Take some time and read through this newsletter -
I guarantee you'll discover some fun things that you didn't know about!

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 ANY DRUMMING/DANCING EVENTS WE'RE NOT COVERING



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SPECIAL NEWS HEADLINES
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1. Paralounge Drum Gathering (Halloween Celebration) in Florida
    Featuring workshops by Arthur Hull, plus lots of drum circles,
    Friday-Sunday, Oct. 31st-Nov. 2nd.  Only $35!  (see section B below)

2. New drum circle at Bagua, last Friday of the month, in the outdoor
    garden.  (see section B below)

3. Brother Judah is honored by a great article in the TCPalm.  Read
    the article and his beautiful letter in response. (see Section E below)

4. Yallah - beautiful new Florida bellydance magazine (see section E below)

5. Video Interviews of Top Local Drummers - Buddy Helm, Matthew Hill,
    Jan Broder, & Clint from Paralounge. (see section E below)

6. 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!

7. Trance Dances and Kirtans (spiritual chanting) - now have their
    very own listing section (see section D below)


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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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SECTION A
DRUM CIRCLES - QUICK GUIDE for Miami-Dade County...in chronological order
This is your guide to the whole month at a glance.  Only drum circles appear here.

OTHER COUNTIES
OTHER COUNTIES' events (Martin, Palm Beach, or Broward) are listed in the other 2 news-
letter editions that you received along with this one.

SECTION B
DRUM CIRCLES - FULL DETAILS - content, contact info, directions...in alphabetical order

SECTION C
DRUMMING/DANCING CLASSES & PERFORMANCES...in chronological order

SECTION D
TRANCE DANCES, KIRTANS, ETC....in chronological order

SECTION E
ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEWS BULLETINS - WANT ADS


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A. DRUM CIRCLES - QUICK GUIDE - in chronological order
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This is your guide to the whole month at a glance.  Only drum circles appear here.


FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH   NEW
Bagua Drum Circle
Miami FL, 9:00-11:30pm, free
See details below

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH
Gypsy Village at Tobacco Road
Miami FL, 7:00pm-1:00am, free before 9pm, $5 after 9pm, dancers wearing
'full dance garb' [e.g. bellydance costumes] get in free
See details below

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH
Oak Grove Park Drum Circle
Miami FL, 4:00-6:00pm, free
See details below

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH
Miami Beach New Moon Drum Circle
Miami Beach FL, evening - exact time unknown, free
See details below

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5TH
Oak Grove Park Drum Circle
Miami FL, 4:00-6:00pm, free
See details below

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12TH
Oak Grove Park Drum Circle
Miami FL, 4:00-6:00pm, free
See details below

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13TH - the night before the full Moon!
Miami Beach Full Moon EVE Drum Circle
Miami Beach FL, 8:30pm till around 1:00am, free
See details below

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH
Miami Beach Full Moon Drum Circle
Miami Beach FL, after 9:00pm till around 1:00am, free
See details below

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH
Chakra Cleansing Full Moon Drum Circle
(Used to be called Unity on the Bay - Full Moon Drum Circle)
Miami FL, 7:00-9:00pm, $10 'love offering'
See details below

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH - see reviewer's comments
Moonchine Full Moon Party (with Drum Circle)
Miami FL, 8pm onward, free
See details below

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19TH
Oak Grove Park Drum Circle
Miami FL, 4:00-6:00pm, free
See details below

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25TH
Gypsy Village at Tobacco Road
Miami FL, 7:00pm-1:00am, free before 9pm, $5 after 9pm, dancers wearing
'full dance garb' [e.g. bellydance costumes] get in free
See details below

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26TH
Oak Grove Park Drum Circle
Miami FL, 4:00-6:00pm, free
See details below

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28TH
Miami Beach New Moon Drum Circle
Miami Beach FL, evening - exact time unknown, free
See details below

