Bonfire

Come, stretch out on a blanket and be mesmerized by the flames, expanse of sky, and good company. We hope to see you there!

BONFIRE 2008!!

It’s time again for our "open-house" spring bonfire at our acreage in Washington County! We'd like you to come and bring anyone with whom you'd like to be (1). It’s on Saturday, March 29 from 2:00 PM until after dark, so come and go whenever you like. We plan to light the bonfire at around 2:30, watch the flames roar up, then let the fire collapse as it burns into the evening. Meanwhile, there's power-sitting, hiking in the woods, chopping logs, climbing trees, modified baseball (2), dog play, roasting food, eating s’mores, - and maybe we can sing as we have down in the early bonfire years. Friendly dogs are welcome, too, as are kites, musical instruments, sports gear, etc.

We provide the basics (3) such as water, some chairs, s'mores (4), and hot dogs with options from vegan to carnivore. You may want to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and clothing for all seasons (5). And, if you have some tree parts that you want to get rid of, just bring them and throw them on the fire.

See the attached map to get to ‘Playland’, our 13 acre property on Welsh Road in Chartiers Township, Washington County. That is approximately 10 minutes west of the Meadowlands Racetrack and McDonalds. It’s rustic: no plumbing, no electricity --- and few restrictions (6).

In case of very extreme weather (i.e. a lot of wind or rain), it may be postponed to Sunday afternoon. Please call us to determine this: the weather is frequently different there, than in Allegheny County. If you RSVP, we will know with whom to get in touch in case of questionable weather.

Just in case you get lost on the way to the bonfire, we recommend you bring our cell phone numbers with you. Also, feel free to call (or email us before 12:30) about the weather situation or anything else.

(Phone #s DELETED by BLOG Owner)

Peter and Denise

(1) Adults must give consent, according to my stalkee.

(2) The open terrain is a little rough and sloped.

(3) Shovel and toilet paper included.

(4) Graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars.

(5) One year the weather went from T-shirt weather to a blizzard in the same day.

(6) Just in case, dress for poison ivy: long sleeves and pants.

directions.jpg 315K View Download

Film 'East of Liberty' to screen Saturday at Allegheny UU

Friday, February 22, 2008, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Filmmaker Chris Ivey will screen his film "East of Liberty: A Story of Good Intentions" at 7 p.m. tomorrow at the Allegheny Unitarian Universalist Church in the Central North Side.

"East of Liberty" documents the struggle that residents and business owners have witnessed in East Liberty's current resurgence of development. Tickets are $5 at the door. A discussion will follow.

A wine and cheese reception before the film at 5:30 p.m. will raise funds for the third installment. Tickets are $50 and are available by calling 412-901-8026. Reservations are limited; cash and checks are accepted.

The second part of the trilogy -- "East of Liberty: The Fear of Us" -- will premiere soon.

Core Team for Bridge Building is starting to assemble

Invites are going out to those willing to serve on the larger team. What that would mean is:

° Attending a work session with the consultant on February 17 from 3 p.m. through into evening

° Co-facilitating at least two focus groups between Feb. 17 and the end of March, each requiring at least two hours

° Summarizing the results of each focus group and sending them to the Core Team within a day or two after the focus group

There are more details, of course. The list of 12 people (invitation only) is to be finalized by Tuesday morning.

BRIDGE BUILDING from the realm of Herb Caponi

Herb Caponi wrote in an email to the community:

I do not feel that Bridge Building, as it has been presented, is an adequate instrument for resolving or even addressing the issues present at Sunnyhill. Specifically, it seems to be substituting therapy for effective leadership or effective management of church affairs. In terms of systems theory, I believe it will be a self-reinforcing system rather than a self-limiting system, increasing rather than reducing existent problems.

I resent the imposition on my time and energies in being involved in this process. However, not participating in a major church activity, no matter how ill conceived I view it to be, is not an acceptable option. I propose that we should examine structure and organization rather than pursue therapy.

We cannot address or resolve issues if we do not know the issues. As best I can determine from the only resource available to most of us, rumors and hearsay, there are two major issues.

The first is a dispute between the Minister and former Director of Religious Education regarding the role of religious education at Sunnyhill. Dispute resolution is a skill required of all professionals; however, absent a resolution between the Director of Religious Education and the Minister, the by-laws are clear that the Director of Religious Education reports to the Board, not to the Minister. The Board did not meet its duty to the congregation in not resolving this issue when it first appeared. The DRE operates independently of the minister, and the Board should defer to her judgment absent demonstrated cause to overrule her.

The second issue is alleged mistreatment of some church members by the Minister. I do not have any first hand information regarding this issue, and do not feel it appropriate to address it in factual terms but do feel it can be addressed in principled terms. I do feel that it is the Board’s responsibility to investigate the facts of this issue objectively and to present a reasoned fact-based recommendation to the congregation. I am not sure it is practical or even necessarily beneficial to investigate what are now aged allegations of misconduct, but others are certainly welcome to present contrary points of view. I do not say this out of any lack of sympathy for the feelings of those involved, but out of a lack of knowledge of what has happened and the impact on those involved. It is obvious from the consequences that the issues are significant.

I do not mean to slight anyone individually, but do feel obliged to state that early effective action by the Board could have resolved both issues before we reached the current state of affairs. That said, we still need a Board to run the everyday business of the church, so I cannot see requesting the Board to resign. We cannot retrieve the failed opportunity to have resolved these issues at their beginning; however, we can look to the future and determine our options from here forward. I feel that this is an opportune time to be looking at the fundamental structure of the church.

The three reasons to come to Sunnyhill which I have heard since being here are “spiritual”, religious education for children, and the companionship of interesting and agreeable persons. I put spiritual in quotes because despite diligent search, I cannot find a definition that does not encompass some form of supernaturalism, stated or implied. However, we cannot neglect the needs of those who find the word helpful to define the needs Sunnyhill fulfills for them. These needs seem to be, at least in part, the ministerial components of the minister’s function. My question is can we structure a way of meeting these needs other than the historical approach of a separate position for minister and director of religious education? I believe that we should look at combining the functions into one position for directing both adult and children’s programming and religious education. I do not include program presentation as part of the duties of this position but do include program planning.

Obviously this idea cannot be fully explored in a memorandum such as this one, but looking at who we are and what we need as a congregation has to begin somewhere. Questioning the structure is to me more important than presenting a finished plan at this time. There are other resources for those functions that are strictly ministerial. Absent the minister’s salary, we could afford speakers and get far more wide ranging points of view than any one individual minister could present. We have committees and lay people to reach out to those going through stressed periods of their lives. The local humanist organization, Center For Free Inquiry-Pittsburgh has services available for ministerial functions, such as weddings, funerals, etc. I do not speak for them but would be willing to ask them to present their available services to the church. A look at what resources are available cannot but be beneficial.

Restructuring the functions presently filled by separate positions for the Minister and Director of Religious Education into one position has more than the obvious budgetary advantages; it has the advantage of one resource person being responsible for addressing our needs as a congregation with consequent accountability. It also has the advantage of substituting an educational and program role for an implied or assumed power role relationship in the congregation.


I wish to specifically note that I do not propose this idea as a back-door way of firing our current minister. I think that for ethical and practical reasons we should honor the original term of the contract. The justifications for terminating a contract before its terms expire are generally lack of work, lack of funds, just cause, or gross incompetence. The ministerial position does not currently seem to lack enough work. If we are unable to fund the position, then what? The need is still there. Just cause requires, in my mind, clear and convincing evidence of misconduct; gross incompetence requires clear and convincing evidence of being unable to perform the requisite duties of the position. If the evidence exists for just cause or gross incompetence, bring it forth in an appropriate forum.

I do feel that the present level of dissatisfaction justifies deciding now not to renew the contract at its termination; it may establish gross incompetence.

I also wish to specifically note that I do not feel that a part-time minister is the solution unless it is considered on its non-financial merits after due consideration for that specific purpose. A part time minister still does not resolve the issue of power relationships in the congregation. Unitarians tend not to grant power over themselves to others without examination and justification. The existence of a minister position at all is for me a blanket granting of authority that has no reason for existing.

I think that we have to examine the authority mechanisms of hiring and firing for all positions. I was rather surprised to learn that the Board cannot hire or fire the minister. The congregation does not interview the candidates for the position, and has little choice but to defer to the judgment of those who do. The lack of Board authority to dismiss the minister coupled with the unreasonably high requirement for a dismissal by the congregation is effectively giving the minister the ability to function without accountability. This is an unacceptable interpretation of using democracy to conduct church affairs. The By-Laws should be amended to grant this authority to the Board for future employees. If the Board shows a disinclination or inability to deal with the responsibility, running for the Board is the solution that fulfills conducting church affairs by the democratic process.

For future reference, for any position in the congregation, I see neither need nor value in long term contracts. A one-year contract with an acceptable renewal clause should work nicely, and is rather common.

In addition to examining the personnel structure, I think that an issue that should be addressed is replacing the building with a modern structure designed for the purpose of being a church. The present building necessitates two services, a practice that fragments the congregation and limits expanding life craft. The number of meeting rooms also causes frequent scheduling problems due to the limited meeting space. Again, the issue cannot be adequately explored in a memo, but I feel it should be raised and considered. Effective long term financial planning, in addition to budget planning, is a corollary to this issue.

