Memorial Service For Relayers Henrietta and Hilshire Demina

By Bixyl Shuftan and Gemma Cleanslate

On Thursday January 18, it was announced in the Relay for Life Volunteers group that the leader of the Strange Journey team, Henrietta Demina (Barbara Parker in real life), had died along with her real-life brother Hilshire Demina (Bill Parker) in a car accident. On Saturday January 27, friends and supporters of her held a memorial service at her family's home in Castle Ravensloft in Redshift. The sim was packed for most of the event, so some listened to the broadcrast stream from the Legends club in Arinultra Cay, courtesy of T1 Radio. At the castle chapel, there were two caskets in front of the audience chairs, with pictures of the departed placed on the walls.

"I am going to ad-lib the first part... " Rowena Dubrovna, the little otter of Strange Journey started the service, "First, I wanted to say that her real-life sister requested that we put out a Relay for Life kiosk so we have one in between the caskets here. Also, I am overwhelmed as is everyone else on how many people are here from Castle Home and Garden, Relay For Life, etc. .. it amazes me. Now on script Mady."

Rowena composed herself and restarted, "Hello everyone and thank you for coming to Henrietta and Hilshire's memorial. I've had to say this  several times the last two weeks and it hasn't gotten any easier. Henrietta and Hilshire were brother and sister in the grid and in real life. They were driving to Wal Mart for a late night run, just an hour after Hen and I were discussing the Castle Home and Garden, when a driver who was texting rammed right into their car and took their lives from them.

"I want to make a note, some of you are probably thinking, 'how morbid are those Strange people for putting out a casket in Second Life.' But trust me, these two are the type who would want a casket at a thing like this. They had caskets all over this castle and all we had to do was move it over here. They were vampires. I got a letter from Henrietta sent to me by her real-life sister. She wrote it after her mini stroke in July-- and it said 'This letter is to tell you of my demise.' Just using that word, demise, shows us who Henrietta is. Morbidly sarcastic. Also, we are in Henrietta's design-- her castle (from Lady Nansen, as she would want me to credit her), and her land. I do not know how much longer this land will be here. I strongly encourage you guys to just wander around. It is incomplete- she was in the middle of renovation. She was deeply, deeply committed to making the sim the way she wanted it to be. She never advertised it because she didn't want all this attention on her, but take a look. The castle. The dragons- oh, the dragons! there are 20 or 30 out there, and hundreds of eggs. It kills me that they are just sitting there and there is nothing I can do about it.

"I thought I would take a few minutes to talk about who they were. You'll hear speeches today in their memory, how they made a difference, but Henrietta in particular was very much involved with her Second Life family.

"Barbara and Bill Parker lived a fulfilling life by anyone's standards. They were far too young to have their lives taken from them, but I can at least rest easy that they were happy. They were both very close to their real life family, and very much appreciated a solitary, quiet life. Henrietta had several odd jobs after retiring, such as limo driver. Hilshire did the same. At some point they agreed to live together because they were both single, and they lived in Missouri. Henrietta was very fond of talking about her ferrets. Hilshire and Henrietta both were very vested in music and the world of music. In addition, Hilshire fell in love with building in a virtual world before Henrietta and taught Henrietta everything she knows. Before we knew it, she had designed several castles!

"Henrietta Demina, or Barbara Parker, found Second Life over ten years ago with Hilshire and for a while they found it to be a great release. Hilshire took a step back from Second Life several years ago but Henrietta started a new journey, Relay for Life of Second Life. And that's where she made a difference in our lives. My short snippet above should tell you how they made a difference their whole lives, but Henrietta's work for Relay for Life made her who she was. I thought I would tell you some of her favorite things. Her favorite holiday was Halloween- not only does it embody her spirit, but that's her birthday.

"With that, I am going to turn things over to our speeches today. The way we are approaching this memorial is we will have a speech, and then a song played. This will go a little over an hour, but we are here for Henrietta and Hilshire after all. Today you will hear from mostly Relay people, but some of her Bloodlines family is here as well."

The next speech was given by NinaSofia Constantine, "A quote from Albert Sweitzer, 'At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.' Henrietta was a flame igniter!  It didn't matter which team event you were at she was there shedding her light.  She was that little shinning star always beautiful.  I always called her  "Henrietta the cutie." Her loyalty to her friends, her passion for Relay and her humor are what stands out to me the most. Henrietta was one of those avatars who you could see directly to her heart. Her light is no longer with us but I have no doubt it shines brighter! Those of us that knew herand Relayed with her will carry the light she ignited within us. She will never be forgotten."

Next came Cuddly Waffle, "'Hey, ev'rybody!' That's a Henri greeting right there.

"Firstly, thank you all for being here today. I like to think that both Hen and Hil would have been blown away by the love in this room.Last Friday morning, as I was getting ready for work, I opened up a facebook message from Rowena. 'I've got bad news,' he said, 'message me so I can let you know.' I rolled my eyes and carried on putting my socks on, sure in my assumption that our darling otter was being melodramatic, as he so charmingly can be. But, I shot a quick message back, 'What's up?'

"The little typing symbol appeared, then disappeared, then reappeared. It did this a few times. Then a message: 'Are you in a position to take ten/twenty min to yourself to recover?' Something in me rippled; this wasn't Otterli. This was serious. 'Ish, I leave for work in ten!' 'Ok I will tell you when you are in a better state.' But I couldn't wait. I knew something was seriously wrong and I couldn't spend the day at work not knowing, 'Tell me now.'

"The typing symbol flickered again for a minute. Then the message came that shattered my reality, 'Henrietta died. Hilshire and Henrietta were in killed in an accident and they are no longer with us.'

I read the message over and over, and each time it made less sense. I could vaguely hear my real-life partner Thomas saying 'What's wrong?'

"'My friend is dead,' I said, 'My friend is dead.'

"Since Henrietta and Hilshire crash-landed into our mad little family, they have been stoic, sturdy figures of reliability, dependence, and dedication. I couldn't piece together the reality I was experiencing. When I thought of Hen and Hil, the very last phrase I would have paired them with was 'gone forever.'

"But then I realized, over the next few days, they aren't really gone. Not really. 'Those we love never truly leave us' - Albus Dumbledore. Hen was still all around us. I could hear her daft giggle gesture echoing, and I smiled. What would she say if she could see us now? 'See how ya are?' she'd say. 'Y'all are daft!' *giggle*

"Hen and Hil gave us the most precious thing you can have in life - real or second. Years of good memories, wonderful times, hard work, dedication and effort. True friendship and a bond that will be remembered for the rest of our lives.

"I'd like to leave you with a single quote that I saved from Henri at Relay last year, because it made me laugh so hard. It wasn't like Hen to be crude or tell rude jokes, but this one was perfect - it was cheeky, but perfectly subtle, just like her.

"'Henrietta Demina: I was gonna take a pic with a dog once, but he didn't like where I tried to put the film.'

"O captain my captain, I miss you so."

Following Cuddly's speech, the music stream played the song "Tears in Heaven." Then Sidonie Carlberg, the tiny sugar glider, read a poem.

My heart is broken
and my mind is grey
so many things unspoken
so much left to say
the time just ran out
when we didn‘t see

O Captain, my Captain,
please, come back to me.

I can still see your smile
and your giggle I hear
and once in a while
I can feel you‘re still near.
Can‘t you wake me up
from this nightmare as such

O Captain, my Captain,
I miss you so much.

And yet I am thankful
please, don‘t get me wrong
for every moment
and I will be strong.
My limbs, they may tremble
but I walk through the rain

O Captain, my Captain,
until we meet again.

Next, Nuala Maracas gave a few words, "Henrietta was someone we took for granted would be around for much longer. As family, as friends, as a community, we express our sadness, we acknowledge our loss, acknowledge the great importance of Henrietta's life, and the loss to us all that her passing brings. Of course it wouldn't be right to talk about Henrietta without mentioning her larger virtual family and friends  from the Relay For Life of Second Life Community.  From her beloved Team Strange Journey along with the Castle Home and Garden mini mega, to the hundreds of relayers and relay teams she supported, Henrietta was alway around. Quietly offering words of encouragement and support. The first to raise her hand when a DJ was needed, the first to say, 'I can help, what do you need.' She was one of the ones who drank the purple cool-aide.

"I remember the first time I met Henrietta. I had always seen this little girl around at various Relay For Life events for a few months, our conversation consisting of nothing more than 'Hi Henrietta' ... 'Hi Nuala.'  Then one day, my IM box opens up with Henrietta asking where she can find a logo of that particular years theme. We started chatting, and I realized, this woman is really passionate about Relay. The next time I saw her was at a Jail & Bail fundraiser where she stood outside of a wooden jail cell in the forest, where she was  appearing to be a referee between a little girl named Cuddly and an otter named Rowena who were bantering back and forth on whether it was correct for a caged otter to pee on someone's shoe. I never laughed so hard and thought, this is one strange family, but they all fit together so well." Someone chuckled, and Rowena gave Cuddly a look.

Nuala continued, "It is true that there is much sadness here today, but, all of your journeys taken with Henrietta during her time in this virtual world will live on in each of you, enriching, guiding, and perhaps making you pause and smile every now and then. This is what we will remember.  (This is how we will Remember our Henrietta."

Someone then had a few words about the brother, "I wanted to take the opportunity to talk about Hilshire as I know most of you did not know him. I knew him as an e-mail buddy the last five years. The one thing I noticed above all else... is how everything was all about Henrietta. That should tell us one thing- the love between brother and sister was strong. I swear, every email I got from said something like 'Henrietta is bothering me again.' 'Henrietta is bugging me to.' Henrietta this, Henrietta that. Looking back it makes me feel bad that we didn't talk about Hilshire enough. But what I do know of Hilshire is his warm, sweet, caring heart. He was the "leader" of their vampire clan until he left, and he enjoyed the roleplaying very much. I can't really say much more than this on Hilshire, and he wouldn't want me to. But I can say this- thank you for everything. And on behalf of me, Sid, Cuddly, Nina and all of us-- thank you for taking care of Henrietta. You didn't deserve to have your life taken away from you the way you did, but it gives me some solace, some peace that you are with Henrietta today. God works in mysterious ways. I often tell myself that I don't believe in a God, that he or she would never inflict this much pain and suffering in our lives if he or she did exist. But situations like this make me think, we are all part of God's plan. You and Henrietta moved in together and you took care of Henrietta through thick and thin-- and she took care of you. So, now that can continue- that eternal bond, that forever saving grace. Thank you."

Next was Madonna Daehlie, "For me, one of the most special things about Relay has been getting to know so many amazing people, and I would certainly qualify Henrietta as amazing. Over the years, I've had the privilege of getting to talk to her, seeing her at events, listening to her DJ, and even working directly with her, like at last month's Christmas Expo.

"The two things that always stood out the most with her were her tireless work ethic, and her kindness and compassion.

"Whether it would be helping to run Team Strange Journeys, DJ'ing an event, helping to run the Castle Home and Garden Contest, or just seeming to be everywhere, Henrietta was like the Energizer Bunny. And, during the Expo, it seemed like anytime something came up and Kitty and I needed a host to fill in, we could count on Henrietta stepping up and helping out, even if it meant going 3 or 4 hours straight.

"Even more amazing, though, is that in all the years I'd known Henrietta, I never saw her say anything negative about anyone or anything. She always seemed to be positive, no matter what was going on or how busy she was. She treated everyone with kindness and respect and compassion, and just seemed to truly like and care about everyone she was around. Being around her brightened up my day, and I imagine everyone else who was around her felt the same way.

"I'm going to miss Relaying with her. More than that, I'm going to miss having her around. Thank you for all you brought to Relay, Henrietta. Thank you for making the world a better place. Second Life's a little less bright with you gone.

"Rest in peace, my friend."

After the music stream played "Somewhere Over The Rainbow," Random Darrow then gave a few lines (unfortunately, the notes of which were lost). After the song "Wind Beneath My Wings" played, Kitty Gumbo had some words, "When Rowena asked if I would like to speak about Henrietta, I just didn't know where to start.  First, I am honored to write about the Henrietta we all knew and loved.
I cannot remember when I first met Hen. She just always seemed to be part of Relay. So, I'm going to write about the things I do remember.  It seemed Henrietta was a part of so many things. She was a fantastic and creative builder. She was good at organizing and she was always  reliable. and willing to help. This past Christmas Expo, Henrietta was a host for our entertainment.   Madonna, my co-lead, and I were busy trying to fill in spots where people wouldn't show up or they couldn't come. Henrietta was right there to fill in. That was Henrietta. She quietly filled in and did her job. If there was something that needed to be built, she had it expertly finished. All of these projects were volunteered. I cannot think of the hours she put in at each project. Yet, she never complained and she never asked for a thank you. I'm going to miss her quiet efficient presence. Her kind encouraging words were always just what was needed.  Good bye dear one. You will be very missed."