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31ST   NEW
Bagua Drum Circle
Miami FL, 9:00-11:30pm, free
See details below

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31ST-NOVEMBER 2ND   NEW
Paralounge Drum Gathering (Halloween Celebration)
Mayo FL (north of Gainesville), $35 by October 1st, then $40 (includes
basic camping, workshops - including Arthur Hull!, many drum circles)
See details below


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B. DRUM CIRCLES - FULL DETAILS - in alphabetical order
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH, OCTOBER 31ST   9:00-11:30PM   NEW

Bagua Drum Circle

Held on the last Friday of each month
Free

Bagua's Vision:
To create a physical space to house the most uniquely inspired, wonderful, harmoniously
beautiful retail store/center and garden found anywhere.  Bagua was voted the best Zen
gift store in Miami by New Times.

"Bring your instrument(s), whatever they are.  Bring your desire to explore and experiment. 
I'll have some extra drums." - Mark Richards

One reviewer said, about the night after the full Moon in July: "The drum circle at Bagua,
with Sean Dibble in attendance, was the 'real deal'.  The garden space was great, the
drummers were good, and the establishment made everyone feel welcome."

Held at:
Bagua, 4736 NE 2nd Ave., Design District, Miami FL 33137, 305-757-9857,
http://bagua9.com
This event occurs rain or (Moon)shine; if it's pleasant out, we drum outside in the garden,
and if it's wet out, we drum inside.  Bagua may offer tarot card readings and massages
during the evening - call or check their website.  Free parking.

Directions:

From the north
1. Take I-95 south
2. Exit at exit #6A, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. / NW 62nd St.
3. Turn left at the end of the exit onto NW 62nd St. / MLK Blvd.
4. Turn right at NE 2nd Ave. / Felix Morisseau-Leroy Ave.
5. They are on NE 2nd Ave near 47th St.

From Miami Beach, South Beach
1. Head north on Convention Center Dr. toward 19th St. / Jerusalem Ave.
2. Turn left at Abe Resnick Blvd. / Dade Blvd.
3. Turn right at N. Michigan Ave.
4. Turn right at Alton Rd.
5. Turn left onto I-195 west
6. Exit at exit #2B toward Biscayne Blvd. / US 1
7. Make a slight left at NE 38th St.
8. Make a slight left at NE 39th St.
9. Turn right at NE 2nd Ave. and go to near 47th St.
 
From South Miami
1. Take S. Dixie Hwy. / US 1 northbound toward I-95
2. Enter I-95 northbound
3. Exit at exit #4B and merge onto I-195 east toward Miami Beach
4. Exit at exit #2A for N. Miami Ave.
5. Turn left at the end of the exit, onto N. Miami Ave.
6. Turn right at NE 39th St.
7. Turn left at NE 2nd Ave. and go to near 47th St.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH   7:00-9:00PM

Chakra Cleansing Full Moon Drum Circle

(Used to be called Unity on the Bay - Full Moon Drum Circle)

Held monthly on the night of the full Moon
$10 'love offering'

This drum circle began in April 2008. 
"We meet in a church, have a spiritually-flavored drum circle, and therefore have a zero
tolerance drug and alcohol scene.  We create a safe space for all to enjoy.  We know that
drumming on its own creates a healing, natural vibration, which opens up the 7 chakrs,
making them receptive to the healing vibrational therapy administered by Jude and Carlos
through their use of Native American frame drums, shamanic-influenced medicinal drum
beats, and fragrant herbs.  We are successful in cleansing blocking toxins by opening these
7 chakras.  All musical instruments are welcome, as are all rhythms for our interactive heal-
ing musical experience.  The vitality dervied from our vibrational therapy can be felt for up to
72 hours after your first 2-hour experience.  This is divinely powerful; don't miss it!"
Bring beach charis or cushions to sit on.

Coordinated by:
Carlos Manuel Planas and Jude Byrne.

Info:
Carlos: 305-331-1025, carlosdrums@...; Jude: 305-812-5473,
info@..., www.awesomeheartbeat.com

Held at:
Unity on the Bay Church, 411 NE 21st St., Miami FL, near Biscayne Bay

Directions:
1. Take Biscayne Blvd.
2. Turn east on 22nd St.
3. Go 1/2 block to the big parking lot on your right near the Bay.

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH, OCTOBER 25TH   7:00PM-1:00AM

Gypsy Village at Tobacco Road

Held on the last Saturday of each month
Free before 9pm, $5 after 9pm, dancers wearing 'full dance garb' [bellydance costumes,
etc.] get in free

"Multicultural fusion of art, music, and dance creates a world tribe ambience.  Bring tam-
bourines, djembes, doumbeks, didgeridoos, etc.  Drummers are welcome to jam the
WHOLE time.  We will have an inner circle set up within the vendors' village with limited
seating but lots of space for the drum circle.  Come out you fellow hippies, white folk,
brown folk, rich folk, poor folk, beginers, experts, spectators, spiritualists, witches, born-
agains, and basically all mankind for a nice community gathering of pure positive energy
to be raised in this circle through drum and dance."

Angelo might be there with his PA system to mic some drums and a violin for the jam.

Guidelines:
1. You must be at least 21 years old (I.D. required).
2. Bring your own portable seating.
3. In case of rain, they have a 10' x 20' tent set up for the drummers.

Hosted by:
Marizel & Armando of The Witch's Garden, 305-310-7617C, http://www.thewitchsgarden.com

Held at:
Tobacco Road, 626 S. Miami Ave. Miami FL 33130
Valet parking available for $5.  "Miami's oldest musical hotspot."

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH   AFTER 9:00PM TILL AROUND 1:00AM

Miami Beach Full Moon Drum Circle

Held monthly on the night of the full Moon
Free

Held at:
"The public announcements for the Full Moon Eve and Full Moon Night drum circles were
stopped because the rave or wild beach party atmosphere that had developed, including
large numbers of young people and alcohol/drugs, drew the attention of the local authori-
ties, and caused arrests and closing of some drum circles by the police."  "This does not
mean that the drum circles have stopped. They are just not being publicly advertised. 
People are getting in touch with each other directly and going out to drum at various differ-
ent places on Miami Beach on the full Moon eve, the full Moon night, and even the new
Moon night."  "Sometimes we use the open discussion site [listed below] to coordinate, but
mostly we just call each other by phone."

For the most up-to-date info on where they plan to gather this month, go to the website/
discussion group below, or contact Mark Richards or any other Miami area drummer that
is 'in the loop'.

On that website - over the months, 75th St., 79th/80th St., and 85th/86th St. (all at Collins/
A1A) are the most commonly mentioned locations for this drum circle.  79th St. has been
most discussed in the past few months.

Info:
Mark Richards <bloodthump@...>
Or subscribe to The Miami Beach Full Moon Drum Circle discussion group:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/MiamiBeachFullMoonDrumCircle

Here's a link to a locally produced documentary on the old 85th street drum circle on the
beach: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdxCMaUpiOI

Remember, it can be chilly on the beach during the cooler months - dress accordingly.

August discussions:

1. "On August 16th we have the full Moon party at the beach.  Mixed reviews about the
last couple of months.  If you go, have in mind [that] drinking is prohibited at the beach,
and that [the] beach patrol likes to shut down everything around 1 am.  If you're serious
about drumming, the best thing is to go early in the night." - Mark Richards

2. "Drumming and dancing on the beach at 79th St. this month.  Let's try out this location. 
It seems very quiet and away from the lights of the city.  Friday starts around 8:30pm. 
Saturday starts later..." - Gene Shapiro

3. One reviewer wrote about the July event: "75th St. started out as an intimate affair, but
became a very pleasant and large beach party by around 10:30pm, with Manny & his tim-
bales arriving about that time to entertain the crowd of spectators.  People have reported
that the very best drumming and dancing took place very late - after midnight..."

