Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?

Lysergic · Post by **Lysergic** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 3:54 am

Ok so this is my first time to Burning Man...and well I've read a lot and I'm starting to prepare for the event but I still have many a question. Please help guide me from being a ducking yahoo the first time I show up. Thx to all!

When do the gates first open, when is a good time to arrive? Are camp sites divided or is it a ffa for space?

Where are the best spots to set up camp in terms of shorter distances to walk to the best places, and camping next to the late nite party people?

What the policies on weapons, I read that guns were banned, but what about juggling knives and nunchucks, staffs, etc?
--For twirling and entertainment of course...

What kind and size of fires are you allowed to have, and where? Tiki torches 10ft away from anything, Will we have room around our tents for this?

What are the means of showering besides lakes, rivers, etc?

I read that no camers, video equipment is allowed, yet I read a lot of about people having them, and losing them, etc. Whats the deal on this?

So only coffee and ice is sold...does that mean all camps and events free to get into? All the liquor, hard and beer are free? Are there limits per event?

I read about a lot about people setting up shops and events for body painting, massages, tarot reading...and the martial art class, yoga class, etc all free?

Are you suppose to/should you give gifts to all the teachers, your favorite ones, anyone providing a service or what?

And what are reasonable gifts to be giving, im sure it depends on the situation...
Is a bike necessary, hella convenient or what? I dont plan on bringing one, but it sounds like the event is BIG and that means a lot of walking mileage...not that im a puss but I see that events follow eachother back to back so I want to know what kind of time frame im looking at in getting to each event, art exhibit, party...

Somewhere someone offers to take in old clothes and give you new ones? Whats this about?

Are decorations and clothes available free, or only for trade. Body paint, etc?

What kind of food is giving out, snacks. I read about a camp having a barbeque, but do you need/should you bring food or drink as well. Is it potluck style?

Whats up with the kiss/hug/fuck/threesome days? Do people randomly kiss people on that day/other days or is it just for kicks...

Do security/cops randomly walk around camp sites/tents or on the playa looking for people smoking, hanging out, fucking, etc?

How hot does it get in the day and cold at night?

What are things you wish had brought and left home on your first/any voyage to black rock city?

Any other advice for a couple of newbs?

-Thx again, Lysergic

JezebelinHell · Post by **JezebelinHell** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 4:21 am

Here are the answers, to the best of my knowledge:

I usually arrive right at midnight on Sunday night, cause I just can't get enough time in BRC. SOME camp space is reserved, some is free. Make sure you're not setting up where someone else has space reserved for their theme camp. There are maps posted on the site that distinguish which areas are acceptable for randomly pitching tents.

Everywhere is a great place to camp, cause there's stuff of interest and beauty pretty much anywhere you turn. Plus half the fun of BM is exploring, so taking long treks is more an adventure than a chore. If you're gonna be far away from center camp (trust me, you probably are) then it's a good idea to get a bike with a basket for ice runs.

I'm not sure what the official law on weapons is, but I bring light-up nunchakus every year and have never had any issues with law inforcement. I also see quite a few belly dancers with swords and such.

Don't set up any fires that will leave burn-marks on the playa. I don't think tiki torches would be a problem, but you might wanna double-check with a more seasoned burner than I.

Bring a camp shower and plenty of h2o for it. They're cheap and easy to set-up. If that's not an option for some reason, most camps are more than happy to let you use their shower, provided you ASK FIRST, bring your own water/soap/etc, and clean up after yourself.

DO NOT bring a video camera. Regular cameras are fine, but don't take pictures of people without their permission. Especially naked people...

BM is a gift environment. If you go to a bar, it's free to drink there. Same with dinners, coffee stands, craft tables, etc. It's considered good form to bring gifts to help out (i.e. if you're going to a bar, bring them a bottle of booze to help out, or some plastic cups or something). No one requires that you give gifts in exchange, but it's nice not to feel like a freeloader...

Body painting, massage, yoga, etc are also all free. No one's at BM to make a profit. We're just having fun and trying to help others have fun.