Another issue that I feel should be explored is the value and role of the UUA. The UUA may be a legitimate resource to the church, but the justification for that eludes me. I see the UUA as “corporate” trying to impose their formulaic vision of Unitarianism. Currently, the UUA has also provided a means of looking to a third party source for resolving issues that we should be addressing ourselves. In addition, the delays consequent to involving the UUA have allowed the problems to accelerate.

I think that we need to examine our relationship with the UUA specifically to determine if it has grown into an unexamined authority with power we never intended. There may be legitimate value in the UUA, but I feel that we would be better off as a congregation if we were convinced of that after an examination process.

We cannot help but benefit by examining our structure, regardless of the ultimate outcome.

Sunday forum at 10:15 am, Sunday at Sunnyhill -- LifeCraft

During the televised Republican debate on November 28 with questions raised via YouTube, this question was asked: "To Christian conservative candidates, on the death penalty, what would Jesus do?" The answer was avoided by Mike Huckabee with: "Jesus was too smart to ever run for public office" which was followed by a round of laughter both by the other candidates and the audience. The question was not answered even when repeated by the moderator.

Is that retort acceptable? If yes, what does it say about any Christian politician? If not acceptable, why not?

There will be a 25 minute presentation by Ken Wagner about why politics is not serving our republic as represented in comments made by or about Mike Huckabee and others. Then there will be a discussion to complete the hour tomorrow during Lifecraft in the Forum at 10:15 am.

Get BridgeBuilding Letters/Emails/Phone calls to Richard by Feb. 1

“How do you see things (“what is your take”) on where Sunnyhill is right now in its life and ministry?” All members and friends are invited to send their answers to our UUA BridgeBuilding facilitator at:

Rev. Dr. Richard Speck, District Executive
100 West 10th Street, Suite 1008
Wilmington, DE 19801
302-778-4564
302-778-4590 (fax)
302-528-3762 (cell)
302-239-6286 (home)
rspeck@uua.org

Jan 6 meeting about bridges N@

BRIDGE BUILDING PROCESS

Kick Off Meeting Sunday January 6th at 6:30pm

Building bridges between our divisions

I reach out to you won't you reach out to me?

With all of our voices and all of our visions

Friends we could make such sweet harmony.

From Hymn #1023 in the Singing the Living Tradition, Supplement



FAQs : Before Building Bridges: from the Sunnyhill Board



1. What is the Bridgebuilder process and why are we doing it?

Anxiety and conflict exist in all systems, and of course churches are no exception. The Bridgebuilder process was created by Peter Steinke, a well-known church consultant and author of several books on church conflict. After working with hundreds of churches experiencing the effects of conflict, Steinke created a process for assisting churches in working through their anxiety and moving in the directions they want, toward health and growth. The process was recommended to our church by Rev. Joan VanBecelaere, the District Executive (DE) of the Ohio Meadville District of the UUA, after meeting with our board of trustees and staff.

The process may look familiar at first. It begins with a congregational meeting and a dialogue led by Richard Speck, the consultant we will be working with. He is the DE for the Joseph Priestley District and has been trained in conducting the Bridgebuilding Program. Interviews and written surveys are part of the process as well. However, unlike Sunnyhill's previous experience, this process is on-going and will continue to involve the congregation in meaningful and essential ways over several months. It will also include an action plan, written by members of the congregation and presented to the entire congregation for implementation.

2. Didn’t we just go through a process like this with Tom Chulak and Jean Crane? I’ve given my comments on our situation several times over the past few years. Why should I do it again
if nothing seems to change?

The issues we are grappling with have developed over time. Levels of awareness of these issues have also changed over time. At different stages, the board, the staff, and the congregation have taken various action steps in response to these issues.

The Bridgebuilding process is the next phase, a phase that will empower the congregation to identify and to address critical issues so that we can become a healthy congregation with a healthy ministry.

The BB process will build on input, comments and perceptions that have emerged at earlier stages.

These will inform the Bridge Building process at all steps.

We sincerely hope that everyone in the congregation will engage fully in the BB process in the spirit of love and hope.

3. Why shouldn’t we call a congregational meeting to vote on whether or not to retain the minister before we embark on a new process?

The board carefully considered this option. We concluded that in the long run, regardless of the outcome, such a vote taken at this time would be more disruptive to the fabric of the congregation. No matter how the vote turned out, the congregation would need to go through a healing process such as that offered through the BB program. Embarking on the BB will enable the congregation to address the question of retaining the minister, to deal with any other issues we as a congregation identify, and to begin the critical process of healing.

4. Why can’t we facilitate the BB or some other healing process amongst ourselves?

It is true that within our congregation we have talented, experienced people with strong facilitation skills. As members of the congregation, some of these people may have already developed strong feelings and opinions about our current situation, while others may not have. However, it is very likely that no one is truly perceived by all others as being completely neutral. The benefit of the BB process is that it brings in an outside neutral facilitator to act as a non-anxious presence within a very anxious congregation.

5. As a representative of the UUA, won’t the facilitator be biased toward the minister?

The facilitator is clear on his role of serving the congregation, with the goal of having a healthy congregation with a healthy ministry.

6. What will this cost Sunnyhill?

Sunnyhill’s cost for the BB program will be $1,000. All other costs, including the balance of the facilitator's fee ($2,000) and his travel and lodging expenses,will be covered by the OMD and the UUA. In addition, the OMD District Executive will be involved in this process with no cost to the congregation. This demonstrates the OMD’s and the UUA’s support of and commitment to our congregation during these difficult times.

The UUCSH Board of Trustees hopes to see ALL Sunnyhill Members and Friends at the Kick Off Meeting Sunday January 6th at 6:30 pm

Childcare will be Provided.

An Open Letter to the Sunnyhill Community

(From John H):

I am writing this letter to the entire Sunnyhill Community as both an expression of personal frustration and as a plea for action which I believe must taken to resolve the crisis now dividing and embittering this community. It is only one person's opinion – I make no claim to speak for anyone else. But I can no longer, in good conscience, remain silent. I have chosen to do this by letter in order to avoid unnecessary emotion and allow for timely reflection.

When I first came Sunnyhill a little over two years ago I was fascinated and amazed by the delightful diversity, intensity and collective brilliance of this relatively modest grouping of people. It was an experience which had heretofore been missing from my life. I was at once amazed and totally reenergized to have found all of you. And, perhaps even more important to me, to have been so readily and quickly accepted as a fellow in your company – a relationship about which I feel as strongly as ever, and one which I want to endure.

Unfortunately, the ongoing discontent concerning the relationship of the minister to the congregation and congregation to the minister is casting a grey pall over all of us, to the point where it threatens to destroy the very institution of community that is Sunnyhill. At the time I joined the church, I was unaware of the roiling discontent within the congregation. Since then, the atmosphere has darkened considerably and it saddens me immeasurably to see this cancer continuing to spread through the community. The recent status letter concerning this year's pledge canvass makes it clear that the conflict is beginning to impact the capacity of the organization to function in some very real and soon to be painful ways. Along with the missing pledges, the many empty seats at services in recent weeks is a tell-tale sign of the crisis – and the problem of activity space is no longer the burning issue it was as recently as a year ago.

Problems of this nature are not altogether uncommon in churches. What is uncommon is that we have permitted it to persist at Sunnyhill for such a long time – to fester without any serious or effective effort to bring it to a head. It is never easy to confront such demons and I know, as a liberal congregation, we don't want to injure anyone's feelings; but, in the process of avoiding difficulty and injured feelings, we risk imminent self-destruction.

Last spring's "Conversations", coming as they did on the heels of an apparently poor evaluation of the minister, clearly identified that we are a church in "extreme crisis", with, at that time, fully 25% of the congregation identifying the minister as the source of discontent. Considering that 7% discontented membership constitutes a "problem church", it should then have been crystal clear to the Board that something serious and tangible needed to be done immediately. Yet, still, the Board elected to sit on it for almost another year – until the blow-up following the " Power and Authority" sermon forced them to look up from their visioning to once again confront the persistent reality confusion and discontent in their midst.

As far as I can determine, the entirety of the current distress revolves around the minister and her job performance over the past four years. The congregation is confused, confounded and frustrated because the Board has consistently refused to provide it with the information necessary to fully understand and respond to the problem – insisting that confidentiality and secrecy took precedence over congregational awareness and understanding. Instead of acting forcefully and decisively to address the situation, the Board has chosen to "punt" – delegating its responsibility to UUA third-parties in search of what can only be described as soft-core feel-good solutions. The results to date: increasing angst and anger among the congregation; fewer members; three new Board members; substantially reduced pledges; and the promise of more of the same to come. This is not being responsible, it is being cowardly.

