In This Issue
-Quick Links
-Upcoming Service
-Share the Plate
-Honk-Protest
-It's Brainstorming Time!
-Board Report
-This Sunday in CYRE
-UUCH Young Adults
-Save the Date!
Message
-COVID-19 Relief Funds
-Little Food Pantry
-Cooking in Hard Times
-In Case You Missed It!
-Ilene Sparks
-Care List
-Upcoming Events
-Minister Info
-UUCH Board Members
-Church Info
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"You Never Know Who is Listening"
Martha Barnette
October 4, 2020
10:45 a.m.
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This week, Martha Barnette, the co-host of NPRs “A Way With Words”, will lead our worship service. She will reflect on her dad's personal story of being born into abject poverty in the mountains of North Carolina —literally in a log cabin! And, his journey to becoming a Baptist theologian and civil-rights activist. She will share what that has taught her about her own story and the practice of listening to the stories of others, which is central to her work. Please join us for this very special worship service. |
Meeting ID: 229 305 601
October Theme - Deep Listening
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Share the Plate
The UUCH Board has approved a new Share the Plate (STP) arrangement: Beginning this Sunday, October 4, 2020, we will receive STP donations Sunday through Saturday the first week of each month for three-month periods. Thus, there will be four STP recipients per year scheduled by the Social Justice Committee (SJC) and the Board may schedule additional special STPs.
The first regular plate-partner (October-December) will be the Jerrod Michael Lockett Foundation, a public non-profit organization, striving to decrease the potential for violence in our communities. Nominated for STP by Sally Locklear.
Since losing his younger brother, Jarrod M. Lockett, to gun violence, Justin Lockett founded the Foundation in 2013 to educate families about the effects of gun violence, how to properly have preventative conversations, and provide outreach programs within the community supporting families who are victims of violent crimes. The Foundation has since provided community outreach programs to include scholarship opportunities, Christmas giveaways, back-to-school drives, volunteering with local schools, the Special Olympics, educational trips, and other events.
In 2017, Justin created the “League of Legacy” mentoring program focused on uplifting and empowering young men to become the best versions of themselves. Justin reminds his followers: “Your legacy is not something that you leave behind for someone, but something that you leave in someone.”
Members and friends of the congregation may nominate for future plate partners through the chair of a UUCH committee or directly to Social Justice. Each proposed partner should be a 501(c)(3) community service organization.
Submitted by the Social Justice Committee
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UUCH Honk-Protest
In our community, we believe that Black Lives Matter and that when we are made aware of injustice we need to take action. UUCH members are angered by the continued presence of the confederate monument in Downtown Huntsville because its presence memorializes a history of violence and white supremacy, and tacitly approves of the continued violence and oppression in our city.
In an effort to support ongoing protests, while not contributing to the spread of COVID-19, we are having a Honk-Protest. Make a sign, paint your car, and join us as we honk our horns around the County Courthouse. Plan to meet at UUCH on Wednesday, October 14th, at 9:30 a.m. and caravan over to begin our honk at 10:00 a.m.
Submitted by the Minister
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It’s Brainstorming Time!
Let’s Put the “Fun” Back in Fundraising. Many of the church fundraising events we have during the year are not just about raising money; they are about building community and socializing. In the past, events like Chili Cook-offs, Singalongs, Auctions, Book Sales, and Yard Sales have hatched some of our best opportunities to have fun together, work together, and really get to know each other. Physical distancing necessitated by the pandemic has made it a challenging time for our church, but we are proud to say that through the ingenuity of our members, we are continuing to fulfill the mission of our church.
Now we need to use our imaginations to think of fun fundraising events that give us ways to safely socialize and maybe raise a bit of money. So we are calling on all you brilliant UUs to dream up some interesting ideas. We are not asking you to organize an event (although you are welcome to volunteer). We just want some ideas for events that are fun and comply with our church’s COVID-19 policy. How about a Zoom bingo game, virtual silent auction, online mystery party, or craft fair? Let’s get really creative!
Send your ideas to the Board. We will sift through them and try to link them up with people who have the interest and skills to organize some of them. If you have any interest in helping organize, let us know, too. For now, WE WANT YOUR IDEAS!
Submitted by the Board
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UUCH Board Report September 22, 2020
The UUCH Board held its regularly scheduled meeting virtually on September 22. The Board continues to work on the documentation for achieving 501(c)(3) status, and a “Conflict of Interest” policy that must accompany it. The new Policies and Procedures Handbook is also in the last steps of completion and the Board will be doing its final review soon.
