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June 2008 UUCD 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 June 2008

All services during June will be held at 10:30am    835 W. College Street

• Sunday, June 1: The Heart of Unitarian Universalism in Word and Song- with guest speaker Suzanne Wasilczuk, candidate for Unitarian Universalist ministry.
  The Unitarian Universalists Principles have much to say about how we might live our lives.  But what is the heart and soul of our vision?
• Sunday, June 8: Flower Communion Sunday- with the Reverend Sally Hamlin, Interim Minister, preaching and leading the congregation in this annual ritual that celebrates the beauty and symbolism and the diversity of flowers.  Please bring a blossom to share with the congregation.
• Sunday, June 15: We Hold One Another with the Reverend Sally Hamlin, Interim Minister, preaching for her last Sunday with us.  Much mutual learning has occurred this past church year.  This will be my final"pulpit good bye" to you.
• Sunday, June 22: Summer Solstice Sunday with Larissa Schmidt and other members of the Women’s Moon Group leading UUCD in worship this longest day.
• Sunday, June 29: The Biology of Love and Hate with Sally Mayasich, UUCD member leading our worship service this morning. The Biology of Love and Hate will explore the biological origins of those emotions and the often fine line between them, and whether free will, knowledge and understanding can overcome the mistakes humanity has made in the thrall of either.  The discussion will include the"hate gene", aggression genetics, xenophobia and racism; romantic/familial/social/friendship bonding; examples in nature of homosexuality and homophobia; altruism and the"goodness gene".  Sally Mayasich is a biologist and writer.  This is the third in a series of essays including"Biology and the Soul" and"The Biology of Faith," both posted on the UUCD website.

See you on Sunday!

Sally

To:  The incomparable UUCD                                          

Well, it’s been quite a ride being president of UUCD’s Board of Trustees.  Thank you for your support.

Now, I’m off to other things.  I shall continue as a member of the Finance Council under Paul Borrmann’s excellent leadership and a remarkably dedicated team.   

I am also anticipating a new role as Special Events Chair attempting to fill the very capable shoes of Gloria Walters who has graciously accepted a board position.  I am eager for any and all ideas you care to share with me that may bring greater member satisfaction, involvement and growth. Initially, I will be seeking a steering committee to help me without having lots of meetings.  If you are interested or would just like to know more about this opportunity, please give me a call at 525-3818 or email me at ann@thefrybergers.net.  We will have fun as we do our part in building a strong and vibrant UUCD. 

In service & faith,
Ann Fryberger
Outgoing President, Board of Trustees
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth

Board Report

Your Board of Trustees met on April 22, 2008 and worked through the following items:

• We approved the March 25, 2008 board minutes.
• We tabled the approval of the 1Q08 financial report until May
• We approved the revised job descriptions for the Music Programming Administrator and the Choir Director
• We approved with amendments the May 2, 2008 Annual Meeting Agenda
• We approved the Nominating Committee’s slate for the 2008-09 Board of Trustees (Jim Lund, Carol Michealson, and Gloria Walters and for the 2008-09 Nominating Committee; Dodie Bertilson (Nominating), Alison Lutterman (Board), Barb Lund (Congregation)
• We received the College Street Project financial summary report
• We were updated on the College Street Project Dedication & Grand Opening events
• We received an update on the Interim Minister Search
• We received an update on the Ministry Transition Team activities
• We received an update on the Prairie Star District conference in Omaha as relates to the conference being held in Duluth next year
• We discussed the need for a Disruptive Person Policy and a draft policy will be developed by Alison Lutterman
• We learned that Ann Fryberger has volunteered to serve as Special Events Chair

Board of Trustees 2008

Please bring issues, compliments and complaints to any of the Board members. We welcome your input. Feel free to contact board members with questions, concerns, or compliments.

President: Dan Burrows      dburrows@d.umn.edu
Larissa Schmitt  larissa.schmitt@gmail.com
Paul Borrmann  kdonn@cpinternet.com       
Alison Lutterman alutterman@duluthmn.gov
Jim Lund jlund@lakenet.com
Tara Richter tararichte@gmail.com
Carol Michealson cmicheal@d.umn.edu
Gloria Walters dansing52@yahoo.com

From the Treasurer  Money Talks - Part 3

Movin’ on up to the East Side
to a deluxe apartment in the sky
We’re  movin’ on up to the East Side
We finally got a piece of the pie.

Theme from"The Jeffersons" 70's TV sitcom, spinoff from"All in the Family"

For years, this was a nice little congregation. We filled a niche in the Twin Ports religious landscape. Local UU’s participated in and often led peace and social justice efforts. Our staff was minimal, and our pastor worked for a modest salary. When the topic of money came up, or it was time for the annual canvass, eyes would roll and little jokes would be exchanged about how Unitarians give to other causes, not their congregation.

Recently, things started to change. The congregation decided to accept the challenge issued by Alan Zeppa. A few months later, we voted to pay our staff at least the UUA minimum Fair Compensation levels. Then we voted to substantially increase staffing levels to promote and accommodate growth. With these decisions, I believe we were making a conscious choice to assume a leadership role among Duluth congregations. We were not satisfied in our little niche, but aspired to become a focal point for liberal religion that respects all creation, that embraces and celebrates (not simply tolerates) diversity, and that puts words into clearly visible action. We said,"We’re movin’ on up."

This meant, among other things, that we decided to stop treating the subject of money with snickering and nervous laughter. Some great steps have since been taken. Our Building Fund Appeal far exceeded our hopes, and over 80% of those pledges have already been collected. Money pledged to our operating budget has increased by over 10% each of the last 2 years. And many members have responded well to several special appeals.

But much remains to be done. Next month I will explore some of the specifics. But for now I think those of us who are more economically fortunate should consider a couple of things. First,   movin on up means that this UUCD community needs to be more than just one of the causes we support. If we are to be more important in the Twin Ports, UUCD has to move more to a primary position among your causes. For we have no national base of contributors or major grant sources. It’s just us.

