A Quarterly Online Publication - September 2008

• Greetings from the TLS President

  Many people speak of labyrinth walking as an experience of stepping out of time… and time has been very much on my mind lately. In November we will be gathering once again from around the world, and this year we’ll be celebrating the Society’s 10-year anniversary. Ten years! In 1998, labyrinths in mainstream settings were uncommon, and those of us who were building and walking labyrinths were few and far between. We relished the opportunity to get together, and we felt like we could do more if we banded together. And so, The Labyrinth Society was born – and one of our prime objectives was to give ourselves the gift of gathering our labyrinth ‘family’ together once a year to share enthusiasm, information, and friendship. For me, the annual Gathering is the highlight in my calendar, and I look forward to our weekend of labyrinth immersion, greeting old friends, and meeting new ones.
   

  Time has moved on, of course, and labyrinths are more plentiful than they were back then… but the pleasure of meeting together hasn’t diminished. Many people work hard all year to plan and prepare for each year’s Gathering. Will you be there? This is our chance to share our love for the labyrinth and to play together as we compare notes and share our passion.

  Each year, I leave with the feeling that my heart-family has expanded, and I take with me renewed enthusiasm for my labyrinth work. This year’s Gathering at Simpsonwood is a time to look back at the development of the labyrinth over these past ten years, as well as a time to look forward. As a group, we’ve done much of what we originally set out to do, so it’s time to look forward to our next steps as a society. If you’ve attended Gatherings in the past, you’ll remember the energy and excitement that graces each event – and if you’ve never attended a Gathering, this is a wonderful chance to renew your own enthusiasm for all things labyrinthine and to meet people who share your interest. I promise you’ll leave with a full heart and, most likely, a spring in your step.

  I hope you’ll consider joining us as we celebrate our 10th anniversary!
   

  Blessings!
  Kimberly, TLS President

• Gather-Up! Journey to Healing and Wholeness

  The 2008 Annual Gathering is approaching and what fun we have planned! This is a time when we gather labyrinth people from around the globe, to learn from each other, share ideas, expand our vision, and celebrate together. We will gather at Simpsonwood, a beautiful retreat center just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, that has installed a permanent outdoor labyrinth since we last gathered there in 2001.

  This will be our 10th Annual Gathering and the program is filled with great activities from quiet contemplative labyrinth walks to a fun-filled party celebration. View a list of fantastic and diverse workshops here.

  Please note, we begin on Friday this year so be sure to check the 2008 Gathering Planned Schedule of Events (.pdf 76K), as you plan your travel.

  In addition to the anniversary celebration, an underlying theme will be labyrinths in healthcare. “Journey to Healing and Wholeness” is the title, and the events begin with optional pre-gathering workshops to transition with dowsing, yoga, dance, and inspiration cards, and will close with painting personal canvas labyrinths and a day-long bus tour. In between we will install a new TLS president, listen to the wisdom of founding members and gaze into the future of labyrinths in the global community. In Robert Ferre’s presentation on “Science and Spirit,” we will explore the building and use of labyrinths in hospitals. Rebecca Rodriguez, who introduces the labyrinth to hospice workers across the nation, will lead us on a sacred journey. Global musician Sonam Targee, will set the tone and we will dance and sing together in a grand celebration!

  It is not too late to register. Join your friends and meet us at Simpsonwood. See you there!
   

  Lisa Gidlow Moriarty, Gathering Liaison

• Just Walk Away, Renee...

  Well, that might not be your first choice of music to play at a quiet labyrinth walk, but our Friday night anniversary party on November 8th at the TLS Annual Gathering won’t be your typical contemplative labyrinth experience. Celebrating our 10th Annual Gathering, we will make new friends and greet old friends, dance, and sing along with fun and music. What songs would you put on the Top 40 list of songs that have a “walking” theme? These Boots are Made for Walkin’, Walk Like a Man, Walk on By, or Walk - Don’t Run, might be found there. If you have suggestions for the list, email the Outreach Chair.
   

  Be sure to attend the Gathering and join in the circle of fun. Be there or be square!
   

• Show Your Stuff

  Members' Images are a regular highlight of the Annual Gathering. This activity provides members with an opportunity to submit photos of labyrinths they have built and love. It is a wonderful way to begin our large group time together and to see the diverse and beautiful labyrinths that are dotting the landscape. Any member is invited to submit digital images for inclusion at the slide show to be shown at Gathering. Attendance at Gathering is not required (but highly recommended!) Randy Fillmore is accepting and compiling the images for 2008. Visit the TLS online Call for Member Images for more information, or contact Randy Fillmore directly with inquiries.

• Silent Auction

  Each year the Annual TLS Silent Auction provides scholarship awards towards the following year's Gathering registration. This is a fun way to help others and also have the chance to go home with creative and exciting winnings. There are two ways to be involved. Anyone can donate items to be on the Auction. Past Auction items have included: hand knit items, autographed books, dowsing rods, wooden finger labyrinths, weekend retreat packages, original artwork, and massage treatments. Start thinking now of how you can contribute. Gathering attendance is not required to submit items to the Auction. Then, attend Gathering and the fun begins…bid on Auction items during the Gathering, watch the bidding progress and take your chance to win while knowing your entire donation goes towards helping others. What could be more fun? To donate, contact Dan Raven, or call 773-973-3590.
   

• Gathering Program Ads

  The printed TLS Annual Gathering program is a great way to advertise your business or services to a targeted audience. Submit your advertisement early to reserve a spot in the Gathering program.

• Call for Vendors and Artists

  The Vendor/Artisans Area is a great place to display your wares and meet fellow members of TLS. Take advantage of this opportunity and reserve your space now.
   

