2. Attendees: Rick Brush, Jim Todhunter, Linda Carder, John Touchton, Dave and Toko Ackerman, Aldene Ault, Holly Brooks, Kristen Brown, Mary Carnahan, Judy Cox, Sue Dollins, Nancy Lohman, Dan Pence, Ruth Prindle, Jim and Jackie Walters.

3. The agenda was adopted as proposed. The minutes of the November meeting were reviewed and approved as presented.

4. Report of the Clerk of the Rolls: membership is unchanged at 643.

5. Staff Reports: Jim Todhunter reported on the monthly joint staff meeting with MMUMC staff. It went smoothly, with a positive spirit, and focused on the upcoming Christmas schedule. Dave Ackerman asked whether we need to formally ask them about a possible extension of our stay in their facility. Jim will approach MMUMC on the issue. Jim went on to comment on the spirit and attendance at the Sunday evening youth program.

6. Board Reports:

a. Deacons: Mary Carnahan reported that the Worship Committee met with the Christian Education Board to evaluate the children in worship experience, and to plan for the return to the renovated facility. They are looking to expand youth worship opportunities. She went on to say that there will be no reception after the midnight Christmas Eve service. She also reported that "Care" packages are being prepared for the 11 college students we have addresses on. At the Board’s next meeting they will be writing notes to people on the prayer list.

b. Trustees: Dave Ackerman reported that the Stewardship pledge rate has returned to 98-99%. Trustees are pushing for movement on the Planned Giving campaign. One idea put forward is to look for ways to involve the congregation in identifying a focus for the campaign.

c. Christian Education: Kristen Brown said they are working on including childrens names in the next edition of the church directory. Tom Martin has agreed to Chair the Camp Committee this year. 4-5 camps are being planned, and a camp brochure is being prepared. The C.E. Board is still working on finding a replacement for Toby Ratcliffe. A couple of possibilities did not materialize.

d. Social Witness: Nancy Lohman reported that the January 6^th sermon will be on Shepherd’s Table. She also discussed plans for Just Peace Sunday and some of the local projects the Board supports.

e. Outreach & Engagement: Judy Cox reported that two new members were welcomed into the congregation the previous Sunday. CCC continues to get a few new visitors. The latest trend is people coming because of personal contact with CCC members. There are 7-8 likely possibilities for new members. She went on to discuss new member follow-up by O&E board members that is a change from the old Sponsor program.

f. Stewardship: Ruth Prindle said that the group will meet again next week. A Consecrating Stewards program will be pursued. April 21^st will be Stewardship Sunday. This will take place just before our return to the building. Ruth brought the remaining 18 pledge envelopes with her to the Council meeting and asked for volunteers to help her distribute them.

g. Church Life: reported that the Advent Wreath Workshop went very well.

7. Other Reports:

a. Communications: Holly Brooks reported that a group has met to begin formulation of plans for web-based e-Church initiatives. They will meet again in January.

b. Open & Affirming: Bill Johnson who is the UCC Secretary for Gay, Lesbian, Transgender and HIV/Aids issues will be coming to CCC 9-10 February. He will hold a workshop on the 9^th and meet with the youth the evening of the 10^th. In preparation, there will be a family education seminar January 13^th.

c. Building & Design: Jackie Walters gave a status update on the renovation project. She reported that the roof will be going on to the new entrance area next week. She explained the decision to purchase a new boiler rather than try to reinstall the old unit. An estimate has been received for repainting the Sanctuary. The group will be meeting with Building and Grounds later this week to discuss landscaping. Dave Ackerman reported that Trustees have drawn on the Cornerstone loan for the first time to pay renovation bills. Jackie Walters went on to say that the Contingency fund is rapidly running out due to unforeseen problems (like the boiler replacement). There was a discussion of the organ rewiring problem and the options, including digitalizing the organ. John Touchton will report further on this next meeting. It was suggested that all the cost estimates be gathered and presented to the Trustees for evaluation. Jackie said they should have most of the figures by February. There may be a need to go back to the congregation to address additional issues like the eventual replacement of the window lintels that were not a part of the original renovation project.

8. New Business:

a. Membership Growth: Jackie Walters and Judy Cox each provided handouts on ideas for membership growth. A short discussion ensued, then it was suggested that the issue be tabled until the next meeting. The Church Clerk suggested that all Council members review the handouts and e-mail their comments to Jackie and Judy prior to the next meeting.

b. Rick Brush discussed plans for the church re-dedication on June 9^th. It was suggested that rather than having the Sunday service and a later celebration event, that the two be combined. The issues will be discussed further.

