The Interview archive

The Interview - Group Chat

Editor's Note: Join Uccello Poultry – Seale as she sits down with Group Chat! This month's Interview is a Golden Oldie from January of 2014. Enjoy!

After another month of unsuccessfully tracking down people to interview for The Post, I started asking questions in the Bay City Alliance Chat. Here's what I got ...

1. What brought you to Second Life?

Pygar BuPygar Bu points at the Mayori
Imnotgoing Sideways: Cable Internet, a good video card, and delay after delay of Playstation Home. (^_^)
Marianne McCann: 1. A couple friends of mine were here, and as it finally hd a mac client by then, I joined
Lexxi Gynoid: What brought me to SL? A book website I was on was going to have a meeting in SL. ?
Ever Dreamscape: I’m gonna say dialup… but it wasn’t… just felt that way at times :/

2. What brought you to Bay City?

Marianne McCann: 2. I read about the building on the SL blog and was intrigued by the theme
Pygar Bu: I started hanging out at the Alliance meetings :-)
Lexxi Gynoid:  What brought me to Bay City? Hype at the time.  Ended up with a bunch of land.  Now I have no land and no lindens.
Ever Dreamscape: worldmap

3. Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

Marianne McCann: 3. "yes"

4. Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

Pygar Bu: yep, but I have the run of the whole Grid, so there's that
Pygar Bu: I build at Livingtree or in one of the sandboxes, and I have a garden in Varney
Ever Dreamscape: there's an outside??? i wasn't given information about that place.
Marianne McCann: 4. I tend to fly all over the place, including around here and the Blake Sea. I RP Pin some of the kid/family regions, and I do stuff in Livingtree

5. What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

Marianne McCann: 6. Come to the meetings and events and get to know us all.
Pygar Bu: the land price is worth it, if you can afford it. Otherwise there are plenty of rentals around
Pygar Bu: come join us!
Ever Dreamscape: bring matches?
Ever Dreamscape: oh... and buy insurance!  LOTS of insurance!!!

6. Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

ADudeNamed Anthony: you pay through the nose for it, so the noobs can get it free
Pygar Bu: I used to have a teeny parcel in the Heterocera Atoll
Pygar Bu: there were three gardens, two houses and a road wayyyyy over on the other side of the region
Marianne McCann: 6. I have always lived in Mainland, so it's home. Yes, it does come with its share of headaches, but it's mine. That is, I won't log in and find all my stuff returned and the land abandoned unless I choose to do so. Also, the mainland is great for long trips and just random exploring
Ever Dreamscape: again.. there *is* such a place??? i missed that memo :o
Ever Dreamscape: oh you mean where Mari sends me when ive been bad... Mahulu something?

7. Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

Pygar Bu: 7. Yes.
Marianne McCann: 7. "Yes." I am an RP character, but I'm also an aspect of my first life self too. So it's all packed in one small package
Pygar BuPygar Bu is a slightly larger package  :p   though my first life self doesn't have a halo
Ever Dreamscape: yes/no/maybe


8. Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

Marianne McCann: 8. "Have Fun"
Ever Dreamscape: Rez and let Rez (but not on my land )  :/
Pygar Bu: 8> Make something

9. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

Ever Dreamscape: that I am an avatar irl too

10. Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

Ever Dreamscape: are we there yet?
Ever Dreamscape: so long and thanks for all the fish!!!?

Uccello Poultry: Okies. Thanks, everyone for the group interview. I'll just change everyone's name to protect the innocent and turn this into my editor.

Seriously, now, if you'd like to be interviewed for The Post or if you know of someone that should be interviewed, contact Uccello Poultry or Kinnaird. It's a small city and we are running out of people to talk about .. erm .. talk to for the paper.

The Interview - GoSpeed Rasere

Last month, we heard from the famous RacerX, named after a famous cartoon character. Now, let's hear from RacerX's nemesis, GoSpeed.

If you've been to any Bay City events in the last year or more you've probably seen GoSpeed Rasere, on of the most popular DJs around. You can also find her at the Summertime fireworks shows at Livingtree with our own Marianne McCann where she promises to not bite you.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

GoSpeed Rasere: I saw it talked about in various blogs.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

GSR: Found it on the map and came to explore it

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

GSR: Participating in community events, celebrations, and of course, to DJ.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

GSR: About half my time, mostly to pursue interests and activities not found here.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

GSR: To participate in all the fun activities and events as you can.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

GSR: With few exceptions the mainland is devoid of community spirit. In Bay City, even if there are few logged in, you can travel up and down its streets and feel your neighbors presence.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

GSR: Both actually. To me, GoSpeed is a unique persona, but underneath she's really me viewed under a different lens. In fact, I have written a couple of novels where she is the main character. I hope to publish them soon.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

GSR: Love and share as much as you can. Don't take anything too seriously here.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

GSR: I do not bite! It's OK to talk to me, seriously!

