RFL of SL Updates

The 2011 Christmas Expo

2011-11-14T18:30:00.000-08:00

~ For Immediate Release ~

The 2011 Christmas Expo
December 3rd-18th, 2011

Marking its 1st year in SL, The 2011 Christmas Expo is coming to town! In support of Relay For Life of Second Life and the American Cancer Society, the Christmas Expo will open on December 3rd, 2011 at 9am slt and will close on December 18th at 9pm slt.

A Christmas wonderland, spanning four SL regions, will set the scene for guests and shoppers, vendors and entertainers. SL residents will be able to find Christmas gifts, spend a romantic evening in the Holiday Ballroom with a sweetheart, or visit Santa and have pictures taken.

Residents can attend one of the many events:

SL Idol - An annual singing competition that will take place every year at The Christmas Expo, this contest will involve rounds of performances by some of SL’s great musicians.

The Avi Choice Awards - The Avi Choice Awards ~ the annual awards presentation recognizing the people and talent behind SL’s amazing creations, completely chosen and voted on by SL residents.

Amazing Race - Two member teams will race across the SL grid collecting specific hunt items, completing challenges and competing to be the last team standing.

Christmas Parties - Visitors can schedule their Christmas Parties at Expo. DJs can be booked or bring your own and the scenery has already been set for a fabulous and festive Holiday party.

The Breedables Pet Championship - hosted this year by the Breeder's Burough!

Auction/Raffle - Many amazing items will be available for auction and raffle from some of SL's best creators. 100% of the proceeds from the Expo's auctions and raffles will go to Relay For Life of Second Life.

Shopping - In addition to enjoying the many events, activities and features of the Christmas Expo, visitors can get a head start on their Christmas shopping at the more than 70 shops.

Live Music/DJ - Entertainment will feature many of SL's top performers, singers, djs, and hosts throughtout the Expo. See the website for dates and times.

Christmas Expo 2011's design and construction is generously provided by SL’s incredible builder, Kayle Matzerath of Garden of Dreams. Kayle’s talent brings amazing dream-like settings to the virtual world and he is bringing his style and talent to Christmas Expo. Kayle was the Relay For Life Event Day 2011 Designer Sim Award winner, as well. Kayle's holiday builds will provide excellent photo ops for those memory-making photos.

Map search any of the following regions, beginning December 3rd and teleport in to a Winter Wonderland of Holiday Delight!
Frosty
Silver Bells
Poinsettia
Snowflake

Website: http://slchristmasexpo.wordpress.com/

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/SLs-Christmas-Expo/282062608486247

For more information, contact:

Joonie Jatho
Public Relations Coordinator

Nikki Mathieson
Christmas Expo Coordinator

2011 Christmas Expo

2011-10-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Christmas Expo
December 3rd-18th, 2011

Marking it’s 1st year in SL, The Christmas Expo is coming to town! Coordinated by the crew who brings The Home & Garden Expo and Back to the 50's Weekend to Secondlife, with many volunteers from SL’s RFL Volunteer group, this Expo will feature some new and fun special events, an estimated 100 vendors and amazing Holiday splendor to 4 regions.

A Christmas Wonderland will set the scene for guests and shoppers, vendors and entertainers. Visit this site to learn more about the Avi Choice Awards, SL Idol, the Amazing Race and more fun and exciting things happening at the SL Christmas Expo. http://slchristmasexpo.wordpress.com

The Christmas Expo ~ 4 Regions ~ 2 Weeks ~ in Support of Relay For Life!

For more information please contact Nikki Mathieson, Christmas Expo Coordinator

The Avi Choice Awards at the Christmas Expo - December 10, 2011 4-6pm

The Avi Choice Awards ~ the annual awards presentation recognizing the people and talent of SL’s amazing creations, completely chosen and voted on by SL residents.

NOMINATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED NOW
at http://slchristmasexpo.wordpress.com/avi-choice-awards until 9am October 31st, then narrowed down to most nominated in each category and set up for voting to begin on Nov. 1st

Categories will include:
FAVORITE HOME BUILDER
FAVORITE GARDEN/LANDSCAPE STORE
FAVORITE BREEDABLE
FAVORITE HAIR DESIGNER
FAVORITE WOMEN'S APPAREL
FAVORITE SKIN DESIGNER
FAVORITE MALE AO CREATOR
FAVORITE DANCE ANIMATIONS CREATOR
FAVORITE SL SPORTING EVENT
FAVORITE SL RADIO STATION
FAVORITE LIVE MUSIC VENUE
FAVORITE ROCK CLUB
FAVORITE FEMALE MUSICIAN
FAVORITE SL MUSICIAL GROUP
FAVORITE POP SINGER
FAVORITE FURNITURE CREATOR
FAVORITE HOLIDAY STORE
FAVORITE SHOES
FAVORITE MENS APPAREL
FAVORITE KIDS APPAREL
FAVORITE JEWELRY STORE
FAVORITE FEMALE AO CREATOR
FAVORITE SHOPPING REGION
FAVORITE MAGAZINE, NEWSPAPER OR PERIODICAL
FAVORITE SL TV SHOW
FAVORITE FORMAL VENUE
FAVORITE MALE MUSICIAN
FAVORITE SINGING DUO
FAVORITE ROCK SINGER
FAVORITE COUNTRY SINGER

Winners will be announced during the Avi Choice Awards Show held at The Christmas Expo, in the Silent Night Lodge, 4p-6p, on December 10th. Best of luck to all and we'll see you at the Expo!!

For questions or more information, please contact Shayla Juran, Avi Choice Awards Coordinator.

Final award winners

2011-08-21T03:01:00.001-07:00

A host of awards were presented at the Wrap-Up Party yesterday, starting with the 'Spontaneous and Fun' awards presented by Awards Co-Chair Daten Thielt.

The 'it's a bird..? it's a plane? NO it's uhhh batman.. saving the day ..' Award goes to Frank Battitude, nominated by Jill Caldera who said, 'We have to nominate Batman, he really did make an effort to come and stop to see people and interact, sign autographs and even gave gifts out to some of our team members!'

The 'WHOA that's some BIG hair.. and he's still standing up straight' Award goes to: Fuzzball Ortega and the largest hair ever seen in Relay

The 'Lizzy Borden Award .. alias AXE Award .. alias The "Golden Hatchet' .. goes to The one and Only Lovely Miss A PinkSwan Beauchamp for her remarkable Passion in achieving Note Cards receiving and .. Award Distributions

The 'King of Purple Boot Scootin boogeying on the track' Award goes to: Trader1 Whiplash and his signature purple boots.. (we're still waiting for that boogeying tho)

The Arborist of Relay Award goes to Piedras Chama. Ember Farina nominated Piedras with these words, 'Pie is the amazing man behind so many of the trees synonymous with RFL in SL, including the survivors trees and this year's wonderful "Seasons of Hope" trees. (seen lining the track this year and the Relay entry sim)'

The '.. aHA .. so he DOES know how to make glue' Award goes to: Stingray9798 Raymaker. nuff said

This year's SPONTANEOUS '... I think I can .. I think I can.. I think I can' Award goes, with the greatest respect, gratitude and applause, to RacerX Gullwing and his amazing Snail Racers!

Last but certainly not least, Daten said, 'We'd like to present a special award to a man who has been a part of SL Relay For Life for seven years. well... Let me read the nomination by Leor Tobias to you to explain...

'Leor Tobias says, "After seven years of Relaying, he keeps coming back for more. He's seen Relay for Life grow from a small gathering of friends to the monumental achievement it is today. Along the way he has inspired others to take up the cause, and always pitched in a hand whenever it was needed.

"He's captained several teams, worked on several teams and quietly done more than his part.

"He has never won an award for his builds, for his fund raising, for wearing a cheerleader's outfit ((which he did this year after a challenge was met)), or for orchestrating wild and crazy events, but I would love to nominate him... because it was never about the money, or the effort, or the time, it was always about the joy of doing something in Second Life that was honorable and noble and real. He's inspired me as he has so many others. Please consider giving him a special award. Thank you."

'So, on behalf of Leor and the rest of us.. I’d like to present the 'spontaneous and special Relay Honor Award 2011' to David Valentino.

and now.. for this years.. FUNDRAISING awards....

After Relay weekend some of the teams continued to fundraise and raised their fundraising club levels. The following teams moved up in fundraising standings.

Synthetic Rose went to Bronze
Roma Pro Vita, rose to Silver
Walking Tall for a Cure moved up to Silver
Purple Tears went to Silver
Celtic Amazon Warriors for Life up to Silver
DarkStar rose up to Gold
Marga-Relay-ville went to Gold
Riders for a Cure went to Gold
JLU Caped Crusaders went to Gold
Giant Snail Relay increased to Gold
Surreal For Life went up to Gold
Eternal Beacon moved up to Platinum
Touched By Angels rose to Platinum
The Fringe went to Platinum
Aether Chrononauts went to Sapphire
Harmony of Hope went to Sapphire
Inspired Dreamwalkers went to Sapphire

and the
Goreans in the Relay for Life went to Ruby

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE TEAMS AND THEIR SUCCESSFUL FINISH IN THIS YEARS FUNDRAISING CLUB.

The top individual convio fundraising award is awarded to the individual who raised the most via the Convio (RFL) website (which is outside of SL, and are in US dollar donations) and the winners are:

in 3rd place - Argo Recreant
in 2nd place - Keera Woyseck
and in first place the winner is: Blynn Heron

The top TEAM convio fundraising award is awarded to the teams who raised the most via the Convio (RFL) website (which is outside of SL, and are in US dollar donations)
and the winners are:

in 3rd place the winners are- Relay for Hope
in 2nd place the winners are - Eternal Beacon
and in first place winners are: Circle of Life

The top teams inworld fundraising award is awarded to the teams who raised the most lindens IN SL
and the winners are:

in 3rd place - with 1,602,750 lindens raised : Relay For Hope

in 2nd place - with 3,215,395 lindens raised: Goreans in the Relay For Life

and in first place with 6,553,377 lindens raised: Friends Fighting Cancer

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WINNERS.. and Cheers to all teams on a successful season. Well done!

The microphone then passed to Dwen Dooley who presented the following 'EBBY' Awards:

The 'Driving Force' Award... Presented to the individual who not only kept the event board drinking game going ... but also kept the Event Board going by reminding teams to utilize and display the Event Boards. Also assisted other teams with Event Board questions.. Fuzzball Ortega

The 'Exploding Inbox' Award is awarded to the individual whose team had the most events in the inbox, not just because they had the most events, but also because they were a regular user of the inbox (and waste basket) processes to ensure timely and accurate Event Board displayers .. KJ KIranov

The 'Longevity' Award: Goes to those individuals who rezzed an event board displayer as early as possible, and kept it rezzed throughout the season .. Baldi McMillan

And finally the 'That's the Spirit' Award goes to the individuals who kept the most Event Board Displayers rezzed throughout the Relay season .. Fuzzball Ortega

Last year's 'Spirit of Relay' individual award winner, Ember Farina, then announced this year's winner.

'The Individual Spirit of Relay is awarded to the individual that embodies the 'Spirit of the Relay' and includes an overall performance from Kick Off to Relay Day. This award takes into consideration the 'spirit' of the individual, how they embraced Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society Mission, and the enthusiasm displayed. Also considered is their participation in Relay activities, as a whole, not only in their own team’s, but other team’s events, as well' said Ember.

'For the last six years this year’s recipient has been Relaying in SL. Regardless of Team affliation, anyone who has needed assistance with Kiosks, Vendors, or building has found a helping hand.

'This year, just as Relay was kicking into high gear, he suffered a debilitating stroke. His motivation for a fast recovery was actually Relay for Life! He worried so much about his team that he came back inworld before he could even read or type; they all used voice to communicate with him to ensure that the team would keep moving forward.

'He’s determined, and despite all odds, always involved in anything that has to do with Relay, from planning to end, always there to help others regardless of other affiliations.

'I’m pleased to announce the 2011 individual Spirit of Relay – Daaneth Kivioq

Then finally, Nevar Lobo who captained last year's winner announced the 'Spirit of Relay' team Awards:

3rd Place - Team Caledon
2nd Place - Steelhead Salmons
1st Place - Team OD

Congratulations to all!

Photograph by IshtarAngel Micheline

PrimPerfect's tribute to Relay For Life of Second Life

2011-08-21T02:27:00.000-07:00

PrimPerfect has published a very special tribute issue to Relay For Life.

Throughout the Relay fundraising season Primperfect had a reporter Beq Janus who was 'embedded' in Relay and covered all the main events as well as being an active member of the New Babbage fundraising team. This issue draws on Beq's blog reports and also includes a fascinating behind-the-scenes article by PrimPerfect's Editor, Saffia Widdershins, about how the Relay Telethon was made.

The issue includes some beautiful photography of some of the Relay sims - gone, but not forgotten.

To quote Beq:

'The Relay is over, long live the Relay'!

You can pick up a copy of the August 2011 RFL commemorative issue in world or read it on the Calameo site on line.

Thsnk you Saffia, Beq, and the PrimPerfect and Telethon contributors for all your support this year!

Why I Relay ~ Noki Blindside

2011-07-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

Written by: Noki Blindside

Relay for Life of Second Life 2011 has been such a memorable experience for me; it allowed me to work with 10 new teams that wanted to become involved with Relay as much as myself, and the chance to be a Relay Track Guide. Being an official Relay Track Guide meant to help the survivors/caregivers to where they needed to be, obtaining necessary information, and receiving the official survivor/caregiver t-shirts before walking around the track for honorary hour.

Excitement brewed as my friend, Vickie Maidstone, and I waited at the Relay station listening to T1 Radio for opening ceremonies, it was very intense. As time grew near toward the first hour of relay, I could see green dots on my Mini-map go on for miles and miles! We finally hear the word from our Survivor/Caregiver chair, Cinders Vale, to allow the honorary hour to begin, and thus our job was over. Relay had just began for both of us and we set ourselves out to join the walk with all of the other amazing survivors and caregivers. Lag started to brew around each corner of the sim, it was just a nightmare, but such a great experience seeing all the campsites and all of the people cheering you on.

Before Relay, my friend Vickie and I received word from our captain, Ember Farina, the chance to become RFL Ambassadors for our team Friends Fighting Cancer. My first thoughts were: Wow what an honor! We both graciously accepted our new titles and set off into the great world of Relay. I felt as though our responsibilities as Ambassadors were: to make constant contact with our captains/team members, helping with last minute preparations for our team campsite, and to assist our captain throughout the Relay season and Relay weekend.

Nearing the end of Relay, I realized how much work everyone put into this great event we call Relay weekend. Not only does our amazing track designer, Charlene Trudeau, have a lot of work that is put on her shoulder but also for our Relay chair, MamaP Beerbaum, for making sure everything goes perfectly through the entire 24 hours. The entire RFL committee put in so much effort to make Relay weekend happen, it was just phenomenal the potential that we can achieve and the accomplishments we can overcome in such a short amount of time. We had over 140 teams during the Relay season, and our great Mentors/Liaisons made sure their teams knew everything that was being asked of them; obtaining important Relay weekend information, fundraising ideas, and campsite planning/building.

Amazing involvement, hard work, and effort throughout Relay is what strives all of us to become successful and to finally beat this terrible disease we call cancer in the future!

GO RELAY!

Videos of Hope

2011-07-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

Three videos of the builds at the Relay track event July 16-17. Thank you machinima artists for helping us to remember!

Hope is Like a River - Elf Circle Relay For Life by Bay Sweetwater

New Babbage Workshop of Hope by AE Cleanslate

New Babbage Designer Sim designed by Rip Firefly, and New Babbage campsite, video by V1ctor1st

Seasonal highlights of 2011

2011-07-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

It's a week since Relay weekend. And already I'm regretting that I can't spend a few hours at the sims today visiting all the builds that I missed and revisiting some of my favorites. There was an astonishing amount to see and as usual, too little time to visit it all and take it all in.

So I was delighted to come across a series of articles in Primperfect by Beq Janus who went round the track and photographed and wrote about some of the seasonal highlights, including the three prizewinning designer sims as well as some which received awards in other categories.

Beq started at the springtime sim of Acceptance, and passed through Awareness, Care, Celebrate, Comfort, Courage, Cure and Dedication. Featured builds include Ame Lobo and Aryon Dagger’s “caregiver’s path”, an enormouse beanstalk, Jara Jowell's award-winning Tornado of Life, the Dandelions and Mudpuddles rollercoaster, the BOSL flamingoes and waterlilies, and Wakaonna's giant pyramid.

Next Beq visited the summer sims of RFL Give, Healing, Hero, Hope, Imagine, Knowledge, Life, Manage,Overcome, and Persevere, including Sail For Life, B5 IV in SL, the United Federation Starfleet camp, Team Caledon, Tari Landar's Survival Garden, Arnolds Diner by “Friends in memory of KevinBear Watanabe”, Bryn Oh's giant bullrushes, the Ministry of Dance beach and the fairground built by Cameron Trenchcoat.

Tari Landar shakes a fist at cancer

Then on to autumn. We pass on through Kayle Matzerath's award-winning forest in RFL Survive, through the fall sims to Screening, taking in the builds by the NY Healthscape and Purple Tears teams, the ghostly pirate ship by Team OD, the trick or treat street built by the Raucous Relayers, and the fantasy build by Mayah Parx.

Award-winning build by Kayle Matzerath

Finally Beq travelled through the winter sims, from Alia Baroque's tower in RFL Spirit, via the Dr Who build in Strength, the Rip Wirefly designer sim that straddled Strength and Strides, the New Babbage 'factory of Hope' in Support, through the Friends Fighting Cancer campsite in Acceptance, to the Steelhead Salmons campsite with its two ghostly dancers and the chapel of hope built by the Aether Chrononauts.

Thsank you Beq for helping to record Relay history!

Event day award winners!

2011-07-18T06:15:00.000-07:00

APinkSwan Beauchamp announced the winners of the Event Day Awards during the Closing Ceremonies of Relay For Life of Second Life on Sunday, July 17. Here they are:

DESIGNER SIM AWARD WINNERS:
Awarded for the design team build that captures the essence, reality and scale of the real or imaginary worlds they represent, and truly gives a world to call our own for a brief and unforgettable moment in time. We had a panel of 9 nine judges this year. Each judge visited every location. These are our top 3....

3rd Place - BRONZE: Designed by Rip Wirefly, RFL Strength

2nd Place - SILVER: Designed by Jaraziah Lowell, RFL Courage

1st Place - GOLD: Designed by Kayle Matzerath, RFL Survive

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EXHIBITION DESIGN AWARD
Awarded to the designers who set up exhibitions, as determined by committee requirements, for use in Relay sponsor fundraising, activities and entertainment. Chosen for over-all atmosphere, ambiance and detail and making the build into a entertaining centerpiece.

3rd Place - BRONZE: Water Region Submarine Ride as coordinated by Felixx Shepherd and JonyBlade Codesmith

2nd Place - SILVER: The Activity Regions with center Ceremony Castle - Designer Annabelle Babii

1st Place - GOLD: The Pirate Village as coordinated by: JuliathePirate Buccaneer, Dizz Darkstone and Migizi North

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NEW TEAM PARTICIPATION AWARD WINNERS:
Awarded to the new team for 2011 that displays exemplary organization and participation during the July Relay Day event. Our wonderful RFL Mentors were the judges for the award. The top three are....

3rd Place - BRONZE: Rays of Hope

2nd Place - SILVER: Heroes for Life

1st Place - GOLD: Marga-Relay-Ville

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RETURNING TEAM PARTICIPATION AWARD WINNERS:
Awarded to a Returning team that displays exemplary organization and participation during the Relay Day event. Again, our wonderful RFL Mentors were the judges for the award. The top three are....

3rd Place - BRONZE: Dreamin in Purple

2nd Place - SILVER: Friends Fighting Cancer

1st Place - GOLD: Relay for Hope

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MOST INVENTIVE CAMPSITE FUNDRAISING AWARD WINNERS:
Awarded to one team’s unique, creative and successful method of RFL fundraising at the team campsite during the July Event Day Relay. Teams submitted their entries to the Awards committee and the panel of 4 judges visited each location. The top three are.....

