Interview With Gem Sunkiller

 

By Bixyl Shuftan 

Gem Sunkiller is a longtime member of the Relay for Life in Second Life and is the Team Lead for 2023. She was also the Newser's Woman of the Year for 2022. Recently I had a chance to interview her, and we met at a building in the American Cancer Society sim.

 

I asked Gem how did she first find out about Second Life. She answered, "Well, I had been role playing on a text based platform, one of my best friends in real-life and on the digital platforms had come to see Second Life with her husband. She called me and said 'You have got to see this!' I made an avatar, I've forgotten that name long ago, and joined her on Second Life.  You probably know her, Sasha Fairywren. This was in March of 2010, so you can imagine the learning curve. I didn't care for the place I landed in first, so Gem was born."

 

"So your first days were a bit rough?" I asked her. "Yes," she answered, "but I mastered those skills, explored Second Life, and landed with a dance troupe, Unity Productions. We performed, in spite of the lag, all over the grid." "How long were you with the troupe?" I asked. She answered, "Roughly a year, at the time I was helping to care for my mother, along with working a full time job, and trying to give my husband the time he deserved.  Practices just did not fit in with my RL schedule, and as we all know, real life comes first. So, I dropped out of the troupe, but maintained many friendships.

 

"That brings us roughly to mid 2011. I lost my Mother in February of 2011, and basically came to Second Life to listen to music, and talk with friends. One of my friends from Unity asked me to come to a set he was playing, Relay Weekend 2011. I did, and after his set I decided to do a lap around the track, remembering my Mother.  As I walked around the track, a woman came along side of me and asked my Relay story. I didn't really know at that point what a Relay story was, but I told her about losing  my mother.  She assured me that what I was feeling was normal and that things would get better, then shared all about Relay with me.  That person has become a very dear friend to this day.

"That was a defining moment in my Second Life.  When registration opened in 2012, I registered Team Shadow, and we blundered our way through our first season. "Blundered?" I asked, "Sounds like some interesting stories there." "Oh yes," Gem answered, "from registration forward.  We did not have our first event until late April, but soon fell into a rhythm of weekly dance parties.  What we lacked in knowledge we made up for with enthusiasm, and attended as many other team events as possible.: It was a good year!"

 

I asked Gem if any particular events stood out.  She though about it, then responded, "We had a carnival, complete with rides, a jail and bail, and of course music and dancing.  There may have even been a dunk tank.  Over the course of years we had some bigger, multi team events, like Country For A Cure, and our Blues For Life. We also learned to use our dashboards to fundraise from people we knew in our everyday lives. Thank goodness for people like Dwen Dooley, MamaP, Trader Whiplash, and many others who taught us how to Relay the right way, for the right reasons."

I asked if things were less unpredictable the following year. Gem's answer was, "You could say that, I advised Sasha and Syl who took over the leadership of Team Shadow, however I answered yes when asked to serve as Outreach Chair in 2013." She smiled, "Together, we built Relay over the course of the season, adding new communities and Relayers, I'd say it went well.  That's in retrospect however, when in the midst of the season, it was quite the quality growth experience.  I had many people who came along beside me to teach me, encourage me, and spur me on, also people who were not afraid to cut to the chase.  We all need that. If you remember, at the closing ceremony 2013, Relay refused to let the ceremony start until we had pushed over the 2 Million USD mark since our beginnings. I still get goose bumps remembering that morning.
 

"And our community has had many  more goose bump experiences since. I'm sure everyone has their own favorite. For me the best part is that we made each of those moments happen together.  United as we worked with a single purpose. I'm sure there are so many stories in my memory banks. Most Relayers have a store house of memories they can share.  Our heritage as a community is rich!"

I then asked, "I take it some of the teams you've worked with had some interesting results, such as the Steelheads with 'The Hair?'" Gem smiled, "Oh yes, Fuzz and his 'The Hair.'  It's not a season without seeing 'The Hair' at least once. The Rockers with Relaystock, which has become a yearly multi-team event.  I remember playing in the mud that first year, while listening to DJ's from everywhere. Your own Sunbeamers, with your Airshow.  I hope I haven't crashed too many of your planes over the years. (we both chuckled) ...  "We have a host of new teams, who are learning their way around Relay.  Some are poised to have some very memorable events this season.  Who knows, with a theme like 'Hope Floats.' Perhaps we will have a giant swim meet! Swimming is a great way to help  yourself stay healthy."

I then asked if the theme, "is going to be boat-themed, or swimming as you wondered?" She answered, "Our theme is very much in line with the national Relay For Life theme of  'Every Step Brings Hope.'
So, we are not locked into boats, hot air balloons, or water sports. But all the ways that we can give lift, wings as it were, to hope for our survivors and caregivers. If I may quote Stingray Raymaker, who summed it up beautifully. ... "Hope is the reason why our community has remained one of Second Life’s largest and most impactful since 2005. Hope floats above everything that we do. Hope guides our decisions. Hope inspires us to keep going, even when things feel impossible."

 

Recalling some ship battle games in the past, I asked Gem if we might see some of those. She told me, "... I am sure there will be pirate ships and battles that happen. We have lots of fun with our FUNdraising, which is wonderful.  But at the heart of everything we do, is the mission to finish the fight against cancer. The first step for our Teams will be Team Registration, January 15th, 2023.  As with past years we will register through our www.relayforlife.org/secondlife .  Selene Jashan and myself will be happy to help anyone who needs assistance.

"I am very excited to see our 2023 Relay For Life of Second Life season get underway, Kickoff is February 18th at 10am SLT. ..." We would end up talking about the Sunbeamers a little, then she continued, "When we join together, there is nothing to big for us to accomplish.  Even very ambitious goals!"

