July 2026 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board – Alexandra Broughton

The congregation celebrated and said farewell to Reverend Elizabeth with a day full of tears, thank yous, and love on June 28th. There were beautiful decorations throughout the building and a service full of meaningful music and gifts. The youth unveiled their glass art masterpiece created with Pam Arborgreen. They shared the meanings and intentions within their art, including the process of creating together. Musical gifts were shared by The Chelseas, Jon and Rand Band,Will and Clover Fontaine, Sam Welsh, and joyful singing filled the sanctuary both during and after the service. Reverend Elizabeth gifted the congregation with a chalice and a beautiful hand drawn version of our updated covenant and building.

The fellowship hall abounded with a delicious potluck and the community shared in the feast, while chatting about favorite memories and moments of Reverend Elizabeth’s ministry. The celebration was a powerful reminder of what our community has created with Reverend Elizabeth as our partner- including strong shared ministry and lay pastoral care teams that can continue their work in our next chapter as a congregation. As our covenant states “We affirm our shared commitment to build a community of love, respect, and justice—one that continues to evolve as we do.” In this moment of transition, we celebrated the journey and look hopefully forward to our next chapter. There continues to be a love holding us and all that we love- including Reverend Elizabeth and her new congregation.

July 2026 Board Meeting Summary

There was no Board meeting in July due to lack of a quorum.

June 2026 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board – Suzanne Seigneur, UUCP Board President

I remember the first night I was an empty nester, with both kids now gone from the house. It was quiet. Too quiet. The house felt empty, strange, and sad. Over the coming months though, I sat through the strangeness and followed pursuits more focused on me as a person, versus me as a mom. Out of that strange quiet time came a new way for me to be.

Change and transformation are rarely easy. They can bring uncertainty, mixed emotions, and moments of discomfort as we say goodbye to what is familiar and begin to embrace what comes next. As we enter this first month without Rev. Elizabeth and prepare to welcome Rev. Shelly and the interim process, I invite you to lean into this in-between time, trusting that as with any transition, something new can emerge from it.

June 2026 Board Meeting Summary

• The Treasurer’s report looks good; UUCP currently has about 2.5 months worth of reserve funds.
• All is going well in RE, with lots of families & kids; Ginger would like to form a “Family Ministry Team” to help with RE/kids’ needs.
• All four policies being reviewed need only minor changes; they will be put on a Google Drive for the Board to review and will be voted on at the next meeting.
• The Board will now ask for each Committee to submit a report at the time they make a budget request in the fall; reports will be available at the annual meeting.
• The Personnel Policy, as updated with the Unemployment Policy, was unanimously approved.
• The Social Justice Committee is supporting LGBTQ+ films at the Kenworthy; working with United in Community on projects including voter registration; other events are in the early planning stages; Pullman Pride and Juneteenth both had great turnouts; and Diva Night is June 27.
• The Board is putting together a 5-8 member Transition Team with a cross section of age, duration at the church, etc.

May 2026 Message from the Board:

Message from the Board—Welcome Rev. Shelly Thompson!

Rev. Shelly Thompson, she/her, will join our congregation as Interim Minister beginning August 1. We are delighted to welcome her to our church community. Rev. Shelly is known for her warm, engaging, and supportive approach to ministry. She brings a compassionate pastoral presence, deep listening skills, and a collaborative spirit that helps congregations navigate times of transition with care, clarity, and hope.

Ordained in 2018, Rev. Shelly received Preliminary Fellowship within the Unitarian Universalist Association the same year. She completed her Master of Divinity degree in 2016 at Meadville Lombard Theological School, a Unitarian Universalist seminary in Chicago. Her additional professional training and experience includes transitional ministry, multiculturalism, congregational spiritual direction, sexuality education facilitation, anti-racism work, and community organizing.

Rev. Shelly brings extensive experience in interim ministry, faith formation, membership development, pastoral care, and collaborative leadership. Since entering ordained ministry, she has served congregations in multiple interim ministry roles as well as positions focused on faith formation and membership ministry.

Rev. Shelly also holds a Masters degree in counseling psychology, along with a B.A. in psychology and expressive arts.

Before entering ministry, she worked in counseling and social service settings supporting at-risk youth and families. These experiences continue to shape her thoughtful, systems-oriented approach to ministry and her commitment to compassionate care.

As an interim minister, Rev. Thompson is especially committed to helping congregations strengthen relationships, deepen shared ministry, and move thoughtfully through periods of change. We look forward to welcoming her into the life of our congregation this August.

—Suzanne Seigneur

Announcement with Shelly’s “Hello UUCP” video

April 2026 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board—Upcoming Transition

Our church profile is now live on the UUA Ministerial Search website, and Interim Ministers have begun reviewing it. We expect to know by early May who is interested in serving the UUCP, with interviews to follow and a selection anticipated in early June.

In the meantime, the Board encourages you to make use of the resources available to help process this upcoming transition. A Zoom Listening Circle will be held on May 7 at 7:00 p.m. by the Committee on Ministry, members of the Lay Pastoral Ministry team are available for conversation and support, and Reverend Elizabeth will continue to hold office hours through June. If there are additional ways we can support you, please reach out to any Board member or email UUCPBoard@palouseuu.org. Your Board: Ash Anderson, Pamela Arborgreen, Alexandra Broughton, Sheri Caisley, Barbara Hellier, David Nelson, Tom Salsbury, Suzanne Seigneur, and Donald Stanziano.

Thank you, Suzanne

April 2026 Board Meeting Summary

• The Buildings & Grounds Committee’s current improvement project is building catwalks in the attic and adding more insulation to the attic.
• The Finance Committee would like to set a goal of putting 1%-2% of operating expenses into the Building Fund so the money will be there when it’s needed for future expenses.
• RE is going well, with many new families & kids, and that some of them are participating in events outside of Sundays. It is hard to get childcare workers.
• Social Justice update – the Trans Inclusion class finished and they are hoping to expand it beyond UUCP and do a fully online session over the summer; they are sponsoring films at the Kenworthy; Peacekeepers is going well; Pullman Pride will be June 6; Bans Off will have a Diva Night at the Kenworthy on June 27; they are also working with other groups on ensuring free & fair elections.
• The Finance and Gift policy was unanimously accepted with minor wording changes – gifts over $10,000 will be set aside for the Board to decide their disposition; smaller gifts will go into the “Uncategorized Income” account.
• The Finance Committee wants to establish Operating Reserves of around 3 months of expenses.
• The Ignite Grant Committee presented recommendations, which were unanimously approved.
• UUCP’s profile is online for Interim Ministers to view; May 6-18 is the window for UUCP to look at the Interim Ministers who match with UUCP. The Board’s regular May meeting is cancelled, & instead the Board will meet at 7:00 pm on May 14 to review the Interim Search Committee’s evaluation of the candidates.

March 2026 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board – The Mortgage is Paid Off!

On February 24, 2026, the UUCP paid off the mortgage on the church building. This was a great accomplishment and a cause for celebration. It was the last step in a long process. The congregation had known for years that the old church building was inadequate, especially in the areas of handicapped accessibility and sufficient space to operate. There just wasn’t enough room for a growing congregation.

With the help of a consultant from the UUA, we went through a planning process to decide whether to expand on the existing site or find another location for a larger building. Most people wanted to stay on the same property. A lot of information was gathered to determine how much office space was needed, how many rooms were required for religious education, how many bathrooms were needed, what would it take to upgrade to a commercial kitchen, was an elevator possible, what were the best heating and cooling systems, what were the technical changes that would allow people to attend services and meetings remotely if needed.

Of course, we also had to plan how to pay for the addition and remodel. A capital campaign was launched. The generous response from the congregation made it possible to pay for most of the remodel and addition costs as they occurred. The remaining balance on the construction loan was converted to a 7-year mortgage on December 15, 2022. Paying off the loan almost four years early saved the church more than $35,000 in interest costs.

Additional improvements to the building and grounds were made outside of the main contract. The largest of these was the project that replaced siding on the east and a portion of the north side of the building. Improvements to the grounds required some expenditures and a great deal of volunteer effort. These projects were paid for by capital campaign funds and some grants.

Thanks to the efforts and generosity of many people, we have a sound and beautiful building to take into the future and no long-term debt.

PS: If you still have an outstanding capital campaign pledge, please continue to pay it. We used some dedicated funds to pay off the mortgage that need to be paid back from the remaining capital campaign pledges.

March 2026 Board and Meeting Summary:

• The Board Approved the February Minutes with a few minor changes.
• Mary Jo Hamilton updated the Board with information on the Aesthetics Committee’s purpose and membership.
• The rest of the meeting was an Executive Session discussing the upcoming ministerial transition.

February 2026 Board and Meeting Summary:

• 2026 Ignite Grant dates will be announced soon.
• The Board moved to pay off the mortgage using capital campaign funds, a bequest, the building fund, cash reserves and ACORN fund.
• The Large Gifts Policy Committee will meet again and come back to the Board with a recommendation for a new finance policy and gifts policy
• Nimiipuu MOU Proposals – the goal is to develop relationships and work collaboratively. The Board voted to accept the Nimiipuu MOU Proposal for land acquisition. The board also approved the Nimiipuu Relations Committee Charter, with a goal to build a foundation of support within UUCP.
• The Committee on Ministry is requesting a Congregational Meeting on March 22 to vote on the revised Covenant (may also include Mortgage payoff Party)
• The Buildings and Grounds Committee plans for the UUCP Spring Clean Up to be in mid-March, with actual date TBD.
• The next Board meeting will be March 23, 7:00 pm, in the 3rd Floor Meeting Room

January 2026 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board – Congregational Meeting 12/14 Report Out

UUCP members gathered on December 14th for a well-attended congregational meeting, with a confirmed quorum. The primary business of the meeting was approval of the 2026 UUCP budget. Judy Meuth briefly reviewed what goes into the church budget, summarized the 2025 budget, and outlined the process used to develop the proposed 2026 budget, which the Board recommended for congregational approval. Members voted unanimously to approve the 2026 budget.

