New This Fall--WES Talks!

You've heard of TED Talks--brief lectures  by experts on all sorts of fascinating topics that you can listen to online.  Starting in September, we're launching WES Talks--a chance to hear in-person from a range of speakers on compelling issues. This will be a chance for WES members and friends to expand their knowledge and to connect with others.  The talks will be held between our two platform services at 10:45, with the first one on September 11.  Stay tuned-- first speaker to be announced soon. (Image by Johannes Jansson)

Long-Time WES Members Honored by American Ethical Union

Lynne and Todd Waymon received the Anna Garlin Spencer Award at the recent American Ethical Union annual assembly, an honor given to lay members of Ethical Societies who make significant volunteer contributions.  Lynne joined WES in 1968, and Todd became a member eight years later.  Together they led the adult education program, including developing a relationship-building course that was immensely popular and drew on Lynne's expertise in networking. 
Their legendary warmth and friendliness attracted many new members. "On my very first day at WES, what I remember most is Todd Waymon giving me a hug hello," recalled one member.  "Lynne taught me how to talk to people, and that changed my life," said another. Not surprisingly, given these qualities, Lynne served on the Welcome Team and Todd was Head Usher, among many other contributions. 
Perhaps most significant was their founding of our well-respected Coming of Age Program (COA-MATT).  They created the program as a lasting, positive testament to their beloved son Matthew, who was killed in a car accident, caused by a teenage friend who was driving recklessly.
As Amanda Poppei noted in her nomination of the Waymons for this award, they "have supported WES's vitality and growth in so many ways...they embody the spirit of Ethical Culture."
The Waymons now live in a Quaker retirement community in Pennsylvania--but they remain an integral part of our community.