Well, friends, it’s that time of year again.  Come join the Central North Carolina Pagan community at Pagan Pride Day!  Lots of our friends will be there, and we hope you will join us, too!
 
TAPA will have an information table, so be sure to come by and say hello.  If you’d like to volunteer to help us, you can sign up here at this google doc, or contact us directly at TriangleAreaPagans@gmail.com
 
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1To4U5YxOVX_ZkXwCZNhK9oljX3SYPT-jQ3ZSqiAGxXI/edit?usp=sharing
 
For more information, please check out the PPD website:  http://www.cncppd.org/
 
Happy Pagan Pride, y’all!
 
Sept. 16 and 17, 2017
Saturday & Sunday, 10am-5pm
 
Optimist Club Farm
2908 Optimist Farm Rd
Apex, NC 27539
 
http://www.cncppd.org/

Previously at PPD...
2014 - http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/blog/october-01st-2014
2015 - http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/blog/its-time-for-some-pagan-pride
2015 - http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/blog/pics-from-pagan-pride-2015
2015 - http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/blog/pagan-pride-day-2015
2016 - http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/blog/huzzah-its-pagan-pride-weekend

Well, friends.  What can we possibly say?
 
THANK YOU.
 
Seriously, thank you SO MUCH.
 
Our Fools and Fairies Springtime Soiree was a smashing, thrilling, magical success!  We had SO MUCH FUN dancing with you all, making community connections, and engaging in joyous shenanigans.  THANK YOU!
 
We raised some money to help get us one step closer to non-profit status, so thank you for coming to the party, for donating your time and money and energy, for sharing the event, for coming out, for bringing your friends, for dressing up, for dancing with us, for entertaining us, for participating in the costume contest, for donating items for the gift baskets, for helping with food, for helping with decorations, for helping with clean-up, and for having us in your space and your sacred community.  Thanks to R for her AMAZING decorations, and to H and L and W and J and others for helping set-up, clean up, and basically take care of business.  Thanks to B and S and L for helping with food, and for giving an extra hand when we needed it.  Most of all, thanks to E and L and their crew over at Arcana, our most favorite place on earth.  (And don't forget, we meet at Arcana on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm for our monthly meet-and-greets!)
 
Friends, thank you.  <3 <3 <3

Would you like to see some pics from the event?  Mosey on over to our Facebook photo gallery! 
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1468337919884187.1073741840.826554910729161&type=1&l=a5029f94b3
 
Where would we possibly be without our friends, family, sponsors, and support?  So go to these websites, “like” these Facebook pages, and patron these shops.  We love them, and they love us, and we sure do love you, Triangle Pagans!

Arcana
http://www.arcanadurham.com/
http://www.facebook.com/arcanadurham/
 
Awen Book Shoppe
https://www.facebook.com/awenbookshoppe/
http://www.awenbookshoppe.com/
 
Christopher Criner: The Spalted Craftsman
https://www.etsy.com/shop/spaltedcraftsman
 
Everyday Magic
http://www.facebook.com/shopeverydaymagic/
http://www.shopeverydaymagic.com/

Rev. Amanda Lee Morris: Gaia’s Circle
http://www.etsy.com/shop/SuperDuperSpaceWitch
http://superduperspacewitch.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/gaias.circle
http://www.witchvox.com/vn/vn_detail/dt_gr.html?a=usnc&id=38381
GaiaCircle@gmail.com
 
Karin Elizabeth: Reiki Master Healer and Teacher
https://www.facebook.com/karinelizabeth.reiki/
https://www.karinelizabeth.net/
 
Lotus Temple Massage Therapy
https://www.facebook.com/Lotus-Temple-Massage-Therapy-169028996448123/
http://www.lotustemplemassage.com/
 
Lynn Swain: Magickcraft - A Unique Shoppe
http://www.magikcraft.com/
https://www.facebook.com/magikcraft7/
 
Rev. Su Leone: Mirific Things
https://www.facebook.com/MirificThings
http://www.mirificthings.com/
http://www.ladywindsong.com/
http://www.facebook.com/Rev.Su.Windsong.Leone
 
Stargazers Design
https://www.facebook.com/stargazersdesign/
 
Starrlight Mead
http://starrlightmead.com/
http://www.facebook.com/starrlightmead
 
White Hart Creations
https://www.facebook.com/whitehartcreations/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/whitehartcreations

And we cannot possibly forget our amazing entertainment for the evening!  Thanks for making the night memorable and magical, folks!

