Unicorns and Cowboys: The Engaging Pledge Drives of UU Lansing in the 1980s (Part 4, 1980-1981)
by Ed Busch
Picture this: It's 1980, and your local Unitarian Universalist church is putting on a Medieval Fest complete with unicorns. Sound far-fetched? Welcome to UU Lansing's creative world of pledge drives!
As we continue our exploration of UU Lansing’s pledge drives, this week we delve into the 1980s—a time of significant cultural and societal change. Nationally, Ronald Reagan had just been elected president, and Cold War tensions were high. The tech revolution was kicking off with the rise of personal computers, and MTV burst onto the scene, shaping pop culture like never before. The first cases of AIDS were reported, sparking global concern, while environmental organizations like Greenpeace gained momentum, and gender equality and workplace rights were in the news.
Local Context and UU Lansing’s Growth
In Lansing, the economic landscape was shifting as the auto industry struggled amidst a recession. The area began seeking economic diversification, while Governor William Milliken, Michigan’s longest-serving governor (1969–1983), championed strong environmental policies. Meanwhile, Michigan State University’s continued growth had a growing impact on the local economy. There was also a rise in activism, with local groups joining broader movements around economic justice, civil rights, and environmental issues. Amidst all of this, UU Lansing, under the leadership of Rev. Denise Tracy (minister until 1984), remained a beacon of community and action.
The 1980 Pledge Drive: The Unicorn Show
The 1980 pledge drive was a time of celebration and creativity with the church transformed into a medieval wonderland for its annual pledge drive, featuring the Merry Medieval Fest and the Unicorn Show on October 18. Rev. Denise Tracy beautifully captured the spirit of the event:
“It is no accident that the unicorn is the focus of our attention during the pledge drive time. The unicorn symbol of myth, fantasy and celebration was also the emblem of knights defending damsels in distress, the sign of a pure heart and the mark of courage, daring and commitment. The unicorn was woven into cathedrals stained glass, tapestries and communion cups were made of allcorn (the horn of the unicorn.)The Unicorn’s horn was said to have healing and regeneration powers guaranteeing long life, health, and happiness.
The Unicorn Show will be a fun filled occasion. For me it is a renewal of the fun of rehearsal and a group of people working together enjoying each other’s skills and companionship. I return to my days in music school when one show after another filled my mind, heart, and voice. I love pageantry, pomp, and pre-show jitters! I will look forward to hearing your laughter and sharing a gala meal with you.
Last year playing God was a little mind expanding – this year I’m more used to my role – but I won’t tell you who I am – you have to come and see.”
The Finance Committee that year was led by Dan Talhelm and the Finance Campaign Directors were Ben Bohnhorst, Jim Carlson, and Terry Dennis. Roles in the production included wizards, major domos, orators of illusion, minstrels and jesters. The production finale was a rousing performance of the Unicorn Song with the entire cast joining in (see below in images for the words).
Rev. Tracy, In the October 22 Liberal Express, reflected on the success of the event:
“With such a full weekend, I am amazed that as I write this on Monday morning, I feel centered, committed to the vision and goals of our church and even though tired - enthused. The joy of the dinner, the fun of the show, the intensity of the Sunday morning service, the pleasure of over 100 workers making the weekend a dream come true awes and amazes me.
Churches are built on commitment and caring. A generous sharing and intermingling of both give a church community the stability to weather storms and nurture wholeness in its members and friends. I was aware this weekend of how far we have travelled together and how alive and vibrant our church has become.
I treasure your caring and commitment. I pleasure in your company in our mutual journey. Thank you everyone for all your support and help this past weekend.”
Another 1980 Significant Event: The First Water Communion
This past Sunday, during our recent water communion service it was mentioned that this ritual was first held in East Lansing. Intrigued, I did some digging and found it was held during a church service at the Women and Religion Continental Convocation of Unitarian Universalists held at MSU’s Kellogg Center Nov 14-16, 1980. Here’s the interesting fact: it turns out our church hosted this groundbreaking convocation! The Chapin-Crane Women and Religion team led the effort, show casing our congregation’s long-standing commitment to progressive values. Anyone was invited to attend for a modest fee and optional meals. Designated representatives from Lansing included Rev. Denise Tracy, Duncan Case (conducting a workshop on Mens Support Group in a UU Church), and Billie McCants (member of the Chapin-Crane Women and Religion team for the Michigan district). Carolyn McDade and Lucile Schuck Longview imagined the water ceremony to represent “the feminine spirituality and symbolizing how women’s work in specific locales is all interconnected with a larger work.” The keynote speakers were Dr. Naomi Goldenberg (University of Ottawa) and Dr. Carol Christ (San Jose University). Dr. Eugene Pickett, president of the UUA, also addressed the convocation. More than 25 workshops were held ranging in topics from sexism in language and worship to feminine spirituality.
This event wasn't just a gathering; it was the birthplace of a ritual that would become beloved by UUs across the country. Next time you participate in a water communion, remember: you are part of a tradition that began right here in our community!
The 1981 Pledge Drive: The OK Corral
In 1981 the pledge drive took on a western theme and that this year’s gathering was at the OK Corral, referred to as “I’m OK, You’re OK Corral” and the newsletter suggested that UUers should start scouting for Western wear.
