Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Children come first for some volunteers.
As thousands fled wildfire-threatened homes near Los Angeles, volunteers with the Church of the Brethren program Children's Disaster Services focused on care for some of the most vulnerable survivors.
Rachel Contreras, a volunteer caregiver for Children's Disaster Services, looked out her window towards the west on Sunday morning, Oct. 12, and stared in horror at the wall of black smoke billowing less than 10 miles from her California home.
The Santa Ana winds that had awakened her were now gusting to 70 miles per hour, sending two wildfires--described by Los Angeles County fire inspector Frank Garrido as "blowtorches"--sweeping through the hills and canyons of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, killing two and leaving a 15,000-acre swath of destruction as of Tuesday afternoon.
Contreras hadn't gotten the phone call from her supervisor yet, but she didn't care. She looked out the window again. Television reports indicated her area was out of danger, and though many roads were closed, she could make it to San Fernando High School, one of four shelters opened by the American Red Cross.
Frantically, she ticked items from her list one by one. Play-Doh. Check. Coloring books. Check. Watercolors. Check. Puzzles. Check. For the hundredth time, she was grateful she always kept the blue suitcase packed with her Kit of Comfort. It made it easier to get to disaster scenes quickly.
As she walked into the shelter, she was greeted by a familiar sight. Worried adults stood in a daze, eyes glued to the television, hoping to hear good news. Nearly four dozen children wandered the room restlessly, looking for something to do amidst the sea of cots and sleeping bags.
Some families had been fortunate enough to have time to pack their most cherished possessions, but many had fled with only the clothes on their backs. There hadn't been time to gather toys.
That's why the Church of the Brethren's Children's Disaster Services caregivers--required to attend 27 hours training--come prepared. Volunteers like Contreras, and the other five who joined her at San Fernando, bring toys meant not only to entertain, but also to give children a way to express their feelings about the disaster.
"The children are generally frightened and confused because they're away from their routines," said Judy Bezon, associate director for Children's Disaster Services. "Everything that's familiar is torn from them. Our volunteers are specially trained to be a calming presence for the children so they can play out some of their concerns about the fire."
The Church of the Brethren had six volunteers working at San Fernando, as of Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 14. Other faith-based disaster response organizations spent the afternoon in meetings, waiting for the situation to stabilize so needs assessment teams could begin canvassing the affected areas.
It can be frustrating. Becky Purdom, volunteer program manager of the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, said CRWRC had more than 60 area volunteers to call upon and would like to help, but expected finding the necessary financial support would be challenging this year. In 2006, CWRWC rebuilt 16 homes in California following a 2005 wildfire. Earlier this year, they were there again, assessing needs from a 2007 fire. Only time will tell if they're able to assist with this fire.
Other disaster response organizations were still trying to determine where they were most needed. The danger wasn't over yet. The Sesnon fire, in the Porter Ranch area of west San Fernando Valley, continued to race towards the southwest, fueled by Santa Ana winds. The Marek fire in northeastern end San Fernando Valley was 70 percent contained, and most of the area's 1,200 residents had been allowed to return to their homes.
But for some who lived in the 4,824-acre swath of destruction, there was nothing left. Two of Lopez Canyon's poorest communities were hard hit, with 36 trailers at Blue Star Mobile Home Park and Sky Terrace Mobile Lodge completely destroyed. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles and Ventura counties earlier in the day, and officials requested a federal disaster declaration from President George Bush, which would allow FEMA to begin assisting homeowners.
--Carmen K. Sisson of Los Angeles wrote this report for Disaster News Network on Oct. 14 (reproduced here with permission from Disaster News Network, www.disasternews.net (c) 2008 Village Life Company). Gloria Cooper served as the Children's Disaster Services Rapid Response coordinator. Governor Schwarzenegger visited the Children's Disaster Services childcare center at San Fernando High School during his tour of the wildfire response.
Source: 10/22/2008 Newsline
As thousands fled wildfire-threatened homes near Los Angeles, volunteers with the Church of the Brethren program Children's Disaster Services focused on care for some of the most vulnerable survivors.
Rachel Contreras, a volunteer caregiver for Children's Disaster Services, looked out her window towards the west on Sunday morning, Oct. 12, and stared in horror at the wall of black smoke billowing less than 10 miles from her California home.
The Santa Ana winds that had awakened her were now gusting to 70 miles per hour, sending two wildfires--described by Los Angeles County fire inspector Frank Garrido as "blowtorches"--sweeping through the hills and canyons of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, killing two and leaving a 15,000-acre swath of destruction as of Tuesday afternoon.
Contreras hadn't gotten the phone call from her supervisor yet, but she didn't care. She looked out the window again. Television reports indicated her area was out of danger, and though many roads were closed, she could make it to San Fernando High School, one of four shelters opened by the American Red Cross.
Frantically, she ticked items from her list one by one. Play-Doh. Check. Coloring books. Check. Watercolors. Check. Puzzles. Check. For the hundredth time, she was grateful she always kept the blue suitcase packed with her Kit of Comfort. It made it easier to get to disaster scenes quickly.
As she walked into the shelter, she was greeted by a familiar sight. Worried adults stood in a daze, eyes glued to the television, hoping to hear good news. Nearly four dozen children wandered the room restlessly, looking for something to do amidst the sea of cots and sleeping bags.
Some families had been fortunate enough to have time to pack their most cherished possessions, but many had fled with only the clothes on their backs. There hadn't been time to gather toys.
That's why the Church of the Brethren's Children's Disaster Services caregivers--required to attend 27 hours training--come prepared. Volunteers like Contreras, and the other five who joined her at San Fernando, bring toys meant not only to entertain, but also to give children a way to express their feelings about the disaster.
"The children are generally frightened and confused because they're away from their routines," said Judy Bezon, associate director for Children's Disaster Services. "Everything that's familiar is torn from them. Our volunteers are specially trained to be a calming presence for the children so they can play out some of their concerns about the fire."
The Church of the Brethren had six volunteers working at San Fernando, as of Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 14. Other faith-based disaster response organizations spent the afternoon in meetings, waiting for the situation to stabilize so needs assessment teams could begin canvassing the affected areas.
