Change of Command Ceremony at the SL Coast Guard

On Saturday January 4rth, I was able to attend a special ceremony of the Second Life Coast Guard (SLCG). I had gotten an invitation from KariaKae Wroth (Kariakae Karu), a vice-admiral at the SLCG headquarters. For those whom weren't able to attend, the chat was copy-pasted into the group-chats, but being there, one could see the ships and scenery. Several were seated on stage in front of the seating. Most were in uniform, though there were a few in civilian dress. There was also a Coast Guard cutter nearby, with a line of one officer and seven shipmen, standing guard onto the deck with rifles.

The event was supposed to take place at Noon SL time, but they waited a while for people whom were late. KariaKae apologized, "For reasons that escape me, we are never able to start these events on time..." Sanstrom Laxness, the outgoing commander, tried to put her at ease with a chuckle, "being late is called a 'fashion statement' I think." A few more dropped in, but not everyone. Finally they decided they had waited long enough, "what the heck, let's get this show on the road."


KariaKae gave the opening speech, "First of all I would like to thank you all for taking the time to be here today, I know it means a lot to both of our honorees. The SL Coast Guard started 8 years ago with a view to enhance boating safety. We are after all 'A Virtual World’s Safe Boating Lifeline.' Since our inception, we’ve stressed training, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence. Most of you know that before any of our members are allowed to be out in a boat with our logo, they have to prove their proficiency in boating safety knowledge. Recruits take numerous classes both self paced and in person before they graduate. The training does not stop at graduation. We do a joint training with the Marines before any new Guardian is allowed to use any of our aircraft. We train divers, and rescue personnel. We continue to create new courses. The most recent course focuses on Race Security. Any member of SLCG doing security for your event will now be trained in procedures and protocols to help you ensure the success of your event. Our personnel can be seen in every corner of the grid patrolling, and offering assistance and/or education. You all know our reputation and you support our mission. Some of you offer lands or equipment. Some of you offer your time, and serve in our organization. We respectfully and humbly thank all of you."

It was at this point the shadow of aircraft passed over us. By the time I looked up, the pilots had already moved on. KariaKae continued, "The precision fight team that we are witnessing is a tribute to our combined efforts. This team flies to commemorate and celebrate various events. They flew as a tribute to one of our fallen comrades. They flew to celebrate the birthday of the US Coast Guard. And, they fly today in honor of this ceremony."

The vice-admiral continued, "Today is more than a celebration of the great things that the SLCG has done in the past, and more than a celebration of what we hope to do in the future. Today is the celebration of a very important instant in time. It is a time when we bid a tearful farewell to that which was, and a warm welcome to that which will be. It is all together fitting and proper that we should do this standing in the threshold of a new year. In a few moments we will hear from one of the folks who have known our outgoing Commandant, Admiral Sanstrom Laxness, the longest, and then being the fair minded creature that I am, I’m going to give him a chance to defend himself."

There were several chuckles from the audience and others on the stage, then she continued, "Seriously, Admiral Laxness has been a good friend and a mentor. When I first met him, he absolutely terrified me! As I got to know him better, I discovered that a very warm, caring man lived under that crusty, brusque exterior. Sometime later, he asked me to serve as a part of his personal staff. I was surprised and honored! Of course, I accepted. Serving as his Chief of Staff has been an incredible opportunity for me. Through watching him, I’ve learned how to be gracious to those being unkind. I’ve learned the art of tolerance to those being intentionally obtuse. And I learned, perhaps more importantly, when to draw a firm line and not deviate from it. I’ve learned that good decisions are not always popular. And that even a good leader is not always liked by everyone. I’ve learned that what you know of your self is more important that what anyone says. And that true friends may question your decisions, but they will never question your integrity. I hope to someday be the genuinely kind, humble, strong person that he is. I hope to emulate the leadership skills I see in him, and I hope be the role model he has always been."

KariaKae then looked to the only one on stage in civilian dress, And with that comment, I’d like to call up MarkTwain White to say a few words. Mr. White, the deck is yours." MarkTwain, whom dressed like the real-life Samuel Clemens, got up to the podium, "Thank you. Before I make some remarks about out honorees here today I want to underline, a comment that Karia made a few moments ago. I want to thank each and everyone of you that have served on security details for sailboat races. That service alone has made the jobs of countless race directors in SL so much easier. Thank you all."

MarkTwain continued, "I am so pleased to be asked to say a few words today about my good friend Sanstrom and about the ongoing role of leading this sterling organization in Second Life. The SLCG has always been close to my heart because I have served in leadership postions in the USCG Auxiliary (the silver side) For those of you that don’t know, in real-life the silver side is the nickname of the Auxilary which is made up of volunteers just like here in the SLCG. The gold side refers to the professional military organization known simply as the United States Coast Guard. The distinction between the Silver Side and the Gold Side is an important one here today, as it points out an important reason that the SLCG is such an amazing organization and has had such amazing leadership since the start."