The Chuck-wagon supper and I’m OK You’re Ok show were held on October 24. The pledge drive packet for the 1981 canvas suggested congregants get a galloping start on the festivities and called the show a “tale end of our Western Roundup and Chowdown. These festivities radiate the joyous, friendly, enthusiastic spirit our church has come to mean for us.” The Finance committee developed three alternative budget level goals: a Base($81,200), Moderate ($86,000) and Dream ($97,900). The pledges required to support these budgets were $58,400, $63,600, and $75,100 respectively. Dan Talhelm and Lynn Croxford prepared the packet. The pledge drive that year also included a special building pledge drive conducted jointly to add on a sanctuary space to the Grove St. building.
In the October 26 Liberal Express, Rev. Tracy included this in her column:
“What a weekend! The dress rehearsal, the pre-dinner party, the dinner, the show, the cast party, the Sunday service, and canvassing. The friendly faces, conversations, hugs, smiles, laughter and the warmth, openness and acceptance of our congregation abounded. I review our activities and feel how highly we regard each other, by how we meet and greet each other, how we support and accept each other and by how we thank each other. There are so many places in life where appreciation and value of giving of self are lacking and I am proud to see how we have created a community where positive regard is a basic value.
When unconditional love is a basic value, it is easier to take risks, to be oneself and to share. When the cast forgot lines (which happened 3 times), the audience responded with such acceptance and warmth it was easy to see that mistakes were okay. To see that the congregation appreciated that we had given of ourselves and we did not have to be perfect.
All in all, the weekend was incredibly busy, yet on Sunday afternoon, I felt full of life, not depleted. I feel we minister to each other with gentleness and with regard for the difference and similarity in our talents and skills.”
An audio recording of the show (provided by Pete Signell) is available to hear at this link.
Following the pledge drive, a report was shared with members and friends that as of January 6, 1982, they had not reached their basic pledge level goal. It was interesting to note that the parallel growth fund campaign raised pledges of $43,487 (over three years). The finance team concluded that the response by members and friends during a time of financial uncertainty provided convincing evidence for a positive and growing support for the church. The Annual Report published later that spring stated that the books for 1981 were closed with revenues and expenditures basically in line without having to switch to an austere budget as they did the prior year.
As an aside, Rev. Tracy’s weekly column, Notes from a Friend, in early October was about special and funny awards she was giving out to those who worked especially hard. Awardees were:
· Best Friend of the Congregation – Liz Signell
· Honorary Angel Award – Marie Bohnhorst
· Marshall & Chief – Bill Wells
· Ms. Clean – Cathy Vaughn
· 007 – Millie Cooper & Sally Angelakos (newsletter editors)
· Badge of Courage – Charles Haynes (Board President)
· And two special honors to
o Chief Shoveller – Gene Mellen – committee chair who worked hardest & accomplished the most (Music, Choir and concert Committees & Walton Wells Memorial Fund)
o Volunteer of the Year – Jean Rosewig for her work as treasurer
I hope you enjoyed this look at 1980 and 1981. As we continue with the pledge campaign for 2025, remember the rich traditions we are part of. Consider making your pledge early to continue supporting our vital, growing community.
If you have ideas for a blog topic or questions or just a comment that you’ve enjoyed reading the blog, please let me know at uucgl.archives@gmail.com. I’m traveling so the next post will be in a couple weeks.
Sources:
The Liberal Express, October 13, 1980, UU Lansing Archives, UU Lansing Records, Publications.
The Liberal Express, October 22, 1980, UU Lansing Archives, UU Lansing Records, Publications.
The Liberal Express, June 17, 1982, UU Lansing Archives, UU Lansing Records, Publications.
Pledge Drives, UU Lansing Archives, UU Lansing Records, Finance.
The Liberal Express, October 26, 1982, UU Lansing Archives, UU Lansing Records, Publications.
Feminist theologians to keynote conference, Lansing State Journal, November 8, 1980, page 4.
“Bonus Track: What is a Water Communion?”, September 5, 2024, https://uucleveland.org/bonus-track-what-is-a-water-communion/ .
Annual Report 1981-1982, UU Lansing Archives, UU Lansing Records, Publications.
Images:
1980 Pledge Drive Packet Cover
1980 Pledge Drive Packet Invitation Page 1
1980 Pledge Drive Packet Invitation Page 2
Unicorn Song lyrics
Pledge Drive Banner made by Maxine Herbert, 1980, 2008.0049.
Maxine Herbert in the 1980 Uni-Corn Show. She may of sung “Cornalot”, 2007.0091.
This photograph from the 1980 Uni-Corn Pledge Drive Show has Liz Signell (front), Sonia Matlick, and Carolyn McLeese. Liz is singing "I'm Just a Friend Who Can't Say No", 2007.0113.
Liz Signell in the 1981 pledge drive show, “I’m OK You’re OK Corral”, 2008.0055.
Peg Perry Roberts, Maxine Herbert, Jim Stewart, and Mary Stewart in the 1981 Pledge Drive show, 2008.0730.
Harry Schwartzweller as a Bartender in the 1981 Pledge Show, "I'm OK - You're OK Corral", 2009.0032.
