Interview With Aldaris (Bawnty Resident) About RFL Team Scorn

 

 By Bixyl Shuftan

 

The Relay for Life in Second Life this year has been a big success, with over 462 thousand US dollars worth of Lindens raised. Behind it were over 180 teams. Some have been around for a number of years, such as Team ACTS, the Relay Rockers, The SL Cheerleading Squad, The Sunbeamers, and others. But there were also some new teams. Among them was Team Scorn, the team organized by the staff of the Scorn Rock club. I recently had a chance to interview their team captain, Aldaris (Bawnty Resident).

Bixyl : "To begin with, how did you hear about the Relay for Life, and how did the idea for the team come about?"

Aldaris : "Well, it was you! Or at least it was the close association of the Happy Vixen and the Sunbeamers team. I had no surrounding information other than the fact that there was a link to an inworld location to something called a 'campsite.' It wasn't the first I'd heard of "Relay Weekend" in the week leading up to that moment, but it was the first tangible lead I had to whatever was going on. So I followed it and there you were, at the Sunbeamers site. You told me people would be running by I might recognise and that you were going to bed for the time being. So I went and stood by the trackside and heckled/encouraged everyone and anyone I did recognise! So I took my time, looked around the Sunbeamers camp. I got to appreciate so many people's reasons for running, but still didn't have the greater picture of what Relay was, until Charlee rounded the corner, dashed to the next checkpoint, came back and told me to get running. So I did! I pretty mindlessly followed the track until I saw some eye catching campsites further along. I was taken in by how 'big' the event was - how many people were running by, how much effort had been put into camp builds. Then I slowed down, got to reading. I got to see what it was all for and why. I loved it. I kept on running. I got a little trophy at the end just for taking part. Bear in mind that this was the single biggest 'thing' I'd never come across in SL in terms of scale, participation, and general excitement about it in the run up.

"So I was too late to partake in it that year. But in the time between then and Relay 2024, I got made a manager of the still recently reformed Scorn (Rock Club). Thing is, we're almost entirely new faces except for the owners who've been there since forever. There's nothing particularly binding us as a 'team' except for the shared responsibility to the venue. I thought then that the conditions were right to do multiple things at once. I could unite everyone toward a noble, common cause to give us all a shared history we could be proud of. A galvanising moment to get us all working towards something good, togethe, be an inspiration of hope. 

 

"I fear that Relay is mostly attended by those - unfortuantely - most affected. I wasn't content to wait to be affected, so I was only happy to bring the message of Relay to those who might not have even known about it before now. I certainly didn't before a year ago ... and, give back. Because despite the overarching theme, despite the sad circumstances that lead to Relay being a necessary event, I very much enjoyed myself. Going around the track, seeing what everyone had built and all of the themed outfits being worn, was a hoot for me. I really wanted to come back and do it again, and what better way than by making my own team?"

Bixyl : "Very good reasons to Relay. About how many are in Team Scorn, and who are among the more active people on the team?

Aldaris : "I think I can safely say there were a core team of five. Of those the most active members we had were; I myself - co-ordinating efforts, performing the kiosk management and dispersal of information pertaining to the weekend. Gwen, who was very heavily into the fundraising side of activities, and the primary builder for our team campsite. And Charlee, who was very greatly involved on the Relay day itself in participation and provision of extra materials. Despite this, we absolutely would not have enjoyed the campaign we had without all members being involved, as well as all of those who donated towards making our team gold on our first ever outing."

Bixyl : "The team made Gold level this year, over 125,000 or $500 USD.  How much did you expect to raise?"
 

Aldaris : "Silver, at best. And I'd have been satisfied. For our first outing and for being a small team, I thought that was not just realistic but a challenge and one that wasn't entirely unattainable. Especially given the level of support I wasn't expecting. I thought this may well be me, on my own doing it all myself. That didn't happen, people fell in love with what we were doing. We were on pace for silver until we weren't and things hugely ramped up in the last third of fundraising season. We kept climbing. Gold was no longer a distant vision but very much in reach. With only days to go until relay weekend I was delighted to announce we'd surpassed the threshold. It was a wonderful symbol of how united we all were for a good cause and how far we could all go together."

Bixyl : "The team also had it's own campsite. Did anything in particular inspire the design?"

Aldaris : "We modeled it after a narrow slice of one of Scorn's own venues. Our beach stage is a popular one, and so we decided to bring forth a wedge of that with us to the track. Being that Scorn is what brought us all together, it felt only right that we brought a bit of it with us. Having seen other campsites before, I decided to roll in the theme with a grounded twist. 'Decades of Hope' became 'Decades of Research' and the information on display became mainly focused on the tangible efforts worldwide to identify, prevent and eradicate cancer in all of its' forms. An effort we're proud to have been part of."

Bixyl : "The team also sponsored one of the themed hours on Relay Weekend as well."

Aldaris : "We did! As relay drew closer there were five themes yet available to be sponsored: Rainbow of Ribbons, Ride For Research, Music Is Hope, Coffee and Pajamas, (and) Toga Party. Well I thought 'Ride for Research' was an immediately great fit with our camp theme so I went ahead and asked to sponsor it. Unfortunately it must've taken so long to finalise that we wound up sponsoring rainbow of ribbons instead. Not that it was a problem, everyone looked beautiful during that hour!"

Bixyl : "So you were aiming with Research?"

Aldaris : "Me myself, at least in my memory, could not think of anyone I'd lost to cancer. Overwhelmingly that seems to be what a great many campsites tend to do. It's a nice way to remember people, but didn't feel as appropriate for us, so I steered us in the direction of a more hopeful message - that there are very real efforts happening in the world to destroy cancer right now and the participation of the very people operating teams and running the track are the reason that effort is ongoing. A big thank you to everyone who takes the time to make relay happen, whether they're staffing it or participating. It couldn't happen without all of us."

Bixyl : "Which of the events by the other teams during the course of the Relay got your attention? Any other campsites get your attention as well?"

Aldaris : "Will I get laughed at if I say my jaw was on the floor when I passed The Adult Partnership's campsite? They had these two massive bunny girl silhouettes flanking their central stage. I think it was the scale of those that was very striking as well as that they'd offset their campsite from the track by quite a way onto the grass, so it wasn't right beside the track itself. Our campsite was right across from the 'Seekers of Hope,' they had quite a sprawling area as well which was a cityscape and an adjacent pool. I was glad to walk across the track and be at their pool party. On the Relay day itself I was glad to visit friends at other campsites; Sunbeamers, Roos with a Dream, Kitsunes for A  Cure.

