Black Bear Ranch's topics - tribe.net

Merry Christmas Black Bear

2009-12-24T03:52:31Z

Goodbye and Have a wonderful Holiday season!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

GATHERING FOR PRESERVATION

2009-12-24T03:29:23Z

Gathering for Preservation

It's about that time..........
To gather. The fruits and the people.
To preserve the sweetness of all that has grown.
That which will carry us through.
To come together.

The Bears who are currently caring for the ranch invite you to come be a part of canning, bottling, and drying the many fruits at Black Bear Ranch. We are few. Together we are many.
If anyone is interested in teaching hands-on methods of preserving food, please email us at blackbearranch@gmail.com . Also, if you have extra equipment that might be useful, please bring it with you. We hope to be able to send some fruit home with you. Date to be announced.....
We Love You!! See you soon!!!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

Hello all you beautiful brothers and sisters!

2009-12-11T21:06:04Z

Ann-Marie here!
I have been able to fill in a few missing blanks here on my profile...like my profile, lol! I hope this will give folks at least somewhat of a basic idea of who I am.
Peace, Love, and Light!
Ann-Marie

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

gate house?

2009-12-07T19:43:46Z

How is the gate house?

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 17 replies

Hello Family!

2009-12-03T18:48:36Z

Just wanted to introduce myself and say hello to all of you kind folks! My name is Ann-Marie and I have been interested in BBR for quite some time now! My mother once told me about BBR when I was younger and I've visited many communities since that time. I have just recently found you and I am thrilled! ANYHOO...HI! :-)
Peace, Love, and Light
Ann-Marie

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Turkey Day Stuff

2009-11-25T06:17:51Z

Hey Folks,
Many have emailed about stuff to bring for the gathering. Here's a list of basics needed for
the gathering and other stuff as well that could be used. I've included
a list of things we'd like to have for some small projects if anyone felt inclined to
contribute such things.

Flour (white and wheat)
Rice (white and brown)
Sugar
Any kind of produce
Kitchen sponges/scrubbies
Copper Brillo pads
Active dry yeast
Dry cat food (Teala is spoiled now)
Garlic
Onions
Potatoes
Toilet paper
Candles
Rechargable Batteries (AA and AAA)
Screw in Type flourescent light bulbs

PROJECT WISH LIST ITEMS

Barrel stove kit (legs, door,flue extension to double barrel on top) for new stove in shop

Track lights (4 foot section w/3 or 4 lights on it) for corner over seating in front room

1 250' box of 12/2 with ground Romex electrical wire

Assorted outlet/switch/fixture boxes

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 8 replies

kitchen wishes

2009-11-25T05:52:20Z

i have taken notice that there are a few things in the kitchen here at BBR that have either broken or found homes else where. so i thought to make a list, here it is
mortar and pestel
large tea pot
canning jars, especially pints
larger pots, specifically enamel pots used for canning
larger measuring cups, ones that measure 4 cups or more
cookie sheets for main house oven, no larger than 24"x22"
maybe plates, i haven't exactly counted them yet, but i dont see as many as i once
remember

and that

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 7 replies

MAIL

2009-11-23T18:32:22Z

Anyone coming through Forks on the way to the ranch during business hours.....would you please stop by the post office and pick up the ranch mail. I'm expecting an overnight letter and it should be there.....listed as John Dietrich....Thanks, Thatch

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Turkey Day

2009-11-22T00:36:27Z

Hey Folks.......4 more days till Turkey Day......woo hoo! Looking forward to seeing everyone. We've got the sweat all ready with a ton of wood and the hot tub is clean and raring to go! There's a few little projects we'd like to try to tackle for those that want to get their hands dirty and, of course, we'd love to do a wood run or two (even though we've got a "mountain" of wood already in). I guess you can never have too much wood for the winter. Looks like the weather is gonna be gentle to us. The rest of next week it's supposed to clear off and temps should be in the 50's. Hope to see a million folks here!........Thatch

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

3 kind riders to Black Bear Ranch

2009-11-20T01:50:45Z

3 of us are trying to make it to Black Bear for Thanksgiving this year and we're trying to find a ride. 2 of us came up last year and had a really good time. We're trying to leave from the coastal Arcata/Eureka area on Wednesday the 25th in the morning, or tuesday the night before. We have gas money for the ride and food donations for the celebration. If anybody has any requests for food please drop us a line.

So if ya'll hear anything, or know someone coming from the coast, please email at misscommunique at yahoo dot com, or 707 832 8735. Thanks! We can't wait to come back!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

blackbearranch.org new website up and running

2009-11-09T19:18:26Z

Hey Bears, the website is up and running for all your updates on news, events, projects, storys, art , photos, ext... check out the old photos Pre commune time, very cool and intersesting.. as most sites , it is an ongoing venture changing all the time, we are still gathering content, art, stories, bear voices photos ( any one have old photos, send them to me please) relating to the Bear only please,
Yes indeed, Thanksgiving coming up..
cant wait, i most likely will be coming up toward the end of this coming week for projects and fun for around a week, unfortunaltly i wont be able to stay for thanksgiving boo hoo,, i want to thank the folks up at the ranch for keeping the love vibe happening, the bear is a special place, were all so fortunate. I cant wait to get up... looking foward to seeing you all.
Peace out
Davey

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

greetings!!

2009-11-08T20:00:59Z

hello bears!! wanted to remind everyone how much i love them!! you guys rock!! also, curious whose coming up for thanksgiving??wondering which lovely faces i can look forward to seeing!! hoping all is well with everyone out there... things here are magical as always... missing you all!!! love love love!! tadpole!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

From Theorhetical

2009-10-30T20:34:42Z

Hello all you Bears. This is Theorhetical.

Sorry it has taken me so long to write since I left, starting right when I left things went from bad to worse and then worser still, and I didn't want to write until I could actually say something, but every day my situation and my prospects changed, and I just didn't know what to say. Before I cover that, though, I wanted to re-address how I left. Firstly, I am very sorry about leaving the mess at the gatehouse, I feel really bad about it, in that, I think it may have given people the impression that I was like "fuck this place, I'm outta here", which is totally not what I was intending. It was completely inconsiderate of me, though, and I apologize to everyone there, especially anybody who had to clean up after me. I also want to apologize for how I basically disconnected from the Bear once I got word that my friends were in trouble. It really ruffled my feathers but I think I gave off the impression that I did not value the people who were right there at the ranch. It may not have shown but I was really falling in love with everybody there, and I miss you all very much. I'm not an easy person to get to know, and I'm sorry about not being more open and communicative, especially toward the end of my stay. One of my main personal missions for being there was to change these character flaws that make me so difficult to communicate with, but once a little bad news came for me I reverted to my normal routine of isolating myself and doing things on my own.

So, my intention when I left was to just get back to Portland, find my friends, tell them about how absolutely wonderful Black Bear is, and then bring back with me. Well, getting back to Portland became a nightmare ( I strongly suggest that you never enter Redding unless you know, really know, that you can get out ). I was completely ripped off for my books, 45 dollars for 213 books. I was then stuck there for 2 and a half days, which left me with about 25 bucks by the time I got to Portland. This made it absolutely essential that my friends come back with me, or at least bring me back, but, truth be told, I've lost those friends. As some of you know, the reason they were in trouble was for drug dealing, a path they had chosen to continue with in stead of coming with me to the ranch. I figured it would be abundantly clear to them (now having been jailed, coming very close to spending multiple years in prison, and, in contrast, hearing from me first hand about this beautiful, amazing place where we could all be free, actually free, from all this bullshit in society, with amazing people, real people, not defined by money or products) that they had chosen the wrong path and were now being given a second chance to make it to the Bear. Unfortunately, I learned, instead, that they were really just humoring me all along. I'm not going to go in to the details, but, I pretty much lost out to drugs and money, and can't really say that they are my friends anymore. Anywho, this left me stranded in Portland, which is way better than Redding, but, still stranded.

So, I started to try and get some things, i.e. some money, together so I could get back to the ranch. Having started out with 25 dollars, things weren't going to be easy. I was basically completely dependent on my mom, who lives on disability, so there was nothing extra to put together for even a bus ticket. Having made the journey, and being it was summer time, I at first figured I might as well make it worth my, and the Bear's, while and get some crap job, pull in maybe a grand over the summer and come back to the ranch with some supplies, and, of course, some treats. Well, Portland has the worst job market in the country and, since I am homeless here, and have very limited choice when it comes to sustaining a job, I was shit outta luck. So, as the end of summer approached I figured I would just grab what I could carry, hop a train or hitch-hike, and somehow, someway, make it back. So, then my mom gets bad news. She's been diagnosed with Pick's disease, or Frontotemporal Dementia. Now, my sister has been taking care of my mom, who has been on disability for many years, but, it turns out that she, my sister, has been waging some sort of psycho-emotional warfare with my mom this whole time. My mom first started talking to me about it after she was diagnosed with Pick's, being afraid that as her mind starts to deteriorate, my sister would take advantage of her. Learning about all this has changed many things for me. The main thing is, of course, I have to take care of my mom for as long as I can, which has a certain absurdity to it, since I am homeless and jobless, but, until she is eligible for more comprehensive care - she gets a visit from a nurse about twice a month, I'm all she's got.

