A Newsletter to Inspire and Celebrate Oakland United Methodists Vol. 18, No. 8 August 2010

August Calendar of Events Sun, Aug 1 -9:00 a.m. Summer Sunday School -9:00 a.m. Education Committee meeting -10:00 a.m. Worship w/communion -11:00 a.m. Koinonia Thu, Aug 5 -7:00 p.m. SPRC meeting Fri, Aug 6 7:00 p.m. Nomination Committee meeting Sun, Aug 8 -9:00 a.m. Summer Sunday School -10:00 a.m. Worship -11:00 a.m. Koinonia Sun, Aug 15 -9:00 a.m. Summer Sunday School -10:00 a.m. Worship -11:00 a.m. Koinonia Sun, Aug 22 -9:00 a.m. Summer Sunday School -10:00 a.m. Worship -11:00 a.m. Koinonia -Tue, Aug 24 -9:00 a.m. Newsletter articles due in office Sun, Aug 29 -9:00 a.m. Summer Sunday School -10:00 a.m. Worship -11:00 a.m. Koinonia

"We invite all persons to be a part of our Community of Faith by participating in worship, education, fellowship and Christian service."

OAKLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 200 North Main PO Box 606 Oakland, IA 51560 Phone: 712-482-5530 Parsonage ph. 712-482-5539 E-mail: oaklandumc@frontiernet.net www.oaklandiaumc.org

Address Service Requested

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

OAKLAND, IOWA

PERMIT NO. 5

Disciple Express

«Mailing label»

«Address1»

«Address2»

«City State» «Zip code»

Rev. Textor and Grant Oscar Bane after the baptism. Parents are Roy and Carrie Bane.

ADDRESS UPDATES In the process of updating addresses, in particular young adults of the church, this newsletter is being sent to the members at the address we have in the system. If you have someone in your family that no longer lives at home and you receive a newsletter for them, please contact the church with their current address. Your help in updating our system is greatly appreciated.

Disciple Express Disciple Express

NURSERY

VOLUNTEERS

USHERS,

GREETERS,

CANDLELIGHTERS

Aug. 1: Lindsey Henderson Leigh Bell

Lauren Schueman Lisa Rollins

Candlelighters: Kyra Martens and Camryn Pierson

Aug. 8: Terry and Cyndy Haines Merle and Veva Larson

Candlelighters: Hayden and Hayley Haines

Aug. 15:Ilene Parkhill and Jessie Shiffer Mark and Mischa Martens Candlelighters: Sarah and Andrew Jones

Aug: 22: Gene and Gloria Gleaves Terry and Amy Gleaves Candlelighters: Grace Gleaves and Kyra Martens

Aug: 29: Marvin and Carolyn Clark Craig and Lisa Hummel

Candlelighters: Haley and Hannah Hummel

KOINONIA (No more phone call reminders)

Aug 1 Judie & Larry Danker Aug 8 Louise & Dick Merkle Aug 15 Lindsey Henderson/Leigh Bell/Lauren Schueman

Aug 22 Joan Shanno Aug 29 Teresa Keiser

AUGUST BIRTHDAYS 8/1 Lorraine Hackett Pauline Hogzett Janelle Schnack Trae Colvin 8/2 Anita McMartin 8/4 Joan Bartlett Peggy Henry Gia Jacobsen 8/6 Sharon Jones Karalyn Stott 8/7 Brannon Wright 8/8 Derek Shiffer 8/10 Anna Hildebrand 8/11 Lynn Grobe Cassie Schieber Shea Anderson 8/12 Dianne White Beth Achenbach 8/14 Ilene Parkhill 8/15 Sherri Blanchard Melinda Thompson Amber Shellberg 8/16 Stefanie Bartlett Kristie McCready 8/18 Mitch Anderson 8/21 Mychal Cleaveland 8/22 Debbie Simonin Mischa Martens Lauren Schueman 8/23 Edith Haines 8/26 Aaron Ehmke 8/27 Hannah Constable 8/28 Meg Haines Mattie Haines 8/31 Bob Pitt

