PINEDALE -- There may be a new era of cooperation dawning between the Rainbow Family and the U.S. Forest Service, but it's getting off to a rocky start.
More than 20 "influential" participants of "The Rainbow Family of the Living Light" met with dozens of area residents and several U.S. Forest Service representatives at the Sublette County Library here Thursday evening. It was an attempt to reach a new level of collaboration, and to address some of the more pressing issues for local communities and federal law enforcement.
The meeting was occasionally contentious, yet civil, and it will most likely change nothing about the designated location for this year's national Rainbow gathering in the Bridger-Teton National Forest July 1-7.
Mark Rey, the federal undersecretary who oversees the U.S. Forest Service, came 3,000 miles to this little town not to play games, he said, but to urge the Rainbow Family to move its gathering to one of four sites in the Bridger Wilderness his agency had previously identified as better suited to withstanding the impact of 15,000 to 20,000 simultaneous campers.
He told the Rainbow participants if they stay in the spot they've chosen near Big Sandy, it's going to conflict with a Boy Scout project scheduled for the same general area after the Rainbow gathering, and set to begin before the Rainbows are finished cleaning up their site.
"A gathering of this size has a very large footprint," Rey said. "The imprint of 15,000 people is going to be significant."
The Forest Service's request, Rey said, is for the Rainbows to consider leaving Big Sandy. He said he went into his meeting with representatives with the Boy Scouts of America with the assumption that some sort of compromise could be reached, but he's come to understand otherwise.
"I came 3,000 miles to tell you that this is not a reconcilable difference," Rey said. "We made a commitment to produce a particular kind of experience for the Scouts, that we cannot if you hold this gathering there."
He told the Rainbows that he understands they have the numbers to "occupy" the site if they desire, and in that sense they will "win."
"But if you win, the Scouts lose," Rey said.
The Scouts are in the midst of a five-year, multimillion-dollar project to improve portions of the wilderness, Rey said.
Several Rainbow Family participants argued that they weren't given sufficient notice about the so-called conflict with the Boy Scouts, and moving the gathering from Big Sandy is all but impossible at this point.
A Rainbow participant who goes by the name Dia said participants have already laid four miles of water pipes and assembled and dug in over a dozen kitchens.
Another participant, Gnosis, said, "I don't see people leaving even if they wanted to. There are 500 to 1,500 there already."
The problems of moving, cleaning up and setting up all over again at another site would be too difficult to overcome at this point, he said.
If they were given more notice, it might have been possible, he said, but everybody out there is of their own minds, and there's no way they could be convinced to leave now.
Rainbow Family members have assembled on public lands every year, somewhere in the United States, since 1972, and the events occasionally draw up to 25,000 participants. The gatherings generally have been held without formal approval of the Forest Service.
The assembly is intended to be a celebration of peaceful living and love for the planet earth, and there is no formal leadership structure.
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Rob J wrote on Jun 20, 2008 5:28 AM:
Marion wrote on Jun 20, 2008 6:14 AM:
Once more where are the enviros intent on loacking the rest of us out to protect the earth? "
Dori wrote on Jun 20, 2008 7:55 AM:
coyote wrote on Jun 20, 2008 8:27 AM:
Shirl and Janine wrote on Jun 20, 2008 8:48 AM:
TR wrote on Jun 20, 2008 8:55 AM:
rainbow bright wrote on Jun 20, 2008 9:44 AM:
Welcome to Wyoming, Rainbows, and may you have a great and peaceful time here, free of harassment. "
old grouch wrote on Jun 20, 2008 9:55 AM:
kate wrote on Jun 20, 2008 12:02 PM:
Carol wrote on Jun 20, 2008 1:14 PM:
Rick wrote on Jun 20, 2008 3:39 PM:
I see it like this...the Scouts planned their event(with attention to those "pesky" details of getting appropriate consent from property stewards), advertised so that the many involved would "Be Prepared" and plan to help their environment by rehabbing and living nothing but footprints and a legacy in their wake.
The Rainbow Family set a date and go. I'm still not sure how they pick a place, although this year, apperently the Forest Service sent them some options in late May...now we get their response. As stated in the article, the reality is the "Rainbows" can just show up and "win" with massive numbers. After hanging out for a week, the 25,000 or so will return to their homes. After congratulating themselves on "being at one with nature" and "getting back to the basics", what will they leave behind? A pristine campsite? A legacy of pride in accomplishment? (Sigh) Lets hope better minds prevail and the youth of today (tomorrows Rainbow Family?) are given the opportunity they have so long worked towards. I really do hope this works for all concerned and ends with smiles for everyone. ~Rick~ "
san jose wrote on Jun 20, 2008 4:00 PM:
Weekend Warrior wrote on Jun 20, 2008 4:25 PM:
Y'all really should open your minds a bit and come out to check things out. You'll be surprised and will definitely learn something. "
Frank wrote on Jun 20, 2008 5:09 PM:
Well, can't some hippie weirdos just have a little fun?
You fence building xenophobics are the most insane bunch of wackos this side of the Rio Grande.
The hippies clean up after themselves, that's how they "are allowed" to use public lands. Unlike a cattleman (most public leases are held by corporate ranchers, not small family ranchers) the hippies don't turn a profit (or tax-write-off loss) other than a few days of vacation.