3rd Place - BRONZE: Dream to Live

2nd Place - SILVER: Sail4Life

1st Place - GOLD: New Babbage RFL

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BEST THEME-DECORATED CAMPSITE AWARD WINNERS:
Awarded for the all-around design interpretation of the Seasons of Hope RFL of SL 2011 Theme. Must include some Relay For Life and / or American Cancer Society Mission information at the campsite. Team Campsites were divided up between a panel of seven judges who visited assigned campsites. The top three....

3rd Place - BRONZE: Avalon Knights

2nd Place - SILVER: Sail4Life

1st Place - GOLD: New Babbage RFL

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THE CANCER AWARENESS CAMPSITE AWARD WINNERS:
Awarded for the Best Cancer Awareness Campsite.
Awarded for the use of an interesting and entertaining approach to bringing cancer awareness to Event Day, 2011. Teams submitted their entries to the Awards committee and the panel of 4 judges visited each location. The top three are.....

3rd Place - BRONZE: Eternal Beacon

2nd Place - SILVER: Harmony of Hope

1st Place - GOLD: BOSL Relay Team

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MOST LAPS WALKED BY AN INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS:
The criteria for this award is that the person walked the most laps during the actual 24 hours, as declared on the official Relay Lap Counter.

3rd Place - BRONZE: Viderian Vollmar

2nd Place - SILVER: Safra Nitely

1st Place - GOLD: Jaraziah Lowell

CONGRATULATIONS to ALL!!!

Awards Committee:
APinkSwan Beauchamp - Lead
Daten Thielt - Committee
Webby Merlin - Committee

'My battle story' by BOOTEDGIRL Foxtrot

2011-07-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

The survivor speaker at this year's Opening Ceremonies was BOOTEDGIRL Foxtrot. She shared with us her reasons for relaying. Using her electronically simulated voice, because her cancer treatment means she can no longer use her natural voice. Her closing words were 'I relay for the dream, for more time, for all those touched with cancer, to have quality time, in life, without pain.'. They gave us all the more reason to get on the track and relay.

This is the last in our 'Why I Relay' series for this Relay season. Thanks to Jennifer Curtau for gathering this amazing collection of stories, both written and recorded.

BOOTEDGIRL Foxtrot writes:

My name is Jennifer Wolf. In Second life I'm known as Bootedgirl Foxtrot. I am thankful for many things, including the technology that allows me here, to voice why I relay.

I relay for life for those who I have loved, known, and will always remember. I relay for a cure, a hope, a wish, to come true. I relay for those who have heard the answers to, "How long do I have?". I relay for those who's family could not deal with knowing, their daughter has cancer.

In September of 2008, I was told I would be lucky to see Christmas, which is also my birthday as well. I went through series of tests, scans, emergency surgeries, nerve damage to vocals during a tumor extraction, being revived twice during surgery on separate occasions, then poisoned with chemo treatments.

I proved prognosis time frames are not set in stone, I survived an extended hypoglycemic blackout adding more damage to more nerves, and I had to sign waivers to allow myself more quality of what life I could hold onto.

Through the devotion of my best friend and her family, I had the care and emotional resources needed to overcome my fears and hold onto goals, and have help to prepare for "what ifs", which understandably, was something my immediate family could not do for my peace of mind.

After risky procedures and time to heal, I have made it to the point I'm slowly recovering, awaiting for possibly more procedures and possible radiation treatments pending any more findings through scans.

Now, I no longer recognize the girl I see in the mirror, but now see a survivor, who still loves the same, dreams the same, and at times laughs the same at my own dark humor. I created my Second life account the week I stopped working. I relayed for the first time in Second life in 2009, I found loving friends, and my virtual happiness in 2010.

I relayed in 2010 while I was very sick, and that meant alot to me at a time I could not walk well at all in real life. Now in 2011, I relay again, for more life to have with loved ones, on all formats of reality. I relay to celebrate survival, for my own, and for others who made it through, when doctors were sure we would not.

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.

In 2011, I relay, for those who stood by me, loved me and cared for me, never waiting for the worst, but looking at all the best there was to live in, and for, and giving nothing but hope.

I relay for those, who seen the darkest hour, and lived to see the light of hope, to have this chance to type this now, wishing not to one day regain my ability of speech, but for more miracles to touch others living in their hardest hours. I relay for you, and I, for all who cared for us, and all who gave hope, love, and their time.

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.

BOOTEDGIRL Foxtrot
Survivor speaker
Relay For Life of Second Life 2011

You can follow Bootedgirl on her blog

Thank you to our sponsors!

2011-07-17T04:35:00.000-07:00

This year has been a truly exceptional year in terms of raising contributions from sponsors.

Many thanks to Samara Barzane our Sponsorship Area Chair who has worked so energetically on the sponsorship program and who supplied this list:

PREMIER SPONSORS

RFL Treatment & RFL Wish
sponsored by BS's Bring a Friend and ByKay Jewelry

RFL Volunteer & RFL Unity
sponsored by The Arcanum and Peace Haven Communities

SIM SPONSORS

RFL Advocacy :: Steelhead City
RFL Support :: In Memory of Fimi (Park Galleries)
RFL Awareness :: Green Lantern Core
RFL Survive :: Seasonal Creations by MamaP
RFL Endure :: MadPea Productions - Virtual MD (Cha Klaar)
RFL Enlightenment :: In Memory of Anne Martens (Daaneth Kivioq)
RFL Journey :: In Memory of Madame Maracas (Synergy Devonshire)
RFL Recovery :: Eternal Beacon (anon.)
RFL Strength :: Lighting Effects (Bo Hera)
RFL Manage :: In Honor of DoraMia Aeon (Ishtar Roux)
RFL Acceptance :: In Loving Memory of Tony Smith (Josaphine Cooperstone)
RFL Pledge :: Peace Haven Communities (Kirsten Kiergarten)
RFL Family :: Passionate Redheads
RFL Dedication :: Consulate of Europa Wulfenbach
RFL Courage :: The Fringe (anon.)
RFL Cure :: In Memory of Jeffry (ROF Team)
RFL Strides/Overcome/Give :: Car Wash (Mikkael Kiranov)
RFL Fight Back :: In Remembrance (FxyLdy Moonlight)
RFL Prevention :: NYHealthScape (Panacea Luminos)
RFL Comfort :: In Memory of Adaleah (Shawna Montgomery)
RFL Hope :: In Memory of Chef Linda (Skye Leroux)
RFL Celebrate :: SweetReds & The Lochs (Suzetta Moonites)
RFL Persevere :: In Memory of La'dina (Thurston Woodford)
RFL Remember :: Avalon Township
RFL Hero :: Aether Chrononauts (Eilidh McCullough)

Please thank them if you run into them at Relay and thank you too Sam!

Nominated campsites for the Cancer Awareness Award

2011-07-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Poppy Zabelin writes:

Yesterday I had the privilege of being asked to help judge the campsites nominated for the Cancer Awareness Award. Sixteen campsites were nominated. Here in no particular order are my own PERSONAL favorites. The official outcome will depend on the combined tally of all the judges' scores, of course.

Thanks to APinkSwan Beauchamp for inviting me to judge these. I might otherwise have missed these great campsites!

RFL Harmony of Hope

My first stop was at Harmony of Hope which is fittingly in the RFL Support sim. A child's Snow Globe invites us into a world of innocent winter and leads us on a dark journey through one person's struggle against a terrifying disease. There I met TS Darrow who guided me to the tour of The Longest Winter. I rode a snowflake, listening to the moving story of one person's battle against cancer. To find victory at last. And a message to remind people about the support services offered by the American Cancer Society in Second Life. I'm not ashamed to say that this build moved me to tears, so much so, that I went back and revisited it today, with fellow survivor Josh1 Hawker.

The Snowglobe at night

Inside the globe, the snowflake tour took me on a journey through diagnosis and treatment of cancer, from the darkest winter to the radiance of the rainbow at the journey end

Making snow angels after coming out into the light

You are not alone - this display is about the importance of support and links to the American Cancer Society island in Second Life

(If you visit this build please remember to turn your sound on.)

BOSL Relay Team

Next I visited the BOSL Relay Team's campsite, where earlier in the day I had watched Frolic Mills, BOSL magazine proprietor, building a display about International Relay against a breathtaking backdrop of rising flamingos.

Watching Frolic putting the finishing touches to the international build, along with Kayleigh McMillan who is the Co-Chair for International Relations

The rising flamingos at the BOSL campsite, with in the foreground, the display of international relay information

This is one theme that is dear to my heart as I live in England (well, half of the time) and will be taking part in my local Relay For Life, organized by Cancer Research UK - one of the partner organizations of the American Cancer Society - in two weeks. The build reminds us that Relay For Life is licenced to 20 organizations outside the United States, and that part of the proceeds from Relay For Life go to support international activities.

The BOSL campsite also displayed the foreign language kiosks built by the International Relations committee and 'ambassadors'

Relay Rockers

The Relay Rockers have come up trumps with a charming neighbourhood where you can trick-or-treat at each door and receive a notecard with an American Cancer Society mission information statement, and a gift. Just step on the Welcome mat ...

The Relay Rockers trick-or-treat neighbourhood in RFL Screening

This hobo bicycle is just one of the charming trick-or-treat gifts I was given when I toured the neighbourhood. The Welcome mat gave me a message about the ACS Road to Recovery program with a url and phone number.

If you go further on into the campsite you'll find a memorial grove, where you can light a candle to a loved one, and a spooky haunted house filled with ghosts, all with something to say. If you dare go into the house you may be lucky and find a surprise on the top floor. I found the house itself tricky to navigate but the build itself is suitably spooky. (That reminds me, I must go back and find that elusive surprise.) *[Added 7/18 I went back and found my surprise box! Thank you!]

The Relay Rockers haunted house

The mission information on this campsite has been meticulously put together and there are plenty of references to the American Cancer Society website and activities. Proficiat!

New Babbage RFL

The notecard for the New Babbage Hope Factory reads: 'It has come to New Babbage's attention that the most important ingredient for those successfully battling cancer is Hope. Therefore, in true New Babbage fashion, we need to manufacture it. A LOT of it. And since the highest quality hope comes from adversity, we have decided to establish our workshop in the most inhospitable location we could find: the Land of Permanent Winter. Because Cancer Never Sleeps Our New Babbage Hope Factory Never
Stops.'

The build centers around a long assembly line which is shielded from the elements with a glass-and-metal greenhouse, with power and heat and living accomodations for the workers. Each stage is dominated by a machine that improves the product as it moves along the line.

So what does Hope look like? Visit the build and find out, and meet the Merryman Union Workers (named after former community member Greg Merryman who the team lost last year at the start of Relay).

Inspired Dreamwalkers

The first thing you see as you enter the Inspired Dreamwalkers campsite is this cheeky bear running around.

The campsite illustrates the Seasons of Life.It is divided into the four seasons, each of which also represents the seasons of our lives.

In each section there is a book, mentioning the common cancers during that phase of life and how they can, sometimes, be prevented. Clicking on each book gives out a notecard with more information.

I wish I had the time to write about more of the builds. Here are the others that I visited and which ALL do credit to their teams and builders: Dream to Live; NY Healthscape; Ravenwood Animal Ranch; Team London; Eternal Beacon; Steelhead Salmons; Roma Pro Vita; Sail For Life; Purple Tears; Lanterns For Life; and Radicals For Life.

... and we're off!

2011-07-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Breezy Carver for this snapshot of the Relay track map during the Survivor and Caregiver lap

Poppy Zabelin writes:

And we're off! This is my fifth Relay For Life in Second Life and every bit as moving as the first. A few hours ago I walked the survivor and caregiver lap, or 'Honor Hour' as it is now called. I have met so many new people and shared stories with survivors and caregivers.

This is a relay of HOPE. I'm told that the survivors who registered this year have 805 survival years between them. An awesome number.

My thanks to Cinders Vale and Pro Recreant the Survivor/Caregiver Committee Chair and Co-Chair!

Why I Relay ~ Akasha Divisadero

2011-07-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

I Relay because

"I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again." ~ William Penn

I Relay for HOPE

"Hope is that thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops... at all." ~ Emily Dickinson

I Relay for SL's Cancer Caregivers & Survivors

"The strongest oak of the forest is not the one that is protected from the storm and hidden from the sun. It's the one that stands in the open where it is compelled to struggle for its existence against the winds and rains and the scorching sun." ~ Napoleon Hill

I Relay in Memory of

~ Artistic Fimicoloud ~ ~ Chablis Crabgrass ~ ~ Jeffry Pastorelli ~ ~ Sandy Clymer ~ ~ Wiccan Sojourner ~

To SL's Cancer Cargivers: Anne Daumig, Ariradel Bowenford, CallieDel Boa, HisSheep Abrahams and Sharon Yorkiv

My deepest sympathies go out to all of these women who have lost loved ones in the last few months. It has been an honor and privilege serving as your Caregiver Moderator. During the last few months all of you have shared your trials and tribulations, with so many different emotions. I have learned so much from each of you so full of courage and strength. You all have made a profound impact in my life and it will live with me forever!!!

HOPE FOR A CURE...GOOOOOO RELAY FOR LIFE!!!

Akasha Divisadero
Lead Moderator, SL's Cancer Caregivers

Why I Relay ~ Poppy Zabelin

2011-07-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

Why I Relay – by Poppy Zabelin

Nearly thirty years ago I was a young mother with a one-year-old son sitting in a doctor’s office when I heard those words "you have cancer" - a recurrence of the thyroid cancer I'd had in my teens.

A few days later a colleague came back from a visit to a local research hospital and told me that the walls were covered with posters for a fund-raising event. His words gave me hope. The posters read "40% of cancers are curable... now we need to cure the other 60%".

He hugged me, and told me he was sure I was in that first 40% ...

… and, I was. My type of thyroid cancer has a cure rate of over 90% even if it recurs and gets into the lymph nodes like mine. I still need medication and I will need regular checkups for the rest of my life but I will die WITH it, not OF it.

According to American Cancer Society sources, one in three people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, but more than half of those diagnosed today will_die_of _something_else.

So we've made progress. But not nearly enough.

We have a long way to go before there is a cure, and an even longer way to go before we can prevent it entirely.

In the meantime we still need to support those who, after hearing those words “you have cancer”, have to go through often distressing, disfiguring, and debilitating treatment, and the anxiety of waiting to learn whether the treatment has worked, punctuated by stress, uncertainty, depression and loss of control.

And that's Why I Relay.

The American Cancer Society and its partner organizations around the world play a crucial role in providing information and support and raising awareness about how to prevent cancer or detect it early on.

I Relay so that everyone who hears those words “You have cancer” can get the information and support they need to help them on their journey and to take important decisions about their treatment.

I Relay so that people who are diagnosed young get the life-long follow-up they need and so that it can be diagnosed and treated in time if it comes back.

And I Relay to help raise awareness so that others are encouraged to live in a way that reduces their chance of cancer or at least to detect it early on.

Poppy Zabelin
Volunteer Support Groups Director
American Cancer Society in Second Life

Why I Relay ~ Aiyana Orchid

2011-07-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

I Relay because I'm 31 years old and have had to fight off this awful disease 2 times.

I Relay because I don't want another 27 year told who has her whole life in front of her and that of her 5 year son come crumbling down.

The moment I heard that I thought for sure it would be the end... It's almost happend...But I am a fighter... and I have a strong will to live. I have great family and friends and an the awesome support of people like you all who help to find a cure for this..

It's about 1:30 my time and I just found out my best friend of 10 years just lost her battle with cancer. How do I feel? I'm beside myself in one count, in the other relieved she isn't suffering anymore and quite fueled to continue helping out with Relay for Life.... We had an agreement her and I...Fight until you can't anymore.. For awhile it seems we were both winning.. I had mine under control, she had hers.. We pretty much held hands and went through all of it together.. It's rare that you find that.... Here I am now in remission and her... she couldn't fight anymore...

So in her words...." Thank you all so very much for all that you do... for those of us that fight and loose this battle we know that you will still be there on the battle lines fighting to end this horrible disease. We will be there with you now and always cheering you on and giving you the extra push you need."....

Hence my reason for fighting no matter how hard the road may or may not get for me... Until my last breath I will contuine to fight so no one has to hear those words.... and if they do they are followed by "we have a cure for that"... these are my reasons for Relaying... What's yours?

Aiyana Orchid

Why I Relay ~ ScrtsSafe Waco

2011-07-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

In 1991 my mother, and 2 of my sisters were hit with the bad news that all 3 had breast cancer.

In 1994 within one week I lost both my sisters to this disease.

My Mom is a survivor because hers was caught early.

Other family members have been lost to cancer including several aunts and uncles and a mother-in-law.

ScrtsSafe Waco

Why I Relay ~ Caramel Luminos

2011-07-12T12:02:00.000-07:00

I Relay for my father, who lost his battle.

I Relay for my RL fiance, who won his battle.

I Relay for those that fight every day.

I Relay for those that cannot relay.

I Relay for the past, present & future.

I Relay until there is a cure.

Caramel Luminos

Why I Relay ~ Tahisha Fairplay

2011-07-11T12:02:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Tahisha Fairplay, an entertainer and performer on Second Life. I joined Second Life in August 29, 2004 and have been helping people on SL for years. I don't know how long that is in cyber time, but it's been a long time. Let me tell you how I got to where I am as a Relay For Life member.

On February 18, 2001 (I believe), the grandmother of a good rl friend died of the aggressive small-cell cancer from smoking. It was in 2008 that I found that Relay For Life had come to SL and saw what they were about. I ought some of the RFL member-made items, which gave them donations that the American Cancer Society uses for tools, supplies, and research against cancer.

In early 2009, I felt the drive and decided to become an RFL volunteer, so I asked an official how to join up and she gave me the stuff I needed to get started. So that year, I hit the ground running, forming a team and planning events like SL's first-ever Casket Match and the DJ Blast. The Guardians For Life had a big supporting crew backing us up, making our first year our greatest. You'll find out why i say that as you read on.

In late 2009, the tech troubles started. My PC's monitor started blacking out for unknown reasons. The tech troubles continued into 2010, keeping me and a disorganized GFL out of the 2010 RFL season and keeping me off SL.

In early 2010, I created a Facebook account that I was planning on using for RFL purposes, but the issues soon affected my time on the social network site before the PC died in late 2010.

In early 2011, an SL friend hand-built a custom new system, with Windows 7. It wasn't too long after returning to SL that one of the RAM sticks went bad, playing havoc on my preparations for my return to RFL. After finding and removing the bad RAM stick, the primary hard drive died. The same SL friend sent me a new hard drive and there have been no issues since.

I got a late start in 2011, but it takes a lot more than that to stop a dedicated member of the RFL. It's now the night before the GFL's first event of this RFL season, American Decades, the first-ever club event with a storyline. I hope it'll have a great turnout.

I will say that the RFL's start in 2012 will be an early one.

Tahisha Fairplay
Captain
Guardians For Life

Why I Relay ~ Chipmunk Foxtrot

2011-07-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

Cancer is an illness that destroys lives, finances and families. There is so few of my family left because of cancer. My Father was first then Grandmother, Later my mother, 2 uncles, an aunt and one of my favorite cousins all gone from our lives from Cancer in every part of the body imaginable. Some others still live with Cancer and receive maintenance treatment for the rest of their lives. About 20 in all that have had Cancer.

This is my second go round with Cancer myself, first time I was very fortunate and it was caught early enough to be a single surgery, no radiation needed just follow-ups for a few years. This time I am not so fortunate – Will be having a double mastectomy in a few weeks right around relay time. Cancer is in both breasts, one DICS stage one so that should be alright, the other is not so certain the surgery will clear all of the Cancer at least in my mind will depends if it got into the Lymph glands.

The last month waiting for all the tests seams like it has stood still while awaiting my fate while I watch my loved ones and friends wishing to help required to stand by helplessness wanting to desperately do something but there is nothing they can do but be there for us. Yes us, I am the caregiver for a terminally ill kidney/COPD/diabetic husband.