4. Another reviewer wrote about July: "I thought the whole point of the drum circle was for
everyone to participate in celebrating the full Moon?  When the group with the large tim-
bales (and bells and whistles) arrived, the whole ambiance changed, especially when the
crowds of people with drinks and flashing cameras arrived shortly after.  It was anything
but pleasant.  I looked around at those near me with djembes, and we clearly felt left out...
The timbales gang was there to entertain the crowds."

5. Yet another reviewer wrote me: "I went to both 75th & 79th Street on Saturday night.
• 75th St. was the teen party - <>very big, young, and the typical weekend party-crowd. 
There were police cars parked outside, but I did not see them enter the circle and it was
going strong and loud when I left at 2am.
• 79th St. was the 'real thing' - attended and organized by the real drum circle crew.  It was
a more mature crowd, mellower, much better.  More hand-drums than drum-stix, although
there was a time where the drum-sticker was there and dominated.  If I could do it all over
again, I would have gone to 79th and not 75th."

September discussions:

1. "Last cycle (August), went like this:  I arrived around midnight at 75th [on the] night
before the full Moon, where we were the month before [July].  No one around but you
could easily see the Rhythms at 79th.  Thought they may have been at 85th.  When I
passed 79th you could tell by the cars where everyone was at.  Stayed till bout 3:00am;
good players, good time, no show of force.  Trash was overflow'n in the two trash cans
on the beach and the rest that wasn't piled next to them was scattered all over, which
included many glass bottles, some broken.

Night of the full Moon I again checked 75th at midnight, where I found the Rhythms this
time.  Manny and some of the stick players at one big circle and two more smaller circles
a short distance south down to the Band Shell at 73rd.  Same good energy, same problem
with the trash and glass, same no show of force.

If you're the first to set up and can play loud enough so everyone can find the rhythms
there's a good chance that the spot you picked will be the one for the this cycle.

I prefer 75th cuz of the close parking lot.  79th is good too.  Just walk to the end of the
street and out to the beach.  85th was constantly have'n issues with a regular show of
force [police presence].  I think there's still a few that still go and hang there.  Problem
with 85th was traspass'n through the park and some condo comandos complaning maybe.
And the trash. Don't know for sure.

No bottles on the beach.  Cans, plastic work just fine.  First time some mother's child has
to get stitches guess who's gonna pay.  Take your trash out with you.  Don't even leave it
in the beach trash cans.  LEAVE NO TRACE!!!!  If we show some respect, they might decide
not to show some force.  I think we all know all the other stuff that's not allowed on the public
beach at that spot so I don't need to go there." - RhythmAnarchy

2. "I'm going for 79th. I think the best circles are those with some space in the middle for
dance'n and spinning [like Siesta Key near Sarasota]. So I will have my trash buckets to
mark a circle. And I will fill them with trash and take them with me when I go.  If I trust
someone enough that they may even help me with this journey, I'll consider a loan of a
sacred virgin white trash bucket. (I'm not gonna [just] pass out a roll of garbage bags
and expect everyone to get the message.) Maybe, once again, the FSM will bless the
circle." - RhythmAnarchy

3. "[The full Moon eve] I arrived bout 9-10pm.  Everything was very good.  Beach protrol
hung with us till their shift ended [around midnight].  No one tried anyone's limit, so no
fire [was attempted].  But, there was an hour between midnight and 1:00am, before the
MPD [Miami Police Dept.] arrived, [where] we had no chaperon.  Could have been a
window for the 'children' to play with some fire.  We were asked to leave at 1:00am.
Packed up cleaned up; left NO TRACE.  Very good night.  Wonder if we circled up right
in front of the resorts on 74th, if 'mom and dad' would let us stay up a little later?