• TLS Introduces Quarterly "Member Feature"

  The Labyrinth Society mission is to support all those who create, maintain, and use labyrinths, and to serve the global community by providing education, networking, and opportunities to experience transformation. In support of that mission, we have created a quarterly 'Member Feature' area of our E-news bulletin which highlights TLS members working with labyrinths in a wide variety of dynamic settings and inspirational ways.

  Initially, you will meet TLS members who have contributed pages to the resources section of the new website. They represent a multi-talented cross section of our membership that we are sure you will enjoy getting to know. Eventually we will expand the feature to include the general membership. So, stayed tuned to learn how our society is growing, changing, and raising the vibratory frequency of the world!

  As the summer winds down and autumn approaches, our first quarterly feature focuses on TLS members working with labyrinths in schools and retreat centers. If you are working in an educational setting and looking for inspiring ways to include the labyrinth in daily activities, or are a pilgrim on an inward journey, we invite you to meet a few TLS members who are experienced in these realms of labyrinth journeying below:

   

   Marge McCarthy, Labyrinths in Schools

  Marge McCarthy, is a retired School Psychologist who loves labyrinths – hence her commitment to create the labyrinth experience for children. Under her direction, children have built labyrinths at ten Santa Fe, NM schools, and have learned how to use them for things like calming, conflict resolution, community building, creativity, and dealing with grief. She has produced a book and DVD called “Kids on the Path”, which is a guide to bringing labyrinths to schools. She organized the TLS group “Labyrinths in Schools”, for sharing ideas and suggestions for working with children in the labyrinth. She was a member of the Veriditas Board for six years and is now on the Veriditas Council. In 1998 she founded the Labyrinth Resource Group in Santa Fe and currently serves as President. She and her husband, Bob, retired to Santa Fe fourteen years ago.
  

  Read more about Labyrinths in Schools.

   Dave Porter, Labyrinths in Retreat Settings

  K. David Porter, is a retired school administrator with 29 years experience in education. For the past nine years, he has been involved with many not-for-profit organizations. Presently, Dave is President of Wellspring Nature Center, Inc., Vice-President of Wellsville Citizens for Responsible Development, (WC-RD), Treasurer of Art for Rural America, and Admistrative Director of Wellsville Montessori School. Besides his involvement with not-for-profits, Dave is also a dowser. He has dowsed and built labyrinths for Wellspring and a local horse farm. The latter is large enough for horseback riding where clients use the labyrinth for pleasure and healing.

   Jana Batey, Labyrinths in Retreat Settings

  Jana Batey, is a Business Entrepreneur, Licensed Realtor, and Mortgage Broker, in the State of Florida with over 25 years professional experience. She divides her time between her home in New Smyrna Beach and her retreat center, Harmony Hill Lodging & Retreat Center, in central upstate New York. Jana is also a Professional Life Coach and a graduate of Coach For Life, a Certified Tele-Leader, a Reiki Practitioner, and Labyrinth Facilitator, having trained with Lauren Artress in Chartres, France at the Chartres Cathedral. Jana leads labyrinth walks and workshops in Florida, utilizing the beautiful beaches of New Smyrna Beach as a palette and at her retreat center in upstate New York, where she utilizes the natural stone labyrinth she and her business partner, Chris Rosenthal, built by hand.

  Read more about Labyrinths in Retreat Settings. 

• Expanded Labyrinth Research Resources Available on TLS Website

  As you are checking out the new TLS Website, be sure to explore the array of resources available that are related to labyrinth research. The research resources on the website support the three major goals of the TLS Research Committee:

  1. To make current labyrinth research easily accessible to TLS members and the broader labyrinth community;
  2. To encourage TLS members and the broader labyrinth community to become engaged in ongoing labyrinth research; and
  3. To build and represent labyrinth research as a viable, visible, credible, and respected area of inquiry within the broader research community.

  Locating the research resources is easy. From the TLS Home Page, click on the "Resources" link. On the left sidebar of the Resources page, click on "Research." (Visit the page now) This will make the entire array of resources available to you.

  Whether you are interested in the theoretical aspects of labyrinth research (A Context for Labyrinth Research, Basic Assumptions of Labyrinth Research, A Framework for Labyrinth Research), want information about labyrinth research studies (Bibliography of Studies Related to Labyrinth Research, Matrix of Topics Addressed by Various Labyrinth Research Studies), or want to participate in an ongoing labyrinth research study (Labyrinth Walk Questionnaire and Instructions), the information you need is there.

  If you have questions about the labyrinth research resources or are aware of something that might be added, please contact the TLS Research Committee Chair. 

A Quarterly Online Publication
April 2008 - Sent 04/30/2008

• 01. April 2008 - In This Issue

  In This Issue - April 2008
  Sent 04/30/2008

  • Education Outreach Request
  • Labyrinth Pathways Submissions
  • Strategic Planning Update
  • WWLL Update
  • TLS 2010 Annual Gathering
  • TLS Forum News

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter - April 2008 (.pdf 215K)

• 02. Dear Friends

  Dear Friends,
  
  We've had a lot of rain (and snow) in our little corner of England this spring, giving us an endless succession of grey days and sticky mud. Today the sun is shining and it finally smells like Real Spring. In my mind's eye, I am seeing England's turf labyrinths getting their annual haircuts, and I'm envisioning people all over the northern hemisphere doing the same for their own local labyrinths... And, of course, that connects us to our southern hemisphere counterparts who are out tidying their labyrinths prior to putting them to bed for their cold season!

  The spiral of seasons is a familiar one to us all, and I enjoy the traditions that I sense here, where we can read old parish records of money spent for labyrinth maintenance or reports of community celebrations held on or near the village labyrinth. And regardless of the weather, the same is true for TLS... We experience a real upsurge of energy as the board meets for its spring meeting, final preparations are made to open registration for the Fall Gathering, and ongoing projects move toward fruition. This year is no different -- and I want to thank everyone who is working hard to help TLS grow and thrive in our mission of support for labyrinths and their makers, tenders, and walkers around the globe.

