My Blog

LA Burner Gathering on June 26th!

Mario — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:53:22 GMT

It's in reseda and i'll be there on saturday night with a couple of members of the Moonbow camp! Check out the Tribe: LA Burner Gatherings for more info.

Buddha's Relic Tour July 25-27, Golden Bridge Yoga

Mario — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:51:41 GMT

On This weekend is the famous Buddha's Relic Tour at the Golden Bridge Yoga in Hollywood. It's a good way to see actual relics of the Buddha and his discliples, and other famous Buddhists. To recieve blessings, remove karma and just be in the presence of sacred objects in a non hostile environment, its also free! I'll be there on friday night opening ceremony and for a couple of hours on sunday.

Monday July 21st, Dark Knight Movie

Mario — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:42:35 GMT

Robert came over and we went to see the movie "the Dark Knight" at the nearby Vista theatre, I'm glad i bought tickets early, there was tons of people there just for a 245pm matinee show. We got in fast and got good seats. The movie, I thought was very fun and exciting, dark and sometimes thought provoking. Heath Ledger was very good as the Joker and when he came out in that Nurses outfit, i thought that its going to be a big hit for this upcoming Halloween. if he is nominated for an Oscar, he will win it!

Saturday July 12, Gift Show Trip

Mario — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:38:12 GMT

On Saturday, I went to the California Gift show at the LA convention center to talk to our Vendors and check out anything new. There wasn't much going on, and alot of the same old stuff. But I really liked the Hindu Clothes that were Cash & Go, alot of good clothes for $5 bucks! Next year, I'll buy alot for My Burning Man trip.!

Moonbow Camp Meeting

Mario — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:17:26 GMT

Hi everyone, The last nights meeting went well and almost everyone showed up, we clarified transportation plans, gas concerns, food and clothing ideas, and complied some lists and links for everyone. Everyone is excited and the event is coming up fast! Transportation: We both RV's are going, and we figured gas about $150 to $190 per person. We now only have room in the Rv's for riders/tent campers. There will be plenty of shade for tents and outdoor sitting. We'll be making a early supplies and equipment run to the RV's on August 2 or 3rd to prep the bikes, clean the Rv's and stow equipment, if you would like to help or have stuff to go ready, let me know. We want to have all your equipment stowed and ready to go before the event departure. We will be leaving EARLY in the morning of the 22nd of August, you need to be at the RV's that Thursday night or extra early in the morning for departure. We can car pool up and save gas. I'll have directions and addresses emailed to you when the time gets closer. Water; 9days x 2gal per day=18 gals for drinking 5 showers x 2 gals=10 gals total water needed per person= 28 gals 10 people in camp x 28=280 gals RV tanks 75 gal x 2=150 Ron's containers (7 gal x 7) 49 + Mario's and Johns (7 gal x 7 containers) 49=98 Total water going to event estimate=250 We'll have some portable showers and evaporation ponds for the water. We will be buying some bottled water in Fallon at the Walmart before entering the event to round out our supply. And filling all our containers up at the RV Park the night before. If you want to bring extra water to help the camp, We recommend the 7 galleon blue containers that are sold at most military surplus stores. Here's the link to order some: 7 Gallon Aqua-Tainer Food: I have decided to cook some big meals during the week, breakfasts and dinners for everyone in the camp as my participation. But, You are responsible for snacks, booze, lunch and any extras. I'll post a menu in about a weeks time. We will be stopping at a Walmart before heading into the event to buy the bulk of the groceries and any extras that you need! If you would like to donate to the food fund, its not required, but nice! Equipment: Must Have items for Burning man 2008, we will be stopping at a Walmart before the event to pick up anything you've forgotten. ear plugs: for a extra quiet sleep suntan Lotion: the sprays helped a lot last year! goggles: a must have to dust storms umbrella: a great moving shade bandana's: a quick wrap around for dust protection or cool the forehead old shoes: keeps feet safe from the dust flipflop slippers: used for the showers and camp walk around. lots of socks a jacket: it might be cold at night, be prepared! headlamp or small flashlight: at night it gets really dark! bike lock and chain: to secure your bike baby wipes Camera w/extra batteries: you'll want to record all the great stuff! a hardy plastic cup or mug: for those free drinks at Lounges and bars! I tied mime to my bike. a small tent if you want to save room in the RV and camp outside! Clothing: John and I will be going to the Toy district on Monday to buy some cheap battery powered fun lights for clothing and the bikes, enough for everyone in the camp. Here's the link for El lights, i sewed mine on a jacket and a hat for a great nighttime effect. i got the plug and play set, each just 3 or 4 feet, in red or blue, they're on sale and can be placed on clothes, bikes and hats. They're easy and ready to go, just place the batteries in and turn on! El Wire - Live Wire Ent. Est. 1996 The Electroluminescent Lighting Professiona Even though Naked is fun, work on those costumes, accessories and fun clothes, you'll want to look your best and have fun everywhere on the playa and at the Burn! Event: Our Gay Pride Parade will be fun and huge! Here's a posting if you havent seen it! Burning Man 2008 - Gay Pride Parade on Flickr - Photo Sharing! I will be bringing/playing the crystal singing bowls at the various temples this year! Here's a listing for the Temple that will be burning on Sunday night, make sure you read the participation part, you can send in parts to be included in the Temple. A great way to remember people and participate in this Years Temple: basura sagrada Last Minute: If you decide to go and would like to join the camp, there is still time and room for last minute additions(tent campers only). We'll be also videotaping and making movies of our experience and taking tons of pic's. If you would like to contribute, donate or sponsor our Camp, all will be appreciated if you cannot go, you'll get special gifts on the return and be included in our experience, prayers, Temple meditaions and fun! thanks, mario aka Julie the Cruise Director Moonbow Camp Burning Man 2008