It can be frustrating. Becky Purdom, volunteer program manager of the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, said CRWRC had more than 60 area volunteers to call upon and would like to help, but expected finding the necessary financial support would be challenging this year. In 2006, CWRWC rebuilt 16 homes in California following a 2005 wildfire. Earlier this year, they were there again, assessing needs from a 2007 fire. Only time will tell if they're able to assist with this fire.
Other disaster response organizations were still trying to determine where they were most needed. The danger wasn't over yet. The Sesnon fire, in the Porter Ranch area of west San Fernando Valley, continued to race towards the southwest, fueled by Santa Ana winds. The Marek fire in northeastern end San Fernando Valley was 70 percent contained, and most of the area's 1,200 residents had been allowed to return to their homes.
But for some who lived in the 4,824-acre swath of destruction, there was nothing left. Two of Lopez Canyon's poorest communities were hard hit, with 36 trailers at Blue Star Mobile Home Park and Sky Terrace Mobile Lodge completely destroyed. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles and Ventura counties earlier in the day, and officials requested a federal disaster declaration from President George Bush, which would allow FEMA to begin assisting homeowners.
--Carmen K. Sisson of Los Angeles wrote this report for Disaster News Network on Oct. 14 (reproduced here with permission from Disaster News Network, www.disasternews.net (c) 2008 Village Life Company). Gloria Cooper served as the Children's Disaster Services Rapid Response coordinator. Governor Schwarzenegger visited the Children's Disaster Services childcare center at San Fernando High School during his tour of the wildfire response.
Source: 10/22/2008 Newsline
Leadership Team reviews budget and planning for Annual Conference.
The Leadership Team of the Church of the Brethren, the group that is designated in the new denominational structure to continue the functions previously assigned to the Annual Conference Council, met Oct. 16 at the denomination's General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Participating were Annual Conference moderator David Shumate and moderator-elect Shawn Flory Replogle, Annual Conference secretary Fred Swartz, and general secretary Stan Noffsinger. Treasurer Judy Keyser briefly participated to deliver a financial report on the Annual Conference Fund.
The financial report indicated that the high attendance at the 2008 Annual Conference in Richmond, Va., provided a boost to the revenue for Conference, but costs for technical support at the site exceeded expectations by $72,000. Nevertheless, it is anticipated that the Annual Conference Fund will be in a positive position by the end of 2008. The Leadership Team will monitor budget projections for 2009, which currently appear to yield a deficit situation again.
The Leadership Team discussed ideas for revitalizing Annual Conference, specifically with hopes for continuing the celebration of the mission, vision, and values of the Church of the Brethren that was begun enthusiastically in connection with the 300th Anniversary of the denomination. The team will continue to support and work with the Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee in pursuing this objective.
Long-range envisioning for the denomination was another primary topic on the agenda. Building on extensive discussions by the former Annual Conference Council, the Leadership Team hopes to pursue the creation of a new visionary group composed of members of the Inter Agency Forum--which brings together the executives of the five Church of the Brethren agencies related to Annual Conference--along with some members possibly chosen by Annual Conference. This idea is in the beginning stages and will be discussed further with the Inter Agency Forum in April 2009.
In other business, the Leadership Team reviewed changes needed in the Church of the Brethren's Manual of Organization and Polity as a result of the actions of the 2008 Annual Conference. It is hoped that an updated version can be made available on the denomination's website www.brethren.org by the end of the year. The Leadership Team also prepared a first draft of a revised set of bylaws for the Church of the Brethren, Inc. It is anticipated that the revised document will be presented to Annual Conference in 2010.
The Leadership Team scheduled its next meeting for Dec. 17-18.
--Fred Swartz serves as the Annual Conference Secretary.
Source: 10/22/2008 Newsline
The Leadership Team of the Church of the Brethren, the group that is designated in the new denominational structure to continue the functions previously assigned to the Annual Conference Council, met Oct. 16 at the denomination's General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Participating were Annual Conference moderator David Shumate and moderator-elect Shawn Flory Replogle, Annual Conference secretary Fred Swartz, and general secretary Stan Noffsinger. Treasurer Judy Keyser briefly participated to deliver a financial report on the Annual Conference Fund.
The financial report indicated that the high attendance at the 2008 Annual Conference in Richmond, Va., provided a boost to the revenue for Conference, but costs for technical support at the site exceeded expectations by $72,000. Nevertheless, it is anticipated that the Annual Conference Fund will be in a positive position by the end of 2008. The Leadership Team will monitor budget projections for 2009, which currently appear to yield a deficit situation again.
The Leadership Team discussed ideas for revitalizing Annual Conference, specifically with hopes for continuing the celebration of the mission, vision, and values of the Church of the Brethren that was begun enthusiastically in connection with the 300th Anniversary of the denomination. The team will continue to support and work with the Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee in pursuing this objective.
Long-range envisioning for the denomination was another primary topic on the agenda. Building on extensive discussions by the former Annual Conference Council, the Leadership Team hopes to pursue the creation of a new visionary group composed of members of the Inter Agency Forum--which brings together the executives of the five Church of the Brethren agencies related to Annual Conference--along with some members possibly chosen by Annual Conference. This idea is in the beginning stages and will be discussed further with the Inter Agency Forum in April 2009.
In other business, the Leadership Team reviewed changes needed in the Church of the Brethren's Manual of Organization and Polity as a result of the actions of the 2008 Annual Conference. It is hoped that an updated version can be made available on the denomination's website www.brethren.org by the end of the year. The Leadership Team also prepared a first draft of a revised set of bylaws for the Church of the Brethren, Inc. It is anticipated that the revised document will be presented to Annual Conference in 2010.
The Leadership Team scheduled its next meeting for Dec. 17-18.
--Fred Swartz serves as the Annual Conference Secretary.
Source: 10/22/2008 Newsline
Brethren representatives attend conference on human trafficking.
In the wake of the unanimous support for the Annual Conference resolution on Slavery in the 21st Century, two Church of the Brethren staff members participated in an Ecumenical Conference on Human Trafficking in New York City on Sept. 29-Oct. 1. The conference was sponsored by the National Council of Churches and the United Methodist Women's Division. Attending on behalf of the Church of the Brethren were Anna Speicher and Phil Jones.