*** A Sunday school teacher said to a little boy in her class: “So your mother says your prayers for you every night at bedtime. That’s very nice. What does she say?” “Thank God he’s in bed!” the little boy replied. *** A grandfather was driving his young granddaughter to her softball game when she asked, “Grandpa, did God make you?” “Yes, indeed, God made me,” her grandfather replied. “Did God make me, too?” she asked. “Yes, he did, and He did a good job,” the grandfather answered. For a few minutes, the little girl seemed to be studying her grandfather, then looked at her reflection in the car mirror. “You know, Grandpa,” she said, “God’s doing a lot better job lately.” *** Pastor Nixon of the Outback Patrol Nat’l Hdqtrs in Georges Hall, Australia, reports this. After a church meeting at night, a traveling evangelist was invited to the family’s home for dinner and to stay overnight. The husband and wife said they had only two bedrooms and asked the evangelist if he’d mind sleeping in the same room with their five-year-old lad. “Not at all,” the evangelist said. I have children of my own.” The lad was sound asleep in one of two single beds. So the evangelist very quietly prepared for bed, then knelt to pray next to his own bed. The lad woke up, and the evangelist saw him kneeling in prayer on the other side of his own bed, too. The evangelist quietly complimented the lad for joining him in prayer. The boy simply replied, “Its, okay, sir. But the potty’s on this side of my bed.”

$5000 PROJECTION

SYSTEM The projection system is ready to be installed but we still lack $5000. paying for it. If you would like to help, please put your donation in the offering plate with a note saying projection system or mail it to the church.

NURSING HOMES - Remember those in the nursing homes with cards and visits. Oakland Manor: Mary Applegate, Janis Dobernecker, Margaret Alff, Dorothy Forristall Oakland Heights: Eileen Haines, Lucille Bentley Griswold Nursing Home: Merle Davis Primrose: Lois Allen

August 1 Pam Ehmke 8 Leslie Cleaveland 15 Peggy Bentley 22 Sheila Applegate 29 Rita Henningsen

FOR PASTORAL CARE When you or a family member is hospitalized or face a crisis which pastoral care is needed, please communicate that need directly to Rev. Textor weekday mornings at the church (482-5530) or direct your call to her home phone (482-5539). If she is not available to her home phone, please leave your message on her answering machine. If you need the prayer chain started on the weekend or on Monday when the office is closed, please call Rev. Textor at 482-5539.

OFFICE HOURS Our secretary, Sheryl Sindt, is in the church office from 9:00 a.m. to noon Tuesday through Friday. Rev. Textor will be in her study from 10:00 a.m. to noon Tuesday through Friday. Rev. Textor can also be reached on her home phone (482-5539). The church building and office are closed on Mondays. Office phone 712-482-5530 Church e-mail address oaklandumc@frontiernet.net Church address 200 N. Main, Oakland, IA 51560. Church web page www.oaklandiaumc.org

THANK YOU’S Dear United Methodist Church, Thank you for the scholarship and book. (“The Top Ten List for Graduates”) The church has always meant a lot to me and my family. The money will be used at ISU. Wesley Henry

* * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Thank you for the nice book. (“The Top Ten List for Graduates”) I’ll greatly enjoy reading it. Thanks, Ryan D. Hildebrand

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Dear Oakland United Methodist Church, Thank you very much for the scholarship. It will be very helpful in paying for school. I will be attending Iowa State in the fall to obtain a degree in Ag Systems Technology. Thanks again to my church, Chad Obrecht

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Perhaps you sent a lovely card, Or sat quietly in a chair. Perhaps you sent a funeral spray, If so we saw it there. Perhaps you spoke the kindest words, As any friend could say; Perhaps you were not there at all, Just thought of us that day. Whatever you did to console our hearts, We thank you so much whatever the part. The family of John Taylor Thank you for the wonderful service.

Thank you for the lovely service, and lunch after. Use the memorial where ever its needed most.

