February 2009 Newsletter

Vision: We will be a beacon of progressive religion in our region,
inspiring positive change in the world.
Mission: Caring for one another, growing spiritually, and working for justice.

Sunday Services and Religious Education for February 2009

Services at 9:00 and 11:00 on Sunday mornings 835 W. College Street. Nursery care is provided during the service for children up to 6 years old.

Sunday, February 1: Earth Trilogy Part Two: Evolution. Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner

This service explores our biological kinship with all of the other life forms on our planet and reflects on the responsibilities that come with understanding ourselves as an integral part of the whole.

Sunday, February 8: Association Sunday – Depth Perception: Triangulating on Unitarian Universalism. Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner

Each year the UUA hosts an Association Sunday at which the offering is shared with the UUA to provide funding for special programs. This year's theme is Congregational Theological Education. The money raised will be given as grants to fund the development of new religious education programs on spirituality and theology. The sermon this Sunday is grounded in one of our UU "primers," A Chosen Faith. (A sermon discussion will follow the early service in the library.)

Sunday, February 15: Poetry Sunday

Come share with us the poetry which informs and guides your spiritual journey.
You make this service happen, please bring your favorite poem!

Sunday, February 22: Three Baskets of Quiet
Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner

Silence has a prominent place in Buddhist, Quaker and Taoist faith traditions. What is the attraction of all that quiet? What are they doing when they sit there? Might we want to try it too? (Sermon discussion to follow the early service)

If we ever need to cancel services, the cancellation will be posted on our website and on the outgoing phone message from the office.

In Medias Res *

Wow! It's winter and it's wonderful! In Texas the weather we just had would be called a "blue norther" here I think you call it an "Alberta Clipper" – what ever you call it the most recent sub-zero cold snap is thawing a little and the daylight is distinctly longer. I'm writing on Saturday afternoon as the sun slants across the dining room table. Life at church is busy. Memorial services, special events, conferences, workshops, visits from two consultants - the Prairie Star District (PSD) consultant who is helping us review last summer's music staffing transition and the visit from our PSD Religious Education consultant! Never let anyone tell you that there is a lull in January! In the midst of all of this Zoe and I are learning to knit and the whole family is cross country skiing when we get the chance.

Winter will be a busy and exciting time here at UUCD. In addition to hosting the Prairie Star District Spring Conference "Blue Boat Home" in April, you will be embarking in earnest on your search for a settled minister. The Board of Trustees and the Ministerial Transition Team will be meeting Feb 7th to sort out the nominating process for the search committee, write the search committee's job descriptions and talk about the groups within the congregation that need to be represented if the search committee is to be an accurate microcosm of the larger community. Watch for a SEARCH Time- Line on the wall and start thinking about who you would like to have represent you on the search team. There will be one more conversation opportunity with the Ministerial transition team coming up on Saturday, February 21 and then they will start synthesizing what they have learned.

The interim ministry, too, is moving into a new phase. Now that we have gotten acquainted with one another we can really start having fun exploring who you are and who you want to become and articulating the skills, affinities and visions you need in the minister who will travel there with you. In the course of the next year and a half you can anticipate a series of conversations and experiments in worship, adult education, children's religious education, caring, social justice and the rest as we explore different ways of doing things .

This isn't just random exploration for exploration's sake. Remember the sermon on the crystal in solution that I preached last fall? The role of the interim is to help a congregation become fluid again after the departure of a minister and to help them remain liquid and receptive until a new settled minister arrives. So our experiments will serve three purposes – they will keep us from crystallizing into a new pattern that leaves no space for your settled minister and they will help you articulate what works for you so you can communicate that to your Search committee and they can communicate that to the candidates and they will give you new information and expand your skills. So, hold it all lightly, give lots of feedback, remember it's all temporary and let's have some fun … and if you have ideas for a pilot program or a different way of doing things … let me know!

Blessings, Gail

*In Medias Res is a literary term meaning "in the middle of things."

UUCD December Board Report

The UUCD Board did not meet in December. Please look for a report of the January meeting in the March newsletter.

Board of Trustees 2008

We welcome your input. Feel free to contact board members with questions, concerns, or compliments.

