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Southeast
Florida Drum Circle Newsletter
BROWARD COUNTY EDITION
COVERING MID-AUGUST to MID-SEPTEMBER
Published Tuesday, 19 August 2008
Offered to you by the Southeast Florida Drum Circle Community
Michael Dean Goodman, Coordinator, 561-350-3930
SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity-owner@yahoogroups.com
This newsletter now reaches about 3000 people!
VISIT OUR YAHOO GROUP WEB PAGE
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity
Free twice-monthly SE Florida Drum Circle Newsletter via e-mail
Lists of drumming & dancing teachers and vendors
Educational & inspirational materials about drumming & dancing
Links to other drumming/dancing resources on the web
Photos from many drum circles in our local area
BROWARD COUNTY EDITION
COVERING MID-AUGUST to MID-SEPTEMBER
Published Tuesday, 19 August 2008
Offered to you by the Southeast Florida Drum Circle Community
Michael Dean Goodman, Coordinator, 561-350-3930
SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity-owner@yahoogroups.com
This newsletter now reaches about 3000 people!
VISIT OUR YAHOO GROUP WEB PAGE
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity
Free twice-monthly SE Florida Drum Circle Newsletter via e-mail
Lists of drumming & dancing teachers and vendors
Educational & inspirational materials about drumming & dancing
Links to other drumming/dancing resources on the web
Photos from many drum circles in our local area
Feedback via e-mail is appreciated -
• ON THIS NEWSLETTER: how you like the new layout, content, editorial comments, etc.
• ON DRUM CIRCLES YOU ATTEND - how you liked the event, how many attended, quality
of drumming, leadership, etc. - and photos.
• ON DRUMMING/DANCING EVENTS WE'RE NOT COVERING
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SPECIAL NEWS HEADLINES
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1. You'll find lots of great, new photos of local drum circles at:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity/photos/
Please send your best photos to me and I'll post them!
2. See the trance dances and kirtans (spiritual chanting) -
They now have their very own section - see section D below
3. 1st Annual Miami Bellydance Convention, Friday-Sunday, August
29th-31st, Intercontinental Hotel, Miami FL - see section C below
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A. DRUM/DANCE CIRCLES - QUICK SUMMARY - BROWARD COUNTY
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Here are the drum circles (or events containing drum circles), listed in chronological order.
(Classes & performances - drumming or dancing - are listed separately in Section C below.)
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19TH
Fort Lauderdale Downtown Drum Circle
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 8:00-10:00pm, free
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23RD
Broward Drum Circle
Coconut Creek FL, 4:00-5:30pm, free
See details below
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24TH
Hollywood Drum Circle & Potluck Picnic
Hollywood FL, 4:30-8:30pm (park closing time), free
See details below
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24TH
Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle - at Birch State Park
Created and Run by Randy 'Atu' Robinson, President
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 2:00-5:00pm, $5
See details below (please read editor's comments before attending)
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26TH
Fort Lauderdale Downtown Drum Circle
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 8:00-10:00pm, free
See details below
WEDNESDAYS, AUGUST 27TH
Griffin's Loft Drum Circle
Davie FL, 7:30pm, $10 requested
See details below
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27TH
Essential Complementary Wellness Center -
New Moon Womens' Drum Circle
Hollywood FL, 7:30-9:00pm, free
See details below
THURSDAY, AUGUST 28TH
Crystal Vision - Womens' New Moon Drum Circle
Hollywood FL, 7:30-9:00pm, donation requested
See details below
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30TH
Broward Drum Circle
Coconut Creek FL, 4:00-5:30pm, free
See details below
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30TH
New Moon Native American Drum Circle
Parkland FL, 7:00-9:00pm
Open to women only
See details below
SUNDAY, AUGUST 31ST
Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle - at Birch State Park
Created and Run by Randy 'Atu' Robinson, President
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 2:00-5:00pm, $5
See details below (please read editor's comments before attending)
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND
Ft. Lauderdale Downtown Drum Circle
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 8:00-10:00pm, free
See details below
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND
Goddess Spirit Drum Circle
Hollywood FL, 7:30-9:00pm, $5 requested
Open to both men and women.