 

I then brought up the involvement of the Lindens, "as Patch Linden's barbecue in the "Days of Relay" a few days before the weekend walk." Gem responded, "Indeed, the Lindens lend their support to many events, including HopeFest. We have Bid the Lindens Bald, which is always well attended. Patch answers the call for many of our Mega events, most recently Christmas Expo, where he served as Santa with his 'elves.'" I brought up the Making Strides Rennisance Festival, "How many would you say relish the chance to joust a Linden, or toss a tomato at one of the Lab's finest?" Gem chuckled, "Countless numbers! Relay Weekend Midori Linden assists us to help keep our regions running at top performance. So, many at the Lab contribute their time to help further our cause."

 

I asked Gem what does she do when not Relaying. She told me, "I dabble with photography when I have a chance, and enjoy bringing my real-life work into SL after playing around in Photoshop.  As your know, I am a DJ, and while I don't do as many sets as I used to, I love spinning up a party. I wouldn't say I am a builder, but I do like banging prim together, and oh, then there is shopping! My daughter Jade and I sometimes explore photographic regions together." I asked if she had any favorites. She answered, "Frogmore is always one of my favorite destinations. There are so many interesting nooks and crannies to explore, and by experimenting with windlight settings each shot of the same view looks entirely different. The Estate I live on, also has many interesting photogenic locations.  Why leave home if you don't have to? Calas Galadon is also a good place to wander and take pics. There are so many (smile).

 

"But even in the off season, Relay is always in the back of my mind. You might say I am obsessed. 'm looking forward to meeting as many Relayers as possible this season, one of my favorite things is to attend team events, and encourage them onward."

 

Gem would go on to say, "I would like to thank the SL Newser for their Woman of the Year award for 2022.  You humble me. Thank you, also, for keeping our Relay For Life community in the news, and increasing awareness of our mission around the grid."

"In closing, I want to welcome anyone who would like to join our community in the fight against cancer to come be a part of our awesome movement.  Just contact Selene Jashan or myself and we will help you get started.  To all of our returning Teams, WELCOME BACK.  One last thing----GO RELAY!"

After that, we shared a few more words, then went our separate ways.

For the upcoming Relay season, team registration starts on January 15, and the Kickoff on Sunday February 19.

Bixyl Shuftan

Interview with Gem Sunkiller

By Deaflegacy

Gem Sunkiller and I met at the Relay for Life sims making up the track for this year's Relay Weekend.  My first question was about Gem being a part of the Relay. "Oh...that is a very long story," she answered, "I'll try to condense it.  In 2011 I lost my mother to metastatic colon cancer.  I found myself on the RFL track that Relay weekend in the wee hours of the morning.  The Event Chair at the time, MamaP Beerbaum walked with me for a bit, she both comforted and invited me to be a part of Relay For Life." said Gem.  "Jumped in with both feet in 2012, forming Team Shadow with SL Family and Friends."

Gem had been the captain of Team Shadow and had served in a variety of positions on the committee.  Gem helped with Outreach this year. She chuckled, "You might call me an unofficial cheerleader for Relay in SL." Her Relay team, Team Shadow, has around 30 people from a variety of communities on second Life.  They have recently added several new members.

When I asked Gem what her hope and goal are, she has this to say.  "My hope for Team Shadow, beyond the prayer that we are not needed next year because a cure has been found, I hope we Relay the right way, for the right reasons.  It's our desire to help other Relayers reach their goals.  As far as goals. Relay Goal is to finish the fight."

The biggest event of the year for Team Shadow varied year to year.  This year, they hosted a 12 hour "Country for a Cure" event that featured DJ's from five teams.  It was successful beyond their expectation, raising over 140,000 Linden dollars.  They hope to replicate that success for Making Strides and again next Relay season. "Outreach is one of my favorite things." said Gem.

I asked Gem if someone asks about RFL as well as Team Shadow, what would Gem say. "So when someone asks about RFL, I am always happy to give information about the movement here in SL.  I also try to steer them to forming a team, or participating in any way they find appropriate." said Gem. "When someone asks about Team Shadow, well, I tell them we are an open minded and accepting group of people who are insanely passionate about finding a cure, and funding the mission.  And invite them to come join the fun."

Deafllegacy

Memorial Service For Riven Homewood

By Bixyl Shuftan

On Saturday April 8, dozens of avatars gathered to remember the life of Riven Homewood. Noted for her work on libraries, particularly those in the steamlands, and in the Relay, she died suddenly on Monday April 3, 2017. As 10:30 AM approached, dozens of avatars gathered at Calimari Island Park at Caledon South End, which had been owned by Riven, to honor her and share stories in remembrance.. The area was a island park with a number of seats. Gabrielle Riel announced that they were unable to play music on the parcel, so she was playing some on her own stream which could be accessed on the Internet via a music playing program. Among those there were Honour McMillan, Crap Mariner, Baron Wulfenbach, and many others.

"It does not seem real that she is gone," Nyree Rain commented. JJ Drinkwater, who helped organize the vent, spoke of one song, "I have no idea why this song makes me cry for Riven, but it does." He then continued, "There are a hundred things I want to say about Riven, that I’ve thought of this week. But I’m going to save most of them for the celebration or her life later this month. Because if anyone's worth celebrating, Riven is. I don’t even know how to say what Riven was to me. A good friend, a valuable, thoughtful, provoking colleague - provoking in the very best way. She was also an inspiration - the kind of student who teaches the teacher. Because she was a lifelong learner, a lifelong explorer. One thing I loved about Riven is that she'd always tell you what she appreciated about you. It’s not that she never found fault - she could grouse with the best of them.  We had some great 'Yeah, and another thing...' sessions. But she always returned to enthusiasm, to appreciation, to excitement. She saw people kindly. Something that, given how fragile life is, we could all stand to do more of. I've been thinking about that a lot this week. This is what she had as a tagline on one of her accounts: 'Life is short - Be swift to love, make haste to be kind.' I’ve put it on her Pick in my profile, the remind me to be as little more like her."