Mr. Burns
http://burnsmyface.wixsite.com/burns

Fantasy Fusion Bellydance with Alicia
https://www.youtube.com/c/AliciaClaireFantasyFusionBellydance

The Blibbering Humdingers
http://BlibberingHumdingers.com/
https://www.facebook.com/blibberinghumdingers/

20th Century Boy
https://www.facebook.com/TwentCentBoy/

THANK YOU SO MUCH!

***PRICE CHANGE***
$15 for the whole fundraising event, 7pm – 2am
$5 for dance party only, 9pm – 2am

Fools and Fairies Springtime Soiree
- live music, entertainment, costume, and dance party for fairies, fools, and fantastical creatures of the night
 
Saturday, April 1
Arcana, Durham
21+ ONLY
 
A fundraiser for the Triangle Area Pagan Alliance as we raise money to help us work towards non-profit status.  Live music and entertainment!  Custom cocktails!  Shenanigans!  Costume contest!  DJ and dance party!  Finger foods and nibbles!  Tarot card readings all evening!  (Be sure to bring cash for our talented readers.  More details on oracular talent coming soon.)
 
Arcana’s doors open at 5pm
Soiree starts at 7pm
Costume contest and live entertainment with Mr. Burns, Fantasy Fusion Bellydance with Alicia, and The Blibbering Humdingers
Dance party with 20th Century Boy from 9pm until last call
 
Costumes not required but VERY much encouraged!  Fairies, fools, fantastical creatures, mythological or storybook characters, gothic, steampunk, yesteryear, witch ball, future-funk… if it makes you feel pretty and magical, then you’ll fit right in!
 
***PRICE CHANGE***
$15 for the whole fundraising event, 7pm – 2am
$5 for dance party only, 9pm – 2am
 
TICKETS
http://foolsandfairies.brownpapertickets.com/
(or pay at the door!)
 
Special Thanks To:
- All of our gracious, generous, and talented volunteers!
- To our talented entertainers!
- To Arcana, our home away from home!
- And to our fabulous community!
 
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
Organizing for Pagan community, education, and visibility in the Chapel Hill/Durham/Raleigh NC area.
http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/
http://www.facebook.com/triangleareapagans
 
Arcana
Arcana provides a cozy, comfortable, intimate bar space, with a New Orleans-meets-Prague Art Noveau style. They not only offer delicious wines, craft beers, and modern cocktails, but are also true to their name, highlighting the arcana of herbalism through a drink menu that uses herbs and an extensive collection of liqueurs. Arcana is a space for artists, live performances, theater, dance, intimate conversation, and unwinding – come meet the Triangle Area Pagan Alliance at Arcana the first Wednesday of every month!
(Be sure to tip our talented mixologists!)
http://arcanadurham.com/
http://www.facebook.com/arcanadurham/
 
Mr. Burns
Burns is a singer/song writer, which is a fancy way of saying that he doesn't have a band. But he does sing and write songs!
http://burnsmyface.wixsite.com/burns
 
The Blibbering Humdingers
Local wizard rockers, the Blibbering Humdingers play a mix of fun, filk, folk and fandom rock music inspired by Harry Potter, medieval history & fantasy, Doctor Who, Firefly, Dungeons & Dragons and other weirdness.
http://BlibberingHumdingers.com
 
Fantasy Fusion Bellydance with Alicia
Alicia has over fourteen years of bellydance experience in a variety of styles. Her personal style is fantasy fusion bellydance, drawing from classical Egyptian technique, American tribal fusion bellydance, and also her experience as a burlesque performer.
https://www.youtube.com/c/AliciaClaireFantasyFusionBellydance
 
20th Century Boy
Child of the eighties. Lover of 12" remixes on vinyl. Purveyor of classic alternative, new wave, dark wave, goth, and industrial. DJ based in Durham NC.
(Be sure to tip our DJ!)
https://www.facebook.com/TwentCentBoy/

Check out the Facebook event here!:  https://www.facebook.com/events/1969326356626513/
 