Relative affluence also demands, in my view, that we constantly examine our spending and ask ourselves if it is aligned with our values. We often make non-essential purchases such as an extra TV, another dinner out, a new set of skis, a snowmobile, a boat. We also may add"bells and whistles" to other purchases such as a home, home furnishings, vacations and cars. When I look at how much I spend each month on restaurants, or how much went to my last vacation, it prompts me to compare that to what UUCD gets from me - and to ask what that says about my values. I have been embarrassed on more than one occasion. There are no easy answers, but the best answers will come when the question is asked often.
-Paul Borrmann

It's going to be a kitchen!

We continue to make great progress, under the leadership and craftsmanship of Chris Edwardson. The floor tile is down and the fans are in. Soon we will have plumbing, lighting and a ceiling. We have our tankless water heater and the hand and three compartment sinks have been ordered. We continue to watch our pennies and dollars and are waiting for a final accounting of costs to date before determining what the remaining funds can support.

Speaking of what we can afford – Have you decided what to do with your tax rebate? While we may debate in good UU fashion the pros and cons of this rebate program, most of us will need to decide what to do with the funds. Contributing all or part of your tax rebate to the church building or kitchen fund could meet the criteria of stimulating our local economy with purchasing from local businesses and supporting local craftspeople.
The choice, obviously, is yours!

Marree Seitz, Kitchen Kabinet

You’re invited to Dinner!

There have been a few requests for more Kitchen Pot dinners, so we (Geiger and David Yount) are offering another, or several, this time in mid-summer.  Date(s) to be determined from several possibilities:  June 13, 14, 18, 20, 21; other?

We would appreciate calls email (geigman@aol.com) to book your place at the table – everyone welcome, especially newcomers who want to meet and mingle with UUs. Repeat guests from winter dinners very welcome also. You donate $25 per person (more if you choose) - 100% to the Kitchen $Pot. 

UUCD GARDEN CLUB

In memory of Pete Hurlbut and with gratitude for the Zeppa Family Foundation.

Will we have olives?
In the upper part of our Garden are three"Black Olive" trees.  Despite the name, this species, Bucida buceras (also known as Oxhorn Bucida), is in the Indian Almond family (Combretaceae) and not the Olive family (Oleaceae).  The olives we love to eat are from the species Olea europea and producea fruit known as a drupe (a fleshy tissue surrounding a hard stone like seed).  Our olive trees, however, may at some point produce small black seed-capsules.  This type of fruit known as a pseudocarp. 

June 8- Plant sale
Starting after the morning service we will be having a plant sale.  The sale is to raise funds that will go toward supplies and equipment that are needed for the upkeep of our garden.  We welcome donations of perennials, bedding plants and house plants for this sale.  Please contact Colleen Betts or Jo Thompson if you have plants to donate. 

June 8-Planting Party
Also on June 8 we will be planting a food garden on the berm of the building.  Any and all, young and old, hands are needed.  We will also need shovels, a couple wheel barrows, and donations of organic compost and potting soil.  Planting will begin soon after the morning service. Water and snacks will be provided. 

If you would like to become involved, please contact Cindy Graham at cgraham109@hotmail.com or Jo Thompson at woodfarm@wildblue.net.  Our next meeting will be Sunday June 29 at 9:30 (UUCD, library). 

Simple Living Group

The Virtues of the Dandelion

If people appreciated how useful this plant is, they would be growing it on purpose instead of engaging in an endless war with it. At our next meeting, June 8, 12:30 (at UUCD), Jo Thompson will give a short presentation on the many uses of dandelion.  Samples of blossom spread and root coffee will be available.

Also, learn more about food gardens.  After the morning service to about mid-afternoon, we will be helping the Garden Club with the planting of the outdoor food garden.  Contacts:  Duane Madison or Jo Thompson.

Interim Minister Search Team Update

The Interim Search Committee is pleased and excited that the Rev. Dr. Gail Marriner has accepted the position as our Interim Minister, starting August 1st. Gail has been part of a pastoral team of three ministers at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston, Texas, for the past ten years. She is a graduate of St. Olaf College and Harvard Divinity School, Gail was an art teacher before starting the new path that now brings her to UUCD.

Gail is the mother of 6 year-old twins, a son and a daughter, and her husband is a custom wood craftsman. They are planning to come to Duluth in June, to get settled.

The Endowment Fund

On its way to a goal of $100,000, the Fund was at $17,984.78 as of 12/31/2007. This is an increase of more than $1,200 for the year. The Fund's goal ($100,000) is the point at which the Fund's money becomes available for use. Monies are invested in the socially conscious Pax World Balanced Fund.

If there were no additions to the Fund by church members or friends, and growth of the fund was due entirely  to the Pax World Fund at the 6.5 % per year growth rate seen this past year, the Fund would pass the $100,000 mark in the year 2032, 24 years hence.

The Endowment Fund Commttee consists of five people from the congregation and intends to meet at least quarterly. Past committees have developed the guidelines for the Fund and committee action.  Present activity is principally concerned with keeping the congregation conscious of the Fund.  Previous years have seen gifts given to the Fund as memorials or to honor someone.

With the start of the new congregational year the committee is seeking a new member who would serve for a three year term, May to May. Speak to Jim Prosser (chairperson) if this committee would hold interest for you.  Other members are Chris Edwardson, Diane Daniels, Mark Liske.

Peace & Justice

The Peace and Justice Committee is changing its meeting time to weeknights during the summer months.  The next meeting is at 7:00 pm on Monday, June 23, 2008. at 835 College Street.  We’ll watch the local 30-minute film Bringing the Truth to Light: A Community Forum on Racism Today, followed by discussion.  All are welcome.  Contact Sue at sdaileydul@hotmail.com for more information.

