 MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRLoving greetings to each one of you, Here in Asheville, spring is starting to express itself … trees are budding, and crocuses and daffodils are blooming. This seasonal display brings to mind the word “possibilities.” I'd like to share how I envision this time in Meher Archive Collective’s manifestation as one which is full of possibilities! First, MAC functions almost entirely on the talents and skills of those who hear Meher Baba's call to service. We are fortunate to have many such individuals who live locally. But, we also have volunteers from California and the Midwest, and others expressing interest from other countries. Our growing list of volunteer opportunities can be filled either locally or non-locally. The volunteer section below suggests ways to be of service in preserving and sharing Baba’s legacy. I see numerous possibilities for sharing Baba’s message of love with others as the MAC building team nears the completion of Phase 1. We will have safe on-site archive work spaces for staff and volunteers. There will be ample opportunities to volunteer in the archives using many different skill sets. The next construction project is to complete the 100-year-old building’s roof repair. It will require additional funds estimated at $70,000. We are exploring creative ways to support this project. If you or those in your network would like to contribute ideas or financial support, please let us know. Finally, the opportunities for MAC being able to help on a global scale continue to present themselves. Recently we heard from Jill Hobbs, a Baba lover in New Zealand. Jill has been caring for a valuable collection gathered by Anthony Thorpe. Anthony was a dedicated Baba follower who was the driving force behind a small Baba group in New Zealand. He traveled to India multiple times, always with recording equipment to preserve the mandali’s talks and stories on tape. Due to Anthony's foresight about the importance of doing this, and the care given to the collection by Jill, MAC will be receiving the Thorpe Tape Collection soon. We are excited about this "across the world" connection! In His Loving Embrace, Evie [email protected] / 203.915.8017 ARCHIVES CORNER |
 Claire Barrett carefully removed from a professional archive box a handcrafted crown worn by Meher Baba and gifted by Baba to Dr. Kenmore. |  |  Claire unpackaged a large sandalwood garland worn by Meher Baba during the 1965 Eastern Sahavas and gifted by Baba to Dr. Kenmore. |
In MAC’s May newsletter, we will give you a look into more of the collection’s sacred items which include such articles as a brown suit worn by Baba, Meelan Studio photos of Baba, and more.
The Karraschs explained their decision to donate their collections to MAC. “We knew that we had a big responsibility as caretakers for Baba’s legacy items. We looked hard to find a good place to begin to transfer items and to leave instructions in our will. We heard about the school that MAC bought in Weaverville, NC, and began to follow their progress of renovating the building.
“We saw how people were working hard to prepare this building to house and share archival treasures of Baba for now and the future. The group, with Peter Nordeen at the helm of the renovation and Jeanne Felknor narrating through videos the progress news – impressed us a lot!
“Something Jeanne said really touched us. She said ‘that even if MAC has only one hair of Baba’s it would all be worth it!’ At that moment we knew that Baba had answered our prayers.
“We have guarded these sacred items very carefully and shown our love, respect and gratitude to each item every day. We feel that MAC will care for each sacred item in the same way.”
You can read more about Rita’s and Larry’s personal stories, their friendships with Dr. Kenmore, and Dr. Kenmore’s relationship with Baba here: Karrasch Collection - MEHER ARCHIVE COLLECTIVE
The Karraschs explained their decision to donate their collections to MAC. “We knew that we had a big responsibility as caretakers for Baba’s legacy items. We looked hard to find a good place to begin to transfer items and to leave instructions in our will. We heard about the school that MAC bought in Weaverville, NC, and began to follow their progress of renovating the building.
“We saw how people were working hard to prepare this building to house and share archival treasures of Baba for now and the future. The group, with Peter Nordeen at the helm of the renovation and Jeanne Felknor narrating through videos the progress news – impressed us a lot!
“Something Jeanne said really touched us. She said ‘that even if MAC has only one hair of Baba’s it would all be worth it!’ At that moment we knew that Baba had answered our prayers.
“We have guarded these sacred items very carefully and shown our love, respect and gratitude to each item every day. We feel that MAC will care for each sacred item in the same way.”
You can read more about Rita’s and Larry’s personal stories, their friendships with Dr. Kenmore, and Dr. Kenmore’s relationship with Baba here: Karrasch Collection - MEHER ARCHIVE COLLECTIVE
Part 2: A Growing Legacy: New Additions to the MAC Collection
by Claire Barrett BFA, MLIS, Archives Manager
It is wonderful that so many Baba lovers are contributing to MAC’s archive collection. We now have more than 300 boxes of items under our care and keeping!
