Burning Man Tips's topics - tribe.net

I'm bringing a virgin...

2008-05-17T00:52:52Z

My new girlfriend, of course! Any advice? I've been 6 times myself, so I should be a pretty good tour guide. We're both in our 40's and mellow, so drama will be about as low as it can get.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 10 replies

Need your Feedback, please

2008-05-16T23:32:01Z

We are contributing "cool California" items to seven giftbaskets at a Midwest giant family reunion. If you've seen both, which is more representative of the Burning phenomenon ???

JOURNEY TO THE FLAMES
or
BEYOND BLACK ROCK

I sort of recall JTTF as more "ooh, ooh, shiny" and BBR as more "talking-heads documentary."
Please respond in the next few days as I must go on-line for ordering!!!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 5 replies

speeding tickets

2008-05-14T17:01:28Z

NV, & UT, & Illinois for those who are coming from the east coast have high fines.

additional states are mentioned in the Forbes website 10 states.

++

http://www.forbes.com/2007/12/18/highways-automobiles-virginia-biz-logistics-cx_tvr_1218speeding_print.html

Highways
The Most Expensive States For Speeding Tickets 2007
Tom Van Riper, 12.18.07, 2:29 PM ET

Taking a road trip home for the holidays this year? Be sure to go easy on the gas pedal, particularly if your travels take you up or down the East Coast.

According to stats from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the I-95 corridor between the southeast and New England includes five of the 10 U.S. states carrying the highest fines for speeding--Virginia, Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland and New Hampshire. All hit up speeders for a maximum of $500 or more for a first offense. Judges in Carolina and Georgia, not to mention 16 other states, have the discretion to add jail time.

In Pictures: Ten States With The Toughest Tickets

Tough for travelers? Sure. But nothing compared with what can happen to residents. Virginia, this year's lone newcomer to the list, instituted a $1,050 surcharge to state residents on top of its traditional $300 speeding fine in July. The law is designed to raise money for infrastructure projects throughout the state without raising taxes. Thankfully, the penalty only applies to locals.

Spearheading the new law was Virginia state legislator David Albo, whose law firm, Albo & Oblon, specializes in defending drivers against traffic violations. Critics have railed at Albo for what they see as an obvious conflict of interest, though he scoffs at the idea he's made any money from the legislation.

"Who's going to pay $1,500 to go to court with a lawyer for the non-guarantee of getting out of a $1,000 [or so] speeding fee?" he says. He points to stats from Virginia's Joint Legislative Audit Review Commission showing an 11% decrease in reckless driving arrests since the new law passed, while speeding tickets have dropped off slightly.

The national median for a first offender's top-end fine is $200, according to the NHTSA. And even states with lower standard fines sometimes have exceptions. Connecticut, for example, generally caps fines for first-time speeders at $50, though exceeding 70 miles per hour on a "multiple lane, limited access highway" will usually bring double or triple that amount. In Massachusetts, anyone caught going more than 10 miles per hour above the limit is socked for $10 for every additional mile, over and above the state's $50 minimum.

And be on the lookout in financially strapped rural areas and beach towns thick with tourists. Both are notorious for raising revenue by sticking lots of people with speeding tickets.

Getting stopped by a police officer for speeding doesn't necessarily mean you'll get written up. Those with the skill and know-how to talk or act their way out of a ticket have saved themselves a lot of money over the years. Rule No. 1, of course, is being polite to the officer. No need to antagonize someone who's in a position to set you back hundreds of dollars.

"The guy has a gun, badge, Billy club and a ticket book, so be nice to him," advises Alex Carrol, author of the book Beat the Cops, which offers tips on getting out of tickets. Others include little things like removing sunglasses, turning off the stereo and pulling over far enough so that the officer isn't practically standing in the passing traffic while he quizzes you at the driver's side window. A little consideration can go a long way.

Also, Carrol points out, don't ever volunteer information. Wait for the officer to tell you why he pulled you over. Launching into an immediate apology for speeding can bring an extra charge if the officer had initially stopped you for a faulty tail light.

How hard a speeding ticket hits you in the wallet can vary according to several factors, including how fast over the limit you were going, no matter where in the country you're caught. Is it your first offense, or are you a multiple offender? Half the states in the U.S. use a "points" system to measure drivers' moving violation history. Piling them up increases both fines and insurance rates. Also, were you caught zipping too fast through a school zone or construction area? If so, expect to pay as much as double the normal fine in some states, thanks in part to targeted efforts by the Governors Highway Safety Association.

"We're recommending enforcement in certain areas, like school zones and work zones. The idea is to go after the worst offenders first," says Jonathan Atkins, an Association spokesman.

Not surprisingly, young males are nabbed for speeding more than anyone else, NHTSA figures show, with 38% of men under 21 caught in the act last year. In fact, it's not until you reach the men's 35 to 44 age group that the number of speeding incidents comes in below that for 15- to 20-year-old women.

When it comes to trying to get out of a ticket, some people really know how to get creative. Carrol relays a story of a woman who carries a camera in her car, purely as a prop to show cops as she tells them she's rushing to the hospital to meet her pregnant sister, for whom she promised to take pictures during delivery. Then there's the guy who always drives around with a full water bottle. Anytime he's pulled over, he pours a little out onto his lap, and then tells the approaching officer he's been trying to rush home ahead of a bladder emergency.

"He always gets out of tickets," Carrol says.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 5 replies

Orgasmateria is recruiting for BM08!

2008-05-13T18:34:58Z

The Orgasmateria is recruiting for a big expansion this year, and we need a corps of dedicated Orgasmateers to make it all happen with a minimum of fuss.

We’re recruiting “shift chiefs” to manage the camp for three-hour blocks, and if we get enough people, nobody will have to be tied down (so to speak) at the camp for more than a few hours all week. Shift chiefs won’t have to do everything by themselves, of course, but they’ll be in charge of organizing volunteer assistants and making sure things are set up, run well, and cleaned up.

There are basically four types of shifts, with different sorts of activities depending on the time of day:

Morning Activity shift 10am-1pm: In the morning, we’ll be offering wake-up spankings (Coffee-n-Paddles), followed by the Naked Gun nude water-gun battle at high noon.
Shift Chief Responsibilities: prepare coffee, give spankings, send minions for ice, fill coolers with icewater for Naked Gun, make sure folks strip before filling their water-guns

Afternoon Workshop shift 2pm-5pm: the afternoon is reserved for workshops, most of which will be taught by “guest lecturers” so the shift chief’s main responsibility will be: making sure the space is clean and ready before folks arrive; crowd control when the space fills up; assisting the instructor if necessary; and helping to straighten up afterwards

Evening Mixer sift 5pm-8pm: In the evenings the Orgasmateria will host a number of themed mixers (Kinkurious, Skinsational, etc), the shift chief’s job will be to oversee set up, emcee any contests of games at the party, and makes sure any major party fouls are cleaned up afterwards.

Late Night Playtime Shift 10pm-1am: This year the Orgasmateria will be open for free-play at night, with various bondage gear, tickletoys, implements of discipline and vibrating thingamabobs available for use. The Shift chief will be in charge of controlling access (no tourists taking up space, etc); enforcing Orgasmateria etiquette/rules, helping guests who may be unfamiliar with our toys and making sure things get tossed in the appropriate bin when folks are done.

If any of these shifts sound like something you could handle, please volunteer with an email to orgasmateria@nyc.com, specifying whatever preferences you have for time of day and/or day of week. Note, that you don’t have to camp with Orgasmateria to be a shift chief or volunteer, but if you DO want to camp with us, let us know ASAP!

Viva la Orgasamateria!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Burning Man 2008 Rideshare Tribe

2008-05-11T21:18:45Z

http://tribes.tribe.net/bm2008rideshare

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

2008 Rideshare thread

2008-05-10T18:57:33Z

http://bm.tribe.net/thread/e21c7518-8e4a-4bc8-8715-56576bd22680

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

How to make a ventilated tent dust proof?