Sara Llewellyn (Sarandel Llewellyn) recited some poetry.
'Look into my eyes
You will see
What you mean to me
Search your heart
Search your soul
And when you find me there, you'll search no more

Don't tell me it's not worth tryin' for
You can't tell me it's not worth dyin' for
You know it's true
Everything I do
I do it for you.' -Bryn Adams

Beneath the smoking skies.
Sometimes you can barely tell the difference
Between darkness and light.
Do you have faith
In what we believe?
The truest test is when we cannot,
When we cannot see.
I hear pounding feet in the,
In the streets below, and the,
And the women crying and the,
And the children know that there,
That there's something wrong,
And it's hard to believe that love will prevail.
Oh it can't rain all the time.
The sky won't fall forever.
And though the night seems long,
Your tears won't fall forever.

Rowena Dubrovna gave the final speech, "I am sitting here at my computer, not knowing what to say. It's not so much that I can't speak of how much you made a difference, but the fact that I can't decide how I feel. At least with some illnesses you can prepare yourself, you know it's coming-- but you passed away without any kind of notice. It makes me hyper aware of how fragile life can be-- how broken, how scary. How am I supposed to know if I can say "see ya later", when the next thing I know, you're gone?

"I've known you for five years- five years that have gone by like the speed of light. First you were on Relay Ravens team. I remember you were basically alone, even though the Demina clan was 'behind' you. Hilshire had pretty much left Second Life at that point. Then after that we kind of just took off. We combined our teams and that was the take off point! We talked about just about everything and anything. I remember you recently were listening to me whine about my teenager. We talked a lot. We talked about the Castle Home and Garden almost every day didn't we. What frustrates me so bad is I always felt like people didn't see you and didn't see what you did. It's so like you to just fade in the background and let others take credit for things that you did. I honestly don't even know where to start with what you did. I stand here today, or sit rather, and I am telling people.. you blew me away. I feel bad because sometimes you made the Castle Home and Garden your full time job and you should have stepped back, taken a break. Sometimes I still feel that people don't give you credit when credit is due. You know what they say, the best artists don't get their fame until after they die. Is that what you're doing?

"In the aftermath of your death, I started to feel the love for you. You've always been short and sweet and to the point. You never really told me how much impact you made, and how much you were aware of it-- I'm realizing more now than ever that you spread your wings and you really knew how to fly. For Christmas Expo you helped me put out 30 some trees... but you did so much more than that. You took pictures of them, you aligned them, you organized them... it was amazing what you did. When I worked the Fashion Faire you were right beside me helping out the whole way. You DJ'ed for almost every single team. You embodied the meaning of Relay. People may not realize it, but you did.

"I don't think Relay is about teams, about competition, about you versus me. I think you helped us all realize why we do what we do- we do this so we can save lives, right? But it is just as much about community as it is about saving lives. We fight for each other, with each other, sometimes we yell at each other to make sure things are organized.

"Last year we didn't raise so much for Team Strange Journey. The years before that we raised some but it never came from your pocket. I hope people realize how much money you and Hil collected over the years. You'd never divulge, but I was right there with you. I know it was upwards in the thousands. I know you lived in a trailer and were poor, but you didn't care. You wanted others to feel encouraged. When we support others, then they will start supporting others, too. Not a penny went to the Team Strange Journey kiosk, but you poured your heart and soul out in everyone else's. You didn't care if it was Trader's kiosk or Bella's kiosk or Melodie's or whoever. It was all the same to you.

"You saw the goodness in everyone's heart. You encouraged everyone to be themselves, you encouraged them to become the shining light of Relay. You are the true spirit of Relay, and we recognize that more now than ever. That spirit and undying loyalty and commitment you had to Relay, you had to me, you had to all of us-- we won't forget that. Of this I promise.

"If anyone is ever feeling discouraged, or feels the need to criticize someone or see the negative and rather than helping improve, spit on them-- I hope they think of you. There is no place for negativity or drama in your world, and there is certainly no place for drama or negativity in our lives or in Relay.

"I hope you all realize how much it bothered Henrietta if there was drama present. She was a no drama llama, and you should be too. Henrietta would want you to remember why we are all here-- not only are we fighting for our loved ones, but we are fighting for each other, with each other, always.

"Henrietta, thank you for everything. Thank you for being such a good friend. You made the Castle Home and Garden what it is-- and we will hold it in your honor this year. I promise we will have Team Strange Journeys and I promise we will fight on. Thank you for touching the lives of so many. Thank you for dealing with so many people for me even if they made you crazy. Our merchants, our builders, our Relayers all love you. Thank you for staying up with me at night when I was bored out of my mind in the hospital last year. Thank you for always worrying about me. Thank you for being such a good friend for Sid and Cuddly when we were in need of a friend like you. Now I end with one of Hens' favorite poems, which is eerily connected to today... I love you Hen."

Rowena then recited a poem, "Because I could not stop for Death" by Emily Dickinson.

Because I could not stop for Death –
He kindly stopped for me – 
The Carriage held but just Ourselves – 
And Immortality.

We slowly drove – He knew no haste
And I had put away
My labor and my leisure too,
For His Civility –

We passed the School, where Children strove
At Recess – in the Ring – 
We passed the Fields of Gazing Grain – 
We passed the Setting Sun –

Or rather – He passed us –
The Dews drew quivering and chill –
For only Gossamer, my Gown –
My Tippet – only Tulle –

We paused before a House that seemed
A Swelling of the Ground –
The Roof was scarcely visible –
The Cornice – in the Ground –

Since then – ‘tis Centuries – and yet
Feels shorter than the Day
I first surmised the Horses’ Heads
Were toward Eternity – 

Following the poem, the music stream played "The Show Must Go On." Like the title of the song, although the Relayers had lost a comrade and friend, but the purpose of the Relay for Life goes on.

* * * * *

I myself came to the memorial late, after some had left the area. I would rely on notes from Gemma Cleanslate and Rowena to write this article, Gemma also providing most of the pictures. As a Relayer myself, this story was a little closer than most. The Strange Journey team might not have been around for as long as some, but their antics had always drawn attention and laughs. And now, we were crying as we were saying goodbye to their captain and her brother.

