UUCGV News October 2022

Welcome

Courage Courage

From Our Minister, Reverend Wendy Jones

Ourgreatestsadnessiswhenourheartgoesunacknowledged.

- Lee Harris

“I miss you.”

Words of courage...words of connection… and words that take courage to both say and hear.

This month as I’ve been thinking about the concept of courage, I think about the traditional definitions; speaking truth to power; standing up against a fascist regime; being a voice of racial justice; standing up to a bully . . . and the list goes on.

Those are all external acts of courage, but what about internal acts of courage that hit closer to home such as facing our own inner fears, allowing ourselves to be vulnerable, or reestablishing a relationship that has been lost?

Last month our aging group talked about re-kindling friendships after

We are an affiliated congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association and the Mountain Desert District of the UUA.

Congregation

“Where were you?”

“How are you?”

COVID. As we are emerging out of two years of this pandemic, I wonder if one of our first simple acts of courage might be taking the time to reestablish connection.

On first glance, that sounds easy.

Why would rekindling a friendship be considered an act of courage? Well, when you’ve been disconnected from somebody, sometimes there is fear in not knowing what the other person is thinking. Sometimes there is hurt and feeling like you’ve been abandoned by somebody that you care about or who is supposed to care about you.

Sometimes we worry that because of the distance of time or space the other person might not reciprocate our feelings or our outreach. Finally, when we combine all of these factors, we come face to face with our own sense of vulnerability and fear of rejection.

And so, what happens, sometimes, is that by avoiding these conversations of reconnection we end up never having them, and the disconnect continues, which in the long run results in more pain.

I know throughout the years this has happened between family members, between friends, between neighbors, and even within faith communities; even in this faith community.

So, as we move through this new church year, I would like for our UUCGV community to explore what it means to embrace reconnection.

Is there fear, is there vulnerability, will reconnecting require us to address hidden emotions that are right at the surface? Maybe. But might the reconnection be worth it?

Maybe we start with baby steps; a simple note or a text asking “how are you?” It can be as simple as that. Sometimes people just need to know that you care and that they matter.

Sometimes that first “how are you” can be the scariest step. Who are the people in your life you are ready to reconnect with? Is it time to take that first scary step?

With Love, Rev. Wendy

UUCGV Choir

Lift every voice and sing! Choir is back!

Join our UUCGV Adult Choir for their rehearsals

this month on Wednesday, October 5th & Wednesday, October 12th at 6:30 pm.

Change for Change

Each month we collect change (coins) from the offertory baskets and donate it to a local charity. This effort usually brings about $100/month. Past recipients have included homeless shelters, environmental groups, pet shelters and many others.

Change collected during the month of October will go to Restore the Balance, building an alternative to political extremism. Learn more at www.restorethebalance.org

Meg has worked with children for over twenty seven years as a teacher, nanny and swim instructor. She strives to facilitate learning through laughter, curiosity, and mutual respect in an environment that encourages a lifelong quest for self discovery.

Meg currently studies psychology and creative writing at Antioch University where she works in the Urban Sustainability Master’s Program. Her passion for documentary filmmaking invites healing through storytelling. Meg (and her service dog Milton) are excited to join the UU Congregation!

Jewelry Swap ~ An Evening of Elegance

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 Arrive at 6:00 pm with a few accessories that you no longer use, this could be jewelry (any & all types welcome/clean and in good repair please,) purses, belts, scarves, shawls, etc. We will display your items amongst the rest of the treasures.

 Enjoy some delightful refreshments, music, and mingle.

 Find some treasure! At 6:45 pm begin your search for a few perfect (new to you) items! Simply enjoy yourself as you try on and test out some flair that speaks to you.

 Voila! Take home your gems and enjoy!

Join us on Saturday, October 8thJoin us on Saturday, October 8thJoin on Saturday, 8thJoin on Saturday, 8th for an EveningofElegance , a UU church fundraiser, bringing style to Reusing, Reducing, and Recycling!

Adaptive Equipment Library

The Care Team has compiled a database for a decentralized adaptive equipment library. At this point we have access to lots of equipment including: walkers, crutches, shower chairs, wheelchairs, toilet risers, toilet bars, etc. If you are in need of any of these items please contact care@grandvalleyuu.org.

Silent Meditation for Healing Our World

Join us at the church on Wednesdays at 10:30am for 20-30 minutes of silent meditation for healing our world.

Goddess Group

Join the UUCGV Goddess Group as we discover the hidden forces within. All who identify as women are welcome to join us at any or all of the dates below. We meet monthly on the 4th Thursday, at 6:30 pm in-person and via Zoom.

For more information contact Barbara Beth by emailing works90@hotmail.com. Go to www.grandvalleyuu.org/goddessgroup for more info.

