With June upon us here’s a little note with a reminder, some upcoming deadlines, a save-the-date, and a request.

First, the reminder
As most of you are aware, Janine Larsen will be leaving Unitarian Universalist Association employment effective June 30. Janine joined the Pacific Northwest District (PNWD) as District Executive in 2004 and served in that role until 2014 when it was redefined, under regionalization, as part of the Pacific Western Region Congregational Life Staff. For 12 years Janine has shared her amazing skills, keen insights and wonderful self with us.

Several years ago when I read Catherine the Great by Robert Massie, I was struck by the introduction to the Coronation chapter. Ignore the royalty references and it sounds like a description of Janine! “She was intelligent, well read, and a shrewd judge of character. During the coup, she had shown determination and courage; once on the throne, she displayed an open mind, willingness to forgive, and a political morality founded on rationality and practical efficiency. She softened imperial presence with a sense of humor and a quick tongue.” I am proud to call Janine my mentor and friend. The PNWD staff joins me in wishing her all the best in her new role as Director of Ministries at University Unitarian Church in Seattle beginning July 1.

We are delighted to welcome one of our own as Pacific Western Regional (PWR) Lead, as the Rev. Nancy Bowen leaves that role June 30. The Rev. James Kubal-Komoto is leaving his position as minister of our Saltwater UU Church in Des Moines, Wash. to serve as Lead of the region that includes the Pacific Northwest District, Pacific Central District, Pacific Southwest District and the Mountain Desert District.

Two more “locals” will be joining the PWR staff July 1 as Congregational Life Consultants: the Rev. Sarah Schurr is leaving the West Hills UU Fellowship in Portland to join PWR staff and the Rev. Tandi Rogers returns to the great northwest after a stint at the UUA in Boston. For more PWR staffing details, see the PWR News Blog.

Submission deadlines
Chalice Lighter Spring Call contributions accepted through June 13.
Dual call for UU Congregation of Salem, Ore. and West Hills UU Fellowship, Portland, Ore.

Pledge Form for 2016/17 PNWD congregational dues open through June 20.
Link sent May 24 to PNWD congregational presidents requesting they or their designee complete the very brief form.

Event deadlines
Late registrations accepted through: June 30
Russell Lockwood Leadership School: July 23-29, Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.
Early Registration deadline: July 18; Final Registration deadline: Aug. 31
Youth Ministry Revival: Sept. 23-25, Portland, OR

Registration deadline: Aug. 10
Our Whole Lives, level 7-9 and 10-12: Aug. 26-28, Portland, Ore.

SAVE THE DATE
Pacific Northwest Fall Youth Con: October 21-23, Randle, WA – Details will be posted as they become available.

And finally, my request
In order to be sure we have the most current information for your group, please check your congregation’s listing and let us know if any of the posted information needs updating: Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington

Please note that the membership and RE numbers currently reflected are for the 2015-16 church year. The numbers you recently certified to the UUA for 2016-17 will be posted July 1. The Honor Congregation designation is for the most recently completed fiscal year, which ended June 30, 2015.

Many, many thanks to each of you for all that you do!

Diane Brinson, district administrator
Pacific Northwest District
in the Pacific Western Region
Unitarian Universalist Association