Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth
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<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
Vision: We will be a beacon <strong>of</strong> progressive religion in our region,<br />
inspiring positive change in the world.<br />
Mission: Caring for one another, growing spiritually, and working for justice.<br />
Sunday Summer Camp Services and Religious Education for August 2009<br />
835 W. College Street<br />
9:30am Service<br />
10:30am C<strong>of</strong>fee or Tea and Social Hour<br />
11:00am Your choice:<br />
Onsite Summer Camp for kids (at UUCD)<br />
Adult Forum in the Sanctuary<br />
Family Friendly Excursion leaving from the church and exploring the beauties <strong>of</strong> our<br />
surroundings<br />
Nursery care is provided during the service for children up to 6 years old.<br />
If we ever need to cancel services, the cancellation will be posted on our website and on the outgoing phone<br />
message from the <strong>of</strong>fice.<br />
Sunday Morning Summer Camp - Session One continuing:<br />
Worship Forum Excursion<br />
Sunday, August 2 “A Sense <strong>of</strong> Place”<br />
Explore the history and Skyline Parkway<br />
Rev. Suzanne Wasilczuk features <strong>of</strong> Skyline<br />
Parkway<br />
Sunday, August 9 “Holy Now”<br />
Learn about the Perseids Perseids meteor showers<br />
Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner meteor showers<br />
Sunday Morning Summer Camp - Session Two - UU Identity – We continue our summer schedule with<br />
a single service at 9:30 and <strong>of</strong>ferings for adults and young people at 11:00. The 11:00 forums and excursions will<br />
include berry picking, an oral history session about UUCD, an excursion to our historic home at 1802 East 1st street<br />
and an ice cream social and more good stuff. Dates are still in the works.<br />
Sunday, August 16<br />
“What Shaped Us” with Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner <strong>of</strong>fering a condensed history <strong>of</strong> <strong>Unitarian</strong> Universalism<br />
Sunday, August 23<br />
“This Delicious Religion” Join Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner, members <strong>of</strong> the Coming <strong>of</strong> Age Class and members <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Articulating Your UU Faith course for an exploration <strong>of</strong> why we love <strong>Unitarian</strong> Universalism. An Intergenerational<br />
Ice cream social will follow! We’ll bring the ice cream and frozen yogurt – you bring your favorite toppings to share.<br />
Sunday, August 30 “What Binds Us Together” with Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner<br />
Ours is a spacious and non-creedal tradition which allows space for many different theologies and spiritual<br />
disciplines. In the midst <strong>of</strong> all this diversity what is it that weaves us into a single denomination?<br />
Looking forward - - -<br />
September : Water Ceremony : Two service schedule resumes at 9:30 and 11:30<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
In Medias Res *<br />
It’s August. I’ve been in <strong>Duluth</strong> a year now. It has gone quickly and you have accomplished so much! You are well<br />
settled in the new space, you hosted a fabulous Prairie Star District conference, your Ministerial Transition Team<br />
have walked you through a number <strong>of</strong> the congregation’s interim tasks, and your search committee is hard at work<br />
preparing your packet and getting ready to search for your new minister. Summer worship attendance has<br />
averaged about 50 per Sunday and your first garage sale in this garage was a smashing success.<br />
As we move into our second year together many things will be the same. We will continue working on the<br />
congregational interim tasks – exploring your history, clarifying your strengths and unique identity, building<br />
connections to your community and your district, developing infrastructure and training new leadership, and<br />
getting ready for the settled minister. This fall, that will mean working together to re-envision the adult portion <strong>of</strong><br />
your lifespan religious education/faith development programming and taking some time to develop a<br />
congregational covenant <strong>of</strong> right relations. UUCD is hosting the Interfaith Thanksgiving service this November and<br />
you can anticipate a congregational workshop titled “Beyond Categorical Thinking” which is a part <strong>of</strong> the Search<br />
process.<br />
At the same time that you will be entering search looking for a new minister, I will be entering search seeking a<br />
settled ministry. Beginning in October and running through the winter holidays there will be lots <strong>of</strong> phone calls<br />
and packet exchanges as the congregations and ministers in search get to know one another. Pre-candidating<br />
interviews begin in January and run through March or April – which means I will be away a fair amount in the<br />
winter and spring. Everything crescendos in April or May with a week long interview where minister and<br />
congregation meet and decide if there is a call. If all goes well, by the end <strong>of</strong> May you will call a settled minister<br />
and I will accept a call to a new congregation.<br />
The grand finale <strong>of</strong> our time together will be General Assembly next summer in Minneapolis. My personal goal is to<br />
persuade at least one quarter <strong>of</strong> the members <strong>of</strong> UUCD to attend (that’s somewhere between 50 and 60 people). I<br />
can imagine no better gift to leave for my successor than a congregation that has done its work and then been<br />
energized by the ideas and creativity unleashed at General Assembly.<br />
In the mean time, summer lingers with long days on the lakes. When you’re in town stop by and enjoy our<br />
second session <strong>of</strong> Sunday Morning Summer Camp from August 16- September 6 th . The theme is UU history and<br />
