Gathering Updates

Cleanup is done

2011-08-11T20:33:00.001-06:00

Everyone has left the site except for 2 guys who will be camping in the area for awhile. Still no sign of Marie.

cleanup info

2011-08-01T22:42:00.001-06:00

update from the land: Fatt kids & Everbody's kitchens are the only ones left, bout 25 people..clean up has gone as smoothly as possible and there is only bout 2 pick up truck loads of garbage left...all garbage will be gone prob today and reseeding is to start this week also..luving our clean up crews and much thanx! there was a article printed as well on clean up that u can find on karin zirks blog.

Cleanup Update 7/29/2011

2011-07-29T17:34:00.001-06:00

Most of the trash and recycling have gone off to their new homes. Today a bunch of dried food (things like beans and rice) was donated to the food bank in Stevenson, Washington. A huge load of left over clothing has gone off the to Goodwill in Hood River.

A cougar was spotted in on the road and lots of wild life have returned. There are still a few bridges down in the meadow left to be dismantled and some creek banks with stair steps in them to be repaired. Most of the folks at cleanup are up on the road. People will probably be there for another week. Things are looking good.

Exact wording of vision council consensus

2011-07-19T09:02:00.000-06:00

OFFICIAL WORDING: Consensus for the 2012 annual gathering was reached
with 10 seconds of silence on July 16 at 3:55 pm, pdt. We the people
on the land at the 2011 annual gathering vision council of the
rainbow family of living light, have reached a consensus to hold the
2012 annual peaceable assembly and free speech gathering in the White
Mountain National Forest (in the N.E.), or the Appalachian states of
Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Georgia. We Love You

Gathering cleanup from hell

2011-07-19T08:41:00.000-06:00

Mosquitos are everywhere and hindering the cleanup crew. We're still waiting to get trash and recyclables out of the site.

Vision Council

2011-07-15T19:21:00.000-06:00

Reached a consensus. This may not be exact, but close enough for government work.
white mt. NH, tenn, kent, nc, ga,va.

Amber's Memorial Service July 15 in Ny

2011-07-14T18:36:00.001-06:00

Amber passed away at the gathering from a pre-existing medical condition.

July 6, 2011 Amber "Aya" M. Kellar, 28, passed on to her new life on Wednesday in Washington state. Amber was a native of Tully, NY, who lived in the Syracuse area for most of her life and was currently residing in California. She was an accomplished artist who was known by many for her artistic talents as well as for her kindness and loving nature. Her brother, Robert Mersfelder, predeceased her in 1999. S...urvivors include her mother, Dale Kellar; her father, Steven Kellar; her sister, Kimberly A. Kellar; her nieces and nephews, Michael, Robert, Stephanie, Kyleigh, Autumn and Bella; and her aunts, uncles and cousins. Everyone is welcome to celebrate Amber's life at a gathering, "Aya's Festival of Life," which will be held at one of Amber's favorite places, 3720 Tanner Road, Syracuse, NY 13215. Beginning 10 a.m. Friday, July 15, remembrance services will be held at the property, and then Amber's burial will follow in Howlett Hill Cemetery. "Aya's Festival of Life" will continue, following her burial, until Sunday at the Tanner Road property. For those inclined to do so, contributions may be made to a fund established for arrangements. Checks may be directed to Dale A. Kellar for Amber M. Kellar, 3816 Split Rock Rd., Camillus, NY 13031. Online condolences at CarterFuneralHome.com

VC

2011-07-14T18:00:00.001-06:00

I was at the site yesterday, and as of 3pm there was still not yet any word that consensus had been reached as to the location of next year's Gathering. (I did not attend vision council however, which was still ongoing as I left the site around 6pm)
As of today, July 14th, I still have not heard anything and there is cell service onsite so I will check in w folks on the land again today and let folks on this list know if / when consensus gets reached

Vision Council

2011-07-14T17:59:00.001-06:00

vision council is ongoing... That and
it's been raining alot again.

2 or 3 babies born this year

2011-07-06T20:42:00.001-06:00

One for sure on site, one in a local hospital and I heard there might have been a third but no confirmation on that.

New York Steve passed at the Ovens on 6/24

2011-07-06T20:41:00.001-06:00

New York Steve was making sticky buns at the ovens when he passed on to the earth or the sky or heavens. Family and forest service united to try to save Steve's life to no avail. Thank you to all who where there when Steve moved on or up or down.

Beautiful 4th

2011-07-06T20:39:00.001-06:00

Two circles, one around the edge of main marsh, one in the dinner circle meadow. The children were in the center for 15 minutes with family oming. People pulling out fast as it was cold, cold, cold at night. July 1 - 4 were nice during the day. Lots of day trippers and first time gatherers.

Guy offering rides from Portland to home

2011-06-22T12:55:00.001-06:00

I'm in Portland with my Astro Van and I'm offering rides to and from the Rainbow Gathering. I'll pick you up at the airport, train station, bus station, or wherever you're hanging, and shuttle you up to the National Forest. Fuel is expensive today, so I'm asking for some gas money. I'm not trying to make money doing this - I'm just trying to keep some gas in the tank and food in my belly. If you need help getting to or from the Rainbow, please contact me and I'll do what I can to get you up there, or back. I have very limited Internet access right now - cell phone is best for me - 518 four two four 0134. Thanks. Dan

Newspaper Article Link

2011-06-21T13:40:00.002-06:00

Article on the gathering.

http://www.columbian.com/news/2011/jun/20/rainbow-family-digging-gifford-pinchot-site/

Notes from Town Council Meeting on June 20

2011-06-21T13:31:00.001-06:00

Ok, so the notes from the EMS meeting and the Stevenson Town Hall
meeting that seem the most relevant right now:

*Gravel roads must be kept clear, with only cars parked along one side
of the road for emergency vehicles – 11 feet clearance required for fire
trucks and ambulances.