Much of the conference focused on the very serious and extensive problem of sex trafficking, which is a multibillion dollar industry worldwide and victimizes millions of women and children in this country and abroad. Other types of enslavement were also addressed, particularly those that are most commonly found in this country, such as slavery in agricultural, hotel, restaurant, and domestic work.
While there are laws on the books that prohibit slavery and impose penalties on traffickers, there are still many loopholes and successful rescues and prosecutions are few and far between. There is a great need for more education and outreach to law enforcement officials, to those who are currently held in bondage or are vulnerable to being enslaved, and to ordinary people who are unaware of the existence of this problem let alone its depth and breadth.
Participants in the conference included representatives from many faith communions, including Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopal, Lutheran, and Mennonite, as well as Church of the Brethren. Some previously knew very little about modern-day slavery; others have been addressing the issue for some time. Also attending were many representatives of faith-based organizations who are tackling some piece of the trafficking issue.
The Church of the Brethren is among the few faith communions that have issued broad-based denominational condemnations of modern-day slavery. The Church of the Brethren Study and Action Guide on Modern-Day Slavery was made available as a handout at the conference and was well received as a helpful resource (go to www.brethren.org/genbd/washofc/ModernDaySlavery.html).
The conference was valuable as a step in the process of combating this horrific problem. It was heartening to see so many people of faith either interested in or already committed to action. It was people of faith who were primarily responsible for abolishing the institution of legalized slavery in this country in the 19th century. In the 21st century there is again a pressing need to work together to "proclaim release to the captives." Judging from this conference there is heart for this critical ministry across many faith communions.
--Anna Speicher was the presenter for the Resolution on Slavery in the 21st Century to the 2008 Annual Conference. She has studied the issue of modern-day slavery along with her academic study of the history of the abolition movement. She also serves as editor of the Gather 'Round curriculum jointly produced by Brethren Press and the Mennonite Publishing Network.
Source: 10/22/2008 Newsline
In the wake of the unanimous support for the Annual Conference resolution on Slavery in the 21st Century, two Church of the Brethren staff members participated in an Ecumenical Conference on Human Trafficking in New York City on Sept. 29-Oct. 1. The conference was sponsored by the National Council of Churches and the United Methodist Women's Division. Attending on behalf of the Church of the Brethren were Anna Speicher and Phil Jones.
Much of the conference focused on the very serious and extensive problem of sex trafficking, which is a multibillion dollar industry worldwide and victimizes millions of women and children in this country and abroad. Other types of enslavement were also addressed, particularly those that are most commonly found in this country, such as slavery in agricultural, hotel, restaurant, and domestic work.
While there are laws on the books that prohibit slavery and impose penalties on traffickers, there are still many loopholes and successful rescues and prosecutions are few and far between. There is a great need for more education and outreach to law enforcement officials, to those who are currently held in bondage or are vulnerable to being enslaved, and to ordinary people who are unaware of the existence of this problem let alone its depth and breadth.
Participants in the conference included representatives from many faith communions, including Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopal, Lutheran, and Mennonite, as well as Church of the Brethren. Some previously knew very little about modern-day slavery; others have been addressing the issue for some time. Also attending were many representatives of faith-based organizations who are tackling some piece of the trafficking issue.
The Church of the Brethren is among the few faith communions that have issued broad-based denominational condemnations of modern-day slavery. The Church of the Brethren Study and Action Guide on Modern-Day Slavery was made available as a handout at the conference and was well received as a helpful resource (go to www.brethren.org/genbd/washofc/ModernDaySlavery.html).
The conference was valuable as a step in the process of combating this horrific problem. It was heartening to see so many people of faith either interested in or already committed to action. It was people of faith who were primarily responsible for abolishing the institution of legalized slavery in this country in the 19th century. In the 21st century there is again a pressing need to work together to "proclaim release to the captives." Judging from this conference there is heart for this critical ministry across many faith communions.
--Anna Speicher was the presenter for the Resolution on Slavery in the 21st Century to the 2008 Annual Conference. She has studied the issue of modern-day slavery along with her academic study of the history of the abolition movement. She also serves as editor of the Gather 'Round curriculum jointly produced by Brethren Press and the Mennonite Publishing Network.
Source: 10/22/2008 Newsline
Brethren bits: Remembrance, personnel, job openings, much more.
- Guillermo Encarnacion Bethancourt, 71, died on Oct. 11 at Lancaster (Pa.) General Hospital. He was an ordained minister and a leader in establishing Iglesia des los Hermanos (the Church of the Brethren) in the Dominican Republic, and in retirement served as interim coordinator of theological education there on behalf of the Church of the Brethren. Throughout his career he also served as executive secretary of the Mennonite Church in the DR, and as field coordinator for the American Bible Society in Puerto Rico, before devoting the rest of his career to ministering Church of the Brethren congregations in Castaner, P.R., in Falfurrias, Texas, and in Lancaster, Pa. Encarnacion was born in San Jose de Ocoa, Dominican Republic. He also is remembered for his political activism, for which he was imprisoned at Beata Island Prison in the DR from 1957-1959 for leading student protests against the Trujillo dictatorship, and for his volunteer service and advocacy on behalf of prisoners, political exiles, and immigrants in the United States. In addition to his wife, Gladys Montero de Encarnacion, he is survived by his four sons and three daughters, 13 grandchildren, one great grandchild, and brothers and sisters in the DR and the US. A memorial service was held on Oct. 13 at Lancaster Church of the Brethren. Memorial contributions are made to Lancaster Church of the Brethren or to Maranatha Multicultural Fellowship in Lancaster, to be used for the continuing support of the Church of the Brethren mission in the Dominican Republic. Brethren leaders in the DR are planning a memorial service in February 2009. Members of the Encarnacion family and others will travel to present the memorial funds to the Dominican leaders.