Sheeze. Relax. "
Jeffrey wrote on Jun 20, 2008 9:02 PM:
eubynuts wrote on Jun 21, 2008 2:19 AM:
If 80 Boy Scouts are offended by a pile of garbage being recycled beside a cow pasture and a half dozen abandoned vehicles not yet towed off the site, and fail to compare that to the environmental impact of the 50 miles of road that makes the site exploitable (by hippies too), then they certainly will "lose".
I was at the '94 gathering at Snider Basin, and revisited the site 2 months after. We were able to collect less than a quarter of a five gallon bucket (and the bucket itself) of trash in 2 days of post-post cleanup -- mostly string left tied to trees that had been over looked - and yes, a few cigarette butts (many of those hippies need eyeglasses), but no unfilled (or animal re-entered) latrine/ compost/ fire pits. "
wrote on Jun 21, 2008 5:48 AM:
coyote wrote on Jun 21, 2008 8:10 AM:
oldtimer wrote on Jun 21, 2008 1:03 PM:
As I understand they didn't want the Snider Basin are where they were 10 years ago becaue it isn't completely healed yet. "
MrD wrote on Jun 21, 2008 1:06 PM:
The Rainbows did just that outside of Steamboat in 2006 "
Real Long Dreadz wrote on Jun 21, 2008 1:58 PM:
Real high wrote on Jun 21, 2008 2:02 PM:
wuzzy wrote on Jun 21, 2008 4:11 PM:
The U.S. government pulls a fast one each year at the last minute and they've done it again. Our tax dollars at work. Does the same impact team go out before strip mining and clear cutting ? "
Ted wrote on Jun 21, 2008 7:39 PM:
As a firefighter and field inspector for the USDA Forest Service, I used to have my doubts about the Rainbow Family, too.
But over the years, I've noticed they are responsible, friendly people, who leave the places they stay at, as they found it. They are very good with cleanup and re-seeding ground. More impressive than any group I've ever seen using the forest, in my life.
It sounds impossible that a footprint in the forest of 15,000 people having lived there for 2 weeks could be cleaned up to its original state.... but that is indeed what happens year after year, wherever these people roam. They are super-conscientious about hazard control, trash pickup, and leaving no visible or harmful traces behind. "
Love warrior wrote on Jun 21, 2008 8:08 PM:
We walk the walk, and love the Earth more than you know.
We Love you
PEACE :) "
ma bunny wrote on Jun 21, 2008 8:42 PM:
Mark wrote on Jun 21, 2008 11:47 PM:
Turbo wrote on Jun 22, 2008 4:42 PM:
Its common for people to be wary of each other's differences -- just remember, we are all one human family and its better better to tolerate and love than fear and hate. (duh)
So if the local welcome home group can find a way to sing out "We Tolerate You," instead of "We love you," thats cool too.
I remember in W.VA a few years ago talking to locals who came to see what was going on at the Gathering and they were awed by the generosity, acceptance and creativity of the Family. Remember, all one needs to be a Rainbow is a belly button, tho that isn't really necessary.
Sure its easy to paint everyone with the same brush, but I don't really think the locals are that silly. In fact, I heard that WY people are very welcoming and appreciate others love for the land. Google any past site of the Gathering, and every local news source gave glowing reports on the unmatched excellence of the area cleanup and the net positive from the experience.
The USFS deserves some credit for trying to be less antagonistic to its customers, but the Boy Scout issue is truly BS since it came up after the site was vetted by the FS -- so WTF? I understand its hard to remember all the details. "
Tyrel wrote on Jun 22, 2008 7:25 PM:
mark different guy wrote on Jun 22, 2008 9:13 PM:
Piper wrote on Jun 22, 2008 10:40 PM:
A good number of the Rainbow regulars are the enviros. The tree sitters you hear about risking their lives to protect old growth forests? You can expect them to be at the gathering teaching people how to climb and sneak supplies through road blocks.
The "four miles of pipeline" are 1" hoses laid on the ground and "digging in a kitchen" refers to nothing more insidious than setting up tarps, building clay ovens, and digging latrines. Rest assured Wyoming, it will all be made to disappear, the ground will be aerated and reseeded, and in a year the site will look better than it did before we got there.
There will probably be some isolated trouble (every large group brings some bad apples) but if you keep an open mind, you'll see far more good than bad from this experience. "
real nature lover wrote on Jun 22, 2008 11:00 PM:
kjmcolo wrote on Jun 22, 2008 11:32 PM:
Are we all welcome? Don't know these people. "
profit wrote on Jun 23, 2008 6:52 AM:
Tyrel wrote on Jun 23, 2008 10:00 AM:
NNT wrote on Jun 23, 2008 11:26 AM:
old grouch wrote on Jun 23, 2008 11:27 AM:
wide variety of offenses, including disorderly conduct and crimes related to alcohol abuse
outbreaks of communicable diseases and maladies, such as tuberculosis, scabies and even dangerous bacterial infections - umm dirty hippies anyone?
a lot of drug use marijuana, LSD, methamphetamines, mushrooms, cocaine, prescription pain meds
known criminals violent and troubled individuals
That pretty much says it all for me.
AND - inability to stop the event???
Why is that? FS can't just ticket them and send them on their merry stoned way? What am I missing here... "
Flint wrote on Jun 23, 2008 11:46 AM:
Where is the in depth piece on this with some background, photos and interviews CST?
We deserve to know who these invaders are and what their actual agenda is (based on political affiliations, contributions, activities, etc).