  Blessings!

  Kimberly

• 03. International Labyrinth Community

  TLS Requests YOUR Input on Sharing Labyrinth Expertise!

  The TLS Website redesign is underway and Education Outreach is a large and dynamic component of the site, offering resources to those initiating labyrinth projects and installations in their areas of the world. Because we serve the global community, we want to include international perspectives within the resources offered on the web site. Specifically, we need members of TLS located outside the U.S. who are interested in writing text for web pages covering the following areas:

  • Labyrinths in Schools
  • Labyrinths in Hospitals/Medical Settings
  • Labyrinths in Public Spaces - city and town parks and recreational areas
  • Labyrinths in Prisons
  • Labyrinths in Retreat Centers/Spas
  • Labyrinths in Churches
  • Labyrinths for Kids
  • Labyrinths in the Arts
  • Other labyrinth use not mentioned above

  These pages can be brief. Please cover the following topic areas and anything else you feel is pertinent:

  • Benefits: for the organization, community, or group as well the individual(s)
  • Important information/guidance for people and organizations who want to approach their organization in the above-listed areas about incorporating the use or installation of labyrinths

  A sample page can be sent to you upon request. Bilingual articles are welcome but one of the languages needs to be English. If you agree to write content for any of these categories, you would be specifically credited as the writer, with a link to your website and/or email provided at the base of the web page. If you are interested in helping out, please email the TLS Educational Outreach Chair or contact by phone at 585-967-0009.

• 04. Labyrinth Pathways Submissions Needed

  The 2nd edition of Labyrinth Pathways, the journal produced by Jeff Saward on behalf of the Labyrinth Society, is just about to start production. At this stage there are several articles in hand and the winners of the 2007 TLS writing contest are slated for inclusion, but there is still space for further submissions. If you have poetry, short essays, stories, articles that you would like to submit for consideration, contact Jeff Saward for details and submission guidelines. We are also seeking line drawings and illustrations.

• 05. Strategic Planning Update

  As many of you know, TLS has begun a detailed strategic planning initiative looking towards the future. In the past e-newsletter, a call was sent forth to the TLS membership seeking interested individuals for participation in this endeavor. Following a review process of those who responded to this call, a Strategic Planning Team has now begun to organize, working under the direction of our Strategic Planning Design Team. Stay tuned for updates!
  
  We would also like to formally acknowledge and thank the members participating in our Strategic Planning process. Design Team members are: Ingrid Bredenberg, Harriette Royer, Kimberly Saward, and Kay Whipple. Strategic Planning Team members are: Barb McCarthy, Sig Lonegrin, Kay Kinneavy, Randy Fillmore, Meg Hansen, Jose Cuesta, Tony Christie, Phyllis Carlisle, and Marcy Walsh. There are still opportunities to be part of the Tactical Team, which will help the planning team by doing specific tasks. If you are interested in serving on the Tactical Team, please email the TLS Secretary.

• 06. Worldwide Labyrinth Locator Update

  From Jeff Saward

  The Worldwide Labyrinth Locator (WWLL) website - jointly sponsored by The Labyrinth Society and Veriditas and administered by Jeff Saward - has now been operational for four years and contains over 2600 labyrinths in more than 50 different countries. The largest online catalogue of labyrinths worldwide, last year the website had over 1/4 million visitors. If you own, or have built a labyrinth not listed in the WWLL, or know of a public labyrinth likewise unlisted, please visit the Worldwide Labyrinth Locator website and click the "Add a Labyrinth" button to put that labyrinth in the Locator.

• 07. Will the 2010 TLS Annual Gathering be Near YOU?

  Are you interested in having a TLS Annual Gathering in your area? Have you always wanted to attend a gathering in a particular location? We are currenly taking location suggestions for the 2010 Annual Gathering . If you have a place in mind, please email your suggestions to the TLS Gathering Liason or contact her by phone at 651-439-8082.

• 08. TLS Forum News

  Your TLS Forum is a good way to let others in your Society know about labyrinth events that you are putting on. Regions can tell all of us about a gathering they are planning; you might be planning a workshop on how to use a labyrinth, or maybe you want to construct one in a public park, and you need volunteers with strong backs - all of these are good reasons to let all of us know what you are up to!

  Also, our Forum is a great place to trade ideas on specific areas of interest as far as labyrinths are concerned. For example, Neal Harris has a thread going about using labyrinths to work with children with ADHD. It is clear that this topic is of great interest to many of you - over 275 people have read at least parts of this thread, but sadly, only four people have contributed to the conversation. It is always important for you to add your two cents - even if you don't know anything about the topic, but want to ask a question.

  Our Forum is presently the best way for Members of TLS to communicate with each other in-between Gatherings or Regional meetings. Please check it out - especially if you haven't been there for a while. See you at the TLS Online Forums.

  }:-)

  Sig Lonegren
  TLS Forum Administrator

A Quarterly Online Publication

A Request from the Labyrinth Society
Sent 04/24/2008

• 01. Labyrinth Society Video News

  How many times have each of us known in our hearts that if we could just get "permission" to build a labyrinth in the first place, we could raise the funds, find the volunteers, and secure the materials to make it happen? Whether we want to build the labyrinth in a park, church, hospital, school, or prison, we must somehow paint the right picture so the key person or group that has decision authority can "see" the finished result and its benefits, and ultimately say "yes" to the proposal.

  The Labyrinth Society's upcoming DVD, Creating the Path, is about getting that permission. It is intended to promote the proliferation of labyrinths around the world. The goal is to have a documentary resource that speaks directly to decision makers, moving them to stand in support of a proposed labyrinth.
  Gael Hancock, Video Project Chair, is ready to begin production of this DVD. The film is expected to run about 22 minutes.