Meeting next on: Thursday, October 27th at 6:30 pm

CakesfortheQueenofHeaven:VolumeII

Men's Cooking Group

UUCGV’s Men’s Cooking Group is the longest- standing group in the church. We meet and cook the third Thursday of the month. If you’re new to the church and are male-identifying, please join the fun! This group meets at a different location each month.

For more info, contact Mark McKenney at 970-256-7907 or mckenneyd@qwest.net.

Nature Spirituality

Nature heals. Empirical research has shown that walking or sitting in a forest results in lower blood pressure, reduced cortisol (anger and frustration hormone). and improved mood. Come share your personal experiences with the healing power of the natural world. This group will meet monthly at the church on the third Thursday at 1:00 pm and is led by Ernie Stech.

Thursday, October 20th at 1:00 pm

UU NIGHT IS BACK!

After 2 1/2 years we are thrilled to announce that “UU Night” is back, beginning on Wednesday, October 12th at 5:30 pm. Please join us for this weekly potluck and time for community, connection, and conversation.

Soup Kitchen Saturday

Due to the Soup Kitchen’s Empty Bowls fundraiser on October 8th, we will not be cooking in October. There may be an opportunity to serve a meal in the park that day. More information will be provided next month. Thanks!

Black Canyon Discussion Group

The next Black Canyon Discussion Group will be held on Wednesday, October 5th at 5:30pm in the Cedaredge area.

Topic will be: "Resilience and Renewal: What does it mean for you?

COVID vaccination is required to participate. Questions? Call 970-856-4226 E Heuscher or email at epheuscher@gmail.com Host will offer the main dish, and then side dishes are provided by the participants.

Aging Graciously

Open to everyone of all ages! We meet in-person and virtually. The discussion will be lead by Rev. Wendy on

Thursday, October 27th at 1:00 pm Go to www.grandvalleyuu.org/aging-graciously for the Zoom link.

Laughter Yoga!!!

Wednesdays at 9:30 am New Time Starting in October!

It's Not Really Yoga... Come work out your spirit with laughter! Remember to wear a mask, bring something to lie down on. We gather at the NE section of Sherwood Park across from 1460 East Sherwood Drive. For more info call Barbara Beth (970)241-1978 (land line no texts please) Community Empowerment at UUCGV Will resume in November. Check weekly email and website for details.

Soulful Sundays Upcoming Sunday Services

Please join us virtually or in person at 10:30 a.m. every Sunday. Join us on Zoom: www.grandvalleyuu.org View the Order of Service at www.grandvalleyuu.org/sunday-services

Children’s Programming and childcare provided downstairs.

October ~ Courage

October 2nd Animal Blessing All Ages Outdoor Service

October 9th Community Empowerment

Jimi Blevins

October 16th

Re-establishing Connections Part 1: Internal Courage Rev. Wendy Jones

Followed by Restore the Balance Presentation by Jere Friedman & Community Potluck 12:15 pm –1:00 pm

October 23rd

Re-establishing Connections Part 2: External Courage Rev. Wendy Jones

October 30th Happy Halloween All Ages Service

Upcoming

CURIOUS ABOUT ELECTRIC VEHICLES?

[To read the full article go to: http://www.grandvalleyuu.org/green-team]

What are Electric Vehicles? EVs are vehicles which use one or more electric motors for propulsion. They can be powered by a collector system with electricity from extravehicular sources or by a battery. They are designed from the ground up differently from gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles. EVs currently include passenger cars, SUVs and pickup trucks. Technology is in the works to expand battery-operated surface and underwater vessels, aircraft and spacecraft, as well as freight trucks, buses, delivery vans, even rail transportation. EVs are essentially drivable computers.

What are Hybrid Electric Vehicles? HEVs combine internal combustion engine systems with an electric propulsion system. There are various configurations. A “plugged-in hybrid” can be recharged from external electric sources with electricity stored in rechargeable battery packs. “Regular hybrids” cannot be plugged in. Both can be run to use less petroleum.

What are the benefits of EVs on the Environment? EVs have no tailpipe emissions, so no air pollution. Carbon emissions in the production and operation of EVs are less than for conventional vehicles. Internal-combustion engines use far more raw materials to build and maintain over the lifetime of the vehicle than EVs.

Transportation is the number one source of climate pollution in the U.S. Air pollution negatively affects people, animals, and the environment in general. People of color and the disadvantaged suffer more since they often live in areas of greater exposure. Rates of childhood asthma have risen dramatically due to air pollution. If pollution from new trucks and buses were eliminated by 2040, it’s predicted fifty-seven thousand premature deaths wouldn’t occur.

