We hope this finds you all well and happy in His Love. It has been a very busy two months at Meher Archive Collective (MAC) with several exciting developments. MAC has recently expanded its Board and we are delighted to announce three new board members—Ron Kantor, Marie Principe, and Rabia Vaughns, each of whom brings valuable experience and perspective, along with a passion for both Baba and this project.

I am also happy to announce two other additions to the MAC team: Kristen Brynes has joined us as the Archive Manager and will be a great asset as we craft our archiving structure to address both short- and long-term needs, and prepare for larger scale operations in the new building.  Heather Masciandaro will soon be joining us as Administrative Coordinator, and brings a wealth of experience to assist the Board and the larger functioning of the MAC organization.  

The Board has also undertaken work on strategic planning and governance, with new committees addressing these important areas.

We are looking forward to our upcoming Annual General Meeting in September (more info below) and hope that you can join us to hear in more detail what MAC has done over the past year, and our plans for the future.

In His Embrace,
Scott
Scott.Tower@meherarchive.org / 828.290.6972

UPCOMING
MAC Annual General Meeting
We warmly invite you to attend our 2021 Annual General Meeting to be held virtually on Sunday, September 26, 4:00-5:30 P.M. EDT during which we will introduce our three newest board members, report on MAC’s current financial status and present our building construction accomplishments of Phase 1. In addition, we will share exciting updates on our archiving activities and our plans for the coming year.

Greetings Everyone!

We are in the position to continue or start work on several additional construction items of Phase 1:

• The old flooring in both bathrooms is being removed and then rebuilt.
• Begin work on the plumbing infrastructure.
• Finish plastering, sanding, and skim coating 2nd floor interior walls; preparing for priming and painting.
• Continue installation of electrical infrastructure.
• Complete the HVAC infrastructure.  
• Schedule a partial inspection for the electrical which should allow us to begin installing insulation and hanging sheetrock.  

We have encountered challenges this year between COVID issues and significant price increases throughout the construction industry. But we have an excellent, dedicated crew who have managed to continue moving forward with construction.

This is an exciting time as we enter the final leg of Phase 1 and begin to see the finishing touches being done to the 2nd floor. A lot of visitors who haven’t been to the site for a while are surprised and delighted to see how much work has been accomplished since their previous visit. This is encouraging for all of us who are laboring to bring this project to completion so we can further fulfill MAC’s mission. Please feel free to contact me for a tour. All this continues to be possible with the support of donations large and small, along with thousands of hours of volunteer labor. If you would like to contribute to MAC’s mission please click on this link https://www.meherarchive.org/donations.html

In His Sweet Embrace,
Ken, VP and Project Manager
Ken.Blackman@meherarchive.org

The first portion of the Shaw Family Collection donation to MAC is being sorted and inventoried. Additional items continue to arrive, and more treasures are being discovered daily. The work will be ongoing in sorting, categorizing, scanning, preserving and sharing this extensive collection. It includes rare correspondence regarding Baba's early visits to the West, Baba's Sahavas programs to which the Westerners were invited, as well as letters regarding the formation of the Meher Spiritual Center.

Darwin was a prolific note taker and the collection includes his hand-written notes which eventually became talks about Baba as well as notes for Darwin's books. Jeanne Shaw received treasured letters from Baba's Beloved Mehera, and His sister, Mani, in which the familial warmth of Baba's love comes shining through. Telegrams, photographs and other audio-visual materials are included, as well as original press clippings dating back decades. What a treasure! We are all so grateful to the Shaw Family for their thoughtfulness and care in preserving and sharing this extraordinary legacy.

MAC’s most recent VLOG features several precious items from the newly donated Shaw Family Collection. This vast assortment is an amazing addition to MAC’s archives and consists of hundreds of items that date back to the early 1930s when Darwin and Jeanne Shaw first heard about Meher Baba.

In this video, viewers will see two letters written by Quentin Tod to Darwin from Portofino where Baba was staying in the summer of 1933. Baba wanted to reply to Darwin's earlier letter to Him, so He had Quentin acknowledge Baba's happiness in the letter. These unpublished letters share details about Baba's stay in Portofino including the news about Baba preparing to break His silence.

The most remarkable feature of these two letters is that Beloved Baba signed them! Darwin had not even met Baba in person yet, but the charming flavor of Quentin's tone shows us all how Baba's divine love was flowing out in abundance to His early Western disciples. In the VLOG, white-gloved archivist Elaine Cox works on these rare letters and the viewers hear portions of the letters read aloud. Baba sent His love to Darwin, "All my love to you and yours."

MAC’s Giant Rummage Sale was a great success. It was held at Elaine Cox's home and despite rainy weather, we netted $2,500. The Social Committee Team wants to acknowledge the many people who contributed their gently used items and the large numbers of locals who came and shopped.

