Burning Man 1997 | 1997 Experiences (Archives Sept 3-4)

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Sorry, but your webmaster (who doesn't get paid to do this) has a day job that is still overloaded since before he left to burning man, and barely had time to add this simple update. He hasn't even unpacked from last weekend yet, but hopes that he can improve things a bit after this weekend. So please cut him a little slack for the next few days, and after that point, feel free to abuse him. :-> -- Your Webmaster, September 4, 1997 at 11:59p

Responses (September 3 and 4):

When I first arrived I thought I was in a new world, but soon I discovered it was a fantasy turned reality. I had a great time. Special thanks to Rattle- snake camp for making my trips larger than life. Thank you all for your outrageousness. -Love and all that Eagle, San Jose- -- Eagle H. Hague, September 4, 1997 at 11:33p

CAN THE WEBMASTER PUT A SEARCH FUNCTION INTO THIS LIST PLEASE ?? Then we can all search for audio, video , friends, places etc . WHAT ABOUT IT ? -- Ciaran, September 4, 1997 at 11:17p

the "real world"--you know...the one we live our day to day lives in--is not really the "real" world. it is merely one possible world out of an infinite possible worlds to live in...burning man, by most people's ideals would be described as 'surreal'. I don't think i'm alone when i say that the so called real world is the truly surreal world (i haven't yrt "re-adjusted!), and black rock city is really a real world. the everyday world is a place where people wear masks to hide themselves, but at burning man, we wear masks to REVEAL ourselves. A truly beautiful thing full self expression is. refreshingly not the norm. Burning man, I MISS YOU. citizens of black rock city, I LOVE YOU ALL! CORY I LOVE YOU MORE THAN WORDS CALL TELL! keep the spirit alive...burning man must survive. -- twan, September 4, 1997 at 11:15p

Peace to all B.M.ers esp. those on 1900 St. love from Ciaran+Bengu in Turkey. It was a long way from Istanbul to Nevada, and even longer going back, but be sure we'll be back ! PEACE to Hal+Buck (you krazy kids), the 420's inc. Kat+Ron, Geoff and the RV crew nextdoor, Andy+Nigel, Oh, and the other 12,000 or so :) -- Ciaran and Bengu, September 4, 1997 at 11:15p

Did anyone else notice that IDIOT FLESH was performing for a least a half hour before they ever played a song. Let me Describe:They had prerecorded a samplescape filled with old television themes and subliminal messages. This was accompanied by a completely choreographed stage set-up, a few well timed power outages and some incrediblely timed performing. All this adds together to form some very potent television deprogramming that I will personally attest to. My gratitude, praise and amazement go to IDIOT FLESH. I also want to give praise to T'Chkung and Beyond Race for very awesome and energetic shows. Special appreciation for the fire dancing Goddess with IDIOT FLESH, You really did honor us with your presence. Huge thanks to all organizers, medics, vollunteers, BM rangers and to all performers. Advice for next year: ban media trucks, make them camp and join; move back to open playa, space is freedom; how about an Egyptian theme, we are in the desert, under the Sun, celebrating community, changing peoples lives through magick. MAY FREEDOM AND THE TRIBE OF THE BURNING MAN LIVE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS AND MINDS AND DEEDS. -- David(guy in fishnet shirt), September 4, 1997 at 11:00p

This was my first Burningman and all I can say is WoW. I've never been is such a peaceful community. The Burningman has changed my life in more ways than one. I can't wait till next year. If you still need donata=ion please let me Know for we can not let the spirit of the Man die! -- David Francesconi, September 4, 1997 at 10:52p

is burning man a non-profit art organization? could it be? -- kat, September 4, 1997 at 10:42p

Many thanks to the Starlust Lounge for their Fabulous hang-out and endless drinks at the bar....Neil, you are a super guy and I hope to see you next year and help you out behind the bar. Sorry to take off without a formal farewell, but I got lusty......hmm.... thanks for the drinks........ -- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 10:33p

-- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 10:31p

Okay a few pieces. . . On Saturday at midnight there was a two person show at the House of Atonement. It was a tall boy with electric sky blue board shorts and a girl with a black bikini being laced together by the madame. That was us. We are perverts and our pictures did not turn out. No just kidding, it was one of the most spiritual experiences of our lives. We traveled to B.M. together as friends and left soul mates(no not in a romatic sence, it is possible you know)partially due to our stint on the table. Anyway if some curious soul snapped a picture please contact us, we are desperate for a copy. Also at the House of Atonement there was a wonderful gentleman in a long black trench coat from Upland, CA that invited us in and now we forgot his name and never got his number. Help. Also The Juicy Danger Show Rocked!!! (Christine Marry Me! G.H.) If someone knows how to contact them please tell us. ===If you can help with any of our requests please page or leave a voice mail at (310) 898-0988 any time day or night. Thank you all!!! -- Bridget & Grasshopper: The Disheveled Duo, September 4, 1997 at 10:30p

-- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 9:51p

I was somewhat skeptical before embarking on my first journey to B.M. A few years ago I went to Woodstock (part 2, of course) and was disenchanted by the corporate and self-serving structure of the ordeal. But my reservations about B.M. soon vanished. It was the closest I've ever experienced to a utopia. I can't count how many people offered me a drink of water, or food, or a lollipop. I've heard it described as an anarchistic party. This could be further from the truth. It is true that for a few days structure or boundaries of our routine life did not bind us. But all of us created a city, free of judgement, ego, and pretension. I stripped down completely naked and danced with fury. Not a moment was I self-conscious. For some that may not seem like a big deal being that it was common place this weekend. I was never able to let go. It wasn't just the open space that made my experience so profound. I needed more then just a weekend in the desert to unravel myself. Until I started to let go of all the masks of work and relationships did I grasp how tightly I was wrapped. Not only was it a land for self-expression, but a vehicle for self-expression. I want to thank you all for making my experience so memorable. See you guys next year! -- Jim , September 4, 1997 at 9:35p

I didn't make it to Burning Man this year. In fact, I've NEVER been to see the man burn! My experience of the event has so far been 100% virtual. However, I would like to thank all of you for making this thing happen, for participating in it, and for creating such a worthwhile experience that even those of us who can't be there in person are able to get a vicarious rush from the residue this thing leaves in cyberspace. You have enriched all of our lives in ways that may take a long time to be appreciated, but are nonetheless true and real. When my babies are bigger (one is three and the other isn't born yet), I'll make the trek to Burning Man so that they can see for themselves how much joy and beauty the future holds for them. Shalom. -- John, September 4, 1997 at 9:09p

Hell, I've never even been to Burning Man. Fact is, I'll probably never go. I'm just damn proud to know its there. PeaceLoveandAnarchy. -- gene skinner, September 4, 1997 at 9:07p

Hey a great loud shout out to all the Rangers and Burning Man crew that created the opportunity for us to be there and create the community that WE ALL did. Your work has touched thousands. -- michael, September 4, 1997 at 9:03p

I've got to agree with Sandy's statements below. There are plenty of deserts in America. While Northern Nevada was convenient when the event was a San Francisco event, Burning Man is bigger than that now and it could survive being moved somewhere else (like Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, or even southern Nevada). There is no reason to put up with the crap that the county gave the event this year - move someplace else! Put it up for bids! With the press from people like MSNBC (who gave great coverage IMHO, and participated) and safety record from this year proving that organizers could learn from past mistakes and take steps to make it a safe event, there should be no problem convincing some other community to host it. I talked to many fire and police personel this year who were very impressed with the quality of the crowd and the safety of the event (with the exception of the campsites on the brush, which were a serious fire hazard). I'm sure you could get very convincing testamony out of the rank-and-file if you asked. This was my first year. I hope to never miss it again because it was the most amazing thing I've every been part of. My friends and I are already planning to do a bigger and better theme camp next year and to create some really cool art on the playa. I hate to see wonderful people like Larry and Marion and the others who put themseleves into this get frustrated by the greed of the local officials who don't want you there. It'll burn you out eventually, and it would be a great loss to all of us. MOVE IT SOMEWHERE WHERE THEY DO WANT US SO THAT WE CAN DANCE AND PLAY IN THE DESERT FOREVER! -- Jim, September 4, 1997 at 8:59p

My experience at Burning Man was delightfully more than I was expecting. I felt a community similar to that of a rainbow gathering, the people-watching excitment of a Grateful Dead parking lot, and the intensity of a large large metropolitan city. Burning Man for me means another re-examination of society and my role in it.      I find it hard to explain to my freinds and family why this event is so significant. All I can do is show people my pictures and my new attitude. -- leif, September 4, 1997 at 8:43p

Like many others, I am at a loss to describe this event to my friends and family at home in Seattle. I think I just end up with my mouth open and my eyes wide like some sadly dehydrating trout. Last year I tried elaborating for hours on all that I saw and felt. After this year, I know that all I can truly say is ***WOW*** I became the patient and attentive ear to more than one confession of how Burning Man was changing a life or a perspective. The press, mind you, was not immune to this. Many of them did not have an easy time returning with the same attitudes and intentions that they brought with them (or useable images for that matter).      To those of you who attempted or completed installations or theme camps this year: don't lose heart if everything did not go as planned!!! Mercury along with four of the five outer planets were in retrograde during Burning Man this year, accounting for a time when many things did not go as expected and communications and logistics became more difficult than usual. Congratulations to all of you who managed to pull it off in spite of this difficult twist of nature. I for one attempted but did not finish a project. My mistake: I resumed the planning process only 2 months before the festival. Now I know to begin planning and building soon after I return. No more procrastination! Thank you all who participate for your inspiration. The Muse I have been searching for all my life has been discovered on the Hualapai playa. It is slowly pushing up through a crevasse in the rich khaki clay. I discovered it one night, so small and fragile, far from the city but near enough to feel the city vibrations. I will foster it in spirit until I can return to care for it in person again next year. I feel like a child yet driven to create at the limits of my mental and emotional being. Thank you Burning Man Organizers and Volunteers...      ...Next year, when you're having difficulties fulfilling those 121 requirements or whatever, when you're fighting for the survival of this beautiful experience and challenging misunderstanding and fear at many levels, don't forget this community that you have fostered. We are intelligent, creative and powerful. Let us know when you need our voices and we will speak. Write us and email us. Seven powerful people may speak skillfully and eloquently but the roar that 12,000 can make is not so easily ignored by the press or the politicians. Hopefully such a fuss will not be necessary. WOW..OM..WOW -- Heidi, September 4, 1997 at 8:27p

this was an incredible experience. i hope that it will happen next year. Petra from Germany-hello. -- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 8:07p

Well i had a great time , this is my 2nd. year and once more the experience was very unique, i fell a little of invaition by big brother, roaming all over on cars and hellicopters bud never the less i had a wonderfull time being part of this rare and experience, thaks to all the people who work so hard in order to make this great event posible.in special to Mr.Larry Harvey, i'm looking forward to BURNING MAN 1998, lets do'it, hope to hear from you take care B-MAN people(:> -- Carlo, September 4, 1997 at 7:52p

Heh heh. And I was afraid I wasn't gonna get it? As the song says: " I'm from New Jersey. I don't expect too much." Whew! See... out here in suburbia, I'm just not used to bein' THAT free. Lotsa' stuff just happenin' in the spirit of spirit. I gave my friend a "for example" of what I participated in/saw in the space of 2 hrs and was gettin' the chills just recollecting. I know I'm changed a little. I might even be developing a little...a... creativity. Yeah that's it. Creativity. There! I said it... er...typed it...er whatever. Thanks everybody! Gotta light? -- Jack , September 4, 1997 at 7:40p

Thank you all soooo very much for easily the most extraordinary experience of my life to date. In the desert I found my people, my family, my tribe. And I never knew before now how much I missed them. Such an incredible sense of communtiy, and love, and creativity, and excitemnet, and possibility, and freedom, and hope, and beauty, and even danger.. No words can describe the feeling out there on that Playa. The ritual, the fire, the machines, the sculpture, the beating of drums, the sun and the stars. All that came together out there in that barren expanse of desert generated a life of its own, a fresh entity fueled by the convergence of unbridled human spirits. We all became a part of something, and that something came alive. Thinking about it, reading about it, or writing about it now.. all makes tears well up from a deep emotional place. I want to be back there with all of you doing it all, and more, again. Next year I will be there in the weeks preceding to help to set up our city. You have all profoundly changed my life in a way it so much needed to be changed. Hope that Pink-Bike made some little girl happy--it sure made us happy (except when it stole all the skin off my shoulder, hand, and knee). Sorry ya had to leave early Jim; hope ya liked the camping gear, Will. Sorry I didn't get to say farwell to Roger. Hope Kristie and the Texas gang made it safely home--wish I had got ya numbas. Who were the artists that built the "white noise field" and the "glass tubes of fire", and the "giant guitar guy", and the "modern primitive"? Can't wait for next year!! Are there any other events throughout the year where many of this clan can get together? -- Syd, September 4, 1997 at 7:36p

The following are 5 picture sites listed below in other peoples messages. Thought I would sorta consolidate. Enjoy. one: http://prometheus.frii.com/~jenine/tb/bman/ Two: http://www.tks.fh-sbg.ac.at/~brandolf/burningman/ Three: http://gn2.getnet.com/~avarice/bm/ Four: http://www.empire-sf.com/burningman/pix.html Five: http://www.vortexia.com/ -- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 7:34p

i started to smile with the loading of the truck (love these people) on tuesday. i turned 32 on wednesday. i risked my life for art thursday, friday, saturday, and sunday. i was stripped of my laughter on monday when i found my piece in a pile. if anyone has photos of the thirty foot high lamp (tall hanging fabric structure between the man and pepe's piece) could you let me know and restore my smile (i hardly have any photos for so much effort). a big kiss on the cheek to larry and crimson for recognizing that beauty can be worth the risk of stepping outside of boundries. -- michael, September 4, 1997 at 7:34p

My first burn and I went alone. But, I met many cool folks who made me feel entirely at home. Bob & Lisa, Marshall and Dylan and Debbie and Sarah and Patrick and Dianna. And especially the Mystic Crew of Satyrs for making me jambalaya even though I made fun of Baton Rouge. Next year, visit me at the Black Rock Drive-In! -- matt, September 4, 1997 at 7:30p

Lt. Larry McGee & Max Pogue.....didn't someone say they were the same person?? Perhaps Larry is Maxs dad and sent him in on covert operations? -- %%%%%%%%%%%%%%, September 4, 1997 at 7:21p

To all the MAX POGUES of the world. You and your energy is just what we were all trying to escape from. Go be you somewhere else next year. -- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 7:20p

To the Lamplighter who put my camera back in the front seat of our Jeep the night of the burn: You are nothing short of miraculous. Can't express my thanks. The girl who gave me the red sucker as we waited for the Man to go up also did me a particularly good deed. Everybody: donate $100 to the Project now and get a free ticket for next year; donate $500 and become a lifetime ticketholder! P.O. Box 420572, San Francisco, CA, 94142-0572. Anyone organizing an L.A. area benefit, write me for help. Cheer -- byrne, September 4, 1997 at 7:13p

For all of you Black Rockers who missed hearing Larry Harvey speak at the bone vulva...you missed a lot. As founder/starter/keeper-of-the-flame, he not only told of the funny/sad/painful/joyous Burning Man history, but also of his lovely vision for the community. DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE I CAN GET A TRANSCRIPT OR RECORDING OF THIS SPEECH? I was deeply impressed by this man and his (clearly) heart-felt words changed me for the better. Tia@sfbg.com -- Tia, September 4, 1997 at 7:04p

The really hard thing to do after getting back from burning man is trying to explain what is was like. The best explanation I give to people what I heard from a guy who's name was "Dan". He was originally from New Zealand (kewl accent too) and my friend and I met him after the man burned. We were watching that 2 story structure burn (the one that housed the guitar playing robot with the drums in his chest) on Sunday night. We were talking about how great burnign man was and he said he descirbed burning man to other people like this...."Well you see.....there is this man......and there is fire.....lots of people......ah, you'll just have to go next year." I loved it. Some of the memorable things: the vegamatic defeating the wooden duck and the big white teddy bear! The guy with the blow horn on top of that black "Mad Max" looking car from Minnesota "we need some naked women here now" "Show us your genitalia". "Sperm man" who was standing near by just before the man burned. The guy who didn't want anyone to look at his burning magnesium fire "do not look at the fire, it is brighter than the sun....you do the math". The guy with that welded metal man on his knee's who was telling a story about the end of the world (too long....I left about halfway through....never did see if he torched the toilet paper he had put on the metal man). The woman who yelled " I love all you people" about 10 minutes before the man burned....and the guy who yelled back about 15 ft away "We love you too". The helicopter that was flying around with it's lights off while my friend and I were really tripping out in the middle of the playa (about half a mile away from the light representing the sun). That smut shack on the south end of the playa....and the repentence camp (that was a little too much for me...interesting though). My favorite was seeing that twister that appeared just before the "man" fell over. One amazing thing that I could not get over was how safe I felt out there in the darkness on the playa both Sat & Sun nights everyone just seemed to accept everyone else. I do have to thank Adrianne and Michael for providing a most enhancing experience Sunday night. Adrianne was the girl selling Sage by the giant ice ball. To Adrianne and Michael "Thank you again" I have felt different since coming back....hard to explain but I really miss everyone and just the whole atmosphere and carma that was so expressive,creative, and beautiful. I hope it will happen again next year....I will be there! -- Dan, September 4, 1997 at 6:53p

To the guy who ran up to the Burningman just as it was about to blow...YOU SIR ARE AN ASSHOLE!!! Not only could you have killed yourself but you could have killed that Fireman who saved your dumb ass. You should have been arrested and made an example of...but instead you got off easy. You looked pretty proud of yourself but I don't think anyone was impressed. Think about the Fireman... -- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 6:49p

thanks to everyone who hauled all of that freaky stuff and their freaky selves up to the desert for our enjoyment. next year can we find a way to have more remote camping? -flak -- flak, September 4, 1997 at 6:48p