I think the biggest reason I Relay is that Cancer is something that brings everyone to their knees because they are unable to take control and help yourselves or someone you care about.

Chipmunk Foxtrot

Why I Relay ~ Trader Whiplash

2011-07-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

Like all too many I have heard the words "You Have Cancer"

I am a survivor of Leukemia and have just recently celebrated 4 years in remission.

I Relay for many people and many reasons. I have met many people in both lives who have been touched by the diseases we call cancer. I have cried many many tears for freinds, family and total strangers. I have heard the stories of Hope and Grief. I Relay for each of those and for all of those I have not yet heard.

I Relay for my friend Matt's 2 year old sonZander who at this time last year was fighting for his young life at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Because we Relay Matt and his Family were able to rely on the American Cancer Society's Hope Lodge during that terrlible time.

I Relay for my friend Laura. In 2000 she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought Bravely for more than 2 years until her cancer took her life.

I Relay for my Father In Law who fought colon cancer and lost and for my Step Father who succumbed to abdominal cancer.

I Relay for my children and for all of our young generation. I pray that they will never hear the words you have cancer, but they have been touched by cancer already, losing their grandfathers and supporting me through my journey.

I Relay for each and every candle around the track, I relay for every survivor, for every caregiver and for everyone who is fighting for a cure to Cancer.

I am Trader and I am proud to say I RELAY FOR LIFE

Amaretto releases limited edition RFL horses!

2011-07-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

These amazingly cute horses were released by Amaretto Ranch Breedables on Wednesday and have already raised nearly US$50,000 for Relay For Life of Second Life!

There are four limited edition Relay For Life horses, one for each of the four 'Seasons of Hope'.

The horses are available at all of the Amaretto stores in Second Life until the end of the Relay For Life track event on July 17 at 10am SL time. There will also be random vendors at the Relay Track stations during the track event itself.

Amaretto Breedables is sponsoring a themed lap during Relay at 4-5pm SL time on Saturday, July 16. You can ride any horse or wear a horse avatar. If you want to ride a 'Seasons of Hope' horse hurry and get it today and birth it immediately as it will need seven days from birthing to mature sufficiently for you to ride.

Why I Relay ~ Aryon Dagger

2011-07-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

I Relay to celebrate survival. In this, my 10th year cancer free I have been given a new role.

I Relay as a survivor and a caregiver and I no longer wonder "why me?".

I Relay in hope that one day there will be a cure and we won't have to relay any more.

I Relay because I can, for those who cannot.

Relay should not be a time of sadness. It should be a celebration of life, even if we are relaying for someone who is no longer with us. Relay is about a spirit shared by many. It is about hope, for ALL seasons.

"Just when you think all your strength is gone, hope comes along and kicks your butt to remind you that it isn't."

Aryon Dagger

New record!!!

2011-07-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

Woot! This notice has just been posted to the Volunteers group:

Stingray9798 Raymaker writes:

Congratulations Volunteers!! As of today, you have set a new Relay For Life of Second Life record, raising more money than any virtual Relay event in history! And we still have a week until the event!

Thank you all for your dedication. This is a special year and you are all special people for donating your time, skills, and money to something so important.

The money raised will make a huge impact in the fight against cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services.

Stingray9798 Raymaker a.k.a. Jeff Montegut

The counter is now at US$274,118 or over 57 million Lindens. Watch it grow on the official Relay For Life of Second Life website.

Why I Relay ~ JaNa KYoMooN

2011-07-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

I Relay for life for the people I have known who taught me so much whose memory shines on in the light of the candles and ribbons we wear as we relay for life. Each step that we take reminds us of days that were shared hours that were talked miles that were walked in hopes and dreams I Relay

We Relay for life for you

JaNa KYoMooN

Telethon update

2011-07-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

You may have read the Treet TV announcement that, due to real life issues, Treet is cancelling all live video production indefinitely.

You can read the full details on the PrimPerfect blog.

The announcement came as we were in the midst of working with Treet TV to plan the telethon coverage of the Relay track event on July 16-17. Saffia Widdershins of Primperfect told us that she hopes these changes will not affect the telethon which has been a successful part of the track event for the last two years. According to her blog, the telethon will go ahead, coordinated by Mal Burns at Metaworld Broadcasting with input from Treet and other stations as well.

The Relay For Life of Second Life PR team is working closely with Saffia and the Treet team to make this happen.

Our best wishes to everyone who has been involved with Treet TV which has produced such creative and professional coverage of Second Life activities.

MamaP's management style

2011-07-06T15:35:00.000-07:00

A picture is worth a thousand words ...

Go RELAAAAAAAAAY!

Why I Relay ~ Vickie A. Maidstone

2011-07-06T12:02:00.000-07:00

I Relay because I care,

I Relay for my family,

I Relay for my friends,

I Relay for hope that one day soon we'll hear those words we so long for, "We found a cure",

I Relay in hopes that it will be very soon, not later.

Vickie A. Maidstone

Why I Relay ~ Jennifer Curtau

2011-07-05T00:02:00.000-07:00

Why do I Relay?

Well I Relay for several reasons.

Second Life brings so many people together, from so many places, into a very special family, and a very unique community. And throughout my journey through this magical land call "Second Life", I have discovered the power of HOPE this land brings, to so many people in their real lives. It certainly has given me a new lease in mine.

I Relay because I am a "Caregiver" in both my real life and in Second Life, countless times over, and it pisses me off. I don't like having this role trusted upon me. I saw how cancer took a vibrant young person of 17 years of age, and in a courageous 5 years struggle, took her from us. And so I fight for everyone taken from me. I Relay for Carla, Tim, Pauline, Roger, Peter, Jason, Ed and Christy.

I Relay in Second Life, because of Real Life issues that until now have been a hindrance in me taking part in Relay in the real world. RFL of SL gives me the ability, to contribute my desires for a world without cancer; with just the keyboard as my weapon to fight this historic battle.

I Relay to be part of something larger than I. Something that brings people together from all walks of life for a common goal, something that can make a real difference in the world. I have met SO MANY wonderful people from counties and cultures from around the world, I've truly lost count. But one thing I have not lost, we all share the same fears and worries, desires and aspirations for life, and that alone, fires my soul to Relay.

The most compelling reason for me to Relay is, because I can. I was my choice to take up arms in this, so I can CELEBRATE the lives that crossed my path of life, and when I REMEMBER my journey through life, I can take pride in that I choosed to FIGHT BACK.

Jennifer Curtau

Why I Relay ~ Rendal Constantineau

2011-07-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

My name is Rendal Constantineau, and I relay for life.

I relay for my Grandfather, lost to Cancer when I was 8,

I relay for my Father, lost to Cancer five years ago,

I relay for the friends and loved ones that have been lost, and for those that are in the midst of their battle now,

I relay for the children who fight this battle, and the parents that stand by helplessly watching and praying, wishing they could make their child well with a kiss,

I relay for the children who must watch, scared and confused, as their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other loved ones fight this dreaded battle,

I relay for hope,

I relay to celebrate,

I relay to remember,

and I relay to fight back!

Rendal Constantineau

Why I Relay ~ Tee Auster

2011-07-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

First of all, my Mother died of ovarian cancer. It came out of nowhere. In addition to the cancer she died in surgery of a heart attack and stroke. She was my best friend and it was the hardest lost I’ve ever taken.

I am in a leadership position in Education. What is one of the first things a person does when they or their family member has a life threatening diagnosis? They go and tell their boss. I can tell the the look. I have closed my door and cried endless tears with colleagues I know very well or hardly know at all. I have lived and am living through the disease with those in my organization….and every time it goes back to the feelings I experienced with the loss of my mother.

You need to know, not everyone can do this work. Yes, it is a celebration of life, survivors and caregivers but for many involved in the process for themselves or others, it is too new, too fresh. This is the compassionate aspect of the work that we do in SL and in RL. Be mindful of this.

Last Spring, I lost my adopted father to lung cancer on my RL Birthday. Once again it came out nowhere. It was so hard on my family…too new, too fresh. The one year anniversary will be on Easter this year and it will be bittersweet.

For me Relay For Life is a practice of compassion in action. I am very proud to be on the Harmony of Hope Team, the greatest team in SL!!!! This year I am also a Co Captain in RL. Go Relay!!!! Go Harmony of Hope!!! We can make a difference!!!

Tee Auster

Why I Relay ~ Francesca Alva

2011-07-02T12:02:00.000-07:00

Cancer was something that had never really impinged upon my life. Of course I knew people who knew people, etc, but it had not affected me personally. Then suddenly, as if it had been saving itself up it came into my life with the force of a dam bursting.

In 1992 my cousin was diagnosed (wrongly as it turned out), but his heart was so weak it gave out under the shock and strain.

In 1994 my dear aunt died of stomach cancer.

In 2001 my ex, to whom I am still close, was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but thankfully survived.

In 2004 a close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thankfully she survived.

In 2005 I lost two more cousins to oesophagal and pacreatic cancer. They were brothers and died within a month of each other.

In 2007 I lost a close friend to throat cancer and another friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thankfully she, too, survived.

I have just learned that another close friend has lymphoma. He is awaiting a bone marrow transplant, but all that will do is buy him time. He's 39 and is unlikely to reach his fifties.

Hardest of all to bear has been the loss of my dear SL friend, loracenaj Ogg. She was diagnosed with lung cancer in May 2010 (two weeks after her cousin died of cancer), but there was nothing they could do for her except palliative care. She died on 18 September 2010. It seemed particularly cruel because her husband had just received the all-clear after a year of gruelling treatment for his rectal cancer. He is devastated. Our friendship had carried over into real life; I feel I have lost her twice over.

It is this, above all that makes me determined to do whatever I can to fight this disease. I can't relay in real life because of mobility problems, but in SL I can run with the best of them.
Thank you for reading this.

Francesca Alva

Who do YOU Relay for?

2011-07-02T04:36:00.000-07:00

MamaP Beerbaum writes:

To my fellow Relayers,

I hope you are all getting as excited as I am as we draw closer to our Relay For Life of SL 2011 weekend.

The Luminary Ceremony this year will be on July 16 during the Relay For Life of Second Life track event at 9pm SL time, during the 'Remember' part of the ceremony. For one hour, names of those we love that have survived, or passed away from, cancer, will be read.

Who do YOU Relay for? If you wish to have the name of a loved one honored by having their name read, please follow this link and complete the form.

For me this is the most touching part of Relay. To hear each name read outloud, and know they represent the many that have been lost to, that are fighting, or that have survived this horrible disease. Putting names to the people you Relay for!

MamaP Beerbaum
Relay For Life 2011 Chair

Why I Relay ~ Kisskiss Zemlja

2011-07-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

I lose a grandfather by stomach cancer.

I hope that people do not have to be afraid of "a risk to become the cancer".

And, I live in Japan.

The people in SL gave a hand of the help and a gentle message for a Japanese earthquake.

Thank you all.

As for me, English is not a native language.

When there was a mistake. I'm sorry for my strange English.

Kisskiss Zemlja

Why I Relay ~ Random Padar

2011-06-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

I am a fortunate one.

I do not have cancer in my family history.

My parents nor siblings have died from cancer.

I do however have a close friend that passed from breast cancer, but she lived many miles away from me, and I didn't have to see her fight for her life.

My second year in SL I fell in love with a man who was a caregiver for his mother. I was introduced to RFL and decided this is the one thing I can DO to support him and his mother.

My very first year of Relay left a huge impression on me. The testimonies of those fighting this terrible disease, the passion to find a cure, the emotional stories of survival and loss has made me even more determined to fight this battle along side my partner and friends.

This is my 4th year Relaying in SL. My 3rd year as captain of Harmony of Hope. I will continue to work and do the best I can to help bring an end to this cancer.

Random Padar

Why I Relay ~ Insence Blessed

2011-06-29T12:02:00.000-07:00

Last year I found out about RFL, I worked part time at a dance club here in SL and desided after a RFL event to keep it going, I rezzed a cage around myself and would not come out until i reached 5K, which I did in 3.5 hours.

This year, I relay for another reason...I relay for HOPE. I found out in late December I have Hodgkin's Lymphoma, I try not to let it bring me down, although at times those weepy emotions creep in,

I try to keep a good outlook on things even when some days I struggle to get out of bed, I keep laughter in my life, it helps alot, and I have a wonderful support team of friends here in SL, So I just ask everyone to Please show support to all who fight the everyday battle of cancer, as we support one another...HOPE...it goes a long way.

Please attend any RFL event you come across, every little bit helps, every little bit gives us HOPE.

God Bless the Care Takers and Support Teams, we love you ALL.

Insence Blessed

Vote to win Five Thousand US Dollars for our Relay!

2011-06-28T12:30:00.000-07:00

Tayzia Abattoir has entered Relay For Life of Second Life in a contest to win an extra US$5,000! She has produced a video that you view and vote on by visiting www.purpleglovedance.com.

Tayzia says: 'It is important that you ALL vote, and vote EVERY SINGLE DAY through July! The video will win by the most votes gathered and some of the RL videos on the site have been up and receiving votes since February. Lets show them we can get more votes then they can!'

Voting is open to anyone with a Facebook account. To vote, click here.

Why I Relay ~ Lihan Taifun

2011-06-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

I Relay Because I SURVIVED due to recent research.

Ten years ago, HER2-type breast cancer was "very bad news."

Thanks to recently developed treatments, the survival rate is now very good, and I am here to prove it.

Let's fund more research, and develop effective treatments for every type of cancer.

MY HUSBAND SURVIVED TOO.

My husband's prostate cancer was detected early, by blood test screening, while it was still easy to treat, and the less-damaging surgery was still an option.
Let's develop simple and affordable routine screening tests for more common cancers.

Meanwhile,

Women, get your mammograms and pap smears.

Men, get your prostate tests.

It's worth it.

Lihan Taifun

Why I Relay ~ Sean Qendra

2011-06-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

There is that moment when the doctor comes in and sits down and faces you, takes a deep breath, and then asks: “are you ready to know everything now or would you like a moment? Would you like to have someone else here?” And you know the news isn’t going to be good and you feel a heavy weight at the bottom of your stomach and every hair on your body is on end.
And he says “We found a mass and it’s probably cancer…”
And even though he is talking to the woman you have loved for over 30 years, his words are striking you just as violently as they have hit her and all the strength in your body and soul cannot defend her from the blows…
I relay so no husband need sit through this again.

Sean Qendra

Why I Relay ~ Nevar Lobo

2011-06-26T12:02:00.000-07:00

Over the past few years my reasons for why I Relay have changed some. I used to say I relay for this person and I relay for that person.

I have realized this year its much more then a person that brings me back to Relay for Life. Its a whole lot of people.

Its moms and dads, brothers and sisters, friends and families and those I have never even met yet . I relay for those who don't know what Relay is so that I might one day be there for them to learn from.

Most important I Relay for life .. because someday I know that we as a community of passionate people will stand up in one voice and win this battle.

One step on the track at a time we walk. And that is why I Relay.

Nevar Lobo

Why I Relay ~ Ariel Goldrozen

2011-06-24T18:05:00.001-07:00

Why do I Relay??

I Relay in support of my mom, my best friend's dad, and far too many people who are currently fighting this batle.

I Relay in memory of my aunt, my parent's best friend, a wonderfully, sweet co-worker, and far, far too many people who have lost their battle far too soon in their lives.

I Relay so no one will ever have to Relay in Memory or in Honor of another person!!

GO RELAY!!!

Ariel Goldrozen

Why I Relay ~ Tari Landar

2011-06-24T18:01:00.000-07:00

The main reasons I Relay

I Relay so my children someday, won't have to. In my honor, in their honor, or in honor of anyone else.

I Relay so that others around me will know that RFL of SL exists and it's not about being the biggest and the best. It's not about just the money, but about the awareness with brings with it rewards unimaginable.

My biggest drive for relaying at all this year despite what my brain tells me, is so that NO ONE ever has to feel alone, no matter where they stand on their journey. Be it survivor, caregiver, family, friend or maybe someone who hasn't yet been touched by cancer's cold finger... no one should ever feel alone. Someone on a big team, a small team, or no team at all... they all matter the same. I want to be the one to tell them so!

I know the feeling of being alone, we all do. I know the harsh words people share when they think you aren't listening. I know the wounds that never heal because of simple words that shouldn't have hurt in the first place. I also know what it's like to have someone there, always, no matter what, day or night. No problem too big, or too small, never willing to utter I told you so, or you deserved it. A kind shoulder can stay the fiercest dragons. I plan to be the kind shoulder this year and rely on no other. I plan to put forth all that I've learned to help others the best way I know how. And I plan on doing most of that with my strongest of assets... my voice. This being my last year for RFL of SL.... I will go out with a bang... :) And I won't take no for an answer!

Tari Landar

Join us at SL8B!

2011-06-18T03:03:00.000-07:00

It's magic! A sneak preview of the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life build at SL8B

The American Cancer Society has a presence at Second Life's eighth birthday! And everyone is invited!

The theme of SL8B is 'The Magic of Second Life'. The American Cancer Society has an informative and beautiful display to promote its activities within Second Life with a focus on the annual Relay For Life of Second Life.

Bailey Dazy (2011 Relay For Life Special Events lead) and her team have created a magical display that reflects the 'Seasons of Hope' theme of this year's Relay. The build displays a changing of the seasons (winter to spring, spring to summer, summer to fall, and fall back to winter).

The display also includes information about the year-round educational and support activities of the American Cancer Society in Second Life, including the support group meetings for cancer survivors and caregivers that take place at Hope Haven on the ACS sim, the annual 'Makeover Magic' fashion show, and the ACS memorial garden where people can set up memorials to their loved ones.

This year's 'Seasons of Hope' theme is the inspiration for the SL8B build.

SL8B opens Monday, June 20 and runs to Saturday, July 2. Music from T1 Radio, the official Relay For Life radio station, will be streamed onto the campsite-sized display.

SL8B photos by Bianca Bender

Co-Chairs Challenge #3

2011-06-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

Dwen Dooley writes:

2011 Co-Chairs Challenge #3... The NEW KIOSK Challenge

The third, and almost certainly last, Co-Chair's challenge of 2011 will be the New Kiosk Challenge!

The rules are as such:

Collect 10 donations in each of 7 new kiosks.
Kiosks must be rezzed AFTER I say "Go" in team captains chat, which will occurr on Tuesday, June 14th, at approximately 6 AM SLT.
The minimum donation is L$1. The idea is to get new people in, not go broke. Names are not being checked, it's on the honor system that you don't yourself just pay 70 times. (ick!)
Do not replace existing kiosks... rez entirely new ones and find a way to bring people to them.
Don't take down existing kiosks to compensate. :-)

DO NOT TAKE/DELETE/RETURN the new kiosk until after the challenge has been scored. The scoring only applies to active kiosks, so removing one (even if it had 10+ donations in it) disqualifies that kiosk!!!

The scoring page will show you the last 4 digits of the kiosks UUID. You can see the UUID on the URL you are given when you click on a kiosk and then "Verify". This protects the priivacy of both the kiosk-rezzer and the sim name.

The challenge will run for 1 week at which time the scoring page will be taken down.

The scoring page will be visible from the totals page or http://bit.ly/iDbSCs is a shortcut.

The AWARD:

All teams completing the challenge will receive 1 No-copy, no-mod, official, working, temporary, special edition Relay For Life 2011 Kiosk to proudly display at team events, venues, and, of course, their RFL campsite. This kiosk will have been modified by MamaP Beerbaum to reflect the team's awesomeness at completing the Co-Chair's Challenge #3.

The idea is to bring in people who've never Relayed before where possible!

This is to be a friendly competition, as always! One Team!

Dwen

Calling all survivors and caregivers

2011-06-13T02:41:00.001-07:00

Relay weekend is nearly upon us!

The main Relay For Life of Second Life event starts on July 16 with the Opening Ceremony at 10 AM SLT immediately followed at around 11am by a joint Survivor AND Caregiver "HONOR TIME". Yes! By popular demand, the survivors and caregivers will walk the track together!