JJ then excused himself, "I think that's all." Several people gave praise for his words. Kghia Gherardi then spoke, "And next, Miso. Miso Susanowa is representing not only herself but many of Riven's friends on Twitter who could not make it." Miso then spoke, "Hi folks. As mentioned, I knew Riven best through Twitter. She had many friends and conversation partners there. I have chatted for YEARS with her there. As (lapsed) Catholics, we had many long-ranging discussions about faith, spirituality and the Church. I counted on her tweets for interesting, critical or otherwise valuable information. Riven NEVER tweeted a link that was boring! She was also a good ReTweeter,  fascinating, personal and care-full presence. She leaves a big hole in all our lives. She leaves a big hole in many lives."

After Miso concluded her speech, which was followed by some applause, Kghia told the group, "Valibrarian Gregg is able to join us today via his phone, which is limiting his experience a bit. He has asked me to paste his thought into chat on his behalf." She then corrected herself, "I mean, She. *sigh* I was doing so well. ... OK, Val shares the following....virtual path shared / memories more real than dreams / cherished friend, Riven. Valibrarian would also like to say that Riven was a foreword thinking librarian and big supporter of the ALA ACRL virtual world interest group - will be greatly missed. 'ty for sharing Kghia - I am blind on my phone!  but couldn't miss this.' "

Following more applause, next was Madga Kamenev, "It's funny, that after knowing Riven in the largely text-based environments of SL and Twitter - the thing I will remember most about Riven is her voice. She was one of the first avatars I heard on voice - and I think her voice epitomized her. She had such a warm, earthy, infectious laugh. She was welcoming to all, kind and generous and patient, but she had a fierce streak, as well as a taste for mischief and adventure. She was endlessly curious, always inventive, ALWAYS building bridges. She could have made her home anywhere. I'm so glad she made her home here in SL, and in the Steamlands. She made our world, our multiple words, virtual and physical, better places for having her in them. Thank you, Riven. Thank you, Jean. Rest in peace."

Kghia passed on a message from noted blogger Inara Pey, "Please pass on condolences to Riven's family. This is sad news and a loss to so many." She passed on another from anothe rnoted blogger, Daniel Voyager, "Very sad news and huge loss for Second Life." From Lludmarfie, "Riven was one of my earliest friends."

Kghia told everyone, "Will leave early to make room for others. 'Be well, all.' " Linn Darkwatch, stated, "I will go to make room also. I cannot say I knew Riven well; she was just one of those people I saw at events sometimes, always one of the ones that people are happy to see there." Miso was the third to speak along those lines, "Ah, I think I also will leave so as to let others in.Thank you all for your memories of Riven." Otenth Håkon Paderborn (Otenth Paderborn) reminded the group, "The sim is set to 100 maximum avatars, so no one needs to feel that they should leave to make room for other in the sim."

Beth Ghostraven gave her words, "The last time I talked with Riven, I mentioned how I wished I had a horse I could ride--and she gave me one! A wonderfully generous spirit, she was a librarian to the core, as well as a good friend. I'm going to miss her. ... I am curious about what she used this setting for--it's so perfect for this occasion!" JJ told her, "The parcel description is 'Dedicated to the people and places we miss.' "

RockAndRoll Michigan was next, "First off, I think my first thought I want to share about Riven will sound particularly unflattering at first, but I would like to ask that you bear with me and I think it'll make sense, is that fair? When I think of Riven, the first thing that comes to mind for me is old shoe leather. Unflattering comparison, right? But I don't intend it that way. When I think of old shoe leather, I think comfortable. You slip on that pair of shoes and it's already broken in, soft and pliable, and it just feels good to wear that kind of old shoes, you know?" A few of the people nodded in agreement, "Yes, you did just slip into an easy conversation with her."

Rock continued, "Sometimes I'm afraid I've taken Riven's presence too much for granted for that reason, too, but I've always felt deep respect for her outlook on life and how she treats other people. She was a real gem and I feel blessed to be somebody who can say that I was able to call her 'friend' here in Second Life. Riven and I have really been out of touch for a long while, as I've been out of touch with a lot of you. And when I heard the news, it left a real void that really took me by surprise. I didn't expect it to hit me that hard. I've had a lot to process over the last two weeks, really the last year for that matter. And losing Riven on top of everything else was shocking. One thing it's prompted me to do is to start writing about my experiences in the last almost 11 years here in Second Life, and how the things I've done, people I've met, and general all-around life here has impacted who I am in the real world. Riven just seems to have that kind of effect on people.

"Going to miss you, Riven, my friend. Thank you for being old shoe leather!"

After some applause, Princess Selena (SelenaAnansi Resident) spoke next, "I didn't know Riven very well personally, but she was someone I saw through out the steamlands as a force of good will, intelligence, and generosity.  And while I did not know her very well personally, she was held in the highest of regard by the people who I hold in the highest of regard, so by extension she was always someone I admired. I am feeling the loss of her shining warmth through my friends and I regret not getting the chance to get to know her better. Thank you for letting me be here and share in this beautiful memorial for a lost friend." She ended with a curtsy.

OldeSoul Eldemar (OldeSoul Resident) followed, "I have had many of my very special moments in SL spent with Ms. Homewood.   As others have said, she always kindly retweeted my tweets. Our friendship actually was sharing our ABC horses.  We both had sale barns at Brune's. She and I bought each other's horses. She was very involved in showing horses and at times, she would want to ride one of my horses in a show.  She was much cuter than me. Ms. Beth," she glanced to Beth, "there is a lot to the horse story.  So I would hand her a horse to ride - her horse of choice. She would show the horse and of course, win! Then we would meet in IM or later. She would return the horse and we would divide the winnings - we would laugh uproarious and wink. I know some of the horse folks here know what I speak of. We tossed our winnings in an RFL kiosk.  She was with Steelhead Salmons and with Team ACTS. So she would contribute to Steelhead Salmons and I would contribute to Team ACTS. Our relaying spirits were very kindred - we relayed for those we had lost and we did it our way!

"On a more personal note, I have located all of her horses - in four different places. Her family is definitely in the hearts and minds of the ABC Community. She was very well known and loved by all. I contacted all the VSRs and folks who have her horses. Once I find out what the family desires to do - I will let you know. They  are very busy at the moment and her horses are all taken care of. Thank you for these moments to share." As Olde was on one side of the island, and out of chat range of part of the group, Kghia repeated his speech for them.

