Call to order - The meeting was called to order by Joyce Ramay, president, at 4 p.m. Present in addition to Joyce were: Midge Magstadt, secretary, Doug Cartwright, treasurer, and governors Robert Bennett, Carol Elrod via phone, Lou Pizzini, past chairperson, and Carol Siferd chairman of Social Circles.

Secretary’s report – The minutes of the June meeting as submitted by Doug Cartwright and corrected by Robert Bennett were approved as corrected.

Financial reports – (See handouts)

Treasurer’s report: Doug Cartwright said that June was not a good month financially. Our income was $9,197 and expenses were $16,148 for a net loss of $6,951. Our six- month income was $87,469 with six-month expenses at $89,922 for a net loss of $2,453. There have been additional expenses for accounting and computer upgrades, but primarily contributions have been lower than usual even for the summer. Deductions had to be made from both the Florida Gulf Money Market account and the Operating Reserve($5,000)

As of July 14, 2008 our accounts were:

Checking – Florida Gulf Bank: $7,281.97
Florida Gulf Money Market: $2,572.76
Raymond James Legacy Fund: $2,237.18
Raymond James Operating Reserve: $27,092.74
Total Bank Accounts: $39,184.65

Finance Committee – The Legacy Fund Brochure was mailed in June with a letter from Ed Kleinow. Everyone felt Ed did an excellent job and should be congratulated for his work. It has been recommended that there be a Fall Fundraising letter from Wayne and then additional December Fundraising Parties as more members return from the North. There would be Pass the Baton activities to ensure all members are eventually contacted and invited to participate in the fundraising drive.

Minister’s Report – Wayne is still on retreat in Oklahoma. Joyce has spoken with him and he has been in contact with Sarah at the office. He also sent an e-mail informing the congregation of the services for July to encourage attendance. Wayne will return to the pulpit August 17.

Summer Services – Joyce is sending out an e-mail to the membership each week as a reminder of the upcoming speaker and workshops that are available. Carol Sifert recommended that those taking the offering allow a little more time for people to be able to write checks, perhaps not starting to pass the basket until part of the offertory has been played.

Social Circles – Carol Sifert reported there were two successful Pot Lucks last

Saturday. It is hoped that more people will attend these, as the purpose is to give members a chance to better know one another. A theater night is being planned for August 1 at the Theater Conspiracy. The Cookbook is coming together slowly, but it is hoped the project will continue to fruition. It was also suggested that activities and their dates be mentioned in the Bridge as much as possible so that people have a concrete reminder of ongoing events.

Social Outreach - Robert reported there will be a Book Sale this Sunday to support Hope House. It will be held outside if weather permits, otherwise tables will be set up near the library side of the auditorium. The Mano a Mano display may change to once a month rather than every week to generate more interest and sales. There has been a request from the Harry Chapin Food Drive for All Faiths to participate in a citywide collection of food from faith- based organizations on September 7. This would coincide with our Fall Startup Luncheon where the Fishers are furnishing the food and members will be bringing desserts. It was felt that the attention on feeding the homeless that day would fit well with the food drive, so we will plan to participate in the Harry Chapin event for this one Sunday only.

Services Support Council - This report was already covered regarding the Fall Luncheon.

Long Range Planning – There was continued discussion regarding facilities for a home of our own. Suggestions were made to explore shared facilities with another group such as Unity, Temple Beth El or Iona Hope. Any building used should allow access during the week as well as a Sunday service. It was also suggested the area of Royal Palm Plaza be explored for places we might rent, perhaps on a longer term basis. That area would have excellent space for parking and the McGregor Blvd. area is a central location for the congregation as a whole. It has been proposed that in December or January there would begin to be a time frame drawn up regarding Wayne’s plans for retirement. That will be an important piece of the long term planning and how ministerial succession will be approached. It is hoped that when Emily Palmer and Sylvia Weaver return they would consider leading a workshop on their experiences at General Assembly. This would also provide a time to explain more about the costs/benefits of UUA affiliation. Lloyd Fish has continued to converse with Shire Lane members about ways we can work together. At this point perhaps in some Social Outreach Activities it would be possible.

There was no Old or New Business.

Next Meeting - Tuesday, August 19 at 4 p.m. in the Edwards Building.

A motion to adjourn was made by Lou Pizzini and seconded by Doug Cartwright. The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Midge Magstadt, Secretary

2008 Board Reports: