COVID Safety Precautions - July 2022
Our new official position, based on the available information we have is that we are now strongly recommending masks when inside the church for any group activities. It is not a requirement, and we hope that it will not come to us needing to require them again, but we need to start operating with a higher level of caution and be prepared that if conditions in our area continue to worsen we may need to take additional measures.
For more details, visit these sites:
Covid ActNow
CDC
For more details, visit these sites:
Covid ActNow
CDC
COVID Safety Precautions - Mid-June 2022
We are now in the "medium risk" state according to the CDC.
Our new official position, based on the available information we have is that we are now strongly recommending masks when inside the church for any group activities. It is not a requirement, and we hope that it will not come to us needing to require them again, but we need to start operating with a higher level of caution and be prepared that if conditions in our area continue to worsen we may need to take additional measures.
Our new official position, based on the available information we have is that we are now strongly recommending masks when inside the church for any group activities. It is not a requirement, and we hope that it will not come to us needing to require them again, but we need to start operating with a higher level of caution and be prepared that if conditions in our area continue to worsen we may need to take additional measures.
COVID Safety Precautions - April 2022
The LCUUC Board has not made any changes to the Covid Safety Precautions since March 2022.
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
- Stay home if you aren't feeling well or if you know you have been exposed to Covid-19 recently.
- We recommend that all eligible people get vaccination and booster shot[s] (unless medically contraindicated).
- Wearing a mask in the building is a personal choice. If you are more comfortable wearing a mask at church, please feel free to do so. Masks are also optional while singing.
- Be respectful of others’ risk tolerance. Please get consent before hugging and maintain physical distance unless all involved are comfortable being closer.
- Turn on (and UP) the HEPA filtration units as high as is tolerable in the rooms that are being used.
- We recommend downloading the “WI exposure notification app” for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise.
- All LCUUC staff and volunteers who have contact with numerous people are fully vaccinated/boosted. This includes worship leaders, musicians, religious education teachers and assistants, ushers, and greeters.
- If you test positive for Covid after having been in the building, please inform the office as soon as possible.
COVID Guidelines - Update March 2022: Masks are now optional
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
Contact Rev. Carin or Lisa Alvarado with questions.
Visit COVID Policy / Updates for Covid History at LCUUC
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
- Stay home if you aren't feeling well or if you know you have been exposed to Covid-19 recently
- We recommend that all eligible people get a vaccination and booster shot (unless medically contraindicated).
- Wearing a mask in the building is a personal choice. If you are more comfortable wearing a mask at church, please feel free to do so. Masks are also optional while singing.
- Be respectful of others’ risk tolerance. Please get consent before hugging and maintain physical distance unless all involved are comfortable being closer.
- Turn on the HEPA filtration units as high as is tolerable in the rooms that are being used
- We recommend downloading the “WI exposure notification app” for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise.
- All LCUUC staff and volunteers who have contact with numerous people are fully vaccinated/boosted. This includes worship leaders, musicians, religious education teachers and assistants, ushers, and greeters.
- If you test positive for Covid after having been in the building, please inform the office as soon as possible.
Contact Rev. Carin or Lisa Alvarado with questions.
Visit COVID Policy / Updates for Covid History at LCUUC
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COME ON IN! (February 2022) Per the Covid Working Group’s recommendation and the vote of the Board of Trustees on 2/11/22, small groups and in-person worship attendees are once again invited back into the LCUUC building.
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Per the Covid Working Group’s recommendation and the vote of the Board of Trustees on 2/11/22, small groups and in-person worship attendees are once again invited back into the LCUUC building.
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
LCUUC continues to be guided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the overall risk level of Waukesha County per Covid ActNow.
The Covid Working Group will meet again on Wednesday, March 2, 2022. Contact Rev. Carin or Lisa Alvarado with questions.
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
- We recommend that all eligible people get a vaccination and booster shot (unless medically contraindicated)
- Stay home if you aren't feeling well or if you know you have been exposed to Covid-19 recently
- Wear a mask in the building if you are over 2 years old
- People outside of family units are recommended to stay physically distant from one another; get consent before hugging
- Turn on the HEPA filtration units as high as is tolerable in the rooms that are being used
- Please do not eat or drink in the church building at this time
- We recommend sanitizing your hands
- Post-worship social time may occur indoors with social distancing and masking
- We recommend downloading the “WI exposure notification app” for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise
- All LCUUC staff and volunteers who have contact with numerous people are fully vaccinated/boosted. This includes worship leaders, musicians, religious education teachers and assistants, ushers, and greeters.
- Please do not sing as a congregation until further notice
- If you test positive for Covid after having been in the building, please inform the office as soon as possible
LCUUC continues to be guided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the overall risk level of Waukesha County per Covid ActNow.
The Covid Working Group will meet again on Wednesday, March 2, 2022. Contact Rev. Carin or Lisa Alvarado with questions.
Covid Safety Precautions - January 2022
Due to the Omicron surge in Waukesha County, the LCUUC Covid Work Group met in January 2022 to update recommendations to the LCUUC Board. Upon review of these recommendations, the LCUUC Board announced the following changes that are in effect until at least February 14th, 2022:
For those people entering the building on church business at other times during the week, the following are the continued expectations when others are also present:
Due to the Omicron surge in Waukesha County, the LCUUC Covid Work Group met in January 2022 to update recommendations to the LCUUC Board. Upon review of these recommendations, the LCUUC Board announced the following changes that are in effect until at least February 14th, 2022:
- LCUUC has temporarily suspended in-person attendance at Sunday worship services and all in-person meetings in the church. Please watch the worship service online until further notice.