Identity.<br />
On Sunday September 13 th we move back to two services (at 9:30 and 11:30) and celebrate the beginning <strong>of</strong> our<br />
church year with the water ceremony. Don’t forget to collect some water from someplace you have been this<br />
summer! Have a wonderful August.<br />
Blessings, Gail<br />
Report from UUCD President,<br />
Kathy Heltzer<br />
By the time you read this we will be in August…so where did the summer go? Those <strong>of</strong> you who have been<br />
members or friends <strong>of</strong> UUCD may remember a time not so long ago that we all “took the summer <strong>of</strong>f,” closed our<br />
doors and all came back, more or less in September. Our minister headed for the cabin on Rainy Lake and UU<br />
visitors to <strong>Duluth</strong> were on their own. In case you have not noticed, those days are gone! Under the leadership <strong>of</strong><br />
our Interim Minister, Gail Marriner, we have had a very full summer <strong>of</strong> activities and worship here at UUCD<br />
including on site “summer camp” for kids and adult forums for adults as well as “Family Friendly Excursions” for<br />
anyone and everyone. Folks visiting <strong>Duluth</strong> have had a UU community to connect with and those <strong>of</strong> us who are<br />
here on the weekends have had an opportunity to stay connected with one another. I have to admit that I was<br />
initially skeptical that folks would show up but apparently the “if you build it they will come” philosophy is working<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
and attendance has been great! If you have missed a bunch <strong>of</strong> Sundays, August is a great time to re-connect so<br />
come check it out.<br />
In my July Newsletter article I indicated that it was my hope that we would engage ourselves more with the larger<br />
community in areas <strong>of</strong> social and economic justice this next year. An opportunity for this is in a few days as CHUM<br />
celebrates National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4 from 5:45-7:30pm at 1 st Avenue East between 1 st and 2 nd<br />
Streets in downtown <strong>Duluth</strong>. UUCD is bringing the Potato Salad! Please come if you can. See additional<br />
information in this newsletter about this and other ways to participate in a variety <strong>of</strong> community activities.<br />
As for the UUCD Board <strong>of</strong> Trustees, we actually did take the month <strong>of</strong> July <strong>of</strong>f….or at least we did not<br />
meet as a full Board. In June we accepted Gloria Walters <strong>of</strong>fer to serve as Treasurer and in August we<br />
will identify a Vice President and complete the assignment <strong>of</strong> various “liaison” positions to other Board<br />
members in order to have the interests <strong>of</strong> various committees and groups represented at our monthly<br />
meetings. In June we also approved the Charter for the UUCD Personnel Committee. Well, that about<br />
sums it up for this month!<br />
Board <strong>of</strong> Trustees 2009-2010<br />
We welcome your input. Feel free to contact board members with questions, concerns, or<br />
compliments.<br />
President: Kathy Heltzer 724-3228 kheltzer@charter.net<br />
Board Members:<br />
Alison Lutterman 348-7359 alutterman@duluthmn.gov<br />
James Lund 525-0308 jlund@lakenet.com<br />
Tara Richter 341-5486 tararichte@gmail.com<br />
Carol Michealson 727-1754 cmicheal@d.umn.edu<br />
Gloria Walters 624-4021 dansing52@yahoo.com<br />
Beth Marks 349-5091 marksbeth@gmail.com<br />
Koresh Lakhan 724-7421 jillkor@gmail.com<br />
Ruth Strom McCutcheon 727-5842 mmccutch@chartermi.net<br />
Protect Our Walls<br />
Please do not use tape on the painted walls. (That goes for me too!) It pulls <strong>of</strong>f the paint when removed.<br />
Instead, you can stick your notices to the glass windows or the wood parts <strong>of</strong> the building with masking tape or<br />
post-its (no scotch tape, please, it leaves a sticky-icky residue). Post-its are OK. They do not damage the<br />
surfaces. And please do use the bulletin boards as first choice for posting things.<br />
Money Talks<br />
...About Various Things<br />
Building Fund - Last Call<br />
By August 31, all balances on BFA pledges must be paid in order for us to earn the 2-for-1 match. We also still<br />
need about $6,000 more in new gifts from those who have fully paid their pledges in order to collect the match on<br />
the pledges we know we won’t be paid.<br />
Cash Flow Issues - Can You Pay Ahead?<br />
Because some <strong>of</strong> our revenue sources don’t come in until later in the year, and because summer always slows<br />
down our revenue stream, our bank balance is getting low. To meet our summer payrolls, I ask if any <strong>of</strong> you can<br />
fulfill most or all <strong>of</strong> your 2009 prediction this month. It would be greatly appreciated.<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
Consultant to Help Us on Fall Canvass/Capital Fund Drive<br />
This congregation has addressed major financial issues in the past, but none bigger than the one facing us this fall.<br />
As we conduct another capital campaign to reduce our building debt, we must increase the total raised for the<br />
operating budget in the annual canvass by about $50,000 (25%) over last year in order to avoid budget cuts in<br />
2010. Why? Two main reasons: the generous support <strong>of</strong> the operating budget by the Zeppa Family Foundation will<br />
end, as planned, after this year, and we will need about $15,000-$20,000 to carry out our search for a new<br />
minister.<br />
To meet this challenge, we will hire a consultant to help design and carry out this combined operating/capital<br />
campaign. We want to share with each <strong>of</strong> you where we are financially and where we need to be. Much more<br />
about this in the next couple <strong>of</strong> months.<br />
Paul Borrmann, for the Finance Council<br />
