October Updates from the Executive Operations Director
As the leaves change and I witness autumn colors like an artist’s palette beyond my window, I feel gratitude for the healthy process of letting go and opening up to all that surrounds me. I am grateful for the process of change at UCE that will allow us to rediscover our purpose and path.
Our work as a staff has been enlightened by our Interim Minister Karen Gufstafson. New staff members are making a difference in our ability to expand our capabilities. Thank you to Jessica Meis, Adam Gough, Vickie Doebele, as well as long time staff members Liz Kennedy and Steven Eason. Mary Jean Brandt is now filling our Sunday lobby staff position. Each of you are doing a great job and are so appreciated.
Among many other tasks, Adam Gough, Congregational Life Assistant and AV Tech, has been dedicated to making our new phone system work with the automatic doors, which is no small task. Once this is accomplished we will transfer over to our VOIP phone system.
Jessica Meis is adjusting her hours and the UCE office hours. Please note her announcement in this newsletter. This schedule accommodates Jessica’s long commute and continues to provide good coverage for the UCE office.
Next week Robb Geiger, Doug Erickson, Dale Griffin and a fourth volunteer will be installing new light bulbs in our sanctuary. This is no small task. Thank you to Robb, Doug and Dale for your skills, courage, and generosity of time. Serendipity Auction will be all the better as a result of your good work. Auction goers will be able to see the bid sheets for signing up for great items on Saturday, November 19.
Painters are scheduled to paint the lobby bathrooms and repair the walls in the wing hallway in two weeks.
I am working with a floor vendor to replace the tiles in the lower level elevator exit area and stairs leading to the lobby. This area is shabby due to age, wear and tear, as well as damage from the old chair lift removal.
Tom Carlton, our invaluable data volunteer and REALM Project Manager, will meet with staff soon to get us closer to our goal of launching REALM. Staff will do a deep dive soon into training once Tom feels all details are in order.
Thank you to our Capital Campaign team for your hard work and dedication toward reaching our goal. These many projects will enhance our worship space and provide a safe, clean, updated and beautiful place for us to be together. Martha Holman, Gillian Lawrence, and Dan Lawrence, you have provided excellent leadership and inspiration.