Gifts are never required, but they make people happy. At the very least, say thanks or offer to help clean-up/set-up/ tear-down. Simple things like extra sunblock, feminine products, and cigarettes are great things to have on you in case someone needs them.

Bike's aren't necessary, but they help. I find that unless I'm going to a specific art installation/event that's far away and need to be there at a specific time, I'd rather walk. It's easier to take in your surroundings and mingle with your neighbors that way.

The taking in old clothes/trading new ones sounds like your average BM booth. Most likely a place to trade your stuff for cool costumes. Just people trying to make the experience more fun. You'll find a lot of that sort of thing.

Body painting booths are free, but body paint is expensive, so if I'm going to one I try and bring my own supplies, or at least a nice gift. Anything you can get at BM you can get for free, but you need to be self-reliant. If you want cool clothes/decorations/etc then bring them with you.

Food is not officially 'given out.' My camp bar-b-ques sometimes, and our neighbors and random passerby's are always welcome until the food runs out. Lots of camps do stuff like this, however, DO NOT SHOW UP AT BURNING MAN UNLESS YOU HAVE ENOUGH FOOD/WATER/SUPPLIES TO SURVIVE ON YOUR OWN FOR A WEEK. I'll say it again...you're supposed to be self-reliant.

Don't kiss/hug/fuck anyone unless they express interest in kissing/hugging/fucking you. There are camps where you can go to find people looking for that sort of thing, but don't assume the random naked girl wandering the playa wants you to grab her boobies.

Cops don't really care if you're hanging out or fucking in your camp. If you insist on doing drugs at BM, don't be a dumbass about it. Treat it like you were any other place in the world. You wouldn't sit on a curb in the middle of a city and bust out a joint (I hope), so don't do it at BM. There are a lot of cops there, and they will arrest you if you're being an idiot.

It gets really fucking hot during the day, and really fucking cold at night. Be prepared for a 40 degree drop in temperature over a 60 minute period. Bring really warm clothes for nighttime.

My first voyage to BRC I wished I had more gifts to give to people...and more cigarettes. You'd be amazed how quickly you run out (if you're a smoker). I brought more food than I needed, but I find it's better to error on the side of caution there. You can always help out by donating some of that leftover food to the DPW after the event.

Other advice: BRING LOTS OF WATER! And drink it all day. Even if you're not thirsty. Also, something like Gatorade or Emer-gen-C to keep your electrolites balanced. A camel-bak is only about 30 bucks, and it's the best investment you'll ever make.

Hope that answered all your questions. Look forward to seeing you out there.

technopatra · Post by **technopatra** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 4:45 am

Hiya Lysergic-

Most of your questions are answered in other threads in this forum or on the main website. I highly encourage you to do a bit more research. Learning on your own is a big and fascinating part of the experience. And such due diligence is greeted warmly by those who will be happy to fill in the gaps.

As for the ones that aren't necessarily answered elsewhere:

Lysergic wrote: Where are the best spots to set up camp in terms of shorter distances to walk to the best places, and camping next to the late nite party people?

This is largely a matter of preference. No one shares the same ideas of what are the "best" places. What is important to you? Close proximity to action? A good night's sleep? A view of the Man?

The Esplanade, and the camps within a couple of streets of it, tend to be the busiest overall.

The big sound camps are located on the outer radial streets, commonly known as 10 and 2 o'clock, are arguably the loudest areas as they house more dance camps than any other concentrated area. The outer lateral streets and beyond are usually quieter and less dense.

Lysergic wrote: What the policies on weapons, I read that guns were banned, but what about juggling knives and nunchucks, staffs, etc?
--For twirling and entertainment of course...

Fine as long as they are not used as weapons.

Lysergic wrote: What are the means of showering besides lakes, rivers, etc?

Oh my, whoever told you this was pulling your leg. There are no lakes or rivers to bathe in. You are responsible for your own bathing water, apparatus, and greywater disposal.

Lysergic wrote: So only coffee and ice is sold...does that mean all camps and events free to get into? All the liquor, hard and beer are free? Are there limits per event?