Norma Taylor

Update on Special Projects. You can make a difference...be encouraged! Your generous donations HAVE made a difference. At Annual Conference 2010, the following was collected: 350+ pounds of pop tops for the Des Moines Ronald McDonald House. 4 HUGE paper grocery bags of Campbell's labels and box tops for Bidwell Riverside. 300+ pairs of new underwear for the Women at the Well for the "Stepping Out Closet." 406 cell phones and many accessories for domestic violence shelters. 386 pairs of eyeglasses for LensCrafters and the Lions Club to refit and distribute. 45 clean white cotton sheets for Rolling Bandages for Global Health Services in Minneapolis, Minnesota to be rolled this summer by local volunteers. $78 in $1 donations for toothpaste for Ingathering - sent to Gaylen Goetsch. $124.78 collected in pocket change for the Iowa Food Bank. 62 sets of two diaper pins for Ingathering kits - sent to Gaylen Goetsch. Pastor Catie Newman

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Disciple Express

is August 24

9:00 A.M.

NEW BOOK STUDY Title: Book Study: Giving: Unlocking the Heart of Good Stewardship The Finance and Stewardship team has selected this year’s book study. The book we have chosen is Giving: Unlocking the Heart of Good Stewardship by John Ortberg, Judson Poling and Laurie Pederson. The book description says that giving demonstrates how good stewardship is more than a responsibility – it’s an adventure. You will find out how a lifestyle of giving reflects the heart of God, who freely gives his best to you. Pastor Shirley will incorporate the book’s lessons into church and we will be offering bible study group times when we distribute the books in early September. The church office will be ordering the books in advance and the cost to you will be $10.00. SUBMITTED BY: BARB SCHORSCH, 402-681-0891

CONGRATULATIONS Prayers of celebration for the Rev. Melissa Drake (Silver Creek/Hancock UMC) who became a Provisional Elder during Annual Conference, and for Rev. Dwight Grosvenor for his appointment to the Griswold UMC, and to Rev. Scott Morrison appointed to the Macedonia yoke.

Lois Allen is at Primrose in Council Bluffs and her room number is 229. Her phone number is the same as it was at Amelia House. 256-4297.

DAVE NOLTE’S NEW ADDRESS Dave & Mari Nolte

4050A Greenhouse PL SE Albuquerque NM 87116-3008

PILLOW CLEANING will be available in the Oakland area on Tuesday, August 3rd from 9:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Oakland Senior Center at 618 North Hwy. For more info call 712-378-2918.

Disciple Express Disciple Express

FROM THE TREASURER ’S OFFICE OF THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE June Receipts During the summer is when the Annual Conference treasurer incurs a lot of expenses. Such as the bills for the Annual Conference Session, the cost of moving clergy from one charge to another, and the camping program which is in full swing, meaning higher costs in salaries and groceries. And of course, our standard monthly costs remain the same. The money you give to the Conference this time of year is greatly appreciated. You cannot know how grateful the Conference office is for these gifts. Thank you to all who so faithfully send your apportionments each month. Being able to depend on your gifts helps manage our cash flow in a very positive manner. Thank you for your regular and continued support.. Your generous support makes the ministry and mission of your Annual Conference a real witness for Christ.

The Annual Conference Budget The Council on Finance and Administration presented a budget of $30,028,968 to the Annual Conference, of which $15,992,012 was to come from apportionments. The proposed apportionment budget was 1.59% less than the 2010 apportionment budget. The Annual Conference voted to reduce the proposed apportionment budget by $53,738. Thus, the total apportionment budget that was adopted is 1.93% less than in 2010.

WELCOME REV. SCOTT MORRISON From The Evangel newsletter We are pleased to introduce you to our new minister, Scott Morrison! He comes to us right out of seminary school—we’re his first appointment! Rev. Morrison will be moving to Macedonia sometime during the week of June 20 and will give his first sermon to us on June

27. To help get him acquainted with us and the community, a “semi-potluck” is being planned in his honor after church service on June 27 at the DeWitt Community Center. Here is what hw wrote to introduce himself to us after he accepted the appointment to our charge: “A Pastor’s Journey” by Scott Morrison At the meeting of the Staff Parish Relations Committee on May 3, I accepted an appointment to serve the three churches of this charge. It was an eventful evening! I am fifty-two years old, single, and currently live in West Des Moines. (I am the youngest of three brothers, and my parents will be celebrating their fifty-fifth wedding anniversary in September.) I was reared in the Lutheran Church/Missouri Synod, but have been a member of Grave United Methodist Church in Des Moines since September of 1996. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion from Drake university in August of 1982, and went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Religious Studies from the United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in May of 1991. I had originally planned to go on for a doctorate degree in Religious Studies, but ultimately decided to forego a career in academia in favor of working within the Church. To that end, I returned to the United Theological Seminary in August of 2004 to begin work on a Master of Divinity degree. I am completing work on my final two courses as independent studies here in Iowa, and plan to finish them by the end of September. My Master of Divinity program has given me opportunities to practice ministry in a variety of settings, most recently as a chaplain intern at the Good Samaritan University Specialty Center in Minneapolis, where I primarily served the elderly residents. I look forward to soon beginning a new ministry in service to the congregations of Macedonia UMC, Henderson UMC, and Wheeler Grove UCC. Let us hold each other in prayer as we prepare to embark on new ministries!

ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD June 17, 2010 Present: Dick Merkle, Pastor Shirley Textor, Peggy Bentley, Jean Blackburn, Merlin Jones, Bernie Bolton, Norma Bolton, Skip Applegate, Kristy and Kort Rieken. In Need of Prayer: Cheryl Keast, Addie Mae Smith, John Taylor, Ava Applegate, Bob Putnam Family, Paul Leader’s Family. Joys: Bible School leadership and attendance. Secretary’s Report: There were 2 corrections to the secretary’s report from May. Norma motioned to approve the report as corrected. Dick seconded the motion and the report was approved as corrected. Treasurer’s Report: Dick gave a brief explanation of the treasurer’s report and answered questions. Peggy motioned to approve the report, Skip seconded the motion and the report was approved. Trustees: Bernie reported that the church air conditioner will be replaced by Clark Electric. Staff/Pastor Parish Relations Committee: Pastor Shirley reported that the needs to meet to work on a church wide birthday party and also on recruiting counselors for the senior high youth group. Pastor’s Report: A thank you from Ashley Way for her scholarship was shared. The piano from the storage room has been donated to a family whose children are taking lessons and needed a functional piano. Pastor Shirley reported on the baptism of Maverrick Kalb. Macedonia United Methodist Church is welcoming Scott Morrison as their new pastor. Dwight Grosvenor is the new pastor at Griswold. Pastor’s Calendar: July 4th - Sunday worship in the park July 15th - Ad Council 7:00 at the church lounge

July 24th - Palmer/Hamilton wedding

October 12th - Cluster Charge Conference at Carson Missions: Pastor Shirley reported that the Bishop’s FIT challenge collection was $126.25 which combined with the other churches in the SW Iowa district netted almost $5,000.

Education Committee: Kristy Rieken reported that Vacation Bible School went well. Highest attendance was 51 children. Kristy thanks all that helped with the planning and the week of classes. They plan to continue the Bible School theme during the remainder of Summer Sunday School. Pam has completed the paper work with the City of Oakland for the Sunday School class to have a float in the 4th of July parade. The Sunday School classes will make Father’s Day gifts to hand out at church. Their next focus will be on Church Camp. Memorial Committee: Addie Mae was absent. The Board discussed the computer cabinet and the projector. Annual Conference Report: Pastor Shirley reported that there was good news and bad news at the conference. The good news is that the budget was lowered and the bad news is that pension costs increased and there will probably be an increase in health care costs in October . Pastor reported that they held great worship services and she also really enjoyed the retirement service. There were 33 pastors retiring and sadly 6 churches closed. One of those closing churches, the Community of Joy in Cedar Rapids, will be giving their assets to the Salem Cedar Rapids church that was flooded last year. It was also discussed that the cost to go to Annual Conference is becoming more expensive and we will have to look at increasing our budget to cover those costs. This year, since our delegate to Annual Conference was unable to attend, it was approved for Pastor’s additional expenses to come from that amount. There will be more information on Annual Conference in the upcoming newsletter. Before the next Administrative Board meeting, Pastor Shirley has challenged the members to come up with new ideas for “Hospitality in our Church and Community” to be discussed and put into practice. As there was no other business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m. Bernie closed the meeting with prayer. Respectfully submitted, Peggy Bentley, Recording Secretary

Disciple Express Disciple Express

FABRIC IS AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHWEST DISTRICT OFFICE

AGAIN!!!!!

