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Newette 11-11-2025

This Newsette is long overdue! There are many things to celebrate, and some time-sensitive announcements.

Two Zen Centers had significant anniversaries – Milwaukee Zen Center celebrated its Fortieth Anniversary on September 28. Chapel Hill Zen Center celebrated its thirtieth anniversary on October 11.

Kannon Do Zen Meditation Center in Mountain View CA held its first Open House on September 27. Their invitation read: “Kannon Do is a place just around the corner where you can explore meditation and mindfulness. Drop by to grab a bite, see what we have to offer, or come by to say “hi”. Many neighbors attended.

Cynthia Ziegler, co-guiding teacher of Sellwood Soto Zen based in Portland, OR wrote in July: “Our dear friend and co-leader of our Sangha, Steven Given received Dharma Transmission from Endo Kirk Phillips. Steve’s new dharma name is DaiHo ShinDo. He is now Shindo Steve Given and we couldn’t be happier.

On June 22nd, Cynthia gave Lay Entrustment to her student Shoun Doko Brian Goller. The ceremony took place at the 7th St. Zendo in Boise, Idaho.  7th St. Zendo is an extension of Peter van der Sterre’s Oak St. Sanctuary. Brian first received the precepts from Tenshin Reb Anderson at Green Gulch Farm in 1994. Brian is also a teacher at Sellwood Soto Zen.

Arcata Zen Group in Arcata, CA is seeking a Head Teacher who can provide spiritual care and leadership for their Sangha as their current teacher, Gene Bush, moves into retirement.

Tassajara’s Director, Ashley Ng, asked me to share that the application deadline for the Tassajara Winter 2026 Practice Period is November 15. It will be led by Abbot Tenzen David Zimmerman and the dates are January 6 to April 12.

May your sanghas be thriving as we turn toward a season of gratitude.