Thank you to Scot Bol, Wiebke Erickson, Hal Bertilson, and Sue Dailey for helping at the Open House, with a special thank you to Tom Starkey for designing and building the two wonderful kiosks.  Flyers can be posted on the bulletin board, scheduled events can be noted on the white board, and petitions can be placed on the shelf for anyone to review and sign.        

Religious Education

Greetings UU Families, 

We had an amazing child dedication service on Mother's Day.  Babies and children were formally recognized and welcomed into our community, each with a blessing and a rose.  Appropriately, Reverend Sally Hamlin's sermon was about "Bringing In the Future."

I addressed the congregation that day as well, regarding what we, as Unitarian Univeralists, can do to help bring in a brighter, more peaceful future.  I asked each of you to imagine yourself "standing shoulder to shoulder with a child, peering at wiggling critters in our vernal pond" or "enjoying the look of quiet anticipation on a child's face as she watches candles being lit for a Passover Seder." I asked you to consider volunteering for a Sunday (or two or three...) to help bring in a future. 

Give me a call, let's talk about ways you can best contribute; there are whole group activities and classroom days, there are art projects and gardening. Is there something in particular that you would like to do with the kids?  Run it by me!
Our best ideas come from congregants and parents alike.

A pair of faded overalls may replace your Sunday Best and a trowel may replace a hymnal, but I suspect you will find digging in the dirt with a child as sacred as Sunday Service. Together we can help create a spiritual home where kids can freely and responsibly search for truth and meaning. We can create a place where kids can plug into something larger than themselves; a place where they learn the importance of spiritual exploration, working for justice and develop a reverence for the earth. Together we can help nourish their spirits so they can help heal the world.

Thank you for all you've done, for all you do, and for all you will do.   
Carol Turner

Adult Enrichment And Religious Education Programs

We are taking a summer break, but look for many interesting and informative programs in the fall.  The adult enrichment committee welcomes input from all UUs, so if you have ideas for programs and just need some help in coordination, please let us know.   We will put the information in the quarterly program in the UUCD newsletter.  We'd love some of the new members on our committee! Call Carol Michealson at 727-1754 or email cmicheal@d.umn.edu for more information.

Green Corner

The Green Sanctuary Committee has chosen its Summer Book Read theme and core selection for 2008. The theme is The World beneath our feet, and we have selected Dirt:The Ecstatic Skin of the Earth by William Bryant Logan as the core reading (available new or used online at Amazon or Barnes & Noble). Participants are encouraged to read and bring other sources on the same theme.

As in previous years, we will meet at the Younts on London Road, by the shore of Lake Superior. Tentative dates are on Thursday evenings, July 31, August 7 or August 14. Final date selection and details will be provided in the July Green Corner and/or the appropriate UUCD calendar.

Some comments from the book cover are:

"This book isn't so much a natural history as a series of comic-rhapsodic penseés on the commonest of sublunary substances. The author's joyful prose-poetry elevates his lowly subject into something worth contemplating with curiosity and pleasure." The Boston Globe

"In these brief, elegant essays,the author raises the concept of dirt to new levels. Dirt is a natural history of the soil and our connection with it." Publisher's Weekly

"A masterful job. After you read Dirt, you will never forget that the soil is alive and as full of stories as a Dickens novel. Punchy, pungent, and full of astonishing facts and riveting ideas, Dirt is as classic of the new and lively ecological consciousness." The Reverend James Parks Morton, Dean of the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine.                                                       

Welcoming Congregation News

The Welcoming Congregation Committee is busy planning participation in Duluth Superior Pride Activities.  Mark your calendars for:

• Thursday, August 28   The Mayor’s Reception at the Depot
• Saturday, August 30 The Pride Festival at Bayfront Festival Park   We will have a table there with other faith groups.  Would you like to help at the table? 
• Sunday, August 31  The Pride Parade.  We are going to have a Faith Float this year--complete with decorations and room for you!  We want to have lots of people from all faith traditions come out and show support for GLBT people and families.  We hope UUCD will have a very strong presence.  We’ll keep you posted.
• Our Next Meeting is on Saturday, June 7th 9:30 to 11:30 at UUCD.  Please come and join us if you are interested in social justice for everyone.  Call Karen Bauman or Julie Morgan

Music Notes

"All music comes from God." Johnny Cash

No matter what your spiritual path we hope that the service music in May provided insight,  inspiration and the opportunity to experience the wonder of beloved community for each one of you. From Song of Community during the membership serviceto Bless the Beasts and the Children at the child dedication service to the many fine and delight  filled selections over UUCD’s dedication weekend the sense of joy rang within our sanctuary. I hope you carried it all home in your hearts!

The following music volunteers deserve hearty thanks and deep appreciation for their efforts making music during May:
Young UU Singers, Strings Attached, the Choir, vocal octet 8 VA Cins and Hell vocal trio (Cindy Edwardson, Cyndi Gritzmacher and Hella Wartman), the Drum Group, violinist Barbara Kelly, harpist Barbara Glick, guitarist Dan Burrows, percussion players Brian Barber Clara Goellner, and Eva Goellner, singers Ann Fryberger, Paul Borrmann, Scott Bol, Kathy Stinnett, Carol Turner, Sally Hamlin, Sue Denio, Kathy Heltzer, Grace Bauman and any other music volunteer inadvertently unnamed!

Special thanks go out to the faith choirs that made our Dedication Open House so beautiful – Gloria Dei Lutheran, St. George Serbian Orthodox, Peace UCC, First United Methodist, St. Michael’s Catholic Church, and Duluth Congregational Church.

Maybe the time has come for YOU to help create inspiring music at UUCD! Attend the next Choir or Strings Attached rehearsal or phone one of our staff - 
Choir Director Cyndi Gritzmacher Music Programming Administrator, or Karen Bauman (prior to 8 pm). We look forward to talking over music possibilities with you! 

