Behind the Desk 9/1/2025
Surprise—it’s almost Fall!
My favorite season is just around the corner, and I’m already shivering with antici…pation: the fiery colors of changing leaves, crisp air sweeping through the city, the scent of bonfires, and of course, Samhain and Halloween festivities. This year, I’m treating myself to a few delights—Wicked: For Good hitting theaters in November, the annual Rocky Horror Picture Show Halloween showing at the Music Box Theatre, and concerts from Lady Gaga and Purity Ring. Since going vegan, Thanksgiving doesn’t hold quite the same charm, but I’ve discovered new joy in hosting a vegan potluck and creating fresh traditions with friends.
Here at 2U, we’re off to a scrumdiddlyumptious start with Fall Fest planning! This year’s goal is $45,000, and already we’ve secured over $15,000:
$7,400 from our Dreamers of Dreams Host Committee (goal is $10,000)
A $7,000 match for the Paddle Raise from Dr. Martin Steindler (thank you!)
$515 from our 2U Night Out Potluck & Movie Night (beating our goal by $180!)
$420 in Golden Ticket sales
More than a dozen silent auction items donated so far
We’re deeply grateful to everyone who has already pitched in! In the coming weeks, we’ll be looking for confectioneers to provide beverages, desserts, and candy, as well as a Fizzy-Lifting Crew to help with setup, decorating, bartending, paddle raise counting, and more. If you’d like to get involved, visit the wUUnka Shop in the Palmer Room after service on Sundays or go here.
Beyond 2U, I’ve also stepped further into denominational work. I’m serving a three-year term on the AUUA Board, and this year I’ve been tasked with reimagining our branding and online presence, as well as planning our 2026 Board retreat. I’ll also be participating in the Fall 2025 Wave Cohort: Growing Administrative Capacity. This program recognizes that strong administration is vital for UU congregations. Staff extend congregational capacity, provide consistency and expertise, and free up members and leaders to focus on our mission. By sharing administrative best practices across congregations, we can reduce stress, minimize risk, and ensure staff are well-supported—allowing all of us to thrive together.
Closer to home, I’ll be hosting an Illinois UU Admin Retreat in October with nine colleagues from nearby congregations. This retreat will give us space to connect, share, and learn from one another—building bridges between our communities and bringing fresh ideas back to our congregations.
A quick note: I’ll be out of the office from Friday, October 31st through Saturday, November 15th, returning Sunday, November 16th—rested and recharged after Fall Fest, and ready for the holiday season at 2U!
As always, I’d love to hear from you: what’s your favorite part of Fall? Do you have traditions, travel plans, or cozy rituals you’re looking forward to?
With gratitude and excitement for the season ahead,