I read about a lot about people setting up shops and events for body painting, massages, tarot reading...and the martial art class, yoga class, etc all free?

Free in that you do not pay money, yes. But many camps will require you do something interactive to be there. Remember that anything that is given to you or provided for you is a gift. There are no limits if you are not greedy, expecting to drink some camp dry or exploiting their generosity.

Lysergic wrote: Are you suppose to/should you give gifts to all the teachers, your favorite ones, anyone providing a service or what?

And what are reasonable gifts to be giving, im sure it depends on the situation...

Gift whomever you whenever you want with whatever you want. Generally folks appreciate handmade or heartfelt things over store-bought. A good conversation, a fortune told, a foot massage, help pounding stakes, a cold drink, a cool slice of cantaloupe, a joke, a song, a magic trick...all of these count as gifts, too.

But also remember that not everyone wants to receive your gift, so if you offer and someone declines, respect them and don't take it personally.

Lysergic wrote: What kind of food is giving out, snacks. I read about a camp having a barbeque, but do you need/should you bring food or drink as well. Is it potluck style?

Bring all your own food, plus some extra to share if you wish. Do not expect anyone to feed you - see it as the gift it is if/when you are offered.

Lysergic wrote: Whats up with the kiss/hug/fuck/threesome days? Do people randomly kiss people on that day/other days or is it just for kicks...

If you are referring to the little notes in the headers of the Playa Calendar, that's an inside joke from the tech guys. You are responsible for creating/finding your own encounters.

Lysergic wrote: Do security/cops randomly walk around camp sites/tents or on the playa looking for people smoking, hanging out, fucking, etc?

Yes. Do not plan on getting away with anything there that you wouldn't in your hometown.

Lysergic wrote: Any other advice for a couple of newbs?

Shoot for self-sufficiency, help your neighbors out, be open-minded, plan on having at least one emotional breakdown and then forgive yourself for it, do not get wasted beyond your capacity, try something new, and leave no trace.

Papa Bear · Post by **Papa Bear** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 8:48 am

Another note on the shower thing: in addition to bringing water and your own camp shower, plan a way to capture and remove the water you use. Shower water is "grey water", and it's a violation of "leave no trace" to let it hit the playa (i.e., the ground).

If you haven't read it already, wander over to http://www.burningman.com/first_timers and read everything there. Those pages should answer all of your questions and then some.

robbidobbs · Post by **robbidobbs** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 10:23 am

1) Arrive no earlier than midnite monday morning.
2) The Greeters will guide you on available space to camp.
3) You make the "best space", but bring a bike to get to the others.
4) "weapons" are deemed irresponsible/dangerous by the BRC Rangers. Play safe, act conscientously, and don't bring anything that is an obvious weapon (nunchucks, knives, etc).
5) No fires whatsoever are allowed on the ground, and burning is only allowed in designated areas (burn barrels, burn platforms). No burning of plastic at all. Tiki torches are allowed as long as they are safe.
6) There are no bathing facilities, you bring your own water, shower set up.
7) All cameras and video cameras are to be registered at Media Mecca.

Center Camp Cafe sells coffee/tea/chai. All kitchens and their access by others are at the discression of the camp's inhabitants. This is a gift economy, so expect to give them a gift. Tobacco and beer are good.
9) yes, so when you see something you'd like to do/drink/eat, expect to show your gratitude by offering a gift.
10) That's between you and the person you're interacting with. Hint: later in the week there is a glut of "swag" gifts (necklaces, trinkets), but a lack of the essentials like beer and tobacco.
11) Bring a bike.
12) The clothing exchange is predominantly old thrift store gaudy clothes to be used as costumes. Don't expect to find Gap attire. Body painting is a public service by the camp members. But plan showering options if you're soon tired of being blue.
13) Be aware that camps give away food, some on schedules, some spontaneous. Don't rely on sponging off other camps though. A gift economy relies on group relationships. Expect to participate in the work, make your relationships soon, and you'll probably get fed.
14) You're welcome to offer kisses/hugs to anyone you want. This isn't Rainbow however, and expect to get a cold shoulder instead.
15) Public sex acts are not allowed, and sitable by Law Enforcement. Use drugs in the same manner you would in any city, with discression. The BRC Rangers will let you know if you're acting inappropriately, and are there to help you make wiser conduct decisions.
16) It can be as cold as 40, and high as 110. We get rain, lightning, 100 mph dirt storms, raining frogs, locusts, and huge ravines that open up and swallow whole camps.
17) Leave all expectations at home, bring imagination and compassion.
and please...
READ THE SURVIVAL GUIDE BEFORE POSTING AGAIN.