June Rehearsal Schedule

• Wed   June 4:  
• 8 VA 6 pm Sanctuary
• Choir 7 pm Sanctuary
• Sun June 8:
• Choir 9:30 am Sanctuary
• Music Programming Annual Review/ Appreciation 11:45 AM   RE Great Room
• Wed June 11:
• 8 VA 6 pm Sanctuary
• Sun  June 15:  
• 8 VA  9:30 am Sanctuary
• Mon June 16: 
• 8 VA 6 pm  Park Hill Cemetery

Wondering about the above mentioned 8 VA at Park Hill Cemetery?  The great-great-great grandson of a man very involved in the Clayton Jackson McGhee (CJM) lynching riot will plant a tree from Elmer Jackson’s home town church in Mississippi at the CJM graveside during the Clayton Jackson McGhee Day of Remembrance in hopes of helping to heal the community from this tragic part of our history. 8 VA will offer a vocal selection during that tree planting event.   Please join us to honor these young men June 16th!

Caring Corner

Dear Caring Friends,

For the past few Sundays, Warren and I have been walking about before and after church services asking folks to sign up for the Caring Committee.  We always say that if you are part of this congregation, then you are automatically ON the Caring Committee!  But in order to be connected with what is going on, you need to sign up so you can receive emails or calls.  We’ll send out a blanket request—so and so needs a ride at 10:00 on Wednesday--if you can do it, let us all know.  If you can’t, fine!  Naturally, this works best with email, but we can make phone calls in specific cases as well.  Being on the Caring Committee connects you to what is going on with our community. If you are new to UUCD, it is a terrific way to get to know some terrific people.  And a bonus:  NO Committee Meetings to attend!  Wow!

If we missed you, email Julie: juliemorgan1231@yahoo.com

Thanks Julie & Warren

Joys & Concerns

• John Langdon has completed his radiation treatments.  He has been residing at St. Anne’s for the duration of the treatments.  He is feeling and looking better and better!  He welcomes company and expeditions away from St. Anne’s.  Call him at 740-5091.
• Susy Swanson is setting up in her new apartment—many thanks to UUS who helped with the move.   She is dealing with peripheral neuroma and reports she is slowly getting better.  Call her..
• David Backstrand has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer.  He most likely will participate in a special trial.  He will have begun chemo by the time you read this.  The Caring Committee will be helping with transportation.
• Rose Tassoni had knee surgery on May 8.  By the time you read this she will be home from the rehab unit in Virginia, Minnesota and hopefully healing well.
• When you are out and about remember that Bob Hart is at Bayshore Health Center (1601 St. Louis Avenue, room 102).  He graciously welcomes visitors!  After three is best.
• Marree Seitz reports: I have now completed half of my chemo treatments and am trying to develop a "short-timer's" attitude. It isn't fun but not as bad as it could be!  (Marree was diagnosed with colon cancer in January.)
• Proud Momma, Kay Campbell reports that her daughter, Lara Campbell, (who grew up in this church) and is now Director of Religious Education at White Plains Unitarian Church, has received the annual Excellence in Religious Education Award at the Metro NY District (like our Prairie Start District) meeting on May 4th.
• New members, Diane Leuder and Keith Thomsen were married on May 10.

A Grateful Note

My longer-than-expected recovery from knee surgery was lightened considerably by really getting to know Sally Hamlin and Carol Michealson who spent time with me at rehab, and Julie Morgan, Molly Benson, and Ruth McCutcheon who brought tasty foods and spent hours and mileage getting me to the doctor.  My heartfelt thanks to all of them.  
Betsy Presley

Grandma's Marathon

is Saturday, June 21 this year.  It is very probable that I will be hosting at least one of the runners from Africa, so please come and help cheer them on at my (Grandma Joyce Kramer's) home, 5523 London Road,* anytime from 8 a.m. onwards. Please bring a brunch-type dish for the potluck and a fold-up chair or blanket for sitting outdoors.  (*Directions: Turn off Superior St. onto 54th Ave. E. towards the Lake and then an immediate left after crossing the railroad tracks.  Go 2 blocks, then right.  My home is on the corner of 56th Ave. E. and London Rd. - near the 19th mile of the Marathon.)
Joyce Kramer

UUCD Family Fun Night

Save the Dates: Every Wednesday evening in July & August 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
All are invited: babies, children, teens, young adults, boomers and grands [This is a time for the young and the old and everyone in between to play together and grow our UUCD family]

The Fryberger’s patio & pool, 3399 Riley Rd., Duluth

• Potluck Dinner (5:30 p.m.)
• Swimming
• Outdoor Games
• Conversation

Please bring a guest and their family, your own plates, cups, utensils, beverages, games, towels, insect repellent, sun screen, etc.  If you want or need it; bring it. Frybergers will provide water.   No reservations required. Just come and have fun as we build family

Drum Circle

The monthly drum circle will be resuming 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 will start at 7:00 PM on Friday June 6th, 2008 and go until 9:00 PM. Please try to arrive before 6:50.  If you don't have a drum, we generally have an extra.

Farewell Gathering For Sally Hamlin

• Wednesday, June 18
• 6:00-8:30pm Social Hall 
• CHILDREN WELCOME!!!

Please join us as we bid farewell and give thanks to our departing Interim Minister, Sally Hamlin, who will be moving to Rochester, New York this summer.
We will be taking a collection for a gift to be presented the night of her party.

Contact Carol Turner cgeot1@gmail.com for further information.

• A-F  Main Courses 
• G-K  Salads/Cut Veggies/Fruits 
• L-N  Snacks: Chips, Crackers, Cheeses, Dips, Salsas 
• O-S  Desserts 
• T-Z  Beverages 
• Paper plates, flatware, napkins and cups will be provided 
• Clean-Up help appreciated!