"For outright events I might've been glimpsed at all kinds of places! Relaystock, Sunbeamer's Moon Party, Captains' Roundtable, Sailing.sl's Summer Sailstice, Road Warriors' 12-hour ride. I'm sure there were others too but those are the big ones that come to mind. It's been a long season!


Bixyl : "Sounds like you saw quite a bit."

Aldaris : "Things were pretty high octane from the word 'go'. The very same day I registered a team I was being contacted with everything I needed to know, and there were more events than I knew what to do with weekly ...even daily! Some days had more than one and I had to make some tough decisions about where I was going to be, when I wanted to be at everything! Not that it's a bad thing, it's great to see SL so lively."

Bixyl : "So what do you usually do in Second Life when not Relaying, both on and off season?

Aldaris : "Well on-season provides a deluge of events to attend and so I try to make as many of those as I can while still running our own campaign and club. But when the season closes up I'm quite in love with the expansiveness of the grid. I have a fondness for bike rezzers and cycling my way across continents, or at least as far as I can get until the bike despawns and I'm left hovering in the air on a sim boundary. In fact I love all manner of vehicles - hang gliders, sail boats. They usually all end up the same way but it's a wonderful mode of experiencing the vastness of Second Life. I adore Blake Sea especially for the open water to sail on there. I'm a big fan of interactive art installations too, the kind of art that allows you to walk in or through it, or have a tactile experience. I can't get enough of the works by Regi Yifu. I think some people's first exposure to him has been at SL21B this year in the house made out of tubes and rainbows. But really, anything that plays with perspective will draw me right in. Optical illusion exhibits are right up my street too, there's not many but I'm glad when I can find them. If I'm not in the mood to concentrate on steering, many places across Second Life offer hands-free tours you can take across a variety of mediums and vessels.  Trains, Submarines, Boats, Hot air balloons, Scuba Diving.. it's not an exhaustive list but there's a serenity to just hopping on a mode of transport and letting myself be taken around a space to be shown what a designer wanted me to see. Even if those aren't there, I appreciate any beautiful place and there's no particular genre for me, I love them all!"


Bixyl : "Sounds like you take the time to experience a lot here. What were your plans for next year's Relay for Team Scorn?"

Aldaris : "There weren't! The rush of relay weekend still feels fresh. Doing Team Scorn has highly experimental and we haven't had an earnest discussion about how the experience was for us yet. There's been some talk about what we could do differently so the interest is there. Now that we've had the experience of doing it once we'll be able to look at what we did, what we enjoyed doing and hopefully what we want to do with ourselves next season, knowing what we know now."

Bixyl : "Was there anything else you wanted to add?"
 

Aldaris : "I don't think so, that was a comprehensive look into the perspective and history of a first year Relay team."

 

 

 

People

It Came From Fantasy Faire Chat: Stuck Frog

 

By Bixyl Shuftan

 

The Fantasy Faire may have ended, but people have a way of hanging onto the fun times.

 

The sims were closed sometime on the night of May 7 and 8, probably just after Midnight. And throughout the day afterwards, there was plenty of chatter about the good times. Then someone posted a short video, one of the giant frogs at the fair, nicknamed "Ten Ton Tammy," stuck between two rocks.

 

 

[15:00] Mila (Mila Irata): we dig the Faire!
[15:01] Alia Baroque: [14:58] Alia Baroque: https://gyazo.com/a78393e5a051ad92b831b2422d5ea65a

[14:58] Alia Baroque: [14:56] Sonya Marmurek: poor Tammy, worked hard through whole Faire, has finally time to visit, and gets stuck!
[14:56] Sonya Marmurek: WHO BUILDS THESE NARROW CANYONS
[14:58] Polenth Yue: Didn't make it giant frog size!
[15:01] ℒυηα Ƈυяℓуѕ-Aмєтнуѕт (LunaRose Amethyst): hahahaha

And then, it got weirdly funny

 

[15:01] Wondering Fairelander: That is one giant bubble butt
[15:02] Astra Xenia (EroDoll Resident): I wasn't going to look but then you gotta mention bubble butts
[15:02] Astra Xenia (EroDoll Resident): Perfect
[15:02] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): lolollollllll
[15:03] Wondering Fairelander: I'm glad to be helpful!
[15:03] Gwen Enchanted: ROTFL
[15:03] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): why are the cheeks so disporportionatley small though ? lol
[15:03] Gwen Enchanted: The Dowager is just happymaking. :)
[15:03] Gwen Enchanted: Vilhemina: She's been dieting!
[15:03] Wondering Fairelander: I can't believe you asked that question in Second Life, Vilhemina.
[15:04] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): lol, i t .. i mean .. lol
[15:04] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): >.>
[15:04] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): it looks liek a frog that has splatic easter eggs glues to its butt lol
[15:04] Astra Xenia (EroDoll Resident): @VιLḧعLmiηα those are what those frog's butts look like irl too
[15:05] Beautiful Storm (VorellaKepesk Resident): think about it. would you want a frog named 'ten ton tammt' with a badonkadonk that could smash a small city?
[15:05] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): LOL
[15:05] Wondering Fairelander puts Vilhelmina into a special contact set for insulting Tammi
[15:05] fyre (fyreflower Resident): bahahaha
[15:05] Beautiful Storm (VorellaKepesk Resident): give kermit an aneurysm with though kinds of frog cheeks
[15:06] Clover (CloverDunne Resident) flutters through chat with her teeny tiny itty bitty Pixie sized bubble butt ^^
[15:06] Snowlord Resident: i regret slightly I didn't pick up the ten ton tammy's, but perhaps a variant will come out later. it's okay though. I came to quills main shop and got spinning sausages. who could ask for more than that!
[15:06] fyre (fyreflower Resident): pictures kermie in the 'hurt' video*
[15:06] Clover (CloverDunne Resident): O.O
[15:06] Beautiful Storm (VorellaKepesk Resident): spinning bacon slices?
[15:06] Snowlord Resident: well and I did get the raver. lol
[15:06] Snowlord Resident: round sausages!
[15:07] Beautiful Storm (VorellaKepesk Resident): Triple T has everythin Kermit could want. she'd loud, proud, and pink~
[15:07] Beautiful Storm (VorellaKepesk Resident): wait-
[15:07] Snowlord Resident: what what in the buh' what what in the buh!
[15:08] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): you wanna do what what bubble butt? lol
[15:08] fyre (fyreflower Resident): lolz
[15:08] Wᴏʟꜰ Bʟᴀᴄᴋsᴛᴏʀᴍ (WolfBlackstorm Fairelander): lol
[15:08] Snowlord Resident: :P
[15:09] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): :P :P
[15:09] VιLḧعLmiηα ĦعmLØςк  (DenaNash23 Resident): lmao
[15:09] Wondering Fairelander: Does anyone have a Buh! gesture?
[15:10] Snowlord Resident: the tunny says buh! lol
[15:10] Tree (TreeRat Resident): Don't even wanna think about buh buh butt
[15:12] Snowlord Resident: you do though.. haha (fyi volume check first.. ) 