MarkTwain explained, "In the real-life Silver Side we do not have a 'Chain of Command,' rather we have a 'Chain of Communications.' This reflects the real-life issue that Auxiliarists are volunteers, not paid staff who can be subject to commands. And that is very much like the SLCG. You that serve in the SLCG are voulnteers.  BUT, you choose to behave as paid staff. You have a chain of command' and you choose to take orders just as if you were Gold Side. The fact that your leadership, best embodied in your retiring Commandant, can instill in this organization the kind of professional efforts normally associated with being paid. And knowing that you could walk away at any time tells wonders about the spirit of this organization and about the man that created it. So it give me particular joy to say to Sanstrom today….. JOB WELL DONE!"

There was then much clapping and applause from the audience, "Hear hear!" After waiting some moments for it to calm down, MarkTwain turned to the new commander, "And to Admiral Thorn Blackflag, I say to you, you have some big shoes to fill here. And true to our motto, Semper Paratus, I know you will do fine. Thank you."

"Thank you Mr. White," KariaKae told MarkTwain, then turned to Sanstrom Laxness, "Now, as promised, Sir, I give you a chance for rebuttal. Before I let you speak, The SLCG would like to give you this plaque as token of deep respect and admiration." She then rezzed the object in front of the podium, then saluted, "Semper paratus. ... Sir, the deck is yours."

Sanstrom then got up to the podium, "Mark, thank you for those kind words. Admiral Blackflag, family, friends and distinguished guests. The story goes that when you die and go to heaven, you will be surrounded by angels. Of course the other part of the story is that when you die and go to the other place, you will be surrounded by… you know…devils. So, depending on your opinion of the friends I am surrounded by, you can guess what the rest of my life will be like!"

There were some smiles and chuckles from the audience, then Sanstrom continued, "Before I get started, let me do what all good job hunters do. Let me take this opportunity to tell each and every one of you…. I’m NOT looking for a job! I’ll be found in one of the many bars, lounges, beaches, airfields or yacht clubs for the free drinks and snacks. Thanks to every one of you for taking time out of your life and coming here today. You have come for your own reasons, but whatever they are, I choose to believe that you came to honor me….oh and Admiral Blackflag of course!"

The outgoing commander continued, "Let me say that I AM not proud of my years with the SL Coast Guard. I AM not proud of that one room building behind you. I AM not proud of those vessels docked behind you. I AM not proud of the many wonderful aircraft that we have. I AM not proud of this uniform we wear. I AM not proud of the many Friday night fireside chats we had. I AM not proud of the many times some of you came to me just to say 'Thank You.' I AM not proud of the mementos that you have given me today."

Sanstrom explained, "I AM not proud for any of those things, because I fear that old proverb that states that “Pride comes before the fall”. In modern terms you might read that “Pride takes credit for what will soon go wrong”. Pride is short-lived and unfulfilling; at least it has been for me in my life. My pride has also always been very self-centered. Instead, very sincerely, I AM grateful for all those things listed earlier. I AM grateful for my experiences while wearing the SLCG uniform. I AM grateful for the people I have met along the way. I AM grateful to GOD, for what he has allowed me to share in and experience. The process has been difficult, yet I AM grateful that I AM no longer the 17 year old that first put the U.S. Marine Corps uniform on back in May of 1975, The U.S. Coast Guard uniform in 1996 or the SL Coast Guard uniform in 2005. I never planned to make any of them a career. I took it one job at a time, and if I thought I was going to enjoy the next assignment, I took it. Once I did decide, I gave each of them 100%."

"Now you may ask," Sanstrom brought up,"what will stand out in my heart and mind as I look back at these many years of wearing a uniform? A heart warming chat with a close friend I met in SL and drove to meet in real life, days before he died. My heart was troubled over that, but it does stand out. Let’s see…Sunday, July 4, 1979. I accepted Christ that day and felt so fulfilled. Friday the 13th. I got my wings that day at P-Cola and felt so proud. And of course the many, many days, people and events from my time with the U.S. Marine Corps, first as a enlisted man then later as a officer and the many climbs and places we went. They are truly too many to list at this time. Multiple times I entered situations identical to ones from which others didn’t return and have often asked myself why? No 0311 Marine will ever forget a night landing on a beach….BEFORE NVG’s, even if most of us had our eyes shut. After all open or closed, it all looked about the same!" There were comments of "Wow" from the audience.

Sanstrom went on, "The same goes for my teaching the Coast Guards Leadership, Management Education Training course. Being the OIC of a communications center or being a Coast Guard station Commander in South Carolina and of course my time aboard all the various military aircraft and vessels. Last but not least the pleasure of flying helicopters. Enjoyed that last one so much I bought myself a Robinson R-22 back then."