9. The meeting was adjourned at 9:55 PM

3. Staff Reports:

4. Board Reports:

5. Other Reports:

6. New Business:

a. Rick Brush spoke of the need to support Felicity Wright (in care) in the thesis paper she is preparing on CCC.

b. Rick went on to speak of the discussion he had with Jim Todhunter, Linda Carder, and Jackie Walters on the review the church’s Mission statement (who we are and why we are here). Dave Ackerman and Mary Stone have agreed to review it.

c. The Moderator will be putting together a group to begin to develop a new staffing vision for CCC’s future. He will nominate members, and will also include volunteers who would like to be involved in the process. He hopes for a cross-section of the church community. The group will develop staffing options for consideration.

d. Judy Cox spoke of new member growth being a critical issue for our immediate future. O&E welcomes visitors and follows-up with them, but she wondered if we need a more defined focus on Growth? Jackie Walters spoke in favor of creating a strategic plan for growth, and felt that a revised Mission statement might be a good starting point. She volunteered to work with Judy on developing some initial ideas on growth.

7. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM

5. Staff Reports:

a. Linda Carder reported that the Covenant Class retreat went very well. She also reported that 35 youth attended the Sunday evening program yesterday. Approximately 22 senior highs are signed up for their retreat next weekend.

b. Jim Todhunter discussed the joint MMUMC/CCC services to be held at 9:30 and 11 AM next Sunday. The weekend of 20-21 October, CCC will host Hale Schroer’s Worship Workshop. 2-3 November CCC members will be participating in the Jesus Seminar at St, Like’s Lutheran church. Jim went on to talk about the selection of his spirituality support group (5 men and 5 women). They will meet with him to help descern the movement of the Holy Spirit in the congregation.

c. John Touchton reported that all the choirs are back on schedule. The children and youth choirs are being restructured into different age groups. The Youth Ensemble is beginning to form-up. 41 attended the first rehearsal. He is also working on the joint choir madrigal evening presentation scheduled for 8 December. Linda Carder thanked John for the way the Youth Ensemble is working in concert with the CCC youth program.

6. Old Business:

a. Rick Brush handed out a revised meeting schedule for the coming year.

b. An update was presented on the Silent Auction. Plans are on target. Approximately $1100 in donations has been received already. More auction items have been donated than expected. The need to encourage attendance at the event was emphasized.

c. An update was also presented on the every-member visitation. Bud Dennie reports that plans are moving forward. Initial visitations will take place before the end of November. No end date has yet been established for the process.

7. New Business:

a. The question of changing the church fiscal year had been tabled at the council retreat. A discussion of the idea ensued. It was suggested that the boards discuss the pros and cons of the issue and the council members bring their ideas to the next Executive Council meeting.

b. Rick Brush opened a discussion of the upcoming informational Congregational meeting. Possible topics to be discussed at the meeting include: updates from Building and Design, and on the financing and debt-service ramifications; draft plans for the celebration from O&E and Steering; and an outline of the Executive Council retreat (issues/timelines, etc.). Terry Strand reported that childcare will be available for the meeting. A long discussion ensued on the topics to be presented, and on how to involve the congregation.

8. Board Reports:

a. Trustees: Peg Hood reported that paperwork has been submitted to the State for an additional $50,000 bond. Jim Todhunter met with the bond issue advisor, Mr. Miles Shulman, who was hopeful that more bond money will be approved this year.

b. Christian Education: Kristen Brown discussed the need to recruit a teacher for the 4-5 year olds. She went on to report that several new families have registered their children for church school this year. Ten families attended the recent Communion Workshop. The search is continuing for candidates to fill the vacant church school coordinator position. They are hoping to fill it by mid-November.

c. Social Witness: Nancy Lohman said the board is focusing this year on giving to agencies and organizations working on tight budgets, where our donations will make a big difference. The board is also working on "Mission Minutes" to be presented during services in January.

d. Outreach and Engagement: Judy Cox reported that the board will hold a mini-retreat November 11^th, focused on preparing for the return to the renovated facility. She also said we are continuing to have new visitors to our services at MMUMC, and the board is hopeful that new members will be joining soon.

e. Stewardship: Ruth Prindle reported that the board is working on ideas for next year’s Stewardship campaign.