Saturday, December 10
 
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Raleigh
http://www.uufr.org/
3313 Wade Ave.
Raleigh, NC 27607
Clara Barton room
 
Gather at 6pm (come and go as you like and are able)
Introduction and greeting at 615
Ritual at 630
Potluck at 7pm
Bardic circle at 830
Drum circle at 9pm
party ends at 10pm, clean up after! (volunteers welcome! ;-) )
 
PARKING –  Gathering begins at 6pm!  Parking available in the top or bottom parking lots of the church.  If you park at the bottom lot, you can cut through the buildings!  The lanterns will guide your way.  ;-)  If you are unable to climb stairs, please contact us prior to the event and we will make accessibility arrangements with you.
 
RITUAL – ritual starts promptly at 630!  Multi-tradition ritual facilitated by Gaia’s Circle!  <3 
 
FOOD – potluck at 7pm!  Bring your quick, easy, and tasty holiday favorites.  Sweet and savory welcome, we will provide the drinks.  (No alcohol, please.)
 
BARDIC CIRCLE – begins at 830pm.  You are invited to share with the community your gift of a song, poem, music, story, etc.  All skill levels are welcome and encouraged!
 
DRUMS – drum circle at 9pm!  Bring your noisemakers as we celebrate the return of the sun with our revelries.  You are invited to bring extra drums and noisemakers for the group if you have extras to share.  =)
 
SHOW YOURSELF OFF – bring your business cards, brochures, fliers, etc.  If you are part of a local group or organization, a local Pagan business person, artisan, or just a general awesome person, we’d love to learn more!  Please bring any fliers or other goodies to leave on our information table so people can learn more about you/your group/your business!
 
MEDITATION ROOM – open throughout the event, come and go as you please.  A quiet space set aside for meditation and contemplation.  Take a moment to enjoy the magic of the season!
 
ALTAR – Together we will all build a beautiful, community altar to create holy space throughout the evening.  You are invited to bring your favorite seasonal items and altar decorations.  Offerings will be provided, though you are welcome to bring your own as well. 
 
GIFT EXCHANGE – If you are interested in participating in a gift exchange, please bring one or two wrapped, gently used Pagan items to pass onto someone else in the community.  NO GAG GIFTS.  NO NEW GIFTS.
 
Please share this event far and wide – repost on FB, add to your forums, yahoo groups, share with your friends and family.  ALL are welcome!  There will be no child-specific activities, but children and families are welcome.  You do not need to be a Pagan to attend this event – just be a friendly person who would like to gathers in the spirit of community. 
 
With:
 
Fellowship of the Oak (Raleigh CUUPS group)
Covenant of Unitarian Universalists Pagans
http://www.uufr.org/
http://www.cuups.org/
http://www.uufr.org/connection/affinity-groups/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/uufrfotocuups/
 
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
https://www.facebook.com/triangleareapagans
http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/
https://twitter.com/FreshLocalPagan
https://www.instagram.com/triangleareapaganalliance/
TriangleAreaPagans@gmail.com
 
Gaia’s Circle
gaiacircle@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/gaias.circle/
http://www.witchvox.com/vn/vn_detail/dt_gr.html?a=usnc&id=38381
 
Whispers of the Forest
http://www.whispersoftheforest.com
http://www.witchvox.com/vn/vn_detail/dt_gr.html?a=usnc&id=26559
 
Bull Moon Hearth
http://www.adf.org/
http://bullmoonhearth.dreamwidth.org/

an ADF priest performing a fire sacrifice (photo by Rev. Michael Dangler)

As the year turns in the Samhain season, many of us are making plans and resolutions. Mine is to complete the Dedicant's Path, ADF's year-long foundational study course, and if other people in the community are interested, I would love to have a group of us do it together.



ADF is the druid organization I belong to – if you have been to rituals hosted by me or Alisa or both of us as Bull Moon Hearth, then you've been to an ADF-style ritual, and our ADF background has heavily influenced TAPA ritual, so if you've been to one of those, you may know more than you think you do! You can find out all about ADF and its 32 year history at adf.org, but I can tell you what's most important to me, as a member who first joined in the 1990s, is that ADF focuses on creating deep relationships with our gods, ancestors, and spirits, and on helping its members grow spiritually, intellectually, and ethically. (Although we call ourselves by Celtic terms like "druid," ADF embraces all Indo-European paganisms; our members can choose to focus on Gaelic and Brythonic, Norse, Greek, Roman, Slavic and Baltic, or polytheist Vedic Indian and Persian traditions. Some ADF members keep a tight cultural focus, and others mix-and-match.)