The Bylaws state that the Board is responsible for performing an annual evaluation of the minister and is responsible for "creating and enforcing the employment contract with the minister" and, further, that the minister can only be dismissed, upon motion, by a two-thirds vote of the congregation present at an Annual or Special Meeting of the Congregation. Thus, the Board can and, in my opinion, must apprise the congregation in a timely fashion of the results and the contents of its annual evaluation of the minister – prior to the Annual Meeting – particularly if the evaluation is marginal or unsatisfactory. While the Board is charged with performing the evaluation and managing the employment contract, it is solely the responsibility of the congregation, when asked, to determine whether the minister should stay or go. This congregational responsibility can not be exercised responsibly without specific knowledge of the issues involved, and this can only be provided by the Board of Directors.

Why is the Board afraid to bring the matter to a head and trust the congregation to act in the best interest of the church? Why are we being subjected to another soft-headed feel-good approach – bridge-building – when what we need is to address the problem directly and specifically? Why has the Board failed and refused to perform the required annual evaluation in 2007? And why is the Board unwilling to share the information it has concerning the specific issues and the results of the 2006 evaluation with the congregation? The congregation has an absolute right to this information – and the Board a duty to provide it. The congregation is, after all, the actual employer. These issues should be confronted, discussed and debated openly, not in hallway whispers, furtive phone calls and e-mail rumors. There is no need to include personal information, confidentially provided; but specific types of complaints and instances of behavior and performance can and should be formally aired to the congregation – not during or following Sunday services, but at one or more special congregational meetings called by the Board.

I strongly suspect the answer to the above questions is that the Board is afraid that if it brings this information and these issues directly to the congregation and requests a congregational vote to retain or dismiss the minister, the congregation will vote to retain. And if it be so, so be it – the congregation will have spoken. But whether the congregation decides to retain or to dismiss, the issue will be, at least for the moment, settled. Everyone will know the facts and just where one another stands on the matter – then we can begin to move forward together again. It is at this juncture, and only at this juncture, that something like bridge-building might be beneficial.

I fully appreciate the difficult position the current Board of Directors finds itself – three new members thrown into the breach and escalating internal strife in the community – but more delay and delegation will not settle anything. I do not, by this criticism, mean to in any way denigrate the efforts and sacrifice each and every Board member has made during this extended process, nor minimize the personal pain and toil each has put into her or his duties as Board members. I am certain that what was or was not done by the Boards (present and past) was in good faith and belief that it was in the best interest of the church – it's just that they appear to have been in conflict avoidance mode, not problem solving mode. In order to get back on track again the Board must recognize that, given the proper information, the congregation can be trusted to do what is in the best interest of itself. It must, in good faith, share the information it possesses relating to the job performance of the minister – good as well as bad. Finally, it must allow the congregation to be the final judge – not the UUA or the Ohio-Meadville District or some other third-party consultant.

Should the Board elect to change its current course, the task ahead will most certainly not be easy or painless, but it is an essential part of the process if the community is to survive as a vital organization retaining the wonderful blend of diversity, intellectual ferment and caring concern I have come to know and love since discovering Sunnyhill. Writing this letter has been a sad and painful task, but I can't sit back and see the community tear itself apart because too many of us are unwilling to step up and say enough is enough – it's time to move on. More importantly, I don't want Sunnyhill, and you, to stop being a part of my life.

Thanks very much for taking the time to read and contemplate these thoughts.

John Hemington

---

Then comes the first reply:

John,

I believe your statement as follows summarizes the problem as it now stands:

This congregational responsibility can not be exercised responsibly without specific knowledge of the issues involved, and this can only be provided by the Board of Directors.

My suspicion regarding bridge building is that we are repeating the Pittsburgh history of building bridges to nowhere.

Having no complaint about Lynn myself (I do have some problems with the position of minister existing at all, but that is a separate issue), I have been extremely frustrated at trying to determine the specifics of discontent. What I have heard, if true, warrants dismissal. However, I have heard what I have heard from third parties, not from the grievants themselves.

Ordinarily, the lack of any specifics to contribute to an informed determination slants me toward ignoring a subject. However, the real world effects cannot be ignored if we wish Sunnyhill to survive. The Board, in seeking third-party intervention, is providing the proverbial straw to a drowning person. The Board has not even provided the minimum action of an annual ministerial evaluation, which is its duty. The neglect or refusal to complete the ministerial evaluation is anywhere from an abdication of responsibility to outright manipulation of the situation. In any case, I now see the Board itself as an obstacle, not a resource, regarding any solution to the current problems.

My question is, lacking an effective Board, what are our options . One, of course, is individual resignation, which more people seem to be exercising. I care nothing about Sunnyhill as a corporate entity, but I absolutely do not wish to sever myself from Sunnyhill as a community. I feel that the Board, in its failure to effectively deal with the situation, has caused the loss of this community to those who have left, and the loss of them to those of us remaining. I suspect there are others who simply stop coming without the formality of announcing it, which are opportunity losses to both them and us.

Another option is to request the Board resign en masse, and call for immediate elections. This would provide members who feel they have a solution to present it to the congregation. I don't see this as a positive action only because, even if it could be done, we need a Board because Sunnyhill is a business that requires management authority. Leadership in the current situation, if it comes, will come from the congregation, not the Board.

Another option is to repeat the founding of Sunnyhill, and form a separate church/society, with or without the blessing of corporate Unitarianism. This is not as outlandish as it seems, as we seem to have distinct groups notwithstanding the issue of the minister, and the talent for organization certainly exists. I have heard several people state they have no to little need of a minister, and would be open to separating with a group of like-minded individuals. Are there at least 10 (or more) people open to discussing this?

I myself feel that a congregational meeting not chaired by the Board or third-party representatives is the next best step before looking at other options. As the distribution list for your email is hidden, I am copying everybody in my list that I can identify with Sunnyhill. Is there any interest in this?

Note-I accept responsibility for any anger this email and its general distribution may cause, but accept no credit for any positive responses, as these things are merely what someone needs to say.

Herb Caponi

---

Lynn was thought to have posted in email in response:

Herb and all,

I urge you to trust the board (for at least the next month). Take the time to show up and see what this Bridge Building process is about and what it actual brings us before criticizing it. If the process is a total failure you can act at that point. However the board has been working very, very hard. For months they have been taking the things they know about the situation at Sunnyhill and combining that with their learnings about the possible ways to help the congregation through this crisis. I trust the board. True, they aren't perfect. None of us are. However, I urge all of you to trust that their combined wisdom will lead us somewhere worthwhile. At very least please give them a chance for the next few weeks.

Thank you,

Lynn

---

Jay P, President of the UUCSH Board wrote:

Wow, I must say I am struggling with how much of this to respond to. I think there is a lack of understanding as to what Bridge-building is. I take responsibility for that. We have perhaps not been effective at getting the message out. What it is NOT is the board getting someone else to do our job. An outside facilitator leads us to both describe all our problems (of which not having a written evaluation of the minister I submit is only a very small part) and then also assists us in leading our own dialogue among members to create an action plan to deal with all of our problems. I submit that if an internal person (of which we have many very talented people who could do this) would not be considered by all as unbiased. Unfortunately the current climate to me indicates that we MUST have an outside party facilitate our working through this. If an action plan includes voting to release our minister, so be it. I would remind you that last spring Tom Chulak reported that in his conversations with over half our congregation, he concluded that 25% of us had serious issues/problems/complaints with the minister. While that is an extremely high percentage, if a vote had been taken then to dismiss the minister, it would have failed. Our bylaws require a 2/3 majority present at a congregational meeting to dismiss. Do you suggest that if we hold a vote now to dismiss the minister, either way the vote goes, all our problems go away? I suggest that is extremely naïve and shallow thinking. Maybe then the “losers” of that vote would then voluntarily leave. Is that what we want? Are we not capable of working through our disagreements? Or maybe it isn’t worth the trouble. Am I reading of a suggestion to dismantle Sunnyhill and start all over? I suggest that we are all still here because we do NOT want that to happen. Do you suggest that if we evaluate the minister, our problems go away? Please.

The suggestion is being made that we begin making the minister’s evaluations public. That is a strong argument. Personally I disagree, but it is certainly worth talking about. Let me remind everyone of the communication I sent through a letter last spring as well as an article in the drummer recently. John, I also talked to you personally on November 3rd regarding many of the issues you have spoken about. As I told you then, and through public communication, the board has been working on shoring up some organizational weaknesses that we have been living with for quite a while. A clear and structured process for evaluating our staff is only a very small part. Making both the minister and DRE evaluations public should be part of that discussion. There is clearly a lot of support for that. This was one piece of the work that THIS board took on last spring. Unfortunately it had to be put on hold because the uproar caused by the “Power and Authority” sermon in October necessitated the board change its focus.

There seems to be an implication that this board loves secrecy and is working in the dark to further its own, shadowed agenda. Please. We have neither the desire, nor the energy that would take. Sunnyhill is facing some unprecedented challenges and we are trying to figure out how to deal with them. You present arguments concerning minister evaluations as if we have been purposely keeping information from the congregation. Last year, to my knowledge was the FIRST time a minister from Sunnyhill has had a formal evaluation. I’m not sure how it worked when Kirk was here so I can’t really speak to that. I also know that something was written for Lynn to be considered “settled”. Sunnyhill has been in existence for over 40 years! This was never a problem until a couple of months ago. Do you want us to change something like that on a dime simply because you write a letter? We have also received criticism concerning putting people on to the board agenda. In the past, this has not been a problem, and frankly I love to have people share their concerns with the board in person. But we are not working in the same environment as we have in the past. In the past, the board did not routinely have 10-15 people show up at its meetings to observe. There is much more tension, less understanding and compassion, and more formality. That is ok. We will work under the conditions that we have to. That’s why we were elected.

