Local/County

United Way of Chatham County reconsiders funding decision
[Aug. 1, 2006] On July 27, 2006, the Board of Directors of the United Way of Chatham County gave the Hispanic Liaison an extended period of time to become eligible for United Way grant funds in this year’s funding cycle. “This is an unprecedented action by our Board to provide a second opportunity to qualify for funds,” said United Way Director Dina Reynolds.

Rocky River Baptist to celebrate 250th anniversary
[Jul. 31, 2006] When Rocky River Baptist Church met for the first time in 1756, its members were subjects of the British Crown, living in a slowly-developing colonial frontier, still two decades from American independence. Later this month some descendants of early church families and plenty of others will celebrate the church's 250th anniversary. By William S. "Chip" Pate, Jr.

Rescued bald eagle to be released on Jordan Lake
[Jul. 19, 2006] At last the eagle that came to Piedmont Wildlife Center on June 6th, having been rescued from Jordan Lake as it struggled with a large catfish, is ready for release. A fisherman on the lake observed the bird struggling in the water and called for help. By Cheryl Hoggard
Also: Piedmont Wildlife Center

New Hope Valley Railway sizzles in the summer
[Jul. 14, 2006] The New Hope Valley Railway operates right through the weather, regardless of what nature does. Join the railway on the next Ride Day, Sunday, 6 August 2006, and catch the breeze as you ride through the shady woods in open excursion cars. The cars have roofs to keep out any rain and the occasional acorn dropped by some squirrel from above, and sides to keep all safe, but the usual window areas are open to the cooling breezes, allowing blissful relaxation while watching the trees go by in comfort.
Also: New Hope Valley Railway

Palmer to help build Pittsboro golf subdivision
[Jul. 13, 2006] Toll Brothers, Inc., a national development firm, recently announced it will partner with Palmer Course Design Company to build an 18-hole golf course at River Oaks, a planned golf community in Pittsboro. The Palmer Company is owned by professional golfer and Wake Forest alumnus Arnold Palmer.

Boater missing on Jordan Lake
[Jul. 7, 2006] Chatham County authorities called off their search for a missing boater Thursday night on Jordan Lake. Two men went out onto the lake at about 8:30 p.m. Thursday when their boat experienced some trouble, authorities said. The men were trying to bring the boat back in to the Seaforth Beach area when one of them jumped out to swim and disappeared under the water.

CARE spay days are successful
[Jun. 25, 2006] Chatham Animal Rescue and Education (C.A.R.E.) sponsored a series of subsidized spay days for dogs and cats of Chatham County residents who might not otherwise have been able to afford to have their pets altered. Six surgery days were scheduled starting January 21, 2006 and ending June 24, 2006. Dr. Royce of Pet Overpopulation Patrol performed the majority of the surgeries in her mobile veterinary practice at the Siler City Wal-Mart. By Karen McMaster
Also: C.A.R.E.

5-year-old boy drowns in Jordan Lake
[Jun. 25, 2006] A 5-year-old Greensboro boy drowned Saturday afternoon in Jordan Lake. Christopher Harris was playing on the edge of the water at the Seaforth Recreation Area when his parents last saw him late Saturday afternoon.

ChathamArts ‘Potluck in a Pasture’ at Perry-Winkle Farm
[Jun. 14, 2006] Songwriters/musicians Tom Maxwell and Ken Mosher, formerly with the nationally acclaimed Squirrel Nut Zippers, are among 10 local artists featured at ChathamArts second “Potluck in a Pasture” supper set for Sunday June 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Perry-winkle Farm in north Chatham County. By Forrest C. Greenslade
Also: ChathamArts
Also: Maxwell/Mosher Band

Saxapahaw Rivermill Farmers' Market is fresh, fun and kid approved
[Jun. 5, 2006] When Heather and Tom LaGarde created the Saxapahaw Rivermill Farmers' Market and Music Series last year their intention was to create a community phenomenon that would appeal to the whole family. With two young children of their own it was important to them that the Market have a special component created especially for kids. A Farmers' Market is a wonderful place for children to learn about farms, nature and healthy food. By Heather LaGarde

Chatham Habitat for Humanity looks forward to "Home Builders Blitz"
[May 26, 2006] National partners are donating homebuilding materials and labor to Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the country in support of the organization’s Home Builders Blitz, June 5-9. Local and national partners are doing their part by donating funds, homebuilding materials and labor to Chatham Habitat. By Duane Bates
Also: Chatham Habitat for Humanity

Historic railroad turning one-hundred years old
[May 22, 2006] The New Hope Valley Railway will be exactly one-hundred years old on the date of its next Public Ride Day, Sunday, 4 June 2006. The tracks now operated were originally built as the Durham & South Carolina Railroad during 1905-1906, and the very first ever revenue producing train was operated on 4 June 1906

Pittsboro Relay for Life at Northwood High School this weekend
[May 17, 2006] The 5th Annual Pittsboro Relay for Life Event is at Northwood High School this Friday and Saturday. If you’ve been out before, I’m guessing you already have plans to attend as you remember how special and how fun it is. If you have not had an opportunity to Experience Relay, I hope you’ll bring your family out this Friday night beginning at 6 pm (or whenever you can get there).
Also: Pittsboro Relay for Life

Chatham County receives grant for Southwest Park & fitness programs
[May 17, 2006] Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation (BCBSNC Foundation) has selected Chatham County as one of just five organizations across the state awarded the first-ever Fit Together grants. The grants promote physical activity and remove barriers to active lifestyles in rural counties.