The DP is organized around the three foundational practices of ADF druidry, which are Virtue, Study, and Piety. The course requires deep thinking and journaling about learning your values and practicing them, reading and reflecting on three books (drawn from a study list that offers both beginner-level and more academic options), celebration of the eight neopagan High Days, and most importantly building a practice of regular devotions and meditation to help you discover or refine your spiritual path. There is an optional process known as the "DP Through the Wheel of the Year" that breaks the work into manageable pieces and provides week-by-week homework to help you get through the year without getting lost or overloaded at any point. I'll be working through that process in 52 weeks, beginning in the second week of November.


You don't have to join ADF to do the DP, although if you choose to submit your DP work as a member and have it reviewed and approved by ADF, that's great, and you'll be eligible if you choose to pursue further studies with ADF. If we have a local group of study-buddies, we can meet however often we choose to check in with each other, ask questions and offer advice, and share books or other resources. Anyone who's interested, please contact me! I'm Heather Darla on Facebook, and if you'd like to talk to me in person about it, I'll be at the TAPA meet-and-greet on Wednesday, Nov. 2 and at the Gaia's Circle Samhain event on Saturday the 5th.


The DP is designed to be foundational, meaning that absolutely no experience with paganism or druidry is required, so it's perfect for people who are just beginning their path who think that a polytheist, earth-honoring, life-affirming Indo-European tradition that balances spirit, intellect, and action might be for them. For those of us who have been doing our work in different ways for many years, there's something uniquely challenging about going back to those foundational skills and evaluating who you are and where you're headed from a standpoint of beginner's mind. (Full disclosure: I've been through the DP before, but chose at the time not to have it formally approved. So this is the study program so nice I'm doing it twice!)


Adf.org has lots and lots of resources on the vision and values of ADF, as well as how the training programs and other institutional things work. I'd also be thrilled to answer any questions that I can! Don't feel pressured by the quick start-date, either; anyone who wants to take a little time before starting can absolutely join in with us, whether you choose to double-up homework assignments to catch up, or just continue to work at your own pace. The group wouldn't be about checking your homework (unless you find that motivating!), but just about having fellowship on the journey, and companions to witness the changes you're making along the way.

​Well, friends.  We can’t thank you enough for your help in our very first fundraiser, Under the Harvest Moon!
 
The event went better than we could have ever imagined.  We were expecting a good event, but you folks sure blew our minds away and we had a great event.  Friends, old and new, came from near and from far to celebrate the full moon and to gather in the spirit of alliance and community.  We had two bands, three tarot card readers, three fires, a kitchen full of drinks and snacks, a table full of awesome raffle items, and more beautiful, lovely, friendly guests than we could count.  Wow!
 
Seriously, we can’t thank you all enough for your help with this event.  We literally couldn’t have done it without you!  We’re just so humbled by the community support, and really excited and encouraged for future events with all of y’all!
 
A few shout-outs:
 
The Music
 
Enenra
https://soundcloud.com/enenra-1
https://www.facebook.com/enenraband1127

Harlem Insect Laws
https://soundcloud.com/harleminsectlaws
https://www.facebook.com/harleminsectlaws/
 
Tarot Card Readers
 
Michael
https://www.amazon.com/Michael-G.-Williams/e/B001KIYBBU/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
http://www.robustmcmanlypants.org/
 
MJ (sorry, no links, but we love you, MJ!)
 
Shawn Shadow (aka The Odd Duck)
http://www.shawnshadow.com/
http://www.witchvox.com/vn/vn_detail/dt_sk.html?a=usnc&id=17538
http://www.facebook.com/theoddduck
 
The Helpers
 
Thank you L&L, H, M, S, R, W, L, H, V, J, and others for your overall help and support.  Thanks to those who brought over dry fire food, chairs, table cloths, and tables.  Thanks to those who brought food and drinks to share with the group.  You rock!  Thanks to those who advertised for us, shared on Facebook and other social medias, and who told their friends about the event, and brought friends and family over for the party.  Your dedication and enthusiasm is inspiring! 
 
