just what is needed in Chapel Hill, even if just to encourage drivers to do the right thing and NOT use a cellphone while driving. I still think there is merit in citizens nothing license plates of cars with drivers obviously on the phone while driving and sharing those with the Chapel Hill Police.
Southern Village food + Memorial Hall performance?
Why haven't we seen any proposals to combine a meal in Southern Village with a performance at Memorial Hall?
For example, my wife and I attended a wonderful UNC Jazz Band concert last night at Memorial Hall. Tickets were $15. Imagine if one or more of the eating establishments in Southern Village had offered a meal at 6, bus from Market Street to Memorial Hall at 7:30, and dessert back in Southern Village at 10:30?
One would think that become a nice event, perhaps a chance to see or meet others in with a common interest or residence in Southern Village, a chance to add more bodies at dinner tables - early - in Southern Village and a chance to share the performance with more people and help the Band in the process.....
No?
For example, my wife and I attended a wonderful UNC Jazz Band concert last night at Memorial Hall. Tickets were $15. Imagine if one or more of the eating establishments in Southern Village had offered a meal at 6, bus from Market Street to Memorial Hall at 7:30, and dessert back in Southern Village at 10:30?
One would think that become a nice event, perhaps a chance to see or meet others in with a common interest or residence in Southern Village, a chance to add more bodies at dinner tables - early - in Southern Village and a chance to share the performance with more people and help the Band in the process.....
No?
Saturday, February 27, 2010
"Clean Energy Durham"
Do we have a version of this for Orange County that we could use here in Southern Village? I have sent an e-mail to the people in Durham to ask them if they are aware of anyone doing the same here.
Friday, February 26, 2010
"Southern Village Symphony Performance in Jeopardy" - The Chapel Hill Magazine Blog - Chapel Hill Magazine
This is from earlier in the week, but it seems to contain some more details about how the money flows in connection with the Symphony's visit to Southern Village. I think there may be another story in the Chapel Hill News on Sunday.
"Philadelphia Orchestra Musicians Give Up Raises and Agree to Hiring Freeze" - ArtsBeat Blog - NYTimes.com
The NC Symphony is not the only one having problems, it seems.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Speed bumps - from Erin Furr
"If you are interested in speed tables on your street see the attached documents from the Town of Chapel Hill. In the past it was discussed with Kumar from Public Works that Southern Village streets should be looked at on the whole – not on a one-on-one basis – as a speed table on one street will only drive cars to adjacent streets without speed tables.
However, since they are putting in a speed table on Westside Drive, it is apparent Kumar is now able to look at speed tables individually. If you would like a speed table on your street here’s what to do:
1. Fill out a request form for traffic calming (please visit www.southernvillage.org for the forms) 2. The town will send you a petition for your street to sign (if you don’t get it in a week you will have to follow up)
Please e-mail Kumar with Public works kneppalli@townofchapelhill.org and the mayor and commissioners urging them to look at this issue immediately mayorandcouncil@townofchapelhill.org.
Please do not send requests to me. They have to be sent to Public Works."
However, since they are putting in a speed table on Westside Drive, it is apparent Kumar is now able to look at speed tables individually. If you would like a speed table on your street here’s what to do:
1. Fill out a request form for traffic calming (please visit www.southernvillage.org for the forms) 2. The town will send you a petition for your street to sign (if you don’t get it in a week you will have to follow up)
Please e-mail Kumar with Public works kneppalli@townofchapelhill.org and the mayor and commissioners urging them to look at this issue immediately mayorandcouncil@townofchapelhill.org.
Please do not send requests to me. They have to be sent to Public Works."
"Tree ordinance move grows into resistance" - Herald-Sun
It seems to me that the best way to handle the tree issue is very simple. If the owner of property cuts down a tree, the owner is obliged to plant another, somewhere in the community, if not on the same land.
"Volunteers join to clean up Haw River" - Herald-Sun
I think we need to organize some of these for the creeks and streams that run through Southern Village. There sure seems to be a lot of garbage in them.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
"Raleigh Is The Leader In LED Lighting Project" - Orange County - MyNC.com
Note reference to Chapel Hill. How about Southern Village?
"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
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