8-15-09 Derita-Statesville Road Community Org Newsletter

Thursday, August 20th
Mayoral & Council Candidates' Meet & Greet Forum
7pm, Derita Presbyterian Church, West Sugar Creek Rd.

Derita-Statesville Road Community Organization will host an evening event for you to meet ALL of the candidates vying to become Charlotte's next Mayor; incumbents and challengers for Districts 2 & 4; and all of the At-Large Candidates for City Council.

Candidates for Mayor will begin speaking promptly at 7pm, with a brief Q & A session before a short break for refreshments and time for meeting one-on-one with all of the Candidates. This will be followed sessions with the District Candidates and then with the At-Large Candidates --- with each making a brief statement and then questions from the floor.

This meeting is open to the Public and we encourage you to meet these Candidates before the Primary Election.

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DSRCO Community Calendar
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Wednesday, August 19th
Open House at Vance4:00 -6:00 pm, Vance Senior High School
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Sunday, August 23
Community Day
Statesville Avenue Presbyterian Church, 3435 Nevin Rd 704 596-4550

10 am Worship
12 Noon - 3pm Community Day Festivities
Free Food & Refreshments, Free School Supplies, Entertainment & Games
Open to Everyone
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Wednesday, September 2nd
Of Faith and Freedom, a Patriotic Musical
6:30 PM at University City United Methodist Church

Of Faith and Freedom, celebrating God’s blessings on America, will be presented by the University City United Methodist Church Celebration Choir, Orchestra, Spirit Singers, Women’s Trio, Children’s Ensemble, Soloists, Color Guard, Narrators, and Tech Team.. Active and veteran Military, Police, Fire, and EMS personnel will be recognized during the presentation. This is a free concert and a love offering will be received. Childcare during the concert for ages 0-5 years is available by reservation, call 704-369-8027. For more information please visit www.ucumc.org
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Saturday, September 12th
Hidden Valley Parade and Festival
Hidden Valley Elementary School, 5100 Snow White Lane

Parade: 10 AM
Festival: 11 AM

We Need Vendors to sell items at $30.00 per booth
We Need Entertainers, Steppers, Marchers, Cars, etc
Please call Linda Butler at 704-965-5658 for more information
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Tuesday, Sept. 15th
Mecklenburg County Primary Elections
Polls open at 6:30 am -- Close at 7
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Sunday, September 20th
NorthEast Coalition Meeting
3:00 pm at the University City Library. The NorthEast Coalition will not meet over the summer. Speakers at our Sept. Meeting will be Chief of Police, Chief Rodney Monroe and City manager Curt Walton. They will speak on the state of Charlotte and will answer your questions and concerns.

Also, Deputy Chief Kerr Putney and two of our local Captains, Captain Lafreda Lester of the University City Division and Captain Greg Collins of the North Division will be present The NorthEast Coalition will also open the meeting to all candidates running for office for 3 minutes to state their positions and answer questions. Please, candidates, RSVP cgftjf@aol.com if you wish to attend and wish to be scheduled. Claire Green FallonPresident -NorthEast Coalition704-596-8288 CGFTJF@aol.com
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Act Now, Save Our Post Office
Derita Post Office, one of 5 that May Be Closed

The Charlotte Postmaster has suggested consolidating or closing five area post offices as a cost-cutting effort. The others are Eastway, Freedom, Arrowood Rd, and 30th St.

A list of 766 Post Offices to be consolidated or closed has been submitted to Congress to show them the Post Office is serious about trimming expenses and finding ways to save money.

This is NOT because they aren't busy. Derita Station has some lengthy lines throughout the day, often stretching into the foyer during peak hours. It has two full-time counter persons, 1 part-time counter person, and another full-time counter person floating between Derita & David Cox. . . If anything, the Derita Post Office should be expanded.

Should the closure happen, nearly 500 PO Box Holders would have to go elsewhere to pickup their mail. That means a extra 3-mile trip out to David Cox and 3 miles back, (That's right 6 miles round trip! ) or an even longer trip to North Tryon St. --- wherever enough boxes could be made available. The same for you folks who want to mail a package, buy stamps, purchase a money order, or drop a letter in the box.

David Cox is also where you will have to go sign for & pick up your registered or certified mail, or pickup packages that you were not at home to receive. . . 6 miles round trip.

Like I said, the closing is NOT about improving service for anyone. Waiting lines will be longer, you'll be burning more gas and sitting in traffic.

We need to write/email Congress Now to save our Derita Post Office. We need to tell them that it is truly needed to serve the residents of our 10,000+ surrounding rooftops. That it is the essential for the local business community. That by closing it, we are creating a burden on both postal patrons and driving away the paying customers that the Postal Service needs to keep.


So how do we save it? You send letters ( and EMAILS! ) Now.

Write the "Postmaster, Charlotte, NC."
You can write a full letter to express your feelings, or you can simply say,

"I am a Derita Postal Patron and I want the Derita Post Office to continue serving myself, my family, and my community." Be sure to sign the letter and state your address to make it official.

Email the Postmaster
http://faq.usps.com/eCustomer/iq/usps/escalate.jsp
They make it pretty inconvenient to email them, but here's the buttons you click to get to a writable screen . . . I wrote:

"As a Business Box Holder for more than two decades and a frequent patron at Derita Station (28221), I do not want to see this Post Office closed. Moving my box to David Cox Rd, or making the 6 mile trip there to purchase stamps, mail packages, or pickup registered & certified mail is NOT an option. Tens
of thousands of people in this community rely on its continued operation. Please do not close it."

Click continue and the next page is set up to record your contact information. Be sure to click the box to receive an email reply from the Post Office.

Email Sue Myrick
http://myrick.house.gov/zipauth.shtml
or write her at:

Congresswoman Sue MyrickU.S. House of Representatives
230 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515

Email Mel Watt
http://watt.house.gov/contactinfo.aspor write him at:

Congressman Mel WattU.S. House of Representatives2304 Rayburn HOBWashington, DC 20515-3312

Email
Email our Mayor and Our City Council Members
Next to the banks, The City of Charlotte is probably one of the Post Office's biggest customers. They should have some clout with Charlotte Postmaster in saving our Derita Post Office.

lassiter@bellsouth.net, anthony@anthonyfoxx.com, JamesDistrict2@aol.com, michael@barnesdistrict4.com, SBurg346@aol.com, edwin@edwinpeacock.com

Act now! A decision will be reached by Sept. 30th

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What your Neighbors are saying:


Thanks for the Veggies Tip
Just got back from my second visit to Keziah's Furniture (2914 Gibbon Rd). Picked up some tomatoes, cukes and squash there last week and just had to go back. I selected six more really nice size tomatoes (for $2) that would have easily cost me $4-5 at the grocery store. At those prices, I should have bought more, but I wanted to leave some for the other folks who read your last newsletter. I'll be telling my friends about Keziah's, too. --- Ellen B.

Glad you stopped in. Frances tells me several folks have asked her "Where's
the produce stand?" It's that table & collection of baskets beside the front
door. What you see has usually been picked that same morning and sometimes
they pick twice a day. I like the variety of tomatoes. The large Beefsteaks are
nice and meaty, but I also like the higher acid ones just to slice and eat. -- Bernie
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Walgreens & the Race Track
Sure is great to see the scaffolding rising at Graham & Sugar Creek for the new Walgreens Drug Store. What took them so long? Also, have you heard anything about the Metrolina Speedway?

