Board of Trustees Report June 2021

In May, the board prepared for our second Zoom Annual Meeting, which went off without a hitch on May 23, thanks to all the members who had a role in conducting the meeting, as well as those who attended. We approved the budget and voted in a new set of trustees, including Ed Olmstead - Vice President, Laura Porter - clerk, and Julie Chandler - trustee. Our incoming president is Jane Simonds. Many thanks and gratitude to exiting board members, including Kathie Bredin, Rhys Eppich, and Mark Glenny.

We also voted to extend Dave Nelson’s term as treasurer. Dave has been serving for many years as treasurer, and the board continues to seek someone new for this role. You don’t need to have previous financial experience to be the treasurer. We want to reassure anyone willing to consider taking this on that Dave will provide training and share helpful technology, and the Finance Committee is very supportive.

This year’s annual meeting included awarding the Generosity of Spirit Award for 2021 as well as catching up with 2020.  The awards went to Jan Nettler (2020) and Juli Kinsman (2021). Both Jan and Juli have filled multiple roles in the congregation over the years and share exceptional warmth, time, generosity, and energy with and for our USNF community.

The annual meeting coincided with the Youth Group’s annual, amazing-as-always service.

The board sends best wishes and thanks to Annie Doran, the retiring Youth Group director. And finally, the board has been tackling how and when to open our building as the pandemic eases locally. Following the Pandemic Advisory Group and Janet’s recommendations, we are making plans for transitioning to hybrid (both in-person and Zoom) services beginning September 12. More information to follow!

Submitted by Sara Hunt