The Joshua Project: Old Traditions for Men Revived   For centuries in cultures around the globe, the transition from boyhood to manhood had been recognized and honored by the local community of men. The loss of that tradition has been a costly one in the modern era. The Joshua Project, founded in 1998 by Charlotte family therapist Philip Loydpierson, works not only to usher a boy into manhood and honor that passage, but to also help him find a fulfilling place in the community.

"When I developed a rite-of-passage experience for my own godson, Joshua, and researched the history of initiatory experiences, I knew I couldn't just offer it to one boy," stated Loydpierson.

The Joshua Project offers weeklong rite-of-passage encampments for boys (ages 13 to 19) and four seasonal weekend camps for both men and boys. The idea is to build a community of positive men for boys to step into and to explore together what it means to be a mature man today. Programs take place away from daily life where men are removed from the trappings of status and comfortable in a rustic natural setting.

"Here, a man can hear his own voice in the voice of another man or in the silence," said Loydpierson, "And here, a boy can be blessed by an older man and be encouraged to live a life true to his own nature."    Camps take place throughout the summer, starting with Exploring the Masculine Warrior Archetype on June 20-22. Please visit www.Joshua-Project.us for information. Creating a Community of Peace Rev. Rita Marie Johnson Presents Workshop

Imagine a country with a national plan for the promotion of peace where all institutions work hand in hand to create a culture of peace. These concepts are a reality in Costa Rica, where there is not army but a Peace Army that teaches citizens the skills they need to live in lasting peace.

On June 15, Unity of Charlotte will host Rev. Rita Marie Johnson, founding director of the Academy for Peace of Costa Rica. She will present A Spiritual Treasure: The Practice of Be Peace at the Sunday Service and also a workshop offering skills to feel peace and speak peace in order to prevent and resolve conflicts while enriching life.

Johnson is working with Nobel Peace Prize winner Oscar Arias who is president of Costa Rica. “Building a national model of peace in one country or community may be the most powerful act possible for turning the world violence into peace,” said Johnson.

For more information on Johnson’s events visit www.UnityofCharlotte.org.

The Center For Positive Living Now Offering Two Sunday Celebration Services

The Center For Positive Living, a spiritual community that embraces the good in everyone, is expanding to two Sunday services. The center offers classes, workshops and special guests to transform lives while promoting a way of life that honors all paths to God.

“We are filled with excitement to add a second service to offer more people the opportunity to be a part of this growing spiritual family. Join us for messages and music that inspires, empowers, teaches and motivates,” says co-pastor Christy Snow.

The Center for Positive Living, is located at 6101 Idlewild Rd., Ste. 332. More info: 704-531-7993 or www.CPLcharlotte.com.

Summer Solstice Full Moon Drumming On the Square at Trade & Tryon

Summer Solstice is a powerful "turning time" in the annual cycle. It’s a time to turn our lives around, let go of the old and welcome in the new. Celebrate Solstice on June 20th in the heart of Charlotte, on the square at Trade and Tryon near the Grande Disc.

Drummers, dancers, musicians, fire spinners and children of all ages are invited to join in celebration, moving to the rhythm of the Solstice Full Moon. Group drumming is a carrier wave for prayers, hopes, and wishes for yourself, your family and your community.

Drumming circles transform discord into harmony and help to heal body, mind and soul. Come drum at the Solstice Full Moon and help awaken Charlotte's soul.

Drumming begins at 8pm and continues until 11. Bring drums and other instruments, dancing feet, the primal beat, drinking water and a chair if needed. For more info contact [email protected]  

Talley’s Green Grocery Closes

It’s the end of a locally owned natural era, with Talley’s Green Grocery, located in Dilworth, closing its doors after 17 years. The natural-foods grocer pioneered a landmark spot for the health-conscious to purchase meat, produce, supplements and health care products.

Owner Marc Friedland says national competitors such as Earth Fare and Trader Joe’s have taken a bite out of his business. Friedland is discounting inventory and will close once all of the items are sold.

Be a Clean Air Advocate Support the Clean Cars Program

The nation’s Clean Air Act gives states two options for control of automobile emissions: states may comply with federal standards, or adopt more protective standards—known as the Clean Cars Program. Unlike the federal standards, the Clean Cars Program will reduce global warming pollution by 34 percent from cars and the lightest passenger trucks by 2016 and by 25 percent from heavier passenger trucks.

The Clean Cars Program could cut global warming pollution by more than 3 million tons annually in North Carolina, and virtually stabilize emissions from the transportation sector.

Contact the Carolinas Clean Air Coalition to find out what you can do support Clean Cars legislation this summer so that North Carolina is the 14th state to adopt the Clean Cars Program. A bill is currently under consideration in the NC Legislature.

 For more information, go to www.clean-air-coalition.org or call 704-342-9161.

The Thirsty Beaver Opens A Smoke-free Honky Tonk

The Thirsty Beaver recently opened in the Plaza-Midwood area, offering a smoke-free atmosphere, great libations and lots of country music.

The small, friendly bar with lots of character sports checkerboard floors and walls adorned with collectibles including vintage album covers, records and concert tickets. Owners and brothers Mark and Brian Wilson hope to present country music bands in the near future.

The Thirsty Beaver is located at 1225 Central Ave.