9. Other Reports:

a. Steering Committee would like the boards to discuss ways to celebrate the return to the renovated church building. They are already working on ideas and asked if there was a budget for the celebration. The need for a consolidated, accessible church calendar to keep track of events was also discussed.

b. Open & Affirming: Bill Johnson from UCC headquarters will be coming early next year to work with the congregation on O&A and transgender issues.

10. The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 PM

TOP of Page

1. The gathering at the CCC Retreat House was called to order by Moderator Rick Brush at 8 PM on Friday, September 7th. Dale Ostrander opened it with a prayer.

3. Session I - Introduction and Self-Study Review: In relation to the CCC Self-Study and subsequent endeavors, Rick Brush and Jackie Walters ask the Council members to reflect on and share:

• What do we have to celebrate?
• What can we let go of?
• What is no longer relevant?
• What has been satisfactorily completed?
• What needs more work?
• What has been started, but not finished?
• What has not been started yet?
• What needs fine-tuning?
• Have there been unintended consequences?

A discussion ensued and many ideas were brought forward on each question. Rick and Jackie went on to emphasize the need for the Council to identify and seriously focus on the issues the church must address in the 2001-2002; 2002-2003; and 2003-2004 timeframes.

4. The meeting reconvened at 8:30 AM on Saturday, September 8th with a spiritual exercise led by Jim Todhunter.

5. Session II - Choose Priorities:

a. Rick Brush opened the session with an overview of Linda Carder's Interim Associate Minister Report. She and Dale Ostrander will be retiring in early 2004. This means that the one-year search process must start in early 2003. Consequently, the planning for the search must begin in early 2002. This will include important decisions on future staffing requirements for the church, and the writing of clear job descriptions to match those requirements.

b. He went on to discuss the need for creating significant relational groups to help engage new members, and to energize the rest of the congregation. Just placing new members on Boards and Committees may not be the best way to get them involved.

c. He also suggested that the Council look at whether or not each of the Boards needs its current authorized number of members (many of whom also sit on Committees). Could a Board function with fewer members if processes were re-engineered? For example, if a Committee member periodically reported to the Board, there would be no need for the current arrangement where a Board member also sits on one or more Committees.

d. Rick went on to suggest that if we proactively linked people to activities they are interested in, it would be a mechanism to engage their interest, especially if they were reluctant to join a Board or Committee.

6. Session III - Small Group Discussion and Results:

a. Rick Brush then moved on to an analysis of the issues brought up the previous evening. He divided them into five major categories to facilitate long-term planning discussions:

• Governance
• Membership/Growth/Diversity
• Budget/Stewardship
• Staffing
• Community of Caring/Relationships

b. The Council divided into groups to brainstorm about the topics. Each group then reported back on their conclusions.

7. Business Meeting:

a. Steering Committee: Terry Strand reported that they are looking at ways to celebrate the return to our renovated facility. By the end of September they will begin to consolidate ideas.

b. Open & Affirming: Terry Strand also reported that O&A met last Thursday with Bill Johnson from UCC national headquarters. They are looking at his leading a Saturday program that would possible include participation by other local area churches. This would be followed by him preaching at CCC the next day.

c. Communications Committee: Holly Brooks said that this group will meet in 9601 Colesville at 7:30 PM on the 27th of September.

d. Treasurer: Dan Pence reported that the audit of the church books was underway and that the results might be ready in October.

e. Outreach & Engagement: Judy Cox reported that O&E is planning a mini-retreat in November to focus on the very busy coming months. She also said they anticipate that the first new members since the "Wilderness Journey" began will join the church soon.

f. AIM: Jim Todhunter spoke of the upcoming AIM house meetings. He will be looking for six CCC households to volunteer to host these. There will be a training session on the 20th in preparation for the meetings.

g. New Business: Rick Brush reported he has received a letter from Toby Ratcliffe resigning her position as church school coordinator effective in November. She will be pursuing a new opportunity.

8. Session IV - Worship, Spirituality, Happening Now: Jim Todhunter led a discussion of worship and spirituality. This was followed by a closing prayer service in the Chapel.

9. The meeting adjourned at approximately 4:30 PM

The meeting was called to order at 7:40PM by Moderator Rick Brush. Linda Carder opened it with a meditation on the biblical loaves and fishes passage.