Guess you missed our newsletter note. The site preparation took longer than
expected because there were so many fiber optic cables buried on the property
that they actually had to build up the elevation on that corner. Working out the
"final" roadway plans with both CDOT & NCDOT for that intersection was also
a bear. . .But, as you can see, the masonry work has started and they will probably
be open before you can say "Halloween Candy."

Re: Metrolina Speedway. See the Derita Businesses & Service Providers note
below.
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Thanks to Code Enforcement & CMPD
Thanks for your help with the rental properties on Keith Drive. CMPD checked out some of the complaints and asked Code to make a visit. The trash had been picked up and gray roll-outs filled to overflowing had been pushed to the curb when we drove by last week. Two sofas had also been set at the curb, so we hope that Code has them scheduled for pickup as well, as that rental house is now empty.

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Last Meeting Summary
Derita Businesses & Service Providers Meeting

We realize that not every business owner or service provider can attend our 9am brunch at Maria's Grill on the first Thursday of each month. but after more than 20 months of trying different times, days, & places --- this is what seems to have worked best. For those who are interested, we will try to keep you informed on
upcoming activities and recent discussions with a special email. Please write us at deritarep@aol.com so that we can add you to our email list.

At the August 6th Meeting

1. We took time to exchange Business Card, tell a little bit about our business and ourselves.

2. We talked about the current economy (improving?) and what it might mean for Derita-based businesses and group promotions we might initiate to improve reliance on local businesses and service providers.

3. We discussed a special 3-day DERITA DAYS promotion where businesses would offer special discounts and special pricing which would be advertised in a group promotion. This might also include some group drawings for a free gas card or other items.

4. We heard from George Griffin that 189 kids have signed up for football and that Derita Athletic Association hopes to field 9 teams this fall. He invited Derita businesses to support a team. 4x4ft sponsor signs at Cheshire Field are available at $330 per year.

5. Ron Carroll talked about the services his company provides at Truck Tech Auto, Truck & RV repair (2515 Allen Rd. South). He talked about some of the top-of-line RV's that have been in for servicing this month. Rob also talked about the race cars they had been running at Concord Speedway; and he was anxious to hear more about opportunities at the Metrolina Speedway.

6. Rob Lenderman of Advanced Construction & Consulting stood in Simon Weber, whose plane was late arriving from Boston. Rob explained that delay in the planned demolition was unexpected, but that by combining it with their site preparation (grading), they should actually save money and speed up the construction of the Metrolina Speedway.

He said that the time had been used to complete the aerial survey, do test borings, and to do land surveying that was blocked from the air by the trees.

He pointed out that they were fortunate to get the initial funding secured earlier this year (with the rezoning) because many banks are now requiring borrowers to have 50% of their projects funded before even being considered for a loan.

Asked if the Speedway Investment Group had plans to purchase the remaining acres at Metrolina Expo, he said that discussions are still on-going. But the Expo will continue to operate and that the Pistone family will be using part of the initial Speedway purchase proceeds to develop an RV Park (for temporary stays) that
would serve people coming to Speedway events.

7. We heard from C.E. Holt Refrigeration (Gibbon Rd), which sells commercial refrigeration & ice makers, that they are expanding their business into other areas. Good News for at least one member present, as his Church is looking for a new mid-level ice maker.

8. We talked about the old Food Lion Shopping Center and how city regulations worked against subdividing the space or doing other upgrades at this time. We talked about how the Transit Development Overlay might affect business properties around the proposed Derita Rail Station.

9. Theresa McDonald, one of our regulars, arrived late. She is an Allen Tate Realtor and was "forgiven," because she had a 9am closing earlier that morning. Great News!

10. More, of course. But as you can see, we had a busy, productive morning.

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You can find Contact Info for many Derita Businesses &
Service Providers in our FREE Business Card Listings at:
http://good-times.webshots.com/album/564074079xONVEq

You will save money by shopping for services already in the Derita area.

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Griefshare Sessions Again Offered
at Hickory Grove Baptist Church

If you have lost a loved one to death and having a hard time coping with your loss, we invite you to come to Griefshare and learn more about the journey of grief and how you can find healing in your pain.

Hickory Grove Baptist Church North Campus is having a 13 week session Griefshare starting on September 2nd at 2350 Odell School Rd at 6:45pm . Come and learn more about the journey and share with others who have lost a loved one also. It is a safe place to release your pain and find healing.

Contact the Mudges at 704 509-6603 or go on www.griefshare.org to learn more

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The Derita Lions Club
meets the 2nd & 4th Monday of most months
Visitors & New Members Welcome
6:30 - 8 pm Maria’s Grill in Derita 2801 W. Sugar Creek Rd.

Our Next meeting will be Sept. 14,
Guest Speaker: Simon Weber, Metrolina Speedway

The Derita Lions received a special plaque at the District Meeting last month for meeting their 2008-2009 Goal, contributing $1400 to the White Cane Charities. Lion Ed Davis received, on behalf of the Club.

Derita Lion President Howard Blackwelder suggests that Lions invite their wives (or a guest) to the Sept. 14th dinner meeting.

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As I Recall . . . memories of two local boys
Remembering Roy's Grill & Constable Roy McCall

I guess this story begins with my older brother, Aubrey Dickson. Buddy was 7 years older than me and a lot better looking. Had that long wavy brown hair and the kind of face that attracted girls. He was quiet (some say "shy"), but usually sported a great big smile. Not overly tall, but filled out a white muscle tee like a catalog model.

Didn't care much for school, but he could have been a major talent. Buddy could sketch just about anything with pencils, charcoal, pastels, and even painted with oils. His work won ribbons every year at the Southern States Fair.

And did I say, the girls all loved him? They'd often meet in the evening for a fountain Coke and a burger at Roy's Grill. It was located on the lot next to Derita Cleaners (now) where the Players Sporting Goods screenprint shop sits in the old Gibson Grocery store building. Back then, the corner of Derita Rd, & Hunter Ave. was a small, rutted gravel parking lot with a cinder block building, painted white, that housed Roy's Grill
up front and the Derita Branch Public Library in back.

Inside, the walls were painted green & white, with wooden booths lining the Hunter Ave. side, the metal grill and a sit-down counter with stools on the opposite wall. In the middle of the room was a Wurlitzer juke box against a support post. Next to it was box after box of 45 rpm records in paper sleeves that had previously spun in juke boxes all over the county. Latest hits to old favorites by the hundreds --- and all of them at ready-to-move prices. Roy's definitely had more than burgers!

And me? I was the tag along little brother. Mom & Dad rarely got home before 8pm from our grocery store on Beatties Ford Road, so Buddy got saddled with the kid. I wasn't too bad at home. I had the woods out back, hills & gulleys to climb and even a Tarzan swing that let me sail out high over the creek and back.

But anyway, that's how I discovered Roy's Grill. Buddy & his friends would huddle in a booth or squeeze around a table and I'd park it on one of the round swirling stools at the counter. They'd do whatever teenagers do and I'd inhale the scent of diced onions hitting the grill and savor the aroma of hot dog chili being spread across a bun. Occasionally, I'd sputter as steam and grease filled the air when Roy filled the hot grill with a fresh run of hamburger patties. He would do the lettuce & tomato cheese burgers, but I believe the chili-onion-slaw all-the-way cheeseburgers probably outsold them 2 to 1. I'd hate to guess how many bottles of catsup they used up in a month.

I would eat almost anything, though Roy's fries were a lot like the crinkle cut fries from the grocery store, only a bit greasier. Soft inside with a crusty shell. Still, I'd choose them any day over the grease-sticks served at most fast food chains. With enough catsup, who am I to be a critic. Besides, Roy knew my weakness. Whenever he got a chance, he'd fork a big pile of dill pickle slices out of the jar on the counter and sit the pile on a waxed paper sheet in front of me. Haven't had those in years. They were cut near paper thin and had almost slimy centers. Man, now those were some pickles. Sometimes on Sunday evening Dad would drive me up to Roy's get a burger and a paper tray full of pickles.

But this wasn't Roy McCall's only job. He was also the Constable for Mecklenburg County. Not sure exactly what that means. The job description varies from place to place. Some places, they were like an old-time Sheriff chasing bad guys and investigating crime. In others, they served warrants and handled evictions. Whatever. Roy ran a got elected. I remember seeing the posters tacked on the utility posts and him standing there at the grill, gun on his hip, just a flipping burgers. He'd be working quickly to catch up all of the orders before turning the grill over to Shirley and himself rushing out the door to do whatever Constables do.

As for the Library, it was only open a couple of afternoons a week. The selection was limited, but you could put in a request for books from the Main Library downtown. One day a week, the Book-Mobile would arrive and park next to the Grill on Hunter Ave. With luck, the book you wanted might be there waiting for you.
Fortunately, when Statesville Road Elementary opened, we had a library there that probably had more books and a better selection than the branch. My worst offense was losing a book about Ulysses S. Grant. I paid for the book (which had slid under the couch in our living room) and found it a year later when we were
re-arranging furniture. At a nickel a day, buying it was probably still the cheapest way to go.

Summing it up, I'd have to say Roy's Grill was the greatest. It was our teen hangout at the time. Derita Drug Store with its inside soda counter was still a few years off and the only McDonalds in Charlotte sold hot dogs & hamburgers on Independence Blvd. near the old Coliseum. . . 15 cents each.
--- Bernie Samonds
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" I grew up in Derita with two brothers & one spoiled little sister on Gibbon Rd. We moved into our new home, built by Mr. Robert Hunter in 1948. I have many fond memories of Roys' Grill, of Roy & Shirley (No Finer Folks anywhere). To think back on this area and the guys & gals that we grew up with makes me realize that these were some of the happiest years of my life. "One of my best friends was Billy Tarrant. His dad ran the hardware store in Derita. Well, Roy McCall lived in the house beside the Grill. Billy & I approached Roy one day about hiring us to do any kind of work to make a little money. We were all outside at the time, and Roy, looking at the yard, and it was a mess with trash
everywhere. . . Roy said, 'Here's what I'll do. If you boys will clean this whole place up, I will pay you with all-you-want-to-eat'.

"Billy and I talked it over and told Roy OK , We'll do it Friday. "We decided not to eat anything Thursday so we'd be sure to eat our money's worth at the Grill. Well it took all day to clean that mess up. We cleaned ourselves up & headed to our favorite booth. Roy knew we both loved hamburgers, but here comes Shirley with 2 hot dogs each. Roy hollars out.. 'Go ahead and start on those
dogs while these hamburgers cook.'

"Now I don't remember how many burgers, dogs, french fries and RC Colas we consumed, but it was way too many for we were worse than miserable. On top of all that Shirley handed us each a big triple cone of ice cream on our way out. We managed to walk to the hardware store and made a bee-line for the feed & seed dept. where we piled up on some of those nice soft sacks & slept it off.
--- Fred Boovy
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About Billy's folks. They were Mr. & Mrs. William Tarrant that lived next to the railroad tracks at Gibbon Rd. & Derita Ave. He was already retired when I first met him by name (He was being honored by the Derita Lions Club, I believe) and his wife (Edith) was still teaching at North High.

As a kid, I used to go to Derita Hardware frequently back then. I was going through my "building phase" and needed lots of nails for my tree house, forts, and revising my model train layout. I'd hop on my bicycle and ride to Derita. Get some nails in several sizes and they'd always double-bag'em so I'd be sure to make it home without spilling nails all over the road.

Of course, there would also be a lot of teasing going on. Bob Mitzell and several other men (who I didn't really know by name at the time) would be sitting around the pot belly stove there. They'd ask me if I was going to build a house. God, I loved that place. You could find almost everything there. It was a REAL hardware store. --- Bernie
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"Now Bernie while you were building your fort in your favorite spot, we were putting ours up in Mr. B.J. Hunters' cow pasture. Now about nails, we probably had to "Borrow" ours, because I'm sure we wouldn't have spent our Pepsi cola money on nails. Oh Boy--Those were the days, Huh! --- Fred Boovy
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Reader Memories Requested
I have written previously about T.D. Little working on two local farms as a boy. I'm betting that Marty Gardner probably filled water bottles for Derita Springs and that Tom Allen spent quite a few mornings milking cows in Allen Hills. I'm hoping that some folks will email a note about "Growing Up in the Derita Area" and how you earned your spending
money back then. I'm sure there are a lot of interesting stories out there.
--- email me at deritarep@aol.com

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Scouting Join-Up Nights

Cub Scout Pack 13 will be recruiting at University City United Methodist Church, Thursday August 27 from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. in the Worship Center Hospitality Suite.

Cub Scout Pack 13 will have additional Round up nights (7:00pm) at
September 17 - David Cox Elementary SchoolSeptember 17 - Croft Community Elementary School September 24 - Mallard Creek Elementary School Pack 13 meets at University City Methodist Church at the corner of Sugar Creek and Harris. We meet on Tuesday nights at 6:50 PM to 7:50 PM. All boys ages 7-10 are encouraged to participate.

Cub Scouts is a family and home centered program that develops ethical decision-making skills for boys in the second through fifth grade (or who are 8, 9, and 10 years old). Boys who are in the first grade or 7 years old may join as Tiger Cubs. Cub Master is Glen Belnap, 704-451-2136.

Boy Scout Troop 107 will resume Monday night meetings on September 14th. Meetings are from 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM at University Park Baptist Church. Contact Aaron McCoy at aaronmccoy@celgard.com for more information.
Bernie,

Open House Events Cub Scout Packs will be hosting Open House events at their meeting locations on August 27th beginning at 7pm. They will also be in certain CMS locations on September 10, 14, 17 and 24. We will have a list of those in our next newsletter.

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Need Extra Tables & Chairs for Family Gatherings & Yard Sales?
Contact Bernie Samonds (704 806-3813 deritarep@aol.com ). 8ft. folding tables, $5 available to rent. Folding metal chairs, 50 cents each. Call now to reserve them. Liberal pickup and return availability.