- Mary Eller has been appointed interim administrative secretary for the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, a joint venture of the Church of the Brethren and Bethany Theological Seminary with offices at the seminary campus in Richmond, Ind. Eller began working for the academy on Oct. 13, and will continue in the role until the end of the calendar year. She previously has been program coordinator and registrar at the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center in Elizabethtown, Pa.
- Several Brethren Revival Fellowship volunteers have completed Brethren Volunteer Service, according to an announcement in the BRF newsletter: Keri Copenhaver, Sheila Shirk, and Kurt Hershey, all from White Oak Church of the Brethren in Manheim, Pa., have completed a year of service in Lewiston, Maine. Roy and Verda Martin also have served as houseparents, and plan to continue in volunteer service for another year at the Good Shepherd Food Bank. Rachel Roop of Heidelberg Church of the Brethren in Myerstown, Pa., will be serving in 2008-09 with the Root Cellar Ministry in Lewiston.
- McPherson College invites nominations and applications for a president of the college, to succeed Ronald D. Hovis who will retire in June 2009. McPherson is a small college with 500 fulltime students, focusing on career-oriented liberal arts, located in McPherson, Kan. The college was founded in 1887 by the Church of the Brethren and remains committed to the values of the church: peace and justice, ethical behavior, and putting faith into action. McPherson's mission is to develop whole persons through scholarship, participation, and service. The next McPherson College president should be someone who is prepared to serve as both a chief executive and an academic leader; believes in the college's mission as a church-related baccalaureate college; models the values of the Church of the Brethren; can demonstrate a record of achievement in leading and managing organizations and in dealing with complex financial challenges; can help frame a compelling vision of McPherson's potential that will energize the campus, community, and other stakeholders to lend their support; and possesses an advanced degree and an understanding of the distinctive culture of higher education. Nominations, inquiries, and expressions of interest, which will be held in the strictest confidence, should be submitted as a Microsoft Word attachment to Richard Doll, Chair of the Search Committee for the President, at wagonerd@mcpherson.edu. A more detailed leadership statement is available on the college website at www.mcpherson.edu. Review of candidates will begin Nov. 1.
- Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) seeks a manager of publications to fill a fulltime salaried position based in Elgin, Ill. BBT is an agency of the Church of the Brethren and a not-for-profit organization that has 6,000 members and clients nationwide. The manager of publications provides oversight of BBT's publications--newsletters, press releases, website, and other special projects--and serves as a senior writer and copy editor. The manager will report on news and information related to BBT's ministry areas of pension, insurance, the Brethren Foundation, and the Church of the Brethren Credit Union. BBT's mission includes a wellness component, and some writing will cover how individuals can make good personal financial decisions while others will explore wellness aspects of heart/soul/mind. Stories will also report on how BBT promotes Brethren values with socially responsible investing initiatives through its management of $379 million in pension and Foundation monies. The position will manage schedule and coordinate content for publications, determine writing and photo assignments, work with a production coordinator and contracted designers, contribute to marketing and promotional efforts, oversee redesign and maintenance of the BBT website, and travel to the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, BBT Board meetings, and other events. Required knowledge and experience include an undergraduate degree in communications, English, business, or a related field, with experience and expertise in writing, copyediting, and/or project management. Knowledge in personal investments and website design is helpful. Active membership in the Church of the Brethren is preferred; active membership in a faith community is required. Salary is competitive with Church Benefits Association agencies of comparable size and scope. A full benefits package is included. Send a letter of interest, resume, three references (one supervisor, one colleague, one friend) and salary-range expectation to Donna March, 1505 Dundee Ave., Elgin IL 60120; or dmarch_bbt@brethren.org. For questions about the position, call 847-622-3371. Visit www.brethrenbenefittrust.org for more information about BBT. Interviews will begin as soon as possible.
- Church of the Brethren general secretary Stan Noffsinger has signed on to an open letter to the two presidential candidates from leaders of the National Council of Churches (NCC) and member communions. During a worldwide economic crisis affecting most households, the letter was written to remind Senators John McCain and Barack Obama that those living in poverty in the US and around the world are hurt the most by the economic downturn. "As we consider bailouts and recovery plans, we now need to hear your voices demanding that the plight of America's poorest citizens, and the needs of people living in poverty around the world, will be addressed," the religious leaders said. The letter dated Oct. 13 was signed by NCC president Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, general secretary Michael Kinnamon, and 14 heads of NCC member communions.
- Bethany Theological Seminary will observe a "Sabbatical Day" on Nov. 3. The seminary's offices in Richmond, Ind., will be closed. Occasional sabbatical days have been approved by the Bethany Board of Trustees. "My abiding hope is that, with God's grace, our spiritual, psychological, intellectual, and physical health will be deepened and strengthened by these periodic symbolic days of reflection and assessment," said Bethany Seminary president Ruthann Knechel Johansen.
- The Church of the Brethren 2008 Advent Offering materials ask, "What are we waiting for?" The materials support an annual offering for the Church of the Brethren ministries during the Advent season. "The question calls us to both reflect on our anticipation of Jesus' arrival among us, as well as to take action in response to the urgency of continuing Jesus' work for peace and justice on earth," said Carol Bowman, coordinator of stewardship development for the Church of the Brethren. Printed materials have been mailed to all congregations, or go to www.brethren.org/genbd/funding/opportun/ChristmasOffering.htm to find the materials online. The materials are offered in English and Spanish, and include worship resources, sermon helps, a downloadable logo, and an order form for offering envelopes and bulletin inserts. The suggested date for the Advent Offering is Dec. 7.
- Bethany Theological Seminary professor Dan Ulrich has been recognized on the Sojourners website, in the "God's Politics" blog by Jim Wallis. After Wallis invited posts on the topic "A Pastoral Strategy for an Economic Crisis," Ulrich submitted a sermon he had shared at Bethany's weekly chapel service titled "Faith, Fear and Finances," based on Luke 16:1-13. The sermon posting has elicited positive comments, including one from Wallis who described it as "filled with insight and care that exemplified a Christian response." Find the sermon at www.bethanyseminary.edu/files/advancement/danulrichsermon.pdf or go to www.sojo.net/blog/godspolitics/?p=2937 for the blog.