I'll make it a bit earlier tonight [full Moon night].  I'm expecting our chaperons to ask
us to leave at 1:00am." - RhythmAnarchy

4. "...since we are gonna be at the beach I would like to encourage everyone to get crea-
tive on the ocean, mermaid, merman theme...or at least wear white, blues, ocean tones...
so we can have even more harmony.  The full Moon is actually on the 15th, but we always
meet the night before as well as the actual night of the full Moon.  So start getting creative
and come celebrate with us.  Bring your bathing suit if you would like to swim and renew
your soul in ocean foam.   Sunday, September 14, 2008 at 9:00pm.  Location: the beach
street: 79th St. and Collins, Miami Beach, FL." - Beatriz

5. "Drumming and dancing on the beach at 79th Street on Sunday, Sep. 14th and Monday,
Sept. 15th.  Sunday starts around 8:30pm; Monday starts a little later." - Gene Shapiro:

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 13TH   8:30PM TILL AROUND 1:00AM

Miami Beach Full Moon EVE Drum Circle

Held monthly on the night BEFORE the full Moon
Free

Held at:
Please read the discussion about the Miami Beach Full Moon Drum Circle above.
The same information applies here as well.

Info:
Mark Richards <bloodthump@...>
Or subscribe to The Miami Beach Full Moon Drum Circle discussion group:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/MiamiBeachFullMoonDrumCircle

One drummer reported: "In July, Happy circled the 75th St. circle with the Hare Krishnas... 
Some thought that the mobile PA system that the Hare Krishnas brought was a little inap-
propriate.  People have reported that the very best drumming and dancing took place very
late - after midnight...

For August, Gene Shapiro wrote: "Drumming and dancing on the beach at 79th St. this
month.  Let's try out this location.  It seems very quiet and away from the lights of the city. 
Friday starts around 8:30pm.  Saturday starts later..."

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH; TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28TH   EVENING (EXACT TIME UNKNOWN)

Miami Beach New Moon Drum Circle

Held monthly on the night of the new Moon
Free

Held at:
Please read the discussion about the Miami Beach Full Moon Drum Circle above.
The same information applies here as well.

Info:
Mark Richards <bloodthump@...>, or subscribe to The Miami Beach Full Moon Drum
Circle discussion group: http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/MiamiBeachFullMoonDrumCircle

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH   8:00PM ONWARD

Moonchine Full Moon Party (with Drum Circle)

Held monthly on the night of the full Moon
Free

Inside: sushi, drink specials, kareoke
Outside: drum circle around the fire on the back patio

Held at:
Moonchine Asian Bistro, 7100 Biscayne Blvd., Miami FL

One experienced drummer reported about his experience in July 2008:
"The Moonchine...was a little disappointing.  We got there around 8pm.  There was no
real space for drummers.  The 'fire-pit' was in a little outside alcove where the outside
bar was.  There was room for maybe 5 or 6 drummers, and it was obvious that the wait-
staff would be barging through all the time to fill their bar orders.  And then, of course,
there were the DJs ('nuff said).  We had dinner (which was very good), but we didn't even
unpack our drums.  Now, that said, the space was very pleasant for dining, and had the
potential to be good for a drum jam (but maybe not around the 'fire pit')..."
There may have been drumming later in the evening, but this reviewer left and thus
couldn't comment.

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH, OCTOBER 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, 26TH   4:00-6:00PM

Oak Grove Park Drum Circle

Held every Sunday
Free

"Has a distinctly Haitian flavor - come ready to pick up some sweet island grooves. 
There are more good (really good) drummers than there are drums, so bring extras
if you have them.  There is some seating - but you may want to bring your own. 
There is a great playground for kids." - Mark Richards

