This year, we decided to celebrate all of the Clear Creek member's birthdays once a month.  There were so many March birthdays, that some of them may have to relinquish their March birthdays and celebrate on a month that is not as populated.  (HA HA)

We have made an extra effort to make a comfortable and inviting space for children.  Dick Ashdown donated a large tent to the cause.  It is currently inside the Junior Yearly Meeting.  He furnished it with a capable heater, table, floor lamp, bench and chairs.  The club house appearance attracted the adults, but alas we couldn't all fit in the tent.  The children have their own table space with a display of books and candy in the "real meeting house."  During warmer months, First Day School is often held outside under a tree or as a walk around the area. 

During the past winter, Clear Creek was cozy in the renovated Junior Yearly Meeting room.  Carol Bartles added blankets draped over the chairs.  Coffee was often served and we who live so far from each other catch up on each other's lives.

In March, Bill Mize and Jeannie Marvin participated in the Leadership and Leadings workshop that was held at Camp Meno Haven, Tiskilwa.  They returned with some good ideas and feeling a few pounds heavier.  By now it is probably not a secret that Camp Meno Haven has employed one of the world's greatest chefs.  Chef Ted - we miss your glorious cooking. 

In November 2002, Carol Bartles started a three year term serving on the American Friends Service Committee National Board of Directors.  She is excited and challenged by the commitment required for this responsibility. 

Ruth Raffensperger attended yet another "awesome" youth quake in Evanston.  The leaders of these youth quakes are doing a wonderful job.  Thank you!

We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the Women's Retreat, Men's Retreat and at the Yearly Meeting.  So come on out and enjoy the beautiful countryside, fresh clean air and NO TRAFFIC! (If you see another car on Quaker Lane - it is our daily rush hour traffic jam!)

Decatur Meeting
By Carolyn S. Treadway

In the fall of 2002, Cindy Reynolds brought to Monthly Meeting a concern that we seek means to oppose preemptive military action against Iraq. From her many contacts in the Decatur community, a group of about a dozen people began meeting every two or three weeks. Results have been quarter-page ad in the local newspaper; a mailing to all the religious congregations in the area; participation in public demonstrations in Decatur and in Springfield; and a series of Wednesday noon prayer vigils. These have been held in turn in three Catholic and five Protestant churches. In collaboration with a Millikin University student group, we sponsored a lecture by a history professor from the University of Illinois at Springfield on "Getting Iraq Right -- A Most Difficult Decision."

We do not know the outcome of our efforts; nevertheless, it has been encouraging to become