See details below.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND
Nature's Emporium - Womens' New Moon Drum Circle
Coral Springs FL, 7:00-9:00pm, donation requested
See details below
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD
Womens' New Moon Drum Circle
Deerfield Beach FL, 7:00-9:00pm, donation requested
See details below
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH Call to confirm
Gilda's Club Drum Circle (Cancer Support Group)
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 6:45-8:15pm, free
See details below
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH
Broward Drum Circle
Coconut Creek FL, 4:00-5:30pm, free
See details below
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH
Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle - at Birch State Park
Created and Run by Randy 'Atu' Robinson, President
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 2:00-5:00pm, $5
See details below (please read editor's comments before attending)
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH
Ft. Lauderdale Downtown Drum Circle
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 8:00-10:00pm, free
See details below
WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 10TH
Griffin's Loft Drum Circle
Davie FL, 7:30pm, $10 requested
See details below
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH
Broward Drum Circle
Coconut Creek FL, 4:00-5:30pm, free
See details below
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH
Unity of Hollywood Drum Circle
Hollywood FL, 7:00-9:00pm, donation requested
See details below
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH
Hollywood Drum Circle & Potluck Picnic
Hollywood FL, 4:30-8:30pm (park closing time), free
See details below
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH
Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle - at Birch State Park
Created and Run by Randy 'Atu' Robinson, President
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 2:00-5:00pm, $5
See details below (please read editor's comments before attending)
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH
Broward Full Moon Drum Circle (Pompano Beach)
Pompano Beach FL, 8pm till 1am, free
See details below
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH
Ft. Lauderdale Downtown Drum Circle
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 8:00-10:00pm, free
See details below
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH
Essential Complementary Wellness Center - Full Moon Drum Circle
Hollywood FL, 7:30-9:00pm, free
See details below
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH
Nature's Emporium Drum Circle
Coral Springs FL, 7:00-9:00pm, $3
See details below
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH
Broward Drum Circle
Coconut Creek FL, 4:00-5:30pm, free
See details below
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST
Broward Pagan Drum Picnic
Ft. Lauderdale FL, noon-5pm, $1 park fee, optional BBQ lunch $5
See details below
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST
Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle - at Birch State Park
Created and Run by Randy 'Atu' Robinson, President
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 2:00-5:00pm, $5
See details below (please read editor's comments before attending)
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND OF INTEREST TO ALL COUNTIES
Tequesta Bonfire Drum Circle - A Fall Equinox Gathering
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 8:00-11:00pm, $5 park entrance fee
See details below
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD
Ft. Lauderdale Downtown Drum Circle
Ft. Lauderdale FL, 8:00-10:00pm, free
See details below
WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 24TH
Griffin's Loft Drum Circle
Davie FL, 7:30pm, $10 requested
See details below
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B. DRUM/DANCE CIRCLES - FULL DETAILS - BROWARD COUNTY
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Drum circles listed alphabetically
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23RD, 30TH, SEPTEMBER 6TH, 13TH, 20TH
Broward Drum Circle
Every Saturday, 4:00-5:30pm (we must be out of the park by 6pm closing)
Info: 954-984-4183, Sophia Letourneau <sophialinus@...>
Discussion group: http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/BrowardDrumCircle/
Website: http://www.geocities.com/browarddrumcircle/
Held at: Fern Forest Nature Park, 201 S. Lyons Rd., Coconut Creek FL 33063
Park rules: no advertisements; no money changes hands, no alcohol, drugs, or fire.
Occurs rain or shine (when it rains they drum under the big pavillion/picnic shelter).
Directions:
• From I-95
1. Exit at Atlantic Blvd. west
2. Pass over the Florida Turnpike
3. Turn left (south) on Lyons Rd.
4. After 1 block, turn right into Fern Forest Nature Park
5. Just before entering the parking lot, there is a pavilion (picnic shelter) on the right
6. Walk through the pavilion and continue on the concrete path to the grassy picnic area
where the drum circle is held.
• From the Florida Turnpike Southbound
1. Exit at Coconut Creek Pkwy./Hammondville Rd.
(Note: for return trips, there is only a northbound entrance at Coconut Creek Pkwy.)
2. Go west on Coconut Creek Pkwy.
3. Turn left (south) on Lyons Rd.
4. Pass Atlantic Blvd.
5. After 1 block, turn right into Fern Forest Nature Park
6. Just before entering the parking lot, there is a pavilion (picnic shelter) on the right
7. Walk through the pavilion and continue on the concrete path to the grassy picnic area
where the drum circle is held.
• From the Florida Turnpike Northbound
1. Exit at Atlantic Blvd.
(Note: for return trips, there is only a southbound entrance at Atlantic Blvd.)
2. Go west on Atlantic Blvd.
3. Turn left (south) on Lyons Rd.
4. After 1 block, turn right into Fern Forest Nature Park
5. Just before entering the parking lot, there is a pavilion (picnic shelter) on the right
6. Walk through the pavilion and continue on the concrete path to the grassy picnic area,
where the drum circle is held.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH
Broward Full Moon Drum Circle (Pompano Beach)
Monthly on the night of the full Moon, Pompano Beach FL, 8pm till 1am, free
Established 1995. There's a 15-minute Pagan full Moon ritual at 10pm.