2008-05-09T20:39:55Z

We have an 8 person Coleman Rock Springs tent. It is fabulous....except the entire ceiling is made of mesh (for ventilation). Of course there is a rain fly to go over it, and this will be great for airing out in the hot Black Rock middays...but we are worried about dust getting in through the vents.

Any tips on providing more dust security? We thought of duct taping the rain fly to the tent but figure that the hot hot sun would melt it to the tent material.

Here's the link on the tent:
http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemancom/detail.asp?product_id=9277-174&categoryid=11020

Many Thanks,
Silas Knight

posted in Burning Man Tips - 31 replies

A few tips for tent comforts

2008-04-29T18:44:40Z

* KOOL TIE (see my photo - that blue thing on my neck) I got mine at REI for @10.00. I worked before and after BM, and it saved my sanity by keeping me from overheating.
* Plastic drawer bins: Best stackable solution. Easy to see, access and sort. Place under a table to minimize dust. All items in drawers were zipped.
* King-sized sheet to cover bed and pillows and protect from dust. Don't sleep under it, just cover when you aren't in bed.
* Folding table.
* Cheap dressing mirror.
* Collapsible clothing rack.
* Large funnel: Made from a plastic milk jug and protected from dust. This will come in handy when filling containers and camelbacks. It was used by friends and myself since my water was carried in...
* 5-gallon buckets with lids: I could stack heavy items on the full containers (actually filled to 4 gallons each) when traveling in van. This is how I brought my water that I donated for the camp dishwashing and how I washed my hair and body in the tent. When the container is empty, it makes a great hamper and/or covered trash can. They stack within themselves. For hair washing, I just dunked my head in and swirled my hair in 3 inches of water. A camp mate liked the idea and borrowed my bucket for her hair washing.
* Pump garden sprayer: Great cooling mist outside. Great for showering/rinsing in tent.
* Bathtub: I found a large plastic bin that I filled with dry goods to travel, then emptied in tent. On days when I needed to bathe and there was a dust storm outside - no problem! Stand or sit in bin and use garden sprayer.
* Extra dozen rebar: someone will not have enough.
* Foil: Cover your car windows on the inside with foil. This will keep it cool inside. After the huge "Wednesday dust-devil" that whipped through our camp last year, my tent was too dusty to sleep in - I slept in the van and was grateful for blacked-out windows.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 45 replies

Gifting ideas..

2008-04-28T19:52:22Z

So I have heard the standards for gifting:
- Take poloriod shots of people and give them the picture
- Misters
- Glow braclets and neckalces
- Share a meal
- Buttons with your theme camp

But what I am looking for is something new, interesting, useful, fun, easy to tote around and have on hand to give...

What have you gifted that worked well?

posted in Burning Man Tips - 52 replies

purchasing old trucks/vans

2008-04-27T00:37:35Z

anyone have any good resources for buying an old/used van, truck, ice cream truck, mail truck... to convert into an art car?

posted in Burning Man Tips - 3 replies

Food

2008-04-22T22:09:16Z

Good tips on food in this thread.

http://tribes.tribe.net/08bmvirgins/thread/37d3ac5f-4e63-47b9-aba4-ea6dd4906a19

posted in Burning Man Tips - 5 replies

Flying versus driving?

2008-04-22T02:51:00Z

Anyone care to share the good and bad parts about flying versus driving in, specifically for someone from pretty far away, like South Florida?

posted in Burning Man Tips - 8 replies

Under Age Drinking----Dear Bars on the Playa,

2008-03-20T22:20:50Z

Under Age Drinking
Dear Bars on the Playa,

Well, it is always something. Please take note. This year we have
been informed that local law enforcement would like to see us address
the issue of under age drinking. Though we, the organization, are
not offering alcohol to anyone and are not responsible for your bars,
there are possible consequences for you and us if we did not address
this issue. So, I am sending out this letter to make sure you are
fully informed.

We do not believe that there are any rampant problems with underage
drinking at our event that would merit investigation. Consequently,
we expect that law enforcement will act the same this year as they
have in the past. However, you should be aware of Nevada laws on
under age drinking. Here are some useful facts:

- It is a misdemeanor to serve alcoholic beverages to anyone under 21
years old in Nevada. The law still applies if the alcohol is gifted
as opposed to sold. Theme camps are considered public space and
subject to enforcement of this law. (NRS 202.055)

In 2001 the Nevada State Supreme Court limited the application of NRS
202.055 to only servers who had actual or constructive knowledge that
the person seeking the alcohol was under 21. This means that you
must card someone who looks underage. Conversely, if someone looks of
age you are not required to card him or her.

- It is a misdemeanor for a minor to consume or possess an alcoholic
beverage in a public space (e.g., theme camps, open playa, center
camp, etc. (NRS 202.020)

- It is a misdemeanor to a minor to pass him or herself off as being
of age. (NRS 202.040)

- Misdemeanors carry the following penalties: Up to 6 months in
county jail, and/or a fine up to $1,000. Alternatively, community
service may be sentenced in lieu of, or in conjunction with jail time
and fines. (NRS 176.087)

- If a minor loiters in a place where alcoholic beverages are
consumed (besides a food establishment) then the minor could receive
a fine up to $500. (NRS 202.030) Also, if the person in charge of
the "tavern" allows the minor to loiter then he or she could be fined
up to $500 also. (NRS 202.060)

- Enforcement of the laws is either done by carding the person
outright, or through undercover sting operations.

None of this is new and not terribly different from most other state
laws. It could be worse in other states! No need for alarm. This
letter is merely for information.

Our recommendations -

1. Use good common sense when serving alcohol.
2. Understand your prerogative to serve someone and carefully
consider your options with people who look less than 21.
3. Have an extra person from your camp present while serving alcohol
to act as a witnesses, just in case.
4. Don't get minors drunk. That just isn't cool.

It is worth noting that federal and local law enforcement priorities
differ on this issue. If you find yourself in an unfortunate
encounter please get a badge number and note what agency you are
dealing with. It might come in handy.

Thanks for your time,

Harley

--
Harley K. DuBois
Black Rock City LLC
Community Services and Playa Safety
415 865-3800, ext 103

posted in Burning Man Tips - 10 replies

Soda Keg Cocktails

2008-03-07T07:17:19Z

At pretty much any brew store you can get a 5 gallon soda keg and a CO2 setup to pressurize it for a total of ~$80. It's very convenient to mix up about 5 gallons of your favorite cocktail, put it in the keg, and drop 20 psi of pressure on it. Then anytime you want, you just push the tap and there you go.
My trike will have a couple on the back this year, 1 cosmo and 1 pomegranate mojito, so if you see Elmo's pedaling along, give a shout and have a drink.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Traveling to BRC

2008-03-03T15:09:28Z

Hello Friends. I seek advice on getting to and from BM from a somewhat farther distance away in the country (Midwest) with my sweetie. This will be our first year attending, so I have no idea what 'avenue' to take in making the journey. I don't think driving is an option b/c we do not have enough time off from work for a week-and-a-half long trip (if we want to keep our jobs and make rent). But I don't think I can miss the Man this year (I'm selfish and self-indulgent, I know). I know nothing about finding plane tickets to Reno (where are the best places to look for reasonably priced tickets?), or renting a car when we get there (same applies)...I'm thinking perhaps I could find a ride to the Man once we make it to Reno, but if my time is restricted I might not be able to get back to Reno in time for a flight out unless I drive myself/rent a car..yes? Any advice, tips, experiences, stories, thoughts, etc..? anyone would like to share would be most appreciated! The only other way we'll make it in attendance is if we can do this the most inexpensive way possible. BRC and Burning Man is all I can think about these days!! Is it better to make travel arrangements as far as possible in advance for the best deals?! Help! Thanks for listening y'all and have a wonderful day/night/week! Much love and many blessings to each of you. Namaste. ~Nicki

posted in Burning Man Tips - 44 replies

Playa Princess Tips

2008-02-25T18:23:25Z

http://tribes.tribe.net/08bmvirgins/thread/7773c117-3765-40d8-a49d-3ae00c534aec

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

First trip to BM (2008)

2008-02-23T01:10:19Z

After talking to several people and a couple of BM Rangers (or Ranger volunteers) I am finally going to go to BM 2008. I haven’t gone before due to medical condition.