The Drum-Meister
 
Many, many special thanks to Michael H. who helped us set up prior to the event, who offered encouragement, enthusiasm, and support, and who facilitated our drum circle at the end of the night.  The land spirits, and our guests, all adored the drumming.  We are so thankful to have you!  Michael occasionally facilitates drum circles in Wake Forest and hosts workshops down at the Fellowship of the Oak in Raleigh, so be sure to check out our events calendar and Facebook posts for announcements! 
 
Our New Friends!
 
Thanks to all who reached out to us, before, during, and after the event.  We loved connecting with you, and please know that communication with us is always, always welcome!  When we are hosting events we don’t always have a chance to sit down and chat, so thank you for your patience with us and please don’t hesitate to email us at any time!  TriangleAreaPagans@gmail.com
 
The Swamp Fairy!
 
Thanks to Lacey who helped direct traffic!  We were humbled by the amount of folks who came, and you were such a big help with parking! 
 
The Raffle
 
Thank you A, GC, TAPA, H, A, WotF, N, T, MN, HF, L&L, BJ, FotO, CUUPS, K, SGbK, V, IMH, SM, B, M, B, FCA, MwM, and J! 
 
People had so much fun bidding on your donations, and your generosity and talents made a huge difference.  We can’t thank you enough!
 
Various items from Gaia’s Circle

• Handcrafted incense, oils, and other fun items

www.facebook.com/gaias.circle
GaiaCircle@gmail.com
 
Gift Certificate from Starrlight Mead

• Mead tasting and souvenir glass for up to four people

http://starrlightmead.com/
http://www.facebook.com/starrlightmead
 
Magical Necklaces from Spirit Gifts by Kate

• handcrafted

www.facebook.com/Kingdom-Spirit-Gifts-by-Kate-290404931300980
www.latachesalon.com/
www.facebook.com/LaTacheSalon
 
Books from Making Magick

• personalized giftware and crafts
• As seen at Pagan Pride Day

www.makingmagick.com
tony@makingmagick.com
www.whispersoftheforest.com
 
Floral Crowns and a tarot deck from a BJ, facilitator of the Fellowship of the Oak

• CUUPS group in Raleigh – Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans

www.facebook.com/groups/uufrfotocuups
www.uufr.org/
www.cuups.org/
 
Gift certificate from In Mind Healing

• One free hypnotherapy session or past life regression

inmindhealing.com
virignia@inmindhealing.com
919-590-9663
 
Vintage Halloween decorations from Full Circle Antiques

• As seen as Pagan Pride Day
• Carries really great Pagan and witchy antiques, vintage items, retro flair, collectibles
• Looking for a specific piece?  Let them know and they will help you find it!

www.facebook.com/FullCircleAntiquesCollectibles/
 
Handcrafted Tarot Wrap from Made With Majick

• Handmade, custom design, local artist
• Artist will custom make wraps – color, size, shape, material, etc
• As seen at PPD

www.facebook.com/Made-with-Majick-1527347244160554

Check out the Facebook event here!:
https://www.facebook.com/events/210906739301908/

Triangle Area Pagan Alliance is trying to raise money for our springtime event, the Fools and Fairies Springtime Soiree! Our ultimate goal is to raise enough money to begin the process towards non-profit status.  (springtime event listing here: https://www.facebook.com/events/809202992549869/ )

Saturday, October 15
7pm
Chapel Hill, NC (this is at a private residence - please message us for directions ASAP!)
tickets $10 (pay us in person prior to the event... pay us at the event... or send $10 via paypal to wordmorris@gmail.com)

NOTE - you do not have to be Pagan to attend this event! You just have to be friendly ;-)

What you can expect:
fires
dancing
live music
other entertainment
divination
shenanigans
drum circle
community altar
Pagan garb and costumes
raffle (we have lots of great items. Raffle tickets are $1 a piece)
snacks
fun!

Doors open at 7pm
Music begins at 730pm
fire performance (pending! we had a cancellation)
raffle
more live music
and finally, drumming the night away!