- A Children's Disaster Services Level 1 Workshop is scheduled in Denver, Colo., on Nov. 7-8. Cost is $45 for early registration, $55 after Oct. 31. The workshop will be held at the American Red Cross Mile High Chapter. Children's Disaster Services is a Church of the Brethren program in which volunteers provide a calm, safe, and reassuring presence in the midst of the chaos that follows disaster by setting up and operating special child care centers in disaster locations. The workshop is required for Children's Disaster Services volunteers, and information learned at the workshop can be beneficial to anyone working with children. Participants will experience a simulated shelter, sleeping on cots and eating simple meals. Once training is completed, participants have the opportunity to become a certified Children's Disaster Services volunteers by providing two personal references and a criminal and sexual offender background check. Contact coordinator Amy Pike at 720-250-1193 or the Children's Disaster Services office at cds_gb@brethren.org or 800-451-4407 ext. 5.
- "Leaving Church: Journeying with People of Faith In and Beyond Congregations" is the title of a one-day seminar with Alan Jamieson, to be held at Palmyra (Pa.) Church of the Brethren on Nov. 1. Jamieson is a sociologist and senior pastor at Central Baptist Church in Wellington, New Zealand. His book, "A Churchless Faith," summarizes research on why people leave churches and what happens to their faith after leaving, and outlines supportive structures and one-on-one help that churches can implement to become "leaver sensitive." Another book, "Called Again," raises concern for those who still come to church but long ago stopped being present mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, and asks how their faith can be revitalized. The seminar is for clergy and lay leaders in congregations, and is supported by a Leadership Training and Development Grant from the Church of the Brethren Office of Ministry. Participants may receive .6 continuing education units through the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership. Register by Oct. 27. Contact Palmyra Church of the Brethren, 45 N. Chestnut St., Palmyra, PA 17078; 717-838-6369.
- There is still time to apply for the "Faith Expedition: Globalization, Justice, and Coffee" sponsored by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office to Chiapas, Mexico, on Jan. 24-Feb. 3, 2009. The deadline for registrations is Nov. 1. The Faith Expedition is planned in partnership with Equal Exchange and Witness for Peace. The group will stay in the homes of coffee farmers in Chiapas, and will learn about the economic, political, and historical context. The trip also will include a visit to an indigenous women's artisan cooperative, and the opportunity to learn about the role that faith and Liberation Theology has played in rural Chiapas. The trip fee is $950 plus airfare. Past delegates have successfully raised money in their congregations, schools, and communities for these experiences. "Don't let the cost stop you from participating!" said an announcement from the Brethren Witness/Washington Office. Visit www.equalexchange.coop/interfaith-delegations or contact the Brethren Witness/Washington Office at 800-785-3246 for more information.
- Sheldon (Iowa) Church of the Brethren is holding its 120th Anniversary Celebration on Nov. 2.
- Decatur (Ill.) Church of the Brethren has marked its centennial with a 100th Anniversary Celebration on Oct. 18-19.
- The Wenatchee (Wash.) Brethren-Baptist Church United and the Sunnyslope Church of the Brethren together hosted several events as a way of celebrating the 300th Anniversary of the Brethren, and the 100 years of Brethren presence in the Wenatchee valley, according to a report from John Braun, a member of the planning committee for the "Reunion of Brethren in the Valley." The reunion took place Oct. 11-12 and included Sunday morning worship, a Saturday evening program, a handbell choir, a choral ensemble, a hymn sing, a luncheon for those who attended a Brethren college or seminary, potluck meals, an offering given in thirds to local, district, and global ministries to celebrate the Church of the Brethren's three centuries, and an afternoon tea for those who have taken part in church mission efforts including volunteer service and disaster response. A "2008 Hunger Walk for Church World Service" rounded out the weekend.
- Members at York (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren have been helping the denomination's Material Resources staff assemble Emergency Clean-up Bucket Kits, according to the church newsletter. On Oct. 3, six First Church members helped assemble 1,142 Emergency Clean-up Bucket Kits, working at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Also, hundreds of additional previously started kits were completed, making upwards of 1,500 kits ready for shipment. On that afternoon, a truck was loaded with 1,236 kits and traveled to Keene, Texas, for distribution to families affected by Hurricane Ike.
- Champaign (Ill.) Church of the Brethren has begun a "Brethren Grandmothers" program to provide a ministry of cookies and caring to university students. "What's better than cookies, milk and Grandmother?" said an announcement in the Illinois and Wisconsin District newsletter. "We're not faster than speeding trains. We don't leap over tall buildings in a single bound. Instead of 'Spidy' sense we have mama sense." Champaign claims both the University of Illinois and Parkland College. The ministry aims to connect with Brethren students at the two schools, and hopes to receive contact information for students from other congregations and students' families. The ministry will offer students visits, cookies, a monthly potluck, and prayer support. Contact Brethren Grandmothers, Champaign Church of the Brethren, 1210 N. Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820.
- Brethren in the Minneapolis area were invited to join in a special dedication service on the International Day of Prayer for Peace, Sept. 21. Nelda Rhodes Clarke invited sister congregations to join her for the dedication of a Peace Pole at Emma Norton Services in Maplewood, which offers housing from homeless women and families, according to the Northern Plains District newsletter. Clarke worked at the organization for 17 years. Speakers included US Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt, and the mayor of Maplewood Diana Longrie. Marie Rhoades represented On Earth Peace.
- Camp Mack's "On the Way...Continuing in Faith Capital Campaign" has set a goal of raising more than $1 million to fund a new lodge along Lake Waubee, as well as repairs to Quinter-Miller Auditorium and other structures. Camp Mack is a Church of the Brethren camp in Milford, Ind. Go to www.campmack.org for further details.
- Thomas R. Kepple Jr., president of Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., has been named to the Higher Education Cabinet by the editors of the "Chronicle of Higher Education" and the "New York Times." According to a release from the college, Kepple is one of 76 college or university presidents, trustees, and leaders to join the cabinet, and will travel to New York once a year for meetings with journalists and editors from both newspapers. The inaugural meeting of the group was Sept. 15.