It’s estimated by NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) the cost of U.S. climate-related weather disasters in 2021 was $145 billion. The estimated savings from declining U.S. vehicle emissions from 20082017 was $270 billion. There’s an enormous amount at stake for the American people, and the entire world, to reduce the effects of climate change.

To help avert climate disaster caused by air pollution, many things must rapidly change. One way is to now make familiar vehicles, such as the family car and pickup trucks, all electric. Municipalities need to make cities more pedestrian and bike friendly to lessen the use of automobiles. Better public transportation options are essential.

How would an EV benefit me? Besides saving at the pump and not being dependent on fickle gasoline supplies, maintenance costs are very low because little maintenance is required. The automotive computer makes automatic updates to the vehicle’s systems. The main battery coolant needs topping off on schedule, and the secondary battery, a 12V, needs replacing every two to three years. While brake pads and rotors last two times as long on EVs, you do need to check for wear and tear. Brake fluid should be checked every two to five years along with tire wear. Windshield wipers and light bulbs may need replacing, but that’s it!

A key advantage of EVs is regenerative braking. Regenerative braking recovers kinetic energy and restores the electricity to the on-board battery. Electric motors are simple and can achieve 90% energy conversion efficiency.

EVs are quiet and smooth, with less vibration. To warn pedestrians of the vehicle’s presence when moving under ten miles an hour and while backing, an unobtrusive sound is emitted. EVs are a comfortable ride and come in many family-friendly and sporty styles.

Safety is a huge benefit in driving an EV. They are built with all-around cameras, alarms, warnings of lane drift, and driver assistance. The frames are reinforced and EVs are almost impossible to tip over due to the low center of gravity. They accelerate quickly, warn of road obstacles, have excellent visibility, with air bags all around among many other safety features.

One very important benefit to owning an EV is they hold or increase in value. Often used EVs sell for more than new ones. While upfront costs are higher, most analysts predict the lifetime cost of an EV will be equal to that of a comparable gas-powered vehicle by 2025. Information on features, prices, and rebates of new EVs and Hybrids are available using Edmunds.

What’s the range of an EV? In 2022, with projections into 2024, some 85 to 100 models will be available with ranges of well over 275 miles per full charge.

How and where can you charge your EV? More free public electric charging stations are coming to Colorado. Six state highways are now approved for federal grants to build EV charging network to connect more states. Colorado is set to receive 57 million dollars per the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program within 5 years according to CDOT.

On federally approved highways chargers will be built within 1 mile of major roads and are no more

than 50 miles apart. These corridors will add nearly 1,000 miles of NEVI-approved roadways to Colorado, a 44% increase per CDOT. NEVI also focused on improving infrastructure in rural Colorado. Highways will include 1-70 plus state highways 34, 36, 287, 385, AND 550. Existing corridors are on: 1-70, 25, 76, 270, 40, 50, 285, 160.

In-town public free charging stations are becoming increasingly abundant and easily accessed. In Grand Junction, charging stations are located at: 750 Main, Avalon Theater, 135 N. 7th, Main Library, CDOT shop on D Rd., Alpine Bank N. 5th, Los Colonias, 234 Main, 925 Struthers, 225 Main, Alasta Solar S. 7th and Riverside Parkway, Red Rock Nissan, Highway 6, 2814 Patterson road, Grand Vista Hotel, 2740 Crossroads Blvd, Mesa Mall, Red Rock Kia, 2980 Hwy 50, and GVP Station 845 22 Road. All public charging stations feature multiple connections for use.

On-board computers show charging station locations, types, and distance from where you are. The computer can plan trips by showing all available charging stations on your chosen route.

In-home chargers for the main battery come with two choices: Level 1 and Level 2. Xcel offers house wiring rebates for Level 2 home charger for $500 up to $1300 with qualifying income. And by using off-peak charging, you may qualify for an annual $50.00 credit from Xcel. More EVs can be plugged into the electric grid to feedback energy during peak usage, reducing the need for new power plants. They can then be recharged at night when there is lower demand on the grid, providing stability of the electric grid when the EV is not in use.

Government incentives in the form of rebates at the local, state, and federal levels may help offset the initial costs to purchase and install personal charging stations. The secondary battery is a 12V used to unlock doors, shift gears, run the lights and radio, etc.

[To read the full article go to: http://www.grandvalleyuu.org/green-team]

If you are interested in helping to create the Winter Wonderland magic, please join us at our auction planning meeting on Tuesday, October 4th at 6:30 pm.

If you are interested in joining the auction team but can't make the meeting, please email tlc@grandvalleyuu.org.

Living Into Leadership

Board

Board HighlightsBoard Highlights

The Board's primary responsibility is to carry out the UUCGV mission through wise governance of the physical, financial, administrative program, and operational resources of the Congregation.