To the "staff" at Motel 666 I had a great time, thanks for the great memories. Did anybody find the jumper cables? -- David, September 4, 1997 at 6:41p

Max Pogue, you suck. People like you are the ones who are going to eliminate Burning Man all together. why do you think they charged $75 to get in? And what makes you think you are above paying? You have no right to complain about the cops, the over flowing toilets, or the media hype because what you did makes each one of those inconvenieces seem trivial. I hope to see everyone again at Burning Man '98, except Max Pogue. Peace -- Trace, September 4, 1997 at 6:40p

"However, said Lt. Larry McGee, the inf>Trace, September 4, 1997 at 6:40p

"However, said Lt. Larry McGee, the influx of people over the weekend brought several problems, including a small-plane crash with minor injuries, the ousting of a few gate-crashers and the arrest of an individual with firearms. McGee also said that Burning Man organizers did not do an adequate job of marking roads so that law enforcement could respond quickly to accidents." Hey Larry - FUCK YOU!!! We did it right! Nothing we did was wrong! You and your friends who stole from this organization through your outrageous expenses were the ones breaking the law! Go soak your head! I wonder how dependant the county will become to the influx of cash from this years show? Hopefully a great deal - leverage next year! Thank You All! What a great experience!!!! -- anon, September 4, 1997 at 6:26p

I fell in love with a snowball. I kissed its luscious lips like an eager 16 year old. I sucked for its tongue, but it was a cold lover. Thank you for this experience, one and all. Only a couple of more days and I would have lost ALL inhibitions. It took me a while to shake those chains of society off. Tony, thanks for glittering my ass. Matt, Dave and Matthew, thanks for watching in wonder! -- KAT, September 4, 1997 at 6:08p

I'm still having a problem getting back to normal, and trying to deal with L.A.. This was by far the best evnt I have ever participated in, it has changed my life forever. Thanks to everyone involved with organizing this thing, you've helped me keep my sanity, at least for a little while! Wahoooo! -- Tim, September 4, 1997 at 6:03p

RE:BUBONIC PLAGUE... Is this posting real? I need to know if this really occurred because I know someone who is actually exhibiting these symptoms and was bitten by a flea while at the hot springs... -- Shirley, September 4, 1997 at 6:00p

I agree with the Legion of Max Progue haters!!!!! All of you who "snuck" in, DON'T COME BACK NEXT YEAR!!!!! You're not invited!! Burning Man is not making money, you idiots; it needs our money to stay alive!! You obviously don't get the point, so you don't belong in our community. You are part of the problem. Stay OUT!! p.s. I love you Paul. -- karen, September 4, 1997 at 5:53p

i have just put some pictures of this years burning man in the web - <a href="http://www.tks.fh-sbg.ac.at/~brandolf/burningman/">check it out</a> [hope this works - the address is <http://www.tks.fh-sbg.ac.at/~brandolf/burningman/>] and tell me other sites with pictures from this year, if you know some. THANK YOU ALL! -- Br1, September 4, 1997 at 5:52p

a few days ago i burned all my x's stuff it really burned hot -- Ricky Albanese, September 4, 1997 at 5:35p

Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful! The biggest party I've ever been to! Like living in a Fellini movie, so beautiful, so surreal. And everyone so very NICE and cooperative, not like being on planet earth at all.... I have to admit I tend to be real cynical about these things, but after BM '97 my attitude has changed forever! Now if only there was a way to make this happen 365 days a year.... -- Bernadette, September 4, 1997 at 5:35p

Re: THE MEDIA MENACE. I personally didn't find the media to be all that bad, occasionally intrusive but generaly well behaved. Except the night of The Burn when the hordes of camera people stood between us and The Man. Why should observers get the best seats? A cry rose up from the crowd. BURN THE CAMERAS!!! BURN THE CAMERAS!!! Several of the camera guys sat down. I think we scared em. I like aaron's idea of a Media Terrorist Squad for next year, the Manifesto should be included with (or perhaps should simply be)the BM98 press kit. THOU SHALL NOT OBSERVE WITHOUT PARTICIPATING. VIOLATORS WILL BE PUNISHED WITH WATER BALLOON PELTINGS AND GOO BOMBS (DON'T ASK). The easiest way a photographer/media person can demonstrate participatoty intent is of course to . . . get naked. See ya'll soon. -- Hanuman Arpelion Pax, September 4, 1997 at 5:30p

The Solar Water Temple of Oceania, located in Central Camp behind the Volcano, is looking for a new home. If you can worship the Goddess (and understand modern technology), please sent us a note. Love to all who visited us in the right spirit and respected our wishes to NOT BE PHOTOGRAPHED. You were really there and those with cameras missed out. NO SPECTATORS = NO CAMERAS. Any questions? -- Lono & Tethys, September 4, 1997 at 5:17p

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I continue to say that I just had the best time of my life, and I thought that I had already surpassed those crazy possibilities in years past. Thank you Motel 666 for all your hospitality. I wish I knew more than nothing going in because then I may have possibly been able to appreciate it quicker. Next year though!!! Words can not begin to explain the love that drove people insane! Thank you Julie, Arin, Lenny, Alex, Nigel, Dave, Karina, P, Smut Shack (so cool)!!!!! -- Andrew, September 4, 1997 at 5:05p

The gorillalike inflatable patchwork out there struck me as looking strangely like Princess Di, long before I heard the bad news on the ride back. Cosmic ironies abound. All those roving camera crews and for what? BurningMan exposure overshadowed by the always interesting death of a beautiful person. And for us, the participants; we just escaped being bombarded by the media spectacle of the season by coming in second. In fact, the circumstances surrounding Di's death bear curious parallels to my main dilemma/revelation of the festival. Before leaving, I stocked up on Hi8 tapes and batteries, telling all my friends of the great footage I'd bring back. After capturing an hour of video, I lost my resolve to relentlessly document Burning Man. How can one enjoy something so amazing through a viewfinder, or with a clunky Handycam hanging from his shoulder? Forget having my cake. I ate like a pig and never got full. If you believe what you hear, you can say that the media loved Di to death. <B>You know, HTML code won't really work on this BBS</B> Sure, Burning Man is one of the most photogenic happenings of this century, but I made a painful decision to take part in it rather than take from it. The media may have learned last weekend that in the pursuit of capturing events and people on record, you corrupt to the point of destroying them. Let's hope that doesn't happen to BRC. "The Media" - from naked guys with FunSavers to Ponytailed Indie Film Directors, are a part of Burning Man. Several separate posts have made suggestions to pull them even closer into the event, make them EARN their press passes somehow. I applaud that and suggest we organize. I had the same idea myself, actually, so count me in. What if folks had a central way to trade video footage, so they weren't strapped to their cameras 24/7, prowling for yet another bizarre moment the folks "just won't believe!". My heart goes out to all the folks like me who found the strength to put down the ducky, so to speak, and leave that camcorder in the car for the final burn. (Is it just me - or were there like twenty or thirty "Guy with a camcorder, Girl with a fuzzy boom mike" couples at burning man? *That* was bizarre, folks) I just looked at my footage, and what a bunch of half-assed crap it is anyway. Under normal circumstances I'd be fuming, but I know what I saw on the playa, and no camera can come close to the feeling of being there. Nothing. Burning Man, the whole week, is a work of art and it exists on its own, for its own. Another suggestion: A condition for airspace - A lottery for free chopper rides every time the bird sets down. Then again, some of us might ~~never be seen again~~. Some artists who made my experience particularly great: Miss Megan, who helped me get organized; Ted, who bravely caved in and drove when I was too wrecked to; Jonathan and Kevin, Doug, Hugh, and Chris and Chris And Chris and Paul. My homies, CAMP CUL-de-SAC WILL RETURN! One moment of penance: to the very attractive girl in the jean shorts who bounced topless on the trampoline while I stood by in my stupid woody woodpecker shirt; It was really my turn to bounce, but you know, heh heh... By the way, I'm NO relation to that pitiable Pogue who snuck in and had the nerve to criticize. Here's a clue: Give to get. Get it? Our fine neighbors Charlotte and James taught us that. Thanks volunteers, organizers, participants from California to the New York Island and beyond, like that trampolining Irish trio I gave water to, those guys with the cool whistling football - added nice detail, the guy in the Pedal Camp who tirelessly labored on my front axle, Joyce and the wonderful people at Camp Medusa who gave me a venue for my "Bingo! Bingo!" rants. Everybody. We are the chosen ones. Deepest gratitude goes to Jennifer. I'll leave it at that. And let's all cough up the dough (either that or get the ACLU in there.) From the book of Stiggs: "Citizenship has its obligations, and some of them hurt like shit." -- Ron Pogue, September 4, 1997 at 4:53p

i had a great time. i enjoyed every minute of it, let's do it again next year! i'll bring the beer. -- Joe, September 4, 1997 at 4:33p

FUCK YOU TO MAX POGUE WHO SNUCK IN. WHO THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU ARE TO SNEAK IN AND GIVE US YOUR SHITFILED SNIDE COMMENTS. BURNINGMAN MIGHT NOT EVEN HAPPEN NEXT YEAR DUE TO PEOPLE LIKE YOU. YOU WERE SMART NOT PUTTING YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS ON THIS THING BECAUSE YOU JUST PISSED A WHOLE LOT OF BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE OFF. YOU ARE ONE BIG FUCKING COWARD. PRAY YOU DON'T MEET ME NEXT YEAR. WE'LL BE LOOKIN FOR YOU. IF YOU'RE LUCKY, WE'LL BURN YOU AND CALL IT ART. BURN MAX POGUE!!! BURN MAX POGUE!!! BURN MAX POGUE!!! -- THE LEGION OF MAX POGUE HATERS, September 4, 1997 at 4:25p

I have to find Flash!!!!!!! Papa Satan. I am his sister and we had a death in the family. He needs to call me at 916-673-1339 or 916-822-5260. I have tried his other phone numbers. Tell him to call Liz..... -- Liz Miller, September 4, 1997 at 4:24p

I propose that Black Rock City be the first colony on Mars. That should solve the helicopter problem. Think about it...OUR OWN GODDAMN PLANET!!! -- Dominic, Dark Angel of Black Rock, September 4, 1997 at 4:06p

Accolades to Moebius for creating Frequency Publica. Blessings to the Sacred Disorder of the Enigmata -- I am actually finding converts out here. My best experience -- finding Cindy from Santa Cruz and sharing her fire trip after the man burned -- Thank you. Damn, I never did get a chance to trade in my soul for a new one. You who got Anais Nin's soul, use it well. Doug and Peto, it wouldn't have been the same w/o you. I'll stop there -- the dictionary is such an inadequate tool to describe my experience.aren't enough words to describe my experience. -- pan, September 4, 1997 at 3:49p

Best time of my life. Total isolation. Exquisite over-stimulation. I apologize if my cabasa offended anyone: There were many drummers to play off/with. The future of Black Rock City depends on the education and accord of it’s citizens. * The location will be remote and severe. * You will bring everything you will need and leave nothing. * There will be nothing for sale that US Currency can buy. * Tolerance and respect for all is required. * Exclude the Media but provide them daily reels. The well-being of the community is the priority of all.. I have lived BM vicariously for years through Chuck’s video. I finally made it. Bless you Chuck. We will return next year with a major camp that will be our gift to all citizens of Black Rock City. No Spectators! -- Paul Carey, September 4, 1997 at 3:37p

     Once again, kudos to a perfectly-executed piece of absurdist collage choreography.(Collective pat on our collective backs in order here.) It is so refreshing to be continously surrounded for days on end by an ever- metamorphosizing milieu of alternative realities, passages of languages in the process of being invented, cross- dimensional campsites, and constructivist creations walking so finely that fine line between the silly and the sublime.      My travel companion, though a fine fellow, is a little short on descriptive abilities; and this proved to be a constant source of amusement, then frustration, then outright irritation, then resignation, and back to amusement again when I finally realized that his inability to describe what he was looking at was actually merely a condition of the environment that surrounded us. "Wow, what is that!?"      "What?" "That!"      "Which that?" "That thing over there!"      "Which thing over where?" "That weird floating thing that's glowing!"      "WHICH weird floating, glowing thing!?!"      And so on.      I did miss the infinite surrealist landscape of the prior playa, but this year's more encompasable stage did have its intimate aspects. The more breathable air and car-free roamable spaces were in fact a definite plus.      Have to agree with the dissent regarding the day passes, though. It may be a diplomatic sop to the locals to allow them to come in for the day and gawk; but it noticeably mars the environment to have all these spectators touring around with cameras and last-minute glow sticks hanging off their necks. THIS IS NOT A SPECTATOR SPORT.      For the past two days since my return, the first thing that flashes through my mind upon waking up and opening my eyes is a strange sense of being in a weird and unrecognizably alien environment: the four walls of my own bedroom. THANK YOU FOR THAT!!! -- Chris Dichtel, September 4, 1997 at 3:35p

What's this Black Rock City CRAP!? We're not gonna be pushed around again! The NATION of BLACK ROCK shall Rise FROM THE ASHES like the PHOENIX!!!!! I love you all. see you next year. Give generously. -- joel wylan, September 4, 1997 at 3:33p

To Impish, and a number of other ranters below: If you don't like it, you should volunteer! A bunch of people, working mostly for free, set up a giant party in the middle of nowhere. I thought they did a FANTASTIC job, and deserve our heartfelt thanks. Sure, things were confused and imperfect, but so is the rest of life. If you want Burning Man to be better, step right up and help! -- William, September 4, 1997 at 3:22p

My third burn; it gets more interesting each time. We had a cool camp on the grass at the north end by the tree. On saturday morning at 9 AM an RV pulled up and unloaded five drunk frat boys from Hermosa Beach. They proceeded to put two JBLs on top of the RV and blast bad music at 115 decibels to everyone's dismay, most had arrrived on weds and we had a deluxe community in place by sat am. All efforts to communicate were tendered as hostile to the intent of BM, which was "to do whatever you felt like". As soon as they headed out to the playa to "see some tits" one resourceful individual removed their speaker wires and deposited them in portajohn #1 --hey, you can do whatever you want, right? Needless to say, they went nuts for a few hours before they started throwing up from overindulgence. What a sight(site). On the other hand, the playa was full of interesting art; for example, Aaron Ferrucci's sound field (the ten by ten array of sound chips that turned on at sunset) and the panoramic photograph of the ocean (who was the artist?). Also, great hot springs and, for mountain bikers, 50 degree springs and creeks in the foothills to cool off in. Also, found the House of Doors to be in excellent form throughout the evening and their 95.1 radio to be pure pleasure. BM is always a blast, however, I found it particularly difficult to return to the bay area routine this year, but all the postings help keep the feeling alive. -- BillytheKid, September 4, 1997 at 3:19p

first of all i want to say that burning man doesn't seem to be very taint-able. i knew it was going to be great but i'm pleased that the basic experience i had last year was not taken away but rather enhanced this year now for my bitching: why did the man have a more human and masculine shape this year..it really turned me off i know that we are in the red due to last minute money demanded by the county to pay for police&fire presence, but it seems like we should have some leverage with the community as bm pours money into what looks like an otherwise fairly moderate income area. the helicopters were downright obnoxious i was also really disgusted by some woman (black rock ranger?) who was going around trying to get people behind the fire line the nite of the burn. she said something to the effect of "just sit down with the rest of the audience". AUDIENCE!! since when are we the audience? also, we were short one bike at our camp so we drove the hot springs one nite. another self important asshole calling himself a black rock ranger told us that we couldn't get back in w/out our ticket stubs which were at the other end of camp even though we had a sticker on our winshield. one of us had to go to the ranger station where we were informed that we didn't need any fucking ticket stubs to get back in. what the fuck?! -- impish, September 4, 1997 at 3:09p

From a formerly-clueless newbie who had a phenomenal time: THANK YOU. Rarely if ever have I been in such a positive, peaceful community with such interesting, creative people. I'm sure I won't stop telling the story of Jim ??'s flamethrower drilling/melting the 10 foot ice sphere, or the mud pools, or the lifesize chess board, or the nuclear power plant, or the fires, or (of course) the incredible people ... The afterglow still hasn't stopped three days later. -- Andrew Sullivan, September 4, 1997 at 3:07p

I did not get the chance to personally say so, but the guy with the 20 ft manmade a hudge improvement over last year. Great job!!! I'm burnt. -- Aaron Vernalli, September 4, 1997 at 3:04p

Any citizens of Black Rock City living in the DC area-- how about we get together in a few weeks, share pics and stories, and send a little collection to the organizers to cover the shortfall? Eme if you're interested. Can't wait to see you all again! -tom -- Tom, September 4, 1997 at 2:40p

It was great.. mind expanding and all that stuff. Thanks everyone at the back from hell tour camp... I love all you people... Any one who has pictures of elvis burning can u please contact me??? Loved the band that was playing on saturday night.... man so trippy.. I could have stayed and listened for ever.. but there were more things to burn and see burn.... what a blast.... got to come back next year.. This time im bringing a bike. -- Ravi, September 4, 1997 at 2:22p