Happy Fourth of July!

Mario — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 16:17:28 GMT

Today, I'll head over to the Grove and watch a movie, have bbque and do nothing!

Ammachi Visit to LA

Mario — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:11:30 GMT

LA Pride Festival and Parade

Mario — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 17:38:28 GMT

On Sunday, i arrived on Santa Monica Blvd for the Parade around 11am, the Parade got to where i was standing around 1215, it had so many breaks and was going so slow! It was okay this year, it lasted for a couple of hours, nothing really memorable. Around 2pm, i headed over to the Festival, even that was okay, i met alot of Burners there and we talked about our Gay Pride Parade at the Burn this year and worried over the price of gas. I left around 530pm, came home and passed out. Next year, i'll just pass on the whole event and save my money.

Mario's Adventure Videos on Youtube

Mario — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 14:44:05 GMT

I finally started pulling Videos of all my adventures on Youtube, i started by putting the last six videos and will be working on older ones soon. Mario http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akKzTEBnOEg

Vote NO on Prop 98!

Mario — Wed, 28 May 2008 19:00:29 GMT

It will get rid of Rent Control in the state of California and especially in Los Angeles! Vote on Tuesday June 3rd to defeat this mean act! I know for sure that my landlord will raise the rent and i would have to move out of Silverlake! Vote NO on Prop 98 this coming Tuesday June 3rd!

Sunday Morn: Lightning in a Bottle may 2008

Mario — Tue, 27 May 2008 18:57:44 GMT

I awoke the next morning ready for breakfast and a shower, i did some last minute shopping and bought a LiAB t-shirt, came back to the camp and started packing up. It went by fast! The Shuttle picked me up and took me all the way to my car! I left there around 1130am and stopped to visit a friend in Santa Barbara for Lunch and a quick visit to a couple of Orchid farms. I got home around 5pm, tired and ready to pass out. Overall, i had a great time at the event and next year might even volunteer to help out and get there earlier.

Saturday night; Lightning in a Bottle May 2008

Mario — Tue, 27 May 2008 04:21:42 GMT

After a great pasta meal at Camp, i went out to watch the Yard Dogs Road Show at the Bamboo stage, then Dancing to DJ Tipper at the Treehouse stage, the Lucent Dossieur show was fun and creative. I passed out around 1am

Saturday; Lightning in a Bottle May 24, 2008

Mario — Mon, 26 May 2008 18:01:37 GMT

I got up and made a special Bacon and eggs breakfast that tempted all my neighbors over to chat! I spent the day shopping at the Vendors area, visiting the Temple and taking pictures. When i got back to the Camp, i took a long nap because i knew the night was going to be long!

Friday Night Lightning in a Bottle May 2008

Mario — Mon, 26 May 2008 16:55:30 GMT

I spent the afternoon at the Orchid Lounge watching the rain, listening to the drum circle, belly dancers and drinking Mayan Hot chocolate. I made a nice steak and potatoes for dinner back at camp; then went dancing at the TreeHouse stage, it rained lightly but that didnt bother me or anyone there.

Thursday & Friday Lightning in a Bottle 2008

Mario — Mon, 26 May 2008 16:21:45 GMT

I left work at 2pm for Santa Barabara, a two hour drive, luckily there was no traffic and i got there on time, just when the gates opened. Even though the gates just opened so many of the good spaces were taken already? The weather was over cast but that night turned cold and on friday morning it started to rain. I was camped in the Brocoli Patch because on the some of the gay postings that was were they were going to be at. I was close to the Treehouse stage, so some nights the music keep going until 1230am, but not that late. But It was LOUD! I had brought my canopy and that gave me a nice dry area to sit and watch all the people and activities around me.