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Trying to Reduce "the Clutter?"
Got stuff you need to buy, sell or trade? List it FREE in our BARGAINS GALORE email. No fees. No Commissions. List up to eight items free each week and get ready for the phone to ring. It's that easy. Email us at deritarep@aol.com

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HOT DOGS EVERY THURSDAY
Oak Grove United Methodist Church
6440 Old Statesville Road, 11am - 2pm
Fix'em the way you like'em, Eat In or Take Out
Not a Hot Dog fan?
Skip the dogs, choose the Homemade Soup & muffin
or Pinto Beans and cornbread (ketchup & onions available)
Warm friendly atmosphere. Wonderful conversation readily available

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Your Questions and Some Answers
Q. Bernie, Have you quit sending out Crime Alert Emails? Haven't seen one in weeks!

Most of those are generated by Neighbors, not by CMPD, so the frequency is often determined by what we receive. Some HOA's frown on relaying the info because they feel the "negativity" might hurt home sales in the current economy.

CMPD reports that crime is down over all in our area, but theft from vehicles is still a problem. Ipods, electronic gadgets, even loose pocket change left in plain sight can invite a burglar. In many cases, vehicles have been left unlocked, but an experienced crook can break in and be gone in about 17 seconds --- Many of them working over one car after another as they go through a parking lot.

Our email probably won't help you catch a burglar, but it does remind the neighbors that they need to be more vigilant and that the bad guys have been working in their area. Replies, like the ones we hear at Neighborhood Watch meetings, can help CMPD Officers. They may be discussing one crime, only to hear from neighbors about one or more crimes or suspicious incidents that never got reported. The info may be just what CMPD needs to discern a pattern.

For example:
We did get one report this week of a break-in at Crater Park (5 days after it happened) with no details. A door was kicked in.

Here's an email that we got from the same week:
" Bernie -- There was a man that came to my neighbor's house this morning and asked if her husband was home..she said no, and he said your husband buys flowers from me. She said my husband never buys flowers and he said he has
bought roses from me and she said no he has not...He finally left He was in a small black car with a dent on the right side ... Just thought I would pass this along."
Chances are the flower salesman was knocking on doors to see if anyone was at home and was using the flower story as his exit line, so this lady would not call CMPD to report a stranger in the area.
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Q. I know I've seen this asked in the column several times, but, I'll give it another shot. Any word on if anyone is interested in developing the old Food Lion location? It's been an eye sore for a while. Is there any way the Derita area can proactively limit the types of businesses that can occupy that space? Or, better yet invite businesses to see the opportunity that exists on such a busy corner? --- Marian Mauney

Without going into a lot of detail, there have been several plans to redevelop the corner, but everything hinges on the City parking lot requirements which have been passed since the shopping center was last remodeled to expand the former Food Lion. More parking and more green space are needed to meet these new requirements. which means some of the buildings would have to go.

The property itself, is privately owned and the family has limited resources to do much else with it. . . It would probably have to be sold in order for an better funded landlord to actually redevelop it. Their Realtor is doing the best that he can to keep the storefronts occupied. Even discussed subdividing the old Food Lion space with a potential buyer, but again, ran into the parking requirements issue. Then, there was also the issue of funding during the current economy.

Re: The type stores there.
Of course, everyone would like a good combination of successful businesses. It is a good location. But Ace Hardware has a store a few miles down the road. A sit-down restaurant would need enough lunch & evening diners to keep their doors open. Boutiques face a very challenging time and Family Dollar (who did look) chose to build a stand alone just one block away.

For everyone who keeps asking about an Aldi . . . Food Lion still pays a fee (as the former anchor tenant ) that allows them approval on what type business can open in their old space. I'm told it is renewable for up to 15 years annually, so forget about Aldi, Lowes or A & P SuperSaver.

The Good News, however.
When the Derita Rail station opens, this property will likely fall under the Transit Development Overlay --- which caters to less parking and more walkable space. The property could then be developed into a Mixed Use site combining retail shops &
residential above. That's the most likely option that something really neat could be done here.=====================================================================

Q. Any word about sidewalks for West Sugar Creek or Gibbon Rd?

Maybe next issue. We had word on a new project that was being designed to improve
walking access to the proposed Derita Rail Station at Gibbon & Nevin Rds. We delayed
the story last issue because some changes being discussed.

The plan at present does NOT include an often requested sidewalk from the Poplar
Springs Neighborhood towards Derita, which is estimated to cost around $1 million.

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Today's Funny
(From a recent FREE Friday Morning Funny Mail)

THE WEDDING

Did you hear about the big fight at Bob's wedding last week? When the preacher got to that part where he asks the bride if he would always obey her husband . . .

She replied, "Do you think I'm that stupid?"

Well, Bob was apparently still dazed from his bachelor party and thought they were speaking to him and answered up, "I do."

8-1-09 Derita-Statesville Road Community Org. Newsletter

DSRCO PO Box 26382 CHARLOTTE, NC 28221
Your Voluntary Annual Membership ($10 for families; $20 for businesses, groups, neighborhoods)
helps make our work possible. We are grateful to the many individuals, families, neighborhoods,
HOA's, businesses, churches, and groups who provided us with operating funds this past year.

Our Thanks for the dues received this month from:
Margaret C. Wilmoth

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Act Now, Save Our Post Office
Derita Post Office, one of 5 that May Be Closed

WSOC-TV News broke the story Friday evening, that the Charlotte Postmaster had suggested consolidating or closing five area post offices as a cost-cutting effort. The other Charlotte offices are Eastway, Freedom, Arrowood Rd, and 30th St.

This is NOT because they aren't busy. Derita Station has some lengthy lines throughout the day, often stretching into the foyer during peak hours. It has two full-time counter persons, 1 part-time counter person, and another full-time counter person floating between Derita & David Cox. . . If anything, the Derita Post Office should be expanded.

Should the closure happen, nearly 800 PO Box Holders (their count) would have to go elsewhere to pickup their mail. That means a 3-mile trip out to David Cox and 3 miles back, ( That's right 6 miles round trip! ) or a long trip to North Tryon St., wherever that many boxes could be made available. The same for you folks who want to mail a package, buy stamps, purchase a money order, or drop a letter in the box.

David Cox is also where you will have to go sign for & pick up your registered or certified mail, or pickup packages that you were not at home to receive. . . 6 miles round trip.

Like I said, this is NOT about improving service for anyone, this is about cutting labor costs and benefits. Positions are being cut at stations all over town. Carriers are working overtime and fewer counter persons means longer a wait for service. . . Even as the Postal Service Governors make plans for the next postage rate increase.

Mail was first delivered to Derita in 1860 a couple of times each week. Amos Rumple operated the first post office here out of a bureau drawer in his home (where Derita Presbyterian Church now sits) and area residents would stop by his small store and cotton gin to pick up their mail. Rural routes were started here in 1907

With succeeding Postmasters (and one Post-Mistress for about 15 years), the Derita Post Office moved from place to place within the community, but most always near the railroad track, as mail bags arrived by train for many years. The
most recent move was from a tin roofed building on West Sugar Creek Road (where the African Trader is now), across the tracks to the current location which opened in 1961.