A view of the 2010 Survivor hour (photo by Breezy Carver)

If you are survivor or a caregiver and wish to take part, please register! Just click on this link which will take you directly to the registration page.

We define a survivor as "Anyone who has, in Real Life, heard the words, 'You have cancer'".

We define a caregiver as "Anyone who has cared for a survivor as defined above".

The Relay track this year will cover 36 sims. It is usually not practical to complete an entire lap in the alloted time, due to size, sim lag, client computer speed, and variable traffic. But remember there are a whole 24 hours to see and explore all of the amazing sims!

If you have any questions, please contact Pro Recreant (Survivor/Caregiver Registration) or Cinders Vale (Lead, RFL of SL Survivor/Caregiver Committee).

BACK TO THE 50s WEEKEND!

2011-06-08T19:50:00.001-07:00

5th Annual
BACK TO THE 50s WEEKEND!
Relay for Life of Second Life Multi-Team Event
June 10th-12th, 2011

Nikki Mathieson & Shayla Juran write:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THANK YOU TO OUR SIM SPONSOR: RUN AROUND SUE'S!!!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thank you to Drive In sponsor Nexxus and Carnival Sponsor Lil' Sugar Shack!

Get out those poodle skirts, bobby socks and saddle shoes or the leather jackets, cuffed jeans and don those ducktails, we're headed back to the 50's! It's time for the 5th Annual Back to the 50's Weekend for Relay for Life! It's all happening June 10th, 11th and 12th, 2011.

The weekend begins with a Sock Hop and a Skating Party with some of SL's excellent DJs. on June 10th, from 6-8 PM.

Saturday will see festivities all day long. The carnival opens at 9 am. Carnival rides, game booths, the mechanical bull (with a FABULOUS grand prize); kissing booth; Dunk Tank; carnival clowns and watch out for the Police who will be slamming all hooligans straight in the slammer. Send out a warrant and have them arrested Yep,they'll have to bail their way out. The Classic Car Contest returns on Friday night, where you can vote over and over again for your favorites. Be sure and visit the Labyrinth, too.. who knows the fun twists and turns that could take? Saturday will end with another Sock Hop and Skating Party.

Be sure and shop our town shoppes and look for the special things selling especially for RFL, by some our RFL teams!

The fun continues all day Sunday, the 12th and ends with skating party at 6pm or a double feature at the drive-in movie theater from 6-9pm SLT.

It's a jam-packed oldie, but goodie weekend.. and it's all for Relay for Life!

Be There or Be Square!

Schedule of Team Events

Friday, June 10, 2011

Sock Hop
6pm-8pm SLT
Team: RFL Harmony of Hope
with DJ Mordred Lectar

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Sock Hop
6pm-8pm
Team: Relay for Hope
with DJ bball Braveheart

Skating Party
6-8pm SLT
Team: Breeders Hope for Cure
with DJ Ronson Drucker

Dunk Tank
10am-3pm SLT
Team: Circle of Life

Dunk Tank
3pm-8pm SLT
Team: Dominion RFL of SL

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Dunk Tank
10am-5pm SLT

Shayla Juran spins the 50;s
Live at the carnival
2pm-4pm

Skating Party
6-8pm SLT
Team: Heros for Life
with DJ NightWalker Galaxy

Sunday Night at the Drive-In
6pm-9pm SLT
Team: Passionate Redheads
Movies: Blue Hawaii & Viva Las Vegas

Events Covering All Three Days

Kissing Booth
Team: Marga-Relay-Ville Team

Raffle
Team: Aether Chrononauts

Classic Car Contest & Raffle
Team: Radicals for Life

Town Shoppes

Children's Light
Remembering Our Friends Memorial Angels
Friends Fighting Cancer
Dandelions-N-Mudpuddles
Rays of Hope

http://slurl.com/secondlife/RFL%2050s%20Weekend/209/93/22

Back to the 50s Invitation

2011-06-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

Nikki Mathieson & Shayla Juran write:

5th Annual Back to the 50s Weekend Invitation to
Relay For Life of SecondLife teams!

June 10-12, 2011

Dear Team Captains:

This is the 5th Anniversary of our Back to the 50s Weekend and since it's a general fund event, we decided to invite you to participate and help us make it a multi-team event.

Please choose how you would like your team to participate from the options below. List your 1st , 2nd and 3rd choice on a notecard along with your name and team name. name the notecard Back to the 50s Booth - your name and drop it into the profile of Shayla Juran.. NO LATER THAN Monday, June 6th. so that we can plan accordingly. Teams will enter the sim on the morning of June 9th to rez kiosks/vendors,etc. If you have any questions, please contact Shayla Juran.

Each team is invited to choose ONE option from the options available, as described below:

1) plan, set up, staff one Carnival Style Booth. The tent will be provided for the team and will include a single prim sign. The tent will be empty inside and the team has 35 prims available to set up any carnival style booth and include their own teams kiosk or vendors.

2) Set up a small shop in the Town Square, selling items for Relay and setting up your own kiosk/vendor. Prim allottment 40. Shops are limited and on a first come, first served basis.. by reservation.

3) Reserve the Skating Rink to hold your own 50s style roller skate party. Skate parties are available for Saturday afternoon or Sunday afternoon for a 3 hour party. 30 prims are available for kiosks/vendors to be rezzed in the skate rink. These will need to be picked up after the party ends, so the next reservee can rezz theirs.

4) Reserve the sockhop building for to host the Saturday night Sock Hop. Two or more teams could even join up for this and have so much fun. At the hop will need a dj, maybe some fun giveaways and whatever you come up with . The team can rez a kiosk/vendor and choose to charge a nominal entry fee to the Hop. Other decor is provided and the sockhop will be completely decked out and ready to go, making it turn-key easy for the team who chooses this option. Sockhop Saturday night would run from 6 to 8 pm SLT. An addtiional 50 prims is allotted for this team(s) use.

5) Sunday night at the Drive-In. Choose the movie.. staff the snackbar.. Staff the drive in to run the show. Staying with the 50s theme and a PGish rating is required for the movie choice(s). Suggestions: Grease, American Grafitti, Pleasantville type movies, etc. Team may rez kiosk to charge an nominal entry fee to the drivein. Complete Drive In set up will be provided, excluding movies and projector. This team will be mentioned on the theater marquee, as well as the drive in sponsor. Additional prims for team use: 40

6) Raffle Booth. Round up prizes and man the raffle booth. Sell entries, announce ticket sales and the raffle winners.. in your loudest carnie sounding voice.. it's a carnival raffle and we'll need LOTS of winners! Tent provided. RFL raffle ball and team kiosk may be placed by team who has reserved this booth. Additional prims for team use: 25

7) Bart the Bullride - Round up prizes to award the bullride winners. Bart the bull will be stationed at the carnival grounds and the team who reserves this ride, just needs to round up some fabulous prizes to give the winners, rez a kiosk, make a sign or two and promote their ride. All proceeds earned from this ride will go to the team's kiosk. All decor is provided.. Additional prims for team use: 20

8) Kissing Booth - Do you dare reserve this one? Booth and (pg) kiss balls provided. I kissed for a cause t-shirts also provided to give to all the Relay kisers. Team who reserves this needs to staff the booth, round up the kissers and all proceeds go to their team kiosk. Additional prims for team use: 10

9) Dunk Tank - Tank and everything provided. The team only needs to rez a kiosk , staff the tank and round up the dunking victims. A schedule of dunk tank participants will be required to man this booth, as we want this to be in constant operation during the daylight hours of the festival. All proceeds go to the team kiosk. Additional prims for team use: 10

10) Tombola Game - a game of chance the team who reserves this will gather prizes for players to win. . from small to large prizes. players pay a fee (determined by the team) and get a random prize, of course hoping for that large prize.. so they'll play again and again. Set up provided. Team needs to provide prizes and a kiosk. Additional prims for team use: 10

11) The Dating Game - yep, the popular tv game show can return to Back to the 50s Weekend if a team wants to take it on. We have the set.. the rest is up to you. You'll need the prize package for contestants.. You'll need the contestants, the host and a team kiosk. The dating game would take place in the afternoon on Saturday and/or Sunday. Additional prims for team use: 30.

12.) Classic Car Contest - we've got the set.. you bring the cars and the voting (team) vendors. Visitors vote for their favorite car by paying the vendor beside it. This is always a popular event and all proceeds will go to the teams kiosk. Additional prims for team use: 250

13.) Game booth at random. We have a variety of carnival booths available including the lucky ducks, fortune teller, balloon pop, balloon giver, snack bars, bumper cars, and more. You can choose to reserve one of these and one will be allocated randomly. First come, first served.. and the booth the team is randomly assigned is non-negotiable. Tent and game provided. Team will provide random prizes for winners (large or small) and rez a kiosk to collect the booth proceeds. Additional prims for team use: 10.

For additional questions, IM Shayla Juran.

We hope you decide to join us as we step back in time to a full sim of the FABULOUS 50s!

Sincerely,

Nikki Mathieson and Shayla Juran

Multi-Team Event

2011-05-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

Tari Landar writes:

YAY, it's time for another Multi-Team event.

This event will take place the week of June 5th(start)-June 8th(cleanup).

This one is a very special event, for builders and non-builders alike.

For this event, we're going to test your creativity. On the day of the event you will be given a supply package. It's VERY important that you sign up before the event, so that I can get your package to you. The packages will not be handed out until the day the event starts.(June 5th).

These are the *only* supplies you will be permitted to use for this event, hehe. Inside the package will also be the LM to the event, the main area. When you get there you will choose a platform and rez a kiosk out for your team. Individuals are encouraged to join this event as well. However we ask that only one kiosk per team be rezzed. If you are building as an individual and not a team, please collect funds for the general fund and not any specific team. (this keeps things fair for all). The kiosks will be used for "voting".

You will have 3 days to build a masterpiece with your supplies. All rules will be included in your package, so you'll need to read them before you begin.

This will be a very low key event. We know June can be a hectic month. No worries about having to be there for any special music events or anything. Just a great way to come together and have some creative fun. But I do have very special awards for all participants. I can't wait to see the fantastic builds.

If you are interested in this event please fill out a note card and send it back to me Tari Landar. I will need the cards turned in by June 3rd at the latest. This will help ensure we've got prims and space for everyone. Please make sure that only ONE card per team is sent back. You can have as many builders as you'd like, but you'll only have one spot to build on. This will ensure you get your package and if we need to make any last minute changes to setup we can do so quickly.

Required Note Card Detail:

Name : (This is the person who will get the supplies. So if you're building as a team you may want to designate a head builder)

Team or Individual?: (if team put team name here)

Team only-Back up Head Builder: (In the event that the head builder loses the package or cannot be on, we'll need a backup to send a package to)

Additional Builders: (If you are on a team and know the names of those who will be building, please put them here as well)

Thanks so much, looking forward to this event :)

Tari Landar

Million Dollar celebration

2011-05-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

Halfway There Award Ceremonies

and the Million Dollar hour

Well here we are, at the halfway point of the Relay For Life of Second Life's Season of Hope 2011 fundraising season, and my first Relay For Life. Where do I begin?

This first half of the Season has been an incredible experience for me, meeting so many wonderful people, all doing amazing work, and the level of generosity and compassion I've seen, is truly inspirational.

Trader Whiplash of T1 Radio was warming up the gathering crowd, before the Ribbon Ceremonies started. The ceremonies started with APinkSwan Beauchamp listing the many teams receiving ribbons, and yes it's a long list, and in my humbled opinion, a list of hard working people's hopes for a better future. A future where the words "You have Cancer" has been transformed to "We can cure that!"

But the evening didn't stop there. After the presentation, several veterans of the RFL of SL, took to the stage, shared of their experience and moments that lead to this benchmark moment. People like Nuala Maracas, Trader1 Whiplash, RacerX, Sabine McGettigan, Daaneth Kivioq and Fuzzball Ortega. Each one of then talking about how they come to be Relayers, and sharing their "Pivotal moments" in Relay, and of stories of RFLofSL humble beginnings.

The Million dollar hour, which by the way, ran close to two hours, was inter-mixed with songs carefully selected for the evening and hosted by Stingray9798 Raymaker the American Cancer Society representative in SL. He played song like: Queen - We Will Rock You, USA For Africa - We Are The World, Bon Jovi - Raise Your Hands, Celine Dion - At Last, Barenaked Ladies - If I Had a Million Dollars, Whitney Houston - One Moment in Time, Aretha Franklin - Respect, Stray Cats - Rock This Town, Avril Lavigne - Keep holding on, Journey - Don't Stop Believing and Bruce Springsteen - When The Saints Go Marching In

MamaP Beerbaum and Dwen Dooley took to the stage last, and again, each told of their Relay experiences and hopes for the future.

For me it was like getting my batteries recharged, even though, I am fully charged all ready. But the word spoken left me thinking... Thinking of my "pivotal moment" in Relay, and to be truthful, I was lost to define mine. I was introduced to Relay via Pink Charlesworth to the Harmony of Hope team. From the first meeting I was given the opportunity to give of my skills in the form of Online Media Chair, to promote our efforts and hopefully reach a new audience outside of Relay and SL, by using Social Media channels.

In that first week of Relay, I met Poppy Zabelin whom you know as the PR/Marketing Area Chair and we quickly chatted a storm about promoting Relay. I can't remember when exactly when she invited me into the PR/Marketing group, somewhere in that first month, and I was thrilled. I carried on promoting our team, hosting events at several sims I had connection with, and I did well by them. I tweeted and blogged our progress, forged a following online and connected with even more people around the world, all doing what we do, Relaying in their home towns, blogging cancer info online, providing support and wellness, all for one goal.

Fast forward to this weekend and the half way point of Relay For Life of Second Life's Season of Hope 2011, and I find my self as the PR/Marketing Area Co-Chair group and I'm not really sure how to put into words what I feel, and what this means. My feet still haven't touched the ground yet from this new position. I am honored to be given this roll. I do not take it light heatedly. I have lots of energy and ideas I hope to bring forth. It's like my ride through SL has been a predestined for this. From my humbled beginnings in a previous avatar and the discoveries that, that life provided, to the re-emergence of this avatar life, to the experience I've had thus far, to my job hosting parties at a small club, and my endless search for something to belong to.

Today I take pause to reflect on this discovery. I wonder how I can make a career from these skills I did not know I had. I do not know what the future will bring, but if I have my way, it will be a better future, a future without Cancer. A future were children will be children and grow up strong, healthy and innocent. A future were parents will live long happy lives and watch their children grow up, get married and have children of their own. And not a single one of them, will ever know the horrors from the cold touch of this terrible disease.

I know now, were I belong. I found my calling in Relay.

Jennifer Curtau, PR/Marketing Area Co-Chair

Halfway There Ribbons

2011-05-16T07:25:00.000-07:00

Awards Committe:
APinkSwan Beauchamp - Lead
Webby Merlin - Co-lead
Daten Thielt - Committee

Fundraising Club Halfway There Ribbons designed and created by Webby Merlin.

Ribbons display designed by Webby Merlin, Daten Thielt, and APinkSwan Beauchamp.

Display for ribbons created by Daten Thielt and Webby Merlin.

Halfway There Ribbons recipients
------------------------------------

Congratulations to our BRONZE Level Halfway There Award Winners!
Bronze: L$1,000.00 - L$99,999

Armada Fights Back
B5 IV 4th Station IN SL
Battle Sisters
Bikers for a Cure
Blackfangs
BOSL RELAY TEAM
Breeders Hope for a Cure
Brotherhood of Bikers
Bunny Army
Burners Roadhouse Relay Team
Celtic Amazon Warriors for Life
Childrens Light
Circle of Life
COUTURE FOR CURE
Crystal Falls
Dandelions-n-Mudpuddles
DarkStar
Devils Rejects For Relay for Life
Diesel Lounge Run for the Cure
Dirty Breeding Auctions
Doctor Who fans of SL
Dreamin in Purple
Egyptian Estates
Friends in Memory of KevinBear Watanabe
Geisha Dreamers for Life
Iconic
JessEll Productions
Knights of Avalon
Lotus Lovers
Love All Ways, Always
Marga-Relay-ville
Mieville Steam Punks - Me-ay-ville
Northern Light
Port of Kasra
Pure Magazine
Purple Tears
Relay for Life Racers/ Relay Racers
Relay Wizards for SpUnKy
Rezzed TV Relayers
RockNGames Radio
Roma Pro Vita
SLNFL
SPIRT CHASERS 1
Strigoi Motorcycle Club - Stuh-goi - hard "g"
SUNDOWNERS
Surreal For Life
Team Bacchus
Team KAT Hillcrest
Team Le Chateau de Roissy
Team London
Team Texas Aggie
THE ONYX BILLS
The Pixel Bean Team
Twisted Lizard
UNITED - USCFS
Walking Tall for a Cure
We Love Life
------------------------------------
Congratulations to our SILVER Level Halfway There Award Winners!
Silver: L$100,000 - L$249,999

DJs 4 Life
Giant Snail Relay
GLANCE Runway For Life
Heros For Life
JLU Caped Crusaders
Ministry of Dance
My Wish II Relay
No Salvation Revenants For Life
NY HealthScape
Quest for a Cure
Raucous Relayers
Relay Hope
Riders for a Cure
Sail For Life
Spirit Walkers
Touched By Angels
United Federation Starfleet
------------------------------------
Congratulations to our GOLD Level Halfway There Award Winners!
Gold: L$250,000 - L$499,999

Aether Chrononauts
AVENUE of Life
Dominion Femdom
Dream To Live
Eternal Beacon
Inspired Dreamwalkers
Key West
Lanterns For Life
New Babbage RFL
Passionate Redheads
Radicals for Life
Rays Of Hope
Relay Raiders
Remembering Our Friends Memorial Angels
Steelhead Salmons RFL 2011
Team Caledon
Team Young Adults
The Fringe
------------------------------------
Congratulations to our PLATINUM Level Halfway There Award Winners!
Platinum: L$500,000 - L$999,999

Harmony of Hope
PHC For Life
Relay Rockers
SL Cure Chasers
Team OD
------------------------------------
Congratulations to our SAPPHIRE Level Halfway There Award Winners!
Sapphire: L$1,000,000 - L$1,999,999

Goreans in Relay for Life - like Koreans
Relay for Hope
------------------------------------
Emerald: L$2,000,000 - L$2,999,999
Ruby: L$3,000,000 - L$3,999,999
Diamond: L$4,000,000 - L$4,999,999
------------------------------------
Congratulations to our PURPLE Level Halfway There Award Winner!
Purple: L$5,000,000 plus

Friends Fighting Cancer
------------------------------------

Congratulations to all teams and all Relayers ~ You do indeed give HOPE

Jennifer Curtau, PR/Marketing Area Co-Chair

Meet the 'Seasons of Hope' KittyCatS!

2011-05-14T14:46:00.000-07:00

I have just been to the Home Expo where there was huge excitement as people waited for a special announcement.

After a wait, these adorable 'Seasons of Hope' themed kitties were presented on the main stage and will soon be breeding around the grid!

Introducing Callie Cline and Equinox Pinion of KittyCatS, Relay For Life of Second Life Event Chair MamaP Beerbaum said: ‘Thank you so much Callie, Equinox and Dennis for partnering with us. I am so grateful to you for supporting our efforts to fight cancer in SL with such enthusiasm and generosity! I cannot wait to get mine!’

Then Callie and Equinox released the new kitties and spoke about how much Relay For Life means to them.

‘Creating these cats was a really touching experience for me as I have had a lot of people in my life die from cancer and in making these cats I thought of them and how they had impacted my life' said Callie. 'So in each of these cats is a bit of some pretty amazing people who truly were with me during many seasons of my life and given me a lot of hope.’

Equinox (who spoke in German for some of the time, underlining just how international RFL of SL has become) said 'We hope our contribution will provide meaning and help RFL of SL with its goals’.

Click on the KittyCatS box. L$1000 will get you a random KittyCatS, food for two weeks, collectible bed, food dish, milk dish and cat tree

Each KittyCat in this collection is themed after the various seasons - Winter, Spring, Summer, & Fall - and features original artwork inspired by the official 2011 RFLofSL "Seasons of Hope" logo.