Burp! · Post by **Burp!** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 12:50 pm

I think most of what you asked has been answered here. If not you'll come across the answers in other postings.

On a side note: I think it is great that you are being proactive in asking lots of questions, but in the end until you show up and do a BurningMan you just won't really have a clue as to what it's about (ok maybe a little clue). Fortunately it only takes about an hour to "get it". It's less mechanical than you think. The part no one can really explain is the vibe.

Just think common etiquette and you'll be fine. People are very welcoming at BM, because I think we just want to live for a week in a world where we don't all shit on each other on a daily basis.

I've been 7 years off and on and last year was the first year I noticed something that to me kinda defined why I like it so much. I noticed that as a rule when ever you began a conversation with some stranger, they/you were quick to give a name and shake a hand. If that's all you do, that's at least adding to the good vibe.

You'll be surprised too when you leave the playa how at BM centered events the vibe follows. Most people go home different people (I hope)

It's about giving, don't show up either empty handed or empty minded. So if I can say anything, don't expect anything from anyone and instead expect from yourself to contribute something, at the very very least a good attitude. As to gifts, fine, I think it's becoming a little too gifty these days, a little too marti-gra(IMHO). Think outside the box and figure out a way to contribute in another way. If you make one person's experience special in someway, you've done good.

unjonharley · Post by **unjonharley** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 1:04 pm

Me thinks I smell a troll

Burp! · Post by **Burp!** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 1:11 pm

ooops sorry, didn't mean to come off that way.

Nevermind.

NF

unjonharley · Post by **unjonharley** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 1:18 pm

Burp! wrote:ooops sorry, didn't mean to come off that way.

Nevermind.

NF

/\
Not you Burp, The guy asking the questions clams he has read up on Burning Man.

ness · Post by **ness** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 1:52 pm

Looks to me like the guy who started this thread maybe should STAY HOME

Bob · Post by **Bob** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 2:09 pm

Could it be that the event is designed very specifically for a man and/or woman such as "Lysergic"?

Or just the eplaya?

I wouldn't say "STAY HOME". Not in all-caps, anyway.

Tiara · Post by **Tiara** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 2:31 pm

ness, who are you to make a judgement like that about someone based on a single post of theirs?

billvaxman · Post by **billvaxman** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 3:45 pm

robbidobbs wrote: 7) All cameras and video cameras are to be registered at Media Mecca.

This is not entirely accurate. Any camera capable of taking motion pictures (video camers and most digital cameras) need to be registered. If it will be for personal use only, then you can register with the Greeters as you come in , or at PlayaInfo near center camp. If you plan to use any video or pictures for ANY non-personal use, then you need to register with Media Mecca - they will review your use, and let you know if it is allowed. ALSO - you need to do this BEFORE you go to the Playa. The deadline for this is fast approaching (i.e. in about 2 days).

But if your just bringing a personal film camera for personal pictures then it does not need to be registered. Video (even if only a few seconds) is different. If you can take video you need to register.

Lysergic · Post by **Lysergic** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 4:47 pm

I have read the first timers survival guide and faq, etc. But it simply didnt have all the answers I was looking for, so I came here. I mean I realize that you need everything required to stay in the desert for a week and have a good time. That is why I was asking what everyone else found 'as essential' besides the obvious food, water and shelter!