Investigate and report the facts! "
HANK wrote on Jun 23, 2008 12:00 PM:
Ivy wrote on Jun 23, 2008 12:41 PM:
'm sure you would not only keep going if you saw some hippies (women and children included) stranded, but would use your gas-guzzling Ford truck to spit rocks at their windshield so local law enforcement can harrass and ticket them when they DO get back on the road!
I have lived in both Montana and Wyoming most of my life. It IS beautiful...EXCEPT for the self-serving, rightouse, hipocrites that go to church on Sunday, praying to be worthy of Jesus, then leave treating others they deem "beneath" them like trash! God does see how you treat other humans, and agree with them or not, hippies are closer to being God's creatures than you will ever be!
Regarding environmental damage-OIL RICH WYOMING; once again you show your hipocracy! I guess tearing up wilderness is only OK if you make enough money to make others think your a respectable human being. Your fancy homes, fast boats, big guns, and SUV's do far more damage than even 100,000 hippies! And YES they do gather to promote peace and environmental harmony with no money, commercialism, or corporate sponsor. Can you say that about your rodeos and and tractor pulls?
Regarding clean-up. They leave no trace that 20,000 people we're camping, not one single cigg. butt is left behind! Not one fire pit! Not one latrine! And certainly no bullet casings! I can guarantee no hunters could say that!!!!
Unless you have been to a Rainbow Gathering (as I've sat through your Red Neck entertainment) don't even pretend to have an educated opinion. As there are more Ranbows (granolas, hippies, political activists, ect) with a college
education than there are cowboys, ranchers, or other rednecked yokals, insead of attacking their intellect, start working on your own! "
Phil wrote on Jun 23, 2008 1:15 PM:
New Jersey wrote on Jun 23, 2008 1:31 PM:
Stop and think of the poor wolves people! "
Paula wrote on Jun 23, 2008 1:38 PM:
Tyrel wrote on Jun 23, 2008 1:46 PM:
You can however take your holier than thou additude (yes you Ivy) and bury it right along with all the latrines you will be leaving in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Do you realize how long it takes for human excrement to decompose in a place such as the Wind River Range? Probably not as long as your hypocritical additude, but many many years none the less. Have you even thought of the impact to the watershed?
As I keep saying over and over again, wihtout any recognition, why not gather in an area with the appropriate facilities for 15-30 thousand people? Why develop a currently undeveloped defacto wilderness area for a 6 day "love-in". And do not tell me that the area will look better than it did before the event because we both know that is a BLATANT LIE.
If you choose to read only one sentance in this entire rant, please read this one: Be careful, and please tread lightly. "
Jim wrote on Jun 23, 2008 2:23 PM:
Oh well just another ignorant engineer posting here. "
Ceilia wrote on Jun 23, 2008 2:52 PM:
Howie wrote on Jun 23, 2008 4:02 PM:
Stone Age wrote on Jun 23, 2008 4:22 PM:
Wendy wrote on Jun 23, 2008 4:51 PM:
Mel wrote on Jun 23, 2008 5:20 PM:
josh wrote on Jun 23, 2008 6:23 PM:
This is a complex subject that brings out the good, the bad and the ugly in us all. As far as gathering on reservation land.. it's ironic that this was once the Native American's ancestral land before a group comprised of thousands of immigrants came and decided to occupy it. It is interesting how history repeats itself and how easy it is to forget that we are all visitors here. I've decided not to attend this year's gathering based on fuel prices and much of what I read here from different viewpoints. To the rainbows, tread lightly. To the residents of Wyoming, fair thee well. "
Tyrel wrote on Jun 23, 2008 8:45 PM:
Zulu wrote on Jun 23, 2008 9:51 PM:
highmarkin wrote on Jun 24, 2008 8:21 AM:
Fred wrote on Jun 24, 2008 9:58 AM:
HANK wrote on Jun 24, 2008 10:44 AM:
BrendaAnn wrote on Jun 24, 2008 11:03 AM:
Response to Tyrel ,True Nature Lover, and others who are angry at the Rainbows and/or disaprove of the Gathering being held in Wyoming-again.
Like so many people who blast the Rainbow Gatherings, you did not do your research. If you look, there are articles on-line about the N. California Gathering in 2004, the Idaho Gathering in 2001, and the Utah Gathering in 2003-among others-that interviews local Forest Service personel regarding the state in which the Gathering Site was left. In all articles, those familiar with the area where shocked and surprised at how well the Rainbows covered their tracks and cleaned up the forest. As one Foreset Official put it, "Unless you have an Education in Forestry and are very familiar with the land, you would not see any evidence that indicates 15,000 people were camped here!"
They cover every latrine, bury every fire pit, redistribute the stones and rocks used to line the fire pits and build ovens, pick up all garbage including every single ciggarette butt and rake up all the trails; reseeding them with local grasses obtained from forest service biologists. It takes about 800 Rainbows (Clean-up Crew) 6-8 weeks of all-day work to complete this process.
Can you tell me the average camper, backpacker, or hunter goes through so much trouble to erase every trace of their presence? I KNOW they don't!
An added benifit to the forest that many dont think of: After 10,000-20,000 people camp in a 10-20 square mile area, the dead and fallen trees that normally litter the forest floor are picked up and used for firewood. This reduces the risk of future forest fires by removing a great deal of dead wood debris that causes a fire to quickly burn out of control! Rather than harm the land, Rainbows work hard to protect it at all costs!