They are on sale in support of Relay For Life of Second Life right through to Relay weekend in July. Look out for the special vendors at the Home Expo. ALL proceeds from the sale of these unique collectible KittyCatS! goes toward Relay for Life of SL.

The first breedable KittyCatS! were launched in February and have already become enormously popular. For more information visit the KittyCatS website.

Newbie Challenge ~ Trophy Presentation

2011-05-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

It certainly been a busy few days in Relay For Life in Second Life, hope everyone been having as much fun as I am.

Well the 2nd Co-Chair Challenge for the Newbie Challenge is complete and as much as I like to say we have winners, we all win in Relay, as we are one team, working for the same goal.

Let me set the challenge up for you.

The Newbie Challenge was to get donations from as many people that never donated to Relay For life in 2011. What a delightful idea! The Challenge was to collect donations from over 50 separate avatar into teams kiosk only. There was a stick 7 day time period for the eligible donations. There were two categories are: First-Year Team and Veteran Team.

Looking over the results from the tracker page, I was delighted to see that 1379 donation were collected from the 81 teams list, and that's a wooping $68,950 Linden. WOW, well done everyone.

The Gold winner for a 1st year team was Heros For Life!!! YaY. Nicely done folks!

And the Gold winner for a veteran team was Dream To Live, which I was told was last years winner in the new team category. Well done!

There were also six teams that reached the 50 avatar level, whom all received Silver trophies:

Goreans in Relay for Life
Relay for Hope
THE ONYX BILLS
United Federation Starfleet
Relay Rockers
Team OD

Attendance for the trophy ceremony was high, and representative from several teams were there, members of the RFL committee, and the ever present lag monster of SL, who's an ever present companion is our daily lives.

The presentation were held at the American Cancer Society Island on Friday May 14th at 6pm.

So now we move into the "Halfway There Faire" and the "Home and Garden Expo" going on this weekend, were we are all celebrating reaching the 1/2 way point in our Relay For Life in Second Life's Season of Hope 2011, AND, a very special party to celebrate RFLinSL's historic milestone of reaching the 1 million dollar mark, for the total contribution in the history of Relay For Life in Second Life!!! That's going to be KEWL!!!!

I would like to thank IshtarAngel Micheline for the pictures.

I am SO honored to be part of this amazing team of people.

Jennifer Curtau

~ Why do YOU relay? ~

2011-05-13T12:22:00.000-07:00

Relay for Life Second Life
“Seasons of Hope 2011”
Testimonials
"Why I Relay"

In April 2011 the Relay for Life Second Life community reached a landmark accomplishment in fundraising for education, research and survivor and care giver supports for the American Cancer Society. After seven years the community has raised over $1million dollars (USD).

Reflecting on the incredible achievement and acknowledging that the war on cancer continues through the passionate efforts of residents of the virtual world of Second Life. Survivors who inspire action in the hearts of family and friends. Caregivers and providers who Relay to honour the bravery of loved ones are hero’s as they acknowledge the strength and determination of those who fight. And the courage and loving memory of those who lost their courageous battle.

For a history of Relay for Life Second Life, visit their History Page

It’s something to be proud of. The way the Second Life Community comes together creatively and collaborating across the world to raise funds for The American Cancer Society.

Everyone in Relay for Life, relays for their own reasons. We want to know "Why do YOU relay?"

Create a testimonial recording and share your reason and inspiration for fundraising and participating in the Relay for Life Second Life. Your testimonial has the power to inspire and move fundraisers and cancer survivors and contribute to our goal in support of The American Cancer Society. We will select and use testimonials in promotional materials (written) and also in live recorded promotions via music and entertainment events, machinima video production and other mediums for our 2011 “Seasons of Hope” campaign. Your story will inspire thousands!

Instructions:
A Couple of hints to Improve Recording Quality
• Try to do it in a quiet environment, its hard to edit out barking dogs, crying kids and begging spouses!
• Use a headset & Mic if possible
• Try NOT to Breathe into mic - Keep it just even with lower lip. Cover with a foam ball or Cotton Puff.
• Turn off SL Sounds and Music
• Rehearse your words
• Emotions are fine. We Encourage them.. For Many, Relay For Life is an Emotional Experience. SHARE THAT!
Recording Help
• PLEASE leave 2-3 seconds of silence at the start and ending of the recording
• Include your full avatar name in the file name i.e., "Why_I_Relay2011_Jennifer_Curtau"

Windows Users: (You Tube Tutorial Windows )
• Windows Button
• All Programs
• Accessories
• Sound Recorder
• Click Start Recording Button
• Speak Normally
• When done Click Stop Recording and Name File "Why_I_Relay-year_Your-Avatars_Name"
• Save File
• Send File to: rflinsl.pr@gmail.com

MAC Users: (You Tube Tutorial MAC )
• Garageband
• Create New Podcast (you may need to Click FILE > Create
• Save As: "Why_I_Relay-year_Your-Avatars_Name"
• When program opens you will see several tracks.. delete all but WHY I RELAY
• Choose Source (MIC) You should see Levels moving
• Choose NO EFFECTS
• PRESS RED BUTTON (Start Record)
• Record your Words
• Click STOP
• Click Share Menu
• Select Export To Disk
• Select MP3 Compression VERY IMPORTANT!!! AAC is default but we need MP3
• Select CUSTOM
• Set BIT RATE to 128
• Save to folder
• email to rflinsl.pr@gmail.com

Relay for Life Second Life will transcribe your recording (if selected) for use in our publications and blogs. Please note that by submitting your testimonial you are authorizing the use of the information to assist in the 2011 or future campaigns.

For one on one live technical support, please contact Jennifer Curtau, Co-Chair PR & Media Relations by email.

Note: Updated May 15th, 2011

ONE MILLION US DOLLARS!!!!!!!

2011-05-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

Stingray9798 Raymaker writes:

We did it! We did it! We did it!

Congratulations and thank you all so much for your tireless efforts over the last seven years. As of late April, the Relay For Life of Second Life has raised more than ONE MILLION US DOLLARS all-time. We'll celebrate this accomplishment with a "Million Dollar Hour" at the Halfway There Fair next weekend.

Keep up the great work and check out the Relay For Life of Second Life event website for more info.

Let's paint Second Life Purple!

2011-05-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

Only three days to the start of 'Paint SL Purple' week! In a few days, thousands of Second Life residents will be painting their stores and houses purple, wearing purple clothes, purple hair, even purple skin, in order to show their support for the Relay For Life of Second Life and to spread a purple Message of Hope.

This year, the PSLP team has come up with this iconic paint bucket full of purple goodies. Bailey Dazy, 2011 Special Events Chair and PSLP lead, has distributed it through the Relay For Life groups, but if you missed your copy you can still grab your own bucket from the RFL warehouse.

The giant purple cupcake - just one of the goodies in the PSLP paint bucket

Among the special goodies is this giant cupcake, which RFL of SL 2011 Event Chair MamaP Beerbaum has already set out on the American Cancer Society island.

Special thanks to our media friends for raising awareness of 'Paint SL Purple'. Read more on the BOSL Blog, the SL Enquirer, and PrimPerfect Blog.

Home & Garden Expo opening soon!

2011-05-04T02:46:00.000-07:00

This year's Home & Garden Expo is going to be bigger and better than ever before, say Jezebel Bailey and Shamelesstrouble Bing.They write:

There are some very exciting events about to take place at the Home & Garden Expo 2011 in support of Relay For Life of Second Life, so be ready to get excited!

This year marks the fourth anniversary of the Home & Garden Expo. The 2011 Expo will open on Friday, May 13 at 12 noon SLT, and remain open 24 hours each day until it closes on May 22 at 10pm SLT.

This year’s extravaganza will span ten Second Life sims, with over 100 exhibits, more Entertainment and more ways to benefit Relay For Life, too!

The expo will cover all areas of home and land decor in SL. It gathers together many of SL’s greatest architects, furniture makers, gardeners and landscapers, some well-known and some not so well-known, in a grand display to Second Life shoppers and visitors.

There will be ten days of musical entertainment, including both DJs and live musicians at the Stage Area of the Expo.

Builder's Brewery will host this year's Expo Classroom with lots of fun classes and a competition or two.

Each Exhibitor will be selling two items which make their debut at the Expo and those sales will go to benefit Relay For Life, along with all proceeds from this year's - always popular - Scavenger Hunt, Auction and Raffle.

To see a full itinerary of the scheduled events, the wonderful sponsors, and the eExhibitors of home, garden, interior, exterior, or whatever you could possibly wish for, please visit our home page.

If you are a Second Life home and/or garden blogger, magazine, newspaper, radio, or TV show, we want you at the Home & Garden Expo! You are invited to join us at our early sneak peek. Please register on line. An invitation will be sent to you by May 12. The sneak peek will take place on May 13 at 10am SLT. All accepted press participants will be invited to submit their logo for display in the advertising directory located at the Expo Press Booth on our website.

Please visit the website regularly as we are doing sponsor highlights and have a full list of everything possible that will be going on. This year is already proving to be bigger and better than ever before.

Jezebel Bailey
Shamelesstrouble Bing

Co-chair's challenge #2: hit 50 newbie donations!

2011-05-02T13:50:00.000-07:00

Our fearless Event Co-Chair Dwen Dooley has come up with another fiendish challenge for the Relay For Life of Second Life teams ... the 'newbie' challenge!

There will be two categories for this challenge. The categories are: First-Year Team and Veteran Team.

The gold trophy in each of the two categories will go to the first team to hit 50 total donations following the rules below. Every other team to accomplish this will receive the silver tropy.

The Rules of Play are:

50 separate avatars must pay either of the two types of standard RFL kiosk. In either size. (Vendors, Random Riot, and Raffle Balls are not included.)

Those avatars must never have paid a 2011 kiosk before.(If they have previously paid a vendor, raffle ball, random riot, etc, they are still eligible.) The rule only applies to kiosk payments.

Having never paid before, their one payment (in any amount) qualfies once.

Subsquent payments do not disqualify them, but do not count additionally.

Each donation must be made after Wednesday, May 4, 2011. (so, from 12:01am SLT on Thursday, April 5)

Each donation must be made before 11:59pm SLT on Wednesday April 11th.

No entry required, tabulation will be done automatically. As long as you're getting donations, they're being checked!

Note, off-Season kiosks do not count and should be deleted.

No creating alts! :-)

You can keep track on the ACS web site at: http://bit.ly/lckBlA and there will be a link from the team totals page as well.

Dwen says: 'The idea is to bring in people who've never relayed before where possible! And remember, this is to be a friendly competition, as always! One Team!'

May Day Community Festival

2011-04-22T14:47:00.001-07:00

PrettyKitty Gumbo has announced that there will be a multiple team fundraising event on May 1. The theme is Community Festival, like an old-fashioned fair. Teams will be able to have dunking booths, kissing booths or anything else. There will be a DJ area for teams to put on musical events and there will also be a bake sale!

Teams interested in taking part are invited to contact Green Collingwood to reserve space.

Co-Chair's challenge - Alphabet soup!

2011-04-07T00:51:00.000-07:00

This year's Event Co-Chair Dwen Dooley came up with the idea of setting the teams with a special challenge.

Jennifer Curtau went to the award ceremony. She writes:

This being my first year in Relay For Life of Second Life, I had no idea of all the other events going on behind the main RFL event board. So Dwen's Co-Chair Challenge was a bit of an eye opener for me.

The challenge was to get a 100 L$ donation (or more) from avatars whose names start with each of the 26 letters of the alphabet, within a week, with the gold trophy going to the first team to do so. Hence 'Alphabet Soup'.

Interesting idea!

I arrived early at ACS Island, so the sim would rez in fully for me, before everyone arrived. I was greeted by Dwen Dooley and Morgan Kincess, and a table with the trophies all laid out on a table on a ACS royal purple cloth. The trophy was designed and delightfully crafted by Webby Merlin and Nikki Mathieson.

The winner of the gold trophy was Dream To Live captained by Katana Tigerpaw. The team stayed up all night that first night to get in the donations. They did comment that they were reviewing the letters they didn't yet have, and were having trouble with two letters. I pipe up 'I bet the letter 'X' was one'. Katana giggles. 'No, not that one, we couldn't get a "F" and "U". Everyone bursts out in laughter.

All the team representatives receiving a trophy proudly took their places in front of the presentation table for pictures. Not all the team captains could attend, but most had a representative, which was nice for me, having not met all the teams yet.

And the winners are:

Gold Trophy:
Dream To Live ~ Captain: Katana Tigerpaw

Silver Trophy:
Friends Fighting Cancer ~ Team Captain: Ember Farina
Goreans in the Relay For Life ~ Team Captain: Kaiila Mahoney
Inspired Dreamwalkers ~ Team Captain: Leala Spire
JLU Caped Crusaders ~ Team Captain: Maverick Grunfeld
Relay Hope ~ Team Captain: Alexandra Fallon
Roma Pro Vita ~ Team Captain: Melanippe Karas
Steelhead Salmons RFL 2011 ~ Team Captain: Fuzzball Ortega
United Federation Starfleet ~ Team Captain: Zania Turner

After pictures, Dwen finished off with a congratulatory 'thanks' for the effort on the Co-Chair Challenge, and some general encouragement for the teams. He said: 'A big thanks to all who participated! I hope it was fun, and I heard a lot of good feedback about teams cooperating to get it done, kudos to you all. I know all RFL teams are out there giving their all for the cause, and we appreciate all your hard work, regardless of the totals page, alphabet soup, or anything else. Keep doing what you do and have a good time doing it.'

Dwen also asked for ideas for new team challenges. So if you have any, PLEASE add a comment on this post with your ideas, or contact Dwen in world.

Jennifer Curtau is a member of the PR/Marketing Committee and also blogs and tweets for the RFL Harmony of Hope team.

Introducing our Premier sponsors!

2011-04-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

Drum roll ...

Samara Barzane, RFL of SL Area Chair for Sponsorship, writes:

The following SL businesses and organizations are our Premier Sponsors for Relay For Life of Second Life 2011. We are incredibly grateful for their generous financial commitments to our fight against cancer.

still Braveheart of BS's Bring a Friend & Stay Awhile

BS's "Bring a Friend & Stay Awhile" is proud to be a sponsor of RFL 2011. Many of the best SL perfomers appear on stage every week. Offering an attached amusement park, varied contests, live music and activities BS's is a great place to visit, and always, bring a friend.

Keera Woyseck of Peace Haven Communities

PHC was founded in 2005 with a single sim. Now PHC consists of 42 residential sims. The focus on service. No need to submit a ticket as PHC has a dozen on staff who answer calls personally. The owners of PHC is Keera Woyseck who is, herself, a cancer survivor.'

Zachh Barkley of The Arcanum

The Arcanum is Second Life's most trusted provider of fantastical HUDs, wands, enchantments and other magical goods. We live and breathe Magic! Arcanum supports the relay to help find a cure for cancer, and bring a bit of magic to those affected by this horrible illness. We want to do our part for the community and the world, and we get to do that by sponsoring Relay For Life, and nothing could make us more proud.

KayLeigh Mcmillan and Maximillian Kondor of ByKay

I'm Kayleigh McMillan and I have a jewelry business within Second Life since 2007. ByKay is the brand name and the name of the sim. I specialise in luxurious jewelry and I have an absolute passion for high quality and realistic items.

Although I normally don't speak much about my personal life I want to share what motivates me to Relay and contribute in any way I can. In 1993 my stepfather was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was given three months to live. He battled for nine months, but lost his fight on January 1, 1994 just when the fireworks started. It couldn't have been more of a contradiction.

My stepfather was a real father to me. Cancer made him thin and weak and it hurt me so much and made me feel powerless. When I found Relay For Life in Second Life I felt relieved there was finally something I could do and gave me back power where I felt so powerless when he got so sick!

Therefore I always feel very motivated to fight for a cure!

I am also the co-chair for International Relations.

Thank you sponsors for helping to make this the best Relay ever!

Fantasy Faire opens on Saturday April 2!

2011-04-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to visit the Fantasy Faire 2011 which opens tomorrow, Saturday April 2. The Faire will showcase fantasy genres such as Fairy, Elven, Magic, Mermaid, Goth, Demon, Vamp, Neko, Micro, Steampunk, Sci-Fi and more. It covers nine sims and will stay open until April 10. Congratulations to Ember Farina and all of the Friends Fighting Cancer team for putting together such an amazing event, expected to be the largest gathering of fantasy designers, enthusiasts, roleplayers and performers in the virtual world!

For a taste of the beautiful creations at the Faire, watch this awesome video of the Sea of Mer sim by Kiota Spitteler:

To find the Faire, open the map in SL and search for "Fantasy Faire Central". For more information visit the Fantasy Faire website.

We are ONE TEAM!

2011-03-12T12:30:00.000-08:00

Today we Kicked off Relay For Life of Second Life at a memorable and moving ceremony at the BOSL Browns Stadium.

After the main speeches, MamaP Beerbaum introduced the Area Chairs, who were sitting on the podium wearing their ONE TEAM t-shirts, saying: 'You are now going to hear the voices of some of the most amazing people I have ever met. They have led the charge to get us to today. They have been working tirelessly and planning for months. They are the wonderful people who stepped up and said YES, we will join you to plan Relay 2011. They are our amazing Area Chairs. They are each supported by amazing committees who you will get to know over the course of the next four months.'

Each of the Area Chairs then read out an inspirational statement to highlight that we are ONE TEAM:

Build for your team a feeling of oneness, of dependence on one another and of strength to be derived by unity. Working together we can achieve anything! (Prettykitty Gumbo, one of the Area Chairs for Teams and Mentors.)

Respect your fellow Relayers, treat them fairly, disagree with them honestly, enjoy their friendship, explore your thoughts about one another candidly, work together for a common goal and help one another achieve it. (Katina Magic, Area Chair for Special Events.)

Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision, the ability to direct individual accomplishments toward common goals. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results. (Poppy Zabelin, Area Chair for PR/Marketing.)

Teamplayer: One who unites others toward a shared destiny through sharing information and ideas, empowering others and developing trust. Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work. (Charlene Trudeau, Area Chair for Sim and Track Design.

Respect each other. Respect the work your teammates do. Respect that they are doing all they can. Respect is like air. You don't really notice it until it's not there...and then it's all you notice. (Mata Loire, Area Co-Chair for ponsorship.)

Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work. Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean. Working together works. (Panza Eilde, one of the Area Chairs for Teams and Mentors.)

Appreciate everything your teammates do. Trust they are doing everything they can. Nothing else can quite substitute for a few well-chosen, well-timed, sincere words of praise. They're absolutely free and worth a fortune. (Nikki Mathieson, Area Chair for Event Day.)

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed. It is the only thing that ever has.” (Belle Loll, Area Chair for Technology/Security.)

Stingray9798 Raymaker then read out each of the names of all the teams taking part in Relay this year, and encouraged them to attend as many events as they can this weekend in support of each other and of Fashion For Life.

You'll never walk alone

2011-03-12T11:37:00.000-08:00

We've just kicked off Relay in the amazing BOSL Browns Stadium.

DJ Aryon

Aryon Dagger spun her last disc before the start of the ceremony. It was 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. How fitting a choice that was.

After the first speeches, the mike was turned over to our survivor speaker, Tali Walmer. the stadium fell still. And by the end, there wasn't a dry eye in the sim. Tali shared her utterly compelling personal story with us. And gave us our reason to Relay.

Tali Walmar

Here are her words.

“You have cancer”. Words I never expected to hear at my age, words I never wanted to hear at all. Young adults with my cancer – chronic myelogenous leukemia- are virtually unheard of. More uncommon, even, are people with CML being diagnosed in the “accelerated phase” of their cancer. Rarer still are people with CML who also have a certifiable buffet of pre-existing conditions to complicate things. Lucky, lucky me.

Survival for my type and stage of cancer is grim: medication is a stopgap and transplantation is a life shortening, grueling process which taxes your fragile health to the limits. We speak of treatment in terms of risks and benefits, of +2 months and +7 months. The word “cure” is never mentioned. Much like my condition was “accelerated” at diagnosis, so was my life: everything suddenly became too much, too fast, too hard.