I'm not sure why I am writing at such length about all this. It is important to me that you all know that the Bear is important to me. In a short amount of time there I regained a lot of love for life, and the knowledge that the Bear is there has helped sustain me through all of this. I know I'm not the Bear's favorite son, or anything, but I do love the Bear. I have this dream every once in a while that I bring my mom there for her last days. She takes lots of medications, lots, and there's an on going joke between us about her using medicinal marijuana. She says that she has a hard enough time with her weight, the last thing she needs is the munchies. I never tell her that I'd rather she be 400 pounds and happy then at "a healthy weight" and miserable with side affects, cause that would make her cry, and she hates to cry. But in the dream she lounges about, stoned off her ass, and well, that's most of the dream. At any rate, she would never come to the ranch, she loves her TV, and it wouldn't be any fun for her anyway. I'm not going to leave her and am going to have to stick it out out here in "the world".

I would really like to stay in contact with the ranch and the people I met there. I'm really not sure what is going to happen, still looking for a job and a place to live, but if anybody wants a pen-pal, that would be really nice. I will return there someday, I know it, but it may be a long time.

Peace and Love to You All

Theory

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

I am curious, can someone please respond

2009-10-09T06:22:48Z

Is the Black Bear Ranch still a running commune?
If so, how would one go about joining?

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 3 replies

Hi

2009-08-31T19:07:08Z

I am interested in coming to black bear and seeing what it is all about. I am an outdoors man, a carpenter and have a degree in culinary art. I am more than willing to pitch in. If someone has info on how to get involved let me know please. Thanks, Adam

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Wild Bear sighting,, a must SEE

2009-08-30T22:43:48Z

wow , check out my latest photos, i just uploaded 3 pics of this wild bear i saw in santa cruz,, crazy bear wow..

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

on our gathering...

2009-08-25T20:28:09Z

you are all beauttiful, powerful spirits, and i thank you all for sharing your love with us!! please come back anytime. i love you!! tadpole n irie!!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Rhonda (Holmes Hart-Davis) Teddy and Guy are going in to the Ranch in a few days.

2009-08-23T06:13:38Z

We're driving along the coast. Probably get to BBR on the 24th or 24th--this coming week.
If you need a ride, get back in touch here soon.

Cheers, Rhonda

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

pam and baby need ride from somes to bbr...

2009-08-21T17:29:32Z

i am looking for a ride to the women's gathering this weekend, saturday would be ideal but i will go when ever i can get there! please realize we may need to stop to nurse my adorable little boy once in a while...hope you can help us out!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

HAPPENINGS

2009-08-18T04:47:11Z

Things are great at the Bear! We have an abundance of good food......we're eating out of the garden every day. All the ditches are flowing good and our water systems are working fantastically. Travis and Beau have built more compost bins and turned the huge pile of horse #%@$ in the corral into them for some great soil this fall. I completed a brickwork ring around the dome of the greywater system. There's been numerous wood-runs here this week and the punky is full. We've got 2 truckloads of wood over at the sweat lodge for the Women's Gathering as well as wood piled up for the hot tub. Hope you ladies enjoy! There's 2 - 20 gallon tanks of gas at the summer kitchen for ya'll too. Clean up continues here at the ranch. Every person that has ever been here before comments about how nice and clean the place is.....we're proud of what we've been able to accomplish is such a short time. We're going to continue with the firewood to get the punky full by the kitchen and then start supplying each of the cabins. We've had an abundance of interested folks wanting to come to the ranch. I've been responding back to them with the guidelines/visitor policies that we hashed out at the last meeting. We're all totally stoked at the renewed interest that many folks (some new to us) and others from the river, are showing in the ranch. Looks like there truly is a new breath of air here and I'm thrilled to be a part of it (could this be the infamous BEAR SPIRIT)? We're planning a fruit harvest party for the near future as the apples, peaches, pears and grapes come on. More will be posted about this as the time grows closer and we get some of the details worked out (we'll probably do a big barbeque and folks can bring a dish....music, etc.) Well, that's all I can think of at the moment.............don't forget us.......we're still here!.........Thatch

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 5 replies

Anyone need a ride to Womans gathering Friday?

2009-08-18T00:32:14Z

I am driving south from Portland on Friday afternoon. I will go through Yreka, Enta and Sawyers bar. Please email me if you are in need of a ride I would be happy to pick you up! pisces_rock_princess@yahoo.com

Hopefully will be at the Ranch around 8pm. I can't wait! I will be leaving back North on sunday.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Looking for a ride to Black Bear for Woman's Gathering either from Bay Area or Humboldt

2009-08-14T23:44:56Z

Hi,

I'm looking for a ride up to Black Bear for the gathering next weekend. I live in San Francisco, can leave any day, and could bus up to Humboldt to meet up for a ride.

Solstice was a great first experience for me at the ranch. I'd love to share with the Black Bear Women!

Peace,

Lisa

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

sweet sweet rain

2009-08-08T01:03:36Z

Its been raining since last night, gotta be 2 or 3 inches by now, downpours every now and then but mostly a drizzle. most of us woke to a loud clap of thunder that shook the ranch at about 6 this morning. other than some rounds to check the water intakes people are mostly enjoying projects around the stove. we had steak and eggs and cheeesy potatoe pancakes for breakfeast this morning. oh sweet sweet rain

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

WORK

2009-08-07T17:03:07Z

To all Bears in the river community....I would like to find some work if possible. Monies are something we have to have here at the ranch for various things and I need to earn some. If anyone has any work of any kind for a few days I'd appreciate the opportunity to do it. I'll find a way to get to where you are and bring my bedroll.Thanx......Thatch

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

a quick note...

2009-08-03T17:00:17Z

just letting everyone know how truely blessed i am to be here with all of you beautiful people. i love you guys so much!!!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

lost son of black bear

2009-08-02T15:27:15Z

My name is Dakotta, I was a big part of the new out house,I Built much of the summer kitchen, I was a big part of the meadow cabin finally coming down. I did much of meadow kitchen and framed the cob house. I lived in the gate house. My daughter is Maya papaya. I miss the bear,I loved being there so much drama with my x that I haven't been back but the bear and it's children have never been far from my heart. My blessings go out to all of you. I hope it been a kind summer and all of you are well.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Magical Bear

2009-07-31T23:52:24Z

I just uploaded some pics i took last week of the bear and bear folks-
hot as hell but the pond takes care of that, ohhhh so nice, the ranch looks so clean, cleaner than ive experienced it ever- a big thanks to thatch for sticking to it and seeing the need for a clean bear and all the other folks keeping it welcoming and livable- i had a great time, everyone is groovying really good together, smilling and excited , inspired and grateful to be given the gift of what the bear has to offer. the main house garden is looking nice althou many a hours of crabgrass pulling needs to happen, grapes are starting to get full, this year the apples are going to be abundant.. rivers and creeks are still trickling but gettting low, chickens are producing and we added a rooster to do the rooster thang, i guess it helps the chickens lay more eggs. went on a fun wood run , almost died from the heat, but thoughts of jumping in the pond kept me going- there are 2 babes and 1- 4 year old that are about the cutest things ive ever seen, when i left there was about 10 folks living there, some visiting some wanting to be residents- and some well in my eyes are just plain Bear folk who find the ranch thier primary home, all enjoying the gift of the bear.
we had a meeting on the deck out by the pond- regarding "guidlines" ( more later on this subject)- lots of bear things are happening,, we are in the process of continueing what we talked about at the solstice- 'guidlines", systems manual, visitor policy, mission statement, newsletter, web site change,, lots on the table now for the bear, the ball is rolling and things are getting done.
all i can say is the bear means so much to alot of folks, i think i can say me and other BBR lovers do what we do for the ranch because of the Deep love and happiness Black Bear Ranch has given us and still gives us, it seems to be a never ending source of inspiration and appreciation- , my heart has exploded
and i hope yours does to
davey wavey

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

nurturing the Bear !

2009-07-31T19:59:34Z

Black Bear Ranch is a commune, firmly dedicated to non-violence in words and in actions. We strongly value open, honest communication, consideration and cooperation. The Ranch itself is owned by The BBR Trust, and managed and cared for by Trustees, Beneficiaries and Residents, to ensure the continuity, safety and wellbeing of the occupants and the land with its infrastructure such as buildings, fruit trees, ditches, water and power systems.

Currently we have about 4 women, 3 children and 4 men who call the Ranch home. This past weekend there was a meeting of residents, visitors and several Beneficiaries and Trustees, to continue meetings (begun at this past Solstice) to put in place some guidelines for people living or wanting to live or visit Black Bear Ranch. In the week prior some people were told to leave or not come back, simply because they did not integrate sufficiently in the Black Bear Family. At no point was there a threat of physical, verbal or mental violence, either coming from us or from the parties asked to vacate. Neither was there any question of confiscation of private belongings.

Since communication, openness and trust is essential to the Black Bear Family we ask that all people posting on Tribe use their real name, ask questions before reacting to or spreading rumors and refrain from threatening violence. We reserve the right to delete posts that we deem offensive and counter-productive.

We are dedicated to continuing, nurturing and preserving Black Bear Ranch, as we have for the past 40 years.

Janjaap

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

21st Annual Black Bear Women's Gathering

2009-07-23T16:43:40Z

21st Annual Black Bear Women's Gathering

August 21st, 22nd & 23rd

Hello Black Bear women friends it's time to go to Black Bear again. The Women's Gathering will be August 21st, 22nd and 23rd. Come celebrate the woman you are. Play, learn, share, write, make art or just relax and absorb Black Bear.

Bring musical instruments and costumes, writings and acts for the variety show Saturday night and the parade Sunday afternoon.

