(Author’s Note: When asked to be featured in this column, after writing an outline of my extensive 76-year history and quite frankly finding it boring in comparison to the bios I had read of the talented, diverse and accomplished congregation, I asked Diane if I might write my “story” in the first person, and she acquiesced.)
I was introduced three+ years ago to Unity by my good friend and long-time attendee Ms. Marlene Hovermill. I’ve been coming ever since. I was immediately pleased by the structure of the service—the way it “flows,” the principle of respecting all God-loving religions. I was awed by Leddy’s many talents and demeanor. She can go from speaking Hebrew to integrating a rock and roll song into her sermon. Such a knowledgeable person. Such preparation with her readings and prepared response. The Lady has “mastered her craft,” as they say, (and, boy, do she—and Russ—put in the hours!) I enjoy hearing Russ’s booming voice “from above” (aka George Burns) with his occasional timely, wry comments.
Then, there’s the music ministry. The singers and musicians, including both Sue and Tim, directing and on the keys, are all great. Frank (on the horns), Mike Riley (mandolin), Mike Abdishi and Nick Costantino (on guitar), Janet Whedon and Kevin Lindsay (drums) and Bodie (David) Bodenhammer on bass are all amazing, varied, multi-faceted musicians.
I’m 76 and single, have three sons that live on Long Island—Jason, 40; Brian, 38; and David, 36, two granddaughters—Harper, 6, and Stevie, 1, and another granddaughter on the way in 2020. I also have a brother and sister in Oregon.
Disgruntled after two years at Syracuse University (1961-63), I joined the U.S. Army, reaching the rank of Sergeant, then worked at a defense plant for two years. Received a pink slip layoff in my paycheck, spent the 70s as a teacher’s aide, recreational therapist, supervisor at a state mentally handicapped facility, followed by a 37-year career at a postal sectional center as a mail handler/supervisor. Now retired, I live on Top of the World with my friend Dan, 86 years young. He calls me “Mr. Belvedere” since I do the cleaning, cooking, shopping etc. I enjoy the choice of so many activities at OTOW like golf, ping pong, bowling, horseshoes—there is even chair zumba! At Unity, I LOVE volunteering doing my outside projects. As Leddy says, “God is everywhere.” Well, I feel closer to God both inside and outside at Unity, so I try to spend part of every Saturday there.
Nearly every Sunday, you’ll see me in the second seat of the front right row on the east side of the sanctuary, where I feel Leddy is talking just to me as my own personal “free therapist.” It is my joy to tithe both funds and supplies, for I truly feel prospered in every way by being an active member of UCC!