Cale (Caledonia Skytower) was next, she making sure everyone around heard, "I am not a paragraph post-er, so please be patient with me.  And pardon the shout posting so that all can read (hopefully). It is incredible for me, to think that Riven has joined the phenomena of ultimate virtuality ... a singular place where mass may be insubstantial, but the sense of loss and grief we share is not.

She joins Circe, Eppie, Stosh, Clark, Serene, and others. I see their names, there as I scroll,  (so much more than just names on a list) and I know that their names will never show in bold again. But their memories will: pungent, poignant, and treasured. Some people are in your life for a long walk, some just for a moment. All of them shape our journey. Never to be forgotten. Never to be deleted. Thank you, Riven, for all and all, and thank you, all."

Podruly Peccable was the next to speak, "I didn't know Riven that well, but we shared some sessions for a number of months outside of Second Life, in Lord of the Rings Online. We would talk on Skype as we negotiated that online world. Of course, she was a mage with spirit animals... she had a high regard for animals. She had such a sharp mind, a great sense of humour, and, as JJ says, a great kindness and ease. And all I can say is that she was a great companiion on an adventure, and I'll miss that. " Princess Selena nodded,  "Oh yes, I played LoTRs with her too, I had forgotten that!  She did have a great sense of humor and I was impressed how fast she caught on to the gaming." Podruly added, "She love to see what was next, over the horizon." Rock commented, "I'm sure she faced this new horizon to cross with the same sense of adventure that she faced the rest of her life."

Bain Finch stated, "My path with Riven never crossed into friendship, but we did crossed paths at many events around these lands of ours, over the years, and from the very start, I could see, Riven was one of these beautiful peoples, I like to call nexus peoples. Nexus people are like a magical key part to any community, that radiated love, life, friends, and making the best of times, happen."

Samantha Poindexter would be the last to give a statement, "I met Riven through Caledon events, and she became a parishioner at my ha-ha-only-serious First Church of Rosedale. She once suggested that we set up a library, for outreach and general edification, and I wish I'd had the time and energy to take her up on that. I'll miss her. Those wanting another look at her animating spirit might like to know that video footage from SLCC 2011 is still online." She then put up two links to videos:  http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/16618420 (What Being in SL Has Taught Me About My RL Profession) and http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/16645678 (Victoriana and Steampunk in Communties in SL).

"Before we all depart, I would like to recommend a book I read recently. (Librarian here) I think it is the best thing I've ever read about having a virtual life - and it never mentions Second Life or virtual worlds. It's 'My Real Children' by Jo Walton.  feel like I should end with some sort of parodic scripture, 'Data thou art, and to the asset server thou shalt return,' but I don't really have the heart. Thank you all."

Kghia Gherardi told everyone, "Thank you all for coming and sharing your stories and your energy." RockandRoll added, " Amen, and I think all of us have some portion of Riven's spirit that we will always have with us, whatever she meant to us, there will always be something that she has given to each of us that we will always have as our own personal part of what we can take away from our time with Riven." JJ Drinkwater reminded everyone, "There will be another memorial - a celebration of Rivens life, on April 23rd, at Noon SLT. This happened so fast we know a lot of her friends couldn't come, so I hope the 23rd’s long enough ahead for people to plan for. JJ Drinkwater: There will be another memorial - a celebration of Rivens life, on April 23rd, at noon SLT. For that, I’ll be sending out the usual request for pictures of Riven, books she’s made etc." Someone asked, "Someone make sure her name gets on the Pyramid at the Linden Remembrance sim."

People would continue to hang around and chat for a while longer after the event had pretty much ended, talking about how much they would miss their friend and inspiration.

Bixyl Shuftan

"Operation Bronze," and Other Relay for Life Events

A few days ago, the Relay for Life in Second Life hit a milestone. The total amount collected since it's beginnings in 2004 had reached the one and a half million dollar amount, "At the end of April 2011, we celebrated hitting $1milion," stated Bain Finch in a post, "and in just over 400 days since that amazing feat, you went and raised that bar to $1.5m."


The weekend of June 8-10 saw a number of Relay events. Among them was the RFL Street Fair held at Lollygagger Lane at Menophara on June 9 from 9AM to 7PM. Conducted by the Lollygagger and Hobo groups, the event promised an art gallery, bus tours, a mud wrestling ring, tarot card readings, a kissing booth, and of course the live music events, such as Frets Nirvana. And there was "more free stuff than you can shake your rat-on-a-stick at." The area had a general run-down look with automobile shells and other debris alongside shacks. There were a number of goods set up to sell to raise money.

Dropping by in the middle of the event, there were a number from Europe still up, Firery Broome asking, "I can not believe that you EU peoples are still awake." "Hehehe!" "Just getting started Fire." "We Germans still party."

For those who don't know, "lollygagger" was what one Linden was quoted as calling those residents whom were always complaining about the Lab, and the name was soon adopted by some with rebellious streaks.

The big event that weekend was "Operation Bronze" on Saturday June 9. For twelve hours from Noon to Midnight SL time, Relayers would party at ACS Island. The purpose of the event was to boost the totals of active but underperforming teams to 10,000 Lindens, which ranks as Bronze status in the Relay. The idea had started at the "Halfway There Fair" earlier this season.

For this Bronzing event, 25 smaller teams had their totals raised to Bronze rank. From Zelda Generations to WrongSide Relay, to Asylum, these obscure teams had their moment in the sun, and a new status while DJs like Fuzzball Ortega and Trader1 Whiplash did the music for the dancing Relayers. All teams that had raised at least one Linden were elgible. And by the events end, the last elgible team was at  10,000 total, "2890 now! … 1890 to go! … 790 to go!" "Yes! We did it!" "Last team bronzed." "Oh my God! What an achievement!" "SL Relayers are Amazing!" "You guys rock!"

The event was marked by wisecracks and joking around. One guy spent his time in a feral deer avatar, leading to some jokes about being a hatrack. But there was also more sentimental statements, "I was part of something great, and found I have a family here who I can reply on and will help if I can."