Case in point-
1 In the FAQ--Q. What is the policy on taking pictures?
A. Film and video cameras are forbidden without permission
However in the survival guide it says: Commercial use of still images taken at Burning Man is forbidden without express permission. Leaving me to assume personal photographs are legit but was still confused on situation until I got some answers HERE

2. Preperation guide really says nothing about the shower situation escept to it is suggested to bring portable shower and water. But I was confused because I've seen pictures of people washing off from a truck that sprays water and a river or hot springs people were soaking in.

3. Preperation guide says nothing about flashy or prop weapons not
intended for use with violence. Only mentions firearms are not allowed

Oops I thought this was a ducking FORUM to ask, answer and comment on anything and everything, and this specific thread is for questions and answers...if you dont have anything good to say shut the duck up, cause you really make Burning Man sound like a bunch of assholes trying to fake a community of friendship and free expression.

Oh I see, I should just stay home? Man you really got some issues if you think your so ducking high and mighty. How about you stay home and I'll go so that way I dont have to worry about poopy-heads like yourself. (Ness and Unjonharley)

Anyway I like to here real opinions from real people not just some frequently asked and answered questions that dont quite do it.
I realize after having read more thoroughly that I asked a couple redudant questions like when does the gate first open and how hot/cold does it get. I knew the temperatures, I just wanted to here from people how they felt.

As to everyone else thank you so very much, you've saved me hours of perusing through threads trying to decipher some answers...thx again
JezebelinHell, technopatra,, Burp!, robbidobbs, billvaxman, any future posters!

--Lysergic

angrykittie25 · Post by **angrykittie25** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 5:03 pm

I have read the first timers survival guide and faq, etc. But it simply didnt have all the answers I was looking for, so I came here.

This is a good place for information. I think the reason a few had not so nice comments is because it seems you are posting on this board before reading its comments. Many of your questions (if not all) have been answered numerous times on this board. Maybe use the search function and search for shower (example) and then look for threads that have shower advise or something to that effect in the title. You will get many search results, just look for the ones with titles that seem they will answer your questions.

if you dont have anything good to say shut the duck up, cause you really make Burning Man sound like a bunch of assholes trying to fake a community of friendship and free expression.

I hardly think that a community of 30,000+ members could all be positive and loving all of the time. This place (eplaya) is made up of all kinds of people, we are all entitled to our opinion and responding like this to a few opinions that you don't like, really isn't going to get you anywhere. Try to ignore comments that do not pertain to your questions. There are a lot of socks puppets (in general) on this board that will try to piss you off. Just take what you can use and discard the rest.

Dork · Post by **Dork** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 5:20 pm

Those pictures of people bathing in natural bodies of water were probably either at the hot springs (which we're no longer supposed to go to) or they stopped off somewhere on the way to/from the event. The playa is nothing but dust. And I mean NOTHING.

Bring everything you need to survive and have fun for a week. Bring extra stuff to share, if you wish. Do not count on anything being available for sale or as a gift. This includes sexual favors. If you go around expecting things to be given to you, don't be surprised when they're held back. You have to just talk to ask many people as you can, and if they think you're cool and have something to offer maybe they will.

There's not a lot in the way of big events that happen on a schedule. People bring cool shit and show it off when it's convenient for them. When a big theme party or BBQ or whatever happens it's often word of mouth "come by later tonight" kind of stuff.

What gifts? Good food, alcohol, glow sticks, temporary tattoos, non-moopy costume items (if you don't understand that last one, keep researching) lighters, sunglasses, hats.

Bikes are highly recommended. They don't have to be good ones. It's probably better if they aren't.

honeyfire · Post by **honeyfire** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 5:23 pm

When planning for temps of 40 to 110, bear in mind that, unless it's actually raining, BRC is wicked dry. Dry air means that the temps feel a bit less extreme than they are, so it's easy to get overheated/overchilled.
If you need to warm up, get out of the wind if there is any, put on more clothes, dance around to get the blood moving, get near a burn barrel, or if you're really freezing your ass off and have done all of this already, ask a Ranger for help.