Regarding the "laying of pipes" for water that has so many of you upset: These are not put into the ground as some of your comments seem to imply. They simply lay on top of the soil and run from the stream or river to a few key camps (like kiddie village) that filter it and make it availible for everyone. These "hydration stations" are a nessesary and vital step in keeping everyone healthy. On that note, let's have a little Political Science lesson: The use of public lands in a way that does not permanetly damage the land does not need to "authorized" by anyone. The Rainbows don't need to get permission to use the Natiobnal Forest any more than you or I do. Not EVERYHING is governed by laws yet...that should make the Republicans happy! :)
Regarding the holding of Gatherings in places with facilities: The Rainbows could not have their gatherings in developed campsites due to the shear number of participants. Even if a facility existed that could accomidate tens of thousands of people, it would go against 2 of the ideals that Rainbows hold dear: One is the Constitutional Right to peacefully assemble on public land without being required to pay a fee or obtain a permit (there is no leader; no group of individuals that is authorized to speak for or sign ANYTHING on behalf of the Rainbows). The other is seeking out the tranquility that only comes from being FAR out in the wilderness, where curiosity seekers, weekend partiers, members of the media, Babylon law enforcement, and other people who do not share the Rainbow ideals (peace, love, community, freedom of expression, environmental awarness, and above all respect and love for ALL human life regardless of class, apprearence, education or any other Babolonian ideals of financial/social status) cannot easily access. This allows Rainbows to be themselves without the normal constraints and judgement of mass society (Babylon). For many, it is the one time of year they can escape the trappings of society (cell phones, work scheduals, traffic, money, expectations, clocks, fast food, anger, selfishness, mean people) and allow their hearts and souls to open.
The rainbows create a Utopia that results in a spiritual vacation that is so powerful, many compare it to a religious experience. Everyone is happy, everyone loves and acceptes each other, and everyone helps each other without caring what's in it for them.
There is so much love at a Gathering, it is the closest one can come to walking beside Jesus himself! So please, stop trying to find fault with the Rainbow Gatherings when you have never been to one, don't understand why they are held, or can't appreciate the tranquility of soul that results in the gathering of thousands of people in love and harmony. Babylone could learn many lessons from the ideals of the Rainbows!
Judge not lest he be judged himself! "
BrendaAnn wrote on Jun 24, 2008 11:26 AM:
The Gathering is a celebration of peace and love...only a few "weekend warriors" use it as an excuse to party; and most of those never make it inside the actual Gathering because they can't make the 3-5 mile hike up the mountain!!
Once again you are assuming things you know nothing about...and we all know what happens when you do that! "
Ivy wrote on Jun 24, 2008 12:44 PM:
Wow, I really hit a nerve!!!
PAULA-First of all, let me say that just as the angry comments I read from many locals on this page we're not addressed to me or my values, YOU should know if my comments were not indicitive of you and yours!!
Evidence Paula? I did't realize this was a research project? I did't notice any of the HATERS (this one IS for you) citing reputable sources other than their own experiences and prejudices...so I fired back! Guess I hit my mark!
The only evidence I need is the experiences I have had, the situations I have witnessed, the attitudes I have endured, and the judgemental garbage that I have heard out of the mouths of those who think they are somehow better than others. Don't they teach non-judgement in church anymore?
Regarding my public behavior, I'm willing to bet that I am more of a lady than you could ever dream of being and you would NEVER be able to pick me out of a crowd unless you flollowed the eyes of the men-folk! :)
Criminal Anti-Americans? Not wanted here? Gosh, wasn't our Great Country founded by traitors and criminals? If breaking YOUR laws of class and behaviour makes me a criminal then I am happy to be one!
I represent fairness and equality and am tired of people like you who are so holy-er than thou-thinking your social values are the only ones worth having. I'm talking about the people who smile while they stab you in the back, pretend they care when they are only looking out for themselves and regularly access a persons value based on outside apprearences. (That hot chick MUST be a tramp!) Sound familiar "Mean Girl"?
One's character is represented by how one treats those they dissagree with. Wishing me and thousands of other people you've never meet to "go away" is not characteristic of a good Christian, a nice person, or a decent human being. As someone else suggested, you SHOULD put a fence around Wyoming....to keep people like you from spreading your hate accross our wonderful counrty!
TYREL-You SHOULD NOT have felt insulted if the comments I made did not apply to you. They were directed at the ignorance of some, not the educated openess of many.
Regarding your environmental concerns,
Please do some research on the National Forest sites that have held the Gatherings in the past. You will read about the amazed Forest Service Personel, Wildlife Biologists, and local environmentalist who marvel at the condition of the site after the Rainbow clean-up crew was finished!
(PAULA-evidence for you!)
Check out the California Gathering in 2004, The Idaho Gathering in 2001, and the Utah (They're even MORE concervative than Wyoming) Gathering in 2003. As I was at each of these, I know the media coverage involved and, except for a few paranoid locals, it is ALL GOOD!!
Once again let me say that my comments were made after reading all the previous ones...if there wasn't so much ignorant hate out there, mabey we could all start learning from each other again instead of casting off those who are different. Does anyone believe in at least a few Christian values anymore? "
HANK wrote on Jun 24, 2008 2:18 PM:
old grouch wrote on Jun 24, 2008 3:37 PM:
That means that next time I am there I can't get wood for my fire. How is that a GOOD thing? And what is your hangup with Babylon? Some kind of acid flashback?
It takes about 800 Rainbows (Clean-up Crew) 6-8 weeks of all-day work to complete this process.