As Bain Finch put it, "It really was beautiful to witness the birth of Bronzing.

To see the team totals, Click Here.

Sunday was another event by Team Harmony of Hope, "Racing Tiny Cars for a Cure" at the Yes sim. The event took place on a track under a roller coaster. The little cars were cute, getting in them showing an animation of the character squeezing in, and then the rear license place showing the driver's first name. "I still have no clue how i got into the thing!" Trader1 Whiplash Exclaimed. People were asked to donate at least 50 Lindens.

Unfortunately, the cars could be difficult to drive, instead of bouncing around obstacles mine would launch in the air and come back down. Eventually, mine was knocked off course and into the lake. Still, everyone had fun.

There were of course other events that weekend. Among them was a race by the Strigoi Motorcycle Club. They found themselves without a sim and appealed for help. Ghostriders World MC heard about their problem, and offered their own sim for the event.

It was a good weekend for the Relay for Life

Bixyl Shuftan

DJ "Naughty" Nydia's Day at the Relay

Sunday April 15th was a pretty active day for the Relay for Life. There was live musician ax Kleene performing for charity, and a Relay Road Rash party and racing event that I stopped at briefly. Among the events was an afternoon of DJs playing not just for the audience but also in a competition for the "Best DJ in SL" from 1 to 4 SL time.  It wasn't just for the day. Those who came out on top would be competing later in semifinals.

Among the teams there were the Passionate Redheads. And whom better to compete for the Redheads than the head of the FCA club alliance, the owner of Club Zero Gravity, and experience from numerous clubs around Second Life: the Redheads' own DJ "Naughty" Nydia Tungsten.


TP on down and bring your friends- at The Legends Classic Rock Club - party is on the beach - jump on down! Nydia is getting ready - vote her best DJ in SL by donating to the kiosk while she plays!


The event was just outside the club, right beside the boardwalk and onto the beach, people dancing away on the sand as the DJ spun the tunes while dancing behind the stand. Madonna Milena was the DJ before Nydia, whom looked a bit naughty herself with her green latex outfit. But soon it was Nydia's turn, and friends of the "Vixen of Steel" human and furred alike ported in to both enjoy her music and support her in the competition. Nydia has a reputation for playing entertaining but occasionally raunchy fare. But she kept her selection somewhat tame for the Relay. Still, there were a few tunes that reminded people why her KVXN Radio's slogan is "where the random tunes are … random." Among them were, "He Had it Coming," "God is a Girl," and "Sexy Naughty Bitchy Me."


I pick all my skirts to be a little too, sexy,
Just like all of my thoughts, they always get a bit, naughty,
When I'm out with my girls, I always play a bit, bitchy,
Can't change the way I am,
sexy, naughty, bitchy me.


Throughout the hour, the crowd danced to Nydia's music and chipped in at the kiosk, a mix of avatar types and members of various Relay teams, as well as people outside the Relay coming for the music. Finally, the hour was up. Trader1 Whiplash thanked her, "Thank You Nydia. … Your Total was $L7,281." This put Nydia third among the DJs at the event in raising money, and at the end of the event, she was still in third.

Talking to Trader later on, he told me there would be two more weekends for the DJ contest, round two this weekend, round three next weekend. On May 5th, the top four of the DJs of all three weekends will compete in the semi-finals. The next day on May 6th, the top two face off at the May Day main stage.

The Passionate Redheads will be involved in another DJ event in a few days. On Tuesday April 24th, Dusk Griswold will be playing at the "Dual Decades" event at Club Cutlass.

Later on, Nydia and the Redheads headed to "Le Palais Du Soleil" in Southern Colorado (98, 170, 51). The purpose: to give out a motorcycle as the prize for a raffle. At locations, there was a special RFL kiosk, one with a purple crescent, and a picture of the prize motorcycle. But this wasn't just any motorcycle. This was a Special Edition MLCC Majestic with the RFL logo painted on.


April 15 one of the most hated days in the U.S.A. due to the fact it is the deadline to pay all TAXES, so why not give someone a great day by giving away the MLCC Majestic RFL special edition motorcycle  back where it all started the Le Palais du Soliel from 4 to 6 dress ready to ride , the tunes will be provided by DJ Naughty Nydia, so come ready to have a good time.


In contrast to the DJ contest, the dress at the raffle was more formal due to the settling. Attendence for the event was light at first, the raffle taking place at the same time as a number of other Relay events. But numbers soon picked up. For almost two hours, everyone danced to more of Nydia's tunes. Then it was time to choose a winner.

Nydia Tungsten: okay lets see who the winner is
RFL of SL 2012 Official Central Networked Raffle Vendor shouts: Whoo!  Well done to Skylark Lefavre You have won the raffle!
Nydia Tungsten: Heh, Skylark won!

Skylark "Strawberry Sweetkins" Lefavre, one of the Passionate Redheads team, had won the bike raffle. The raffle had brought in 4200 Lindens, bringing the total raised by the Redheads to over 40,000 Lindens. Nydia expressed her wish that the raffle had brought in more, but everyone else was pleased with the results.

As of the writing of this article, the Passionate Redheads have raised a total of 44,300 Lindens. This despite several key members being absent due to various real life problems. There are more events in store, including Dusk Griswold's DJ at Cutlass, and even a "Bid Me Human" event in the works.

Bixyl Shuftan

Interview with Daaneth McGettigan (Daaneth Kivioq)

Recently, I had the chance to interview Daaneth McGettigan (account name Daaneth Kivioq), the co-captain of the Passionate Redheads Relay for Life team, and the owner of the Southern Colorado sim. We sat down at the meeting area at the sim near Fimi Falls. During this time, Daan’s cat in real life wanted attention. So, he rezzed a virtual one on his lap.


Bixyl Shuftan: About your Second Life name, does it matter whether people use your account name or your displayed name?

Daaneth McGettigan: No - either way, if they search for me, they will find me. I know that display name support is not perfect, but that does work. For example, it says "Kivioq" when I IM someone.