Thanks to Myra Kail, the Southwest District Office is once again making available FREE fabric that is suitable for making cloth bags for school kits. The fabric is in 60 and 72-inch widths, in rolls of various lengths. It can be cut into any length that you desire. There are only two conditions for receiving this FREE fabric:

It cannot be sold or used for any profit-making purpose; and

You must not fail to send a Thank You note to the donor company:

All Steel Corp. Attn: Mindi Reynolds

Highway 61 Muscatine, IA 52761

Please tell them who you are, what church you are part of, what town you live in, and what you have used the fabric for.

Stop by the District Office anytime Monday thru Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and select the fabric you would like to use!

July 4th Sunday school was rained out but the kids enjoyed board games in the church.

ATTENTION COLLEGE BOUND STUDENTS The Wesley Foundations are busy preparing for the start of the new school year. If you are headed off to Drake University, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa or University of Iowa please contact the appropriate Wesley Foundation Director to let them know. For more information about the Wesley Foundations contact Rev. Textor or one of the following pastors. For Drake University contact Rev. Ted Hatten at tlhatten@radiks.net For Iowa State University contact Rev. Jim Shirbroun at jim@cwames.org For University of Northern Iowa contact Rev. David Glenn-Burns at wesley.dave@cfu.net For University of Iowa contact Rev. Paul Shultz at paul@iowawesley.com CARTER LAKE UMC CELEBRATION Dear Friends of the Southwest District: Last year we celebrated a Gratitude Sunday when we had a tangible way of thanking all the congregations in our district for the ongoing support of our ministry. We had such a wonderful time, we’d like to do it again. Gratitude II didn’t seem to say what we wanted to convey, so instead you are invited to our Shared Ministry Celebration on Sunday, August 29, 2010, at the Carter lake united Methodist church. You see, in every activity we do at CLUMC we are mindful that you are sharing with us in our ministry. It is a shared connectional ministry! We have great plans for the day. A special worship service, a big church picnic (with seating indoors and outdoors) to which you are all invited, the reception of a class of new members (many first time professions of faith and baptisms), and a special gift for you. We would love to have representatives from your church, perhaps a Mission Work Area attend. Once again, the only thing we ask of you is to call our church and let us know about how many will be attending from your charge. You can either call us at 712-347-5511 or email us at clrev547@netzero.net to confirm this number. Please join us on Sunday, August 29th as once again we say think you for sharing in the ministry of the Carter Lake United Methodist church. Grace and peace, Mark Heath, Pastor &The People of the Carter Lake UMC

Welcome Okoboji Campers! The 2010 camping season is in full swing at Lake Okoboji United Methodist Camp! Children, youth and families from all across the mid-west are attending camping events RIGHT NOW! Got the afternoon off…want to sing around the campfire...want to spend the afternoon soaking in beautiful West Lake Okoboji…JUST STOP BY! We’d love to see you!

CAMP SIGN-UPS – There is still plenty of time to sign up for a camping experience at Okoboji. Families can register for events UP UNTIL THE DAY THE EVENT STARTS! There are camping events for ALL AGES EVERY WEEK of the summer in 2010! No children at home…how about a grandchild, co-worker’s children, neighbors? Contact your local church, call TOLL FREE 1-866-856-9862 or email info@okobojicamp.com for information or to request a free camping catalog and brochure.

CAMPING DISCOUNTS – • Family discount - Receive an extra $25.00 discount for each additional family member who comes to camp in 2009. Any camping event they choose! Bring a Friend - For each new camper* you bring, we’ll discount the cost of your event fee by $25.00**. Your friends have fun with you at camp, you save a little money, and everybody WINS! It’s our way of thanking you for helping us make camp even better!

* New campers are defined as not having been to any Iowa UM Camps in the past 3 years.

** Discounts cannot exceed the cost of your event registration fees.

CAMPERSHIPS – Need help paying for your camp experience? LET SOMEONE KNOW! No one has ever been turned away because they couldn’t afford to pay. Pastors and church staff – do you need a copy of the campership form? Just let us know and we’ll email you a copy!

THANK YOU – For making sure the children, youth and families at your churches know about camping opportunities. We couldn’t do it without you!