"To make a very long story short, (Yes, I know it’s too late for that)," he briefly mused before continuing, "what I will remember most are the challenging times. Those that challenged my skills as a professional pilot and as a naval officer, those that challenged my heart as a human, those that challenged my beliefs as a Son of God, those that challenged my habits as a growing human being. But even more, I will remember those whom I had the honor of sharing those challenges. Some of you are here today. Again, thanks."

There was applause from the audience that took some moments to die down, then the outgoing commander went on, "You can call me lucky, if you believe in luck, and I’ll understand. You could say that I have been extremely lucky to have had great leaders, co-workers, peers and subordinates (Those are Military words for people). I believe that I was greatly blessed by them and by GOD. That luck, or blessedness applies beyond my relationships at work. I have been told that you can pick your friends, but not your family. That’s not totally true. I AM under the impression that I picked Tigs to be my SL wife. Some may argue that she did the picking. Thank you Tigs for the wonderful years we’ve had and I hope continue to have. These flowers are a way for me to say thanks for the 99% of our time together and for still being there after the other 1%. I also want to thank my friends that are no longer with us. Many of them went through hell fighting terrorism before America as a country realized it was the right thing to do. They gave me the strong points including a work ethic and made me take the opportunity to challenge myself. Speaking of challenging myself … as Jimmy Buffet would say, 'It’s Five O’clock Somewhere,' so I need to speed this along."

Sanstrom concluded, "What am I bringing with me as I leave, directly or indirectly almost 50 years of uniformed service? The friends, the relationships, the mementos, the memories and a monthly retainer deposit from Linden Labs. I am also leaving with a few more inches around my waist, a few less hairs on my head, some more wisdom in my soul, a few less defenses around my heart, a wonderful family, and a future full of life. What a blessing. Thank you for sharing this day with me."

The audience erupted in applause, "Well done!" "Ooh Raah Devil Dog!" "Semper Paratus!" "Awesome Sauce!" Sanstrom however had one more duty to perform, "Admiral Blackflag sir, if you would join me please." The new commander went up to the old one, and Sandstrom spoke again, "Please repeat after me: 'I, Thorn Blackflag do solemnly reaffirm the oath that took upon my graduation from recruit training, to support and defend the Guidelines of the SL Coast Guard. I further assume the mantle of leadership for this organization, recognizing that he, who wishes to lead, must first be willing to serve.' "

Thorn did so, "I, Thorn Blackflag do solemnly reaffirm the oath that took upon my graduation from recruit training, to support and defend the Guidelines of the SL Coast Guard. I further assume the mantle of leadership for this organization, recognizing that he, who wishes to lead, must first be willing to serve."

Sanstron continued," 'That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the Commandant of the SL Coast Guard. So help me God.' "

Thorn repeated, "That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the Commandant of the SL Coast Guard. So help me God. - Semper Paratus."

"Sir, I stand relieved,"Sanstron concluded.

"Sir, I relieve you," Thorn told him. Sanstron then took his seat. The change in command was done. Someone in the audience wiped a tear.

Thorn then went up to the podium, "Huge shoes ... Many of you know I am a huge broadway theater fan. A favorite show 'Chicago' is coming to town next week. There is a song toward the end and it is entitled 'I Can't Do It Alone.' Standing here today puts that lyric in a whole new light. The continued sucess of this group is your responsibility as well as it is mine, for truly ''I Can't Do It Alone.' Thinking bak maybe a year or more ago, I think is was Capt. Carling or was it you CDR Rieko who said what the group needed was a song. Sans, you liked the idea, and I tried. But I can't sing. But I can write. I will present a few stanzas, see what you think, f you want to try and sing it, I had and old army ballad 'Benny Haven Oh' in mind for a melody, also for you Irish 'Wearing of the Green' is the same tune."

Let me tell the story of how we came to be,
The Second Life Coast Guard The Masters of the sea.
The idea came to Sanstrom In two thousand and five,
How to do something useful that would help people survive.
He drew upon his experience from his years in the Corps,
And formulated a plan to chart our future course.
In a region named Pinastri the first station was born,
One story blocks of cinder looking quite forlorn.

O'oh Second Life Coast Guard,
We raise a glass to you,
And gladly tell your story,
to both old friends and to new.

Sans and Tig and RJ decided on a plan,
For growth and development with quality and command.
Under their direction the group began to grow,
And continents were covered and soon all SL would know,
That The Second Life Coast Guard has a very simple plan,
 To serve the boating public In any way we can.
Seven years and counting how long will this group survive?
We will last as long I tell you as good recruits still arrive.

O'oh Second Life Coast Guard,
We raise a glass to you,
And gladly tell your story,
to both old friends and to new. 