I would encourage everyone to participate in the Bridgebuilding process beginning on January 6th. If after that initial meeting you feel your concerns will not be addressed, then you of course will not be forced to participate. If you want to drive your own process, then you are certainly within your rights to do so adhering to our by-laws. I would hope though that everyone be engaged in the same process, because unless we as a whole congregation are working together to achieve the same goals—a strong loving, supportive community, then we are going to continue to bleed members, and foster anger and resentment. And that will be a very sad legacy to the many remaining founding members who started this organization we call Sunnyhill.

Jay Pullen
President, UUCSH board of trustees

---

Then comes the final letter via email in this chain. Others are free to post in the comment area. The blogmaster scrubbed the idenity of this person who sent in the letter as he was not interested in following along in the conversation. Hint: He is a former board member and ex-president of the board.

Jay:

... blog posting removed...
NAME NUKED

If you wish, you can chime in with the comments on this blog. But, there is little insurance that anyone will read the postings as this blog gets few viewers.

Budget Preview

Sunnyhill's 2008 Budget Preview is slated for 11:30 on December 30 (following the one service) and at 10:15 on January 6, 2008 (between the two services). These meeting happen in the Main Room to discuss the 2008 budget with interested members of the congregation.

It will be an opportunity for members to offer suggestions for which appears to be a financially difficult year. Before this meeting members will have the draft budget proposed by the Board available which will be distributed before the end of 2007. To create this draft budget, the Board has had to make some difficult choices in the face of what is anticipated to be significantly lower pledge income in 2008. It is hoped that as a result of this meeting, the congregation and Board will be in agreement regarding the choices that need to be made and why they need to be made ahead of the budget approval meeting two weeks later on January 20.

The initial proposed budget will be made available by this weekend. There will be copies available in the Dining room Sunday.

Earth Day vendors and speakers wanted

Sunnyhill's Earth Day Committee is looking to locate speakers, vendors, exhibitors and/or workshops about or related to the positivity of the earth for Sunnyhill's Earth Day Celebration on Saturday April 26th, 2008 from 10 am - 5 pm. Information or questions should be directed to Victoria Dym at vicdym -at- hotmail -dot- com.

Unitarian Universalist Humour

Unitarian Universalist Humour: "HOW MANY (xxxxxx) DOES IT TAKE TO CHANGE A LIGHT BULB?"

Randy Bellamy, Facilitator, Current Events Discussion Group writes:

Well, we'll be sandwiched in between the two services once again, which is our usual scheduled meeting time following Labor Day and prior to Memorial Day. We'll meet twice monthly and USUALLY we'll meet in room #25. And so, life begins again with our having a chance to review, thrash out, rant and thoughtfully compare and contrast our concerns and views within a friendly framework which you'll find both challenging and congenial.

These times are complex and challenging, and demand our becoming more clearly focused and better informed. Please join us as we attempt to reach informed conclusions of what we will and will not tolerate, of what matters and what we will or may dismiss. During each of our biweekly considerations of events, which are certainly among Pittsburgh's liveliest, we will attempt, through discussion and debate, to gather perspectives and resolve needed to face the demands made upon each of us. I hope you'll come and make your own contribution to the continuing discussion.

Open Letter to Unitarian Universalists

There is no "if" about the President's abuse of the First Amendment. As a 14 year Marine veteran I've seen the results when one religion is favored over another.

Take a look at reaction and information about recent actions by the Supreme Court.

http://www.lawmemo.com/sct/06/Freedom/
http://www.religionandsocialpolicy.org/homepage/article.cfm?id=6106
http://www.ca7.uscourts.gov/fdocs/docs.fwx?caseno=05-1130&submit=showdkt
http://ffrf.org/legal/legal2.php
http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/06-157.ZS.html

My letter is meant to be a wake up call.

To date Unitarian Universalists and the UUA have not joined in any coordinated action against the ecclesiastical administration of the United States on Faith Based initiatives.

The UUA came out opposing the nomination of Samuel Alito to the supreme court in December of 2005 and we went as far as a letter of opposition.

http://www.uua.org/pressroom/pressreleases/14622.shtml

What can we do now besides say, "We told you so."

So far I've not been able to find any Church groups or bodies that are joining this fight.

http://www.secular.org/

The closest on their web site is the society for Humanistic Judaism
http://www.shj.org/.

We Unitarian Universalists have democracy at the very core of our belief system. We respect the inherent worth and dignity of every individual in their search for spiritual fulfillment. If we stand on the sidelines we are not only accepting whatever theocracy the current or future administration has or have but are allowing an alliance of two branches of the government to over rule the third.

What do you all think of the actions of the President and the Supreme Court?

If we can't beat them should we Joining them to get our "fair share"? (Yes that is meant as Sarcasm.)

Or do we band together to return the separation of church and state to the first secular government in the world?

If we chose the latter as the high ground how do fund the fight?

I know our church could not afford a battle independently. But is this something that we pay UUA dues for?

Bob Lee
UUCSH (AKA Sunnyhill)
Pittsburgh, PA

First Friday meeting covers the movie, Sicko

First Friday will meet at 7:30 pm on September 7, 2007 at Sunnyhill.

The topic will be Sicko, the new film by Michael Moore. Some have hailed it as his best and most professional film, others have labeled it as only a showpiece for his biased views.

Previous to the film's showing 33% of Lion's Gate (the distributor) stock was sold to a doctor. The number of theaters showing the film was cut from 1600 to 400 one week
before the release. Could this have been a coincidence? We will discuss the related
health care issues. Whether or not you have seen the film, come and give us your opinion. The meeting will start at 7:30 pm with recommendations regarding movies, plays, concerts, books, restaurants, etc. that you believe the group would enjoy. As usual, bring a snack and beverage to share.

UU Church sign draws attention

Kerry may have to ketchup - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
SIGNAGE. Members of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ligonier Valley didn't realize they'd gain nationwide notoriety when they put up a banner on their church, nestled along Route 30 in Ligonier Township, to attract new members.

The sign has drawn the curious attention from one of television evangelist Pat Robertson's disciples, Lee Webb, an anchor at Robertson's Christian Broadcasting Network.

In an opinion column posted last week on the channel's Web site, Webb posted a photograph of the banner.

"My family and I passed a Unitarian Universalist Church while we were vacationing in Western Pennsylvania last week. Displayed on the front of the building was a banner that read, "A Beacon of Liberal Religion," Webb wrote.

"I've driven by a lot of churches over the years, but never one so proud of its liberalism," Webb added.

Webb reports he was so "intrigued" by the banner's declaration, he visited the church's Web site and was surprised that its pride "in its unorthodoxy runs deep."

"Sad, isn't it? Is it any wonder, then, that liberal Protestant denominations are losing members in droves?" Webb asks.

The church pastor, the Rev. Dr. Renee Waun, said last week that Webb's lumping the local congregation into a liberal Protestant denomination "is like comparing apples and oranges."

"Basically, we're a new church -- only 3 years old -- and the sign is to show people what we are offering. The comments are almost absurd. ... We have a lot of members in our congregation who remain strong to the Christian faith," she said.

Dean's Diner

Cheers is where everybody knows your name, but at Dean’s Diner, they know your name, your financial status, and they don’t care. Join us on June 22, 2007 at 8 pm, or June 23 at 2 pm and 8 pm, and you’ll see what we mean. Dean and Vicky will be there, along with the Senator, a musician who can’t sing, a pregnant woman who can, and other assorted strange people. There’ll be pie, too.

Of course, everything is bartered.

Admission is free, in exchange for a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The pie is free, in exchange for 5 dollars. Laughs are free, in exchange for telling us how good we are.

Sign-Up for Sunnyhill Conversations

Please take part in Sunnyhill Conversations that will be held at Sunnyhill May 13, 14, 15, & 16. There is a sign-up sheet posted in the dining room and all members and friends are invited to take part. If you can’t make it to Sunnyhill to sign-up, you may phone Elizabeth during her office hours at church 412-561-6277 to schedule a time. Please DO NOT leave her a voice mail. Feel free to speak to a Board member or COM member if you have any questions and don’t forget to attend the Congregational Meeting on Wed, May 16 at 8:00!

Hal led service at Sunnyhill -- asking where does music come from?

Docs for annual meeting and candidates for board

In preparation for our Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 15, I have prepared the Annual Report 2006-2007 for your review. Bio’s of the candidates running for the Board of Trustees is also available. Click the headline.

Hard copies, if needed, will be available in the dining room this Sunday.

If you are a member of UUCSH we hope to see you at our Annual Meeting where we will be voting for President, Treasurer, At-Large Board of Trustees members, and Nominating Committee members.

