Remembering Sky Bear

It is with deep sorrow that I report the loss of a powerful contributor to our wellness and spiritual community in the three rivers area. Sky Bear led the Dances of Universal Peace here in Pittsburgh and in Morgantown, WV from 1991 to 1998. He encouraged dancers to learn to lead and to drum; and during his long cancer related illness; new dancers took up the call and led dances and continued the presence of this powerful spiritual linage which has existed in our area for over 30 years.

Some personal memories of Sky Bear include his powerful presence which provided a beautiful blend of his Marine Core training and the peace and gentleness of a Sufi Master. I recall trips to his land in the Krisna Community in Moundsville; the sweat lodges, the interfaith weekends, camping by the lake, the spiritual dialogue, and the baking and packaging of the world's best and largest Vegan Cooky. It is wonderful to know that his presence will continued to be felt through the dances.

The memorial service and dance followed by a pot-luck celebration will be held in the Squirrel Hill Section of Frick this Friday, June 25th, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Enter Frick Park accros the street from the corner of Nicholson (# 6499) and Beechwood Blvd. Walk down the paved path through the park (about 10 minutes); at the crest of the hill, you will see a field to the right. We will be dancing near the large silver maple tree. There will also be signs.

If you would like to share some memories and/or condolences, you may reach the following persons who have been and continue to be involved in the Dances for Universal Peace:

ALLEN GOODMAN (ag1270@hotmail.com)

DAVID.KISSEL (papkissell@gmail.com)

DIANA.PELLETIER (doublespiral@verizon.net)

INDIGO.RAFFEL (indigor@ccicenter.org)

JULIE.MURPHY (juliemurphy2@verizon.net)

LILASUKA DASI lilasooka@msn.com

LISA SMITH (lisawhitedove@yahoo.com)

MARIA MANN (dogstar1111@aol.com)

MARY ANN VAN SICKLE (maryannvansickle@yahoo.com)

PATTY WELLS pattywells@conceptassociates.com

VIRGIE BOHN (virjohn22@hotmail.com)

Your prayers and visions are deeply appreciated blessings and positive thoughts

--Allen Goodman