Remember, it can be chilly on the beach during the cooler months - dress accordingly.
Public restrooms available.
"No Alcohol - No Drugs - No Fire! - or we risk losing this location!"
Held: on the beach, just north of the Pompano Beach Pier, 222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd.
(2 blocks north of Atlantic Blvd.), Pompano Beach FL. Take the walking path to the beach
just north of the Fisherman's Wharf (pier). Free parking at the lot across the street to the
west starting at 8pm.
IN CASE OF RAIN - UNDER THE PAVILION NEAR THE STREET, NORTH OF THE PIER.
Info: Debe Fisher 954-292-1581, Debe24@...,
http://www.hometown.aol.com/debe24/myhomepage/profile.html,
Sophia <sophialinus@...>, 954-984-4183;
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST
Broward Pagan Drum Picnic
3rd Sunday of each month (with ocassional shifts to accomodate holidays, etc.),
noon-5pm, $1 park fee
BBQ provided for $5 donation; bring something to share if you'd like. Bring drums or any instru-
ments. If you can't drum, come to learn; if you can drum, come and share some rhythms. If you
don't have a drum, some extras will be available. Bring your Pagan spirit and meet some new,
like-minded people.
At 2 pm there will be a Wicca 101 Discussion Session facilitated by Bill and Deirdre. Bring your
questions, ideas, curiosity or opinions...
Info: Jeff <drumskii@...>
To join their discussion list, or check their calendar, go to:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/BrowardPaganPicnic
Held at: Snyder Park, 3299 SW 4th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale FL.
Directions:
1. Next to the Ft. Lauderdale Airport.
2. Enter Snyder Park from SW 4th Ave.
3. Turn right at the 'T'
4. Turn left at the next 'T'
5. Make the 2nd left turn
6. Make the 1st right turn
7. Go half way around the circle, till you're near West Lake, and then park.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 28TH
Crystal Vision - Womens' New Moon Drum Circle
Usually the Thursday closest to the new moon, 7:30-9:00pm, donation requested
Open to women only
2008: Aug 28, Sep 25, Oct 30, Nov 20, Dec 11
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: Crystal Vision, 3160 Stirling Rd. (just west of I-95 at N. Park Rd.), Hollywood FL,
954-981-4992, crystalvisionLTC@...
Led by: Linda White <lkwdrum@...>
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH
Essential Complementary Wellness Center - Full Moon Drum Circle
Usually the Wednesday closest to the full moon, 7:30-9:00pm, free
Open to both men and women
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: Essential Complementary Wellness Center, 2104 N. Federal Hwy., Suite A (corner of
Lee, parking in rear), Hollywood FL, 954-921-7808
Led by: Mayra Luria mluria@... and Rose Robertson light8181@...
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27TH
Essential Complementary Wellness Center -
New Moon Womens' Drum Circle
Usually the Wednesday closest to the new moon, 7:30-9:00pm, free
Open to women only
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: Essential Complementary Wellness Center, 2104 N. Federal Hwy., Suite A (corner of
Lee, parking in rear), Hollywood FL, 954-921-7808
Led by: Mayra Luria mluria@... and Rose Robertson light8181@...
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 19TH, 26TH, SEPTEMBER 2ND, 9TH, 16TH, 23RD
Ft. Lauderdale Downtown Drum Circle
Every Tuesday, 8:00-10:00pm, free
Bring your drums or other instruments. Bring your dancing feet. Bring harmonious and peace-
loving vibes. Bring your own seating (blanket or chair). Please - no alcohol, no drugs, no fire.
Info: Adam <zspaz@...>, 754-234-0902,
www.geocities.com/browarddrumcircle/FortLauderdaleDownTown.html
Held at: Riverwalk & SW 4th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale FL 33312
In the park, under the large, covered pavilion (thus we drum rain or shine)
Directions:
1. Take I-95
2. Exit Broward Blvd. eastbound
3. Turn right (south) onto SW 4th Ave.
4. Proceed to Riverwalk
5. Free parking on the street, or park in Adam's lot at 327 SW 2nd St. (at 4th Ave.)
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SUNDAY, AUGUST 24TH, 31ST, SEPTEMBER 7TH, 14TH, 21ST
Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle - at Birch State Park
Created and Run by Randy 'Atu' Robinson, President
Every Sunday, 2:00-5:00pm (If it's raining locally at 1:45pm, the circle is canceled.)
If you arrive after 2:30pm, please call Randy's cell phone so that he can notify the
park guard.