So gather round me shipmates and raise your glasses high,
“long live the SL Coast Guard Semper Paratus” aye!
From now until forever until the day we die.......

O'oh Second Life Coast Guard,
We raise a glass to you,
And gladly tell your story,
to both old friends and to new. 

The song got a few complements from the crowd. MarkTwain remarked, "Catchy tune, you can dance to it."

Thorn turned to the outgoing commander, "Admiral Laxness, I have tried to tell the story of the group in verse, but this I would like to make your final assignment, to put pen to paper and help us keep our history straight." He turned back to the audience, "thank you for your attention," then to the vice-admiral, "Admiral KariaKae Wroth, the deck is yours." There was much applause in response, Sanstrom saying, "Not bad Admiral, not bad at all."

KariaKae gave her thanks to Thorn, "Thank you, Sir," then turned her attention to the line of shipmen at the nearby Coast Guard ship, "Lieutenant Blackwell, please proceed." The drill commander then shouted to his men, "Attention! Order arms!" The seven sailors readied their rifles. "Right face!" The seven turned to their right. "Ready!" The seven readied their rifles. "Aim!" The seven pointed their rifles into the sky. "Fire!" And the shipmen fired seven bullets into the air. This would go on again, "Ready! Aim! Fire!" And a third time, "Ready! Aim! Fire!" With the twenty-one gun salute completed, the officer ordered, "Order arms!" The sailors were no longer aiming their rifles up, having them at ready. "Left face!" The shipmen then turned to their left, to where they had originally faced. "Present arms!" and the sailors had their weapons at ready.

KariaKae once again addressed the crowd, "You have all witnessed the birth of a new organization, a metamorphosis if you will. Our new commandant brings a new set of experiences and a new set of eyes to our organization. As with any organization, the SL Coast Guard will subtly change to reflect this new leadership. So what will this new leadership look like? Well, you have heard from the man yourself. Many of you already know him from his work around the SLCG and with the Flying Tigers. He has been in the SLCG for three and a half years, and has worked his way up through the ranks. He’s been a station commander, district commander and, most recently area commander. He’s worked with the training command as an instructor, a mentor and as one who conducted checkrides. He is familiar with both the operational and the administrative needs of SLCG. He’s a very capable man. But, please allow me to share my observations. This transfer of command has been two months in the making, and during this time I’ve worked very closely with my new boss. I’ve found him to be a man of both thought and action. He is open to new ideas. Yet those ideas require substantiation. He has a definite path in mind for the SLCG, but still seeks feedback. He is respectful of our history, but is optimistic about our future."

"And what will our future hold?" KariaKae asked, "I cannot say for sure. But, what I do know is this. We are still the SL Coast Guard. We have all heard our new Commandant take an oath to preserve our mission and goals, and what we stand for. Our continued commitment to excellence will not change. I look forward to this new journey, and I thank you. ... No, WE thank you for your continued support."

KariaKae's closing was met with applause, and so went the Coast Guard's changing of the guard. The people began to mingle and talk more casually. But I couldn't stay longer as I was needed elsewhere. Further words with KariaKae and the Coast Guard would have to wait.

Bixyl Shuftan

Artfest 3

By Gemma Cleanslate

Artfest 3 is beginning. This is an event that invites artists to submit builds that will be judged by the viewers who visit the sim to vote. "ArtFest is a charity art competition to raise funds for disaster relief.  Disasters cause permanent and ongoing damage, lives are lost and communities are wiped out. Massive destructive acts of Nature leave heartbreak in their wake, and while I realize not much can be done here, as they say, every little bit helps. 100% of the Linden dollars raised with ArtFest is converted to real-life money, and donated to the Red Cross/Crescent (Via their Everyday Heroes program). The Red Cross was chosen, as it is an organization that helps around the globe without discrimination (http://www.redcross.org.au/principles.aspx).” That is the mission of the Artfest . 

Since I had missed 1 and 2,  I took a ride over to the sim to see what is going on. Already artists have their submissions in place. There are plots for more available Huntress Catteneo told me. There are many categories the artist may choose and actually enter in more than one: “SL snapshots and manipulated SL pictures, RL photos, RL artworks and picture manipulations, Sculpture, 3D art. Anything not covered by others, poetry, writing, performance.“

Singers and DJ’s are welcome to fill the sim with music when there are no conflicting events. Quite an eclectic selection as you can see, and it is held coincidentally,in the sim, Eclectic Diversity. When you arrive you will be high in a castle structure from which you can view the entire sim. I suggest you look for the arrow leading to the train that will take you for a grand ride along the tracks passing most of the builds. Jump out any time you like. Have some fun at the fair that Attica Bekkers has going. Be sure to wander through the sims to look for hidden areas to explore . Be sure to visit more than once since the building of exhibits is ongoing and you will discover more art every time you go.  Voting can be done even at this time and you can vote by contributing to the sign on the plot remembering that all this money is for charity! It will continue until the end of January. 