Special thanks to our volunteers: Elaine, Renee, Winnie, Paula Pam, Sandy, Teri, Sheila, Heather, Elle, Irma, Tracey, Jane, Lisa, Michael, Phil, Jean, Alisa, Jim T and Jim M, and the two Susans. Applause to Steve for lending us his tents. And more applause to Chris and Ahmed for picking up the unsold items and taking them to the Salvation Army. Sorry for leaving out others, but you know who you are—so thank you! It was lots of work and lots of fun and a money maker for MAC—a triple winner!

MAC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Board Contacts:  Anne.Barker@meherarchive.org; Evie.Lindemann@meherarchive.org; Hugh.Huntington@meherarchive.org; Jean.Brunet@meherarchive.org; Ken.Blackman@meherarchive.org; Marie.Principe@meherarchive.org; Rabia.Vaughns@meherarchive.org;  Renee.Bussanich@meherarhive.org; Ron.Kantor@meherarchive.org; Scott.Tower@meherarchive.org

MAC's Mission Statement   
To collect, preserve, and share Meher Baba’s Divine legacy of materials, artifacts, and words with integrity, love and transparency for the benefit of humanity.

 Please consider donating https://www.meherarchive.org/donations.html     

We hope this finds you all well. Summer has arrived here in fits and starts, with typical mountain thunderstorms breaking the heat.
     All those hours we have all spent connecting via Zoom with others around the world have served to remind us of the ways we are all connected regardless of physical location. 
     A large part of Meher Archive Collective’s (MAC’s) mission is to share, both in person and digitally, the material that is entrusted to us. While we eagerly anticipate spreading Baba’s legacy through digital sharing of growing collections, we are also looking forward to seeing many of you at in-person Baba gatherings as this becomes more possible.
     Our work preparing the building for MAC to move in continues, with steady progress along with the challenges of disrupted supplies and increasing costs of building materials. (More details below.)
     We are grateful for the growing interest and trust from those who are donating their Baba materials to MAC, including Don and Margaret Eucker, whose extensive collection will be arriving soon, and to Shari Keller, who is facilitating the donation of the Darwin Shaw family collection.
     With heartfelt thanks to all who are helping bring the vision of MAC to fruition through their ongoing support and participation!

In His Embrace,
Scott
Scott.Tower@meherarchive.org / 828.290.6972

The Women to Women Fundraiser, held on April 10th, 2021, featured women from around the world who are blessed to have experienced Meher Baba’s Love through His women mandali.
     Through the generosity of attendees and presenters we raised $2730 toward the furnishings for Baba's Reflection Room at the Meher New Life Center.
     We wish to express our thanks and appreciation to the storytellers, readers, and musicians: Louise Barrie, Shireen Bonner, Annette Boss, Vesta Clinton, Elaine Cox, Dale Draeger, Jenny Keating, Ilene Kreshka, Cathy Riley, Pam Rubenstein, Meredith Flynn, Jana Weed, Deborah Ash, Gay Dunn, and Mani Irani.
     To all women and men in our Baba family: this project to collect stories of the women mandali continues. To those of you who had the good fortune to meet the women mandali, you have a story to tell. We want to hear your story! Consider that in two generations these stories could be lost unless we write them down.
Contact: Evie.Lindemann@meherarchive.org

Remember that you may check out books, CDs and DVDs from the Meher New Life Center Library. Debby Blackman is managing the collection at her home. Give her a call at 828-505-0334 if you would like to stop by and borrow some Meher Baba classics.
     The Library Committee has written collection and donation policies to make operations run more smoothly. In order to have the library ready to move into the Meher New Life Center building, the books are being processed and titles entered into an online catalog.

• Upgraded electrical service and new panels have been installed. 
  
• Mechanical infrastructure is now complete and we’re awaiting inspection.
• The infrastructure for lighting on the second floor is complete and the fire alarm wiring is nearing completion.
• A welder has brought stairwell railings up to code (in the original construction these were sized for school children). Peter Nordeen has undertaken a great deal of plastering work, while training young assistants in this skill. Ceilings and walls have been grinded to remove old paint and make surfaces smooth for finishing. Preparation for acoustical soundproofing is in process for those rooms that need it.  

All this continues to be possible with the support of donations large and small, along with thousands of hours of volunteer labor.  

In His Sweet Embrace,
Ken, VP and Project Manager
Ken.Blackman@meherarchive.org

We are thrilled to be building a strong and vibrant volunteer community going forward. Volunteers like you are and will continue to be the backbone of His Center here in Asheville. When Phase 1 of the Meher Archive Center building nears completion, we will be anticipating more volunteer positions to become available. We are currently collecting applications of all those interested in offering skills and/or learning new skills and becoming part of the volunteer family at Meher Archive Collective.
     Our monthly Volunteer Days have been very successful so far. We have had several volunteer days take place at the MAC building. They have been productive and fun. The events provide an opportunity to perform service as well as socialize with fellow Baba lovers which we have all been missing!
     There is much to do at the building site for anyone who wants to help out with assisting the construction crew and their marvelous work. We will continue to have these monthly volunteer days going forward and hope to build on our momentum!