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

GSR: Never let your feelings fully dictate your actions. Your feelings only serve yourself and are inherently selfish. A logical, rational approach to life is inherently more fair to yourself and to others.

Ten questions later and not a bite at all. GoSpeed is a woman of her word. If you think you can go ten questions without biting, contact me (Uccello Poultry; Display Name Varies) or Kinnaird Resident to be in the Bay City Post Interview.

The Interview - RacerX Gullwing

Giant snails have long infested the Second Life Grid and are often spotted in Bay City. To get the scoop on this, I talked to RacerX Gullwing, the bunny behind the snails.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

(The picture to the left is me after one week in second life. I made myself into the cartoon character from Speed Racer.)

RacerX Gullwing:  Well my brother who had let me move in with him suggested it as a way to use my artistic and programing talents to make money from home. This was back in 2004 when Second Life was just one week short of a year old. It took me 3 years to get noticed by the right people and get a job with PAConsulting where I made some great mock ups and demos for their clients to look at. That was boom times in Second Life. Big companies were moving in and trying to get a foothold in what was hoped to be the new 3D Internet. SLCN (now treet.tv - their website is down at the moment) found the Giant Snail Races and decided we were film-worthy and added us as one of the channels too that year. They filmed, edited, and hosted our show that lasted till 2010 or 2011. Then they still posted our show but no longer filmed it and it was up to me to do that part.  Since 2007 we've filmed 475 snail races.

UP-S: A Giant Snail Race was going on in Bay City when I bought my land here a few years ago. Could you tell me a bit about snail racing?

RXG: Giant Snail racing is a sport I invented as my way of helping the group I belonged to raise the traffic score for our sim. At the time there were great discounts if you could get your sim into the top 20.

The reason I chose snail racing as my event was because I had seen an upcoming event called Giant Avatar contest. So I assumed the object was to make the largest Avatar possible so I went to the public sandbox and tried connecting prims to my feet. They just went down into the ground. So figured I would have to be in the foot of my avatar and build it up from there. I knew very little about scripting in second life at the time so no way I could make it look like it was a walking 2 legged avatar so I decided to make it a snail because they only have one foot. I didn't win the contest in fact I was the only one that took it literally. I think the sexy waitress won it. So I had the avatar and was trying to come up with an event and was talking to my friend and neighbor Catfart Greyson and he suggested giant snail racing. The snail at the time wasn't the streamlined smooth looking snail you see today it was sort of ugly and I connected the eye stalks to my eyeballs. I have it on my dock in Fujin for sale for 1L. I created a new snail much like the one we use today the night before my event.

UP-S: You often show up at Bay City events. What do you like most about the City By The Bay?

RXG: I love that you guys have fun events. I like the people there too. I've raced in some boat races and car races in Bay City and whenever I'm online and not busy I join in when I see something is happening there. Also is very cool that if I film an event there it gets double or triple what my snail races get on youtube. The last parade I filmed is in the top 4 now on my Giant Snail racing page with 274 views so far. Plus most of your land is actually inhabited, though a little pricey last time I looked. I would move there if I hadn't hung on to my plot of land in Fujin for the last 13 years - land which largely hasn't changed since then either. I'm sentimental that way, never wanting to let anything go. People tell me they love that Giant snail racing is one of the things that's still here after all these years.

UP-S: How would you compare Bay City to the rest of Mainland?

RXG: Bay City has a theme or an era, and is a little more controlled on types of buildings you can have there. It looks and acts like a city. It has infrastructure and you can travel to any part of it by roads or rivers. You don't see lots of abandoned buildings or plots there.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to visit Bay City?

RXG: Join the group, and go to the events - they're full of wonderful, friendly people. Explore the wacky roads and waterways. When we raced the snails though it it was one of the hardest ever to set up because  you can't go a quarter sim without hitting a Y intersection where we needed to post signs to keep everyone on course.

UP-S: What other communities in Second Life to you regularly visit?