We want to introduce you to some of our newest treasures. Recently, we received from Gary Kenny imprints and casts made of Baba’s feet. They had been with Gary and his wife Judy since the late 1980s when they acquired them on their visits to Meherabad. Welcome to the collection, Gary; we’re so happy you passed the torch to us after many years of loving care for such gems.
Returning donors Rita and Larry Karrasch added to their collection in December. We were so happy when they reached out, and even more thrilled upon opening some of the boxes!
Also, a recent donation of 17 audio tapes expanded MAC’s “Om Point Archive” Collection. Work begins soon to digitize and transcribe the tapes so that others can hear Eruch Jessawala speaking first hand about Baba.
If you’re interested in volunteering with MAC, this is a perfect opportunity for you. Transcription can be done from anywhere in the world, so drop us a line if this work interests you. As for local folks wanting to lend a helping hand, we’d be happy to teach you the process of digitizing tapes. You’d be joining an incredible team!
by Claire Barrett BFA, MLIS, Archives Manager
It is wonderful that so many Baba lovers are contributing to MAC’s archive collection. We now have more than 300 boxes of items under our care and keeping!
We want to introduce you to some of our newest treasures. Recently, we received from Gary Kenny imprints and casts made of Baba’s feet. They had been with Gary and his wife Judy since the late 1980s when they acquired them on their visits to Meherabad. Welcome to the collection, Gary; we’re so happy you passed the torch to us after many years of loving care for such gems.
Returning donors Rita and Larry Karrasch added to their collection in December. We were so happy when they reached out, and even more thrilled upon opening some of the boxes!
Also, a recent donation of 17 audio tapes expanded MAC’s “Om Point Archive” Collection. Work begins soon to digitize and transcribe the tapes so that others can hear Eruch Jessawala speaking first hand about Baba.
If you’re interested in volunteering with MAC, this is a perfect opportunity for you. Transcription can be done from anywhere in the world, so drop us a line if this work interests you. As for local folks wanting to lend a helping hand, we’d be happy to teach you the process of digitizing tapes. You’d be joining an incredible team!
BUILDING RENOVATION PROGRESS
Finishing Projects Bring us Closer to Completing Phase 1
Photos by Jeanne Felknor
The Phase 1 finishing work continues at a fast pace at the MAC building. Countless hours are being contributed by the team, so thank you everyone for your dedication and commitment!
Two major projects were accomplished in the past three months. First, the meticulous work of refurbishing many of the building’s original cabinets was completed with all the old and new cabinets installed in the second-floor rooms. Also, new countertops have been ordered or custom-made onsite for the cabinets.
Another significant accomplishment: the floors in the second-floor rooms have three coats of polyurethane after hundreds of hours of sanding to address almost 60 years wear and tear.
Other important tasks either completed or underway include:
In His Service,
Hugh Huntington
[email protected]
Two major projects were accomplished in the past three months. First, the meticulous work of refurbishing many of the building’s original cabinets was completed with all the old and new cabinets installed in the second-floor rooms. Also, new countertops have been ordered or custom-made onsite for the cabinets.
Another significant accomplishment: the floors in the second-floor rooms have three coats of polyurethane after hundreds of hours of sanding to address almost 60 years wear and tear.
Other important tasks either completed or underway include:
- Commercial-grade locks were installed on all the doors.
- Two new steel fire doors were purchased and installed.
- Security cameras were installed.
- The HVAC system passed the final inspection.
- Baseboards were installed in all the rooms.
- Fire alarm circuits are receiving their final review.
- Internet service was upgraded.
- Plans are being studied for repairing the gymnasium roof.
In His Service,
Hugh Huntington
[email protected]
You Can Become Involved with MAC’s Mission
Volunteers Essential to Carrying Forward Meher Baba’s Legacy
We are 100% donor and volunteer supported, and there are several ways you can become involved, both locally and from a distance!
✍🏼 COMMUNICATIONS: Volunteers who have skills in writing, videography, website design & management, and social media are needed. As MAC becomes more active in the public arena and with special events, we will welcome individuals with Public Relations & Marketing skills.
💻 IT: Are computers and programming your passion? The IT team is looking for one or two more members.
🎤 ARCHIVES: Are you interested in the preservation of Baba’s legacy? See the Archive article above or consider this additional opportunity.
