Over the holidays, I had some downtime with family and friends. Daughter Kim was home over her college break and we also visited grandbaby Clara Coonley. The SC’s Executive Committee took a break too, but is now back on schedule. The first SC Meeting of the New Year welcomed RE Co-Chair Sarah Milt, as well as Chair Patty Cameron and Margaret Higham of the new Membership Committee. You will have to wait until February to read approved SC minutes. You will be impressed with the energy, excitement and accomplishments of these two key Committees.
The results of the Open Question Meetings regarding whether pledging should be a requirement of membership will be summarized and shared with the SC for its March meeting. Thanks to all who came to these discussions! For those that couldn’t make either session, feel free to share your thoughts by e-mailing me and Patty Cameron.
SC member Martha Werler is leading this year’s major fundraiser - Dine Around the World. She introduced SC member Susan McPhee’s intriguing new concept at the January 15th Sunday service. Twelve countries are represented and available for your selection. Watch for a special invitation in the mail. Which choice of culinary event from all corners of the world will you go for?
Phil and I will be in India and Nepal from January 22 to February 12. On January 29th after church in Metcalf Hall, please visit the “Within Our Walls” (WOW) Committee Fair. All church committees and groups have been invited to share their stories here. Please visit the SC table and all other tables where you will learn how scores of congregants are constantly helping our church and world improve. By the way, to see what the church's newly installed solar collectors look like, go to www.coolwinchester.org/Community.html If there is a need to contact the SC in my absence, please e-mail Larry Bradley, our Vice-Chair.
My only personal sad news was the passing of our golden retriever, Bayan. She was a wonderful member of our family for nearly ten years, and we miss her every day.
See you in February, Marilyn Mullane Chair, Standing Committee
