I went to the Peacemaker's Sanctuary today expecting to see high water and the legs of the benches several inches deep in water. Last year was a wet year, not only in spring, but for most to the year. Tim Hart moved the benches to higher ground close to the the main path and tied them to trees lest they be swept away.
Thursday, May 5, 2022
Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
Monday, February 7, 2022
NY State Residents Please Contact the DEC About Onondaga Lake
Friends,
I got the following from Friends of The Onondaga Nation requesting NYS residents contact the DEC asking that Onondaga Lake not be removed from the list of polluted lakes.
Onondaga Lake is sacred to the Haudenosaunee (Iroqois) and where the Tree of Peace was planted and the Great Law was given to the people--American Democracy is modeled after the Great Lake.
Thanks,
madis
If you are a New York State resident,
we need you to contact the NYS Department of
Environmental Conservation!
The deadline is February 11th:
NYS DEC has released their 2020-2022 List of Impaired Waters (water bodies damaged by human activity). The details of the changes are complicated and throw out analysis using fish tissue sampling, with no further data to support the decision to remove nearly twenty percent (20%) of polluted water bodies from this list. This includes Onondaga Lake- a closed industrial landfill- which should continue to be listed for dangerous levels of mercury, PC’S, and dioxins present in the Onondaga Lake ecosystem.
In your email or letter, request a public comment period extension to March 1st, 2022.
Include your reasons, which might be:
-Not enough notice for informed public input.
-DEC has given no explanation for the “flaws in the analysis” that are being used as the reason for removing these damaged water bodies from their 2020-2022 List of Impaired Waters.
-Covid complications and the precautions necessary regarding the omicron variant increase the time necessary for collaboration with diverse communities to provide helpful comments.
-Onondaga Lake is sacred to the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Onondaga.
-DEC did not consult with the Onondaga Nation: DEC has an obligation to consult with the Nation regarding Onondaga Lake, among other water bodies on their traditional territory.
At the end of your message, please request that DEC avoid confusing the public and keep these water bodies on their 2020-2022 List until they have further data to support their safe removal.
Contact information:
By email- Bureau of Water Assessment and Management: 4pwlinfo@dec.ny.gov
Or by mail- ATTN: Water Assessment and Implementation Section NYSDEC, Bureau of Water Assessment and Management, 625 Broadway, 4th Floor, Albany, NY 12233-3502
Please note- Use the subject line “Public Comment on the Draft
2020-2022 List”.
You can also contact:
Onondaga County Health Department- ongovhealth@ongov.net
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 2 Administrator Lisa Garcia- garcia.lisa@epa.gov
City of Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh- Mayor@SyrGov.net
City of Syracuse Common Council President Helen Hudson- hhudson@syrgov.net
*Share your concerns regarding the timely for mercury, PCB’S, and dioxins and the potential negative impact on human health.*
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Sacred Sites Update--Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
Tim Hart and I returned to the Peacemakers Sanctuary at Onondaga Lake and moved the benches to make them accessible for people to sit on. As I noted in my previous post high water forced us to move the benches to prevent them from washing away.Sacred Sites Update--Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
The water was still a little high so we did not put the far bench back to its original location. USGS 04240495 ONONDAGA LAKE AT LIVERPOOL NY WATER LEVE
The pictures below show the new setting. Both benches still have Energy Vortices attached to them. There are also other divine features close to the benches.
We think we will not move the far bench back until next spring. We are going to leave ropes attached to the benches just in case the water rises again. The ropes should not have any affect on the quality of sitting down.
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Sacred Sites Update--Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
The deluge of rain last week overwhelmed Central New York's lakes, rivers and streams, including Onondaga Lake and the Peacemaker's Sanctuary The water level of the lake was as high as I have ever seen it. USGS 04240495 ONONDAGA LAKE AT LIVERPOOL NY WATER LEVEL.
Fortunately last Thursday I hd enough sense to go to the lake and check on the benches. The seat of the far bench was covered with water and although its legs are heavy metal it was beginning to float.
The water had not rise enough to cover the closer bench.
Saturday, June 20, 2020
Sacred Sites Update--Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake--A Thin Veil
A thin veil is not a portal; as we see in the Outlander TV series or with science fiction shows. Rather, a Thin Veil is a co-creation between Mother Earth and humankind. A thinning of the veil occurs well after other co-creations such as a water dome (blind spring) or Natural Vortex (Energy Vortex) have already formed. In other words, it is a barometer, or testament that an area is truly sacred and of a very high order. Like high school compared to grammar school.
Ten to twelve years ago I was all hot to find thin veils, or what I called a "Chimayo Fatima" after two famous sites. I was constantly scouring the woods looking for them.
I had not previously dowsed for a thin veil at the Peacemaker's Sanctuary. Yesterday we were there cleaning up--cutting down reeds, moving tree limbs....when I felt a compunction to dowse for a thin veil.
We also worked at fortifying the area. One bench still had an energy vortex on it while the other closest to the trail had the one on it extinguished. We were able to rectify the latter and fortify the former. So both benches have energy vortices on them, that provide for a powerfull meditative experience.