Updates were considered to committee chair positions as needs and circumstances change. The Nominating Committee and Board are working to fill immediate vacancies. Since the congregation is now operating under an executive team model, that team has been formed including John Schultz, Nick Wilburn, Nancy Finley, and Rev. Jaimie Dingus. This team will meet periodically to set Board meeting agendas, delegate tasks, and do some goals and visioning work.
Due to the unusual nature of this church year, the Board recognized some challenges for our Stewardship Drive and other fundraising efforts. There was a discussion of creative ways to accomplish these, and we will be encouraging members of the congregation to brainstorm fundraising ideas consistent with our COVID-19 Policy.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to the COVID-19 church policy. We will frequently review the policy and monitor the community’s risk status, legal mandates, and expert advice in order to make sure that the policy is efficacious and responsible. We are mindful of the hardships these restrictions place on our members and the social life of our beloved community. However, the safety of our congregation must be foremost in our policies as we live through this challenging time. (See the full policy below)
The Board will meet again on October 27, 2020.
UUCH COVID-19 Policy
Adopted by the Board of Trustees 8/25/2020
Out of love and respect for every member of the congregation and in an ongoing effort to promote public safety during the COVID-19 outbreak, the leadership of UUCH has developed the following policy. This policy covers any event or gathering sponsored by a committee or an established part of church ministry (i.e. Hospitality, Social Justice, Soul Circles, Music, RE, etc.), whether at the church or off-site. It also covers any event or gathering on church property, even if not sponsored by one of the aforementioned groups. This policy will remain in effect until amended by the UUCH Board of Trustees.
Building Use
- Due to the risk of community spread of COVID-19, all in-building meetings, functions, and rentals are postponed until further notice.
- It is our intent to minimize the number of people in the church at any given time. Very small groups of 2-3 people who have specific projects that require extended building access should contact the church office to schedule a low-traffic time to be in the building.
- If you have symptoms of COVID-19, please do not come to the church building for any reason.
- If you have a pressing need that requires entry into the church, please contact our minister, Jaimie Dingus, or our office administrator, Holly Hinkle, to let them know you are coming (contact info below).
- In order to retain a safe working environment for all church staff, visitors are required to wear masks at all times while in the church building
- Social distancing is recommended, even while masked.
- We have placed hand sanitizer on a table outside the office. Please use the hand sanitizer before entering the office.
- Visitors should please refrain from using the church bathrooms.
Meeting on Church Grounds
Groups of 10 or less are permitted to meet outdoors on church grounds while adhering to the following guidelines:
- No communal singing.
- No food service or sharing.
- Please do not plan on using the church bathrooms.
- Masks and facial coverings are strongly encouraged.
- Please maintain a minimum of 6 feet of social distance.
- Give thought to accessibility inclusiveness (lawns are often not accessible to wheelchair and walker users).
- When inviting participants, be clear about the inclusion or exclusion of small children and others who might find it hard to observe physical distancing. Our top priority in these times is to keep everyone in our community safe and healthy. Please honor our church covenant by abiding by this church policy, and encourage others to do the same. The church staff is empowered to ask anyone to leave our property if they are unable or unwilling to abide by these safety policies.
Contact Information:
Submitted by the Board
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This Sunday in Children and Youth
Religious Education (CYRE)
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"Listening to Your Heart"
Join us as we start this new month’s theme of DEEP LISTENING. What does it mean to listen to your heart? Our second UU principle reminds us that we can find kindness and compassion for each other when we listen within.
VIRTUUAL CYRE meets at 9:45-10:30 AM. Children, youth, and families are all invited!
YOUUTH GROUP (grades 7-12) meets at 4:30-6:00 PM.
Zoom links will be shared via email and our CYRE Family Facebook group.
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Registration for the new year in CYRE is now open!
Please use the link below to register your children and youth. Whether you've registered in the previous year or are brand new, we'd love to include you in our joyful and welcoming community of all ages. If you'd like more information about the CYRE Program, please contact DRE Erin Reid or CYRE Assistant Harper Goodman.
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Submitted by the Children and Youth Religious Education Committee
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we invite you to reach out to us.
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Submitted by the Children and Youth Religious Education Committee |
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The next Adult RE book discussions will be on October 29th and November 5th when we will be discussing How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi.
Start reading now and watch for further information in the newsletter.
There are plans to make free book copies available for borrowing from the church.