Since being diagnosed with cancer, I have been through years of daily chemotherapy from little pills. My spleen has been radiated. I have been through two rounds of IV chemotherapy, unusual for my condition: the second was in the context of my stem cell transplant, which involved total body irradiation and months of social isolation, discomfort, health measured in ANC, and of painfully anticipating an unlikely life: my own. I have been unthinkably lucky to survive this long: a blast crisis, a transplant. Pseudomonas in my lungs and a transient ischemic attack in my brain.

I found the American Cancer Society in second life by accident. By chance, I met another survivor here on SL and she sent me to the twice weekly support groups for cancer survivors.

The first time I attended, I thought to myself, here is another place I do not belong. Everyone speaking that day spoke of long-ago cancers, of ages twenty years older than my own, of cancer as a fear in the past. I felt betrayed by my body and my condition, alone in the silence that is being a young adult with cancer. I felt angry because these people were living as I was dying. I was told about Relay for Life during those first few angry meetings I attended, but thought to myself: what are these people talking about, I'll probably be dead by summer!

As my rare luck would have it, I lived to see that summer, to bask in the sunlight of what was perhaps to be the last summer of my life. When Relay for Life in second life came around, I logged on in cautious excitement.

And for one night, I found a place that I belonged: a place that I was not alone, a place with no silence in the utter quiet that is cancer. For the first time since I was diagnosed with this disease, I walked with someone. Someone walked with me. And we compared our scars and we were reflections. From the survivor and their caregiver, to the princess with her wand, to the faerie, to the robot.. they walked with me. And I did not have to walk alone.

The moments were touching.. the people who told me to keep fighting because their sisters and best friends and mothers and uncles could not. The ones who told me to keep fighting to walk with them because they needed company in this darkness that is cancer.

Relay gave me so much. It gave me the heartbreaking goal of living just one more year so that I could see another day like this. It gave me a means to connect to those group members I had resented: to see the humans behind the keyboard, to see beyond my rage. To see... the caring souls, who had suffered too.

There aren't enough words for the gifts that the American Cancer Society has given me: a friendly ear, a nudge in the right direction, shoulders to cry on when the world was separated from me with two layers of wall and glass and air filters. Real-life resources like where to find funding, rides to treatment, paths to a healthier life with cancer.

Someone once told me, as I walked my second relay here, that he was “glad I was walking” because it meant that he would not have to. He meant it as a joke in laziness, but he doesn’t know what an honor and what a battle it is to walk.. and my goal is that if I walk, he will never have to walk with me. Should he ever face the path so many of us walk, I want his doctor to tell him the long awaited words: and we have answers and cures for that now, that we are not the barbarians of the past.

Cancer will be the thing that kills me, but it does not have to be the thing which kills your children and grandchildren. It does not have to be the thing which kills the life I am now so eagerly anticipating and hoping to live to see the birth of: my child.

Until then, I will keep walking. As long as is feasible, I will walk because I am alive to fight this battle, to create a better future. I hope that you will walk with me.

It would be an honor to walk with you Tali. And I'm confident that you'll never walk alone at our next Relay weekend.

Today Is Kickoff!!!

2011-03-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hey Relay Nation!! Good morning, good afternoon, or good evening to you all. What an exciting day it is! This is the moment we've all been looking forward to since the close of last year's Relay. Today is the Kickoff Celebration - and kudos to Katina Magic and her committee for planning what is going to be the biggest Kickoff Celebration in RFL of SL history.

Besides being in BOSL Browns Football Stadium (I think we might be the first Relay in the world to kick off in a football stadium), we've got an hour of tailgating, followed by the traditional inspirational speaking portion to officially 'cut the ribbon' on the 2011 season. We've got the 'Parade of Teams.' And then, the party continues across the entire grid.

Fashion For Life opens immediately following the Parade of Teams. Countless teams have Kickoff Parties planned throughout the day that all are welcome to attend. It's a grid-wide all-day celebration. I can't express how much I appreciate all of our volunteers and your passion and enthusiasm. This is a fantastic way to kick off a fantastic year.

To find out how which events are happening all over the grid, check out our Team Fundraising Events page on the website.

Thanks again - and I look forward to seeing you all today!

I am SO angry ...

2011-03-09T09:26:00.000-08:00

A few days ago a beautiful person died. The news quickly spread on Twitter. Curious, I followed the links. To find an account of an inspirational woman, an artist, who died of stage 4 breast cancer. I am so angry that I didn't get to know her and her art before. And I am SO angry that she had to die.

Her name was Debbie Berman, known in Second Life as Sabrinaa Nightfire. She was 51.

I visited Erato of Carleon to explore her works, and one in particular that she created when she discovered that the cancer that killed her was terminal. It's called Stage 4. It is covered with texts that call to mind the emotions that pass through someone's mind as they face a diagnosis of terminal cancer. And in the middle there is a poseball called 'I am SO angry'. Sit on it and you will experience something of Sabrinaa's fury.

Rowan Derrith has written a moving tribute to Sabrinaa in her Ekphrasis column in the Primperfect blog.

Sabrinaa's real life aunt writes movingly about her here.

And today, the Primperfect blogger wrote the following words in a blog about the Relay For Life Kickoff drawing on the inspiration of the poet John Donne, and trying to make sense of all this:

Cancer is a very narrow perspective on such a wonderful life.

And yet it cut that life short. It prevented there being any more of that life, and those tremendous artistic creations.

So, the event that will happen this coming weekend, on Saturday March 12th, the start of so many events across the grid, acquires a fresh poignancy in the light of the fact that one more person is no longer here to share it with us. As John Donne wrote, 'Any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind.' Sabrinaa’s death, and the death of so many others, diminishes us all.

But against that, we can come together to fight back. And as part of that fighting back, we have Relay for Life in Second Life, which kicks off officially this weekend, on Saturday March 12th.

Like another Second Life artist, Artistic 'Fimi' Fimicoloud, who I was privileged to know and who also died of stage 4 breast cancer, Sabrinaa was a warrior.

I will relay for Sabrinaa and Fimi and all survivors facing a diagnosis of terminal cancer when we kick off on Saturday for this season's Relay For Life of Second Life. And just as Fimi's work lives on, I believe that Sabrinaa's work will continue to inspire us too.

Poppy Zabelin

FOUR days to KICKOFF!

2011-03-08T06:48:00.000-08:00

Just four days to go to KICKOFF! Already the event boards are filling up and it's especially exciting to see how many teams are holding their own kickoff parties after the kickoff ceremony.

Events are automatically listed on the www.relayforlife.org/secondlife website too so if you're out of world check this link -- http://tinyurl.com/4zsf298.

Goooooo RELAY!

We're going to have a ball ...

2011-03-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

Just ONE week to go! Excited? Saturday March 12 is the the big Kickoff event. And where better to kickoff than at a Football Stadium!

Come join us in kicking off what will be the absolute best Relay season ever. Tailgate Dance Party 10am SLT followed by the Kick-Off Event at 11am SLT.

http://bit.ly/hNJtto

We have a winnaaaaar!!!!

2011-02-13T17:02:00.000-08:00

Left to right: Pooky Amsterdam, Hydra Shaftoe, and contestants Kim Linden, Stingray9798 Raymaker, and Kat Burger

Stingray9798 Raymaker went on The First Question today against Kim Linden and Kat Burger and in spite of having to put up with some teasing about his name (is it his age? is it really the longest name in SL?) he battled through to ... win!

A highlight of the contest was when the contestants were asked to define an original word. The winning word was Stingray's 'lindraising'.

The First Question is a weekly television program hosted by Pooky Amsterdam and Hydra Shaftoe and broadcast live every Sunday. If you missed the live show you can pick it up here: http://archive.treet.tv/programs/2nd-question

Stingray is the avatar name of Jeff Montegut, the American Cancer Society's representative in Second Life.

Just a few weeks to kick-off ... when we can start lindraising for Relay For Life of Second Life and make this a winning year!

Stingray Raymaker is going On The 1st Question Sunday February 13th !!

2011-02-11T14:55:00.000-08:00

This Sunday February 13th ,Our very own
Stingray Raymaker ,will be on Treet TV The 1st Question
Hosted by The Lovely Pooky Amsterdam
http://treet.tv/shows/1stquestion
Sunday February 13th 2011
4:30pm SLT
if you would like to be in the audience for this show
please contact Mama p or Sting (asap in world )
as this is a guest list only audience ,and you will have to be available at 4pm slt

To watch via stream or on their website
http://archive.treet.tv/
http://archive.treet.tv/get-shows
show will be archived
http://feeds.treet.tv/treet-1stquestion

sorry for all the links there are just a few ways to get the feeds :)
Go Sting !!!
Go Relay !

Radio and TV kicks it up ... for Relay for Life Second Life 2011

2011-02-10T19:44:00.000-08:00

Greetings ALL ..

We have some exciting and fun News ..On Friday February 11, 2011, at 12:30pm SLT
Sting, Mama, and Dwen are going to be on the Radio !!!!
with Editorial Clarity Host of BOSL Radio Takeover Show
Yes Yes ... You can tune into
BOSL Radio .. @ http://www.boslradio.com/
or you can use the land/Itunes stream - http://justlisten.boslradio.com/
for more info on the show
http://thebosl.com/bosl_blog/tag/editorial-clarity/

but wait there is More ....

This Sunday Febuary 13th
Our very own Stingray9798 Raymaker ,will be on Treet TV
The 1st Question Hosted by The Lovely ,Pooky Amsterdam
http://treet.tv/shows/1stquestion
more info coming on time ,and land mark

Go Relay !!!

Please watch these Helpful Videos !

2011-02-09T19:22:00.000-08:00

Greetings All
Please take and make some time to watch these most helpful videos
Made By Our 2011 Co Chair Mr. Dwen Dooley

1.) How to get, rez, and use an event board displayer for RFL 2011:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDyX11fF5cg
2.) How, and why, to use the texture preloader for the event boards. (REALLY helps prevent viewer lag).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19m1ORr5D0U
3.) How to set up an auction using the Dwen Auction Script V1.6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AISf56QhMqE
Coming soon:
Kiosks
vendors

Go Relay !

Teams' registration opens soon!

2011-02-06T08:03:00.000-08:00

It’s February! Just one week to go before teams’ registration opens for the seventh annual Relay For Life of Second Life.

To set up a team, please go to the website www.relayforlife.org/secondlife after teams’ registration opens on February 14. For more information about setting up or joining a team, IM or email one of the Teams Chairs Panza Eilde (panzaeilde@gmail.com) or PrettyKitty Gumbo (prettykittygumbo@gmail.com).

Here is a list of the key dates so you can mark your calendars:

Feb 14, 2011 – Teams’ registration opens!
March 12, 2011 -- Kick-off Party and start of fundraising
March 12-22, 2011 -- Fashion For Life
May 7-13, 2011 -- Paint SL Purple!
May 13-22, 2011 - Home Expo
May 14-15, 2011 -- Half-Way There Fair
July 16-17, 2011 -- RELAY WEEKEND!

Follow this blog to keep up with developments and be sure to check out the website at www.relayforlife.org/secondlife, especially the 2010 Relay video.

Seasons of Hope

2011-01-15T06:04:00.000-08:00

Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall ... ALL seasons are Seasons of Hope. And that is the theme of the 2011 Relay For Life of Second Life. Over the coming weeks and months you'll be seeing the Seasons of Hope image spreading out over the grid. Help us to make a difference by setting out RFL of SL event boards at your location. And have a fun and meaningful experience in Second Life so that others can have a First Life.

This new logo has been specially designed by Synergy Devonshire and Charlene Trudeau.

To keep up with developments go to our website www.relayforlife.org/secondlife

Working behind the scenes

2011-01-10T16:20:00.000-08:00

It's 2011 and it's (nearly) time to Relay! Just eight weeks to go before the Kick-Off Party and start of fundraising!

We might look laid back, but the new committee is working hard behind the scenes to make sure that the new season gets off to a great start. Honest!

This year's Event Co-Chair Dwen Dooley Event Chair MamaP Beerbaum planning the details.

The new committee line-up consists of:

Event Chair - MamaP Beerbaum
Event Co-Chair - Dwen Dooley
Event Day Area Chair – Nikki Mathieson
Sim and Track Design Area Chair – Charlene Trudeau
Teams and Mentors Area Chairs – Panza Eilde and PrettyKitty Gumbo)
Public Relations and Marketing Area Chairs – Poppy Zabelin and Breezy Carver
Technology and Security Area Chair – Belle Loll
Special Projects Area Chair – Katina Magic
Sponsorship Area Chair – Samara Barzane
American Cancer Society representative in Second Life - Stingray9798 Raymaker

Keep watching this blog to keep up with developments and be sure to check out the website at www.relayforlife.org/secondlife, especially the 2010 Relay video.

Pictures by Breezy Carver

Holidays of Hope

2010-12-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

Hi relayers! We are all invited to enjoy the Holidays of Hope and Gala of Hope Ball on the American Cancer Society island this month. The Holidays of Hope runs until December 31, 2010 and the high point will be the Gala of Hope Ball on Saturday, December 18.

Trader1 Whiplash writes: 'As the year draws to a close your American Cancer Society in Second Life is celebrating Holidays of Hope at the Society’s virtual home on the American Cancer Society island.

'The island has been decorated for winter and for the holidays and features virtual examples of some of the ways we can fight back against cancer by staying healthy even during the winter months.

'The central feature is our ice skating rink and X-country ski trails. While these wonderfully scripted activities are not intended to replace the real thing, we hope that the experience will motivate you to get out and enjoy all the wonderful activities the winter offers us.

'And let's not forget the challenges of holiday parties and how maintaining a healthy diet and managing weight can help fight cancer. We have cancer information media prims to link you to the Society's online resources, including tips to eat well and still enjoy sumptuous holiday meals and our powerful choices podcast series.

'Wrapping it all up will be our Gala of Hope Formal Ball on December 18. Featuring Ppize balls and holiday formal wear contests, the Gala of Hope is sure to be a highlight of the holiday season in Second Life (even Santa plans an appearance). The ball will be held from 2.30pm to 7.30pm SL time so no matter where you call home you can come and spend time with your friends as we celebrate the Holidays of Hope in Second Life.

'Don't forget to pick up your 2010 American Cancer Society Limited Edition Christmas Tree while you are at the island. Designed by Eladon Galsworthy of Pond Life this beautiful tree is available at the island through the end of the year, and can be yours for a donation to the American Cancer Society!

'Plan to visit Your American Cancer Society Island: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/American%20Cancer%20Society/128/128/52 during Holidays of Hope and enjoy all the activities we have planned to help keep you healthy, active and fighting back against Cancer!'

For more information contact Trader1 Whiplash, email: trader@t1radio.com

The empty table ...

2010-11-24T12:36:00.000-08:00

It is Thanksgiving tomorrow. Many of us will be enjoying a special Thanksgiving meal with family, but there will be others who will be remembering those who are no longer here. Spare a thought for them as you dig into the turkey ...

What more fitting way to remember those we have lost to cancer than with the words that Stingray9798 Raymaker read out during the wrap-up ceremony in July.

'We call your attention to the small table that occupies a place of dignity and honor. It is set for one, symbolizing the fact that some of our loved ones are missing from this gathering. They have been diagnosed with cancer, and they are some of the names and faces behind luminaries.

'The chair is empty. Many of those who fought the battle with cancer are no longer with us, but rather than mourning their loss, we choose to celebrate their life.

'These people are unable to be with their loved ones and families now, so let us join together to recognize and honor them, and to bear witness to their struggle and their memory.

'The table is small, symbolizing the frailty of a single patient, sometimes alone in the fight against his or her disease.

'The tablecloth is white, symbolic of the medical profession: doctors, nurses, and researchers who help fight the battle for life.

'The single rose in the vase signifies the enduring love of their families and friends and the strength of a patients' will to fight the disease that ultimately claimed many of them.

'The pink ribbon on the vase represents the ribbons worn on the lapels of millions who support a continued search for a cure not only for breast cancer, but for other cancers as well -- cancers that are expected to kill over half a million people in the United States this year.

'A slice of lemon on the plate reminds us of the bitter battle against a deadly disease, a battle fought by more than 1.3 million new patients each year.

'The salt sprinkled on the plate reminds us of the countless tears of personal anguish shed by the patient and those shed by family members and friends who have lost a loved one.

'The glass is inverted in memory of those people who are not here to join our celebration of successes.

'But, the lantern represents the light of hope that lives in the hearts of all of us -- hope represented by cancer survivors and the hope for a cure discovered as a result of the detailed work of the medical profession made able through funds generated through events such as Relay For Life.'

That's why we Relay.

A happy Thanksgiving to all our relayers and let's make EVERY day a day to give thanks.

MarkTwain White's 2010 video of Relay For Life in Second Life

2010-11-05T15:46:00.000-07:00

Here is MarkTwain White's 2010 video. Wonderful work, Mark!

The Power of Pink

2010-10-04T14:31:00.000-07:00

Most of the posts on this blog are about Relay For Life. But October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a very significant month in the American Cancer Society calendar. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, the ACS breast cancer awareness program, is campaigning in Second Life to raise awareness, educate both men and women and raise Lindens critical in fighting this cancer by supporting both research and patient advocacy programs.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is organizing a variety of activities and talks in Second Life in October. Many Second Life designers are staunch advocates of the breast cancer awareness movement, not only during the month of October, but throughout the year. They will be creating exclusive designs created for this campaign and donating 100% of the proceeds to the cause.

Synergy Devonshire, a cancer survivor who runs the Making Strides group in Second Life, points out that 'One in seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 200,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer (Stages I-IV) will be diagnosed among women in the United States alone, resulting in approximately 40,000 deaths.

'Breast cancer affects all of us and its impact can felt globally. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer invites everyone to join in the fight – from the amazing creators designing exclusive merchandise to the volunteers and medical experts giving their time to raise awareness and educate... but it all starts with you. This engaging, passionate community we call Second Life. Grab a friend and join us - the “Power of Pink” starts with YOU!'

Visit the American Cancer Society in Second Life to learn more about breast cancer and to sign up to the American Cancer Society's free mammogram reminder service: http://slurl.com/secondlife/American%20Cancer%20Society/121/121/60

For more information regarding events or to receive a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fundraising kiosk contact Synergy Devonshire.

To learn more about the American Cancer Society's position on this topic or for more information, call 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

Announcement about off-season fundraising

2010-09-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

This year as in years past the RFL of SL committee continues to get requests about off-season fundraising. The committee has therefore issued the following statement.

'The committee suggests that volunteers take a break from fundraising from August to February. This is to avoid donor fatigue and give everyone a much-needed break to spend time with their SL and RL families, so we are all well-rested and ready to devote our time and passion once again from March 2011–July 2011.

'However, this year, as in years past, we continue to get requests for off-season kiosks and vendors.

'We will make them available upon request. Normal RFL of SL fundraising guidelines apply. The off-season kiosks and vendors are hard coded for General Fund. There will be NO TEAM FUNDRAISING between August and February.

'Off-season kiosks and vendors have a script in them that makes them vanish on March 11, 2011 so they will not be confused with our regular season fundraising kiosks/vendors. People requesting off-season kiosks and vendors need to be made aware of this stipulation and will need either to start/join a team for the regular season, or request new general donation kiosks/vendors after March 12, 2011.'

To receive an off-season kiosk and/or vendor with set-up instructions please contact MamaP Beerbaum or Belle Loll.

A nostalgic tour of the 2010 designer builds

2010-08-14T05:00:00.001-07:00

If you missed the opportunity to visit the designer sims or want to experience them again, here is a wonderful reminder in this joint Designing Worlds-Treet program. Elrick Merlin and Saffia Widdershins take us on a tour of five of these amazing builds.

http://designingworlds.wordpress.com/2010/07/23/designing-worlds-visits-the-relay-for-life-designer-sims/

It's a wrap!