Bring art supplies, writing materials, hand pruners if you want to make a basket and anything you need to lead a workshop. Bring the ingredients for an herbal spa such as: creams, oils, honey, herbs, flower petals, clay, cornmeal or other exfoliates, henna, veggies or sauces to rub on the body, nail polish, body paint or anything the skin desires.

Bring a gift for the give away circle.

Please bring children! Girls and boys(mother's discretion) are welcome.

Bring camping gear, food to contribute to meals, a potluck dish for Friday or Saturday night dinner, lots of fruit for the fruit goddess.

Most of all bring your beautiful womanly self!

If you are planning to come please let us know so we can get an idea of how many we will be and coordinate food to bring.

Please bring a donation for Black Bear for the weekend.

For more info/directions Contact:

Allegra at leggyb@gmail.com or Geba at gebagreenberg@gmai.com

Remember, we are women, together we can make magic.

Hope to see you there!

Pass this on if you know some who might like to join us.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Date for Womens gathering?

2009-07-16T21:56:39Z

Hello,
Just wondering if anyone has an idea for the dates of the womens gathering at the ranch this year? I didnt make it last year, delays from the fire work parties..etc. I really would like to make it this year. Need to plan for it. I have two wonderful women that I might bring along. Thanks. Peace, Loves and Hugs~ Heather

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

HAPPENINGS

2009-07-12T13:45:26Z

We have chickens! 9 good 1 yr. old laying hens. We're curently collecting about 4 -6 eggs a day. I think they're just trying to get used to their new home. Seems like they're not too afraid of me anymore. We've had well over 6 days of 100+ weather and Marley Creek is dried up. Garden ditch and tank have had to have the full force of Argus Creek just to barely keep the tank full. Garden is looking stupendous though. The pelton intake is barely underwater. We've had to put the summer nozzle on the pelton wheel and keep the valve wide open just to keep the volts up to where they need to be. We've been having a good time in the pond most everyday and have been having sweats most everyday as well. Wood punky is looking good. A lot of seasoned madrone from a wood run at solstice has been split and stacked and hopefully next week we'll be going out for another couple of truckloads. Adam has been here a lot since solstice and has been a great help around the place and a joy to hang with. Brittany has been here also......and we all love Brittany with her positive energy!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Trying to contact current bears

2009-07-10T04:57:37Z

Hey ya'll- I came up and visited the ranch during solstice, and was suprised to find two of my friends living there, Ernesto and Doriann. I neglected to give them my contact info before I left so we could keep in touch! Ernesto gave me an email address to reach him at, but all the mail I sent to it got returned for some reason. If anyone who reads this goes to visit the ranch sometime soon, could you tell ernesto and doriann my email address? I can't think of another way to get in touch with them on the river. I'm sure they'll remember me. Thank you so much.

Jack
NewMorningChangingWeather at yahoo dot com

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

ode to the meadow garden~ .............. thanks davey for posting the pic of the meadow garden gate...read on

2009-06-24T04:14:20Z

Ode to the meadow garden.

I remember visiting you late one summer.......walking past the pond .... the wind wisping through the trees...... the coolness of a late afternoon breeze coming off the mountain.
Behind me the creeks gentle roar.......the bridge squeeks... ... the sweat lodge to my left..... i see the gate up ahead... green all around.... my feet climb up the path...

I enter..... the wind blows all the scents all around me ..... the veggies growing... ... i see the millit growing tall .. i see the water running down the side of the path......next to the apple tree............ the meadow cabin....... to my left........i sit under the tree........ i ate of her fruit....

oh the sweetness of those apples........ we pick it seemed wheel barrels of them that late summer...... bringing them to the main house...crossing the bridge......... dubble digging in this little field ...sowing food...reaping the harvest.... .. quiet........... the quiet speaks to me .... the tall grass's bend in the wind......... i hear someone blow the conch from the main house.......... a meal cooked with love......

a garden that was planted by all and for all with love, caring, gentleness, meekness, willingness..... she gives food to us.........nourishing us

looking out of the meadow cabin i see the apple tree... the water rippling by it......bubbling..........

night........ the day is closing ....coolness comes in to the meadow........... a fire roars in the little old oven..... candles light up the cabin....reflections from the windows and the light dancing around the room........ i walk out to the front porch ........ looking up above the meadow garden .......... the trees .... the stars...... the night......................someone blows the conch shell once more......... i walk down the little path with my candle that old bugler metal cigarette can...
i pause at the gate...
i look back to the cabin....and the light of the candle shining thru the windows...... ..........

..... .....i hear the creek, the bridge squeaks........ i close the gate..... my friends wait .. pond to my left........... ... i hear the voices from the past as they jump in........ the bridge swings as i walk... my candle flickers in the breeze....... main house glows of orange, yellowish lights.... music fills the front porch.....

the meadow garden peacefully rests and we live on

alex

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

ride to Arcata on Monday

2009-06-18T21:14:02Z

Ciao,
Is anyone driving to the coast on Monday from BBR or the river with room for a passenger? I'm looking for a ride for a good friend who hopes to come out for the weekend but needs to get back to the coast on Monday.

Let me know soon,

Thanks,
Karuna

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Meeting friday 6/19 noon

2009-06-18T19:00:40Z

we're gonna meet and talk about some guidelines for the ranch. Guidelines for visitors, residents and old bears.......well at least wee'll start the conversation.

see ya there!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

LAST MINUTE REQUESTS

2009-06-18T17:26:10Z

HEY FOLKS...THATCH HERE...GOT SOME LAST MINUTE REQUESTS......ASSORTED TEAS, WE NEED MILK (GOATS ARE OFF THE RANCH ON A PACK TRIP), COFFEE, COFFEE CUPS (THRIFT STORE?), LARGE GARBAGE BAGS AND A COUPLE OF GOOD BROOMS......THANX

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 8 replies

ride needed Bay->BBR june 18th,19th

2009-06-15T20:59:18Z

Hey folks, i'm flying into SF the 18th around noon, and want to get back to the ranch asap(maybe after a burrito). anyone going up ranchways on thursday or friday, i'd love to ride with ya, and can help with gas. call me: 615-477-0886 Happy solstice! -raymond

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

bear pics

2009-06-15T17:11:47Z

i added some more i just took last week.. its looking sooooo clean, in fact ive never seen it so clean,, thanks all you bears up there. see ya all soooner
the essence of the bear is to share.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

emily

2009-06-12T20:59:48Z

almost everyday i see a post from the person, emily, encouraging us all to be antagonistic. i feel it would be better to stop responding to these posts. i feel that these posts serve no purpose for positive communication, and are full of ill intention, so why respond?
i will say this, emily has encouraged the black bear family to once again intervene. thanks emily for reminding us all again and again why it is we love and care about the ranch, we will be back.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

Looking for a ride to Black Bear

2009-06-11T19:53:51Z

Hi,

My name is Lisa and am looking to get up to the ranch ASAP and definetly before Solstice. I live in San Francisco, can meet at any Bart Stop, traveling light and will help out in any way possible... I cannot wait, feeling the land so much right now.

Thank you all,

Blessings,

Lisa

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

SOLSTICE IS COMING SOON!

2009-06-11T18:07:23Z

Hey folks, John here. I was wondering who all is planning to come up before Solstice to try to get ready for it. As many of you know, we're a bunch of "new" Bears around here and I personally haven't got a clue as to what we need to do on our end to get ready for the event. Some guidance and help would be most refreshing. I look forward to meeting and greeting everyone that comes down the road....PEACE OUT......John

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 7 replies

NAME CHANGE

2009-06-11T18:03:45Z

Hey Bear Family.....We had a name change party for me last night here at the ranch. I will no longer be known as "John" but will now go by the name of "Thatch". Look forward to seeing everyone for solstice!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Coming to Black Bear

2009-06-10T18:47:12Z

Hi,

My name is Lisa. I'd like to come up to the ranch to get off the grid and regenerate. I've never been up there and am looking forward to how I can be part of. I'd love to know what I need to bring and can bring (food, etc for the community)

I've to come soon, at the earliest some time this coming weekend. Any information is appreicated. Looking forward.

Will be bringing musical instruments

Thanks Lisa

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Up to date Solstice news from the bear

2009-06-10T14:14:55Z

Hey Bears,, davey here, so here comes the solstice , everyone is excited here and is looking forward to this gathering. The place looks great, fruit trees showing thier fruit, garden looks great, folks in good spirits.
if you are interested in food items and other things to bring up , here is a list we put together.
fruits and veggies, assorted teas and coffee
butter, eggs cheese any meat products.
cooking oil and vinagar, dish soap
whipping cream
any nibble bibbles you want to bring; chips , dips ext..
soy beans ( the grain)
any garden starts,
some work clothes for fun and sweaty projects,
any propane in standerd 5 gallon tank
bring your circus act with accoutraments ( tools of your fun trade)
your Knowledge
a towel for laying in the sun after you have sweated and jumped in the pond <yehhhh
wood chopping and carrying skills for calorie burn
musical instruments,, arts and crafts
create a play to bring up,
maybe a dish to eat with,, we have alot but not 150
we appreciate organic food but we appreciate what ever you come to share with
if any of you can think of anything else please either bring it up or post it..
we will see ya sooner with open arms and open hearts and smiles

Im off to jump in the pond now.. peace and love
davey

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

solstice

2009-06-07T13:44:13Z

Wow a hot tub for my arthritis.

i have 200 pork burgers for those people who must eat flesh.

My last day of school is June 12, 2009.