President:

Dan Burrows dburrows@d.umn.edu

Board Members

Administration: Larissa Schmitt larissa.schmitt@gmail.com
Treasurer: Paul Borrmann kdonn@cpinternet.com
Secretary: Alison Lutterman alutterman@duluthmn.gov
Planning: James Lund jlund@lakenet.com
Vice President: Tara Richter tararichte@gmail.com
Worship/RE: Carol Michealson cmicheal@d.umn.edu
Outreach: Gloria Walters dansing52@yahoo.com
Membership: Kathy Heltzer kheltzer@charter.net

Money Talks

Job One for 2009

Our first financial priority for 2009 is a fairly simple one. We need to make sure that, by August 31, we collect the full amount that was pledged in the 2006 Building Fund Appeal and is eligible for the match promised by the Zeppa Family Foundation. Nearly 90% of the total pledged ($684,437) has been paid already, so we have only $70,000 more to be received. But each of these remaining dollars will earn us $2 in matching funds, so it is critically important that we receive all of it.

Now we have been informed by four individuals that they cannot fulfill their pledges, but the ZFF has agreed that such pledges can be fulfilled by anyone in the congregation - not necessarily by the individual who finds they cannot meet their anticipated level of support. So, your Finance Council will be monitoring the 55 other pledges that remain partly outstanding to make sure we can generate enough other gifts to make up the shortfall and thereby earn the full match.

What can you do? If you have not fully paid your BFA pledge, please contact me at your convenience to let me know whether you foresee any possible problems with paying up in full by August 31 of this year. If you are sure or pretty sure that you will NOT be making the full payment by that deadline, PLEASE contact me as soon as possible. If you have fully paid your pledge, we may be asking you this spring or summer if you could make an additional gift to make up for unfilled, match-eligible pledges.

And whether you were around for the first BFA appeal or not, all of you can prepare for Job Two - the next Capital campaign to deal with the expected debt of about $700,000 we will owe the Zeppa Family Foundation when their generous, no-interest financing ends on August 31, 2010. More about that next month.

Paul Borrmann, Treasurer

February Woven Basket: The Women's Health Center

Woven Basket donations in February will go to support the work of the Women's Health Center, which is located in the Building for Women in downtown Duluth. This medical reproductive health care clinic provides services to women and men throughout our region. UUCD values the courage and persistence shown by the Women's Health Center for more than two decades to defend the legal reproductive rights of women with compassion and in confidence, despite repeated demonstrations by picketers, lawsuits, threats, evictions, and other challenges.

In the future, the groups chosen for the Woven Basket collection will be selected from organizations nominated by members of UUCD - that means you! If you'd like to suggest a group for a future Woven Basket collection, please cut out the Nomination Form on this page, fill it out, and leave it in the office, in the Woven Basket there. A person will follow up on each nomination by contacting the group and asking them some questions. They may need to contact you with some questions, too. After information has been collected, the congregation will be asked to vote on a number of groups at the congregational meeting in May to decide which groups will receive the collection after that. We will also use that time to see how the Woven Basket collection has been working and how this way of caring for others and working for change can be improved.

Contact Sue Dailey with any comments or questions about the Woven Basket.

Woven Basket: Group Nomination Form

I'd like to nominate the following group:

Please contact this person:

Address:

Phone:
Email:
Here are the reasons I think UUCD should contribute to this organization:







My name:
I'd be glad to talk with you more about this nomination. Please contact me at:

___ I'd like to be part of the Woven Basket Team.

Religious Education News

Greetings UUCD Family and Friends,
Thank you for your generous contributions to our "Mitten Tree" over the month of December. UUCD donated over
seventy-five pairs of mittens and gloves, as well as hats and scarves to the Damiano Center which serves local families in need. It warms my heart knowing that our community is helping to warm small fingers, hands and heads this cold, cold winter.
Additionally, children donated seven grocery bags of non-perishable food items at our Solstice Celebration for the local Food Shelf.

Other News...

We will be changing our Pre-K, Kindergarten and First Grade Curriculum as of January 25th.

I've been tactfully informed (by child and parent alike) that the PRE-K through First Grade Curriculum needs some revamping. All parents I've spoken with agree that religious literacy is important, however it needs to be developmentally appropriate and have relevance to the child. A quick visit with Reverend Gail offered just the triage required.

So, starting on the 25th, in addition to the variety of large group celebrations already scheduled, our youngest UUs will be now be exploring our Seven Principles in Sunday School. These new lessons should provide more meaningful concepts and activities than previous lessons.

Thank You Parents and Kids (!) for your input. Together we can better meet the needs of our children.

On Sunday, January 18th, children participated in celebrating the messages of hope, peace and justice of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Looking Ahead, February 15th

With only a little arm twisting, congregant and Biology professor John Dahl, has generously agreed to dress up as CHARLES DARWIN for our celebration of Darwin's 200th Birthday and The 150th Anniversary of his groundbreaking book Origin of Species (Thanks, Sally Mayasich for providing the correct dates!)