2010-08-14T03:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's Wrap-Up Ceremony took place in the awesome Patch Thibaud auditorium which was kindly loaned by Frolic Mills of the Best of SL Boulevard

Outgoing Event Chair Tayzia Abbatoir thanks the volunteers

Stingray9798 Raymaker reminded us just why we relay in a moving reading of 'The Empty Table' - powerfully symbolized by this table set for one. There was barely a dry eye in the audience

If you missed the ceremony or just want to hear it again here is a link to the audio file - many thanks to IshtarAngel Angeline for putting it together!

http://ishtarskiss.com/Audio_Files/Relay2010_Wrapup.mp3

Photographs by IshtarAngel Angeline

Remembering Jeffry Pastorelli Nov 14, 1953-Aug 9, 2010

2010-08-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

RIP Jeffry Pastorelli Nov 14, 1953-Aug 9, 2010

We were saddened and shocked to learn that Jeffry passed away suddenly on Monday. He was a larger-than-life caregiver, survivor, and Relay for Hope team captain who always seemed to have a listening ear and a shoulder for people facing a cancer diagnosis or treatment.

Skye Leroux and Amanda Steadham wrote: 'It is with profound sadness and loss that we announce the passing of our dear friend and RELAY for HOPE team captain, Jeffry Pastorelli. We ask that you keep his family and all of those who loved him in your prayers. He touched our hearts in so many ways and we will miss him every day.'

There will be a memorial service for Jeffry on Sunday, August 29 at 1pm SLT at Remembering Our Friends sim.

Heartfelt sympathies to Jeff's RL and SL wife Tessie, his RL and SL family and friends and fellow relayers.

Saffia Widdershins has posted this very moving blog along with archive footage of an interview with Jeffry: http://designingworlds.wordpress.com/2010/08/13/remembering-jeffry-pastorelli/

Time to wrap it all up!

2010-08-12T15:08:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Relay For Life of Second Life Wrap-Up Party is on Saturday, August 14, from 10am to noon SLT.

The Planning Committee invites all relayers and volunteers to join them as they wrap up an amazing Relay For Life season and celebrate our efforts, dedication, time and commitment to Relay, and to each other as one huge, unified team in Secondlife.

The party will be held where the season kicked off, at the Patch Thibaud auditorium, a beautiful 4-sim structure built by Patch Thibaud. It is owned and on loan by Frolic Mills of the Best of SL Boulevard. Thank you to Frolic for providing an awesome place for us to celebrate this event.

The festivities will bring a recap of the 2010 awards announced on July 18 and also present additional awards, delivered by several guest speakers. The party finishes with some awesome live music by the fabulous Skye Galaxy and an opportunity to hang out, dance and party together as we say goodbye to the Relay 2010 season.

The wrap-up party will be streamed over T1 Radio at http://t1radio.serverroom.us:8242, so if you are unable to attend you can still listen to the entire ceremony.

The organizers ask us all to please help to control the lag. Please remove/detach ALL face lights, mysti-tools and AO's, along with any other scripted item you usually wear. If you choose to wear hair, please make sure it is unscripted.

See you there!

Some of Treet TV Relay For Life Interviews

2010-07-24T03:01:00.000-07:00

On Behalf of Poppy and myself , Breezy along of Course with Sting, Tay, Nuala and MamaP and the entire Relay For Life Committee a Most Special thanks to Saffia & Tex along with the Hard working Staff of Treet TV for these Amazing Videos and For their Professional non stop 24 Telethon !
Passes each reader a tissue .. smiles for it was an indeed a most spectacular Relay 2010 !!!
Coming soon Opening ceremonies The Giant Snails and of Course Sting !!!

Team and Build Awards for Relay for Life 2010

2010-07-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

Team Awards and Build Awards for RELAY FOR LIFE Second Life 2010
Thank YOU to ALL for a Job Well Done !!!

MOST INVENTIVE CAMPSITE FUNDRAISING AWARD

DESCRIPTION: Awarded to the most unique and creative way of fund raising at a Relay campsite. This requires more than a simple vendor board. Must include some RFL / ACS Mission information at campsite

DATE JUDGED: July 15 & 16

JUDGES: Pituca Fairchang, Phelan Corrimal, BigMike Bukowski

1st: BOSL Relay Team
2nd: Tie NY Healthscape & DVI, Relay Raiders, Team Caledon
3rd: None

BEST THEME DECORATED CAMPSITE AWARD

DESCRIPTION: Awarded for all-round design interpretation of the Wishing On A Cure…Relay for Life theme and sub themes for each Region.Must have RFL / ACS information

DATE JUDGED: July 15 & 16

JUDGES: Pituca Fairchang, Phelan Corrimal, BigMike Bukowski

1st: BOSL Relay Team
2nd: Relay Raiders
3rd: Tie Harmony of Hope, NY Heathscape & DVI

DESIGNER SIM AREA AWARD

DESCRIPTION: Awarded for the design that captures the essence, the reality and scale of the real or imaginary worlds they represent, and truly give us a world to call our own for a brief and unforgettable moment in time.
For over-all atmosphere, ambiance and detail
For the clever way they took difficult requirements and made them into a center piece
For the tasteful and enlightening way of incorporating cancer awareness into a theme
For the best storytelling of Wishing On A Cure…Relay for Life theme

DATE JUDGED: July 15 & 16

JUDGES: Event Chair, Co-Chairs & ACS Representative, & samantha Ragu from Design

1st: Helena Kiana
2nd: Uni Ninetails
3rd: tie between: Total Lunar Eclipse - Alice
Alix Stoanes - The Daffodil
Tari Lander

New Team Participation (Relay Day) Award

DESCRIPTION: Awarded to the new team that displays organization and participation during the Relay Day event. This award is not about how much money is raised, but how well the team participates in their planned activities as well as the Relay activities. Must include some RFL / ACS Mission information at campsite

DATE JUDGED: July 17

JUDGES: Mentors

1-Global Hearts United
2-Teens Fighting For A Cure
3-Radical Hope For Life

Returning Team Participation (Relay Day) Award

DESCRIPTION: Awarded to the Returning team that displays organization and participation during the Relay Day event. This award is not about how much money is raised, but how well the team participates in their planned activities as well as the Relay activities. Must include some RFL / ACS Mission information at campsite

DATE JUDGED: July 17

JUDGES: Mentors

1-Purple Tears
2-Relay Rockers
3-Team Caledon

Longest Running Teams

DESCRIPTION: This year is awarded to Teams who have been participating 5 or more years in Relay For Life of Second Life

Circle of LIfe
Passionate Redheads
Relay Raiders
Relay Rockers
Relay Racers
Sail for Life
Spirit Chasers
Team Caledon

RFL of SL features on front page of Relay For Life website

2010-07-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

Featured on RelayForLife.org/Relay in the weekend of July 17-18, 2010.

Touching moments during the Luminaria ceremony

2010-07-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

The Luminaria Ceremony this year consisted of poems and music, with the names of loved ones scrolling on boards around the track.

DrFran Babcock read the poem 'Lifesong', a poem read for survivors at many Relay events over the past few years. By John W. Storey and John D. Storey

ALL ACROSS AMERICA

WE ARE HITTING OUR STRIDES.

WE ARE MOVING OUT TOGETHER,

WE ARE WALKING SIDE BY SIDE.

WE'RE THE ONES WHO MADE IT,

WE'RE THE ONES WHO SURVIVED,

WE'RE THE REASON FOR THIS WEEKEND,

WE'RE THE RELAY FOR LIFE.

IT'S ABOUT LOVE,

IT'S ABOUT HOPE,

IT'S ABOUT LIVING A MIRACLE

AND LEARNING TO COPE.

IT'S ABOUT BEING A COMMUNITY

THAT TAKES UP THE FIGHT.

IT'S ABOUT FINDING A CURE FOR CANCER.

IT'S THE RELAY FOR LIFE.

WE COME IN ALL SHAPES AND COLORS,

AND IN ALL SIZES TOO.

WE'RE ADULTS, WE ARE SENIORS,

WE ARE TEENS AND CHILDREN TOO.

NOW WE LINK OUR HANDS IN FRIENDSHIP

TO FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT.

LET US ALL JOIN IN TOGETHER.

IT'S THE RELAY FOR LIFE.

Elena Lurra read the poem 'Just One' by John Newton:

One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room,
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what’s true.
One life can make the difference.
You see, it’s up to YOU!

As the Luminaria Ceremony came to a close, Trader1 Whiplash thanked Grogo Tungsten, DrFran Babcock and Eleni Lurra for putting the ceremony together, and Nuala Maracas and Arizona Ballinger for compiling the music.

Survivors ... For Life!

2010-07-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Pro Recreant (left) and Dwen Dooley (right) at the Opening Ceremonies

During the Opening Ceremonies at the Relay For Life of Second Life track event there were speeches from two cancer survivors who have each looked cancer in the eye after hearing those words 'I'm sorry, you have cancer'.

Dwen Dooley, chair of the RFL survivors and caregivers committee, first thanked the Village Players for building an awesome 'Over the Rainbow' themed survivor camp, and then went on to explain the survivor and caregiver activities in Second Life.

'The SL Cancer Survivor's Group, and the SL Cancer Caregivers group, mirror real-life programs the American Cancer Society is involved with, and provide beneficial peer support to those on the front lines in the war against cancer. Later, as we take to the track, we'll honor the cancer survivors and caregivers with the first two hours.

'Right now, on the track, over 75 survivors are preparing to step out and show that the war is improving, there are battles being won, and that survival can be possible, with the right preventative steps, diagnostic tools, and treatments. Together, we represent 575 years of survivorship. This is a war where we can win some battles.'

Dwen then went on to introduce a man who knows all too well what the fight against cancer is about. Pro Recreant is an active member of SL Cancer Survivors group on the American Cancer Society's island who has battled for five years against a rare form of sarcoma, a soft-tissue cancer, and been through major surgeries and many procedures. Even though he recently had surgery for a recurrence, Pro proudly skippered one of the survivor ships at 'Sail For Life' and promised he would teach us all to sail properly.

Dwen said: Pro is a son, father, stepfather, and grandfather. He's a Computer Systems Analyst by trade, a farmer and gardener, a fisherman, and a computer gamer, which led him into this virtual world. I'm pleased to introduce .... Pro Recreant!

There wasn't a dry eye on the sims as Pro spoke. Here is Pro's wonderful speech, in full:

'I would like to begin by thanking the American Cancer Society for sponsoring this event and by thanking The Lindens for providing this wonderful creation we call SecondLife.

'I have survived with cancer for the past five years and I attend survivor support group meetings held here in SecondLife at the Hope Haven facility located on ACS island.

'Attending these meetings has made it very clear to me that cancer affects survivors and caregivers all over the world in a deep and personal way. While meeting with survivors here in SecondLife I have learned that we all have much to share with each other when it comes to dealing with cancer.

'At Hope Haven, we survivors and caregivers share our trials, our victories, and we encourage each other. It is a unique support situation where none of us have to worry over how bad we look, how bad we may feel, how tired we may be, we don't need to make travel arrangements, or worry about finding Real World support groups, instead through our internet connections and from the comfort and safety of our homes we can connect with each other over geography and across borders that would otherwise limit us to our own immediate families and communities.

'For some like myself with very rare cancers Hope Haven in SecondLife has enabled us to connect with other survivors of similar cancers and share support that we would otherwise have no access to in our real world communities.

'It is very difficult for me to tell you what it's like to hear the words "You have cancer", but I can tell you that based on the current cancer statistics one out of every three of you attending this event today will hear those words sometime during your life. Cancer is not concerned with age, politics, or financial status. Cancer cannot be controlled by geography or borders.

'As a three time survivor of Sarcoma, I can tell you that no one can take on cancer alone. Every survivor will tell you that it takes a decision from deep inside to fight and that decision is made and supported by faith that the fight can be won. Faith comes in many forms for many people.

'For me the willingness to fight cancer comes from the Holy Spirit and faith in my God. God has blessed me with my church family which has made it thier mission to become caregivers to my wife and I these past 5 years.

'I believe it was the workings of God that caused me to be introduced to the many professionals that were able to perform the unusual and complex surgeries and therapies needed for my survival.

'God has also blessed me with considerate co-workers, neighbors, and caring volunteers that have helped me in many unmeasurable ways. I also believe it was answered prayers when I met the other survivors at Hope Haven.

'Regardless of where each survivor finds faith, our faith is sustained and strengthened by the community which supports us.

'Cancer can only be overcome by a community of people. Today, I see that three out of every three people here is dedicated to stopping cancer. The numbers are clearly in our favor!

'Through events like this Relay for Life where you take on cancer by giving your time, your money, and your best wishes. You are not only raising money to fund the vital research needed for a cure, your also raising awarness for the need to take action against cancer, and you are answered prayers delivering a heart felt message of encouragement to every survivor and caregiver.

'Stopping cancer will not happen quickly and it will not be easy. Science is making tremendous advances daily thanks to your efforts and support. Caring for survivors has become a community activity where neighbors help by mowing lawns, doing daily chores, make shopping trips, and providing other help that means so much to us.

'In closing I would like to say that we can keep the momentum going against cancer by continuing to come together to Relay. Where we can share memories of those we have lost along the way, encourage those currently struggling, and wish for a cure.

'Thank you all for being here and may God bless you.'

May God bless you too Pro and support you on your journey.

'Diverse communities working for the same goal - an end to cancer'

2010-07-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

Poppy and Synergy watch the opening ceremonies on the Treet TV screen at the RFL Celebrate Relay Information Station

Today saw the start of the eagerly-awaited 2010 Relay weekend.

Thanks to the Treet TV screens situated at each of the 34 Relay Information Stations it was possible for everyone to get a lagfree view of the Opening Ceremonies.

Opening the event, Tayzia Abattoir, Relay For Life of Second Life Event Chair for 2010 chose to highlight the unique way that RFL of SL brings together people from diverse communities from all over the world.

Tay said:'It never ceases to amaze me to see such a large crowd gathering from all over the world in this one place. That is what Second Life allows us to do.

'Four months of hard fundraising and our RFL of SL family has raised nearly 200 thousand US dollars! You should know, that even though the we fundraise for something called the American Cancer Society, which you can find more information about at cancer.org, RFL has become an international movement with over 20 countries involved.

Our RFL of SL family includes everyone that donated money, everyone that held events, everyone that worked on the committee behind the scenes, everyone that provided music or venues or items to sell or auction off or just set a kiosk out for us, everyone that participated in any way. You have all helped to raise that nearly 200k dollars, and guess what, we are still going folks! As we go into this weekend and light up those luminaries along the track and have fun events and activities our totals will soar above even that!

RFL of SL brings out the best in diverse communities literally from all over the world, ALL of who come together to eradicate cancer in our lifetime. The support of this community reaches out to survivors, those still battling and families all over, and gives them hope and strength. These things, of course, are true of RFL everywhere --what makes RFL in SL unique is that people can participate from anywhere, even hospice beds, and if only for a time, stand up with those who care about them.
Congratulations to all of YOU. It is phenomenal that we can gather from anywhere and everywhere and meet in this virtual world for this very real event and raise that kind of money for this very real disease.

'The significance of our 24-hour daytime and nighttime event coincides with the journey that all cancer patients go through from hearing the words 'you have cancer' ... and darkness falls ... to friends and family that gather around them and offer hope and then begins the dawn of a new day with strength to battle this disease with the support of loved ones surrounding them. For the next 24 hours we will celebrate.... we will remember ... and we will fight back together as one family, our RFL of SL family. Thank you, each and every one of you!'

Jeff Montegut, who as Stingray9798 Raymaker is the ACS online manager and representative in Second Life, also emphasized the inclusive nature of RFL of SL.

'Our goal for the actual RFL of SL event is to create an atmosphere that represents all of the experiences, cultures, and lifestyles that exist in Second Life. Nowhere else on the entire grid can you see so many examples of the diversity that Second Life has to offer - - all in one place. The beauty of this 41-sim event is that as you walk through all of the campsites, you get a sense of what the overall Second Life experience is like. The Relay For Life of Second Life allows residents to showcase their talents, their interests, and what makes them unique. It is the largest collection of the best designs and builds in one location. It is the largest collection of the most diverse groups in one location. And the best part of it all is that no matter what our differences in interests, choices, no matter what separates us in other capacities - we all find a way to work together for the same goal...an end to cancer.'

We have a RELAY today!

2010-07-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

We Have a RELAY today! Check out the new-style welcome and information center where you can browse the signs, click for notecards or ask one of the greeters if you have any questions.

SLURL to the welcome center: http://slurl.com/secondlife/RELAY%20FOR%20LIFE/235/28/22

Picture by IshtarAngel Micheline

Welcome to Relay weekend!

2010-07-17T02:39:00.000-07:00

Poppy Zabelin writes:

As we go into this Relay weekend I know I may not have a chance to thank people personally so I would like to give special thanks to all of the people who have helped to spread the word and reach out more than ever by writing, blogging and tweeting. And first of all a very special thanks to my co-chair and partner in the PR and Publicity Committee, Breezy Carver, who taught me how to twirl :) Breezy has been awesome in helping to arrange our special kick-off media conference, in setting up our display at the Second Life 7th Birthday, in liaising with the SL magazines, and most recently in herding people and collecting biographies for the very special Treet 24-hour telethon which will be starting today. And she has faithfully blogged many relay events in her blog The Waves of a Seabreeze. Thank you Breezy!

Thanks also to Saffia Widdershins for being a special advisor to the publicity team, and to Saffia and Paisley Beebe and the Treet team for taking on the telethon 'challenge'.

Thank you to ALL our media friends for your amazing coverage of Relay For Life of Second Life this year. Together, this had already generated more articles by the time we reached the kick-off in March than over the entire RFL of SL season last year. Here in no special order are the publications I know of that have published stories about Relay or covered our events. If you're not on the list it's because I missed seeing your story. Please send me a link!

Second Life Blogs
SLRFL Clothing Fair 2010 Blog
BOSL Blog
Rob's Blog
SL Newspaper
Daniel Voyager's Blog
InnerWorld
Prim Perfect Blog
Prim Perfect Magazine
PrimGraph
The bloggers of Your 2nd Place
Second Times
The Waves of a Sea Breeze
The Metaverse Tribune
The SL Enquirer
Icon Lifestyle Magazine
Royal Elite Magazine
SL Vibe
CNN iReport
Editorial Clarity Second Life Blog
Retropolitan
SL Newser
Chestnut's Choices on New World Notes
SL blogs community events

To our 176 followers on Twitter and our 245 group members on Avatars United - thanks for all your retweets and shouts!

And now, in only a few hours ... let's go RELAY!

Breaking news for sports fans

2010-07-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

We can now reveal that a number of very special real life items will be auctioned during the Relay For Life auction this weekend.

Zindlers Sports Collectibles in Atlanta Georgia owned by Dean Zindler who also writes a weekly column for SCORE Atlanta and also appears regularly in syndicated sports columns around the country has donated the following unique and one of a kind items.

Winners will need to provide real life mailing information in order to receive their items.

Here is a list of items along with their minimum/opening bids:

Hank Aaron Autographed Baseball(US$275)

Joe Dimaggio Autographed Photo (US$450)

Sandy Koufax Autographed Baseball (US$500)

Joe Namath Autographed Jersey Display (US$750)

Kareem Abdul Jabbar Autographed Basketball (US$350)

Jack Nicklaus Autographed Golf Flag Display (US$650)

2010 Liverpool Signed Soccer Jersey w/Torres & Gerrard (US$200)

2010 Manchester United Signed Soccer Jersey w/Rooney (US$250)

Lance Armstrong Autographed Display (US$250)

The Silent Auction takes place from July 17 10am - 9am slt July 18 and the Live Auction - July 18 from 7am - 8:30am slt

Among the other special items being auctioned are:

Four hours of djing (Aryon Dagger)

A custom poem (Ingeborg Apfelbaum)

one hour of business consultation value US$125 (Matt Fiertze/BusinessLink - http://www.firstlink.com)

'57 Cruiser (Warren Hoof)

One hour of acting/storytelling (Ixmal Supermarine)

customized Gypsy Wagon (Ingeborg Apfelbaum)

There will also be several houses, gowns, jewelry items and several pieces of art to bid on at the auctions.