Rest in peace Henrietta and Hilshire Demina

Bixyl Shuftan

Transcript For the Relay Wrap-Up

Provided by Cuddly Waffle

[09:47]  Little Miss Waffle: Greetings everyone, happy Wrap-Up Day!!! :D Closed Captions for Wrap-Up will be coming up very soon! :D
[09:47]  Henrietta Demina: WooHoo! Go Cuddly!
[09:47]  Little Miss Waffle: Yaaay :D
[09:48]  Rowena Dubrovna: Thank you Cuddly once again!
[09:49]  Fuzzball Ortega: https://youtu.be/ZEJutE1v06g
[09:49]  Fuzzball Ortega: For Cuddly
[09:50]  Little Miss Waffle: LOL FUZZ thank you!! :D
[10:04]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: And we're baaaaaaaaaaaack!
[10:04]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: I love that! Thank you Sting!
[10:04]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Hi everybody! look at everyone out there! I love it!
[10:04]  Little Miss Waffle: (?)
[10:04]  Little Miss Waffle: xD
[10:05]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: we have a lot to cover, so listen up , cause we're gonna mention lots of names and info and share just how amazing all of you guys are.
[10:05]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: This is our time to celebrate you.
[10:05]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Okay, so! lets get going!
[10:06]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: I can start with the fundraising awards. At the beginning of the year we said there would be prizes for the people who raised the most money via convio.
[10:07]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: I'm working with the relay department to make sure the right emails go to the right people, so give us a few weeks on that.
[10:07]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: So lets talk about our totals!
[10:07]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting:  The convio total for this year was: 39,000 USD.
[10:08]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: I think that's the highest we've ever done!
[10:08]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: I belive the grand total from today is: 238,186 USD raised.
[10:09]  Little Miss Waffle: (Sorry!! My computer froze! give me a moment!)
[10:10]  Little Miss Waffle: (My apologies <3 br="">[10:11]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Thank you to Saffia Widdershins, Cinders Vale, Zander Greene, Elrik Merlin, Eclair Martinek, Lukeflywalker Fittinger for doing our track side interviews this year.  Keep watch on our youtube channel for those interviews and our ceremonies to be posted.    I would also like to thank Jara Lowell for doing some great videos of our Relay weekend.  Jara does these every year without us even asking!
[10:11]  Bain Finch: Try not to go faster than your computer can handle Cuddly. :-P
[10:11]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: A special thank you to Grace Louden Devin for building this beautiful Wrap Up area and to Sue Peregrine for providing us with the sim.  All year long Sue has provided teams with the D’Alize sim for teams to hold events. That donation has made a huge difference for many teams.  These two ladies have both been so amazing this year. What a difference you make in our Relay.
[10:11]  Little Miss Waffle: Kammie: We also neglected to thank Kammie for all the work she put into Relay Weekend.  Kammie worked non spot putting together the entertainment and helping Never with all our activities. Thank you for all you do Kammie!
[10:13]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: before we do the swag bag raffle, lets talk about the Century Cub T-shirts.
[10:13]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: ok so the Century Club is a RL t-shirt opportunity we give to people suting relay weekend. Anyone who makes a single donation of USD100 gets a free real life t-shirt.
[10:14]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: Once the shirts are made they'll be shipped out directly to you. They are official RFL 2016 shirts.
[10:14]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: Its the Paint Your World Purple logo.
[10:14]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: On the back it says Relay for Life of Second Life.
[10:14]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: those who made that donation and qualified will get an email this week.
[10:14]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Ready for some swag?!
[10:14]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Lets see if we can.. i'll try to put this out as i shout it!
[10:15]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: TS can not win this year.
[10:15]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Hold on...
[10:16]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: whilst you pull that up - the swag bag raffle - its two relay duffle bags. Each winner gets one. We're gonna put some other relay gear in there, like in the past we've done coffee mugs, notebooks, hand totes, just different itesm with the relay logo on.
[10:16]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: The winners are:
[10:16]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: AlexanderPalmer Resident!
[10:16]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Sue Peregrine!
[10:16]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: how many tickets did she buy?!
[10:17]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: That's something on our to-do list, to figure out how many were sold! Congrats Alex and Sue!
[10:17]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: So i will be sending an email to the two of you toget your mailing information.
[10:17]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: We do want to say thank you again to our Premier and Special Sponsors.  Your support throughout this relay season has been very much appreciated
[10:17]  Little Miss Waffle: Premier Sponsors:
Rockcliffe University Consortium
RGF Estates
Sole Existence
Runestone
[10:18]  Little Miss Waffle: Special Event Sponsor: Entice
[10:18]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Many of you may wonder just what do these mega events that sponsor RFL of SL bring in?  $65,584 just this year!  They play a huge role in our fundraising.  Each coordinator puts in months of work to bring us such amazing mega events.  We appreciate all you do in support of The American Cancer Society.
[10:19]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Our mega events this year were:
[10:19]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: The Sci Fi convention,Kirk Wingtips & Ariadne Fall
[10:19]  Little Miss Waffle: The Christmas expo, Nuala Maracas
[10:19]  Little Miss Waffle: The Home and Garden expo, Kaerri Rae, Cain Maven and Reven Rosca
[10:19]  Little Miss Waffle: and Fantasy Faire, Elizabeth Tingsly
[10:19]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: One special note Fantasy Faire this year brought in over 31 Thousand US Dollars in donations!  That is just amazing!  Be watching our website for next year's mega events dates and information.
[10:20]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Media Partners support the Relay For Life of Second Life by promoting the event, by telling volunteers' stories, playing Radio PSA's, printing our official notices and by sharing news throughout the Relay season and on Relay weekend...and by helping us raise money for the American Cancer Society!  The outreach they provide to all communities in and out of Second Life is invaluable.
[10:21]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: A special thank you to: T1 Radio
Krypton Radio
Whip Radio
MTFB Radio -Music to fly by
Cibigibi Radio (Pronounced C B G B)
Macchiato Media
Full Throttle Radio
Fantasy Faire Radio and Radio Riel (Pronounced REEL) :)
WTF Radio
[10:21]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Fundraising did not stop on Relay weekend and several teams have been holding events in the aim of reaching their fundraising goals.   Congratulations to the following teams who have moved up a level in the Fundraising Club since the July 17th Relay weekend.
[10:21]  Little Miss Waffle: RISING STAR
Relay Pranksters
[10:21]  Little Miss Waffle: BRONZE
Frank Sinatra & Company
Team Mingan-For Relay For Life Of SL
Eureka High RFL
Dragons for a Cure
RadioActiveAir
Giant Snail Relay
[10:22]  Little Miss Waffle: SILVER
Dreamin' in Purple
Team Live Wire
[10:22]  Little Miss Waffle: GOLD
CyberNuts RFL
Walking Tall For A Cure
Friends For A Cure
Madd Vibes
Too Tough To Die
E&S Breedables
The Quest for a Cure
[10:22]  Little Miss Waffle: PLATINUM
Fighting Sunflowers
Circle of Life
Second Life Cheerleading Squad
Sunbeamers
[10:22]  Little Miss Waffle: JADE
Meli's Maniacs
[10:22]  Little Miss Waffle: SAPPHIRE
Purple Tears
Sail For Life
[10:23]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: I love that you just keep going!
[10:23]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: I get the privilege of namking the Top Team Total Fundraising awards.
[10:23]  Little Miss Waffle: TOP TEAM FUNDRAISING AWARD - OVERALL
Awarded to the teams who raises the most lindens (convio and Lindens combined).
[10:23]  Little Miss Waffle: 3rd Place Team:  Harmony Of Hope raising  L$ 1,927,177
[10:23]  Little Miss Waffle: 2nd Place Team:  Goreans In Relay For Life  with  L$ 2,079,125
[10:23]  Little Miss Waffle: The Top Team Fundraising Overall, with a total of  L$ 2,834,856,   goes to The Relay Rockers
[10:24]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Before we announce our Convio Fundraising Dashboard winners we want to give a special thank you to Connie Mistwalker and Meli’s Maniacs team for a one time donation from a foundation in the amount of $2500.00!
[10:24]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: we just apprecfiate that you do this for the ACS Connie, thank you!
[10:24]  Little Miss Waffle: Top Team Convio Fundraising Dashboard: 
Awarded to the team who raises the most via the Convio website (outside of SL, US dollar donation)
[10:24]  Little Miss Waffle: 3rd place team: Relay Rockers with $2610.00 US dollars
[10:25]  Little Miss Waffle: 2nd place team: Two Moon Paradise with $3924.00 US
[10:25]  Little Miss Waffle: The top team convio  online fundraising goes to Harmony of Hope!  Harmony of Hope brought in $4,390.00 US to RFL of SL.   Well done Harmony of Hope!
[10:25]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Congratulations you guys and thank you!
[10:25]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Top Individual Convio Fundraising Dashboard:
Awarded to the individual who raises the most via the Convio website (outside of SL, US dollar donation)
[10:26]  Little Miss Waffle: 3rd place individual is Trader Whiplash with $1090.00 US
[10:26]  Little Miss Waffle: 2nd place individual is TS Darrow with $1290.00 US
[10:26]  Little Miss Waffle: We have a tie this year with our top individual winner with convio online fundraising. They are Sunshine Zhangsun and Cathy10 Longoria both bringing in $1,400.00 individually.  Awesome job ladies.
[10:26]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Well done to all our team this year in reaching the highest level ever reached in online donations!
[10:27]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Every year, your committee opens the  Wrap Up Awards to YOU….the Relay Volunteers.  You submitted the names of individuals and teams for the next 4 award categories. You told us your reasons why you think your nominations should receive the award. We encourage ALL Relay Volunteers to submit nominations each year.
[10:27]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Selecting winners for each category is not easy. There are so many, many deserving nominees.  We rely on your nomination reasons to help us choose the winners.
[10:27]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Today we will announce the teams and individuals that YOU,  Relay World,  felt were the most deserving of recognition. We thank you all for your nominations and wonderful comments in support of these outstanding members of our Relay Family.
[10:27]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: And now I would like to introduce my fellow Co chair Leala Spire who will begin our Awards presentation today with the winners of the Beacon Award
[10:28]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: The Beacon Award Celebrates one team and one individual who have made exceptional contributions to RFL of SL through acts of generosity or by providing leadership, creative ideas, skills or time without personal reward. The team and individual who utilizes events and Relay opportunities to bring new awareness to our group.
[10:28]  Little Miss Waffle: Beacon Award Individual : Our Individual winner is “dedicated not only at relay time but 365 days a year. She is constantly creating events, recruiting people and making RFL known to everyone.” “She is the reason behind her team success. She is dedicated to the cause and planned many joint events with other relay teams.”
[10:29]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Another nomination reads, “She has every quality you mentioned above and more. I look up to her and her warm heart when it comes to survivors and caregivers.” Another reads “ “She donated her venue and helped work to honor our survivors for National Survivors Day. She is a very special person and her passion is solely for Relay”. “   For these reasons and many others, our 2016 Individual Beacon Award winner is...
[10:29]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: SHIRAN SABRA!
[10:29]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Congratulations Shiran!!
[10:30]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Beacon Award Team: This team willingness to partner with relayers from all walks of SL life exemplifies what it means to be a "beacon" in our fight against cancer.  Fantasy Faire 2016 would not have been possible without the support of this Team. They came as merchants, as performers, producers and players, photographers, writers, and spinners of songs.
[10:30]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: They also reached out with some creative events to RP sims.  For this and other reasons, our 2016 Team Beacon Award winner is …
[10:30]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Aether Chrononauts Tiny Steps!!
[10:31]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: The Change Makers Award Is a celebration of individuals who have made a difference to Relay weekend. They did something during Relay weekend that grabbed attention. An outstanding act of kindness or a remarkable contribution, memory or laugh to the Event Day. Persons who brought humor, understanding, camaraderie, dedication and a strong sense of Relay Spirit to the event. These individuals will bring new guests to share the Relay weekend experience, they’ll promote unity and spirit throughout.
[10:31]  Little Miss Waffle: Eclair Martinek : Eclair stepped up and agreed to learn how to film in SL and edit videos so that we could create a lasting record of this 2016 Relay Weekend. She did it with passion, class and a stellar attitude. She cheered the walkers on, she built a stunning tribute to both survivors, caregivers and those who have been lost on the designer sim, RFL Survivor. During the weekend she could be seen in crazy outfits photo bombing people on the purple couch and adding to everyone's Relay experience in a positive way.Her laughter, her sense of humor, her giving spirit all make up a true Change Maker.
[10:32]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Ricka Deerhunter: If you passed by the Team Buddy campsite, you no doubt ran into Ricka track side and heard…..“Hey...challenge me to a game of checkers!”  “Come beat me in checkers!”.   I think he asked every single relayer on the track who passed by to come play checkers with him (it was his team fundraiser). And he always got a laugh or a smile, and even a few games of checkers out of it.
[10:32]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Fuzzball Ortega: Every year Fuzz takes to the airwaves after the luminaria ceremony, dries out tears with understanding and camaraderie, and lifts our spirits with his music and infectious humor.
[10:33]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Gem Sunkiller:  If anyone is literally waving a One Team banner it is Gem. She actually made One Team Creed flags she handed out on Relay weekend. Constantly on the track, she went around to make sure every luminaria was lit before the Luminaria Ceremony.
[10:33]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Secret Rage:  Not only did she build a great campsite, but throughout the weekend she was always on the track cheering people on. She brought new people to her team campsite and to Relay weekend!  Go Go... Shhhhhh Secret !!
[10:33]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Our last changemaker...
[10:34]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: Madonna Daehlie:  Not everyone can carry off 6 arms in a latex suit, walk the track, and greet everyone they see with the grace of Madonna!  She worked hard behind the scenes helping as a producer for all the DJ’s on air.  She has  a spirit of  encouragement  and great fun.
[10:34]  Little Miss Waffle: Leala: We also have an honorable mention for the Change Maker Award this year.   Sue Peregrine.  Her name has come up many many times for what she took AWAY from Relay weekend…...lag!  The nominations sum it up best…”lag free for the first time in the history of Relay.”  “0 crashes”  “ Only 4 region restarts”. “I actually was able to walk around the track, without crashing, for the first time ever“ “  That’s beyond change, that’s god like”
[10:35]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Congratulations to all the Change Makers!
[10:35]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: The Spirit of Relay Award  - Individual:
[10:36]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Awarded to the individual that embodies the “Spirit of the Relay”. “Spirit of the Relay” includes an overall performance from Kick Off to Relay Day. This award takes into consideration the “spirit” of the individual, how they embraced Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society Mission, and the enthusiasm displayed. Also considered is their participation in Relay activities, as a whole, not only in their own team’s, but other team’s events, as well.  Were they supportive and kind in RFL chat? Did they embody the ‘we’re all one big team’ aspect?
[10:36]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: This year's winner is well known in Relay for her generosity of spirit and her abundance of relay passion.  With tireless effort, she helps literally every single person who asks for or needs help with anything, from finding their way to events, to setting up convio, or just helping run team events.  When teams needed event ideas, she was there  to offer some, when a relayer was feeling down, she was there to lift their spirits.  She led her team to success in both convio and linden fundraising donations.
[10:36]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Whether getting eggs ready for Easter, scaring the bejeebies out of everyone in an early Halloween event, or introducing relayers to a special  Pet Relay event, she never stopped.  She volunteered as a Fundraising Advisor this year to help new teams learn the ropes.  And with all this going on, she still found time to be a familiar face at almost all the other relay teams events with words of encouragement and praise.
[10:37]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: She has been a fervent supporter of RFL in SL for years, talking on leadership responsibilities and providing a continuing vision for her team, Harmony of Hope.
[10:37]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Embracing 8 years of relaying with pride and passion, it is my pleasure to present The Spirit of Relay - Individual to Dianna Wycliffe.
[10:37]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: The Spirit of Relay Award  - Team:
[10:38]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Awarded to the team that embodies the “Spirit of the Relay”. “Spirit of the Relay” includes an overall performance of the team from Kick Off to Relay Day. It is not representative of simply the amount raised. This award takes into consideration the “spirit” of the team, how they embraced Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society Mission, and the enthusiasm displayed. Also considered, is the team's participation in Relay activities as a whole, not only in their own but other team’s events, as well. Did they embody the ‘we’re all one big team’ aspect?