We're looking for folks to loan or donate fossils, skeletons of small animals, plaster of paris, clay and a small child's wading pool (for an archeological dig) etc...

As always, we're also looking for volunteers to float between classrooms for 11:00am R.E. to offer helping hands to a child (or teacher) in need.
Feel free contact me if you have any questions, comments, concerns (or corrections :>).

Carol Turner cgeot1@gmail.com

Drum Circle

The monthly drum circle will meet on Friday, February 6 in the Greatroom at UUCD. This is an "in-the-moment" drum circle. It is not a drum class nor do we attempt to play any ethnic specific rhythms. What we do is play off each other. This circle starts at 7:00 PM on the first Friday of the month and goes until 9:00 PM. Please try to arrive before 6:50. If you don't have a drum, we generally have an extra. Call Bruce Holmen at 724-4666 for confirmation of dates.

Music Notes

"A painter paints pictures on canvas. But musicians paint their pictures on silence." Leopold Stokowski (directed Disney's Fantasia)

Well, January had some lovely art in the air through some beautiful music sharing! From the gospel brightness of Sound Over All Waters with guest soloist Rose Bauman to the deep hued All of Life is Calling Me from Chorale of the Month we filled up on inspiration and hope that you did too! The next time you connect with the following folks please thank them for their music volunteering –

Members of 8 VA (Jan Magree, Rebecca Volkman, Sandra Helin, Diane Loeffler, Steve Volkman, Ann Nordgren, Joe Marty, Paul Wartman, Paul Borrmann), pianist Molly Benson, page turner Cal Benson, everyone in the January Chorale of the Month (Susan Poupore, Destri Irwin, Jan Magree, Steve Volkman, Ann Nordgren, Mel Magree, Paul Borrmann, Bev Pehkonen, Barbara Kelly, Julie Morgan and Rebecca Volkman) February Chorale of the Month starts on Wednesday Feb. 4th so if you have the desire to sing chorally come and join us!

PSD Annual Conference Music

Lots of music making will happen on Sunday April 5th during the 3 hour Earth Revival service and we welcome any music person to help! Join Chorale of the Month beginning in February to learn 2 selections for PSD or contact Music Programming Administrator Karen Bauman (kklgb4820@msn.com) for individual opportunities. Acoustic players are especially encouraged to get involved!

February rehearsal and performance schedule

8 va chorale of the month

Sunday Feb. 1 Noon – 1 pm Sanctuary	Weds. Feb. 4 7 pm – 8 pm Sanctuary
Sunday Feb. 8 No Rehearsal	Weds. Feb. 11 7 pm – 8 pm Sanctuary
Sunday Feb. 15 Noon – 1 pm Sanctuary	Weds. Feb. 18 7 pm – 8 pm Sanctuary
Sunday Feb. 22 Noon – 1 pm Sanctuary	Sunday Feb. 22 10:15 Warm up 11 am Sing Sanctuary
Sunday March 1 8:30 Warm Up 9 and 11 am Sing Sanctuary	Weds. Feb. 25 7 pm – 8 pm Sanctuary

Music Program Construction

As of this writing two Bridge Musician candidates are scheduled for interviews. This position will get us through the last portion of the program year when options for ongoing staffing will be considered. Your input will be sought as we try to create the best music programming possible at UUCD!

You are cordially invited to UUCD's -
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth's first (?)
Third Wednesday Connection Social
February 18, 2009
Come and stay for a part or all of the event.
5:15 to 6:00 p.m.

Homestyle Dinner & Social
Cost: $1.00 under age 10 $4.00 under age 100
Vegetarian option available
Beverages & Dessert included
RSVP below required
6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Conversation

A discussion will be held about your interest in this kind of monthly community building, interactive event and what components it might include that would be of value to you and bring you back again and again. One topic we want to discuss very soon is Adult Enrichment.

7:00 to ? p.m.
Stay as late as you wish to visit with friends, make new friends,
attend a scheduled meeting, etc.
Questions –Ann Fryberger email ann@thefrybergers.net

RSVP
Return form to the UUCD office by no later than 12:00 noon February 16th
Yes, a night out of the kitchen spent with friends at UUCD sounds wonderful.
Count: Under age 10 ______ x $1.00 = $_______
Under age 100 ______ x $4.00 = $_______
How many of total meals above are vegetarian? _____
(Cash preferred payable at the event)

____________________________________________________
PRINT NAME

Newcomers Information Session

Sunday, February 15 at 12:15pm in the Greatroom! Newcomers' Information Sessions are held in the RE Great Room immediately after the 11:00 service on the third Sunday of every month. All newcomers are encouraged to attend, and it's wonderful when a few "old timers" drop in, too. (Hint. Hint.)