Directions for the Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
Below are some pictures.
| Our friend the beaver has been hard at work. |
Sunday, December 8, 2019
Sacred Site Update--Peacemaker's Sanctuary, Onondaga Lake
Both energy vortices attached to the benches were still intact. The vibe of the space was still very positive to extremely positive.
I encourage everyone to visit this divine place. Winter provides quiet and solitude. Click on the right or below for directions,
Directions for the Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
Below are a few pictures.
Blessings,
madis
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
Thanksgiving Circle, 10AM Onondaga Lake
All are welcome for a brief gathering to appreciate the environment and our friendships working together. Neighbors of the Onondaga Nation, Onondaga people, and allies will gather to express thanks for the goodness of the Earth and to each other for our ongoing friendship, as we work side-by-side in peace and hope for healing, justice and environmental restoration. Everyone welcome, dress for the weather, light refreshments.
Dress Warmly, bundle up with layers.
See you there.
Willow Bay is located on Long Branch Road in Onondaga Lake Park.
NOON is the Neighbors of the Onondaga Nation
Life in the Finger Lakes--A Thanksgiving Tradition
Sunday, August 4, 2019
Prayer Vigil, Monday August 5, 6 PM Peacemaker's Sanctuary, Onondaga Lake
Monday (8/5), 6 PM
Friends,
Tragedy has sadly come to our country and community again, with the mass shootings in El Paso, Texas; and Dayton, Ohio. We felt it important to gather and pray for those lost and to pray for peace.
We will be gathering a the Peacemaker's Sanctuary at Onondaga lake where we have gathered before. We hope that the great peace that was once born on the shores of this holy lake will return.
Our service will be led by David Pasinski who has provided solace to many grieving with his work as a chaplain. Joining him will be Ralph Singh who many may remember for the healing he brought to our community through his example of forgiving those that burned down his temple Gobind Sadan (Central Square, NY) in a hate crime in the aftermath of 9/11. He recently wrote an editorial about bringing peace to children through his advocacy work with Wisdom Thinkers to develop a more compassionate world.
We must vaccinate our children against hate (Commentary)
With many of us angry over having to gather again to mourn and pray for healing after a mass shooting, we hope that our community's sanctuary will bring you consolation. The Peacemaker's Sanctuary has comforted many of us in challenging times. May it do so for you tomorrow.
Blessings,
madis
BRING BUG SPRAY.
BRING A CHAIR IF YOU NEED TO SIT.
You can click on Directions for the Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake , or look below.
FOLLOW THE PINK TAPE ONCE YOU PARK YOUR CAR ON IONA AND CROSS THE RAILROAD TRACKS.
I-90 Thruway--Exit 39, Take 690 East
I-81--Take 690 West
From 690- Take exit 5 (Van Vleck-State Fair Blvd.) Turn left onto State Fair Blvd going towards Lakeland (turn right if you are coming from 690 East.) About a 1/2 mile down take a left onto Beach Str. (an Empower bank is on the right.) Continue till end, turn left and park car on Iona street.
Corner of Beach and Iona Streets in Lakeland Cross the RR tracks and walk over the foot bridge (over Rte 690) and take a left. From the foot bridge it is about 150-200 yards to the Sanctuary. The cinder path will connect with a paved path, bear left. About 120-200 feet on your right you will see a clearing with a bench and an overflow duct that gives the appearance of a stream. Total time 5 minutes from parking. Or take the long way, a 20-30 minute walk from parking lot for the John Haley Memorial trial- across from Long Branch Park.
Look for a bench that says "Peacemaker's Sanctuary."
Thursday, June 13, 2019
Sacred Sties Update--Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
Directions for the Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga...
Monday, November 19, 2018
A Thanksgiving Tradition
Holidays speak to tradition. Each year we go through a ritual of sorts where we perform the same acts and in doing so reinforce the spirit of the holiday. For thanksgiving it may be seeing old friends that have returned home to their families, or watching the Macy’s Day Parade, or Football; you know that the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys always play on Thanksgiving Day. And then of course there is the Thanksgiving feast.
Even our food speaks to Thanksgivings past. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberries…. When else do you eat cranberries?; it is so Thanksgiving.
One Thanksgiving tradition I have embraced in recent years is to join in the Thanksgiving Circle of Peace at shores of Onondaga Lake in Syracuse (Liverpool) in the morning. It is a community gathering where Native and non-Native people give thanks. All are welcome.
The Thanksgiving Circle of Peace is put on each year by the Neighbors of the Onondaga Nation (NOON.) NOON is a program of the Syracuse Peace Council. It looks to educate about the Onondaga Nation and the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) confederacy and all Native American people. NOON advocates for Onondagans and the Haudenosaunee and their causes such as environmental healing and a just resolution to their land claim among other things.
It can be cold and windy along the lakeshore; even snowy as it was in 2016. The Willow Bay of Onondaga Lake Park where the Thanksgiving Circle of Peace is held is at western end of the Lake, so the wind can be quite brisk. You may also be standing for an hour.
I always layer up and dress warmly.