  We are currently seeking recommendations of suitable labyrinth projects for inclusion in the video. Five categories are planned: schools, churches, hospitals/hospices, public spaces (parks, office buildings, etc.), and prisons.

  Our objective is to find projects/programs and people who are willing to participate by having their location filmed and be interviewed on camera. After submitting the completed form, participants will be contacted by telephone for an initial exploratory conversation.

  If you are the creator, involved with, or know of a labyrinth project/program that falls into one of the categories, you are invited to submit it for consideration. Criteria are outlined in the project description that can be downloaded via either of the following hyperlinks:

  • Video Project Criteria and Submission Form (.doc 245K)
  • Video Project Criteria and Submission Form (.pdf 32K)

  Funding slightly in excess of $16,000 has been raised. Gael and a professional videographer are walking this path as volunteers. Your involvement requires only time and the commitment to helping realize the vision.

  Please help by downloading and reviewing the project description and submission form. If you are involved with, or know of a labyrinth project/program that falls into one of the categories, please submit it for consideration or pass the forms along to someone else who might be interested. Please email a hyperlink to this page to a friend or colleague who might know of a possibility that would be a good fit.

  Imagine the blessings and comfort when thousands, if not millions, of those who otherwise might not have access, can experience the labyrinth. 

  The Labyrinth Society
  P.O. Box 736
  Trumansburg, New York 14886

  The Labyrinth Society Video News - April 24, 2008 (.pdf 204K)

Presenter Proposal Form for 2008
Gathering Now Available - Sent 04/21/2008

• 01. Presenter Proposal Form for 2008 Gathering Now Available

  The Labyrinth Society 2008 Annual Gathering
  "Journey to Healing and Wholeness"

  November 7-9, 2008
  Simpsonwood Conference Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
  
  The Planning Committee is pleased to announce the theme of the Gathering "Journey to Healing and Wholeness." Featured presenters will include Lauren Artress, Gernot Candolini, Helen Curry, Toby Evans, Robert Ferre', Jill Geoffrion, Rebecca Rodriguez, Kathy Ruyts, Jeff and Kimberly Saward, Sonam Targee.

  The format of the Gathering will include several concurrent workshop sessions on Saturday that will allow speakers to present information on a wide variety of topics. Your new ideas and creativity are encouraged. The only limits are your inspiration and willingness to participate.

  Deadline
  The Presentation Submission Form must be received by June 1, 2008. In order to be considered, this form must be completed in full and submitted by mail, email, or fax.

  If you are selected
  Presenters at the gathering will:

  • Gain visibility and recognition of expertise.
  • Receive an honorarium of $150.00 per workshop (co-presenters share this fee)

  Presenter proposal forms are now available. Selection of Workshop Presenters will be completed and notification will be made by June 15, 2008.

  • 2008 Annual Gathering Presenter Proposal Form (.pdf 32K)

  For additional information email Pamela Bowles Fillmore or contact her by phone at 540-657-4324 (home) or 571-338-8551 (cell).

  David Gallagher, Executive Director

  News from The Labyrinth Society - April 21, 2008 (.pdf 134K)

A Quarterly Online Publication
January 2008 - Sent 02/07/2008

• 01. January 2008 - In This Issue

  In This Issue - January 2008
  Sent 02/07/2008

  • TLS Welcomes New Members!
  • TLS Forum News
  • Labyrinth Market Update
  • Video Project Update
  • Spring Board Meeting 

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter is a quarterly online publication. We are always seeking new information to share with our members. If you have labyrinth-related updates, news items, anecdotes, or other information you would like to share, please email the TLS Publications Chair.

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter - January 2008 (.pdf 372K)

• 02. Dear Friends

  Dear Friends,

  We hope you are enjoying the more frequent communications from TLS... we are thrilled by the response we've had to our recent request for new participants in the strategic planning process. Many projects take a long time to bring to fruition, so it is particularly heartening to feel energy and enthusiasm stirring as we look to the future of both the labyrinth and the society. Meanwhile, the website redesign is underway, and the World-Wide Labyrinth Locator and the TLS Labyrinth Market continue to thrive. We delight in hearing from labyrinth enthusiasts around the world; this connection is vital as the labyrinth continues to weave itself into hearts and communities around the globe.
  
  Blessings, Kimberly

• 03. TLS Welcomes New Members!

  In each newsletter we share the name and location of new members who joined TLS during the period following the last newsletter and elected to be listed in the Member Directory. Since the number is so large, here listed are those from April through July 2007. The rest will be sent in installments over the coming weeks. 

  • Alchemy Enterprises, Mia Corinha, Nahant, MA
  • Stuart Anderson, Atlanta, GA
  • Jean Ando, New York, NY
  • Laurie Breeden, Phoenix, AZ
  • Helen Anthony Bridges, SFO, Cockeysville, MD
  • Jo Ann Jordan Elias, York, ME
  • Cynthia Emerlye, S. Pomfret, VT
  • Everyday Feng Shui Company, Donna Collins, Dallas, TX
  • Cynthia Frey,Lovingston, VA
  • Dominique Freymond, Schoenenberg, Switzerland
  • Jo Grant, Derby Derbyshire, United Kingdom
  • Gertie Graves, Campbellsville, KY
  • Heart in the Park, Audrey Schmitz, Tonkawa, OK
  • Susie Hillenbrand, Kerrs Creek, NSW, Australia
  • Patricia Jarrett, Tucson,AZ
  • SusanJones, Houston, TX
  • Sandra Kynes, Portland, ME
  • Barbara A. McCarthy, Prairieville, LA
  • Mavis McClintock, Duncan, BC, Canada
  • George McLellan, Russellville, AR
  • Mercy Regional Medical Center, Diana McKenna, Durango, CO
  • John Nichols, Fredericksburg, TX
  • John Phelps, Round Rock, TX
  • Cathy Proffitt, Burlington, NC
  • Earlene B. Reavies, Winston-Salem, NC
  • Laurel Reinhardt, PhD, Asheville, NC
  • Margaret Robbins, San Antonio, TX
  • John Sharp, Baltimore, MD
  • JoAnnSmith,Lawrence, KS
  • St. Andrew Catholic Community, Joseph Annese, Boulder City, NV
  • Katresia Staggs, Dover, AR
  • Jill Tardiff, Hoboken, NJ
  • Ginny Whittmore, Yellville, AR