What to bring:
- cash for your armband
- cash to donate for divination
- cash for the raffle
- a chair or two or three to sit on
- drums for the drum circle (bring extras if you don't mind sharing so the whole group can enjoy!)
- items with which to decorate the community altar
- business cards/pamphlets/fliers for you, your group, or your business. Tell us all about you!
- wear a costume or Pagan/witchy garb if you are so inclined!
- bring your friends and family! The more the merrier - ALL are welcome!

Live music from local bands Enenra and Harlem Insect Laws!

https://soundcloud.com/enenra-1
https://soundcloud.com/harleminsectlaws
https://www.facebook.com/harleminsectlaws/

Please message us for any other questions!  We can't wait to see you, Under the Harvest Moon!

It’s Pagan Pride season! 

Saturday, September 17
Sunday, September 18
10am-6pm
NC State Fairgrounds Gate 5
974 Youth Center Dr
Raleigh, NC
 
We can't wait to see you again this year.  This is our third year hosting an information booth, and we are so excited to share with you all of the fun and exciting things TAPA has been working on this past year… and what we are looking forward to in future months!
 
Be sure to check out some of the great workshops that are being offered this year.
 
http://www.cncppd.org/attend/workshops
 
Our friend Michael is presenting a workshop on Saturday morning.  (Michael is also helping us out with the drum circle for our Harvest Moon fundraiser!)

Meditation and its Place in a Magical Practice
Saturday 11:30am
 
In this basic introduction to entering and beginning a meditation practice will also include instruction on how to build your personal inner temple in your specific magical practice. The purpose of the Inner Temple is to provide a sacred space within yourself to perform activities that then reverberate in the outside world. You'll participate in short guided meditation.

Heather, a member of the TAPA steering committee, is presenting a workshop on Polytheism.
 
What's So Hard About Polytheism?
Sunday 4:00pm
 
What is "hard" polytheism? When almost any Pagan 101 book will tell you that pagans are polytheists, why does there sometimes seem to be such a divide between self-described polytheists and the pagan community? Is there room under the Big Pagan Umbrella for all of us, or is the pagan community undergoing its first major theological divide? Come participate in a discussion about the intersection of theology and identity in our tradition(s) -- or just ask live polytheists what our deal is!
 
We’re still looking for volunteers to help out at our table, so if you have an hour or two to spare talking to folks and handing out fliers, please let us know!  You can sign up at the google doc here:
 
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1rjmz8Xqa20xacNa5FYeG_U3pcUp0Rba5BGw_mVuN0D8/edit#gid=0
 
Be sure to check out the PPD website for more information on booths, groups, vendors, workshops, entertainment and more!
 
http://www.cncppd.org/
 
See you there!

Another August, another summer, and another exciting autumnal season draws so near!  As our lives begin to escalate with one last beach trip, one last dance party, one last ritual before school, work, conferences, and festivals, it’s hard to keep track of everything that’s going on in our bustling, blessed community!  So here are some little bites: a quick list of some community news:

Beth Owl’s Daughter, local mistress of the tarot and metaphysical mastermind, was recently diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.  People from all over the community are coming together to help her and her family out in ways they can.  Be sure to check out Beth’s website, as well as a GoFundMe, to find out more information and ways you can show your appreciation for Beth Owl’s Daughter’s many, many years of community work. 

https://www.gofundme.com/bethowlsdaughter

http://www.owlsdaughter.com/

http://www.meetup.com/triangletarot/
 
One of Durham’s resident witches, Lynn Swain, has opened up a metaphysical shop on 9th street.  Her opening night was on the August full moon, and she’s excited to offer monthly full moon rituals and workshops.  Stay tuned for exciting announcements about Durham’s own A Unique Shoppe!
 
https://www.facebook.com/AUniqueShoppe7
 
http://www.magikcraft.com/
 
Our friend Philip just launched an IndieGoGo campaign to fund his awesome tarot deck!  You might know Philip from our monthly meet-and-greets over at our favorite place in Durham,  the tarot bar called Arcana.  Durham has read for us many times at our meet-and-greets and other fun and esoteric events. 
 
“The Tarot of the Human Experience uses modern black and white photography to capture archetypal situations that are common to our human experience.  This deck is a modern conceptualization centered on the core elements of classic tarot design: 22 major themes of human life (e.g., The Fool’s Journey), 4 suits related to the 4 elements, and 16 aspects of personality found in the court cards of the minor arcana).”
 