*Fire danger becomes high after only 3 days of dry weather.

*The meadow after all the snow melts is still going to be very wet and
there will be lots of mosquitoes, we were warned by locals.

*Local community emergency services are already overtaxed this time of
year and there are 2 major events going on in Skamania County this
coming weekend and the 4th of July week that brings many thousand folks
through this area.

*The north east end of Swift Reservoir (for people coming in from the
west) has a lot of work being done around the Swift Dam right now, so
huge cranes and other vehicles can be in the road and often end up
taking up more than their lane. Logging trucks are up there as well, and
need to be watched for. Also, from Woodland to Cougar, and places in
between, is a heavily advertised motorbiking thoroughfare – these bikes
are often going very fast and accidents up there area very frequent – we
need to be very careful on the roads.

*Complaints about dumpster diving and spare-changing are again the
biggest complaints. Locals are really quite upset about this, so please
be respectful when you are in the towns and head up to the site after
you fuel up and pick up the last things you need before coming H.O.M.E.

*The vibe on the land is really awesome, and even though folks have had
to be very patient while the snow melts, it is really loving and warm
onsite right now. Bulldozers have plowed the last of the road into the
lower part of Skookum Meadow as of June 20, and the next couple days are
supposed to be very warm so folks should be able to move onsite today
and tomorrow hopefully.

CAUTION: There are lots of deep snowdrifts up there, and many people
have been hiking in to set up spaces for camps and kitchens. One person
(at least) got stuck over his shoulders in a very deep snow drift and
luckily a couple others who were also lost / taking a "shortcut" found
this person and dug them out. Another two folks got frostbite and had to
be sent to the hospital a couple days ago. So if you see only one set of
footprints in snow off-trail... following those prints to be sure nobody
is stuck in 6-7 feet of snow would be really cool.

One baby had been born when I left the site on Monday June 20 and
another was going to be born that day!

Folks still not on site

2011-06-20T23:12:00.001-06:00

Hoping to start moving to the site on Tuesday, June 21. Bring warm clothes. Be prepared for snow if you're coming home in the next few days.

Directions

2011-06-20T14:08:00.001-06:00

Keep checking back for updates to directions. Per folks I've spoken with, many roads in the area/to the site are still either snowed under, gated and locked, or both. Do not attempt alternate routes other than posted diections from trusted sources. There's lots of confusion and misinformation out there, so verify before you repeat/post anything that is word of mouth!

Hapless motorists have gotten stranded and died on forest roads in the Northwest, so please be careful! Lots of these places out here are not within cell phone service range, and map/ navigation systems can't be relied upon.

Snow Plow

2011-06-19T09:42:00.000-06:00

Word from onsite is that there is a snow plow that can come to help clear roads. They are raising $$ to pay the operator for this but they will need a credit card holder to call in their number to get this in motion. Anybody with 'available credit' want to help with this? You can email me privately and you can get put in touch with the plow people....people have been shovelling all day by hand to clear the big drifts that still cover parts of the road...it's a huge job for the seed camp, and a short bit of work for a professional plow. Even better, does anybody knows someone within driving distance who has a real snow plow and would care to open the door for us?

Snow

2011-06-18T06:06:00.000-06:00

Word is that the kidz in seed camp are shovelling snow to clear the roads--which gives you some idea of how cold it still is.
SEED CAMPers WILL WALK Thru SNOW!!

2011-06-12T08:36:00.001-06:00

Scouting continues for the gathering site. Until those who look for meadows in the woods (and springs, parking, kitchen spots, wood, safe roads, etc.) are still tromping in the snow! Flow snow, flow!

It is beautiful at spring council. A beautiful location to sit in circle with gatherers and be patient.

scouting continues

2011-06-08T17:43:00.000-06:00

scouting continues, the snow is melting and that is exciting. spring
council site has been announced, and it is a lovely gravel pit for
parking with a much lovelier meadow in the woods for when we council.
will be there!

Drive slowly up the roads in WA. They are narrow and winding. Be
patient and be prepared. The drive back to ANY store is long. Bring
the things you will need.

gifford pichot sign

2011-06-08T07:47:00.001-06:00

thought u might like it.

spring council! more photos

2011-06-07T22:36:00.000-06:00

Enjoy

spring council!

2011-06-07T22:35:00.000-06:00

More photos

spring council!

2011-06-07T22:34:00.000-06:00

Here are some photos from the spring council site.
Update: Road 9300 is very steep, narrow, windy road - take it slow, very slow and remember autos driving up the hills have the right of way. Folks should really try to minimize town runs. There are no stores close by and being prepared to stay will eliminate extra travel on the roads. Come prepared to stay for the week.

Due to the snow still remaining and folks who were scouting not being able to get into the sites to look around, there will be no decisions about site selection before June 18. There may be opportunities for people to go scouting. But they need to be prepared with winter weather gear, a basic knowledge of map-reading, and a car.

It is beautiful in the meadow. Good parking in a gravel lot, and plenty of room for buses. The folks on the land started to dig a shitter for spring council. The picture shows a trench, and the soil removed but notice behind the pile of soil. They carefully removed the plants that will be used to cover the shitter when it is closed!