Newcomers' Information Sessions are an opportunity to meet other newcomers, congregation members, and our Interim Minister, Gail; as well as an opportunity to learn a little more about our congregation and about Unitarian Universalism, in general.

Snacks and childcare will be available, and you will receive a Newcomers' Packet chock full of good stuff. For more information, call or e-mail Kathy S. at the UUCD Office, 724-0308 or uucduluth@gmail.com.

PSD Conference Local Arrangements Committee

To Host Coffee Hour In February

The steering committee of "DuLAC" (Duluth Local Arrangements Committee) that is planning for the April 3-5 Prairie Star District Conference in Duluth needs help. There will be many opportunities for volunteers--at almost any level of commitment—both before and during the conference, whether or not you plan to be a conference attendee. (It's going to be a sensational conference focusing on the seventh principle.) We will need 50-60 volunteers at different levels of commitment, so please do stop to speak with us during February, and sign up to help! And THANK YOU from DuLAC!

Kathy Heltzer kheltzer@d.umn.edu
Jan Magree jsmagree@cpinternet.com
Marty Sozansky msozansk@d.umn.edu
Tim Stratton tsrtatto@d.umn.edu
Suzanne Wasilczuk suzwas@hotmail.com
Tina Welsh tinawelsh32@aol.com

Green Corner

Outdoor Sanctuary: Moving Together from Visions to Plans

As a congregation we have spent enormous energy these past couple years designing and constructing our building. Although completion of the building continues to draw our energy, it is now time to also seriously consider how we will use our Outdoor Sanctuary (those portions of our property that lie beyond the building) and how we will serve as stewards of the land.

Last summer Green Sanctuary Committee conducted walking tours to familiarize congregants with the Outdoor Sanctuary's boundaries, topography, and vegetation. During these walks we asked people to envision how our land could be used to serve the UUCD community. At a publicized and open meeting last October, we asked participants to identify their desires for Outdoor Sanctuary development, to consider the land's possibilities and limitations, and to submit written expressions of their thoughts.

Now we are launching a two month process to complete an initial development plan for the Outdoor Sanctuary. All UUCD congregants, groups and committees are invited and encouraged to participate. We are looking for your plans by April 1, 2009.

These are the steps:

Anyone with ideas on how the Outdoor Sanctuary can be developed is requested to submit a proposal by April 1. Standardized proposal forms (including a terrain map) should be available now, on both the UUCD website and on the Green Sanctuary table in the Social Hall.
Green Sanctuary Committee will serve as the coordinating group to help congregants with similar ideas to work together and to help answer questions about the land. We will also function as liaison between groups, to help reconcile any conflicting proposals as early and smoothly as possible.
Shortly after April 1, Green Sanctuary will evaluate and compile proposals into an appropriate development plan for presentation at the UUCD annual congregational meeting on May 15.

We are asking those who submit proposals to answer the what, where, why, and how questions, including consideration of space, funding, and maintenance needs. We will look for an identified project leader who can be contacted with questions.

As always, the success of any project depends upon the vision, organization, and energy of its advocates. We invite you to contact any of the following Green Sanctuary members with your questions, or for assistance in developing your proposal: Barb Akre bgakre@msn.com, Chris Edwardson edwardsonfamily@juno.com, Bunter Knowles buntero@earthlink.net, Beth Tamminen bethtamminen@yahoo.com, David Yount daveyount@aol.com.

"Green Building College" on March 10

On Tuesday, March 10 at 6:30 p.m. Chris Edwardson will lead a session for congregational members to learn more about our green building. This will allow more of us to provide in-depth information to our many visitors and groups using our building. This is especially important for the Prairie Star District Conference on April 3 – 5. This 45 - 60 minute training session is scheduled during the first part of the March Program Council meeting but is open to everyone who wants to be able to lead a tour or just answer questions about our new home.

Caring Committee

Many thanks to those who have helped with recent memorial services. It does take a lot of people, and it is a lot of work, but what a loving, caring service we provide! If you would like to be part of this important team please contact Jill Lakhan jillkor@gmail.com or Tina Welsh tinawelsh32@aol.com

If you have needs such as transportation to church, doctor appointments, etc,, please contact Ellie Connolly at connolly.ellie@gmail.com, We have a fine group of folks who are willing to help. Just let us know.

