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Wheatstalk 2007

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Wheatstalk 2007 Diary

Friday, June 15

  • Nothing happened and no one arrived. Great fun was had by all!

Saturday, June 16

  • Jim put up a sign welcoming Cate. That was the highlight of the day. Wheatstalk 2007 is all downhill from here.
  • And then Half-Pint and Mischievous Pixie stopped by and set up the 3-Blind Mice stage
  • Jim drank 3.5 beers and is partied out again for the next 6 months.

Sunday, June 17

  • Jim takes a shower to clear head from massive blowout party last night where he drank 3.5 beers with a huge crowd of ... well, by himself actually. So far, Wheatstalk 2007 is shattering all previously set attendance records. Some people might arrive today but will probably leave quickly thereafter. smile
  • A huge carpool event is taking place this afternoon as participants head down to Palmer to see Antje Duvekot. In other words, Jim is driving down to Palmer. He'll probably buy a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread while he's down there to share with the hoardes of festival-goers now in Talkeetna.

Monday, June 18

  • Jim wakes up to see JohnA and KarenA arriving in their car --- but they report they really arrived at 2AM and slept in their car!
  • Big Tom arrives at 11AM on the train from Anchorage!
  • Lost, HalfPint and Mischevious Pixie spend time visiting with us this afternoon and then we all went to Mountain High Pizza for dinner.

More Days Coming Up:

Tuesday, June 19

  • We woke up. We drank coffee. It was a gorgeous day.
  • JohnA and KarenA went on a trip to Hatcher Pass. Big Tom and Jim went to Nagley's and drove down Main Street. It was another day packed full of huge amounts of activity! smile Well, we did get in a lot of good computer time. cuadro1
  • Irina Rivkin performed a very cool impromptu concert using a loop box - one of the most interesting, beautiful and effective uses of technology ever at WWR.
  • We all went to bed (in separate beds as I remember it)

Wednesday, June 20

  • Esther returned from song camp and brought musicians back with her.
  • Emily Elbert wins the hearts of Wheatheads EVERYwhere!

Thursday, June 21

  • The Hoppers are scheduled to come so Cub arriving will be the highlight of Wheatstalk 2007.  :-) Rumor has it that RickHap and FishTaxi may be in Talkeetna area this time too?

The highlight of Thursday WAS the Hoppers arrival with food galore! Cindy arrived and as was her wish to NOT be looked at as a lush, she brought cheese puffs, a half-rack of beer AND the all important TP for the gals!

Because the Hoppers and Cindy are considered "locals" Jim decided they didn't need their names on the Welcome sign. But surprisingly their names were on the goodbye sign. {WTF?}

Music was played by Esther, Em and Robin. They sang outside in the thunder and lightening while their faithful listeners, watched them from the security inside the Wheat Palace and close to the beer. :)

The little cabin was designated the "hen house" where all the women-without-men slept...without snorting or farting to sooth them to sleep.


Friday, June 22

Friday morning started slowly but again with the Hoppers filling our stomaches with good food! Afterwards Jim and others hauled down the baZILLION CD's he's got in storage and organizing happened! whispers~~okay, so many of the CD's were moved to other venues, homes of those sorting, to be enjoyed and loved.

Sunday, June 24

  • Ugh. What happened to Friday and Saturday? It sure is quiet around here... (more later)

Incredible Photos

Complete photos from June 16
Complete photos from June 17
Complete photos from June 18
Complete photos from June 19
Complete photos from June 20
Complete photos from June 21
Complete photos from June 22
Complete photos from June 23
Complete photos from June 24

Time to get the party started!

Jun-16-2007 14-31-36--5198.JPG

Thanks to Cate for making 2007 a resounding success!

Jun-16-2007 17-32-50--5207.JPG

So Lost makes 3 Blind Mice appear!

Jun-16-2007 18-49-02--5216.JPG

Crowd control is going to be difficult this year

Jun-16-2007 19-24-34--5217.JPG

Jim continues to set new Wheatstalk popularity records

Jun-18-2007 11-56-52--5269.JPG

KarenA and JohnA arrive!

Jun-18-2007 11-56-48--5267.JPG

Big Tom arrives via train in Talkeetna!