In 1975, there were 29 carrier routes serviced out of Derita station, with 46 employees. That was also the first time that the Charlotte Postmaster tried to shut us down. A new station was built on David Cox Rd. and PO Big Wigs even had the audacity to call it the "new Derita Station." The real Derita Station was closed for several months until enough pressure could be brought to bear that the current facility could be reopened as a Finance Station.

Derita Post Office is an important and vital part of what makes this a Community. It's one reason why we kept our named and identity while neighborhoods all around us have lost their's. When we look at all of the businesses, churches, groups, and individuals that have Post Office boxes there, having a Post Office here is more than a convenience, it's a necessity.

So how do we save it? You send letters ( and EMAILS! ) Now.

Write the "Postmaster, Charlotte, NC."
You can write a full letter to express your feelings, or you can simply say, "I am a Derita Postal Patron and I want the Derita Post Office to continue serving myself, my family, and my community." Be sure to sign the letter and state your
address to make it official.

Email the Postmaster
http://faq.usps.com/eCustomer/iq/usps/escalate.jsp
They make it damned inconvenient to email them, but here's the buttons you click to get to a writeable screen . . . I wrote:

"As a Business Box Holder for more than two decades and a frequent patron at Derita Station (28221), I do not want to see this Post Office closed. Moving my box to David Cox Rd, or making the 6 mile trip there to purchase stamps, mail packages, or pickup registered & certified mail is NOT an option. Tens of thousands of people in this community rely on its continued operation. Please do not close it."

Click continue and the next page is set up to record your contact information. Be sure to click the box to receive an email reply from the Post Office.

Email Sue Myrick
http://myrick.house.gov/zipauth.shtml
or write her at: 230 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515
Email
Email our Mayor and Our City Council Members
Next to the banks, The City of Charlotte is probably one of the Post Office's biggest customers. They should have some clout with Charlotte Postmaster in saving our Derita Post Office.

lassiter@bellsouth.net, anthony@anthonyfoxx.com,
JamesDistrict2@aol.com, michael@barnesdistrict4.com,
SBurg346@aol.com, edwin@edwinpeacock.com

Act now! A decision will be reached by October this October

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DSRCO Community Calendar
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=149301710432&ref=mf
(Recent Newsletter Archive)


Tuesday, August 4th
National Night Out
Many of our Neighborhoods in our community will be observing the National Night Out this coming Tuesday evening.

Allen Hills-Carrie Hills will have its Crimewatch Meeting at Family Missionary Baptist Church, corner of Allen Rds S & E at 7pm.

Deritawoods/Tanglewood will be grilling hot dogs & hamburgers for their residents, enjoying the food, fellowship and fun at 3411 Cypress Pond Drive. CMPD Officers will be on hand to meet with residents.

National Night Out is a community-police partnership held the first Tuesday of every August since 1984 sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch in the United States and Canada. It aims to increase awareness about police programs in communities, such as drug prevention, town watch, and other anti-crime efforts. Initially communities held lights-on vigils. Now, many communities hold block parties, festivals, and other events to help bring neighbors together.
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Thursday, August 6th
Derita Area Business & Service Providers Meet
9am, Maria's Grill, West Sugar Creek Rd. Open to Everyone, business or not.

Find out about FREE Advertising, Cost-saving Cooperative Efforts, Local Networking Opportunities. Together we are working to help local businesses grow despite the tough economy.

How long is this going take? We'll be done in under 60 minutes, that's the rule. Even if you have to duck out early, it will be worth your time.

Simon Weber of Metrolina Speedway will likely be meeting with us and we will be anxious to hear what progress has been made.

"Our Goal is to Promote Local Businesses and Service Professionals Serving Our Area."
--- DSRCO 704 806-3813 Leave Msg deritarep@aol.com
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Friday, August 7 - Sunday, August 9th
North Carolina Tax Free Weekend
on back-to-school items, clothing & some electronics. Watch for store ads.
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Saturday, August 8th
Hidden Valley National Night Out

The National Night Out Event for our youth here will be held on Aug 8th from 4:00pm til 8:00pm This will be a great time to meet and greet your neighbors. Some may have members who live in Hidden Valley or you may have a church
here, at any rate we need your help and participation.

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Thursday, August 20th
Mayoral & Council Candidates' Meet & Greet Forum
7pm, Derita Presbyterian Church, West Sugar Creek Rd.

Derita-Statesville Road Community Organization will host an evening event for you to meet ALL of the candidates vying to become Charlotte's next Mayor; incumbents and challengers for Districts 2 & 4; and all of the At-Large Candidates for City Council.

Candidates for Mayor will begin speaking promptly at 7pm, with a brief Q & A session before a short break for refreshments and time for meeting one-on-one with all of the Candidates. This will be followed sessions with the District Candidates and then with the At-Large Candidates --- with each making a brief statement and then questions
from the floor.

This meeting is open to the Public and we encourage you to meet these Candidates before the Primary Election.

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Tuesday, Sept. 15th
Mecklenburg County Primary Elections
Polls open at 6:30 am -- Close at 7
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Sunday, September 20th
NorthEast Coalition Meeting
3:00 pm at the University City Library. The NorthEast Coalition will not meet over the summer. Speakers at our Sept. Meeting will be Chief of Police, Chief Rodney Monroe and City manager Curt Walton. They will speak on the state of Charlotte and will answer your questions and concerns.

Also, Deputy Chief Kerr Putney and two of our local Captains, Captain Lafreda Lester of the University City Division and Captain Greg Collins of the North Division will be present The NorthEast Coalition will also open the meeting to all candidates running for office for 3 minutes to state their positions and answer questions. Please, candidates, RSVP cgftjf@aol.com if you wish to attend and wish to be scheduled. Claire Green FallonPresident -NorthEast Coalition704-596-8288 CGFTJF@aol.com

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What your Neighbors are saying:


Battered by the storm?
Fire Captain Rob Brisley says Your Charlotte FF's, Police, and Medic were rocking last Tuesday night with the storm. CFD ran over 115 calls for service in a 90 minute window, and counting. So if you must travel us bad weather, exercise caution. If the Road is Flooded “Turn Around Don’t Drown”
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Re: Illegal Traffic Moves on West Sugar Creek Rd.
Last newsletter, you mentioned the Rumple Road area of Sugar Creek where it narrows. Not only do they do U-turns, but they just plow straight ahead. I have had them try and force me into oncoming traffic several times.

When (State) Trooper Benge lived next door he sat there a lot and gave tickets. Gave the same woman a ticket for that stunt two weeks in a row. He said the city won’t bother and I have never seen a city police car sitting there. But I have seen them at the light ignoring those who go straight from the right hand lane. Buses are bad about that also. Just something to pass on. I have complained to the city about it and asked that they put a concrete divider where the lines are, but I was told lines were all they could do. --- Paula Veazie, Kelsey Glen --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Derita --- Center of the Universe?
WCNC.com weather map. Does it list Myers Park? No. University City? No. NoDa? No. Derita? YES! http://www.wcnc.com/weather...
--- Visit Derita, on Twitter
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Remembering the old Metrolina Speedway
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=46339680324#/photo.php?pid=30100821&o=all&op=1&view=all&subj=46339680324&aid=-1&id=1492664638&oid=46339680324
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Latino Festival Noise Carried A Long Way
Just wanted you to know that we could hear the “festival” at Metrolina last Sunday clear over hear at Kelsey Glen. We have heard the racing when they had that a few years ago. I hope these new people really can do something about the noise or is going to be very bad for our property values. --- Concerned, Hubbard Rd.