"The atmosphere is one of acceptance and respect, with various different cultures
and styles.  There is lots of listening as well as playing, and unexpected treasures
rising to the surface.  This is one where the heart seems to take precedence over
style or technique (although style and technique are not lacking).  I'm also happy to
say that the shaker/bell section, while not totally non-existant, seems to be limited to
those great souls who understand that there is no grandstanding or 'soloing' with a
bell or shaker - just the hard (and sometimes painful) work of small, repetetive hand/
arm movements that no listener will ever express open admiration for and only the
other drummers will ever appreciate (usually because they know how hard it is)." -
Mark Richards

Held at:
Oak Grove Park & Recreation Center, 690 NE 159th St., Miami FL, across the lake from
the parking lot.  Go north on NE 6th Ave. from 135th St.  It's at the intersection of NE 6th
Ave. & NE 159th St.  It doesn't take place in exactly the same spot in the park each week,
but it's not a big place, so look around (look for Penny or Haiti Blues).

Contact:
no info

For photos, see: http://www.miamidrums.com/

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FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31ST-NOVEMBER 2ND   NEW

Paralounge Drum Gathering (Halloween Celebration)

Held twice a year - in the Spring and Autumn.  This is their 13th gathering.
Lasts from Friday afternoon (4pm) through Sunday afternoon.
$35 if paid by October 1st; $40 thereafter (and at the gate).  Includes basic camping,
workshops, drum circles...
Day passes for Friday or Saturday: $20 at the gate.

WHAT PARALOUNGE MEANS
'Para' means 'to go beyond'; 'lounge' means 'to sit or move in a relaxing way'.  So 'para-
lounge' means 'when you go beyond relaxation, you reach toward the realm of meditation;
you find that place of self-healing'.

PHILOSOPHY
This an event that brings together many different tribes and communities of drum circle
enthusiasts.  Humanity has understood the significance of rhythm since ancient times.
But we have forgotten a great part of its mystery.  Science has taken over our world, and
technology has become a blinding light.  Many cultures have been swallowed up by others,
and many traditions based mainly on inherited knowledge has been wiped out.  Nature and
humanity are seperating their bonds. This new world is producing intelligence without spirit.

The world of the drum circle has begun to acknowledge the spirit involved with music and
dance.  Musical expression is significant to the developement of spirit.  Many instruments
have been created by humanity, but the primitive percussion instruments seem to reach
into our sub-conscious.  It reintroduces us to our bonds with nature.

Many cities have seen the emergence of drum circle groups.  Each town responds in its
own way.  Although these drumming groups are ethnically and culturally diverse and often
well-educated, they run into roadblocks.  Many areas have laws that prevent the building
& enjoyment of a bonfire.  Often drummers are restrained by noise ordinances.

This is where the Paralounge comes in.  We supply a beautiful environment, complete with
a large bonfire.  We camp together all weekend.  Performance groups are organized and
ready to give you an awesome experience.  We arrange wonderful workshops for you, de-
signed to bring you cultural knowledge about drumming, and to supply you with technical
skills on your instrument.  You will learn where your instrument came from, what culture
designed it, why they did that, and how they used it in their rituals and festivals.

Can you imagine what a hundred or more drummers playing together sounds like?  We
know drum circles have changed peoples' lives.  The rhythm calls and you have to answer.
The Paralounge gathering unites us for a drum circle experience that builds to its full po-
tential and lets us consciously step inside the life-rhythm and unity that we have been un-
consciously living for thousands of years...

INCLUDES
• Workshops
   Featuring the world-famous Arthur Hull, one of the founders of the modern concept of
   community drum circles.  He is currently touring the globe with his program called:
   'Village Music Circles'.  His 1st facilitated drum circle/workshop will begin at 4pm Friday!
• Vendors
• Lots of drum circles

FRIDAY NIGHT
• Child-friendly schedule (for Halloween), with costume contest, spooky trail for trick-or-treating,
  carnival games, etc.
• Lucid Druid will get the party started with some live Celtic jams to shake your bones too!
• Adult costume contest.