Jun-18-2007 15-15-12--5273.JPG

Half Pint's Thought For The Day

Jun-19-2007 18-00-02--5295.JPG

Irina Rivkin gave a very cool impromptu concert with looped vocals that made it sound like there were 2 or 3 beautiful voices in the air

Jun-19-2007 18-02-14--5297.JPG

Irina Rivkin

Jun-19-2007 18-22-35--5321.JPG

Irina Rivkin

Jun-19-2007 18-42-26--5323.JPG

Irina Rivkin with Jim asking her some questions. She is highly allergic to some of the building materials so the creative solution was for her to sing outside which she graciously did - right before a big thunderstorm hit

Jun-19-2007 18-12-54--5314.JPG

Dave Harrell, who is indisputably the coolest builder in the entire Su Valley, politely stopped making smashing noises and drill sounds while Irina sang

Jun-19-2007 17-56-08--5296.jpg

Couchsurfer Carroll who is making a very cool journey across North America, came for the night and decided to spend a day or two because we worshiped her Mactop

Welcome Packet

Image:Jun-10-2007 10-15-58--5143.JPG
Welcome to Wheatstalk 2007

(under development ... just a place to put ideas that maybe I'll flesh out but, knowing me, probably not Jim 10:00, June 10, 2007 (AKDT))

  • This is bear country. You probably will not see a bear at the Wheat Palace (I have not seen any). But the potential always exists. Cub Driver saw a grizzly sow with two cubs and a boar near by last weekend, so they are around. So, if you are camping, please remember that good bear awareness is important. That means knowing bears have incredible noses and can smell that Snicker's in its wrapper under your pillow from 1/2+ mile away (no kidding - seriously). Since you're not really camping remotely, please store food in the house overnight and be careful where you throw any cooking water etc. (P.S. These are real wild bears, not the cuddly types you sometimes see in National Parks, so please take these precautions very seriously.) Do not sleep with food in your tent.
  • I have seen evidence of one or more moose walking the road/path to the old Bluegrass Festival gravel pit. Moose can be very pissy if you block their path. Do not underestimate their speed or pissyness. If you see a moose, it's best to give it plenty of room. If you accidentally stumble on one, try to find a large tree to put between you and moose. They do and will charge if you piss them off. The fact that you don't live here has pissed them off already. Do not be a stupid tourista by trying to get a photo of yourself petting a moose or else we'll have to cut Wheatstalk short to attend your funeral.
  • I am going to feel out whether I need to have everyone sign a lifetime "I agree to hold you harmless for anything that happens to me while I'm on your property" piece of paper or not. Bottom line: You are here at your own pleasure and I take no responsibility for your physical safety. There are dangers of all kinds on this property. Nails - some even rusty - litter the drives. Sharp objects poke out in multiple places. Wild animals wander the grounds. Glass from parties long past can still be found in the woods. You could slip on the wooden steps during a rainstorm and break a bone. Please please please ... be responsible for yourself, don't do stupid things that could injure you, and if you do injure yourself please take responsibility for it rather than blaming me or the condition of the property. If you see a situation you think is unsafe that you think I can do something about, please let me know.
  • There are no hospitals in the immediate area which means life-threatening illnesses & accidents require airlift evacuation. Please don't try to kill yourself. Minor medical emergencies can be taken care of at the Sunshine Clinic during business hours. Don't get sick on a weekend or at night if you can help it. Remember, this is semi-rural Alaska, not Los Angeles.
  • I have installed a brand-new $7,000 septic system for your peeing and pooping pleasure. Please do not flush anything other than bodily wastes and toilet paper down the hole! Seriously, please help keep the septic working for years and years and future Wheatpoopers by not flushing rubbers, tampons or other non-toilet paper items. Remember, the toilet is not a trash can. If you want to throw stuff like that down a hole, please use the outhouse. Thank you for your cooperation. (TV webcameras have been secretly installed to monitor every bathroom user and keep an automated record of what they flush.)
  • You're welcome to sleep wherever you want. There are 20 acres to camp outside. You're welcome to move the beds around inside. You're welcome to use the refrigerators and computers and lamps and anything else. You're welcome to get on-the-air (and I hope you do!) Basically, I'm trying to be laid-back about everything. If a problem arises we'll deal with it. This is the first Wheatstalk to be held on these grounds so I have no idea what will happen. We will all learn as we go.
  • There will be people working on renovations. Try to stay out of their way while still being friendly if possible. Some of them are "cool" and will probably hang around ... some of them are definitely not Wheat-type people. Remember, I have to continue living in this small community after you leave so please try not to offend the workers since some of them are the only ones of their kind for a 150 mile radius. In other words, please don't point at the plumber's crack, laugh, and pour a beer down it.
  • I don't think pot is legal in Alaska but I honestly don't know. I don't smoke but it's okay with me if you do - but some discretion and common sense is advised. In other words, if the troopers stop by, don't light a big 'ol fatty in front of them.
  • Please don't smoke inside buildings. As an ex-smoker who loves nicotine, I have tremendous sympathy and respect for smokers. You are not 2nd class citizens nor are you dirty nor are you bad people. It's just that the smoke smells strongly and will taint the buildings with a scent long after you leave. Help keep the peace and help me and others keep quit by smoking outside - thanks!
  • No outdoors fires without checking with me first. There is a borough-wide burn ban in effect currently. After Talkeetna's high school just burnt to the ground, the local fire department is very touchy about fire danger and will pay us a visit if they see smoke from even a small campfire. The smoke from even small fires is highly visible from a plane for many, many miles. I want a campfire as badly as you do - but the forest floor is very dry - and I hope it stays that way because that means ya'll are getting sunny and beautiful weather. It's light most of the night anyhow so what do we need a fire for?
  • No guns on this property. Concealed or otherwise. Even if you have a permit. Anyone carrying will be asked to leave immediately before I call the State Troopers. No joke. Thank you.
  • This is a wireless hotspot. There are written instructions available. Most machines will see "Whole Wheat Radio II" automatically. (If you see two, pick the one with the stronger signal for where you are.) The password to get online is: wholewheatradio
  • It's really important for me to learn how to have laid-back fun without being a nervous Nellie Type "A" Martha Stewart nutcase ... otherwise, I won't look forward to future Wheatstocks. It's been a difficult 6 months and I'm still trying to get my bearings as a solo person. Sometimes I'm still not as gregarious or social as others think I should be ... please forgive my awkwardness. Let's all just keep in mind that meeting people face-to-face we've only chatted with before can be weird and quite different than what we expected. Have fun and accept what is instead of getting depressed about what isn't. smile
  • Thank you for coming! I hope you have a wonderfully memorable time...