Duct tape is like the force. It has a light side, a dark side, and it holds the universe<br />
together. ~Carl Zwanzig<br />
Connections Social<br />
Fourth Wednesday in August – Featuring Salmon Pasta by Ann Fryberger August 26, 2009, 5:15 p.m. UUCD<br />
Social Hall<br />
$4.00 over age 10, $1.00 age 10 and under - Cash Appreciated<br />
Sign up by August 23rd at the Connections Social table in the social hall so the cooks know how much food to buy<br />
and prepare.<br />
Ann Fryberger will need volunteers to help her with this August social – email her at ann@thefrybergers.net to<br />
learn how you can help. Each month a new group <strong>of</strong> volunteers are sought to sponsor future socials which is a<br />
great way to get center stage in promoting a program, committee, or group.<br />
These gatherings are not fundraisers but are operated at breakeven and were created to accomplish at least the<br />
following:<br />
• Build community (kids get to know other kids, adults get to know other adults, long time comers get to<br />
know newcomers, etc.),<br />
• Provide busy families with a healthy meal at a low cost<br />
• Programs and committees could schedule meetings such as Adult Enrichment forums, etc.<br />
Hope to see you and your family there! Don’t forget to sign up.<br />
Newcomers Information Session Sunday, August 16 at 11:00am in the Library!<br />
Newcomers' Information Sessions are held in the Library on the third Sunday <strong>of</strong> every month. All newcomers are<br />
encouraged to attend, and it's wonderful when a few "old timers" drop in, too. (Hint. Hint.)<br />
Newcomers' Information Sessions are an opportunity to meet other newcomers, congregation members, and our<br />
Interim Minister, Gail; as well as an opportunity to learn a little more about our congregation and about <strong>Unitarian</strong><br />
Universalism, in general.<br />
Snacks and childcare will be available, and you will receive a Newcomers' Packet chock full <strong>of</strong> good stuff. For more<br />
information, call or e-mail Kathy S. at the UUCD Office, 724-0308 or uucduluth@gmail.com.<br />
UUCD Family Swim Night<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
Every Thursday evening in August<br />
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.<br />
All are invited, no reservations required. Just come and have fun.<br />
The Fryberger’s patio & pool<br />
3399 Riley Rd., <strong>Duluth</strong><br />
525-3818 for directions.<br />
If you want it or need it; bring it.<br />
Frybergers will provide water.<br />
Green Corner<br />
First: THANKS to all who have helped with the outdoor sanctuary work on our property this summer, clearing<br />
invasive species and making way for native plants to return – and to nurture wildlife that depends on them. It’s<br />
not too late to help in this project – contact Geiger Yount (724-0652) if you’d like to join a work team for a day or<br />
take on a more extensive project.<br />
Second: Please consider helping to make this unique opportunity a reality:<br />
The Green Sanctuary Committee (GS) is happy to endorse and support our committee member Julie McDonnell in<br />
her plan to participate with the technical delegation visiting Växjö, Sweden on October 1-8, 2009 through <strong>Duluth</strong><br />
Sister Cities International. Växjö is known as “The Greenest City in Europe,” and this sister city visit is designed to<br />
provide <strong>Duluth</strong> delegates with a working knowledge <strong>of</strong> how communities can join together to further sustainability.<br />
This is a unique opportunity as Växjö has <strong>of</strong>fered to provide training at no cost to delegates from <strong>Duluth</strong>.<br />
Our support for having Julie McDonnell be a part <strong>of</strong> this delegation is based on our belief that she will provide<br />
information and insight for our congregation in pursuing green practices, as well as strengthen the UUCD voice in<br />
the greater <strong>Duluth</strong> community in promoting the <strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> Seventh Principle: “to affirm and promote<br />
respect for the interdependent web <strong>of</strong> all existence <strong>of</strong> which we are a part.”<br />
Julie has been accepted as a delegation member, but the trip is costly, and she cannot afford the cost on her own.<br />
Therefore, we are asking our members and friends to help out to any degree possible. If you are able to donate,<br />
please make checks payable to UUCD and include “Växjö Delegate” in the memo. You can leave donations in the<br />
UUCD <strong>of</strong>fice or a box on the Green Sanctuary table in the Social Hall.<br />
Thank you for supporting our work as a Green Sanctuary, and for any contribution toward making this trip a reality.<br />
Beth Tamminen<br />
Chair, UUCD Green Sanctuary Committee<br />
Music Notes<br />
“We marvel when we hear music in which one voice sings a simple melody, while three, four, or five other voices<br />
play and trip lustily around the voice that sings its simple melody and adorn this simple melody wonderfully with<br />
artistic musical effects, thus reminding us <strong>of</strong> a heavenly dance, where all meet in a spirit <strong>of</strong> friendliness, caress and<br />
embrace.”<br />
Martin Luther<br />
July gave us a lovely dance <strong>of</strong> music with numerous folks providing worship music and thanks are in order for Max<br />
Hesick-Thole, Molly Benson, Tanya Moore, Greg Moore, Jessica Saxton, Ander Peterson, and Peter Whiteman. Why<br />
not share your appreciation with any <strong>of</strong> these generous musicians the next time you see them?<br />
August <strong>of</strong>fers you the opportunity to join in music programming at UUCD with the annual start up <strong>of</strong> Chorale <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Month. Our first meeting takes place with a potluck 6 pm followed by a one hour rehearsal Weds. August 12.<br />