Eventually, the chatter moved on to other subjects. But the cheers and chuckles continued.

 

On another note, one of the Fairelanders had a gift for everyone, an "After the Book Book."

 

Good morning, Fairelanders. Now that the Faire has ended I wanted to thank you all for being you and helping to inspire my poetry. This year I wasn’t done writing when the book had to go up for sale. So here is a free companion book. I hope you enjoy this little memento. ~Sidhe Fairelander (aka Banshee Heartsong).

 

One can get it through the Fantasy Faire group.

 

Bixyl Shuftan

Reader Submitted: Tutu For The Relay

 

  On Sunday April 7, The Second Life Cheerleading Squad and the Cure Chasers were holding a joint fundraiser. 

 

 Join the spirited SLCS Cheerleaders and compassionate Cure Chasers as they host a Relay for Life event like no other, set against the enchanting backdrop of a Sarah's Magic Kingdom . Get ready to rally for a cause as you immerse yourself in the magical world of Disney while supporting cancer research and awareness. Experience the joy of giving back as you participate in themed activities, and live performances, all in the company of fellow supporters

 

At one point, Alison Flow announced in Relay chat, "Just 3K more at the cheerleaders funday get cure chaser bill wheelwright into a tutu for the rest of the day. can we get some remote support for that?!!" To which Bill responded, "ALISON!!"

 

[16:29] Alison Flow: just 3K more at the cheerleaders funday get cure chaser bill wheelwright into a tutu for the rest of the day. can we get some remote support for that?!!
[16:29] Bill Wheelwright: ALISON!!
[16:29] Alison Flow whistles
[16:29] Sienna (Sienna Thor): and....we are going until 9 pm Bill
[16:30] Bill Wheelwright: 900; EASTERN??
[16:30] Alison Flow: tysm trader
[16:30] Trader Whiplash-Ballinger (Trader1 Whiplash) sends L$1
[16:30] Bixyl Shuftan: :D can you send me a picture for the Newser, and a transcript of local conversation when it happens?
[16:33] Alison Flow: woot. we all did it!!!!

 

Well, I got transcripts, and a picture

 

[16:33:23] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): ~YAY!!! \  \(@o@)/  /  YAY!!!~ Bill!
[16:33:27] Sue (sue.terr): get it off get it off get it off get it off
[16:33:29] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): thanks for being such a good sport!!!
[16:33:31] Luna Atheria (lunara.atheria): 👏  👏  👏  🅰🅿🅿🅻🅰🆄🅳🆂   👏  👏  👏
[16:33:31] Luna Atheria (lunara.atheria): 👏  👏  👏  🅰🅿🅿🅻🅰🆄🅳🆂   👏  👏
[16:33:31] Bill Wheelwright: if Sue leaves, it's cause she's on UK time
[16:33:32] Vik Svoboda: Uraaaaaa!!
[16:33:36] Lady Ren 'Superjinx' Flow (ren.float): ☆☆☆☆AAAAPPPPPPPPLLLLEEEESSSSAAAAUUUUCCCCEEEE☆☆☆☆
[16:33:36] Lady Ren 'Superjinx' Flow (ren.float) applauds
[16:33:39] Luna Atheria (lunara.atheria): woooo hooooooooooo
[16:33:42] Betty Woodford (betty.helstein): ♩♪♫♬✭✭✭✪✪✪☺✪✪☺✪☺ APPLAUUUSSSSEEEEE ☺✪☺✪✪☺✪✪✪✭✭✭♬♫♩♪
[16:33:42] Taylor Aerallo: *.¸.*´ ★ `*.¸.*´APPLAUSE  `*.¸.*´ ★ `*.¸.*´
[16:33:42] Taylor Aerallo: Applause!!
[16:33:43] Krissy Goode: APPLAUSE!!!!
[16:33:43] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): lol Sue
[16:33:46] Krissy Goode: Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyy!!! :D :D :D
[16:33:48] Taylor Aerallo: *.¸.*´ ★ `*.¸.*´  APPLAUSE  `*.¸.*´ ★ `*.¸.*´
[16:33:49] Sienna (sienna.thor): if Sue leaves, it's because you put on a tutu
[16:33:56] Sue (sue.terr): no will stay just for you Bill
[16:33:57] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): LOL
[16:34:04] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!
[16:34:12] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): ooooo sooo pretty
[16:34:19] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): thanks so much everyone
[16:34:19] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): so so pretty
[16:34:23] Sienna (sienna.thor): I hope Bill is wearing underwear
[16:34:34] Sue (sue.terr): take the rest off Bill
[16:34:36] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler):  :::::: 𝕋𝕌ℕ𝔼! ::::::
[16:34:44] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): there we go!!
[16:34:52] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): our RELAY CHAMPION!!!
[16:34:52] Sienna (sienna.thor): love this song
[16:34:59] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): lol he's here with the cheerleaders, and we will teach him to always wear spanx!
[16:35:10] Sue (sue.terr): lol
[16:35:12] Krissy Goode:    ~❊❥❊~TUNE! ~❊❥❊~
[16:35:12] Krissy Goode:      I ❤ THIS  T U N E ! ! !
[16:35:23] Alison Flow: trader wants you to stop by T1 after 5pm to show off the lengths you'll go to for a donation, bill
[16:35:29] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): Bill you make that tutu look goood!
[16:35:37] Kristina Curtau is online.
[16:35:45] Renee Wheatcliffe (renee.littlepaws) is online.
[16:35:48] SLCS Trivia: What is the name of the lead horse on Disneyland's Carousel?
[16:36:05] Bυɳɳყ Ƒєηмσяє (mimi.bunny) is offline.
[16:36:12] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): I swear I've seen this played out before
[16:36:18] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): the tutu and shoes
[16:36:23] Corrie Jean Braveheart (corrie.snugglepuff) is offline.
[16:36:32] Bill Wheelwright: the shoes are the formal ones.
[16:36:41] Bill Wheelwright: dance shoes did not come with the outfit
[16:36:44] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): the shoes are what makes it yes!
[16:37:31] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): YUP!! found you BILL!!
[16:37:34] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): https://gyazo.com/29b70b087262d22d6a824af20b4d2402
[16:37:58] Sienna (sienna.thor): I've never seen this Bill guy before in my life
[16:38:07] Luna Atheria (lunara.atheria): woo hooo bill i knew you would look GREAT
[16:38:17] Luna Atheria (lunara.atheria): so hot!!
[16:38:18] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): What's gonna work?
[16:38:18] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): TEAMWORK!