If you would like to participate in any way or  for more information contact Huntress Catteneo, the person behind the event, who can provide you with applications and more. Of the event she says, “I love having more artists around even if it is just to look at all the great work. Currently there is 15 artists out there with 17 spots, and still plenty of room without looking crowded. I have always been lucky to have many good artists support ArtFest, some because they have had disasters touch their lives and have been aided by the Red Cross at some point.  At the time of the 1st ArtFest, four artists were actually in different disaster zones, at the time they were building, so the cause was about as close to your heart as you can get." 

If you want to take a look  and or get involved or do an early vote , here is the entry http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Eclectic%20Diversity/143/121/62  

Gemma Cleanslate

Philosophical Landmark: Professor Bergson's 500th Philosophy Class

 By Gemma Cleanslate

It is amazing to me to realize that I have been attending The Philosophy Class in Second Life so long! Not that I made it to every class, but I must say I did attend quite a few! I know I was present for Class Number 1 back in September 2007.  Now I am sitting at class 500 on Thursday, the 19th of December 2013.

I do know someone who did attend every class and that is the professor, Herman Bergson, every Tuesday and Thursday, every year, every week, except for vacation breaks, since the first month. He has been dedicated to continuing the study of philosophers and their ideas for all this time,  and presenting us with the material. Often our classes have had heated discussions that wander off topic, but we are drawn back to the present issue quickly by the Professor.

This lecture, number 499, should have taken place back in October. However the professor was stricken with a heart attack and underwent surgery. Fortunately he has recovered well and is ready to go on. Class 500 is a landmark but it is not the end. It is the beginning . He is already aiming for the next 500. You are all invited to join us for the next part of the journey. Winter break began after class, and will resume in week three of January. You are able to access any past classes at this blog site http://thephilosophyclass.blogspot.com/ . Right now we are in the midst of the study of non-western philosophies.

There have been several past articles about the class over the years in the SL Newser. If you would like to learn more, and you can visit the classroom at this location in Wainscot.

  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wainscot/222/185/38

Gemma Cleanslate  

Remembering Osprey Therian

Longtime residents in Second Life may remember a lady by the name of Osprey Therian, known in real life as Vivian Kendel. She was a creative resident known for being on the whimsical side of things. Her accomplishments include her "duck on a bike" avatar that became a feature at Bay City parades and other impromptu fun events and a youtube video , her role in a variety SL TV program "The Show Must Go On," was one of the creators behind the "combat cards" inworld dueling game, is described as having "designed, built, and maintained the Ambat Infohub," designed clothes for a roleplaying group and area, organized photography contests, and more.

Sadly, in real life Osprey suffered from Multiple Sclerosis and more recently was diagnosed with cancer as well. "The great thing about Second Life is I never have to leave my brain," she wrote on her profile. Eventually, her conditioned worsened and she had to move to a hospice center. On December 9, she passed away. Her profile feed was soon filled with condolences from friends, admirers, and other residents. CNN iReporter Janey Bracken wrote in an article about her, "Somehow I think Osprey’s vivaciousness inhabited us all whilst in her company, she was a truly remarkable lady. "

Her friends Justin Esparza and Enja Mysterio announced there would be a tribute to Ospery at her virtual home in Bodego Bay (Bodega /225/112/23 ). It was scheduled to begin at 10AM SL time. There were already a number of people when I arrived fifteen minutes early. There would be close to forty people here, many of whom were notables in Second Life past and present, Holocluck Henly, RacerX Gullwing, Marianne McCann, Kennylex Luckless, Stroker Serpentine (the inventor of the adult animation beds), and Prokofy Neva. Torley Linden was also there. "It is like a creative oldbie convention," someone commented. If there was bad feelings between anyone, they were not displayed here. All had come together to pay their respects.

At the location there was a picture of Osprey, a combination of her real life self, her avatar, and a picture of her as a child. Justin and Enja were on a lilly pad in the bay, just in front of a curled giant tentacle. Under the surface what looked like a shark was swimming around. Clicking on the picture gave one a folder, Justin saying, "That folder contains a memorial notecard, moth wings, a landmark to the Iris infohub and this photo of Viian/Osprey." The moth wings were another creation Osprey was noted for.