-----------------------------------------------

Thanks, we received several emails from upset neighbors about the noise and the carnival atmosphere. Don't know that anyone called 911 to get an Officer to check noise level, but that probably only applies after 10 pm.

The important point that needs to be made is that this WAS NOT an event staged by the Metrolina Investment Group, who are building the new Speedway. This was an event hosted by Metrolina Expo and they let it be known that they will continue to operate and do not plan on closing down.
--- Bernie Samonds, DSRCO

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Neighbors speak out about the Post Office:

On Closing the Derita Post Office
One of those box holders would be ME and ConCarolinas. It's a perfect location for the con chair and me both to be able to run by. And why the heck they'd close a BUSY station is beyond me. Plus it will only INCREASE traffic on WT Harris and Mallard Creek, etc, as well as making life that much MORE difficult for us citizens. One issue they should look at is: where are the post offices NORTH of I-85?

What they won't think of next to make our lives more difficult! Feel free to share any of my comments with whomever you think it will help to hear them.
--- Mary K, Royal Oaks Neighborhood -------------------------------------------------------

I remember they tried to close the Derita PO years ago and a petition was circulated. It must have worked!

The David Cox PO is a mess. The grounds are not kept up and the trash is always overflowing. I’d rather lose Saturday mail delivery than our little post office.
--- Deborah Rowe, Nevin===================================

Scouting Join-Up Nights

Cub Scout Pack 13 will be recruiting at University City United Methodist Church, Thursday August 27 from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. in the Worship Center Hospitality Suite. Cub Scouts is a family and home centered program that develops ethical decision-making skills for boys in the second through fifth grade (or who are 8, 9, and 10 years old). Boys who are in the first grade or 7 years old may join as Tiger Cubs. Cub Master is Glen Belnap, 704-451-2136.

Boy Scout Troop 107 will resume Monday night meetings on September 14th. Meetings are from 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM at University Park Baptist Church. Contact Aaron McCoy at aaronmccoy@celgard.com for more information.
Bernie,

Open House Events Cub Scout Packs will be hosting Open House events at their meeting locations on August 27th beginning at 7pm. They will also be in certain CMS locations on September 10, 14, 17 and 24. We will have a list of those in our next newsletter.

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You can find Contact Info for many Derita Businesses &
Service Providers in our FREE Business Card Listings at:
http://good-times.webshots.com/album/564074079xONVEq

You will save money by shopping for services already in the Derita area.

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Back in the Day

Having trouble getting a good signal for your cell phone?

Think back to 1910 when privately-owned telephone lines were first strung into Derita. Each family had to furnish your own wire and poles, enough to reach from the last house to yours. You were also responsible for maintaining the line in case a storm blew it down.

They were wall phones, had a crank to ring up the Operator and a receiver. One long ring would get the Operator at the main office. Then she rang the number for you. Each person on this "party line" had a number of rings (long & short), so you counted rings to see if the call was for you or for someone else. There were up to 10 families on each line.

The last of these "County Lines" in Derita, as they were called, ran from Puckett's Store to McLaughlin's Store. It was finally removed May 5. 1960. City Phones had been in operation for more than 50 years.
--- a bit of local history from Mrs. Ona Welch Puckett
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Home-Grown Veggies

Keziah's Furniture Outlet -- 2714 Gibbon Rd has homegrown Cucumbers & hot peppers. Red vine ripe Tomatoes are only 3 for $1.00. Some 5 for $1.

Also had some great looking yellow crook necked Squash ready to slice and fry up for supper. Pickling & Slicing Cucumbers are in and Peppers are available. Prices are extremely fair and quality is excellent.
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Got Extra Veggies in your garden to sell or share?
Send us an email deritarep@aol.com , tell us what you've got and we will help you spread the word.
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Newell Farmers Market is Open
Saturdays, 8am - 2pm, 1749 Rocky River Road (One block from the intersection of WT Harris & Rocky River Rd.
Turn West on Rocky River Rd at the intersection)

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The Derita Lions Club
meets the 2nd & 4th Monday of most months
Visitors & New Members Welcome
6:30 - 8 pm Maria’s Grill in Derita 2801 W. Sugar Creek Rd.

No Meetings during July or August

Our Next meeting will be Sept. 14,
Guest Speaker: Simon Weber, Metrolina Speedway

We need more young men and women to join our Club. The Lions do a lot of good in this and other communities nationwide. Lions do more for the blind than anyone else.

We support Camp Dogwood (a summer camp program for the visually impaired) and the Deep Sea Fishing Tournament on the NC Outer Banks (VIP Tournament) for the Blind. More than 250 blind and visually impaired attend each October with more than 250 volunteers helping. It's becoming nationally recognized for the money we raise going to these projects . . . So when you see us out there raising money, that's where it goes. Since 1957, the Derita Lions Club has supported various projects both local and national. --- Howard Blackwelder, President

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As I Recall . . . memories of a local boy

Public Transportation? Back in the late 1950's, Jim, we had the Blue Goose bus that ran down Hwy 115 from Mooresville through Davidson, Cornelius, Huntersville, Derita, and then on to the old Trailways Station on Trade St.. It came through Allen Hills (our largest subdivision at the time) and passed by my house on the gravel road.

Our housekeeper used it to arrive at work, and then to go home in the afternoon. I rode it on Saturdays to head downtown shopping. Pets weren't allowed, but once I packed my brand new Boxer puppy inside a cardboard box one Saturday. I was taking him to show my Grandma. It was like playing Wack-A-Mole trying to keep that puppy head from popping into sight. . . Don't Ask, Don't Tell . . . But I knew the bus driver was having a terrible time trying to keep from laughing as he watched me in the rear view mirror.

One of my favorite stops was WT Grants on North Tryon (about 3 doors up from The Carolina Theater. They always had dyed Chicks, Ducks, & Bunnies around Easter. The guinea pigs, painted turtles and gold fish the rest of the year. Throughout the year, Grants also had the model train stuff you could only find in the big window at Sears during the holidays. Spent much of my grocery store earnings there outfitting my own Plasticsville, USA. model train layout there.. Nothing quite so enticing at Woolworth's. I bought school & office supplies for my imaginary businesses there.

My favorite meal was found in the basement at Kress Co. on the Square. Always a long wait to get seated at the counter. Tried their burger, hot dog, and grilled ham & cheese . . . but there was nothing ever so good as their Homemade Vegetable Soup and fresh made corn sticks that tasted like they had been basted in salted butter.
Washed that down with a cold fountain Coke (heavy on the syrup) over crushed ice in a genuine Coca-Cola glass. Not the watery stuff you get at today's fast food places. ow!


And Yes, I ate at the Burger King on the Square. It was on West Trade St. in what had been the basement of Liggett Drug Store. After Church at Cole Memorial on Sundays, Mom & Dad would drop me off at the Square and I would have lunch at the drug store dining room. A hot, open faced turkey sandwich smothered in gravy, fresh cooked french fries, half a bottle of ketchup, a dab of cranberry sauce and a tall fountain Coca-Cola. Then I would head down the street to either the Imperial or Carolina Theater to catch the movie of the week. Always loved those Jordan Almond candies from the concession stand, but managed to save a few for Mom. They were her favorites, too.