In June, in lieu of our Saturday Volunteer Day, we will be holding a GIANT Rummage Sale- June 12th & 13th at Elaine Cox’s home located at 37 Mountain Terrace in West Asheville. If you can spare anytime to help out beginning June 9th for set up please contact: Paula Pam Wainright at paulapamw1@gmail.com.

For those of you who have an interest in joining the volunteer community please visit our website to fill out an application at https://www.meherarchive.org/volunteer-application.html. When you submit an application, we will add you to a Volunteer email list where information, jobs and announcements will be posted as the work with MAC and the MNLC continues to unfold. 
     I feel confident Baba will guide the unfolding of what will become a strong and vibrant Center for both education and community here in Asheville.

Jai Meher Baba,
Alisa and the Volunteer Team

We hope this finds you all well. Spring is well underway here, and may be more welcome than usual for all of us after this past year. We are excited at the increased level of interest from prospective donors of various collections and other items, including the door and components of Baba’s room at the Holiday Lodge in San Francisco, which were rescued by Peter Ravazza before it was torn down. We have plans to install this as the door to our Baba/reflection room. Other major collections of artifacts and correspondence are also on their way or pledged.
We also have received a wonderful offer from Pam Greenwald for the design and installation of a rose garden, in honor of Mehera’s love for roses. This will happen after renovations and grading are completed, and we look forward to this reminder of Baba’s fragrance at Meher Archive Collective. 
In addition to ongoing archival work, we continue our focus of getting MAC moved into and established in the building. This work is progressing, with more details below.  We are heartened by the growing community of enthusiastic volunteers who are contributing from their hearts in a variety of ways, including expanding our social media presence. We are excited as well about the upcoming second Women to Women storytelling festival on April 10th, (see details below).
We look forward to seeing more of you as travel restrictions (we hope) lift and we move toward warmer weather.

In His Embrace,
Scott
Scott.Tower@meherarchive.org / 828.290.6972

The Spring Women to Women Storytelling Festival is in three (3) days! Join us for stories from around the world, including stories about both the mandali women from the East and West. Hear the sacred moments of women's lives being uplifted, solving major life dilemmas or discovering a new aspect of oneself in loving Baba.
These storytellers will touch your heart. They are those who knew mandali members as children: Shireen Bonner, Ilene Kreshka and Jenny LePage Keating, and those who knew the women mandali as adults: Louise Barrie, Annette Boss, Vesta Clinton,  Elaine Cox, Dale Draeger, Cathy Riley, Pam Rubenstein and Karen Talbot. Music by: Deborah Ash, Gay Dunn, Mani Irani, and Pam Rubenstein.

WHAT’S NEW
Meher Archive Collective Building -- Report
As you stroll through the MAC building today you will begin to get a feel for what the spaces are going to be like when finished. We are at a stage in the reconstruction process where it is visibly clear just how close we are to completing many of the elements that will bring our Center to life. 
The infrastructure for the electrical, heating and cooling, fire alarm system, ethernet and lighting are mostly in place. The walls and ceilings are being prepared to receive acoustical materials, insulation and sheetrock. The fire rated doors are finished and on site. The new windows are constructed and awaiting installation (as the weather allows us to finish the north stairwell). The lighting fixtures have arrived, and we are in the process of running the electrical wiring to accommodate them. A tremendous amount of work is being done by volunteers in all these endeavours, saving us a significant amount of money.  
Recently, I was moved to spend some time in each room and talked to Baba about His plans for each space. I began in the central room, the silent, contemplative space, which will provide us all  the opportunity to embrace His presence.  For me personally this is where everything emanates from: the silent inner connection with Baba. I walked across the hall to the Archival Work Area, where volunteers will have a beautiful space within which to receive and process the sacred items to be preserved and shared with the world. Our two fireproof, waterproof and climate-controlled archival storage rooms have a great feel to them, and will safeguard the precious materials to be housed there for the next 700 years.    
Next I entered the library where we will be invited to explore the many books, magazines, videos and documents available to us. Down the hall, I stood in the beautiful reading room with it’s pan ceiling which I find  so inviting and providing a cozy spot for reading, meetings, and small musical gatherings. I moved on to the adjacent larger meeting room with its unique shape and orientation to the open sky. It has a sense of cheerful welcome for future visitors. Lastly, is the break room and adjacent volunteer space where chai and snacks will nourish our spirits. 
I invite you all to envision yourselves in this remarkable space as it opens itself, with His grace and love, to nourish and further deepen our connection with Him.  I’m now remembering the song which for me so aptly applies:
            Welcome to My World, won’t you come on in?
            Miracles I guess, just happen now and then.
            Step into my world and leave your cares behind.
            Welcome to my world —built with you in Mind
In His sweet Embrace
Jai Baba,
Ken ( for the MAC team )
Ken.Blackman@meherarchive.org

