February 2006 Newsletter
 Page Number Two

Helen's History Project

Did you know that Helen has kept a record of the UFL since the very beginning? Well, she has! And she is inviting you to contribute whatever you have found memorable from the past year. It could be a picture, a program, a newspaper clipping or a memory you would like to share.

I asked Sheila and Jessica to give me some background on the UFL History Books and this is what they said:

The three volumes are kept in the UFL library. Every member and friend should take a look at these books. Helen has done a marvelous job of compiling the history of the Unitarian Fellowship of Longview. The story of the congregation, as a whole, and individual achievements are recorded in the pages of the books. Pictures, newspaper articles, orders of service - the list goes on and on of the wonderful things that have been accomplished and are preserved in these volumes. In addition, each year Helen writes a descriptive narrative that records the events.

Not only are they a wealth of knowledge for members and friends, Jessica and Sheila took them to the Shreveport Renaissance Module to show UU Religious Educators the work of the fellowship. The books are also used in making grant proposals and other business when the work of the fellowship has to be sent to others.

Along with the history books there are two video recordings of the UFL pledge dinners that are prime time viewing. These books and videos represent the best of our fellowship. Don't miss out on the opportunity to become acquainted with our history.

Helen put together a " Brief History of the Unitarian Fellowship

of Longview", in 2004. It is a three-page condensed version of UFL history that was written to celebrate our 20th anniversary.

We have helped Helen a few times with the compilation of the history books. It is always a joy to look back over the year to see everything that we have accomplished and I love working with Helen. We've looked through the books many times and relive the joyous memories over and over again. The history books are such an important part of our fellowship. We’re so glad Helen continues to do this.

 

The U S Constitution and Fascinating Facts About It

Oak Hill Publishing Company

This is the second in a series of quotes from this booklet that Veronica gave to me to share with you.

Signers of the Constitution

On September 17, 1787 the Constitutional Convention came to a close in the Assembly Room of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There were seventy individuals chosen to attend the meetings with the initial purpose of amending the Articles of Confederation. Rhode Island opted to not send any delegates. Fifty-five men attended most of the meetings, there were never more than forty-six present at any one time, and ultimately only thirty-nine delegates actually signed the Constitution. (William Jackson, who was the secretary of the convention, but not a delegate, also signed the Constitution. John Delaware was absent but had another delegate sign for him.) While offering incredible contributions, George Mason of Virginia, Edmund Randolph of Virginia, and Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts refused to sign the final document because of basic philosophical differences. Mainly, they were fearful of an all-powerful government and wanted a bill of rights added to protect the rights of the people.

Banners on Parade

One of the most impressive sights at the UUA General Assembly is the banner parade. A representative from each participating fellowship is allowed to march and display their banner, designed and made by their members to uniquely represent their fellowship. If you’ve ever seen the opening ceremonies of the Olympics where representatives of each participating nation march with their flag, you will have an idea of the visual impact and emotional flavor of the event.

There has been ongoing interest and discussion about the UFL having a banner. And now it looks like it is going to happen because Kay Byfield has agreed to chair a committee to get it designed and Marolen Mullinax has volunteered to sew it. (Just call her ‘Betsy.’)

If you’ve got ideas and would like to help, just let Kay know. You can reach her by email (kaybyfield@iname.com) or phone (903 577 0917). And you can do some research at uua.org to see lots of examples and get the specifications for size. Just type "GA banners" in the Search box on the home page.

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