My summer school starts on July 6, 2009

see ya

flo

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

SOLSTICE FUN & FAMILY

2009-06-06T16:49:06Z

Hey Bear Family...solstice is almost upon us...get eager about it, load up and come on up and see us. The weather is great and we all look forward to seeing each and every one of you. There's plenty of things here to do for those that want to do something...if anyone's interested in gardening then we could use your help....wood runs? anybody just love cutting, splitting wood? (BOB---we need to get the PowerWagon up and running). Don't forget about the great sweats...dips in the pond or a moonlight soak in the hot tub! PEACE OUT...John

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Bugs in the garden

2009-06-03T19:52:43Z

There are tiny, black, flying beetles eating to death the young potato and tomato plants.

Has anyone dealt with them before?

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

Solstice!

2009-06-01T16:00:39Z

Solstice falls on a weekend this year...... so I think it's safe to assume that the big day will be Saturday the 20th.

I think it'd be wonderful to do something together as a group on Saturday.

We're planning on being there from the 15th to the 23rd. We'll both be ready to dive into projects or just general getting ready activities.
I am so looking forward to seeing everyone and introducing our beautiful baby boy to you all.

I would be happy to pitch in towards a food order and we'll bring stuff too....any specific suggestions?

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 8 replies

black bear ranch newsletter

2009-05-20T00:08:18Z

hey bears, we are preparing a newsletter, if you are interested in one please send us your address at blackbearranch@gmail.com.
peace
davey

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Pixie's return ?

2009-05-19T18:54:28Z

There is a rumor/announcement/mention of the possible return of Pixie to Black Bear Ranch. I want to go hereby on record as vigorously opposed to that. Pixie has in the past shown such disregard for communication and communal welfare, that she was eventually told she was no longer welcome. Simply by the fact that she would consider coming back to Black Bear Ranch WITHOUT ANY FORM OF PRIOR COMMUNICATION , she, in my view, demonstrates a continuation of that lack of respect for and understanding of the communal aspect of Black Bear Ranch. The Ranch is not a place where any one who comes down that road, can simply do as he or she pleases.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 9 replies

GARDEN

2009-05-17T20:59:15Z

Well family...........our garden is coming along nicely...........big thanks to Mike for all his efforts there. We now have planted: rhubarb, beets, onions, kohlrabi, rosemary, lettuce, parsley, comfrey, celery, squash, radishes, carrots, bush beans, potatoes,chiles, sunflowers, garlic, corn and chard....of course, the grapes are still there as well as all the strawberries. All the fruit trees are in full bloom and the bees are a buzzin! Ray and I spent the last two days bucking up that massive old oak tree that was uprooted and fallen into the creek down by the Spiderdome, into stove sized pieces (there's a lot of freaking wood there). I've learned quickly to cut "uphill" and send the wood "down"! Its gonna be quite a chore to get all that wood up to the wood punky! Would be sweet to have the PowerWagon up and running....I gotta see that beast in action! Weather is great here once again. Has been for the last two days, and will be, in the mid-70s for the rest of the week.......great warm weather for frolicking in the sunshine without a stitch on! Mageline has really upped her milk production.......guess she was seeing to many people eyeing her more as a meal than a milk supply (she got the message quick)! We've got a few visitors here right now and we're thoroughly enjoying their company..........come on up and see us Bears!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 3 replies

FEELS LIKE SPRING

2009-05-07T15:31:35Z

After 4 days and 4 inches of badly needed rain, we now have blue skies. Life is in full swing once again here at the Bear. The creek is roaring and the birds are singing; the winds wisper through the trees. All the little streams are going full blast so I guess now is the time to clean out the spring box, pelton intake, etc. I'm learning quickly that with the rains, these intakes/ditches have to be regulated to the flow of the water or everything gets out of whack! Theory has done a wonderful job of organizing the workshop (you can walk around in there). Mike has devoted himself to the greenhouse the past few days and its a sight to behold. The MainHouse is super clean and organized and Ernesto has been taking care of electrical issues we have. Yesterday was our "heaviest" rain day and Dorianne made a big batch of jalapeno breadsticks, and sweet and savory loaves of bread......just the thing for a rainy day! I understand that the Bear owns a roto-tiller and that it was sent to Sawyers about two years ago for some repairs. Does anybody know anything about this? Who might have it in Sawyers, etc. Magdeline has been stingy with her milk....don't know whats up with her but she's hardly giving any these days.....guess she's having a goat depression or something. Anyway...."old" Bears.......come on up and visit..........we'd love to see ya.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

NAILS & THINGS

2009-05-04T00:05:14Z

I'm trying to build a few minor projects here this week and tracking down essentials is consuming about 75% of my time. Would anybody be willing to donate a 50 pound box of 16 penny common nails? They would come in extremely handy for a number of things.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 10 replies

new pics of the bear

2009-04-30T17:12:48Z

i just put up some new pics , check em out , thanks all for your hard work ,, that was fun, cant wait to do it again..
long live the bear

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

CHANGES

2009-04-30T00:03:05Z

A lot of things changed here (I think "Emily" has left the building!)....Those of us new to the bear are settled into our own little cabins and settling into a routine. We've had two productive meetings that were very cooperative and congenial. Many things have been done this week with the invaluable help of Dave, Hurricane Bob, Travis, Katie, Jesse, Kent, and Winn. Broken water pipes in the summer kitchen have been fixed, the greywater system has been completely dug up and cleaned out (it was clogged full), broken pelton wheel supply line blew apart and took almost 2 days to fix (we spent a good old-fashioned night without lights), alot more of the garden has been cleared and ready for planting, the garden ditch is open and all systems running great, kitchen stove has been cleaned, stovepipe cleaned and the hot water pipes replaced (old ones were caked solid (we have glorious HOT water!). Mud room has been tiled and includes a great inlaid mural of a Black Bear (what else would it be). There was a great weekend visitor named Trout, from a community over in Virginia. He pitched in everywhere and brought us a NEW rope hammock swing chair thats now hanging on the front porch. Cleaning and organizing is currently ongoing but things look great. Theres a very positive and happy feeling at the Bear right now. I personally look forward to meeting as many Bears as there are.....everyone has been great and I already feel as though you're all my family......come on up.....we'd ;ove to see ya! John

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 6 replies

EARTH DAY

2009-04-27T19:59:50Z

It's EARTH DAY. How sweet! Maybe if in the future all you Black Bear lovers would remember to recycle you beer cans, or at least not leave them at BBR everything will be OK. A little more concrete like in the mud room won't hurt THE MOTHER all that much and besides it will look so GRoooooovy!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 3 replies

the Bear

2009-04-24T04:10:42Z

hey folks,, davey here,, im up at the ranch,, its soooo beautiful, as always,, the weather is rather chilly at night but the days are awsome. the sound of the creeks and bahhs of the goats remind me of old times here for me. quite a bit of transistion is going to happen in the near future,, lots of folks taking off on thier adventures out of the ranch, new folks have come.
come up come up bears. we are having a meeting saturday about the bear,, future , projects, whatever anyone wants to bring up,, all are welcome of course. Any suggestions ( im sure there are).
we fixed the grey water system problem , so no worrys on that, it was rather gross and a all day project , kind of smelled like this pig farm i worked on in hawaii, it wasnt that bad,, just super funkey, look for pics of it later, thanks john, hurricane bob and bebe.
jumped in the pond today and lots my nuts for a while,,, but it was so refreshing .. come up come up ..
long live the bear
davey

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

kitty-kitty

2009-04-22T16:14:48Z

Otta caught the cat killing a song bird and cut off the cats tail to punish her.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 5 replies

Fixing the Barn

2009-04-22T01:37:47Z

John has pretty much laid it out in " tiling the mud room ". We need to support the upper story, remove the rotten support members from underneath, rebuild the foundation ( either concrete or rockwall or some combination ) and reframe the structure. Some more work is needed trough out the upper story, a lot of flooring repair needs to happen on the bottom. I don't know whether the old "grain bin storage with trap door" was removed. Basically the whole southwall needs to be cleared, as well as the entire upper floor. The floor boards on the south creekside corner need to be taken up so we can support the upper story all the way to solid ground. One big problem may be getting the required timbers: 2 18 ft 8 x 10, 1 14 ft 8 x 8, as well as various other pieces of lumber and timber. I suggest people start looking around for timber. Behind the Mainhouse by the spring is a downed, long, very straight Douglas fir, not super big, but possibly useful. Don't know quality or condition. In the past Monkey has also offered lumber for use, don't know whether that's still current, or if: what ? We will need a lot of timber and lumber just to support and stabilize the whole structure while working on it. We will need to raise some dough, it will require some serious hardware as well.
I will bring up some housejacks that we used for the remodel of the Mainhouse kitchen. They attach to 4x4's and make real sturdy units.
Who's game ? We've talked about this for years, the time has come.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 6 replies

NEED JUDY BEAVER'S CONTACT:911

2009-04-20T22:54:28Z

Justin, who is living up at the bear, has some serious sounding back problems and needs Judy's contact ASAP. Can someone post it and I'll try to rely it? Sounds like he is in pain and needs it immediately. Thanx, kat

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

How the grinch stole Black Bear

2009-04-20T17:03:23Z

Once in the land of the wonderous bear,
There sat a sad Grinch on a hard wooden chair.

In the kitchen the dishes were piled in the sink,
But there the Grinch sat, and what things it did think.

"How I hate all those hippies the small and the tall,
They're free love is just silly, makes no sense at all.

One thing I despise is they're big Solstice roar,
I swear that its evil. Though Ive never been before.