You can post the above, edit or reorder as needed! It is cold tonight, but not snowing where we are. We are not in the snow, the sites are in the snow!!

Snow go n' flow...
later,

Cleanup Effort

2010-08-12T21:14:00.000-06:00

Everyone has left the site. The cleanup effort is now actually over.

Some of the hard-working folks on-site took offense to folks on-line
reporting cleanup to be over before its time, it gave some the
impression they were being written off while still there.

Perhaps we could be more sensitive to this in the future, and not
report cleanup as over until folks are off-site, or perhaps we could
wait until the FS releases the cleanup letter?

PS to Final Cleanup Report

2010-08-02T10:32:00.001-06:00

P.S. Correction. Miss Yes bus of Fat Kids only tossed noodles and
assorted bean seeds in a not so hidden area near bushes not all
compost as my last post seemed to express. And hey they were a major
force at the clean up. And...many of the beans did sprout however it
stunk for days after the rain.

July 31 Final Cleanup Report

2010-08-01T12:00:00.000-06:00

We are all out. We were gone in record time the fastest ever. The
Totem pole went to the Princess of the forest. It will most likely be
put in the lobby or yard of her Warren F.S. office. They were VERY
happy with the clean up. A sign off sheet will soon be faxed to
various Rainbows. Well just for the record best all around big
kitchen clean up was Fat Kids including their sister camp Death camp.
Best old guy kitchen was Musical Veggies however they did leave their
trash on 209 for our trash truck to take. Worst camp was Fairy Camp.
They left nearly everything for us to carry out. Tents, trash,
pillows, blankets, etc. etc. Worst dirty kid big kitchen was Shut Up
and Eat It. Worst old guy kitchen rehab was a tie, Lovin Ovens as
well as Instant Soup.( Both an unnatural eye sore and a
disappointment to our not so fussy F.S.). Worst post clean up let's
get out ta here was Fat Kids bus Miss Yes. They did a burn it party
by the bus and tossed compost after clean up on the way out of 209 .
Then it rained and stunk and gathered flys and bees for days along
the road for all the locals to see as they visited us. All in all it
went quite well.

one more...

2010-07-28T15:09:00.001-06:00

Another gift left for cleanup crew.
Dog poop in a plastic bag tied in a tree.
This is not where dog poop goes family!

Winner of the WORST PERSONAL FIREPIT 2010!

2010-07-27T22:02:00.001-06:00

This personal firepit was about 60 feet up hill and behind the Shut Up and Eat It kitchen. The last picture is of this how I cleaned up and disappeared this mess ~ in the magic rainbow way it should be!

These pictures speak for themselves but it became more obvious to me as I cleaned up this space that these folks really did not care or have a clue. Not only was this personal firepit in opposition to rainbow spirit, they were also defecating on the ground about 5-10 feet behind them over a log, and they left behind their feminine hygiene supplies as well. Thanks sister!

more photos

2010-07-27T21:50:00.001-06:00

Before and After: Community Firepit cleanup.

This is an example of what a firepit should look like after it is cleaned up. The huge blacken spot is not natural and will leave a visual and biological scar in the forest for a long time. The fire/heat kills microbes that live in the soil, the recovery time is longer if charred soil is left in one place.

The blacken areas need to be flooded with water to be sure that the fire is out. The ash can be put into a shitter or spread around the forest (be certain it is cold and out!). The soil then needs to be aerated (disturbed) around the pit where people danced, drummed, and prayed for Mother Earth for the last week- soil must be mounded about 8 inches to fill the hole (if a hole was dug). If there was hole dug, use the soil that was removed to fill the hole (it is probably right there, compacted where the people danced). If grass or plants were removed they can be replaced and watered (many people actually set this aside and cleanup crew finds it and does this). The roots will sent out new plant materials and recovery will be fast!

The rocks need to be spread around the forest, and leave litter/duff needs to cover the firepit as to match the other areas of the forest. Then sticks are spread out to look as if they have fallen from the trees (not left in a pile) and any wood chips need to be spread from the wood pile.

This is the art of disappearing a fire pit! Learn it, do it! Ask at Info if you need advice! Welcome home!

2010-07-27T21:35:00.002-06:00

Some 2010 cleanup photos:

These photos show a camp and personal firepit that someone failed to disappear after they left the PA Rainbow Gathering (2010). This is only one of HUNDREDS of personal firepits and camps that need to be disappeared every year! The majority of gatherers have lost the art of disappearing their camps. Did you maybe leave your camp like this? If so, please think about this for next year, and plan accordingly. Clean up and disappear your camp.

All art work and human made structures, pits and trails need to be disappeared and the whole area where there was any impact needs to be naturalized. This includes hiding any artwork in chalk on stones, hiding burnt logs, hiding the burnt sides of stones used in fire ring, loosening the compacted soil around the fire ring and any other compacted areas, filling in holes with an 8-inch mound of soil and leaf litter, and spreading out piles of sticks that have been left behind. (Sticks do not look natural in piles!)

This is all too often the case, people do not understand that they need to take a look around at the place they are going to camp, and remember what it looks like. They need to return it back to what it was before they came. That is the magic and it is a lost art.

Although cleanup is a wonderful part of the event, it is very discouraging to wander through the woods and find hundreds of camps left like this. It takes a lot of energy to clean up after everyone!

Hopefully sharing these photos will have an impact on peoples' behavior next year.