The congregation also heard a presentation from Suzanne Seigneur highlighting the projects funded through 2025 Ignite Grants. These included the United for Community Workshop, new AV carts, support for the Family Promise Day Center and Camp Blue Boat, participation in the Moscow Community Investment Coop, and the addition of shade and seating for the outdoor play area. In addition, members voted to approve three new Board members—Pam Arborgreen, Sherry Caisley, and Barbara Hellier. The meeting concluded on a cheerful note, with enthusiastic approval to adjourn and many hands waving in support.

January 2026 Board Meeting Summary:

• 2026 Board Officers: President, Suzanne Seigneur; Vice President, Barbara Hellier, Secretary, Alexandra Broughton
• Capital Campaign Update: UUCP currently has enough cash in the Capital Campaign Fund to pay the mortgage payments for 2026, but not enough to pay off the mortgage. Money in other funds could potentially be ‘borrowed’ to pay off the mortgage. David Nelson is forming a subcommittee to decide a course of action on the mortgage. This subcommittee will also decide on the use of large gifts/bequests.
• Applications will open soon for the 2026 round of Ignite Grants; the total amount of funding available is $13,850.
• Stewardship Campaign Update: Going well, but an 8.9% budget shortfall is projected; the committee will check on the situation later in the year.
• The Social Justice Committee is planning another Trans Inclusion in Congregations workshop in the spring.
  The Free & Fair Elections Sub-Committee is reaching out to existing groups to see how they can help. Getting the word out about events is a constant challenge.
• Rev. Elizabeth is working with a group on a charter for a “Niimipuu Relations Committee” and establishing a point person with the tribe. Another proposal is raising funds for Land Back through Month of Sundays once a year, encouraging folks to make bequests, and possibly other fundraising.
• The Operations Committee will be convened as needed; Suzanne Seigneur will Chair.

December 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: Suzanne Seigneur – Ignite Grants at Work:

Six Ignite Grants were awarded last Spring to projects that reflect our UU values and strengthen both our congregation and the wider community. We are delighted with the results and the meaningful impact these grants have made.

• United for Community Workshop, Ken Faunce ($1,000): A sold-out gathering brought 100 community members together to strengthen democratic values and foster inclusion.
• AV Carts, Ryan Urie and the Building and Grounds Committee ($1,500): Two AV carts improved accessibility and reliability for hybrid meetings on each main floor.
• Family Promise Day Center Support, Nancy Nelson and Michelle Hazen ($2,500): Funding helped Family Promise relocate and establish themselves in a safer, larger day center for families experiencing homelessness.
• Camp Blue Boat Youth Scholarships, Youth Steering Committee/Ginger Allen ($3,500): Scholarships enabled 12 UUCP youth to attend camp, deepening UU identity and leadership.
• Moscow Community Investment Co-op, Lysa Salsbury ($2,000): Startup support helped launch a com-munity-led effort to invest in an inclusive Moscow.
• Outdoor Play Area Shade & Seating, David Nelson and the Building and Grounds Committee ($1,500): Added shade and seating made the play area more comfortable for families and caregivers.

The Board thanks each grant recipient and committee for their care and commitment—these projects beautifully demonstrate Ignite Grants in action.

December 2025  Board Meeting Summary

• Revenues and expenses are about where they should be for this time of year.
• The Board will make a policy for how to handle large non-budget gifts and set a dollar amount for them not to just go into “Uncategorized”.
• UUCP’s ability to pay off the mortgage will be revisited in January.
• The Stewardship Pledge Drive is coming along slowly and it may be a challenge to meet the pledge revenue in the 2026 Budget. This will be reviewed in January, if necessary. David N moved to approve the 2026 Budget with the addition of “Transfer from reserves” and the corresponding reduction of “Uncategorized” and “Pledges”; Suzanne S seconded; unanimously approved. 

November 2025 Board and Meeting Summary:

• Capital Campaign: there is plenty of money to pay the mortgage through January 2026; in January the Committee will meet to evaluate the feasibility of paying off the mortgage.
• Current planning is for a Summer Youth Con hosted by UUCP, probably in Ellensburg, WA along with other congregations; Camp Blue Boat is not happening this summer.
• Social Justice Update: more Peacekeeper trainings next year to help keep events safe and peaceful; looking at actions to protect voting access; there is now a potluck-style “Souper Club” in Pullman and folks are also welcome to just come have soup without bringing anything (Saturdays at 1:00 pm at Woodcraft Park in Pullman but seeking an indoor location); The HUB at Russell School is asking for donations of kids’ clothes, especially winter clothes.
• The Board approved the draft Covenant as written; the next step is to present the Covenant to the Congregation for review, possible revision, and a vote in the spring.
• Congregational Meeting procedures: there will be Opening and Closing Words; vote is by show of hands and in chat on Zoom; Board nominees will be voted on as a slate (not individually); Mark W will record minutes; 36 members must be present for a quorum; the three items on the agenda will be: 2026 Budget, Ignite Grants report, and new Board Members.
• There will be a Budget Information Session on December 13 from 11:00-12:00 in the 3rd Floor Meeting Room with Bill Webb and Suzanne S; Zoom will also be available.

October 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: – Breakfast with the Board Nov. 16

Do you have ideas for UUCP or questions? Come enjoy a “breakfast with the board”, starting about 8:45 a.m. on Sunday, Nov 16 to enjoy some nourishment, get a jump start on coffee for the day, and share ideas on how to keep our community thriving. If you’d like a head start on finding out some of the things we work on, check out the UUCP website (under New and Events / Board Notes) for summaries of board meetings and bios on your board members.

Policy documents typically don’t make for the most exciting reading, but as the board went over revisions to the Church Use Policies (one of the tasks undertaken by the board from time to time), I realized it had theperfect solution to our seating/table problem for a service auction event I offered. So, check out the notes, theupdated policies, and other features of the UUCP website that Joe Pallen keeps up to date.

If you are interested in sharing ideas at the breakfast with the board (and even if you can’t make thatevent), you might be interesting in the work of the shared ministry team. This is the team that works to keepservices relevant, enjoyable, inspiring when Reverend Elizabeth is away. It is looking new members to go through some training sessions together this winter. I personally found the training sessions (in person withsome people from the current team plus online videos and readings) almost as rewarding as being on the teamitself. It is refreshing to see how other congregations have found ways to make services welcoming and inspirational for all. Talk to Nancy Nelson or others on the shared ministry team if you are interested.

October 2025  Board Meeting Summary

• September Board Minutes were approved with one minor correction.
  The Social Justice Committee is exploring the possibility of restarting Food Not Bombs.
• The Committee on Ministry will begin writing a new Covenant at their next meeting on November 2.
• Margaret Dibble will serve another term on the Operations Committee.
• Judy Brown will serve a term on the Endowment Committee.
• Breakfast with the Board will be Nov. 16 at 8:45 am; the Board will provide food, discussion prompts, and a moderator.
• The November Board Meeting currently scheduled for November 20 at 7:00 may have a change of date
• and/or time due to conflicting with the Nimiipuu Class.

September 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: Judy Meuth – New Siding Equals a Happy Face:

Last year, we moved into our amazing new building wing. It meant a wonderful expansion of capacity for our programming and space for the larger community of allied organizations, classes, Family Promise, and more.

This year it was time to tend to the exterior of our older wing for needed maintenance and appearance. Our generous congregation made it possible to replace the deteriorating siding to match the new wing. After the project started in June, the contractor Osprey found a surprise or two: a little rot in one area and no insulation in a few pockets of the old north and east walls. The contractor remedied these and completed the siding. A new paint job was the final touch this month. Please step back and take a look at the beautiful exterior, from one corner of the new wing to the far corner of the new ‘old’ wing!

–Judy Meuth, for the UUCP Board

September 2025 Board Meeting Summary:

• August Board Minutes were unanimously approved after correction of one typo.
• Pledge status letters should go out the first week of October; 2026 budget requests are needed soon; we will have a better picture of the Capital Campaign in January, after year end RMDs.
• Joan with the Living Voices Native Vision Project is requesting a $250 donation for their program which brings living history presentations to schools & the public, which was unanimously approved.
• B&G Update: The siding project is done & looks beautiful; the shade over the playground seating area will go up next week; work is being done to extent the patio pavers to the street; the remotes for the minisplits will be taped closed so that folks are limited to only raising and lowering the temperature and turning the unit off/on as the other control buttons offer too many ways to mess up the whole system.
• After one minor change, the new Church Use Policy was unanimously approved; this is available on the website at https://palouseuu.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ChurchUsePolicy-2025.pdf
• A new Endowment Committee member is needed; this Committee meets as-needed and is usually not a huge time commitment. The Committee may be updating/amending the
• Endowment Charter in 2026.  The Board needs three new Members to replace those whose terms are ending; new Board Members will be voted on at the Congregational Meeting in December.
• Breakfast with the Board is moved from Oct 12 to Nov 16.

August 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: Ashley Anderson “Dropping Anchor”

In my clinical work, one very important skill that I teach to my clients is a grounding technique known as “Dropping Anchor.” This technique comes from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and I like to use the simple acronym ACE to remember the three steps.