 

 

From Ren Float

[16:35:23] Alison Flow: trader wants you to stop by T1 after 5pm to show off the lengths you'll go to for a donation, bill
[16:35:29] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): Bill you make that tutu look goood!
[16:35:37] Kristina Curtau is online.
[16:35:45] Renee Wheatcliffe (renee.littlepaws) is online.
[16:35:48] SLCS Trivia: What is the name of the lead horse on Disneyland's Carousel?
[16:36:05] Bυɳɳყ Ƒєηмσяє (mimi.bunny) is offline.
[16:36:12] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): I swear I've seen this played out before
[16:36:18] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): the tutu and shoes
[16:36:23] Corrie Jean Braveheart (corrie.snugglepuff) is offline.
[16:36:32] Bill Wheelwright: the shoes are the formal ones.
[16:36:41] Bill Wheelwright: dance shoes did not come with the outfit
[16:36:44] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): the shoes are what makes it yes!
[16:37:31] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): YUP!! found you BILL!!
[16:37:34] ・cutie・ (suthrncutie): https://gyazo.com/29b70b087262d22d6a824af20b4d2402
[16:37:58] Sienna (sienna.thor): I've never seen this Bill guy before in my life
[16:38:07] Luna Atheria (lunara.atheria): woo hooo bill i knew you would look GREAT
[16:38:17] Luna Atheria (lunara.atheria): so hot!!
[16:38:18] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): What's gonna work?
[16:38:18] Gail Anna Cooljoke Bayn (gailyana.mehler): TEAMWORK!

 

One example of some of the crazy fun at the Relay

 

From  Lady Ren 'Superjinx' Flow (Ren Float) and Alison Flow

 

Interview With Journey Texan and Deanna Lancaster-Texan

 

By Bixyl Shuftan

 

At Relay events this season, among those appearing at multiple events are one particular couple: Journey Texan and Deanna Lancaster-Texan. Journey in particular is noted for his unique, and comical, avatar at most of the events. I recently met up with them for an interview, the three of us at the American Cancer Society sim. They gave me a copy of a popcorn-munching chair, "Nothing like a little casual snack while we chat." Denna laughed, "Glad the Roos are always passing these chairs out."

My first question was "what brought you to Relay For Life, and how you contribute to the mission of the American Cancer Society?" Journey invited Denna to go first, who answered, "I started to Relay when I was in high school with our Rotary Interact Club. When I was older, my mom somehow got tied up in a neighborhood event closer to my home. I got a call voluntelling me that I would be coming home to run the computer because she and her friend were the Luminaria chairs for this new event.

"Eventually I became the co-chair of that event and went to an event at the state level. There they mentioned Relay for Life here in Second Life. Being the tech geek that I am I wanted to check it out. My first foray into SL was shall we say, eye opening. That avatar is lost to Linden Labs along with my email address for where I was living at the time. A few years later I tried again and actually made it to some events and the Relay. 

"At that point in time I had only known people who were survivors and had lost my grandmother to cancer. Eventually, in 2013 I heard those words everyone fears, that there had been cancer living in my body.  I relay to celebrate those of us who have beaten our beasts, remember those we've lost and fight back for those who are still fighting and so others don't have to receive the same diagnosis we have received or so their treatments will be nothing more than the common cold.

 

"For me, I am a thyroid cancer survivor, so I bring to Relay my personal experience of having gone through that diagnosis and treatment. As for how I contribute to the relay mission, I am the Host Manager for the SL Christmas Expo and Renaissance Festival. I am a Producer for Relay Rap. I served as the Luminaria Chair in 2017. I am a member of Stars and Shadows but help out several smaller teams when I can. I've been in and out of world throughout the years but when I am in, I do make Relay one of my priorities."

Journey would say, "I began Relaying in 2018 with my then-partner, Ertina Loopen. I was curious to see how Relay events were organized behind the scene, so I went with her to one of her team meetings to witness that, then later joined them as a member. After Tina passed away from breast cancer in 2020, I founded the Ertina Loopen Memorial Foundation as my own Relay team in tribute to Tina. Each August, the Foundation hosts a long walk in tribute to her to encourage people to walk with or in memory of someone who they care about. 

 

"This year, I’m even dabbling in DFS and TFF farming systems to see if I can contribute the proceeds of all my sales from 'Journey’s Farm' to the ACS during both the Relay and general fund seasons. Separate from my own team, I have also assisted with the October Strides events since 2020, the SL Renaissance Festival, and the SL Christmas Expo, primarily as a merchant liaison for those last two mega events. I also like to attend or participate in other team’s events to show support for them."

Of how they both met, Denna would say, "I think the first time we met was at an event that the then Shadows had. It was a multi-team event where teams could 'buy' a food truck and sell whatever there to raise money for their team. It was animal themed. Journey came with his tiny food truck and signs and all sorts of craziness." Journey smiled, "That’s right. And she held some team events featuring live singers of Broadway musicals and there were a couple of other events as well. I loved them to bits." Denna stated, "We also worked together on Out Shop, the Renaissance Festival and Expo." Journey grinned, "Yes! First time really got to sit near her to check her out."

