Biographies

Myra Smith is the owner of The Laughing Flower Labyrinth & Landscape Co. and has over 10 years experience in nonprofit management, strategic fundraising and grantwriting. A Veriditas-trained labyrinth facilitator and builder, Myra has a BA in Philosophy from the University of the South in Sewanee, TN, a Leadership in Business Certificate from WWU, and Certificates in Strategic Fundraising and Grantsmanship from The Grantsmanship Center. "I am excited and humbled to have the opportunity to be a part of bringing this transformative peace and community-building tool to a park in Bellingham."

Samantha DeSoer graduated with a BA in English and Communications from University of Alaska Southeast-Juneau and works in Admissions at Western Washington University. "Growing up in the interior of Alaska has taught me the importance of giving back to the community in which you live. We citizens and neighbors are responsible for creating a desirable and positive environment in which to thrive. I have had amazing experiences throughout my life with outdoor labyrinths and was astonished to learn that Bellingham was lacking in a permanent, outdoor labyrinth. I look forward to creating a positive contribution to the City of Subdued Excitement."

Chuck Nafziger is a retired mechanical engineer. "I live on four acres in rural Alger, and devote my time to art, gardening and nature study. Before retirement, I lived in Seattle and was active with the Fremont Arts Council doing public art, and Groundswell NW creating parks in the Ballard neighborhood. I contributed wrought iron hand rails and gates for several of the parks and made a sundial for one. About a year ago, some friends established a labyrinth in one of my meadows. I have found walking the labyrinth to be a structured path to meditation and relaxation; and in group settings, it is a natural community builder. I am convinced that labyrinths in public areas would be put to good use and our society would benefit from that use."

Kathy Harris, a certified nutritional therapist, also manages a chiropractic office. "I joined the group to help manifest an outdoor public Labyrinth. I have witnessed the public's need for a sacred space. I help with the annual Labyrinth at the Leopold ballroom on New Year's Day; the response is positive, and more people each year look forward to this annual tradition. I find walking a sacred pattern can be a way of healing and renewing the spirit no matter what your belief is. I feel it is our obligation as labyrinth lovers to share this experience with all."

Karen McMains is retired from Admissions at Western Washington University and volunteers for Whatcom Land Trust, Conservation Northwest, and Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association. "Five years ago, knowing nothing about labyrinths, I wandered into Grace Cathedral in San Francisco and discovered their labyrinth. The next hour spent walking the classic Chartres Cathedral pattern transformed me. I wish everyone to have access to this experience, which can be as simple or profound as desired. My dream is to become a labyrinth facilitator someday soon."

David Marshak is an educator and author. He is a professor emeritus in the College of Education at Seattle University and an adjunct lecturer in the Woodring College of Education at Western Washington University. "I've
had wonderful experiences with a variety of labyrinths over the years, so I believe a pernament, outdoor labyrinth in Bellingham will become a valuable addition to the community."