This page is actively being developed as of July, 2006. Some information may change while we all figure out, as a community, what Wheatstalk 2007 is going to be. Check back occasionally, especially if you are making plans to attend.

It's Official

It's official!! As of 22 June, 2006, Jimbob posted the following in the chat:
Sorry so obtuse and moronic on the microphone ... ah, but what the hell. Ya'll know how life goes. So, yeah, next year. Solstice sounds good to me. If ya wanna come, the new Wheat Palace will be open for business. I'll say it's as 'official' as WWR can muster. Wheatstalk 2007.

Start saving your pennies now. There is plenty of time to make preparations for travel and lodging. Hoonah has advised that reservations for both should be made as soon as possible to make sure that everyone attending is taken care of. As the day gets closer news will be forthcoming and posted on this page. Stay Tuned.

A comment from Jimbob: I was only half-sure about doing Wheatstalk 2005 because I hadn't met many virtual friends face-to-face and was afraid you'd all be as boring and stupid as I am. I was completely sure 2006 would not be a good year as we needed to get the new Wheat Palace in shape. But based on how much fun we had in 2005 and the fact that we have a much better place to hold a small music/internet/community gathering and festival, I am pleased as punch to finally be able to put my full weight behind Wheatstalk 2007. Unfortunately, I'm a 98lb weakling ... but I'll still do whatever I can to help promote it.

When

June 16 - June 24

Travel

Alaska Airlines Visa Deal! - EXTENDED TO THE END OF JANUARY For all who are thinking of coming to Alaska, if you act before the end of the year, you can get enough bonus miles On Alaska Airlines for a roundtrip ticket from the lower 48 to Alaska by obtaining an Alaska Air - Bank Of America Visa Signature Card. You have to apply and be accepted, and it costs $75 per year for this Visa. They will give you 20,000 bonus miles 4 to 6 weeks after your application is accepted. Many Alaskans use this card to collect miles. Works great as long as you pay your bills immediately, as with any credit card. But more importantly, 20,000 miles is enough to book a trip to Alaska without ever even using the card! Of course you have to go through the rigmarole of applying and dealing with another credit card statement, applying for the mileage program, etc., so I'm sure it's not for everybody. But I wanted to let you know about it.

Here's another aspect: If I refer your email address to AK Air, and you apply and get accepted, then I would get 2,500 miles, too. Which of course would be dandy! So if you want me to also get miles, send me an email with the email you want me to use for the referral to esther@esthergolton.com . I haven't had any spam problems with AK Air - they have been reputable - I do get their newsletters once a week, but that's it. The link to review the deal itself is here: http://www.alaskaair.com/as/www2/Promo/BofA_Holiday.asp (If you want me to refer you, don't apply until I do the referral and you receive an email with the offer.) Thanks and good luck! Esther 12:24, November 14, 2006 (AKST)

The Fine Print

Not to discourage use of the deal (I (Sol) still think it's a good deal), but here are a couple of items to keep in mind about this deal (lawyers might call this "disclosure," right, Toad?):