INFO
Clint, id012001@...
www.paralounge.net, www.myspace.com/paralounge, www.youtube.com/paralounge

HELD AT
River Rendezvous Campground at Convict Springs, Mayo FL (US 27 northwest of Branford
FL and east of Mayo FL)  Note: don't use Mapquest - it will lead you to the other side of the
river.  386-294-2510  Built right on the banks of the beautiful Suwannee River.  Offering:
primitive camping, electrical & water upgrade, full RV hook-ups, laundry facilities, hot show-
ers, childrens' playground, canoe rentals, springs, river, cabin/house rentals, lodging (rooms).

DIRECTIONS
1. Take I-75 north
2. A little north of Gainesville, exit onto US 441 (exit #399) toward Alachua, High Springs.
3. In High Springs, turn west onto US 27
4. Continue 13 miles northwest of Branford (if you reach Mayo, you went too far)
5. Turn right at the River Rendezvous sign
6. Go 3 miles to the campground

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND, 7PM-MIDNIGHT   THE KING OF SE FLORIDA DRUM CIRCLES

The Tequesta Bonfire Drum Circle - Celebrating the Autumn Equinox

EDITOR'S NOTE
This is the biggest, most glorious drum circle in our area.  It only happens four
times each year (at the changes of season - the solstices and equinoxes), bring-
ing together 400+ drummers, dancers, and spectators 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.

Held every 3 months, at each Solstice & Equinox (the start of each season)
$7 per adult (kids under 10 free) - fee goes toward increased event costs (insurance,
staffing - hiring even more park rangers for the night, bringing in handicapped-acces-
sible porta-potties, etc.).

INCLUDES
• A huge bonfire
• An (optional) potluck feast - if you plan to partake, please bring a dish or drink
• A short, Earth-centered ceremony to welcome in the season (at about 9pm),
  conducted by Live Oak Kindred, Asatru Group (an indigenous faith native to
  Scandinavian countries)
• 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, Autumn, and Winter, and inspires us to observe these natural transits
of our planet as Sacred Days."

EVENT GUIDELINES
• Performers are very welcome - fire performers in the designated area only please
• NO flash photography around the circle
• NO intoxication  (Police are on-site.)
• Be responsible
• Be respectful
• Recycle (bins are provided).  Please bring biodegradable products.
• No pets (except for medical purposes)
• Table available at the entrance to distribute environmental or holistic information

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 Sunrise Blvd. eastbound
3. Cross the Intercoastal Waterway bridge
4. Make the last left turn before A1A - turning into the Hugh Taylor Birch Park entrance
5. Follow the circular drive about 2/3 of the way around to the "Primitive Camp Area"
6. Park as directed by the parking attendant

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SOMETIME ON THE WEEKEND?

Virginia Key Beach Drum Circle

Still in the rumor stage - being checked out.  Let us know if you have any information.

Held at:
Virginia Key Beach (near Jimbo's), Miami Beach FL


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C. DRUMMING/DANCING CLASSES & PERFORMANCES - in chronological order
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SUNDAYS   2:00-3:00PM

African Drum Class - taught by Matthew Hill

Held every Sunday
$10 suggested donation

Taught by:
Matthew Hill, Musical Director for Delou African Dance Ensemble, with occasional special
workshops when guest master drummers are in town.  Includes instructions on technique
for various West African rhythms often played at dance classes, as well as various accom-
paniments for djembe, djoun djoun, sangban, and kenkeni.

Held at:
FIU Biscayne Campus (151st & Biscayne), Academic Bldg. 2, 2nd floor dance studio
http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?q1=3000+NE+151+St%2C+Miami

Interview of Matthew Hill by Diego: http://www.miamidrums.com/videos-at-miami-drums/

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MONDAYS   7:00-8:30PM

African and Caribbean Dance Class

Held every Monday

Info:
Narsha 786-356-8488

Held at:
Shades of Rhythm, Miramar FL


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D. TRANCE DANCES, KIRTANS, ETC. - in chronological order (if known)
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH, OCTOBER 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, 26TH   10:00AM-NOON

PrayerDanse

Held every Sunday
$20

A movement to move and be moved.  Pray, dance, love.  Spiritual workout.  To fall in love
with yourself and your life.  To return to your magnificence and reconnect with your divine
essence.