Chorale <strong>of</strong> the Month is a vocal singing group that meets most Weds. evenings during our program year. We sing<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
a variety <strong>of</strong> music and share a selection once a month during worship. Any singer (15 years and older) can commit<br />
to a month at a time with the group and we are a very friendly bunch!<br />
Do you have a child (ages 5–14) who enjoys singing in a group? Music programming is seeking children to help<br />
make our September 27 th morning worship extra special with a vocal selection that has a fun part for kids. The<br />
first rehearsal for this song will be Weds. Sept. 2 (and each Weds. following) at 6 pm in the Sanctuary.<br />
If you have ideas about how you’d like to share your sort <strong>of</strong> musical expression during services please contact<br />
Music Director Karen Bauman at 525-4119 prior to 8 pm or email at kklgb4820@msn.com and have a conversation!<br />
August (and September) Rehearsal Schedule<br />
CHORALE KID SINGERS 8 VA<br />
Weds. Aug. 12<br />
6 pm Potluck<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Aug 19<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Aug.26<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Sept 2<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Sept 9<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Sept 16<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Sept 23<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
with Kid Singers<br />
Sun. Sept 27<br />
11 am Warmup<br />
11:30 am Sing!<br />
Weds. Sept 2<br />
6 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Sept 9<br />
6 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Sept 16<br />
6 pm Rehearse<br />
Weds. Sept 23<br />
7 pm Rehearse<br />
With Chorale<br />
Sun. Sept 27<br />
11 am Warmup<br />
11:30 Sing!<br />
Sun. Aug 23<br />
11 am Rehearse<br />
Sun. Aug. 30<br />
11 am Rehearse<br />
Sun. Sept 6<br />
No rehearse<br />
(Labor Day)<br />
Sun. Sept. 13<br />
10:45 Warmup<br />
11:30 Sing!<br />
REHEARSAL REMINDER<br />
Chorale <strong>of</strong> the Month will hold a simple potluck (6 pm) followed by the first rehearsal <strong>of</strong> the season (7 pm) on<br />
August 12 in the Social Hall and Sanctuary.<br />
Please consider joining in the caring, sharing and music making!<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
Religious Education News<br />
FALL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION:<br />
On September 20, we will begin our not-so-traditional programming year. Our first rotational unit will be on our<br />
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> Identity/Historical Figures: Abigail Adams, Henry David Thoreau, Susan B. Anthony and<br />
Alexander Graham Bell. Our students will learn about the remarkable lives <strong>of</strong> each <strong>of</strong> these individuals and how<br />
their <strong>Unitarian</strong> values shaped their decisions.<br />
We are still looking for FALL Instructors for Religious Education. Here's a reminder <strong>of</strong> how it works:<br />
Each teacher will have one lesson that he or she will teach for four consecutive Sundays while classes rotate each<br />
week. That's right, you get to teach the same lesson for four weeks. Make sense? Intrigued? Let's talk, I'll show<br />
you how rewarding (and easy!) this can be!<br />
Religious Education Registration<br />
Registration forms for your child are on the Religious Education table in the lobby.<br />
Re Donations Needed:<br />
Smocks & Etch-a-Sketches<br />
We're hoping to get a dozen Etch-a-Sketches donated so little hands may be appropriately occupied while sitting in<br />
Sunday service.<br />
We're still looking for Folks to volunteer for either four consecutive weeks or once a month in the nursery.<br />
Carol Turner, Director <strong>of</strong> Religious Education<br />
UUCD Rocks!<br />
Music from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s will be played for your dancing pleasure.<br />
Bring a snack or appetizer. BYOB a $5.00 donation or what you can afford will help pay expenses.<br />
Put these dates on your calendar: August 29 (Fifth Saturday this month!) and September 26 th (Back to 4 th<br />
Saturday) Hope to see you there!<br />
Usually these dances will be on the 4 th Saturday <strong>of</strong> the month.<br />
Questions call 724-0820.<br />
Report from General Assembly (GA)<br />
The 48 th Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>Congregation</strong>s<br />
Salt Lake City, June 24 – 28, 2009<br />
There was lots <strong>of</strong> lobbying for both presidential candidates, Laurel Hallman and Peter Morales. Peter Morales was<br />
elected to succeed Bill Sinkford. There were a number <strong>of</strong> events thanking Bill for his leadership these past eight<br />
years. . . . and Bill’s leadership continued to be evident throughout the entire convention. A highlight for many <strong>of</strong><br />
us was his organization <strong>of</strong> a rally for immigrant families (Standing on the Side <strong>of</strong> Love).<br />
Many <strong>of</strong> the events are available via Adobe Flash Player at<br />
http://www.uua.org/events/generalassembly/2009/141864.shtml In addition I have written notes from some <strong>of</strong><br />
the workshops and plenarys that I would be happy to send copies to you in Word and also I purchased a number<br />
<strong>of</strong> Audio CDs and DVDs from the Content Management Sales Kiosk to bring back and share with interested groups<br />
and committees. A full list <strong>of</strong> those I purchased will be available when I return to Superior-<strong>Duluth</strong> August 1 st .<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
Events that I particularly appreciated included The Real Wealth <strong>of</strong> Portland Project describing how UUs in Portland,<br />
Oregon were implementing the recommendations <strong>of</strong> Riane Eisler in The Real Wealth <strong>of</strong> Nations. By the way, this<br />
project was partially funded by the UU Women’s Federation that has funds for similar social justice projects in the<br />
