FROLIC a resounding success!

Another Fabulous, Rousing, Outrageous, Lively, Ineluctable Celebration (FROLIC) hit the UUFD stage on Friday, September 22. The culmination of the event was raising funds for a new Memorial Garden and additional support for a much-needed upgraded Sanctuary HVAC system. The $14,726.11 raised was a reflection of the generosity and the joy our members and friends experienced in returning to this event after a 4-year hiatus due to COVID.

Beloved ever-entertaining emcee Bob Griffith kept attendees on the edge of their seats for our Live Auction (including the bidet seat from the Eco Justice team’s reminder to use less TP in our lives). The frantic bidding wars of the Bid Board auction were delightfully interrupted by Faith Formation staff Harrison Wendt and Office Administrator Nikki Bauer, who sang “True Colors” from Trolls, followed by Harrison’s rousing performance of “You’ll Be Back” from Hamilton and a hilarious, outrageous rendition of “Physical” by Olivia Newton-John. The evening started with uplifting words by Interim Minister Reverend Dr. Barbara Coeyman.

The event is all about community and working together for fun, for worthwhile meaningful goals, and for examining our stewardship of time, treasure, and talents. The event is entirely volunteer-run, and 17 teams spent the past six months – or longer – helping co-chairs Aline Schwob and Sheryl Guy with the countless lists of tasks to stage this successful event. Teams included Auction Donations, Beverage Table, Food Table, Board Auction, Live Auction, Cashiers & Data Entry, Check-in/Registration, Child Care, Clean-up, Communications, Entertainment, Graphic Design & Catalog, Publicity, Raffles, Setup, Sound/Technology, and Ticket Sales. As important were those who attended, supported team members, and bid on their heart’s-desired auction items.

Sooo…it’s time to begin looking ahead to the next FROLIC! Pre-COVID timing was about every 18 months between events, which could mean late spring of 2025. And with Aline and Sheryl stepping down, it’s time for some new ideas, new energy, and new angles that point us in new directions! Working with a partner is ideal and provides the benefit of combined strengths and division of labor. This might be your place to shine, to fit in a niche ideally suited for your strengths and interests.

We have a decade and more of materials and support ideas to help you plan and prepare for the next FROLIC. Think about it! If you have ANY questions, contact Aline or Sheryl. You’ll be glad you did!