$5 weekly membership dues or $240 a year in advance. You cannot vote unless you
have membership dues paid up. Elections are every July.
Randy says:
"The Original Fort Lauderdale Drum Circle in a class by itself"
"World Famous 'Original Fort Lauderdale Drum Circle' as seen on Channel 7 News and
wrote [sic] about in the Sun-Sentinel Newspaper"
[Of course its NOT the 'original Ft. Lauderdale drum circle'. Randy started this
drum circle in 2007. There have been drum circles in Ft. Lauderdale for decades,
some even using the name "Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle". - editor. Please see
further comments at the bottom of this listing.]
Free beginners hand drum class at 2:00pm sharp.
Free food and drink when you call in one day ahead of time.
"A drum circle is a group of people coming together to create in-the-moment music using
hand drums and percussion instruments. A drum circle is not a percussion ensemble per-
forming a prepared piece of music, or a drumming class led by a teacher, nor any group
that is re-creating music that it has played before. Drum circles are a form of recreational
music-making, which means that the focus is not on performance but rather on personal,
group development, reducing stress, dance, meeting people, relaxing, wellness, or just
plain fun."
1. WE ARE AN OPEN (NEW-YORK-STYLE) DRUM CIRCLE
2. NO FACILITATOR (OPEN DRUM CIRCLE - PLAY WHAT YOU WANT - EVERYTHING
GOES)
3. BEGINNERS TO ADVANCED
4. ALL RELIGIONS
5. MUST HAVE A POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE
6. EVERYONE WELCOME
7. HAND DRUMS ONLY
Don't forget - come vendor with us every Thursday and Saturday at the Swap Shop Flea
Market on Sunrise Blvd. & Martin Lurther King Blvd. - free space for drummers.
Info: Randy "Atu" Robinson, President - Ft. Lauderdale Drum Circle; Coordinator -
Americas East Coast Drum Circle; 954-839-5732, fortlauderdaledrumcircle@...
Join Randy's discussion list: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/FortLauderdaleDrumCircle
Held at: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Sunrise Blvd. just east of A1A, Ft. Lauderdale.
In the Pavilion 3 Area.
Editor's Reluctant Comments (July 08):
The SE Florida drum circle community is a relatively cooperative and friendly place,
with room for a wide diversity of personalities, beliefs, musical styles, etc. The
whole idea of drumming is to create unity, harmony, togetherness of differences,
bliss... Randy Robinson, the organizer and "President" of the "Original Fort Lau-
derdale Drum Circle", has for 6 months been radiating almost exactly the opposite
qualities - division, disharmony, anger, fear, constriction...
Very serious concerns have emerged among experienced drummers and leaders of
numerous Florida drum circles about both the ethics and the stability of Randy
Robinson - leading to concern for the comfort and even the emotional safety of
those attending his weekly drum circle in Birch State Park - people who might be
unaware of his widely-circulated, bizarre public statements over the past 6 months,
and the controversy, negativity, and harm that he's generated.
Via his e-mail pronouncements on drum circle discussion lists across Florida, Ran-
dy "Atu" Robinson has blatantly and proudly revealed his intense bigotry against
Pagans, has shown a paranoid style of thinking, has made libelous accusations
and even veiled threats toward a number of drum leaders who've tried (with logic,
humor, tough love, etc.) to get him to see the damage that he's doing, has display-
ed delusions of grandeur regarding his stature in the drumming community, has
isolated himself from most other drum circles and internet drum groups, has made
attempts to divide the drumming community, and has given us all a public relations
'black eye'.
Sadly, and for only the 2nd time in the history of this newsletter, I've found it ethi-
cally necessary to add a warning comment to a drum circle's listing.
All these points about Randy's behavior can be objectively verified by simply read-
ing Randy Robinson's own, astounding words (in his e-mails) on various drum
circle discussion lists:
His own discussion group - Fort Lauderdale Drum Circle
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fortlauderdaledrumcircle
A popular, State-wide drumming discussion list - Florida Drum Circles
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/floridadrumcircles/
Do a search for "fortlauderdaledrumcircle@...", which is Randy's e-mail.
Or search for "destronw@..." which is either a supporter of Randy's or
perhaps another of Randy's own e-mail personas.
You'll find that the situation is worse than my words here convey! I would be sur-
prised if, after reading his e-mails, you were not offended, dismayed, and saddened
by Randy Robinson's bizarre, self-destructive behavior.
On top of this, Randy has created a very bad, isolated situation for himself:
1. Where he no longer attends any of the area's most popular drum circles - only
his own.
2. Where the organizers of the area's most popular drum circles, plus many of the
more active local drummers, will no longer attend his drum circles.