Denna went on, "He piqued my interest, but I shied away because I didn't think he was moved on past Tina. We attended each other's events as we both liked to support the 'One Team' efforts, something we both believe in. And eventually, this past Ren Fest, he asked me to save him a dance at the Gala. The rest, as they say, is history." "Basically, she was just coming to scope me out," Journey commented, chuckling. That got a swat from Denna, "Because he was doing NOOOO scoping of his own." Journey laughed, " Okay, Guilty as charged! (chuckles and blushes). I’m pretty sure I was 'outed' by her turning on the SL viewer cross hairs to see where I was looking." Deena snickered, "Nah, that takes the fun out of the chase. So yeah, we finally told each other how we felt about each other while dancing at that Gala, in two parts. I needed a nap desperately after all those late hours and he had a memorial in real-life to head to, but neither of us took a long break because we were too excited to see where things were going to lead."

After a moment to make sure they spoke what they wanted, I brought up, "To bring up some chuckles, Journey, you're here in your human avie. Often you're seen in a Yoda avatar with Groucho glasses, which I think you call your 'Joda.' How did that get started?" Journey answered, "Yes, that's true. My Yoda-looking character was originally meant to be a Christmas elf who would assist Santa Claus at the 2020 SL Christmas Expo. I volunteered to work as Santa, but during shifts when I wasn’t Santa, I still wanted to help other Santas, so I created an 'elf' starting with the original Star Wars character. But from there, I dressed him up with a Groucho Marx nose and glasses to look a little less like and to have a funny look and personality of his own.

"But now that I’m participating more with Deanna, having a human form helps with things like dancing together and just being a couple in general. I would be hugely remiss if I didn’t give Deanna a ton of credit for putting up with Joda and sharing time with him. (smiles warmly and pats Deanna affectionately on the arm). She's a good sport." Deanna chuckled, "Joda is an excellent gardener and baby-sitter/uncle, so I give him a bit of a break."

I asked Deanna if she had a humorous avatar. She answered, "I do have a cat that travels with JoCat from time to time and there is an elf that appears at the Expo." "JoCat is my Dinky self, "Journey informed. Deanna continued, "Though because of my role, I have to stay myself and I have an alt that helps with some things Expo related that is Joda's elf friend." Journey grinned, "Yes. She's HOT!"

I then asked about the responses to Joda. Journey told me, "He ended up being so well recognized by people and popular that I brought him back again the next year, and to other events. Eventually, people got to know and recognize 'Joda' as I call him—a name combination of 'Journey' and 'Yoda'—more than they recognized me in my human form. So Joda really took on a life of his own as he began appearing at more events." Deanna added, "I know there are some people who look forward to getting selfies with him on the Relay Track and at events. He's kind of like a little mascot in some ways." Journey brought up, "I think somebody blurted out to Deanna one day that they spotted Joda on the track and got to take a selfie with them. it was like the highlight of their day." He grinned, "Well, maybe hour."

Deanna commented, "Last year Journey tried to hit as many events as he could and was Joda at most of them, plus he's a friendly guy, so yeah, people look for him." "Mostly friendly," Journey mused, "I cast a wary eye on anyone who is over on the 'dark side' however. They might think resistance is futile. But they will learn in the end." 

Of what teams they're on, Deanna stated, "If you look on the dashboard, I am a member of Stars and Shadows, but I help out where I can." Journey would say, "For me, starting the Ertina Loopen Memorial Foundation team was highly personal. It was borne out of a relationship I had with Tina and is dedicated to the memory of her as a single, specific person. I wouldn’t expect anyone else to be a part of that kind of team, so I’ve been going it alone. But in the broader sense, and the 'one team' ethos, we are, as we strive to participate and help with the other multi-team and mega events." 

 

I asked them if the thought of starting their own team ever came up. Journey commented, "You know, if Joda had his own account, I can think of a couple of other teams he might have been on. But since he doesn't, he's stuck with me." " It really hasn't," Deanna told me, "He has Tina's team and I've told him I'd help him however he needed." "No, I don't think we've ever discussed that." "We've tossed events around but never a new team." "I can't foresee leaving my team, especially since I founded it and am the only person in it. It means a lot to me to keep it and I don't expect others to join. Which is why there's the beauty of still being a 'freelancer' if you will, so I can help others out too."

I then asked if they found larger teams or smaller ones easier to work with. Journey answered, "Both have their advantages and disadvantages. It just depends on the specific work that I’m tasked with doing. For work on bigger events, I can focus on one or a couple of micro-areas of a much larger process done in collaboration with others. For my own smaller team events, I get to—have to—do everything, just at a much smaller scale." Deanna responded, "It seems the smaller teams are the ones who work together more often on multi-team events. I would say that a lot depends on the type of event, the people you are working with, and there's an aspect of how the funds are going to be split or raised." Journey added, "That's true. I would say that, for me, joining with other small teams can be a very satisfying challenge. I particularly like threesomes because it is a small enough team to be more easily organized and managed during the time we work together." 

 

Deanna went on, "There's also the fact that there are several teams that we've already developed a working rapport with, smaller teams, and it's easy to go into new planning experiences with them. We already have some ideas about what works and what doesn't work, what's been tried, what hasn't been tried, what we may have wanted to try before and ran out of time for and might want to try again, etc." Journey commented, "That's very true too. Some of the larger teams really have made it their mission to help elevate the smaller teams. I know I have really appreciated that for myself and my team." Deanna went, "Yes. We're all here for a common goal, so whenever we can get together and build team, spread the word, and make money, we should take those opportunities and run." "So true," Journey responded, "Working with other teams helps to extend our capabilities and reach. We may not have endless bags of cash to throw at Relay coffers ourselves, but we don’t mind helping to get lots of other people to throw their bags at other team kiosks. Because we’re all “one team” after all. Right?

Thinking of "Baby Yoda" from "The Maladorian," I asked if they were planning anything in the near future like a "Baby Joda?" Deanna laughed, "Well, we have a Baby Lily at home and a baby A and baby B coming in about two and a half weeks." *rubs my large belly hidden behind the popcorn bowl* Journey was surprised, "Where did THAT come from?" Deanna laughed, "If you don't know, we have a little, well, big problem." After some more chuckles, Journey told me, "By the way, Deanna makes Zooby things, you know. Who knows, there might be Zooby RFL clothes next year."

