Sunday March 10, 2024 “Who Killed Caesar?” Jacob King

by

Our world is increasingly becoming despotic. War, violence, and oppression is rampant; and the human condition continues to justify denying others agency. It is fitting then during the ‘Ides of March’ to analyze how people of faith can respond during times of such ‘Caesarism.’ As Shakespearean wisdom states: “Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.”

Jacob King (He/Him) is a UU Candidate for Ministry and longtime friend of the UUFC. He started his ministry journey five years ago after witnessing UU’s engaging in Social Justice activities. Jacob identifies as neurodivergent and bisexual. Jacob is married to his partner Karmen and lives in Albany NY with her, three cats, and a dog.

*A note on readings from last Sunday: folks have asked for information about the article mentioned in the sermon last week, a conversation between Rabbi Nathan DeGroot and Philospher/Theologian Bayo Akomlafe. Here is a link to the article: An Invitation to Shapeshift: A Talmudo-Poetic Conversation on Post-Activism with Báyò Akómoláfé 

EDI Read and Discuss Event, 4/8

by

EDI, The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Team invites you to join us as we explore Evicted, by Matt Desmond. This compelling book examines the impact of eviction and poverty in general. Book Discussion 7-8:30 PM, Monday, April 8th. Contact Elona Meyer for more information and the Zoom link.

The Sprout Film Festival, 3/29

by

The Sprout Film Festival is a do-not-miss opportunity. The festival focuses on films that “celebrate the diverse lives and creativity of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.” It “strives to challenge assumptions and break down stereotypes”—something we all hope to support whenever we can. The festival is Friday, March 29th, with a choice to two times, 3 PM or 7 PM. If you are interested in joining us for a “Watch and Discuss” event, please contact Elona Meyer for more details.

UUFC Lawn Mowing Team Members Needed

by

Your UUFC lawn mowing team needs several new team members. We have a state-of-the-art set of electric lawn mowers and associated lawn trimmers and blowers. While mowing takes time (1-2 hours; once per month on your own schedule), it is a pleasant workout experience (1.5 to 2 mi of walking). The UUFC lawns are divided into front and back sections. We are in need of back section mowers.

If you have interest, please email Russ Karow and we can arrange to talk further about this opportunity to be a member of the UUFC’s volunteer corp. Thanks for your consideration!

UUFC Invests in OSU Beth Ray Center Solar Project

by

In late February, 2024 your Finance Oversight Council (FOC) Investment Team partnered with Oregon Clean Power Cooperative to invest in the OSU Beth Ray Center project.

We invested $18,000 in a 2 year loan for this project, which is structured similar to an earlier investment that we made with OCPC for the Shakespeare Festival.

The Investment Team encourages solicitations from Councils and Teams with proposals for financially prudent investments. Please reach out to treasurer@uucorvallis.org to start a dialogue.

Action Lunch 3/10

by

Delicious teriyaki lunch, salmon and tofu options available. After the service on March 10. Takeout is also available. $10 donation, proceeds support our asylum seeking families from El Salvador. Brought to you by the Immigrant and Refugee Support Team.

Contact Nancy Kyle

ConnectUp Hike, 3/30

by

We will do a 4 mile hike including part of Section 36 Loop Trail in MacDonald Forest. This trail section often has very early wild flowers. The full walk involves about 400′ of climb and descent and is about 2/3 on gravel road.

Contact Jim Wagner for more information.

Support Housing and Food for All – 3/10

by

On Sunday March 10th, after the Action Lunch to raise funds for the Perla family, the Secure Housing and Food for all Team will meet in the UUFC library at 12:15. Please join us to learn about:
~Helping the Jackson Street Youth Services – request of Brandi Tucker
~Sponsoring the March 30 ’Spring Luncheon’ with Ernest Cardona (help setup, food prep, cleanup) ~Sponsoring furnishing a ‘hut’ at Albany’s “Hub City Village’ with Joyce Marvel-Benoist
~Co-sponsoring support of neurodivergent folks interactions with Police
~Finding volunteers for Daytime Drop-in Center and the Corvallis Food Bank
~What we might do in the Fall and other topics brought up by attendees.

And don’t forget our Spring Celebration Luncheon on Saturday, March 30th, 2024 at 1:00 p.m, in the Social Hall. Donations are $15.00 per person. After food costs, all donations will support our efforts in housing and feeding our wider community. Ernest Cardona and helpers will be serving a fresh, seasonal Spring menu with interesting appetizers, entrée and dessert. Please see the contact form below for a full menu description and a link to send us a message about your interest. We’ll need to know the number of guests in your party, your name, and your email address to send out a payment request. See you all on March 30th!

Roz Keeney Roberta Smith

Register for Luncheon

Celebrating Our Scouts!

by

In case you missed it, Corvallis Scout, Charlie, earned his Love and Help UU Scouting award and chose to celebrate that achievement with us last Sunday during our time for all ages. In addition to receiving his pin in the service, Charlie spent time in the social hall afterward, sharing one of his favorite treats, lemon cupcakes, and the things he recorded in his workbook along the way to this achievement. Thank you to everyone who stopped by Charlie’s table to learn about his efforts! Charlie, we are so proud of you and the learning you’ve done!

If you’re a scout who has been inspired by Charlie and would like more information about earning your UU scouting award, let me know. I’m here to help!