Help Review our UU Principles and Purposes

Gather from 7-9:30 p.m. Wed. March 28th at Sunnyhill, room 25. Be part of the national review process of our current UU Principles and Purposes. What works? What’s missing? What could be changed to more accurately reflect Unitarian Universalism today? Your input will be forwarded to the UUA Commission on Appraisal. RSVP isn’t necessary, but would be helpful. Contact Lynn.

Cato Unbound: Splendid article

Cato Unbound - Blog Archive - Libertarianism: Past and ProspectsRecognize that the principles of free minds and free markets are most suited to making a rich and varied and lovable world, and thus are likely to triumph in the long term.

Many of these concepts can be spun into being U.U. Do take the time to read the article or book mark it.

Legislating Violations of the Constitution - washingtonpost.com

Legislating Violations of the Constitution - washingtonpost.com conservatives in the House of Representatives have now passed an insidious bill to try and limit enforcement of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, by denying attorneys fees to lawyers who successfully challenge government actions as violating this key constitutional provision. For instance, a lawyer who successfully challenged unconstitutional prayers in schools or unconstitutional symbols on religious property or impermissible aid to religious groups would -- under the bill -- not be entitled to recover attorneys' fees.

Social Justice Meeting

March 4, 10:15-11:15 Main Room

Please mark your calendars for the 1st full justice meeting. We will be putting 2007 projects together. These will include, a committee for the Designated Plate. A presentation on a potential Sunnyhill service weekend or greater in New Orleans to help the Katrina victims who are still just that. Contact people for Single payer Health issues and the Legislative advocacy network that Barry Tepperman discussed last month. A possible multi-church initiative in the South Hills and a partnering with AUUC for an urban outreach program. I would also encourage anyone who is in the Peak Oil group or any of the other green programs we have to join us. Oh yeah and we will get a name before the end of the meeting. WALK THE TALK.

Models of Thinking

Usually people focus on what is believed by themselves and others. Over the past
fifty years some researchers and psychologists have tracked the history of what is
more important – how we think and the models of thinking that have been devel-
oped and adopted by succeeding cultures.

From this has developed the concept of memes which we should understand and incorporate into our vocabulary as we each continue our journey into the future. The
Forum on March 25th will be an introduction to this subject and be followed by two
more sessions at times other than LifeCraft.

One source of the information is the book, Spiral Dynamics: Mastering Values, Lead-
ership and Change by Beck & Cowan.

Come and join in the discussion at 10:15 on March 25. Handouts will be available for
the session.

Pop City - A Bow to Zen

Pop City - A Bow to Zen

Interesting article. Perhaps someone should contact the POP City editors or even Robert Isenberg and get an article about activities at Sunnyhill along the same lines. Furthermore, there might be some who go there who might be interested in knowing more about Sunnyhill.

SHIM (South Hills Interfaith Ministries) is more than a food pantry

SHIM offers after school homework clubs, early childhood programs, religious diversity education, clothing, and utility assistance. While regular assistance is based on income and number of members in the family, anyone asking for help will receive an emergency supply of food. They serve seniors on fixed incomes and many single mothers with children.

The have families they have helped for years and families that only need assistance for a few months. Sunnyhill has been a member of SHIM for many years.

This Sunday’s plate collection will go to SHIM (last week’s Tidbits mistakenly said Feb. 11). If you would like to write a check to go to SHIM, please write it out to UUCSH and write “plate collection/SHIM” in the memo. If you would like your check to go towards your pledge, please write “pledge” in the memo. And please feel free to contact Judy Kelly for additional information on SHIM.

Joe Jencks sang to the kids at Sunnyhill

 

How Cuba Survived Peak Oil

Movie, 7 pm on Monday, Feb 19, 2007.

Until 1990, Cuba got much of its oil and food from the USSR, but that ended with the superpower's collapse. Cuba's GDP dropped by more than one-third. Transportation nearly stopped. Food bacame scares. But Cuba survived. Find out how by seeing this documentary.

Concerned about future energy scarcity. Watch these films.

A Spork in the Drawer: SuperBowl Party Snafu

A Spork in the Drawer Farmland Friends on Friday joined churches nationwide in abruptly canceling its Super Bowl party for fear of violating a federal copyright law that prohibits public venues from showing NFL games on big-screen TVs.

Unreal.

Sunnyhill Boxes for Books

The Thursday Chalice Circle group will be collecting gently used books for boys ages 8 - 18 in Februrary. Pick up an empty box this Sunday or next, and return it on Sunday, Feb. 18 or 25. The books will be donated to the Ohiopyle Wilderness Program of Pressley Ridge, which houses challenged boys but has very few books for them to read. Especially welcome will be sports and adventure books, classics, biographies, educational books and current encyclopedias, which will be incorporated into the therapeutic program. Questions may be directed to Dorothy Burns.

Sunnyhill's Partner Church in Europe

Click on an image below and see it in a larger size.













Partner Church.

Special musical guest for Sunday, Jan 7 -- Joe Jencks

On Sunday morning, Joe Jencks is playing for our Chapel and for the opening music of the main service (led by Sue Richmond).

The Chapel is a once per month family-centered kids friendly gathering at both 9 am and again at 11:30. We've got two services. This week's theme is "Listening and Hearing. You Hear with the ears. You Listen with your brain." Plus, with Joe's music, it can even move your heart with strong feelings.

Hope to see you Sunday!



Joe Jencks, a friend from SUUSI, a singer and songwritter, is going to be in Pittsburgh to perform at a house concert at 4 pm on Sunday afternoon in Pittsburgh's Friendship neighborhood. The video above is from a house concert on the South Side in 2006.

Joy To The World, with 20 strings

Watch and hear Erik, Grant, Phillip, Tess and Marina (left to right) at Christmas Eve service, December 2006.

Pagent 2006 with all the lights.

Calendar

This can be posted to the Calendar page at Sunnyhill.org too. Let's test it for a bit here at the blog.

Sunnyhill's new Google Calendar

Subscribe the the new calendar by clicking to this link.

Hill clergy lead effort to rebuff slots casino in Hill

Hill clergy lead effort to rebuff slots casino in Hill 'This is our first action to ensure that the spiritual and economic well-being of this community is not compromised,' he said.

Some ministers went out on a limb to speak out against gambling in Pittsburgh.

Sadly, their first action comes about a month before the decision is going to be announced as to where the casino is to be built.

Too many have been silent on this issue for a long time. Seemingly, this is another example of doing 'too little' and doing it 'too late' in the process.

Houses of worship face threat of crime - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Houses of worship face threat of crime - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Yet simply taking a few low-cost measures can dramatically increase safety and security, Spacek said. He referred to these as the 'five L's' of crime prevention: lock doors and windows, keep landscaping to a minimum around entries, have adequate lighting, start a church 'lookout' group similar to a neighborhood watch group, and establish a good relationship with law-enforcement agencies.

Current Events Schedule for LifeCraft

Current Events is scheduled for next week, in the Main room. Here is
the schedule for the rest of the year:

Oct. 15 - Main Room - current events
Oct. 29 - Room 25 - current events
Nov. 12 - Main Room - current events
Nov. 26 - Room 25 - current events
Dec. 10 - Room 24 - current events
Jan 14 - Main Room - current events
Jan. 28 - Room 24 - current events
Feb. 11 - Main Room - current events
Feb. 25 - Room 25 - current events
Mar. 11 - Main Room - current events
Mar. 25 - Room 24 - current events
Apr. 8 - Room 24 - current events (Easter)
Apr. 22 - Room 25 - current Events
May 6 - Main - current events
May 20 - Room 25 - current events

Gifts and home decorations -- Plus home-cooked soups, breads, desserts, and more!

October 12, 13, & 14, 2006

Thursday & Friday 9:00 A.M.– 9:00 P.M. & Saturday 9:00 A.M.– 3:00 P.M.

FREE PARKING • VISA & MASTERCARD ACCEPTED

Location:

Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills, 1240 Washington Road, (Rt. 19), Mt. Lebanon

March For Sustainability On Oct. 7th

The Pittsburgh Chapter of the Association for India’s Development and the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh are sponsoring a March for Sustainable Living. The march’s objective is to convey the message that many aspects of our lifestyles are unsustainable, and that it is our moral responsibility to consume less and preserve the planet's resources for future generations. Marchers will use sidewalks throughout, with volunteers located along the way to guide the public. The march will culminate at Flagstaff Hill in Schenley Park, where speakers will talk about sustainable living. Speakers include State Senator Jim Ferlo, City Councilman Bill Peduto, Myron Arnowitt from Clean Water Action, Michael Parker from GASP and others. The march is the final event of the Mahatma Gandhi birthday celebration week conducted jointly by Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, starting October 1st.

The organizers believe that contemporary lifestyles are not only unsustainable, but lead to a poor quality of life: for instance, consumerism has resulted in wasteful living, which has led to restlessness in the mind, unrestrained desires and complex health problems. Simple living is the only solution; this is exactly the message of great men like Einstein, Thoreau and Gandhi. The organizing committee for the march comprises executive directors, professionals, church ministers, professors, researchers and students from various organizations in Pittsburgh. Other supporting organizations include the Thomas Merton Center, Steel City Biofuels, and Child Relief and You (CRY).