3. Where no other leaders of the area's most popular drum circles will even an-
nounce his events, due to the ill-will that he's generated.
4. Where he has attacked or threatened the publishers of many of the major local
(and even State-wide) drum circle internet groups. (This newsletter is now the
only place that will even list his drum circle!)
5. Where his thoughts, e-mailed to various drum circle internet discussion groups,
are no longer taken seriously - they evoke either hostility or belittling amusement.
6. Where his own Yahoo discussion group (Fort Lauderdale Drum Circle), despite
Randy's boasts of his incredible successes, has managed in it's 9-month history
to attract a whopping 17 members (including Randy, myself, plus some other
leaders in the drumming community who are have only joined to keep an eye on
what's going on).
Personal message to Randy:
Randy Robinson, I mean you no harm. My purpose here is to inform and protect
individual drummers and the drumming community, not to damage you. I am sim-
ply acting as a messenger, as a reporter, in order to put this information out there,
to shine the light of collective awareness into a dark place, so that people can use
their own judgement to evaluate this situation for themselves, and decide whether
they want to come into contact with, or contribute to, the energy that you are gene-
rating. If you feel this negatively about Pagans, and get so hostile and threatening
in your dealings with others when they don't go along with your world view and
your grand vision of yourself, then drummers and dancers who are thinking about
going to your drum circles ethically deserve to be forewarned so that they know
what they're getting into and can make an informed decision.
Many of us lovingly hope that you come to your right mind soon, that you wake up
and REJOIN the drumming community. You have so much to offer - you have great
vision, great promotional abilities, and a very generous heart - and rumor has it that
you are a good drummer (in your own e-mails you challenge people to wager signi-
ficant money that they can beat you in a live drumming challenge). You are very
welcome - welcome to walk with us, not to attempt to 'rule' us. We'll applaud and
respect you, as we used to, as you create and enjoy whatever (respectful, cooper-
ative) drumming atmosphere that you want.
If you'd just relax, calm down, open your eyes, remove your strange filters, think
before you speak - and stop treating the rest of us as if we're enemies - then it's
unlikely that anyone would want to direct hostility or derisive humor in your di-
rection. But when you act as offensively as you have been, then you just get
your own negative energy bounced back at you ("As ye sow, so shall ye reap").
It's not 'the devil' that you're seeing in those that 'oppose you' as you say- it's
actually just your own negativity coming home to roost. Remember Pogo's fa-
mous statement: "We have met the enemy, and he is us." Despite what you've
convinced yourself that you see, no one really wants to 'steal your thunder' or
take what's yours or harm you or drag you down to the underworld - most people
(Pagan or whoever) are too busy trying to do a reasonable job with their own little
corner of the universe to have the time or energy to take over yours.
But Randy - listen carefully now - the bigotry, the paranoia, the libel, the veiled
threats, the unwillingness to engage in reasonable and respectful dialogue with-
out freaking out, the irrationality, the delusions of grandeur, the divisiveness, the
self-imposed isolation (the rejection of any connections to the greater drumming
community) - these have to stop! Just stop writing e-mails for a while, start drum-
ming with the rest of us, and things will get better. Remember: "Do unto others
as you'd have others do unto you." "As ye sow, so shall ye reap." "As you treat
the least of them, so you treat Me." You get the picture. The solution to this
whole mess you've made is simple: just lovingly live your own beautiful, Christian
beliefs.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH Call to confirm
Gilda's Club Drum Circle (Cancer Support Group)
1st Thursday (usually), 6:45-8:15pm, free
Gilda's Club is a cancer community - their drum circle is open to those with cancer or dealing with
cancer in their family, and their friends.
Held at: Gilda's Club, 119 Rose Dr., Ft. Lauderdale FL (1 block north of Davie, 2 houses east of
Andrews), 954-763-6776
Led by Mayra Luria mluria@...
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND
Goddess Spirit Drum Circle
1st Tuesday of the month (2nd Tuesday if holidays conflict), 7:30-9:00pm, $5 requested
Open to both men and women.
Drum, sing, dance, chant. Circle meets rain or shine - indoors with a/c if it's too hot or wet, out-
doors around the firepit otherwise. Some percussion instruments available to use including xylo-
phone, bells, singing bowl, ocean drum, shakers, etc.
Held at: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of South Florida, 1812 Roosevelt St., Hollywood FL
(behind the Autozone store on US 1, between Taft and Johnson). Park in rear or on the street.
Info: Debe Fisher 954-292-1581, debe24@...