RXG: Well Raglan, home of the tiny folk  - most are about knee high. They have a great community too. Also I'm a member of Elf Circle - also very friendly folk and mostly Elves there, but they let this Bunny come be a part  (I have the longest ears) whenever he wants. I think most groups are pretty open to all kinds of folks these days. Also the Isle of Wyrms (Cathedral sim) lets us run our Giant snails though them whenever we want. There is a great group of dragons there.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

RXG: Well it's me if I was a 4 foot 4 inch bunny walking around in RL I guess. In real life though I look more like Santa Claus.

You can see me in my profile in the rl section (and at left). I started being Santa in real life about 4 years ago. Because I look like him and love kids and Love Christmas I get to got to lots of Christmas parties and be the center of attention. Some people say I'm the Easter bunny and Santa. But the bunny was something I used to draw then when I came to SL and saw the Furies in luskwood I had to bring my version of a bunny into here. I based my bunny on sort of the March Hare from Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter mixed together.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

RXG: Help new folks. Though they rarely last more than a day or two, the ones that I run into years later tell me I was the reason they stuck around. I like to tell them this place is like the ultimate Lego Land where anything is possible Then I give them some stuff to play with like cars and flying machines or help them find the group there looking for. Be kind to the newbies - I guess that's my philosophy.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

RXG: I'm here till this place goes away. I'll be here till they drag me kicking and screaming away. So if you friend me I'll be your rock and your anchor you can depend on seeing again someday. Also I let people map to me. So you can always find me. IM's go to my mail so even if I'm not online you can talk to me.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

RXG: Love my friends I've made here. The ones I see every week at the Giant Snail races  (see them here on YouTube), the ones I see once in a while that log in just to see what I'm up to these days, and the ones that have passed away. I'm still making new friends.

Now when you see a trail of slime in Bay City's streets you know the backstory. It won't help with the cleanup, but you'll have something to think about when you are scooping the goo. Do you know of someone important to The City By The Bay or even a city resident that should be featured in the Bay City Post? Maybe it is you? Drop a line to Uccello Poultry (Display Name Varies) or Kinnaird Resident and let us know.

The Interview - Rick Tizona

For this month's Interview subject to agree to a grilling I had to promise no shrunken questions about his head collection. Or something like that. Rick Tizona clearly has a sense of humor and he's quite the busy guy, too, as you'll see.

===
Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Rick Tizona: I actually saw a news report on a morning show. This report outlined the dangers of getting sucked into virtual worlds. I couldn't resist creating an account and taking a look for myself. I’m not sure how dangerous this is, but they were right otherwise.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

RT: I'd been looking at Bay City for years. I even remember exploring a bit when it first opened. I would drop in from time to time and look around. What is most attractive about Bay City, is that everything you see around you is a result of community effort. I finally pulled the trigger and bought a lot, and now here I am.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

RT: At this point, I’m exploring and getting to know everyone. I’m learning how Bay City ticks and how I might contribute. I have however, opened Bay City Thrift …. a thrift store where any Bay City resident may rez and sell their no copy items. (gratuitous plug) contact me for more info!

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

RT: I do still spend some time outside of the city. I enjoy boating and building/staging. The estates and mainland surrounding the Blake Sea have been my primary stomping grounds for a long time.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

RT: Stop thinking about it, and just do it. Buy, or rent, a parcel and plant your flag. You will not regret it. Bay City is unique because of the order, without there being any laws to maintain it. It seems that everyone here has their own vision of what the city should be, but the cumulative result of the individual contributions is what makes Bay City so great.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

RT: The mainland seems endless, and there is no shortage of interesting locations and amazing builds. Unfortunately most of these places have neighbors that are, well.... let's just say they are on a very different page. There are a few nice areas where individual land owners seem to work together to create an environment, but nothing like what we have here in Bay City.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

RT: Definitely a version of me. I think all of our avatars reflect something of who we are, or how we think.... even when we don't intend them to.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

RT: You can’t fail if you don’t try?

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

RT: They should know that not looking in my profile is probably the right thing to not do.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

RT: Ms. Poultry-Seale told me I might be famous if I did this interview. I hope that means I get a posse….. I’ve always wanted a posse.

If you wish to be part of Rick's posse or contribute to his head collection, just let him know. If you would like to be the next Bay City Post Interview, contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name may vary) or Kinnaird Resident (Display Name never seems to vary).