Of COURSE I had a great time, but I'm writing to help ensure that we all have a great time next year. Specifically, I want to make sure we aren't subjected to the rapine extortion committed by the local blood-sucking governments. I offer to suggestions: 1) The attendees who were not permitted to speak at the public meetings should sue the County under Title 42, sec. 1983 of the Civil Rights code. This is the section that deals with deprivation of civil rights under color of state law. It provides for actual and punitive damages plus lawyers fees. I'm sure Nevada has an open meetings law. And given what I've heard, is appears those laws were violated. It needs to be made crystal clear that there is a price to be paid by local bullies for violating people's rights. 2) The Burning Man organizers should immediately put out a press release soliciting BIDS from communities who would like to host next year's Burn. (I'll volunteer to help write and put it out.) I think we have bought into the idea that Burning Man is some sort of imposition on the local community. In truth, it is an economic boon. Local governments should be vying for the honor of having Burning Man held in their bailiwick. The community that offers us the best deal (lowest fees, or most benefits) gets to host Burning Man in 1998. Comments? -- Sandy, September 4, 1997 at 2:14p

My thanks to... Ms. Bindlestiff (whose true charms I wouldn't find out about till much later): for the compliment on my hair the first day. It was then that I felt like I was really home. - Pepe and Paradox: for helping me be a part of the best show in the world. I'll live for a year off of the energy I got from that. - Spiral Kiss: for the stilt fire dancers. - Everybody who gave anyone a thumbs up: for completely drowning out any negative energy there might have been from the gawkers. -- fgk, September 4, 1997 at 2:11p

Skylaire 213.914.0816 -- Anon., September 4, 1997 at 2:07p

After four years, I was prepared to be thoroughly unhappy with the frenzy that was to be BM 97. Miraculously, Harvey, Marian, Michael2, etc., organized everybody and it was amazing - a real case study in Western sociology. None of my friends came and I lost my glasses...but despite that I was blessed with some truly wonderful people, all of whom should call me please if they see this: Hernan, your hospitality is incomparable; thanks Brynne for putting me in the fashion show; Aestetic Meat people, please call! Also, Lisa from San Fran Caco please call- I have Las Vegas info for you; I really didn't think I'd contemplate going in 98, but I'll be there with a Dating Game Camp for the Horribly Introverted...sound good? Also, if lost and found recovered a pair of grey/blck vintage cat eye glasses, please call! -- Skylaire , September 4, 1997 at 2:06p

The Media and the Man... <p> The world was indeed watching last weekend as yet another Burning Man community formed, celebrating its first year on Nevada's Hualapai Playa. Burning Man has gained increased media exposure over the years as the number of participants and the level of artistic endeavors has risen. During Burning Man 1996, the media became obviously present for the first time yet still never seemed to be a central part of the experience. In contrast, this year's Burning Man Festival saw the media presence grow exponentially as the playa was teaming with fuzzy microphones, weather-dust-protected cameras, and media choppers. <p> The media at the festival has become a double-edge sword for many: on one side, we want to share this incredible, unexplainable experience wth the world. We want the world to see the amazing creations, ideas and individuals that come together to create such an event. We also want to debunk the beliefs that the Burning Man Festival is only about 5 days of naked mud orgies and satanic rituals. (Okay. Perhaps for some of us, but we want to express the other side too!) Sharing with anyone who would like to know the expression, freedom, beauty, intensity of survival, and community that forms on the playa each year is what the media coverage allows. <p> However, the other side of that media sword comes with something that all of us work hard not to do: interefere with another's experience. It's all about self-expression and involving yourself in the community to the extent you personally choose. The event being thrust into the spotlight and the media's swarming over the playa was seen by many as an interference with their direct experience at Burning Man. Media became a distraction from the activities and non-activities of the actual Festival itself and hampered the true nature of the event for some. <p> Yes, the media was ever present last weekend. Yes, there were many cameras, photos, interviews and note-jotting on the playa nearly everywhere we turned. The people behind the cameras and the microphones are, on one hand, participants as they are interacting with the community in a very specific way. They are also the ultimate spectators. It got to the point where, at the burning of the man, cameras and fuzzy microphones lined the inner circle of participants. Media members were nearest the man and the procession, filming and shooting for the rest of the world to see. So, while the Black Rock community remained seated, the media stood in front creating a direct barrier between Black Rock townspeople and the event in which they came to participate. <p> Citizens of Black Rock are generally press-friendly. We welcome the media members, as individuals who contribute to the overall event. Perhaps the media need to experience the event more like the the Black Rock citizens do: with survival, art, any identity you want to bring to our desert community, creation and discovery, without the obvious press badges and big recording equipment that screams main-stream media. Perhaps instead of just viewing it through the lens and crashing at a hotel in Gerlach as some of them did, they should become more a part of it and live with us on the playa, becoming a part of our wonderful Black Rock community. <p> -- Heather, Piss Clear Staff, September 4, 1997 at 1:31p

It was Sunday night, the playa filled with bonfires after all the art burnings. I was sitting beside one of the fires, playing my flute. My boyfriend with long, black, braided hair was next to me, and a lone (very cute) drummer beside him. A few other burning souls sat nearby. The scene was primal, tribal, spiritual, otherworldly. Suddenly a guy came running up to me and said: "Hey, stop playing for a minute! Where are you from?" I said: "What does it matter?" He said something like: "I work for Burning Man, and I heard your flute, and I want you to come back next year for half price. All you have to do is find me on the Web, then e-mail me and remind me that I saw you playing your flute." He then proceeded to give me his Web address, which was kind of hard to remember, since I was high as a kite. Anyway, whoever you are, I can't remember your Web address, but maybe you'll get this message. If so, contact me. I sure could use an entry discount next year! If you want, visit *my* website at http://www.sirius.com/~mcmardon/words -- mark, September 4, 1997 at 1:24p

Well a second go, my first posting didn't make it ! ! What a complete and utter BLAST, my second BM and Bigger and Better, pity about all the rubbish that unconsiderate people left behind, Hi to and Thanks to Robert the Teacher form SJ who helped us with our car on Tuesday. The storm on Tuesday was a fitting end to a life long memorable event That Is BURNINGMAN, long may the Man Burn ! ! ! Thanks to all you great people and thanks to the guy who gave me the water pistol to fend off any evil spirits as I was wandering in the pitch black that was Monday night in the rain after the Wedding Reception in The House of Doors ! What a Blast, Brought a couple of newbies and they where all having a blast, more converts ! ! Long live the Celtic Camp ! ! -- BrianBoru, September 4, 1997 at 1:04p

hello -- Laurent, September 4, 1997 at 12:56p

hello -- Laurent, September 4, 1997 at 12:56p

Just wanna agree with Linda´s reply at September 4, 1197 at 7:46a. And the "Opera" was magic, even thou not rehearsed. -- Marion, September 4, 1997 at 12:54p

Photographs were taken Sunday just before the burn of two torch bearers kissing. The man was dressed in a red leather long coat with devil horns; she had braids & was wearing lingerie, motorcycle boots and a red cape. Would that photographer please contact me? I am interested in obtaining those photographs. Thanks! -- Jenn, September 4, 1997 at 12:49p

Who were they that left all their garbage behind for others to take care of? Who were they that left parts or all of their art behind? Who were they that couldnt read the sign by the dumpster at the exit when they left on monday? Who were they that actually stoled bikes/generators etc. from us? Who were all those people? They dont belonge here in a community where everybodyells is participating! How can we solve this? Exept the above and the media and other camerapeople which we have to teach a little about life and sensuality, it was great! We did it thanks to our own souls and good energy. Thanks to all you others! Will be back again! -- Goldie-BM-vet, September 4, 1997 at 12:47p

The solution to the helicopter problem at the 98 BM: barrage balloons, simple helium balloons connected to the ground with a cable. Makes flying a helicopter in that airspace a no-no. -- Mudman, September 4, 1997 at 12:39p

A member of our group caught bubonic plague at burning man, aparently from a flea bite. This is very treatable but you should see a doctor if you have some of the following symptoms. The incubation period is commonly 2 to 6 days after exposure. Early symptoms include: •shivering •vomiting •headache •giddiness •intolerance to light •pain in the back and limbs •white coating on tongue http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/plague/hlthcarw.htm -- Rob, September 4, 1997 at 12:13p

Well, since we were (are) the Temple Of Atonement... and so many of you SINNERS left your trash out on the Playa upon leaving!!!!!!.... we will aid in the atonement of YOUR sins. We're heading back out to the Playa this weekend to pitch in and haul out what YOU left, and pick up YOUR cigarette butts with those still out there working THEIR butts off yout YOU! No need to thank us, just join us out there. YOu know you miss the place already anyway, let's get cracking people! This weekend! The Playa! CLEAN it up! See you there!! And when we get back, we're rolling up our sleeves and getting to the fundraisers for these folks. Our camp is going to attempt to purchase lifetime tickets (offered by BM for a measley $500 per) for our base theme campers. So many ways to help out! So little effort, in the long run! The MAN nust BURN again!!!!! ~Madame at The Temple~ -- Temple of Atonement, September 4, 1997 at 11:47a

Hi, I'm Scooter your friendly Black Rock Ranger. I worked graveyard gate Thursday and Friday morning. Greeting arrivors and dancing to Radio Free Burning Man in desert solitude under the stars, Mir and myriad alien space visitors was most special. On Fri, Sat and Sun 10P-2AM I was the radio dispatch at Ranger headquarters, getting the scoop on "the crap". Well, there was not much "crap"; some over-buzzed lost folks, some burns (hope you guys are okay), a couple of poor judgement fires, and 2 bad guys (which got booted). Also, some bikes were either joyridden or permanantly taken from their owners. That is bunk, bring something real funky next time. And, check lost and found if one is online. Many things showed up after the exodus. Sorry those affected by loud music or other non pleasantries we were unable to control. The limited numbers, all volunteer force did its best. You try telling a hundred happy and high dancers to go to sleep. We did not even try. Their sound systems will be more scrutinized next year. I'd like to thank the everpresent self-policeing all participants engaged in. With just a handful of Rangers available to deal with "issues", the cool vibe was maintained without much need for the badged boys. Right On! This should greatly assist with next year's negotiations. And thanks for all the times people were asked to pitch in with our efforts. If the whole world cooperated like that.... And thanks a ton House of Doors people for the help getting my sail-car going. I did not have time to get over and give you a ride. Next year. And, and... Damn that was the best week I've ever lived. Sleep became irrelevant, recharge energy came from all the cool people and freedom prevailed. Yum. -- SCOOTER, September 4, 1997 at 11:46a

I would really like to thank the beautiful boys playing "Fox in Sox" and other rhymes for teaching me how to come down gracefully and with style...I compare your DJ skills to the astonishing sight of the giant bone sculpture...any way to find you again in the city or on a recording? -- eric, September 4, 1997 at 11:40a

thank you to everyone. I have never been in a large group of people for an extended period of time, and been able to hang, let alone love every minute of it. thanx to the Zap bikes camp + friends. and thanx to our neighbors the church of the enigmata, give it up people, they ruled! thanx for the privelege of mariah and the rant of the jim beam. To the girl who was front row next to me at the burn, you had an amazingly huge lens, if you see this, could you get up with me? I would like a copy of some of your pictures, i ran out of film whilst you were clicking away. Thanx again to the Architect. And does anyone know how i can get a hold of any Joe Frank material, heard it on the radio, saturday or sunday? peace to all -- Lorenzo, September 4, 1997 at 11:40a

"We have two statue's for freedom the Statue of Liberty and Burning Man." Quote from Austin a seven year old boy, just before the man burned. -- Darryl, September 4, 1997 at 11:26a

I stood wrapped in my solidarity, wrapped in my black cloak coming down from a mind bending shroom trip trying to assimilate and came upon the burning tower on Saturday night. A dancing woman with an accent (Australian?) saw me wrapped in my cloak and said, "It looks so warm in there, can I come in?" So I opened the cloak and we embraced for a long time, long enough that I could feel her cool skin beginning to warm, and then we broke, I said, "Thank you for inviting yourself in," and she said, "Thank you for letting me in." And that was one of the finest moments in my life. I never saw her again. My life is like that. Answer me. -- Robert Wooldridge, September 4, 1997 at 11:24a

It was my first time and I was not really prepared, I forgot my tent but packed my open mind and positive attitude along with a few canisters of chilled water. My take on it.. it was most impressive gathering of excellent people and events I have ever witnessed. Nice one, and thanks. -- Liam, September 4, 1997 at 11:19a

So many "right on" things have been said in this chain. If there were a way to sum it all up, take the average and spit out a concentrated gem of truth -- it might be something like: The Burning Man, it worked. To the umpteen-thousand that attended: Not too shabby, I'm once again proud to be a human. -- Dave Cooper, September 4, 1997 at 11:09a

hi to the folks in the back 40: terry, tom, charley, rob (next door) fTHANK YOU VOLUNTEERS AND ORGANIZERS AND ALL YOU FOLKS THAT STAYED BEHIND TO CLEAN UP SUCH A HELLACIOUS MESS. It was such a glorious 5 days, to you folks that need to reference this B.M. with previous ones. that was then, personally I've got this full feeling in my heart, letting go and gratitude. How about a senior discount? Bianca's smut shack was the best pub around. I am struck by the ease and unsettling feeling that so much sexual display, pyromania etc. elicited. what a dangerously safe place. re: to all the folks decrying "media, yahoos with cameras,etc." get over it,your using the biggest media masturbator right now. you can't get naked then whine because your're being photo'ed (I'm all for decent manners, asking permission), Christ, chillun, cover it if you don't want to be seen that way. I came with 7 rolls of film,night/day cameras, I took all of 4 photos and gave up. there was too much, the experience was there, between paint/skin, metal/fire, absurdity/meaning, espressos/porta-potties. Ishtar/B.M. I hope the folks that flipped on the highway are ok. THANK YOU THANK YOU TO THE FOLKS THAT SET UP THE PAINTING AREA, hi ho hi ho love to you all . -- lee g., September 4, 1997 at 10:55a

Admitted- there are a greater number of ASSHOLES every year (you know, leaving garbage everywhere, bithching about a whole 75 FUCKING BUCKS and treating the Rangers like THEY where the enemey) and yet I hope we never see more rules or restrictions- creativity needs its space. I am happy to report however that this experience was not ruined by THEM, I guess they just got drowned out in the sea of positive energy. Next year I give myself four weeks for BM,.... -- JoeNormal, September 4, 1997 at 10:54a

donations donations where is the donations button on this site?? Look at all this energy! Lets pay off the debt so we call all be a part of Burning Man for years and years and years and years.. -- Ellen, September 4, 1997 at 10:47a

peace to all who came and participated in a great human experience. This event proves the good that lies in all of us is just waiting to have a venue to express itself. A special thanx to...well, you know who you are..SHOW ME THE HUNNY!! you're the best! hope to share this experience of the Burning Man with you again next year. -- paul, September 4, 1997 at 10:41a

For all of you who were at the smut shack,,,,      <h1>     !!Pervert!!     <h1>                               -- max2300@hotmail.com, September 4, 1997 at 10:40a

first of all, i loved it. very relaxing. very different. very free (for the most part). and just a superb experience that is like nothing in my every day life, and that's needed on a regular basis. one suggestion for next year: restrict the admittance of anyone who has the potential to stand there yelling, "just burn the fuckin thing! i been here 10 fuckin minutes!! what the fuck is this?! burn the fuckin thing!" oh well, it's just an idea. also - does anyone know who caught the burning flare that was shot directly into the crowd? how many fingers were lost? -- stephen g young, September 4, 1997 at 10:23a

YIKES!!! Can't forget KEVIN, BRAD AND DAVID... Without you guys it all would have meant nothing!!!! Long live BIANCA's by the beach! -- John Hines, September 4, 1997 at 10:01a

Each year gets harder and harder to return back to the reality of everyday life. This my third Burning Man was TRULY the best of times. My experience with the cops was that they were very laid back and cool. SO STOP YER COMPLAINING!!! The terrain was a little bit crunchy but it will probably be harder by next years event. Billy... how could you have missed us ? We were Blowin' in the Wind Camp... that structure that EVERYONE seemed to take a picture in front of and then run through chiming a very loud 'I am here' statement. Thanks to everyone who brought by spare chimes and parts ... YOU really made our structure. Nancy and David I can't thank you enough for introducing Burning Man years back... it has changed my life and keeps allowing me to evolve. (Hey what exactly can we all do to make sure that Burning Man goes on next year anyhow?) LEN, JENS, JEFF, BRIAN, RICK, GRAHAM, ADAM, RAUL, ALLAN, UWE, all the guys from ALIEN CHESS CAMP and anyone else Ive forgotten who made this such an amazing year...THANK YOU. I've cried a hundred tears because to leave Burning Man is to leave the world I belong in. Last year it seemed like forever before Labor Day would come again, and it seems that way now, but soon enough the light of Black Rock City will rise again... and playa dust will fill all our noses... until then a part of my heart remains in the desert somewhere... -- John Hines, September 4, 1997 at 9:43a

I'm back in my windowless office in NYC reading this page, basking in the last embers of this years man. Taking the E train this morning and seeing all the weary faces of commuters/wage-slaves... I now have the resolve to get away from it for good. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the people who struggled against bullshit and bad vibes from many former "participants" to make this beautiful thing happen. I didn't see as much media presence as is being described here, though I dread seeing how it might have been portrayed. And thanks to all the brave souls who lit up the playa with their spirit. I have no doubt that we'll be seeing each other next year at a bigger, bolder, and still free Burning Man '98. Larry Harvey for president! -- Tony, September 4, 1997 at 9:25a

It was my second time, and a very different vibe from the first. I think the size and scale of the art this year pushed the casual personal participation into the background. It's like you have to band together and really come up with something great if you want to stand out, whereas the bar maybe wasn't quite so high in previous years. The Burn was great, and I really enjoyed the spectacle beforehand. We were beside the Mad Max car, and were proud to witness the dickhead with the megaphone go from being loud and obnoxious to grovelling for burn cream. It's sad someone had to try and touch the burning baby doll to shut him up, but I hope that burnt person can appreciate the good that came from his actions :-) PS, I have PICTURES. http://prometheus.frii.com/~jenine/tb/bman -- they're mostly of glow camp and its people, playa, my sister in the mud, and a couple of random funnily dressed people. -- Nathan Torkington, September 4, 1997 at 9:18a

hey ! this didn't make it in my last post!... thanks to Water, Hohar,Mermaid Mary, Merman 'Evil Kanievel', Merman Chuck,and Merman Keith.... -- mermaid koshtra, September 4, 1997 at 8:52a