VOLUNTEER CORNER
April's News On a recent Saturday in March, many willing volunteers showed up at the MAC building to help for several hours with lots of projects. With all hearts, minds and hands working together we accomplished a lot and had fun too! This is the beginning of many more Volunteer Days to come. In the spirit of our united love for Baba and MAC, we will support the unfolding of His Will for the Meher Archive Collective building.
We hope to build a strong community of volunteers and foster a sense of service to our Beloved. We are beginning by building a volunteer base from within our local community, and then we are planning to attract volunteers from the worldwide Baba community, and finally we will be reaching out to the non-Baba community. We will move step-by-step as our needs grow.
Below are available service opportunities. Please share with others you know who may have skills or an interest to match these positions. A willing heart and some useful skills are valued and appreciated. 
Jai Meher Baba,
Alisa and the Volunteer Team

Greetings to all from the mountains of North Carolina. We hope your new year is starting well and 2021 will be a year of joy and fulfilled possibilities in His Love. At MAC we are excited by the many goals and opportunities ahead for us in the coming year.
Our primary goal is completing renovations and moving MAC fully into the Meher Archive Collective building, where our archiving capacity will grow, allowing us to receive and process an increased number of individual items as well as larger collections.
Having created a solid foundation for our organizational structure, we are also seeking to expand the Board of Directors with enthusiastic new members. We are looking forward to building community through a collective remembrance of Baba and assisting in the preservation of Meher Baba’s legacy by helping people create a plan for their Baba Treasures, with clear instructions for family members, and a designation of an archival destination of their choice.
If you’d like to join MAC in carrying our vision forward, please reach out to me: scott.tower@meherarchive.org

In His Love,
Scott

Administrative Support — 2-6 hours/week -- Katherine.Dadachanji@meherarchive.org
Archive Support — Collections inventory; scanning; re-housing; leadership role -- Scott.Tower@meherarchive.org
Board Members — leadership experience; 5-10 hrs/mos; can be remote — Scott.Tower@meherarchive.org
Committee Chair, Fund Development — 5-7 hrs/mos; can be remote — Evie.Lindemann@meherarchive.org
Custodian(s) — MNLC building; 3-8 hrs/wk; can job share -- Hugh.Huntington@meherarchive.org
Data Entry & Admin for Donors —1-2 hrs/week; can be remote -- Evie.Lindemann@meherarchive.org
Fundraising team — two positions as needed; can be remote -- Evie.Lindemann@meherarchive.org
Grant Writer — as needed basis; can be remote — Jean.Brunet@meherarchive.org
Landscaper(s) — MNLC building; 1-2 hours/week; light duty -- Hugh.Huntington@meherarchive.org
Public Relations — 3-5 hours/month; can be remote — Jean.Brunet@meherarchive.org
Treasurer – prior experience; 4-6 hrs/mos; can be remote – contact: Scott.Tower@meherarchive.org
Video Editors – as needed/as available; can be remote – contact: Debbie.Nordeen@meherarchive.org
Window Cleaner(s) Interior — 3-5 days quarterly; flexible schedule -- Hugh.Huntington@meherarchive.org

Due to the overwhelming success and response to the first Women to Women Storytelling event we’re organizing a second event. So please join us for Part 2 of:

S A V E   T H E   D A T E
Saturday, April 10th, 2021  — 11 A.M. EST
Zoom Webinar
 
If you are a woman who has been impacted by meeting the women mandali consider sharing your story with me: Evie.Lindemann@meherarchive.org 
Watch for details the 1st week of March via email and website.

SPECIAL PROJECTS TEAM:
VLOG and videos
The MAC Special Projects team had lots of fun creating the video, "PHASE 1: CONSTRUCTING THE VISION." Because of the wonderful response to this tour video, we'll be creating vlogs at least once a month. These vlogs, which will be posted on the MAC website video page and Youtube, will feature renovation progress at the Meher New Life Center building, as well as bring our viewers little news nuggets and gems about other happenings in, about, and because of Meher Archive Collective. Ideas for short videos are welcomed and volunteers are needed who'd like to be on a contact list to do video editing on an 'as needed' and 'as available' basis.
Please contact Debbie for more information. Debbie.Nordeen@meherarchive.org.

"Beloved God Prayer" —  Played During Amartithi
This video of Meher Baba's "Beloved God Prayer" was recently presented during the 52nd Amartithi Virtual Program (hosted by the Avatar Meher Baba Trust.) Originally performed and audio recorded a few years ago by the Asheville Music Sahavas Choir, the audio track was used to create a virtual choir video for Amartithi. Add it to your playlist for daily inspiration! 