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Submitted by the ARE Committee |
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Donating by Text or Online |
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To give a plate offering to UUCH from your mobile device, text the amount (without dollar sign) to 833-559-0257, and follow the instructions. Text giving is by debit or credit card only.
Like our other online and mobile giving options, this is through Vanco, is secure, and has a good option for "plate" donations.
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Submitted by the Finance Committee
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COVID-19 Relief Funds Available |
Funds are available for members of the congregation who have been negatively impacted financially by COVID-19.
If you are a member of UUCH and have financial needs caused by the pandemic, please contact Board President John Schulz or a member of the Care Committee.
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Our Little Food Pantry Needs You |
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Our outdoor food pantry is being heavily used, with an estimated 12 visitors per day, both families and homeless individuals. YOU can help keep it stocked by signing up
Suggested food items: Soups, canned tuna and chicken, Vienna sausages, mac & cheese, cereals, grits, oil, canned vegetables, pork & beans, canned tomato items, spaghetti sauce, pasta, hamburger helper (etc), canned spaghetti & meatballs (etc), peanut butter, peanuts, sugar, oatmeal packets, fruit cups, pancake mix--you get the idea!! In cooler weather: onions, potatoes (split the bag), carrots, cabbage. Folks have expressed their gratitude.
Current requested items:
- blankets
- sunblock
- bug spray
- wipes
- dog food
- school supplies
- soap & shampoo
- toothpaste & deodorant
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Submitted by the Social Justice Committee |
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Carrot Cake
Well, truthfully this recipe is not by me. A number of years ago I attended the wedding of a vegan couple and this was their wedding cake. I’ve made it several times and it has been very well received by even non-vegetarians. —Teri Thomas
Carrot Cake
1/4 c + 2 Tbsp soy milk
3/4 c oil
1 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 c flour
1/4 c ground oats
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
4 oz. flake coconut
1 c shredded carrot (press liquid out)
4 oz. crushed pineapple (drained)
1 c chopped pecans
Preheat the oven to 350°. Using a hand mixer, combine with soy milk the oil, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients until combined. Fold in the coconut, carrots, pineapple, and pecans.
Pour into a 9 x 9“ baking dish and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
‘Cream Cheese’ Frosting
8 ounces of vegan cream cheese such as Tofutti brand
1/2 cup Earth Balance margarine
2 c powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 and 1/2 tsp vanilla, coconut, or orange extract
Beat until fluffy. Frost the cake once cooled.
Submitted by the Hospitality Committee
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Worship Service Recording
Rev. Jaimie Dingus
"Beginning Again on the Continuous Journey"
September 27, 2020
Did you miss out virtual worship service last Sunday?
Want a midweek re-watch?
Fear not, you can click here to see the recording.
Remember, the building is closed,
but CHURCH is open!
Submitted by the Worship Committee
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Ilene Sparks passed Sunday morning, September 20th, coming just two days shy of her 99th birthday. Those who knew her knew Ilene to be a genuine and loving person with a fierce passion for social justice. She was a bright light in our community and will be missed. Ilene had had a stroke two weeks ago and was in hospice under the loving care of her doctors and nurses and supported by her family and friends. Due to the pandemic, her family will have a private, family-only graveside service. To further honor her life and impact, UUCH will host an online memorial service in the coming weeks. Look out for more information coming soon about this celebration of an amazing life well lived.
Until then take good care, be gentle to one another in this time of grief, and reach out if you need support.
In faith and love,
Jaimie Dingus, Minister
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The picture above is on her 98th birthday at the church. And, here is a link to her obituary from her local paper, The Advertiser Gleam (below), which specifies that memorials can be sent to the Warrenton Cemetery Association, Inc., 1116 O'Brig Avenue, Guntersville, AL 35976. |
Submitted by the Minister, Patti McKee, and Suzey Delacey |
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Care List
This Sunday at our Circle of Candles:
Angela Arnold (she/her) lit a candle of joy: for the turning of the wheel, and for this opportunity for reflection and atonement as the nights grow cool.
Jess Schulz lit a candle of joy: our daughter, Lauren, is going to visit us this Wednesday.
Sarah Miklavic-Kinley lit a candle of sorrow: remembering a family friend, aged 32, Lee, who passed 9/12/20.
Tim and Dawn Bullis (Tim) lit a candle of joy: my brother has married a wonderful woman named Salama this past week.
Sarah Miklavic-Kinley lit a candle of joy: that I’m finally getting my health and one of my kids health figured out! :)
Becky Adams (She/Her) lit a candle of joy: to be singing with the choir, even virtually!!