Taught by:
Rachel Levy, LMHC, MCIC, IRT, PMSH, 305-761-1775, lovecoachrachel@...
Susan Nudelman Perczek, AIA, MWLP, PMSH, 305-450-2435, susanaprayerdanse@...
http://www.prayerdanse.com/

Held at:
The Space at Karla Events, 100 NE 25th St., Miami FL 33137
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E. ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEWS BULLETINS - WANT ADS
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A message from Judah   NEW

Greetings & Salutations Friends!

I would like to take this moment to thank all of you for playing major rolls in my life and its journey.
I tend to be long winded, however today I'm at a loss for words and filled with tremendous humility.
Today's newspaper article and the series of news documentation over my eight years in Florida,
has been more then I would ever imagine.  Upon arrival, my current path and career was not my
intention.  In fact, my stay here was suppose to be short lived, then returning back to New York.
As is evident, that never happened.  What did happen was a special calling beyond my control and
a personal mission took root.  Each and every one of you are responsible for the end results...a
dream and mission turned reality.

So, with that being said and before I get too emotional here... Thank you, thank you, and thank
you, so very much.

Sincerely yours,

Your brother from another mother and same father of creation,

Judah


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Video Interviews of Top Local Drummers   NEW

Here are some great interviews of Matthew Hill, Buddy Helm, Jan Broder, and Clint
from Paralounge.

http://www.miamidrums.com/videos-at-miami-drums/

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Yallah Magazine   NEW

A beautiful, new, glossy, full-color, quarterly print magazine is being published for the
bellydance community of Florida.  Please check it out and support it. - Editor

"Created to promote the stylistic fusion and growth of bellydance extensively throughout
the Florida dance community.  This magazine is offered to bellydance professionals, stu-
dents, and enthusiasts who are not only seeking to know the who's who in the world of
bellydance, but also to engage and capture the historic journey and current essence of
its Middle Eastern influence on our dance community."

The first issue featured articles on Bozenka Makes Miami Muy Caliente, The Ancient
Art of Henna, and Bellydancing Cancer Warriors.  There are sections on Getting Started,
Profiles, Fashion, Business, Hotspots, Event Reviews, a Teachers Directory, & an Events
Calendar.

Subscribe
$14 for 1 year/4 issues; $24 for 2 years/8 isses
Please go to their website for subscription instructions, or send a check to the address below.

Info
Yallah Magazine, PO Box 811015, Boca Raton FL 33481, www.yallahmagazine.com

People
Publisher: Nika (Jackie Tucker), jatstyles@...
Managing Editor: Jan Fialkow
Senior Editor: Amy Shannon
Art Director: Freddy Pulido.
A publication of Jatstyles Studio, Inc.


                   


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F. WHAT ARE YOUR DRUMMING/DANCING OPPORTUNITIES?
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This month there at least 74 opportunities to drum/dance in our SE Florida area -
from Miami-Dade (11 events), through Broward (35 events), Palm Beach (24 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 & 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.
Constructive, respectful feedback is always welcome.

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@...

Dedicated to removing the constrictions to the full flow of life -
whether they be physical, mental/emotional, or spiritual -
and to the unfoldment of peace, freedom, awareness, love, and ecstasy

Spiritual guide (ashtanga yoga/meditation, tantra, vedanta, ayur veda)
Counselor • Life Coach • Speaker/Educator • Author
Private Sessions • Classes • Workshops & Retreats • Satsangs (Self-inquiry)
Clients and programs throughout the United States, Europe, and India
Working in person or by phone • Free initial consultation to discuss your needs and goals