Bixyl Shuftan: So where did you find out about Second Life?

Daaneth McGettigan: That’s an interesting story. Seven years ago, a good friend of mine in real-life, known as Krysis here, talked me into trying it out. I was overwhelmed at first. Second Life was nowhere as sophisticated as it is today. I almost quit, but friends here talked me into staying. Some of them are still here, but most have left, among them Krysis. We still meet up in real-life though.

Over the years, there’s been some huge changes in the technology. Of course, it required me to upgrade my computer several times.

About five years ago, I met Sabine through the Relay

Bixyl Shuftan: How did you find out about the Relay?

Daaneth McGettigan: Sabine introduced it to me. We had been dating for several months. I had lost a sister to pancreatic cancer. I didn’t know anything about it at first. She came to me a few days before the Relay weekend. The guy who was going to help her build the campsite disappeared. It was a 24 marathon build, but we got it done. That was my introduction to the Relay.

Bixyl Shuftan: How many were in the Passionate Redheads at the time?

Daaneth McGettigan: There were another five members. There were a few more, but not active. Sabine and I pretty much moved on. We worked at Burning Life that year, and by December we were partnered. For the Relay next year, we made an Ice Palace build. We still have a number of pictures of it."

Bixyl Shuftan: When did the Redheads start to take off in size?

Daaneth McGettigan: In 2008, we started recruiting actively. It was our second best year at fundraising. We managed to raise $10,000. It was the year Fimi joined the team. She was active for a while, until she was too sick to participate. She passed away on May 26th, 2008. She was really, really, loved. We were impressed with her spirit.

Since then, the team has done really well. This year, the team kind of split. I’m kid of happy, we both raised more money. We raised just over $2,800.

Bixyl Shuftan: What’s the name of the other team?

Daaneth McGettigan: Inspired Dream Walkers. One of them thought we were getting too big. I think they just wanted to do their own thing.

In 2008, we were awarded the Golden Level Team Award. In 2009. we were awarded the Spirit of Relay award. I think Sabine deserves most of the credit for that. She’s worked really hard.

I think this year’s build is the finest team effort Lom(gren Smalls) acted in charge, but also Dusk (Griswold), Shockwave (Yareach), and the others.

Bixyl Shuftan: How is it having the smallest avatar in Second Life on your team?

Daaneth McGettigan: He may be the smallest guy in Second Life, but he has a big heart.

Maybe I should bring up the stroke.

Bixyl Shuftan: What happened?

Daaneth McGettigan: Well, it was like out of the blue. It happened in April Fortunately, I got to the hospital. Scary time. I didn’t realize what was happening. Lomgren and Sabine tracked me down. Sabine really helped me. (pause) I don’t really have words to describe it.

The first few days were especially confusing. I had problems forming the words. I still have gaps in my memory. My Mother flew over. She stayed for about two months. I was also fortunate to have a very good team of therapists. I would like to point out one for his work: Dr. Pio Guerro.

While in the hospital, I heard that the Relay threw a “Get Well” party for me. That really moved me, brought me to tears. I wish I could remember all the teams involved. Me being out of commission put a halt to fundraising. I made it back in time for Dusk’s Cinco De Mayo party. It was a wonderful homecoming.

The hardest thing, it was learning to type all over again. I still prefer Voice over it in Second Life. I’m also having to relearn math skills. Relearning calculus is necessary for my line of work.

Bixyl Shuftan: So what have been some of the more inventive ways for fundraising.

Daaneth McGettigan: That would be the “Bid Me Human” events. A couple years ago, I did a “Bid me Furry” event offering to go about in a furry avatar for a little while if 10,000 Lindens were raised. This year, there were three “Bid Me Human” events, the ones in which Nydia and Rita volunteered for were particularly successful, especially Rita’s. I believe over 70,000 Lindens were raised.

Bixyl Shuftan: Rita Mariner being the one who runs the Sunweaver Estates, do you think there was a “needle the landlady” factor?

Daaneth McGettigan: Maybe, but I think it was done all in the name of fun. Rita was a good sport about it.

Also, we did a pinup calendar with various Redheads in swimsuits. Plus we made a cookbook from various recipes contributed by a number of Redheads. About eighty copies of the cookbook were sold. Both are still on sale until August 20th.

Bixyl Shuftan: So what do you do when not Relaying?

Daaneth McGettigan: Sabine and I like to go to clubs and concerts. We also hang out at Sabine’s tropical island. I gave it to her as a rezzday present. It’s modeled after her favorite real-life place, an island off the coast of Florida, Anna Maria Island. We also explore, go building. Sabine also likes to go shopping.

Bixyl Shuftan: Shopping? What was the biggest thing she ever bought?

Daaneth McGettigan: Probably a furniture set. I think I once bought her a kitchen suite. She likes to collect hair. Most of it’s red, but not all of it. Her favorite color is pink.

It’s been an interesting journey. I don’t know what I’d do if she was no longer online.

Bixyl Shuftan: So what are your plans for next year?

Daaneth McGettigan: Right now, I don’t want to think of next year. We’ll take it easy for a little while.


Daaneth then showed me around Southern Colorado. The sim was established in 2007. In 2008, he dedicated it to the Relay. He used it to host events, and still does, dances and meetings held here. Not far away from the meeting area is Fimi Falls, named for Artistic Fimicloud whom was known to really like them. Daaneth pointed out something in one of the pine trees at the falls: a pink ribbon. This was another tribute to Fimi, whom liked to put a pink ribbon somewhere in her paintings.

Near the falls was a treehouse. At the base there three luminaries, one from this year’s Relay, and one from 2010 and 2009 respectively. The treehouse itself was well-furnished with Victorian furniture. It gets a few occasional residents. Not far from the treehouse and meeting area was a garden dedicated to Saint Therese of Lisieux, “Sabine’s favorite saint.” Near that is the Soldiers’ Memorial.