future. Grant proposals are solicited.<br />
Also meaningful to me were former UUA President and Executive Secretary <strong>of</strong> Amnesty International USA’s<br />
workshop on the Universal Declaration <strong>of</strong> Human Rights over the past 60 years and the panel presentation<br />
organized by Stephen Schick related to his new 2009 book Be the Change: Lifelong Peacemaking and Justice<br />
Seeking. On this panel were Richard Gilbert, Sharon Welch, William Schulz, and Wendy von Zirpolo. Each was<br />
asked to describe their peacemaking journey.<br />
The Ware lecture is a highlight every year and this year was no exception. The 2009 lecture was by cradle UU<br />
Melissa Harris-Lacewell, Associate Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Politics and African American Studies at Princeton University and<br />
someone who got to know Barack Obama while attending some services at Reverend Jeremiah Wright’s church in<br />
Chicago. The title <strong>of</strong> her address was “Faith and Reason: Race, Justice, and American Political Life.”<br />
Of particular interest to Minnesotans, Mark Ritchie Secretary <strong>of</strong> State <strong>of</strong> Minnesota and Debra Bowen Secretary <strong>of</strong><br />
State <strong>of</strong> California, both UUs, were awarded the Wilton Peace Prize for fair election and access to vote.<br />
Finally, members <strong>of</strong> the congregation are invited to work with me on the Denominational Affairs Committee. It is a<br />
great way to learn more about our faith tradition and opportunities to participate regionally and nationally. I may<br />
be reached at Hal Bertilson, hbertils@uwsuper.edu The opportunity for participation during 2009-2010 will be<br />
especially great because GA 2010 will be held in Minneapolis and because there will be three Study/Action items for<br />
discussion in congregations before GA including the Peacemaking Study/Action. Delegates wanted one more year<br />
<strong>of</strong> discussion before a final vote.<br />
Caring Notes<br />
Want to join the Caring Committee??? Well guess what, you are ALREADY ON IT! But to become an INVOLVED<br />
and ACTIVE member you should sign up! This is a GREAT WAY to become involved with UUCD and you will NEVER<br />
be asked to come to committee meetings (unless you are a Team Leader and then only four (4) times a year)!!!<br />
You can say NO to requests whenever you are too busy to help. We will have sign-ups for Card Senders,<br />
Telephoners, Visitors, Transporters and Food Providers In September, so look for members <strong>of</strong> the Caring<br />
Committee with clipboards and for our Caring Display. Show you care! Join the Caring Committee.<br />
Julie Morgan—525-3220, juliemorgan1231@yahoo.com<br />
Joys & Concerns<br />
Condolences go out to the family <strong>of</strong> Milo Swenson. Milo died in Ely, Minnesota after a spirited, courageous battle<br />
with esophageal cancer on July 9 th, at the age <strong>of</strong> 65. Milo and his wife, Judy, and three children were active<br />
members <strong>of</strong> this congregation when they lived in <strong>Duluth</strong>. They have lived in Ely since the early 90s.<br />
Condolences go out to Karen Heisick and family on the death <strong>of</strong> Karen’s father, Ronald Heisick. Ronald could fix<br />
anything, “except a broken heart” he liked to say. He was a great fisherman and he pitched ball with the “bornagain<br />
jocks” until he was in his 70’s. Ronald lived in the Cities. He was 80 years old.<br />
Rainbow Welcoming Committee News<br />
It seems that every month and sometimes every week there is more progress on the issue <strong>of</strong> gay<br />
rights. One by one, states are acquiescing to the fact that marriage between two people who love each other<br />
makes sense no matter what their gender. In the last few days the Episcopal Church has taken some <strong>of</strong> the same<br />
strides. Since the openly gay V. Gene Robinson was elected bishop <strong>of</strong> the Episcopal Diocese <strong>of</strong> New Hampshire in<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
2003, the issue <strong>of</strong> ordaining homosexuals has divided the Anglican Communion, a loose affiliation <strong>of</strong> 77 million<br />
people. A number <strong>of</strong> parishes and dioceses have left the 2.3 million member Episcopal Church and have become<br />
affiliated with overseas branches <strong>of</strong> the Anglican Communion. In spite <strong>of</strong> that rift, on July 14 a resolution<br />
supporting ordination <strong>of</strong> openly gay clergy passed overwhelmingly at the church's national convention in Anaheim,<br />
Calif. The wording addresses "gays and lesbians in lifelong committed relationships," saying that "God has called<br />
and may call such individuals to any ordained ministry in the Episcopal Church." Later in the week church<br />
representatives at the Anaheim convention debated whether to create liturgical rites to bless same-sex unions. At<br />
this writing the outcome was unclear. We applaud their courage in the face <strong>of</strong> division.<br />
PRIDE is coming!!! The <strong>Duluth</strong> Superior PRIDE Festival will be held at Bayfront Park on Saturday,<br />
September 5 from 10 am to 7 pm. Standing on the Side <strong>of</strong> Love will be sponsoring a Faith Table and we need 3-4<br />
UU’s to man the table from 9-11am. Contact Julie Morgan for more information. The PRIDE parade will be<br />
Sunday, September 6 at noon. Meet at the intersection <strong>of</strong> Hammond and Broadway (go across the high bridge and<br />
keep going about ½ mile). You will see people assembling on the right. It would be great to see a large<br />
contingent <strong>of</strong> UU’s represented. This is a fun weekend full <strong>of</strong> music, dancing, and support. Come on out!<br />
Uu Pretty Good Book Group<br />
The UU Pretty Good Book Group is open to everyone, not just members. If you enjoy reading good<br />