There was some chat before the official start, some of it mudane talk about SL glitches and ajusting preferences. Other times it was reminiscing, Enjah recalling the fun she had with Osprey, "Remember that wild boat parade in 2004 when we crashed every sim it went through? Or was it 2005." "Think Osprey will crash the sim?" Justin mused. Some of the people dropping by showed up in the Osprey duck avatars, "Good to see those ducks on bikes again." One girl commented, "I watched a video an hour ago, and one of the first thinks I thought of was 'I need to send this to Osprey, she'll really enjoy it.' "

Torley's arrival was greeted with cheers, the Linden known for his "Friendly Greetings" tutorials years ago still popular despite Linden Labs often jeered by residents, "Been ages since I've seen you in the pixel Torley.""Aah! So this *is* Torley?" "Cultural references!" the Linden blurted. "Heheh - long time since I heard that." "I have old pictures of many of you," Torley told the group, "in my archives."

One resident commented about Osprey's activity in another virtual world, "There," of which after it closed, many of it's users coming to Second Life adopted the surname "Therian," "I remember when There closed. Osprey felt very badly that her avatar could no longer exist."

At 10AM, Justin officially began the service, "Thank you all for coming together today to honor one of our friends, Osprey Therian, (whom) in the physical world was known as Vivian Kendall. You probably don't know me from Adam, but I am the creator behind the avatar Salazar Jack and the Forest of Kahruvel. My real name is Justin Esparza and I live in Washington State in the USA." "He's exposing himself!" Enjah joked. Justin made a joke about flashing for the cameras, then continued, "I did not know her really well in the physical world. But I have visited her in real life on three occasions, and she was just the same there as she was here. Behind me is a photo of Vivian with her Osprey Avatar, and a photo of her as a little girl. Even at that age she was 100% Osprey."

 Of the fate of Osprey's Bodega Bay, Justin told everyone, "I met with her about a month ago in real life and she wanted to know if I was interested in taking over her Art Westerburg account. Art's account is a lifetime account and controls almost all of the land here. So I said I would and keep her land here as long as I could. We also talked about the legacy of the Osprey Therian avatar. And she was excited about having her avatar continue on as part of the world after she was gone. So we decided to try and do that and pattern her activity a bit after Magellan Linden's. It is my understanding that she has formally included these things in her will and I will be meeting with her executor later this month to begin that process. As I want to work with Linden Lab, if possible, to accomplish that." One resident commented, "It'll be a new situation for Linden Lab." Another added, "There has been some passing on of assets/land before, certainly when The Sojourner passed on.. at the time Pathfinder who was still a Linden helped in that process."

Justin continued, "My first memory of Osprey was a photo she posted online in the Second Life forums. She was exploring a cave in the Stinson region that my avatar, Salazar Jack, and another friend, Champie Jack, has discovered. She posted a photo of herself waving from the entrance to the cave and said that she was wearing steel-toed boots to protect her feet. It was a running joke with us after that." Another commented, "Her sailing photos always mesmerized me." "I loved her sailing expeditions," Justin responded. A third spoke, "Yes she went on these epic sailing journeys and documented her travels of the Linden waterways." Someone commented, "I always enjoyed the photo contests at the gallery." Holocluck remarked, "I was a noob when I found out about the photo contests and that's how I knew her." Marianne added, "That was when I first got to know Osprey. That and attending TSMGO."

Torley spoke, "I was often inspired by Os' photos of eclectic and bizarre attractions in SL, pieces of our unique culture here. Does anyone else remember her Roadside Attractions exhibit? ... I thought about road trips and the kinds of unexpected landmarks you might see across the territory, and that kept me coming back for exploration inworld, so O's was a very positive influence on my early days inworld."

Justin announced, "I will be keeping a permanent page for Vivian/Osprey at http://kahruvel.com/vivian.html . At some point I will make it so one can add a comment to it directly." Enjah brought up the question about the future of Osprey's blog at (www.atomic-raygun.com). Justin told the group he would look into it, saying her computer was willed to him, "She has given me access to Osprey, Art both verbally and in emails," though could guarentee nothing, "I will have to wait to talk with her executor to get the details."

As for Osprey's avatar, Justin announced, "Tommorrow (Sunday Dec 15) at 10:00 am SLT. The Osprey Therian character will be going through the unstable portal in the Rodeo region to search for Salazar Jack. So yes, her adventures will be continuing in a tangible way as well." This got approval from the crowd, "Oh Em Gee, Os is really going to live on." Torley commented, "That's so beautiful and fitting. The voyage continues." A third spoke,"Yes she loved searching for people." Prokofy asked, "Did you get the Lindens to allow you to continue her avatar? ... Surely they will understand." Justin answered, "I will have to contact them to find out." Torley offered, "Let me know if I can do anything to help with that communication." Others offered to help in any way they could. Later on, Uccello Poultry would meet up with Osprey's reanimated avatar on Sunday at ten AM as planned.