With there sweats and there salmon and parties and jammin,
all the noise, the noise, the noise noise noise noise.

Then they'll sit and they'll feast to the dinner conch call,
And clean up there messes with no asking at all.

But if its one thing I cant stand about there big hippie bash,
Its those hippies gathered round sharing the roast hippie hash.

And then the Grinch got an idea, an awful awful wonderful idea.

"I know just what I'll do." thought the Grinch in its head.
"Ill write up a nasty letter, and post it on the interweb."

So it thought up some lies, and it thought them up quick.
And over the keys its fingers flew, quick as a whip.

But the Grinch the poor thing, if only it realized,
The bear could not be spoiled by a few simple lies.

The lies were exposed and the truth was told,
And the Bears prayed the Grinches heart would no longer be cold.

Though you've disrespected our home, lets not be to rash,
For you, the Grinch, are welcome at solstice to the first piece of roast hippie hash.

All likenesses to any Dr Suessness is purely coincidental

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 9 replies

TILING THE MUD ROOM

2009-04-19T16:57:45Z

Dave.......I talked with several folks living here currently and they're all okay with my idea.........that being, since you're coming up this Tuesday, I'm gonna get in the mud room Monday and clean it out and have it ready for tiling. A bag of floor levelor might be nice.....mixes thin and finds it's own level. Happy to team up with you to get that project started/completed. I hope that folks will want to have a meeting in this next week or so. I've got two ideas for the barn and would like to get everyone on the same page for the way we're gonna fix it, etc. I've spec'ed out a materials list for (my) preferred way of tackling it. My experience tells me that its time to "de-hippiefy" whats been done to keep it standing and put some modern construction techniques and materials into a permanent fix. I'm a "list" person and have a long one prepared for discussion for those interested.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

WHO OWNS BLACK BEAR RANCH?

2009-04-18T18:34:02Z

My understanding is that you all believe that Black Bear Ranch is a little Paradise on earth; but except for people who are there now all who've ever lived there have left. For my own edification please explain to me individually why you left Black Bear Ranch.
Also I've read that you accuse others (Emily) of thinking they own Black Bear Ranch. Do you, Travis et al, think you own Black Bear Ranch? If not please explain to me who does.
For those of you who would avoid a public reply I can be reached at major.general9@gmail.com

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 3 replies

BLACK BEAR RANCH WECOME

2009-04-16T18:34:02Z

Someone erased the Black Bear Ranch gmail account so that it is impossible to have a private internal discussion involving the Greater Black Bear "community". Even then only a small portion of the people who've ever lived here would be represented. According to this extremist
Black Bear is unconditionally an open "community". Consider...

BLACK BEAR RANCH WELCOMES THE HELLS ANGELS
Fortieth Solstice celebration 21June 2009 of the oldest hippy commune from the sixties
To take place on private land surrounded by US Forest land.
Feasting- Drugs- Alcoholic Beverages- Naked Women- Live Music

or...

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 3 replies

gray water

2009-04-16T00:29:58Z

the gray water system is in major need of help. it is seeping up to the surface in front of the summer kitchen. so who really knows about it, who actually installed it? i am willing to work on this but do need input and direction, and help to of course.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

Hey hey hey who loves the Bear?

2009-04-16T00:28:43Z

I DO!
wow grey water leak , sounds yucky,, i dont know nothing about it but will help fix it.
Okay, soooo, im comeing up tuesday goddess willing, im thinking no longer than a week, i would love to tile either the cold larder or the mud room or both, i will bring up some more concrete or whatever is needed, i brought up enough to do the mud room last time, i will consult with janjaap again about the procedure,, ive tiled before ,.. possibly using cement board as a base as well.. anyway i heard the ranch got cleaned up somewhat , i mean what the fu... why was is soooo freaking filthy ,,anyway, THANKS to all you beautiful bears that came up i want to hug you all up , true bear spirit in action its awsome . Im really not sure who is living there now , whos leaving ext...
im not sure if regular meetings are happening ext... BUT
i would like to propose a meeting next weekend , kind of over all check in of possible projects, visions , gatherings, talk about the future.
anyone want to give me a yeh or ney or whatever on that idea...if so lets make it known to all the bears here and there..

okay also, i usually come up the back way thru yreka highway 5, but i could come up the coast way from santa cruz, either way let me know if anyone wants a ride , i have room in my van. also anyone that went up last time or folks there now have some idea of whats needed, please let me know and if i can swing it i will get it.. i know there are so many projects needing to be done, but i thought of one that would be great and its a squarish outdoor lounge platform all wood with wood poles above to give it shade and maybe use the platform wood from the meadow from that project by the meadow kitchen, ive seen some simple really cool looking designs,, just some thoughts.... oh ive got some thoughts about the ranch allright, and all of them are about loving it loving loving loving it... we are so blessed to have the ranch- a place that when you give its an instant karma get back, thats why i want to give give give to the place. its the best method to see the BIGGER view outside our small eyes, when we see from the bears eyes we are free,, thats what i know..

thanks ranch i love you
and i know you love me
there is only the beaming light
it makes me do funny crazy things
and i dont care
because im free
i dont know who i am at the ranch
because im lost, in a good way, in a really good way
when i look into the eyes of my friends who love bbr
and see the bear gazing right back at me- my
heart explodes, i just wanta love you all up!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

HIKING

2009-04-15T22:04:48Z

Well, I'm committed. I'm gonna be hiking into the ranch. If anyone would like to make the trip in with me, I will be at the Mote6 in Yreka from April 7 - 11, getting "geared up". Will take the county STAGE bus to Etna and then from there its a 40 mile hike down the roads. County road crews advise me they're all still closed up so it won't be an easy trip. Got GOOGLE map and decent directions...........would feel better not doing this on my own if there's any backpackers out there thats ready to try it. You can give me a call at 504-333-6306 HM or CELL 504-858-5189.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 13 replies

LONG LIVE THE BEAR

2009-04-15T04:31:45Z

hey bears,, im coming up this month in a few weeeks and i would love to tile the mud room , there should be enough material there now, i would also love to tile the cold larder where the food is stored,, that floor is sooo funkey and gets moldy ext... it would look cool , there is plenty of that red tile there to do both , just need more cement, grout ext.. for another room. . so any thoughts bears? it would be cool to get cut some shapes out to inlay in the floor, maybe some bears or whatever somthing artistic.. anyway im excited about coming up and working on projects and dig beds pull crabgrass, sweat , hike , play music and have fun....
i will post a few days before i leave, i will be coming probably the back way up highway 5 its much faster for me, coming from santa cruz, so if anyone wants a ride let me know and we can go up together. peace and love, and
LONG LIVE THE BEAR,,
davey

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 7 replies

IS THIS THE BEAR? WHAAAAA?

2009-04-02T22:37:43Z

Hi all, I just wanted to let people know what kind of messages are being sent out from the Bear- whoever is writing these doesn't have the gumption to sign their name, and I don't want to make guesses. I think that this kind of shit is making the bear unaccessible to the general public and isn't furthering the main goal of the bear (which i thought was for the bear to remain an OPEN community). This latest response was in regard to a man named John from New Orleans, who has been wanting to make this move for a year now- maybe he will or won't make it at the bear, but doesn't he deserve a chance? He felt that the Bear response was accusing, negative and he doesn't understand why people who openly hate on the place STILL live there. I dont understand that either. There are many other folks (a family from Portland) and some young folks from frisco that want to make the move to the bear and I want to help them because I believe that everyone should be given at least a chance- anyway, I have really tried to put my negative feelings towards the "intentional family" aside, but I still feel agitated when I hear about this kind of shit - even tho it has nothing to do with me, it has EVERYTHING to do with the purpose of the bear and therefore it does affect me because I am a Bearista for life (it's true, I just got BEAR LIFE tattooed on my six pack). Anyway, here is one of the many vile responses coming from the gmail account:

"black bear is extemely unstructured and anyone and every one is welcome and none can be forced leave. when the dregs of humanity: pedophiles, drug addicts, paranoids, bipolar types, hippys etc. show up there is no way to get rid of them. if someone runs amuck or any emergency arises there is no telephone service of any sort and you are on your own. it is strongly recommended that everyone coming here be armed to the eyeballs and bring lots of alcoholic beverages and hard drugs. it's when the downers run low that things get really weird."

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

visiting

2009-03-31T22:59:47Z

hi,

i'm a lesbian woman in my early 40s, my long-time partner and i are curious about visiting the ranch. if we were to visit, would we just come up the road, and stop where the road ends? i'm not much of a winter-driver, so i would definitely be waiting until late spring ...

thanks,

catherine

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

A few questions...

2009-03-31T22:44:49Z

I live in LA but I grew up in South Carolina... I miss nature more than I ever thought I would.
Recently I've been giving a lot of thought in to visiting an 'intentional community' with the hopes of
meshing well and eventually making it my residence. I heard of Black Bear by way of the '05 documentary
about the community's forming - It looks like an incredible place filled with much love.

How is work detail divvied up?
I'd fully expect to work during my visit, just curious.

What are the living quarters like?

How many people on average live there full time?

Are unannounced visitors welcomed?

Thanks a lot -

Gabe

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 2 replies

New connections...

2009-03-06T18:53:52Z

Greetings, I've been living in a community in Shasta county. I would love to connect with BBR. I am hoping to get the chance to visit at some point, to see your gardens and structures, and feel out how you folks live among eachother. Would someone be so kind as to send me directions?

:::namaste:::

~Melissa

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Bears in Winter...