  If you'd like to network with any of them, their contact information can be found by logging into the TLS Online Member Directory and searching on the name. Recall, please, that detailed MD User Instructions are in your Membership Handbook and are also conveniently available online within the MD itself.

• 04. TLS Forum News

  For reasons we do not understand, we have discovered that there are members of TLS who have email, but are not on TLS Forum.
  
  This Forum is where TLS Members can talk with each other and share ideas and discoveries. If you are a TLS Member and do not have access to post on the General Forum, please email the TLS Forum Administrator to register you for this great benefit of being a member of TLS.

  Forum Tip: Please click on the <Help> link at the top right-hand corner of the Forum Home Page. It is full of tips on how better to work this Forum. The most important tip - you can get the Forum to send you an email any time someone posts a new message on any given thread, or much better yet (and I would heartily advise each of you to do this), you can sign up to have InVision (the Forum software) send you an automatic email either immediately when a new posting has been made, or a daily or weekly Digest of all of the postings in the Forum(s) you are on.

  I would encourage you to choose the Daily Digest. I suggest this because we have found that many members forget to check their Forum(s) for new activity, get out of the habit, and stop being an active participant in the discussions. These emails are excellent reminders of interesting things that are happening.

  Of course when messages are of a more personal nature, you can send an email directly to the individual concerned, but the Forums are the primary way TLS Memebers can talk with each other and share new ideas.

  If you are on more than one Forum, please sign up for this Daily Digest service for each one you are on.

  See you on TLS Forum!

  }:-)

  Sig Lonegren
  Forum Administrator, The Labyrinth Society

• 05. TLS Labyrinth Market

  Looking for canvas labyrinth makers, somebody to build a labyrinth for you, finger labyrinths, books or teaching resources?

  With so many labyrinth related products and services, and from so many sources, it's often difficult to know where to start looking... The TLS Labyrinth Market website now provides a one-stop service to help you find that labyrinth! Listed by product and service categories, A-Z and by geographic location, the website now has advertisers from around the world, with a multitude of labyrinthine goodies on offer.
  
  And it's easy to show your products and services on the TLS Labyrinth Market website - as a member, you are entitled to discounted listings, with links direct to your own website, or custom-built display pages to showcase your products - the choice is yours.

• 06. Video Project Wupdate

  Gael Hancock, Project Coordinator, has announced a tentative timeline for completion of the TLS Video Project. The labyrinth projects to be featured in the video are sill open for selection, so please consider nominating yours or one with which you are familiar. For additional information on the TLS Video Project, as well as Selection Criteria information and an official Nomination Form, follow the above link.
  
  Tentative Timeline for Completion:

  • February 28, 2008:  Deadline for Nominations
  • March 1 - April 30: Applications will be reviewed by the committee and three to five projects in each category will be chosen for interviews.
  • May 1 - August 31: The Final projects will be chosen and filming will take place.
  • September 1 - October 31: Final Editing

  Thanks to an especially generous gift of $5,000 from TLS member, Kathy Ruyts, the Video Fund now totals $16,081. We're oh sooo close to the $20,000 goal! To help close the remaining gap, another member is offering a challenge grant pledging to match dollar for dollar all donations to the fund received by April 1, 2008.

  If you are able to contribute to this fund, please indicate "Video Fund" on your check and mail to: The Labyrinth Society, PO Box 736, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Visa or MasterCard payments will be gratefully accepted by calling the Executive Director at (607)387-5863.

• 07. TLS Spring Board Meeting Scheduled

  The TLS Spring Board Meeting has been scheduled for April 11-13, 2008. All members are welcome to attend this annual event and participate in discussions. The meeting will be held at the Carondelet Center, in St. Paul, MN. The center is located in the heart of the Twin Cities area, adjacent to the College of St. Catherine Campus. A large outdoor labyrinth graces the backyard lawn of this retreat center.
  
  Carondelet Center
  1890 Randolph Avenue
  St. Paul, Minnesota 55105

  Tentative Meeting Schedule:

  • Friday: Dinner at 5:00 PM, followed by the evening session starting around 7:00 PM.
  • Saturday: Morning and afternoon sessions. An evening session will be held contingent on progress with the agenda.
  • Sunday: Morning session. The meeting concludes at Noon.

  If you wish to attend, please email Lisa Moriarty or call 651-439-8082 for additional details and arrangements.

Sent 01/25/2008

• 01. TLS Invitation

  January 2008

  Dear TLS Member, 

  As a member of The Labyrinth Society, you have used some of the programs and experienced some of the services the society offers to members. On behalf of the Board, we sincerely thank you for your support as a member. Now we're excited to invite you to take a leading role in shaping the future of TLS by sharing your ideas and helping us grow our vision.

  TLS is poised to take our mission to a new level of worldwide labyrinth engagement and truly make our Vision a reality. In our recent decision to move forward with strategic planning, the Board recognized that we needed broad member representation on the team. We're seeking 2-3 members who want to imagine and plan our future direction.