Attendees: Rick Brush, Linda Carder, John Touchton, Dave and Toko Ackerman, Tom and Aldene Ault, Holly Brooks, Kristen Brown, Judy Cox, Bud Dennie, Sue Dollins, Patricia Esposito, Nancy Lohman, Dan Pence, Bob Perry, Ruth Prindle, Doris Raber, Betty Stith, Terry Strand, Jim and Jackie Walters.

3. The meeting agenda proposed by the Moderator was adopted with modification. The minutes of the 09 July Executive Council meeting were reviewed and approved as written.

4. Report of the Clerk of the Rolls: It was reported that membership was unchanged from the previous month.

5. Moderator Issues:

a. Rick Brush presented a list of key upcoming event dates:

8/25 - Pool party at the Stonegate community pool from noon until 3 PM.
8/29 - Linda Carder's interim associate minister report.
9/7-8 - Executive Council retreat at the Retreat House.
9/9 - All church picnic, outdoor worship service, and pot luck dinner at the YMCA grounds. Robin Platky has the lead. Publicity will be needed. The rain plan includes use of the indoor pool followed by worship at MMUMC and dinner in their social hall.
10/7 - Combined Sunday morning church service with MMUMC congregation.
10/14 - Informational Congregational Meeting (30-60 minute duration).
10/20-21 - Dr. Hal Schoer will present a worship-related program.

b. All council members appear to have received the consolidated e-mail addresses list.

6. Staff Report: Linda Carder reported that Jim Todhunter is away this week; Dale Ostrander will be leaving tomorrow for two weeks; Toby Ratcliffe is away for two weeks; John Touchtion will be away for one week in August; and Linda will be away the last week of August and the first two weeks in September.

7. Old Business:

a. Report on the Boy Scouts of America: The letter agreed to last month has been sent to the Chief Scout Executive enunciating CCC's objections to the BSA exclusion policy,

8. Board Reports:

a. Bud Dennie reported on the planned all-church visitation. He will be using two helpers from the Boards. No date has been set yet, but more details will be available for the next council meeting.

b. Trustees: Dave Ackerman reported that his board will have a retreat in a couple weeks to look at long-range planning for the church.

c. Christian Education: Kristen Brown reported that C.E. is gearing up for Fall. Church school starts 16 September. The youth program starts 30 September. The board is also working with the Open & Affirming group on education dates.

d. Social Witness: Nancy Lohman reported on the board's discussion about the possibility of returning the Just Peace Task Force responsibilities to Social Witness. "Mission Moments" will start in the Fall to let the congregation know about issues Social Witness is tracking, and how the board's budget is being used.

e. Outreach & Engagement: Judy Cox reported that O&E will gear up in September as the summer vacations end.

f. Stewardship: Ruth Prindle reported 207 pledges have been received to date for a total of $430,226 which is only $11,000 less than the budget target. Hand written thank you notes are being prepared. A Stewardship verse has been chosen for next year and supplies have been ordered. They are well ahead in planning for the next campaign.

g. Church Life: The board is looking for volunteers to assist at social hour. Plans are being developed for numerous events between now and year-end, including a WWII veteran story-tell.

9. Other Reports:

a. Communications: Holly Brooks reported that they will be meeting quarterly beginning in September. She is looking for volunteers and ideas.

b. Open & Affirming: Terry Strand reported that they are working on offering workshops for parents and adults on O&A issues. The goal is to develop a sense of respect and honoring self. John Touchton reported on plans for a weekend workshop, 9&10 February, to explore where we want to go on O&A. He envisions as a multi-church community project. Tom Ault recommended a response be developed to the campaign to overturn Maryland's Tolerance Laws. O&A and Social Witness will coordinate on this.

c. Building and Design: Jackie Walters reported that the next progress meeting will be next week, and there will be a 21 August meeting to finalize the decorating scheme. The elevator pit is being dug (water and rock were found). Demolition work is almost complete. The new entrance foundation is in and walls are being constructed.

d. Steering Committee: Patricia Esposito reported that much is going on including planning for the Spring return/celebration. They are looking for ideas.