[10:38]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: this year we have an honorable mention first.
[10:39]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Honourable Mention:
A new team who wrapped themselves up in our Relay and carried an amazing bright torch as their part in the crusade. Friendly, so kind and loving within the group and outside of it. They represented our Relay with a spirit that showed the EXAMPLE of what the Relay spirit is. Amazing team! They attended every class, every Town Hall and if you went to any team event you could find them there!  They have ties to the live music part of SL and were able to spread the word further than ever in that genre and we thank them for that.. deeply. I'm so glad they've joined our group and am proud to call them Relay Family.
[10:39]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: We are happy to present a Spirit of Relay Award -Team - Honorable Mention to Friends For A Cure
[10:39]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Now on to the The Spirit of Relay Award - Team winner.
[10:39]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: This team goes out there, year after year, and not only work steadily to raise funds at their own events, but help energize and inspire this entire Relay.  The team remains above the fray and is always assisting other teams and individuals.  They reach outside their team and outside of Relay to hold fundraising events and raise awareness of the American Cancer Society. This team took a new team under their wing this year, made them feel welcomed and supported and always had a team member at one of that team's events.  This team also stepped up and helped host an event for a team when that team was unable to be in world due to travel and family commitments.
[10:40]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: They cheered all teams in the volunteer group as each team met a goal.  Their constant cheering trackside for people walking the track helped keep everyone awake on Relay weekend.  For 9 years this team has been one of the most consistent in fundraising, participation, support and outreach. Attend an event anywhere and you will find Seinna, Alexia and other team members in attendance. They exemplified the the one team spirit. They are truly one of the foundations of this Relay.
[10:40]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala:  The 2016 Spirit Of Relay Award - Team is presented to …. The Cure Chasers!
[10:41]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Congratulations to all the award winners.  We have just a few more awards to be presented.   Reading through the nominations responses I would see this name pop up off and on in all categories.
[10:42]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Just as we have to chose just one person to represent The Spirit of Relay from the hundreds of Relayers who put in hours of work volunteering. I really think that this committee this year needs to be recognized for all their efforts. I would like to select one committee member to receive the committee Spirit of Relay Award.
[10:42]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: I am going to quote from a nomination we received “Tee's passion for Mission education is evident from the moment you meet her.  She reaches across the grid with mission information through her Mission Monday postings to the website, facebook, and group notices, as well as with Relay Rap and Tee Time on T1Radio every Sunday during Relay Season.
[10:42]  Mary Teodosio: WTG Cure Chasers! WTG Sienna, alexia, Callie, amanda! You're the best!
[10:43]  Little Miss Waffle: Random:  She develops and distributes posters and notes on mission.   Tee offers to attend any team meeting or to help a team plan how to integrate mission into their event or campsite.   She provides mission information at all Mega Events.   The amount of American Cancer Society mission information has grown in the past 3 years since Tee came on board!”  Thank you and congratulations to Ms Tee Auster the recipient of the 2016 Committee Spirit of Relay Award.
[10:43]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Our last two awards are Steering committee awards.  Over the year we kept watch for people who stood out to us for special recognition.
[10:43]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Community Champion Award:
[10:44]  Little Miss Waffle: Random:  A Community Champion describes a person who goes out of their way to do good things for his or her community.  A person who dedicates a large portion of their time serving others, selflessly and generously.   This is our opportunity to honor and acknowledge the contributions made to RFL of SL by those who aren’t necessarily even on a team or committee or even in the Volunteer group.
[10:44]  Little Miss Waffle: Random:  It is our opportunity to let them know that their service to Relay has made an impact and is so very much appreciated.
This year's Community Champion Award goes to several people. The first award goes to someone who has been involved with RFL of SL in some form for many years.  He is influential in the amazing success of The Fantasy Faire.  He has served on the teleton team that covered our Relay for years.  He has used his building skills in making ACS Island what it is.
[10:45]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Anytime any past chair or current chair would contact him for help the answer is always YES!  Each year he makes time to put together our Relay PSAs.  Zander Greene thank you for your years of support for RFL and The American Cancer Society.
[10:45]  Rowena Dubrovna: WTG ZANDER!!!!!
[10:45]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Our second award goes to BIXYL SHUFTAN and the SL Newser.  Bixyl is a member of the sunbeamers team but outside of the team Bixyl has been blogging since 2010  about RFL of SL throughout the years with his SL Newser.
[10:46]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Bixyl we appreciate all the time you devote to highlight RFL of SL in your Newser.
[10:46]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Last but not least.  Our last award goes to the Spirit of Relay Team award winner in 2011.This year that team chose not to make a team but instead play host to a number of team events.  Every week they held events for teams.  They invited live musicians and provided the venue for these events.  Their support for many of the teams was instrumental in that teams fundraising level.
[10:46]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Thank you to OD DESIGNS!  Specifically ORTHO VARGAS & DAISEZE DAHLSTROM.  You truly show the Spirit of Relay in everything you do!
[10:47]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Dr Gordy Klatt Award:
[10:47]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: For those of you who are unsure just who Dr Gordy Klatt is.  Dr Gordy was a colorectal surgeon who, in 1985, decided that he wanted to do more to fight cancer and wanted to raise a significant amount of money to fund the mission of the American Cancer Society.  Dr. Klatt ran and walked around a track for 24 hours that year and raised $27,000.
[10:47]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: The next year, others joined him, taking turns for the duration of the event...and Relay For Life was born.  We lost Dr Gordy Klatt to cancer in 2014.  In memory of his pioneering spirit and steadfast dedication to Relay For Life, The Dr Gordy Klatt award goes to someone who has demonstrated the level of commitment and dedication to the cause...who has put the big picture ahead of their own interests, and whose footprint and legacy will always be a part of the Relay For LIfe of Second Life story.
[10:48]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: The recipient of the Dr Gordy Klatt award is a name familiar to many in secondlife.   She began relaying in SL in 2007.  A huge Big Brother fan she met like minded women on the Big Brother message boards.  She came into SL and began a BB team! Not only a team but the top fundraising team.  It didn’t take her long to put her creative vision into action in developing the Home & Garden expo as a team event and the Fashion Faire expo as a mega event.
[10:49]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: By 2011 she was Mamap Beerbaums co chair and was our Event Chair in 2013 and 2014.  During her stay as Chair, RFL of SL brought in over 800 thousand dollars in just 2 years!  She continues to Relay and served last year and this year as our awards lead.  A woman with an amazing vision and beautiful heart.
[10:49]  Little Miss Waffle: Random:  I am so proud and honored to give this years Dr Gordy Klatt award to Nikki Mathieson.
[10:49]  Mary Teodosio: /a
[10:50]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: First, I’d like to thank everyone who participated in Relay For LIfe of Second Life this year. I know that our Team Captains work hard for so many months to organize your team, you commit yourselves to planning fundraising and awareness events to your respective communities, and it often is a thankless job...and so you certainly deserve kudos for a job well done this year!
[10:51]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: Our Relay Committee has once again come together and embraced the changes that we set forth with in the beginning of the year, and as a result, we were able to reach new people who formed new teams across the grid. Second Life is constantly evolvingI...people come and go...and Relay is no different. It is important that each year, we are creative with our event vision and that we allow new people to step up and stand on the shoulders of those who have come before them.
[10:51]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: Thank you to Nuala & Leala - for filling the role of Co-Chairs this year. It’s such an important role in Relay and one that you both filled with passion by sharing your vision, your ideas, your experience, and your time … with whatever was asked of you throughout the year.
[10:52]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: And Random - thank YOU so very much for the past two years serving as Chair of Relay For Life of Second Life. You are an amazing woman and you took care of Relay with grace and dignity.  You overcame adversity, you led us through some major changes to the Second Life community.
[10:53]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: I believe that your legacy will be that you were a strong leader with the right combination of organization, iron will, and loving heart that was necessary to navigate us through this transition period. As we move forward in Relay, I know you will be a great addition to the “Relay Elders” with Mama & Nikki, Tay, Fay, and Jade…and quite honestly, I think you’ll enjoy that role a lot.
[10:53]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: As I expressed to you already, I don’t know the right words that can be used to express how thankful I am and how lucky RFL in SL is to have you in our lives ...to have worked with you in Relay…to call you my friend. You are an incredibly strong woman and I really don’t think that anyone could have led Relay the last two years the way you did…which was the way it needed to be done.
[10:55]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
[10:55]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: And now, it’s time to unveil the 2017 Relay For Life of Second Life Theme that was voted on by you, our team captains, team members, survivors, and volunteers.
[10:56]  Little Miss Waffle: The 2017 theme is: PASSPORT TO HOPE!
[10:57]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: I think you guys made a great choice and its gonna be a theme everyone has a good time interpreting.
[10:57]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: And finally, as I’ve  mentioned time and time again...and even just a minute ago - we all know that Relay For LIfe is an ever-changing, always creative, special event that requires a lot of people who are committed to planning and organizing the event.
[10:57]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting:  In order to continue moving the event forward...through the current and future changes that are occurring in Second Life, the grid, and the virtual space...we have reached the time where Random will pass the torch on to the next Chair of Relay For Life of Second Life.
[10:57]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: Our next Chair comes to us with many years of experience in Relay, both in Second Life and in her local community. She has served as a committee member, a staff partner, a Co-Chair, and has seen Second Life Relay grow from the very beginning.
[10:58]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: And I have watched her grow and evolve, herself, throughout her own personal Relay journey.
[10:58]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: Through conversations in making this decision, I have full confidence that her vision for our event is one that we are ready for and one that our committed teams and volunteers will appreciate. Every Chair steps into the role with their own vision...with respect for where past Chairs have brought the event.
[10:58]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: She will stand on the shoulders of our past Chairs and carry on some of their traditions while establishing some new ones of her own. She is committed to carrying on the legacy of our event being one unified community of teams who come together to celebrate the cancer survivors in our lives, to celebrate the diversity that makes up this event, to raise money for the American Cancer Society, and to have fun while doing it!
[10:59]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: I am pleased to announce (not introduce because you all know her already, I’m sure) our 2017 Chair of Relay For Life of Second Life will be Nuala Maracas.
[10:59]  Little Miss Waffle: Sting: But before we hear from Nuala, we have one more chance to hear from Random.
[11:00]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Thank you so much Sting!  Congratulations to you RFL of  SL Volunteers.   You all are heroes! Thank you for the hours, the days and the months that you have put in to make such an amazing difference in our fight against cancer.  I am so proud of all of you.   From teams. to committee, to mega events, to supporters.
[11:00]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Together we had a wonderful Relay season.  I personally feel this season has been our best!   Our Relay family supported each other, taught each other and had an amazing lag free Relay weekend together.
[11:00]  Little Miss Waffle: Random:  I have served on the RFL of SL committee now for 5 years.  You have given me 2 memorable years as your chair.  I need to thank my mentors Mamap Beerbaum and Nikki Mathieson for being with me every step of the way.  TS thank you for your love, your encouragement and patience.
[11:01]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Sting thank you for our friendship and that inner humor and passion for Relay that we share.  To all of you my Relay Family  I thank you for your encouragement, your support and your cherished friendship.  I have loved every minute of this unique Relay and you will be seeing me next year alongside you!
[11:01]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: In closing I have to say....
[11:01]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: I absolutely love our theme for next year Passport to Hope!   When I think of that I am reminded that each and everyone of us are supporting The American Cancer Society in putting an end to cancer as we know it.
[11:02]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Our hope is that no longer will it be a major health concern for any nation!    As I went back and reviewed our team registration, I glanced at all the countries that you all come from.  Very similar to these Olympics we all are watching.  Yet not.  We don't compete but work together with one hope.
[11:02]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: We need that passport that takes us world wide to ban together to fight this deadly disease that robs us of our loved ones. Every person here whether you live in the US, Denmark, Japan, England, Germany, Portugal, Canada, the Netherlands, Brazil,  Spain, Romania, Ireland, Finland, Scotland, France or Australia makes a difference in this battle that knows no boundaries.  This hope is not contained in one Nation.  The American Cancer Society's efforts affect us all.
[11:03]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Our Relay is unlike any other in the world.  No other Relay has relayers  from every corner of this world.  We have that passport to Hope!  United together we are strong. Each of us hold that Passport to Hope that will affect every nation on this earth.
[11:03]  Little Miss Waffle: Random: Now please join me in welcoming our 2017 Event Chair Nuala Maracas
[11:04]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Thank you Random! I just want to take a moment to say it was a pleasure to work with you this past year. Your heart is as big as the sun. Over the year i have come to consider you a good friend. Your passion for relay is second to none.
[11:04]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: When Sting approached me to be Event Chair for 2017, I got to thinking about the experiences I have had over the years with what are 2 very different types of Relay’s.  Our Relay in Second Life truly is unique.  Although there are certain standards and guidelines that need to be followed, and the Why We Relay remains the same in both worlds….. The HOW we relay is vastly different.
[11:04]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: How many times have you heard people say.. ..” We need to think outside of the box.”
[11:05]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: My vision for Relay in 2017 is Not a Relay that thinks outside the box.
[11:05]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: We are Relay For Life of Second Life ….we DON’T think outside the box….. .WE BREAK THE BOX!
[11:05]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Let’s be sure we are making our events incredible experience.  That they are meaningful to anyone who attends. Let’s recognize our volunteers, our teams, our survivors, our caregivers, our sponsors, and anyone who participates.   Let’s make all our events jammed packed with fun.  Why?   Because every time someone attends your Relay events we want them to walk away saying “Wow” and to tell their friends about the amazing experience they had.
[11:05]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: The Relay experience is THE one thing that sets up apart from all the other events in Second Life.  It makes people want to come back year after year and helps us to evolve.
[11:06]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: An event is any planned social  or public gathering. That does not sound too exciting.  But an experience, by definition, is an event or occurrence that leaves an impression on you or someone else.
[11:06]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: Every single time someone comes to one of your Relay events, we need to give them the ultimate experience so it creates an impression on them, so it will leave an impression on them EVERY time.
[11:06]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: I ask all relayers to join in my vision to make 2017 the ultimate Relay Experience! To take the time between now and the kick off  in March, to create and plan  what YOU can to do to deliver the ultimate Relay Experience, not just to our relay community but to all of Second Life.  An experience that leaves the best impression on every person who comes to one of your events.
[11:07]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: The 2017 Relay For Life of Second Life committee will most certainly be working to deliver the ultimate Relay experience.  I challenge you as individual relayers, relay teams and as The Relay Community to BREAK THE BOX  in 2017!
[11:07]  Little Miss Waffle: Nuala: See you in March !!  Go Relay !!



