First Unitarian Society
Social Activities
Having fun together is an important part of community life at First Unitarian Society, and there's no shortage of opportunities to enhance the social lives of Unitarians.
Alliance
The Alliance is open to all members and friends of FUS. Activities include a discussion group of topical issues which have ranged from prostitution to ecology to children's defense to politics. Outside speakers lead discussions, which are followed by a luncheon, at times in conjunction with members of the First Universalist Church. An Alliance subgroup meets monthly to read contemporary and classic plays. The Alliance also conducts fund-raising projects that contribute to both our own and the wider community. Regular meetings and luncheons are held during the day on Wednesdays. Watch The First Unitarian for date, time and topic, and join us whenever you can. Annual dues are $25, and the cost of each luncheon is $7.
Contact: Ruth Agar, Linnea Asp, Joyce BlomquistCircle Suppers
Circle Suppers provide an opportunity for members to socialize in small-group settings for dinner and conversation. Dinners are held in homes with the host serving the entree and guests providing the rest of the meal. It's a great way to get to know other members and friends. Each October, members and friends register to participate and are organized into rotating groups for four monthly Circle Suppers with a grand Circle Supper in the spring.
Contact: Adele HansenDiscovery Groups
New members are welcome in all Discovery Groups!
Music: Chorus and Orchestra
The music program of the First Unitarian Society boasts two resident volunteer performing ensembles. The Unitarian Chorus is a 30-40 voice ensemble that rehearses on Wednesday evenings in the Lower Assembly Hall. Membership is open to anyone who enjoys singing; no audition is required. Repertoire for the chorus encompasses the history of music, from short a cappella pieces to large works with orchestra. The Unitarian Orchestra rehearses on Sundays; membership is by audition only. Like the Chorus, the Orchestra performs works ranging from baroque to contemporary on selected Sunday mornings.
Contacts:Barbara Brooks, Music Director
Gabriela Díaz-Alatriste, Associate Music Director
Retreat to the Woods
The Society's Retreat to the Woods is held on a fall weekend at a beautiful camp setting and offers workshops, arts, nature study, hiking, canoeing, and lots of time for purely social fun. A committee plans the camp and program each year. Volunteers are welcomed. The camp is open to Society members and friends of all ages. Families, single persons, and couples enjoy all the joys and exuberance of the best camp experiences in rustic cabins with family-style meals. Newcomers are warmly welcomed.
Contacts: Jim Tincher and Audrey KingstromWalker Art Center Forum
The Walker Art Center offers the Contemporary Arts Forum as a means for discussion and guided viewing of selected major exhibits for UU art fans throughout the year. Forum members gather at 5:30 p.m. for wine and cheese and an introduction to the artist(s) and the exhibit(s), led by a knowledgeable Walker docent. A guided tour of the exhibit follows. Post-tour discussions enhance understanding and camaraderie. The Forum meets four to six times each year on Thursdays determined by the Walker. There is a fee.
Contact: Christine McVay or Lara Roy (at the Walker)