So in addition to the 10 - 20,000, there are 800 more greasy hippies loitering for 8 weeks after the event littering and crapping in our watershed. Lovely, simply peachy. "
josh wrote on Jun 24, 2008 3:54 PM:
This event is also focused heavily on creating positive examples for our children, caring for and respecting our elders and ministering to people who come with partying on the mind but leave with a deeper appreciation for nature and community. Also, Rainbows contribute upwards of $1 million to local economies they choose to gather near. For many, this is a vacation from the daily grind, a chance to form new friendships, peacefully assemble and worship in the way they choose.
Just think of the gathering as a medium-sized city with all the usual fringe elements. Please don't judge us by the way we look or by the criminal actions of the few who don't appreciate the reason for gathering. Thanks for listening. "
Hmmm wrote on Jun 24, 2008 4:32 PM:
Special Announcement wrote on Jun 24, 2008 4:49 PM:
walt wrote on Jun 24, 2008 4:54 PM:
Weekend Warrior wrote on Jun 24, 2008 5:59 PM:
Fred wrote on Jun 24, 2008 6:49 PM:
So it belongs to you pickup truck racist redneck, and you smelly no job drug addicted hippie. It can't be bought, it can't be claimed, the park belongs to your children Billy Bob, as well as yours Moon Beam. Just remember to respect the land, and the neighbors . It's really not that complicated. "
WyomingGal wrote on Jun 24, 2008 10:43 PM:
Ivy wrote on Jun 24, 2008 10:45 PM:
Lazy Ha? Unemployed? Mabey a few, just like any other society, but most are gainfully employed, hard working, tax-paying citizens. Get your heads out of the sand and stop with the generalizations. I happen to have a Bachelor of Science and a second in Social Science. I spent 7 years in college with 3 kids and no outside financial support. I did and do work my butt off!! Lazy I am NOT!
Many Rainbows hold advanced degrees AND work at their choosen profession ALL YEAR. The Gathering is what they do instead of jet-setting off to Europe or Hawaii or wherever you high and mighties go IF you can afford it. If there was NO money, how could meals be provided FREE OF CHARGE to 20,000 people for weeks? There is no corporate sponsor, no cost of admission, no money exchanging hands within the Gathering AT ALL! How could we do that if we're all a bunch of broke, lazy, unemployed louses? Yes, there are those who choose to drop out of "normal" society completly; ususally as a result of putting up with jerks like you for too many years and deciding it's not worth it!
Old Grouch-Flashback? I was born in 1974! The only "flashbacks" I have are of Madonna's navel! Yes concerned camper...there will be plenty of firewood for you. I invite you to take a trip to the Wind River Basin and see for yourself. Why don't you bust out your tent while your at it and go camping! No time like the present. We would welcome you with open arms, smiles, and a hot meal. Free of charge!
We LOOOOOOVVEE YOUUUUUU!!!!! "
Ivy wrote on Jun 24, 2008 10:56 PM:
As far as the human waste you're all so concerned with, our latrines are dug deep, covered, and contribute effectivly to the Carbon Cycle; much like the abundant cattle waste I saw up there but without it laying on the surface for everyone to step in! Why is no one worried about the watershed when a rancher brings in 5000+ head of cattle? I know they produce far more waste and cause far more environmental damage than any human! I guess as long as someone is making money, it's OK. "
Ivy wrote on Jun 24, 2008 11:05 PM:
Thank you for your support! I'm willing to bet that your military experience will help silence those who claim that everyone in suport of this Gathering is a lazy, unemployed "greasy hippie"
It's good to hear the positive from a member of society that no one would deem undesirable. Thank you! "
Rothwieler wrote on Jun 25, 2008 12:41 AM:
old grouch wrote on Jun 25, 2008 8:22 AM:
HANK wrote on Jun 25, 2008 8:23 AM:
Bill wrote on Jun 25, 2008 8:53 AM:
Ivy wrote on Jun 25, 2008 9:38 AM:
Wow, again with the generalizations! I shave, shower, and wash my long curly hair every day! I shop at Dillards, Target, and the mall. I drive a 2007 Chevy, live in a $179,000 home and count in my immediate family tree 2 Sherifs, a professional artist, several buisness owners, a minister, and a city councel member. I have a feeling that in the Babaloynian Social Hiarchy, I'm several rungs above you so stop with the ignorant generalizations! Oh...Speed Stick Stinks, I use Secret!
BTW, I would never dream of living in a commune! In case you havn't realized, I'm a free-thinking, highly opinioniated, intelligent individual! I would never allow myself to be led by ANYONE! I would suggest you go get yourself a brownie and laugh a little...I think you need it! "
Ivy wrote on Jun 25, 2008 10:01 AM:
You asked about the goverment reports citing the cost to clean up after the Rainbow clean-up crew is done? The reason there is none (if there was, the newspapers would be all over it) is because the government needs not do ANYTHING when the Rainbows are done accept mabey change their minds and eat their words! There are no pictures or reports of damage because either the local community applauds their clean-up, or they say nothing and drop the issue completly because they don't want to give the Rainbows and credit ot good publicity.
PLEASE Google Madoc County News (California) then look in the archive for August 2004. There is an article written after the Rainbows were done cleaning detailing what all was done and how the forest looked after everyone was gone. It also cites water and soil tests that were done before, during, and after the gathering to assess environmental damage. Research for yourself, attend a Gathering, talk to people outside your closed-off community and realize there is a CHANCE you might be wrong! "
Ivy wrote on Jun 25, 2008 10:22 AM:
I'm just thankful this is 2008 and society no longer (openly) accepts bullying/harassing/beating up helpless people, lynch mobs, vigalante justice, and burnings at the stake! Thank God your type is prevented from repeating the monstrasities of evil against fellow humans we all know you're capable of. 100 years ago, your hate would have resulted in a lot of "missing" hippies.