(Click here if the video fails to play)

Relay Wrap-Up 2015 Transcript

The following is a transcript of the Relay Wrap-Up event provided by Cuddle Waffle.

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[09:44]  cυddly waғғle: [09:40]  Now playing Brad Paisley -- Welcome To The Future
[09:46]  cυddly waғғle: Trader: Welcome to th efurure - we are ready to wrp up for 2015! We

are about 10 minutes waay from the final celebration of RFL of SL 2015. You can hear it live

on RFL radio provided by T1. We are at the Rose Theatre, and there are listening areas set

up at ACS Island, Relay D'Alliez and Arinultra Cay.
[09:47]  cυddly waғғle: TradeR: Stand by and stick around because not only do we have the

ceremony, we have a spectacular dance performance.
[09:47]  cυddly waғғle: Trader: We have a lot going on here today as we wrap up RFL of SL

2015.
[09:51]  cυddly waғғle: [09:51]  Now playing Sly And The Family Stone -- Stand!
[09:54]  cυddly waғғle: Trader: Alright guys, are you ready? We are about to begin!
[09:54]  cυddly waғғle: Trader: Sit  back, you've earned it - here we go.
[09:54]  cυddly waғғle: [09:53]  Now playing Rachel Platten -- Fight Song
[09:57]  cυddly waғғle: [09:57]  Now playing Gavin DeGraw -- Fire
[10:01]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: AND WE'RE BAAAAAAAAAAACK !
[10:01]  cυddly waғғle: Random: We are! How beautiful is this? I love the Rose Theatre.
[10:02]  cυddly waғғle: Random: We're gonna jump right into it and Thank you Lisa Valentino

of Angel Manor to host our wrap up ceremony at this beautiful Rose Theater!   Lisa has been

a huge supporter of RFL and extremely generous for providing us with with this magnificent

venue.
[10:02]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Adds a touch of class, doesn;t it?
[10:02]  cυddly waғғle: Random: It does! We're now gonna pick a winner for our swag bag...
[10:03]  cυddly waғғle: Sting:: This was a year for expanding how we do things:  Sail For

Life has been relaying with us for years. Always consistant and always with passion. They

sail the entire time we are walking and encourage others to join them.  They have a

fantastic auction for some unique and amazing ships.
[10:03]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: They also work with SL Coast Guard team in helping them

achieve their goals for their 2nd year as a team.   Connie Mistwalker is a  team member who

passionately went out and got a real life business donation  that totaled $2,500!  They

mailed in their check and her team Sail For Life has moved up to Sapphire level because of

it!
[10:03]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: We have the winner...!
[10:03]  cυddly waғғle: Random: TS DArrow!!
[10:03]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Congratulationsm, that's awesome!
[10:04]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Congratulations!
[10:04]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Special thank you to Catalina Staheli for our great Why Do You

Relay photo campaign!  She not only took photos, she encouraged other teams to use this as

event draws.  She worked  with people to capture stories and photos with the Relay Rockers

to present The Stand Exhibit.
[10:04]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Catalina also donated her photo skills in a raffles, team

posters, and many more innovative ways with the committee photo and team representatives..  

In addition, she spoke to merchants and obtained donations for the Survivor/Caregivers

during Relay weekend, and spearheaded a very special Relay lap for a special Relayer! Thank

you Cat!
[10:05]  cυddly waғғle: Random: I would like to mention one of my favourite teams this yhear

- Fly For Life team   - Fly for Life team is a brand new team this year.  This team just

took off flying!  They came up with some very unique events.  If you attended one of their

flight events you got to dance and party and then board a jet.  Complete with pilot, seats

with legroom and beautiful views.  We flew over several sims until we reached the next

destination to continue the party.  Thank you to Fly For Life team who brought in over 2

thousand dollars us!
[10:06]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Great - I love that! Quick update - we have reached 275,000

USD for this year's relay tthanks to the excitement of the tiny band there!
[10:07]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: We also want to say a special thank you to a volunteer who has

been with us for a very long time, having served on a team, as the Teams Lead, as a mentor

and coach...for several years. She’s “retiring” from the committee at the end of this

season, but we wanted to make sure we said thank you to her for many years of dedicated

service to help the Relay For Life of Second Life.
[10:07]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: PrettyKitty Gumbo - thank you for being a valued and important

member of the committee and the event for so many years. And we know you aren’t going far -

she’s just gonna be on a farm up-state...where she’ll focus on her own team...being a model

of success!
[10:07]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Speaking of changes, we have some special changes to announce

already...for 2016…
[10:08]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: We took a long time to find the right person to fill the big

shoes that Dwen will be leaving in his retirement, but we’re excited and confident and

grateful that our new Tech Lead volunteer is going to be Lomgren Smalls! And don’t worry,

the kiosk size will not change!!
[10:08]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: As a side note, the kiosk size will not change.
[10:08]  S.i.d.: MICROKITTEN !
[10:08]  S.i.d.: OH
[10:08]  S.i.d.: sorry
[10:08]  S.i.d.: ^^
[10:08]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: But wait, there’s more! Has anyone noticed that Nuala showed

up to the wrap-up wearing a santa hat?
[10:08]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: We know that Nuala has done a lot for Relay this year, but no,

it hasn’t driven her crazy...yet! It re-ignited her passion for Relay so much that she has

agreed to take on the role of the 2015 Christmas Expo Lead! So if you’re interested in being

involved with the Christmas Expo - Nuala is the person to talk to!
[10:09]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: But wait, there’s more...you may also notice that Leala Spire

and Ariel Goldrozen are wearing pink. I’m sure by now, you can guess what that means. Yep,

they have already gotten started with planning the 2015 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

event as its lead and co lead. Strides will be held the whole month of October.  They are

planning some great events. If you're interested in having an event for Making Strides

please contact one of these two ladies.
[10:09]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: But wait, there’s more...Nikki Mathieson has agreed to step

into a new position: our Mega Events Director position - where she will work closely with

the Steering Committee and the Mega Event Coordinators to adapt our Mega Event concept to

the ever-changing virtual world.
[10:10]  cυddly waғғle: Random: It takes a large group of volunteers  to put on a Relay event

of this size.  I have to start off by thanking my hard working committee.
[10:10]  cυddly waғғle: Random:  The committee this year was Gem Sunkiller, TS Darrow and

Catalina Stahali, Serina Juran, Lunavonrandolf Kenin and Step Portilo, Cathy10 Longoria,

Alianna Logan, Rendal Constantineau, Sandie Loxingly, Sigh Underwood, Oldesoul Eldemar,

Prettykitty Gumbo, Ariel Goldrozen and Kaiila Mahoney.  Vee Tammas, Madonna Milena, Laufiair

Hexicola, Tiviyah Resident, Nikki Mathieson, Nuala Maracas, Leala Spire, Grace Louden, Tee

Auster, Cuddly Waffle, Fuzzball Ortega, Wildstar Beaumont and Ishtarangel Micheline.
[10:11]  cυddly waғғle: Random: My heartfelt thank you for all you have done this season.  We

laughed, we shed a tear together, a special thank you to my friend and co chair Dawnbeam

Dreamscape for your help and leadership.  I was very fortunate to have two amazing and wise

women as my mentors.  Thank you  MamaP and Nikki I appreciate all your advice and direction.
[10:12]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Our sponsors help to keep our events running smoothly by

defraying our costs.  These generous premier sponsors for 2015 were:
[10:12]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn:
Gemstone Breedables
Sol Existence
Club Zydeco & *The Club*
Metal Health Club
Runestone

[10:12]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: I also worked very closely with several of the  committee this

year.  You all know who you are and I would just like to say a special thank you!
[10:13]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: My hear belongs with Sting and Randon, thank you both.
[10:13]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: And we want to thank our media partners for helping to spread

the word throughout SEcond Life, within the Relay family...and beyond. Of course, our

flagship station, T1 Radio, provides the streams for kickoff, halfway there, Relay weekend,

wrap-up...and we are grateful for your support each year in this endeavor.
[10:13]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: We are always looking at ways to expand our outreach across

the grid.One thing we know for sure is that in order to successfully reach more people on

the grid, we need the support of our media parters - and so we thank them for pointing their

megaphones to the vast population of Second Life.
[10:13]  cυddly waғғle: The Gorean Whip
Krypton Radio
Dragons Spawn Radio
Freak Brothers Radio
Radio Mosaic
SL Aviation Network
SL Live Radio
XTC Radio
[10:14]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: We’d also like to give a special thanks to Saffia Widdershins

and her crew that helped produce many wonderful videos to help document the 2015 Relay For

Life of Second Life. Earlier in the year when they realized that producing the full telethon

would prove to be too big a task in 2015 for the resources we had available, Saffia reached

out with several options to compensate.
[10:14]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Her refusal to give up resulted in a fantastic project that

captured the beauty and the stories of our Relay event on video, which are now available on

the Relay For Life of Second Life youtube page...where they can be viewed whenever you want.
[10:14]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: So, I’m sure that you’re all excited to get to this next part

of the ceremony on Relay Sunday, you might remember the wonderfully jubilant way that Nikki

& Mama presented the awards. You could feel the fun and giddiness between the two of

them...and it was just the right touch for such a great part of Relay. So naturally, we

asked them for an encore performance.
[10:15]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: As former Event Leads of our Relay event, Nikki & Mama are

dedicated to Relay For Life of Second Life - always representing us with positivity, a

loving embrace, and support. We’re so glad that we were able to bring them out from the

retirement home today to present our 2015 Team Awards.
[10:15]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Nikki, are you here? Nikki? Did we lose Nikki?
[10:15]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: IM HERE
[10:15]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: can you ehar me now?
[10:16]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: oh my goodness gracious: New people taking over importnat

posiitons, so exciting!
[10:16]  cυddly waғғle: NikkI: and new trams going for gold like that, amazing!
[10:16]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: When I look at this list of teams who have changed their

fundraising club level since relay weekend, I see there is no quit in our relayers!
[10:17]  cυddly waғғle: MOVED UP TO BRONZE: Team DRMC
Little Yoshiwara
House Of Fallen Angels
[10:17]  cυddly waғғle: UP TO SILVER: LA DESIGNS @ THE FUTURE IS NOW!
[10:17]  cυddly waғғle: UP TO GOLD: Dreamin' in Purple
Giant Snail Relay
SOUL SENSATIONS
Walking Tall For A Cure
Alpha Sigma Omega Sorority
Seventh Legion MC
[10:17]  cυddly waғғle: UP TO PLATINUM: Circle of Life
[10:18]  cυddly waғғle: UP TO SAPPHIRE: Second Life Coast Guard
[10:18]  cυddly waғғle: UP TO EMERALD: Sail for Life
[10:18]  cυddly waғғle: UP TO RUBY: Harmony of Hope
[10:18]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Well done everyone, thank you for you rhard work.
[10:18]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Now we're going to go on to the next award which is the Best

Man and Maid of Honor award.
[10:20]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: ßεℓℓα (beila.zeplin) Bella is an Aussie on the Inspired

Dreamwalker Team.  Events are hard for her to attend but she supports the team as strongly

as she can especially  on Relay weekend and has for years.   This year was a special one. 

