During Summer 2008, Rippleffect's Fort Lyon at Cow Island will be offering seven theme weekend retreats. These educational retreats focus on varied topics revolving around personal, social, and environmental health.

Thirty-five participants will have the opportunity to learn from nationally recognized and locally treasured artists, educators, and authors on Cow Island.

Sail out to Cow Island aboard a the Portland Schooner's historic wooden windjammer and leave your worries on the mainland. A weekend of educational excellence and a community of health and learning awaits and the opportunity for you to relax, reflect, and learn.

The 2008 Fort Lyon Adult Program calendar is as follows. Information will be added as it's available. Just click on a title below or to the left to learn more.

The Art of Healing JUNE 27-29

Explore health as a return to wholeness with 12 treasured healing practitioners from varied disciplines by gaining new tools, perspective, and practices. Discover your life-long power to heal your mind, body and spirit.

Shore Lines JULY 25-27

Participate in a guided retreat for writers of middle school age and young adult literature led by celebrated writers; David Elliot and Maria Testa, Candlewick Press publisher; Mary Lee Donovan, and book publicist; Kirsten Cappy and learn the secrets of how to turn words into a published book.

Moving Meditation AUGUST 8-10

Practice the marriage of yoga and meditation under the guidance of Vajra Yoga founder, Jill Satterfield; hailed as one of the four leading yoga and Buddhist teachers in the country by Shambhala Sun Magazine.

Breaking Bread AUGUST 15-17

Investigate the cultivation, creation, and culture of local food as you focus on hands-on workshops with nationally known chefs and local vendors and enjoy a keynote address by Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon, authors of Plenty and creators of the "100 Mile Diet".

Beyond Sustainability AUGUST 22-24

Engage with innovative thinkers and doers in the non-profit, public and private sectors who are moving beyond the buzzword of "sustainability" to debate the issues and brainstorm solutions or tactics toward stemming climate change that might be applicable in Maine.

Tidal Rhythms SEPTEMBER 26-28

Come for a weekend of high-energy drumming instruction focused on the djembe of West Africa studying with world renowned percussionists. Geared toward intermediate and advanced students.

Cow Bow Wow OCTOBER 3-5

Presented in partnership with Planet Dog, learn holistic approaches to canine-friend health, training, and care from respected veterinarians and trainers. From massage to homeopathy to clicker training, you and your favorite four-legged friend will have a ball!