Esalen Institute in Big Sur, CA has begun construction of their Lodge Renovation and Expansion project, which is the first piece of their multi-year Renewal efforts. The Ground Honoring Ceremony, held on March 15, featured speakers from the Four Winds Council, of which Esalen is a party, including an opening blessing by Tom "Little Bear" Nason, who summoned whales to join in the celebration (and join they did, with spouts and flukes!). Many long-time Esalen friends and partners were present, including Michael Murphy and many members of his esteemed family. Esalen CEO Tricia McEntee included in her remarks that, "… hiring Arkin Tilt Architects was the best decision I made." David and Anni were humbled by her words, and enjoyed the festivities along with Kevin Donahue of KDSE and his wife Chris and daughter Maddy, and also Brent Bucknam, Bobby Glass and Eric Olsen of Hyphae Design Lab. Unfortunately Project Manager Tom Beil, Christina Reiling of ATA or Anthony Dente of KDSE were able to attend. In addition to observing construction our team is now busy at work on a 6-unit Guest Lodging project on the North side of the main campus, and also the first phase of the 72-bed rebuilding of Staff Housing at Esalen's South Coast site. Learn more about the whole Esalen Renewal Initiative on their website.