April/May Session Report     

Session has been very busy with varying issues.  To keep you informed, a brief review follows.

• Scruples 101 was distributed to Session and discussed as it was to be voted on at the May 5^th Presbytery Meeting in Rhode Island. (Update: It passed unanimously.)

• Session elected Commissioners to the May 5^th Presbytery meeting-Ann Thomas and Judy Cunningham. (At the meeting, it was learned the ratio of Elders/Ministers has been realigned due to the fact there are fewer ministers so there will be fewer Elder Commissioners.  Valley will now have two instead of three.)

• Session approved the baptism of Addison Joan Michalek, daughter of Vicki and Brandon Michalek.  It was held on April 22^nd.

• Session also approved for membership Ibia and Chris Vetrano and Kim and Craig Lickiss.  They were publicly received into membership, also on April 22^nd.

• The contract for installing new fuel oil tanks in the boiler room was also approved and they have been installed by B&C.  The old tank outside will either be deactivated or removed.  Action is pending on this item.

• The new triangular window above the entryway was installed and an estimate has been received for replacing the circular window above the stairway.  Action is pending on the installation of the circular window.

• Building and Grounds is investigating the cost of installing a new dishwasher in the kitchen.  Final action is scheduled for June meeting if all research done.

• As per a request from Session, investigation was undertaken on the cost of a new baby grand piano now that Valley has started a piano fund.  Max Vladimiroff agreed to look into the cost for us.  The initial cost for a 7’ Baby Grand Piano is in the neighborhood of $26,000.00.  We do not yet know for sure what a used one would cost but it is being researched.

• Session also approved, at the Historian’s request, that a new Committee be established to address Preservation issues and policies and will also include Disaster Preparedness of our staff, people and records.

• As is required, a membership review was held in May with a first reading of possible transfers to the inactive list and removal from the inactive list.  Of note is the fact there were few names to consider for either action.

Finally, any concerns, questions or suggestions should be addressed to Session members or the moderator of Session (our pastor).  Our Session is comprised of the following members: Carolyn Cotter, Judy Cunningham, Cheryl Freeston, Mark Harmata, Jeff Henriques, Helen Parks McGuire, Granville Reed, Addie Sandler, and John Sutor.

Judy Cunningham

Clerk of Session

Prayer Chain