Here’s my question. When I buy my BM tickets, is it possible to request a space near one of the medical tents (not center camp – never quiet from what I hear).

posted in Burning Man Tips - 28 replies

The Joys of Customs (Canada and US)

2008-01-12T20:48:55Z

Hey all... just a small tip... if you're taking anything of value or PERCEIVED value across the border, make sure you have a certificate of origin or receipt for it when you come back... we came back with some art that was displayed on the playa, and customs was trying to assess it for taxes... they wanted us to pay gst on the PERCEIVED value.... I learned quite a bit, but in the end they just gave up and let us through, but that was only because I was totally honest with them.... its scary folks!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 8 replies

No Tickets Sold at Gate this Year

2008-01-10T19:44:42Z

New for 2008: There will be NO ticket sales at the event gate! You must purchase your tickets before arriving. SRSLY folks. NO GATE SALES.

http://tickets.burningman.com/

the people trying to sell their tickets or buy them (outside gate and in Gerlach) were hilarious...

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

My minimalist packing list

2007-12-29T00:56:27Z

I wrote this for the Playa Virgins tribe, but I thought it would be fun to post here. I'd love to see other people's lists, too!

>>

If you're freekin out over "all the stuff I have to get", remember that the essentials arent that long a list.

Everybody has their own list. Here's mine. If you have all this, you'll survive your week in the desert with some comfort. There are plenty of other things you might want, but if you skip any of these you'll be roughing it. (For example, Marines and 18 year old guys might be able to sleep on the hard ground without a mattress pad, but most of us will sleep better with something to insulate us from the cold, or hot, ground).

Here's my personal "essentials" list:
ticket
water - 1.5 Gallons/person/day (www.burningman.com/preparat...ter.html)
something to sleep under: tent w/ extra stakes (or rebar), or could be your vehicle
something to sleep in: sleeping bag or really warm blankets
something to sleep on: air mattress, foam pad,
something to cook on: minimal stove (coleman, sterno, MSR, whatever)
something to cook in: one cookpot per person
lighter or matches (for stove)
ticket
something to eat with: one bowl, spoon and fork per person (bowl can be a tupperware type container)
something to drink with: cup
something to cut with: knife (pocket knife with bottle opener and can opener can be very handy)
something to eat: food, including some bars (cliffbar, powerbar, lunabar, whatever)
hat for sun protection
sunscreen
lip balm
ticket
sunglasses
one set of really warm clothes for cold nights (such as thermals and coat and hat)
lighting - headlamp (easier to use than flashlight)
dust protection for breathing (dust mask, bandanas)
extra bandanas (washcloth, towel, 1001 uses)
soap (I like Dr Bronners)
comfy shoes/boots for lots of walking and dancing on hard dirt
extra socks
water bottle or hydration bladder
ticket

essential luxuries:
ice chest (a good one can double as chair or table)
small daypack
beer, juice, drink mixes
toothbrush
tarp and thin rope (to protect from sudden rainstorm, cover things in sandstorms, or use to cook or bathe on, so you're not on dirt)

really nice to have:
chair (its nice go get your ass off the ground for a while in the middle of the day)

useful tip:
I like to pack my stuff in big plastic bins (I use the "Roughneck" brand ones, because they stack. On sale for $5 at OSH, and you can get different colors for different stuff).You can ductape them closed and check them on airplanes/busses instead of luggage (bring extra ductape for the trip home).

Also,
In keeping with the "Green Man" theme, you might consider borrowing as much of your gear as you can from friends and family. There are oodles of people with an old tent, cooler, or sleeping bag in their basement/attic/storage unit. The more you can borrow, the less you'll have to spend, and the fewer decisions you'll have to make. (and the more money you'll have left for beer and ice)

And remember,
don't forget your ticket

posted in Burning Man Tips - 8 replies

Strobist on Poi Photography

2007-12-17T12:52:36Z

http://strobist.blogspot.com/2007/12/how-to-balance-flash-with-moving.html

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

2008 Tickets

2007-12-14T23:57:07Z

2008 tickets go on sale Wed. Jan 16th , 2008

http://tickets.burningman.com/

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Anyone ever use a Resin Garden Shed on the Playa

2007-12-05T19:20:50Z

I had this stroke of genius, (I hope) about using a Resin Garden Shed on the Playa. I'm sick of dusty tents. I figure this is a good spending alternative to a trailer. Any thoughts?

posted in Burning Man Tips - 3 replies

Pre-Burn camping at the lake

2007-12-03T10:02:37Z

So I've heard that some people arrive early and camp at Pyramid Lake for a few days before the Burn. I'm taking 3 people with me this year. Myself and one of the others are on an early-entry list, but the other two are not. We were planning on dropping them off at the lake and finding someone who'd be able to drive them in on Monday but I don't know the specifics on where the lake is and how easy it would be to find someone to help. Any suggestions or info?

posted in Burning Man Tips - 9 replies

Strobe case

2007-11-30T02:15:14Z

http://strobist.blogspot.com/2007/07/awesome-diy-pvc-flash-housing.html

cool DIY?...:)

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Question about GLOWSTICKS!!!

2007-11-18T12:00:04Z

I just went to Michael's Craft Store and saw that they had packs of 15 glowsticks for $1!!!!! I bought 10 packs and then thought, y'know what, I want to go back and literally buy all of them for being so cheap! But then I thought about the fact that I don't know how long glowsticks stay good for, or is there is any time limit at all? Anyone know if glowsticks can be kept for 9 months??
Thanks in advance!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 15 replies

LED Christmas Lights

2007-11-15T05:12:01Z

Now is the time of year to stock up on LED christmas lights. Low, low energy consumption means lot's of light for a camp, art, or a mutant vehicle off of a small generator, or 12 volt DC battery and an inverter.

A very easy way to light your camp is to use your car battery, an inexpensive inverter and a couple of strings of LED Christmas lights:

http://www.amazon.com/Cobra-CPI-450-Power-Inverter/dp/B00092PPZE/ref=cm_lmf_tit_1_rsrssi0/104-5688844-4909542

Or go with an all in one battery pack and inverter. Charge it at home, from your car or a friends playa generator for silent night time operation

http://www.amazon.com/Xantrex-Powerpack-Jumpstarter-Inverter-Backup/dp/B000E6LEIC/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2/104-5688844-4909542?ie=UTF8&s=automotive&qid=1194934518&sr=1-2

posted in Burning Man Tips - 1 reply

Drinks & Hangovers?

2007-11-14T15:58:40Z

So, although it isn't the primary reason for being a Burner.
Other then staying hydrated...

Any thoughts about good Hangover prevention/cures?
As well as any thoughts about good drinks?

Like:

Drink::--
Votang = Vodka and Tang (keeps for months)

or:
Hangover::--
Emergen-C mixed with Red-Bull, and three Tylenol extra-strength.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 28 replies

Humidifier for the nose...

2007-11-14T05:06:49Z

A quick bit of nose 411
My husband had a hard time with dry weather vs. his nose. This resulted in his nose bleeding a bit while he slept and waking up with a very dry nose. One night, (I don't know why he tried this) he slept with one of the soft masks (the kind that you'd get in a hospital with the loops that go over your ears). It was loose enough not to bug him while he slept, and kept the air around his nose humid enough to keep it from drying out. Worked wonders for him. Used it the rest of our time there and had a happy nose.
The end
:)

posted in Burning Man Tips - 3 replies

Travelling by air to BM

2007-11-01T06:41:49Z

2 years ago, one of my bags (with all my camping gear) went from NY to Maui.