  • According to this page, the value of 20,000 miles is $500.
  • Passenger is responsible for the following taxes and fees on award travel: September 11th Security Fee of $2.50 per enplanement (up to $10). Additionally to Mexico: U.S. immigration user fee of $7, U.S. APHIS fee of $3, U.S.international transportation tax of $27, Mexican international departure tax of up to $22, Mexican tourism tax of $19 (fl uctuates with dollar-peso exchange rate). Additionally to Canada: Canadian airport improvement fee (varies by airport), Canadian security fee of $9, U.S.immigration fee of $7. Source
  • If no mileage is credited to an account during the first nine months after opening, or if an account is inactive for longer than 3 years, the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan reserves the right to delete an account and reassign the number. Once mileage has been deleted from an account, it will not be reinstated. Source


Talkeetna Travel - the local Talkeetna resource for travel information

How far do you live from Talkeetna?

RandMcnally

Driving Time: 86 hours, 11 minutes Unless U drink NITRO Espresso

  • so lost- EST. DRIVE TIME: 10 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4 miles, stones throw distance away from the wheat palace.
  • Hexy - EST. DRIVE TIME: 2 hours 20 minutes EST DISTANCE: 121 Miles
  • Cub Driver- EST. DRIVE TIME: 40 minutes by air, 120 minutes by car. About 70 miles as the plane flies.  :)
  • Cindy - EST. DRIVE TIME: 1 hour EST. DISTANCE: 70 miles (okay, so I have a lead foot!)
  • Hoonah - EST. DRIVE TIME: 2 hours EST. DISTANCE: 109 miles
  • Rance - EST. DRIVE TIME: 6 hours, 55 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 251 miles. I'm there man...I'm there...am I gonna have to go bar hopping to find you again?
  • Fine-line - EST. DRIVE TIME: 47 hours, 10 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 2316 miles
  • Onthebus - EST. DRIVE TIME: 49 hours, 10 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 2384 miles, Add to this 1-5 hours give or take for ferry line wait. Actual ferry ride .45 minutes.
  • Sparkitbob - EST. DRIVE TIME: 49 hours EST. DISTANCE: 2416 miles - Maybe I'll swim
  • Rickhap Great Circle Route: ORD (41°58'43"N 87°54'17"W) to ANC (61°10'28"N 149°59'47"W) DISTANCE: 2846 mi
  • Firewalk - EST. DRIVE TIME: 66 hours, 35 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 3511 mile
  • Kelli - EST. DRIVE TIME: 67 hours, 38 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 3618 miles
  • J-Walk - EST. DRIVE TIME: 69 hours, 5 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 3870 miles. I plan to drive non-stop, and do it in two 35-hour days.
  • JohnA - EST. DRIVE TIME: 67 hours, 57 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 3899 miles. Northwest says I can get from Detroit to Anchorage in 6 hours, 49 minutes, covering 2978 miles. I think that's the route I'll take so I have more time to spend in Talkeetna.
  • Cate - Estimated drive time: 72 hours 55 minutes, Estimated distance 3904 miles - I better start driving right now! Hey, how come Luanna is farther away but it will take her less time? Oh, wait, she probably drives really fast!
  • LuAnna - EST. DRIVE TIME: 68 hours EST. DISTANCE: 3913 miles
  • Jane - ditto
  • Toad & Mrs. Toad - EST. DRIVE TIME: 76 hours, 15 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4116 miles. I will beat J-Walk by doing it in one 77-hour day.
  • Sol - EST. DRIVE TIME: 80 hours, 30 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4362 miles (Apparently the Blue Ridge Clan drives really fast in that last mile.)
  • Big Frog Mt - EST. DRIVE TIME: 79 hours, 45 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4362.9 miles
  • Ghost Horse - EST. DRIVE TIME: 79 hours, 45 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4362.9 miles
  • BlueRidge - EST. DRIVE TIME: 79 hours, 45 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4363 miles
  • Mrs BlueRidge - EST. DRIVE TIME: 79 hours, 45 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4363 miles
  • Gearhead - EST. DRIVE TIME: 80 hours, 45 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4372 miles, Wonder if Biz could come and pick us up in his 737 at GSO?
  • DogNut - EST. DRIVE TIME: 82 hours, 50 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 4517 miles, Hmmmm I think Neil Armstrong got to the moon faster than this :)
  • Big Tom- EST. DRIVE TIME: Not sure you can drive under the Atlantic! EST. DISTANCE: 7300 miles.
  • Bisonian - EST. DRIVE TIME: 70 hours, 21 minutes, 17 seconds (car) 7 hours 48 minutes (737...with a really big gas tank) EST. DISTANCE: 4071 miles
  • Danny - EST. DRIVE TIME: 69 hrs 15 mins EST. DISTANCE: 4049 miles - As long as they sell Mt. Dew all along the way, this'll be fine.
  • PeacePirate - EST. DRIVE TIME: 76 hrs 28 min EST. DISTANCE: 4461.16 smiles. On the road again??
  • Jollyjim - EST. DRIVE TIME: 83 hrs 55 min EST. TELEPORT TIME: 29 sec EST. DISTANCE: 4629 miles
  • Kodibear - EST. DRIVE TIME: 61 hours, 45 minutes EST. DISTANCE: 3491 miles Of course since I'm "visually challenged", the drive might take a little longer, but point me in the right direction and I'll try it.