See you there!

Inspirational builds at the Relay For Life main track event

2010-07-15T04:43:00.000-07:00

A guide to the Relay For Life of Second Life designer sims

In just two days the Relay sims will be opening. In addition to the many team campsites there will be a number of special design ‘builds’. The 'Wishing on a Cure' theme of this year's relay has been an inspiration to our designers who have built on the keywords of ‘wishing’, ‘hope’, ‘dreams’, ‘faith’, ‘courage’, ‘support’ to create a positive message.

Seeing is believing, but meanwhile here are some advance details that some of the designers have shared with us. With thanks to Serra Anansi, RFL of SL Design Co-Chair, for compiling this list. Updated July 16 and July 17.

Sim: RFL Acceptance
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Acceptance/118/41/23Designer: Uni Ninetails
Name of Area: Fields of Hope, Forests of Dreams
Synopsis: We wish on Stars, Stars are hope harvesting them from fields of music. Forests filled with dreams, we roam endeared.

Sim: RFL Awareness
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Awareness/26/137/23
Designer: Helena Kiama
Name of Area: Starlight
Synopsis: A visual journey of one's experiences and emotions with cancer. Follow the waterway, reading Susan's words, seeing her feelings in the landscape, from denial, anger, fear....eventually to hope.

Sim: RFL Care
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Care/130/115/23
Designer: Alia Baroque
Name of Area: The Path

Sim: RFL Celebrate and RFL Comfort
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Celebrate/254/138/23
Designer: Jaraziah Lowell
Name of Area: Gorean in the Relay for life
Synopsis: Showing the world the themes that the Goreans within Second Life have, in a tribute to their donations and support for Relay For Life, the heart of it being the home stone garden, the symbol of hope and freedom to many if not all Goreans.

Sim: RFL Courage
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Courage/119/138/23
Designer: Erielle Clary
Name of Area: Fantasy Archipelago ~ Path to a Cure
Synopsis: Through Hope, Faith, Courage, Knowledge, Support and Strength, we can overcome. A beautiful fantasy to symbolize the journey to a cure.

Sim: RFL Dedication
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Dedication/110/123/23
Designer: Mayah Parx
Synopsis: A reminder in such a complicated world that dreams do come true and one should never stop believing.

Sim: RFL Enlightenment
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Enlightenment/140/108/22
Designer: Nico Bascom
Name of Area: Quiet Thunder

Sim: RFL Healing
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Healing/113/172/23
Designer:Tari Landar

Name of Area: Serenity
Synopsis: A calm river flows through the earth much like the calm after the storm known as cancer has subsided. It is the wish of many cancer survivors and friends and family members of those who fought a courageous battle but did not win, to find a sense of serenity as they try to make sense of what has happened . A quiet and serene natural setting often gives us a chance to ponder...to wish...to hope...and to pray for a cure.

Sim: RFL Hero
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Hero/148/129/23
Designer: Alix Stoanes
Name of Area: The Daffodil
Synopsis: The Daffodil lies in a grand greenhouse, which has decayed and perished through time, yet still stands, albeit in ruins. Flooded, shaken by tremour and exposed to the sun, hope remains at its core.

"Hope is not the wish that you shall not drown,
It is the faith that the water shall quench your thirst;
Hope is not fearing that the sun shall scald you,
It is the delight you feel as you shine in its warmth;
Hope is not fearing that all around you will collapse,
When time has told, that it shall sustain you."

Sim: RFL Imagine
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Imagine/140/192/23
Designer: TIGGS Beaumont
Name of Area: The Birth of a Cure
Synopsis: The cure for cancer can often come from botanicals found in native jungles and forests. The region will be terraformed to have a huge volcano, and a cascading jungle floor, and rivers around its flanks. Scattered within will be hidden copses that contain concentrations of botanical plants. When people walk in there, they can touch placards that show the history of them.The History of Cancer research for a cure was born in nature. We hope all will not only discover, but will enjoy the discoveries

Sim: RFL Knowledge
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Knowledge/194/119/23
Designer: Abel Dreamscape

Sim: RFL Life
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Life/240/144/23
Designer: Golda Stein
Name of Area: Island of Wishes
Synopsis: The "wish balloon" an oriental tradition, provided the basis of our inspiration. We expanded with other methods of wishing, such as birthday candles and dandelions, and added places to discover, including a labyrinth, a fun house and birthday gazebo.

Sim: RFL Manage & RFL Overcome
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Manage/73/116/23
Designer: TotalLunar Eclipse & Tensai Hilra
Mame of Area: Alice
Synopsis: When faced with adversity we spiral down a neverending chasm of despair into a world unknown, even everday life may be askew to the realities of what once was. In gardens of dreams, through red and white, under and below we fall down the rabbit hole. We are pieces in the chessboard of our lives, it is time to make your move... for life is truly a wonderland.

Sim: RFL Perservere
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Persevere/138/116/23
Designer: Shaunathan Sprocket
Name of Area: Wishing for a Retro-Future without Cancer
Synopsis: Explore a retro city from the 30's and 40's! Locate our eight informational posters and learn about cancer research from the golden years of the 20th century!

Sim: RFL Recovery
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Recovery/119/86/23
Designer: Seska Akami
Name of Area: "Heaven's Salvation" 2010
Synopsis: The No Salvation Revenants For Life present "Heaven's Salvation" ... We may be Immortals but those we love and have lost are not. This is dedicated to the honour and loving memory of those who have fallen to and who are still fighting against Cancer.
"Blessed are they who mourn... For they shall be comforted."
"I will restore health unto thee... and will heal thee of thy wounds."

Sim: RFL Remember
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Remember/137/175/23
Designer: TanyA Wakaonna
Name of Area: Modjadji's Gardens
Synopsis: Rural area with different tribes of Southern Africa. It will be a walk-through of six tribal kraals with an example of the huts (two for each tribe) and some artifacts and info on each of the tribes. Entrance will have an information hut, ending with the kraal of Modjadji, the rain queen, in the corner as end destination. Overall, I would say it will be like a big garden walk-through of indigenous countryside flora with huts.

Sim: RFL Screening
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Screening/115/14/23
Designer: Marcus Inkpen and Sharni Azalee
Name of Area: The Healing Hands of Eywa
Designer: Sharni Azalee and Marcus Inkpen
Name of Area: The Healing Hands of Eywa
Synopsis: The journey from discovery to healing inspired by the spirit of the alien world Pandora.

Sim: RFL Spirit
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Spirit/139/44/23
Designer: Anhayla Lycia
Name of Area: Fairies Wishing for a Cure
Synopsis: Enter a magical world where fairies work in partnership with magical creatures to find a cure and defeat the evil one that brings cancer.I had this idea that fairies grant wishes, so these fairies are working with good magical creatues, the unicorn, alicorn etc, to defeat the bad magical forces, the demon steed, which represent cancer. Triumph of good over evil = triumph over cancer.

Sim: RFL Strides/RFL Strength
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Strength/119/208/23
Designer: Bianca Bender
Name of Area: Seasons of Change Fall/Summer/Winter/Spring
Synopsis: It started with the theme, Wishing for a Cure, which brought to my mind, a wishing well.Across the four seasons, there are four wishing wells to be interacted with and to make a wish upon.The seasons represent the changes of time and life, without winter there would be no spring, and fall brings the harvest while summer is green and full of life, and the changes over all the seasons that sync with the changes experienced during the hard process of living with cancer.

Sim: RFL Survive
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RFL%20Survive/147/127/23
Designer: Kalique Pichot and Balls Constantine
Name of Area: Over the Rainbow
Synopsis: Wishes are often magical things but as inspired by the Wizard of Oz' some wishes make it into reality. We believe the cure for cancer is just over the rainbow...and our greatest wish is that we find it soon. The sim follows several stages of the Wizard of Oz beginning with the Tornado ripping up Dorothy's house, a grim moment made more dramatic in black and white. And like Dorothy, visitors will follow the yellow brick road from Munchkinland, through the dark forest and poppy fields, ending ultimately in the Emerald City with a chance to meet the Wizard himself.

Dorothy’s journey is not unlike that of cancer survivors. The words “you have cancer” can hit like a tornado and threaten to tear everything down. There are moments along the journey that are bright and colorful celebrations of life. There are moments along the journey that are dark, scary and uncertain. Along the way, bonds of love and friendship are made, tested and strengthened and all the while we fight for life and for a cure. We are particularly excited to offer visitors a place inside the Emerald City to make a real Wish - to wish upon a cure.

Updated July 16 with descriptions of RFL Life, RFL Persevere, RFL Recovery, RFL Screening, and RFL Survive

Updated July 17 with pictures taken by IshtarAngel Micheline, RFL Photography Chair

Sail For Life sets sail June 18-20

2010-06-14T16:43:00.000-07:00

SAIL FOR LIFE is setting sail this weekend! See American Cancer Society press release.

The event kicks off with the 2nd Annual NAUTILUS CITY SUMMER FESTIVAL, June 18 through 20. The Festival begins at 5pm SL time on Friday June 18 and continues all weekend long, with events including concerts, games, rides, freebies and FUN. THROUGHOUT the Festival period, you will find free rides, freebies galore, and AMAZING sights and experiences.

The Sail For Life weekend itself begins on June 19. Activities will include a Grand Sail parade spotlighting cancer survivors and caregivers, providing them with a tour of the sailing community. There will be boating safety and rescue demonstrations by the Second Life Coast Guard, a large boat show and auction, rock concerts, Tugby (Tugboat Rugby) matches, sail and power boat races including a ‘Rich Sailors’ regatta where skippers must be one of the highest six donation bidders to enter the race, an ongoing carnival, an art show with unique one-off pieces, and much more.

SCHEDULE

FRIDAY June 18

6pm SLT, Cutting Edge Concerts presents Aerosmith at the Himilco Stage.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Suniaton/166/228/2

SATURDAY June 19

6:00 am SLT

Sail For Life Weekend Begins

Nautilus City 2nd Summer Festival continues - rides scattered across Nautilus City
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Hasdrubal/8/7/64

Sailors Cove & Art Show - Sailors Cove
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Clipper%20Bay/90/231/22

7:00 am SLT

SL Coast Guard Demonstration
Boating Safety, Navigation & Sea Rescue Demonstration
Hollywood Bowl Basin
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Hollywood/61/92/21

9:00 am SLT:

Opening Ceremonies, Survivor & Caregiver Grand Sail & Flotilla from Crow's Nest in the Blake Sea to the NC Harbor in Nautilus - Yamm. Viewing areas around the USS and Blake Sea and all along the North Shore of Nautilus City.

Blake Sea - Haggerty and anywhere along the route
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blake%20Sea%20-%20Haggerty/128/128/2

10:30 am SLT

Boat Show and Auction begins
Nautilus City Harbor
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Yamm/128/128/2

1pm SLT:

Cutting Edge Concerts presents Pink at the Himilco Stage - http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Suniaton/235/244/64

See a preview of the concert here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SMLXFG9o7s

3:30 pm SLT

Tugby Boat Rugby - Matches I
Santa Barbara
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Santa%20Barbara/2/2/2

6pm SLT:

Cutting Edge Concerts presents the WORLD PREMIER of Dire Straits in Second Life at the Himilco Stage
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Suniaton/235/244/64

See a preview of the concert here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sok7RjMqE6Y

8:30 pm SLT

Off Shore Powerboat Races
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blake%20Sea%20-%20Haggerty/128/128/2

Blake Sea - Haggerty -

SUNDAY June 20

6:00 am SLT

Tugby Boat Rugby Matches II
Santa Barbara
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Santa%20Barbara/2/2/2

8:00 am SLT

IronMast Triathlon: Dinghy, Keelboat and Sailboard Competition
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blake%20Sea%20-%20Haggerty/128/128/2 or http://slurl.com/secondlife/Hollywood/61/92/21

10:00 am SLT

Sailboat Race: Sailing with the Stars!
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blake%20Sea%20-%20Haggerty/128/128/2 or http://slurl.com/secondlife/Hollywood/61/92/21

12:00 pm SLT

Sailing Lessons
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Santa%20Barbara/140/120/2

1:00 pm SLT:

Parade along canal. Begin in Byth.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Byth/128/128/2
All are welcome to join!

1:45 pm SLT

Rich Sailors Cup
Watch America's Cup Class Boats and Sailors Race in the Blake Sea

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blake%20Sea%20-%20Haggerty/128/128/2 or http://slurl.com/secondlife/Hollywood/61/92/21
4pm SLT

Cutting Edge Concerts presents Alice Cooper at the Himilco Stage http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Suniaton/235/244/64

See a preview of the concert here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCAa-3NzLg8

6:45 pm SLT

Boat Show and Auction Close
Nautilus City Harbor
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Yamm/128/128/2

7:00 pm SLT

Auction Winners Announced and Sail For Life Weekend Closing

Nautilus City Harbor
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Yamm/128/128/2

11:59 pm SLT

Nautilus City 2nd Summer Festival Closes

Are you up for the challenge?

2010-06-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

Tayzia Abattoir, Relay For Life of Second Life 2010 Event Chair, is challenging Second Life residents to raise money on line for the American Cancer Society and to test their fundraising skills in a two-week Convio challenge to see who can raise the most. The challenge itself runs from June 15 through June 30, but people can donate any time after that as well.

Tayzia explains: 'Convio is a program where Second Life residents can have their Real Life family and friends donate on their behalf to Relay For Life of Second Life. They don’t even have to go into detail about their Second Life if they don’t want to!'

There are an estimated 2,000 volunteers and team members involved in Relay For Life of Second Life. Team members will be participating in this challenge as well. But Tayzia emphasizes that it is open to everyone. The winner will receive a certificate during the RFL of SL Track Event on July 17-18. The overall goal of RFL of SL is to raise US$300,000.

Stingray9798 Raymaker, Online Content Manager for the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life who oversees their existence in Second Life, says: ‘Cancer touches everyone’s lives, regardless if you are a Relayer or not. We are calling out to all residents of Second Life to join the Relay Nation and help us to raise money to fund lifesaving research to find ways to fight back against a disease that takes so much.’

HOW TO SIGN UP FOR CONVIO:

Anyone who is not a part of a RFL of SL team can join the challenge by signing up at http://www.relayforlife.org/secondlife Click on the FUNDRAISE WITH CONVIO link at the very top of the page. Then click INDIVIDUAL SIGN UP and simply follow the quick and easy steps. You will get a link to your page so people can go donate. You can share this with people outside Second Life – you can tell your family and friends, and get the word out through Facebook, Twitter, Avatars United, and blogs.

If you want to donate but do not wish to join the challenge you can donate at the American Cancer Society sim, http://slurl.com/secondlife/American%20Cancer%20Society/130/126/52.

Where your money goes ...

2010-06-10T17:16:00.000-07:00

So you dropped some lindens in a Relay For Life of Second Life kiosk. Ever wondered where the money goes?

In 2009, the American Cancer Society (ACS) lists its allocation of funds as 72% for Program Services (Research 15%, Prevention 17%, Patient Support 13%, Detection and Treatment 27%).

The remaining 28% are allocated for supporting services (Fundraising 22%, and Management, General administration 6%) meeting the Better Business Bureau's Standards for Charity Accountability (At least 65% to program services and no more than 35% to overhead and fundraising expenses)

In 2008, the American Cancer Society (ACS) lists its allocation of funds as 73% for Program Services (Research 15%, Prevention 18%, Patient Support 14%, Detection and Treatment 26%).

The remaining 27% are allocated for supporting services (Fundraising 20%, and Management, General administration 7%).

To view the entire ACS Annual Report for 2009 go to:

http://www.cancer.org/downloads/AA/Annual-Report-2009-basic.pdf

Call 1-800-227-2345 any time for cancer information or visit
http://www.cancer.org

This is the first of a series of Mission messages being sent out over the coming weeks as we count down to Relay on July 17-18.

Relay For Life on 'Tonight Live' with Paisley Beebe

2010-06-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

Tayia Abattoir, Event Chair and Stingray9798 Raymaker, the American Cancer Society's representative in Second Life, appeared on the first 'Tonight Live' show of the new season as guests of interviewer Paisley Beebe on Sunday.

If you missed it you can watch the show here:

http://archive.treet.tv/tonight-live-paisley-beebe-06jun10

Celebrating survival

2010-06-05T01:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday, June 6 is National Cancer Survivors Day®!

Hundreds of communities in the real world throughout the United States, Canada, and other participating countries will observe the 23rd annual National Cancer Survivors Day by hosting celebrations of life.

NCSD is expected to commence with greetings from President Barack Obama and John E. Niederhuber, M.D., director of the National Cancer Institute.

A “survivor” is anyone living with a history of cancer from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life, according to the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation.

The American Cancer Society recognizes and supports NCSD and in Second Life we are celebrating survival by holding an ART AUCTION on the American Cancer Society in Second Life island, organized by cancer survivors and caregivers.

Join us at 12 noon on Sunday, June 6 and bid in the live art auction, look around the Welcome Center, and visit Hope Haven where Cinders Vale has mounted a display of SL cancer survivors. All of the proceeds from the Art Auction will go to Relay For Life.

Art Auction
http://slurl.com/secondlife/American%20Cancer%20Society/158/44/26

Hope Haven
http://slurl.com/secondlife/American%20Cancer%20Society/221/126/51

Welcome Center
http://slurl.com/secondlife/American%20Cancer%20Society/128/128/52

For more details about NCSD see:

http://www.ncsdf.org/
http://www.cancer.org

Sources: American Cancer Society and NCSD Foundation

Reaching out to all corners of SL!

2010-06-04T07:03:00.000-07:00

As we head into the final all-important five weeks before the main Relay event we need to reach out to new people and promote wider awareness of Relay For Life of Second Life. So we are introducing one-click billboards to the grid. The aim is to get them to large community groupings, places that do not already have kiosks or teams involved in Relay.

By one-click we mean you can just click the billboard to donate to RFL of SL. It works like a kiosk, without the people we give them to having to run through configuration to set them up or adding a team number, and it eliminates the hover text.

They are four different Billboards, two of which are illustrated here. They come in three different sizes each (SM, MD, LG), and then each comes in Full Bright and NOT Full Bright. Hopefully one of the 24 works for everyone!

If you know of some places where you can rezz a billboard or two in SL please contact Poppy Zabelin, Breezy Carver or MamaP Beerbaum for a box.

It is one more way we can get our totals up and reach our goal of US$300K!

Tell the world why you relay

2010-05-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

The 'Why I Relay' team writes:

Relay Week is fast approaching. And this year, the Relay For Life organization in Second Life, and Editorial Clarity, want to do something different.

We want to know Why you Relay? What is your inspiration? What do you hope to achieve by Relaying? And what kind of Relaying are you doing, to support the American Cancer Society?

Over the next few weeks, Ed is going to be looking for some relay teams and individuals, to volunteer to be on camera in Second Life, and tell us Why you Relay. These will only be short videos, however a different video will be done for each relay team. The final products will be shown on a big screen at the 'Why I Relay' area at the relay sims on The Weekend of July 17th-18th.

If you as an individual, or a team, would Like to be part of this, please contact Editorial Clarity either in-world (notecard would be best) or by email (editorialclarity@yahoo.com) - and a schedule will be made for a time that suits you and Ed to get it filmed.

An invitation from Sail For Life

2010-05-28T07:32:00.000-07:00

Nber Medici writes:

On June 19th at 9 am SLT a flotilla of boats carrying cancer survivors and caregivers will sail from the center of the Blake Sea to Nautilus. This will be the sailing community’s chance to show its support for cancer survivors and caregivers.

Sail For life is issuing an invitation to cancer survivors and caregivers in the sailing community and in the broader SL community to take part. If you would like to participate, please sign up using the following URL http://bit.ly/GRAND_Sail to fill out a form to indicate your willingness to be involved. You don't need to be able to sail, you just need to be a passenger.

This event will be a kick-off for the Sail For Life Weekend.

Sail For Life is an adjunct event in support of Relay For Life of Second Life. For more information about Sail For Life see:

http://slsailing.com/sail-for-life/2010-sail-for-life-articles/