If you're flying in to Reno... I greatly recommend this tip because getting a bag lost or delayed is a big problem.

I missed 1.5 days of BM waiting for my bag to arrive at the Reno airport.

Last year I shipped my 2 bags to the hotel I was going to stay at, at the end of the BM event.

It cost me $120... but considering all I spent on airfare, supplies and my ticket, it was worth every penny to know my bags arrived before me and I didn't have to lug them all over the place.

I flew in, got my car, picked up my bags... then supplies and I was on the road fast and easy!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 2 replies

to cover a tent with a reflective tarp?

2007-10-15T22:17:18Z

Anyone have any nice and simple plans for creating a structure that would involve a silver reflective tarp being propped up over a tent to keep it oh so nice and cool??

Thanks, chris

posted in Burning Man Tips - 7 replies

CURRENT WEATHER ALERT / WARNING!

2007-10-06T05:54:02Z

Yet another (forward of a forward of a forward of a) report from the
playa on outlandish conditions.

-Josh

> FWD: Playa Update - Received from Sarah the Cookie -
> Today!
>
> WIND WARNING. . .
>
> Greetings from the playa where I am happy and well and
> holded up in my car. I dont want this to deter anyone
> from coming, as it's still a blast - but..batten down
> the hatches kids, cause the wind is the worst I've
> seen in the 12 years I have been coming here.
>
> For those of you around when the big wind hit last
> year and took our camp down, that is the way it has
> been the bulk of the time - really that windy, mostly
> non stop. The airstream is shaking and rocking and my
> tent is tied to every rack and bumper and hitch the
> truck & airstream have, and I'm still unsure if it's
> going to hold up (one pole already snapped). The white
> out's are lasting a long time, some well over 5 hours.
>
> I hear it has been like this for weeks, dont know if
> it will continue through the event. but the green man
> is about nature, so be prepared for the force of
> nature to remind us how small we are! The good news is
> that it's warm thus far, even in the middle of the
> night. MIkey & Sarah - the shade structure we have
> planned probably isnt going to fly (or is going to
> fly). certainly not with the fabric we are planning, i
> just passed some like it and it's not doing well even
> with the holes. however, the garage tents around here
> seem to be holding up when they have no walls & are
> tied down every few feet - so if you feel like
> grabbing one from costco, that could work.
>
> or we can just cool off in center camp since it is so
> close (1 block). who knows, maybe the wind will
> subside. in case it doesnt, i suggest that if you are
> debating between a tent or a van/suv, you pick the
> car. be sure to put everything in bins that have
> locking lids, and in ziplocks inside those. if your
> tent has any open netting areas that do not zip closed
> with a solid fabric, i suggest glue gunning a fabric
> onto them, closing them up permanently, before you
> come here (fabric on the outside of the tent, so it's
> between the tent & the rainfly).you can always cut it
> off later. mine has a few open ones and theres a good
> 1/8 inch layer of dust inside, on top of the bed, the
> floors, everywhere. had to sleep with dust mask last
> night. too much to keep up with & too late to close
> them off.
>
> the wind/dust is coming from the same direction as
> always so be sure to park your cars in a way that
> blocks it from anything you put up. and lots of
> bungees, ive been through 20 just for my tent. phil -
> great decision in sleeping in the rider truck. i think
> that is all to tell - just a whole lot of wind. will
> update you if it stops. am still having a total blast,
> the wind is part of the fun for sure, and look forward
> to seeing you'll in a week! cma, please bring glue gun
> so i can seal up my tent.
>
> PS - wind reminders -fully enclosed goggles for day &
> night (not only dark ones), things that light up so u
> can be seen, bungees, rope, 2 ft long reebar - more
> than you think you need, heavy lotion, lip stuff,
> babywipes, giant sheet or tarp or something to cover
> all the stuff in your tent (to stop dust from getting
> into your bed), and lots of soft towels - more than
> you think you need. xx

posted in Burning Man Tips - 7 replies

The forgotten tip: take the next day off

2007-10-06T05:47:41Z

Heh.

Missed my first day at a new job.

Dooh.

They are understanding and loving people, but still. Lesson learned.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 8 replies

36" x 1" (approx) Round Steel Stakes...

2007-10-06T05:46:44Z

To keep my shade secure. I need 8. I don't want rebar (it bends, these don't) Home Despot used to have them, but I've been to every one around (Hollywood, Culver City, Slauson) and they don't seem to have them any more.

If anyone knows where I can get them around LA, please post or PM me.

Thanks,

~mr e

posted in Burning Man Tips - 9 replies

After Burn Hair

2007-09-24T19:54:21Z

Any suggestions on how to return hair to it's pre-playa state?
It's been itchy, straw-like, and oily since I've been back all at the same time.
Help.
Thanks and love.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 12 replies

long hair on the playa....

2007-09-07T16:09:47Z

hello burners, i am a 2007 burning man virgin with hair about halfway down my back. I am told this is going to be a challenge on the playa which makes sense.

those tiny little braids like from that old movie with Bo Derek "10" (now I'm really dating myself) have been recommended to me. However, I'm skeptical of anything but a professional job and may not be able to afford that.

If anyone has any tips on long hair on the playa and keeping it under control, i.e. info on those braids, or a hair product you can put into it to detangle and style which is preferably not made of synthetics and where you don't need to wash it first, it would be greatly appreciated.

Of course there's always the alternative of hacking it all off and going short, but somehow some of my magickal powers seem to come from my long hair.... strange, that. so i will leave the scissors tucked away!
EternalGurl

posted in Burning Man Tips - 15 replies

A Single Person's Heart Guide to Burning Man

2007-09-05T22:59:37Z

A Single Person's Heart Guide to Burning Man
Wed, August 15, 2007 - 12:10 PM
original post by "OH TONY" a great post

As a single, hetero man, I know from experience that Burning Man can be a wonderful and crushing experience. Usually both, often at the same time. I can hardly think of a single guy who has shown up at the playa alone and not wanted to hook up with someone. The fact is, this desire can ruin your BM experience (actually, it just makes you think that your experience is ruined). I have found that there are lessons that I have had to learn multiple times. After last year, as soon as I got back, I made notes to myself for this year, while the experience was still fresh in my mind. Now, as the burn approaches, I am taking what I have learned this year and adding to last year’s notes. I thought to myself, “I wish someone had told me this stuff before I went to Burning Man.” So, I decided to post it here. Many points have been offered by other people at one time or another. This is just my collection.

Be present.
This is, in my opinion, the most important thing. As in the default world, all we really have at Burning Man is the now. You can’t even say that you will have 7 days of nows, because anything could happen. So, just experience every single moment fully. If you find yourself thinking about how sweet it would be to hook up with that hottie you just met or how it would suck if she didn’t show up when you guys were supposed to meet, stop. Look around. Burning Man is happening all around you right now. Experience it. Now. This is why you came. Don’t miss it. If you put being at Burning Man above getting laid at Burning Man, you will have a far richer experience. And, you will increase your chances of getting laid at Burning Man.

When in doubt, say “Yes”
When offered anything, material, interactional or spiritual at Burning Man, unless you think that that this would be a “bad thing” for you, say “yes”. Yes opens up new possibilities. Yes is fun. And, Yes is usually sexy. Conversely, if you don’t think it’s a good thing for you, then definitely say no. Multiple times, and loudly if need be.

Have no expectations.
Expect nothing, not even a good time or a shitty time at Burning Man. Expect nothing from others. Especially, do not expect to have sex at Burning Man. Even if you go with a lover or possible lover, do not expect to have sex with them, or anyone else for that matter.

Be prepared
The other side of the expectation rule. Understand the difference. Do not expect to hook up with someone, but be prepared if you do. Bring what you need. Get tested, if you haven’t already.

Give
Give your time, your attention, your trinkets, your love, your admiration, your beer, your energy, your opinion, your hand, your heart, your enthusiasm. Give everything you can think of.