Close by is the cat carousel, or the “catousel” as Daaneth calls it. There’s also a balloon ride, courtesy of Shockwave Yareach. A little down the path is an Elven drum circle and a campfire. Crossing a river, there is the “Chapel of Hope,” which was built for the 2010 Relay camp. Of the streams, Daan commented he was fond of them and the waterfalls.

Daaneth then showed one feature relatively new to the sim, houses for rent. There were five Victorian homes, which were available at prices from 7,000 to 8,000 Lindens a month. Anyone interested in one could contact him or Nydia Tungsten.

Walking away from the housing, there was a lake and some ducks, and some mountain scenery. Daaneth showed off a fountain, with a cat statuette guarding it, ”I built it some years ago. I’m happy to have it here.” He then showed a hidden cove in the side of the mountain. While some places have places for couples to cuddle in secret hideaways, this hidden place had something different: a yoga mat, “I do a few exercises here.”

Going up a path to higher up, there is a building Daaneth named the “Philosophy Shack.” Daaneth forgets just how he came up with that name. Not far from that is a virtual herbal garden. Accessible by one of a few portals around the sim, or by flying over, is Southern Colorado’s Enchanted Forest, another popular spot. Danneth described the place as having a lot of nooks and crannies for couples to snuggle. The Forest is also the scene of occasional parties, such as the recent fundraiser where Cypress Rosewood performed.

After that, Danneth, had one other location to point out, and ported us to the high point of the sim: Mount Sabine. We were on a platform just below the peak where a huge Coloradan flag flew in the breeze. Snow sprinkled down where we were. On a slightly shorter peak, a angel statue looked down at the sim below. And nearby within sight was Club Little Dove.

After that, Daaneth and I parted ways. So is the story of the co-captain of one of the Relay for Life’s most successful teams, and the sim behind him.

Bixyl Shuftan

The 2011 Relay for Life Walk

I’ve gone to every Relay walk since 2007, when an old friend told me about the first one. Last year in 2010 was the first I did do as part of a team, the Passionate Redheads. The event then was truly a blast. Some yearly events I’ve gone to, the old feeling of excitement of the first time isn’t there. But that certainly wasn’t a problem here.

Just before noon SL time on Saturday July 16th, I arrived at the castle set up on the four corners of the sims the four sims RFL Wish, Unity, Voulenteer, and Treatment. The place needed the capacity of four sims as it was truly packed. When I brought up the map, I counted a total of 127 avatars in four sims. I watched the event along with fellow Redheads Nydia Tungsten, Treminari Huet, Lomgren Smalls, and Skylark LeFavre, along with a variety of other avs from tines to merfolk to superheros to robots.

There were a number of speeches given at the opening, but one stood out. Bootedgirl Foxtrot gave a speech that could be done only through a computerized voice. Cancer had taken away her larynx.


I relay for, each day we all can awake, with the gift of time we are given, to see the world, and love and be loved, and continue to pass on the very hope that will live on forever. I relay for the dream, for more time, for all those touched with cancer, to have quality time, in life, without pain. I relay for each day I awake, for each moment I see my Second life partner, my Love Jay, who saw me through many late hours of pain, and now enjoy many late hours of laughter. I relay for others to have what I now have, a chance to live and give back hope, and help however I can.

Shortly after her speech and the cheers that followed, the hour was up, and it was time for the Survivor/Caregiver lap. Those whom had faced the disease and survived, and those who cared for them, were invited to take the first of the official laps. Some Sunweavers such as Elphias Kojishi walked the track. Others just went to our camp and cheered them on. Among them was Rita Mariner, back as a purple bunnygirl after being “pardoned” from her remaining time stuck as a human. Two of the Redheads, also bunnygirls, did their cheering in cheerleader outfits, which was an interesting sight for the guys walking the track. As the survivors and caregivers walked, someone pointed out that the music being played was written just for the Relay.

there is no finish line until we find a cure,
together we begging like soldiers in a war,
and we won't slow down 'till we win this fight,
the Relay for Life.

Our camp “Peace to All Who Enter Here,” was a peaceful forest area, with a gateway of roses. Virtual critters such as squirrels and deer walked about the place. The center was dominated by a huge tree. the back of the camp had a picturesque waterfall. There was also a ride, a balloon, that took riders over the camp for a few minutes. A prayer book recorded messages, which then floated into the virtual breeze.

A number of Second Life notables took part in the Relay. Some such as Bryn Oh had contributed builds. Others did the Walk. Among them was Jaycatt Nico of the noted “Jaycatt & Frogg” musical pair. He greeted me and the rest of the Sunweavers, hung around a few minutes, and made a good-sized donation before leaving. Blogger DrFran Babcock walked by and gave a hello. I also saw two longtime friends Breezes Babi and Glitter Xeltentat walk by. One of the Relay staff, Samara Barzane, came by as a pink catgirl.

The total number of people I recognized, well, not enough room to mention them all.

And then, it was the team’s turn to walk. With Danneth Kivioq, Rita, and Dusk leading the way, we got on the track and began walking, waving our huge Sunweaver flags. Helping us was an accessory called a “walker” that was worn on our backs that allowed us to walk automatically while typing, or taking pictures. We just needed someone to follow. And so, we began our journey down the track, those without walkers picking them up at one of the stops along the way.

The Relay’s theme this year was “Season of Hope,” and many of the sims reflected the seasons. The northwest had spring, the southeast had summer, including the water sims with a beach area, the southwest had autumn, including a school for the youngsters, and to the northwest winter, most of the sims there snowed over. The Redhead’s camp was in RFL Family, in the northeast corner near the middle. And going throughout the track, we found a variety of builds. Some were very well done and imaginative.

Unfortunately with all the people on the track, lag was a persistent problem. A time or two it was so bad that the teammates around me were all rendered invisible. And there were times some of us were left behind due to it, and someone would have to port us forward to rejoin the group. We had to stop a few times due to a sim that was closed from further people entering, appearing like it vanished. And a few times I would just up and crash. And I didn’t reappear where I crashed, but where I had logged off the previous night, at the rest stop sponsored in Artistic Fimicloud’s name. By some coincidence, the first time this happened, my teammates caught up to me, which got a few comments from them.