Trash

2010-07-26T18:10:00.001-06:00

to clarify, there's likely only one trash run remaining, all the other trash runs were paid for out of an individual's pocket and arrangements are being made for reimbursement to be made at a later time. as stated, despite these facts, cleanup continues.

Cleanup Update

2010-07-26T18:09:00.000-06:00

back from cleanup, again. Will post pics and updates later today. There are still people on site, and despite the lack of bankers and money to take trash to the dump, cleanup continues. Ignore rumors of cancellation and send rakes.

July 23 Cleanup Update

2010-07-23T14:17:00.000-06:00

The F S got the Totem pole for their office. All is out only some
bitch hill trail work and touch ups are expected to be done. We are
now about 10.

Cleanup Crew Pulling Out Thursday or Friday

2010-07-21T16:07:00.000-06:00

Only 20 people left at cleanup. Most work is done. Goshawk babies
flying around in the meadow.

Main Circle All these fotos were taken July 19

2010-07-20T18:40:00.001-06:00

Main Circle All these fotos were taken July 19

Cleanup Report

2010-07-20T18:38:00.000-06:00

Record time clean up nearly done. One more trash load then micro
trash the 2 pile areas. Rehab 95% done thanks to many as well as the
Fat Kids. We are under 30 people and 10 or so cars. The F.S. Are very
very happy and want the totem pole for their main office bldg. But
its first come first serve on that.. We could duff more trails and
kitchens but it is sooo humid here we may be out soon. A few people
will need stay till the 27th for a ride. But we beat last years
record and last year beat Wyo. And Wyo at the time was the fastest
GOOD clean up that I remember since 91. Main meadow is green. And now
time for the final clean sweep and re duff the supply trail. Main
trail was completed yesterday.

Grass is 2 to 3 inches tall in the meadow

camp info

2010-06-25T15:56:00.001-06:00

unfortunately no pictures of the map to share but to answer my own
question i found
?
comming road to front gate before you even get there there is a sign
up that says tea and honey then A camp and welcome home seem to be
the same thing pretty much .......then there is a camp at the
trailhead ......then a kitchen called Zombie Jesus .....then a
kitchen whos name a forget exactly but the word flavor is in it and
they are a coffee kitchen .......then trade circles then the main
meadow ....across main meadow in various directions i found? Tea
Time, Phat Kids, Shut up and Eat it, jujus, Jesus Camp, Refugee Camp,
.....and im sure there is a lot im forgetting

Bus Broke Down - Need Help

2010-06-25T14:07:00.001-06:00

Still broke down.... got the carb rebuilt... think it just needs a few
adjustments... the phones are all out of minutes... we're in cleveland
at Carneage and 69th... next to AJ automotive \ car wash...

please help us...

I'm getting ready to tow it somewhere nearby untill after the
gathering... if you know a spot to put it for a month, message back!!!

In other news, all but 4 of us are at the gathering.... and all of our
gear and food... Bliss Ninja will be a main circle kitchen this
year!!!

Love!!!

First Court Dates Today

2010-06-24T11:40:00.000-06:00

Gatherers for Peace are in Federal Court Today in Erie, Penn....
the "usual suspects"... a small horde.. tip of the iceberg of the
folks who are hindered, harassed, targeted by the Forest Service Law
Enforcement Incident Command Team.... impeding "ingress and egress"
to the PeaceAble Assembly... a Free Speech event.... entire Gathering
is a form of Free Speech...

Some of the Photos of the LEO actions ...on the web...
hopefully, will be admitted in Federal Court...
perhaps, after some 35 Federal Magistrates and/or Federal Judges...
hearing (not hearing) the Evidence of Federal harassment.... is a
"biggie'.... perhaps, as one volunteer legal beagle (helping
defendants) relates: "About 20 great cases today. I think this
magistrate is going to be pissed and help us."

it would be good for a change to actually have a FAIR HEARING....
Good luck to the folks who have been charged/cited.... and good luck
to the helpers.. whoever they are... may the Magistrate's "eyes, ears be opened"

Photos of brother being arrested

2010-06-24T08:58:00.000-06:00

Following Photos

2010-06-24T08:54:00.000-06:00

Here's those pics of a guy named "pxxtxx", and his inter-actions with
the LEOs... apparently, he didn't move his rig fast enuf when they
ordered his move.... note: LEO woman with taser in neck of victim...

Article on last night's town hall meeting

2010-06-23T09:10:00.000-06:00

http://www.timesobserver.com/page/content.detail/id/532298.html?nav=5006

2010-06-22T14:54:00.000-06:00

Very li...ttle parking on single lane 209, lots of FS "supervision",
steep grade down the hill.

IMG00092-20100615-1934.jpg

2010-06-22T12:42:00.004-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-22T12:42:00.003-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-22T12:42:00.002-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

IMG00110-20100616-1233.jpg

2010-06-22T12:42:00.001-06:00

Moma bear print on the hood of my pickup.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-22T12:42:00.000-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-22T11:02:00.000-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Photos from the Gathering

2010-06-21T21:19:00.000-06:00

Check out these photos from Main Meadow.

IMG00100-20100615-1953.jpg

2010-06-21T20:33:00.004-06:00

Main Trail Bridge
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

IMG00099-20100615-1936.jpg

2010-06-21T20:33:00.003-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-21T20:33:00.002-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

IMG00095-20100615-1935.jpg

2010-06-21T20:33:00.001-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-21T20:33:00.000-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-21T20:11:00.000-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Rainbow Rideshare

2010-06-20T22:18:00.000-06:00

http://starsrainbowrideboard.org/ or try the Craigs List for where
you are departing from.