I asked what else they did when not Relaying. Deanna told me, "I enjoy listening to live music. Journey is a farmer." "Yes," Journey told me, "This year, I’m dabbling in DFS and TFF farming systems to see if I can contribute the proceeds of all my sales from 'Journey’s Farm' to the ACS during both the Relay and general fund seasons. But I am in no way an accomplished farmer. That much I can tell you!" When I asked if a DFS-related event was possible in the future, Journey told me, "Well they DO have a Relay team. And TFF even started one a few weeks back also." Deanna told me, "I still think we had something with the tractor racing and other activities we had discussed." "We did," Journey responded, "Some silly events. ... I like events that are atypical from the norm of constantly music and dancing. I know they sometimes draw a good crowd and donations, but they are a dime a dozen and get tiring. I like to explore and try new things, so some of the other, lets say 'more imaginative' events really suit me better. Sorry. No offense to the DJs and live singers. But I can play my radio at home. The tribute bands are a fun change to the music experience, however. I do enjoy the laser light shows and pyrotechnics along with the performance."

After that was a couple minutes of chatter, then we decided it was time to head out, "Thank you for all you do, and for you time." "Thank you, Bixyl. I know you're very busy with Relay too. Thanks for all YOU do too!"

Journey and Deanna can continue to be seen at various Relay events. At the Moon Dance on April 6, he was in a Xenomorph (Alien) avatar cracking jokes about his acidic saliva and willing to walk with anyone wanting to explore.

Go Relay!

Bixyl Shuftan

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

Reader Submitted: My Cancer Journey ( Still Outgoing )

 
By Alysabelle Resident.

'CANCER' that dreaded word! We feel for them, those who have been afflicted with Cancer and those who are survivors, caregivers or in remission. I was diagnosed with Small Cell Carcinoma Lung Cancer Stage 3 in late 2020. Ironically I didn't feel any symptoms except, I had pulled a muscle in the chest area. Numerous test later, x-rays, blood work, ct-scan, finally a biopsy . Results: I was told I have the ugly 6 letter word 'Cancer'. Realisticaly, you don't think this will happen to you, but it did to me. I had appointments to see both the Chemo Oncologist and the Radiation Oncologist. As I sat there waiting clinging to hope, because ultimately that's all I had, it also felt like an eternity waiting for them .

Finally they both came in, I look at them there was introductions and they pointed towards picture of themselves, I thought and shrugged we are reduced to looking at pictures of doctors, specialist and nurses because of the mask wearing due to the pandemic. I nodded. I was anxious for them to tell me my prognosis. I said, 'What are my chances?' My Chemo Oncologist said 30 percent.' Now I wasn't just shocked about cancer, I was devastated. My life as I knew it changed from that moment on. I was barely able to continue any conversation, and all I could think of was 'I'm going to die.' This was it, a death sentence hanging over my head and nothing and no one can do anything about it. After all 30 percent was a horrible outcome. I disliked him of course at that moment, that was my emotional feelings inside. I started crying so much so and I look at him upset that he just dashed any hope I was clinging to.

He talked about treatments. 'Treatments,' I thought, 'why bother?' And he walked off to get papers for me to sign. I thought how do I leave here without falling apart, even before I even get to the exit? I couldn't even fathom walking at that point. I was sitting there rooted to my chair 'shocked' He came back and explain to me that some people, even thought not a large percentage, can live 5 to 10 yrs, and he even had a patient that still living, and its been over 10 years since his treatments. It may or may not happen to you. So he talked about a plan with both Chemo and Radiation treatments. It was to start in two weeks. It will be aggressive, three chemotherapies, one from the start, one in the middle somewhere, and one in the end of the six weeks period. And radiation everyday except weekends.They talked about the side effects and the medications I would have to take prior and during and after the treatments and watch for any sign of a fever. I was told ' stay positive.'  I thought, "are they are out of their minds, 'positive'? What is positive about cancer?" I later learned for me it was focus, not positivity, during treatments. They both told me that they will be there every step of the way, they gave me several leaflets with information and a phone number for the Cancer Center whenever I needed, which I did. And I was told 'get your affairs in order just in case.' I now had a Cancer Team.

While I was sitting there I look at both of them and realized that I don't want them to know me with a mask, my name with a mask, no thanks. They couldn't see my true expression and I couldn't see theirs, who could? So I stood up and I said, 'Look at my face.' I removed my mask and I said 'this is me,' and quickly put my mask back on. And surprisingly they stood up and removed their masks and their face guards and said 'this is us.' That small gesture meant a lot to me. Soon after, I got a call to come in to get a scan done and the technician placed four tattoos. They really are called markers for radiation. I cried. It hit me the realization that soon the treatments were about to start.

 For my family and friends in real life, that was difficult of course. They were stunned, but their support and and love and prayers meant a lot to me. I also picked one person to give my updates to everyone else. I knew I wouldn't have the energy to speak to each one individually, or so I thought. And I was correct. There came a time where I actually just texted the person because one of the side effect of the radiation would be difficult speaking because of the location of the treatment.

For online friends, I did the same, picked one person who meant the world to me, my partner, to tell a few selected friends. I also couldn't tell everyone on my list. It was way too much. And even still today, some don't know what I have been through. Then came the morning of my first chemo and a few hours later my first radiation. I can't speak for every one going through treatment. For me it was 'rough.' My second treatment of chemo was worse, 'Hell,' and I felt like death was on my doorstep. I understood then and there, quite clearly why some people going through treatment would want to stop completely. I even thought to myself after several weeks I wont go through the last chemo treatment that was planned .
But I forged on, and did it after all. Also I found difficulty in standing without help or holding on to some kind of piece of furniture or even a wall. One memory I had, I recalled standing in the kitchen just trying to make myself a sandwich holding on to the counter for support, because surely I was going to fall. I managed to butter a piece of bread. I didn't fall, but that's how weak I was. Radiation was a different process, the more you receive the more you start feeling the symptoms of radiation, the sunburn feeling on my back which I got cream for, the fatigue also associated with chemo and radiation combined, the nausea, the difficulty swallowing. I even had to have an IV drip at times so I can get fluids down. I didn't think water would have been an issue swallowing. I thought if anything food would have been the most difficult, that came later.