10. New Business:

a. Safe Churches Policy: Linda Carder recapped the decision to use the simple UCC policy guidelines. Toby Ratcliffe is working with a committee on implementation.

b. Retreat Planning: Rick Brush handed out the proposed retreat agenda. He asked everyone to review the Self-Study prior to the retreat.

c. Policy for Permanent/Endowment Fund: The wording of the CCC Constitution was reviewed. A discussion ensued. The Council decided it needed more information. Gordon Forbes will be invited to an upcoming meeting and UCC sources of information will be explored.

11. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM

The meeting was called to order at 7:35PM by Moderator Rick Brush. Jim Todhunter opened it with a meditation on the spiritual support group he is forming.

Attendees: Rick Brush, Jim Todhunter, Linda Carder, Tom Ault, Grace Deitz, Holly Brooks, Kristen Brown, Judy Cox, Sue Dollins, Peg Hood, Carolyn Hoskinson, Glenda Neal, Dan Pence, Bob Perry, Doris Raber, Terry Strand, Jim Walters, Anne Weissenborn

4. Report of the Clerk of the Rolls: It was reported that membership had declined from 648 to 644, a loss of 4 members by transfer.

5. Moderator Issues:

a. Rick Brush initiated a discussion of the draft meeting schedule for the new church year.

b. E-mail addresses were collected from the attendees to create a distribution group for Executive Council information.

6. Staff Report: Linda Carder reported on the donations that have been received for the youth going to the UN meeting on Racism in South Africa. She discussed the trip and plans for the youth to report back to the congregation upon their return. The ministers will be working with the Moderator and Moderator-Elect on future plans for the youth of the church.

7. Old Business:

a. Building and Design Report: Tom Ault reported no major changes in the progress of the renovation. The new entrance should be enclosed by November. Water and rock problems have been found in the excavation sites. $28K from the contingency fund has been obligated to break and remove the exceptionally hard rock that was encountered.

b. Report on the Boy Scouts of America: Jim Todhunter discussed the positive results to date of the dialogue meetings between the CCC and Cub Pack 275 representatives (4 members from each) on the BSA policy on exclusion of gays and lesbians. He reviewed the long history of CCC's relationship with Pack 275, and the dialogue group's meetings with national scout organization and regional representatives. He also mentioned that two church families have children in the Pack. Jim went on to discuss the range of options church and other sponsoring organizations have to the BSA policy, along with the range of possible responses from the BSA national organization.

Carolyn Hoskinson moved that:

• A letter will be sent to the Chief Scout Executive enunciating CCC's objections to the BSA exclusion policy,
• That the staff and Moderator pursue the issue with local churches and the national UCC organization,
• That the Pack 275 charter be renewed,
• That the congregation be educated on the issue, and
• That the Executive Council extend its appreciation to the Open & Affirming task force for their efforts on this issue.

Peg Hood seconded the motion and the Council approved it by voice vote.

c. Every Member Visitation: It was announced that Bud Dennie has agreed to organize the planned Every Member Visitation. He is looking for assistance on the project. Interested individuals are asked to contact him directly.

8. New Business:

a. Communications: Holly Brooks discussed her idea to revitalize the Communications Committee. She is looking for a representative from each of the boards. She is also looking for ideas on how best to keep up the Narthax bulletin board. Carolyn Hoskinson mentioned that Deacons has a standing item on communications at their meetings, and recommended that other boards do the same.

b. Anne Weissenborn asked that the congregation hear more about the current Potomac Association budget problems, and the annual Conference meeting.

9. Board Reports:

a. Deacons: Carolyn reported that they had a good first meeting with high enthusiasm.

b. Christian Education: Kristen Brown will be chairing the board this year.

c. Social Witness: Anne Weissenborn and Nancy Lohman will co-chair this year. The board is supporting the students going to South Africa and planning a retreat. They are concerned about being able to maintain the Mission budget into the future, and plan to educate the congregation on how the money is being spent. There has also been discussion of returning the Just Peace group to the Social Witness umbrella.

d. Outreach and Engagement: Judy Cox will chair the board this year. They are orientating to the board responsibilities and assigning roles to members. She reported that good responses have been received from their contacts of recent additions to CCC membership, and that there have been new visitors to CCC who found us through the church website. She emphasized the importance of the website as an information source. The Board is in the initial stages of planning for publicizing the return to the church building after renovation.

e. Stewardship: Ruth Prindle and John Gibson will co-chair. As a result of handwritten notes to non-pledgers, more new pledges have been received.

f. Church Life: No leader yet. Members are taking turns. A pool party is being planned for August, and a possible all-church picnic in September at the YMCA field.