• A: Acknowledge your internal situation with nonjudgmental compassion. What feelings and emotions do you notice? What bodily sensations? What thoughts or memories are floating across your mind? Remind yourself that you exist within a mind that is yours and holds you every day.
• C: Connect with your body. Pick a part of your body to intentionally move, like wiggling your fingers and toes or scrunching up your face. Remind yourself that you exist in a mind that exists in a body that is yours and holds you every day.
• E: Engage with the world around you. Talk with someone nearby, smell plants or food, listen to the sounds all around you that you usually drown out. Remind yourself that you exist in a mind that exists in a body that exists in a world that is yours and holds you every day. Repeat this three step process again and again until you feel more grounded and connected with yourself and the world around you. If this does not work, there may be something else causing you dysregulation or you may benefit more from a different grounding technique. Take a look at what might be causing you suffering and consider how you might work to alleviate that suffering and help yourself feel more comfortable and safe.

—Ash Anderson, UUCP Board

August 2025Board Meeting Summary:

• After changing the cost increase for adding insulation to the siding project from $700 to $7000, there were no other changes and the July minutes were approved unanimously.
• UUCP currently has enough cash on hand to pay for the Siding Project and the mortgage payments through the end of 2025, and also (due to a recently received bequest) the mortgage payments through the end of 2026 if the mortgage can’t be paid off at the beginning of 2026. In January 2026 the Finance Committee will revisit the Capital Campaign and make a decision about paying off the mortgage or continuing monthly payments.
• The Ignite Grants have mostly been paid out, and the process has worked well.
• In addition to offering grade 7-9 OWL this fall, grade 4-6 OWL will be offered in the spring.
• Ash A reported that: The Social Justice Committee reports that the Trans 101 class went very well and will be offered again, possibly compressed into fewer sessions and with separate in-person and Zoom groups as the hybrid format didn’t work that well; with the Pullman UCC and the United Church of Moscow, will be showing “The Last Class” at the Kenworthy on Oct. 19 at 4:00, followed by a panel discussion; the MOU with the Niimipuu will be signed around Indigenous Peoples Day & there will be informational meetings on Sept 7 and Sept 14 after the service, and workshops in the fall; they will be tabling at Palouse Price Sept 6; and they are working on finding more things to do.
• The Siding Project is complete!
• The new Fellowship Hall room darkening blinds are installed and look great.
• The Board will review the Operations Committee’s charter and discuss its usefulness at the Oct or Nov meeting. It may be kept in place but meet only as needed instead of monthly.
• The UUA PWR is offering Board Trainings in September and October, with more to be scheduled.
• The next meeting will be Thursday September 25 at 7:00 pm.

July 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: Mark Willis

It is a good and reassuring luxury in the UUCP to be surrounded by so many congregants active in promoting important causes in our church and community whether it be for the environment, individuals or families in need, or groups and organizations working for social justice. I know many are involved in national causes as well, but I just became aware of the reorganization efforts attempting support UU communities in the “Pacific West Region” by helping them connect with each other and the UUA. So, I wanted to pass on information to you in case you are looking to promote good causes beyond the Moscow/Pullman area.

The “Pacific West Region” is an independent non-profit funded by the UUA with the goal of supporting the roughly 200 UU communities covering Alaska, Hawaii, and the western states. It has taken a few years, but UU churches, fellowships, etc. that were part of the PNW, the Pacific Central and Southwest, and the Mountain Dessert districts are now connected through this new regional UU organization.

To achieve their goals of supporting the work of these congregations and UUA initiatives such as disaster relief, Mosaic, the UU Institute, Leader Lab, Safer Congregations, Faith Development CoLab, etc, the PWR, with a staff of five, are looking for volunteers interested in building and supporting connections. Some “Circles” (teams of individuals empowered with decision making and implementation) have begun work such as the Finance Circle, PWR Chalice Lighters Circle, Emergent Circle (youth work).

Other Circles will be coming soon: Leadership, Communication, Right Relations, and Events Circles. If you’d like more information about the PWR, check this link: https://www.uua.org/pacific-western. They are looking for volunteers, especially as the first Regional Assembly (for next spring, so organization will be starting soon), so if you are interested, you can apply here: https://uua.wufoo.com/forms/qqa92jr13yu3q6/ 

July 2025 Board Meeting Summary

• Sue Engels, Treasurer, reported that the church’s rate of spending is ok; money in hand can pay for the siding project including the additional cost of adding the insulation and replacing the Fellowship Hall door, plus mortgage payments through December, with a little left over.
• Ash Anderson reported that the Trans 101 class is going great with solid attendance; for the Family Library at Russell the Social Justice Committee is getting the word out and collecting books.
• The Board approved a request for additional safety gear for Palouse Peacekeepers to use in Pullman, based on availability of $400 from the Board’s budget.
• The Committee on Ministry is putting out a survey, to run through mid-August, and in late August they will start to compile everything into a Covenant.
• The Board approved the bid for blackout blinds for the Fellowship Hall plus up to $200 over the quote (~$930) if the price has changed, from the Interior Beautification Fund.
• To decrease turnover & enable hiring qualified childcare workers, the Board approved increasing the wages of UUCP childcare providers from $16.50/hour to $18.00/hour effective August 1, 2025.
• Mark W and Donald S will review the next set of policies, which are integrated and need to be looked at as a group: Documentation Policy; Document Destruction and Record Retention Policy; Information Management Policy; and Website Privacy Policy.
• The next Board meeting will be August 28, 2025.

June 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: Alexandra Broughton

Hello! I’m Alexandra Broughton- previously called Alexa, until Amazon borrowed my nickname for their devices. I have been a UUCP member since 2012 and have taught RE and been a Care Team member in the past. I am really excited to serve on the board and contribute to our community from a policies and procedures perspective. I really enjoy working toward creating a more welcoming, inclusive church community through intentional planning, systems, and processes. I love being a member of our church because it can be a place of growth and challenge even while I’m accepted and loved just as I am. My husband Ellery and I are currently in the driving stage of parenting- we spend most of our free time transporting our three children, Oliver (15), Ian (12) and Annemarie (10), to their various activities, and volunteering at those activities. You will usually spot them carrying a book at church. I, too, enjoy reading, along with swimming, hiking, playing board games, and taking care of my home. For work, I’m a school psychologist for the Northeast Washington Educational Service District and serve 3-5 Whitman County schools. All of this may make it harder than I’d like to make it to church on Sunday mornings, but I’m always so happy to see you all when I’m there!

May Board Meeting Summary:

• The May minutes were approved as written.
• The Wellness Fair was a wonderful event and we plan to do it again next year.
• UUCP will be collaborating with the LDS church to create a free book room in the Family Resource Hub in Russell School.
• UUCP will be partnering with Pullman’s CCUCC to show a movie at the Kenworthy in the fall UUCP is partnering with Inland Oasis & PFLAG to bring in an author for a talk in the fall, about his book about trans kids surviving.
• Sue Engels reported that UUCP is in good shape financially.
• Divorce group will to continue meet during the summer.
• UUCP is sending 13 kids to Camp Blue Boat, and will be doing Middle School OWL in the fall.
• Covenanting is still in process; watch for more opportunities to participate. The process will continue into the fall.
• The Capital Campaign is going well; in the fall there will be a re-evaluation to see whether the church will have enough to pay off the mortgage in 2026, and what to do if there is a shortfall.
• The Siding Project is progressing well. They have found some rot at one corner, and pockets without insulation that will have insulation added, but nothing that will cause a huge cost increase.
• Along with the siding, the Fellowship Hall “back door” will be replaced with one matching the rest of the church doors at a cost of around $2500. ¨ Facilities Use Policy review is still in process, with a goal of having it ready for the July meeting.
• Land Acknowledgement & MOU proposal is still in process with the tribes.

May 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: Suzanne Seigneur

We are pleased to announce the recipients of the first Ignite Grants, totaling $12,000. This new grant program was developed at the initiative of the Endowment Committee, which recognized the importance of using a portion of the Endowment to support projects that benefit both our congregation and the wider community.

The goal of the Ignite Grants is to fund work that helps us live out our Unitarian Universalist values in practical, meaningful ways.

After a thoughtful review process, the Committee recommended funding be awarded to six projects and the Board approved. The projects are:

• United for Community Workshop – Ken Faunce – $1,000
• AV Cart with OWL Camera – Ryan Urie / Building & Grounds Committee – $1,500
• Camp Blue Boat Scholarships – Ginger Yoder / Youth Steering Committee – $3,500
• Family Promise Day Center Rent – Nancy Nelson / Family Promise Committee – $2,500
• Play Structure Shade & Seating – David Nelson / Building & Grounds Committee – $1,500
• Moscow Community Investment Cooperative – Lysa Salsbury – $2,000

These projects support a wide range of needs, from youth and family services to facility improvements and community partnerships. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of these efforts in the months ahead. Thank you to all those that applied for the grants, the Endowment Committee, the Ignite Grant Committee and the Board. 

May Board Meeting Summary:

• The Treasurer reported that expenditures are as expected, UUCP’s cash position is good, the second payment on the siding project is set to go out, and work on the siding will begin June 2.
• Ginger’s Credentialing is officially complete!
• The “Transgenger 101” class is set for June; congregation members are encouraged to sign up even if they know they will miss some sessions, as the class is pre-recorded and will be available to watch any time.
• Ren Fair went smoothly and resulted in $2159.14 for Planned Parenthood.
• The final part of the Covenanting Process will happen June 8; watch for announcements and please plan to participate (remote options will be offered).
• The various Facilities Use Policies have been updated and integrated into a single unified Policy which will include a form to fill out for any church use; this Policy will be presented to the Board for approval at the June meeting.
• Rodney Frey is still moving the MOU through the process with the Nez Perce Tribe; the Tribal Council will vote soon and the new Land Acknowledgement wording is already being used during the services.
• Starting June 1, KRFP will run a radio announcement for UUCP (similar to the one on NWPB) once per day for a full year.
• The June 24 Wellness Fair is moving forward with 26 organizations, food, three musical acts plus a DJ.
• UUCP will have a table at Pullman Pride in addition to Palouse Pride.
• The next Board meeting will be June 26, at 7:00 pm.