I managed to bring a bunch of friends this year and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. Everyone at my camp came away with articulable life lessons. Wounds were healed. New friendships were formed. Rewarding spirituality was discovered. We all learned so much about ourselves and what power we have to create the kind of community we want and not be bound by a community we did not create. We experienced no violence, crime, or anger. We experienced committment, focus and determination tempered by love and passion for life rather than passion for greed. I will continue to share the BM experience in the hope that more lives will be touched in Black Rock city. Thanks to Everyone! -- monica senter, September 4, 1997 at 8:35a

Hey friends, I would like to put together a Burning Man Film Festival to help raise much needed funds for the project. Please contact me if you have or are planning on editing your footage into a film of any length and would like to have your work included. Email me also if you are interested in helping out in other ways or would just like to recieve emailed updates about this potentially great event. I am based in San Francisco. Much love-- -- drew meeks, September 4, 1997 at 7:51a

NYC BM people...please contact me, lets get a fund raiser together. I am counting the days till the next and hoping that BM will be around for my grandchildren. -- cory, September 4, 1997 at 7:49a

Saw the gate asking for admission and laughed. Drove around the back way and crossed the playa for free. Worst burn in six years, too many cops, too many people. Worst burn in six years. Maybe we should take it back to the main playa next year? -- Max Pogue, September 3, 1997 at 10:42a Reply to the above: Maybe you see it as the "worst burn in six years" because you didn't contribute... you just snuck in with your critical attitude. Your suggestion for improvement, "back to the playa next year?" rings hollow -- stop blowing it out your ass about the future when just moments ago you had the chance to make THIS one better. -- Linda, September 4, 1997 at 7:46a

Princess Diana's last, beautiful, unselfish act: she gave Burning Man some peace by taking away all of the spare news broadcast time. My tiny bit of comfort in the otherwise shocking and saddening bit of news. -- High Priestess of Space Station Tahitia, September 4, 1997 at 7:22a

¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥ We enjoyed our new home (Black Rock) so much, we will be back...And we will bring the maragraitas once again. Unfortunatly, we crashed the RV on the way home, so that will be our last rv trip. Dale you were great, and pyro people, we learned alot. Hope you liked the BM stickers we made! ******************************************************************************************************** -- Scott and Greg, September 4, 1997 at 7:21a

I cannot begin to describe the event that took place in the desert near to my home last weekend. I belive it was something very special, and has entirely changed my life... The only thing I have to complain about? No.. not the helicopter, or even the media.. We knew that they were there all of the time, except when the chopper had it's lights off tripping me out! But Instead I am afraid of the detachment of the National Guard that was stationed in the hills above BM.. In case of trouble... Did I really vote in washoe county in 1994? God I hope not... -- Joshua!, September 4, 1997 at 7:06a

Like others here, the media bothered me too (German guy with a professional video camera nearly taking my head off with the battery pack right before the burning of the man,) but the people who also gave me the creeps were the naked, male photographer-voyuers taking pictures almost solely of naked women. A friend on mine suggested we get a camera and take pictures of their genitals while they were taking pictures of the women. Best media-related image: cameraman running in terror out of the circling crowd after the man fell. The problem with the media as I see it is that they present just about the only potential source for really ugly situations. It was clear that very few of them understood that a very basic part of the event was an escape from, and rejection of, the dominant, oppressive, mainstream media machine. I think a number of the comments here suggest that the potential at future BMs for violence between participants and press is real. I, for one, in my drug-addled state, had very powerful fantasies about throwing the German guy's camera into the fire, or at the very least, stuffing a handful of Playa grit into his lens. I worked for years in TV documentary filmmaking so obviously this is some personal demon I need to exorcise. What to do? Hell if I know. Best non-pro image: naked guy who took pictures behind a blue polka-dot dress hung from his monopod. What a great gesture. And for what it is worth, I *liked* the helicopter. I'd rather have them overhead than in my face. -- David Rattray, September 4, 1997 at 6:56a

still can't believe I was in something so beyond description!! I have an offer to all my fellow burners. I'm planning to buy a negative scanner and I offer to scan your Burningman negatives for free. But please consider this: The pictures I took of nude people, were taken with the people's consent; I won't publish them in my web-page or post them somewhere. If you didn't ask for people's permission to take pictures, at least don't post them in a newsgroup or something, do you really want that people to be forced to give up their fun in coming years for unsolicited exposure? About the media, I have an idea. I spent some of the best times I had in years at the mud pool a wonderful guy built just by the playa. (keep in touch). Let's say a clothed photographer who is not willing to show his/her dick/clit to take a pic is forced to take a dip stripped down by the pool occupants. I think it would be great... -- Antonio Anleu, September 4, 1997 at 3:46a

one of my only problems this year was the bunch of useless and intrusive media! my companion and i have a plan for next year though: the media terrorist squad! we plan on getting a hold of a couple hundred ski masks, and printing out copies of our manifesto. these we will give out to random people. when someone with one of those big, news-looking cameras appears. we will donn our ski masks and proceed to ruin every shot and interview they try. this year the commercial media was really annoying, and we did our best to avoid and/or stop them, but there were a few media guys that were almost cool. we met some british guys calling themselves "wank tank" who were making a documentary on festivals, and seemed genuinely nice. -- aaron, September 4, 1997 at 2:40a

ever since i've got back, i've been inundated with "how was it" questions. as all of you could guess, that question is just impossible to answer. the whole feeling of the thing, and the sheer sensory overload is just indescribable. i've never been in such a huge crowd of people, and yet felt so close to each and every one of them. there was a strange sort of unity in everything that was just great. i could go on forever about all the great things i did and saw, but i at least wanna recount one of the funnier incidents i was involved in. someone had built a huge(8-9 ft?) wooden toybox, full of bikes, hula hoops, and whatnot, and left it out in the residential area. i was passing by, and saw the thing in the distance. there were 4 or 5 people on top of the thing, each with a bottle of something alcoholic. when i passed by, they told me that anyone with a blue mohawk deserves some wine, so i ended up hangin out with these people, and climbed up on the toybox. so there we were, drinking and bullshitting, when someone came by and tried to open the toybox! the poor thing wasn't up to the stress, andthe whole top half of it collapsed, with us on it. we all fell into the toybox, but miraculously were mostly unhurt. the coolest thing about it though, was the fact that THE WINE JUG WAS UNSPILT! whoohoo! see you all next year -- aaron, September 4, 1997 at 2:33a

This was my second year at the BM and it was far better than last year. All Saturday night and Sunday I could hear the beautiful sounds of the Daughters of Ishtar ringing in my ears. Despite the BS surrounding Washoe County it was fabulous. I will never forget the people who camped in our area, they are friends for life. Thank you everyone. -- Sean Osterhagen, September 4, 1997 at 2:18a

Bloody outstanding. My first, certainly not last BM was a sight to behold. As a UK resident, I could only compare it with a Glastonbury I would have been too young to attend. I scoffed at the notion of a city created overnight, only to be served with several helpings of humble-pie. Thanks to everybody (and there were many) who gave energy and positive comment on our BlackLight camp, and even thanks to the hecklers. (All energy can't be positive, by definition, right?). And, OH, the man... What a burn. More power to your elbow Mr Harvey. -- Marcus, September 4, 1997 at 2:17a

Bloody outstanding. My first, certainly not last BM was a sight to behold. As a UK resident, I could only compare it with a Glastonbury I would have been too young to attend. I scoffed at the notion of a city created overnight, only to be served with several helpings of humble-pie. Thanks to everybody (and there were many) who gave energy and positive comment on our BlackLight camp, and even thanks to the hecklers. (All energy can't be positive, by definition, right?). And, OH, the man... What a burn. More power to your elbow Mr Harvey. -- Marcus, September 4, 1997 at 2:07a

My god, what an event! I tried to relate it to friends and family when I got back but was met with a collective "Huh?". The unfortunate people do not realize that there is more to life than working eight hours a day in some nameless cubicle. Burning Man opened my soul. Let's all hope that it will continue. Hello to Leslie the Lamplighter, the Baron, and Nub. -- Terry, September 4, 1997 at 1:55a

Gosh, I know absolutely everything now, and I'm going to tell you all about it, cause I'm absolutely certain that I am the most important thing there is... -- Johnny Pet, September 4, 1997 at 12:39a

Thanks for a wonderful first Burning Man expeirence. Thanks to Michelle, David and others of Tampon Camp for the best Carne Asada tacos I've ever had in my life! Thanks to the guys that helped push my little ford festiva out of the sand on the side of the road when we stopped to help out the people in the car accident. (Did everyone make it home OK? I'm glad no one was hurt.) Thanks to EVERYONE for making this shy semi-loner feel very welcome everywhere I went. Thanks to the people in the camp next to me for letting me clean up their shit after they left. (I woke up monday morning as they were leaving and heard the phrase, "Damn, for $75 THEY can clean up this shit, I'm leaving!" Waaay to go people..) Thanks for all the creative energy and ideas. Hi to the couple I ran into at the burn who also have third nipples, funny how things happen in threes! (Any others out there? Curious about the myths/truths about this phenomena.) Thanks to Ranger Craig W. for the beer and keeping us all safe and happy! (Sorry I didn't make it back to your camp, too much to see and do!) -- Kev, September 4, 1997 at 12:24a

Burning Man will change the world. I have no doubt of that. For me, it is an expression of the new religion. Creative freedom and self expression in an environment that supports and respects the individual's right to be. Burning Man allows people to express their true selves in any way they want. We are truly everything that is. The left and the right, the East and the West, the saint and the devil. Each of us is a piece of God. A microcosm of that infinite diversity. That’s what I saw at Black Rock City. I saw people expressing everything that they are in one moment and then burning it. I saw people creating a messy soup of diverse splendor within themselves and it served everyone. That is integration. That is what it is to be a whole and complete human being. The internal wars can end now. The myth has died. You can let go and still be responsible. Black Rock City was the safe space nobody believed could exist and it worked! Fear cannot exist in a world where each individual expresses the whole within their true self. I will never be the same. If anybody wants to hear more on this I am currently writing a book entitled INTERNAL RELIGION and it will be released sometime next year. Let’s create Black Rock City in the greater community! -- Robert Jon Child, September 4, 1997 at 12:21a

Thank you all involved for making my first bman a wonderful nostalgic experience. Sunday night was a dream...intense excitement for its own sake. Idiot flesh were amazing (though whoever was at the mixing boards should feel guilty for assaulting everyone there with ear-shredding high frequencies), and the first DJ at the main stage on Sunday was (after they finally set up) wonderfully lovely and bouncy. Thanks again..I'm already pissing my panties for next year. -- Daniel Haworth, September 4, 1997 at 12:07a

The chopper was definately not a nessessary item. Not sure what we should do about that. Have an idea for the intrusive camera people though. MEDIA MUD! I think I will bring little buckets for people to carry around and THWACK the cameras with. Whatcha think? -- no camera or choppers, September 3, 1997 at 11:55p

i guess the one thing im really happy about is the experience of the whole BM scene. It was the best five days ive ever spent. with a group of such powerful magnitude...the lights and sounds of everyone having the time of thier life.. still most of the folks leaving messages on this post are not giving their emial address i would personally love to share experiences with some of you and what it was we all felt and saw during this extaordinary time. if anyone is interested to correspond and relate details about this surreal phenomenon...write me at <steelwool@aol.com> i love all of you what a fucking four days i saw live and let live i count the days we have the power let it consume those who dont understand eddy -- eddy, September 3, 1997 at 11:46p

People, do NOT LOOK INTO THE FIRE! IT IS BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN. PS - has anybody seen Dude? -- tjames, September 3, 1997 at 11:33p

Thanks to: the drummers, the freaks, the dj at the glowing man camp blasing the space age beats–making my trip to the subconsious a little stranger, the wind, the playa, daddy love's, the flying rollerblader, the ufo's, the mighty glow stick, the fire, the dancers, the chill out spiral tent, the stars, chai tea at 3am, the strange glowing blue mushoom-where i kept ending up when i was lost, the person who put the insence in the port-o-potty on erin way, and to all the great people who encourage to share, participate, create, build and destroy. I WANT TO SEE pictures if you have some posted, let me know where. I want to pick up drumming in SF, any leads? -- Doug Domonkos, September 3, 1997 at 11:26p

Simply one of the greatest Nature experiences to be had, to be able to feel the effect of the elements of life. Fire Water Air Earth During the course of the weekend, the importance of all 4 of these basic elements was so evident... every human being needs and deserves to feel his/her connection to the planet. Burning Man offers this to all. Send money to Marian now!! Keep the man alive! -- Ransom Baldasare, September 3, 1997 at 11:20p

Welp, this was my third year, and I was cautiously optimistic going there. FUCK CAUTION! It was the BEST most intense time I've had as yet! Sunday I carried my friend around the Man fire, and was so happy, so alive, i was streaming tears (or was that the fumes?) It was all so good, even the yahoos and cops were fun. The only BUMMER was ,no, not the helicopter, but that my new roommates decided to get in a lather while I was away, and decide they weren't cool with me doing massage in the house, just because they don't liiike the ideeeea (whiny voice) HUH!? I'm beyond considerate. Still, I may be asked to move. HEY! Does anybody in the San Francisco area want a ROOOMATE for October who is a working Massage Therapist, complete with a functioning brain, considerate heart, dancing feet, cleaning hands, and a life? I can pay up to $475, more if it's supa dupa. Imagine, a kick ass massage therapist at your disposal. COOL, eh? Email me at floe@cafenet.net -- Paul Smith , September 3, 1997 at 11:20p

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you all for the infinite gifts of generosity, love, artistic power and genius, freedom, and beauty. We shared something truly visionary and revolutionary. I didn't know that it could be that way; that we can exist together as we did. I am not scared anymore. I do not have the same fears I did before I met you on Black Rock. I have learned so much. I will practice and share with the larger community what was shared with me and thus given to me. We have only scratched the surface. I walk taller and stronger. The community has freed me. The rules have changed. I have begun to understand the magnitude of creative powers and the harmony of love. I am in love with mankind and I have you to thank. You let me experience the power and beauty of my soul. They didn't think we could pull it off. See, those creative types are responsible after all, HA! Thank you everyone for your love and living out a successful utopia. I am counting down to '98. -- elana koff, September 3, 1997 at 10:44p

This was my first Burning Man and tears were running down my face when it came time to leave. I truely felt that I was leaving my home and my family. The experience I had is beyond words; transformational. To all of those who helped make up "the love shack" and those who visited us - i love you all. Let all of us take what we learned from Burning Man and spread the love and possitive vibes into the 'real' world. It doesn't have to be just a 5 day event. Salamander Sam and Senor Frog rule!!! The memories will keep a smile on my face for a long time to come. BURN BABY BURN!!!!! -- Marc Brodersen, September 3, 1997 at 10:30p

Oh my God I LOVE YOU PEOPLE!. Words fail to describe the joy, the renewed faith in humanity, the appreciation for beauty, creativity and existence that I was blessed enough to partake of and share. I set out in this life looking for a home, and I have found it. The unconverted to whom I've babbled about Burning Man may think I've joined a cult or something, and I guess I have, a cult that's unconditionally anti-dogma, pro-YOU! A million thanks to my new family. I hope you know who you are. You are anyone who met and shared this with me. Please let me hear from you anytime as we plan to outdo ourselves next year. love, Larry -- Larry the cherub, September 3, 1997 at 10:20p

I am Dominic, THE DARK ANGEL, if you saw the manboy with the Black Wings, then you saw me. And this is to all the people I met. To DANNY AND ROSEANNA, My first friends in Black Rock City: You are my friends. And will always be my friends. To the MAN IN THE WHEEL CHAIR dancing aroud the fire: My wings are yours, may you truly take flight. To RAVEN, who I gave my power to: You looked great in my wings. DELLIS: thank you for welcoming me into Ishtar. PARADOX: You led us well. To CD DEMISE: The most beautiful girl with green hair I have ever had the privelege to lay eyes on.. To THE ASSHOLE WHO SNUCK INTO TOWER CAMP TO TAKE PICTURES OF OUR PRIVATE PARTS INCLUDING MY PIERCED DICK: Fuck you. You got off easy pal. Incurr my wrath again and I'll make you swallow that roll of film. there's a difference between documenting the event and taking crotch shots for your personal collection you sick fuck. With that off my chest, back to the good people. DALE: my flag bearer, we did good kid. To ANAT who I danced around Ishtar with: you were actually HOTTER than the fire. To MOWHAWK MAN: your make-up kicked ass. To MIRIAM: I'll see you in Brooklyn. To NATALIE my little silver girl who found me in the fire by the man: I hope we keep in touch. To ADANNA, my fairy princess of light: you are beautiful...To STEEL NEAL: You are truly the Artist Warrior Survivor, and it was my honor to stand by you and your work against the forces of chaos, I hope to bump into you in New York sometime. To LASANDRA: watching you whip that guy at Bianca's Smut Shack makes me hope to see you there next year, me next. To RADIKA and SHERRY: I wish we could have talked longer. To JEN with the drum: it was fun spending time with you. To BIANCA'S SMUT SHACK: YOU ARE A SHINNING EXAMPLE OF HOSPITALITY, YOUR CAMP WAS ONE CLASS ACT AND YOUR HOSTS WERE NOTHING SHORT OF GREATNESS. To THE 26 YEAR OLD GUY who I spoke with around the fire at Bianca's who wasn't sure if he was doing the right thing with his life: You are a smart man with a good heart and that counts for alot in my book, you'll find your way. To MARLOWE RILEY: your performance on thursay night was ABSOLUTELY THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING I have ever seen, To FROG: who pointed me to the main stage. To the ANARCHISTS: no hard feelings, but I couldn't let you blow up my friends work. I would have liked to have seen the rave camp burn though...To the MASSAGE GIRL: just admit me that what you really want is money next time instead of your barter bullshit. To LISA MEREDITH, the Healer: what can I say about your touch? It is powerful, as you are beautiful. I am healed. To CLOWN GIRL whose name begins with an M but escapes me now: Thank you for making me join the Fashion show. And it was fun whipping you. YOU'VE BEEN A BAD CLOWN!!! Hee-hee. To JOSH, GLENN, and CARL ("that's what I'm talkin' about"): you guys are great. To JANE and JASON: maybe next year you guys can party instead of work. Good luck with everything. To LAYTON: one cool cat. To MIKE, JOSH, ESPERANZA, AND NANCY from Portland: thanks for inviting a lost dark soul around with you (I have pictures! Find me.) To BRANDI and WENDI: the coolest chicks on our side of the block. To ROWAN and NEALE, our blokes from the U.K.:You bloody blokes are MAD I say!!! Bloody Mad!!! We've all gone quite mental!!! Thanks for the spot of Tea, which I fancied and thanks for the corporate discount at the Hilton. CAN'T WAIT TO PICK UP THE ISSUE OF LOADED!!! And last but not least special thanks to ANDREW: YOU ARE MY BROTHER, I LOVE YOU LIKE NO OTHER. And to ALL THE OTHERS who graced me with their pressence: thank you. YOU ARE ALL BEAUTIFUL. Mail me throught the Electronic. -- Dominic, THE DARK ANGEL, Citizen of Black Rock, September 3, 1997 at 10:09p

