[MESA, ARIZONA] :: Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Tempe and Mesa is one big, sprawling megatropolis in the middle of Arizona. Like LA, the car and the freeway are an integral component of its character and development. It has three area codes and requires 10-digit dialing, even to call your neighbor. It will probably continue to grow across the desert floor until the water and power runs out.

[05.19.01 MESA, AZ] More art joins the gift stream. [BIGGER]

There is strong concentration of 'burners' here. Perhaps it's the proximity to Black Rock or a certain level of comfort with the desert conditions at Burning Man. I brought the Silver Seed to a stop at a house in Mesa, where an all-day (and most of the night) gathering was planned. At the front door, a sign read; "WARNING: Beyond this point you will encounter nudity. Please do not proceed if this is offensive to you. Posted per A.R.S. 13-1402a". Inside, a diverse group welcomed Danger. Out on the backyard patio, food and drink were in abundance, videos of Burning Man were playing on a large screen, and a table loaded with art supplies and various materials encouraged creative participation. During the course of the day, a collection of empty mint tins were artistically decorated and will be joining the gift stream. Other items, including several bars of hand-made soap and long strings of beads were also added to the downstream offering. The evening was filled with lively discussion as playa veterans and virgin burners told their stories past and their future plans for Burning Man.

[05.19.01 MESA, ARIZONA] Greg, Gary, Carlos, Pammi, Cathy, Scotto, Grover (our host), John, Cory, Naked Mike, Lisa.

The highlight of the evening was the burning of a life-size wicker reindeer.

-Danger Ranger

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