Rickhap's Wheatstalk Flight Schedule Image:Rickhap-wheatstalk-flights.jpg

Lodging

  • One of the options, for those that want to go low-budget and rustic, is to camp at the Wheat Palace. There is plenty of both open space and forested space where you could hide if you want. Esther and I just tromped around the place today and noticed lots of great places for camping. The parking lot is HUGE too and would accommodate many RVs/campers. We have 10 acres of which probably 2 are cleared. Jimbob 16:29, June 25, 2006 (AKDT)
  • Please consider contacting Talkeetna Travel (the website has a great comparative lodging page) and let Karey or Kate know that you're coming for Wheatstalk. They are very "in the know" on lodging here, it will cost you the same as if you did your own research, and you would support a small business that has supported us. (Karey has provided housing at the Eye of Denali for many of our performers.) Esther 10:13, November 2, 2006 (AKST)
  • I will try and bring the big-ass motorhome. I'll be selling tickets for sleeping accomodations in 12hr time slots, so buy early and buy often! Sleeps 6 vertically, and several more horizontally! Bring own bedding! (maybe I can pay this sucker off with new adventure) Cindy 11:57, June 26, 2006 (AKDT)
  • Advice from Esther: If you are planning on staying a week in a local lodging establishment, book as early as possible. You can always cancel later if your plans change. If you want to get a place for several people for the whole week, book even earlier. By early, I mean by February, 2007. As of today, 11/2/06, the Eye of Denali is open for the week. See Talkeetna Travel's website - lodging option 1 - to see why I recommend it. Karey said she'd work out a discount for the entire upper level for the whole week. But you need to contact her soon... Esther 10:20, November 2, 2006 (AKST)

Ideas

  • One thing Esther and I briefly discussed was having the community come up with a couple of performers they'd like to invite to perform at Wheatstalk. We could, as a group, contact them, give them details, figure out if we'd start a kitty (or use WWR funds already available) to get them up here. The biggest problem is that it's so far and takes a ton of planning for the performer if they are going to try to tour the state. So it's easier to have them come up and do a one-shot deal at Wheatstalk, but that's where the expenses are a problem. We would probably have to pay to get them up here, promise them a certain amount (or one hell of a good time and alot of internet exposure) and get them home. But, if people want to kick around ideas that might work, feel free.
  • Related to that idea, is getting as many Alaskan performers to play as possible. The hard part is that summer is when they're all working etc. but enough would probably come just to meet their fans, sell CDs and get on-air to make it worthwhile. Since we've got time to plan and an actual date range already picked, we'd probably pick up a few Alaskan performers for sure.
  • Although there will probably be a 'big night' on soltice (i.e. a band like 3 Blind Mice and a party/dance) I think Wheatstalk 2007 will also consist of other musical activities happening throughout the week ... some scheduled and some spontaneous. On the other hand, I might be smaller than we expect or we get stymied by potential legal/health problems (since it might be considered a small festival) and we'd be forced to keep it low-key i.e. a bunch of Wheatheads just hanging around picking lint out of their belly buttons like last time.
  • If anyone has real-life experience with a small music gathering like this and knows anything about how to keep it fun but still under control so we don't run into trouble with the authorities, please pass along your knowledge. Remember, we are still not a business entity and unless someone drops that in our lap and does all the paperwork and organizes it, we don't have much motivation to become a business even if it would be helpful in setting up Wheatstalk 2007.