The Grandmothers Are Coming!

"Messages of Earth Wisdom" Saturday, June 14 9am – 4pm, UUCD Social Hall. Workshop including lunch $75.00 suggested donation
"When the Grandmothers Speak the Earth Will Heal"  (Translation of a Hope Prophecy). Barry Coffin, renowned Native American sculptor, and Judith Moore, collaborator on the creation of the grandmother images, will share how the circle of 13 Grandmother sculptures work toward healing and awakening here and now.  Pre-register at circletbird@yahoo.com .

Uu Pretty Good Book Club

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.

June Book Selection

Ahab's Wife Or, The Star-Gazer  by Sena Jeter Naslund, Tuesday, June 17, 7:15 p.m., Library. Ahab's Wife is a novel on a grand scale that can legitimately be called a masterpiece: beautifully written, filled with humanity and wisdom, rich in historical detail, authentic and evocative. Melville's spirit informs every page of her tour de force.  Una Spenser's marriage to Captain Ahab is certainly a crucial element in the narrative of Ahab's Wife, but the story covers vastly more territory. After a spellbinding opening scene, the tale flashes back to Una's childhood in Kentucky; her idyllic adolescence with her aunt and uncle's family at a lighthouse near New Bedford; her adventures disguised as a cabin boy on a whaling ship; her first marriage to a fellow survivor who descends into violent madness; courtship and marriage to Ahab; life as mother and a rich captain's wife in Nantucket; involvement with Frederick Douglass; and a man who is in Nantucket researching his novel about his adventures on her ex-husband's ship.  Ahab's Wife is a breathtaking, magnificent, and uplifting story of one woman's spiritual journey, informed by the spirit of the greatest American novel, but taking it beyond tragedy to redemptive triumph.

July Book Selection

Morte D’Urban by J. K. Powers, Tuesday July 15, 7:15 p.m., library
The hero of J. F. Powers’s comic masterpiece is Father Urban, a man of the cloth who is also a man of the world.  Charming, with an expansive vision of the spiritual life and a high tolerance for moral ambiguity.  Urban enjoys a national reputation as a speaker on the religious circuit and has big plans for the future.  But then the religious head of his dowdy religious order banishes him to a retreat house in the Minnesota hinterlands.  Father Urban soon bounces back, carrying God’s word with undaunted enthusiasm through the golf courses, fishing lodges and backyard barbecues of his new turf.  Yet even as he triumphs his tribulations mount, and in the end his greatest success proves a setback from which he cannot recover.

First published in 1962, Morte D’Urban has been praised by writers as various as Gore Vidal, William Gass, Mary Gordon, and Philip Ross.  This beautifully observed, often hilarious tale of a most unlikely Knight of Faith is among the finest achievements of an author whose singular vision assures him of a permanent place in American literature.

Please continue to bring your ideas for future reads.  For questions or further information contact Barb Kelly kellys@ cpinternet.com. 

Midwest Renewable Energy Fair!

June 20-22, Custer, Wisconsin. Ten (or so) members of YRUU will be attending the Midwest Renewable Energy Fair and would like to invite interested congregants to join us! We have rented three campsites at Back 40 Campground.

• Check-in begins at noon on Thursday, June 19th.
• Tent must be smaller than 12'.
• Each tent site, excluding walk-in sites, accommodates one car.
• Extra cars need to be moved to the overflow parking area onsite.

What better way to explore our green principles!  If you'd like to camp with us Contact Carol Turner at cgeot1@gmail.com

To find out more about the world’s largest energy educational event of its kind, go to www.the-mrea.org.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth Fund Raising Policy

Amended:  March 25, 2008

It is the philosophy of UUCD that operating and capital financial needs should normally be met by the annual canvass, Sunday offerings, and general capital campaigns.

Other fund raising activities may be undertaken to meet special needs or unforeseen expenses. Fund raising can be a valuable community-building activity, and can be an effective way of reaching out to people beyond our UUCD community. For our youth, for example, fundraising is often a major component of the program (e.g. the 2007 trip to Biloxi, MS).

It is essential that all fundraising activities be coordinated, and that care be taken to avoid any adverse impact on the annual canvass or any general capital campaign. Our goal is to have a proactive and well-planned financial strategy to anticipate our needs and avoid crises.

For these reasons, we have established this process.

Fund Raising Process

• Any committee or group can sponsor a fund raising event. Those doing so must fill out the"Fund Raising Appeal Application" and bring this to the Program Council for approval. If approved the date and time must be coordinated with the Congregational Administrator who coordinates the calendar. A copy of the application will be sent to the Board by the Congregational Administrator. It is best if a fund raising event is proposed at least 30 days before  the event to allow for Program Council and Board processing.
• A fund raising event that will raise money within UUCD not intended for UUCD must be approved in advance by  two people: the Minister, and one of the Treasurer, the Board President or Vice President.
• The timing and"Fund Raising Appeal Application" must be given to the Board. The Board will not approve but may reject the appeal request.
• A final accounting of all revenue and expenses must be turned into the Treasurer at the completion of the event. The Treasurer can recommend and provide account forms and procedures for both income and expense record keeping. All revenue, net of expenses, must be turned into the Treasurer for deposit.
• If raised for the Operating Budget, the monies will be placed in the appropriate income line item to help balance the budget.
• If enough money is raised to exceed any Operating Budget needs, the extra money is placed into the Special Program Fund (see below). Funds can be requested from the Special Program Fund by individuals or committees for program or leadership needs.
• If money is raised for a specific need a matching fund raising line item will be created in the budget, and the money can be spent via the usual request forms. If the event entity is not familiar with UUCD purchasing processes, they must contact the Congregational Administrator for instructions before spending any of the revenue. There are special processes that are followed due to our tax exempt status. Any other questions should be addressed by the Congregational Administrator or the Treasurer of the Board.
• Money raised by any entity within UUCD not intended for our benefit (such as passing the plate for a specific entity - hurricane relief, CHUM, etc) must be turned over to the Treasurer so that it can be deposited and forwarded to the external organization.