- LCUUC allows worship leaders (i.e., speakers, musicians, and A/V Tech folks) to be in the sanctuary to facilitate the live-streaming during worship.
- During this temporary situation, LCUUC will continue to offer Sunday morning Zoom Coffee Hours after worship services so that people can see one another and stay connected in this way.
For those people entering the building on church business at other times during the week, the following are the continued expectations when others are also present:
- We recommend that all eligible people get a vaccination and booster shot (unless medically contraindicated)
- Stay home if you aren't feeling well or if you know you have been exposed to Covid-19 recently
- Wear a mask in the building if you are over 2 years old
- Turn on the HEPA filtration units as high as is tolerable in the rooms that are being used
- Stay physically distant from one another unless you are within the same family unit
- Sanitize your hands
- Please do not eat or drink in the church building at this time.
- We recommend downloading the “WI exposure notification app” for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise
- If you test positive for Covid after having been in the building, please inform the office as soon as possible
Temporary changes at LCUUC due to Omicron - January 8, 2022
Hello Dear Friends,
Yesterday evening the Board of Trustees met and based on the recommendations of the Covid Working Group, have voted to temporarily suspend in-person attendance at Sunday worship services and all in-person meetings in the church. We will be allowing worship leaders (i.e., speakers, musicians, and A/V Tech folks) to be in the sanctuary to facilitate the live streaming on Sundays. So that we can stay still see each other on Sunday mornings, Zoom coffee hours will continue to be offered after worship services.
While this may not come as a surprise to most of you, I want to assure you that both groups discussed at length what this means from several perspectives. We understand that keeping all our staff, volunteers, and members safe is our highest priority; but that many of you, like us, will be disappointed by the loss of the in-person community we have just begun seeing again.
Over the last several months we have implemented many safeguards to ensure we are being as safe as possible while meeting in person. Vaccine + booster requirements for leaders, masks, distancing and the many generously donated HEPA filtration units in the sanctuary and classrooms have allowed us to feel confident that we could be in person. And then along came Omicron.
The Board of Trustees strongly feels that this is a temporary situation. While reluctant to put a timeline on it, we will be reviewing the situation after the next Covid Work Group meeting, but the suspension will be at least until February 14th, 2022.
During this time the Board of Trustees along with Leadership Development Committee and the Committee on Shared Ministry will be virtually meeting with a UUA facilitator to discuss reconnecting after Covid. What will this look like for LCUUC? How has the congregation and its leadership changed over the last two years? And how will we choose to move forward?
While the Omicron suspension has temporarily left us virtual again, I and the Board eagerly look forward to seeing all of you in person again soon. As most of us have done in our daily lives we can use this time to imagine where the future will take us. Stay safe, Dear Friends.
Respectfully yours,
Lisa Alvarado
President, Board of Trustees
PS: We hope you will still join us on Sunday mornings! The link to LCUUC’s online worship experience is: https://events.locallive.tv/worship/lake-country-unitari The link to LCUUC’s Zoom Coffee Hours is: https://zoom.us/j/93429207467
Yesterday evening the Board of Trustees met and based on the recommendations of the Covid Working Group, have voted to temporarily suspend in-person attendance at Sunday worship services and all in-person meetings in the church. We will be allowing worship leaders (i.e., speakers, musicians, and A/V Tech folks) to be in the sanctuary to facilitate the live streaming on Sundays. So that we can stay still see each other on Sunday mornings, Zoom coffee hours will continue to be offered after worship services.
While this may not come as a surprise to most of you, I want to assure you that both groups discussed at length what this means from several perspectives. We understand that keeping all our staff, volunteers, and members safe is our highest priority; but that many of you, like us, will be disappointed by the loss of the in-person community we have just begun seeing again.
Over the last several months we have implemented many safeguards to ensure we are being as safe as possible while meeting in person. Vaccine + booster requirements for leaders, masks, distancing and the many generously donated HEPA filtration units in the sanctuary and classrooms have allowed us to feel confident that we could be in person. And then along came Omicron.
The Board of Trustees strongly feels that this is a temporary situation. While reluctant to put a timeline on it, we will be reviewing the situation after the next Covid Work Group meeting, but the suspension will be at least until February 14th, 2022.
During this time the Board of Trustees along with Leadership Development Committee and the Committee on Shared Ministry will be virtually meeting with a UUA facilitator to discuss reconnecting after Covid. What will this look like for LCUUC? How has the congregation and its leadership changed over the last two years? And how will we choose to move forward?
While the Omicron suspension has temporarily left us virtual again, I and the Board eagerly look forward to seeing all of you in person again soon. As most of us have done in our daily lives we can use this time to imagine where the future will take us. Stay safe, Dear Friends.
Respectfully yours,
Lisa Alvarado
President, Board of Trustees
PS: We hope you will still join us on Sunday mornings! The link to LCUUC’s online worship experience is: https://events.locallive.tv/worship/lake-country-unitari The link to LCUUC’s Zoom Coffee Hours is: https://zoom.us/j/93429207467
Covid Safety Precautions - December 2021
The Covid Work Group met in November 2021. Here are some reminders:
LCUUC continues to be guided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the overall risk level of Waukesha county per Covid ActNow.
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
The Covid Work Group met in November 2021. Here are some reminders:
- There will be no invitations into congregational singing during worship services until after the proposed HEPA filtration units are in place. Some performers will be allowed to sing if they have been fully vaccinated and are wearing masks. Speakers continue to be expected to be fully vaccinated and wear masks.
- If you test positive for Covid after having been in the building, please inform the office as soon as possible. We will send out an email explaining to members of the community that they may have been exposed Covid. We will also encourage you to inform the people you have been in close contact with.