-Side note- Rangers are not there to wipe the noses and attend to every little need/whim of people who didn't think things through before coming to the playa. BUT the Rangers are there to help out people who really need help, and to help preserve our health and safety. A person who's too proud to ask for help and then collapses is just as much of a pain in the ass as someone who wants unnecessary handholding.

If you are overheated, get under some shade, sit down, get your head, hands, and feet bare, and as much else bare as you reasonably can. Some people find it useful to put ice or cold water on themselves to cool down. IMPORTANT- if you do this, DO NOT start by putting the coldness on your head or the back of your neck. This can put you into shock. Start by running the coolness over your hands, then forearms, then feet, then lower legs, then torso, then and only then the back of the neck and the head. If you are wetting yourself with noncooled water for evaporative cooling, you can go far quicker to the head/neck. You will also want to down some gatorade or other sodium/electrolyte drink. Maybe eat a banana...

I haven't tried it, but i bet that a plastic snow saucer (like for kids for sledding) would make a pretty good shower pan...

Those of you who haven't lived with kids may be grossed out, but cloth diapers make terrific multi-use towels. You can just get some new and use 'em. They are very absorbent, a handy size, nice and thick, and take forever to wear out. And you won't care if you stain 'em...

Bring at least twice as many pairs of socks as you think you'll need.

For gifting:
Try slicing up a melon and keeping the pieces in a big ziplock bag with some ice.
A big ole bottle of gatorade (or whatever) and some cups for passing out electrolytes.
As mentioned above, cigarettes and feminine supplies.
If you can get your hands on sample sizes of sunscreen, lotion, perfume, etc, that might be good.
For a lavish gift, a hand-sized battery fan would be great. They're $4-6 at Walgreen's/Long's/Rite-Aid type stores, but wom't be available much longer, so get 'em now if you want 'em.
Handi-wipes (keep a dispenser full with you and offer them to people who look like they feel grubby.

If i think of other stuff, i'll post it later. For now, must go...

All y'all have a great burn!

honeyfire · Post by **honeyfire** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 5:24 pm

When planning for temps of 40 to 110, bear in mind that, unless it's actually raining, BRC is wicked dry. Dry air means that the temps feel a bit less extreme than they are, so it's easy to get overheated/overchilled.
If you need to warm up, get out of the wind if there is any, put on more clothes, dance around to get the blood moving, get near a burn barrel, or if you're really freezing your ass off and have done all of this already, ask a Ranger for help.

-Side note- Rangers are not there to wipe the noses and attend to every little need/whim of people who didn't think things through before coming to the playa. BUT the Rangers are there to help out people who really need help, and to help preserve our health and safety. A person who's too proud to ask for help and then collapses is just as much of a pain in the ass as someone who wants unnecessary handholding.

If you are overheated, get under some shade, sit down, get your head, hands, and feet bare, and as much else bare as you reasonably can. Some people find it useful to put ice or cold water on themselves to cool down. IMPORTANT- if you do this, DO NOT start by putting the coldness on your head or the back of your neck. This can put you into shock. Start by running the coolness over your hands, then forearms, then feet, then lower legs, then torso, then and only then the back of the neck and the head. If you are wetting yourself with noncooled water for evaporative cooling, you can go far quicker to the head/neck. You will also want to down some gatorade or other sodium/electrolyte drink. Maybe eat a banana...

I haven't tried it, but i bet that a plastic snow saucer (like for kids for sledding) would make a pretty good shower pan...

Those of you who haven't lived with kids may be grossed out, but cloth diapers make terrific multi-use towels. You can just get some new and use 'em. They are very absorbent, a handy size, nice and thick, and take forever to wear out. And you won't care if you stain 'em...

Bring at least twice as many pairs of socks as you think you'll need.