Fund Disbursement

Once funds are deposited into the budget the entity involved can request a check or other payment from our Congregational Administrator via the usual request forms. Any special circumstances must be approved by the Treasurer.

In general the idea is to encourage enjoyable fund raising, place such funds in a general fund for disbursement, focus spending on the greater good for UUCD, and fund requests based on UU principals and values.

Adopted March 25, 2008

UUCD Special Program Fund Grant Requests Process & Application

Amended:  March 25, 2008

The monies in the Special Program Fund can be requested at any time by filling out a"Special Events Fund Raising Grant Application" and turning this into the Program Council for review. The Program Council will provide advice to the Board. The Board will review and approve or disapprove these requests. Proposals that match a UUCD program need, are closest to the UU principals, match the mission of UUCD, and that benefit UUCD as a whole will be given priority. The Special Program Fund shall be a"pass through" account, which means that monies in this fund carry over from year to year.

• Questions about this policy should be brought to the Treasurer.

We Heard What You Said !

Several listening sessions were held this spring to hear the concerns, thoughts, dreams and criticisms of our UUCD community. The following is a summary of the major views expressed. The purpose of the sessions was to give us a sense of where we have been and where we are so that we can move ahead to where we want to be.

• Our community values the diversity of programming and opportunities to personally connect with other members.

The various"ritual" services such as"solstice" and"water" that have become yearly traditions, have strong meaning for many. There is support for inclusion of youth and children in our services and social events, and life-span learning. The diversity of programming is valued and it is recognized that it speaks to the diversity in our community. A sense of community is important, with the sharing of"joys and concerns" being identified an important piece for community building. Social events, times to work together to accomplish goals and to celebrate are considered important.
    

• We are perceived as a caring, liberal and highly educated group of people.

We perceive ourselves as a caring, liberal, and socially active group of people. We value tolerance and spiritual and intellectual exploration. We view ourselves as primarily middle class with strong opinions and have a tendency to form cliques. Many of us are in spiritual transition.

We believe the community also perceives us to be a liberal and socially active congregation. We are seen as homogeneous, highly educated, elitist, and an intellectually curious group of people. We are sometimes defined as"latte liberals". We are seen as a"peace" church with strong environmental emphasis. We do not define our faith coherently to the outside community resulting in confusion about our religion.

 

• While warmly greeting newcomers, it can be difficult to become integrated into our community.

While we are friendly, it is hard to break into friendship groups and committees and we can be perceived as being very cliquey. We recognize that we need to work towards significant inclusion of families in activities at all levels: during the service, and in sponsored activities such as programs, projects and social events. We can break out of established patterns by more diverse music, less concern with particular words and more emphasis on spiritual diversity. We can improve communication to increase access to community groups and committees. It is important to truly become welcoming and inclusive.

•  There is much in our history to be proud of and we want to keep that alive.

There is pride in many of our intentional activities including promotion of a sex education program, status as a Welcoming Congregation and Green Sanctuary, and the selling of our buildings to diverse religious groups. Our history is valued and we consider it important to continue to document our history, including the recent times of transitions.

• We are cognizant of our growth in learning how to deal with controversy.

There is a recognition that our congregation has not maneuvered through controversy in a way that always respected diverse opinions. We have lost people in times of transition, unable to find ways to move forward together. We have grown in our ability to communicate and use a democratic process for decision-making. While the memories remain, for the most part people are willing and ready to move forward in our life together.

• The newcomers have some distinct ideas on how to become more inviting for young families.

Newcomers have asked for ways to access the inner circles of the congregation, fun events to socialize with other members and children, announcements to let them know what is available, and sign-up sheets for activities. Mentoring them and inviting them to events would be helpful. They asked that we explain that which we take for granted, such as the Starfish Fund. They would like to see us become more integrated with the broader community: networking with other churches, a sister relationship with a congregation of color, more inter-faith contacts.

• There is a great respect for our leadership but concerns about continued leadership and sharing of responsibility.

We have had a strong history of shared leadership between the minister and lay leadership. We have many fabulous and competent leaders with an accompanying concern about them being overworked. There is also a perception of huge job responsibilities and endless commitment. We have been working towards a more coherent administrative leadership model, increasing communication between staff, lay leadership and among groups. There needs to be an emphasis on training of future leadership, clear job descriptions, term limits, and a significant time for gratitude. The transition to a"Program Church" is often misunderstood and may not be a helpful term for our future.

We thank those who participated in our listening sessions and believe that we have valuable information to move us forward.

Judy Blanck has resigned from the Ministerial Transition Team and we thank her for her outstanding leadership and steadiness as she helped us to find our organization and focus for our tasks. We will build on that foundation as we assist the congregation to understand itself well enough, partly through its history, to identify what its wants and needs are in selecting a settled minister and our direction in the future.

Ministerial Transition Team:  Jim Seitz, Jan Magree, Bob Seitz, Marree Seitz, Rev. Sally Hamlin, Sue DeNio and Barb Lund

UUSC-UUA Cyclone Nargis  Relief Fund

UUSC and the Unitarian Universalist Association have joined to launch a humanitarian relief fund to help cyclone survivors in Myanmar (formerly Burma).

Cyclone Nargis hit Myanmar on Saturday, May 3, 2008, with wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour, devastating coastal and inland regions. State officials have estimated the death toll at over 22,000, but this number is expected to rise. Tens of thousands are missing, and millions more have been left homeless.

With your generous support, we will provide humanitarian relief through groups in the affected region in an effort to help survivors, particularly those at risk of being overlooked by mainstream relief.

While UUSC continues to encourage donations of $252 for peace, we know you would expect UUSC to lead a response to this emerging humanitarian crisis – and provide a way for members and supporters to help.