2009-02-06T23:11:57Z

Howdy Bears, how're things on the hill these days? I was thinking of coming up the trail here in a little while, any special requests?
Hope things are well, and thanks for holdin' it down,
Ben

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Does anyone have info about G.A.T.S.?

2009-01-29T02:48:57Z

Hello, I've heard some rumors of a Guerilla Arts Travel Society that will be taking place at the ranch in 2010. Does anyone know anything about this; how to attend a workshop, or how to get involved??? I am currently residing about 3 hours south of Black Bear Ranch, and have never been there. Is it open to anyone? What are the types of things you can contribute while staying there? Is there lodging, or is it a camping type place? Yeah, I'm full of questions aren't I...

thanks,
loretta

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

Burning man?

2009-01-28T21:33:52Z

Hi, If the computer is working, could someone email me at work Sarah@srrc.org regarding whether someone needs to come up there to save the burnables in the Main House?
Sarah

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

hello, what's new?

2009-01-28T16:48:59Z

Lately often I think of Black Bear and the lovely people whom I've met there.
What news do you have, like who is there this winter and what are you doing?
How many people are living together and how are you?

Soon it is time for me to find a new home. Sure would like to be purchasing property with someone. Any one else feel that way? Seems like the best thing for me to be doing in 2009 is growing food and learning more about making portraits and films.

Does anyone know of an opportunity for a cook/gardener, artist/teacher on a farm or at a college or school, etc.?

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

Earthship on the ranch...

2009-01-28T16:46:26Z

Hello All,

I was wondering if it has ever been considered to start the construction of an Earthship at the Ranch? I belive that this could be a really fun project that everyone could help out on in one way or another. I would lobve to come in the Spring and start looking at devolping plans for one. Is that something that folks there would be into or have time for?

http://www.greenhomebuilding.com/earthship.htm

thanks stay warm!

Sticky

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

So many Questions???

2009-01-03T21:18:36Z

Hi ,
Im just curious how many ppl live at the ranch now? What kind of maintainance requirements do you have on the buildings there? Is there electricity, running water ect....? Where do you guys get your income from (donations I assume or work in the town). Do you feel the seclusion inspires you to love your fellow man or does it cause you to become even more distant from ppl who dont share your view? I live on a compound in Iraq with a grip of Folks with way different views than mine. (This is an understatement ) Im a liberal Cat in brainwashed self sacrificing republican territoty LOL.. Anyway my point to that last statement is Cabin Fever, Jealousy , Ego, and other typical negative human condition crap can set in very fast. How do you settle disputes? Im sure many ppl drift in and out of your lives. How do you explain the quote unquote rules to visitors? Does a leader emerge from the collective?
Thanks in advance for your patience in responding to my Giant Run on Sentence!
Aaron

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

black bear ranch

2009-01-03T21:10:11Z

hi i have been really wanting to take a trip up to black bear ranch and wanted to know if you could give me any information on visiting. mostly i'd like to know when i'd be able to visit if possible and if i could stay for a night or two. i've been feeling like i need to get out of los angeles lately and take some pictures while going on adventures. let me know if you have any information for me.
thanks!

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 3 replies

love

2009-01-02T20:37:07Z

I just recieved word that Catherine has passed on , even thou i cant remember meeting her i feel her energy, and it reminds me of the first day i came to the ranch in 1982 ish, to open arms ,to loving friendly folks, to wide eyed kids who never saw someone that looked like me with wonder , innocence and couriousity without prejudice. There was no check ins or pat downs there were just smiles and fun living to be done thats all. and that we did..those same folks still open thier arms to me, honestly i dont feel worthy, but i am soooo thankful so so very thankful for them to be in my life.they are my family as i feel catherine is in spirit.. i got a email from don with some words from Catherine tonight , i asked him if i could put them on tribe (below) he gave me the okay, they touched me because i feel the true bear in them words.

>( below is from don monkerud)
>Additionally, a brief excerpt from an interview I had with Catherine
>in March 1999... and it's not dated!
>
>Here's to the many fond memories that we all have of this wonderful
>and brave women.
>
>best, Don
>
>
>In Tribute to Catherine Guerra
>
>When I first came to the Ranch, someone tried to convince people that
>I was an undercover agent because I was so naive and looked so
>straight. Others thought I was an airline stewardess, but it didn't
>take long for them to change their minds.
>
>Actually, I'd been a cocktail hostess-complete with evening gown-in a
>club in Chicago. I'd come back to Chicago after a two-year stint as a
>Vista volunteer near Little Rock, Arkansas, where I lived in a poor
>rural area, organizing various programs. Everybody was Black.
>Although people were poor, there was an incredible sense of
>community, which gave ordinary people a sense of satisfaction that I
>couldn't find once I returned to Chicago. While working in the club,
>I woke up one morning and said, "I've had enough of this." With
>ten
>dollars in my pocket, I caught a bus to California.
>
>I'd grown up Catholic, very restricted, in a white working-class
>suburb where people kept their doors and windows locked all the time.
>There was no sense of ritual and no gratitude for what people had. I
>craved a sense of connection with other people, which I simply
>couldn't find in the city. I took drugs and increasingly sought a way
>to relate to people that was real.
>
>My arrival at Black Bear at age 23 (spring 1970) was pure
>serendipity. I teamed up with a woman I met hitchhiking who talked
>about communes. All I knew about communes was what I'd read in Life
>magazine, but two weeks after I got to California, I found myself in
>a logging truck on my way to Black Bear. We arrived in Forks and Matt
>Olson had nothing better to do than drive us into the Ranch. Somehow
>we got past Malcolm at the gate who told us that there had been a big
>meeting the day before and everyone had decided there were too many
>people: No more visitors.
>
>There were 60 naked people smoking dope and playing music in the
>front of the mainhouse when I arrived. People started coming up and
>hugging me. No one said anything, and I spent the afternoon hugging
>people. I was sobbing. I'd never seen anything like this before. I
>followed my heart, and it led me to where I belonged. Within days,
>people asked me to stay. I felt like I belonged from the day I
>arrived. I started helping out with things that needed to be
>done-cooking, cutting firewood and taking care of the children, the
>trucks, the gardens, the diapers, whatever-and I stayed six years.
>
>Although I'd never had the opportunity before, I discovered that I
>loved working with my body. I loved gardening and discovered that I
>loved children, something I'd enjoyed about my work in Little Rock.
>Some days I worked sunrise to sunset in the gardens, growing the
>things I love to eat, like strawberries and rhubarb, which later led
>me to get a degree in ornamental horticulture and start a gardening
>business. Caring for the children, and being responsible for them,
>gave me a strong sense of community-one of the most valuable things I
>learned-that led to my continuing close relationship to many of the
>children from Black Bear.
>
>Of course, I had to learn new skills because the only useful survival
>skill I'd learned in my life before Black Bear was sewing. But I did
>have the one necessary quality-lots of love inside me, very necessary
>at Black Bear.
>
>For me, the major communal event at Black Bear was the birth of my
>daughter, Fanshen. She was born in David's cabin, down on the River,
>in 1974, with Yeshi and Geba as midwives. Although only a handful of
>people attended most births, thirty people crowded into the room when
>I gave birth. I was fully dilated at 7 PM, kerosene lamps and candles
>were lit, and someone held a mirror so I could see Fanshen emerge. I
>pushed, a spontaneous OM rose from the group and the room filled with
>angels. After her birth, everyone passed Fanshen around the room, and
>she started sucking on different women's breasts. Ethan and Rachel,
>who were small children, stood at the foot of the bed.
>
>It is important to pleasure, support, nurture and serve one another,
>and we must not lose sight of each another. Black Bear opened me up
>to the importance of celebration and ritual in my life and showed me
>that lively, warm-hearted music is a wonderful way to start and end
>the day. Now, 30 years later, we still celebrate our collective
>vision and the sharing of our lives. It brings closer to heart and
>mindfulness those experiences that expanded my awareness.
>
> From a 1999 interview with Don Monkerud

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

Dave, or anybody that has recently been at the bear.

2008-12-19T23:34:03Z

How is the wireless hotspot doing ? Any issues ? I have not gotten any input on it so I'm in no-news-is-good-news mode. Word on how it is actually doing would be good though...... Thanks.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 5 replies

Geba and Allegra Reading poetry At the Humboldt Anarchist Book Fair Dec 13th 1PM

2008-12-09T21:34:34Z

Hi All,
Geba and I are reading poetry at the Humboldt Anarchist Book Fair on December 13th at 1PM. We will begin by reading work by Diane di Prima who we both study with, we read for her recently updated book "Revolutionary Letters", followed by our own work. Here is the schedule for the Book Fair, would love to see you there.

Humboldt Grassroots Presents
The 1st Humboldt County Anarchist Book Fair
Saturday December 13nd 10 am to 6 pm
The Manila Community Center
1611 Peninsula Dr Arcata
Contact: (707) 616 - 4700
Email: humboldtgrassroots@riseup.net

10 am: Lorraine Lablanc

11am: I-69 workshop

12noon: Manolo Callahan

1pm:Allegra Brucker and Geba Greenberg Poetry

2pm: IWW Union workshop

3pm: Roxanne Dumbar-Ortiz

4pm: Griz presents herbal street medic workshop

5pm: Jules Boykoff

6pm: closing

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

stove plumbing info needed

2008-12-02T05:13:33Z

can some one at BBR contact me regarding the diameter of the plumbing pipes inside the stove in the Mainhouse Kitchen ? I need to know whether it is 1 inch or 3/4" diameter. please contact me at janjaap@janjaap.com

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 8 replies

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-27T19:14:25Z

Do we know what's needed?