Please tell us about those who may be ill or about those in need. Your Caring Community is here for you. Don't know who to call? Try Julie Morgan juliemorgan1231@yahoo.com

Caring Notes

Condolences to Mark Shaiman and Maureen Langdon Shaiman. You may remember that Maureen's father, John Langdon, died in early December. His memorial service was held on December 18th. Early the next morning Mark and Maureen learned that Mark's father had suddenly died in Florida. What a tough blow so soon after John's death! You can get contact information for Maureen and Mark from Julie at 525-3220.

In case you didn't know: Church member Tom Betts was instrumental in getting support for Duluth's Tuskegee Airman, and Congressional Gold Medal recipient, Joe Gomer and his wife Liz to get to the inauguration ceremony. Thanks to Tom, Duluthians donated enough to cover airfare for the couple. Thanks to John Gustafson in Madison, a contact was made with Lane Unitarian Universalist Church in Bethesda, MD. They are providing housing for the Gomers and will see that they get where they need to go. Kind of makes you proud to be a Unitarian, doesn't it?

Happy Healing to Rita Bergstedt who had foot surgery on December 19th. She is doing well, even making top-notch stew from a wheel chair. By the time you read this, she should be, although not completely healed, two-footed again!

The Mitten Maker's Project

Make mittens, scarves and hats for CHUM! Bring fleece and sewing machines /sergers, or yarn and needles and come to 4801 Tioga Street. If you can't sew or knit, but want to help--you can come and cut out pieces for the sewers to sew. If you can't sew or knit or cut--but want to come, tell jokes, bring cookies or your favorite CDs, do that! If you can't come, but want to donate fleece, do that. If you can't come but want to make things on your own to donate, do that. The more the merrier! Let me know if you are interested and how you want to be involved.

Tentative Mitten Maker's meeting dates (all are Saturdays) from 10AM to 12 PM
February 29, April 25, June 27th and October 24th. Before the hard cold sets in next winter, we will have a nice supply of mitts, scarves and hats for CHUM children, men and women.
Thanks! Julie Morgan juliemorgan1231@yahoo.com

Thank You For Caring

Dear UUCD Caring Committee,

Thank you for bringing in so many volunteers on 48 hours notice for Shelly Stetson's memorial service January 14th. We couldn't have put on the amazing service we did without your help behind the scenes in the kitchen, with parking, and with Carol Turner in the nursery. Thanks also to Gail Mariner and Karen Bauman for assisting with the service. Many friends and family, including Shelly's husband, John, commented on how our building reflected Shelly so well: the light, the garden, the windows, the wood. There were over 200 friends and family, most of whom had never been in our new church. A few were so impressed that they corralled Louise and Binner for more information and questions about joining. Shelly wasn't a member of UUCD, but she may well have joined if she'd been able to beat her cancer. UUCD was a fitting place for the service, and allowed the various family faiths to be present to mark this significant passage in a meaningful and respectful way.

Thank you Thank you Thank you for your time as volunteers and representatives of our congregation; you were vital to pulling this off and enabled us to participate in the service for our dear friend.

With gratitude,
Binner Rahn, Suzi Schuller Smith, Bill Smith, Louise Levy

Thank You from Damiano

"Your contribution helps homeless, unemployed, and low-income families in Duluth. We're visited by hundreds of people daily and we provide all services free of charge ---help that is simple, direct, and respectful. We run the Soup Kitchen, the Clothing Exchange, our crisis Social Services office, our employment clothing store—Clothes That Work, the Kids Café, and the Housing Access Program. Thanks again for your support!"

Thank You from Spirit Valley Young Mother's Program

"Thank you for your donation of $142.15 toward the Spirit Valley Young Mother's Program. We consider your gift as an investment in our work and your support is greatly appreciated. Over the past year, contributions like yours have allowed us to provide 14 young mothers and their babies supportive housing services which include an individual supportive services plan, budgeting and life skills classes, parenting classes, employment and education assistance, and on-site childcare. Throughout all of our programming, we work to advance our mission: eliminating racism and empowering women and girls."

UU Pretty Good Book Group

The UU pretty good book group is open to everyone, not just members. If you enjoy reading good books and discussing them why don't you join us? Meetings are usually the third Tuesdays of each month in the library at UUCD.

February Book Selection

The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian

Tuesday, February 17, 7:15 pm, Library
A while back we read and discussed The Great Gatsby by F Scott Fitzgerald. You might want to take it out again and refresh your memory of Gatsby before you read The Double Bind. The book weaves between the 1920s Gatsby characters and the present. It's a wonderful suspenseful story that you will find hard to put down.