10. Steering Committee: Terry Strand reported that the vehicle donation program is going very well, and there has been a good response to the member loan request. There have also been new and increased pledges to Keystones.

11. The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 PM

4. Report of the Clerk of the Rolls: It was reported that the church had gained 7 new members from the Confirmation class, and one member passed away.

5. Fundraising proposal: Mr. David Bobbitt, a member of the congregation, presented a proposal for a Church Chili Cook-Off and Silent Auction as a fundraising activity. He has had experience with this type of event in the past and expressed a willingness to help organize such an event in the Fall, if the Council approved. Mr. Bobbitt explained how chili cook-off and auction portions of the proposal would work and how they could be organized. The Council thanked Mr. Bobbitt for his presentation and for the effort he had put into preparing the detailed proposal.

After he left, a discussion ensued about the impact of independent fundraising activities on the church’s unified budget philosophy. It was noted that in the past the church has sanctioned a limited number of fundraising efforts for projects that fell outside the normal scope of the unified budget, including for special youth activities. There was a discussion on the merits of maintaining a unified budget given the church’s current circumstances. Dave Ackerman advocated strongly for keeping the concept, saying that it forces the church to wrestle with its priorities. The points were made that fundraising activities could also threaten Stewardship activities, and drain people and energy away from boards and committees. Jim Todhunter advocated for flexibility with a case-by-case look at fundraising proposals. Others supported the idea of an activity that would involve the general public, and raise the visibility of the church in the community. John Touchton saw the benefit of fundraisers as a mechanism to engage new and marginalized members of the congregation in an activity with a specific and limited commitment. Options for a fundraiser focus were discussed. Dan Pence moved that we proceed with Mr. Bobbitt’s cook-off/auction idea with a focus on supporting the Keystones effort. Neville Platt seconded the motion and the Council approved it.

6. Steering Committee Report: The next meeting will be in a week with a presentation by Greg Linden on the planned giving program. A mailing will be released tomorrow.

7. Staff Reports:

a. Linda Carder presented a transition plan for the new boards’ first meeting in mid-June. It included worship, followed by time for outgoing board members to share their joys, hopes and concerns, and for new board members to ask questions and for all to share their perspectives on the individual boards and their activities. The Council approved her plan.

b. Jim Todhunter presented proposed plans for the Fall season, including an all-church visitation focused on supporting fellowship and connection, not for fundraising. A discussion ensued on the possible merits of combining this with the Stewardship calling efforts next year instead. Patricia Esposito moved that the Council support an every member visitation in the Fall. Neville Platt seconded the motion and the Council approved it with three abstentions. It was decided to postpone a decision on which board(s) would lead the effort until the next Council session when the new boards would be represented.

c. Jim Todhunter then presented plans for the 2002 Stewardship campaign. He proposed that Pledge Sunday be scheduled before Easter to allow more time for pledges to come in and to formulate the budget plan. The anticipated move back into the renovated church facility would also have an impact. It was agreed that the Council needs to rethink the fiscal year since there is a general consensus that the current July to June schedule is not working out as well as had been hoped. Timing of a change would be both complex and complicated. No decision on this was made, but the issue will be studied and decided upon in the future.

d. Jim Todhunter addressed the need to begin planning for future staffing needs based on the anticipated retirements of Linda Carder and Dale Ostrander in the 2004 timeframe. He presented the timeline of the steps that will need to take place to ensure a smooth transition. This presents the church with an opportunity to decide what staffing mix is needed to meet the needs of our congregation, and to ensure the future growth of the church. Moderator-Elect Rick Brush said that this will be a major issue for the Council throughout the coming year.

8. New Business:

a. A draft of the agenda for the upcoming annual meeting was presented, and responsibilities discussed.

b. Under "Other Business" it was agreed that a regular future agenda item for the Council would be to focus on supporting weakened boards. In addition, Dan Pence advocated for the approval of budget money for a formal and long overdue audit of the church books.

9. Old Business:

a. The Fundraising Committee proposal was tabled for a future meeting

b. It was agreed that the Council retreat dates would be 7-8 September.

10. Board Reports:

a. Carolyn Hoskinson presented a Deacons handout entitled "50 Simple Things You Can Do". She elicited responses and ideas from the Council members.

b. Stewardship presented the latest statistics on this year’s campaign.

11. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:30 PM after thanking Sue Dollins for her efforts as Moderator during the past year.

2. Attendees: Sue Dollins, Jim Todhunter, Linda Carder, Dave and Toko Ackerman, Tom and Aldene Ault, Kristen Brown, Rick Brush, Judy Cox, Bud Dennie, Patricia Esposito, Carolyn Hoskinson, Greg Muncill, Dan Pence, Neville Platt, Ruth Prindle, Jim Stedman, Terry Strand, Jim and Jackie Walters.

4. Report of the Clerk of the Rolls: It was reported that membership had declined from 645 at the end of February to 642 at the end of April.

5. Introduction to Action in Montgomery (AIM): Rev. Gordon Forbes of our congregation spoke briefly of his longtime affiliation with AIM, then introduced Mr. Mark Fraley who talked about the history of the organization, its current goals, and plans for the future. Jim Todhunter expressed his feeling that AIM is a community-centered organization that CCC should explore working with in the future. Sue Dollins and Gordon Forbes agreed to take this for action and anticipate reporting back in the Fall.

6. Steering Committee Report: Terry Strand reported that Rick Brush, Sue Dollins, Trish Esposito and herself met to vision about the Steering Committee. Their goal is to be a conduit for internal and external communications, making full use of Newsnotes, Keystones, the church web site, and other forums for the exchange of information. They are and will continue to meet with the ministers, boards, committees, working groups, and individuals about current and upcoming issues related to the renovation project and the immediate future of the church. Their next meeting will be May 14th.

7. Staff Reports: Jim Todhunter handed out the staff's visioning plan for the next twelve months and discussed their ideas. He invited Council input. Discussion ensued about the document. The general consensus was that the ministers were on track and they were praised for their efforts. It was suggested that Jim write an article for Newsnotes on the staff's vision for the coming year.

8. New Business:

a. Transition to the New Boards for the New Fiscal Year: Linda Carder spoke of the planning for the transition to the new boards which will take place after the annual meeting.

b. UCC UN Delegation: Linda Carder reported that Jaime Platky and Jaime Breads have been approved to be members of the UCC delegation to the UN Conference on Racism to be held in Duban, South Africa. She will be raising money for the trip and eliciting input from the congregation.

c. Iowa Youth Group Visit: Linda Carder reported that the Board for Church Life is planning an all-church potluck dinner to coincide with the visit of the youth group from Iowa. There will be a need for volunteer hosts for the youth the week they are here. They will also be participating in a joint youth retreat at the Retreat House in West Virginia.

d. Annual Report Input: Sue Dollins announced that annual report input will be due after the June board meetings.

e. Open and Affirming Task Force Report: Terry Strand requested Council approval of Ann Marshall-Main to co-chair the group. Dan Pence seconded the motion and the Council approved. Jim Todhunter reported that the local Cub Scout Pack #275 has agreed to put together a group of representatives to meet with the O&A sub-group to discuss the issues surrounding the Boy Scouts of America position on open and affirming.

f. Annual Congregational Meeting: The annual meeting will be held on June 10th prior to the start of the worship service. The meeting will begin promptly at 2 PM. The Childcare Committee will work out the details of support. There will be no adult education session that day.

g. Other Business: Jim Todhunter praised Ruth Avery's continuing work on communication and scheduling issues with Marvin Memorial church. It was recommended that she be commended in writing.

9. Old Business:

a. Fundraising Committee Status: Greg Muncill presented an analysis of pledges received so far and plans for a proactive follow-up on pledges not received. Trish Esposito said that the master Keystones mailing list goes out to 505 addresses. 255 of these have pledged. Neville Platt reported that most of the member loans are for 5-7 year duration. $350,000 has been pledged as loans so far.

b. Renovation Update: Dave Ackerman reported that building permits were in hand and the finalization of the contract is near. They are working with our lawyers, and the amended document will be presented to the contractor. The loan commitment letter from the bank has been held up by the illness of the bank's representative. Tom Ault reported that the construction company is moving forward with their planning. Dave said that things are coming together quickly now.

10. Board Reports: Dave Ackerman requested that outstanding budget requests be submitted prior to next week's meeting on the budget.

11. The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 PM

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM by Moderator Sue Dollins. Jim Todhunter opened the meeting with a meditation.