Camping events provide children, youth, young adults and families with an opportunity to learn, play, experience God's love in the outdoors, grow in faith in a safe atmosphere, and to reach their personal best! The activities and opportunities that campers experience at camp will stick with them for the rest of their lives! Camp provides the acceptance and support of a Christian community and positive relationships with adult leaders who truly care about children and making disciples for Jesus. At Okoboji, Jesus Christ is shared in song, word, worship and example as campers live out their faith together in community. Okoboji provides an unforgettable summer experience, where campers can discover and explore exciting activities in a carefully supervised, Christian environment. Lives are changed forever!

“Camp gives kids a world of good!” See you soon at camp! Keith Shew Director Okoboji United Methodist Camp & Retreat Center 21413 154th Street Place Spirit Lake, IA 51360 Toll free: 866-856-9862 24 hr. Fax: 712-336-1822

Disciple Express Disciple Express

Storm on Sunday Hits Okoboji Camp 7/20/2010 Windy weekend around Iowa huh? Northwest Iowa was affected, the Okoboji area was pretty hard too. Okoboji camp is fine. Though, at 6AM on Sunday morning, I questioned if we would be able to hold camp on Monday (or for the rest of the week for that matter). Camp has minimal facility damage, some cold storage food loss (without power for 36 hours), one canoe broken, one dock broken, a small pile of shingles from a building and significant tree damage. It looked like a war zone Sunday morning – every tree on the North campus was affected. Early Sunday morning, we contacted local UMCs so announcements could be made for assistance. Through the work of Okoboji’s INCREDIBLE STAFF (if I sound proud of them...it’s because they are the best!! They served tirelessly on their one day off to help clean up after the storm) and around 60 volunteers (with trucks, trailers, chainsaws and big hearts), after 10 hours of hard work, we had nearly all the North Campus cleared and ready to go – save some leaves and small sticks! We began the day with a plan to clear just camper areas – cabins, registration areas, program areas so we could have safe places for campers to gather the next day. As more and more volunteers showed up, we were able to complete nearly the whole North Campus. There are still major limbs down around 2 live power lines on the ground near the West side of Okoboji's staff residence. We also have a tall oak that fell into a neighbor’s yard which still needs cleared up. Once we get the all clear from Alliant, we’ll clear these areas. Many in the Lakes are were not so lucky. Stories/pictures of significant damage to homes, business, vehicles and property are common. Most of those affected the greatest are within 1/2 mile of camp.

We’ve already entered an insurance claim for losses.

God is good. God provides. Our God is an Awesome God!

Blessings, Keith Shew, Camp Director

JIM CARRICK ,Dec. 13, 1951 – June 30, 2010

One of three children of Dorothy Maxine (Huston) Carrick and Vern LeRoy Carrick, Jim was born in Austin, Minnesota on December 13, 1951. Jim moved with his family to Oakland, Iowa while in the 5th grade. He graduated from the Oakland High School in 1970 and then attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha where he received his business degree. Jim and Rebecca Jane Dobernecker were married at the Oakland United Methodist Church on September 21, 1974. They made their home in Oakland and were blessed with three daughters; Jamie, Joni, and Abby. Jim worked for his father at Carrick Farm Supply in Oakland until accepting the manager position with the Hancock Fertilizer Company and later for the Hancock Elevator. Jim was an avid Iowa State football fan and Chicago Cubs baseball fan, recording games that he couldn’t be home to watch. He loved to spend time with his family and enjoyed horses, golfing, and bowling. In 1993, Jim’s health forced him to retire from the elevator. Over the next 17 years he kept busy assisting at the Oakland Veterinary Clinic. Jim and Becky were married 35 years when Jim died at their home in Oakland on June 30, 2010, at the age of 58 years, 6 months, and 17 days. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife Becky Carrick of Oakland; daughters, Jamie Ewalt and husband Justin and their children, Teagan, Ryleigh, and Chance James of Tabor, IA, Joni Gordon and husband Aaron and their children, Emma and Jaxon James of Carson, and Abby Taylor and husband Jon and their children, Sophia and Samuel James of Carson; sisters, Joyce Sharp and Bob Sharp of Des Moines, IA, and Julie Davis of Nevada, MO; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends. —Hertz Funeral Home Hertz Funeral Home Carson, Iowa in charge with Officiants Rev. Richard Russell & Rev. Terry McClain.