COMMUNICATIONS TEAM:
Social Media Presence
The use of Social Media in today's world remains a powerful tool in creating community, connecting people, and championing important work. Hundreds and thousands can be reached with a single click.
Did you know that MAC has a FaceBook page with nearly 800 followers? We hope that includes you! But, if you haven't yet joined the Meher Archive Collective page, we invite you to and welcome your participation.
We have a volunteer who is focused on expanding MAC's social media presence through regular posts. You'll find Meher Baba quotes, Archival links, Videos, Building news and more. It's a great way to stay current and be inspired by MAC's mission and it's energetic Baba community.
We invite you to watch your Newsfeeds and promote MAC's page through your "likes," "comments" or "shares" whenever possible. MAC Facebook

FUND DEVELOPMENT TEAM:
Evie shares why she’s passionate about these stories
“Gathering Women’s Stories Connected with the Women Mandali”
One of the things I learned in my pilgrimages to India, and in many intense conversations with the mandali, especially Arnavaz, was to listen to Baba’s voice in my heart. As I listen to that voice now, I know with certainty that what happens in future generations of Baba lovers matters.
If you are a woman who has been impacted by meeting the women mandali from the East or the West please consider participating in our project:  “Gathering Women’s Stories Connected with Women Mandali.”
We welcome stories from around the world.
We are developing an archive, sharing stories at a virtual event, and/or publishing a book of these stories.
Please connect with me if you have an encounter to share about the women mandali. We are committed to preserving and sharing items related to Baba’s advent for future generations who will not have met the women mandali. Evie.Lindemann@meherarchive.org

Jana Weed: Jana Weed is working with the Communications and Building teams. She and her husband moved to Asheville in 1992. They both retired in 2019 and began taking trips in their motorhome. She also enjoys hiking, biking and photography. Jana learned of Meher Baba when a friend came to visit in 1996 and gifted her with a copy Discourses. She soon learned of the Meher Center in Myrtle Beach and has visited many times. Baba's words and Love continue to inspire her. Jana.Weed@meherarchive.org

Alisa Genovese: Alisa Genovese is a psychotherapist in private practice for 30 years. She brings her skills in working with individuals and groups, as well as her strengths in communication and facilitation to the team. She has been a Baba lover for 41 years and has traveled over 20 times to India. Alisa.Genovese@meherarchive.org

Jim Tomlinson: I have worked in health care and disaster services since graduate school and I have found that volunteers are an integral component of any program's success. Not only does it provide support for those in need, but it provides a sense of well being to the volunteer. I have known of Baba for nearly 51 years. I learned of Baba while attending Georgia State.  One day I was at a friend’s home, and overheard my friend, Rick Berman, say “Jai Baba” to someone on the phone. “I asked him what that meant.  Later he told me about Baba and I replied immediately that, yes, Baba was God.  It was just a ‘relinking’ of Baba to me and Rick Berman was the messenger.” Jimisreally@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER CORNER
January’s News
Our Volunteer Services team is preparing a strong foundation for the volunteer program which will be a vital part of MAC and the MAC building. Already, over 8,000 volunteer hours have been given in the work of the Board, the committees and the crew restoring the Red Oak School. Volunteers have been addressing the future needs of the archives for Meher Baba’s work and creating a program for the community focused on the women Mandali. A volunteer tab will soon be available on the Meherarchive.org website. There, one can find information about volunteering, including volunteer applications, current volunteer needs and videos showing the work on the building.  We invite all interested in volunteering to check the website and to feel the vitality growing in this center for Meher Baba.
Current volunteer needs are in:

•  restoration of the building
•  scraping paint and painting
•  fund development
•  videography
•  window washing
•  custodial help

Come and contribute your skills, your passions, your time for this amazing center of Meher Baba’s Love. Consider donating your time or financial resources as a birthday gift for Him.
Contact the Volunteer team at: Volunteers@meherarchive.org or visit Volunteer Here

Meher Archive Collective is committed to honoring Meher Baba through a culture of Integrity, Transparency and Trust; we take this Responsibility seriously, as we continue to build Expertise, and pledge to be of Service to all those invested in protecting Baba’s legacy.

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
It has been a full and exciting two months at Meher Archive Collective. We received very positive feedback from our AGM in September. If you did not attend and would like a great overview of MAC and its trajectory, you can find a video here.

I am very happy to announce that with the help from many donors, we were able to meet the $50,000 Matching Challenge that ended Nov 30th. The $100,000 raised is an important step toward moving MAC into the MAC building. Evie Lindeman’s report below offers more details. 

Renovation of the building continues with many details now falling into place, as you will learn in Ken Blackman’s annual report, to be released mid-December.

Other developments include preparations for the Women to Women’s Storytelling Festival and fundraiser, featuring women’s Mandali stories on Saturday Dec 5th (please see more details below).