- We are discouraging people from eating and drinking in the church building at this time. This allows everyone to keep their masks on when in the presence of others.
LCUUC continues to be guided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the overall risk level of Waukesha county per Covid ActNow.
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
- Stay home if you aren't feeling well or if you know you have been exposed to Covid-19 recently
- Wear a mask if you are over 2 years old
- People outside of family units are recommended to stay physically distant from one another
- We recommend sanitizing your hands
- Post-worship social time may occur outside the building—or indoors with social distancing and masking
- We recommend downloading the “WI exposure notification app” for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise
- We recommend that all eligible people get a vaccination and boosted (unless medically contraindicated)
- All LCUUC staff and volunteers who have contact with numerous people are fully vaccinated. This includes worship leaders, musicians, religious education teachers and assistants, ushers, and greeters.
Covid Safety Precautions - November 2021
The Covid Work Group met in November 2021. Here is what’s new from that meeting:
1. If you test positive for Covid, please inform the office as soon as possible. We will send out an email explaining to members of the community that they may have been exposed Covid. We will also encourage you to inform the people you have been in close contact with.
2. We are discouraging people from eating and drinking in the church building at this time. This allows everyone to keep their masks on when in the presence of others.
3. There will be no invitations into congregational singing during worship services until the proposed HEPA filtration units are in place. Some performers will be allowed to sing if they have been fully vaccinated and are wearing masks. Speakers continue to be expected to be fully vaccinated and wear masks.
LCUUC continues to be guided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the overall risk level of Waukesha county per Covid ActNow.
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
The Covid Working Group will meet next on Wednesday January 5, 2022. Contact Rev. Carin or Mieke Craven with questions.
The Covid Work Group met in November 2021. Here is what’s new from that meeting:
1. If you test positive for Covid, please inform the office as soon as possible. We will send out an email explaining to members of the community that they may have been exposed Covid. We will also encourage you to inform the people you have been in close contact with.
2. We are discouraging people from eating and drinking in the church building at this time. This allows everyone to keep their masks on when in the presence of others.
3. There will be no invitations into congregational singing during worship services until the proposed HEPA filtration units are in place. Some performers will be allowed to sing if they have been fully vaccinated and are wearing masks. Speakers continue to be expected to be fully vaccinated and wear masks.
LCUUC continues to be guided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the overall risk level of Waukesha county per Covid ActNow.
Continued expectations for all people entering the building when others are also present include the following:
- Stay home if you aren't feeling well or if you know you have been exposed to Covid-19 recently
- Wear a mask if you are over 2 years old
- People outside of family units are recommended to stay physically distant from one another
- We recommend sanitizing your hands
- Post-worship social time may occur outside the building—or indoors with social distancing and masking
- We recommend downloading the app “WI exposure notification app” for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise
- We recommend that all eligible people get a vaccination (unless medically contraindicated)
- All LCUUC staff and volunteers who have contact with numerous people (i.e. worship leaders, musicians, ushers, greeters, religious education teachers and assistants) are fully vaccinated
The Covid Working Group will meet next on Wednesday January 5, 2022. Contact Rev. Carin or Mieke Craven with questions.
COVID Policy and Updates - History
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COVID Policy and Updates - 8/25/21
The Covid Work Group met in mid-August, reaffirming LCUUC’s decision to be guided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the overall risk level of Waukesha county per the Covid ActNow website. The Delta variant and the fact that vaccinated people can spread Covid have caused LCUUC to update the Use Plan which currently are as follows:
This pandemic continues to change quickly, so stay tune -- the LCUUC Use Plan will be updated as needed. The Covid Working Group will meet again on September 9, 2021. |
LCUUC Building and Property Use Plan during the Covid-19 Pandemic (Use Plan)
August 13, 2021 Update
August 13, 2021 Update
CDC guidelines for vaccinated individuals changed on July 27, 2021 in response to the spread of the Delta variant of the Coronavirus -- including the potential for vaccinated individuals to transmit the virus. The LCUUC Use Plan has been adjusted to reflect the CDC recommendations.
For the time being, LCUUC requires mask-wearing by all people who are ages 2 years or older when attending indoor gatherings at the church. This requirement will continue until Waukesha County drops to a Moderate or Low level of community transmission or the CDC recommendations change.
Additionally, all LCUUC staff and volunteers who have contact with numerous people are being asked to become fully vaccinated if they aren’t already. Medical exceptions do apply.
The LCUUC Board and Covid Workgroup will continue to monitor changes to the CDC recommendations, make adjustments to the Use Plan as needed, and communicate any changes to the LCUUC community.
Thank you for helping to minimize the spread of the Coronavirus.
For the time being, LCUUC requires mask-wearing by all people who are ages 2 years or older when attending indoor gatherings at the church. This requirement will continue until Waukesha County drops to a Moderate or Low level of community transmission or the CDC recommendations change.
Additionally, all LCUUC staff and volunteers who have contact with numerous people are being asked to become fully vaccinated if they aren’t already. Medical exceptions do apply.
The LCUUC Board and Covid Workgroup will continue to monitor changes to the CDC recommendations, make adjustments to the Use Plan as needed, and communicate any changes to the LCUUC community.
Thank you for helping to minimize the spread of the Coronavirus.