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WEDNESDAYS, AUGUST 27TH & SEPTEMBER 10TH, 24TH
Griffin's Loft Drum Circle
2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month, 7:30pm, $10 requested
Join our group in spiritual ceremonies and create rhythm and song. Feel the vibration thru drum-
ming as we honor and respect Mother Earth. Some drums provided.
[Native American style drum circle]
Held at: Griffin's Loft, 4282 S. University Dr., Davie FL, 954-625-6775,
http://www.griffinsloft.com, reiki4you@...
Led by: Diana D <littlefeatherqua@...>, 954-529-5747
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SUNDAY, AUGUST 24TH & SEPTEMBER 14TH, 28TH
Hollywood Drum Circle & Potluck Picnic
2nd & 4th Sundays, 4:30-8:30pm (park closing time), free
Potluck starts at 4:30pm
"Good people, good vibes, good food, awesome beats!"
We'll be jamming in a beautiful, breezy setting right by the water, in a gorgeous park.
No drugs, no alcohol containers, no fire, no littering. Belly dancers welcome.
Please bring: hand instruments, snacks/drinks to share (optional), kids, positive energy
& smiles.
Held at: Holland Park, main level of Waterfront Tower, 801 Johnson St., Hollywood FL 33019
Wheelchair access ramp on tower. Free parking.
IN CASE OF RAIN THEY'RE UNDER THE MAIN PICNIC PAVILION IN THE PARK.
Run by: Kirsten Porter-McLaughlin <naughtygirl.k@...>, 954-889-8615
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH
Nature's Emporium Drum Circle
One Thursday of each month, 7:00-9:00pm, $3
2008: Jul 24, Aug 21, Sep 18, Oct 23, Nov 13, Dec 18
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: Nature's Emporium, 8041 W. Sample Rd., Coral Springs FL, 954-755-2223,
sandy@...
Led by: Linda White
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND, 30TH
Nature's Emporium - Womens' New Moon Drum Circle
Usually the Tuesday closest to the new moon, 7:00-9:00pm, donation requested
2008: Jul 1, Aug 5, Sep 2, Sep 30, Oct 28, Nov 25, none in Dec
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: Nature's Emporium, 8041 W. Sample Rd., Coral Springs FL,
954-755-2223, sandy@...
Led by: Linda White
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SATURDAY, AUGUST 30TH
New Moon Native American Drum Circle
Usually the Saturday closest to the new moon, 7:00-9:00pm
Open to women only
2008: Jul 5, Aug 2, Aug 30, Sep 27, Oct 25, Nov 29, Dec 27
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: 7107 NW 78th Pl., Parkland FL 33067 [in 2007 it was in west Boca Raton]
Find 'M. Martin' in keypad at the gate for security access.
Led by: Michelle Martin, 954-775-0220, 561-929-4959, mmartin869@...
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND OF INTEREST TO ALL COUNTIES
Tequesta Bonfire Drum Circle - A Fall Equinox Gathering
Every Solstice & Equinox - at the start of each season, 8:00-11:00pm, $5 entrance fee
per adult (kids under 10 free), fee goes toward event costs (insurance, staffing - hiring
park rangers for the night, etc.).
INCLUDES
A huge bonfire
An (optional) potluck feast - if you plan to partake, please bring a dish or drink that would
be enough for yourself
An Earth-centered ceremony to welcome in the season (at about 10pm) "Poetry to Nature"
Great live drumming
Beautiful dancing (bellydancers, free-form dancers, etc.)
Fire-performers
Community altar
PHILOSOPHY
"People of all life-affirming spiritual and philosophical paths are invited to come together un-
der the beautiful canopy of the sky, in a preserved 'native Florida coastal habitat'. It's an
opportunity to align our thoughts and energies with our own core of being, with the seasonal
shifts on our planet (Earth), with the energy effects of our star (the Sun), and with the powers
of the universe that form all things (which you may call God/Goddess, Spirit, Nature, laws of
evolution, etc.). The Tequesta (tuh-kes-tuh) Drum Circle is named after one of the ancient
tribes who inhabited lands around SE Florida prior to European and Seminole arrival - and
gives us an opportunity to remember that legacy.
This is a family-oriented celebration for those who hold the importance of our relationship to
our home planet, the Earth. Come be a part of the celebration, look up into the night sky,
breathe, and remember our intrinsic connection to both planet and universe.
Every 90 days or so our planet transits a key point on its journey around our parent Star (the
Sun) which shifts the balance of light entering into our world. This light continually feeds a
tremendously complex array of living systems that have co-evolved for billions of years. The
shift creates a cascading ebb and flow of cycles in each hemisphere creating what we know
as Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall, and inspires us to observe these natural transits of our
planet as Sacred Days."