Below are the highlights from the last Board meeting. Our UUCGV Board will meet again on Thursday, October 13, 2022 at 7:00 pm. We welcome and seek direct dialogue with members and friends of our congregation.

If you would like to discuss a matter at the Board meeting, please contact Board President Laurel Carpenter at cinnamon06@aol.com by Friday, September 2nd.

September 8, 2022 Board Meeting Highlights

Present: Rev Wendy Jones, Laurel Carpenter, Kitty Tattersall, Elizabeth High, Dave Collins, and Laura Jeffries.

Security: Approved purchase of two additional security cameras.

Port-a-potty: Accepted a proposal about toilet equity based on a presentation by Paul Padyk.

COVID Safety: The UUCGV COVID Safety Policy was revised and approved. See policy at www.grandvalleyuu.org/annual-report.

Finance Report: Positive net income for prior 2 months.

TLC HighlightsTLC Highlights

Team Leadership Circle, TLC, maintains the Programs of the church and the church calendar which live into the Mission, Vision, and Principles of UUCGV.

TLC communicates with the board about the day to day operations of the church and provides support to the teams if they need it. TLC meets the second Thursday of the month at 6:00pm.

Email tlc@grandvalleyuu.org for questions and comments.

September 8, 2022

TLC Meeting Highlights

22nd Annual Service Auction: Theme: “Winter Wonderland” Date: December 3, 2022 TLC is excited that the auction will be in person this year. If you are interested in being part of the auction team please join us at our planning meeting on Tuesday, October 4th at 6:30 pm.

Reproductive Justice Group: We’ve been invited to partner with Foothills Unitarian Church in Fort Collins about reproductive justice issues. If you are interested in learning more contact Adrienne Cascarella.

Outdoor Space for Children: The planning team has started regular meetings. If you have ideas or thoughts for the outdoor space, please contact Angie Ecker at akitchenfairy@gmail.com.

UU Night is Returning! The first potluck get together will be on Wednesday, October 12th at 5:30 pm.

Religious Education Program: We are excited to introduce our new DRE. Please see her introduction on page 4 of this newsletter.

Please Remember that all meetings & events MUST be scheduled through the administrator (257-0772) or administrator@grandvalleyuu.org. See full calendar, renters and all, at grandvalleyuu.org/calendar.

UUCGV Calendar October 2022

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

10:30AllAges OutdoorWorship Service AnimalBlessing

Wendy 10:00GJ MutualAid 1:00Jewelry Planning 6:30Auction Planning

at UU Minister’s 9:30Laughter Yoga@Sherwood 10:30Meditation 11:00CareTeam 5:30BlackCanyon 6:30AdultChoir

Retreat 7:00GreenTeam Meetingvia Zoom

6:00Jewelry Swap 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

10:30Worship 10:30Children’s Program

12:00 Finance

10:00GJ MutualAid 9:30Laughter Yoga@Sherwood 10:30Meditation 5:30UUNight! 6:30AdultChoir

6:00TLC 7:00Board 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

10:30Worship 10:30Children’s Program 12:15Restorethe Balance Presentation &Potluck 12:30OWLParent Orientation

10:30Worship 10:30Children’s Program

10:00GJ MutualAid 9:30Laughter Yoga@Sherwood 10:30Meditation

5:30UUNight!

1:00Nature Spirituality Discussion 6:00Men’s Cooking

November Newsletter Deadline 4:00OWL Opening Weekend

9:00OWL Opening Weekend Uptown Art Colony Art Show & Sale 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

10:00GJ MutualAid 9:30Laughter Yoga@Sherwood 10:30Meditation 5:30UUNight!

1:00Aging Graciously 6:30Goddess Group 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 10:30AllAges WorshipService

1:00OWLOpening Weekend

1:00OWLWeekly Session

10:00GJ MutualAid 9:30Laughter Yoga@Sherwood 10:30Meditation 5:30UUNight!

7:00GreenTeam Meetingvia Zoom

Unitarian Universalist

of the Grand Valley P.O. Box 1053 Grand Junction, CO 81502

“Vitally

Minister: Rev. Wendy Jones 257-0772 x2 or minister@grandvalleyuu.org

Director of Religious Education: Meg Worthy 257-0772 x3 or dre@grandvalleyuu.org

Church Administrator: Maya Kraushaar 257-0772 x1 or administrator@grandvalleyuu.org

Facilities Coordinator: Jimi Blevins facilities@grandvalleyuu.org

Office Hours:

Tuesdays: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm Wednesdays: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm Thursdays: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm Fridays: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

NON-PROFIT

NO.

JUNCTION, CO