UUC Building and Property Use Plan during the
COVID-19 Pandemic, effective June 16, 2021 A NOTE from Paula Hillmann, President Board of Trustees…….Good news! In consideration of the present CDC guidelines, and recognizing the low case numbers and infection rate in Waukesha County, the Board of Trustees and I are happy to announce LCUUC is in the process of opening for church related activities in the building and on the property. Our immediate next steps involve posting Information about the current CDC recommendations for members and guests. Infographics and other signage explaining our expectations for use must be created and posted at the church. We are also assessing the supplies we must have for sanitation in the bathrooms and common areas. We need some assistance in doing this, and in managing the 2-3 indoor services being held this summer. If you can help, let me know. This is going to take a little time, so your patience is appreciated. General Guidelines: • Anyone with any symptoms of COVID-19 (that are not manifestations of some other known condition) should refrain from coming to the church building or grounds. • Fully vaccinated individuals (two weeks after the last required dose of vaccine): o may choose whether to wear a mask when on church property o may choose whether to maintain physical distance between others • Per CDC Guidelines, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated individuals are expected to: o Wear a mask o Maintain physical distance between themselves and others o Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated spaces o Wash hands frequently; use hand sanitizer after touching shared surfaces o Consider obtaining a vaccination as soon as possible to protect themselves and others • Reminders about building use: o Schedule meetings and gatherings with the church administrator prior to the event. o Ensure meetings, gatherings and worship services are inclusive to all who would like to attend, by offering an online option (such as Zoom) so that those who do not feel safe/comfortable gathering in person, may participate electronically. The CDC guidelines will be monitored and adjustments made to this policy as needed based on changes in their recommendations. A board member will be responsible for monitoring the Covid Act Now website and reconvening the COVID workgroup if the risk level rises to ‘High’ or other changes indicate mitigation steps are required. We must be prepared to change or close down, if necessary. This plan reflects the science and studies that have been done in the real world by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health agencies concerning the safety of vaccinated persons as well as the extremely small likelihood of transmission by vaccinated individuals. It is inclusive, there is no limitation for participation in church activities. Safety is reflected in the expectation that unvaccinated persons continue to mask and anyone not feeling well refrain from coming to the church property. And it values community, allowing gathering to happen since our scientific agencies have indicated this is a reasonably safe option. The CDC recently provided (May 13, 2021) guidance for individuals to participate in group activities recognizing the difference in the inherent risk in gathering for individuals that have been vaccinated and those that have not. The CDC guidance is based on ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 infections, transmissions, hospitalizations, and deaths due to COVID-19 in vaccinated individuals. A CDC infographic “Choosing Safer Activities” outlines the risks for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals along with appropriate mitigation strategies (ATTACHED). The new CDC guidance states vaccinated individuals do not need to take additional prevention measures. Attending a full capacity worship service and singing in an indoor chorus are specifically identified as “safest” activities for vaccinated individuals. The CDC infographic shows unvaccinated persons should continue to take prevention measures including wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart, and washing hands frequently. Please direct any concerns to Rev. Carin or to any of the current and new Board Members: Paula Hillmann, Dave Cicero, Cathy Marrari (Outgoing Board Members) Lisa Alvarado, Amy Seay, George Ehrhardt, Harry Nichols, Gail Ostler, Brynn Vukelich (Continuing Board Members) Mieke Craven, Dave Harker, Quentin Watson (New Board Members) 
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COVID-19 Update & FAQs |
June 18, 2021
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UUC Building and Property Use Plan during the
COVID-19 Pandemic, effective June 16, 2021
A NOTE from Paula Hillmann, President Board of Trustees…….Good news! In consideration of the present CDC guidelines, and recognizing the low case numbers and infection rate in Waukesha County, the Board of Trustees and I are happy to announce LCUUC is in the process of opening for church related activities in the building and on the property.
Our immediate next steps involve posting Information about the current CDC recommendations for members and guests. Infographics and other signage explaining our expectations for use must be created and posted at the church. We are also assessing the supplies we must have for sanitation in the bathrooms and common areas. We need some assistance in doing this, and in managing the 2-3 indoor services being held this summer. If you can help, let me know. This is going to take a little time, so your patience is appreciated.
General Guidelines:
• Anyone with any symptoms of COVID-19 (that are not manifestations of some other known condition) should refrain from coming to the church building or grounds.
• Fully vaccinated individuals (two weeks after the last required dose of vaccine):
o may choose whether to wear a mask when on church property
o may choose whether to maintain physical distance between others
• Per CDC Guidelines, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated individuals are expected to:
o Wear a mask
o Maintain physical distance between themselves and others
o Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
o Wash hands frequently; use hand sanitizer after touching shared surfaces
o Consider obtaining a vaccination as soon as possible to protect themselves and others
• Reminders about building use:
o Schedule meetings and gatherings with the church administrator prior to the event.
o Ensure meetings, gatherings and worship services are inclusive to all who would like to attend, by offering an online option (such as Zoom) so that those who do not feel safe/comfortable gathering in person, may participate electronically.
The CDC guidelines will be monitored and adjustments made to this policy as needed based on changes in their recommendations. A board member will be responsible for monitoring the Covid Act Now website and reconvening the COVID workgroup if the risk level rises to ‘High’ or other changes indicate mitigation steps are required. We must be prepared to change or close down, if necessary.
This plan reflects the science and studies that have been done in the real world by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health agencies concerning the safety of vaccinated persons as well as the extremely small likelihood of transmission by vaccinated individuals. It is inclusive, there is no limitation for participation in church activities. Safety is reflected in the expectation that unvaccinated persons continue to mask and anyone not feeling well refrain from coming to the church property. And it values community, allowing gathering to happen since our scientific agencies have indicated this is a reasonably safe option.
The CDC recently provided (May 13, 2021) guidance for individuals to participate in group activities recognizing the difference in the inherent risk in gathering for individuals that have been vaccinated and those that have not. The CDC guidance is based on ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 infections, transmissions, hospitalizations, and deaths due to COVID-19 in vaccinated individuals. A CDC infographic “Choosing Safer Activities” outlines the risks for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals along with appropriate mitigation strategies (ATTACHED).
