Hello from Houston!

[PepeJaramillo1]

Hello!!

My name is Pepe, I'm currently living in Houston TX and I'm starting to plan my first solo Burning Man in 2013. Just wanted to say hi to everybody!

I've been reading all the preparation guides and researched stories from virgins and experienced burners from past years, and I feel the best way for me to do burning man would be to be an actual part of it, either by being a volunteer or being part of a group or installation, be a part of the community. I have started trying to communicate with the regional group over here in Houston, but I also wanted to introduce myself here to maybe get some tips and what would make the best choice to experience the burning man culture as a virgin.

Feel free to contact me for anything, I'm an engineer with vast experience in electrical design. I have also planned to put my skills in Spark, maybe something will come from there.

Cheers, see ya in 2013!

[Savannah]

Hi Pepe!

Putting your skills to work locally makes a ton of sense. It's quite likely that you could get in on a local build/local planning.

Volunteer opportunities are also here:
http://www.burningman.com/participate/volunteer.html

Note: most departments rely primarily on 2nd year attendees (or older) because it's very typical for new folks to arrive at the Burn and either be overwhelmed by heat, altitude, or overstimulation, making them slightly less reliable than returning Burners. There's also something to be said for having greater freedom your first Burn (especially if you are committed to a camp, which I promise you: is already sufficient commitment).

However, Lamplighters is one of several exceptions, and pre-registration is not required. Lamplighting is a daily walk-up opportunity located typically on Rod's Road in Center Camp. Show up just before 5pm, learn how to clean and fill and carry the lamps, don a robe, and then be part of the procession either carrying or lifting the lamps. Several hours total and you're done . . . and then there's a nightly sangria party afterward.

Welcome to the board.

[illy dilly]

Aye Pepe!!!
Welcome to eplaya!

Under Savannah's point, you might also want to consider working an Ice shift or 2. They're simple shifts about about 3 hours long. You can either move ice from the back of the truck to the front of the truck, move ice from the truck to the cash reg, or work the register. Pretty simple, doesn't take the whole week or even a whole day, and its a ton of fun.

Though, idea we're both trying to suggest, is don't bite off too much your first burn. There is SOOoooo MUCH to see and do that committing your self to any major obligations will be difficult. Most virgins find its best to prepare-prepare-prepare then totally play it by ear once you're there.

[lucky420]

Hola and hello Pepe!!

and yes even simpletons can work ice

[Savannah]

[illy dilly]

and yes even simpletons can work ice

You mean, there's other sort of people that work ice?

[jkisha]

Hey there, welcome to eplaya!

[PepeJaramillo1]

Thanks a lot for the tips guys! I'll try to keep it light on the commitments then!

See ya next year!!

[dragonpilot]

But do connect with your regional folks! You may end up solving a lot of logistical issues getting there, staying there, returning home.

Oh, and there are also vol opportunities with the Center Camp Cafe...serving thirsty BM denizens a variety of caffeinated beverages. Shifts are 4 hours 3, 7, 11 AM/PM.

[gyre]

You can deliver mail.

The Pottie Patrol takes new volunteers.