—–Original Message—–
From: “Joseph Campbell Foundation ”
Date: Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:35:07
To:
Subject: JCF Associate UpDate - July 3, 2008: ESALEN ENDANGERED
It’s difficult for those outside California to follow the specifics of the over 1,000 wildfires burning in the state right now right now, so many may not be aware of the Basin Complex Fire in Big Sur. So far this fire had burned over 47,000 acres and is only 3% contained. Even though the area is sparsely populated, 1,300 homes are threatened, and a few have already burned to the ground.
Joseph Campbell shares a history with the Esalen Institute, which holds a special place in the hearts of many JCF Associates who have, over the years, participated in workshops, seminars, celebrations, massages, and cosmic soaks in the sacred hot springs at Esalen.
As of this morning, the Basin Complex fire had burned to within one mile of Esalen.
Nearly 1,400 firefighters are battling the blaze, and 200 National Guard troops have been deployed to the area. Esalen cancelled all programs a few days ago, and yesterday firefighters told Esalen’s 150 workers to
evacuate (along with the rest of Big Sur).
Nevertheless, about 50 Esalen staffers are staying on site to mount a defense. Esalen’s CEO, Gordon Wheeler, made the decision to allow that, based on a consensus from firefighters that Esalen’s location is defensible.
Those who are staying have experience in firefighting and/or as medical care providers.
A team of 20 staffers have been clearing brush from around buildings, and they are preparing to spray structures with a fire retardant gel if
necessary.
Officially, Esalen is closed until July 11 - but any prayers, happy thoughts, or good vibrations you can send to those kind folk in that magick place couldn’t hurt (even spare change might come in handy - should the site survive unscathed, Esalen will lose at least half a million dollars during the shutdown - a significant hit in these financially perilous times)
Conditions change hourly. Regular updates appear at the following URL:
http://esalen.org/home/update.html
Also, Gordon Wheeler, President and CEO of the Esalen Institute, provides detailed daily updates with photos at the following link:
http://esalen.org/home/gordon.html
Several firefighters have lodged on the grounds, and are enjoying the full attention of the kitchen staff. Surplus produce abounds in the absence of regular guest, so Esalen has been contributing produce to the local community. In fact, the inspiring cooperative efforts of the Big Sur community are documented at the following address:
Our thanks to Karen Gros, who alerted us to the immediate peril, and concluded her message “Love and hope to all.”
Everyone at JCF echoes her sentiments.
The JCF UpDate Team