For gifting:
Try slicing up a melon and keeping the pieces in a big ziplock bag with some ice.
A big ole bottle of gatorade (or whatever) and some cups for passing out electrolytes.
As mentioned above, cigarettes and feminine supplies.
If you can get your hands on sample sizes of sunscreen, lotion, perfume, etc, that might be good.
For a lavish gift, a hand-sized battery fan would be great. They're $4-6 at Walgreen's/Long's/Rite-Aid type stores, but wom't be available much longer, so get 'em now if you want 'em.
Handi-wipes (keep a dispenser full with you and offer them to people who look like they feel grubby. Also keep a big ziplock handy for the used ones. LNT, baby!).

If i think of other stuff, i'll post it later. For now, must go...

All y'all have a great burn!

honeyfire · Post by **honeyfire** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 5:27 pm

Doh! Sorry 'bout that. User error.
Oh, and condoms.

Last Real Burner · Post by **Last Real Burner** » Thu Jul 15, 2004 8:51 pm

I Love You Lysergic....

mmmmmmmmmm,
mr smith

theCryptofishist · Post by **theCryptofishist** » Fri Jul 16, 2004 9:01 am

honeyfire wrote: For a lavish gift, a hand-sized battery fan would be great. They're $4-6 at Walgreen's/Long's/Rite-Aid type stores, but wom't be available much longer, so get 'em now if you want 'em.

Go for the ones with the led light patterns. At night you can use'm to bait ravers. . .

Bob · Post by **Bob** » Fri Jul 16, 2004 10:36 am

Lysergic wrote:I have read the first timers survival guide and faq, etc. But it simply didnt have all the answers I was looking for...

Forgive me, but you chose to post as "Lysergic" from "Elsewhere", and have given the distinct impression of coming down hard from the Rainbow Gathering. And just because some eplaya contributors think it's valuable to answer every damned question posed doesn't mean that others of us think that some greater value should be given to reading comprehension, self-responsibility, common sense, and the contributions of the authors of the Survival Guide, the main Burning Man website, and the printing on your ticket, which the last time I looked at it included something like "Commercial vending, firearms, fireworks, rockets and all other explosives prohibited. You agree to read and abide by ALL rules in the Survival Guide. You agree to follow federal, state, and local laws.".

unjonharley · Post by **unjonharley** » Fri Jul 16, 2004 1:01 pm

Nicely put Bob, Myself I would not/can not be that tactful.

We or almost all of us get the message of no fire arms.

I go to a fair every year. Camp in the same camp grounds. Every year some uck-wit sets up camp near me. Promply unloads his knives, axes, stars and all other manner of deadly wepontry. Just as fast the cops land in the camp. Gun drawen and yelling 'put em down and get on the ground'.

BRC in set on puplic lands. If you display deadly wepons in public you may be arrested. If your whipping them around under your own shade structure, Do'nt be surprised if the law comes in there to see you. They don't need search warrent if they can see you. If your going to perform with these wepons I would suggest you keep them in a closed container to and from the performence.

Bob · Post by **Bob** » Fri Jul 16, 2004 2:10 pm

If all that weren't enough, there are billboards and Burma Shave signs on the way in that also say pretty much the same thing.

There might be a trading post back in Gerlach where you can flip your flintlock for stuffed grouse or a jackalope head, but YMMV.

robbidobbs · Post by **robbidobbs** » Fri Jul 16, 2004 6:22 pm

billvaxman wrote:
robbidobbs wrote: 7) All cameras and video cameras are to be registered at Media Mecca.
This is not entirely accurate.
(blah)
If it will be for personal use only, then you can register with the Greeters as you come in , or at PlayaInfo near center camp.
(blah)
But if your just bringing a personal film camera for personal pictures then it does not need to be registered.

BZZZZZZZT! THANK YOU FOR PLAYING!
This ain't what I was told at the Ranger Training last w/e. ALL cameras are to be tagged, the only exception is the cardboard cameras, and that's only due to logistics.

The fine line you're making re MM vs Greeters/PlayaInfo is that these groups maintain a stack of registration cards that are then run over to MM on a very regular basis. Greeters (a group I'm now a part of) are just doing a community service ON BEHALF of MM.