IMG00091-20100615-1934.jpg

2010-06-20T21:54:00.000-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

IMG00104-20100615-2001.jpg

2010-06-20T21:08:00.000-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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2010-06-20T20:49:00.000-06:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

IMG00105-20100615-2016.jpg

2010-06-20T20:26:00.000-06:00

Main Meadow area.
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Gathering, Cops and Harrassement

2010-06-20T11:41:00.001-06:00

There's a couple of great editorals on how to avoid getting sucked
into the cop movie, avoid getting a ticket and staying out of
jail. Read them, know them, live them.

http://eastcoast2010gathering.blogspot.com/2010/05/playing-game.html

http://wyominggathering.blogspot.com/2008/01/minimizing-leo-harassment-at-gatherings.html

Tips for a safe journey home & a Positive Gathering

If you plan on driving, make sure your car and driver is 100%
legal-all lights work, valid insurance and registration, seatbelts,
car seats for children. Our government assumes that we are criminals.
Please try to arrive during daylight hours as the roads into
gathering sites can be tricky and we want you to arrive home safely.
If you can make space in your vehicle for a rider or you need a ride,
ride share is happening craistlist.org or kindrideshare.net. If you
will be sharing a ride, please meet the folks you'll be riding with
at a local coffee shop, make sure you feel comfortable traveling a
long distance with them, and establish the ground rules. If you are
coming via bus, plane or train, try to connect up with a ride from
your destination before you get there. If you are planning on
hitchhiking, please travel with a buddy, only bum rides during the
day and if you get a bad feeling from a ride, PLEASE don't take it.
There will always be another one.

*Always* say no to requests for search, no matter what they tell you.
It is not illegal for cops to lie to you, and they often will do so
to get your consent to search. "You might as well give us permission,
because if you do not, we will go get a warrant and you will be here
for hours." This is a bluff. Don't fall for it. Their time is much
more valuable than yours.

If they insist on searching over your objections, don't prevent them
physically in anyway - but continue to repeat "I do not consent." Ask
for names and badge numbers, write down time, place, and what
happened in detail. Every little thing matters in a court of law,
even the things that don't mean much to you or me. If you can, take
pictures, videos, and/or tape recordings.

Also, if they ask you if you have contraband, and tell you that if
you have just a little bit and give it to them that they will not
search you, tell them no. Never, never, never incriminate yourself.
That means don't consent to anything, don't give them anything but
your license, registration, and proof of insurance, don't admit to
anything. When approaching the Gathering site, remember that you're
coming as friends in somebody else's back yard. Treat the local folks
with the courtesy, respect and concern that they deserve as members
of the Family of Humankind. Be Loving and Kind. Don't be rude, steal,
trash the town, disturb the Peace, or try to "shock" people. Be
mindful of others' sensitivities. Remember the original Golden Rule
when dealing with BOTH Babylon AND Rainbow: Treat Others the Way you
want to be treated! Please, make your journey a safe one. Don't be
under the influence while driving.

Let's all get home safely.

2000 pounds of flour needs a ride home

2010-06-20T11:00:00.002-06:00

Flour is in Asheville, North Carolina and needs help to get home.
It's in 50 pound sacks. if you can help, email kzirk@earthlink.net

- ALL TAKEN CARE OF. Flour will be at home.

Handy Camp and Main Supply

2010-06-19T17:09:00.001-06:00

Yes main supply is up and running. Located at back gate road. Also we got a Wonderful spot OK'd and legal for Handy Camp with a half mile trail to Main meadow. Near main supply at back door. We may also have another at front gate but a longer trail. Kid Village is HOME with gear to go in off main supply Handy Camp trail. Site is beauty full.
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route to gathering

2010-06-19T17:09:00.000-06:00

If from Sheffield and you see a lit sign saying Blue Jay bridge clearance 7 ft.6 in Worry not you can ignore it. We turn off before the bridge.
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Town Hall Meeting June 22

2010-06-18T21:48:00.002-06:00

A town hall meeting has been scheduled from 7:30 to 9:30 PM on June
22 (DATE CHANGE). The meeting will take place in Sheffield, Pennsylvania at the
"Lions Den" ...the local lions club hall. 4 W Main St Sheffield, PA 16347

The purpose of a town hall meeting is for gatherers and the local
community to talk, ask/answer questions, and address concerns.

This is an open meeting. We strongly encourage all individuals in the
communities surrounding the gathering to come meet with us and ask
what ever questions are on your mind. We strongly encourage gathering
participants to attend the meeting. The best way to make sure we have
a positive impact on the community is to meet the community face to
face. Person to person communication is very effective. As always, no
experience necessary.

We welcome all media to attend the town hall meeting.

Good Sources of Natural Food

2010-06-17T16:41:00.001-06:00

Just passing on some more info gathered about where to buy good food locally at the Gathering.
Here are some more stores:
Tidioute Trading Post (814) 484-3530 15910 Route 62, Tidioute, PA
?
Tarr's Country Store & Florist (814) 827-1523 708 W Walnut St, Titusville, PA
?
Quality Markets (814) 563-4366 28 Railroad St, Youngsville, PA
?
Nancys Bulk Food Store (814) 589-7115 108 W State St, Pleasantville, PA Farm Fresh Foods (814) 755-3789 102 Williams St, Tionesta, PASave-A-Lot (814) 827-7905 111 Diamond St, Titusville, PAWarren Shurfine (814) 723-9770 1613 Pennsylvania Ave E, Warren, PA

and finally...