THE JUICY DANGER SHOW and BOOSHKIE AND THE BEAST at BURNING MAN '97. Did anyone out there take any video footage or photographs of BOOSHKIE AND THE BEAST or THE JUICY DANGER SHOW??? The two performers, Tom Comet and Christine Taylor are good friends of mine and would love to have a recording of their performances at BM '97. BOOSHKIE AND THE BEAST (the white painted showgirl and the 12 foot silver monster) appeared at the Saturday evening FASHION SHOW, and THE JUICY DANGER SHOW performed twice on Sunday; the first time at the Bindlestiff Circus, and the second time at Circus X. Please contact me asap, and I hope to see you all next year! DV -- David Vaisbord, September 3, 1997 at 10:04p

If the man can lift arms and accept firey transformation in '97 then I can sure as hell is a halfacre in Northern Nevada make bm '98 to hoot, holler and zap our earth with karmic waves of joy. Shame on thieves (dirty money comes and GOES so easy, such a life), cheers to Larry, the rangers, hot springs god. I ran with the vegematic after the manburn and experienced sweet sweet mayhem (hope nobody was bummed by the confrontations, they were art) Like alot of others this was my 3rd bm and my first was at age 30 (time to check the chart) missing it all, Dan (pippy longstocking wig fireman's pants and angel wings during manburn, gramma dresses rest of weekend) bm '98 is -- Dan Noah, September 3, 1997 at 10:03p

is it REALLY that crucial to pass motorhomes on a double line??? SLOW THE FUCK DOWN.... We saw 4 accidents, including a flipped car, off the freeway at Black Rock on the way home from BM...luckily no one was hurt...Remember the BM theme, DON'T BE STUPID...nothing like a death to FUCK UP a perfect weekend....hope you guys were all ok... see you next year -- Deboit, September 3, 1997 at 10:00p

This was the best burn ever in my life.\ I found some great pictures at vortexia.com and he says he has more. I already miss the desert. : ) hope to see all of you guys next year. -- Jim, September 3, 1997 at 9:45p

I left home grieving and depressed after the death of my dad and the end of my relationship. BM changed my whole state of mind. I laughed so much, I cried I got angry I felt freed. The people who I met gave me things I couln't imagine finding in three days. Thank you all for the spirit and will to live. Nelda -- Nelda B, September 3, 1997 at 9:44p

we couldn't go, but we know someone who DID...AND WE WANT TO KNOW WHAT IT WAS LIKE, MATTHEW! -- charlie & pen , September 3, 1997 at 9:40p

B-Man 1997 was fantastic! Five days on the playa can't be beat! Such great neighbors and friends! EXCEPT...Sunday morning theives STOLE MY GENERATOR (YES MY GENERATOR!!!!!!!!) Who could it have been- I can gaurantee it wasn't my fellow BurningBoys&Girls, LOCAL-YOCALS STOLE MY GENERATOR... I paid full price, and they paid a reduced price of $30... THIS CAN NOT CONTINUE... THIS WILL NOT CONTINUE!!! I love BurningMan- No theives can keep me away. But NO DAY PASSES NO DAY PASSES! I'm sorry but that's not right.... Other than that the Hualapai EggChair Camp had a great time, and we hope you all love our stickers! See you all next year!!! -- Stephen & Charlene Bissinger, September 3, 1997 at 9:31p

Chopper chopper chopper. Well try this; take off all your clothes, decorate yourself with your soul as artist, then wave, greet, embrace, smile, relax, let it all roll down and off your back as you undulate in your own space. Soon then the chopper people will land, take off their mask, take up the drum and burn their machines as they dance in a new light. -- Nosmo King, September 3, 1997 at 9:24p

Wonderful camp, good to be in the tall grass with the big dogs. Bad doggie on the trashing. When will we all make love again under the stars? -- Quodoushka, September 3, 1997 at 9:08p

Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale, cough, cough, cough, oh well... Thanks for the clouds. Quehesta maha my lovely lovely man! -- Mallako Plus, September 3, 1997 at 9:02p

I am Dominic, The Dark Angel. If you saw the manboy with the black wings, then you saw me. And if you came to watch Steel Neal burn his piece The Future Primitive, then you know my story. After the man burned, and Chaos came to rule over Black Rock, I sat in front of Future Primitive, now completely encovered in toilet paper, waiting for it's burn. Steel Neal's words echoed through the desert and touched my dark soul. I was entranced, and could not wait to see it burn. Suddenly, screaming filled the air. The audience went running for cover. I stood up and looked at Neal...this was not part of the act. I stood directly in front of Neal and he stood strong in front of Future Primitive. What I saw before me was an awesome weapon of anarchistic destruction...the dreaded Vegematic! Followed by an angry gang of morlocks who came to see Future primitive blown up. And if you have seen the Vegematic in action then you know the power it is capable of. Fully functional, it can breathe flames up to 100ft and kill you. It is the very definition of anarchy. The weapon was aimed at my face and the Anarchists screamed at me to move. They warned me several times...but I would not get out of the line of fire. It was a showdown, and the Dark Angel chose to fight on the side of the artist who inspired him. I came to see Future Primitive lit on fire as did they, but I was going to see it burned the way Neal intended. The tension, the anger, the screaming, and the chaos hit an unimaginable peak. The vegematic's cannon started to spin...but we stood our ground amidts chants to "burn the Dark Angel." Then silence. They would change course. Victory was ours. Victory was Neal's. I asked him to continue, and he whipped out a lighter and subtly lit it on fire. The paper turned bright orange and disintegrated through Future Primitive's muscles and then...the particles blew into the stars. It was beautiful. I thanked Neal for giving me his visual gift. I vanished into the desert night. And refelected upon the conflict between Neal and the Anarchists. And it was then that I truly understood the nature of Black Rock City. Anarchy. But if you BELIEVE...you can fight it...or die trying. Ain't it beautiful. Then I went and laughed my ass off as the Anarchist went to blow up the RAVE CAMP and scare the shit out of the ravers. Ain't it beautiful. BLACK ROCK IS DEAD. LONG LIVE BLACK ROCK. If you are one of the precious few who know me, even in passing...then you are my friend...and will always be my friend. Mail me through the Electronic. -- Dominic, THE DARK ANGEL, Citizen of Black Rock, September 3, 1997 at 8:51p

Thanks to the community for their creative imaginativeness that opened eyes and minds even wider! Burning man was to me everything ive never thought of before. Ive been looking for something new, (it was my 30th birthday), and wow im impressed. Arent people just the best when it comes to expressing themselves? Did you all see the dust tornado snap the tension wire when the man fell? Was that not the rage of fire, storm, and wind also performing their show for us? The magic of the burning man weekend will fuel my creative sparks for a long time coming. Thanks for helping to keep freedom free!!! -- kelly!, September 3, 1997 at 8:40p

Umm...Thanks to all you weird but beautiful people. You all made me smile...for five days fucking straight! My return next year is imminent not optional. And hi to Clay of KHOD pirate radio at the house of doors. I was the blue haired rum drinker in the wheelchair who helped you lasso delegates into our cocktail party. Woo Hoo! -- Neep, September 3, 1997 at 8:37p

My 3rd BM and despite what I anticipated about all of this years changes, it was still absolutely incredible (Though, was it just my state of mind, or was everything a little smaller this year; Fire Lingam, BM, lack of HELCO?). I liked the layout and the organization. The virgins I brought with me are still in a state of shock and can’t stop talking about their plans for next year. Thanks to everyone involved for keeping the spirit alive. Connie, you changed Dave’s life when you painted his penis with glitter. An extra BIG THANKS to the camp that allowed this complete stranger to wander in, completely fried out of his mind, and sit among them. Thanks for the water, the shirt, the chair, and the companionship. I vow to return the favor next year. Finally, if the police insist on being present, (filming everything from their dusty cars and noisy helicopters) how about a theme camp? An existential donut shop or something? I love you all and I'll see you next year. -- Rick from Salt Lake City, September 3, 1997 at 8:00p

Burning Man 1997 was exceptional. I must profess my frustration at the Washoe County administrators who took all the money at the door. I will be writing my letters to them!!! Also to the NEA. Maybe they would contribute to burning man. I also encourage everyone to donate their hard earned money to the Burning Man Project... so that the incredible experiences we share in the desert can continue .... Thank you Larry Harvey, Cacacophony Society, Black Rock Rangers, and all of those who participated in Burning Man '97 because it was a spectacular event, even in Hualapai Playa. Strangely enough we planned our honeymoon around it! -- Deanna Myrick, September 3, 1997 at 7:58p

Well, the gods of film developing have smiled on me.. check out some cool pictures at http://gn2.getnet.com/~avarice/bm/ -- Christopher Donnell, September 3, 1997 at 7:32p

First, I've gotta tell you about a '96 experience: I threw my clothes in the fire, and then couldn't find my way home--all night! I knew I was in the neighborhood, but there was so much dust cloud from the shenanigans out on the playa, that I couldn't find my camp. I kept finding myself back at the campfire of these two crazy Canadians--mining engineers from Reno. Every time I'd re-appear, they'd say, Hey, it's Nudey Man again!" Finally, at dawn, I saw a landmark, ventured out, and found my tent and friends, only about 50 yards away. I put on some clothes and went back with my dog to thank these guys and say good bye. This year I was telling my girlfriend about it, and assumed I'd never run into these guys again. When we arrived, though, a pile of wood fell off our truck, and two guys helped out with it. As they were leaving I said, just on a chance, "You guys aren't the mining engineers, are you.?" "Nudey Man!" They exclaimed, amid hugs from long lost friends. We partied the whole weekend, and twice more met people who asked if I was "Nudey Man" from last year. Unbelieveable. In one case, aftger the burn, as we are circling the fire (a bit like moslems circling the Kabala in Mecca, I thought) I see a guyseyes and say, I remember you from last year" He says, You must be Nudey Man--we were in the camp next to you! I've been talking about you all year!" 'Had no idea I'd had such impact. This whole weekend my mind was stuck on one word: Awesome. Such creativitiy, ingenuity, love, compassion, fun. Next year we want to organize a camp. Take care, much luv, John Clay -- John Clay, September 3, 1997 at 7:25p

Had a great first time! Thanks to all the organizers for the dedication and hard work, and to all the ranger volunteers too. The feeling at B-Man was something very wonderful -- SAFE chaos ! "Total" freedom with nearly everyone taking personal responsibility. The experience was a little different for me than most of you I expect, since I'm a 45yr old who brought 5 16/17 year olds! Hope to be there next year with more friends and a little camp that will knock your socks off even though you won't be wearing any! Thanks "Dante" for giving me the soul of Cyndi Lauper. And thanks POXODD, for helping me pay for it. -- Thunderbird Duck, September 3, 1997 at 7:02p

I know about the Chopper, that guy pissed me off alot.. He kept flying around our camp on the outskirts, and had *no* lights on at all... Isnt that against FAA reg's???? I mean what do they think they are doing??? Then later the one with the lights on, kept buzzing the camps, and then he went off into the distance and started hovering around about 10' off the ground creating a BIG dust storm... I heard romour that the helicopter was REQUIRED for us.. Thats Bull.. I think the county used that as an excuse so their officers could get some _free_ practice trying to be like the cops in East-"pick-your-city" (ie:east LA) Just my 2 cents.. The Chopper was the only thing I didnt like about BurningMan.. -- TazMan, September 3, 1997 at 6:58p

whee have full moon drumming/bonfire every month on the Mendo coast (bowling ball beach) very bmesq. check it out -- kat, September 3, 1997 at 6:52p

whee have full moon drumming/bonfire every month on the Mendo coast (bowling ball beach) very bmesq. check it out -- kat, September 3, 1997 at 6:52p

My third consecutive year. WOW! BIGG. Was there a final headcount? BM '95 was the experience of my life, complete 180. I will forever hold a special place in my heart for the event, the meaning. For me I go out into the desert to escape all annoyances of modern society. I hate to see them follow me there. I brought a lock-box this year! The layout this year was quite unifying and festive. However it wasn't nearly the experience of the past ones out in the middle of the playa. I had a good time, but... Proffesor wants me to start tutoring fellow students, Bye.. Bye.. -- Cactus-Boy, September 3, 1997 at 6:51p

THE FLYING BICYCLE WAS SO BEAUTIFUL WE ALMOST CRIED! THANK YOU THANK YOU! WHAT A GREAT IDEA! SS -- siliconsurfer, September 3, 1997 at 6:35p

Hey Burning people, Thanks! I had a blast (To say the least). To all the people who where there to see Elvis and the spectators Burn, thanks also! The Elvis:Back from Hell Tour couldn't have happened without you!Anyway.. I think Elvis is truely dead now, so you can all sleep at ease (Baby). See you next year! -Todd -- Todd Springett, September 3, 1997 at 6:05p

Thx to all the YOU BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE and Larry Harvey & Crew Without you the feelings I have would not be possible! BM changes everyone's life... I wonder why the world couldn't be more like this? I'm back at work in my controlled environment...wondering what the HELL I'm doing here...! ******** I met a man walking his dog out in the brush, he was about 70 years old...I asked him what made him come to BM...he told me his wife passed on a year ago and she wasn't into going. He said he grew up in that area and always wanted to check out BM. Although his wife was not with him to share the experience, I was so filled with joy to see him there, joining in and enjoying his life, like everyone else at BM! Watching the Man burn was outta site!!! What a treat! Thanks to all the smiling folks and neighbors...OV, Julie, Clifford....etc. P.S. Please donate $ and remember to take your trash with you. Peace. -- Glitter Girl Mary, September 3, 1997 at 6:00p

Orwellian presence of helicopters gave it that L.A. feel that most of us living in Hollywood experience every night - never fear, it's coming to your town soon. Bianca's is the best juke in the desert since Dahab. Every morn as I breezed out into the rising sun, kick ass tunes would waft across the Playa, reminding me that time is a rather transmutable substance when you're kicking it with the grooviest folks in the world. I miss it already. -- Nick, September 3, 1997 at 5:56p

I miss Dude. -- ESP, September 3, 1997 at 5:53p

This was our 4th BM. Really enjoyed event, even though it was somewht different than in previous years. Good is a relative term. Liked Fashiailto:wrwhite1@ix.netcom.com">Warren, September 3, 1997 at 5:50p

We swam through the desert on the back of a kaleidescope-colored 'whalagator'. We drove through a star filled night sharing Neftune's breath of fire and the blood of sailors lost at sea empowered all who sought the mermaid's nipple. As we spiraled towards out wild beast's certain fiery death , strange sea creatures accompanied us on our hallucinagenic quest. Thanks to Sand, Kelp, Squid Casey, the cutest lost sailors(Nicki, Lesley, John) Where's da Vino Scott for the best strange trip ever. Starburst? -- mermaid koshtra, September 3, 1997 at 5:48p

Burning Man: it *is* part of American Culture. Could anyone tell me how I can get ahold of: 1--the guy with the upside-down circular ride on the playa after the burn (he was asking $2 a ride; it was hand-driven)?? and 2--Nilo(?) the drum-maker from Grass Valley, camped on northside by the two teepees, who makes djembes and small pine ashikos??? and MAX--you made the local (S.F. Bay Area) news w/your Church of the Orbital Orgy--it was great!! -- Lori, September 3, 1997 at 5:43p

I spent some time looking around for transferred dead heads. Liked it when I found a few, but didn't mind that there wasn't a lot of evidence of the GD. I'll always listen to the music. But for me, the truest and ultimate compliment about the Burning Man is to say that for the first time it felt like there were other venues and situations which could have the meaning of what we lost 2 years ago. Felt good to move on without leaving anything behind. -- Paul Thayer, September 3, 1997 at 5:43p