- A coalition of Manchester College, Wabash and Miami County conservation agencies, and at least 17 other groups have embarked on a $1 million initiative to improve the water quality of a 30-mile stretch of the Eel River in Indiana. The Middle Eel River Watershed Initiative has received nearly $600,000 in funds designated by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, according to a release from the college. An additional $400,000 will come from agencies, schools, organizations, businesses, and individuals. The Eel was once one of the outstanding fishing streams in the Midwest, the release said, but today it is on the Environmental Protection Agency's "impaired" list for excessive levels of e-coli, PCBs, mercury, and other pollution.
- The steering committee of the Womaen's Caucus of the Church of the Brethren will meet in Huntingdon, Pa., this weekend. "While we're there, we'd love the chance to meet and worship with any of you in the area," the Caucus said in an announcement. The group invites all who are interested to come to a meal and share visions for where the Womaen's Caucus needs to be leading the church, from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25 at Stone Church of the Brethren. The main dish and drinks will be provided, participants are invited to bring a side dish, salad, or dessert to share. On Oct. 26, the steering committee will worship with the Stone Church congregation. For more information or to RSVP for the meal, contact Peg Yoder at 814-599-9910. The Womaen's Caucus Steering Committee includes Jan Eller, Audrey deCoursey, Anna Lisa Gross, Sharon Nearhoof May, Peg Yoder, and Jill Kline.
- The November edition of Brethren Voices, a community television program produced by Portland (Ore.) Peace Church of the Brethren, features Brethren musician Mike Stern under the title, "A Voice for Justice, Peace, Hope, and Healing." Stern's roots are in the apple orchards of Washington State, however he has traveled the world singing and working for peace and justice. December's edition of "Brethren Voices" will feature alternative Christmas giving, including a number of opportunities such as Brethren Disaster Ministries, Heifer International, Church World Service, and the New Community Project's Amazon Rainforest purchase. For more information about Brethren Voices contact producer Ed Groff at groffprod1@msn.com. Copies of the program cost $8, with donations forwarded to Portland Peace Church of the Brethren, 12727 SE Market St., Portland, OR 97233. Brethren Voices also has completed production of a special program, "The Story of the Brethren Service Cups," narrated by Bill Puffenberger, emeritus professor of Religious Studies at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. Puffenberger completed three years of studies concerning the Brethren Service Cups "which are inseparably tied to the peace position of the Church of the Brethren" and are the predominant symbol of Brethren service. Copies of this special program are available from Portland Peace Church for a donation of $10.
- Liz McCartney of the St. Bernard Project has been nominated for the CNN Hero of the Year award. The St. Bernard Project is the grassroots disaster recovery organization with whom Brethren Disaster Ministries is collaborating for Hurricane Katrina recovery in St. Bernard Parish, La. "Because of this partnership, we can highly recommend Liz for this award. The grand prize is $100,000, which Liz has promised to donate to the St. Bernard Project," reported Jane Yount, coordinator for Brethren Disaster Ministries. Voting for the CNN Hero of the Year closes Nov. 20.
Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board holds first meeting.
The Mission and Ministry Board of the Church of the Brethren held its first meeting on Oct. 18-21 at the denomination's General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The Mission and Ministry Board is the board of the new Church of the Brethren, Inc., and is chaired by Edwin H. Edmonds, pastor of Moler Avenue Church of the Brethren in Martinsburg, W.Va.
Board members come from the former General Board, the former Association of Brethren Caregivers board, and the former Annual Conference Council. Ex-officio members represent Annual Conference, Bethany Theological Seminary, Brethren Benefit Trust, On Earth Peace, and the Council of District Executives.
On the agenda were financial reports and a budget for the new organization, a resolution on the "Responsibility to Protect," reports from several church programs including the Sudan Initiative, and consideration of the need for new strategic planning documents for the new organization, among other business.
The board approved the use of consensus decision making for the meetings, and sat in small groups at round tables instead of at one large board table. At times during the discussions, members engaged in "table talk" in the small groups and reported results to the whole group before moving to decision making.
The meeting began with a day of professional development for board members. The group reviewed the vision, mission, and core values statements of the prior organizations, as well as the roles of board and staff, the ministries that the board oversees including ministries of the former General Board and Association of Brethren Caregivers, stewardship responsibilities of board members, and the consensus process.
Worship began and ended the business meetings. Using a theme from Romans 12:2, "Be transformed by the renewing of your minds," board members and staff leaders expressed hopes for the new organization of the Church of the Brethren, and anticipated exciting and challenging work ahead.
In his opening sermon, chair Eddie Edmonds called for truthfulness and gentleness as the board worked together in a new structure and with a new consensus process. "Christians have to commit to a search for the truth in a spirit of gentleness. We may not all come out in the same place, but we can all be in the same mind in the Lord," he said.
Budget and finances
The Mission and Ministry Board of the Church of the Brethren held its first meeting on Oct. 18-21 at the denomination's General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The Mission and Ministry Board is the board of the new Church of the Brethren, Inc., and is chaired by Edwin H. Edmonds, pastor of Moler Avenue Church of the Brethren in Martinsburg, W.Va.
Board members come from the former General Board, the former Association of Brethren Caregivers board, and the former Annual Conference Council. Ex-officio members represent Annual Conference, Bethany Theological Seminary, Brethren Benefit Trust, On Earth Peace, and the Council of District Executives.
On the agenda were financial reports and a budget for the new organization, a resolution on the "Responsibility to Protect," reports from several church programs including the Sudan Initiative, and consideration of the need for new strategic planning documents for the new organization, among other business.
The board approved the use of consensus decision making for the meetings, and sat in small groups at round tables instead of at one large board table. At times during the discussions, members engaged in "table talk" in the small groups and reported results to the whole group before moving to decision making.
The meeting began with a day of professional development for board members. The group reviewed the vision, mission, and core values statements of the prior organizations, as well as the roles of board and staff, the ministries that the board oversees including ministries of the former General Board and Association of Brethren Caregivers, stewardship responsibilities of board members, and the consensus process.
Worship began and ended the business meetings. Using a theme from Romans 12:2, "Be transformed by the renewing of your minds," board members and staff leaders expressed hopes for the new organization of the Church of the Brethren, and anticipated exciting and challenging work ahead.