EVENT GUIDELINES
• Performers are very welcome - fire performers have a special area set aside and must
contact Ranger Mark Foley BEFORE commencement of any flame!
• NO photography!
• NO intoxication. (Police are on-site.)
• Be responsible.
• Be respectful.
• Recycle. Bins will be provided. Please bring biodegradable products.
• Information table available for folks wishing to distribute ecological, holistic, or spiritually-
inclined material.
EDITOR'S NOTE
This is the biggest drum circle in our area. It only happens four times each year (at the
changes of season - the solstices and equinoxes), bringing together drummers and dan-
cers from five counties for one big unified celebration. Don't miss it! You don't have to be
a good dancer or drummer - everyone is lovingly welcomed and appreciated. You can drum
(or play any percussion gadget that you have), dance, or just watch and socialize.
HOSTED BY
Moon Path Circle, Inc., http://moonpathcircle.org/index.htm
(Park Ranger) Mark Foley 954-655-7182
SpelCastor <spelcastor@...>
Sophia Letourneau <sophialinus@...>
HELD AT
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, 3109 E. Sunrise Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale FL, 954-468-2791,
954-564-4521, http://www.floridastateparks.org/hughtaylorbirch/
This is a primitive camp setting, with outhouse-style bathrooms.
DIRECTIONS
1. Take I-95
2. Exit east on Sunrise
3. Cross the Intercoastal Waterway bridge
4. Make the last left turn before A1A (turning into the park entrance)
5. Follow the circular drive about 2/3 of the way around to the "Primi-
tive Camp Area - Tequesta Bonfire Stone Circle"
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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH
Unity of Hollywood Drum Circle
2nd Saturday, 7:00-9:00pm, donation requested
2008: Jul 12, Aug 9, Sep 13, Oct 11, Nov 8, Dec 13
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: Unity of Hollywood, 2750 Van Buren St., Hollywood FL,
954-922-5521
Led by Cathi Covert
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This drum circle is on vacation for August - will return soon
Whole Foods - Ft. Lauderdale Community Drum Circle
One Friday each month, 7-9pm, $7 adults, $3 kids age 12 and under
Stressed out? Let it out! Express yourself through recreational music-making! Come, have fun,
connect with others, drum and dance your stress away! All ages welcome, please bring your
drum or percussion instruments; there are a limited number of extras available. No prior music
experience necessary. THIS CIRCLE IS HELD INDOORS, SO IT HAPPENS RAIN OR SHINE.
Our first circle at this location was March 7th. We had 11 adults and 2 kids ages 2 and 5.
Everyone had a chance to play the new Pentatonic Joia Tube set, the tongue drum, the log drum,
and the Hawaiian Hula Pahu bass drum. We drummed, danced, did a little body percussion, &
even a bit of rap. We had a blast!
Info & RSVP: "If you know you are coming, please e-mail or call; this helps me know how much I
might need to set-up." Debra Anderson, namastedla@..., 954-292-1087 cell,
954-567-3204 home
Held at: Whole Foods Market, 2000 N. Federal Hwy., Ft. Lauderdale FL, 954-565-4138
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Wilton Manors Community Drum Circle
This drum circle has been canceled.
According to the organizer, it will be replaced by a drum circle at the Starbucks
outside patio in Wilton Manors 'soon'.
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD
Women's New Moon Drum Circle
Usually the Wednesday closest to the new moon, 7:00-9:00pm, donation requested
2008: Jul 2, Jul 30, Sep 3, Oct 29, Nov 26, Dec 17
Open to women only.
Experience a renewed connection to your innermost rhythms through drumming and chanting.
Discover what the ancients knew and modern scientific studies are now revealing - that there is
tremendous healing power in the strong, steady vibration of the drum. Tuning into this resound-
ing energy can help re-balance the body and spirit and provide a sacred and unique avenue for
prayer and community. All drums welcome; frame drums and rattle provided for those without.
Held at: Key Large Framing Shop, 817 S. Federal Hwy., Deerfield Beach FL
1/4 mile north of 10th, on the west side of Federal Hwy.
Used to be at Healthy Soul Center, Pompano Beach FL
Led by: Suzanne Edison and Diann Lee, 954-871-5905
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C. OTHER DRUMMING/DANCING EVENTS - LESSONS, PERFORMANCES...