The event is free and open to the public. For program details and parking directions, email sustainability_march@yahoo.com or call Ravikant Pathak at (412) 683 1315. Additional information is available online at: http://www.geocities.com/sustainability_march/

Saturday, October 7, 2006 at 2:00 PM.

Starting point is at the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh, 605 Morewood Avenue (the corner of Morewood and Ellsworth Avenues), in Shadyside. The march ends at Flagstaff Hill in Schenley Park.

Eight at Eight -- a community building activity

It is time to sign-up for 8 at 8. See Dennis right away.

Recycle Your Batteries at Sunnyhill

Diane Nedved has offered to recycle all batteries that Sunnyhillers bring to church! The box will be kept under the table in the dining room, next to the paper recycling. Diane will take them as the box fills.

Fix for those feeling quixotic

Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network Public Action, Oct 26, 2006

Thursday, October 26, 7 - 8:30 pm

Petra International Ministries, 235 Eastgate Drive

Former East Hills Shopping Center--near the intersection of Robinson Blvd. and Frankstown Ave.

Register: bsimpson@tmail.com, 412-322-6419 or Wallace Watson wallwat1@verizon.net, 412-371-8138

Adequate and dedicated state funding for public transportation will be one of the major issues addressed by the Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network (PIIN) at its Public Action. PIIN expects an attendance of 2,000 or more. Key public officials will be invited to commit to specific actions furthering our transit funding goals. All supporters of this effort are urged to attend.

PIIN meets with Rick Santorum at 10 am on Saturday

Be sure to attend at 10:00 am on Saturday as PIIN visits with Senator Rick Santorum on PIIN's issues at Bidwell Presbyterian Church, 1025 Liverpool Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233 (Manchester District on the Northside).

If you attend, I'd love to see the minutes of the meeting.

Open House for July 4th

Friends from Sunnyhill are welcome to attend our annual open house on the evening of July 4th. We only provide lemonaid and some crafts for the kids. We have a water baloon toss and will play in both the new gameroom and at the park, badminton. Come after 6 pm.

This year we have a few extras however. Our special guest is Russ Diamond, from central PA. He is running for PA Governor and is working to get onto the November 7, 2006 general election ballot. Meet and mingle with him that night.

To hear Russ in action, come to the house at 4 pm when we'll be hosting a press event. Russ and I will both say a few things. I'd love to get you here for that too if you are interested in politics.

At 5 pm, a $17.76 fundraiser for Russ Diamond is going to be held at a eatery on East Carson Street. You are welcome to attend that if you wish. Do RSVP to me, Mark Rauterkus, Mark @ Rauterkus.com, or call my cell: 412 298 3432.

Lo-Fi Tribe - Blog Archive - Unitarian Universalist People

Lo-Fi Tribe � Blog Archive � Unitarian Universalist People I’m having a grand time at the 2006 Unitarian Universalist Association’s General Assembly, in St. Louis, of course.

QED shows: seven 1 hour programs in a series

Seven weekly 1 hour shows on PBS. 3 p.m.-Sunday. WQED locally beginning this Sunday, June 25.

This series should have some valuable insights given that those who will be interviewed are all authors. It would do well to consider a method of meeting to dialogue on its content. Does anyone have a suggestion, asks Ken W.

Ken's alert about TV show on PBS and discussions

Bill Moyers is returning to PBS on June 23 for an seven-part series called Bill Moyers on Faith & Reason, premiering June 23 at 9 p.m. on PBS (please check local listings).

In it he will explore how religion has affected and impacted our world--talking with authors such as Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood, Martin Amis, Richard Rodriguez, and Mary Gordon.

An advertisement for the series reads, in part: "In a world where religion is poison to some and salvation to others, how do we live together?"

Should we start a discussion built around the contents of this series? If we do, I strongly urge that we watch to see if and how they distinguish between religion (personal conviction and commitment) and church (group dynamic and tradition).

Invitation to Interfaith Panel on "Art of Living Together"

Pittsburgh Dialogue Foundation & West Penn Cultural Center cordially invite you to an interfaith panel on “Art of Living Together”

Speakers:
Dr. Frances Leap, Professor of Religious Studies, Seton Hill University, Greensburg, PA
Dr. Ellen Posman, Professor of Religious Studies, Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea, OH
Imam Salih Yucel, Muslim Chaplain, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, President, Boston Dialogue Foundation, Boston, MA

From 7 to 9:30 pm on Thursday, June 15, 2006

Andy Warhol Museum, 117 Sandusky St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Registration is required. Please RSVP via e-mail by Friday, June 9. events -at- pghdialogue -dot- org. PDF Url: www.pghdialogue.org

WPCC Url: www.wpcc.org

Phone: (412) 628-6871

Special thanks to Andy Warhol Museum.

Lay Service -- hitting home -- Thanks T -- different perspectives

Sunnyhill has a great tradition of lay-led services. Yesterdays' was especially good. It was about 'different perspectives.'

Then we had a nice feast and cook out. Yummy.

If I get a copy of the service -- via email -- I'll make some highlights known on the blog.

Photo above, Title: Upside Church - Vancouver, from quinet is Community Commons license with Attribution License.

Tippi's eclipse links

First, photos from this year's trip. These are not all mine, but a mix taken by the group.

www.shadowlawn.us/Turkey2006

Second, my web page about all the eclipses:

www.pittsburghdiary.com/travel/eclipse

Finally, my video of the eclipse -- the one I showed at Sunnyhill but with this year's eclipsed sun inserted in.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0EhEKetT0I

House Concert host by Mark Rauterkus with Joe Jencks

with a second set at 8:30 pm

Join Mark Rauterkus and family (Catherine Palmer, Erik & Grant) in hosting friends, family, neighbors, bloggers, strangers and fellow music lovers from school, church, labor and sports – and perhaps politics too, at their home and office:

108 South 12th Street, South Side, Pittsburgh.

RSVP is necessary as space is limited to 35 seats.

Call 412 298 3432 or email Mark @ Rauterkus . Com

Kids who can sit and enjoy the concert are welcomed (first set).

Joe Jencks, singer/songwriter, plays guitar and is equally talented as the other excellent performers hosted in the past. Joe's original music and ballads are for the everyday, modern workers with many union songs, tunes of history, struggle, rails, fast-food workers, Rosie the Riveter (Revised), John Henry and even the Deportee.

Joe happens to be on tour with his latest CD, Rise As One.
Artist donations accepted. CDs for sale.

The next release of the Mark@Rauterkus.Com CD might include the Joe Jencks tune(s): "We Won" and/or "We Do the Work." Help us decide.

WINNER 2005: Plowshares, Songwriting Contest; South Florida Folk Festival Songwriting Contest
Winner 2004: Winfield Music Festival Songwriting Contest
Winner 2004 and 2003 Tumbleweed, Folk Festival Songwriting Contest

CHURCH YARD SALE, June 3rd!

Purge your basement and attic while supporting your church. Drop off times will be 6-9 Thursday, June 1st and Friday, June 2nd. Books, toys, baby items, kitchen items, jewelry, glassware, furniture, practically anything you can think of (except clothing). Call Cori Vipperman to arrange for large item pickup (412)563-0632 or email coriv1@verizon.net. Also think about signing up to volunteer. We are in special need of two people who own trucks for pickups on Thursday and Friday night! Strong backs on Thursday to set up tables also. Please let Cori know if your interested!

Refreshments will be provided all three days. Sign up sheets will be posted Sunday on the community board. Please remember to include your phone number for reminders or changes. It's a lot of fun! Hope to see you there!

It’s Back andIt’s More Delicious Than Ever! The Sunnyhill Annual Pancake Breakfast Saturday, May 13 from 9 am to 1 pm

Be there on May 13, 2006, 9 am — 1 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills (often called Sunnyhill) 1240 Washington Road — Route 19, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228.

It’s the home of Turtle Pancakes.

Unique pancake shapes for childrenas featured in the May 1, 2003, Post Gazette Food Section. Also featuring Specialty Scrambled Eggs / Homefries Link Sausage / Regular PancakesCoffee / Tea / Milk / Orange Juice / Butter & syrup. All you can eat for $7.00 for Adults and $4.00 for Children ages 12 and under. Makes a great Mother’s Day present!

THOMAS JEFFERSON THINK TANK takes on Darwin

Here is a meeting I've attended in the past. This presentation and discussion might interest some from Sunnyhill.

May 3, 2006

Intelligent Design – Science or Religion? Does It Belong In A Classroom, And If So, Where?

The notion of “intelligent design,” or, the belief that scientific evidence customarily used to support an evolutionary system to explain the origin and diversity of life on Earth can and does also support the existence of a/an “(intelligent) designer” of this system, has been in the news and in the courts in recent months. What exactly is this “intelligent design” theory? Does it conform to accepted notions of a scientific theory, or is it better said to be a belief based on religion or faith? The theory of “intelligent design” was formerly taught in the Dover School District here in Pennsylvania, recently the subject of a federal court case--should this be taught in our schools, and, if so, where? In biology classes, religion classes, or any similar type of class?