I gotta admit it has taken me a few days to come back to reality... i feel like somehow this experience has changed me if only a bit...i had moments that were disturbing and moments that were exhilirating....and all in all i thing it was a wonderful growth and self examination experience.... where exactly is my "comfort zone" line.... AH HA it will never be the same....So much seems surreal , looking back... and i smile, as i remember... at the time, THIS reality was surreal and being there was what was real...IT was an ultimate challenge of spirit.... and as we turned off the freeway that was taking us all homw and we severed that final tie.... i was truly sad...All these people from diverse backgrounds that came together and lived together.. in such a way that ought to point out... why can't we always have this sense of unity and togetherness all the rest of the year....Ohhh geez... the philosopher in me has rattled on for tooo long now.... all in all i loved it and the vote is in.... we'll be back....It was great...and i feel like i am a better person for the experience.... only one question.... whatever happened to that cheese structure that was supposed to be burned in that story that was being told on the radio?????? Take care all..... -- Js, September 3, 1997 at 5:39p

First off, a big NYAH nyahnyah NYAH NYAH! to all the naysayers and jaded beings out there. What a rush! This was my third year and it by far exceeded both previous years. I think the semicircle layout was wise, and greatly helped to increase interaction, and keep the vibe from getting too spread out (literally) I've never seen it so intense! Even the tourists/yahoos seemed to get it. 2 questions: Is anybody (SF area) having a post Burning Man get together? I'm having withdrawls already! -AND- Is anybody looking for a ROOMMATE for October who is massage friendly (who isn't?) I'm a working massage therapist (27,M) complete with a functioning brain, kind heart, dancing feet, cleaning hands, and a LIFE! I can pay up to $475, more if it's really neato. It would be really cool to live with people on the same vibe, y'know? Email me at floe@cafenet.net -- paul smith, September 3, 1997 at 5:36p

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!!!! Darts to: Burn the Trashers! Burn the Cameras! Burn the Hecklers! Laurels to: Everyone who picked up their mess - STRESS this more next year! Everyone! -- Jim, September 3, 1997 at 5:33p

I'm looking for the man named Quentin with the rocket bike. You know who you are, you temporal time traveller. Please email us back as we enjoyed talking with you on Sunday morning & would like to contact you again. -- sunrise-under-the-man, September 3, 1997 at 5:19p

BM RULES> I'm just pissed that it wasn't my idea. I want Mr. LArry Harvey to know how cool he is. Especially by the way he keeps a low profile instead of claiming full ownership of the beast he's created. Hey Larry, do you care if I copy you and throw parties for my friends like little burning mans...or burning boys?. What if it becomes a part of american culture someday?! See ya... -- jamie, September 3, 1997 at 5:11p

hey there GIRL from UREKA(sp?), Cali who travelled to BM in a BROWN VAN with friends and met me at a GAS STATION in a nearby SMALL TOWN and then again at BM while wearing that flashing RED DRESS with the big hole in the side... I HAVE SOMETHING THAT BELONGS TO YOU!!! So email me -- jamie, September 3, 1997 at 5:05p

I didn't really know that it was possible, and I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it for myself, but a large rain cloud appeared just before the burn when we had had clear skies the whole time before. It dropped a few drops and left. Nature responded and participated with its no-thought intelligence just like an animal. This was better than an alien landing. -- James K-M, September 3, 1997 at 5:00p

Greetings from the-chick-in-the-durga-mask: this was my first Burning Man, and I'll take steps to make sure it won't be my last. The panorama of fire, group howls, drums at dawn, amazing creativity and ingenuity (oh the downright spiritual kick in the ass generated by the sight of the BONE ARCH!), and dangerous art was a genuinely mind and spirit-altering experience. All told, i'm left with the impression that reality really IS what you make of it (and it was something like a fiercely joyous group finger-paint for the duration) and that perhaps there IS hope for the future of mankind... As my good friend (also a first-timer) summed it up on Monday morning, as the crescent of Black Rock City disappeared behind the mountains: I LOVE MY TRIBE!!! Two small suggestions: 1) moon the police helicopters and blazers. obstructionist bastards. 2) smear all oglers/voyeurs with mud. It's good for 'em. Special thanks to: everyone who gave me a sip of water or a cigarette drag or otherwise shared so openly and effortlessly the guy who pointed his didgeridu at my belly at the burning and played it, compelling my friend and I to gyrate wildly, feeling its voice creep into my bones and my guts and my loins.... all in all, the experience of the burning itself was the most incredible catharsis I've ever been fortunate enough to survive, and the absolute, ferocious, glorious joy I felt will stick with me till I die... -- Heidi Lypps, September 3, 1997 at 4:56p

Oh yeah, by the way, thank you Rebecca, wherever you are, for the rum & coke and rasberry margarita schnapps fun on Sunday morning! -- Kent, September 3, 1997 at 4:42p

Well, I must say, WHAT A FRIGGIN' BLAST! This was my first burning man, and definitely not my last. So many memories, blurred and clear alike. Best one: watching the duck being carried from center camp early sunday morning (say around 4am?). Never laughed so hard in my life. For those of you who missed it, picture this: a gigantic wooden duck floating drunkenly across the playa towards burning man, complete with thirty-odd pairs of legs and thirty-odd voices quacking. I had to sit down i was laughing so hard. For those of you who saw it with me, I share your laughter forever. For those of you who actually pulled it off, THANK YOU! It made my night. -- Kent, September 3, 1997 at 4:40p

There are few times in one's life when he can say "I lived life to the fullest" and mean it. This past weekend was one of those times. To see trust, commeraderie, passion and euphoria stirred up into a delicious cocktail will stay with me till I lay dying. My thanks to the organizers who provided a crucible for the volatile mixing of thousands and to my compatriots who joined me. Strangers on Friday, Family by Monday. 358 shopping days till Burning Man '98 -- Paul Chamberlain, September 3, 1997 at 4:40p

THE PICTURES ARE OUT NOW!!!!! HTTP://WWW.VORTEXIA.COM COME AND SEE IF YOU ARE IN THEM AND TELL ME IF YOU ARE. -- Mike, September 3, 1997 at 4:33p

Second Year: never will be my last; even with all the changes our spirit remained. We are a tribe, a family of imagination and love, similarities of diffrences. I am so proud of us. my heart glows at the memory, my body responds with goose bumps. I must say that the police were especially nice<almost as nice as NYC cops, no joke> <definitly nicer than LA cops>..after the burn they were kind enough to help out with some tissue "to wipe with sir, I am a girl"..and seemed very relaxed even though it looked like complete bedlam around them. The chopper was unnecessary...a med vac would be a better idea..The chopper was a $ eating moster not really doing anything good except kicking up dust and creating noise pollution<drums, techno, and strange screams.. not noise pollution in my mind> Please keep real $ out of Black Rock City...Barter is more fun and imaginitive and keeps the Garbage to a minimum. I think the press is unnecessary...art photographers are cool, but who wants to see camera crews sending out images to people sitting on their couches at home to judge us by...NO SPECTATORS right? TO CyberBus.com: you guys suck...your ball joke was not cool...especially since you used the man for advertising of your site...next time keep it on your own turf and not on our man... To those people complaining of the loud noise at night...next year bring ear plugs...this is BM and I want my right to blast music and scream in joy and play drums and do whatever the fuck I want...thats what its about isn't it? Thank you to all the wonderful people who made this year happen, thank you Flash for your increadible spirit. Thank you Larry Harvey for continuing to fight the system...I want to help how ever I can to keep our "real world" alive...I may be broke monitarily but I do have lots of time on my hands. I live in nyc and would like to organize a fund drive or whatever for you...please let me know what I can do LOVE TO EVERYONE, KEEP THE SPIRIT ALIVE -- Cory, September 3, 1997 at 4:27p

The chopper is an intimidation tool pure and simple. It says "we are watching your every move and there is nowhere you can hide without us watching you". It is a small price to pay (having a chopper hovering around us) to enjoy the time we had in the playa. It we have to have a chopper in order to have Burning Man then bring on the chopper. -- joe, September 3, 1997 at 4:22p

Give thanks to the family for the other-worldly experience at my first Burning Man! Magical Blend Magazine hopes to be involved in the many events to come! Blessings- -- Kaera Mari, September 3, 1997 at 4:17p

I must say thanks to all those who made my first experience to BM one I will never forget. Thanks for your vision, your talent, your spirit of individuality. Some images will be with me forever. Thank you for making my nighttime adventures so colorful and memorable. I hope to see this happen again next year. -- Space cowgirl, September 3, 1997 at 4:12p

PAUL "FARM BOY", JAMES "FREAKAZOID NEON- NIPPLE PAINTED BLAZEE, BLAZZE, BLAZZE",HUGH "SPINAL TAPPED HAIRDON'T WEARING NUDIE" KEN "SLEEK BETTY LOVER" - YOU BOYS TURNED INTO TRUE PASSION MONGER MEN BEFORE MY EYES! Cheers to the elation we've shared, the howls, the ice cream/water truck, the laughs, the chow but most of all the bondage, I means the bonding. Of course, without a doubt, next year we're deckin' it out to the nines! U-Haul and all! Still, after being there, I can't explain it to others - I'm just so glad you guys, very important men in my life, were there with me so I wouldn't have to call you and spend hours on the phone explaining everything! Burn on! MARGARITA!!!!!!! -- Margarita, September 3, 1997 at 4:04p

I know about the Chopper, that guy pissed me off alot.. He kept flying around our camp on the outskirts, and had *no* lights on at all... Isnt that against FAA reg's???? I mean what do they think they are doing??? Then later the one with the lights on, kept buzzing the camps, and then he went off into the distance and started hovering around about 10' off the ground creating a BIG dust storm... I heard romour that the helicopter was REQUIRED for us.. Thats Bull.. I think the county used that as an excuse so their officers could get some _free_ practice trying to be like the cops in East-"pick-your-city" (ie:east LA) Just my 2 cents.. The Chopper was the only thing I didnt like about BurningMan.. -- TazMan, September 3, 1997 at 4:02p

The 'copter flying all night long without lights was the county sheriff using nightvision goggles. Their call sign was "Raven One" -- Marika, September 3, 1997 at 3:45p

The 'copter flying all night long without lights was the county sheriff using nightvision goggles. Their call sign was "Raven One" -- Marika, September 3, 1997 at 3:44p

To all citizens of Black Rock City: How about that magnesium hole! Don't look at the fire!!! Thank you all and take your stuff home with you. Don't abuse your Playa. -- Tony, September 3, 1997 at 3:40p

To all citizens of Black Rock City: Thank you and take your stuff home with you. -- Tony, September 3, 1997 at 3:37p

loved every second. (I ignored the cops) THanks to the organizers, and also to everyone who took the time to participate in my election experiment.. Everyone of you was a good sport. Hugh D'Man -- Chris, September 3, 1997 at 3:27p

It was so worth going! The great humans were a lot more important to me then the pyrotechnics (kick ass though they were). By the way, does anyone know how that flying saucer was done? It had a red light and flew over our heads making an incredibly fun silly 50's spooky twilight zone noise. Quite awesome. -- Nose Sucker, September 3, 1997 at 3:14p

-- ANON, September 3, 1997 at 3:08p

All I could say at the time, happiness, still all I can say now, happiness! All of those who shared the tall grass, thank you! And all you kids from Neotechnopolis, dance on! The best experience of my life, I would be dehabilitaded with sadness if burning man weren't still inside of me! Greetings to Xebu, Joe, and Fred! Miss ya already, neighbors! It has to happen again. Art, decadence, fire, spirituality....the most crucial elements of capitalism in decay! -- aeron, September 3, 1997 at 3:04p

I left Black Rock City Monday afternoon, and I am SO homesick! Thank you to everyone who stumbled in to Fandango Stumble-in Theater -- I hope you had half as much fun as we did. Highlights and Thanks: Dawn on Saturday (I still get shivers just thinking about it). The Sound Garden (who did that? THANK YOU!) The Church of the Orbital Orgy (thanks again, Max! -- email me.) Having my hipbag returned to the Ranger station with everything still in it -- Thank you!) The hanging pyramid tent - MudBuster (or whatever your name is today), you rock. 99.5 FM. Helping Joegh Bullock hang the "No Spectators!" sign at the cafe. The orange tent/candle oasis. The incredible hospitality of Bianca's Smut Shack -- thank you. The bite of BBQ'd scallop&bacon that rocked my world -- thank you, Eileen. The amazing technicolor tent that rose just before dawn on Saturday. Having big, wet tears of joy fall on my keyboard as I sit reading all these wonderful, heartfelt recollections. And finally, a very special THANK YOU to Joegh, Harley, Will Roger, Crimson Rose, Tony Perez, Flash, Flynn Mouthy, Hollie, John, P., Dawn, the whole House of Doors crew and all the other volunteers for all your hard work and for teaching me so, so much. I love you all. I miss you all. -- -=Be=- -- -- Bill Emmack, September 3, 1997 at 2:58p

Nice, consistent, mellow time this year. And, in a way, not quite as exciting as last year's extreme highs and lows. But I knew each and every BM would be a radically different experience. Thank you Bianca's for the great space to relax all day and night, to Brian for giving us a jump Sunday night, to Nub Chai for the best chai in the world, to Fly Hot Springs for the best natural hot springs I've ever been to. Funniest sight: all the big naked guys running behind the water truck waving their arms. Worst sight: seeing a flare drop into the crowd before the burn. Biggest relief: not feeling like my life was in mortal danger because of cars! Biggest bummer: the financial hole the organizers are in. Did they/should they incorporate? Best thing: nice friendly vibes from everyone, or at least great music all day from our overly tense neighbors. -- Jen, September 3, 1997 at 2:54p

This was my first Burning Man. I made the trek from L.A. by helicopter to shoot what i thought would be just another documentary. When I landed at the Burning Man's makeshift landing strip I was greeted by a small group of half naked people and presented with a very dry martini,complete with olive! Within hours I found myself wandering across the Playa amazed at the freedom and creativity expressed by those in attendance. Sunday night 9pm on the Playa cannot be described. Filming it was a joy. I'm now sitting here in front of my Avid viewing 8 hours of spectacular footage and can't wait to return next year! If anyone would like to be interviewed for the documentary please E-Mail me. Thanks again to everyone that made me feel like I belong. -- Robert Tur, September 3, 1997 at 2:44p

First timer - It was great. Next year how about a "cultural center" where new people could go to learn the culture - or lack of it. It could have a history of the burn section and stuff about being good to the environment and cleaning up your stuff after it's over. It would be something to do during the day for people. This might help people get into the creative spirit of the whole thing quicker and build a shared sense of what can be achived together. At the end of the center people would be required to take off their cloths and to smoke pot before they are set loose on the playa (just joking). -gjk -- Greg Kendall, September 3, 1997 at 2:40p

CONGRATS! AND THANKS TO THE ORGANIZERS OF BM, 1997. I moved to Reno about 3 years ago, and to be frank, was afraid to go to BM until this year. With all the fuss that the hypocritical county officials put up, I felt I must go simply to show my support. I'm hooked now and will attend as long as BM lives. The event was incredible even with the presence of the law. I am sure that a large part of the fee that the county charged was to fly there new toy helicopter (which they received free from the National Guard). Enough of that...Bravo to all who participated and attended we will see you next year!!! I was on sensory overload the whole time I was there (this is a good thing). The fire dancers near the center on Sunday night were the most beautiful I have ever seen. The Man.......the Man......I can find no words to describe my feelings watching the Man burn. If anyone needs a voice in Reno, NV...just let me know. ~Peace~ -- Jonny Rotton, September 3, 1997 at 2:39p

REVISION: Steel Neal (I spelled your name wrong earlier) and your piece "THE FUTURE PRIMITIVE" and the agony of man. (I got the title wrong on the last post). Sorry... Anyway, that piece ruled!!! -- Anon., September 3, 1997 at 2:10p

Thank you all my black rock family. I love you all so much, never before have I felt so many kindred spirits. The love and creativity has made me whole, I have found myself among you. I will never be the same person. All the negativity of the few could not detract from my experience. It was so easy to blank all the bad out when there was so much good. You could really pick out the tourists, and the oglers, and block them out. To all those who snuck into this event, I would like to curse, may you pay a thousand times over, for your wrong doings. To all those I saw picking up after the litterbugs especially to those who picked up trash right in front of the litterbugs, you guys are great, you have taught lesson to us all. The negativity, will always be there, but they are only wounding themselves. That kind of ugly goes straight to the bone. Maybe someone will think of a great way to help stop that kinda madness next year. If there is a next year. -- Andy, September 3, 1997 at 2:08p

thanks to the burnt man and the kids from portland. see you next burn. life is boring now lets burn some shit -- hit man, September 3, 1997 at 2:00p

First B.M. for me, but hopefully not the last. Like some other frst timrs, I wasnt gonna go, for fear that it was too late. i was wrong. Large groups of people often make me anxious and confused, but at B.M. I could not get enough human vibe. Inspiring. Hi to Andrew and John- Davis Eng M's and Berkeley dwellers- meant to get your 3s, e-mail me SuzanQ@MSN.com if you want. To Eric the airbrusher- thanks for the firm hand-you should see the marks you left. I'm glad most of these entires are positive. I have a few comments... Try to ignore the media if they bother you. They are doing exactly what they are expected to do. Though I sympathize with B.M. vets' loss of undergound atmosphere, I think it is worthwhile to set an example. It's fun to flaunt the success of the event to the media and to the authorities- people can come together to create something that totally defies the norms that our commercial culture uses to beat the life out of us. True community-building, which does not exclude anyone who is cool with the rules and the spirit of the thing, is a pretty fucking exciting endeavor when it is based on the values represented by B.M. participants. Thanks to those who are informing us about the future of the event and the things that we can do to preserve it. Fundraiser is a great idea. -- Suzan M., September 3, 1997 at 1:57p