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Chronologically - if the date is known
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 29TH-31ST
1st Annual Miami Bellydance Convention
To register: www.miamibellydanceconvention.net
Friday-Saturday daytime: Master classes (instructors & musicians from all over the world),
workshops, vendors
Friday-Saturday evenings: cocktail reception, gala performances, DJ'd after-party (11pm-
2am)
Sunday: 11am-4pm pool party, dancing to live drumming and DJ's; 6-11pm bellydance
competition (authentic - like in Egypt - with live band)
Info: http://bellydance.meetup.com/234/calendar/8345288/
Held at: Intercontinental Hotel, 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami FL
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SATURDAYS
African Dance & Drum Class
4:30-5:30pm: African Drumming Class
5:30-6:30pm: African Dancing Class (to live drumming)
Special offer: 10 classes $100, 5 classes $60 (offer valid till August 31st)
With Jan Sebon & Mkachika
Info: Carmen, carmen@..., 954-929-2369
Held at: The Goddess Store & Studio, 2017 Harrison St., Downtown Hollywood FL 33020
www.GoddessStore.com
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MONDAYS
African and Caribbean Dance Class
7:00-8:30pm
Held at: Shades of Rhythm, Miramar FL
Info: Narsha 786-356-8488
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TUESDAYS
West African Drum Class
Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30pm, $12
Mixed level class - djembe & dunn. Loaner drums available by advance request only.
Instructor: Moussa Soumah
Held at: Sadkin Center, 1176 NW 42nd Way, Lauderhill FL, 954-687-5789
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D. PARTICIPATION EVENTS - TRANCE DANCES, KIRTANS...
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Chronologically - if the date is known
None
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E. ANNOUNCEMENTS & NEWS BULLETINS
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None
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F. WHAT ARE YOUR DRUMMING/DANCING OPPORTUNITIES?
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This month there at least 68 opportunities to drum/dance in our SE Florida area -
from Miami-Dade (11 events), through Broward (30 events), Palm Beach (23 events),
and Martin (4 events) Counties!
• Some repeat weekly, or monthly, or on the full or new Moons, and some are special one-time
events
• Some are outdoors (parks, beaches, backyards...) and some are indoors (homes, businesses,
churches, bars, arenas...)
• Some are in the daytime and some are at night
• Some are hidden away & private and some are public and almost exhibitionistic
• Some are eclectic world-beat improv/jam sessions and some focus on more repetitive trance-
drumming, or on drumming from just one cultural tradition (African, Latin, Middle-Eastern,
Native American, etc.)
• Some have bonfires, some have candles, some have the Sun or the Moon
• Some have entertainers (fire-twirlers, fire-breathers, poi-spinners, etc.)
• Some are strongly-led, some are mildly guided, and some are leaderless
• Some are flavored by a particular spiritual tradition (Pagan, Christian, Native American, Yogic/
Vedic, etc.) and some are free of any mention of any beliefs (politics, religion, etc.)
• Most are clothed, but one weekly drum circle is hosted by a clothing-optional (nudist) community
• Some have lessons before-hand and some don't
• Some attract only a handful of participants and some draw 100 or even 400+ drummers/dancers!
Try out a few drum circles and find the style(s) and vibes that you enjoy.
To see them all, SUBSCRIBE TO THIS DRUM CIRCLE NEWSLETTER. Just send any e-mail to:
SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Now there's no excuse not to go drumming/dancing and enjoy the bliss!
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G. CHECK OUT THE FILES SECTION OF OUR WEBSITE
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You'll find useful drumming and dancing resources at:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity/files/
• Lists of local drumming & dancing teachers and vendors
• Educational & inspirational materials about drumming & dancing
• Links to other drumming/dancing resources on the web
You'll find lots of great, new pictures of local drum circles at:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity/photos/
• Please e-mail us photos from drum circles that you attend and we'll include them!
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H. HELP US SPREAD THE WORD
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1. Please tell your drumming/dancing friends, students, etc. about our newsletter and our online
resources on our website (drum circle newsletter archive, files, photos, links, etc.).
2. Please post subscription info (or the whole newsletter) on any appropriate discussion list
or in any drumming/dancing newsletter. (You have permission to re-post this newsletter as
long as you keep the whole thing intact - deleting nothing, changing no formatting, and including
all the contact information that's already at the top and bottom.)
3. Or, if you'd prefer, please send us e-mail addresses of anyone that you think would be inter-
ested in the Drum Circle Newsletter and we'll directly invite them to subscribe.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve the drumming/dancing community.
Namaste,
Michael
Publisher: Southeast Florida Drum Circle Newsletter
SoutheastFloridaDrumCircleCommunity-owner@yahoogroups.com
561-350-3930
Dr. Michael Dean Goodman
The PremYoga Center, Co-Director (http://www.PremYoga.com)
PARA - The Center for Realization, Director
The Relationship Institute, Director
Boca Raton and West Palm Beach Florida
561-350-3930 • tantra@...
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