books and discussing them why don’t you join us? Meetings are usually the third Tuesday <strong>of</strong> each<br />
month in the library at UUCD.<br />
August Book Selection: The Hour I First Believed by Wally Lamb<br />
Tuesday August 18, 7:15pm, Library at UUCD<br />
This is from the jacket cover <strong>of</strong> the book: ”In his new novel, The Hour I First Believed, Lamb travels well beyond<br />
his earlier work and embodies in his fiction myth, psychology, family history stretching back many generations, and<br />
the questions <strong>of</strong> faith that lie at the heart <strong>of</strong> everyday life. The result is an extraordinary tour de force, at once a<br />
meditation on the human condition and an unflinching yet compassionate evocation <strong>of</strong> character. “I think this sums<br />
it up, from the Washington Post Book World “Poignant…Astonishing…A very good book.”<br />
September Book Selection: People <strong>of</strong> the Book by Geraldine Brooks<br />
Tuesday September 15, 7:15 pm, Library at UUCD<br />
People <strong>of</strong> the Book is an intricate, ambitious novel that traces the journey <strong>of</strong> a rare illuminated Hebrew manuscript<br />
from convivencia Spain to the ruins <strong>of</strong> Sarajevo, from the Silver Age <strong>of</strong> Venice to the sunburned rock faces <strong>of</strong><br />
Australia. “…enthralling historical mystery…Rich suspense based on a true-life literary puzzle…” --- Kirkus<br />
October Book Selection: Loving Frank by Nancy Horan<br />
Tuesday October 20, 7:15 pm, Library at UUCD<br />
“I have been standing on the side <strong>of</strong> life, watching it float by. I want to swim in the river. I want to feel the<br />
current.” So writes Mamah Borthwick Cheney in her diary as she struggles to justify her clandestine love affair with<br />
Frank Lloyd Wright. Four years earlier, in 1903, Mamah and her husband, Edwin, had commissioned the renowned<br />
architect to design a new home for them. During the construction <strong>of</strong> the house, a powerful attraction developed<br />
between Mamah and Frank and in time the lovers, each married with children, embarked on a course that would<br />
shock Chicago society and forever change their lives.<br />
eco | rebate <strong>of</strong>fer<br />
5% <strong>of</strong> purchases by members and friends will be donated to UUCD.<br />
eco<br />
400 West Superior Street<br />
<strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55802 218.626.1118<br />
Not applicable with other discounts. Effective June – August, 2009<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
www.ecolivingspace.com<br />
eco <strong>of</strong>fers earth-friendly interior finish materials such as flooring, cabinetry, countertops, wall-covering,<br />
window-treatments, installation and consultation, for residential and commercial projects.<br />
Outdoor Sanctuary Weeding Parties Continue<br />
Thanks to all who have been hands-on pulling buckthorn, valerian, tansy and thistle. New folks are welcome.<br />
Contact Geiger 724-0652 or geigman@aol.com for more information and to arrange a brief training to recognize<br />
target plants. Then set your own schedule, solo or small group, any time that suits you. Wednesday weeding<br />
parties include 5:30PM social time with beverages and snacks – or the Connection Social.<br />
The Peace and Justice Committee is meeting at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, August 12, 2009. We’ll<br />
discuss ways to expand diversity at UUCD by (1) considering how to follow up on the forum and Sunday service<br />
presented by Xavier Bell from the Circles <strong>of</strong> Support Program at Community Action <strong>Duluth</strong>, and by (2) considering<br />
ways to develop a mutually supportive relationship with the Islamic Center. We’ll also get a report from Hal<br />
Bertilson about General Assembly and what ideas for activities he brought back from Salt Lake City. Is this the<br />
year to put together a deliberate program on Compassionate Communication and/or Conflict Resolution open to the<br />
UUCD community (or more)? As we look ahead to the coming year (next month!) we should revisit the viability <strong>of</strong><br />
Sunday forums and other events (such as projects to put the Peacemaking Pledge into action or ethical eating.<br />
In peace,<br />
Scot Bol, 218-269-8096<br />
Senator Al Franken will speak in <strong>Duluth</strong> on Sunday, August 2 nd at 7pm at the Greysolon building in<br />
downtown <strong>Duluth</strong>. Senator Franken’s speech kicks <strong>of</strong>f a 3 day progressive roundtable conference organized by<br />
the Commonweal Institute and sponsored by the A.H. Zeppa Family Foundation. The Sunday night dialogue with<br />
Franken is free and open to the public, however, advance reservations will be held as seating is limited. Senator<br />
Franken will be joined by Arizona State Senator Kyrsten Sinema to discuss the state <strong>of</strong> the progressive movement<br />
and how to move progressive causes forward. For questions, or to make your reservations, please call 218-726-<br />
5430 or visit www.progressiveroundtable.org.<br />
CHUM Celebrates National Night Out<br />
with the<br />
ALL CHUM Street Fest<br />
First Avenue West between First and Second Streets<br />
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2009 5:45–7:30 pm<br />
Food served 6:00-7:00 p.m.<br />
All members <strong>of</strong> CHUM-affiliated congregations are invited to join CHUM constituents, staff, volunteers & friends for<br />
an evening <strong>of</strong> food, music & fun. Menu: hot dog or hamburger, chips, potato salad, baked beans, dessert,<br />
beverages. Each congregation will bring some food items; please contact UUCD CHUM delegate Scot Bol (phone<br />
269-8096) if you are going to the picnic to learn what UUCD members should bring.<br />
Women’s Moon Group<br />
We are a gathering <strong>of</strong> women who meet on the new and full moon each month. We celebrate the seasons and<br />