"I'd just like to say what an amazing woman to have gathered such a divergent bunch of people," a lady commented. Torley then asked, "Justin, if you happen to find Os' Foot B Gone spray in her bequeathed inventory, can you please send me a copy? I was looking for it in my inventories but didn't find it." Justin told him he would. Torley explained, "In 2005, long before any of this fancy Advanced Lighting Model stuff, I griped about the ugly avatar foot shadows and Os manifested a cure." Prokofy showed off a cane, "I must put up a photo display of our early Moth Swarms that was fun, Osprey made this Moth Staff for me, look at the level of detail, even little moth feathers." One resident talked about, "I have the lantern she made, with the moths that come out at night." Prokofy told her, "She especially made those lamps for the Iris Moth Temple when the Lindens' lanterns disappeared mysteriously." Rhiannon Chatnoir invited everyone to light a candle to Osprey at her cathedral in Darkwood.

Eventually came the final event of the service. Justin donned his set of Osprey moth wings, and invited others to do the same, "Let's go ahead and don our moth wings for those that are flying up to the Iris Moth Temple." Many did, although others had events elsewhere in real life or virtual to attend to, "have a safe flight everyone, and thank you Justin for doing all this." And those with the wings flew up, and then took flight away.

No doubt Osprey will continue to be remembered in ways large and small in Second Life.

Bixyl Shuftan

Scenes From The Relay For Life Christmas Expo

From December 5 to today December 15th, the Christmas Expo has taken place. Sponsored by the Relay For Life, the event has raised funds for The American Cancer Society through both donations in kiosks, and goods offered for sale with the proceeds going to the charity. But the expo was more than just shopping. The scenery was picturesque, and there were a number of music events.

A few maps were around to show people where to go in the four sim shopping area.  There were also a few sims to the east.

 More than seventy merchants provided goods of all kinds, especially Christmas-themed ones.

 And there were a few places to stop and warm oneself when just looking around.

The snow-covered cobblestone streets made for a scene out of an old-time Christmas story.

 The inside of the shops involved much scenery too.

 But there was more to do than just shop. One could just walk around and enjoy the scenery.

 The Gazebo, where a number of music events took place, the tunes broadcasted over T-1 Radio.

 One could walk, or one could ski.

 The online newsletter Prim Perfect, by Saffia Widdershins, was also there.

 At 2PM Dec 10th, I came across a discussion.

Saffia's subject was the "Urchins of Babbage," talking to Jimmy Branagh, and Myrtil Igaly. Jimmy is also a member of the Steelhead community. They talked quite a bit about their adventures.

Relayer Dwen Dooley pranced around in a deer avatar, or sat down. The dark unicorn Avariel Falcon was also walking around.

Another look at the Gazebo, from a musical bash on Thursday Dec 12 by DJ Mandy.

Mandy the Elf has taken over the airwaves here at the Expo. She's got a backpack full of gifts, and a playlist full of terrific Christmas songs for all of you. Come in your holiday best and join the fun!

And boys and girls could also sit on Santa's lap to let him know what one wanted for Christmas. But the girls didn't necessarily have to be little.

 

On Saturday Dec 14th, the "Holidays of Hope Ball" took place from 4 to 8 PM.

Trader Whiplash and Nula Maracas provided the music for the event, of which Victorian Age wear was encouraged as to give the look of the "Dickens Fantasy" theme.

There was a raffle at the Ball, which was won by Chevelly SilentGhost and Kerri Imari Criss.

It was an event enjoyed by all.

Today December 15th marks the last day of the event. So there is one more day to enjoy the scenery and the music. And events such as the Avi Choice awards.

Bixyl Shuftan

The Bay City Tree Lighting

by DrFran Babcock 

On Sunday December 8th Bay City celebrated three hours of music, dancing, ice skating and fun to mark the lighting of the Bay City Christmas Tree. The festivities were also for a cause: Child's Play whose charitable aim is to help children in hospitals with money raised by the gaming industry. Their slogan is: When gamers give back, it makes a difference. To help raise funds many content creators had donated items to Bay City, and these were placed in an area where residents could 

Entertainment 

GoSpeed Racer was the deejay for the beginning hour, and she spun holiday tunes that were well-known and esoteric. The crowd made a conga line and cheered on the music choices. All of the revelers decided to load test the conga pose balls, and managed to crash the parcel. This is just the kind of fun Second Life™ residents expect at an event.. 

Christov Kohnke was up next. He might have been short in stature, but  this kid rock pounded out blues on his assorted classical and rock guitars, that he used to accompany his folksy, bluesy voice. By the time he finished his set, the crowd had grown to one frame per second slowness, and Marianne McCann was screaming holiday wishes to all: "Laggy Christmas!" 

The last performer was Grace McDunnough, adored by many for her sultry voice, and her ability to connect with her audience. She told use that we would be tortured for the next hour with holiday songs, but, alas, she was wrong. The crowd was appreciative of her talent, and the day closed out with most of the crowd wishing for more. 