Make contact
Talk to as many interesting people as possible. Then, talk to some people that you would normally talk to. Always have a notepad and something to write with. Take pictures of people and take notes to go with them. Get email/phone numbers.

Use alternatives to sex
You don’t have to have intercourse to be intimate with someone. Massages are, of course, a good option. One of my favorites is the foot bath. Bring a small tub and some nice soap and lotion for after. Also, there is cuddling, eye-gazing, you get the point. Often, it is the non-sexual play that leads to other things. If not, well, it’s all good anyway.

Take responsibility for your joy
If you find yourself in a situation that you don’t want to be in, don’t not blame others. Blame, anger will probably not make anything any better. So, take responsibility for your attitude, your survival, your joy. Remember that you always have three choices: Accept the situation, change the situation or leave the situation. Pick one of the three, then be at peace.

For example, here’s a personal tip. I set a waiting time for meet-ups. For me, it’s 15 minutes. If someone says that they will meet me at a certain time, and they are not there, or we miss each other for whatever other reason, after 15 minutes, I’m free to do whatever I want (including waiting longer). In any case, it takes away any anger or disappointment. It puts me in control. And, while I’m waiting, I am fully experiencing the moment.

Communicate clearly
In your dealing with people, make sure that you are clear in your intentions. Make no assumptions. Ask the questions you need answers to. Be tactful, but direct. Clear communication is sexy.

Use drugs wisely
If you use drugs, then plan your drug usage ahead of time. Consider doing no drugs at all. There’s nothing worse that happening upon a possible playa buddy, then being too fucked up to have any fun.

Keep a journal
A journal will prove invaluable to you, even if you never go to Burning Man again. It is so easy to forget all of the thoughts you had on the playa. Don’t wait until you get back to camp to write. Jot a quick note down in the moment.

Get rest
You cannot go to The Deep End every afternoon, then go out dancing every night. You must plan for down time. You should not dance until sunrise unless you can sleep late the next day. Get plenty of sleep before you drive home.

Don’t fuck people in your camp.
If you can avoid it, “Don’t shit where you eat.” Understandably, sometimes, you just gotta do what you gotta do. But, there are thousands of other people in BRC. Inter-camp hook-ups usually end up badly.

Read, then keep “The Four Agreements”
If you haven’t read “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz, I highly suggest it. It’s a quick, but invaluable read. If you aren’t driving, you can probably finish it on the way to Burning Man. If you are driving, get the audiobook. In any case, it puts you in a great headspace when you hit BRC.

Don’t forget the art
Burning Man is one of the most amazing art exhibits in the world. Experience as much of it as you can. Interact with it. Take pictures of it. Talk about it with other people who are experiencing it with you. This is one lesson that I forget every year.

Be grateful
Do you realize how lucky/blessed you are to be at Burning Man? Then give thanks, to the the people who sell you ice, to the Rangers, to your campmates, to the stranger who is now a friend, to (your dogma here) for creating the playa, the sky above it and the mountains that surround it. Give thanks, verbally and in your heart. You can’t do it enough.

If anyone has any other tips from the heart for Burning Man, I would love to read them.

Dusty kisses
OhTony

posted in Burning Man Tips - 2 replies

the man has burned

2007-08-28T18:46:25Z

3 am this morning.

some jerk off finally went and done did it!!!!!

cra-zy!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 2 replies

water jugs, goggles, tent questions

2007-08-25T20:56:47Z

Sorry if this has already been asked before but I have a few questions if any one could offer some advice.

In the spirit of Green Man, do you know where in San Francisco on could get used:

5 gallon blue plastic water jugs ( with or without a spigot)

a nice sturdy large used tent

dust goggles

used EL wire

I know tall order this late but gotta love you tribers and yourresourcefulness!

Thank you heaps,
Robin

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

raw foodies!

2007-08-25T00:09:44Z

this is my first year at the burn and a few friends and i are raw foodies. this could be a blessing or a curse...i'm not sure which...anyone have any ideas for food that keeps, raw treats..whatever. anything that will make it possible to nourish our bodies the way we feel is divine! i think i'll be living off avacados! yumm! blessings!
~hallie rainbow~

posted in Burning Man Tips - 5 replies

I need a hair cut, NOW or AFTER playa?!

2007-08-24T21:45:47Z

Virgin burner here w/ medium length hair, and not doing braids.

I've got split ends.. this will make it harder to brush whiel I'm out there, but if my hair is going to get trashed while I"m there and I'll need another cut, then it's a hgue waste of $ to get it cut before going.

Weigh in your opinions please!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 6 replies

Glow vs. Battery Powered Illumination

2007-08-23T18:50:42Z

Hello Green Burners...it was pointed out today in Jack Rabbit Speaks that batteries are recylable and glow sticks are not.

Think green!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 6 replies

Communication devices?

2007-08-22T22:58:51Z

What are some recommended walkie talkies to use on the playa?

posted in Burning Man Tips - 9 replies

NOSE CARE and EYE CARE

2007-08-22T18:32:24Z

KEEP your nose wet and moist ( cold is for puppies)

saline gel for nose
saline mist for nose

both available at any drug store

eyes?

V

posted in Burning Man Tips - 8 replies

Cleaner Dishes easily

2007-08-22T16:08:25Z

Recently learned at Freedom Fest 2 in the Anza Borrego desert:

Hot Soapy Water, followed by
Warm Rinse Water, followed by
5% Bleach Solution Spray, then onto the drainboard.

The bleach sterilizes, leaves no real residue, and quickly evaporates!

This avoids the "end of the week" gastronomic misery for those who forgot that cleanliness is next to MANliness.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 20 replies

How do you get an art car to the playa?

2007-08-21T20:44:46Z

The truck that was to tow our art car to the playa fell through. Now we have a kick-ass art car sitting in San Diego, and no way to get it to BRC. We can drive her to Oceanside or LA if need be. We'll need a tow at least to Reno. She is street legal, so we have some flexibility in terms of pick-up and drop off, but REALLY need some help if we're going to get this beautiful creature to the playa.

Do you or anyone you know have a truck or RV that can tow 5000 lbs headed to BRC from Southern California?

Do you have any ideas for me?

If so, PLEASE hit me up on tribe or call me at 212-737-6368.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Awesome Meal Idea

2007-08-21T05:26:02Z

Kabobs! Just have to cut and grill!

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art3184.asp

posted in Burning Man Tips - 4 replies

mobile bike tune up in SF

2007-08-20T20:18:27Z

Need some love for your bike?

Chris just came to my house and fixed it all up for an easy 40 bucks. Ive heard its difficult to get a bike into a shop for repair right now so avoid the hassle and give him a call at 415-350-8590.

Safe pedaling!!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

PDF Schedule of events and Theme Camp Listings?

2007-08-19T17:58:31Z

Last year, some kind soul gathered all the events and camp listings into two separate PDF docs and and HTML version as well. This was of great value to me. I cut and pasted the events and camps that I wanted to visit into a Word doc. Does anyone know if someone has been kind enough to do that again this year? Thanks a bunch, Loren

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Fly back to Bay Area from BRC on Sunday 2nd!

2007-08-19T03:18:50Z

Seats are still available for a flight back to the SF bay area (or any where in the flight path) from Black Rock City Spaceport! Fly back to your default home from Burning Man, and watch the playa swallow BRC, as it shrinks bellow you.
Just think, in just 2 hours you could eat, shower, pull the shades and slip into your own bed! How sweet is that. . .

Message me for details.

Celsius Maximus

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

bike seat ouchie prevention

2007-08-18T07:30:46Z

I just decorated my bike today, and I tied a nice fluffy teddy bear to my bike seat. I rode it around for a minute, and I definately recomend it! I bought it for only a dollar somewhere...

posted in Burning Man Tips - 9 replies

Fly to BRC spaceport for Burning Man!