God's Little Garden

(814) 676-8660
114 E 1st St, Oil City, PA 16301

ICT/LEO movie

2010-06-17T16:35:00.001-06:00

love all,..

the ICT/LEO movie is in full effect, same MO as last year, zero
tolerance,... lying, making shit up, false dog hits, boarderline illegal
searches, bull shit tickets... anything to get in your car, tear up your
shit, hassle, intmidate, fearmonger,... fucks.

first round of courtdate tickets seem to be for the 24th of june,.. Erie,
PA. (fed courthouse *i assume*, or another courthouse there,... you get the
jist,.. Erie,..)

last night's movie,... they towed a local momma's ride (supposedly no
legally licensed drivers ((yeah, dumb asses,..))).... they were only
checking it out for an evening,... they left her, her two adult riders, and
their 4 kids (including 8 wk. old child, stollers, carseats, etc,..) on the
side of the fucking road, with no camping gear, 2 hours from home, at
sundown,.. and the fucks smiled about it....

they're alright, they got home (finally),... but still, they have a car
impound movie to deal with in warren, and their fed courtdates t deal with
on the 24th.

bullshit small infraction tickets,.. every adult in the car,... again,
borderline illegal searches,.. locals, gatherers, anyone on that road.

...... and the band played on,....

from I 80

2010-06-16T19:29:00.002-06:00

Heading east on i80. Exit wesley go north to franklin then get on 62 north towards tidioute. Go 100 feet
East of gas station. Sign info tba. Turn right on road going up the hill towards hickory creek area. Drive 2.5 to 2.8 miles. Exact mileage tba. Turn left on fs119 and continue to fs552. Go to parking. This info came from a scout who will verify mileage and name of turn off from tidioute tomorrow. Roads are as good this way as other ways.

bus village & site layout

2010-06-16T15:18:00.002-06:00

yes a bus village is front gate I think a bit past the gate

Folks on site are trying to sort out directions from I-80 this afternoon. Check back tonight or tomorrow for updates.

All parking is close to the site, there's just not alot of trails in just yet.

It's about 1 mile from front gate to back as the crow flies. 25 miles as the car drives.

Parking

2010-06-15T22:15:00.001-06:00

Parking is going to be tight at this gathering. As always, family on
the land has the most updated information on where and how to park to
insure ingress/egress as well as preventing your car from being towed.

No word yet on where handicamp is yet.

Each of us can make a bad parking situation better by listening to
where the parking crew tells us to park.

info on coming from I80

2010-06-15T18:48:00.001-06:00

I would suggest Eastbound I80 folks take Shippenville exit, 66N-322W-208E-36N-62N & continuing on 62N/6E all the way to Warren (which might be the safest bet since Heart's Content Rd has a sign saying "Warren 17 miles" ) then taking Pleasant Drive to Hearts Content…OR having someone try up 62N past East Hickory & Tidioute almost to Irvine/Rocky Gap Area and trying that Right turn onto "Lenheart Rd" then right onto Pleasant Drive. I don't know if this route could potentially end up at a dead end like Queen Rd did. Taking 666 for us was THE LONG WAY – another 90 minutes more than we anticipated. I think straight into Warren would truly take less time because of better roads and straighter-shots (less little cutoff county roads)

With all that being said…its only my opinion. But I do suggest trying to take larger routes and avoiding all the little county rd. Those ultimately ate up time and miles something fierce for us.

Large vehicles

2010-06-14T23:28:00.001-06:00

stay off of 666 unless you're a small vehicle seeking the kitchen/supply access on 209 via yellow hammer rd. Forest Roads 119 and 552 can be access on the north side of the site with no need to traverse 666.

Blue Jay Bridge

2010-06-14T20:06:00.001-06:00

You never mentioned to ignore the 7.6 head clearance sign for Blue jay bridge. I feel its really important. I know Marken chose to try to find a detour and that was difficult until we were told by a local we weren't going as far as the bridge. At this time we are parked at the back gate which is a long 40 or so miles yet time wise seems 80 miles from the front gate. Yes we have ph reception here actually both way have spots on the road to call from. Tell people its hot moldy humid and rainy but a nice sight easy walk. Road parking IS difficult tight and will be muddy.

Better Directions

2010-06-14T17:00:00.002-06:00

Howdy Folks,

Here are some better directions to this year's gathering site.

We haven't yet drawn together comprehensive directions for those
coming in from points south, for now it's recommended to go to
Sheffield or Warren and follow the directions from there.

Directions:
>From the East, via Sheffield PA:
Go to Sheffield PA, One tenth of a mile from the end of Route 666
(where it meets Route 6) there is a Uni-mart gas station.Turn onto
this road and cross over the bridge. Continue onto High St (State
Road, SR2002) and follow for 11.2 Miles. Make a left onto FS116 (sign says Mayburg). Make
an immediate right onto FS119, follow for exactly 5.8 miles to FS552.
Follow FS552 to designated parking areas. Welcome Home!

>From the West via Warren, PA:
I86 East to US62 South, follow to Warren PA. Continue on Market St 0.3
miles, Turn right at Pennsylvania Ave (US6, Business Route, West),
travel 0.2 miles Turn left at Hickory St Bridge, proceed 0.1 mile,
slight left at Crescent Rd, 0.4 mi, Continue very briefly (150feet) on
Mohawk ave, continue onto Pleasant Drive(SR3005). Follow signs toward
"Hearts Content Recreation Area" Follow Pleasant Drive for 11.1 miles.
Make a left on SR2002. Keep following signs for "Hearts Content".
Drive 5.8 miles, passing "Hearts Content". Make a right onto FS 116,
make an immediate right onto FS119, follow for exactly 5.8 miles to
FS552. Follow FS552 to designated parking areas. Welcome Home!