God Bless America and bless the courage of those who refuse to take part in hating people who are different! It's up to the brave souls who share a community with these people to stand up when they see or hear something ignorant and unjust. It wasn't too long ago that a young man was beaten to death in Nebraska by angry home-town boys.
That is where hate leads you...be careful and be brave...don't follow the crowd! Rightousness is not always popular....
Lovin you all! "
HANK wrote on Jun 25, 2008 10:29 AM:
Ivy wrote on Jun 25, 2008 11:10 AM:
Reagarding Babalyon: It's the word used by Rainbows and other like-minded individuals that describes general society and it's rules, hang-ups, selfisheness, and materialism. In contrast, the Gatherings are called Utopia because of it's freedom of expression, speech, love and worship without any of the stresses caused by materialism we are forced to endure.
People in WY go camping to get away from people like me? So you go camping to get away from educated, pretty, single girls? They have a word for that! I'm sure you've used that word on others...turn-about is fair play :) "
old grouch wrote on Jun 25, 2008 11:48 AM:
Tyrel wrote on Jun 25, 2008 12:53 PM:
Ha Hou wrote on Jun 25, 2008 1:26 PM:
HANK wrote on Jun 25, 2008 1:49 PM:
Clean Up wrote on Jun 25, 2008 1:54 PM:
Tyrel wrote on Jun 25, 2008 2:21 PM:
Clean as a Whistle wrote on Jun 25, 2008 3:33 PM:
old grouch wrote on Jun 25, 2008 3:51 PM:
Riley wrote on Jun 25, 2008 5:32 PM:
Ivy wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:55 AM:
Again, WOW! Are you two for real? Your generalizations are astonishing! How can you be so sure about someone (me) that you have never even seen? If I was a hard-core hippie, I would be out at the Gathering now instead of on my COMPUTER (wich we all know unemployed, fringe-of-society individuals can easily afford) getting ready for bed so I can get up early for WORK. I have a VERY professional job that I won't even divulge for my own safety and privacy.
You guys are NUTS and quite frankly It disturbes me that the possibility exists I might actually encounter your kind out in the real work instead of cyber-space. The real world by the way is nothing like what is in your messed-up head!
I am sitting here after my DAILY shower smelling of perfume you could't afford to buy your wife (IF anyone was stupid enough to marry you), long hair in a bun so it's clean and tiddy when I roll out of my 500 thread count sheets in the morning to go to WORK. The ONLY hair on my body is on the top of my head, eyebrows and lashes. I'm tall, athletic, and well dressed. I played golf today and yesterday. I spent many years living in Vegas and graduated UNLV with honors. I love dinning in fine resturants (no that does not mean Applebees!), have velvet rope access to some of the hottest nightclubs, was invited to audition for Follies Bregere, and even did some modeling. If you met me, you would not see my liberal views, only my poise, confidence, blue eyes and long leggs. Even IF I gave you the time of day, (I don't enjoy the smell of s**t and gasoline), after you opened your rotten-toothed, spit-chewing, verbally abusive mouth, I would politly excuse myself and walk away. Thanking GOD there are REAL men out there and clicking my heals to get back home (Montana) and out of this oppressive, communistic, stuck-in-another-century state.
I do contribute to society, not only through my work, but through the many organizations I have volunteered my time to. Like it or not, I AM civilized society, you my friend are definatly not!
The truly sad thing is I started my comments in defense of thousands of people whom I DONT EVEN KNOW and you turned it into the nastiest of personal attacks?
Shame on you both; your a disgrace to human kind. You could spend a hundred Sunday's in church and NEVER become a decent person. Please stay in whatever hole-in-the-wall you live in and keep YOUR poison to yourself! "
Rothwieler wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:49 AM:
I didnt see any of you Ignorant rednecks responding to my blog when I explained to you nice and simple so you all would understand without getting mad and beating your wife. I usually dont get cought up in redundant conversations, but reading your hateful ignorant blogs to my future wife IVY put me in a rage. NO ONE bloged about my statement, because you couldnt argue with it. IT IS YOUR LUCKY DAY. I will visit your petty little club and argue and disrespect people I dont Know. TOO BAD FOR YOU I UNDERSTAND YOU ALL!
I have been everywhere and lived in many places. I thought the same way you all did about " HIPPIES". There were ONLY two groups of people I disliked in this world; rednecks and hipppies.
After going to a rainbow gathering and reading your simple hateful blogs there is now only one thing in this world I hate. " SIMPLE MINDED IGNORANT REDNECKS"
I KNOW WHO YOU ALL ARE. I grew up with people just like you. Come on. How can you hate people you have never met?
The real reason I even sat down at this irrelivant key board is to stick up for my girl IVY and to give you NAZIS a taste of your own medicine.
She is one of the most beutiful, CLEANEST, inteligent women I have ever met and I have met many.
Here is your medicine; its going to be bitter.... Can you rednecks hold your attention long enough to read all of this? I am amazed how you can find the time to get on your computer between slaughtering animals that you delivered, raised, named, and loved. I hope you have some time left to beat your wife/ sister/ mom when you finish.
IF you hopless rednecks cant respond to this its because there is to much cow manure on your keyboard.