DATE CHANGE GALASTIC BLAST VBS WRAP UP potluck and fishing eve will occur Sunday, August 8, @ 6 pm in place of Sunday, July 25. (Rain date 8/15). All volunteers and participants are invited to join in an evening of reflection and fun. Meet at Dave and Sheila Applegate's fish pond (22087 390th St). Hot Dogs, S’mores, and beverages will be provided. Bring chairs, fishing equip & 1 dish.

FUNERAL HELPERS Thank you to all the helpers and food contributors for all the past funerals. Without your help we would have to go to catered luncheons and that just wouldn’t be the same. DISHES After the Cheryl Keast funeral there were many dishes returned from the community building to the church kitchen. If you haven’t already picked yours up please make sure you stop in the kitchen to collect your dishes.

UMBRELLA LEFT AT COMMUNITY BUILDING

If you left an umbrella at the community building after Cheryl Keast’s funeral please inquire at the church office or call 482-5530.

PRE-SERMON REVIEW Rev. Textor is writing a pre-sermon review including the scripture and pertinent questions regarding her upcoming sermon. We have posted the letter on the Church's Facebook page. If you want to get to that page, but don't know how, the title of the page is oakiamethchurch and the address is www.facebook.com/oakiamethchurch. If you aren't already on Facebook, you will be prompted to join before they can gain access to that page.

BIBLE VERSES CELL PHONE!

Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our

Bible like we treat our cell phone?

What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?

What if we flipped through it several times a day?

What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?

What if we used it to receive messages from the

text?

What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?

What if we gave it to Kids as gifts?

What if we used it when we traveled?

What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go....hmm...where

is my Bible?

Oh, and one more thing.

Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus

already paid the bill.

Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities? And no dropped calls!

When Jesus died on the cross, he was thinking

of you!

IA; his brother James Taylor and wife Judy of Spencer, IA; and his sister Lila Scott and husband Drex of Marietta, GA. John is also urvived by many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. —Rieken Vieth Funeral Home Arrangements by Rieken Vieth Funeral Home and officiated by Rev. Shirley Textor. CHERYL KEAST passed July 17, 2010 at the age of 66. Cheryl was born January 13, 1944 to Nels and Gwen (Carter) Block Jr. in Harlan, IA. Cheryl was a 1962 graduate of Harlan Comm. Schools. After graduating, Cheryl moved to Omaha, NE and started working at Mutual of Omaha. On September 19, 1964 Cheryl was united in marriage to Walter Keast at the Harlan First Baptist Church. Two children were born to this union, Debbie and Steve. Cheryl and Walt owned and operated Davenport Motors, later to be named Keast Chevrolet in Oakland, IA. Cheryl was active in the business until her health forced her to retire. Before making their home in Oakland, in 1976, Cheryl and her family lived in Lincoln, NE and Austin, MN, where they made many lifelong friends. Cheryl was an avid shopper and enjoyed buying gifts for her grandchildren. She loved spending time with her family, and friends at their home in Okoboji. Cheryl and Walt also enjoyed traveling around the country, especially to car shows and NASCAR races. Cheryl was a member of the Oakland United Methodist Church, Tangier Shrine Vintage Iron ladies and Daughters of the Nile, Cheryl is survived by her husband Walt of Oakland; her daughter Debbie of Omaha and her son Steve and wife Amy of Harlan; her grandchildren Madison and Ellen; her parents Nels and Gwen Block of Harlan; and her brothers Ronald Block and wife Kathy of Harlan and Donald block and wife Martha of Cooper City, FL. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.—Rieken Vieth Funeral Home Services were conducted in the Oakland United Methodist Church by Rev. Shirley Textor and arrangements by Rieken Vieth Funeral Home with burial at the Macedonia Cemetery.

OUR DEARLY DEPARTED JOHN TAYLOR (June 22, 1933 - June 19, 2010)

John Phillip Taylor, the son of Glenn and Alice (Verner) Taylor, was born June 22, 1933 at Council Bluffs, IA and died June 19, 2010 at the Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, IA at the age of 76 years, 11 months, and 28 days.