We are also continuing to build and expand the MAC team. Debbie Nordeen is the interim Chair of Special Projects, Debby Blackman is the new Chair of the Library Committee and Lynn Pace is our new Volunteer Committee Chair.

In the spirit of the recent holiday, I would like to extend, on behalf of all of us at MAC, our thankfulness for your interest and support, and for Baba whose Love inspires us to do our best to try to please Him in this work.

In His Embrace,
Scott
Board Chair and MAC President / scott.tower@meherarchive.org / 828.290.6972

MAC TEAM
Eruch Adams is stepping down

Later this month, Eruch Adams will be stepping down from his position of Archive Director in order to focus on his primary work at Odyssey School where he has taken on increased responsibilities. We would like to acknowledge the vast contribution that Eruch has made to Meher Archive Collective since its inception. He was part of the original impetus for MAC, and played an instrumental role in the creation of the organization which we are now growing and expanding. The Board and team wish him all the best in his endeavors and look forward to other opportunities for collaboration in the future.

HIGHLIGHTS 
Time is running out! Join us for a Women to Women—Storytelling Festival and fundraiser to hear personal stories from women in the Baba community who are blessed to have met Meher Baba’s women mandali: Cynthia Barrientos, Candy Bloeme, Havovi Dadachanji, Shireen Davenport, Lourdes Echeverria, Lisa Greenstein as read by Tracey Schmidt, Jeanne Felknor, Alisa Genovese, Rosie Jackson, Cindy Lowe, Debbie Nordeen, Karen Talbot, and Kristine Zalewski. 
Saturday, December 5th, 2020 11:00 am -1:00 pm EST — Zoom Webinar (English)
Tickets are $20 per person — Due to the generosity of several attendees, confidential scholarships are still available. To request a scholarship or for any questions, please contact us at: info@MeherArchive.org
Thank you for supporting our efforts to save our stories for future generations.

FUNDRAISING
$50,000 MATCHING CHALLENGE — RESULTS

With the help of all those who donated during the Matching Challenge campaign, we have been able to raise the matching goal of $50,000 between October 1st and November 30th, 2020. Thank you for your generous support, and donations great and small!

Although we are another step closer, funds are still needed to complete the remodel of the second floor for MAC to move into the MAC building, a dynamic hub devoted to Meher Baba.

Our achievements so far have included more than two years of physical labor, tirelessly and meticulously overseen by Peter Nordeen and Ken Blackman. For additional information about the building process itself, please reach out to Ken.Blackman@meherarchive.org  

The completion of Phase One includes MAC’s new home, where archive processing and storage will take place, and will also include the New Life Library, meeting room/s, offices, a children’s space and a Baba room for contemplation and reflection.
Please consider making a donation to help MAC move-in through our on-going  Capital Campaign

You can also reach out to scott.tower@meherarchive.org or evie.lindemann@meherarchive.org with questions or to discuss your donation.

In Baba,
Evie
Board Member, Liaison to Fund Development Committee / Evie.Lindemann@MeherArchive.org

WHAT’S NEW
New Caretaker

We are pleased to welcome and announce that Jamie Zimmerman is our new caretaker at the Meher New Life Center. Jamie grew up in a Baba family and is very knowledgeable about Baba. He brings many skills that we will need as we anticipate being in the facility soon. He is also one of the construction workers assisting Ken and Peter so he will have a thorough understanding of the building.

Hugh
Board Member, Liaison to Building Ops Committee / Hugh.Huntington@Meherarchive.org

MEHER NEW LIFE CENTER
Greetings all from the Meher Archive Collective Construction Center

We could use a printer out here; nothing fancy, just a black and white capable of syncing up to a basic HP laptop;  having scanning potential would be nice but not critical. Call Ken at 520.907.8056

Jai Baba, 
Ken
Vice President, Board of Directors, Building Project Manager / Ken.Blackman@MeherArchive.org

VOLUNTEER CORNER
MAC Volunteers and Board members met for a workday at the MAC building two weeks ago to help with important clean up and paint prep under Jeanne Felknor’s direction. Our plan is to have regular opportunities to work alongside (but with masks and at appropriate distancing!) each other as we move the project along. We all enjoyed tea and cake and seeing one another in a safe space. 

Every hour that volunteers help with the renovation part of the work—parts that do not require expert or professional people—saves money for MAC. As the detailed professional and construction work comes closer to being completed, the opportunities for volunteers to pitch in grow. So far thousands of hours have been donated and we gratefully thank everyone for helping to grow the Archive and future event site.

Look for the announcement coming soon about the next Board and Volunteer day at MAC—hope to see you there then, or any day you may have to donate some hours. If you wish to help out, please call Ken Blackman at 520-907-8056 or Jeanne Felknor at 773-329-7400. We are also looking for help from time to time with other skills in our community and will be reaching out to you, asking about your interests and experience. If you want to discuss opportunities for future involvement or have any questions, please call Lynn Pace at 828-702-2899. 