April 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member: Donald Stanziano

One of the reasons I moved to Moscow in 1999 was because there was a UU church here. Much has changed in the years since then: I have remarried and retired, I have three lovely step-children in my life, gifted ministers have come and gone, our church has been beautifully renovated, but one constant has been my being part of our faith community. Even though I am a non-joiner by nature, I have served as an RE instructor, committee member, and now serve on the board of Trustees. I feel fortunate and grateful to be part of a fellowship that so actively embraces and advances our worth and dignity.

April Board Meeting Summary

• The March Minutes were approved with one minor correction.
• UUCP’s financial situation is good, and the Chalice Lighter Grant check for just over $15,000 was received last week.
• Planning for Rev. Elizabeth’s sabbatical is moving forward well.
• Ginger Yoder has completed the process to become a Professional Development Provider for the UUA.
• The Board unanimously approved the Ignite Grant Committee’s recommendations to fund the following grant proposals:
• United Community Workshop, May 17 in 1912 Center – $1000
• Additional A/V cart with OWLs – $1500
• Camp Blue Boat – $3500 to ensure all UUCP kids can attend if they wish
• Family Promise – $2500 to use as they need
• Playground – $1500 for seating and sunshade
• Moscow Community Investment Cooperative – $2000 to go towards set-up expenses
• The Career Celebration for Elizabeth & Ginger is all on schedule for May 30 with the Senders and a cash bar from Hunga Dunga.
• The Service Auction was very successful and brought in a total of around $19,000.
• UUCP will complete the Covenanting process by creating the new Congregational Covenant on June 8.
• The Board approved the Social Justice Committee’s request for $500 to purchase the
• Transgender 101” curriculum. ¨ The Capital Campaign Final Ask has so far received pledges for ~46% of the goal.
• Rodney Frey continues to work with the tribes on the Land Acknowledgement and MOU proposal, with general approval and things moving forward quickly.
• All the funds needed for the KRFP radio underwriting has been received; UUCP’s announcement will run daily for a full year:
  • “Support for this station comes from the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Palouse, where open hearts and open minds come together. Welcoming all beliefs, committed to justice, compassion, and community. Learn more at palouseuu.org.”
• Tom Salsbury and Suzanne Seigneur are revamping/combining the four Facilities Use Policies and will bring their draft to the next meeting.
• The Wellness Fair will be held June 28 in downtown Moscow. Plans include live music, food, speakers, and tables with giveaways and information from providers & community groups.

March 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from a Board Member, Buildings & Grounds Update:

After dedicating significant effort to expanding our buildings in recent years, we are now shifting our focus towards enhancing our older historic structure with much-needed improvements.

Replacement of the Large, South-Facing Gothic Window: We are delighted to introduce our new Gothic window on the South face of the church, which was installed in mid-February. Crafted by Pella in Spokane, this double-pane window replaces the previous singlepane one that was prone to significant water leaks during south winds. The new window not only aligns with our green sanctuary status but also seamlessly integrates with the historic charm of our building.

Siding Replacement and Painting: The siding on our aging structure is weathered and layered with multiple coats of lead-containing paint. To address this, we are embarking on a project to replace the oldest siding with Hardie plank and repaint the remaining sections. After careful consideration, we have selected Osprey Exteriors as our contractor for their expertise, understanding of our building’s intricacies, knowledge of lead paint remediation, and competitive pricing. The project is scheduled to commence on June 1st, with completion targeted for August 1st.

Funding: The funding for the window project was largely secured through a Chalice Lighter Grant that we applied for last fall. We encourage continued support for this regional program through small quarterly donations, as the benefits circle back to our church community. To finance the siding project, we are launching a new capital campaign, details of which you will receive in the mail soon. This campaign aims to cover the siding costs, clear our remaining mortgage, and allocate any surplus to the building fund for future projects.

Special Acknowledgments: We extend our sincere appreciation to the entire Buildings and Grounds Committee for their diligent planning of these projects. A special recognition goes to Tom Salsbury for his collaboration with Pella on the window project and to Jim Frenzel for his successful efforts in securing the Chalice Lighter grant. We are excited about the transformations taking place within our church and are grateful for the support and dedication of our church members. Together, we are preserving our historic legacy and creating a welcoming space for all to enjoy.

—David Nelson

March Board Meeting Summary

• The Capital Campaign Final Phase will need to raise $335,000 to completely pay for the siding project and to pay off the construction mortgage.
• Ginger & Rev. Elizabeth were interviewed by UU World, and Ginger has been asked by the UUA to become a UUA Professional Development Educator.
• The Board unanimously approved hiring Ryan Urie as Adult Faith Formation Manager.
• On June 8, the final Covenanting Workshop will actually write the new covenant; there will be other opportunities for participation in addition to in-person attendance (online & paper forms at services).
• The Social Justice Committee Charter was updated and unanimously approved.
• The Ignite Grant Committee will meet soon to evaluate applications and select grantees.
• Facilities Policies on Borrowing Items; Workshops, Petitions, Presentations; Storage; Items Left at Church; and Bulletin Boards are being updated and will be presented to the Board for approval at the next Board meeting. The Facilities Use Policy will be updated with a few changes to room names and published on the UUCP web site.
• The new Sanctuary window is completely finished and looks great!
• The contract for the siding replacement is signed, the price is locked in at $114,000, and work is due to start June 1, 2025.
• Rodney Frey is continuing to work on the Land Acknowledgement and MOU proposal; he has made a few wording changes at the request of the tribes and will continue to consult with the tribes and keep moving forward.
• The Board approved running ads on KRFP at a cost of $440/year for one ad per day.
• The November Board meeting was moved to Nov. 20 and planned to be on Zoom.
• The annual Congregational Meeting is set for December 14 after the service.
• The December Budget-only Board meeting is scheduled for December 4 in preparation for the Congregational meeting on Dec. 14.
• Breakfast with the Board is set for Sunday October 12 at 8:30 am.
• The next Board Meeting will be April 24, 2025.

February 2025 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board:

My name is Ash and I am excited to join the UUCP board! I have greatly enjoyed my time so far in this community (which I can’t believe is already over two years!) and I look forward to contributing more to the community that has given me so much love and support! You may have seen me on Sundays, in the choir, or in a small group or committee meeting. I’m the one with the blue and purple hair! If you don’t know me, I am a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling and I am working as a counselor-in-training at Dragonfly Counseling in Clarkston and Pullman! I am a proud member of the queer and transgender communities, and I enjoy serving this population through my counseling work. In my free time (what precious little I have), I enjoy playing calming video games, petting my three cats (Pepperjack, Mozzarella, and Pudding) or my ball python (Oatmeal), and having long conversations and just sharing space with my loved ones! If you see me around, please don’t hesitate to say hi and introduce yourself! I’m bad with names, but great with faces, and I would be happy to get to know you and yours!

February Board Meeting Summary

• A dance party with The Senders to celebrate Ginger & Elizabeth’s career milestones is planned for May 30, 2025.
• Congregation members and committees are invited to submit proposals for “Ignite Grants” through a form on the UUCP’s website. The submission deadline is March 30, and grant recipient(s) will be decided by May 1.
• This year’s Ren Fair food booth proceeds will go to Planned Parenthood.
• The new UUCP Social Justice Committee is working in many areas, including supporting UI student groups that have lost funding, possibly partnering with Sanctuary congregations, women’s health, LGBTQ+ support, the environment, etc. and will be tabling at the Farmers’ Market, hosting letter writing crews, etc.
• The United Against Hate summit originally planned for April 13 has become United for Community and is now scheduled for May 17.
• Ken Faunce has compiled a Social Justice Reading List, which will be available in binder in the Fellowship Hall, and on the UUCP website; it will be expanded as he receives suggestions.
• Rev. Elizabeth is working with Bans Off Moscow to create a Wellness Fair in downtown Moscow on the anniversary of the Dobbs decision, focusing on health and wellness providers of all kinds that honor bodily autonomy for all people and are committed to maintaining the standard of care.
• Rodney Frey presented his proposed Land Acknowledgement and MOU for Board discussion and will form a committee to continue work on this.
• The replacement of the big gothic window at the back of the Sanctuary should be completed by Friday Feb. 28, except for some trim that needs to be re-ordered.
• The Board approved Rev. Elizabeth’s request to take a partial sabbatical from mid-June through midSeptember 2025, with the remainder to be taken in early-mid 2026.
• The next Covenanting session will be March 23, and at the final session on June 8 the congregation will create a written covenant.
• The Adult Program Manager job opening will be posted in March.
• The Board approved a new Conflict Management Policy, which is now available on the website.
• The Board committed $4000 to support UUCP kids’ attendance at Camp Blue Boat.
• The re-siding of the Eastern part of the building will start around June 1, 2025.