In his opening sermon, chair Eddie Edmonds called for truthfulness and gentleness as the board worked together in a new structure and with a new consensus process. "Christians have to commit to a search for the truth in a spirit of gentleness. We may not all come out in the same place, but we can all be in the same mind in the Lord," he said.
Budget and finances
The board approved by consensus a 2009 total operating budget for all Church of the Brethren ministries of $10,236,210 income, $10,391,760 expense, and an expected $155,550 deficit for next year.Resolution: Responsibility to Protect
The board's actions included a revision of the 2009 budget parameter for the Core Ministries Fund, adding the sum of $289,000 for the Caring Ministries budget to the General Board's previous budget planning. For the Church of the Brethren's core ministries, a budget parameter of $6,036,000 income and $6,176,000 expense was approved, representing an expected deficit of $140,000.
The action on the budget also represented approval of budgets for the Church of the Brethren's self-funded ministries including Brethren Disaster Ministries, Brethren Press, Global Food Crisis, Material Resources, "Messenger" magazine, and the New Windsor Conference Center.
In financial reports, the board reviewed the 2008 budgets of the General Board and the Association of Brethren Caregivers for the period through August 31. Current income and expense statements for Annual Conference were not yet available. Final year-end reports for 2008 will come to the board at its next meeting in March 2009.
After reviewing a chart showing the 10-year history of net assets for each of the funds, the board expressed concern about an increasing negative net asset for Brethren Press over the past few years and asked the general secretary to bring an action plan to its March meeting. Brethren Press is one of the board's self-funding units.
Funding director Ken Neher reported that giving to the Church of the Brethren remains strong despite the global economic crisis. Treasurer Judy Keyser reviewed concerns regarding the economy, including a volatile investment environment and spiraling increases in costs of energy, travel, food, and other expenses. Finance staff reported that they expect a drop in earnings from investments, but that the board has in place a practice of averaging income from investments over a five-year period to help protect against disastrous losses.
Keyser identified an overarching longterm financial issue for the board, that the Church of the Brethren's income is not matching its current ministry needs.
An offering was received for a capital campaign to upgrade facilities at the General Offices and the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The contributions for the capital campaign totaled $2,083.
There was strong affirmation by the Mission and Ministry Board for a resolution on "The Responsibility to Protect," presented by Phil Jones, director of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, and Larry Ulrich, a member of York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., who has been involved with an "R2P" coalition connected with the Council of Religious Leaders in Chicago.Sudan Initiative
The United Nations adopted "The Responsibility to Protect" in 2005, to address the problem of a country where the government persecutes or eliminates its own people, such as in the case of genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity. Using all of its diplomatic, economic, and political resources, the UN can under this doctrine use military force as a last resort to halt atrocities.
"We do differ with the UN document on the Responsibility to Protect," said Jones. "We support it fully, except for the use of military force." The resolution was brought as a Church of the Brethren response to the action of the UN and to the global increase of catastrophic atrocities. The resolution also responds to a call from the National Council of Churches Governing Board in 2007, when that body adopted a resolution on the Responsibility to Protect and called for support from member communions.
In discussion of the resolution, board members affirmed it but also identified some concerns about the document. A small task team was asked to bring a revision that more clearly identified alternatives that the Church of the Brethren may suggest for nonviolent prevention of and response to atrocities.
The modified resolution was adopted by consensus. Go to www.brethren.org/genbd/GBResolutions/2008ResponsibilityToProtect.pdf to find the resolution online.
A report on the Sudan Initiative was given by director Brad Bohrer, who had just returned from a visit to southern Sudan. He presented plans to place Church of the Brethren staff with RECONCILE, an organization that does community building and peacemaking work in southern Sudan and was begun under the auspices of the New Sudan Council of Churches. Referring to placements of Brethren mission staff with the New Sudan Council of Churches in years past, Bohrer said, "There is a strong sense that we are coming back to walk alongside" the council again.Strategic planning
Board members responded with numerous concerns about the Sudan Initiative, and some shared critical responses to the initiative from members of their districts. Concerns focused on the perception that the initiative has lost the elements of evangelism and church planting, as well as concerns about funding and donations to the initiative. The board acted by consensus to direct the general secretary to create a communication piece to bring clarity about the Sudan Initiative for the denomination.
The group discussed strategic planning for the new organization of the Church of the Brethren, including vision, mission, and core values statements. Questions posed for the discussion included whether there is validity in the strategic planning and vision, mission, and core values documents of the prior organizations of the General Board and the Association of Brethren Caregivers, and whether staff should continue to use these documents as guiding principles for their work. After a time of "table talk" in small groups, ideas about how to move forward on strategic planning documents for the new organization were reported. The board will continue the discussion at later meetings.Other business
The board affirmed the appointments of Stan Noffsinger as general secretary and Judy Keyser as treasurer of the Church of the Brethren.Source: 10/23/2008 Newsline Extra
Another item addressed property considerations in Elgin, Ill. The Stewardship of Property report accepted by the General Board in March 2006 was reviewed, with attention to a recommendation to develop surplus acreage at the General Offices. Noffsinger asked the board to discuss and give guidance on the general question of selling or leasing 13 acres of land located behind the office buildings. He and the treasurer presented information about an opportunity to develop the land presented by Mercy Housing Lakefront, a nonprofit that develops and operates affordable, program-enriched housing for families, seniors, and people with special needs who lack the economic resources to access quality, safe housing opportunities. No action was taken, and the board asked for more information to be brought to its next meeting.
The board received a variety of reports, including a report on the summer's workcamp program; hurricane response by Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children's Disaster Services; the 300th Anniversary gathering in Schwarzenau, Germany; the general secretary's involvement in a meeting with the President of Iran; and work by staff on the issue of human trafficking.
The board also had an opportunity to sign a letter of support to the Synod of the Church of North India (CNI) and the Bishop of Gujarat State. The Church of North India and its members have been seriously affected by violence directed at Christians. The violence began in late August in the State of Orissa, where three of CNI's dioceses are located, but has begun to spread to some other areas. The board heard that it has not yet affected the area where most India Brethren live.