At some point I was determined they would both get to know more then just ' I'm a cancer patient.' I finally had my chance. I had an appointment several days later with the Chemo Oncologist. I wanted to feel some kind of human connection with him. I didn't feel any up until that point. So I decided to show him two pieces of poetry I had written. I figured what better way to get to know me but through my poetry. There were two pieces, one was light-hearted, the other one more profound. First poem, he smiled. The second one he understood it quite well and pointed at the poem and started at me speechless. I told him 'I know 'and smiled =. I told him I understood that he faced not death personally, but those who are dying and if not dying then those who like me, are receiving horrible news. That couldn't be easy for him and the distance emotionally is key. He talked about his family, wife and children, briefly. I looked at him far differently then I did before and I knew he looked at me far differently now.

Then came the day of my last treatments. Tired as I was, I was elated. It was over. You're told for many months the treatments will still be working in your system. It was longer for the radiation. Two months after the treatment. I ended up with a fever and had to stay at the hospital overnight and start antibiotics. More times than not, your body can start an infection. But not always do they know where its coming from. Then they started talking about immunotherapy. It would have to start within 14 days after the treatments were over. There are benefits as well risks involved, and side effects. Not everyone is a candidate. I wasn't one of them, after all . My last physical appointment with both Oncologists, after talking a while we all stood up. It was time to go. I thanked them. And as I was going to shake their hands, but instead I was soon engulfed in bear hugs from both of them, Pandemic be damned. After that, communication between all of us was to be done virtually.

After three months, I was going for my very first scan to find out how the treatment worked. I was anxious and stressed out for the findings. I was happy they both told me that they saw a decrease in the size of the cancer. For a while the scans are every three months, and then eventually its every six months, and then yearly, if all goes well. So far I have done all the three month scans and the cancer continues to decrease. I just finished my first six month scan, and again with the same results. I'm fully aware that some people, depending on their treatment and the length of their treatments, how difficult it is. Truly my heart goes out to them and in some ways I am fortunate because my treatments, although aggressive as it was, wasn't as long as some people that have to go through it longer than I. There is always someone worse than you. During the time you're going through treatment, you have your cancer support team, you depend on them where I always depended on myself and been always there for others. But this time it was different, to learn to lean on people. It was so foreign to me. You also don't realize how focused you are through treatment, till you don't have to be anymore. It's a huge relief, but at the same time you say to yourself 'What now?' Emotional therapy is the key before during and afterward treatment. I would recommend it highly .

Will I always be a cancer patient? Yes. Do I still have cancer ? Yes, although I'm in remission . Will cancer ever return full force? It could. Will cancer always be part of me the rest of my life? Yes, if not physically, emotionally. Do I have a scar from the radiation location lung? Yes Did my voice change due to radiation ? Ye . Do I want pity from anyone ? NO! I never wanted that in my life and certainly not now. I was victimized by cancer, but I refuse to be a victim. Did I ever question at times 'Why me about my cancer?' I sure did, but then again....why not me?

Writing about my journey, my cancer, it was difficult at times. But if it helps anyone, then it was all worth it. Although in my real life my family and friends know what I have been through, online there are still friends on my list that aren't aware of what I have been through. Perhaps now they will.

In closing ...

I also like to mention a place in Second Life where I attended a meeting, at the American Cancer Society's Hope Haven Survivors & Caregivers Support Group in Second Life.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/American%20Cancer%20Society/37/148/23

The lead person at Hope Haven is Sandie Slate (sandie.loxingly). They try to get together every other Sunday if possible. The meeting starts at 12:30 pm SL time.They have Survivor Moderators as well as Caregiver Moderators. There are others I met briefly, the most amazing courageous people I ever met. I was grateful to them for hearing me out. I was overwhelmed with emotions. It was several months after my treatments and I walked in and felt the immediate feeling of belonging. I'm also grateful that I listened to others and what was happening in their lives and how they were coping. I didn't feel alone.

When you have cancer, I understand people sympathize and give you hugs and so on. But there is nothing like someone else with the feelings associated with cancer. Sometimes you want to talk about it, sometimes you don't, sometimes you just want to listen. It's all okay. We are with friends who have either been there or still there. For news and updates, click on the terminal that is placed at the entrance that says' American Cancer Society ' Survivor and Caregivers Info Net.' It's on the ground. Once you click on it, a notecard will appear. It will explain everything you need to know. There is another one at the side of the building with the names and how to contact the Survivor Moderators and the Lead Person as well as the Caregiver Moderators. Cancer is Cancer no matter who you are and where your from. Everyone is welcome. I read a poster that was on the wall in the other building that made perfect sense to me. “Hope .. is not a wish it's a belief." So true (smile).

Thank you (smile)

Alysabelle Resident
 

Interview With Mattie Carlton of the RFL Sunbeamers

 
By Penny Shuftan

I had an opportunity to sit down with one of the Sunbeamer Relay team, Mattie Carlton (MattDCarlton Resident), for an interview about hir being in the Relay for Life in Second Life.

The first question was how long she had been in Relay for Life in real life. "Well, basically since I was old enough to walk," replied Mattie, "My grandma was big into (it), as it meant a lot to her, and when I was old enough I was going with her to the big 24hrs, even if just for a couple of hours to start. As I got older I started going door to door for donations and staying all night there with her. I took a break for a few years when she got sick again and had to stop going. It wasn't till a year after she died, I started to get involved again. The about another year after that I met Bix and you (Penny) that introduced me to the one on here, that I somehow never knew about. And I thank you both for that!"

I smiled and said, "You're welcome." before continuing on with the interview.  I was wondering if Mattie would continue her work in the Relay for Life. "I plan to as long as I am able," said Mattie, "I have ideas and hope some help out this season."

The next question would be what is Mattie's favorite part of the Relay for Life.  "Hmm that is a tough one. Let me think," Mattie said, "I think or me it is the camaraderie, the way we help each other despite being on different teams, and having a playful rivalry. That kind of one team mind set that helps all of us come together to raise the amounts that we do each year. Then the icing on the cake for me is seeing that final total.  Seeing all those epic builds for relay weekend is pretty epic too."

The next couple of questions came to being about her grandmother.  It would be about Mattie's grandmother being Mattie's inspiration.  "Yes, I would say she was my biggest inspiration for RFL," replied Mattie, "Especially when I was younger, she was the reason I went. As I got older and met more people I found more and more reason to help with Relay, but she was that initial spark that started the flame I suppose." 