Not only did she arrange her schedule to be able to be with us all weekend but what she did

on the sidelines is why she is very much deserving of this award.  Bella would cheer

everyone that passed by all Relay weekend and took the extra step of IMing many of them.  If

they responded to her she took the time to not only get to make a new friend of each but

that lap and any other laps she saw them she would run out on to the track and offer hugs to

each one.  She would express her appreciation and admiration to the survivors and caregivers

and would thank them for all they do.  She wanted to make sure they all felt very loved and

honored. We all know how those little cheers make us feel but to have her take the extra

step of expressing her feelings to so many,
[10:20]  cυddly waғғle: NikkI: and passing out those hugs that earned her a special tag in

her team, "team hugger".
[10:21]  cυddly waғғle: Inspired hugger*
[10:21]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: I'm gonna add a comment here - we're gonna read a few of these,

as its important that everyone who took the time to do one, they were all important. So bear

with us.
[10:21]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: "Brucewaynee Resident

in short, Bruce is a great builder, integrated person and worthy of great respect, always

encouraging the Team Foundation For Life with their ideas, and sharing his experience of

living with the cancer and its cure."
[10:21]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Thalia Lupindo from Friends Fighting Cancer stood out very

much this year. She worked hard at the parties, walked the track 24 hours non stop

representing the team who mostly couldnt be there.  She commited her time to talk with those

who are suffering. She gave a shoulder to lean on. She fought to get their into Gold status

after years of bronze. She brought the Team back to life. Without her FFC wouldnt have been

active at all.
[10:22]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Sienna Thor - she and her team made sure to cheer relayers on

trackside. She always showed support through encouragement and kindness.
[10:22]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: OldeSoul Eldemar - He has been there for others, at all hours

of the day(night!) like a rock in the middle of a raging river. He has helped, flattered and

encouraged wherever he possibly could..And in doing so has made the Relay an immensely

enjoyable event. It would not be the same without him.  He brings so much love and support

to our Relay weekend. He truly is a beacon of light, whether it's walking the track, taking

the time to talk, or just plain Riverdancing as his bobcat tiny.
[10:23]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Saiyge Lotus. Saiyge jumped in for one of our teams and helped

them build a campsite after they lost the captain of the team who was also the team's

builder.  Thank you, Saiyge for helping us out in our hour of need.
[10:23]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: "trader1 whiplash
he is the voice of the relay
"
[10:23]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Rowena Dubrova has relayed with a passionate spirit all season

long, encouraging not only his team, but all relayers. He has put out kiosks for other teams

at his events so they could reach their goals, set up the Castle-Building Contest, and

pushed the boundaries of the guidelines in an effort to make a better relay for all.
[10:23]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Princess Kate (KateLynn Inglewood) and DJ Rock And Roll

(RockAndRoll Michigan)   are both very deserving of this award - Princess Kate is a survivor

and is finally back with us - She and DJ along with Steelhead Salmons adopted a team needing

their help.   They are both very special and fine indivifuals  - loving and caring!   (they

are engaged in RL now - and I know they are both so happy to be back together)   DJ was a

highlight of Relay weekend with his wonderful and varied avatar changes for the theme laps. 

Who didn't notice 'the Mask and the Silver Surfer' avatar going down that track?
[10:24]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Rowena Dubrovna, Cuddly Waffle & Sidonie Calberg - Their ONE

TEAM Push was AMAZING. They have always put others before themselves.
[10:24]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: "Brennie Slade

Brennie and purple tears group were non stop track side cheering all night through! Nothing

like lil ones at 3am"
[10:24]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: kylie briner stands out as one deserving this award. She talked

to all who passed by on the track and encouraging people with laughs and whimsy.
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Cathy10 Longoria - She's always there to help everyone and

anyone. She never lets you down. She's always cheerful to all teams and team members, just

not her own. She's an inspiration as a survivor
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Sasha Fairywren - a wonderful friend to Relay
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Veruca Tammas, she is a wonderful Ambassador!!
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Rendal Constanineau, a kind and gentle soul.
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: NikkI: Sylisan Resident, a caring and sweet coach
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Sandie Turbo/loxingly, a wonderful and kind person!!
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: random padar and cajuntadpole for being there and supporting

all us relayers hats off too you guys
[10:25]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Gem Sunkiller shows up on the track every year, and works so

hard to help light up all the luminaria along the track for the ceremony. Because of her

devotion to doing so, I would like to nominate her as one of our maids of honor.
[10:26]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Year in and year out, Dwen Dooley is such a steady, supportive

and fun presence on our Relay track. Our Relay weekend would not be what it is without him

around. So, as thanks for all he does to make those 24 hours on the track pass by so much

easier, I would like to nominate him as one of our best man awards of 2015.
[10:26]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Chevelley Resident (Silentghost) sure rocked our Relay weekend

this year - first by spending time behind bars to raise money for RFL, then by dressing up

as Jessica Rabbit.. what a great avatar that was.
[10:26]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Tahisha Fairplay is one of our Relayers who is usually in the

background, but, she sure rocks Relay weekend. She's there and present for all 24+ hours,

and comes up with some great costumes for each and every theme hour - Catwoman, a

Ghostbuster, or even bouncing down the track on a pogo stick.
[10:27]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Fuzzball Ortega. Making fun things more fun, including Relay

weekend. Plus, it is NOT Relay weekend until Fuzz hits the track with The Hair (which now

TALKS in 2015). Need I say more?
[10:27]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Rheata Resident (Rhea) sure shined on the track this year - in

more ways than one. Along with being a supportive and dear friend, she also showed off some

great latex and boots on the track
[10:27]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Darkstone Aeon. Dark worked tirelessly both during the pre-

Relay activities helping teams register and promote their events on the activity sims.

Helping to make sure they posted their success in chat, had all that they needed for their

events. He supported the Survivors & Caregivers through his generosity of providing gifts

for them for Relay weekend. And during the weekend, he continued to work to make sure that

activities went smoothly on the activity sims the entire 24 hours.
[10:28]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Cashew Writer- Cassie works so hard behind the scenes helping

both her own team and other teams with building and encouragement. This year, when one of

the teams lost their captain, longtime relayer Lovely Erin,  just weeks before Relay

weekend, Cassie, along with a few others, helped to bring the late captain's dream of a team

campsite to fruition. That team  then achieved the Bronze level fundraising award thanks to

Cassie and others who wanted to show the new relayers on both the e-Lemon-ator team and all

of RFL of SL how we all work together to reach our goals.
[10:28]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: PrettyKitty Gumbo. Kitty has worked tirelessly for several

years helping to promote and encourage relayers across the grid. This year, along with some

others, she worked to help build the e-Lemon-ator team's campsite after their captain Lovely

Erin passed away suddenly. During the Relay weekend, Kitty could often be found either on

the track or at the e-Lemon-ator campsite, having fun and encouraging those along the track.
[10:29]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Dawnbeam Dreamscape.  Dawn kept many of us going and gave up

several real life events, for the Christmas Expo this year.  She continues to relay in

Second Life and never forgets the cause. I can think of no one else better suited for such

an award.
[10:29]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: RockySlate Resident. Though he has been in SL for years, this

was his first season helping with RFL of SL. He was a huge encourager to me personally and

my team by helping me meet my goals, even when I didn't think I could since my team was so

small. He stayed on the track the entire 24 hrs. He also was present at many multi-team

functions throughout the season.
[10:30]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Our final maid of honor is Savannah Coronet and the Hell on

Heels dancers - Savvy and her dancers are seen at many Relay events during the season.  They

are a performing group who are very in demand within the SL live music area.  This season

Savvy and her group were bid bald by one of our teams.  They ended up with a full month of

glorified baldness.  The following week, they were the opening act for the Avi Choice Awards

and the opportunity was grabbed to use it to bring awareness to that audience who might not

even know about Relay.  Several large donations were dropped into kiosks scattered around

the auditorium and one could just feel the spirit and inspiration that flowed around the

room as that amazing voice opened the show completely bald, completely and happily

comfortable in the baldness.  In fact, the spirit continued later on in the show as the next

set of performers, an amazing dance group, all appeared onstage with no hair, as well. 

Their intent as explained.. was to show support for a
[10:30]  cυddly waғғle: ...most important cause and opportunity in SL.
[10:31]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: So if you think nobody's noticing what you're doing out

there...!
[10:31]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Your fellow relayers appreciate everything that you do.
[10:31]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: The other award is the Smell the Roses / Clown awards.

"Something crazy stand out in your mind from Relay For Life 2015? Whose crazy antics made

the season amazing stand out for you? This is the clown award – whether purpose or accident,
[10:32]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Grey Nacht  sent in so many Purple Couch Project pictures, all

theme lapped related, and he never looked like the one before!  I loved them!
[10:32]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: "Duna Gant
Solkide Auer
Thathy Slade
Brucewaynee Resident

For their dedication, assistance and dissemination of project Relay for Life SL and all

collaboration with the Foundation For Life team."
[10:32]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Whoever the BOX was. I didn't see the person's name. That was

the funniest thing I saw. It was in the bushes on a campsite and I saw the movement at the

corner of my screen. then I saw the name over it and realized it was an avatar. That was the

best! Made me smile for the rest of that lap.
[10:32]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: "Melodie Jigsaw- last year it was always Sigh's fault, this

year it's Melodie's fault! She always brings the laughter and just-right inappropriate jokes

to every event!
Catalina Staheli- always bouncing, beaming, and laughing.. making everyone else laugh too!
Cuddly Waffle and Sidonie Carlberg-- need I say more.. the Sugar Glider and the Waffle...

they are the light of every party

"
[10:34]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: "Fantastic RFL Moment with a lil girl and her pet T-Rex !!! 
Nominating ~ Kira Vel (kiralette kelley) and Mr. Zacky (zack vedrina)
Standing in the info center on RFL Journey, I got a message in local chat ...
Kira Vel: hih hi:)
Kira Vel: have any snacks for my pet rex?
Suzetta Moonites: ummmmm I'm not sure
at this point I saw it was a T-Rex and he was growling and had his mouth wide open at my

head (LMAO)
Suzetta Moonites: Wait! I might have something
Kira Vel: pops a mint in Rex's mouth
Kira Vel: he's been trying to eat me for three sims now
Mr. Zacky: I do not have bad breath!
I'm searching inventory for something, anything because his mouth is dripping on me
Kira Vel: ....
Kira Vel: Hate to beak it to you rexy
I sent him a lollypop, whew
Kira Vel: Thank you!! :-D
Kira Vel: Now he may not eat me for a few more sims!
Sent Kira a lollypop too cause she was soooooo cute"
[10:34]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Éclair Martinek -  she has the best toys and made  the relay 

most fun!!
[10:34]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: "Lomgren
He just stands out to me how itty bitty he is with his micro hugs.  Always cheerful and such

a big presence."
[10:35]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: "Fuzzball Ortega, he is always so positive!! and just LOVE the

hair
"
[10:35]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Rowena Dabrovna - The amount of times this otter has made me

laugh. The way his avi just wiggles around the sims and how he is always cracking jokes. He

takes Relay seriously, but also keeps everything lighthearted and fun. He does a great job

=)
[10:35]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: We all love Sylisan Resident, or Sigh Underwood as we know

her. She's great, and amazing, and we love to make her say "I didn't do it!". Well, in 2015,

she did it. She rocked. So, I would like to nominate her for the "She did do it, and

rocked!" award.
[10:35]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Sasha Fairywren brings magic to our Relay, whether it's rocking

the airwaves or just doing her thing to make our Relay better. Therefore, I am nominating

her for the Magical And Fae-bulous Award.
[10:35]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Nayomi Naidoo is a true blessing to our Relay, and is a loyal

friend and true to all of us Relayers. I would like to nominate her for the "In All Of

Relay's Corner" award.
[10:36]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Rheata Resident, or Rhea (pronounced as "Ray") as we know her,

has joined our Relay this year and been amazing. Plus, I have to admit, I love her sense of

fashion. She has made 2015 so much better for many of us, and I would like to nominate her

for the "Rhea Of Light" award.
[10:36]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: There are few people in our Relay who do what our good friend

OldeSoul Resident (Eldemar) does. He brings so much to our Relay, and I'd like to see him

honored with the "Our Beloved Bobcat" award.
[10:36]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Fuzzball Ortega makes us laugh. Whether it's his jokes, his

hair, or his chaotic hijinks, he lightens our spirits and makes every season so much more

enjoyable for us. For this, I would love to see him honored with the "King Of Comedy" award.
[10:36]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Chevelley Resident (Silentghost) sure rocked our Relay weekend

by appearing as Jessica Rabbit during the "Movies & Musicals Hour" during Relay weekend.