Tentative Schedule of Events

  • Saturday, June 16 - outhouse officially opens
  • Sunday, June 17
  • Monday, June 18
  • Tuesday, June 19
  • Wednesday, June 20
  • Thursday, June 21 - Summer Solstice Party, Music, & Dance - Main Event
  • Friday, June 22
  • Saturday, June 23 - Wheatstalk Wheathead Parade - down Main Street in Talkeetna
  • Sunday, June 24th - outhouse officially closes


since when did Esther use the outhouse??? Cindy 11:51, June 26, 2006 (AKDT)

Ongoing events

  • spontaneous webcast appearances by Wheatheads who aren't mic-shy (and when they're least expecting it)
  • live 'rants' 11AM weekdays - watch Jimbob and Esther kill each other and find out whose side Wheatheads are really on
  • Esther will provide dulcimer lessons 24/7 from her new bathtub
  • CD giveaways of anything in the WWR music library - not a contest, just take what you want and will listen to/pass on, as many as you want
  • slideshows and videos of WWR related visual archives down in the dungeoun (basement)
  • outhouse filling contest - no prizes, no judging, no fanfare ... just an opportunity to privately contribute to the heart of WWR


Seems all the GOOD stuff will be happening close to the outhouse...movies on the side wall, filling contests, giveaways, etc...and live rants! Save me a seat! NOOO, not THAT seat! rotfl Cindy 16:36, June 29, 2006 (AKDT)

What to expect

Based on 2005, most everyone in attendance will be adults i.e. 25+ years of age. Kids are welcome, but we can't promise they won't see or hear something that isn't family-safe. Alcohol will be there but we don't anticipate a drunken bash and will not tolerate violence or trolls. smile We want everyone to have fun in whatever way they choose as long as it is respectful of other people's sensibilities.

Please do not drink and drive. We'll gladly provide rides if you need to get back to your lodging in town. The Spur Road is heavily patrolled during the summer and state troopers are absolutely unforgiving for even the tiniest infraction. The chances of getting pulled over on the Spur Road are much higher than you'd expect and definitely not worth the risk. Ride in style with another Wheathead instead.

There's lots of room for various groups to form around whatever campfires are permitted by the borough that week. (If open burning isn't allowed because of forest fire danger, we'll see if something else can be improvised - maybe sitting around solar powered light bulbs or something. Besides, there are only a few hours of semi-darkness that time of year anyway.) If you would rather be off in the woods or keep to yourself, there's no pressure to participate in anything and no one will think any less of you.

Likewise, don't expect everyone to be gregarious or exhibit the same personality they have in the chat. It can be unsettling to finally meet a virtual friend face-to-face and discover it's harder to talk live than via keyboard. Allow enough time for real-life relationships to form (or not form) and you'll discover a whole new dimension of depth and personal growth. ('helpful hint: bring cordless keyboard and you can still type to people although vocal dexterity is an advantage! Emoticon flash cards will be for sale at the big-ass motorhome for those needing assistance :) Cindy 12:03, June 26, 2006 (AKDT))

We have 2 bathrooms supplied by a well. The water pressure isn't high, so the shower (there's only 1) isn't a blaster. You're welcome to use any of our facilities but there could be lines, waits for the hot-water heater to reheat etc. There are 2 toilets with inside plumbing and 1 outhouse. Being discretely human anywhere outside is perfectly acceptable both for men and women and will garner untold respect from locals.

It's likely communal meals will be prepared at the Wheat Palace where everyone kicks in what food they brought and people contribute whatever cooking talents they have. Or, you can fix your own meals if you're more comfortable with that. The closest restaurants are in town, about 14 miles away. They are pricey, hours can be irregular and the food is standard diner fare at most of them. There are 1 or 2 that are particularly good we will recommend if they are open in 2007.

Talkeetna is not a bear-watching area. Although bears can be a concern anywhere in Alaska, we try to keep them away from our cabins. But there are no guarantees so we definitely encourage bear-smart behaviour. In town that basically means keeping food and food smells close to the cabin. We'll be happy to lecture anyone who wants to venture into the woods about what to do if you meet up with a bear and what our experiences have been. But the best thing to do is educate yourself and use that knowledge to calm any fear and recognize that the odds of a bad bear encounter are very low if you're careful.

What to do

Check out Talkeetna Travel's website. It really is one of the best resources of activities to do. They are personal friends and know what Whole Wheat Radio is so they'll be glad to help set up lodging or activities. (Please don't call them just to get information and then book it yourself ... it's no more expensive to let them book it and it's how they make a living.) Esther and Jimbob are happy to make recommendations as well, but we're not particularly well-traveled in the area nor are we very knowledgable about the mountains, fishing, hiking or the many outdoor activities available. But we'll help point you to the right people if we can.

The most popular activity that darn near everyone comes back from with their jaw on the ground is a flight tour to 'the mountain' - Denali. River-rafting is popular too if you're a water buff. A trip on the Alaska railroad (particularly the Hurricane Turn) is leisurely, safe and goes by some astounding scenery. Fishing is legendary but an out-of-state license can be expensive. We'll be happy to recommend hikes if you'd like although we don't really know the trails around here - we tend to just hike along the railroad tracks or down gravel roads since you're just as likely to see wildlife there as in the woods. Denali National Park is not too far away (100 miles to the north?) so many people visiting Talkeetna take a few days to visit there although you need to plan that carefully if you intend to stay in the park or do any hiking there as reseverations are required.