Professor Sandra Mitchell, the Chair of the world-famous Department of History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Pittsburgh, will present her views on this matter. Prof. Mitchell has written and lectured extensively on topics related to the general philosophy of science, with particular regard to the fields of biology and evolution. Whether you are interested in the specifics of this particular theory of “intelligent design” or the general notion of what might qualify as a scientific theory in the academic community today, this talk will be one that you won't want to miss!

Come early to enjoy the food, drink, and bring a friend. We will see you Wednesday, May 3, 2006 located at Silvioni’s, 2125 Babcock Boulevard. Dinner will be served until 7:00 pm. The meeting will start at approximately 7:15 pm.

Dave Nachmanoff -- playing Pittsburgh and Kent

Sunday, May 7th
Pittsburgh, PA
Club Cafe - http://www.clubcafelive.com

Wednesday, May 10th
Cleveland, OH
The Winchester - http://www.thewinchester.net

Thursday, May 11th
Kent, OH
Kent Stage - http://www.kentstage.org

Saturday, May 13th
Elkhart Lake, WI
Jazz On The Vine Festival
http://www.elkhartlake.com/events/2006/may06.html

Lynn Swann to PIIN event on North Side

Dear Fellow Leader,

I bring greetings to you as president of the Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network (PIIN) and as co-chair of the NAACP Religious Affairs Committee. I want to alert you to an upcoming event where your attendance is critical. On Friday, April 21, 2006 from 9:30 to 11:30 am the African American Leadership Caucus of PIIN is sponsoring a “meet and greet” with Republican gubernatorial candidate Lynn Swann. During this time, Mr. Swann will address those gathered and briefly share with us the key points of his campaign.

In addition, a panel of six pastors will present separate questions crafted to highlight poignant concerns of the African-American community. This event will be held at the Bidwell Presbyterian Church, 1025 Liverpool Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233. Please plan to attend and share this information with members in your congregation so that we can have a strongly attended public gathering to continue demonstrating our power in assembly.

Let us show our unified support in this matter as we have shown those struggling for comprehensive immigration reform.

Sincerely,

Rev. John C. Welch

Self -- meeting of selves

Sunnyhill Self-Masquerade Party!

To welcome and meet our new members, everyone is invited to join us on April 15th at 7:00 pm.

This year, come dressed in whatever clothes or accessories best represent YOU! Find items around the house that show off your favorite hobbies and interests; come with gardening gloves, a Hawaiian shirt, or a lab coat… and, of course, expect to see lots of Steelers’ gear!

We’ll have an evening of games and good company, and leave knowing each other a little bit better. RSVP Werner or Anita Hager.

SI.com - Olympics - Norwegian ski coach rewarded with maple syrup - Wednesday April 5, 2006 12:54PM

We should get this guy to attend the Mothers' Day Pancake Breakfast. And note, the fit folks in Norway don't even know about the Maple Syrup -- and it is on the flag of Canada.

SI.com - Olympics - Norwegian ski coach rewarded with maple syrup - Wednesday April 5, 2006 12:54PM Maple syrup is little known in Norway, and the 37-year-old Haakensmoen said he recently tasted it for the first time.

'It's sweet, and a little unusual,' he said. 'We might have it from time to time, but not five times a day.'

Read the entire article at the Sports Illustated site.

It is all Greek to me.

Service Auction Action.

"Do I hear?????...."

Service Auction Action

"Do I hear.. ??? Greek theme'd Service Auction.

Who was Jesus, sent around as an email joke

Who was Jesus?

Opinions vary ...Who was Jesus? (Here are all kinds of options}

My friend from Baton Rouge, LA, says that Jesus was a Cajun:

1. He liked to serve fish to his friends
2. He could make his own wine
3. And he wasn't afraid of water.

My black friend had 3 arguments that Jesus was Black:

1. He called everyone "brother"
2. He liked Gospel
3. He couldn't get a fair trial.

My Jewish friend had 3 arguments that Jesus was Jewish:

1. He went into His Father's business.
2. He lived at home until he was 33.
3. He was sure his Mother was a virgin and his mother was sure he was God.

My Italian friend gave his 3 arguments that Jesus was Italian:

1. He talked with his hands.
2. He had wine with every meal.
3. He used olive oil.

My California friends had 3 arguments that Jesus was a Californian:

1. He never cut his hair.
2. He walked around barefoot all the time.
3. He started a new religion.

My Irish friend then gave his 3 arguments that Jesus was Irish:

1. He never got married.
2. He was always telling stories.
3. He loved green pastures.

BUT my LADY friend had most compelling evidence that Jesus was a WOMAN:

1. He fed a crowd at a moment's notice when there was no food.
2. He kept trying to get a message across to a bunch of men who just didn't get it.
3. And even when he was dead, he had to get up because there was more work to do.

(Source unknown If you know the source, put it in

the comments, please.)

Ken's latest pointer: Film, Why We Fight

You need to see this film and visit its site -- so says Ken. I listened and agree.

http://www.sonyclassics.com/whywefight/

Annual report, service auction

Sunnyhill's Annual Report for last year is out and looking good. Our Annual Meeting is slated for Sunday, April 9 during LifeCraft. That is when we will vote for new board members and review the past year.

A special collection comes at this Sunday's service for the Jubilee Soup Kitchen.

The Service Auction is on for Saturday night -- and it will be fun.

UUs hit Vegas

Have a fun, safe trip. And, we'll keep the lights on you for fun. Home

BONFIRE

How long has it been since you couldn't hear the "civilized" sounds of vehicles and appliances?

Experience it with us.

It’s our spring bonfire! We hope you’ll come! And bring whomever: And whatever (e.g. dogs, kites, balls)! It’s on Saturday, April 1 from 2:00 PM until after dark, but come whenever you can. We plan to light the bonfire at around 2:30, watch the flames roar up, and then let the fire slow down as it burns into the evening. It’s at ‘Playland’, our 13 acre property on Welsh Road in Chartiers Township, Washington County. (See the attached map.) That is approximately 10 minutes from the Meadowlands Racetrack and McDonalds. It’s rustic: and we don’t mean just no phone or computer. We mean no plumbing, no electricity, no shelter --- and few restrictions. If the thrill of a bonfire in the meadow isn’t enough for you, there are acres of woods to explore (dress for poison ivy just in case) and many of us picnic, play, and stretch our muscles. Whatever the case, bring clothing for all seasons. (One year the weather went from T-shirt weather to a blizzard in the same afternoon!)

You may want to bring lawnchairs and blankets, yoga mats and guitars, ... We'll provide all the fixings for vegan and non-vegan some-mores, hot dogs and water. Some people bring food and drink to share - that's really nice. And, if you have some tree parts that you want to get rid of - just bring them and throw them on the fire. (We had someone bring a box of old tax records, but that did not work out so well as some of the pages were sucked up in the heat to perhaps 100 feet up, and then the breezes wafted them away.)

In case of bad weather (i.e. a LOT of rain or wind), it will be postponed to Sunday afternoon. Please note that the weather at Playland has always been better that in Allegheny County and that we have never had to postpone. If you RSVP, we will know with whom to get in touch in case of questionable weather. Feel free also to call or email us about the weather situation or anything else.

Hope to see you there!

Peter and Denise

Concert at Allegheny UU, April 22

DownUnder Coffeehouse, Allegheny UU Church

Contact: Steve Hirtle, downunder -at- alleghenyuu -dot- org

Eve Goodman and Jack at the DownUnder

You are invited to attend the DownUnder Coffeehouse on Saturday, Apr 22 from 7:30-9:30 to hear Eve Goodman and Jack. Eve is a wonderful singer-songwriter, whose intricate guitar-playing and insightful lyrics will leave you captivated. The band Jack features three of the most loved songwriters from the Calliope Songwriters Circle: Stacy Mates, Dave LaRose and George Kantor. Come hear some of Pittsburgh's
most exciting singer-songwriters in a relaxed coffeehouse atmosphere.

The DownUnder Coffeehouse is open one Saturday each month in Allegheny Unitarian Universalist Church, 416 West North Ave, North Side. Suggested donation is $5.00. Desserts and coffee will be available. Call 412-322-4261 or see www.alleghenyuu.org for more details.

Did the phone call test work for you?

The caring committee gave a test last week of the automatic phone tree. Any feedback is welcomed.

Kill this suicide pact

Kill this suicide pact - PittsburghLIVE.com (Editor's note: This column is adapted from a longer address scheduled to be delivered today to the fine folks of the 'Lifecraft' program of the Unitarian Church of the South Hills in Mt. Lebanon.)

Sunday Forum Discussion and Leader -- Bill of Rights with Colin McNickle

Colin McNickle, Trib editor, is to talk with us about the Patriot Act and the Bill of Rights. You may wish to review the Bill of Rights, particularly Amendment IV.

See you at 10:15 a.m. this Sunday at LifeCraft.