The new CDC guidance states vaccinated individuals do not need to take additional prevention measures. Attending a full capacity worship service and singing in an indoor chorus are specifically identified as “safest” activities for vaccinated individuals. The CDC infographic shows unvaccinated persons should continue to take prevention measures including wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart, and washing hands frequently.
Please direct any concerns to Rev. Carin or to any of the current and new Board Members:
Paula Hillmann, Dave Cicero, Cathy Marrari (Outgoing Board Members)
Lisa Alvarado, Amy Seay, George Ehrhardt, Harry Nichols, Gail Ostler, Brynn Vukelich (Continuing Board Members)
Mieke Craven, Dave Harker, Quentin Watson (New Board Members)
COVID-19 Pandemic, effective June 16, 2021
A NOTE from Paula Hillmann, President Board of Trustees…….Good news! In consideration of the present CDC guidelines, and recognizing the low case numbers and infection rate in Waukesha County, the Board of Trustees and I are happy to announce LCUUC is in the process of opening for church related activities in the building and on the property.
Our immediate next steps involve posting Information about the current CDC recommendations for members and guests. Infographics and other signage explaining our expectations for use must be created and posted at the church. We are also assessing the supplies we must have for sanitation in the bathrooms and common areas. We need some assistance in doing this, and in managing the 2-3 indoor services being held this summer. If you can help, let me know. This is going to take a little time, so your patience is appreciated.
General Guidelines:
• Anyone with any symptoms of COVID-19 (that are not manifestations of some other known condition) should refrain from coming to the church building or grounds.
• Fully vaccinated individuals (two weeks after the last required dose of vaccine):
o may choose whether to wear a mask when on church property
o may choose whether to maintain physical distance between others
• Per CDC Guidelines, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated individuals are expected to:
o Wear a mask
o Maintain physical distance between themselves and others
o Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
o Wash hands frequently; use hand sanitizer after touching shared surfaces
o Consider obtaining a vaccination as soon as possible to protect themselves and others
• Reminders about building use:
o Schedule meetings and gatherings with the church administrator prior to the event.
o Ensure meetings, gatherings and worship services are inclusive to all who would like to attend, by offering an online option (such as Zoom) so that those who do not feel safe/comfortable gathering in person, may participate electronically.
The CDC guidelines will be monitored and adjustments made to this policy as needed based on changes in their recommendations. A board member will be responsible for monitoring the Covid Act Now website and reconvening the COVID workgroup if the risk level rises to ‘High’ or other changes indicate mitigation steps are required. We must be prepared to change or close down, if necessary.
This plan reflects the science and studies that have been done in the real world by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health agencies concerning the safety of vaccinated persons as well as the extremely small likelihood of transmission by vaccinated individuals. It is inclusive, there is no limitation for participation in church activities. Safety is reflected in the expectation that unvaccinated persons continue to mask and anyone not feeling well refrain from coming to the church property. And it values community, allowing gathering to happen since our scientific agencies have indicated this is a reasonably safe option.
The CDC recently provided (May 13, 2021) guidance for individuals to participate in group activities recognizing the difference in the inherent risk in gathering for individuals that have been vaccinated and those that have not. The CDC guidance is based on ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 infections, transmissions, hospitalizations, and deaths due to COVID-19 in vaccinated individuals. A CDC infographic “Choosing Safer Activities” outlines the risks for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals along with appropriate mitigation strategies (ATTACHED).
The new CDC guidance states vaccinated individuals do not need to take additional prevention measures. Attending a full capacity worship service and singing in an indoor chorus are specifically identified as “safest” activities for vaccinated individuals. The CDC infographic shows unvaccinated persons should continue to take prevention measures including wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart, and washing hands frequently.
Please direct any concerns to Rev. Carin or to any of the current and new Board Members:
Paula Hillmann, Dave Cicero, Cathy Marrari (Outgoing Board Members)
Lisa Alvarado, Amy Seay, George Ehrhardt, Harry Nichols, Gail Ostler, Brynn Vukelich (Continuing Board Members)
Mieke Craven, Dave Harker, Quentin Watson (New Board Members)
COVID-19 Update & FAQs |
April 29, 2021
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LCUUC Board-Approved Guidelines for OUTDOOR Property Use
COVID-19 Phase 1 Re-Gathering (revised 4/29/21)
Events must be scheduled on the church calendar along with the name of the LCUUC member(s) in charge. Following a request to the LCUUC business office to schedule an event on the calendar, the LCUUC member(s) in charge of the event will receive a copy of these guidelines and will be asked to provide the approximate number of attendees expected at the event. The LCUUC member(s) in charge of the event will be responsible for scheduling, rescheduling, or cancelling the event guided by COVID ActNow risk levels, recommended outdoor gathering limits, and other guidelines (below).
COVID ActNow Risk Level : Recommended Outdoor Gathering Limits
Very High and Severe: 10 people
High: 25 people
Medium: 50
Low: 100
https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/HealthAndHumanServices/PublicHealth/public-health-preparedness/COVID19/SafeOpen/
https://www.uua.org/safe/pandemics/gathering-guidance/outdoor-gatherings
COVID-19 Phase 1 Re-Gathering (revised 4/29/21)
Events must be scheduled on the church calendar along with the name of the LCUUC member(s) in charge. Following a request to the LCUUC business office to schedule an event on the calendar, the LCUUC member(s) in charge of the event will receive a copy of these guidelines and will be asked to provide the approximate number of attendees expected at the event. The LCUUC member(s) in charge of the event will be responsible for scheduling, rescheduling, or cancelling the event guided by COVID ActNow risk levels, recommended outdoor gathering limits, and other guidelines (below).