2. Attendees: Sue Dollins, Jim Todhunter, Linda Carder, John Touchton, Dave and Toko Ackerman, Tom and Aldene Ault, Kristen Brown, Rick Brush, Judy Cox, Patricia Esposito, Gale Haggard, Nancy Lohman, Greg Muncill, Dan Pence, Neville Platt, Doris Raber, Mary and Clarence Stone, Jim Stedman, Terry Strand, Jim and Jackie Walters.

3. The meeting agenda proposed by the Moderator was adopted. The minutes of the March Executive Council meeting were reviewed and approved as amended.
4. Open and Affirming Task Force Update: Mary Stone began with praise for the work of the members of the O&A Task Force. Terry Strand spoke of their efforts on the issue of the church's relationship with the Boy Scouts of America. A "Dialog Committee" has been formed, convened by Jim Henkleman, to address the outstanding issues over BSA's restrictive policies on the involvement of gays in their programs. Mary Stone then spoke of O&A's focus on finding ways to build the Open and Affirming principles into the life of the church. Examples included: youths & parents - raising families in an O&A environment; working with boards & committees, and providing educational and worship opportunities to the church at large.
5. Committee Reports:

   a. Capital Campaign Follow-up Committee: It was reported that to date 255 pledges totaling $2,030,120.43 have been made, and 55% of that pledge total has been received by the church.

   b. Building and Design Committee: Tom Ault reported that the value engineering process had succeeded in lowering the project cost to approximately $3,180,000. In addition, there was good news on the water abatement permit. The less expensive project alternative was approved. All permits should be finalized in the near future, and a contract signed in a week or so.

6. Staff Reports:

   a. Jim Todhunter spoke of conversations with the Deacons about his interest in a 17 month contemplative spiritual leadership program. He has applied for and been accepted in the program, and will utilize his continuing education allotment and sabbatical time to participate.

   b. Jim Todhunter also addressed the planning with Marvin Memorial staff for an ecumenical worship experience and spirituality workshop 4-5 May.

   c. Linda Carder spoke of the senior high's 4-year of major activities. She also announced that two of our youth have been nominated as UCC team members for the upcoming United Nations conference on South Africa. While their acceptance is not certain, it is a great honor to have had them nominated.

7. New Business:

   a. Budget Requests: It was announced that budget requests need to be submitted by the end of the month.

   b. Trustees Presentation on Loan Options: Dave Ackerman led a discussion of the church's loan options for the renovation, both from the bank and the UCC Cornerstone Fund. The potential lenders are proposing additional requirements before they will approve a loan for CCC.

   Trustees feel there is a need for a Congregational Meeting to: give them flexibility on potential use of the Capital and Permanent funds; present a request for additional Keystone pledges, and member loans to the church (internal debt financing); and to obtain congregational "buy-in" to the total funding plan.

   Jim Todhunter reported that a $50K state bond bill had been approved for our Linkages program, with an additional $50K probable. While this is much less than our original $750K request, we can continue to petition the state legislature for additional funding for the "soft" portion of the program cost.

   John Touchton spoke of the need for a positive presentation on narrowing the financial wedge. It was agreed that the congregation would be informed of the circumstances through a special mailing of Newsnotes and a letter to the congregation outlining our financial status and the financing alternatives. In addition, Jim Todhunter proposed that a holistic picture of the need be presented on Stewardship Sunday.

   Dan Pence moved with Toko Ackerman seconding, that a special congregational meeting be called for April 29th to present the funding plan.

8. Old Business:

   a. Fundraising Committee Status: Sue Dollins reported that the fundraising committee has not yet met.

   b. Recognition of Dick Meyers: Dick will be recognized for his efforts at the ground-breaking ceremony this coming Saturday. $3,128 have been raised for his gift.

   c. Ground-breaking Ceremony: It was reported that preparation for this event are moving forward. The choir will perform, and it is expected that a number of area elected officials will attend.

   d. Financial Secretary Status: A member of the congregation has declined a request to fill the position, and another name is currently under consideration.

   e. Update of Linkages Place (LAP Center): Jim Todhunter reported that there is a lot of positive energy being generated by the project planning.

   f. Other: Christmas in April is scheduled for 21 April.

9. Board Reports: A new member reception is scheduled for Saturday, June 2nd.
10. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:15 PM

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