Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth

27.12.2012 Views

Unitarian Universalist News of the Twin Ports August 2009 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 Summer Camp Services and Religious Education for August 2009 835 W. College Street 9:30am Service 10:30am Coffee or Tea and Social Hour 11:00am Your choice: Onsite Summer Camp for kids (at UUCD) Adult Forum in the Sanctuary Family Friendly Excursion leaving from the church and exploring the beauties of our surroundings Nursery care is provided during the service for children up to 6 years old. If we ever need to cancel services, the cancellation will be posted on our website and on the outgoing phone message from the office. Sunday Morning Summer Camp - Session One continuing: Worship Forum Excursion Sunday, August 2 “A Sense of Place” Explore the history and Skyline Parkway Rev. Suzanne Wasilczuk features of Skyline Parkway Sunday, August 9 “Holy Now” Learn about the Perseids Perseids meteor showers Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner meteor showers Sunday Morning Summer Camp - Session Two - UU Identity – We continue our summer schedule with a single service at 9:30 and offerings for adults and young people at 11:00. The 11:00 forums and excursions will include berry picking, an oral history session about UUCD, an excursion to our historic home at 1802 East 1st street and an ice cream social and more good stuff. Dates are still in the works. Sunday, August 16 “What Shaped Us” with Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner offering a condensed history of Unitarian Universalism Sunday, August 23 “This Delicious Religion” Join Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner, members of the Coming of Age Class and members of the Articulating Your UU Faith course for an exploration of why we love Unitarian Universalism. An Intergenerational Ice cream social will follow! We’ll bring the ice cream and frozen yogurt – you bring your favorite toppings to share. Sunday, August 30 “What Binds Us Together” with Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner Ours is a spacious and non-creedal tradition which allows space for many different theologies and spiritual disciplines. In the midst of all this diversity what is it that weaves us into a single denomination? Looking forward - - - September : Water Ceremony : Two service schedule resumes at 9:30 and 11:30 - 1 - 835 West College Street Duluth, 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 />

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 />

- 1 -<br />

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 />

- 2 -<br />

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 />

- 3 -<br />

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 />

- 4 -<br />

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 />

- 5 -<br />

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 />

- 6 -<br />

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 />

- 7 -<br />

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 />

*********************************************************************************************<br />

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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<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

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