January 2025 Board Meeting Summary:

• 2025 Board Officers are:
  • President – Judy Meuth
  • Vice President – Suzanne Seigneur
  • Recording Secretary – Mark Willis
  • Treasurer – Sue Engels
• The 2025 Pledge Drive is currently $46,361 under the budget; there are ways to make up the shortfall and the Pledge Drive Committee is still following up with people who have pledged in the past but have not yet pledged for 2025. The total number of pledges is down, but there have also been pledges from around a dozen people who have never pledged before. If you you would like to make a pledge today, please visit our Pledge Drive – Fair Share Campaign web page to submit your pledge.
• The Board approved B&G’s recommendation to spend $150,000 for a bid from Osprey Renovation to replace & repaint siding on the older part of the church building.
• The Stewardship Committee will run a Capital Campaign to pay off the mortgage and pay for the siding; any monies raised above the cost should go to refill the Building Fund.
• The Board authorized Ginger to advertise a position for RE for 15-20 hrs/wk at the level we were paying Wachira; if we are unable to hire at this level of hrs/pay, it will be revisited.
• There is $12,000 available to spend from the Endowment Fund. An ad hoc Selection Committee will put out a call for ideas, evaluate proposals, and make recommendations to the Board.
• A new Disruptive Persons Policy was approved. 

December 2024 Board Meeting Summary:

• Sue Engels presented the financial reports; all is looking good.
• November minutes were unanimously approved.
• New Board officers will be elected at the January meeting.
• Ginger will bring a draft policy on coffee hour fundraising to the January Board meeting.
• Archie George gave a detailed update on the 2025
• Pledge Drive; it is going well and UUCP is on track based on previous years.
• The Finance Committee will bring recommendations on managing UUCP’s cash reserves to the February Board meeting.
• The Board added a $2000 line item to the 2025 Budget to fund the UUCP’s new Unemployment Insurance Policy, with an eventual target of a $10,000 balance in that fund.
• The Board decided that the Little Free Pantry should be funded through congregational donations and removed that line item from the 2025 Budget.
• The Board added a $2500 line item to the budget for “Social Programs”, to ensure that the Snow Retreat and other events are available to all regardless of ability to pay.
• The Board gave Navigators $1500 in the 2025 Budget with the understanding that they are to become self-supporting and will not receive any money in the 2026 Budget.
• The 2025 Budget, with the changes made at this meeting, was unanimously approved.
• The revived Social Justice Committee will be working on the process of deciding whether UUCP becomes a Sanctuary Congregation.

November 2024 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board:

Board Update Good news! The large window in the sanctuary will be replaced by a brand new window, thanks in part to a Chalice Lighter grant received this winter! Thanks to Jim Frenzel, Dave Nelson, Tom Salsbury (and there may be others!), that leaky window may be replaced by the time you read this. UUCP is eligible for this grant thanks to those in the congregation who answer the Chalice Lighter calls each year. For more information, contact Jim Frenzel.

Do you know?

• You can get all the current UUCP information by reading the newsletter? Most of us receive the newsletter in an email each month (if not, contact the office). Do you open it and read it? If not, you can go to the website (palouseuu.org) and find it there.
• Interested in what the Board does? There’s an update each month in the newsletter. But there is also link to that update on the website.
• The website is not “static,” meaning that there are changes to it constantly. However, it is also a place where you can discover
  • • All UUCP policies
    • The latest Board minutes
    • Current and past newsletters
    • Archive of services
    • Upcoming events
    • Special notices
    • A way to make pledge payments
    • Monthly calendar

The effort has begun to re-establish the Social Action committee. One item up for discussion by that committee will be the consideration of naming UUCP as a Sanctuary Congregation: what that would entail, etc. If you are interested in leading or service the committee, please contact Rev. Elizabeth.

Upcoming: The yearly stewardship drive has begun. You should have received a letter from the committee. The 2025 budget is being developed and will be discussed at the next meeting of the Board on December 5 (all Board meetings are open!!) and will be presented for approval at the yearly congregational meeting.

November Board Meeting Summary:

• The Board will continue to make adjustments to the 2025 budget and at its next meeting on Dec. 5, the Board will vote on a proposed budget to take to the Congregational meeting on Dec. 15.
• Ginger is looking for more ways (like the Tuesday/Thursday baby/toddler open play space) that UUCP can be a “Third Space”, a place that is not home or work, where people can be in community without spending money.
• Hiring replacement(s) for Shira’s positions will start in the new year to allow for adjustments in hours, pay, and responsibilities as needed.
• Rev. Elizabeth and the Committee on Ministry are revising the Conflict Management Policy and will be drafting a Disruptive Persons Policy with reference to the UUA’s recommendations and will have both ready for the February Board Meeting.
• The Board discussed options for increased communication with the congregation, and noted that many of the things people have said they want are already in place, so what may be needed is more communication about what is available and where people can find it. Joe Pallen will update/change the website to improve Board visibility.
• Replacement of the arched window in the Sanctuary is scheduled for Dec. 11-12. Jim Frenzel’’s Chalice Lighter Grant application was approved for the Winter Call; in February UUCP will receive the money, est. $15,000-$20,000.
• Rev. Elizabeth suggested that UUCP look into becoming a Sanctuary. This is a complex process, taking at least 6-12 months, that would need to involve the whole congregation. Another option is to support other organizations working to help vulnerable populations in locations where the need is anticipated to be greater. A task force is needed to focus on this issue.
• David Nelson is seeking people to get the new Social Justice Committee started, and also needs people for the Ren Fair Committee.
• Next meeting: December 5, 7:00 pm

October 2024 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board: Breakfast with the Board 

I’d like to summarize some of the ideas shared at the recent “Breakfast with the Board.” It has been a few years since the last such event, but we hope it will be one of several recurring ways we can increase the engagement between the board and congregation. I personally found it refreshing to meet and share ideas with some members I hadn’t met while also enjoying some breakfast treats. The first suggestion (of course!) was to better announce such events through Sunday service announcements and through online and social media calendars. A few suggestions centered on an increased online and social media presence including Facebook, Instagram, and Reels (and maybe separate emails). There are more traditional ways to increase awareness of who we are and what we do: The traditional newsletter (email & physical version) could include a board email address along with a summary of recent work and focus; announcements and an invitation to attend the board meetings; a bulletin board in the fellowship hall with photos and bios of board members; stickers on name tags. It was suggested that we have more events (with food!) to build community with the youth and younger members, so I’m happy to see that the most recent “Feed of Dreams” was so well attended. Also note that the annual Winter Snow Retreat is coming back in the new year. So, please come share ideas with us (like concerns about “Dominionism” in Moscow, whether having “Church” in our name is a deterrence for some, or …) at a social event coming soon. Also, feel free to stop us in the hall for a chat, or share a coffee after the service along with your ideas of what we can do to strengthen our community.

–Mark Willis, one of your Board members

October Board Meeting Summary

• The Board approved offering Scott Campbell UUCP Congregational Sponsorship as an aspiring UU Minister.
• The Board approved the Chalice Lighters grant application, to replace the big gothic Sanctuary window.
• September 26, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes were approved with no changes.
• The Board approved accepting Wachira’s resignation effective Dec. 31, 2024 & splitting his position into Membership Coordinator at 10 hrs/week and Program Manager at 20 hrs/week. The Board approved changing Ginger’s title to Director of Faith Formation effective Jan. 1, 2025.
• The updated UUCP Illness Policy was approved.
• UUCP is now offering an Open Play Space for infants & toddlers on Tuesday mornings from 9:00-10:00, and will possibly add a Thursday session too.
• The Conflict Management Policy will be reviewed by Rev. Elizabeth and the Committee on Ministry. They will also look at the UUA template for a Disruptive Persons Policy, which is needed to allow someone to be removed from the premises.

• Upcoming meetings:
  • November 14, 2024 – Regular Board meeting and review of the 2025 Proposed Budget
  • December 5, 2024 – regular Board meeting to approve the 2025 Proposed Budget
  • December 14, 2024 – Budget Review Meeting for congregation to have their budget questions answered at UUCP and on Zoom, with time to be determined.
  • December 15, 2024 – Congregational Meeting to approve 2025 Budget and vote on three new Board members to replace those whose terms are ending; meeting will be directly after the service, in the Sanctuary.

• The Board approved rehiring Ryan Urie as Building Manager starting November 1, 2024, at 40 hours/ month.
• The Board approved asking the Operations Committee to set up a Social Justice Committee and write up a draft charter to be brought to the Board for approval.
• The Board approved reviving the Endowment Committee and also directed the Endowment Committee to have the Endowment invested in a form that will generate income by January 2026.
• There will be a spring celebration of Rev. Elizabeth’s 25th ordination anniversary and Ginger’s 20th year as a DRE.

The next meeting will be Thursday Nov. 14 at 7:00 pm

September 2024 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board: Finding A Time For Reflection

A couple of years ago I signed up to get “Daily Nourishment from Abbey of the Arts” Each day I get a quote and an accompanying question for contemplation about the quote. Some days they are a little too religious for me, but I like having a quote that makes me stop, read and reflect for a few minutes each day. This is one of the quotes from earlier in September that I saved as one I’d like to come back to from time to time. And it seemed like a good one to share.

“Whatever your pathway into contemplation, whatever your belief system, with intention and slowing
down, you can bring the gift of peace to the world.”

—Christine Valters Paintner, PhD

I hope you have a daily reading or poem to give you an opportunity for reflection. And if not maybe look for something. Calendars for 2025 are coming out and there are usually lots of inspirational ones. Just taking a few minutes each day to stop and reflect helps me feel more at peace. Having a prompt makes sure I do it.