  Will you consider volunteering to join 6-7 other committed members on our Strategic Planning team? This is your chance to become more involved and to make a difference.

  The Strategic Planning Team will conduct its work via the web and teleconferences. Through the spring, they will gather information and generate ideas. By summer and early fall, they will formulate recommendations and present them to the Board at or before the 2008 Gathering in November.

  For more information, please contact the TLS Board Secretary. I will answer your questions and send a description of what TLS needs from team members, as well as the outline of the preliminary process.

  Our sincere thanks for giving this request your serious consideration.

  Warm regards,

  Harriette Royer,
  Secretary

  The Labyrinth Society Invitation - January 25, 2008 (.pdf 124K)

2008 European Regional Gathering
Sent 01/13/2008

• 01. 2008 European Regional Gathering

  New Registration Deadline

  Due to low registration, we may need to cancel this weekend Gathering.... If you are considering joining us, please register your interest now to give us a clearer picture of how things stand. We don't want to disappoint anyone, but we need to make a decision by January 23.

  Portals & Perambulations: Weekend Gathering at Troy Farm

  Friday evening 30 May 2008 - Sunday afternoon June 1

  A weekend of presentations at Troy Farm in Oxfordshire, home of a unique historic 15-circuit turf labyrinth, recently restored and re-opened to the public. Speakers include Klara Adalena, Lauren Artress, Jim Buchanan, Suzy Castleman, Sig Lonegren, Karin Schlüter Lonegren, Jeff Saward and Kimberly Lowelle Saward, speaking on various aspects of labyrinths, dowsing and spiritual practice, plus a visit to the nearby Rollright stone circle. For full details, visit the Amazing Adventures website. We hope to see you in England this year!

  Jeff and Kimberly Saward and Sig & Karin Lonegren

  If attending an exciting event at this historic English labyrinth sounds tempting, we would ask that you contact Sig, via the web link above, to let him know of your interest. Please don't send any money yet; once the event is confirmed, we will let you know the easiest way to make your payment.

  2008 European Regional Gathering News - January 13, 2008 (.pdf 147K)

• 01. The Labyrinth Society Newsletter

  In This Issue - April 2007
  Sent 04/02/2007

  • Spring Board Meeting
  • Regional Gatherings
  • Report from Australia
  • Worldwide Labyrinth Locator Update
  • Author Seeks Assistance...
  • News 'n Notes

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter - April 2007 (.pdf 683K)

• 02. The Labyrinth Society Newsletter

  In This Issue - January 2007
  Sent 01/25/2007

  • Meet Me at the Forum
  • Membership Committee Update
  • New Cosmic Pathway
  • Upcoming Events
  • Fourth Annual Writing Contest
  • News Briefs & Reminders
  • New Members

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter - January 2007 (.pdf 806K)

• 03. Annual Gathering News

  In This Issue
  Sent 04/10/2007

  • Greetings TLS Members & Friends
  • Information Links to Gathering Website Pages
  • Accommodations & Fees
  • Gathering Programs Ads

  Annual Gathering News - April 10, 2007 (.pdf 287K)

• 04. 2007 Annual Gathering News

  In This Issue
  Sent 08/08/2007

  • Workshops & Presentations
  • Help Create the Gathering Labyrinth
  • Familiar Favorites & Traditions
  • Labyrinths On The Grounds
  • Airport Shuttle Information
  • Pre-Gathering Workshop
  • Post-Gathering Workshop
  • Lodging
  • Early Arrival / Late Departure
  • Member Images
  • Vendor Room / TLS Store
  • Silent Auction
  • Off-Site Lodging Availability
  • Walk-In Day Rate
  • Invite A Friend
  • Share the News!

  2007 Annual Gathering News - August 8, 2007 (.pdf 454K)

• 05. News from The Labyrinth Society

  We’ve learned from TLS member, Debi Kermeen, that another cable program featuring labyrinths is scheduled to air on HGTV (Home & Garden Television) this coming Sunday, 2 September, at 10:30am Eastern Time (8:30 Mountain, 9:30 Central, 10:30 Pacific). The show is called “Curb Appeal,” and will re-air again on 22 September.

  Marty and Debi Kermeen built a small Zen Garden at a row house in Washington, a few blocks from the capital, featuring a 6-foot Chakra - Vyuha Labyrinth. They have not seen the program, but were interviewed on-camera, and the production crew shot footage of them working. Debi reports that the wonderful labyrinth at The Washington DC Botanical Garden, built by TLS member, Michael Clarridge, will also be featured.

  The HGTV channel may be available only to cable and/or satellite subscribers in the United States, so I cannot assure it’s accessible in other countries.

  Turned out the program on the One channel was available only to Canadian cable subscribers. Sorry for the misdirect in sending that email to everyone. Should have gone only to Canadian members. I’m investigating whether we might be able to get a DVD or VHS recording to share it more widely.

  And, finally, a reminder that the extended early bird discount deadline for postal mail and fax registrations ends this coming Friday, 31 August.

  • 2007 TLS Annual Gathering Registration Form (.pdf 50K)

  Please feel free to forward this message to anyone you know who might be interested.

  Good walking to you all,
  David

  David Gallagher
  Executive Director

• 06. 2008 European Regional Gathering

  Portals & Perambulations: Weekend Gathering at Troy Farm

  Friday evening 30 May 2008 - Sunday afternoon June 1

  A weekend of presentations at Troy Farm in Oxfordshire, home of a unique historic 15-circuit turf labyrinth, recently restored and re-opened to the public. Speakers include Klara Adalena, Lauren Artress, Jim Buchanan, Suzy Castleman, Sig Lonegren, Karin Schlüter Lonegren, Jeff Saward and Kimberly Lowelle Saward, speaking on various aspects of labyrinths, dowsing and spiritual practice, plus walking the labyrinth at the nearby Rollright stone circle. For full details and registration, please visit the Amazing Adventures website. We trust we will see you in England next year!