Because of this, and all the other wonderful things she does for our Relay, I would like to

nominate her for the "She's Not Bad, She's Just Drawn That Way" Award.
[10:37]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Whether it's bringing up science fiction, or discussing actual

scientific facts, one thing's for sure: Dwen Dooley has science on the mind, always. He's

also a little mad (in a good way). So, I would like to nonimate Dwen for the "Mad Scientist"

Award.
[10:37]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Tahisha Fairplay has been a big part of our Relay for many

years, though, she often stays in the background. But no matter whether she's in group chat

or not, she does so much to be supportive of Relay and ALL Relayers. I would like to

nominate her for the "Purple Power" award.
[10:37]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Sarandel (Sara) Llewellyn has music in her heart and soul. The

music of Relay, that is. We can always count on her to share those fitting song lyrics -

some of which she has even rewritten for Relay For Life. I would like to nominate her for

the "Songstress Of Relay" award.
[10:38]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Whisper Fairy Gravois (Jihan Wonder) is our wonderful winged

bundle of joy and love, always cheering on all of our Relayers, dropping in on events, and

spreading the love. I would love to see Whisper honored with the "Adorable Fairy" award.
[10:38]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: trader1.whiplash for all the funniness on  radio and he is a

silly goat
[10:38]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: "Nuala Maracas - Fireworks Award

At the closing of Relay 2015, during the last victory lap, Nuala was given wearable

fireworks which she put on  while she walked the track.  These fireworks are very vibrant,

many in number, and explode high in the air.  After about 30 minutes of walking through 6 or

7 sims, stopping to talk to people, crashing 5 or 6 times, and being up for 30 hours, Nuala

decided she had enough of these fireworks going off all over the sims and causing her to lag

more than usual.   So, apparently, she asked in committee chat,  if whomever put out the

fireworks in all the sims could turn them off.  To which she was told ..no one put out any

fireworks, is anyone near you that has on the wearable ones?   The light bulb went off ....

it was Nuala herself who still had on the wearable firework... and she said.... ""no wonder

I kept seeing fireworks every where I went! "
[10:39]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Brayden Marquis (brayden composer) - Brayden's antics early in

the season promoting both his own team, Team LiveWire, by setting up a kiosk and playing his

guitar for donations on their home sim or working the crowd at other teams' events- like

some of the weekday afternoon Cure Chaser parties, will stick out as one of the most

memorable events this season.
[10:40]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Congratulations you guys and thank you for those nominations!
[10:40]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Every one of them was important to read out.
[10:40]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Now fill up the coffee, we're headed on.
[10:40]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki:
[10:40]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: TOP TEAM CONVIO (WEBSITE) FUNDRAISING
[10:40]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: EXTREMELY HONORABLE MENTION - SL Coast Guard who got an

outside donation of 2500 as a mailed in ck.. when combined with their convio totals, they

raised an amazing 3135.00 outside of SL.
[10:41]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: 3RD PLACE - Sail For Life - $2,110.00
[10:41]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: 2ND PLACE - Relay Rockers - $2823.00
[10:41]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: "1ST PLACE - Harmony of Hope - $3815.00
"
[10:41]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: TOP INDIVIDUAL CONVIO (WEBSITE) FUNDRAISING
[10:41]  cυddly waғғle: Mama:  3rd place: Cathy10 Longoria: $975
[10:41]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: 2nd place: TS Darrow: $1,035
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: 1ST PLACE: Trader Whiplash: $1,205
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: EXTREMELY HONORABLE MENTION - Holocluck Henly: $705
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: CONVIO WEBSITE PARTICIPATION AWARD
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: 3rd place - Holocluck Henly
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: 2nd place - TS Darrow
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: 1st place - Trader Whiplash
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: TOP TEAM FUNDRAISING AWARD – OVERALL
[10:42]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: 3rd place - Goreans in Relay For Life - 2,645,046L - $10,580.00
[10:43]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: 2nd place - Harmony of Hope - 300,5307L - $12,021.00
[10:43]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: 1st place - Relay Rockers - 3,767,925L - $15,072.00
[10:43]  cυddly waғғle: (LOL Mama said Relay Wockers xD)
[10:44]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: Congratulations to you all. You're all winners.
[10:44]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Congratulations.
[10:44]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: You done?
[10:44]  cυddly waғғle: Mama: Maybe.
[10:44]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Thank you all very much. Just because you're done doesn't mean

you're excused.
[10:45]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: My turn! Before I announce the community champion awards, i

want to thank everyone who participated in the purple couch project.
[10:45]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Thanks again, it was a fun project to work on.
[10:45]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: A Community Champion describes a person who goes out of their

way to do good things for his or her community.  A person who dedicates a large portion of

their time serving others, selflessly and generously.   This is our opportunity to honor and

acknowledge the contributions made to RFL of SL by those who aren’t necessarily even on a

team or committee or even in the Volunteer group.  It is our opportunity to let them know

that their service to Relay has made an impact and is so very much appreciated.
[10:45]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: This year our community champion awards go to:
[10:46]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Sue Peregrine- Sue Peregrine began Relay in 2005 with the

original Relay Rockers.  Sue and her mother Alliez Mysterio played a huge role with the

team. In 2012 Sue lost her mother to breast cancer.  Sue’s passion for Relay For Life has

grown.   In honor of her mother, she has donated several sims from D’Alliez Esates for the

past two years tor teams to use for events at no gain to her team or to herself. D’Alliez

sims have hosted over 50 RFL events. This is the mark of a true champion, to reach outside

of your benefit and share your love and devotion not only to your mother’s memory, but to

RFL of SL
[10:47]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Elizabeth Tinsley- From the staff of Fantasy Faire:

"In the four years that Elizabeth Tinsley has been the leader of Fantasy Faire, the event

and the community who create it have grown in every way. She has worked tirelessly to expand

and enhance its reach and the achievement of its goals. But asked how it was done, she'll

point to everyone else before herself.

Although Elizabeth will insist that she's only a small part of what makes the Faire a

success, Fairelanders know better than that. Her dedication to Relay, to Fantasy Faire, and

to each of us is the magic that makes all the rest possible.

It is an honor to rally to the banner - and to Relay by the side - of a true Champion:

Elizabeth Tinsley."
[10:48]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Elric Merlin- What would Relay be without the familiar voice of

Elric Merlin? He has interviewed countless people, uncovering the behind the scenes voices

of those who Relay. His man on the street conversations are priceless! He has a way of

showing us Relay For Life through wide, awe-inspiring eyes like and his enthusiasm helps us

feel like it’s our first Relay every time. Every year is memorable and I myself watch the

videos over and over.
[10:48]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Melodie Jigsaw- Although not a member of the Relay Committee,

as many assume she is, she does so much for Relay, building for Kick off and Half way there,

the Keeper of the Torch build and support staff, chat support, helping other teams and

events, encouragement, a soft shoulder to lean on...yes that is right we are talking about

Melodie Jigsaw.
[10:49]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Congrats to all of you...and thank you for your devotion to RFL

of SL
[10:49]  cυddly waғғle: Sting:
Over the years, we have always tried to educate our Relay family in Second Life about the

history of our event...and the history of Relay For Life, in general.  We always remember

the great Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon who, in 1985, decided to push the boundaries

of creativity and to come up with a new way that he could help fund the mission of the

American Cancer Society.
[10:50]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: During that time, the idea of running or walking a track to

raise money was odd. When he told people about his idea, many of them scoffed or told him

that it couldn’t be done, or he wouldn’t be allowed to do it. But he curated his vision and

knew what was the right way to push his friends, supporters, and the American Cancer Society

toward this new way of thinking. And during his first ever 24 hour walk/run - he raised

$27,000.  The next year, others joined him, taking turns for the duration of the event...and

Relay For Life was born.
[10:50]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Gordy’s vision of hope has grown into a worldwide phenomenon,

raising nearly $5 billion in fundraising to save lives from cancer.
[10:50]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: In memory of his pioneering spirit and steadfast dedication to

Relay For Life, we are excited to present the Gordy Klatt Memorial Award to someone from

Relay For Life of Second Life who has demonstrated the level of commitment and dedication to

the cause...who has put the big picture ahead of their own interests, who demonstrates a

pioneering and visionary behavior, and whose footprint and legacy will always be a part of

the Relay For Life of Second Life
[10:51]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: I can imagine that when our founder Dr Gordy Klatt started

planning his first 24 hrs on that track he came up against people who thought he was crazy. 

This years recipient of the Dr Gordys award  has had their share of  wild ideas and thinking

out of the box on how to fundraise creatively.  This  team continued all season long on a

mission to push our guidelines with creative thinking and heartfelt passion for Relay. We

see them at so many events I bet some teams are confused as to which team they belong to.
[10:51]  cυddly waғғle: (That was Random, my apologies <3 br="">[10:52]  cυddly waғғle: Random:  Rowena Dubrovna, Cuddley Waffle, Sidonie Carlberg,

Fairiefire.darkwyr, NinaSofia Constantine,Nita10 Resident,Otawan Fouquet,TJ Felicci, Zaphara

Cazalet and the memory of Rico Kamachi, together make up Team Strange Journeys.  You all are

being honored today for your creative fundraising and your pioneering vision. The 2015 Dr

Gordy Klatt award goes to Team Strange Journeys.
[10:53]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: I get to announce the spirit of relay award TEAM Award. Awarded

to the team that embodies the “Spirit of the Relay”. “Spirit of the Relay” includes an

overall performance of the team from Kick Off to Relay Day. It is not representative of

simply the amount raised. This award takes into consideration the “spirit” of the team, how

they embraced Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society Mission, and the enthusiasm

displayed. Also considered is the team's participation in Relay activities, as a whole, not

only in their own but other team’s events, as well. Did they embody the ‘we’re all one big

team’ aspect?
[10:54]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: (from their nomination)
If these people stand for anything, it's for being a team. They act as one cohesive unit

throughout the year, helping one another.  They reach out to  others, offering support  when

they're down and out. I have interacted with many of them around the grid and at their

campsites. Each one has a big heart and tons of energy.
[10:54]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: They entered this season with a smile and finished it off with

a huge round of cheers - this same attitude is how they approach strangers on and off the

track offering friendship and support where it is needed most. They attend many of the Relay

events, and their personal stories are inspiration to all.
[10:54]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Lead by Debi Dastardly their Captain,  the other 35 registered

members includes: dollpartz the  Co-Captain; Aarianna Bellic; Axieira Rocurle; ChaosRayne;

Charlize Bellic; Christi Charron; Daphne Yardley; EnchantedDarkness; KristaHarrelson;

Kristina Curtau; KyleWForrester; MalibuBarbara1241 Michigan; Manor Genesis; Mehllama;

mryjanew.beck; Myrago; Mystic India; PattyCloquet; Sayrah Parx; Shadow McConach;   Shawna

Trang; Shelara Mills; Shera Landar;  Sunbeam Blaisdale; Swoozy Skytower; Thunderstruck

Westland; TinaLynn Ashbourne; tzaryna.gracemount; Ultracrepidarian; VetronUK;

ViktorDarkHeart; Whitewolf Mumfuzz; WinterRavens; ZoraSlade Karu and all the other

cheerleaders...
[10:55]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: RAH RAH RAH and Many Congrats to Second Life Cheerleader Squad
[10:56]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Congratulations!
[10:57]  cυddly waғғle: Random: I get to give out the Individual Spirit of Relay award.
[10:57]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Awarded to the individual that embodies the “Spirit of the

Relay”. “Spirit of the Relay” includes an overall performance from Kick Off to Relay Day.

This award takes into consideration the “spirit” of the individual, how they embraced Relay

For Life and the American Cancer Society Mission, and the enthusiasm displayed. Also

considered is their participation in Relay activities, as a whole, not only in their own

team’s, but other team’s events, as well.
[10:57]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Every year certain people stand out for their participation

in showing their Relay spirit.  In keeping with the theme of celebrating creativity, one

person comes to mind.
[10:57]  cυddly waғғle: Random: The captain of Unmasking a Cure , Mary Teodosio.   Mary

stands on the front line of her team. The hours she puts into her team events as well as

coordinating a team mini mega event the medieval fair. She put together jousting

competitions. shield decorating contests and went to numerous clubs to put together her

creative events.  But Mary didn’t stop there.  Her creativity and passion for Relay was also

displayed in her making two homemade quilts to be auctioned off!  Mary attended many of your

team events as well as included you in hers.  Congratulations Mary you truly have earned the

individual Spirit of Relay Award!