But it is the location and the people that will warm your heart. Onondaga Lake is where the great Haudenosaunee prophet the Peacemaker planted the Tree of Peace and gave his people the Great Law of Peace. America’s Constitution and Bill of Rights are modeled after the Great Law of Peace, as Congress recognized in 1988 with its ‘Concurrent Resolution to Acknowledge the contribution of the Iroquois Confederacy of Nations to the development of the United States Constitution’ Which makes Onondaga Lake a one of a kind stage to celebrate this truly unique American holiday.
As for the people, NOON is a dedicated bunch that has been fiercely advocating for the Haudenosaunee for years. Who among us would not feel blessed to celebrate this American Holiday gifted to us by Native Americans with those that passionately advocate for them.
People start gathering before the circle begins forming at 10 AM; some with kids and dogs in tow. Someone from NOON will start the ceremony by giving their name and saying what they have been grateful for this past year. Then one by one people around the circle will give their name and their thanks. People are always late, so the circle is constantly opening up, expanding and embracing new members.
When everyone has given their thanks the circle dissolves. Many will stay afterwards for coffee and to chat. Everyone will go on with their day better for the sharing of thanks in the Spirit of Thanksgiving.
ALL ARE WELCOME
Where: Willow Bay Section of Onondaga Lake Park
When: 10 AM.
To Learn More: NOON
Friday, August 10, 2018
Co-creating with Mother Earth/Sacred Sites Update--A Vortex has formed at the Peacemaker's Sanctuary at Onondaga Lake
Meditating, praying or other positive acts are significantly improved when done within a vortex so I encourage you to visit and tap into its wonder and bounty.
Above is a picture of the bench. The Energy Vortex is located on the right side of the bench in the picture above and envelopes most of the bench. So sit on the right side, or Seneca River side.
Look for the words Peacemaker's Sanctuary on the name plate
I image that theEnergy Vortex formed during our Summer Solstice area as we ramped up the vibe. Originally a vortex had formed on the right hand side behind the bench; where the chair is in the previous picture.
Sunday, June 17, 2018
Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake Pictures of Visit with InterFaith Works
Here are some pictures I took of our visit.
I will post pictures of my visit to the King's Stone Chamber in California Hill NYS DEC Forest and other sacred areas and stone structures I saw when I was at the convention.
I hope to see you at the Peacemaker's Sanctuary for our Solstice Meditation this Thursday at 7PM. Directions
Blessings,
madis
Saturday, June 9, 2018
Solstice Meditation Peacemaker's Sanctuary 7PM Thursday June 21st
Onondaga Lake Pk, Lakeland (Syr.)NY
Join us for a group meditation to celebrate the summer solstice and the beginning of summer at the Peacemaker's Sanctuary at Onondaga Lake, one of the holiest places in the world. It was at Onondaga Lake that the great Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) prophet the Peacemaker planted Tree of Peace and gave us the Great Law of Peace upon which our country's democracy is founded on and which influenced the Women's movement.
Please bring a chair or cushion to sit on during the meditation. The two benches will be in use during the meditation. As with all outdoor activities we suggest you apply some insect repellent. It is always good to hydrate before a group meditation; so bring some water with you. Unfortunately, there are no restrooms close by. Directions are below
The Peacemaker's Sanctuary is a community gathering and healing space. We have held vigils there after national crisis's such as the Las Vegas shootings Vigil. We encourage you to visit by yourself.
I-90 Thruway--Exit 39, Take 690 East
I-81--Take 690 West
From 690- Take exit 5 (Van Vleck-State Fair Blvd.) Turn left onto State Fair Blvd going towards Lakeland (turn right if you are coming from 690 East.) About a 1/2 mile down take a left onto Beach Str. (an Empower bank is on the right.) Continue till end, turn left and park car on Iona street.
Corner of Beach and Iona Streets in Lakeland Cross the RR tracks and walk over the foot bridge and take a left. From the foot bridge it is about 150-200 yards to the Sanctuary. The cinder path will connect with a paved path, bear left. About a 100-200 feet on your right you will see a clearing with a bench and an overflow duct that gives the appearance of a stream. Total time 5 minutes from parking. Or take the long way, a 20-30 minute walk from parking lot for the John Haley Memorial trial- across from Long Branch Park.
Look for a bench that says "Peacemaker's Sanctuary."
END
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Thanksgiving Day Circle of Peace at Onondaga Lake
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Sacred Sites Update--Onondaga Lake; Sewage Pipe Bursts Again
This is not the first time that the pipe had burst.
It is tragic to think that one of the most sacred lakes in the world, where democracy was born and so much what we hold dear as well, is having sewage spew into it again.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Sacred Sites Update-- The Peacemaker's Sanctuary is Flooded
Unfortunately the Peacemaker's Sanctuary at Onondaga Lake is flooded. The 4 to 6 inches of rain in the last few weeks has pushed up water levels as the pics below show. You might want to wait a few weeks before visiting. However, the closest bench is not underwater. Directions for the Peacemaker's Sanctuary Onondaga Lake
The far bench on the stacked 12 Field of Consciousness in the distance above and below is under water.
You can still sit on the closest bench and take in a nice view and soak up some of Mother Earth.