I would dare you to have a war of words with me but I dont care. BUT I WILL HUMOR YOU. QUIT TALKING TRASH TO IVY!!!!!!!!! TALK TRASH TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
the mad crapper wrote on Jun 26, 2008 11:03 AM:
Riley, since you don't care about our state, you need to move to Colorado. "
Just a thought wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:03 PM:
Are You still confused why people have a very negative feeling toward the rainbows? Think of this It's hard to see the 1,000 or so good apples when their surrounded by 15,000 bad apples!! if you look at a group of 16 people the 1 person that is good doesnt really stand out against the 15 misfits!
I really hope you do restore the land better than it was. but its a long shot. In 31yrs you can only site 4 times of exceptional recovery what about the other 27yrs? And what kind of year will this be? "
Speed Stick wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:08 PM:
We all know that you are using the PC at the public library or a house that you broke into and are now squatting in.
Our assumption are correct as you have checked each block on the hippie form, fit and function test.
Seek help and a bath. "
Conservative Rich Republican wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:11 PM:
After some spelling lessons and a bath, please seek professional help for your diarrhea of the keyboard and constipation of the mind.
OBTW; please take Ivy with you for all of the above. She is so obviously in need. "
Dont let the door hit you in the... wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:21 PM:
You will not be missed.
Bye, bye! "
Oliver Twist wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:53 PM:
This is my first blog too. My life partner HANK showed me the fierce exchange between great minds and I was compelled to respond.
Yes, a mind is a terrible thing to waste. How is that going for you anyway?
I did take your words to heart. I no longer slaughter animals. Right now Bruce, my now one legged Bantam rooster, is watching me eat his recently removed leg. This way he can see for himself how much I am enjoying a part of his existence on this earth and he can feel good that his time here was well served nourishing me (and getting all those pesky bugs in the yard before losing his leg of course).
I did try the vegetarian thing. However I used so much toilet paper that I feared Cheryl Crow would hunt me down for over consumption of resources and polluting the earth mother.
Thank you setting me on a new, more refined course. Next I will try removal of the neck roast in my angus heifer Jennifer, so she too can experience the exhilaration that Bruce is now. "
old grouch wrote on Jun 26, 2008 3:51 PM:
NATIVE wrote on Jun 26, 2008 4:48 PM:
Seasoned not barbequed Rainbow wrote on Jun 26, 2008 9:08 PM:
Paul from Connecticut wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:16 PM:
Ivy wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:44 PM:
CONCERVATIVE RICH REPUBLICAN...
What the hell, this is rather cathartic (need a dictionary yet?) GLOVES OFF....
Go to Texas were steers and queers pray to the alter of Hitler..actually, he had intelligence...I mean Bush!
How IS your republican president doing by the way? Have you lost any family members to the republicans idea of justice yet? Perhapes you should write a letter to your absent congressman and tell him the hippies have threatened your tranquile, self-absorbed, simple, empty life. Of course I guess all these insults are at least keeping your mind off the monotony of your own existance. Mabey if you hiked 5 miles up the mountain and visited the Rainbows, your gutt would shrink and your mind would expand. Probably not but I'll be thinking of you while I'm dancing to a guitar and fiddle jam, twirling my CLEAN hair in the sunshine, and laughing at how rediculous I KNOW YOUR IDEAS AND GENERALIZATIONS ARE! I go to sleep loved and I wake up happy, how 'bout you?
SPEED FREAK; I mean STICK
YEAH, the library is open 24 hours a day!!! Thank GOD!!How else could I be on the computer at this hour?
The only time I go to the library is for research and to check out a new book to READ. Try it, if you can remeber how to use a card catalog.
Squatting ha? I bought my first home at the age of 23. Last I checked, most of the women in Wyoming can't do anything without their husbands money or permission. Enjoy your life in a self-imposed cage. BTW, Your husband cheats when you're not happy enough to satisfy him. Never had that problem, but I have a feeling you do.
Eventually you will hate yourself into extinction while the rest of us are loving our mates, showering our children with love and music, and marveling at how not long ago, there were people out there who attacked those who were different. I bet you think General Custard is a national hero? Imperialism is dead...please join it! "
Ivy wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:56 PM:
I cited 4 because those are the ones I attended. I am impressed you were able to figure out how many annual gatherings have been held...look each and every one up if you will....you will see the propeganda circulated by the close-minded, cowardly yokals followed by either NOTHING or praise at how wrong and missinformed the public was from the beginning. It all depends on the honesty and objectivity of the local newspaper reporters.