Wow! My first time at BM and it was truly a mind expanding experience. Lots of things that were beyond my boundaries of "good taste" but not much that was so far out that i had to run! Super phat props to the orgers of Binanca's Shack of smutness, Camp dumb n oasis n those peeps who were playing star wars Imperial Trooper Recuitment movies the night i was tripping os heavily i wanted to sign up! <grin> Dug the first few days of setup and hanging out more, before all of the spectators arrived on Saturday and Sunday. Camp Chiba will rise from the ashes next year. The Burnt the man! The man is burnt! -- Adam, September 3, 1997 at 1:43p

It happened. the MAN burned again. i AM reborn. (...i need a shower tho') };-> this "event" is actually a movement that could *still* save this planet. the plaintive question of whether there will be a Burning Man '98 is less important than the urgency underlying it. did this EXPERIENCE change your life? you and i both know it did. the unspeakable, hilarious, and profound TRUTH is clear. we NEED this. if WE the citizens of Black Rock continue to share, communicate, entertain, and inspire each other we WILL live to see another burning man. this is too important, AND you know it. we're all the MAYOR of Black Rock City, let's start acting like it! e-mail me IF you know who you are... prosecutors will be violated! BURN THE MAN! -- Les, is more..., September 3, 1997 at 1:36p

I miss the playa, I have to say that straight out. Being within sight of a highway removed much of the true survival experience for me. And I worried about the restrictions and the rules. But in the end the event managed to produce that combination of awe and joy that has kept me coming back since the days on Baker Beach. Somehow The Man manages to transcend all and evolve faster than any of the forces arrayed against Him. Many, including me, lobbied for a smaller event a couple of years ago. Larry would have none of it. He was right. He's one of the few true visionaries I've ever met. My sincere thanks to him and the rest of the selfless workers who combined to give us the best party ever. And, if I may, a big pooperoo to all those who could not be bothered to haul out their trash. -- Dick "Skyking" Dillman, September 3, 1997 at 1:29p

I have not been trying to describe my experiences and joy at having attended BM this year to others that did not go as anything I would say would only water down the true feelings behind the words. I would however like to thank Dale my buddy with the scooter who let me borrow it to go out to the bathrooms on la playa (they were heavenly out there) and to all at Crazy Dantes Used Soul Emporium I am holding tight to my new soul and promise not to lose it again I hope to see you all again next year. John do you still have my old soul in your pocket? To all my neighbors I wish you all dreams of la playa. -- Kelly, September 3, 1997 at 1:27p

ROSE, sister of the fire dancer at the rave stage out on the playa (near the Trojan Horse Burn) after the Man himself had come down. Please write me. Your power, your intuition and your beauty are painfully missed. Our time together was brief. Let it continue. If anyone knows the identity of the dancer or of Rose, please help. -- Mike, September 3, 1997 at 1:23p

To all of us goes all of the credit for this fantastic event. As for those that left their trash here and there, <Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do.> Our mission next year, in the spirit of community, is to pass our sensitivity on to those around us. We can take responsibility for the misdeeds of others and, therebye, do something about them. Incidentally, for those who find themseleves on the playa with an empty beer bottle and an unwillingness to carry it around for the next four hours, drop it if you must, but then pick up two of someone elses on your way off the playa. We got a good thing going but we can make it a better one next year. Love. -- Frederick, September 3, 1997 at 1:12p

I bitched as much as anybody about the permit conditions and those nasty county commissioners, but now that it's over and I'm reading about everyone's great experiences, I have to say: no deaths this year, no serious injuries, no Rangers looking like the walking dead because they were understaffed and dead tired. What a fantastic outcome! Last year the creative energy was great, and the experience was fantastic, but I could never help thinking of the people who got run over while they slept. This year, people can't wait to talk about the amazing things they saw and did, the people they met, the magic they found. Between the county's permit demands and the organizers' determination not to let last year happen again, Burning Man survived and thrived. Here's to next year! -- StevenK, September 3, 1997 at 1:12p

Everyone who has posted before me has done a great job describing what an exquisite, trancendant, mindblowing, life changing experience this years Burning Man was, so I will just add a few more thoughts. Nearly everyone I met this year was incredibly wild, talented, intellegent, creative, motivated, free-thinking, beautiful and generous. We are kindred spirits that really have the ability to make a change in the "real" world. Part of the miracle of Burning Man is that we create a society completely removed from any external societal constructs. The outside rules don't apply there. We start with a blank canvas and create our own reality as a more pure and undistorted reflection of ourselves. And guess what. . . It works! This means that we as citizens of Black Rock City, whether from San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Portland, Seattle, Dallas, LA, France, England, Australia, or even Reno (I met people from all those places), can bring the joy of Burning Man to our own corner of the world and create our own more perfect reality wherever we are. I love you all. Until next year... Drew. PS. how about a Burning Man film festival to help save the MAN. (put all those hours of video and film everyone shot to good use). email me if you are interested in that idea. -- drew meeks, September 3, 1997 at 1:09p

This year was insane. Everyone was so into it. Aside from this years lousy terrain, I loved every moment. My favorite moment came Saturday night at sunset when the entire camp was surrounded by a brilliant ring of color. I thought I was alone in seeing how powerful it was until the entire west side of camp came outside and began cheering. Did anyone notice the big smiley face of clouds that appeared at the same time. A few in our camp saw it, but I can't be held responsible for their states of mind. It really set the stage for an incredible night. We're already designing our camp and a theme for next year. We have tons of photos if anyone wants to exchange. See you next year. John -- John, September 3, 1997 at 12:58p

the burn was out of this world. a moment suspended. Will burning man be back next year? -- chris, September 3, 1997 at 12:53p

Met a friend while doing a studio project who told me he was leaving for Burning Man the next day. "What's that?" I asked. I think it was his inability to articulate what it was that drew me to it more than anything. I decided Thursday to go, and left Thursday evening. Pulled into my friend's camp in Black Rock City just before sunup Friday. Amazed. The positive energy in the air was palpable. The most amazing thing to me was that EVERY TIME I desired/wished/needed something or someone, it appeared. No joke. I felt like I was living & lucid in the best dream of my life. Celebrated my 30th birthday on Sunday. Talk about catharsis. Woke up Sunday morning (or was it afternoon?) staring at a beautiful woman who had roamed into our camp while we slept. "Good morning!" We played guitars all day, watched the man burn together, spent the night roaming from fire to fire in each other's arms, and watched the sun rise together. The best birthday of my life. Burning Man has changed my life. I'm so glad to know that all you people exist, and that I'm not alone in my desire to experience a world where people are celebrated for their individuality, and Love rules. Thank you. -- Chet, September 3, 1997 at 12:52p

Excellent first time, and I believe that it was mostly due to the fact there was a great mix of people that made it all interesting, also because I was camped at a theme camp(Blowin in the Wind) I think made for a great interactive experience. Since I've done lots of desert backpacking , the environment was not difficult for me to deal with, but I would tell newcomers to the desert to be prepared, actually I found Burning Man to be luxary camping. I would have loved to been more on top the events so as to schedule attendance to them, but it easy to get distracted and involved in lots of activities that you cannot be everywhere everytime, so try not to run around and get everything all at once, experience things in its entirety....My them camp eperiences were the best great group, open and generous to the newcomer (me), but you must be helpful and interactive to get best experience..... -- Siobhan caswell, September 3, 1997 at 12:49p

The best experience of my whole life, I will never forget you burning man. I would pay twice as much if I had to just to keap the party going. To all you puncks who sneaked in, eat shit and die! Same to all who littered, may dogs come and shit in your yard. -- Andy, September 3, 1997 at 12:47p

Burning Man 97: more police, more of the get-yer-tits-out crowd, different location, larger attendance. Who cares. In essence its still the same, unique and absolutely wonderful. It would be a truly sad passing if this were the last year. The organizers can't be thanked enough for dealing with the logistical and financial nightmare of this years event. -- gary, September 3, 1997 at 12:42p

To all of the eloquent descriptions of BMan experiences on this bulletin board, I say "Right on!". But that's not what I want to talk about. Now that BMan '97 is over, residents of Black Rock City and the BMan organizers have important work to do for the future of BMan and every other alternative cultural event in this country. It is a common practice for local county commissioners to dream up discriminatory requirements for public events being organized by people whose cultures they don't like. The most popular alternative culture event in southwest Oregon has finally been crushed out of existence this way. The Washoe County commissioners have just done this to Burning Man. From all of the "See you next year, I'll never miss another BMan" statements on this Bulletin Board, there must be a lot of people who don't realize that the life of this event is in peril. The pleas for donations to cover this year's budget shortfall are an expectable response to this crisis. But the budget shortfall was entirely created by the county commissioners, and I believe they did this to make sure that Burning Man would never happen again, or if by some miracle it did, they would continue to be able to suck big bucks out of it for their political cronies in the County. (Please re-read Maid Marian's Jack Rabbit Speaks Vol #1:#17 for more details on this.) I don't fault the BMan staff for giving in to this extortion under the pressure of time, but I think that giving in to it for the long term is the wrong response. There are other large gatherings that take place in Washoe County. Hot Summer Days and Nights in Reno is one. The National Air Races at old Stead Air Force Base north of Reno is another. All I know about Hot Summer Days is Maid Marian's reference to the fact that 382 citations had to be issued this year. That's a lot of police time to control rowdiness downtown. As for the Air Races, which have been held in the County since the mid-sixties, fatal accidents have been part of the draw. And they don't crash and burn those airplanes in the middle of a playa, they do it out in the sagebrush. How many firemen do they have to pay to be present? I guess it's a glorious expression of our culture to crash an aging warplane, but an injury or death at BMan is grounds for shutting it down. Or how about Craig Breedloves' jet-powered car? He rolled it last year on Black Rock Desert while traveling in excess of 400 mph, with a crowd of people only 1/2 mile away. A half mile at 400 mph is covered in 4.5 seconds. Does this sound like good, clean, safe fun to you? And then there are rodeos; surely Washoe county has one. A freelance writer friend of mine recently interviewed the national champion woman bull rider. In response to a question about whether she had ever broken any bones, she said she had two ribs which had NOT been broken. The Pershing County Sheriff said last year that BMan should not be allowed to happen again because it "doesn't represent their values". I suppose women smashed by raging bulls' hooves does? Mind you, I have no desire to block these people from having their kind of fun, I just want them to grant us the same right. I have no quibble with counties having a permit process for public gatherings, or having permit requirements to insure that the taxpayers don't get left holding a big bill. But those requirements had better be written in law (not made up separately for each event) and enforced equally for ALL groups. I believe that the public record of the Washoe County Commissioner's permit requirements, both the ones that were finally imposed and the ones that were so outrageous that they were dropped, will prove beyond a doubt that these politicians illegally attempted to prevent BMan from happening, or, failing that, would bleed it white financially so it could never happen again. They did this for reasons of cultural hatred that is the antithesis of American tolerance of diversity. In doing so, they violated the civil rights of every resident of Black Rock City, specifically, our First Amendment right to freedom of assembly, our Fifth Amendment right to due process, and our Fourteenth Amendment right to equal protection of the law. This is why I don't want to contribute to a fund to cover this year's budget shortfall, I want to contribute to a fund to sue Washoe County for violating our civil rights. The difference between the permit conditions imposed on BMan and the requirements imposed on any other large gathering in that county is the measure of the violation. I want every county commissioner in the United States to be served notice that they can't abuse the power of government to discriminate against cultures they don't like. The greatest beauty of BMan is how everyone is out there giving freely of themselves to feed, house, and entertain each other. The greatest gift citizens of Black Rock City can give to every US citizen is a legal precedent that would forever block county commissioners from doing to others what they have done to us. Thank you, beloved Black Rock neighbors, for listening to this. -- Tom Ness, September 3, 1997 at 12:28p

1st BM was AWESOME!!! Next year, were planning a theme camp. -- Does anyone have pictures of the Chicken Fight in the Mud pits on Sunday? I was on the winning team and would like a copy, real or file. -- If the guy (with the black dog) that took a picture of me and my buddy up in the cherry picker with the firey color sky background is out there, could you get me a copy? -- Also, any one with pictures os a guy in a Jason mask, I'd love to see um! I was that guy. E-mail me about any of the above, and I'll work something out. Thanks. Oh, and thanks to everyone for being so nice and friendly. -- I love the playa and spiritually a part of me will always be there. BM '98!!!! -- Kevin Fogarty, September 3, 1997 at 12:17p

with the last embers of the Man long grown cold, we can still understand you with our minds, smell you on our bodies, and feel you with our spirits. the Aliceum thanks all of you with every piece of energy we have left after this weekend for abandoning the safety of time and space to create the playground of the gods. see all of you soon! -- Vagabond Jim, September 3, 1997 at 12:16p

Is anyone organizing donations??? Lets harness some of this energy we all have and bail out the debt? Is anyone still working on this web site to create a "donations" or "pay up if you snuck in" button on the main page? Also, would anyone have a copy of Larry's speech? -- Ellen, September 3, 1997 at 11:57a

It's over all ready? I gotta wait another year already? Man its the greatest. I had a magnificent time this year and have started thinking of plans for next. You Fuckin' Freaks are beutiful and I truly aspire to always be one of you. We ain't like the rest of 'em. No sir! If any one has pictures of Burning Elvis 97' Please let me know. Would love to pay for some copies. I miss you all............... -- Ross, September 3, 1997 at 11:51a

I've read some of the posts complaining about the new area and the oppressive law enforcement presence and I agree with some of it. This year was my third Burning Man and no year had been the same. Last year sucked because of the dust kicked up by thoughtless people who refused to travel on foot or bicycle. Different doesn't always suck. Let's look at the positive side. This year the water trucks gave us all a free shower and cool down opportunities. The sense of community was still there. Our neighbors Andy and Rob were great as well as our other neighbors Karen and Linda. On Saturday night we started across the playa towards a set up that a couple of my fellow campers had found. It was far away and required crossing some very wet and slippery playa. We decided to bail when we began to sink and walked towards a camp that had to be on dry ground. When we got there we found a camp with chairs set up. There was a note that the Geometers had set this up as an oasis and we were free to make ourselves at home. If anyone knows who the Geometers are please let me know, they made our night. -- Becky, September 3, 1997 at 11:47a

A friend told me a tale of a man burning in the desert and thousands of like minded souls joining to witness... I called my estranged wife and told her our chance for redemption had arrived, we packed a camaro full of stuff and drove across four states deep into the desert. We learned to let go of the past, to forgive each other and ourselves and we realized the beauty inside ourselves and in each other. Thank you Black Rock, It is so good to know that I am not alone and that it's okay to be me -- Cyburn, September 3, 1997 at 11:41a

Look at all these messeges!!! I love this thing. Bman is a movement. We all want to speak out and share and give and write and embrace. This is an outrageuosly beautiful tribute to this experience. -- Ellen, September 3, 1997 at 11:41a

"No earthly church has ever blessed our union, no state has ever granted us permission, no family bond has ever made us two, no company has ever earned commision, no debt was paid, no dowry to be gained, no treaty over borderland or power, no semblance of the world outside remained to stain the beauty of this nuptial hour, the secret marriage vow is never spoken, the secret marriage never can be broken. No flowers on the altar, no white veil in your hair, no maiden dress to alter, no bible oaths to swear..." -- --- Sting, September 3, 1997 at 11:19a

I experienced Burning Man only through several outstanding, balanced articles in the Washington Post, and through this web site and its links. Reading these testimonials confirms that Burning Man was as good as I imagined. I only hope the tradition survives, and that I can attend and contribute some of my own creativity in the future. -- Scruff, September 3, 1997 at 11:17a

Thumbs up to Steel Neil who made "THE MODERN PRIMITIVE" agony of man sculpture. That alone was worth the trip. 1,200 lbs all the way from the east coast. WOW! You are truly inspired. Will be in touch. -- a fellow sculptor, September 3, 1997 at 10:51a

thanks and bravo to all who worked to put this together. i was in the minority of people there with kids and am wanting to organize a kids camp for next year where parents can take turns with childcare and have time to roam without them. set up some kids art stuff like playa mud sculpture. we already have a teacher interested in being involved so kids who start school before labor day school can get independent study credit, should anyone need that. my 5 year old son perhaps summed up our experience best: after the midnight ishtar opera, biking our way across the playa, i asked him if that was the strangest thing he'd ever seen. he answered no, and when i asked him what WAS the strangest thing he's ever seen, he answered "Sacramento" burning man was a shot of home for us. good for us as we make our way through this sometimes very strange world. we had a blast! -- niki, September 3, 1997 at 10:50a

Pictures. I made a sculpture that drew some attention and some photos. If you took a pic of the giant rebar (10" dia.) hammered into the ground and roped off to two smaller ones (4" dia.) please let me know. I would love a copy. -- the artist, September 3, 1997 at 10:46a

Hot damn! I'm all hot and bothered to hear this scintillating news. Burning man has a place on the web, in Nevada, in my mind and, of course, in my heart. Hence, my heartburn while reading your dispatch was probably only virtual. Still, I think Burning Man is a wonderful idea. God told me so. Save me some Wizard and a few briquettes --.Joan -- gorgo grow , September 3, 1997 at 10:43a

Saw the gate asking for admission and laughed. Drove around the back way and crossed the playa for free. Worst burn in six years, too many cops, too many people. Worst burn in six years. Maybe we should take it back to the main playa next year? -- Max Pogue, September 3, 1997 at 10:42a

Bravo to the Burning Man organizers for taking what last year was an 8 or 9 thousand person event and successfully translating it into a 15,000 person event. This year was as good as any I've been too -- though I must admit I miss the old spot (circles instead of squares/grid ya-know). Bravo also to the artist who made the thing with two TVs swinging around, it blew my fucking mind. Finally a big BRAVO to all the participants, see you next year. -- Colin, September 3, 1997 at 10:39a