I was wondering if Mattie's grandmother still inspires Mattie. "Very much so," she said, "A lot of the parties and little things she would do with her team still make me giggle or smile to this day, and I remember the smile I would see on her face during relay weekend at the one here in town. I hope to try and keep that spirit alive."

The interview changed to Mattie's writing. "Yes I have been off and on (on it)," said Mattie, "I suffer from CPTSD and Depression with anxiety. I am also autistic. The writing was and is an outlet for some of this. However I have a lot of self-motivation issues, and so sometimes I go months in between working on a story." 

 I was wondering if her grandmother inspires Mattie to be a writer. "Hmm, I would say to some degree, yes," said Mattie, "She did some writing and such as well, but she was a very creative person. She wrote poems, essays, stories, made her own blouses, my costumes as a kid, painted her home, decorated, etc. She even did skits for her Relay team. She had a big imagination as well. She was also a good cook."

I asked her if she's going to keep writing, and this is her response. "I plan to yes. I at the very least would like to finish one short story collection and get it published. I already have the cover art," Mattie said with a smile.

The next question was what is her best work, and Mattie replied,"That is a tough call. Some have really liked the story about my odd convention dream. Others like The Holiday Gift story. Then there was the one about my dysphoria and becoming my true self or fursona, via surgeries and experimental procedures.  That last one is called, 'Recoded.' "

As the interview drew to an end, I asked Mattie what her real life hobbies would be.  "Well, Some of my real-life hobbies, include photography, storm chasing (when able), going to various car shows and motor sports events," Mattie replied, "I am a furry on Second Life and in real life, (so) I go to a lot of conventions, and often Ren-fairs in my fursuit and hope to make a few people smile. As for here in world, I DJ from time to time, and mostly just hang out or visit with friends. I also like to spend time on VR Chat with a few friends to play games or fly planes. I used to fly a bit in real life, but my uncle moved away and I have not been able to as much as I used to.  I also like to make TikToks at times."

When the interview ended, I told Mattie that she had inspired me to start thinking more about joining Sunbeamers.  With a good feeling, I did check and guess what? I already am a member of Sunbeamers, and it was all Mattie's inspiring me to join the awesome Relay for Life group.  I thanked Mattie for inspiring me to be a part of them.

Here you have it, an interview with Sunbeamer Mattie Carlton.  To this very day, she continues to sing (she's a really good singer), as well as write, and continues to be a part of the Sunbeamers and Sunweavers group.  I don't know about you, but in my opinion, what Mattie had done so far with the Relay for Life is just that ... very amazing!
 
Penny Shuftan

The Last Sunbeamer Moon Dance For 2021

 By Bixyl Shuftan

Team Sunbeamers has had a number of events this Relay season. But one was a weekly event, the Sunbeamer Moon Dance that took place every Thursday at 6PM over Farshore Field in Sunlight Bay. People would head over to the Moon Cannon, and get blasted off to the Moon platform where music and fun awaited (along with a few 'bot aliens dancing away). But eventually, there would come a time for a final performance. And on Thursday June 10 came the final Moon Dance for the Sunbeamers, at least for this year.

Most of the weekly dances had various themes, such as Memorial Day and sci-fi. But this last one was "Come As You Are." A number of Sunbeamers showed up, as well as some from other Relay teams. This included several of "Roos With A Dream," noted by their Australian outdoor outfits.  The maximum number of avatars the sim could hold was thirty, and there was a time or two someone couldn't get in. 

As usual, Cynthia Farshore was DJing, though adding tunes as she went along instead of playing a prepared list. Someone cheered when "Golden Years" was played, "David Bowie, yay!" Sunbeamer team captain reminded, "We have a memorial to Bowie in out camp, died of liver cancer." Of the camp having the theme of a British comedy, she commented, "I told my sister our camp was Monty Python themed.  she said 'Who?'" 

Other conversation topics were a small debate if music past the 1980s was any good: one didn't think so and a few others felt at least some of it was, "there are lots of good tunes every year, we just don't hear lots of them." There was also talk about the "Last Dragon," movie, "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," and the Star Trek "The Trouble With Tribbles" episode. Cynthia responded by playing Shockwave Yareach's music parody, "I Snuck In A Tribble With You." That got some people chuckling. There was also some talk of the Animated Star Trek episode.

With the Relay weekend so close, there was much conversation about it. "I always get emotional when the actual Relay starts. even though I have been doing it since 2008." "The Luminaria ceremony gets to me the most." "I completely forgot I had submitted a dedication to be read the first time I did it. Caught me completely off guard when they read it off and I broke down hard." 

There was also some fun talk about partying people did in the past, "Threw an unexpected party at my house once while my parents were away. Was my friend's birthday and he was hanging out with a bunch of younger kids so me and another friend told him we were headed to my house after picking up some beer. About an hour later, a million people show up. Only trouble I got in from my parents was that I didn't recycle the cans. Was still underage at the time, think it was either the summer before going to college or the summer after my first year of college. No idea how I didn't get in trouble." "I went to a party at a farm once, real BBQ pit, roasting half a pig and various beef, also beer kegs and we mixed up something interesting in a clean plastic trash can. Whatever we mixed up was good, I had it to my van to pass out and woke up with one hell of a hangover." "The wildest parties are always while you're underage."

At one point, there was a small square area in which light inside had it's colors reversed. Inside it, at least when looking from outside, white would look dark, reddish tones would look bluish, etc. Panning inside, from within things looked the opposite, including the blackness of space looking white.

A good time was had by all, one lady saying, "Its been a lot of fun hanging out with 'beamers, gems and Purple Tears all season long." Rita responded, "Well we 'beamers specialize in fun. If it's not fun, it's not worth doing." She would say joint events with the Roos had always gone well, and fun, and congratulated them on their success. They'd made Diamond rank some time earlier, and had raised a total of 1,783,000 Linden dollars.

Before long, the party was over, and people headed out. Shockwave and Cynthia would go back to the Sunbeamer campsite to check things over. All were looking forward to the Relay weekend in two days.

As of the writing of this article, the Sunbeamers have raised a total of 834,500 Linden dollars, and are the highest rank of the Sapphire-ranked teams.

Go Sunbeamers! Go Relay!

Bixyl Shuftan