Katherine Clancy, UUCP Board member

September Board Meeting Summary

• August Board Minutes were approved with no changes.
• Sue Engels’ reports show UUCP’s finances are in good shape.
• Ginger reported that: the playground is coming along as the contractors have time; Wellspring is set to go
  with three groups; a parent has stepped up to take charge of Navigators; and the site is secured for the return of the Snow Retreat on January 24-26, 2025.
• The Board unanimously approved a new Unemployment Insurance Policy to cover eligible UUCP employees.
• The UUA’s suggested Motion to approve the 2025 Restatement of the Unitarian Universalist Organizations
• Retirement Plan was unanimously approved.
• After discussion, UUCP’s updated Vaccination Policy and Safe Congregations Policy were both unanimously approved. The next policies to be reviewed will be: Conflict Management Policy; Disruptive Persons Policy; Illness Policy.
• Breakfast with the Board will be at 9:00 am on Sunday October 13 in the Fellowship Hall.
• Ginger recently reached her 20th Anniversary in RE Leadership, and Rev.
• Elizabeth will soon reach the 25th Anniversary of her ordination. A party, possibly a street dance, is tentatively planned for spring 2025.
• Board Transitions: Kat Clancy, Judy LaLonde, and Hydee Becker’s terms on the Board are ending, and Michael Jennings will leave the Presidency. The Nominating Committee will be activated to identify potential Board candidates.
• The next Board meeting will be Thursday Oct. 24 at 7:00 pm, in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom.

August 2024 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board:

From Your UUCP Board In our recent meeting at the end of September, it was business as usual. As always, we began by identifying and expressing our heartfelt thanks to those whose contributions and support over the past month have been invaluable, and I felt this sense of gratitude continued and permeated our entire meeting. Gratitude for:

• The progress we’re making on addressing important building issues, such as the water leak in the external frame and plans for replacing the north-facing cathedral window.
  Our commitment as a responsible employer, including researching unemployment insurance and adapting to the new UUA changes in our employees’ retirement program.
  The positive outlook reflected in our operating and capital campaign pledge reports.
  The lifting of one of the last physical reminders of Covid-19, such as the removal of the masked seating area in the church.

As a new Board member, I am continually impressed by the dedication of our Staff, our congregation members, and my fellow board members in ensuring the UUCP remains vibrant and effective. Your commitment is truly appreciated.

To express our gratitude and to gather your insights on UUCP operations and policies, we invite you to join us for the Board Breakfast before the Sunday service on October 13th. We look forward to seeing you there!

—Suzanne Seigneur

August Board Meeting Summary:

• August Board Meeting Summary June meeting minutes were approved with no changes. (There was no July meeting.) Sue Engels reported that UUCP is in good shape financially, both in terms of cash flow and in terms of Capital Campaign funds received to pay the mortgage.
• Archie George reported that over 95% of Capital Campaign pledges have been paid, with some payments still coming in.
• A “Mortgage Pay-Off” funding drive is tentatively planned for early 2025.
• The contractor who had planned to complete the playground is unable to do it, so Ginger is looking for another contractor to complete it.
• The Snow Retreat is being revived for 2025 as a free-to-participate event with costs covered by UUCP.
• For the mold in the pillar next to the main entrance, instead of trying to get the building contractor to take care of it, UUCP is filing a claim with the church’s insurance.
• The large arched window on the South side of the Sanctuary will be replaced, with funding coming from the UUCP Building Fund, the ACORN Fund, and possibly a Chalice Lighter Grant.
• Michael Jennings will continue to work on a UUCP plan to provide unemployment benefits for qualifying UUCP employees.
• Changes to the UUA retirement plan were discussed, with the issue moved to the next meeting pending confirmation that there are no financial implications to the changes.
• Upcoming meeting dates are November 14 and December 5 (moved due to the holidays).
• The date for the Congregational Meeting has been moved to December 15.
• The “masking area” on the right side of the Sanctuary has been discontinued, due to general non-compliance and ineffectiveness.
• The first Breakfast with the Board will be October 13 in the Sanctuary. The next meeting will be at 7:00 on September 26, in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom.

July 2024 Board Meeting Summary:

The July Board meeting was cancelled due to too few members being able to attend. The August Board meeting will be August 22 at 7:00 pm

June 2024 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board:

Recently, your Board members took part in a mini-retreat. Because of busy schedules, instead of meeting together outside of our homes, we met virtually in small groups. The prompts for discussion were these:

• What have you seen this board or other boards do in the past to be more effective and supportive of their communities?
• What do you feel is missing from our Board that keeps us from being as effective and supportive as possible?
• Propose 2 or 3 ideas our board can work on this year.

From these responses and following discussions, we can name at least three specific outcomes:

1. New guidelines for safety
2. Approval of a new staff member: Adult Program Director/Membership Coordinator.
3. Reinstituting Breakfast with the Board.

The staff member has been hired and at the June meeting, the Board approved hiring a UU consultant to help define the role of that person; and the first Breakfast with the Board has been set for October 13 of this year.

June Board Meeting Summary:

• Sue Engels reports that UUCP expenses are on track for this time of year, and cash flow is fine.
• The Board approved committing to hiring an attorney, using funds as deemed appropriate by Sue Engels, for a maximum of $1000 to explore what we can do to get the building contractor to remediate the black mold in the west tower by the main entrance, which was caused by the building contractor’s negligence.
• Rev. Elizabeth reported that the UUA General Assembly voted in favor of a Business Resolution affirming trans and non-binary folks, which gives some legal teeth to gender affirming care as a fundamental part of the UU religion.
• The Board voted to authorize spending $2000 for a Membership consultant to help Wachira and Elizabeth through the end of 2024.
• Playground progress: the area has been dug out and groundcloth and 2” of gravel (for drainage) will be placed soon, followed by construction of the fence and the play structure.
• Building Manager position was discussed, with the options of B&G taking over now that most of the big projects are done, or hiring someone to take care of things on an hourly basis as they arise, instead of hiring someone at a set number of hours per week.
• Board members will be systematically reviewing UUCP policies as there are multiple/conflicting policies in many areas. The first policies to be reviewed will be the Safe Congregation Policy and the Vaccination Policy, which will be reviewed by Kat Clancy, Hydee Becker, and Ginger Yoder with suggestions presented at the next Board meeting.
• The Board will hold a “Breakfast with the Board” event on October 13 before the service; more information will be provided as the date approaches.
• There is now an email address for the Board, UUCPBoard@palouseuu.org, that will send a message to the President & Vice President.
• The next Board meeting is scheduled for July 25; it may be canceled if there are not enough members available to have a quorum. M

December 2023 Board Meeting Summary:

• Church finances look healthy. Pledges for the stewardship drive have reached 87%.
• Ginger Yoder will be on sick leave for the month of January.
• Margaret Dibble was appointed as a new member to the Operations Committee replacing Mary Jo Hamilton as an ex-board member.
• January Board meeting is set for Monday, January 22 at 7 pm.

October 2023 Message from the Board and Meeting Summary:

Message from the Board:

September 2023 Notes and Summary:

September Notes:

By the time you read this, the Dedication events have taken place and we have formally celebrated our new building featuring an anthem written just for us by Dan Bukvich, words from former ministers and UUA and Moscow and Pullman representatives, and remembrances of our own past. Our expanded building has also received several awards. A celebration of which we can rightly be proud! But now the hard work begins: We didn’t contribute our nickels and dimes just to have a beautiful building, but to enable us to be more accessible to our Palouse community and to continue to support those agencies whose aims coincide with our own mission:

• Providing religious services of worship and celebration
• Welcoming each seeker of truth into responsible participation
• Facilitating the creative use of religious freedom and respect for differences
• Ministering to persons in their everyday problems of life
• Reasoning about life’s meanings and society’s ethical dimensions
• Promoting racial and social justice
• Supporting the purpose and programs of the UU Association
• Inspiring awareness of, and cooperation with, the harmony of nature
• Encouraging intercultural understanding and efforts toward world peace.

And working toward these goals takes hard work, work from us all, volunteer work. We all have limited time, but to be a full, participating member, you must spend some of that time supporting the work we do. Join a committee, volunteer to help with an upcoming event, help out in our Religious Expploration program. It seems a bit cheesy to say that you will receive benefits in kind, but I believe it is true!

September Board Meeting Summary

• Playground update: The equipment is in process and, after discussion, the board consensus was to create a milled bark surface under the playset and invest in good shades to cover the playground.
• The Building Dedication committee has done a fantastic job planning a great event, coming up September 30 and October 1
• A proposal for adding a quarter-time building manager to a current staff position was discussed to deal with some of the building maintenance issues.
• We are planning a “committee fair” on a Sunday in November to help members learn about the church committees and ways they might get involved.
• The Board has revised the masking statement for services to encourage mask wearing and create a “mask required” area in the sanctuary

February 2021 meeting summary:

Deconstruction of the Yellow House has begun.  Parts are being spread out through the community.

Plans for Ginger’s sabbatical are moving along smoothly.

Lynn Ungar will be here as a guest minister on March 14^th.  She will be sharing some of her poetry. 

For Earth Day (April 25) , Green Sanctuary has purchased milkweed plants and will be offering them to whomever is interested.

January 2021 Board Meeting Summary:

This was the first meeting of the new board for 2021. The board elected officers.  President is Fran Rodriguez, Vice president is Judy Brown.  Secretary is Ellery Blood. Treasurer will be a shared responsibility between our existing Treasurer, Judy Lalonde, and Sue Engels who will be in a training role.

The board has approved Ginger’s plan for her sabbatical from April-August of this year.

December 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

Congregational meeting approved the budget and new board members: Duane DeTemple, Judy Brown, and Diane Prorak.

Capital Campaign Finance Committee received approval to sign the contract for building construction.

November 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

Capital campaign is on track, although we are considering the need for an additional contingency fund due to increases in building material costs.