Afterwards, I'd walk down Tryon Street all the way to Tenth St. My grandma lived three blocks over on Pine St. and I could call my folks from there. The route took me right by the comic book & News Stand at the Square, and I would often swing around the corner to stop in the old Dixie News Center, too. I walked, as I said, because I'd have plenty of reading material, but by then I'd be stone-cold broke.

Mom & Dad? Oh, they'd have lunch at the Ming Tree Restaurant on Providence Road just across from the Manor Theater. Dad & Phil DerYuen (the owner) were old school mates. (Always amazed me how many folks Dad knew from his school days. I couldn't even name half my graduating Class at North Meck). We went to The Ming Tree often
on weekends but usually well after the Church crowd. I loved the Chicken Chow Mein and the Almond Cookies. Mom, Dad and Phil just loved to sit and talk. . . Phil's folks ran The Oriental Restaurant downtown on West Trade St. next to the old S & W Cafeteria.

Across the street another block down was Delmonico's Restaurant. Mom used to work there as a waitress when she first came to Charlotte. She used to tell a lot of fun stories, but the one I remember best was about waiting on old Mr. Penny. . . Yeah, THAT Mr. Penny. Mom would always be stationed near the front, but he would always take a small
table at the rear of the restaurant and he would ask that she be the one to wait on him. It required some extra effort, but she always got a $5.00 tip (back when $5 was worth something). One time Mom asked why he always wanted her to wait on him. He replied, "Honey. . . I just like the way you walk!" I guess I should have thought, "What a dirty old man." But I've seen photos of my Mom back then, and she was HOT!

Because of the long hours Mom & Dad worked as grocers, we ate out some nights during the week. My favorite spots were The Copal Grill on Wilkinson Blvd. (Yeah, owner Gene Gulledge was another of Dad's old school buddies.) I loved their Turkey & Dressing made with sausage, the tangy Blue Cheese Dressing that Mr. Gulledge made up special, and
the complimentary cherry jello topped with whip cream, that came with every meal.

I loved going to The Chicken Box on Seigle Ave. Doris Arrington, one of my Mom's gal friends, ran the place and she would always take time out to come sit as visit us while we ate. Doris said that they shared an apartment next door in Piedmont Courts when Mom first came to Charlotte. Doris knew my brother, sister, aunts, and cousins --- She just had to ask about everyone of them. Such a sweet, wonderful lady. . . if she would only just stop pinching my cheeks.

Don't think that I ever knew Faye's last name. She always said, "Just call me Aunty Faye." But she managed the dinning room at the Elks Club, second floor at Stonewall & Trade. And yes, she had my number. . . A basket of fresh cooked french fries and a big bowl of Faye's homemade Tartar Sauce. Didn't know what cholesterol was back
then, though I doubt I'd have much cared. I have tried to duplicate Faye's recipe through the years, but the closest I've come has some sweet relish, a hint of sweet onion, some Miracle Whip, and a couple of spoonfuls of sugar. Oh, Man, what a treat.

Another favorite hotspot later on was Honey's Restaurant on Morehead St. The food wasn't that great, but folks loved to watch the teenagers drive their cars in that endless circle through the parking lot & drive-thru. Heck, after we finished eating, Dad insisted that we make a few loops in our car before we headed home to Derita.

Closer still to Derita, was the Hi-Boy Restaurant on North Graham Street near 36th Street. Nick & his brother had one of the few area restaurants open at night where working folks could go for a reasonable-priced supper. My favorite was the fried half chicken with fries and Greek slaw or tossed salad. Mouth-watering. They must have fried it in peanut oil. So tasty, it would have been a sin to use ketchup on it.
--- originally posted on Facebook: I am a native Charlottean, by Bernie Samonds

Reader Memories Requested
Didn't mention our hometown favorite, Roy's Grill or the Derita Branch Library that shared the same building on Hunter Ave. I'm hoping that some folks will email a note about Roy's, Johnny's Restaurant, and maybe even Waldrop's Grill on Statesville Ave.
--- email me at deritarep@aol.com

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Presenting a Newsletter within our Newsletter?

Hi,This is Rich Haag, with news about University City - specifically.
I hope you'll find this news worthwhile and pass it along to others.


ABOUT THE NEWELL FARMERS MARKET
Locally grown produce is at its peak right now at the Newell Farmers Market, open 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays at the dead-end of Rocky River Road (right across the train tracks from the Newell post office and convenience store).

Longtime Newell resident Nancy Newton and her grandson, Josh James, have operated the market all summer.

Getting to the market is a little tricky, since the state closed the Rocky River Road crossing. Heading southeast from Tryon Street, turn right (west) at the Rocky River Road traffic signal. The market is at the dead end.

OPEN HOUSE AUG. 9 FOR NEW COUNTRYSIDE MONTESSORI HIGH SCHOOL
Countryside Montessori invites the public to an open house for its upper-school building, 2-4 p.m. Aug. 9 at 4125 Johnston Oehler Road.

The new facility will house Countryside's middle- and high-school programs. Countryside is a non-secular, independent school that serves nearly 500 children at its campuses on Prosperity Church Road, Mallard Creek Road and, beginning this August, on Johnston Oehler Road. Learn more the Montessori philosophy, Countryside and the open house at www.countrysidemontessorischools.org or by calling 704-549-4253.


ABOUT RICH HAAG
This is my second informal newsletter. I have lived near UNCC since 1987 and started University City Magazine more than 20 years ago. These days I produce a twice-monthly business E-newsletter for University City Partners. Old habits die hard. I still like letting others know about good stuff going on.


ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY CITY PARTNERS E-NEWSLETTERS
University City Partners oversees a tax district that promotes our community's main business district. UCP sends out a brief newsletter every two to three weeks to keep people informed about their area. You can read most of the articles from past newsletters at www.UniversityCityPartners.org You also can sign up there to get the free e-newsletter. Thanks for reading all the way to the end.Rich Haag You can reach me at:thehaags@bellsouth.net980-875-7528

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Need Extra Tables & Chairs for Family Gatherings & Yard Sales?
Contact Bernie Samonds (704 806-3813 deritarep@aol.com ). 8ft. folding tables, $5 available to rent. Folding metal chairs, 50 cents each. Call now to reserve them. Liberal pickup and return availability.

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Trying to Reduce "the Clutter?"
Got stuff you need to buy, sell or trade? List it FREE in our BARGAINS GALOREemail. No fees. No Commissions. List up to eight items free each week and get ready for the phone to ring. It's that easy. Email us at deritarep@aol.com

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HOT DOGS EVERY THURSDAY
Oak Grove United Methodist Church
6440 Old Statesville Road, 11am - 2pm
Fix'em the way you like'em, Eat In or Take Out
Not a Hot Dog fan?
Skip the dogs, choose the Homemade Soup & muffin
or Pinto Beans and cornbread (ketchup & onions available)
Warm friendly atmosphere. Wonderful conversation readily available

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Your Questions and Some Answers

Q. Poplar Springs has a few of the same problems as the other neighborhoods that you write about --- Cars parked on front lawns, rental houses that need work or yard work. Our Community Org (we’re not an HOA) has called 311 and Code Enforcement a number of times, but we aren’t seeing any results. When the City did nothing, neighbors paid their lawn care guy to cut the high grass and I paid my guy to rake and bag up the trimmings. Can you help us?