Benefit concert at UU of the North Hills

FREEDOM TO MARRY BENEFIT

February 11th at 7:00 pm, UUCNH (Unitarian Universalist Church of the North
Hills) kicks off Freedom to Marry Week with a Musical Revue by Proudly
Presents Productions. There will be refreshments in a cabaret/dinner
theatre setting. All proceeds will benefit Marriage Equality Pennsylvania
Chapter and Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Pittsburgh. Tickets are $10
if purchased in advance. Tickets purchased at the door are $12 ($10 for
students). Celebrate Valentine's Day a few days early with your special
someone, and join us for an evening of music and merriment as we raise money
and our voices in support of the freedom to marry for all. Visit
www.uucnh.org for directions to the church. For advance tickets, see Betty
Luff between services.

This Little Light Of Mine....

Sing it loud.

Calling in time

Traditionally, Sunyhill's Caring Committee has used a "telelphone tree" to alert members and friends to time-sensitive information. One person calls several others on a prearranged list. Those people call others, and so on, until everyone has the news.

The committee has the opportunity to automate the largest portion of the phone tree.

The proposed system will work like this: By telephone, members and friends in the 412 area will receive a short prerecorded message that alerts them to check their e-mail for details. For those without e-mail, the message will provide telephone numbers to call for details.

The Caring Committee will test the automated system, in the 412 area code only, in the middle of the week of Feb. 12. The 724 and other area codes will still be personally called.

Please help the committee work the bugs out of the system by calling Margaret Lindquist (412-563-4764) or Emilie Marlier (412-343-3235) about any problems you have in receiving the telephone call, the e-mail, or responding to the message.

Sunnyhill member, Mark Rauterkus, hosting a house concert on Feb 2 at South Side

Our musical friend, Johnsmith, we we had the please of meeting at SUUSI, is going to be in Pittsburgh and performing two sets at a fun evening at our home / office. Details are at the site, S6.CLOH.Org.

I hope to see a lot of Sunnyhill members here.

Phone booth in China. I don't think they'd like the prayer station, shown in the other photo, so much.

This is a photo I took in a Chicago park. It is a "prayer booth." You fold out the kneeling pads and pray, much like a phone booth. No need to insert quaters. What are the things you might pray for in 2006?

How's your blood?

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King:

One of the great tragedies of life is that men seldom bridge the gulf between practice and profession, between doing and saying. A persistent schizophrenia leaves so many of us tragically divided against ourselves...How often are our lives characterized by a high blood pressure of creeds and an anemia of deeds!

Worldview V - Insights from lecture on I.D.

Worldview V Intelligent Design Honors Council Lecture
Last night I delivered a BSU Honors Council lecture on Intelligent Design -- and even got my 15 seconds of fame on the BSU marquee! (thanks to student Jeremy for the photos) Huge crowd for this sort of thing...probably around 120! I based my talk on a series of inter-linked concept maps that I am developing to provide a relatively comprehensive overview of various aspects of intelligent design -- its historical origins, its scientific vacuity, its apparent appeal to large segments of American society, and the cultural/political motivations of some of its most ardent proponents. Have a look...this will remain a work in progress for some time so I welcome suggestions.

Childrens' Choir

Eight at Eight Dinners for spring, 2006

You are cordially invited to join the traditional Eight at Eight Dinners. This is a great way to meet people. Each person or couple hosts once, providing the main dish, and attends 3 dinners bringing a dish assigned by the host. You can also sign up to be a substitute. This is a superb way to dodge the gloom of winter and brighten your evening with the light of Sunnyhillian food, drink, and conversation.

Dates: February 4, March 4, April 1, May, 2006.

RSVP Dennis Sweeney or sign up using the sheet in the Church dining room.

Banner from UUA and a ring for funds from locals

I got an interesting phone call today from a telemarketing firm. They were asking for donations to the new UUA fund on issues. There was a letter from October that called upon more coordination and organization of efforts on issues that would lead to actions in the nation's capital.

I've got to learn more about that.

But, what was wildly interesting was that the call came from a few blocks away. A South Side firm has the business. They are making the calls to UUs throughout the nation. And, many UUs are on the phones too. A gent from the North Hills church was calling me. He said he thought my name was familiar.

I'm going to meet him, I hope, to talk about this further.

Interesting. Very interesting.

S.W.I.M. 2005 -- Heavenly Bodies

Southeast Unitarian Universalist Winter Institute, Inc., in Miami goes from December 26th - January 1, 2006.

Vacation with UUs in South Florida!

S.W.I.M., the Southeast Unitarian Universalist Winter Institute in Miami, is all about having fun in a supportive UU community in the warm Miami sunshine! S.W.I.M.'s annual intergenerational retreat for UUs and like-minded people of all ages happens every year from December 26th through Jan 1st.

S.W.I.M. offers south Florida hospitality, outdoor adventures (including tours, hikes, windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing), workshops (including spirituality and personal growth), special programs for youth, teens, and young adults, fantastic food, and a new community of friends from across the continent.

Play, laugh, sing, and celebrate New Year's Eve at S.W.I.M.! Join UUs from all over North America for a week of fun in the sun!

For more information, please visit us online at http://www.swimuu.org

S.W.I.M. is a member in good standing of CU2C2, the Council of Unitarian Universalist Camps & Conferences, an Independent Affiliate of the Unitarian Universalist Association.

You can find more UU retreats featured on the inside cover of the Spring 2006 Issue of the UU World.

So, we have an election policy now? Where it that.

Can someone please post the new election policy to this blog or via email to Mark -at-Rauterkus.com. It was mentioned in the Nov edition of The Drummer. But, it was not presented there. Was it published in the past editions? Did I miss it?

If you know of it, what do you think?

Reactions on bylaws session from Peter Konke

I attended a bylaws session, and my thoughts were duly noted, but I would like to give a wider airing of them.

The driving force for the bylaws update is apparently to give the president a 2 year term instead of a 1 year term. Along the way, the entire bylaws are being updated, which is a great idea.

But there are more paradigms than just 1 vs 2 years. I am familiar with an entirely different approach from my work on the Montour Trail Council. First, I was almost shocked that there were an even number of people on the board. I have never heard of such a thing, presumably as it permits the possibility of tie votes. But my main point is that the officers are elected each year by the board, NOT the congregation. Also, the president is limited to 3 consecutive one-year terms. This allows for 1, 2, or 3 year tenures. Great flexibility.

Works fine for the MTC. Don't know about Sunnyhill. My purpose in bringing this up is to stimulate conversation and thought.

Peter Kohnke

Cheaper for you.

Mt. Lebanon dollar store plans find some chilly attitudes

Mt. Lebanon dollar store plans find some chilly attitudes 'That's right, folks, soon we'll have our very own Dollar General store. Ugh,' posted Josephine Posti on a Mt. Lebanon blog under the headline 'In the ghetto.'

Pledge Drive Kick Off

Saturday, October 22, 2005 @ 7 PM

To Celebrate the 2006- 3 week only Pledge Drive

What’s Happening: Appetizers, Music, Fellowship, Rousing excitement regarding this year’s pledge drive

Babysitting Available
RSVP a must: George Williams. Or sign up sheet in the coffee room. Please notify us of babysitting needs.

Snap from Hong Kong museum. Humm...

Some concerts updates

There are still seats left for the Mt. Lebanon House Concert featuring Clarke Buehling, master of the finger-style banjo. Mr. Buehling blows the dust off some fine old banjo tunes and songs about `possums and raccoons on Wednesday, Oct 26 at 8:00 at Curt and Annie's house in Mt. Lebanon.

Clarke Buehling is a phenomenal entertainer. He is widely recognized for his interpretations of late 19th century, classic finger-style banjo music. Clarke is also in the forefront of the recent resurgence of interest in the earlier minstrel banjo style. He presents the music and humor of those times.

Clarke will also be offering PRIVATE LESSONS on the afternoon of SUNDAY, OCT 30--if you want to learn minstrel style or old-time three-finger style banjo, he's your man. He has taught private and group lessons since 1972 at venues including the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago, Augusta Heritage Center, and the Tennessee Banjo Institute.

For more information or reservations for the house concert or private lessons, please reply to this email or call me at 412-343-0498.

Hope to see you at the concert!

Annie Trimble

Upcoming concerts:

Oct 15 Tommy Emanuel (Calliope)
Oct 23 4 pm Eric Schwartz, hosted by Llouise and Jim altes@potomacnetworks.com
Oct 26 (Wed) Clarke Buehling (workshop), hosted by Curt and Annie AnnieT@southwind-pa.com
Nov 6, 4p Kate McDonnell, hosted by Llouise and Jim altes@potomacnetworks.com
Nov 6, 7:30p Great Bear Trio, hosted by Curt and Annie AnnieT@southwind-pa.com
Nov 8 (Tues), 7:30p Chuck Suchy, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Nov 9 (Wed), Freebo & Jim Photoglo, hosted by Ken Batista & Tica Hall folkradio@earthlink.net
Nov 19 Andy Statman Trio (Calliope)
Dec 2, 8p Dwight Diller, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Dec 10 Del McCoury (Calliope)

2006
Jan 21 Odetta (Calliope)
Feb. 25 Paul Rishell & Annie Raines (Calliope)
Mar 18 Flook (Calliope)
Apr 5 (Wed) Harvey Reid, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Apr 22 Tom Rush (Calliope)