Dear Friends, The month of September is almost here. September 1 is Labor Day, and everyone working a weekly job appreciates this long week-end! September 7 is a Buddhist Festival honoring the renowned Japanese teacher Dogen as held at the Pine Mountain Buddhist Temple in Santa Paula, CA. September 22 is the Equinox, the first day of Autumn. It is also the first day of Rosh Hashanah, a special Jewish holiday that lasts 3 days. The mountain has been overrun with mice this year. Sigh. There have been a few of them at the Center and one got into Ruth's car, built a nest, and caused an engine fire (that happened in front of the house). All is repaired now and working fine.     CENTER ACTIVITIES   The Center hosts regular Meditations on Saturdays at 11:00 am as well as at other times. The Meditation Room is dedicated to peace as honored in all religions. Please call first if you would like to attend. The Center continues to pray for peace on earth and wellness for all living beings. Blankets and especially food are being collected now for the Center's annual food and blanket drive that takes place in November. There is a donation button on the website if you would like to contribute to the work of the Jizo Peace Center.     PINE MOUNTAIN MEDITATION CLUB The Pine Mountain Meditation Circle continues to meet every Monday at noon for an hour at the Clubhouse. All are welcome - donations accepted. September Meditation Leaders include: September 1 - Ratna (Ruth) September 8 - SunJay (Sarah Jane) September 15 - Izumi September 22 - Chris September 29 - Chika Below is a picture of the current meditation leaders: from left to right Izumi, Chika, SunJay, Simran, Chris, Ruth     ANANDA ASHRAMA Public services at the Temple and acreage in La Crescenta, CA regularly occur on Sunday mornings at 11:00 am and Thursday evenings at 7:00 pm. It is a beautiful retreat of over 100 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Preparations are underway, especially house cleaning, for the Goddess festivals beginning in early October.     The Jizo Peace Center wishes blessing and peace to all!