- The current COVID-19 risk level can be found on the COVID ActNow page for Waukesha County: https://covidactnow.org/us/wisconsin-wi/county/waukesha_county/?s=1666600
- Recommended limits on the number of persons gathering outdoors based on the current risk level can be found in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) guidelines: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/publications/p02789.pdf
COVID ActNow Risk Level : Recommended Outdoor Gathering Limits
Very High and Severe: 10 people
High: 25 people
Medium: 50
Low: 100
- Regarding wearing masks and practicing physical distancing, all individuals using the LCUUC property should follow the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. The LCUUC member(s) in charge of the event will be responsible for:
- reviewing the latest CDC guidelines
- communicating these CDC guidelines to invitees (in advance of the event)
- reminding attendees (at the event), to follow the latest CDC guidelines, which can be found at:
- Attendees are advised to bring their own portable chairs for events at which they wish to be seated.
- Because attendees will not have access to the LCUUC building, they may wish to bring water and hand sanitizer.
- There is a leased portable toilet available for use during outdoor events. It is serviced weekly by the sanitation company.
- Attendees who are not following these guidelines may be asked to leave by the person(s) in charge of the event.
- Other resources to help mitigate the spread of the virus include:
https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/HealthAndHumanServices/PublicHealth/public-health-preparedness/COVID19/SafeOpen/
https://www.uua.org/safe/pandemics/gathering-guidance/outdoor-gatherings
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Regarding LCUUC COVID-19 OUTDOOR Property Use Re-Gathering Guidelines
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What rationale did LCUUC consider when developing these guidelines?
On March 16, 2021, the Board adopted the following Values Statement to help anchor the reopening and regathering guidelines: As we think about how to reopen, we want to consider shared values aligned with our UU principles: science, safety, community, and inclusivity.
You can sign up to “Receive Alerts” that will automatically inform you (via email) if the Waukesha County Risk Level changes. Click on the “Receive Alerts” tab in the upper right corner of the COVID ActNow website to get email alerts. https://www.covidactnow.org/us/wisconsin-wi/county/waukesha_county/?s=1754675 What if the Waukesha County Risk Level elevates after I add an event to the LCUUC Calendar? County-wide COVID Risk Levels can fluctuate (especially when a given risk level first changes), so you may want to wait until Waukesha County remains in a given Risk Level for at least 2 weeks before deciding to cancel or revise your event. |
This seems pretty restrictive, why is LCUUC doing this?
By following the guidelines put out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WI Department of Health Services (DHS), we are showing that we value science and safety and want to be careful with everyone who comes to our church, including those most vulnerable. I’m fully vaccinated (it’s at least 2 weeks after my last required vaccine dose). Do I need to continue to wear a mask and practice physical distancing while gathering outdoors at LCUUC? If you are in a crowded outdoor situation and can’t maintain a safe distance from others, please wear a mask for your own protection and the safety of others. The latest CDC guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html This simple graphic, developed by the CDC, helps clarify when vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals should wear a mask to help protect themselves and others: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/pdfs/choosingSaferActivities.pdf Is it safe for everyone to attend in-person events at LCUUC? By taking the precautions outlined in these guidelines, risks are mitigated, but there is still a risk of contracting COVID. Everyone needs to consider their situation and decide what risks they are willing to take. How do I submit my question(s) about the LCUUC COVID-19 OUTDOOR re-gathering guidelines? Please direct any inquiries about these guidelines to Rev. Carin Bringelson at [email protected] |
COVID-19 Update - LCUUC |
April 23, 2021
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Dear LCUUC Community of Friends,
There is a sign on the door of our building that reads “Masks Required” when in the building. This policy remains unchanged regardless of vaccination status. The only person with an exemption is Rev. Carin who can choose to wear or not wear a mask in her private office while alone and has the door closed.
We have no way to monitor people coming in and out of the building. Nor can we invade the privacy of others by asking them their vaccination status, or require vaccination for inclusion in our church community.
We are currently assessing the safety and health status of the indoor property, especially ventilation in the offices, classrooms, social hall, and sanctuary. We will phase in re-entry.
The outdoor guidelines as approved March 23, 2021 remain unchanged at this point. (See Church website for Outdoor Property Use). However, we are regularly monitoring CDC recommendations in conjunction with the COVID ActNow guidelines for Waukesha County and hope that numbers of COVID cases continue to drop so that we can increase our outdoor gathering limits. These changes will fluctuate with changes in the number of cases reported.
https://covidactnow.org/us/wisconsin-wi/county/waukesha_county/?s=1666600
Based on these guidelines, recommended limits on the number of persons attending outdoor events at LCUUC are as follows:
COVID ActNow Risk Level Recommended Outdoor Gathering Limits:
Critically High and Very High: 10 people
High: 25 people
Medium: 50
Low: 100
All outdoor events must be scheduled with the church office. The person in charge of the event should be up to date on the risk levels and gathering limits and is responsible for enforcing the guidelines. Our congregational administrator, Leann, can provide you with more information on scheduling and the guidelines. Please contact the church office as needed.
Thank you for your compassion and patience. These are difficult social-emotional times for all of us. We miss our hugs and friendly hellos with each other in the sanctuary and elsewhere.
.
In community, Paula Hillmann, LCUUC Board President
There is a sign on the door of our building that reads “Masks Required” when in the building. This policy remains unchanged regardless of vaccination status. The only person with an exemption is Rev. Carin who can choose to wear or not wear a mask in her private office while alone and has the door closed.
We have no way to monitor people coming in and out of the building. Nor can we invade the privacy of others by asking them their vaccination status, or require vaccination for inclusion in our church community.