I'm anything but shy if I see an untagged camera pointing at me, I get LOUD. However, some ppl get a bit more violent when their image is taken w/o their permission. (Oops, was that your $800 camera?)

Bob A · Post by **Bob A** » Fri Jul 16, 2004 8:35 pm

robbidobbs wrote:
BZZZZZZZT! THANK YOU FOR PLAYING!

Sorry but it looks like still persnoal camera's do not need a tag. if it is digital and records video motion it needs a tag. If you look at the 2nd JRS quote it says "if your digital camera can capture video it needs to be regestered" hense if it does not, you do not need to register it.

That said they do not come right out anywhere and say do not register still personal use cameras.

It sounds like mixed info is coming down from the top if rangers are being told all cameras no exceptions. We need a sign from above.

Also they are staying not media mecca for any personal use paper work.

Bob A

2004 Survival Guide wrote: Those filming or videotaping for personal use must sign a use agreement, which indicates the footage will not be professionally distributed. This protects the privacy rights of participants. This Personal Use Agreement can be obtained at the Gate, or obtained and turned in at the Greeters Station, Playa Info, and Black Rock Ranger Outposts in the Civic Plazas.

JRS 07/08/04 wrote: If you brought your camera out to shoot video for the folks back home, then all you need to do is fill out a Personal Use Agreement (you can get one at the Gate, or at one of the dropoff locations) and turn it in at Greeters, Playa Info in Center Camp, or the Ranger Outposts, and receive a tag for your camera. Drop-off for Personal Use agreements is not at Media Mecca. One more time: Media Mecca is NOT the spot to acquire or drop-off your personal use agreement.

JRS 07/08/04 wrote: Burning Man defines any camera that can shoot even a few seconds of motion imagery as a video camera. Most new digital still cameras shoot a few seconds of motion imagery (one participant last year shot an entire video in 17-second clips using this feature). If your digital still camera can capture motion imagery, it needs to be registered.

from press area on main site wrote: If you are filming or videotaping for personal use, you have the responsibility to check in at Playa Info, sign a personal use agreement, and get your camera tagged. This will let others know that you have obtained permission to use your camera. Unless you sign a personal use agreement and obtain a camera tag, you do not have any right to record images at the event.

Bob · Post by **Bob** » Fri Jul 16, 2004 8:56 pm

What Would Stieglitz Do?

Badger · Post by **Badger** » Sat Jul 17, 2004 3:29 am

What Would Stieglitz Do?

Whatever the hell Georgia tells him to.

teslamorton · Post by **teslamorton** » Sun Jul 18, 2004 4:11 pm

Hey there Lysergic,

It is always good to ask questions, even if others don't respond well, and even if the questions themselves are redundant. I will be a first time participant at Burning Man myself, and I was appreciative of reading your post.

To each individual who has posted in reply to Lysergic, remember you guys and gals, Grace! Grace! Grace! From everything I have read regarding Burning Man and the culture that we all want to focus on, the idea is that we get to be away for a week and not treat eachother the way the rest of the world treats others on a regular basis. This includes any sort of reply that we give on this website! Burning Man doesn't start on the 30th, the idea and the hope of a society where all are accepted and all are loved (even if they didn't read the information on the website completely) starts now, when we reach out to those who still have questions and help them.

Big community, lots of different kinds of people, lots of different kinds of lives and beliefs, lots of different moods! Lysergic, don't get upset; let the less encouraging comments go; you haven't met these people, you haven't stood in their shoes the day they wrote the email, and you don't know what they have been through in their life.

Grace and peace to each of you as you finish preparing for this year's Burning Man. Thanks for reading the post!

Tes

unjonharley · Post by **unjonharley** » Sun Jul 18, 2004 4:30 pm

I'm realy thing of turning in my ticket after this last dork chimed in. This is going to be one wide year.

Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?

Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?

Re: Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?

Re: Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?

BM

Re: Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?

Excuse me

a few more suggestions

a few more suggestions

DOH!

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Re: a few more suggestions

Re: Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?

Re: Some questions from a Newbie Burner!?