months by having a ritual that involves, casting a circle, calling the directions, participating in a ritual, meditating,<br />
singing and/or making music, and at the end we open the circle and release the directions. The ritual lasts about<br />
an hour; afterwards we have social time and eat some simple snacks.<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
The Women’s Moon Group and the Drumming Circle are going to join up for full moon on September 4. Since they<br />
both fall on the same day, we thought this would be a unique opportunity for all involved.<br />
If you have any questions or would like to know more about the Women’s Moon Group, please contact Alisa<br />
DeRider at 218-391-1663 or aderider@msn.com.<br />
Event Date Time Ritual Leader UU Room<br />
Full Moon Wednesday, August 5, 2009 7:00-8:30 pm Leader needed Library<br />
New Moon Thursday, August 20, 2009 7:00 pm - ? Kristi Kristi's house *<br />
Full Moon Friday, September 4, 2009 7:00-9:00 pm Alisa & Julie Social Hall<br />
New Moon Friday, September 18, 2009 7:00-8:30 pm Leader needed Library<br />
* Directions will be emailed to the group prior to the event or you can call Kristi at 218-879-6495.<br />
Guidelines for Newsletter Submissions<br />
The newsletter for the <strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> <strong>Congregation</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Duluth</strong> is produced monthly and released by the<br />
first <strong>of</strong> each month. It is available online at www.uuduluth.org. The deadline for submissions is generally the<br />
17 th <strong>of</strong> the month preceding. Submissions for the September 2009 newsletter must be received by August 17.<br />
Priority will be given to items received on time (or early!); late submissions may not be included due to space constraints.<br />
Submissions should be directed to the <strong>Congregation</strong>al Administrator at uucduluth@gmail.com. If at all possible, please email<br />
newsletter submissions rather than handwriting them or leaving a print copy in the church <strong>of</strong>fice. When emailing, please both<br />
embed and attach submissions in a .doc (Micros<strong>of</strong>t Word) format, and write “Newsletter” in the subject heading. Be sure to<br />
include a contact name and phone number. Call Kathy at 724-0308 with questions, or email uucduluth@gmail.com.<br />
If you would rather read the newsletter online at www.uuduluth.org, please send an email to<br />
uucduluth@gmail.com and ask to be removed from the paper mailing list. You also may be added back to the<br />
paper mailing list on request at any time.<br />
August 2009 Report from the Ministerial Search Committee<br />
The nominating committee has selected, the board has approved and the congregation has voted on the members<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Ministerial Search Committee. We began our work and exciting journey by meeting with Janne Eller-Isaacs,<br />
Ministerial Search Representative on May 30, 2009. She got to know us briefly and described the process and the<br />
specific jobs that needed to be done in order to complete a successful search for a settled minister. Fortunately<br />
there are a lot <strong>of</strong> resources from the UUA to help guide us, such as “The Search Committee Retreat”, “Settlement<br />
Handbook” and the all important “Resource Guide for Ministerial Search Committees”. There is also a Transitions<br />
Office that our chair can call on for help. It all seemed overwhelming, yet exciting. We were all anxious to get to<br />
know each other better and get started with this important work.<br />
Over the next month we read and studied the resource materials we had been given. I personally was both excited<br />
and anxious about the coming year. There was a great deal <strong>of</strong> work to do, but the possibilities for the future <strong>of</strong><br />
UUCD were so promising and bright. The next step in the process was to get to know ourselves and each other<br />
better. The evening <strong>of</strong> June 30 th we shared a meal together at Ann Fryberger’s home. Laura Park, the facilitator<br />
for our all day retreat the next day, gave us four very thought provoking questions to help with our discussion. We<br />
all listened intently as each <strong>of</strong> us spoke <strong>of</strong> our past relationship with this congregation and shared our dreams for<br />
UUCD. It was a wonderful evening and a fine start for our journey.<br />
The next day we gathered at the Coppertop Church for our all day retreat with Laura. Our objectives were to get<br />
better and more deeply acquainted, build trust, and learn about each other’s skills and interests, develop a timeline<br />
for our search process, develop our bases for making decisions and plan how to include key leaders <strong>of</strong> our<br />
congregation and staff members. We did a number <strong>of</strong> games and exercises to get to know each other and<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
ourselves better and also practiced working as a team. For example we designed a candle that we use regularly at<br />
our meetings. We also wrote a list <strong>of</strong> core attributes <strong>of</strong> the Search Committee and a covenant.<br />
Later in the afternoon we chose our various positions on the team. Each <strong>of</strong> us would be responsible for certain<br />
tasks, while knowing we had the support <strong>of</strong> everyone on the committee. We also worked out a timeline for<br />
completing the various phases <strong>of</strong> our search.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> our first tasks involves YOU. Soon you will be receiving a congregational survey. We want you to read it,<br />
think about it and <strong>of</strong> course fill it out. This is very important to us, the Search Committee, and to you, the<br />
congregation, and to our new minister. Our goal is to get 100% participation. We need your voice.<br />
You will hear a lot from us. We want to let you know as much as possible about our progress and want to keep<br />