Everyone has their own travel style so do whatever works best for you. Personally, I (Jimbob) prefer immersing in a small area over several days so I have an opportunity to see things unfold in context ... especially since Alaska is absolutely huge and travel times are measured in days and not hours. But if you like a lot of motion and seeing new sites, there are several trips within 1 or 2 days of Talkeetna that show a completely different face of Alaska. Hatcher Pass and the old mines up there are interesting and provide lots of hiking and a mountain experience. Anchorage is festive in the summer and has lots of walking trails along Cook Inlet. The trip to Fairbanks has a lot of scenery and ends up at a medium-sized town that has it's own distinct personality and activities.

The great thing about Alaska as a tourist destination (depending on your viewpoint) is that there's never a lack of enterprising residents eagerly happy to take all your money in order to show you something you might not have seen otherwise.


What To Bring

Everything will be twice as expensive in Alaska as you thought it would be. In Talkeetna, it will be 4 times more expensive. Stocking up in Anchorage or Wasilla is highly recommended. Locals do the majority of their shopping outside of Talkeetna because of the price gouging, especially in summer.

  • mosquito repellent - it depends on the weather as to how bad they'll be but they're generally not as bad around here as they are in most places in Alaska
  • camera - if you'd rather not mess with one, there will be plenty of other people taking photos that will find their way onto the web
  • warm clothing - daytime temperatures may get into the 70's or 80's but nighttime will be in the upper 40's and 50's. If it rains, it will feel very cold. We usually wear fleece jackets at least once sometime every day throughout the summer. Occasionally we'll even put on down coats in the summer but that is rare. If you chill easily, bring enough warm clothing so you can layer up.
  • electronic gadgets - having the latest handheld gadget that everyone else thinks is overkill or just plain stupid will immortalize you as a technology pioneer a few months down the road when everyone else buys one. If you'd rather get in touch with your human side while in Alaska but are afraid to be disconnected from the web/email for a few days, you're welcome to use our computers.
  • sleeping bag - if you're going to camp at the Wheat Palace, you'll have to bring your own bedding including bag, sleeping pad, etc. We'll gladly share whatever we've got but we don't have nearly enough blankets. A medium weight summer bag will probably be sufficient as long as you can sleep in extra clothes if it gets cold.
  • tent - it's your call. There should be enough floorspace inside to accomodate everyone and we'll have a few open-screen tents or shelters available. But if you want privacy, bring a tent or buy one in Anchorage and leave it here for next year.
  • money - to buy sleeping accomodations at the Big-Ass Motorhome! Cindy 12:30, June 26, 2006 (AKDT)
  • clean underwear - didnt your mom always tell you to make sure you take plenty. It's your call. You have to think about these things... Or if you wish - go "free-ballin".
  • toilet paper

"Wheatstalk 2007 or BUST" - Wheatheads Planning on Attending

This is not in any form or fashion a committment, however if at this point in time you are planning on attending this is the place to throw in your name. I know this is early in the game but having some sort of head count as we progress through the year will help the community with overall planning. This will also be the area of the page where we all can put in our travel plans. Let us know how you are getting to Talkeetna. If driving, you might be in route for others to share the ride with. If flying, put in your arrival times so that we can make sure you have a ride from the airport.

  • BlueRidge & Mrs BlueRidge - We were so hoping to get to be able to go but life has it's ways of putting a damper on things. Funds just arent available, and not enough frequent flyer for 2 round trips.... DAMN I WISH I WAS GOING!!!
  • Cindy - Are you crazy? commit this far in advance? I don't even know what I'm having for dinner tonight? :) Yeah, I'll probably be there.
  • J-Walk - Right now, there's a 78.3% chance that we'll make it. I just checked my calendar and I'm free. But you never know what might come up between now and then. Wired might finally do a story on WWR, and attract 50,000 people to Talkeetna. That's just too many. You have to think about these things...
  • Fineline - I will be there and I will stay longer that 72 hours this time!...maybe 144 hours. Addendum: If 50,000 people DO show up, I'm not doing the dishes, Esther!
  • Toad - You never know what might come up between now and then. J-Walk may find religion and turn into a Jehovah's Witness, walking around Talkeetna with his annoying pamphlets. You have to think about these things... Sadly, Wheatstalk is not a possibility for the Toads this summer. We are really going to miss seeing you folks. Feh.
  • Onthebus - I have CDL and can charter/drive a special 'Wheatstock or Bust' tour bus. We will leave from Sea-Tac and travel up the Al-Can highway with special stops(beers, bears, breakdowns,bathrooms) along the way. Now taking reservations. Book early. Let me know if you are onthebus or.....????