Renee
Board Secretary, Liaison for HR & Volunteer Services Committees / Renee.Bussanich@Meherarchive.org

Debby Blackman, Chair — Library Committee
Debby Blackman is the new chairperson for the Meher New Life Center Library. Her main qualification is her lifelong love of books and reading. As a special education teacher and owner of Desert Willow Educational Center in Tucson, Arizona, Debby taught students to read and started a high school for kids with learning disabilities, autism and addictions. Her enthusiasm for learning and her ability to relate to the individual needs of her students will carry over into her position on the library committee. Debby was the Chairperson for the Womansong Choir of Asheville’s board here in Asheville. She became a Baba liker and then a Baba lover starting in 1978 through her then boyfriend and now husband Ken Blackman. 
Debbie.Blackman@meherarchive.org

Lynn Pace, Chair — Volunteer Services Committee
My professional experience includes years as a social worker, leading to creating and managing large volunteer programs, training volunteers for faith communities, colleges and other community groups. I delight in working with others to develop programs, to watch them unfold successfully. I chaired the Asheville Music Sahavas team for several years. 

When I was a teenager, Baba came to me in a powerful vision, telling me that He was taking care of me and I never needed to worry (of course, I did!) I see His thread through all my life. Now, I bring it all back to Him–weaving His gifts into this work at the New Life Center.

My other interests include hiking, photography, travel and deep sharing with friends. I ask you all to bring your strengths, passions and ideas in the manifestation of Baba’s Center here. Please let me know your desires.
Lynn.Pace@meherarchive.org

Debbie Nordeen, Interim Chair — Special Project Committee
Debbie Nordeen first heard Meher Baba’s name in 1976 and visited India for the first time in 1979. During most winters since 1984, Debbie and her husband, Peter, have been living in Meherabad, where she directs special event Baba choirs, and works in the Meherabad Welcome Office helping coordinate events. Debbie is a community music facilitator who enjoys leading Baba choruses at various events in North Carolina, like the Meher Baba Asheville Music Sahavas. Debbie loves to dance to Baba's tune, and currently she is interested in learning more about video and music production.
Debbie.Nordeen@meherarchive.org

MAC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Board Contacts:  Anne.Barker@Meherarchive.org; Evie.Lindemann@Meherarchive.org; Hugh.Huntington@Meherarchive.org; Jean.Brunet@Meherarchive.org; Ken.Blackman@Meherarchive.org;  Renee.Bussanich@Meherarhive.org; Scott.Tower@Meherarchive.org

MAC’s Mission Statement 

 To collect, preserve, and share Meher Baba’s Divine legacy of materials, artifacts, and words with integrity, love and transparency for the benefit of humanity.

Evie Lindemann — Board Member, Liaison for the Fund Development Committee.

 
“Gathering Women’s Stories Connected with the Women Mandali.”

Please contact MAC at  MAC-Office@MeherArchive.org
Meher New Life Center, 53 Red Oak School Road, Weaverville, NC 28787 ​

Board News
We are delighted that Hugh Huntington, MAC’s previous President and BOD Chair, is continuing his active participation on the Board. Meanwhile, MAC’s new President and Chair, Scott Tower (Maloney), has stepped into this leadership role with excitement and enthusiasm.

An Update from Scott
Stepping into the role of Chair and President, I feel both humbled and excited—both by the scope of this project along with the opportunity to serve Him through this work, and to be welcoming our new Board Members, each of whom brings an additional richness of talent and dedication to MAC.
In my leadership role I am continuing the work of solidifying the Board’s structure, maintaining transparency, fostering greater community engagement, and establishing sound financial support for MAC’s near and long term goals.
As our vision expands, we are clarifying our budgets—both for our ongoing archival work and for the Meher New Life Center—a soon-to-be dynamic hub and shining beacon for Meher Baba.
A major goal is to complete the building renovations necessary for MAC to move into the MAC facility by the end of the year. As a board we are working to expand awareness of MAC and its vision, both nationally and internationally. MAC continues to build community: physically, through increased volunteer involvement, events and seminars; and virtually, through the online sharing of Baba’s message and treasures. 
We are working to fashion our fundraising efforts with respect for the challenging times in which we all find ourselves. Ultimately, it is all for Him, and for the desire to preserve the cherished fragrance of the Beloved for those who will follow.