you involved.<br />
The Ministerial Search Committee<br />
Chair Ann Fryberger ann@thefrybergers.net<br />
Secretary Barbara Kelly kellys@cpinternet.com<br />
Treasurer/References Tina Welsh tinawelsh32@aol.com<br />
Survey Coordinator David Yount daveyount@aol.com<br />
Packet Editor Cal Benson calbenmn@chartermi.net<br />
Distributor Ellie Connolly connolly.ellie@gmail.com<br />
Neutral Pulpit Deb DeLuca ddeluca2@msn.com<br />
Hospitality Michelle Starry mstarry@yahoo.com<br />
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Protect me from knowing what I don't need to know. Protect me from even knowing that there are things to know<br />
that I don't know. Protect me from knowing that I decided not to know about the things that I decided not to know<br />
about. Amen. ~Douglas Adams, Mostly Harmless<br />
Lord, lord, lord. Protect me from the consequences <strong>of</strong> the above prayer. ~Douglas Adams, Mostly Harmless<br />
Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Duluth</strong> Public Library Annual Grand Used Book Sale<br />
Aug 18-21, 2009<br />
Come get bargain books, DVDs, videos, CDs, vinyl and more at the annual book sale held at the <strong>Duluth</strong> Public<br />
Library, 520 W. Superior St. Hours for the sale are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Aug 19 and 20 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.<br />
for the bag sale on Friday, Aug 21. The sale is open to Friends members only on Tuesday, Aug 18 from 10 a.m. to<br />
5:30 p.m. There will be a special handicap-accessible shopping time from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wed, Aug. 19. Book<br />
categories include children’s books, fiction, biographies, cookbooks, nature, and much more. People can join<br />
Friends at the book fair or on-line at www.duluth.lib.mn.us/CS/Friends.html<br />
.<br />
A silent auction will be held on the library upper level during the book fair and will have rare and unique books.<br />
On Saturday, Aug 22, there will be a Book Fair at the Barnes & Noble at the Miller Hill Mall. Purchases made on<br />
that day will help to raise funds for the Friends <strong>of</strong> Library. The support voucher can be picked up at the book sale,<br />
at the library, or on-line at www.duluth.lib.mn.us/CS/Friends.html.<br />
16th Annual Harvest Festival & Energy Fair<br />
Saturday, September 12, 2009<br />
<strong>Duluth</strong>'s Bayfront Park - 9 am- 4 pm<br />
Each year, dozens <strong>of</strong> people, businesses and organizations join the Lake Superior Sustainable Farming Association<br />
and Lake Superior Energy Association to host one <strong>of</strong> the region's most visionary events. The Lake Superior Harvest<br />
Festival & Energy fair showcases the agriculture <strong>of</strong> northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin and the<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
latest information and clean energy solutions. The event aims to promote local food production and energy<br />
efficiency as a key component <strong>of</strong> a healthy community, economy and environment.<br />
The Festival is a family oriented outdoor event that attracts thousands <strong>of</strong> visitors to feast on locally produced food,<br />
to stock up at the farmer's market, to watch demonstrations by crafters and environmental innovators.<br />
Admission to the event is $3 adults, $1 children 7-17 and free for children 6 and under.<br />
Join Us for this Annual Harvest Celebration! Download an online Vendor Registration Form or call (218) 393.3276 /<br />
email info@theharvestfestival.org for a vendor registration form and to learn more.<br />
Heart to Heart: A Couples’ Enrichment Weekend<br />
Friday, November 6, 7:45 pm to Sunday, Nov 8, 2009, 4:00pm at Koinonia Retreat Center<br />
Heart to Heart is a program led by three UU couples and is designed to enrich communication and intimacy in your<br />
relationship. Participants do not share with the group, but rather, write and talk privately with their partners. All<br />
committed couples are welcome—same-sex and opposite-sex, married and unmarried.<br />
The cost is $385 per couple, and includes two nights lodging in a private room plus meals Saturday and Sunday. If<br />
the weekend cost is too high and would prevent your being able to attend, limited financial assistance is available.<br />
Space is limited, so please register early.<br />
Sponsored by Unity Church-<strong>Unitarian</strong>, St. Paul, MN 651-228-1456<br />
For more information, visit the Heart to Heart website at http://heart.mn.ex or call 651-227-0486.<br />
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong><br />
<strong>Congregation</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Duluth</strong><br />
835 West College Street<br />
<strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811<br />
A member <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> Association<br />
http://www.uuduluth.org<br />
Return Service Requested<br />
Non-Pr<strong>of</strong>it Org.<br />
U.S. Postage<br />
PAID<br />
Permit No. 264<br />
<strong>Duluth</strong>, MN<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org
<strong>Unitarian</strong> <strong>Universalist</strong> News <strong>of</strong> the Twin Ports<br />
August 2009<br />
Our Interim Minister is Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner.<br />
Phone: 724-6084; e-mail: ministeruucd@gmail.com<br />
Our Director <strong>of</strong> Religious Education is Carol Turner.<br />
Phone: 724-4430; e-mail: cgeot1@gmail.com<br />
Our Music Programming Director is Karen Bauman.<br />
Phone: 525-4119; e-mail: kklgb4820@msn.com<br />
Our <strong>Congregation</strong>al Administrator is Kathy Stinnett.<br />
Phone: 724-0308; e-mail: uucduluth@gmail.com<br />
Our Board President is Kathy Heltzer.<br />
Phone: (h) 724-3228 e-mail: kheltzer@charter.net<br />
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835 West College Street <strong>Duluth</strong>, MN 55811 218/ 724-0308 http://www.uuduluth.org