Fun 

If you weren't in the mood for dancing you could go ice skating, or wander the Linden-created lands of Bay City. In addition, the tree is located right in the center of the skating rink. The tree had a number of decorations, including ornaments by BlueGin Yifu and Hyper Mole, whom have passed away.

The event was a great one for people watching, and the paparazzi from the press (cough, cough) snapped pictures with abandon.  

Charity 

 Here are the auction totals hot off the press, thanks to Marianne McCann: The event raised a stunning L$50,207. Here are the individual silent auction winners: 

The Secret Store - Rag Dolls Collection - Lily RARE is... Salome Strangelove, with a final bid of L$400! 
 

The winner of Dark Wicker and Floral Outdoor Seating Set #2 is... Galileo Moleno, with a final bid of L$400 

 
The winner of Dreamscape Life & Alts Insurance Policy is... Vick Forcella, with a final bid of L$2001! 
 

The winner of 2Zm Bread Truck Proof of Purchase Prim is... SeanMcPherson Senior, with a final bid of L$3860! (Ed note: Sean later gave the truck to Marianne McCann  
 

The winner of Bay City Tree Lightning 2012 is... Alx Zeiler, with a final bid of L$200! 
 

The winner of [ContraptioN] Music Box GACHA: Isvandt's Waltz No. 1 is... HomeownerOrCurrent Resident, with a final bid of L$4610! 
 

Trompe L'oeil Gift Card shouts: SOLD! The winner of Trompe L'oeil Gift Card $L500 v2.08 [packaged] transfer only is... Cali Souther, with a final bid of L$1300! 

Bay City Scenes #2 Photos shoutThe winner of Bay City Scenes #2 [boxed] is... Uccello Poultry, with a final bid of L$200! 
 

~FCD~ Tree of the Bay Decor BOXED is... Evola Courtois, with a final bid of L$350! 
 

The winner of bop! Thousand Miles is... Pygar Bu, with a final bid of L$850! 

The winner of Dark Wicker and Floral Outdoor Seating Set #3 is... Linsey Carter, with a final bid of L$500! 
 

The winner of African Wax Print Dress Voucher is... Ever Dreamscape, with a final bid of L$200! 
 

The winner of ER L$2000 Store Credit Voucher is... Vick Forcella, with a final bid of L$1500! 
 

The winner of R(S)W Nutcracker - Bay City King is... Galileo Moleno, with a final bid of L$5000! 
 

The winner of Dark Wicker and Floral Outdoor Seating Set #1 is... zombiegal Resident, with a final bid of L$400! 

The winner of Army of Saint Pygarmas! is... Rachel Seelowe, with a final bid of L$2000! 
 

The winner of Bay City Scenes #1 [boxed] is... Sylvia Tamalyn, with a final bid of L$500! 
 

The winner of Shopping in the City is... Sylvia Tamalyn, with a final bid of L$500! 
 

The winner of Brazier with chairs, poses, sound and smoke is... Dakota Schwade, with a final bid of L$300! 
 

The winner of Carrie's Lingerie Giftcard Box(OPEN) 1000L is... Linsey Carter, with a final bid of L$500! 
 

The winner of <: span="">BoOgErS*:> 5000L Gift Card Prize Bay City Boxed is... XSerenaVonCureX Resident, with a final bid of L$1500! 
 

The winner of Escapades Treehouse - folktales is... Uccello Poultry, with a final bid of L$600!

Near the end, Ever Dreamscape gave her thanks, "On behalf of the Bay City Alliance I would like to thank the many people who came out today and who helped organize and donated to this event. 

"We would like to thank our wonderful performers: GoSpeed Racer, Christov Kohnke and Grace McDunnough! 

"We would like to thank the many talented artisans who donated such fabulous items to the silent auction:Ever Dreamscape, hey thats me ;P  Pygar Bu, Cory Edo of Trompe L'oeil, Loki Eliot, ADudeNamed Anthony of 2Zoetic Motors, Robin (Sojourner) Wood, Laetizia "Tish" Coronet, Marianne McCann, Pamela Galli of La Galleria, Zen Zarco of <: oogers="">, Wildstar Beaumont, Zak from Bop!, Winter Ventura of Eclectic Randomness, Isley Oodles of Fraidy Cat Designs, Eden Malik and Hendrix Portal for donating the Contraption music box.

"A BIG thank you to the the many generous persons who bid and also donated to the childsplaycharity.org kiosks!

"We would like to thank Marianne McCann, Pygar Bu, and The Linden Department of Public Works, esp. Michael Linden for decorating this beautiful sim!

"We would like to thank the Bay City Alliance for organizing this wonderful event, in particular Marianne McCann our (unofficial) Mayor! (yay)

"And a very special thanks to ALL of the people who came out and made this such a success today! We LOVE having you here in Bay City!! Please come back again SOON!!!"

DrFran Babcock