Please donate to the UUSC-UUA Cyclone Nargis Relief fund. http://www.uusc.org/info/support_cyclonenargis.html
Or mail donations to:
Unitarian Universalist Service Committee
UUSC-UUA Cyclone Nargis Relief Fund
P.O. Box 845259
Boston, MA 02284-5259

Camp StarTrail

As you may have heard, plans are being made to start a new, week-long, multigenerational UU camp in August of 2009. The planning group includes people from several congregations in Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. We will be renting a camp in the lovely Platte River Valley between Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska. Features include hiking, canoeing, sitting on the porch to read or chat, swimming, celebration services in the mornings and vespers in the evening, excursions to area attractions such as the Omaha Zoo or the Strategic Air Command museum, and some of the best food we’ve ever tasted at any camp we’ve ever been to.   We’re looking for people who would like to help us launch this new effort. We’ll be meeting at the camp this summer, August 8 – 10, 2008, to sample the camp’s amenities, get a feel for what it’s like in late summer, and continue the planning process. We need people who have ideas and energy in areas such as music and the arts, programming for children and youth, finance, promotion, and more. We are eager to hear your ideas. We hope you, or someone from your congregation, will join us!  

Information and registration forms are available here: http://www.psduua.org/Camps/CampStarTrail  If you have questions, please contact Nancy Heege, Prairie Star District Executive at nheege@psduua.org  or Rev. Phillip Lund, Lifespan Program Director at plund@psduua.org

United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities Fall 2008 Course Offerings in Duluth, MN

9/8/08 – 12/16/08

CL541 Empowering Lay Leadership

Sept. 19-20, Oct. 17-18, Nov. 14-15, Dec. 12-13
Fridays, 6:00-9:15 p.m. and  Saturdays, 9:00-12:15 & 1:30-3:30 p.m.  Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ  2310 E. 4th Street

An emerging image of church requires us to move beyond our view of members as"volunteers," or satisfaction with"maintaining church programs," and our reliance on"time and talent" forms to invite laity to ministry. Leaders of the church are challenged to re-envision the foundations and practice of sharing the ministry. This course explores a holistic approach to gifts-based ministry and a shared ministry system for today’s congregations.

Instructor: Jean Morris Trumbauer, D.Min. -  Jean Morris Trumbauer is the Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at UTS. Her areas of teaching and research include: a systems approach to shared ministry in congregations, gifts-based ministry and gifts discernment, leadership development in congregations, theological reflection, and renewing ministry in the North American context.

TR820 Reimagining the Church

Sept. 12-13, Oct. 10-11, Nov. 7-8, Dec. 5-6
Fridays, 6:00-9:15 p.m. and Saturdays, 9:00-12:15 & 1:30-3:30 p.m.  St. Paul’s Episcopal Church – Carriage House 1710 E. Superior Street

This is a course that introduces students to the classical as well as various contemporary models of the church. Then these church models will be critiqued in light of the tradition and contemporary challenges that the church is facing. Furthermore, students will engage in reconstructing or re-imagining a church that is not only faithful to the Christian heritage but also responsive to the current context, both globally and locally.

Instructor: Eleazar S. Fernandez, PhD. Eleazar Fernandez is a professor of Constructive Theology at UTS. He is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ in the Philippines. Eleazar is passionate about retrieving dangerous memories, naming our pains in the present, and articulating our dreams of a new and better tomorrow through ecumenical ministries.

Looking Forward to Spring 2009:

TR515 Making Peace, Transforming Conflict

Instructor: David Bard
Mondays, 6:00-9:15 p.m. (except for March 16 and April 13)   First United Methodist Church 230 E. Skyline Pkwy.

CH261 New Testament Texts in Context

Instructor: Neil Elliott
Feb. 6-7, Feb. 27-28, Mar. 27-28, May 1-2. 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 registration information contact:  Glen Herrington-Hall, Director of Admissions, United Theological Seminary, 3000 Fifth St. NW, New Brighton, MN  55112, 800-937-1316 (ext.117), gherrington-hall@unitedseminary.eduor in Duluth, contact Ann Nordgren, Duluth Program Coordinator,anordgren@unitedseminary.edu

Meet Our Newest Members!