We are currently assessing the safety and health status of the indoor property, especially ventilation in the offices, classrooms, social hall, and sanctuary. We will phase in re-entry.
The outdoor guidelines as approved March 23, 2021 remain unchanged at this point. (See Church website for Outdoor Property Use). However, we are regularly monitoring CDC recommendations in conjunction with the COVID ActNow guidelines for Waukesha County and hope that numbers of COVID cases continue to drop so that we can increase our outdoor gathering limits. These changes will fluctuate with changes in the number of cases reported.
https://covidactnow.org/us/wisconsin-wi/county/waukesha_county/?s=1666600
Based on these guidelines, recommended limits on the number of persons attending outdoor events at LCUUC are as follows:
COVID ActNow Risk Level Recommended Outdoor Gathering Limits:
Critically High and Very High: 10 people
High: 25 people
Medium: 50
Low: 100
All outdoor events must be scheduled with the church office. The person in charge of the event should be up to date on the risk levels and gathering limits and is responsible for enforcing the guidelines. Our congregational administrator, Leann, can provide you with more information on scheduling and the guidelines. Please contact the church office as needed.
Thank you for your compassion and patience. These are difficult social-emotional times for all of us. We miss our hugs and friendly hellos with each other in the sanctuary and elsewhere.
.
In community, Paula Hillmann, LCUUC Board President
Values Statement &
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March 23, 2021
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Dear LCUUC Community of Friends,
The Board of Trustees is happy to share our revised guidelines for outdoor property use during this pandemic, effective March 23, 2021. The original document was approved June 25, 2020. The COVID work group (Elisabeth Harrahy, Paula Hillmann, John Kuhn, Mike McNett, Cathy Mararri, Tracy Moraine, Lois Remeikis, Janis Tyler, and Greg Valde) are advisors to the Board. We are very grateful for their expertise and dedication to studying the spiritual, mental, and physical health factors in making their recommendations. This group will meet again in April to continue work on the Indoor Guidelines.
Following is 1) the Values statement that was created and endorsed by the Board and 2) The Board Approved Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use.
Please let any of the Board know if you have questions, concerns, or ideas.
___________________________________________________________
LCUUC Reopening and Regathering
Values Statement (March 16, 2021)
As we think about how to reopen, we want to consider shared values aligned with our UU principles: science, safety, community, and inclusivity.
Because we value science, we want to base our decisions to reopen on the infection activity in our community, on the advice and of public health experts and scientists, and on evidence-based medicine. We want to make reopening decisions based not on what might “feel safe” to some of us, but what science tells us is a low level of risk.
Because our community places a high value on safety, we want to take special precautions and consider the needs of our staff, congregants, visitors and the most vulnerable.
Because we value community, we want to find sound, enjoyable ways to socialize together outdoors and in person, and to reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.
Because we value inclusivity, we will continue online worship services or other online opportunities to connect even after reopening so that there is something for everyone, including those who are not able to attend in person.
___________________________________________________________
The Board of Trustees is happy to share our revised guidelines for outdoor property use during this pandemic, effective March 23, 2021. The original document was approved June 25, 2020. The COVID work group (Elisabeth Harrahy, Paula Hillmann, John Kuhn, Mike McNett, Cathy Mararri, Tracy Moraine, Lois Remeikis, Janis Tyler, and Greg Valde) are advisors to the Board. We are very grateful for their expertise and dedication to studying the spiritual, mental, and physical health factors in making their recommendations. This group will meet again in April to continue work on the Indoor Guidelines.
Following is 1) the Values statement that was created and endorsed by the Board and 2) The Board Approved Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use.
Please let any of the Board know if you have questions, concerns, or ideas.
___________________________________________________________
LCUUC Reopening and Regathering
Values Statement (March 16, 2021)
As we think about how to reopen, we want to consider shared values aligned with our UU principles: science, safety, community, and inclusivity.
Because we value science, we want to base our decisions to reopen on the infection activity in our community, on the advice and of public health experts and scientists, and on evidence-based medicine. We want to make reopening decisions based not on what might “feel safe” to some of us, but what science tells us is a low level of risk.
Because our community places a high value on safety, we want to take special precautions and consider the needs of our staff, congregants, visitors and the most vulnerable.
Because we value community, we want to find sound, enjoyable ways to socialize together outdoors and in person, and to reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.
Because we value inclusivity, we will continue online worship services or other online opportunities to connect even after reopening so that there is something for everyone, including those who are not able to attend in person.
___________________________________________________________
COVID-19 Update - LCUUC |
February 10, 2021
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Dear LCUUC Community of Friends,
As President of the LCUUC Board of Trustees, I wanted to briefly update you on where we are regarding re-gathering during this period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are all optimistic that we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel with the roll out of vaccines and recent declines in hospitalizations. However, uncertainties remain as to when we will attain “herd immunity” given virus mutations, vaccine efficacy against the variants, the impact of political efforts to lift mitigation measures, etc. So, we must be prepared for the possibility of a long journey back to the old normal and continue to embrace opportunities for a new normal. For now, things will remain “as is” with the building closed to regular activities.
Since May 2020, the LCUUC COVID-19 Work Group has been studying many aspects of our situation. The group has been working in association with UUA recommendations to use a science-based approach while remaining committed to LCUUC ideals and values in developing practical measures that help ensure the health and safety of our congregation, employees, and the greater community.
At the January 19 meeting, the Board requested more information from the COVID-19 Work Group. The Work Group met on February 8 and agreed to:
Thank you and be safe, healthy and happy. Please let me or one of the Board Members know if you have questions, concerns, ideas.