Be sure to check out Philip’s IndieGoGo campaign and get yourself this great deck, and come get a reading with him at one of our meet-and-greets, the first Wednesday of every month!
 
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/tarot-of-the-human-experience-games-art#/
 
https://www.facebook.com/blackunykornastrology/

http://www.blackunykorn.com/
 
http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/upcoming-tapa-events.html
 
Did you know that Wednesday August 17 was "Black Cat Appreciation Day"?  Recently we were sent this message:
 
“Hi, I foster cats for the Wake County Animal Center. I thought your members might like to know that there are a lot of black cats and kittens that are at the shelter or in foster homes.”
 
If your household isn’t already at pet capacity, please consider a black cat as your new best friend!
 
https://pets.wakegov.com/gallery
 
It’s the season for Pagan Pride!  Our friends down in Raleigh are incredibly busy preparing for this year’s Pagan Pride Festival.  They are currently looking for volunteers, so if you’ve enjoyed PPD in the past, please consider showing your appreciation by donating some of your time!  (or, if you are a local business person, please consider donating either to their Red Cross gift bags or to the raffle.)  There are lots of ways to help out, so just reach out and ask!
 
http://www.cncppd.org/
 
TAPA is happy to be hosting a table at Pagan Pride Day for the third year in a row.  Our first year we facilitated an afternoon ritual, our second year was filled with workshops and new friends, and this year we are excited for new adventures!  We’re looking for help at our table, so if you like TAPA and you like meeting new people, please consider signing up for a shift (or two!) to help out at our table.  Every little bit helps!  (And it gives the steering committee a chance for a potty break!)
 
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1rjmz8Xqa20xacNa5FYeG_U3pcUp0Rba5BGw_mVuN0D8/edit#gid=0
 
This is our BIG EVENT of the season! 
 
Our first fundraising event, Under the Harvest Moon, will take place on Saturday, October 15 at 7pm in Chapel Hill.  We are going to have a raffle, TWO fires, a fire performer, snacks, a community altar, an opportunity to share fliers and business cards, two live bands, donation-based divination, and at the end of the night, a drum circle and dancing!  Admission for Under the Harvest Moon will be $10 per person.  We are SO excited for the opportunity to gather with our friends and family for a fun, casual, evening of Pagan shenanigans!  This event is in preparation for a larger event in April, the “Fools and Fairies Springtime Soiree”.  The Soiree will be on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Arcana in Durham.  After these two events we hope to raise enough money to begin the process to attain non-profit status.  (Wohoo!)
 
How can you help us?  Here is a list of requests/suggestions:
 
- Please come to our party!  We want to hang out with you!
- We are accepting donations for a raffle to be held during the party.
- We are looking for people to help set up before the event on Saturday, as well as people to help clean up late on Saturday evening or Sunday the next day.
- We are looking for designated people to help tend the fires during the event (gathering wood, poking it, making sure my yard doesn’t burn down, etc.)
- We don’t want to make the party an official potluck, but we would very much appreciate anyone who brought snacks or drinks to share with the group.  This will cut down on our overall expenses immensely. 
- We are looking for people who are skilled in divination to donate their time and talents for an hour or so at the party (we want to schedule shifts.)  This can be anything – intuitive readings, tarot, runes, etc. 
- We are looking for extra tables and folding/camping chairs.  (right now we have one table and one camping chair… so anything helps!)
- We want this to be a good networking opportunity, so please bring your fliers and business cards for yourself, your business, your blog, your events, etc!  The Triangle area is full of awesome people doing awesome things – this is your chance to show off!
- Bring yourself, your friends, your family, your frenemies, your circle, your coven, your grove, etc!  We want a lot of people – the more the merrier!
- We have a volunteer who is facilitating a drum circle, and he has requested that people who are able bring a drum or noisemaker for themselves, as well as any extra drums or noisemakers they feel comfortable sharing with the group.  We’re gonna make some noise!
- You are invited to bring items with which to decorate our community altar.  We’re Pagans, after all, and we love creating sacred space and beautiful altars!
- Most of all, we are asking people to share this event far and wide!  Share it with your friends, your family, your social group, your religious group and circle, your favorite Facebook groups and pages, yahoo group, etc.  We want this to be a huge event, with lots of fun and happy folks.  We want to have a great party, and we want this to be a chance for community connections and fun.  We can’t possibly do this without you and your help!
 