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Meanwhile, we are delighted to introduce our three new Board members—Anne Barker, Evie Lindemann and Arthur Trupp. 
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Anne Barker
Anne has been serving as MAC's Library Committee Chair. She has a Masters Degree in Library Science and has worked in various positions as director of a public library, director of an alcohol and drug abuse resource center, and as outreach librarian over nine branch libraries and a four county bookmobile service. The library received national attention based on its response in assisting evacuees during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Anne worked closely with community organizations in setting up ongoing collaborations following the disasters. Anne brings library administrative skills in support of organizing collections for the MAC community. From assessing donations to writing policies and procedures, she continues to be involved in library operations. Anne enjoys helping people find the right book and searching for information on a wide range of topics.
She is married to Chris Barker and is a proud grandmother. Since 1978 she has followed Meher Baba. Anne is delighted to be in Asheville, and is happy to offer service to the MAC Board.

Evie Lindemann 
Until recently Evie was a professor in a graduate program of art therapy in Connecticut; she moved to Asheville five months ago. Evie is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a board-certified art therapist. She teaches courses on the use of mandalas, journal writing, and art making, as a pathway to personal integration. In recent years Evie has organized humanitarian art therapy projects in the United States, India, and Jamaica. She currently has an active practice as a printmaking artist, working from a studio in the River Arts District of Asheville.
Evie’s journey to Meher Baba began after she graduated from UC Berkeley, when she began a two-year odyssey across Europe and Asia, eventually leading to Meherabad. She has traveled to India very often and is deeply inspired by the unique ways in which the Mandali embodied Baba's teachings. Evie had the good fortune to spend six months in India working with Dr. Goher at the medical clinic in Meherazad, as well as assisting Arnavaz Dadachanji with her spiritual autobiography. She has served on the board at Meherana for a number of years in the nineties, and again in 2014-2015.

Arthur Trupp
After a lifetime of work, study, and play as residents of New York, Arthur and his wife moved to Asheville in 2010. In New York, for twenty-five years up until retirement, Arthur forged a living  as an owner and operator of several Natural Food Markets.
To his surprise and delight, Arthur was asked to be Treasurer for MAC; he is honored to offer his financial wiles to the terrific mix of officers currently lending so much energy and talent to such an exciting endeavor.
Back in 1971 at the age of 19, a much-beloved professor by the name of Dr. Bruce Hoffman offered Arthur a photo of his own beatific, smiling guru, introducing Him as Meher Baba. That was 49 years ago.
​Avatar Meher Baba Ki Jai! 

​ON THURSDAY MORNING, March 25th, [1937] Baba took the Westerners for a picnic at Trimbak, the source of the Godavari River, sixteen miles from Nasik. The group left Nasik at 5:00am in three cars. At the base of the hill, they got out and began ascending seven hundred stone carved steps. Baba had Jean, Nonny and a few others, who were not well, carried up on seats swung between two poles. At the top, Baba showed them the source of the river. He then directed them to a shady spot to unpack the picnic lunches and eat a snack. It was still morning and afterward Baba motioned for them to repack the uneaten food and be ready to move. Then he took them on a walk.
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After an hour's walk, the group was noticeably tired. Baba then asked Delia to make tea and indicated that he was hungry. "Why don't you all eat?" he then asked. But Delia objected because there would be nothing left for dinner. "Never mind, we will eat", and he motioned everyone to be seated. The baskets were again unpacked, the food was distributed and tea was served.

It was only 10:00 A.M. and they had already eaten their lunch, tea and dinner. Baba spelled out, "Since there is nothing else to do and the food is finished, we should go home." The sun was high by then, but nevertheless they descended by a different route. Once they reached the road, they returned promptly to Meher Retreat.

"Places and physical conditions do not matter where longing and determination are deep and strong. It is not a question of patient, endless walking. It matters how and where you walk – in which direction. You may walk and walk for years, but if it is in the wrong direction it is a waste of energy and time. If you go further away, of course you do come back when the time comes, but it is such a long process."

From Lord Meher, page 2142 of this online edition:- ​ 
http://www.fwb104.org/searchengine/site1/page2142.html

The Mandali in India, 1970-71 
In October 1970, Clive Adams traveled to India for his first trip after attending the 1969 Darshan.  He stayed for many months, into 1971, and took numerous wonderful photos.  Here are just a few of the photos he donated to MAC that we scanned for a talk he gave about the early days in Meherabad and Meherazad.  The larger slide show was recently presented in Myrtle Beach and Asheville.

Goher, Arnavaz and Mehera in Baba's Samadhi.

Pendu at Meherazad
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Mehera and Meheru.
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Mani and Mansari.

​Photos courtesy of Clive Adams

Who Am I?  #2 
ink on paper​  2006 
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Save the Date - MAC Open House - Tea & Tours
Saturday, April 18, 2020 from 2:00-4:00pm 
Meher Archive Collective, 53 Red Oak School Road, Weaverville 

• Tea & Cookies
• See the newest Archive collection
• Spend time in the Quiet Room
• Take a tour of the building - see work in progress and the latest project timeline
• Share your ideas for future use of the building
• Re-gift items to the Treasure Table (all resale funds to MAC) 
• Learn how to preserve your own Baba Treasures
• Find out what needs doing, and how you can help! 

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