  Jeff and Kimberly Saward and Sig & Karin Lonegren

  2008 European Regional Gathering - October 29, 2007 (.pdf 129K

• 07. Holiday Greetings from The Labyrinth Society

  ...Wishing you many blessings on the path...

  Give a Gift of Membership!

  As you make your holiday gift list, consider The Labyrinth Society in your planning. Give a gift of membership to TLS to the labyrinth enthusiasts in your life. Gift recipients are entitled to membership benefits and become part of a community that supports those who have brought the labyrinth into their lives.

  Is your special person already a TLS member? Consider a donation to The Labyrinth Society in his or her honor. Your gift will support labyrinth work world wide.

  The Labyrinth Society will send a card acknowledging your gift or donation.

  To give a gift membership or to make a tax-deductible (USA only) donation to The Labyrinth Society, please email the TLS Executive Director by contact by phone at 607-387-5863.
  
  The Labyrinth Society
  P.O. Box 736
  Trumansburg, New York 14886

  Holiday Greetings from The Labyrinth Society - December 20, 2007 (.pdf 134K)

• 01. News from The Labyrinth Society

  Dear Members,

  While you’ve heard from us on a regular basis of late, there are several announcements that we’re excited to share with you in this special letter.

  At the Fall Board Meeting in Lenox, MA, significant decisions were made about the ways in which we will focus TLS energies and resources. In our early days, we felt our priority should be putting labyrinth information out into the world. We’ve done that in good measure, and will continue to do so in as many new and innovative ways as possible. At the same time, the board has felt that the privilege of being part of this labyrinth outreach was our greatest member benefit. Now we need to look at how TLS can best serve our members. We’ve listened to your requests, suggestions, and ideas and are acting on a number of them.

  First, we are happy to announce that TLS has partnered with Caerdroia – the Journal of Mazes and Labyrinths, to offer this annual publication as a member benefit. Caerdroia, now in its 25th year of production, is edited and published in the UK by Jeff Saward of Labyrinthos. In addition, a new journal, tentatively titled The Labyrinth Path, will be introduced in Spring 2007, and it too will become a member benefit. This publication will focus on spirituality, health and the arts. It will contain, among other things, the winning entries from the annual writing contest, personal essays, and material specific to The Labyrinth Society, including an annual Gathering retrospective. TLS members will be encouraged to submit their writing for publication.

  Also, after several years in development, we are finally ready to launch our online Labyrinth Marketplace. This is something that many of you have been suggesting for quite some time. In short, it will provide a one-stop site for finding labyrinth products and services. This will not be an online store, but rather will serve as an index to what is available worldwide, with direct links and/or contact information to product and service providers. As TLS members you will be offered a simple listing free of charge (after a one-time setup fee) with expanded listings available at discounted rates. The new Marketplace was rolled out at the Spring Board meeting, and will open for business within the next few months.

  Other benefits are planned for introduction later in the year, including new educational outreach materials. And we still plan to distribute the video, Creating a Path: A Story of Labyrinth Building, to all current members when production is completed.

  Our membership fees have been the same since we organized in 1999, and inflation has seriously eroded their adequacy in the intervening years. Moreover, during that time we have gone from a small group of volunteers to an international organization with a full- time executive director, a highly visible website, a partnership in the Worldwide Labyrinth Locator and a small grant program for member projects. In order to make some adjustment for the effects of inflation and provide these additional member benefits, we are introducing a new tiered membership pricing structure. Beginning June 1, 2006, TLS will have five membership categories, intended to address both the interests and budgets of our members.

  
  Individual Membership: $50.00(US) per year

  • $100.00 Gathering discount for Gathering 2006; $75.00 Gathering discount thereafter
  • E-letter subscription (6 issues per year)
  • Free listing in Online Marketplace (after one-time setup charge)
  • 50% discount for expanded Online Marketplace listing fees
  • Full voting rights
  • Access to, and inclusion in, the Online Member Directory

  The $5.00 per member household discount will be continued at this membership level. (all Torrez scholarships will be at this level of membership)

  Supporting Membership: $75.00(US) per year

  • All benefits of Individual Membership
  • $100.00 Gathering registration discount
  • Subscription to two Journals: Caerdroia & The Labyrinth Path

  Household Membership: $130.00(US) per year

  • All benefits of Supporting Membership
  • $100.00 Gathering registration discount for each member of the household
  • Individual listing in the Online Member Directory for each household member

  Organization Membership: $130.00(US) per year

  • All benefits of Supporting Membership
  • Four $100.00 Gathering registration discounts

  Individual Lifetime Membership: $1,250.00(US)

  • All benefits of Supporting Membership for duration of the member’s lifetime

  The new categories, benefits, and prices will apply to new memberships received after May 31, 2006, and membership renewals due beginning in June. Questions and comments should be directed to David Gallagher at info@labyrinthsociety.org or by calling David at 607-387-5863.

  Complete information concerning the Online Labyrinth Marketplace, including service level descriptions and pricing, will be announced when the Marketplace is ready for public debut – planned for early summer 2006. Other member benefits are in the planning stages, including special members-only pages on the website.

  We hope you will be as excited as we are about these new developments, and that you will take advantage of these exciting member benefits!

  On another note, we expect 2006 Gathering registration will open on Thursday, June 1st.

  Kimberly Lowelle Saward, TLS President
  David Gallagher, Executive Director

  News from The Labyrinth Society - May 17, 2006 (.pdf 249K)

• 02. TLS Noninating Committee Letter

  Call To The Membership

  “When I do a random act of kindness, I receive an abundance
  of positive energy from the universe.”