Donna Hillcoat begins as director of Deacon Ministry.
Donna Hillcoat has accepted a part-time position as director of Deacon Ministry in the Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren, effective Oct. 20.
Hillcoat has been involved in the ministries of the former Association of Brethren Caregivers as a member of the Family Life Ministry Group, and has assisted with several Caring Ministries projects including the interim Child Abuse Prevention report and publications such as a book by Fred Swartz, "Essential Servants: Reflections on the Caring Ministries of Deacons," a Wellness Study Guide, and Health Promotion Sunday materials.
Her professional and volunteer experiences have included counseling services for older adults and their caregivers, developing and leading training programs and workshops, coaching people in transition, facilitating caregiver and grief support groups, and volunteering with PADS (a program of churches offering temporary shelter for the homeless in the area of Elgin, Ill.) and a community food pantry.
She is business partner and coach for Between Us: Personal Coaching for Women, and previously was managing partner and director of Resources for Change Management Associates, Inc. Her first professional position was as assistant director of Admissions for Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. She holds a master's degree in Community Counseling from Argosy University and a master's degree in Library Science from the University of Michigan.
Source: 10/23/2008 Newsline Extra
Donna Hillcoat has accepted a part-time position as director of Deacon Ministry in the Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren, effective Oct. 20.
Hillcoat has been involved in the ministries of the former Association of Brethren Caregivers as a member of the Family Life Ministry Group, and has assisted with several Caring Ministries projects including the interim Child Abuse Prevention report and publications such as a book by Fred Swartz, "Essential Servants: Reflections on the Caring Ministries of Deacons," a Wellness Study Guide, and Health Promotion Sunday materials.
Her professional and volunteer experiences have included counseling services for older adults and their caregivers, developing and leading training programs and workshops, coaching people in transition, facilitating caregiver and grief support groups, and volunteering with PADS (a program of churches offering temporary shelter for the homeless in the area of Elgin, Ill.) and a community food pantry.
She is business partner and coach for Between Us: Personal Coaching for Women, and previously was managing partner and director of Resources for Change Management Associates, Inc. Her first professional position was as assistant director of Admissions for Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. She holds a master's degree in Community Counseling from Argosy University and a master's degree in Library Science from the University of Michigan.
Source: 10/23/2008 Newsline Extra
Steve Bob called as director of the Church of the Brethren Credit Union.
Steve Bob, who currently is serving as executive director of the Fox Valley Micro Loan Fund, has accepted the position of director of the Church of the Brethren Credit Union, beginning Nov. 3. In this role, he will serve on the Brethren Benefit Trust's senior management team.
Bob's responsibilities will include oversight of the credit union's daily operations and development of several new services, including online banking and bill pay.
Since February 2007, he has been responsible for directing the Fox Valley Micro Loan Fund in providing microloans of up to $50,000 to businesses that are unable to access traditional sources of loans. From 2001-07, he served as director of World Relief's Micro Enterprise program in Nashville, Tenn. In that role he was responsible for a loan fund that made 70 loans worth $650,000; he also supervised an Individual Development Account program that served 400 clients with a net community impact of $6 million in assets purchased. From 1996-2001, he was finance manager for The Enterprise Center in Philadelphia.
Bob is a graduate of North Park University, Chicago, Ill. He holds a master's of Business Administration in economic development from Eastern University, St. Davids, Pa. He was born and raised in Quito, Ecuador, to missionary parents, and is a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church of Elgin.
Source: 10/23/2008 Newsline Extra
Steve Bob, who currently is serving as executive director of the Fox Valley Micro Loan Fund, has accepted the position of director of the Church of the Brethren Credit Union, beginning Nov. 3. In this role, he will serve on the Brethren Benefit Trust's senior management team.
Bob's responsibilities will include oversight of the credit union's daily operations and development of several new services, including online banking and bill pay.
Since February 2007, he has been responsible for directing the Fox Valley Micro Loan Fund in providing microloans of up to $50,000 to businesses that are unable to access traditional sources of loans. From 2001-07, he served as director of World Relief's Micro Enterprise program in Nashville, Tenn. In that role he was responsible for a loan fund that made 70 loans worth $650,000; he also supervised an Individual Development Account program that served 400 clients with a net community impact of $6 million in assets purchased. From 1996-2001, he was finance manager for The Enterprise Center in Philadelphia.
Bob is a graduate of North Park University, Chicago, Ill. He holds a master's of Business Administration in economic development from Eastern University, St. Davids, Pa. He was born and raised in Quito, Ecuador, to missionary parents, and is a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church of Elgin.
Source: 10/23/2008 Newsline Extra
Patrice Nightingale begins as director of communications for BBT.
Patrice Nightingale has begun as director of communications for Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT), as of Oct. 20. In this role, she will provide oversight of communications, marketing, promotional, and operational initiatives that undergird BBT's ministries. She will work at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
This is a promotion for Nightingale, who was originally hired by BBT on May 5 of this year as manager of publications, and on Sept. 15 was named interim director of communications. She has worked in the publications field in various capacities since 1973. She is a graduate of Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., and holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology. She is a member of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin.
Source: 10/23/2008 Newsline Extra
Patrice Nightingale has begun as director of communications for Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT), as of Oct. 20. In this role, she will provide oversight of communications, marketing, promotional, and operational initiatives that undergird BBT's ministries. She will work at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
This is a promotion for Nightingale, who was originally hired by BBT on May 5 of this year as manager of publications, and on Sept. 15 was named interim director of communications. She has worked in the publications field in various capacities since 1973. She is a graduate of Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., and holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology. She is a member of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin.
Source: 10/23/2008 Newsline Extra
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Carol Bowman, John Braun, Kathleen Campanella, Ruben D. Deoleo, Jan Eller, Ed Groff, Jeri S. Kornegay, Karin Krog, Patrice Nightingale, Marcia Shetler, and John Wall contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Carol Bowman, John Braun, Kathleen Campanella, Ruben D. Deoleo, Jan Eller, Ed Groff, Jeri S. Kornegay, Karin Krog, Patrice Nightingale, Marcia Shetler, and John Wall contributed to this report.
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