We channeled your request a little differently this time. City Councilman John Lassiter and Mayor Pro Tem Susan Burgess encouraged Staff to get in touch with you to discuss the full list of issues, and to explain what they can do to help. The Code Officer reported that grass was not in violation when the first calls were received, but that grass in the backyard (still uncut) was measured and found to be in violation.

We have also contacted both CMPD and Code Enforcement regarding rental properties on Statesville Road and Keith Drive. Sometimes 12-15 vehicles are parked on the lawn there. Household furnishings, etc, have been pushed to the curb and left sitting there for weeks with no indications it would be picked up. CMPD has responded, but we have had no reply from Code Enforcement.

Neighbors in Allen Hills have reported mattresses, furniture, assorted trash pushed to the
curb two weeks ago at 2645 Allen Road South in front of an empty house. As this newsletter
goes out, the pile spread out by roadside scavengers picking through it, still sits there in the
rain and wind.

No doubt all of these neighbors will be talking about this at the Allen Hills-Carrie Hills Community Meeting this Tuesday night, and as Candidates come before the whole Community for a Meet & Greet on August 20th asking for their vote.
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Q. I am a newly-elected HOA President in a neighborhood off Hubbard Road. This is my first time doing something like this and I’m anxious to do something that will make a difference. Probably less that 15% of the residents attended our General Meeting where I got elected (drafted) and our Treasurer says we don’t have a lot of money that we can spend. Any ideas?

First, let me say Thanks You for accepting the position, Too often it can be a Thankless job. I hope that you will be able to find supporters on your HOA Board and from your neighbors in general to plan some community-building events.

Chances are, because of your location & median income, that your neighborhood won’t be eligible for a Matching Funds Grant, but call Neighborhood Services (311) anyway. They have a number of other ways to assist you.

Studies show that block parties, neighborhood improvement projects, and fun social events --- all things that get people out of their houses, communicating and interacting with others can lead creating a more cooperative spirit. You don’t have to start big. I know a lady who invited a couple of families to her backyard for a cookout. Every family brought something, burgers were grilled, and the two visiting families volunteered to host on the succeeding months. It quickly grew into an every month block party --- an evening out with friends and Mom didn’t have to cook. Worked great until winter, but needed a jumpstart the following Spring.

At Poplar Springs and DeritaWoods/Tanglewood, residents hold a Back to School Cookout. Neighborhood leaders collect notebooks, filler paper, pens, pencils, crayons, etc. to give to the school-age children. Neighbors bring a covered dish. Burgers & hot dogs go on the grill, and a backyard or deadend street becomes Party Central.

Bible Baptist Church on Rumple Rd. was doing a yard clean-up last spring when a passerby stopped in on his way to Hemby Woods. A few minutes later, he had changed into work clothes at home, rounded up his kids, and returned to help “spruce up” the entrance road to his neighborhood.

The same thing often happens when a few neighbors decide to rejuvenate the HOA entranceway. Folks with green thumbs just tend to multiply when they see potting soil and flats of flowers.

Never quite understood how this works, but Neighbors in Kelsey Glen used to hold Bunco parties. I sat in on a small HOA meeting at Les Lemley’s house with probably a couple of dozen folks attending. Business matters were covered quickly and then the discussion turned to who would be hosting the next Bunco party. Apparently, it would likely draw an even bigger crowd of participants.

Above all, don’t get discouraged. Not every plan or project will click. Success grows when you continue to make the effort.
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Q. Silly Question . . . But do you work for a newspaper printer? --- Bonni Lee

About Bernie Samonds
Sorry, I've been at this so long that sometimes I forget that I sometimes need to introduce myself. I am a Charlotte native and have lived in Derita since 1952, ttended Derita, Statesville Rd. Elementary, JM Alexander Jr. High and North High.

I had done some freelance writing while in school and graduated UNC-Chapel Hill with a Journalism degree in 1969. The same week, I started as News Editor at The Mecklenburg Gazette in Davidson, a weekly serving North Meck, Derita and the growing University area. The job included editing area correspondent's copy, general reporting, writing a weekly column, stories & news items for the front page; news photography, ad sales, business printing sales, and readership development in the Derita-University area. In addition, I got a free after hours introduction to hot lead typesetting and offset printing in the Davidson Printing Co. backshop.

It was at The Gazette, I learned you never stand between two area correspondents fighting over who gets to do a wedding write-up (they got paid by the inch and weddings could fill up a page). Never use a flash when shooting photos at a fire (The firefighters have this thing about hosing down live electric wires and the camera flash seemed to startle them). You always shoot 4 - 5 frames when you do a group shot (Hopefully one of the pics will have all eyes open and all faces pointed in your direction.) And that news photos need to be shot vertical. (Only way to print a big picture, as 3 & 4 column space is rarely available.)

By 1970, I was just getting settled in good when Uncle Sam notified me that I had just won the Lottery --- one of the final 3 DRAFT lotteries. I joined the Navy instead. Was trained in Communications, but spent the four years editing newsletters, preparing publications, handbooks, and running Boy Scouting programs for dependent children in Spain & Washington, DC. I always get tickled over the Navy Senior Chief I had in D.C. He would tell me, “Samonds, write up exactly what it is that you and bring it to me, so that I can write up your Evals.”

From 1974 - 1986, I returned to Community journalism, publishing The Derita Reporter, but I found that “my pockets were not deep enough” to cover the demanding cash flow. Advertising was good, but not enough to cover the quality publication I wanted to produce. I got into commercial printing (business cards, letterheads, envelopes, flyers, multi-part forms, and high school football programs for both North Meck & Garinger) to help pay the bills.

For the past 9 years, this newsletter, written & published by me, for the Derita-Statesville Road Community Organization, has been a way to share news, issues, group & church notes with our neighbors. 3250+ emails are sent to subscribers from my ISP account. The email is then often forwarded within local HOA’s area businesses and government offices. It is posted on several websites and portions of it appear in other group newsletters.

It is offered free of charge, thanks to several local businesses (you’ve seen their business cards posted here) . . . and we invite you to share it ( Forward the email ) with others.

So yes, I do work for a print shop here in Derita, in Allen Hills. Derita Reporter Printing.
--- Bernie Samonds, President DSRCO
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Today's Funny
(From our FREE Friday Morning Funny Mail)

THE FLAT TIRE

A motorist had a flat tire in front of an insane asylum. He took the wheel off, but when he stood up he tipped over the hubcap containing the bolts, spilling them all down a sewer drain.

A patient, looking through the fence, suggested that the man take one bolt from the remaining three wheels to hold the fourth wheel in place until he could get to a service station.

The motorist thanked his profusely and said, "I don't know why you are in that place."

The patient said, "I'm here for being crazy, not for being stupid."

--- submitted by Deborah Rowe