Regarding "Grandma" just because someone is old enough to have children with children, does not mean they are objective and truthful. I read that article and it was ONE person who ADVISED them that there was a gathering up ahead that might not appreciated their tranquility disturbed by a gas guzzling ATV. I read of no actual threats, no assult, not even any swearing! I thought you Wyomingites were tougher than to be "threatened" by words and simple directional advise. Gosh, make up your minds...are you tough or cowardly? "
Go Away wrote on Jun 27, 2008 7:55 AM:
Cedric wrote on Jun 27, 2008 7:56 AM:
spelling police wrote on Jun 27, 2008 10:53 AM:
enough already wrote on Jun 27, 2008 11:39 AM:
Give me a break. Every time I go to the lake, to the mountain, or to a park or other public place I see a bunch of drunken rednecks causing problems everywhere I go. A group of peace-loving hippies in the forest isn't going to cause a problem for anyone. They will be all but gone before the boy scouts arrive and the few that will still be there will be the clean up crew, who would help the boy scouts with their project if anything. Just because someone isn't exactly like you doesn't mean that there is something wrong with them or that they are a trouble-maker. From what I have read about previous rainbow gatherings, they are very peaceful, cause very little trouble, and clean up after themselves; more than I can say for the drunken rednecks that thrash the lake and cause trouble every weekend. Leave the poor rainbows alone...they won't cause you any trouble. I am ashamed of the paranoid redneck idiots that are making such a big fuss over this peaceful gathering. "
Silence is Golden and Safe wrote on Jun 27, 2008 11:54 AM:
HANK wrote on Jun 27, 2008 3:01 PM:
Toe fungus wrote on Jun 27, 2008 3:27 PM:
pro-people wrote on Jun 27, 2008 3:36 PM:
Enough Enough Already wrote on Jun 27, 2008 4:50 PM:
RD Sublette Co wrote on Jun 28, 2008 1:49 PM:
Weekend Warrior wrote on Jun 28, 2008 3:50 PM:
th doctah wrote on Jun 28, 2008 8:19 PM:
gary wrote on Jun 29, 2008 1:01 AM:
X-Rainbow who had the wool pulled over his eyes wrote on Jun 29, 2008 7:58 PM:
First of all, not everyone is so stupid to accept your propaganda at face value without questioning it. Most people can tell that all the “good articles” about on the internet were placed there by your own propaganda machine. You attack and suppress any criticism of your actions just like the Bush administration.
Secondly, get a grip of reality. Praying for peace will do jack. You need to get up off your lazy butts and WORK for peace. That’s why people don’t like you. You are lazy hypocrites who don’t do jack to help anybody.
Thirdly, stop lying about how you trash every place you go. I've been there. I've seen the mess you leave. Just the cigarette butts alone made me sick to my stomach. When you move into a community, you always use up resources that belong to the local POOR people there. You NEVER give anything back to the poor. You clean out community food pantries and you leave big unpaid medical bills for poor communities to absorb. Since you’re mostly white and the people you steal resources from are mostly non-white that makes you racists too.
You can’t gather in large numbers without creating a HUGE negative impact to the environment. Just making the area look clean a month afterward only disguises all the damage that 35 tons of human feces, grey water trash and miles compressed soil do to “mother earth.” Your “rehabilitation” efforts are only superficial and why should there be a need to “rehabilitate” a fragile environment in the first place? You poison water and destroy habitat. Admit it! You impact every site you trespass on for years and years and you are NOT honest about that impact. How stupid do you think people are?
And for supposedly caring, open minded people, you don’t accept criticism very well from Native Americans either. You ignored and disrespected Native American spiritual leaders who have repeatedly insisted that you STOP the sweat lodges and stop saying your ceremonies have anything to do with their traditions. Your cultural appropriation makes YOU the bigots. In 2004, you damaged and stole cultural artifacts and continued to dig in places that Native elders told you NOT to dig in.
When will you get honest and make amends for your trespasses? When will you make amends for all this disrespect? "
Eric B. wrote on Jun 30, 2008 4:05 PM:
james in calif wrote on Jun 30, 2008 5:52 PM:
Rock Springs wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:59 PM:
Wow wrote on Jul 2, 2008 12:59 AM:
Move to China if you want the government to control everyone. "
minno wrote on Jul 4, 2008 5:37 PM:
You all seem to think that the pipe (more like hoses) they are laying will be left, it isn't, or that the kitchens built are over cut-down trees, they aren't. At almost every location the forest service and media has acknowledged cleanup practices.
And Rock Springs, if you don't support pan handlers, DON'T PAY THEM, and there are not buts when it comes to "this is a free country" this is a free country, period, no if's and's or but's about it. I'm sorry some of them have been rude to you, but I am not entirely convinced you're "those outtastaters" bigotry is really helping the matter. All I can see from your statements is that us folks from wyoming are a bunch of xenophobic rednecks. Furthermore, I seriously doubt the gathering is paying for 5000 hungry people by pan handling.
From my experience, and an anarchist myself, we do not expect anything from you, and we welcome and appreciate your help. Helping one another is what the Rainbow is about.
The forest service officials have every right to attend seed camp which starts well in advance, and isn't difficult to find it's location, it isn't some kind of secret. I never could understand why the forest service does not cooperate with the standards and traditions set up by the Rainbow Family for 30 years, and then cries fowl 10 days before the main event takes place. Th Rainbow is right here, it would be impossible to move in such short notice.
Though, this might have something more to do with the forest service trying to cause confusion and discourage the gathering to peacefully assemble. 30+ years of experience has taught us that this is the goal of the feds. Now suddenly, after 30+ years, forest service officials expect trust from the gathering, it will come if the attempts are honest, but it won't happen overnight. Especially with the long collective memory the Rainbow holds. "
We The People wrote on Jul 6, 2008 2:20 PM:
Listen to mp3.wtprn.com/Kelton/0807/20080703_Thu_Kelton1.mp3
For a phone in by satphone from the Rainbow Gathering. "
some hippie wrote on Jul 6, 2008 9:01 PM:
evelyn minnick wrote on Jul 7, 2008 1:48 AM:
guitarMikal wrote on Jul 14, 2008 11:34 PM:
If you ever make it to California, forget about Disneyland. Come to Humbolt and my family will thank you and your family for your wonderful spirit and welcome to this beautiful place called Wyoming. "
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