Finally, please let us know what we can do to help you!  TAPA’s goal for the year is to expand out and help other groups.  Please let us know if you want us to attend your event, post it on our website, post it on Facebook, etc.  Do you need someone to help set-up, clean up, hold a candle, read a script, drum a beat?  Please let us know what we can do to help you, no matter how big or how small!  TAPA is literally, absolutely nothing without you, so as you help us, let us know how we can help you!
 
Thank you so much for your friendship, your love, and your support.  TAPA wouldn’t be where it is without you, and we’re so humbled and excited for the possibilities ahead.  We look forward to seeing you at the Harvest Moon party, or hopefully sooner!
 
Link to the Harvest Moon Facebook event:
http://www.facebook.com/events/210906739301908/
 
Link to the 2017 Fairy Ball:
http://www.facebook.com/events/809202992549869/
 
Before you go, here are some more upcoming TAPA events.  As always, you can check out TAPA events at this link http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/upcoming-tapa-events.html and community events at this link!  http://triangleareapaganalliance.weebly.com/community-events.html
 
Sunday September 4, time TBD
3rd Annual World Goddess Day
sponsored by TAPA, facilitated by Gaia’s Circle
West Point on the Eno, Durham
https://www.facebook.com/events/1659508014330479/
 
Wednesday September 7, 7pm
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
meet-and-greet
Arcana, Durham
http://www.facebook.com/events/259236304464584/
 
Saturday September 10, 5pm
Gaia’s Circle
Autumnal Equinox/Mabon – Goddess Alive!
Madron, Welsh Mother Goddess of Mystery
Chapel Hill
http://www.facebook.com/events/477474802462335/
 
Saturday September 17 and Sunday September 18
Pagan Pride Day 2016
Volunteers needed!
Raleigh
http://www.facebook.com/events/1527645780878602/

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1rjmz8Xqa20xacNa5FYeG_U3pcUp0Rba5BGw_mVuN0D8/edit#gid=0
 
Wednesday, October 5, 7pm
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
meet-and-greet
Arcana, Durham
http://www.facebook.com/events/1063619980377376/
 
Saturday, October 15, 7pm
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
Under the Harvest Moon - Fundraiser party
Chapel Hill
http://www.facebook.com/events/210906739301908/

After an incredibly busy and fun-filled summer solstice, the wheel of the year continues to turn and we shift into the latter half of summer.  July is packed with rituals and other gatherings, while August is quickly filling up.  Here is a list of upcoming TAPA and TAPA-sponsored events, so before your social calendar fills up be sure to mark us down!  We have some really unique offerings coming up, so as always, please message us if you have any questions!

 
Monday July 4, gather 11:15am, ritual at 11:30am
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
4th Annual 4th of July Ritual
Twin Lakes Park, Durham
http://www.facebook.com/events/1683739995176880/
 
Wednesday, July 6, 7pm
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
meet-and-greet
Arcana, Durham
http://www.facebook.com/events/527774510744834/
 
Saturday, July 9, 3:30pm gather, ritual at 4pm
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
Brighid’s Cloak: Ritual for Solidarity & Hope
LGBTQ Center of Durham
http://www.facebook.com/events/1058988060851035/
 
Saturday, July 23, time TBD
Bull Moon Hearth and Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
Neptunalia
Jordan Lake, Durham
http://www.facebook.com/events/281987705486766/
 
Wednesday, August 3, 7pm
Triangle Area Pagan Alliance
meet-and-greet
Arcana, Durham
http://www.facebook.com/events/1106119429455050/
 
Saturday, August 6, 5pm
Gaia’s Circle
Lammas/Lughnasadh - Goddess Alive!
Danu, Irish Mother Goddess of Wisdom
Chapel Hill
http://www.facebook.com/events/1706676322915113/
 
Saturday, August 20
Clan of the Wildlings
Frame Drum Birthing workshop
Raleigh
http://www.facebook.com/events/1774408792791539/
 
Interested in more community connections and events?  Be sure to check out our sponsors, Central North Carolina Witches and Pagans!
 
http://www.meetup.com/cncWPgroup/