March Book Selection

Blessed Unrest by Paul Hawken

Tuesday, March 17, 7:15 pm, Library
This book was selected for discussion at the Prairie Star District Conference the first weekend in April here in Duluth. I hope most of you will be able to attend and participate in the conference. The book is available for sale in our book store for $12. The subtitle of Blessed Unrest is how the largest movement in the world came into being and why no one saw it coming. It is the story of what is going right in this world, an account of how people use imagination, conviction, and resilience to perform daily miracles of redefining our relationship to the environment and to one another.

April Book Selection

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski

Tuesday, April 21, 7:15 pm, Library
Born mute, speaking only in sign, Edgar Sawtelle leads an idyllic life with his parents on their farm in remote northern Wisconsin. For generations, the Sawtelles have raised and trained a fictional breed of dog whose thoughtful companionship is epitomized by Almondine, Edgar's lifelong friend and ally. This is a riveting family saga.

Spirit Valley Young Mothers Program

A VERY BIG THANK YOU to everyone who provided gifts for the children at the holiday party or gifts for the new baby girl who arrived in mid-January. The moms and children are very grateful. The Young Mothers program is also grateful for the gift of $142 from the woven basket collection from one of the services in December. It will be used for pots and pans for the moms.

In December a holiday party was held at Spirit Valley with a full meal, gifts and games. The party was attended by moms, children, UU and other volunteers and Spirit Valley staff. Dorothy, the mother of the baby, had no baby items before the shower, so she was very happy to receive most of the basic necessities and also several pretty outfits. Everyone at Spirit Valley wants all of you to know that your generosity and kindness has meant so much to them.

Since the moms are allowed to stay at Spirit Valley only two years, there is a fairly constant turnover of mothers and babies. Some move out earlier, and some are asked to leave early because they choose not to abide by the rules. Another baby (a boy) is scheduled to arrive in February, and so we are again collecting items for a baby layette. Items will be collected Sunday, February 15 for a baby shower. Since this mom, Sarah, has a few things, we are asking for only receiving blankets, a large blanket, crib sheets, and sleepers.

When the moms move from Spirit Valley into their own apartments, they usually need a table and chairs, sofa, a dresser or chest of drawers, dishes, pots and pans and other household items. There is an ongoing need for shampoo, deodorant, feminine products, etc. for all of the moms. Please place donations in the basket marked Spirit Valley in the social hall. If you have large items which need to be picked up, please notify Carol Michealson

UUCD Sponsors CHUM Church on March 8 - Your Participation Welcomed and Needed!

On Sunday March 8 from 3:30 - 5:00 pm our congregation is hosting the CHUM Church service and coffee hour. The service is held each month at Peace Church with different CHUM congregations joining the CHUM Church members for an afternoon of shared worship and fellowship. Rev. Gail Marriner will be leading the service that day. At least 6 UU volunteers are needed to make this event a success - but many more are welcome. It is our responsibility to help people on and off their busses, to help them get to their classes and the services, and to prepare and serve the snacks during the coffee hour. It is our chance to get to know these members of our community.

CHUM church members include adults of all ages with a variety of skills, talents & personality traits. They live in group homes, adult foster care, with families or in independent or supervised settings. They work in the community for independent businesses or at Goodwill, UDAC or Pinewood Learning Center. The worship service follows a fairly traditional format, with CHUM church members forming the choir, playing rhythm instruments, bringing up individual offerings, expressing prayer requests and sharing a sign of peace. The fellowship time which follows the service provides an opportunity for people to socialize and enjoy refreshments before going home. The CHUM Church members really enjoy receiving individual attention & affirmation from those hosting the service. You will find this an enjoyable and rewarding afternoon.

This is a great volunteer opportunity for families or groups of friends - people of all ages are welcome and encouraged to attend and get to know the members of the CHUM Church. Please contact Beth Tamminen at bethtamminen@yahoo.com to sign up or for more information.

Simple Living

The Twin Ports Simple Living Group will meet as usual on the second Sunday of the month, February 8 at 12:30. We had a lively discussion at the January meeting about keeping seeds, the "three sisters" of seeds (corn, squash, beans), and permaculture. What's permaculture anyway? Wikipedia calls it "an approach to designing human settlements, in particular the development of perennial agricultural systems that mimic the structure and interrelationship found in natural ecologies." It turned out that we had two people in attendance with hands-on experience in practicing and teaching permaculture: Amy Wilcox and Scott Schumacher. At our February meeting we'll show a video called "The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil," followed by a discussion about the video and about permaculture in general. All interested people are welcome.