  By the editors of Don’t Sweat Press

  ---

  First, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Cindy Keesee and I am writing to you as a TLS member and chair of the Nominating Committee.

  Second, I am sending out a request for your assistance. There are many positions available within TLS both on the board and committees. The Nominating Committee is coming to you the members asking that those interested in a position to step forward. It is always beneficial if you are already on a committee and have some understanding of the duties that may lie ahead of you. Even if you are not currently on a committee and are interested please contact the Nominating Committee. Positions currently available are:

  Board Positions:

  • Development Chair – Oversee the development of TLS, responsible for Grant writing and Fund Raising.
  • Membership Chair – Assist with new members and bring forth new ideas in maintaining the members that are currently in TLS.
  • Nominating Chair – Review vacancies within TLS committees and board and assist with the nominating ballot.
  • Publication Chair – Oversee the newsletter, writing contest and any other publications.
  • Treasurer – Responsible for monitoring TLS funds.

  Committee Coordinator Positions:

  • Wisdom Circle Coordinator – A prior member of the board to serve in an advisory capacity by sharing their wisdom and experiences with the current board.
  • Web Coordinator – Someone to assist with envisioning and maintaining any design changes of the TLS web site.
  • E-Letter Coordinator – Prepare our bi- monthly e-letter with events and information for our members.
  • Member Images Coordinator – To accept submissions of photos, slide and digital images from TLS members. To assemble a digital photo show of images for the Annual Gathering Program.

  Now is a great time to do a random act of kindness. Share your skills, talent and knowledge with TLS to help us to continue moving forward. It is the members who make TLS what it is and keeps it going. Together we can share the word and uses of the labyrinth for all.

  Remember there are many ways to become more deeply involved in TLS. Suggest an interest group at the gatherings, sign up for a committee, communicate on the forums, and contact any of the board or committee members with information or ideas. You can always propose a new committee if there is not one already performing a function for which you see a need. TLS is what you make it.

  Those people that come forth as nominees will be interviewed by the Nominating Chair. This will help the nominee obtain additional information concerning the position and assist the nominating committee in learning more about that person. We have currently received some nominees that are being added to this review. Subsequent to the review, the Nominating Committee selects a slate of the candidates to be voted on by the members at the Fall Gathering or by mail.

  I look forward to hearing from you soon and can go into more detail on the positions available upon your request. Please contact me via email, letter or phone. Questions and comments are always welcome.

  Cindy Keesee
  15454 N. 135th Dr.
  Surprise, AZ 85374
  623-975-2249

  The Labyrinth Society Nominating Committee Letter - May 26, 2006 (.pdf 180K)

• 03. The Labyrinth Society Newsletter

  In This Issue - June 2006
  Sent 06/13/2006

  • Board Changes
  • 2006 Gathering Update
  • TLS Forum Report
  • Writing Contest Reminder
  • Global Healing Response Program
  • Midwest Labyrinth Conference
  • Carol Shields Memorial Labyrinth
  • Welcome New Members

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter - June 2006 (.pdf 600K)

• 04. Annual Gathering News

  In This Issue
  Sent 06/19/2006

  • Dear Members & Friends
  • Postal Mailing
  • Who to Contact with Questions

  Annual Gathering News - June 19, 2006 (.pdf 168K)

• 05. The Labyrinth Society Newsletter

  In This Issue - July 2006
  Sent 07/25/2006

  • 2006 Gathering Updates
  • 2007 Gathering: Dates & Location
  • Northwest Regional Gathering
  • Midwest Regional Gathering
  • Website Research Page
  • Meet Me at the Forum
  • Curated Labyrinth Art Show
  • Love Stories
  • New Members
  • Carol Shields Memorial Labyrinth

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter - July 2006 (.pdf 645K)

• 06. Reminder from The Labyrinth Society

  Gathering Registration Early Bird Deadline

  Just a brief reminder that this year's deadline for early
  bird registration is Tuesday, August 15th.

  Prices will auto-increase by $100.00 on the website at Midnight, Wednesday, August 16th.

  In order to qualify as an early bird, postal registrations should be postmarked no later than August 15th.

  ---

  TLS Scholarships

  A limited number of Annual Gathering scholarships are available to TLS members. A separate scholarship application form is only available on request. Scholarship recipients are required to register via postal mail. If you are interested in this option, please email the Registrar.

  ---

  This year we have new and interesting information & workshops, exciting key notes, and a beautiful location near one of the most visited cities in America!!

  Reminder from The Labyrinth Society - August 11, 2006 (.pdf 119K)

• 07. Special Message from The Labyrinth Society

  Dear TLS Members & Friends,

  This special message represents a departure from our long-standing policy regarding email. It was approved by the Executive Committee in recognition of an unusual and critical situation, believing it constitutes a benefit to our members, and is not a typical communication from TLS.

  Earlier this month, Robert Ferré reported that his office computer crashed resulting in the loss of all his contact information and photos. The hard drive was evaluated for possible recovery of data without success. Given the situation, Robert asked for assistance in getting the word out so people can get back in touch with him.

  Robert requests the following:

  • Our ezine mailing list (please send us your address again)
  • Our prospective participants for the October labyrinth-making training in St. Louis (please send us your contact information)
  • 2000 photos (please send us photos of our labyrinths if you have some)
  • All inquiries for information (we have no way to stay in touch)

  If any of the above categories apply to you, please email Robert Ferré so he can reconstruct his database.
  
  David Gallagher, Executive Director
  The Labyrinth Society

• 08. The Labyrinth Society Newsletter

  In This Issue - September 2006
  Sent 10/02/2006
  

  • 2006 Gathering Update
  • Meet Me at the Forum
  • TLS Mini-Reunion
  • News Briefs & Reminders
  • New Members

  The Labyrinth Society Newsletter - September 2006 (.pdf 484K)