2007-08-17T20:48:05Z

Arrive in style and speed to Burning Man, by way of Black Rock City Spaceport! Ya thats right, flying straight into BRC is one of the most spectacular ways to penetrate the playa. I have room on a small private plane to arrive at the BRC spaceport Wednesday evening. Im leaving from Salinas around 3 or 4pm. So this is open to anyone in the the flight path from Salinas to Black Rock City. This includes San Jose, San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, ect.
This flight take less than a couple of hours, so you arrive refreshed and ready to party! No drive hangover, or highway zombie syndrome!
This is carry-on luggage flight only, so you must arrange for some one to transport your gear and bikes ahead of time.
The more people to fly the cheaper it is, but limited seating. And not as expensive as you think!
PM me for pricing. Good luck, and see you on the playa!

Celsius

posted in Burning Man Tips - 1 reply

Tips needed for great night time photos

2007-08-17T00:42:01Z

I have an Olympus Camedia C-60 6.1 megapixel digital camera. And I should take a remedial photography class, I know, but can anyone tell me what settings I should set on the camera to get good clear night photos of the playa at night? I'm looking to capture images of EL wire and fire in all its glory and most of the time I just get streaks on a black background. When I use the automatic "nighttime" setting, I get really crappy results too. Every now and then I'll get a really great shot, but I don't know how I'm making that happen. Any pointers out there for me and others like me?
posted by:

posted in Burning Man Tips - 10 replies

Is Cruise America RV, Oakland CA, Burner-friendly?

2007-08-16T17:02:42Z

Or do I have to hide the fact that I'm taking it to BM? I know I have to thoroughly clean it before returning it (that's true for any RV place to avoid extra fees). I'm more concerned with them telling me I can't take it there if they find out, or wanting to charge me extra on the already hefty deposit. This is my first time with an RV at BM (though it's my second Burn).

posted in Burning Man Tips - 9 replies

drunkennurses tips for the burn

2007-08-15T18:53:34Z

.Never talk to strangers, they are evil

2. Participation sucks, that is what other people are for

3.Grey water is ful of essential vitimens and minerals, and can provide 48% of you FDA recommended intake of E-coli, very important

4. Porta poties make excellent bins, for your broken down bits of sofa, food waste,glass bottles, dead campmates and unwanted shade structures

5. the DPW love being gifted old sofas, broken bikes and defunct and failed shade structure, so just leave em in your camp space when you leave they wil realy appreciate,

6. Never offer a ride to anyone you talk to online or find by the side of the road especially if they are drunken irish nurses

7.people like gifting so much that you can go into their camp and help your self

8. Hiding peoples car keys is so funny everyone will apreciate it, especially the day before exodus, especially if you throw them in the porta pottie

9.Piss clear??? Piss daily i say, if its orange drink less, a daily brown piss smelling of mouldy pumpkin is ideal

10. Wrap all your gifts in 3 layers of wrap[ping parer everyone loves opening presents

11. People love being spanked without permission,

12 Ditto for taking pictures

13 Never put lights on your bike or yourself, its stoopid and spoils everyones fun, what use is haing an art car if you dont run over human speed bumps

14 Any one with their breast on show loves having people make comments, better still have a feel they will thank you for it

15 hugs are gay

17 what happened to 16

16 there it is

18 Random mardi graw and 99c store beads make fantastic gifts people wil treasure forever

19, Megaphones make you witty and more intelligent, everything you say through them will be much more valid if projected to everyone in a 100metre radius

20 especially atsound camps

21 especially at 7am

22 did i mention talking to strangers

23 the Police wil happilly tell you where the best drugs can be found, just ask

24 Always pass your joint to the cops its just plain rude not to

25 never take candy, beads, drugs, or hugs from strangers, its probably poison.

26 Always store your parafin for your fire performances in water bottles,

27 if you've never taken horse tranquiliser beofre and some strange man offers it to in a part of the city you dont recognise then clearly you must do it, especially if you've been drinking heavily

28 Bacon is not welcome in black rock city, if you bring it you will be ostracised from the community

29 Art cars are way more fun to dive when loaded

30, especially when driven off the "streets" designated streets are for loosers, camps love it when you randomly drive through, your new found friends will all chcukle at what cad you are when you crash through their dome

31, always hug death guild, especially if you are not wearing pants, they are such a friendly bunch,

32 always remind the DPW, how "WE" built this city when you arrive on saturday monring

33 grabge collection is on tuesday, friday and monday from outside your neighbours camp

34 If evrybody honks their horn during exodus we will all get out quicker,

35 why carry water is so heavy and never matches your outift, that what other peoples camps are for they've got plenty

36 if your tripping and not having a fun time, go and make some friends, people love having people come by their camp and live out their harsh drug experiences in their private cam space, bonus points if you are reliving bad 'Nam expeeriences, previous sexual trauma or the police and everyonne you see are following you for the CIA

37, Buring man not as godd as it used to be then tell everone, particularly if you now think its shit and still come despite this

38 Virgins shouldn't be encoraged in any way, refuse to validate them, aknowledge them, help them or brake if you are driving your art car, as i said you should be loaded whislt doing this

39, If you are burnier than thou, tell the people in question, explain how yuo are better at it than the,, your costume is better, you've been going longer, larry once flicked his ash on you at thunderdome

40, if you need to have a discussion of a personal nature with you partner or are having difficulties in your relationship, then totally wait unitl you are craced out, aint slept for 4 days, way to hot, dehydrated, high on PCP and stuck in the middle of a hot dusty desert t resolve them

41 Fuck themes

42 No seriously fuck themes

43 Only queers dress up

44Anyone you ask where are you from and they say san fransisco, then say of course you are dear, as patronisingly as possible,

45 anyone who has flown from overseas is an alien in your country and is probably sbubersive, pread you patriot act and act upon it, use a satilite phone to report the to the toll free number 1800-patriot.

46 Camp stella the clean and sober camp all really want acid so spike their cool aid, they wil thank you for it.......when the sun stops melting

47 glitter is a costume,

48 Everybody likes feathers so more is more in my opinion

49 jesus drunknnurse seriously dude get a life how many have you thought of

50 i know i know, i'll finish up soon so we can get on to bitiching

51 Check the ntice board at centre cam for the Daily update on who we hate today board, if unable to check this then generally we will be bitching about ravers/ non artists/ artisits/ dogs/ people with kids onthe playa / The LLC/ BLM/

52 it is your job to ensure no body sees anythin unsavoury on the playa, like gay people touching or nekkid fat people , rangers are equiped with pepper spay for this purpose

53 did i say hugs were for queers

54 Perfomance art you dont get?? then tell the perfomrers they suck, everyone likes feed back right?

56 Recycle camp love picking non cans out of their bags so liberally spinkle some little treats in there glass, mouldy food, used needles, those guys realy appreciate the effort to spice up their job

57, By pass the ques at pancake shack by pushing thorugh with a 20 dollar bill evryone will step aside because you are clearly an important individual

58 piss daily and piss everywhere, porta potties are just for people whith too much time on their hands

59 ciggerette butts are biogeradable and should be liberally depositied eveywhere

60, Everyone will like your music especially if you like Gambain thrash gabba or german techno,

61, ditto if its loud

62 no dude i mean seriously loud if centre camp dont complain then it aint loud enough

63 there is no such thing as bad techno

64 fuck boundires

65 your camp is always better than other peoples and feel free to tell them

65 If you get drunk and violent then buddy make it a double everyone loves bad vibes

66 if you believe youshould be on the stage then go for it, dont let camp owners, the Rangers or other forms of facists supress your radical self expression

67 Everyone loves shirt cockers

68 shirt cockers love being told to put some pants on, loudly

69 As i said megaphones are an ideal tool for epressing opinions such as the one above

70 Make sure you get a new cup at each bar you visit

71, porta potties make excellent cup receptacles

72. never screw the lid on the bottle you pee in

73 especially if is somehwere other people can trip over

74 people cleaning the playa after wards, find picking up human turds a thoroughy rewarding use of their time

75 Stealing is the gift you give your self

76 Always fuck in other peoples camps

77 Loudly!!

78 playa dust makes and excellent spermacide if liberally applied

79 trash can be hastily tied to your car it never flies off, if it does then its biogradable

posted in Burning Man Tips - 6 replies

Early Help

2007-08-14T16:11:24Z

I'm eager to contribute to the infrastructure and life of BRC, I'm suddenly available for Early Arrival, I just need 1 pass.