Moonbow Camp's Mutant Vehicle Project

Mario — Wed, 07 May 2008 21:11:59 GMT

Last night, Ron bought a small ultility truck to make into our First ever Moonbow Camp Mutant Vehicle! I thought of a small pig or a unicorn that lights up and shoots lasers! This is his project and he'll submit all the bloody paperwork before deadline!

Magic Mountain on Saturday May 3rd

Mario — Tue, 06 May 2008 18:12:16 GMT

I went with Jeff, Ron and Patrick on Saturday to Magic Mountain for our Birthdays, a ending to all our birthday week celebrations! Tatsu the roller coaster was my favorite!

LA Times Festival of Books weekend, April 26th and 27th. 10am to 6pm

Mario — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 16:09:49 GMT

I'll be representing the store playing the Crystal Singing Bowls at the LA Times Festival of Books all this weekend, from opening to closing at our booth. It's being held at UCLA and i'm really looking forward to it this year!

Yosemite Camping Trip!

Mario — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 23:52:06 GMT

It's coming up fast! Here's a pic of the Falls on April 16th.

Moonbow Camp is Listed!

Mario — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 21:13:23 GMT

Hooray! They got the Theme camp application, that took me all day and until 1am to finish plus send in to Burning Man. We're listed on the official website of Burning Man under the tab Theme camps; and i'm so Proud of our Camp! An in one months time, we're all be Camping in Yosemite watching out for the Moonbow! i'll take tons of pics of all us under Bridalveil falls!

Boycott the Olympic Games and their Sponsors NOW!

Mario — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 18:23:46 GMT

I've finally decided to officially boycott the Olympic Games, television shows, and its sponsors (boycott CocaCola, MacDonalds,Kodak, Panasonic, Samsung), to show support for Tibet and help spread the word about the imperialism and violence of the Chinese towards Tibet! DO NOT watch the Games on TV, turn it off or change the channel. I read the news today, and i know some Tibetans personally that have been abused by the Chinese so that helped me make my mind up about the Olympics and their support of a Communist and suppressive government. So ACT now, spread the word and turn off the TV, save your money and suppport Freedom in Tibet! You too can make a difference!

Ammachi's DeviBhava on June 20th, Friday, at the LAX Hilton

Mario — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:59:55 GMT

I took June 20th off to go see my Spiritual Mother, Ammachi for her DeviBhava Event at the LAX Hilton. It's a fantastic event, with her Hug and all the festivities going on. I highly recommend you see it! Get there early, at least 5,000 people show up for it and to get a hug from Her.

KarunaMayi Ma at the Hindu Temple in Malibu

Mario — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:55:39 GMT

I'll be there on tuesday 4/8/08 for her individual blessings from 8am to 1pm, a great spiritual place to meet a guru.

LA Burner Gathering

Mario — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 00:08:43 GMT

Last nights Los Angeles Burning Man gathering in Van Nuys was fun and very hospitable. I enjoyed everyone wearing strange hats! Looking forward to attending the next one and meeting more people. thanks to our hosts!

Moonbow Camp Submitted our Plans!

Mario — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:24:58 GMT

Last night late, i submitted our Theme Camp plans and layout after working on them late into the night! Very Exciting! Our Camp description: When the Full Moon shines upon Yosemite Falls, the Moonbow there, creates a special place of reflection that represents America's great parks and Nature. We're campers and activists that will bring todays Gay Pride to BRC for America's growing community. Our theme is "Our Gay American Dream" Physical Description: -------------------- Large public center space for meditation/yoga/music performance, gathering and communal space. Created by the awnings on RV's and Shade coverings over central area and four small tents for sleeping. Generators located in RV's for limited use and sound, plus outside solar panels. 4 small standing art installations in front with lighting and signage in the front. A shower area and solar powered water fountain evaporation bin. In the back, parking for bicycles, mutant vehicle and any other small cars. Interactivity Description: ------------------------- As a place for first timers and experienced Burners, to relax, rejuvenate, experience spirituality. As a second year attending, our experience and participation is as exciting and enlightening for a new year. We're presenting Singing Bowl Concerts, here and at the Temple, and Tibetan Yoga every morning, copper pyramids to meditate under, Whirling Dervish mobile Art peices in front of the camp and a large Parade. We'll be organizing and planning the first ever Gay Pride Parade in BRC on wednesday morning. The Parade will start and organize here and wind through the entire BRC. Project Interactivity: --------------------- ('barter', 'dancing', 'entertaining', 'meditation', 'parades', 'performance', 'performance art', 'ritual', 'ritual performance', 'scheduled events', 'sculpture', 'shared experience', 'workshops', 'yoga', 'primarily day time')