Speak the Word of Light!
Since more people were joining the neighbourhood each year, efforts were made to improve security. Law wired up a system of neon tubes in a rainbow of colours to illuminate the Burning Man sculpture. Those who got lost in the desert could follow its guiding light back home. Mikel led an additional charge. The Black Rock Rangers were formed under his leadership. As the unit’s commander, he earned the moniker “Danger Ranger” for his role in keeping the campers in the makeshift city safe. When disputes escalated, Danger Rangers would step in to mediate.
Living in the Black Rock Desert
The new Burning Man location was authorised by the federal government in 1991. The former lake bottom now served as the designated site for the yearly event. 250 people showed up to pay respects to the effigy in the desert for the second year in a row. Every year, more and more people flock to Burning Man; in 1995, there were roughly 4000 attendees. The news had spread by 1997. Over ten thousand people showed up for the party. In 2000, a record-breaking twenty-five thousand visitors came to the desert settlement. In 2010, an incredible 50,000 campers represented double the previous number. As the number of attendees grew, the gathering took on the characteristics of a makeshift metropolis. Big Rock City was the name that stuck before long.