I wanted to share this poem by author Nikki Giovanni entitled “BLK History Month.” And may we all remember that even when this world tells us we have no value, we do. “You’re as good an anybody else. You’ve got a place here too.”

Rev. Kelli McNeal

Congregational Life Minister

BLK History Month

By Nikki Giovanni

If Black History Month is not

viable then wind does not

carry the seeds and drop them

on fertile ground

rain does not

dampen the land

and encourage the seeds

to root

sun does not

warm the earth

and kiss the seedlings

and tell them plain:

You’re As Good As Anybody Else

You’ve Got A Place Here, Too

Be the Spark – First UU Auction

All Soles Dance

This Saturday, February 22nd, 7:30 to 10:30 PM

$10 for adults, $5 for ages 12-25

We will dance to the calling of Gaye Fifer (Pittsburgh) and the music of The Hollertones. Gaye is a veteran caller who brings pure joy to the dance floor with her clear directions and interesting dances. Gaye has called throughout the U.S., as well as internationally. It is a true treat to dance to her calling.

Expressive Worship

Tuesday, February 25, 6:30pm, Beach Hall

Experience spiritual practice centered around the personal creative process. Readings and songs are guided by a monthly theme, which inspires our individual artwork. At the end of the evening, those who wish to may share their work and how they were inspired. All ages and abilities enthusiastically welcomed.

February’s theme is Inclusion. Speak your truth through what you wear: craft patches that make a statement, or embellish your gear directly to let everyone know what matters to you. Bring your own materials, or use what we have on hand, and follow the provided craft, or do your own thing!

*ASH: The Hopewell Civilization

Tuesday, February 25, 7pm, Room 301

Jennifer Aultman, Chief Historic Sites Officer of Ohio History Connection, will edify and amaze us with the story of the Hopewell Civilization and the decades long process to have sites in Ohio receive our state’s only World Heritage designation. *Atheists, Skeptics, and Humanists.

Speaker for March 25 meeting: Collin Marozzi, Deputy Police Director for the ACLU of Ohio.

April 22: Marc Pinsonneault, Astronomy.

Scam Email Alert

Don’t fall for it! Phishing emails are being sent to congregants posing as Rev. Terasa, Rev. Kelli, or other board and staff members. Please do not respond to these scams! If you get an email asking for gifts or money and also asking you to not call us about the request, it’s not from the church! We will never solicit anything financial via email.

General Assembly Delegates Needed

Registration is now open: the 64th UUA General Assembly will be online and at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Maryland, June 18–22, 2025. Financial Support is available! If you plan to attend, and are interested in representing First UU as a Delegate, please reach out to our Board of Trustees.

Improved Outdoor Lighting

New outdoor lighting is being installed around the building to improve security and safety. Most notable is additional light around the main entrance, including three bollards with lights near the main door and brighter overhead lights. New, brighter security lamps have already been installed near the SYC and east entrances. Have lighting or other building questions? Email Brian Hagemann

DEI Boycott

Join the 24hr Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion boycott on big business, Friday, February 28, from 12am-11:59pm! Corporations and banks have been backing out of their commitments to DEI since Trump’s election, but they still care about their bottom line. If we disrupt the economy for just one day, it sends a powerful message. We must use the power we have, just as civil rights leaders did in the 1960’s. Anyone can participate safely and peacefully at home: just don’t spend money that day, on fast food, gas, or at major retailers! If necessary, only buy essential items such as food, medicine, and emergency supplies. If you must spend, only support small, local businesses. Spread the message! Talk about it, post about it, and document your actions.

Day Trip: Cincinnati Underground Railroad!

Saturday, March 8 at 8 am

Beyond Small Talk

In Slowter After Worship Each Sunday

Feeling distressed? Confused? Angry about current events? Bring your whole self for a free-flowing listening circle designed to help us process our feelings during these complicated times. Hosted by a covenantal relations team member.

Muffins, quick breads and fruit will be served in Beach Hall starting at 10:30am, followed by a program with Rev. Terasa and Dick Dawson.

Peace Camp Registration Coming Soon!

Save the dates: 1st UU Peace Camp is back, and we can’t wait to see you this summer! More info will be available, and registration will be released next week!

• Session A: for 6-8 years, Monday 7/28 – Friday 8/1, 9am-12noon
• Session B: for 8-11 years, Monday 8/4 – Friday 8/8, 9am-12noon

This Sunday, February 23rd

9:15am-10am Nouurish Service (sanctuary)

10-10:30am Breakfast, and Coffee until 11am (A/B, Beach Hall)

Caregivers of Young Children eat together (Beach, near the piano)

10:30am-12:15pm 13-14yr OWL (302)

11am-12:15pm Coming of Age (401)

11am-12:15pm Building Your World MS/HS (301)

11am-12noon Worship Service (sanctuary)

11:15am-12:15pm (starts after story) 3-6yr Spirit Play (102)

11:15am-12:15pm (starts after story) 7-10yr Spirit Play (201)

12noon-1pm Snack and Coffee (Beach Hall, A/B)

12:30-2:30pm Youth Group meeting, 12yrs-HS senior (402)

12:30-2:00pm Rising Young Adults meeting, 18-28yrs (302)

Help Needed: seeking scout troop & Youth Group volunteers! Email Amber, or fill out this interest form! Families: please register here.