Women's Moon Group

Event	Date	Time	Ritual Leader	UU Room
Full Moon	Monday, February 9, 2009	7:00-8:30 pm	Sue	Library
New Moon	Tuesday, February 24, 2009	7:00-8:30 pm	Lorraine	Library
Full Moon	Tuesday, March 10, 2009	7:00-8:30 pm	Larissa	Library
New Moon	Thursday, March 26, 2009	7:00-8:30 pm	Salima	Library
Full Moon	Thursday, April 9, 2009	7:00-8:30 pm	Sue	Library
New Moon	Friday, April 24, 2009	7:00-8:30 pm	Julie	Library

All rituals take place at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth (unless noted otherwise). The rituals are roughly an hour long starting promptly at 7:00 pm. You're welcome to come early for meet-and-greet time beforehand. After the ritual we end with socializing and snacks.

There are always opportunities to lead a moon ritual or take part in a Solstice service. Contact Alisa DeRider if you're interested: aderider@msn.com

Writers' Book Fair

Come to the Lake Superior Writers' Book Fair and Reading, "Sweet, Sweet Words" on February 8, 2009 from 3:00-5:00 pm at the UUC, 835 College Street, Duluth, MN. Rub elbows with area literati, buy books to give as Valentine gifts, listen to short readings, and enjoy sweet refreshments. Join the local writing community! For more info, please contact sheila@sheilapacka.com.

Visions for Skyline Parkway

On February 5 2009 at the Copper Top Church 230 East Skyline Parkway at 7:00 PM the Skyline Planning and Preservation Alliance along with the city of Duluth Planning and Engineering departments will hold a city wide community meeting on Skyline Parkway.

With Federal Highway Administration funds becoming available for road and bridge projects mayor Ness and representative Jim Oberstar head of Public Transportation in the U.S. House of Representatives feel this is the right time to put some people back to work on a great project such as Skyline Parkway. If we can get the grants and funds it could mean rebuilding the roadway with bicycle and pedestrian paths making the parkway more user friendly.

Please help us spread the word and come out and fall in love with Skyline Parkway all over again. We need a good turn out to show Jim Oberstar that there still is a big interest in Skyline Parkway. You can go to our website www.skylineppa.org Doug Stevens (SPPA board member)

Adult Enrichment and Religious Education Programs for Winter 2009

Adult Enrichment Committee Mission Statement:

Our mission is to enrich the community by developing a program of classes and activities through a cooperative and creative process which fosters spiritual, intellectual and emotional growth.

Visiting the Galapagos Islands with Richard Dawkins and Charles Darwin:

Slide presentation of David and Geiger Yount's trip to the Galapagos in May, 2007, Thursday, Feb. 12 (which is Darwin's, and also Lincoln's, 200th birthday). 7:00 p.m. in the social hall. Free and open to the public.

Menu for the Future by the Northwest Earth Institute will be offered by Chris Edwardson of UUCD's Green Sanctuary committee.

Discussion Course Goals:

To explore food systems and their impacts on culture, society and ecological systems.
To gain insight into agricultural and individual practices that promote personal and ecological well-being.
To consider your role in creating or supporting sustainable food systems.

There will be six discussion sessions and an optional wrap-up celebration. Class will meet on Thursday evenings from 7 - 9 p.m. in one of the new Religious Education rooms. Preferred class size is 15, but will take up to 20. NW Earth Institute books are required and cost $20. Payment is due at first meeting. Deadline for sign-up is February 1, 2009. For more information about the course and the NW Earth Institute, visit www.nwei.org

The Sessions and dates are:

2/26/09 What's Eating America
3/5/09 Anonymous Food
3/12/09 Farming for the Future
3/19/09 You Are What You Eat
3/26/09 Towards a Just Food System
4/2/09 Choices for Change

Information about the UU Pretty Good Book Club and other events can be found elsewhere in the newsletter.

UU Bed and Breakfast Vacation Lodging
Do you dream of inexpensive vacation travel to interesting destinations where you can stay in the homes of friendly people who share your ideals and are happy to provide directions and advice for their area? The UU bed and breakfast directory UU're Home (formerly Homecomings) can fulfill your dream. For 29 years, we've provided a network of hosts in the United States (and a few abroad) who enjoy meeting new friends and who are happy to open their home to like-minded people. You can also become a host and be listed in the directory. Contact us at info@uurehome.com, or at 828-281-3253, and we will gladly send you information about listing your accommodations. Host listings on the UU're Home website at www.UUreHome.com are updated whenever changes are made or new hosts are added. The paper edition is published once a year in April. For a copy of the 2009 directory and a year's access to the website listings, please click on "become a member" to pay by credit card or send a check for $25 and your e-mail address to UU're Home, 43 Vermont Court, Asheville, NC 28806.