• Scot Bol: Interests and Hobbies: Cross-Country Skiing, Hiking, Canoeing, Biking, Social Justice Work, and Sailing
• Wiebke Erickson: Interests and Hobbies: Reading, Walking, Music, Social Justice Issues, Adhering to Truth, Searching for Spiritual Enlightening, Cooking, Architecture, Giving and Sharing!
• Anita Gille & Jim Schulzenberg: Jim is the accountant and deputy clerk for the City of Proctor.  Anita provides event management support for United Way.  We have two teenage boys, Will is 17, Paul is 14 and two adult children.  We are joining UU Duluth to be a part of a nourishing and inclusive spiritual community.
• Diane Leuder: Interests and Hobbies: Reading, Learning/classes for individual growth, Hiking, Snow Shoeing, Travel (or imagining travelsJ).
• Greg Moore: I enjoy spending time with my family.  I have the best job in the world, teaching young people about music. I am politically active in the Wisconsin Democratic Party.  I stay fit by running marathons (11 so far), which my wife Tanya introduced me to – Thanks Honey!" Interests and Hobbies: Music, Politics, Running Marathons, Chess
• Tanya Moore: Tanya lives in Superior with her husband Greg and children Tabitha (5) and Truman (2).  She teaches music at Summit School in Duluth and in the UW-Superior Music Conservatory (voice).  She enjoys cruising to tropical locales with her family. Interests and Hobbies: Singing, Acting, Scrapbooking, Reading, Travel
• Beth Marks: I moved to Duluth in February 2007 with my husband Michael.  I work for SMDC, enjoy travel, reading, and hiking with my dog Maggie.  I am very happy to find a spiritual home with so many people who have open minds and hearts.  I look forward to getting more involved with UUCD and meeting a lot of new people. Interests and Hobbies: Travel, Hiking, Reading
• Cheryl Sabot: I was born in Duluth but left for exciting S. Calif after graduating from St. Luke’s School of Nursing (RN). Seven years later, I returned to Duluth were all the ‘normal’ people live!  My husband, Leonard Lamoureux (retired) and I have lived in Rice Lake Township for 32 years; have an adult son and daughter both living in the Twin Cities.  I am currently employed at Duluth Sheet Metal as an administrative assistant and enjoy participating in the UU Book Club, Drum Circle, and Simple Living Group. 
• Jessica Schadt: Interests and Hobbies: Hiking, Camping, Music, Movies, Antiques, Cross-stitching, Rock Climbing, Sierra Club.
• Sanna Shields: I am a full-time mom to three little girls: Marit (6), Greta (4), and Taytem (20 months).  I also work part-time as an office assistant here at UUCD.  I was thrilled to discover Unitarian Universalism five years ago through Belief Net’s"Belief-O-Matic". I was a member of the Fargo-Moorhead Unitarian Universalist Church until I moved to Duluth a year and a half ago with my husband Wayne and our children. Interests and Hobbies: Reading, Knitting, Running, Camping, and escaping my busy household to have coffee with friends!
• Suzanne Wasilczuk: I have been a Unitarian Universalist for almost 30 years, starting in a small fellowship in Sitka, Alaska.  It was also in Sitka that I met my husband Tim Stratton, where he was the pharmacist and I was the head nurse at the 24 bed community hospital.  I am now a candidate for the UU ministry.  I graduated from Meadville Lombard, the UU theological school in Chicago last June.  I enjoy reading, especially mysteries, singing, walking our dog Renegade, and Canoeing.
• Michelle Starry: My husband Matt and I live in Superior.  We have a compassionate daughter, Mehla, who's 5 and in kindergarten, and a son, Curran, who's 3 and loves to laugh. I am home with my son during the days and also teach preschool part time.  I cherish time with my family and friends. I have a passion for scrapbooking, travel, and education.  I also enjoy reading, camping and cooking.  I have an inquisitive mind and love a good conversation. I've been a visitor off and on since 2003, when I first read about Unitarian Universalism in a book about world religions.  I'm looking forward to continuing my spiritual journey as a member in this welcoming, supportive, and enriching community." Interest and Hobbies: Scrapbooking, Reading, Learning, Frugal Living, Travel, Camping, Cooking.
• Keith Thomsen: Interests and Hobbies: Reading, Hiking, Skiing, Snowshoeing, Woodworking, Fly-fishing, Traveling.
  

UUCD Annual Rummage Sale!

Right Around the Corner! At Charlie & Diana’s Beautiful-Home-By-The-Lake!  4320 London Road

Friday              July 18th              8:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday          July 19th              8:00 am-4:00 pm

PLEASE DO…

• Wash all washables!
• Bring infant and children’s clothes, toys, books, games, puzzles
• Donate gardening tools/Home fix-up tools/storage containers
• "Special"/boutique-type items: old/new jewelry, art, antiques, cameras,
• clocks, good lamps, mirrors, paintings, CD’s, books, linens
• Household items – dishes, glassware, pots & pans, furniture, blankets
• Anything you think would be appealing at a sale!

PLEASE DON’T…

• No broken, unwashed, incomplete items
• No adult clothes (Sorry, they just don’t sell well)
• No electronic items, TV’s or computers.  No exercise equipment
• (Unfortunately, we have to pay to haul them away!)

Please Drop off your items for receiving, sorting, pricing

• at Charlie and Diana’s house (see above address)
• Wednesday      July 16th         9 am to 8:00 pm
• Thursday         July 17th             10 am to 8:00 pm
• Above times don’t work? Can’t wait to get rid of your stuff?
• Call Diana and Charlie at 525-8406 to arrange a time to drop off your items.
• (If you know the approximate value of any of your special items,
• please let the rummage sale committee know.)

For people who are unable to lift or haul items, special arrangements may be made to pick them up depending upon volunteer availability.  Call Gloria.

Your help is needed! The Special Events/Rummage Sale Committee will be recruiting people to help at the set up and sale.  Shifts are approximately 3 hours or whatever you can do!  Please say, "YES!" 

Got stuff? Want to help? Questions? Contact any one of us!

Jill Lakhan jillkor@gmail.com
Diana/Charlie Moore cholliedi@aol.com
Cathy Andberg CJBergand17@msn.com        
Gloria Walters dansing52@yahoo.com

Special Program Fund Grant Requests Process - February 2008

• The monies in the Special Program Fund can be requested at any time by filling out a "Special Events Fund Raising Grant Application" and turning this into the Program Council for review. The Program Council will provide advice to the Board. The Board will review and approve or disapprove these requests.
• Proposals that match a UUCD program need, are closest to the UU principals, match the mission of UUCD, and that benefit UUCD as a whole will be given priority.
• The Special Program Fund shall be a "pass through" account, which means that monies in this fund carry over from year to year.
• Questions about this policy should be brought to the Treasurer.

Guidelines for Newsletter Submissions

The newsletter for the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth is produced monthly and released by the first of each month. It is available online at www.uuduluth.org. The deadline for submissions to the July 2008 newsletter is June 17. Priority will be given to items received on time; late submissions may not be included due to space constraints. Submissions should be directed to the Congregational Administrator at uucduluth@gmail.com

If at all possible, please email newsletter submissions (mailto:uucduluth@gmail.com) rather than handwriting them or leaving a print copy in the church office.  When emailing, please both embed and attach submissions in a .doc (Microsoft Word) format, and write"Newsletter" in the subject heading. Be sure to include a contact name and phone number.