Planning the congregation meeting for December 13^th.

An online directory is in the process of being announced.  Watch out for information on how to log in and enter your family information and upload photo.

October 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

Voted to move forward with asking the congregation to support the projected 2021 budget.

We’ve received three bids for the church remodel.  The minimum bid came in at about 25% more than the base cost projected by the architect.  We think the capital campaign is on track to be able to handle this.

We’re moving forward with an online church directory.  More information to follow.

September 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

Elizabeth should be back in early October. Ministering remotely went well, but she’ll be happy to be home. We’re soliciting bids for the church remodel.  We’re hoping to get some bids in soon.  We’re investigating ways to potentially contribute to reparations to the Nimi’ipu tribe, on whose ancestral lands the church resides. RBG; May her memory be a blessing

July 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

Given the present climate, and impending capital changes, the board is evaluating establishment of a Building Safety Committee. 

We are having conversations on how to make church virtual ministry  sustainable for the long term.  We’re trying to think outside the box (or inside the box with at least 6 feet of separation) to see how we can maintain connection within our church community.

The Religious Exploration program continues to provide weekly offerings to help children maintain ties with their peers. In addition, the online “childcare” over zoom lets kids chat with a church childcare provider for 30 minutes. This has proven very successful, so we are looking for other adults to assist in expanding this program.

June 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

UUA General Assembly is quickly approaching and we still have several open slots for Delegates. A committee is being established to develop a charter for new Building Safety/Security Committee.  This committee will establish building security policies that will be incorporated into the new building design to address safety and access guidelines. 

May 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

The Virtual UUA General Assembly is coming up in late June.  We are authorized a number of delegates and so please let Karen Jennings or Margaret Dibble know if you are interested in attending.  If you are concerned about the cost, the board has authorized some funds to help defray the costs of registration (travel and housing will not apply due to the virtual nature this year).

We’re looking at continuing the established online service plan through the summer.  UUA collaboration between congregations should help provide lots of musical and speaking content.

The capital campaign is still moving forward.  We’re still enthusiastic about the project we have going on from a building standpoint.  We haven’t hit any snags that have been at all difficult.  The donations remain strong. 

April 2020 Board Meeting Summary: 

The transition to online services remains challenging, however we’ve seen benefits related to increased accessibility.  We expect that we will need to maintain a larger online presence after the crisis is over. 

The capital campaign is still moving forward.  We’re still enthusiastic about the project we have going on from a building standpoint.  We haven’t hit any snags that have been at all difficult.  The donations remain strong.

February 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

The February UUCP Board of Trustees meeting brings promising financial news. The 2020 budget and annual pledges are on track. The Board approved restoring Elizabeth’s professional development budget to the pre-sabbatical level. Also, UUCP appears to be on track for the capital campaign.

Ginger Yoder, our Director of Family Ministries, is due a 4-month sabbatical between June 2020 and June 2022. Discussions are ongoing to avoid conflicts with the building project schedule (specifically, tearing down the yellow house for the church addition).

January 2020 Board Meeting Summary:

The new year is off to a strong start with newly elected leadership on the UUCP board of trustees. Rich Alldredge will be taking on the role of Board President, with Fran Rodriguez and VP. Ellery Blood will be acting as Board Recording Secretary and Margaret Dibble will serve a dual role on the board and executive committee.

The board approved a new Conflict Management policy to provide clarification on the roles and procedures when conflicts within the church arise. The board also discussed the possibility of employing an archivist to document the process as we embark on a major renovation to our building.

December 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

It has been a very full and very successful year at UUCP! The Capital Campaign is progressing smoothly, RE classes are thriving, and preparations are well underway for the next Snow Retreat. A new website coordinator, Ryan Locke, has been hired to keep everything on the UUCP site constantly up-to-date, and four new Board members are ready to bring

new energy and ideas in the coming year. And, at our recent Congregational Meeting we had unanimous votes for the Climate Change Mitigation Resolution, for declaring the UUCP a gun-free zone, and for approving the 2020 budget. We are well-positioned for an exciting year to come!

Sue Engels has decided to step down as the organizer for Family Promise at UUCP. The Board would like to express our enormous gratitude for all the incredible work she has done to make this program so successful and such a core part of the work we do as a church. It will take a full committee to handle all the work Sue has been doing single-handedly; if you would like to help ensure the continued success of this program, please contact Joe Pallen, Dan Schmidt, or any other member of the UUCP Board. Thank you!

November 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

At their November meeting, the UUCP Board of Trustees worked to finish preparations for the upcoming Congregational Meeting to be held December 15 after service. Please plan to attend! At the meeting, the congregation will vote on whether to make the UUCP ground a gun-free zone, whether to approve a climate change resolution being presented by the Green Sanctuary Committee, whether to approve the 2020 budget, and to approve new Board members for 2020 (Fran Rodriguez, Marcus Smith, Ellery Blood, and Duane DeTemple) The Board also approved a revision to the Facilities Use Policy to require event hosts at events held in our facilities that are not a regularly scheduled part of the church calendar. Event hosts will help event organizers prepare, set up, and clean up. They will be recruited from congregation members and will receive $50 compensation for their service. If interested, be on the lookout for a job description that will be posted to the UUCP website, closed Facebook page, and church newsletter.

October 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

This month the Board approved the 2020 UUCP budget, which includes cost-of-living raises for church staff, a part-time website coordinator, and additional income as we return to a normal budget after a sabbatical year. More details will be coming soon from the Pledge Drive Committee. A congregational vote to approve the 2020 budget will take place at the December meeting of the congregation.

The Board also reviewed the status of the quiet phase of the capital campaign, which is going very well. The Board approved fund-raising goals for the building project, which will be announced at the November 15 Building Project Kickoff Event (6:00-8:00 in the sanctuary – be there!).

Mary Ellen Radziemski has recently resigned from the UUCP Board of Trustees. Please join us in thanking Mary Ellen for her excellent service to our church community! The Nominating Committee has appointed Duane DeTemple as her replacement, and he will start at the November Board meeting.

Note that the November 15 event will take the place of this quarter’s Breakfast With the Board event.

September 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

This month the UUCP Board of Trustees approved hiring Sam Welsh as our new Assistant Music Director. We also approved having the church officially endorse the Climate Strike planned for September 20 and being led by local high school students. UUCP employees will be allowed to participate in the event with pay. The Board also approved a new Gift Acceptance Policy to help appropriately manage gifts made to the capital campaign (and otherwise), and it will be available on the UUCP website soon. Lastly, the Board discussed the need to ensure that announcements at the start of service are brief, appropriate, and necessary. Going forward, an assigned Board member will be delivering all such announcements. If you have announcement to make at Sunday service, please provide it in writing to the Board member listed in the order of service. Thank you!

August 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

The Board is happy to announce that draft plans for the expansion to our facilities will be unveiled Sunday, August 18 after service. Four alternatives will be presented with estimated costs. These plans are not final; we are presenting these plans for your feedback so that the architect can make any needed changes before we take a final congregational vote. As part of the capital campaign to fund our expansion, 50 members representing the range and diversity of our membership will soon be contacted by mail to meet with our consultant, Rachel, at her next visit. Watch your mail in case you’re one of the invitees!

The Worship Committee has chosen the theme of racial justice for the coming year, with one service per month dedicated to this topic. Reverend Elizabeth intends to start an associated racial justice book club.

Some new staff changes are in the works. Paul Thompson has accepted the role of Music Director, and the Board has authorized the creation of a part-time web site content coordinator position to ensure that our website stays up to date and informative. Contact Board President Joe Pallen for more information on the role.

This month our treasurer had to dip into our savings to cover our expenses. Please remember to maintain your pledges, and if you haven’t yet paid for your Service Auction purchases, now would be a good time to do so. Thank you!

July 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

While things at UUCP have slowed down for the summer, the Board is still hard at work moving our planned facility expansion forward. While we have not yet been able to have a scale model of our planned new facilities constructed as planned, the Building Project Committee is researching having a virtual tour developed instead, which will hopefully be available later this summer. We are also working on ways to keep our church’s website more up to date, which may result in hiring a part-time web developer. In addition, we are expanding what’s offered on the site, including more complete information on each of our committees and the all of the UUCP’s approved policies (on the site, click What’s Happening, then Board Documents to check them out).

June 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

At the June meeting, the UUCP Board reviewed the proposed site plan for the church expansion and made only a few small suggestions. The official drawings and 3D model are expected to be available by the end of June for the congregation to view and provide feedback. The Board is also working on improving the church’s internet connection and to provide for more frequent updates of our website. In the interest of increasing transparency, the Board has also been working to make more resources available on the site; you can now read all of the church’s policies by going to What’s Happening > Board Documents and clicking the UUCP Policies folder.

May 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

This month the Board approved proceeding with the first stage of an architectural proposal provided by Laurence Rose for the church expansion project. We expect to have rendered 3D images and a scale model of the planned expansion available for the congregation to view by the end of June. The Building Project Committee is also holding discussions with the Latah County Historical Society about using our shared driveway for parking. The Board also approved new guidelines for moderating the UUCP Facebook group and has begun looking into options for increased staffing to provide more regular updates to the UUCP website.

April 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

April was a busy meeting of the UUCP Board! The Board first met with one of our congregants to discuss potential improvements to our church’s Vaccination Policy, which we will work to implement over the coming month. Plans for our building expansion are proceeding smoothly; a survey has been commissioned and an architect has been identified, who will begin working on a new plan—based on the Option 3 floor plans submitted to the congregation last year—once the survey is complete. Our goal is to have new drawings and a model of the new facilities available to the congregation by this summer. The Capital Campaign Committee is also getting ready to initiate a financial feasibility study to plan for the costs of the expansion.