I'll bring 50 lbs of Black's flour and some delicious coffee and OG 1/2 'n 1/2.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 18 replies

Thanksgiving Roadkill Roundup

2008-11-24T05:57:23Z

Hello family
ROADKILL ROUNDUP!
If you are driving up to the Bear for thanksgiving and you spy anything small dead and furry, and relatively fresh, or a fresh dead deer, then scoop it up and bring it on down for us to honor it by eating it/making clothing out of it. If you bring roadkill then ask for Annie.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 0 replies

i'd like to come check it out

2008-11-10T18:49:44Z

how does one go about it....? anyways, i have some decent building/gardening skills. I feel like i'm looking towards the long term, but i dunno....peace love n light n stuff

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Contacting Aaron @ BBR

2008-10-07T02:11:40Z

Hey Aaron,
E-mail and confirm we're still on for house and garden sitting. Am I still expecting to pick you up in Yreka Friday the 4th or earlier? Let me know.

Cheers,
Kathleen

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Meeting and Work Fence Party Notes-and a few new pics of the fence going up

2008-10-06T04:56:42Z

Allittle over 20 folks came to the sat. Meeting Fence Party-
( below is my opinion only).
It was a long but needed meeting covering mostly , what the relationship is between the folks living at the ranch more full time-the older bears who still come up- the greater community around the bear that have interests in it and the welcoming of newcomers. in my opinion there shouldnt be a difference.
what was expressed by everyone gave much food for thought - I see it as a forever ongoing thing.
we talked abit about making sure that a groups dynamic still allows the natural flow of newcomers to simply and easily integrate into the community in a unstifled way.
in my opinon "welcoming" someone to the ranch wether it be a new person, older bear , or even within between long termers, is a lifestyle not a one time thing, its a continued joy to constantly reminding ourselves how fortunate we are that we have found this haven, I think of it as if ive stumbled upon ( every day) a Spitual Goldmine and i just cant believe it , and i want to express to others ,"wow check it out, pinch me am i dreaming this is the coolest place ever and it seems to be free all the time, i see gold everywhere, in the apple trees in the creek and pond, i see gold playing music with you... "isnt it cool to share this together, and wouldnt it even be cooler if someone new came up and would play with us to....
I had a great time at the ranch this time,, i cant wait to come back again, and i believe there is alot more room for discussion on many subjects concerning this haven we have been giving.... "thanks to the folks that stay at home" thanks for keeping the fire lit, and when i come back i cant wait to dig a bed cut some wood play a tune and dance like a lune. AND "thanks to the traveler" who still cares for the ranch and spreads its wings wherever they may go. the Bear never ends there....
check out the few pics of the fence we are putting up,, i personaly think the extra 2 feet above is to high and not needed unless jackalopes start to invade the ranch, but im with the majority on leaving it up as well,, , i dont think anything can possibly jump it. i also want to thank the folks that were involved in getting the fence and the person who paid for it. "THANKS",
after the 40th solstice was over i woke up singing this song in my head and put it to music but as just words i thought i would put it out.. here it goes..

Dream song after the Black bear ranch 40th solstice gathering 2008
Played with f,c, and g major chords- or whatever

I been all over and ive traveled all around
And I really really know what can get you down
But since ive been coming to the old black bear
The worst I can do is shed a happy tear.
Chorous:
So don’t you worry we will show you how to see
The wonderful life around the Black bear tree
It goes like this shaba laba luuu
Shan lama ding dong I love you

All you gotta do is look up high
All you gotta do is thank the sky
It really aint that bad if your on your back
Just open your eyes and it will all come back

So take our hands were going to fly high
Like the big wild sun and a yummy apple pie
I promise you’ll be laughing and howling at the moon
Skinny dipping naked and singing like a Lune

Chorus:

All you gotta do is dance like a bug
And run around giving everyone hugs.
It really really truly aint that bad
And it cures everything even when you’re sad

All you gotta do is maybe nothing
Sitting on a log to the endless something
There aint no rules for the wild bear
Grow your hair crazy and eat a funny looking pear.

remember that your from the stars above
That were all just star dust sparkling love
Now you’ve been pointed to your greatest light
Do the same to the person on your right, or left or there or here or wherever..
Chorus.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 3 replies

Next Black Bear Meeting Circle Workparty

2008-09-16T15:30:56Z

These are notes from geba on the last meeting im forwarding to all the bears, and to remind you all to come to the next circle workparty on sept 27th 28th starting at 10 am. , come one come all , put your wig on straight and dont be late. peace love and all that groovy stuff.. Dave

Black Bear Ranch Circle Notes

Date: August 30, 2008

Time: 4:00- 8:00 pm

Participants: (14 beautiful people)

Discussion:
- Check-In
Each person in the Circle took a turn speaking. We were asked to say who the speaker is, what each speakers relationship is to BBR, and share anything that the speaker would like to. We went around the Circle twice bringing up both practical and more personal and emotional issues.

- Next Circle - Decided that since a number of the residents were away and there were
others in the Family who had expressed as desire to have a Circle with a more complete
set of people present and also to have time to work up an agenda, we scheduled a
Circle/Work Day on September 27 and 28 at BBR starting at 10 am.

- Increase Communication/Interaction - Confirmed that we need to have more on-going,
communication, and interaction at BBR between current residents and the rest of the
Black Bear Family. Want to keep having work parties, circles, etc. at least on the First
Sunday ( weekend) of the month, if not more often.

Decisions/Recommendations:
- Need better ways to establish communication mechanisms for us so that
personal interactions are improved and rumors are relieved better. Many expressed
that the recent interactions and history surrounding the calling of this meeting, suggest
a need for developing better ways of on going communication between residents and greater Black Bear family ( physical work, social discussion and/or vision sharing, personal issues, etc.)

- Fence- Discussed using part and/or all of thebuilding fund money to buy metal
T-Posts and fencing wire to address the needs of the current livestock now at the Ranch
to not damage the environment, including our gardens, fruit trees, etc. It’s been pointed
out that T- post alone will not be strong enough for a long lasting fence, they need to be
interspersed w/ cedar post. This should be included in the inventory of what is needed
to complete this project (don’t forget gates).

- Recommended that current residents increase their frequency of comparing
notes more, work on conflict, and develop a more common vision that includes all of
the people there. How can we help this process?
“ The ranch is like an onion, the more layers you peel, the more you find.”

Next Circle and Workday:
Date: September 27 and 28
Time: 10 AM
Location: Black Bear Ranch

Draft Proposed Agenda
( People are invited/encouraged to add, make changes, etc, to this draft proposed Agenda)

1) Discuss actions at BBR by the residents that would trigger the need to include the
larger Black Bear Family. Utilize Trust principles such as – Living Communally;
Protecting the Environment-what is the impact of large hooved animals; Hunting. How does this Involvement of the Beneficiaries?

2) What does it mean to live Communally at BBR and how’s it going at the Ranch currently, is it inclusive or exclusive?
Communal- Animals, Finances, Division of Labor, Children, etc…
How to attract more children and parents & elders. What is the definition of a
“Safe Place” for people? What are the Legal risks- guns, hunting, county?

3) Decision Making Process - New People, Money, Work, etc..

4) Structure Maintenance (Barn what is the next step, how can we save the Spider D Dome) and what are the other preparation for Winter.

5) Intentional Community/Family- What Does It Mean?

6) Systems Management – Maintenance, Upgrade, Guidebooks/Instructions
Water - Power, Irrigation, House, Ditches-etc.; Fences;

7) Sanitation – Grey water systems (how to maintain & improve, mapping where they are), animal waste, where does it go, etc.

8) Other

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Fencing match?

2008-09-13T19:22:49Z

Howdy Bears, I was just wondering if there are still plans to finish fencing the main house area. The more advance notice that is given, the better chance that myself and other busy "old bears" will be able to make it. Hope all is well in bear land...

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply

Black Bear Ranch cam ????

2008-09-13T19:15:02Z

I was just thinking. Maybe a cam mounted on the roof of the main house aimed at the barn and connected to the net might help the outside world connect with the Bear. Having a visual on the Bear even just the barn and outside grounds from a single cam would go a long ways towards increasing the conneciton and hence donations of time, money, efforts and resources to the Bear. It would also help show road conditions in real time to those wanting to go to the Bear.

I could throw together a server that will keep tabs on the monthly bandwidth allowance of the ISP and limit the connection if it gets near the limit.

So what do you guys think ?

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

BlackBearHotspot wifi

2008-09-12T16:12:07Z

Blackbear wifi hotspot essid "BlackBearHotspot" is now up and running. I just installed a wireless router running dd-wrt that now shares the satelite access wirelessly via open hotspot. If your laptop has wireless the main house now has wifi love to share. Please note though that since downloads (read p2p) has been said to be an issue the router will block all p2p protocols. No bittorrent or other p2p love at this hotspot. I can't wait to be able to visit the black bear again !

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 5 replies

food producing animals and meetings

2008-09-11T20:54:10Z

as far as i see, everyone should cow up and take care of the ranch equally, who ever is living or visiting or just being at the ranch at the time, that includes equally taking care of the food producing animals no matter how they arrived, it shouldnt even be a thought to "who owns them", and anyone or group of folks excluding anyone from any food producing animal at the ranch is not communal, Period!
As for meetings,, there shouldn't even be a thought to who is invited or who might not be invited to a meeting,, if you live at the ranch , visit the ranch or whatever at the ranch,, everyone always without any reason is open to come to any meeting at the ranch and any meeting excluding anyone at the ranch is simply not communal. Period!