Please drive slowly on all roads, especially on SR2002 and ALL FOREST
ROADS as road conditions are poor in some areas and can be unsafe even
at moderate speed.

mud

2010-06-14T13:54:00.002-06:00

Parking very tight, lots of mud

Kitchen/Main Supply Parking

2010-06-14T09:24:00.001-06:00

kitchen/supply parking on south side - fs 209 via yellow hammer rd -
please drive/park cautiously

LEOs Staging in Warren

2010-06-14T09:19:00.001-06:00

17-20 LEO vehicles parked at the holiday inn

Directions from the west and I-80

2010-06-13T09:25:00.001-06:00

Directions from the West of the site and I-80 around Clarion are
being worked on. Don't have any confirmation yet. Until then, best
to head from Ridgeway to Sheffield and back down again. Maps don't
always tell the whole story.

Cool Map of Gathering Site

2010-06-12T22:54:00.004-06:00

There's a good map of the area posted at
http://www.welcomehome.org/rainbow/sites/annual-site.html

Also this one

Height Restrictions on Road 666

2010-06-12T22:42:00.000-06:00

If you are leaving Sheffield heading south, you will be turning off
before the spot where the maximum height is 7 Foot, 6 inches. This
is apparently a bridge under construction.
If you're trying to head Northeast on Road 666 from points along
I-80, then this maximum road height will come into play.

High Restrictions on Road 666

2010-06-12T17:21:00.003-06:00

There is a height restriction of 7'6" on Road 666 south of the turn off to the gathering. Just an FYI if you're trying to come up from the opposite direction.

Mapquest link

2010-06-12T16:43:00.000-06:00

http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Sheffield&state=PA&country=US&latitude=41.703899&longitude=-79.035797&geocode=CITY

Directions to Gathering

2010-06-12T16:37:00.002-06:00

From Sheffield Pennsylvani go south on Highway 948 for 2 miles
Turn right onto Road 666.
Continue to Road 116 and turn right
Go to Road 119 and turn left.
Drive 5 miles to parking.
Welcome home.

Kitchen/Supply Parking

2010-06-12T16:26:00.000-06:00

kitchen/supply parking on south side - fs 209 via yellow hammer rd -
please drive/park cautiously

Stores in the area

2010-06-12T13:13:00.001-06:00

I'm from within thirty miles of this yrs nat'l gathering site. Just
wanted to let all that needed or wanted to know that there is a small
local natural health store in Clarion, Pa called Sage Meadow. It is
on Main St in Clarion (which is not far from the Campus & the Mall
which are right off of I-80 Clarion exits) It is a small and
independently owned food natural/health foods store that has a
limited supply but it is a resource not too far out of the way that I
thought I would share.

This also about 2-blocks from a wonderful Coffee Shop called
Michelle's. Great coffee and bagels.

Phone # correction

2010-06-11T11:49:00.001-06:00

Info

2010-06-11T07:45:00.000-06:00

The local rangers are very gracious and helpful.
So far we are "hooking up" at the Bear Creek Campground at F.S 135
and F.S. 129.
There are many, many beautiful campsites throughout the entire area.

Update info

2010-06-10T12:27:00.001-06:00

Sent via multiple text messages - order may be off slightly.

Grant ROAD NOT street also Bingham becomes 135 VIP Post this everywhere.
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Then go another mile or so and past a narrow bridge at the fork go right
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That fork becomes fS129
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Bear Creek Rec area
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Then go another mile or so and past a narrow bridge at the fork go right
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That fork becomes fS129
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Bear Creek Rec area
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directions info

2010-06-09T17:44:00.001-06:00

The Road is Grant Road not street the street takes you way far away. Bingham becomes Fs 135 then goes into a Y or fork bear right and that IS 129 after a mile as you go over another narrow bridge bear right and your at council camp. So far seems quiet and friendly only 30 people. I'm a mile or so on telegraph hill to send this. Grant Rd is the important change and really should get done if you have time. And Bingham becomes 135. See ya. Very rainy right now.

Organic Grocer

2010-06-09T13:24:00.003-06:00

Hi,
Just learned that the phone number I posted for The Natural Store in Kane PA was incorrect, the correct number is 814-837-6620. I just called it myself and confirmed this.
Please send to all Kitchen Focalizers and Main Supply, and sorry if this error caused any confusion.
- Jen

***************
Howdy Folks,
I'm Jen from Turtle Soup Kitchen with some info to share.
I just got some great information to share with all Kitchens, and MainSupply.
There is a local organic/natural grocer called The Natural Store in Kane,PA, which should be pretty close to the final gathering site. Theowners name is Judy, and the phone number is 814-994-9174.
A bit of online research led us to call Judy today, and she is more thanhappy to order cases of produce and dry goods for the family.
As I understand things, orders placed this week for bulk and case itemswill be ready for pick up by the 26th, so you will need to pre order.Please contact Judy to Confirm. The larger the quantity ordered, thebetter the price for all of us, so please pass this along to all theKitchen Focalizers you know.
Turtle Soup Kitchen will be placing an order with her this week.
Peace,
Jen

Tuesday Update

2010-06-08T14:18:00.000-06:00

As of last night when I left, there were still about 10 cars and about
3 school buses left at the bear creek rec area. Others had gone off to
look at sites and some had dispersed to various locations around the
forest. For now this is still the spot to hit the land and plug in.
There has been informal discussion of keeping camps dispersed and
under 75 to avoid the obvious resulting hassles.