The Board agreed to pay $300 to cover half the cost of the recent Muslim Picnic and also allocated Board funds to cover the facility rental for a quarterly Vespers service in Pullman. The Board approved a Sabbatical Contract for Reverend Crystal Zerfoss to fill in, as needed, during June and July until Reverend Elizabeth returns. Lastly, the Board approved a new Documentation Policy that, when implemented, will make church policies, procedures, and committee information far more accessible to the members of our church. If you have any questions, reach out to any of our Board members. They’re the ones with the blue name tags.

March 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

The Board would like to remind the congregation that the UUA General Assembly is being held in Spokane this year June 19–23. Registration is now open, and the early-registration discounts last until May 1. Financial aid and volunteer opportunities are available, but you must apply by March 31.

The new Building Project Committee had a successful first meeting February 27 in which they began filling committee positions and identified an architect, Laurence Rose, who will submit a proposal in the coming month. The Committee is also actively ascertaining our building needs and desires to inform the building plan.

The next Breakfast With the Board will be held in the church basement March 24 at 9:00 a.m. Childcare will be provided. Please come and share your feedback, bring your questions, and enjoy a hot breakfast before service courtesy of the Board!

February 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

At February’s meeting, the UUCP Board was happy to welcome our sabbatical minister, the Reverend Theresa Soto. We look forward to benefitting from her guidance and wisdom during Reverend Elizabeth’s absence. Congregants may contact Theresa at revt@theresalovesyou.com.

Due to a recent increase in the amount of garbage produced by the church (due in part to Moscow Recycling no longer accepting many materials) the Board passed a motion to increase the size of our trash receptacle. As a reminder, please try to recycle and choose low-waste options as much as possible for church activities (or in general!). The Board also revisited and reapproved the installation of new, smarter thermostats for the main church building as well as Yellow House. Lastly, the Board decided to keep holding quarterly Breakfast With the Board events to improve transparency and communication between the Board and the rest of the church.  Look forward to our next breakfast sometime in March!

January 2019 Board Meeting Summary:

At this month’s meeting, the UUCP Board was happy to welcome Karen Jennings, Rich Alldredge, and Margaret Dibble as our newest members. We look forward to working together on our church’s mission over the coming years. We also bid a fond and grateful farewell to our departing Board members, Gene Siple, Charla Willis, and Marisa Gibler. Thank you, Gene, Charla, and Marisa, for your dedicated service to our community!

The Board chose new officers at the January meeting. Joe Pallen will continue to serve as the Board President, Ryan Urie will continue to serve as Secretary, and Judy LaLonde will continue to serve as Treasurer. Rich Alldredge is the new Vice President, and Margaret Dibble will represent the Board on the Executive Committee.

The Board recently called upon the congregation to volunteer for several new committees to aid with the expansion of our facilities and our continued dedication to Family Promise. The response was overwhelming, and we now have ample volunteers to take on this vital work. Thank you so much to everyone who stepped up! The Board has chosen liaisons for each committee: Mary DuPree for the Building Project Steering Committee, Lynna Stewart and Margaret Dibble for the Capital Campaign Committee, and Dan Schmidt for the Family Promise Committee. These Board members will assemble the volunteers for each committee in the coming weeks to begin determining roles and planning for the work ahead.

December 2018 Board Meeting Summary:

At this month’s meeting, the UUCP Board approved a new Information Management Policy, as well as the formation of a new Tech Committee to address audio, video, and website issues. The initial members of the Tech Committee will be Pat Fuerst, Rod Sprague, and Jon Anderson. The Board also approved the formation of a Family Promise Committee, based on feedback from the recent Congregational Meeting, and is seeking volunteers to fill it. The Board is also seeking volunteers for the Building Project Steering Committee and Capital Campaign Committee to implement the expansion of our facilities at our current location, as approved at the Congregational Meeting. If you are interested in volunteering for any of these committees, please contact UUCP Board President Joe Pallen (jpallen@roadrunner.com).

November 2018 Board Meeting Summary:

At their November meeting, the UUCP Board of Trustees agreed on the 2019 budget that will be submitted to congregation for a vote at the December 9 Congregational Meeting. Anyone who wishes to see the line-item budget should contact Judy LaLonde. The Board also approved the formation of a new Audio/Visual Committee. Bereavement leave for Reverend Elizabeth was approved for November 30^th through December 12^th. The Board also discussed ongoing work to provide more opportunities for involvement for Pullman UUs, including a monthly vespers with a possible potluck and a bimonthly parent group similar to the one now offered in Moscow. As a reminder, the next Congregational Meeting will be held December 9 after service, and the next Board meeting will be held December 19.

October 2018 Board Meeting Summary:

At their October meeting, the UUCP Board agreed to begin the facilities planning timeline suggested in the Next Steps Report provided by our stewardship consultant, Rachel Maxwell. This report is available on the UUCP website, and printed copies will also be available in the church foyer. The next Congregational Meeting is scheduled for December 9 and will include a vote on how we want to proceed with a capital campaign, as detailed in the report. A full agenda for this meeting will be sent out by November 25. The Board also discussed the future of Family Promise, which is currently suffering from a lack of volunteers. The commitment of the congregation to this program will also be assessed at the Congregational Meeting.

September 2018 Board Meeting Summary:

At their September 19^th meeting, the UUCP Board made plans for the Breakfast With the Board on September 30^th, from 8:30-9:30, and the Next Steps Weekend scheduled for October 5^th, 6^th, and 7^th.  The Board also picked a tentative date for the second phase of the feasibility study. The Board discussed making signs and ordering sign posts to designate reserved parking places for elderly or limited-mobility members. The Board also discussed our growing need for RE program volunteers.

UUCP Board’s letter to the congregation about our Next Steps weekend in October:

UUCP Congregational Stewardship Visit Oct 5-7

As we prepare to make major decisions about our future facilities and programs, we’re excited to announce that UU Stewardship Consultant, Rachel Maxwell, will be with us on October 5^th, 6^thand 7^th.

Rachel will meet with our board on Friday evening and on Saturday with our staff, church leadership, and several committees. She will be identifying recommended next steps and practical information to help us successfully achieve our stated goals.

On Sunday after the service Rachel will present her initial observations and recommendations to our entire congregation and will be there to answer your questions. A detailed written report delivered within two weeks of the visit will contain congregational survey results, data analysis, techniques for successful campaigns, UUA and district/regional resources applicable for our fellowship, and a timeline of recommendations customized for us.

Please plan to attend the congregation meeting on Sundayso that we will get the most out of our weekend with Rachel. Coffee and childcare will be provided during her presentation after the Sunday service.

If you have questions, feel free to contact any of us.

Your UUCP Board:
Joe Pallen, Mary Ellen Radziemski, Ryan Urie,Charla Willis,Mary DuPree, Dan J Schmidt, Marisa Gibler, Lynna Stewart, Gene Siple

Based on the feedback of the congregation through the facilities discernment process and the census report, the UUCP Board offers the following vision for the future of our church:

“The UUCP is a church that serves the entire Palouse region. As a program-based church, we will support and expand our existing church offerings while also exploring new opportunities to meet the needs of our UUCP family and the rest of the Palouse. We will anticipate and welcome congregational growth at our existing campus by improving and expanding our facilities in a financially responsible manner and by ensuring that they reflect our commitment to being welcoming of and accessible to everyone.”

July 2018 Board Meeting Summary:

At their June meeting, the UUCP Board approved updates to the Safe Congregation Policy. As Jon Anderson has recently accepted a new position at the University of Idaho, the Board approved hiring Paul Thompson to replace him as our choir director and hiring Lynna Stewart as the choir accompanist. Jon will continue serving as the UUCP music director. The Board is also moving forward with commissioning a feasibility analysis to inform our facilities planning process.

July’s “Breakfast With the Board” event was a big success, and we’re grateful for all the feedback we received from community members. The next Breakfast With the Board is tentatively scheduled for September 30. Please plan to come and bring your questions and concerns about the direction of the church!

June 2018 Board Meeting Summary:

At the June meeting of the UUCP Board of Trustees, the board agreed to hold a Breakfast With the Board event to improve the transparency of Board activities and encourage communication between the Board and the congregation. The event is scheduled for July 15, 8:30-9:30 in the church basement. The Board recently held a half-day retreat to discuss the report from the Facilities Planning Task Force, and this issue will be discussed further at the Breakfast With the Board event. The Board also discussed the recently released church census report and will continue discussing at the July meeting how to best implement the feedback from the congregation.

May 2018 Board Meeting Summary:

In order to improve transparency, the UUCP Board is now providing monthly board meeting summaries (like the following) in the UUCP newsletter and on the web.

At their May 2018 meeting, the UUCP Board of Trustees discussed at length the report of the Facilities Planning Task Force, available both in the newsletter and on the UUCP website. (The report and other related documents can be found on the Board’s document page.)  The Board is planning a retreat to discuss the report in greater detail, weigh various options, and determine the next steps toward reaching a congregational consensus on this extremely important decision. If you have additional input on this topic after reviewing the report, please contact a Board member directly (look for the blue name tags!).

The Board also approved a new Personnel Policy and a revised Facilities Use Policy; both are available for review at the church office. The Board approved changing the title of the Director of Religious Exploration to Director of Family Ministries to better reflect Ginger’s actual duties. Ginger’s assistant, Veronica, will also have her job title updated to Family Ministries Program Associate.

The next Board meeting will be June 13 at 6:30 in the Sanctuary. As a reminder, all members of the UUCP congregation are welcome to attend.