[10:58]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: Congratulations Mary!!!
[10:58]  cυddly waғғle: Dawn: I am now going to hand off to Leala and Melodie for the Keeper

of the Torch.
[10:59]  cυddly waғғle: ((Everyone keeps forgetting to unmute their mics! xD)
[10:59]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: As we close out this year’s Keeper of the Torch, I’d love to

thank a few
people for making the Keeper of the Torch a success…
[10:59]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: To Melodie Jigsaw - for being a great co-chairman and new

friend.  Thanks
for flipping the ribbon and your creativity.
[10:59]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: To Dawn and Random for letting us run with this and giving us

your support.
[10:59]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: Dawn, thank you also for making those special announcements

each week.
[10:59]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: And to TS, Rendal and Kitty, thank you for being a part of the

committee
and helping to make this year an extra special one.
[11:00]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: From the beginning with Poppy and through each week, we had

the pleasure
and honor of getting to know 20 incredible, strong and amazing people.
Thank you for sharing your stories with us.  Each one of you is a true
diamond.  You have been put under pressure, tried and tested and each of you
is strong & shine so bright.
[11:00]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: For all of you that nominated your friends and family members,

Thank you!
Thank you for sharing and showing all of us incredible people who sometimes
are so quiet and work in the shadows.  Your nominations gave them the light they so deserve.
[11:00]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: We had a total of 60 nominations.  Every one of you was

honored by your
friends and family with their nominations.
[11:00]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: We would like to recognize our other nominees and let them

know we will be sending each one of you a special package soon.
[11:01]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: The fire that burns in the Torch is just a symbol of the fire

in each of us
as Relayers, fighters, and believers of a cure.  Till we come back together in March 2016, I

charge each of you as a carrier of the flame.
[11:01]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: This is a quote I have read many times throughout this year

and I believe it fits our feelings about our hope and desire for a cure:
[11:01]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: "You call it hope - that fire of fire!  It is but agony of

desire." - Edgar Allan Poe
[11:01]  cυddly waғғle: Leala: Thank you again.
[11:02]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Thank you Leala. I can hear the passion in your voice. Its

touching.
[11:02]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: I know we're at the hour mark, we're gonna run a little bit

over , but its worth it. What gets me the most emotional today is seeing every=yone in chat

as the nominees are revealed and seeing how this makes you happy.
[11:02]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Making fun things more fun. I think that should be relay's

title. With that we're gonna get into the home stretch.
[11:03]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: When I sat down to write some words of inspiration to close

out the year, knowing that Random has a few of her own words next, I kind of feel that I

couldn’t improve on what she has to say…
So, I’ll just remind you all that the organization you have chosen to support...the American

Cancer Society...really is the world’s leader in the fight against cancer. Think about that.

The. WORLD. LEADER. IN. THE. FIGHT. AGAINST. CANCER.
[11:03]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Besides being behind nearly every major cancer breakthrough in

the last 70 years, no other organization in the world invests more money in cancer research

than the American Cancer Society. No other organization in the world works...and leads...a

global coalition to fight cancer, worldwide like we do.
[11:04]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: And how to fight cancer in other countries is not always the

same as it is here in the U.S. For example, just a few weeks ago, we partnered with other

organizations to open a pain-free hospital in Nigeria b/c that is what they need at this

point in their national battle against cancer. In other countries, it might be that we’re

helping pave roads to hospitals or that we’re working with them on public health education

about how to prevent certain types of cancers...all through the partnerships that were

started through Relay For Life.
[11:04]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Some time over this past year, I came to a realization that

I’ve shared with a couple of people in a one on one setting, but now that I have your

attention, I’d like to share it with you now. Our job...your job...as Relay

volunteers...when we talk about “outreach,” something you’ll notice will be a major focus

for 2016...when we talk about “outreach,” we aren’t saying that our job is to convince

everyone in Second Life to join Relay.
[11:05]  cυddly waғғle: Sting:  No, that would be an impossible task. Our job...the

committee, the captains, cancer survivors, caregivers, team members, sponsors, media

partners...everyone in our volunteer group can contribute to this...our job is to FIND the

people in Second Life who WANT to fight cancer...and offer them our Relay For Life as a

platform for how they can do so. We explain to them the impact that the American Cancer

Society has on cancer, we stand proud about our accomplishments and we brag about the

awesome work that we do...and the awesome successful organization that we invest our time

and money in.
[11:05]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: And we let them decide whether to join us or not. If they

don’t, that’s ok...we’re just not their cup of tea. After all, it does take a special person

to be a Relayer! If they do join us, we welcome them with open arms, we hug them, and we

introduce them to our thousands of friends! And we know and we trust that our friends will

be just as welcoming and supportive. We make their first year as easy and as fun as

possible. And we focus on what we do well!!
[11:06]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: So be sure that you are on the lookout in the coming weeks for

our 2016 Committee Interest form.
[11:06]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: And now, I’m sure you’re all sitting there saying, “that’s

nice Sting, but what will be our 2016 theme?” Well, it’s time to reveal it!! We tallied the

votes and the theme that received the most votes is:
[11:06]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Once Upon A Cure!!!!
[11:07]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: This theme can be special because, it isn’t saying that the

cure is a fairy tale or that a cancer patient’s journey isn’t ‘real.’ When we look at this

theme, what makes me excited comes from the question: Why do we tell stories?...not just

fairy tales...but all types of stories? Remember that great stories, even fairy tales, last

the test of time because they’re meaningful and they provide value.
[11:07]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Fairy tales function to address those big life questions, to

help us to face life’s struggles, to help us understand morality and responsibility. But

more than that, this theme of Once Upon A Cure gives us the chance to highlight our own

stories. What will be the story of Relay For Life of Second Life in 2016? What will be YOUR

chapter in that story? We love hearing the stories of our cancer survivors, and we wipe away

tears when we read or listen to the Why I Relay/Why Do You Relay segments.
[11:08]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Next year - I’m looking forward to Once Upon A Cure because I

can’t wait to tell, read, watch, listen, and learn from all of your stories!
[11:08]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Thank you Sting! I love that - once upon a cure!
[11:08]  cυddly waғғle: Random: I would like to close out this RFL of SL 2015 by sharing with

you a few things I learned. I have Relayed in SL for going on 9yrs.  Every year has brought

twists and turns  In those 9 years I have shared with my friends and family that I Relay

online,  I try to explain the world we have here and the Relay teams, only to get a look of

confusion and the questions I see in their minds like “WHY would you want to do that!” I am

sure several of you are familiar with THAT look.
[11:09]  cυddly waғғle: Random: I would suspect that instead of trying to explain your

avatar, your bond with people you have never seen face to face, how a virtual Relay can make

US Dollars to help fight in the cure for cancer, you simply keep it to yourself.
[11:09]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Sting and I just returned from the National RFL Leadership

Summit in Dallas Texas.  I sat with over 1000 Relayers from all over our nation.  There were

47 global Relayers.  I met 3 girls from Belgium,  a couple from India and sat at a workshop

with a man from Tokyo.   The whole summit was life  memorable. I sat during those sessions

and looked around. What I saw was really unbelievable.  I saw right into the hearts of every

person there.
[11:10]  cυddly waғғle: Random: I saw the excitement and the passion for Why they Relay.  I

saw the fight left in them to go back where their teams are and share all they learned from

those 2 days. I saw that unspoken bond between each person whose eyes met mine. It is

obvious that Their character and their attitude is driven by their passion.
[11:10]  cυddly waғғle: Random: During our workshops and free time people would mingle and

talk about their Relay.  My typical opening was “Well I represent the one Relay Dr Gordy

Klatt never visualize.  I am the event chair of THE VIRTUAL RELAY.  Instead of getting the

organic look of confusion and seeing the questions in their mind of “Why would you want to

do that?”  I saw total excitement!
[11:11]  cυddly waғғle: Random: More often than not I heard “OH your secondlife Relay” or OH

my gosh I heard about you or a Virtual Relay?  I need to hear all about this!!   I was so

honestly proud to tell them about OUR Relay.  How close to 2000 avatars, 200 teams, and we

have been Relaying 11 years.  I share with them our avatars can be a dragon, an otter, a

unicorn, a pink dinkie dressed up as grandma, a gorean, the hulk or a blonde barbie.
[11:11]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Their eyes get bigger as more questions start to erupt. How

do we do events?  How do we have our Relay weekend?  Just how do we go about fundraising?  I

stand very proud in sharing with them that  We are knocking on the door of the 3 MILLION

mark!  They are all blown away and want to hear more. RFL of SL Relay for life is a very

real and vital part of something bigger than us.
[11:12]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Gary Reedy, the CEO of The American Cancer Society, said “

All of you are on a mission to end cancer.  What greater calling could there be?” Think on

that.  You are being used to put an end to cancer.
[11:12]  cυddly waғғle: Random: All the work you put into this year, every time you said

“Thank you for your donation”  Every tear shed and every inspired story you heard has made a

difference.  Because of you, The Society is funding 441 million dollars in active grants for

research  this year. You are part of the largest non government cancer research!
[11:13]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Your hard work has caused the death rates go down 22 percent

in the world and gave 14.5 million survivors more birthdays. It paid for 270,000 night's

sleep at Hope Lodge for those who needed a place to stay while going through treatment.
[11:13]  cυddly waғғle: Random: Everyone of you can stand so proud in knowing your

determination to find a cure while honoring those you do it for is making a difference. 

Thank you for your energy.  Thank you for being the Relay Dr Gordy Klatt never visualized.
[11:14]  cυddly waғғle: Random : Now let me share with you our upcoming 2016 schedule. Our

Once Upon a Cure season kick off will be  March 6th.  Team registration will begin in

February followed by Paint SL Purple. Half way there celebration will be held on May 14th

and 15th.  Our 2016  Relay weekend will be held on July 16 and 17th and wrap up will be held

on Aug 14th. Be checking the website for all updated information.   We already are working

hard at work planning what will be a memorable and one step closer to our goal to put an end

to cancer with our Once Upon a Cure.
[11:15]  cυddly waғғle: Random: And now, I will hand it back to Sting for a special

presentation.
[11:15]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Wih the success of RFL over the last several years, how could

we not recognise someone who has contributedf to the history and success, without inductingt

hem into the hall of honor?
[11:16]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: In years past, we've listed accomplishments, we're identified

ways in which people have brought this events to new heights. We've narrowed our focus on

those who have sacrificed themselves for the greater good. Our newest inductee embodies all

these qualities. She's been involved in RFL of SL since day one but has always found a way

to challenge the status quo.
[11:16]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: She was a top team captain for several years. She started not

one, but two megs events which opened the doors for new ways for people to get involved.
[11:17]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: She would later join the committee, and ultimately became the

relay event lead. During her two years, we raised 808,000 dollats.
[11:17]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: She creatednew awards to recognise important contributions,

and always kept her focus on evolving relay beyond our volunteer group.
[11:18]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Personally, I know how much this event means to her and how

much each and everyone of you means to her. I know why relay for life is important to her. I

regret not being able to let her know how important she is until now.
[11:18]  cυddly waғғle: Sting I know whats in her heart and her ultimate goal has always been

for us to act as one unit, in being members of the SL commuity. Her vision is so much more

than just beinga  fundraiser. She dreams we can be a community leader, and use our success

to help other communities become valuable contribitors.
[11:19]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: It was never about her, or getting her way. It was about how

can we propel this relay, so we can make a real difference?
[11:19]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: I, Stingray Raymaker, am proud to induct into the RFL Hall of

Honor, Nikki Mathieson.
[11:23]  Kitty Gumbo: Thank you Cuddly
[11:23]  Kitty Gumbo: HUGS
[11:26]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: And now we're gonna force her on the mic... congratulations

Nikki.
[11:26]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: oh , I am so shocked, and i thank you guys so much. Your crier

is back! That recording was just ... the people you reched out to.. who i had the extreme

mpleasure of working wih over the years...
[11:27]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: I cant even tell you one moment that stands out became so many

do. I thank you guys very very much, I did not see this coming.
[11:28]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: I love you guys , I love every one of you.
[11:29]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: I#'ll never forget this day.
[11:29]  cυddly waғғle: Sting: Does the cable man wonder why you're crying?
[11:29]  cυddly waғғle: Nikki: No, he's gone.
[11:30]  cυddly waғғle: Random: NOW sit back and relax.  Please give a warm welcome to Misfit

Dance and Performance Art dance troupe.   JenZa Misfit is the captain of RFL Butterfly

Strong team a first year team.  Jenza and her dance team who consist of   Dulcikate Noel   &

  Pheobe ( darkentippy resident ) have performed throughout the Relay.
[11:30]  cυddly waғғle: Random: I quote from JenZa “  I have been producing dance performance

art for about 8 months and when I decided to put a number of my pieces together in a fully

produced "show" , I needed to think about a title.   I have always loved the word MOSAIC. 

It reminds me that bigger  pictures can be created by combining individual pieces into a

creative & beautiful pattern that magically come together and take on a whole new meaning!
[11:31]  cυddly waғғle: Random: "I am so inspired by everyone involved with Relay For Life in

SL~  and as I was setting up our camp this year, it dawned on me that I was part of a huge

amazing " living " MOSAIC. "
[11:31]  cυddly waғғle: Random: You are ALL the singular pieces that unite with so much

passion, dedication & creativity to form this grand MOSAIC we call RFL in SL and I am

honored to be amongst you.
[11:31]  cυddly waғғle: Random: The Future is Now , but I want to personally Thank You for

your commitment to a bigger & better tomorrow and I look forward to working with you all

again in 2016!   Join us now for our presentation of MOSAIC.”
[11:33]  cυddly waғғle: [11:31]  Now playing Sister Sledge -- We Are Family