John lived on a farm near Carson, IA where he attended country school. He attended high school at Carson, graduating with the class of 1951. On March 9, 1952 John was united in marriage to Norma Rohwer at Elkhorn, NE. Three children were born to this union: Rickie, Barbara, and Jana. John and Norma lived in several places before moving to their farm west of Oakland. They lived on the farm until 1974, when they moved in to town. John continued to farm and sell cars for Davenport Chevrolet in Oakland and then J. Olsen Chevrolet in Avoca. John retired in 1995. He and Norma remained in Oakland until the time of his death.

John was a member of the Oakland United Methodist Church, ARK Lodge #335 A.F. & A.M., the Scottish Rite, and was a Shriner. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, playing cards, and reading.

John is preceded in death by his grandchildren, Skye and Kyra and his parents.

He is survived by his wife Norma of Oakland; his children: Rickie Taylor and wife Shirley of Urbandale, IA, Barbara Schorsch and husband Kim of Oakland, IA, and Jana Taylor and husband Tim of Woodbine, IA; his grandchildren: Katie Schorsch of West Des Moines, IA, Stacy Andersen and husband Eric of Urbandale, IA, Kristine Schorsch of Ames, IA, and Payton Taylor of Woodbine, IA; his great granddaughter Carmen Andersen of Urbandale,

The recipients of the 27th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards for 2010 have been announced. Governor’s Volunteer Awards are given to honor the amount of community service time given by individuals and organizations throughout the state. Every award given to United Methodists this year was in association with disaster relief/flood recovery.

As Marcia Hughes, Community Relations Supervisor for Cedar Rapids Community Schools stated “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is extra. Let’s celebrate the extra! Volunteers believe in the organization and what it stands for, and when we volunteer we give a part of ourselves, our skills and our feelings to others.”

Storm Lake UMC received their award earlier in June. At the awards event where Storm Lake UMC received their award the Governor made the following statement: “The devotion of these volunteers has helped Iowa achieve the second highest state volunteer rate in the country,” said Governor Culver. “Lt. Governor Judge, the First Lady, and I are honored to have this opportunity to personally thank this year’s award recipients for donating their time, dedication, and talent to make a tremendous difference in our state.”

The second round of celebrations was held in Cedar Rapids and Cedar Falls on June 22, 2010 where several United Methodist Churches and the UMC’s Block by Block program were honored. The Presbytery of Eastern Iowa nominated Block by Block for the Governor’s award. What an honor to have been nominated for this award by another denomination and when they went on-stage to receive the award, they received the only standing ovation of the day.

Several UMC churches also received awards during the ceremonies.

Bethel UMC of Zearing (nominated by the Dept. of Transportation) for years of highway/road side clean up.

Geneseo UMC of Dysart (nominated by Dept. of Transportation) for years of highway/road side clean up.

Living Water UMC of Marion (nominated by the Flood Recovery office of the United Methodist Church)

Oakville UMC of Wapello (nominated by Melissa Bracht-Wagner) for flood relief work Springville UMC (nominated by Melissa Bracht-Wagner) for flood relief work

Shueyville UMC of Swisher (nominated by Melissa Bracht-Wagner) for flood relief work

Springville UMC of Springville (nominated by the Flood Recovery Office of the United Methodist Church)

St. Pauls UMC of Waterloo (nominated by the Hawkeye Area Agency on Aging) for meals on wheels work and (nominated by Melissa Bracht-Wagner) for flood relief work

St. Pauls UMC of CR (nominated by Melissa Bracht-Wagner) for flood relief work

According to Governor Chet Culver, “Iowa is #2 in the nation for volunteer service and look out next year, Utah, because we are going to be #1!” He went on to state that in Iowa volunteer hours have increased 25% in the last year. “Iowans are selfless, thoughtful and concerned for one another. It gives me a lot of pride to live in a state where caring is part of the fabric of daily life. For generations, Iowans have always been there for their families, friends and neighbors. There could be no better example of our caring spirit than you, Iowa’s outstanding volunteers. You are, quite simply, the glue that holds our communities together.”

Congratulations! to our United Methodist Churches for being recognized by our Governor and for the incredible volunteerism that is going on throughout our great state!

Brief info on the Governor’s Volunteer Awards The awards began in 1982 as a way for state agencies to give state wide recognition to valuable and dedicated volunteers. With the popularity of the awards, it has expanded to allow other government groups and non-profit organizations to make nominations. Story by Darci Hartman, Communications Technical Specialist,