I had a tantalizing, barrier breaking, massage giving and recieving, fan fuckingtastic, mind blowing time at this, my first, Burningman. To the DIESEL SISTERS and the great people at the SMUTSHACK, you made my first trip a memorable one. Sitting in the Malt Liquor and Stoner room giving and recieving massages was simply the best. How about a If You Are in This Room You Are Massaging Someone Room for next year? Till next year! -- JEFFREY BRATCHER, September 3, 1997 at 10:36a

In addition to my previous entry, I want to say Thank You to all of my absolutely hilarious camp mates (camp tinkle? campstapation?). Ben, Brian, Chuck, Jerry, Keith, Lucinda, and Seth. You guys are the best and totally made the experience! -- Kay, aka Lola, September 3, 1997 at 10:29a

CHIBA says thank you! to all those great people that visited the CD DOME and helped "Twist one up" -- SAL, September 3, 1997 at 10:21a

lost camera. Still looking for a disposable fuji with one or less shots on it. I just hope if someone found it it will be developed and enjoyed (maybe by me too) and not burned the night the man went down. -- Kevin, September 3, 1997 at 10:18a

One last night burned away senial passioncontroled the air thousands saw life as it was ment to be a new light rat tracks forgot a quite shaman i was watched learned felt the power of us overwhelming drum beats begging the man has fallen lose of all worry life is now a reason to live no reason to look for any other live with us for this life will always be a state of mind can always return burning man is never over it only beggings again thank you all life is now begging -- Ramses, September 3, 1997 at 10:09a

-- Whitaker@Lodinet.com, September 3, 1997 at 10:09a

I'd say my weekend was defined by the neighboring camp of the Church of the Enigmata: "What the fuck is going on here?!" I found out just how much sensory overload I can take--I wanted to do and see everything, and I don't think I did. Next year, for sure. Oh, and if anybody has pictures of me (I'm the guy with the purple pimp hat and The Man shaved into his chest hair) I'd love to see them. -- Tom Maddox, September 3, 1997 at 9:59a

To Scott & Jodi - we found your keys! Gave them to your friends (Christie). Nice meeting you guys. You never know - maybe we'll meet again. -- John &Heidi;, September 3, 1997 at 9:57a

Thanks to everyone who visited Camp Fink. Remember, it's never too late to rat out a friend or coworker. See you next year. -- abevton, September 3, 1997 at 9:48a

First off, thanks to everyone who contributed to this fantastic event. I thought it was the best of the last 3 I attended. It is possible for bigger to be better. I really want to bitch at all the people that snuck past the gate. This is a non-profit event that needs $ to survive. I know that no one who snuck in could have contributed much to art, theme camps, etc. (unless you managed to sneak a truck in) Being broke is no excuse. My one friend without money volenteered 8 hours in exchange for admission. (BRAVO!) If you aren't contributing stay home!! I want Burning Man to survive finacial ruin! By the way, it's not to late to pay. The money will insure a future Burning Man. If you or someone you know snuck in CONTRIBUTE NOW!! After all, karma is retroactive. Peace to all- Hyperelf -- Hyperelf, September 3, 1997 at 9:40a

For me, Burning Man was an extraordinary, life-changing event. Seeing thousands of people get toghether and deeply give of their love, their concern, their art, and their delight has made me see the world differently. I had always hoped something like this was possible, but Burning Man made it real! I met so many extraordinary people there that I can't name them all here, but I'd love to keep in touch! Thanks to all the Burning Man staff for their effort! -- William (from Bianca's Smut Shack), September 3, 1997 at 9:35a

I walked off the desert, and I still feel as though I've got some sort of fucking halo or aura around me. Nothing will ever be the same. I have been to a place where everyone is equally and ecstatically beautiful. This was my first burn, and it changed my life. Still, there's a part of me which yearns for an earlier year, when people were free to live in their desert waking dreams. I am also a bit sad - the man is starting to transcend his original purpose as everyone's mirror and cathartic sponge, and he's becoming a god; I'm not sure how comfortable I am with this. I come back off the playa, and it almost makes me cry, to see so many people who fail to see their own potentials for ecstatic beauty. Thank you, Larry Harvey et al., for giving me a vision of what we could have, and what we've lost. -- Jon Goldberg, September 3, 1997 at 9:33a

I was very disappointed this morning to wake up to a void. I miss the non-stop smatterings of music and the primal roar of the populous and long for a drum circle to take me away. Burning Man is a nessisary exercise in human cooperation and is important for the future of organized chaos(that may sound like a contradiction, but subtle patterns emerge from chaotic algorithms).Now I just sit at work wishing that a 10foot clown would yell at me for taking pictures and plan for the next large scale burn. -- Scott , September 3, 1997 at 9:16a

We posted a long summary of our trip on the other Chat board here. But I wanted to remind anyone who was at the BLACK LIGHT/RED LIGHT District, the DADA CLUB, or PUTT PUTT to email us at DaDaClub*@HOTMAIL*.COM and visit our website: http://www.geocities.com/SoHo/Lofts/2363 http://www.geocities.com/SoHo/Lofts/3200 Take our all the * s though. Our "un-theme" camp had the big flag made out of Pink Flagging tape, just next to the Blue Light District. Scot Jenerik and I have gotten the name of our new project while at Burning Man: F-Space. We will be performing at Burning Man related events throughout the year. See ya all! -Ethan and Annabelle. -- Ethan n Annabelle (Monday Morning DaDa Club), September 3, 1997 at 9:15a

A few moments etched in my memory:* Saturday Sunset, Fiery Neon Blue and Orange Sky over the Mountain, Sunfur on the Main Stage Rocked me to my Soul (www.sunfur.com, checkem out if you missed em)* Hiking miles straight out into the playa Naked and making my own mudbath and baking in the sun where it was so quiet all I could hear was my heartbeat* Endless love and co-existence with all of my friends at the Millenium Pulse camp* Breaking through the barriers that keep us apart* See you all at next years Burn* --Scooter-- -- Scooter, September 3, 1997 at 9:12a

Having witnessed the Man burn twice, I have these few words to say about this year... I stayed remarkably more sober than last year... and I met some wonderful friends, some of which I am sure to keep in touch with for years to come... However, there seemed to be a bit more commercialization this year. This is not necessarily a bad thing, althought, I think it drew out "visitors", and "tourists", when I believe you have to participate. There seemed to be a few too many hecklers, and rolling of eyes. Many people didn't have any idea what to expect, and found themselves disappointed, and unable to enjoy themselves. Extremly minimal arrests, and injuries... no deaths. Overall, this year's Burningman Experience went pretty damn good. Looking forward to next year... until then, stay balanced, and share peace. -- Sol, September 3, 1997 at 8:49a

beautiful beautiful XT... all my thanks for the BM experience... that which is glorious will attract more and more, such is the growth of the Black Rock City... as i said en route to LA, what made BM good is still there, bitters see past the changes, through the changes, with the changes to the heart of your BM, it is still right and good and cathartic and enlightening and wonderful, etc... pretty fairy ladies-- your wings were the beacons for this blinded bat... new things abounded at this time for me, what a way to herald in the life changes i have made... Poly wants a cracker, i knew there were others like me, this can really work, can't it?? Matthew, Grog, Audrey you're giving me faith... love you all... Camp With No Name we will find one on a bus maybe..... gotta bring more blankies though.... beautiful Denton fairies send me your address! and a bat! -- borealis, September 3, 1997 at 8:45a

Unfortunately I could only make it on Saturday this year but what a beautiful experience. The sunset lasted what seemed an hour and was amazing in all directions.... The fireballs launched into the desert sky were "schweet"!! -- Rob Anthony, September 3, 1997 at 8:27a

One more post...The pictures of previous years' sites looked too spread out and more like a drive-in movie than a community. And from what I've read here, this year's site, with its vehicle restrictions and open area for roaming and solitude, is one of the best yet. If anyone's counting, I vote for same place/same set-up next year. Is there any way to contact the landowner of this year's site to express our gratitude and encourage her to allow us to use this area again next year? Also, to all the complainers - this is YOUR community. If there's something wrong with it, do something about it or deal with it. Peace. -- Hugh, September 3, 1997 at 8:21a

Kaylen (sp?) the dark-haired girl I met at the Black Light Glowing Man place: e-mail me. We had a great platonic time together...and I love girls who punch. Hee hee. -The tall guy -- Hugh, September 3, 1997 at 8:11a

The funniest thing was that my friends were going to the Sticky Fingers camp to steal something, but had to come back because it was closed 'due to shoplifting'. About 1/2 hour later my bf and I were sitting at our tent and saw someone walking by with the Sticky Fingers sign. We didn't get it for a few minutes. -- Raman, September 3, 1997 at 7:40a

As I heard on the Playa and someone said here, the Burning Man folks (us) are the Architects of a New Holiday. What a fantastic idea: something with spiritual resonance for those of us who don't believe TV. For those who can't make it back next year, I propose creating your own burning people wherever you are. It can happen anywhere. This is a collective experience for those of us for whom few alternatives exist. We don't care about the Superbowl, NASCAR events, and comsumerist celebrations in general. We need and deserve our own holiday, something that speaks to us. Love to the people of the Burning Lump and all the camps and freaks that helped me understand for the first time the meaning of the word catharsis. -- David Rattray, September 3, 1997 at 7:37a

Fuck You FUCK YOU FUCK YOU FUCK YOU very much theme camps that left truckloads of PVC, trash bags, and crap behind you on the Playa. I don't care how much Acid you had to take all weekend, you should pack out what you bring in. Also FUCK YOU FUCK YOU FUCK YOU FUCK ALL OF YOU who tossed your well bagged trash in the dumpster in camp. This is CAMPING people...pack out what you bring in. Also, FUCK YOU all who had to BURN IT ALL before you left. Your shitty little piles did not burn the paint cans, beer bottles, cooking pots, stoves, and other shit you left on the playa. The 60 mph gust in todays storm threatened the brush. Do you really need to start a brush fire on the way out to use the $10,000,000 fire insurance policy? Anyway, overall a really great BM. Boundless creative energy! The playa was remarkably clean, considering. -- Burnt, September 3, 1997 at 3:16a

A short message for bitter ex-BMers. Hey, keep your negativity and cynicism at home next year. I get enough of that each day. LIFE IS CHANGE. Better yet, start your own festival in some forgotten corner of the world. I'll be there. We need more Burning Mans. Yea I'm a newbie and soon I'll be a oldie. Tiki Home of the TikiFest theme camp next year -- TikiGod, September 3, 1997 at 2:45a

"Why can't everyday be an experience like Burning Man?" I wondered my first day. IT CAN! This is the new belief impressed on my brain at BM. Creation is empowering, insiring. "There is no "they" on the Playa," summed up my epiphany before I ever experienced it. Every beautiful, brilliant Creation is the product of Vision and joyful effort. I witnessed a wonderful Culture of Appreciation, not the constant cynicism too often present in my experience. Cheers to everyone for helping me to GET IT! Ex nilo in the desert. -- jason, September 3, 1997 at 2:24a

I had been looking forward to B.M. 1977 for quite a while, but, alas, I didn't make it this year. RON, please don't leave without me next time! -- Susan, September 3, 1997 at 2:14a

I've come home from the event a changed person.. one of my friends even said I look different..I had an amazing time.. there are no words to describe "BurningMan" - this is the closest I've come to describing it.. It is like: circus del soiule, 4th of July, New Years Eve, Lollopoluza -- times 1,000 visually ... and that still doesn't come close... thanks to eveyone involved putting this EVENT together -- Suzette Spezzano, September 3, 1997 at 1:50a

I thought you might enjoy some verse I wrote on the plane to burning man. I'm not normally that poetic, but a Gemini in the air brings it out of me :0 Hmm, I didn't think about this, but BM may have broken me out of my recent depression. I haven't been this happy in a really long time. Resurrection Who are the new Gods now? Facing dawn transfigured by blinding light, eternal hope frozen by fear of self. Death rises with the mist, stirring memories of lives forgotten, knowledge beneath the dust hidden. Who heeds the clarion call, behind the veil comes walking into clarity of now? It is I The Man burning beneath the dulled laquer of daily life, unpolished. I return to claim myself unbidden, restore the luster of inner spirit inspired I return to Us -- Tikigod, September 3, 1997 at 1:43a

Funny, I talked to my Mom today and got one of those "You didn't go to that Burning Man thing did you, I heard from CNN that lots of WebMasters were there? I went on the internet and checked out the sites they mentioned." I think she's a little too clued in for comfort. -- Cal , September 3, 1997 at 1:40a

bianca's Smut Shack would like to thank BM 97 and everyone who went for the most incredible shack yet!! The trolls would also like to thank all of those who caught the spirit of bianca and burningman and helped us out with food donations and kitchen service. See you all next year! By the way- if you have any comments on what you liked/disliked about the shack this year, please mail us- love, 6rady -- 6rady, September 3, 1997 at 12:35a

BM was something that is too difficult for me to describe in words, I couldn't sleep last night because I missed it, I heard drums, saw lights and felt like I was dreaming along with 40,000 other people, thank you and please Burn the Man again!! Hey I was a first timer, was the man suppose to fall down so fast? -Peace -- nate pepe, September 3, 1997 at 12:35a

Thanks to all concerned about my dog Newton. By some incredible miracle I found him in the northwest scrub about 17 hours after he disappeared. I'm a newbie and thoroughly enjoyed the entire event. Met many really wonderful folks, the geyser pools were great. Road warrior and the rocket engine spewing fire were totally rad. Very MAD MAXish. Already thinking of themes for camp for next year!!! Possibly a Kathie Lee camp for overworked sweatshop employees??!! -- Michael, September 3, 1997 at 12:31a

Lots O Pics coming in the next day or two http://www.vortexia.com (I gotta finish scanning them all....) -- Jason, September 3, 1997 at 12:26a

Burning Man is necessary. If burning man dies somthing else must take it's place. There is a need, A NEED, to stay in touch with ourselves as human beings and all that that means. It means freedom for the soul, it means the freedom to express, it means freedom from the self-imposed cultural restrictions. This was sanity in my mind; crazy is the world I had to return to. I am amazed at this generation - more creative, ambitious, inventive, competent and rational than the "Beats" and the "Hippies". Clarity and Peace. With all the caution about desert survival though, the motto should be "Clear Pees". -- sw0rdf1sh, September 3, 1997 at 12:23a

Its back to the bay area rat race today. Had a great time at my second burn. I have seen such sights - the silver alien stilt guy frightening people in camp, the road warrior art car (YOU HAVE CIGARETTES, GIVE THEM TO ME!, YOU ARE NOTHING BUT A USELESS COG!), getting blessed with the holy guava fruit, looking for my friend and finding him dancing on the platform under the Man with topless strangers, the room under the Man with the right party atmosphere, the women at the white van on the edge of the playa when I was returning from Biancas at night (am I ignoring you? so, do I have anything interesting to say?! awesome! must live in the bay area), watching the burn from behind with the art cars, walking in that counter-clockwise circle around the fire and realizing you cannot stop or leave because of all the people (reminded me of Midnight Express), a guy in that circle with a Bill Clinton cut-out complete with Bman stickers and fake joint, the two girls public love session on the playa during the burn (Less light, more love! - words of wisdom), mature entertainment at Temple of Atonement and the nice people there. Was sober when out walking around and spent much time exploring and getting the vibe off people and listening to comments which was all positive. Liked newbie remarks - incredible, fantastic, nothing like it, its like Bartertown, its like a war zone! :). Enjoyed the performance of the silver contamination suit guys burning the fireworks house and then setting off the fireworks on their helmet all to that bizarre - whats it called - apocalyptic techno music (the ishtar thing wasn't as good). Brought two new people with me this year and both loved it (one friend after two hours declared this was the coolest thing ever done in their thirty-one years. haha) Got a good tan flying my green and red delta kite in that beutiful blue sky Thur and Fri. Look for $25 donation. I will see you all next year. Michael, sierrarr@thegrid.net -- Michael, September 3, 1997 at 12:19a

This year's burning man rocked!!! The fireworks spurting out of his crotch, his arms, his head were amazing!!! THANK YOU!!!! I would love to have photos or videos and comments about Sunday's Critical Tits ride!! Women get your mothers, sisters, and girlfriends to come out next year to the ride topless on the Playa!!!!! Please email me and let me know what you thought of our fabulous topless ride!! Miss Attitude... cager@itsa.ucsf.edu See you next year for Titical Clits!~! -- Miss Attitude, September 3, 1997 at 12:14a

Pictures!!! sorry for the mess...try it without caps on! http://www.empire-sf.com/burningman/bmpix.html thanks! -- HERE, September 3, 1997 at 12:09a

P.S. Hate to utter one negitive thing, but was drained by insistance of some to blast muisic All night, EVERY night.Especially when taking in all the EXCITMENT and battleing desert heat, MY BODY NEEDS ITS SLEEP! Was pushed to the edge. Were there any parts of camp that were quiet? E-mail me, I'd love to know! Otherwise, absolutely BEAUTIFUL! -- Steve Schwartz, September 3, 1997 at 12:07a

PICTURES...PICTURES...JUST A FEW.....BUT IF YOU'D LIKE TO SEE 'EM TRY.. WWW.EMPIRE-SF.COM/BURNINGMAN/BMPIX.HTML OR TRY >>>>>> -- HERE, September 3, 1997 at 12:05a

This Newbies Impression....Think overlays of Strawberry Fields, on top of Mad Max, on top of Total Recall, on top of what ever fantasy moves you . Fill in your own blanks . Some variation of it will be here. Only this is no movie set...this is real with a cast of 15,000 . Even if you have come just to look, forget it. After a couple of days the energy is infectious, it gets inside you and you start living it. Black Rock City, population 15,000 and one! Thanks to All! -- Steve Schwartz, September 3, 1997 at 12:00a

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