The Fall Solstice marks a powerful turning point—a moment of balance between light and dark, summer’s energy and winter’s quiet. It’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and set new intentions for the season ahead.

In this special evening, we’ll:
Explore the meaning and energy of the Fall Solstice
Journal on what we’re ready to release and what we wish to welcome in
Immerse ourselves in a soothing sound bath with crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, chimes, drum, and more—allowing the vibrations to help integrate and anchor our intentions

No experience is needed—just bring your open heart.
Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, water, and your favorite journal and pen.

Exchange: $30 in advance | $40 at the door
Reserve your spot: 

Come as you are, leave lighter, clearer, and ready to move into the next season with intention.

Presented by Sara Grover:

In the decades leading up to the U.S. Civil War, abolitionists from eastern states migrated westward to thwart the expansion of slavery into the “free” territory. Abolitionists were among the early American settlers arriving in Minnesota in the 1850s. Some were considered radical for their time and had been involved in the Underground Railroad before settling here.

Sara Holger will share stories she has gathered through oral history interviews with descendants of abolitionists who called southeast Minnesota home before slavery was abolished in America. 

Noah Grant presents Trauma and Resilience in Education: Learn how trauma shapes behavior and learning, and discover strategies that help students and educators grow through adversity.

Note this talk starts at 330 PM

Steve Troutman “ Climate Change “

This fact-based presentation describes the projected impacts of climate change, on the world, the us, and on minnesota. specific impacts on surface temperatures, weather, agriculture, and ecology are discussed. also addressed is why the public debate continues about climate change, despite the overwhelming evidence that global warming is real and accurately predicted by climate science.

The New Moon is a powerful time for fresh starts, planting seeds, and calling in what you most desire for the month ahead. This is the moment to slow down, tune in, and align your energy with the new cycle that’s beginning.

In this special evening, we will:
Explore the energy and meaning of the October New Moon
Journal to clarify and set your personal intentions for this lunar cycle
Immerse in a beautiful, powerful sound bath with crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, chimes, drum, and other healing instruments—infusing your intentions with vibrational energy to help them take root

No prior experience is needed—just bring your open heart and your willingness to receive.

What to Bring:

• Yoga mat, blanket, and pillow for comfort

• Water

• Your favorite journal and pen

• dress comfy & in layers

Exchange: $30 in advance | $40 at the door
Reserve Your Spot: 

Come ready to release the old, welcome the new, and leave feeling grounded, inspired, and aligned. 

Oliver Books: What Makes a Song?

Communication through music is a tradition nearly as old as humanity, but just like having a conversation, there are guidelines to effective and meaningful expression through song. In this presentation, we’ll explore, in broad strokes, how music can create a meaningful framework for storytelling, and how lyricism can help (or hinder) communicating ideas and emotions. 

Oliver will stay and perform at the Ghost Light Lounge at 7 PM on 10/23/25

Presented by Stephen Winter, a Certified Wildlife Biologist with The Wildlife Society and a board member of The Prairie Enthusiasts.

In 1908, Minnesota had 18 million acres of native prairie; approximately 1 percent of Minnesota’s native prairie remains. Why is this important? In this discussion, you will learn about remanent and reconstructed prairies and the importance of prairies relative to Southeastern Mn ecology and agricultural economy. You will learn how to plan and establish prairie plantings on your site and the importance of plant diversity in your prairie plan.

Following this presentation,  Carla Gallina will premier her metal art, Prairie Dances, at an Artists reception in the 1916 Gallery at the Chatfield Center for the Arts.   This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

George Thompson “Through My Eyes”

george grew up in saint louis and moved to rochester in 1968, during tumultuous years of the civil rights movement, to work at ibm. at the time, george was one of very few black men in the region. over 55 years later, george has many stories from decades of his life and leadership in southeastern minnesota, where he has alwayssought to serve and to create community.

george believes that when we understand each other and our differences, we have the best foundation for a strong community. His presentation, “an hour in my shoes”, will explore his experiences as a black husband, father, friend, businessman, and leader in southeastern minnesota. He will offer stories and perspectives as a truly remarkable family man, neighbor, and leader.

Before the holiday rush begins, give yourself the gift of pause. This soothing morning sound bath is your invitation to release stress, restore balance, and enter the season feeling calm, centered, and renewed.

You’ll be guided into deep relaxation through the healing vibrations of crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, chimes, drum, and other restorative instruments. The gentle frequencies work with your mind, body, and energy to:
Quiet mental chatter
Release tension and overwhelm
Regulate your nervous system
Reconnect you to your inner peace

No experience is needed—just come as you are.

What to Bring:

• Yoga mat, blanket, and pillow for comfort

• Water

• An open heart ready to receive

Exchange: $30 in advance | $40 at the door
Reserve Your Spot: 

Start your holiday season from a place of peace, not pressure.

Tuesday, December 16th | 6:30–7:45 PM
Chatfield Center for the Arts

In the midst of the holiday hustle, give yourself the most precious gift—rest, renewal, and rejuvenation.

This calming evening sound bath is designed to help you slow down, release tension, and reconnect with your inner calm. You’ll be surrounded by the soothing vibrations of crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, chimes, drum, and other healing instruments, guiding your mind and body into a deep state of relaxation.

During this gentle yet powerful session, you’ll:
Let go of holiday stress and overwhelm
Regulate your nervous system
Restore balance and clarity
Leave feeling lighter, calmer, and more present

No experience is needed—just come as you are and let the sound do the work.

What to Bring:

• Yoga mat, blanket, and pillow for comfort

• Water

• An open heart ready to receive

• dress comfy & in layers

Exchange: $30 in advance | $40 at the door
Reserve Your Spot: 

Pause. Breathe. Receive. You deserve it.