Tim Waskerwitz lit a candle of joy: in joyous memory of Ilene Sparks, my Iron Jawed Angel.
Greeter (Pam K) lit a candle of joy: Brad & I are excited that we'll be visiting Sarah in North Carolina next weekend.
Kathrine Lee lit a candle of sorrow: deepest condolences to the family of my friend and colleague, Werner Smock, who died of COVID-19 this past week.
Tim and Dawn Bullis (Tim) lit a candle of sorrow: I miss my friends.
Kathrine Lee lit a candle of joy: great joy at having my Grandmother visit me in my apartment after moving to Atlanta recently.
LaDawn Edwards lit a candle of gratitude: thanks to everyone who reached out to me as I struggle to help my sister build a happier, more secure life. I am beginning to see glimmers of light in her darkness, including "The cool thing about this place . . ."
Nan lit a candle of joy: it is a joy to see Rev. Dingus!
Sarah Miklavic-Kinley lit a candle of joy: for the awesome Care Committee for helping out my family.
Barbara Hitt lit a candle of sorrow: I lost a cousin this morning. Kevin. He was the youngest of the 20 cousins on my mother’s side of the family. Sending love and condolences to his wife and three children.
Tim and Dawn Bullis (Dawn) lit a candle of concern: after 2 months, we still aren't sure exactly how injuries originated. Seeing an Orthopedic specialist this week in the next phase of recovery. Truly hoping to heal without surgery.
The Delaceys lit a candle of sorrow: missing Ms. Ilene.
Paul and Bridgit lit a candle of joy: fall beauties and the beauty of this awesome music.
The Delaceys lit a candle of sorrow: not looking forward to that feeling when Ms. Ilene’s usual seat is empty when we’re all back together.
Nancy Finley lit a candle of sorrow: thinking about Ilene this morning, too.
Willie Robinson lit a candle of gratitude: awesome job hosting Barbara! ❤️❤️❤️
Willie Robinson lit a candle of joy: joyful to be spending this time with everyone! Love you all! ❤️❤️❤️
Willie Robinson lit a candle of sorrow: Mrs. Illene will be forever in our hearts.
The Delaceys lit a candle of sorrow: link to memorial page for Ms. Ilene Sparks:
Tim and Dawn Bullis lit a candle of joy: this fits beautifully into the understandings of "balance" during the Autumn equinox. I look forward to adding it to our family's rituals!
Tim and Dawn Bullis lit a candle of gratitude: thank you for shining a light on this shadowy habit. We can change this by listening to those outside our comfort zones.
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Upcoming Events
Please note that all meetings, worship services, and gatherings will be held online until further notice. Please check our Facebook page and website for updated information and links.
Sun. October 4
CYRE
9:45 a.m.
Worship Service
Martha Barnette
10:45 a.m.
Meeting ID:
229 305 601
Tues. October 6
Soul Circle (Group A)
9:00 a.m.
Wed. October 7
Susan's Happy Hour
5:00 p.m.
Meeting ID:
847 8458 5916
Choir Practice
7:00 p.m.
Meeting ID:
910 8283 2653
Thu. October 8
Worship Committee
5:30 p.m.
Sun. October 11
CYRE
9:45 a.m.
Worship Service
UU the Vote Team and Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray
10:45 a.m.
YOUUTH Group
4:30 p.m.
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Minister
Rev. Jaimie Dingus
Office Hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday by appointment.
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UUCH 2020-21
Board Members
President:
John Schulz
Vice President:
Nick Wilbourn
Secretary:
Nancy Finley
Treasurer:
Bob Locklear
Trustees:
Suzey Delacey
Jack Long
Bryan Walls
Minister:
Rev. Jaimie Dingus
Do you have an agenda item for the Board?
The Board respectfully requests that all agenda items for the meeting be submitted to Board President John Schulz via email no later than one week prior to the meeting (i.e. the Tuesday before). The next board meeting is scheduled for Tues, Sept. 15th.
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Office Administrator
Holly Hinkle
Main Office Hours:
Monday-Thursday
9:30 am-1:30 pm
*Please email office if you need building access.
Phone:
256-534-0508
For more info on any event, contact the church office or visit our website.
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The Overlook is a publication of The Unitarian Universalist Church, 3921 Broadmor Rd., Huntsville, AL 35810
Editor-in-Chief:
Laurel Bollinger
Editor:
Holly Hinkle
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PO Box 5545
Huntsville, AL 35814
(256) 534-0508
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