The result was we made our lap, but we’d had to skip sims due to the lag and crashes, and some of us got back later than others. Some of us stayed at the camp, others kept going, “I want to complete the lap for real.”

For the themed laps, many of us dressed for the occasion. On the “I Can’t Believe I’m Wearing This!” I went back to the human avatar I wore after my “Bid Me Human” Event. Others had some avatars that certainly drew attention. On the “Ride Your Favorite Horse,” I tried to bring out my mount, but for some reason it wouldn’t rezz.

At times, we didn’t walk, but took a moment to look at some of the builds. This included the Steampunk New Babbage, or the Activity Water Region. There was also a scavenger hunt taking place, mostly in the four corner sims, where one had to find the objects on the list.

Over the group chat, I heard of “Bid me Bald” events being done. But one lady had a different idea, a “Pumped Up for Relay - Evangeline Ling, Co-Captain in team Relay for HOPE will be getting PUMPED UP and will be a body builder for every 1000 L donated to her challenge kiosk.” Enough was raised to give her an athletic look for several weeks.

At 7PM, most of us took a break from the walking to head to the club at the Unity sim, not far from the castle. It was Dusk Griswold’sturn to DJ, and as always she did it well from a stocked playlist. She played a number, some were requests. But at one point, she had one in honor of Artistic Fimicloud, the late Sunweaver & Redhead whom is always remembered. For her, Dusk played “Calypso.”


To sail on a dream on a crystal clear ocean,
to ride on the crest of a wild raging storm.
To work in the service of life and living,
in search of the answers of questions unknown.
To be part of the movement and part of the growing,
part of beginning to understand,
Aye Calypso the places you've been to,
the things that you've shown us,
the stories you tell.
Aye Calypso, I sing to your spirit,
the men who have served you so long and so well.


At 9PM was the Luminary Ceremony, and the Redheads went back to camp. The track darkened all over to night, and everyone went silent, in memory of those passed on. But at 10, the sunshine came back, and we were out on the track again. 12 AM was the Masquerade, and out came my vampire bat avatar, flying over the track.’

Yours truly had to take a break to get some sleep, but woke up a little early to rejoin the Relay. This time, a couple Redheads whom couldn’t be there Saturday made it on Sunday, notably Alleara Snoodle. In previous Relays, Alleara had either helped with the building or designed items such as clothes. But this year, events in real life simply couldn’t be put aside. Fortunately, she was able to join her teammates this day.

The Passionate Redheads officially reached “Platinum” status at the Relay Walk. Daaneth made the announcement sometime on Sunday, “Congratulations on all your hard work. You have made me proud to be a Redhead.” And for every Relayer in all of the teams, a small “Teamwork Awars” trophy was delivered.

Finally at 10 AM were the closing ceremonies. Getting back to the castle, the walls and avatars alike took a good deal of time to rezz. Congratulations to all had been going around since the morning, and continued at the closing.

YOU ALL ROCK! - Every last one of you has contributed to making this an amazing Relay. From the tiniest *waves at Lom* to the biggest *waves at King-Kong!* It has been a wonderful experience! And the commitment of our sponsors to RFL of SL has been heartwarming and generous. Thank you ALL so much. Here's a blogpost by Poppy listing y'all. http://rflofsl.blogspot.com/2011/07/thank-you-to-our-sponsors.html


It was announced we had broken our seasonal fundraising record, again. Nearly 75 million Lindens had been raised, equaling over $373,000 US dollars. There were also some stories of inspiration at the closing, though before the ceremonies, Redhead Nydia Tungsten shared the following:


Why I Relay I had never heard of RFL before in my life, even though I watched my step father slowing die from cancer, it was here in Second Life that I learned of it as I listened to some one speak of it, she was describing someone to me that she had lost as well, and I heard others speak of her, that is how I got to know Fimi, and Dusk Invited me to the RFL Team "Passionate Redheads" since then I lost someone else dear to me Kamryn Noel, so I run for all of them, and for you all. I even run for me. When I was a kid my cure for a sunburn was to get another one on top of it. So now I have moles all over my back that I need 4 to 6 biopsied each year. I am terrified that one day I will get the news that I have it. But I will always relay for all of you no matter what.


My own reasons to Relay? Cancer doesn’t run in my family, but it has taken down those around me in real life. Neighbors, coworkers, and family pets. Here in Second Life, I’ve met a number of friends, including the Sunweavers whom make up much of the Passionate Redheads. I arrived too late to have known Fimi, but I can’t help but admire her from how she continues to be talked about.

Funding and research do work. More treatments are discovered. More methods found. And survival rates for some cancers have gone up. The true cure for all cancer still eludes modern science. But throughout the history of medical science, one disease after another that was once a death sentence have found cures and treatments that work at any stage of discovery. Maybe this will be the year a team of scientists makes the public announcement we’ve all been waiting for.

So until then, the Relay for Life will continue on, both in real life and in virtual reality.

Following the closing ceremonies, there were a display of fireworks outside the castle. And there was one last official lap, the Victory lap, the one taken in celebration. At Noon Second Life time, the 2011 Relay for Life Walk was officially over. But the Relayers remained on the grid, continuing to walk laps, explore the builds, enjoy the attractions, or just meet up for a good party. Hours later, I ran into Team Steelhead and Fuzzball Ortega still whooping it up.

The fun continued for the next few days. A few builds went down on Monday and Tuesday, but most stayed up until Wednesday night. Of the unofficial parties, two stuck out. On Tuesday was the second annual “flood party," the first one last year coming about on a whim. And Wednesday had a small “Tear-down party.” On Thursday at Noon, what builds remained were removed. It was then that the Relay for Life Walk was truly over for another year.

The fundraising season isn’t officially over yet, though. August 20 is the official closing event. And once that’s over with, comes the planning for next year, and the planning for the next Relay track, with teams trying to make their next builds better than ones before.

And of course, continuing to meet up with the new friends we made, and old friends we caught up with.

Go Relay!

Bixyl Shuftan