Paula Hillmann, LCUUC Board President
As President of the LCUUC Board of Trustees, I wanted to briefly update you on where we are regarding re-gathering during this period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are all optimistic that we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel with the roll out of vaccines and recent declines in hospitalizations. However, uncertainties remain as to when we will attain “herd immunity” given virus mutations, vaccine efficacy against the variants, the impact of political efforts to lift mitigation measures, etc. So, we must be prepared for the possibility of a long journey back to the old normal and continue to embrace opportunities for a new normal. For now, things will remain “as is” with the building closed to regular activities.
Since May 2020, the LCUUC COVID-19 Work Group has been studying many aspects of our situation. The group has been working in association with UUA recommendations to use a science-based approach while remaining committed to LCUUC ideals and values in developing practical measures that help ensure the health and safety of our congregation, employees, and the greater community.
At the January 19 meeting, the Board requested more information from the COVID-19 Work Group. The Work Group met on February 8 and agreed to:
- Study the most recent UUA materials (www.uua.org/safe/pandemics) and CDC/Wisconsin DHS guidelines on re-gathering
- Meet on March 1 to collectively review and recommend next best steps for LCUUC re-gathering
- Report back to the Board for its March 16 meeting
Thank you and be safe, healthy and happy. Please let me or one of the Board Members know if you have questions, concerns, ideas.
Paula Hillmann, LCUUC Board President
Board-Approved Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use
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August 26, 2020
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As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic together, we continue to explore safe methods for connecting our LCUUC community. We do this out of concern for others and our acknowledgement of shared UU Principles.
Background: A special Work Group began collaborating in May to look at best practices using evidence-based research regarding COVID-19 precautions (Elisabeth Harrahy, Paula Hillmann, John Kuhn, Sue Lewis, Cathy Marrari, Lois Remeikis, Greg Valde). They studied the medical and psychosocial science research from the CDC, FDA, APA, State of Wisconsin, UW and other research institutions; and Regional, County and UUA recommendations for safe in-person gatherings.
The Work Group administered online surveys to LCUUC members, staff and committees regarding their needs and concerns for regathering. Survey data and recommendations were presented by the Work Group to the Board of Trustees in June and August. This resulted in our development of guidelines and procedures that help ensure the safety and health of members, staff and visitors of all ages.
The Board approved Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use effective June 25, 2020.
The Board reviewed existing Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use and the Work Group’s recommendations for Indoor Property Use at its meeting on August 18, 2020. Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use (approved June 25, 2020) remain in place.
The following initial procedures for reentry and Use of Indoor Property were approved. An addition for the inclusion of an outdoor portable toilet rental was made. The Board will continue to review evidence-based research regarding COVID-19 and change procedures and guidelines at subsequent Board meetings, as needed.
We do this out of loving kindness for our church family, our staff, our friends and visitors, and for our community. If you have any questions, concerns or ideas regarding our work, please contact our Minister, Reverend Carin Bringelson or any of the LCUUC Board Members.
Background: A special Work Group began collaborating in May to look at best practices using evidence-based research regarding COVID-19 precautions (Elisabeth Harrahy, Paula Hillmann, John Kuhn, Sue Lewis, Cathy Marrari, Lois Remeikis, Greg Valde). They studied the medical and psychosocial science research from the CDC, FDA, APA, State of Wisconsin, UW and other research institutions; and Regional, County and UUA recommendations for safe in-person gatherings.
The Work Group administered online surveys to LCUUC members, staff and committees regarding their needs and concerns for regathering. Survey data and recommendations were presented by the Work Group to the Board of Trustees in June and August. This resulted in our development of guidelines and procedures that help ensure the safety and health of members, staff and visitors of all ages.
The Board approved Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use effective June 25, 2020.
- Events must be scheduled on the church calendar along with the name(s) of the LCUUC member(s) in charge.
- Outdoor events not expected to exceed 100 people are allowed on the LCUUC grounds consistent with Waukesha County guidelines.
- All individuals are expected to follow CDC guidelines for reducing Coronavirus transmission, including at a minimum wearing face masks and practicing physical distancing of 6 feet from individuals not in their immediate household.
- Attendees are advised to bring their own portable chairs for events at which they wish to be seated.
- Attendees will not have indoor access to the LCUUC building and are advised to bring water and make arrangements for bathroom use ahead of time.
- Attendees who are not following these guidelines may be asked to leave.
The Board reviewed existing Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use and the Work Group’s recommendations for Indoor Property Use at its meeting on August 18, 2020. Guidelines for Outdoor Property Use (approved June 25, 2020) remain in place.
The following initial procedures for reentry and Use of Indoor Property were approved. An addition for the inclusion of an outdoor portable toilet rental was made. The Board will continue to review evidence-based research regarding COVID-19 and change procedures and guidelines at subsequent Board meetings, as needed.
- Entry into the building is limited to only staff and workers needed for essential LCUUC operations.
- Locks to the entry doors have been changed, and a limited number of keys have been issued.
- The coded lock box will be removed until further notice.
- A video camera has been installed at the front entry door.
- Those using the building other than staff are expected to notify the Office Administrator they will be in the building.
- Worship services, Religious Education classes, Committee meetings and other activities will continue online for the foreseeable future.
- A portable toilet will be rented for use during outdoor LCUUC scheduled events only. This will be locked when not in use by the group event.
We do this out of loving kindness for our church family, our staff, our friends and visitors, and for our community. If you have any questions, concerns or ideas regarding our work, please contact our Minister, Reverend Carin Bringelson or any of the LCUUC Board Members.
Mission Statement: LCUUC is a diverse religious community supporting one another in our spiritual search for truth, meaning and compassionate connection. Based on the Unitarian Universalist Principles and the transforming power of love, we strive for positive change in the world.
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