To discover more about these volunteer opportunities or others, contact: [email protected]
✍🏼 COMMUNICATIONS: Volunteers who have skills in writing, videography, website design & management, and social media are needed. As MAC becomes more active in the public arena and with special events, we will welcome individuals with Public Relations & Marketing skills.
💻 IT: Are computers and programming your passion? The IT team is looking for one or two more members.
🎤 ARCHIVES: Are you interested in the preservation of Baba’s legacy? See the Archive article above or consider this additional opportunity.
- Scanning and photographing of letters, documents, and other tangible treasures. MAC is currently working on the Theus Malmberg Collection.
To discover more about these volunteer opportunities or others, contact: [email protected]
FUNDRAISING UPDATE
Become Part of the Exciting Future of Serving Baba’s Legacy!
Greetings all!
MAC is extraordinarily grateful for the community’s engagement in 2023. As moving into the renovated building becomes closer to a reality, MAC is concentrating its fundraising efforts on its mission of preserving and sharing Baba’s legacy. MAC currently has more than 300 boxes of materials to safely archive, and we receive more each month. Not only are we processing the collections, we are also researching new software tools to most effectively record and share this information.
The community’s support will ensure the fruition of this mission and its goals! Our monthly Sustaining donors help ensure a financial steadiness that allows our teams to plan for both the building’s operation, as well as the caretaking of the sacred Collection. We invite you to consider a monthly gift, if you haven’t already.
A 2024 Spring Campaign will soon roll out that will focus on one-time donations to support the archiving activities, overall ongoing operations, and the next renovation project involving roof repair. MAC is also exploring funding through public and private grants. If you have any connections or suggestions in this area, please feel free to contact us.
Let me end by saying thank you to everyone for your valuable contributions of time and financial resources.
With love to all in Baba,
John Dalisky, Fundraising Chair
Jean Brunet
Evie Lindemann
Scott Tower
MAC is extraordinarily grateful for the community’s engagement in 2023. As moving into the renovated building becomes closer to a reality, MAC is concentrating its fundraising efforts on its mission of preserving and sharing Baba’s legacy. MAC currently has more than 300 boxes of materials to safely archive, and we receive more each month. Not only are we processing the collections, we are also researching new software tools to most effectively record and share this information.
The community’s support will ensure the fruition of this mission and its goals! Our monthly Sustaining donors help ensure a financial steadiness that allows our teams to plan for both the building’s operation, as well as the caretaking of the sacred Collection. We invite you to consider a monthly gift, if you haven’t already.
A 2024 Spring Campaign will soon roll out that will focus on one-time donations to support the archiving activities, overall ongoing operations, and the next renovation project involving roof repair. MAC is also exploring funding through public and private grants. If you have any connections or suggestions in this area, please feel free to contact us.
Let me end by saying thank you to everyone for your valuable contributions of time and financial resources.
With love to all in Baba,
John Dalisky, Fundraising Chair
Jean Brunet
Evie Lindemann
Scott Tower
MEHER NEW LIFE LIBRARY
The Library Collection Continues to Accept Donations
The Meher New Life Library continues to expand its inventory of books, journals, booklets and audiovisual materials. We recently received a collection of fascinating pamphlets, brochures and books donated by Sandy Schwanz. She was given these materials by "Earl the Pearl" Starcher (video courtesy of Robin Vogel), who famously built a scaled-down replica of Baba’s Samadhi near the border of Mexico. Earl died in Myrtle Beach, SC, in 1994, leaving the project unfinished.
Our deepest appreciation to our many contributors, and please contact me if you have questions or want to donate materials!
In the Loving Service of Meher Baba,
Anne Barker
[email protected]
Our deepest appreciation to our many contributors, and please contact me if you have questions or want to donate materials!
In the Loving Service of Meher Baba,
Anne Barker
[email protected]
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES
Monthly Dhuni Brings the Baba Community Together in His Name
Meher Archive Collective is continuing to host a Dhuni on the lawn of the MAC building every 2nd Sunday. Watch for MAC’s monthly emails and Social Media posts about this sacred event. And your participation and contributions are welcomed.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Evie Lindemann, President: [email protected]
Hugh Huntington, Secretary: [email protected]
Anne Barker, Director: [email protected]
Evie Lindemann, President: [email protected]
Hugh Huntington, Secretary: [email protected]
Anne Barker, Director: [email protected]