" to have the desire to recieve from sharing", thats proactive, thats freedom!
"to have the desire to recieve for self alone", thats complacency , thats fear!

open arms is the first gesture bbr has for all of us, giving is its nature.
bbr in my view and experience encompasses every form of communal idealogy and if folks outside in the default world acted just 1/10th of what we do up there, the world would change in a heartbeat to a more loving and beautiful world.
so whatever unperfectness thats going on up there, its sooo much more brighter than most places on the planet, so dont be so hard on yourselves are others .
its still an amazing most groovilish place, so dig it babies..
seeya sooners,
davey

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 10 replies

Meeting Sat. Aug. 30th

2008-09-02T03:16:23Z

There will be a meeting Saturday August 30th.

The more the merrier.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 5 replies

some nutz n boltz

2008-08-28T01:41:58Z

hiya everyone- i've been thinking about some projects and wanted to put the word out to get feedback etc. Okay so there are some problems with our systems- surprise surprise. The new water tank is doing good- the retention wall is almost done (it still needs to be backfilled with rock)- BUT there are two serious underground leaks above the water tank- they're coming from the channel and seem to be underground. One of the leaks i believe is coming from the underground section of culvurt. I havent yet dug up the culvurt because i havent found anything to replace it with if it is busted- does anyone have any materials or ideas for this project? Ok next problem: For several weeks the goats have been free-ranging and have done some serious damage to fruit trees and plants around the house. The goats are tethered again- but it kinda made me feel like the fence had to be fast tracked. I wanted more time to put up fences- and to be able to put them in with minimal help from the outside community but unfortunatley goats are all ready here eating the plant history- so i'm feeling like we need more help with the fences. I havent seen energy go into them for awhile now and i dont feel comfortable enough to spear head the project (i'm still learning).- so any and all help with that would be grand. I havent checked out the summer kitchen grey water system- but it is apparently disturbed- possibly broken- after we excavate that one i'll give a better report on what the issues are with that system. Does anyone have some old but sturdy doors they want to donate to the ranch? Our chicken coup door is sagging and a ring tail or something has been killing our chickens- we have the old door hippie rigged and it will work for know but if anyone has an old door laying around (that is in a solid piece) we gladly come get it if you're in the local area. Sorry this email isnt very exciting or trashy- which seems to be the tribe standard eh? But really- cant we spend some time talking about the crumbling bear and how we are going to fully restore this beautiful ranch? P.S. there is 3000 now in the building fund- maybe a timeline for the barn or whatever the next big project is should start getting going? :) Miss Kitty

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 9 replies

Open letter from BBR residents about gathering.

2008-08-21T19:08:24Z

This is a letter written in response to a communication we received from Allegra about the women's gathering. We have chosen to post it openly here for the BBR community to read.

August 10, 2008

Hello Allegra and all those indirectly concerned with the women's gathering,

This is a letter attempting to represent the varied perspectives of many people here, as clearly and comprehensively as possible. Six of us, with various gender identities and roles, have held conversations to make a statement possible. We do not intend to represent every person here.
First of all, we would like to acknowledge what we have heard and perceived thus far from previous interactions and letters. We were under the impression that we had consciously brought up our concerns about male-bodied parents (Kit and Josh specifically), and the support they provide to their partners, with Geba and Karuna. We trusted Geba to bring this to other people involved, and we suggested some strategies that might help with the process (which possibly started the “men are intending to stay” rumor). We did not receive any communication until the past few days, although we have simultaneously become aware that others are also concerned and having discussions about this, without necessarily engaging us directly (ie: via tribe.net). We have received direct emails from Allegra, to whom we would like to respond.
We hear that Allegra has offered her and Karuna's support in caring for Finley, the suggestion that there will be other childcare available for the twins, and that there is willingness to maintain the animals and garden too, given our ability to share the methods we are currently using. Most importantly, we also hear a very strong desire to maintain the tradition of a space here at BBR kept solely for women, once every year. We sense that this tradition is extremely important to some people. We also strongly encourage you, or anyone, to tell us more about what this gathering means or represents to you. This would help us understand where you are coming from and more about the gathering itself (its story, rituals, traditions, etc.).
We would very much like to let you know what responses this has elicited from some of us here. First of all, there is no desire to break any person's traditions, or impose male-bodied people onto a space intended only for female-bodied ones.
Earlier, we felt hopeful and grateful after our conversation with Geba and Karuna. We felt heard. We were hopeful that conversations would begin and that we could come to agreements to meet all of our needs. And we were grateful to Geba for taking on the task of communicating with others.
After the emails from Allegra, and the tribe.net postings, there was a lot of confusion, resentment, anxiety, and urgency. Confusion around the terms “rumor” and “grapevine”, when we thought that we had openly attempted direct communication. Resentment that we were not directly communicated with until now. Anxiety about not knowing if we are being talked about, judged or labeled. Really nervous that we haven't been heard. And urgency because we still want to have communication about this before the actual event, which is very, very soon. There also are feelings of gratitude for Allegra's offer of childcare, for the expressed willingness to support animals and systems here, and for the direct communication from Allegra. Thank you. Along with that, there are feelings of distrust and anger, as it seems to some people here that you might not actually know the extent of kid-support needed, or what that support looks like. We really want to be included in formatting that support.
These feelings are signals of some very urgent needs that we don't think are being met for us yet:

-We need to be seen and be heard and we want to have our perspectives acknowledged as individuals and as residents of BBR, without judgments.
-We need inclusion in the agreement-making concerning our lives,children, and home.
-We need support as parents and want acknowledgment of our current strategies for meeting children's and parents' needs.

Some strategies* for meeting everyone's (residents' and gathering attendees') needs that we wish to suggest are:

-During the gathering, complete agreement for male-bodied people to remain absent from the areas of the Ranch that will be used for the gathering.
-Kit and Josh (as parents) camping out at the Gatehouse, or preferably, at the Upper Gulch (where the children/parents currently reside), in order for them to be available to their families for support. (Kit is not planning on being at the ranch during the gathering unless an agreement is made before hand. Also, because the twins require at least two people to bottom line their care (i.e. place their needs first), at all times, 24hours a day, and because Drea and the twins have not established trusting relationships with any of the participants, she feels she cannot remain at the ranch without Josh being available at the Gulch or Gatehouse.).
-To have space for parents and interested gathering attendees to discuss what kid-support is actually needed.
-For some people to come to the Ranch early (day before?) to have a “run-through” with our current animal-related chores, as most of the animals' caretakers may be unavailable.

*As “strategies”, we are open to other suggestions which you or others may have. These are not demands.

Our apologies for the formalness of this letter. We are finding it very tricky to incorporate several people's perspectives into a single group statement. Hopefully this letter will help resolve some of your, and our, concerns. We welcome you to respond as soon as you are able, as the gathering is coming so very quickly.

Drea, Amber, Josh, Kit, Joe and Mike

P.S. We would also like to suggest, independent of this note:

-Future conversations (in person) about establishing healthy communication amongst all of the people associated with BBR.
-Conversations about goals and expectations for BBR.
-Conversations about parenting, families and kids.
-Conversations about gender issues (gender identities, sex, privilege, roles, breaking binaries, etc.).
-Conversations about strategies for future women's gatherings. Specifically, some of us have participated in women's gatherings elsewhere that have given men the responsibility of childcare for all the women attending. In this way these men were able to stay close and connected to their children, as well as supporting the need for women to come together independent of men or children.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 14 replies

how can i get involved?

2008-08-21T17:40:48Z

i've always been interested in intentional communites. how can i get involved with black bear ranch? would i be welcomed with open arms?

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 8 replies

Eugene----> BBR

2008-08-21T05:59:00Z

Help me to get to BBR via Eugene OR. I live right off I-5. This will be one way trip. I feel I am putting all of my eggs in one basket here. Leaving a fiencee of 8 years and a a beloved golden retriever. I won't have but one or two bags. I will be ready to leave in a few weeks (maybe a few days). I have lots to offer but no car to get it down. For instance I'd like to bring my indoor gardening supplies but may need to leave some things behind. I would also like to bring a farm animal.

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 4 replies

the men must leave!!!

2008-08-12T17:07:34Z

As one having been born at Black Bear Ranch and returned so many times, I have never heard of any Man staying at the ranch for the women's gathering and why should they? it's not there time. I can find no reason why one would stay, as far as I know there are only a few goats, two horses and a cow, and there are so many Women heading that way that have years of experience with animals at the ranch, nothing can be harmed buy the men leaving.

Is it not nice to go into the wilderness for a few days? it's not too far away and it's wonderful.

I really hope there can be a man free black bear for this weekend without any fuss, because the ranch belongs only to every women for just these few days, not to the men who are currently making it there home.

- Windfield

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 6 replies

What is Black Bear to you?

2008-08-10T21:23:47Z

Black Bear is sacred to me
Birth place
Heart place
where I go most often in my dreams

Black Bear is in me down deep
I bleed Black Bear each month
I wear scars of Black Bear
on my fingers my toes my chin
I am Black Bear
though I no longer liver there in body
in spirit I am always there

Black Bear is so familiar
yet I can go there and discover
things I've never known
Black Bear is my home
among many homes

We are a family spread across the earth
connected by a place deep in the mountains
a place deep in our hearts
called Black Bear

posted in Black Bear Ranch - 1 reply