Name the camp or the projects and I'll be there to help with labor, setup, song, dance and getting things together.

Any advice for finding early passes at this point in time?
Simon.Abramson@gmail.com

posted in Burning Man Tips - 1 reply

red head / pale skin

2007-08-13T20:34:33Z

so i just got back from camping in the sierras this weekend. went through a couple towns that were scorching hot and ended up with a pretty bad sunburn after a 3 day hike. this year will be my first time attending burning man and i know to expect 100 - 110 degree weather the entire week. anyone have any suggestions as far as how to avoid becoming a total crisp besides loads of sunblock?? or maybe a particular brand of sunscreen? a severe sunburn can definitely make most anything unenjoyable, and im sure theres gotta be some pale burners out there who can agree with me..

posted in Burning Man Tips - 23 replies

Afterburn Poolparty in Reno Mon-Tues

2007-08-13T19:54:09Z

Knaaponkrap Eatonswim - Afterburn Poolside

Nexus in cooperation with all your friends proudly present the first annual Knaaponkrap Eatonswim.

Monday and Tuesday after the Burning Man festival we will be throwing the most epic pool party ever to commence in lovely downtown Reno Nevada. We are dropping the entire Blue Turbo sound system (from the Green Moon camp) next to the most massive swimming pool we could find. We are joining forces with as many burning man camps as possible to bring you the best DJ's and performance the playa has to offer. The buffet tables will be stocked to the brim with just about everything you could ask for and drinks will be flowing from the bar located in the swimming pool.

Next door we have at our disposal the 27 story Grand Sierra Resort of which we have reserved half (approx. 850 rooms) for our friends and family at a special discounted rate. This four star resort includes all the amenities one has come to expect from a four star resort (clean sheets, helpful staff, nicely creased fresh roll of toilet paper, little bars of soap) as well as 3 go-cart racing tracks, bumper cars, a miniature golf course, 160 ft. human slingshot, and the 180 ft. Ultimate Rush Sky Coaster insanity bungee of doom. We will be taking them all over.

Lineup is being finalized and is scheduled to include a wide variety of the best the playa has to offer including some really good live sets. Performance art, fire, go go's, and such are included as well and anyone interested in lighting themselves on fire or freaking out in some way on stage is welcome.

This is going to be the most epic pool party ever, and we hope to see you there. We expect this event to sell out, presale tickets are available through at brownpapertickets.com at $20 per day and will be $25 at the door if there are any left. Capacity is about 3000 people.

Reserve your rooms now, it's not too late to cancel at other hotels, if you mention the Nexus pool party you will get the discounted rate. Rooms generally book between $89-$129 but we have gotten them locked down at $59-$69/room and they are really nice rooms. Visit grandsierraresort.com for details

Tickets will be $25 at the door each day or $40 for both days.

Secure your flotation device and strap on your flippers it's time to wash the dust off.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Kanadians travelling across the border

2007-08-13T02:31:30Z

August 10, 2005

To Whom It May Concern:

Burning Man is a weeklong arts festival held in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada. During the week of the event, participants from all over the
world convene to build a temporary city dedicated to self-expression,
interactive art and gift giving. One of the values we uphold readily as a community is that of non-commercialization. We operate on a gift
economy emphasizing the principles of self-reliance and gift giving.
Nothing at our event is for sale other than ice and coffee drinks, the
proceeds of which are donated to the local community.

Tickets are $135-$300 depending upon when they are purchased. Funds from ticket sales are wholly dedicated to paying for the essential services we require during the event. This in no way includes entertainment. There is no centrally booked nor paid entertainment whatsoever at the event – it is dependent upon participants to
provide the entertainment as a form of gift-giving.

We ask that you realize the Canadian citizens coming into the United
States to attend the Burning Man festival are not paid agents, receiving no monies whatsoever from the Burning Man Organization nor from their fellow participants. For this reason, we ask you grant them entry into the U.S. with the express understanding that they do not require a visa to work in the U.S.

We thank you for your time and prompt attention in helping Canadian
citizens expedite their entry into the U.S.

Sincerely,

Marian Goodell
Business &Communications Director,
Burning Man
Black Rock City, LLC

Burning Man PO Box 884688 San Francisco CA 94188
phone 415.865.3800 fax 415.865.3820

posted in Burning Man Tips - 5 replies

do you know your rights in the USA?

2007-08-12T16:07:11Z

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8520847761350501823&q=label%3Aaclu

complete version here

http://profile.myspace.com/flexyourrights

posted in Burning Man Tips - 6 replies

My Packing List Suggestions

2007-08-12T06:19:29Z

[just posted this to my profile blog, and am thinking that this may be a good place to post also. Hope it's helpful!]

This year be my thirteenth Burning Man. I've learned a few things in those years. :) The number one thing that I learned is to camp with friends, share food and cooking, and have a common area/shade structure. And everyone knows to bring to bring a tent, clothes, and lots of water. A few years back, when leading a camp with a lot of first timers in it, I tried to think of a list of suggestions that people might not think of to remember to bring.

===================================================================

* A page printed out of the locations of your friends and of some of the camps that you want to check out

* A page printed out of the schedule of events that you want to make sure to hit (playacal.burningman.com/day.php )

* A page printed out of driving instructions (i.e. Bay Area to Black Rock)

* A page printed of your favorite affirmations or sayings. Keep it in your pocket and refer to it before going out, when you visit the portapotties, before going to bed, etc. Maybe set some intentions for the event (to push your boundaries, to find true love / go deeper with your true love, to have quality time with your friends, to go higher than ever before, relax and don't push too hard, to see lots of art - whatever), and keep that in your pocket to recollect to yourself, too.

* A small pad of paper and pens - to write down people's emails and telephone numbers, great ideas you have, etc

* A book to read on a random lazy morning - preferably something spiritual, about sexual or relationship practices, about connecting or bursting through barriers, maybe something you'd want to read out loud with friends or your lover (David Deida's books are perfect).

* A camelback or lots of backpack-portable bottles of water

* Non-perishible food that you can stick in a backpack, for daytime or late-night munchies - chips, power bars, nuts and raisins

* Dust masks (either the el cheapo ones (www.es-international.nl/TOOLS/...ker.jpg ) or maybe something more ornate) - most years, there is at least one dust storm where you will really want to have one of these.

* Dust-proof goggles ("the goggles - they do *some*thing!")

* A flashlight. Maybe also a bike headlamp or an, ummm, head-headlamp, if you want to shine a light while biking around.

* Extra batteries

* Ear plugs (it's a good bet that at least one person near your tent will not be on your sleep schedule and will have a sound system )

* Alarm clock (especially helpful when you have four hours to sleep between last night's party and the mid-day brunch/yoga class/BDSM conclave that you want to be sure to be on time for)

* Safety pins and sewing kit

* Swiss army knife

* Spare glasses, contacts, and/or sunglasses

* A permanent magic marker - to write your name on things

* A favorite stone, jewelry, statue (I usally bring my li'l wooden Buddha, and put it next to my air bed)

* Backpack and/or fanny pack

* Dishes to eat off of

* Mouthwash

* Soap and shampoo for showering

* Anti bacterial creme and band aids

* Lip stuff - chapstick, un-petrolium, etc

* LOTS of sun screen

* Skin lotion for your feet, esp if you are going to wear open shoes. Also, the soil there is real alkaline, and I usually bring vinegar to rub in with cotton balls, to restore my soles to a normal Ph.