Law enforcement presence is relatively light with the PA state
troopers driving through about twice daily.

On Saturday evening after council the forest supervisor and the two
district rangers paid us a welcome call. They seem to be very
welcoming, they came without leos and brought us maps and photography
of some locations they thought would be good gathering sites.

We've worked with some of these people in the past regarding ops plans
and other health and safety concerns for recent regional gatherings,
they seem very much wanting to work closely with us again on
health/safety planning and operational/logistical issues. There was no
mention of "the permit" during this visit.

Here's their info:

Leanne M. Marten
Forest Supervisor
USDA
Forest Service
Allegheny National Forest
4 Farm Colony Drive
Warren, PA 16365
PH: 814-728-6299
FAX: 814-726-7462

Anthon y V. Scardina
District Ranger
USDA
Forest Service
Allegheny National Forest
29 Forest Service Drive
Bradford, PA 16 701
PH: 814-363-6098
FAX: 814-362-2761

We've worked closely with Tony in the past and he's good to work with
and understands how to communicate with us well.

I have both Anthony and Leanne's cell numbers available on request.

The second district ranger was Robert Fallon, but he didn't have any
business cards available. I believe he's out of the Marienville
office.

Consensus from Spring Council

2010-06-06T10:31:00.001-06:00

council consensus today : gathering will be in allegheny national forest in pa

Spring Council Relocated Slightly

2010-06-05T13:04:00.000-06:00

council de facto relocated to one mile east at the bear creek
rec/picnic area on fs 129

Updated Spring Council Directions

2010-06-04T20:41:00.000-06:00

*****Updated Directions*******. I received a call from a sister at
the spring council site Friday, June 4 in the am (Cali time). The
exit numbers on Interstate 80 have changed. The old exit and the new
exit is listed on the sign. but if you're coming off I-80 - use New
Exit #111. Then turn right on 153 and right on 219. From there the
original directions are good. There is a lot of construction on the
roads so be cautious. About 10 people are at the council site now.
Hopefully more will be arriving shortly. Sheets Convenience Store no
longer exits.

Here is another set of directions from Ridgeway

From downtown Ridgway PA, at the intersection of 219 and 948 (Main Street):
Take Main Street (948) West approximately 1 mile
Turn Right on Grant Street follow for 2.2 miles
Turn left onto Bingham Rd then in 0.6 miles turn left to stay on Bingham Rd
In 1.6 miles continue on Forest Road 135 Approximately 5 miles

TEST

2010-03-28T20:01:00.000-06:00

THIS IS ONLY A TEST

This Blog on Hiatus

2009-10-05T09:52:00.002-06:00

This blog is on hiatus until May or June 2010. If you are looking for information on the upcoming annual gathering, click here. For information on the annual gathering that happened New Mexico in 2009, click here.

Message from Cuba

2009-08-04T21:39:00.003-06:00

For fun the really late GPS corodinates are something like n 36.04039
by w 106.78108. I finally got to the library here at Cuba.. All the
clean up has been done for over a week now maybe 2 weeks and the
final trash also. The abandoned cars (last 2) the head on collisions
were towed off for free Aug. 2 by a local thanks to a San Diegan named
AXX who found a yard with wrecks and tow vehicles. And old
SXX car got fixed. So now it is formally all over and a great
cleanup. The trash was out a week earlier than expected, the earliest
EVER. I have the sign off sheet it was given to us even before the
last 2 vehicles were towed. One is mailed to GXX I gave one to
MXX I still have 2 and I gave one to VXXwho said he'd mail a copy
to PXX. We in all had at least 4 tows for free and we fixed the
FXX bus at some cost and another car at some cost. Then SXXX
and RXX tyranny at also a cost but not bad. SXX got
fixed by VXX of Lovin Oven and Barking lot and shuttle, she got
her own parts, timing belt etc and computer work. The site looks
great. I logged Telegraph hill (high wholly) and Handicamp to slow
down traffic for growth. The F.S. locals will later cut and log all
roads in. This was a project planned long before we arrived. They
attempted to halt all traffic a few years ago. The grass has grown
immensely and over 5 inches in some areas. SCROLL camps fire pit has
a 5 " growth. Even the roads have lots of grass especially near Trade
Circle. Hundreds of aggressive cows and bulls chased us and our dogs
all over the place. An elk was spotted and lots of birds and also
Ravens everywhere. So all is well. The local thrift shop came up
several times to find stuff out of our trash and to be social. Many
many locals came up to help and visit. I went to the County Fair and
all were cordial. The Cuba News will allow me to print a thank you as
we sometimes do, only this time for free, if I get to it on time.
They also want fotos and may give us an entire page. I'm guessing all
of you heard of DXXX from Calm ripping off the family and supply /
bank $ as well as robbing LXXX and PXXX as well as many others.
We were all shocked we all knew he was a bit disturbed but never
expected that. As the reports go he has done similar actions to other
groups also. Even the local health inspectors were surprised yet did
not trust him from the beginning due to his arrogance and erratic
behavior. However he sort of fooled everyone. You can send this out
to anyone or edit it as you wish. I will be in town for a few more
days then off to see N.M. etc.