Around the District . . .

West Central Cluster held three razzle-dazzle events! A cozy Cluster Picnic and Talent Sampler, held at the woodsy glen of the Lakeland Fellowship, a UU Revival, Ay Urnari, M.C., held at the Pines in Brooksville, featured rousing ministerials mit der tambourines and other audience effusiveness, keynoted by the Rev. Katy Korb, from New Orleans. Regional speakers included Jeff Harper, “There is Power in the Mud!,” Rev. Mitch Modisett, “Religious Red Herrings,” Jim Leavy’s Spiritual Workshop, Joel Frye’s Poetry Workshop and solo singing, Sue Atkins’ Gospel Singout, Chaplain Bob Keim’s “Riddle of Fishing,” Maurea Fernfrond’s stoneware clay leafy impressionisms, written messages of UU cheer from local UU clergy, and an enthusiastic large audience, (which scarfed up the delish’ food and “the message(s)” AND—an orange-glow campfire under the piney moon, with folksongs and s’mores!) The third gala gathering was at the Annual Meeting, Clearwater church, May 15, featuring a consciousness-raising play by Irene Miller, about the women’s suffrage movement, Make Way! More yummy food and frolic ensued, proving that the West Central Cluster is very much alive, full of caloric intake, toots suit and boot kickin’ & scootin’. Next year the hope is for more involvements of slightly younger folks, those with a bit of gray just creeeeeping into the chapeau, with some family turnouts too, and piggy-backing onto bigger pictures a la SSS and other District workshops. Ya’ll should discover YOUR cluster events and shenanigans, and help to get ‘em up and invigorated! Reciprocity! UU Teamwork! Rah RAH! — MAUREA SLEESMAN WEST CENTRAL CLUSTER PRESIDENT

Friendship Fellowship at Pineda (Rockledge) is on a roll. Since we are located on a hill overlooking the Indian River Lagoon right on Rte 1, we decided to erect a sign large enough for speeding motorists to see. It was installed in mid-May, and lights up at night as well. No trouble seeing it—it’s 18 ft high. Now we can spread our UU messages to thousands more in the central Brevard area, and hopefully will attract some of them! Speaking of growth—our Women’s Friendship Circle held a very successful bazaar in March, and $1,000 of the proceeds initiated the NEW BUILDING FUND. The Circle has raised money for kitchen equipment, new hymnals and many other items.

UU in the Pines Retreat Center has announced a successful Mortgage Matching Fund Drive! In May of 1998 an anonymous donor stepped forward and offered The Pines 20,000 if it could be matched to pay down our second mortgage. We are happy to announce that this Drive succeeded and we raised $47, 284.85 including the $20,000 from the donor. We borrowed the last $10,000 from three UU’s and have paid off the second mortgage this Spring. Donations will continue to be accepted to pay back borrowed funds. A big thank you to all who donated to this program, and to our original donor who made it possible for all this to happen! Contact UU in the Pines in Brooksville, FL at 352-796-4457 for additional information on how to become active in supporting and using this beautiful conference center!

NEEDED FOR CLEARWATER: Part-time religious education coordinator with good organizational skills, flexible personality and some inherent talent for public relations to work approximately 10-12 hours per week. Job Description and application available upon request. Call 727-531- 7704, Fax 727-531-4188.