* Wet-Ones or baby-ass wipes (in a big container for your tent, and in the individual packs, if you can find 'em, for journeying around)

* Latex and lube (and your vibrator, handcuffs, paddle, whatever your thing is)

* Lots of beer wine and liquor and whatever else is your thing, both for you and to share.

* The dust gets everywhere. Put things like CDs, iPods, cameras, etc. in ziplock bags. Also, put a your clothes in an airtight container (what I do is bring plastic bins with pop-on lids). Another idea is to put your clothes in a duffel bag or suitcase, but put each few shirts or pants in their own bag, and only take them out when you want to wear them. That way, you don't have to wash the clothes that you didn't wear when you get back home. One thing that I have found works best of all is plastic stacking bins with airtight snapable lids - I never would have thought of it, but an old housemate moved out and left me some, and they're awesome - as long as you snap the lid shut when you're not using them, they keep anything inside clean and dust free.

* Bring clothes, costumes, accessories, etc that are wilder, more daring, more sexy, more playful that you think right now that you'll want to wear. BRC has a way of making you want to push the limits more than you can feel now while not there.

* A wide-brimmed (cowboy, etc) hat is a necessity for the daytime.

* A cheap rain parka

* Long underwear (some nights can be cold, and you won't want to wear a coat over your get-up)

* Garbage bags - you are responsible for bagging up and taking home your own garbage and recycling.

* Duct tape

* Your own rolls of TP. The portapotties sometimes run out, especially as the week goes on.

* A funnel - to pour from your 2.5 liter brick of water into your camelpack, squirt guns, etc.

* Work gloves (if not for setting up your tent, than for helping out with big group projects)

* A white or reflective material tarp to drape over your tent (that morning sun is strong, especially if you just went to sleep an hour before)

* Rope and bungee chords to tie things down with (the wind can be nasty)

* A camping shower thingee (although you'll probably be able to borrow someones) and a towel

* Schwag and tchockies to trade or give away

* If you don't bring a bike up, you'll probably be begging around to borrow one several times a day. Try to figure out a way to get one up. Also, remember a bike lock - bummer but bikes do get stolen all the time - and WD40 for your gears. You can leave the helmet at home though, Mortimer.

* Fur to put on your bike seat, and/or, no shit, those padded bike pants to wear under your other clothes. Them playa shore be bumpy.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

Alternative to PVC air mattresses

2007-08-07T07:05:02Z

So, many of us know that PVC is pretty much for shit when it comes to being environmentally sensitive. Yet, we don't want to freeze all night because we're sleeping on the ground. A bit of inflatable dead-air space really makes a difference. So what's a Burner to do?

Get a cotton/rubber inflatable mattress:
http://www.kodiakoutback.com/detail.aspx?ID=1686&utm_source=nxtg&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=cmp1

I just ordered two of the full-size ones. They're less than $50 apiece and look pretty good. Also, I think they're probably better for sex than a regular inflatables, or at least less likely to pop from the boinkin'.

Hope this is helpful.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 18 replies

Garbage Bags and Garbage Receptacles

2007-08-06T17:41:37Z

To preface this post:
* this is my first burn, but I have veteran burner friends
* I did search "Garbage Bags" and "Garbage Receptacles" before posting, so this questions should be new

THE QUESTION: What are you doing for garbage bags and garbage receptacles?

=======================

Discussion:

***Two schools of thought: Leak proof VERSUS aerating bags.
Most people say to bring some heavier duty trash bags because nothing is worse than having food garbage or whatnot leak. YUCK!

But I figure you can use the Playa sun to advantage by having it dry out your garbage. The general idea is to use a giant burlap bag. Garbage in + SUN = dry garbage. No odors and no black trashbags to amplify the wet rotting sensation. Since I don't have giant burlap sacks, I was just going to sew two bedsheets together and leave an opening. If garbage is really wet, you could either let it dry out before dumping or put the garbage bag in a kiddie pool (to deal with greywater).

What do you think?
would this work?
do you think it's an improvement over heavy contractor-grade garbage bags?

***Other advice
Most people I've talked to emphasize depackaging everything you're bringing to the burn so you aren't packing in extra stuff you have to pack out. With that, you should easily be able to take out what you take in with a couple of garbage bags.

But for the theme camp I'm working with, we were going to do a "Mostly" central garbage for a camp of about 40-70. So we'll need a bigger garbage system, probably that can handle a couple of dumpsters worth of material

keywords: garbage bin, garbage bins, garbage receptacle, rot

posted in Burning Man Tips - 9 replies

Shoes on the Playa...any tips?

2007-08-03T23:52:18Z

Hi,

I'm just wondering with the dust and all...what are the best shoes?
Seems like the dust and feet don't mix well, so you want socks and closed shoes, right?
But it's so hot...will I sweat like crazy in big boots?
I've never really liked sneakers, if there's any way to avoid them.
Your suggestions are appreciated.

best,
Juliana

posted in Burning Man Tips - 30 replies

solar L.E.D flashlights

2007-08-02T05:11:05Z

.....are all over ebay! and cheap too! the moon will be full but its still always good to have a flashlight and a solar one ta boot!

posted in Burning Man Tips - 2 replies

Sticky situation...

2007-07-31T06:02:31Z

hi there,

does anyone have a suggestion for glueing plastic to metal? I've tried epoxy and super glue, neither have worked the way i'd like.

I'm trying to attach some fun items (pez dispensers) to the inside of my bike spokes... and am stuck for ideas.

thx...

posted in Burning Man Tips - 16 replies

Need a Burningman Ticket

2007-07-29T10:10:11Z

Aloha,

If you need an RV ride to Burning Man let me know. I have info on one. Also, if you are selling your Burning Man ticket for whatever reason or know someone who is, can you let me know?

Peace and aloha,
Tigris
h2emode@aq.org

posted in Burning Man Tips - 0 replies

A Minimalist Burning Man Experience

2007-07-26T15:52:41Z

Has anyone tried to bring as little as possible to Burning Man?

My first year I took almost nothing, but my second year I brought quite a bit.

I'm now returning to BM after a 6 year hiatus and I'm trying to figure some things out. I know that just the bare essentials for an existence there is still quite large compared to my average back packing trip, but it is still possible to bring very little. I can't help but thinking that the less Burning Man is like my average everyday life, regardless of comfort issues, the better.

On the other hand, if I ended up really miserable that wouldn't be very cool either.

Any thoughts?

posted in Burning Man Tips - 11 replies

Crash at Walmart -- to catch some ZZZZ's on your road trip

2007-07-25T22:32:54Z

on your road trip Home or back or just road tripp'n

you can park it at the Walmart, and catch some zzzz's so you can drive safely rested...

its cool with Walmart... prob just park it in a far corner away from the easy customer parking

of course i don't need to say LNT.

see you all in the dust, travel safe

V

ps
i have not experianced this myself, but i have heard it several times from many--- something to do with a family member of the walmart family -- falling asleep while driving, after getting the boot from a road side rest stop during a road trip.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 33 replies

Sept 2nd or 3rd Hotel deals?

2007-07-24T15:45:49Z

Anybody know if the casinos in Reno are offering specials for Burners on Sunday or Monday night after the Burn? I know sometimes they have BM specials for Monday, but they can be a little difficult to track down using the usual travel websites. Any info is appreciated. Thanks.

posted in Burning Man Tips - 10 replies

Live Music Camps?

2007-07-24T10:51:36Z

Hello everyone :-)

Does anyone know of camps which are planning to put on live music this year? I'm a singer/songwriter, coming over to BM for the first time from London and would love to play... I accompany myself on piano/keyboards, and it's jazz-folk-soul melodic pop (urgh labels) with poetic lyrics... What with all the organisation of coming over from London for the first time, I'm not planning on bringing equipment too, so I would love to find some camps which already have what I would need to perform...

We're coming over for 6 weeks and setting up gigs in California, anywhere between BM and San Fran, so if any locals have recommendations for live spots that would be great too :-)

Peace,
Janna x

posted in Burning Man Tips - 11 replies