Update:Nope. I´m in Bolivia till the 19th. I done spent my wad. But I´ll be hOMe in time to listen. You all have a great time!

  • Rickhap - Wheatstalk 2007 here I come. ORD to ANC. Will rent a car. What do you need me to bring?
  • LuAnna - It's on my calendar already. That usually means I can make it happen. When all of the other invites come along I will just have to say, "I can't, I'm going to Wheatstalk" On the other hand, RickHap may be there with his golf clubs putting all over the place, or, worse yet, plotting strange things that involve PhotoShop. You have to think about these things...
    • PS. Sometimes things don't work out the way we want them to. Circumstances beyond my control have made it necessary for me to accept the fact that I can't make it to Alaska this summer. I know that those of you who go will have a wonderful time. I am sure I will be thinking of you. LuAnna 19:18, January 24, 2007 (AKST)
  • So lost - there is a 100% chance that I am coming.
  • Rez Dog & Shopvac Maggie - We're coming. Probably fly to Anchorage and rent a car to Talkeetna. But then I just saw the 'Wheatstalk of Bust' tour bus. That would work, too.
  • ,Rance - I'll be driving at a fairly high rate of speed coming from Sterling, AK to your location. I'll bring Halibut and King Crab fer sher...and any road kill I find along the way! Plan on grilling bacon wrapped Halibut Kabob's over some nice rocks from your driveway. Perhaps I'll bring along a model T and can take any youngsters for rides. OK...adults can go for a ride to...this is gonna be great! I'm headed to Sweden (the motherland) June 20th for 2 weeks. Sorry I'm going to miss the fun. Will there be a wheatstalk 2008? Have fun you guys!
  • Cate - Surprisingly, my husband may want to go to Wheatstalk 2007 even more than I do, and I want to be there a bunch! It's a party, isn't it? What's to think about? Except for how many bottles of wine I'll need to pack...

UPDATE: We booked our flight! Now, I really have to think about the wine... Cate 09:37, October 4, 2006 (AKDT)

  • DogNut - I'm pretty sure I am coming. Need to focus in on which days so I can book some flights.
  • Hoonah - Pretty far to drive. Yeah will probably make it. Bring the truck camper. Need to get the 20 foot trailer fixed up for hauling the beer.
  • Sparkit - I guess if I'm going to make musician suggestions, I may as well commit to coming. Unless the lotto comes through, I'm not going to make it.
  • Hexaba - Ruby Canary and I will both be there. It will be my last week in Alaska after my 1 1/2 year adventure. So come say Hi! and Good-bye :)
  • Northis Texicus - I am committing to WheatStalk 2020 and I am bringin the whole darn NT Clan'o'Boys and raise some hell. Hoonah prepare the special suace for the occasion.
  • JohnA - Already have the flight booked, working on the lodging. Karen says I have to take her fishing while there. Hoonah, can you help us out?
  • FishTaxi - Should be there Thursday Morning. Leaving Valdez Wed and going as far as Wasilla. I'll call before I leave Wasilla to see if you need anything. I'm bringing King Salmon, halibut, Copper River Reds, ribs and potatoes for french frys cos I'm bringing my deepfyer. I like to cook and eat! June 16th, 2007
  • FishTaxi - I am bummed to report I won't be making it to Wheatstalk2007. I woke up Monday morning with a bad bout of sacroiliitis. I started getting hip pain Sunday and ignored it but by Monday I couldn't go to work let alone pack and drive. Today isn't much better so Wheatstalk is a bust for me again this year. I so much wanted to meet you all but I would be no fun in pain/and or on pain pills. I will be tuning in so have a great time without me! june 19th

Music

Artists interested in playing

The Luvpuppets are interested in playing. Want to know how loud they can play. Could play acoustic if loud electronic if need be. Contact Lillard.

Ruby Canary aka Shanna Underwood. Hexaba

dan carrigan is interested in playing wheatstalk especially since it is on the cusp of his '07 Wu tour,plus also he's never played in (or been to) alaska. he is currently performing solo(voice and acoustic guitar) and tours with his akita spot. please contact the artist directly at: countrycookinbookin@hotmail.com

Artists who've been asked to play

So lost talked to cubby and the hopper family band they might be able to play.

LuAnna is talking with the The Waybacks.

LuAnna talked to Small Potatoes and they're very interested.

BBWW said he's working on coming and perhaps hauling Chuck McCabe and Kacey Jones with him.

Artists we'd like to hear

Alaskan

From Outside

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