Ministerial Transition Team

Discussion
Who are we? How do we care? How do we practice justice? How do we grow spiritually? How do we communicate?

Feb 21 – Communication

11:00am – 1:00pm: Brunch and Discussion. Cost: $1.00
Reservations encouraged. Child care available upon request
Email Carol Turner if you'll need childcare–cgeot1@gmail.com
What we discover will be part of our search for a settled minister.
Sponsored by Ministerial Transition Team (MTT). Questions? Visit MTT table after service or contact Barbara Lund blund@lakenet.com.

Puzzle PEACE Interfaith Youth Choir

has a slightly different schedule for Feb. after our 2 regular rehearsals on Jan. 11 and 25. Singing and recording with FreedomSONGproject was an energizing and intergenerational experience for all, which we hope to continue in the future. Remaining winter rehearsals and performance times are as follows:

Sun. Jan. 25 (in case you're getting this at the end of Jan., join us!) 2:00-3:00 pm
Regular rehearsal: Peace United Church of Christ/1111 N. 11th St./Duluth
Sun. Feb. 8 - 2:00-3:00 pm
Regular rehearsal: Peace UCC
Sun. Feb. 15 - 3:30--call! (meet)
Reflections Of The Season (rescheduled from 12/21)
Lake Superior Interfaith Community Church 4:00 service
1414 E. 9th St./Duluth 5:00 potluck!
Warm-up, then sing at the service --ALL WELCOME! Puzzle PEACE will sing 3 songs, including "Peace Round, Thich Nhat Hanh Vows for Children and When the Lights All Shine.
Join us for an international potluck following--bring a dish to share. :)

Reflections Of The Season Interfaith Service (rescheduled from Dec.21)
An intergenerational and interfaith service celebrating our CHILDREN (our future!) and the common thread of LOVE in our interfaith world...
Sunday, Feb.15 4:00 Service
5:00 International potluck--bring a dish to share!
Lake Superior Interfaith Community Church
1414 E. 9th Street--Duluth
ALL ARE WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

***All events are sponsored by AIC (Arrowhead Interfaith Council)***

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of North Bay: Wine Country Holiday

“Napa was as delightful as I had expected. What was equally important and somewhat unexpected was the profound connections I felt with my hosts and hostesses.”
Carol Lim, Los Angeles

The UU’s of Napa, California proudly announce an addition to our successful Wine Country Excursion program which we have offered the past 3 years.

In a year when overseas vacations are harder on the budget, why not plan a trip here in America? There is so much to see and do in the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, e.g. wine education and tasting, art, history of the regions, gourmet dining, bicycling and hiking to explore the natural beauty of our hills and valleys and only an hour to San Francisco!

Sites of particular interest include Jack London’s home; renowned and boutique wineries; numerous fine restaurants including the Culinary Institute of America; the diRosa Art and Nature Preserve; many museums and galleries; miles of bicycling and hiking trails, etc.

We offer two choices: Comfortable lodging in members’ homes with full breakfast (up to 3 nights), or lodging plus our renowned Wine Country Excursion 2-day tour package.

In 2009 our program will run from April through October. Our fees for lodging are at least 25% below market rate (and include a scrumptious breakfast!) and tours are about 50% below commercial rates. All proceeds go to our small fellowship. We have limited openings, so contact us now for details. Tom Wilson or 2wilsons1dog@comcast.net

We look forward to sharing our lovely “home” with you!

United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities

Spring 2009 Course Offerings in Duluth, MN

TR515 Making Peace, Transforming Conflict - Rev. David Bard, PhD.

Mondays, Feb.2 - May 15, except for March 16 and April 13, from 6:00 - 9:15 p.m.
First United Methodist Church, 230 E. Skyline Pkwy.

CH261 New Testament Texts in Context - Rev. Neil Elliott, PhD.

Feb. 6-7, Feb. 27-28, Mar. 27-28, May 1-2. On Fridays, 6:00-9:15 p.m. and Saturdays, 9:00-12:15 & 1:30-3:30pm
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth, 835 West College Street

For more information, contact Ann Nordgren, Duluth Program Coordinator, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, 218-525-3136, anordgren@unitedseminary.edu.

Transforming Conflict: Dealing with Difficult People in Your Congregation

Instructor: Rev. Mark Sundby, PhD. on Saturdays, February 21 & March 21 from 9:30 AM-3:30 PM
Asbury United Methodist Church, 6822 Grand Avenue
Registration deadline: Saturday, February 14
For more information or to register, contact Ann Nordgren in Duluth, or Renee K. Flesner, rflesner@unitedseminary.edu or go to www.unitedseminary.edu.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth

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