The Interview - Lucien Greybeard

Where there's a fire in town, who you gonna call? Lucien Greybeard, apparently. He's the new fire chief in Bay City. Let's learn more about this man who, apparently, can be his own fire station dog.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Lucien Greybeard: Some friends of mine in First Life have been inworld for years and finally convinced me to join in '09. I didn't think much at first, but considering I met my wife here and that marriage has moved to First Life, I'm glad I decided to stick around.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
LG: My wife, Theresia, and our kids Frankie and Erika used to belong to another roleplay region with TJ Hooker. The Hookers had an extra house available and convinced us to move to Bay City a bit over a year ago.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
LG: As you may have heard, I am the new Fire Chief for Bay City. We'll be providing fire service to all of Bay City, along with Shermerville. Mainly, we use the HD Emergency fire system. Although we can fight other fires, the vehicles to do so are just a bit more modern and so won't be normally used in Bay City.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
LG: I'm always going to some event or other with my family, so we do end up spending a lot of time outside of Bay City. Bay City is home though, and we're never away for long.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
LG: I know the prices can be scary. I almost had a heart attack when I first saw some of them. The best advice I can give is to look to rent instead of buy. Bay City is a wonderful community and the people here are always welcoming, even to those who don't have a place of their own here.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
LG: Most of the typical Mainland I've seen lately is either old builds or abandoned parcels. That's not to say there isn't anything good out there. There are several other mainland communities that have popped up over the years. There's always something to see, some new place to explore. Traveling the mainland is always a lot of fun, provided you survive the sim crossings, LOL.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
LG: A bit of both, really. I'd say while I may play a character, most of the time what you get is just me. I'm obviously not a werewolf in First Life though, so there is a bit of a character in there as well.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
LG: I've been a part of several roleplay regions, and one thing I've found is that there will always be that one person out to cause drama. There's also that person you think is going to be a complete stick in the mud who could end up being the most fun person to be around. Just take time to get to know people. I always try to take people as they act and present themselves. Also, have fun. Take a bit of time out every day and do something you have fun doing. That goes for First Life as well.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
LG: I don't actually update my profile very often. I also don't post on the feeds. I try, I really do, but it's never going to get past "pending."

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
LG: Thank you for interviewing me, Uccie. I'm glad to be a part of Bay City, and I am looking forward to serving as your Fire Chief. If anyone has any questions, or wants to know more about setting up roleplay fires, I'd be happy to talk to you, just send me an IM.

Still not sure about the "station dog" part? Did you see the part about "werewolf"? Are you an interesting person in Bay City? Do you want people to think you are? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) or Kinnaird Resident if you'd like your own Post interview. Or you can suggest someone else!

The Interview - E.F. Committee

The annual celebration of beloved Bay City resident Ever Dreamscape took on a strange twist in 2017 when a mysterious newcomer to town began to leave cryptic messages in Group Notices, Group Chat, and on billboards splattered across town a good month ahead of the usual April 1st date. That person –– or it may be "people," as you might surmise from the ten or so following questions –– is E.F. Committee.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

E.F. Committee: We decided that Second Life was missing it's craziest and most chaotic influence, and with this being the 3 year anniversary, we decided to combine powers and as a committee to be "Captain Ever" but decided that E.F. Committee was a better name.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

E.F.C.: The lack of Ever Dreamscape.

UP-S: But Ever is with us always in the traditions (and fires) she started.

E.F.C.: Indeed, but you can always have more Ever.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

E.F.C.: Event organist, general mayhem influencer, shiftless layabout, creator of chaos and disorder, so generally causing Outbreaks of Ever-itis

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

E.F.C.: There is something outside Bay City?

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

E.F.C.: Set fire to things, repeatedly, be a tornado, and occasionally call down the UFO's.

UP-S: And be a clown, or at least send them in?

E.F.C.: That goes without saying, though you said it!

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

E.F.C.: The outside scares us, we can barely stand at the foot of the bridge.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

E.F.C.: um, since we are an amalgam entity, definitely a character made up of our parts that are all trying our best to be the Ever we have, not the Ever we need

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

E.F.C.: Be eternal, be everlasting, be infinite, be For Ever!!

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

E.F.C.: Um, I'm really 10 hamsters typing on a keyboard that occasionally types words that resembles English, which we learned phonetically

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

E.F.C.: bleep boop vlanderfloom!!!!!

Well said, or at least, well, said. However (see the pun?), I don't think that's the last thing that the E.F. Committee has to say. Something tells me that E.F. will be back, much like Easter or a treatment-resistant social disease. Do you have something to say, preferably to me at The Post, or know someone I can hold down until they answer the usual Ten Standard Questions? Contact me, Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) or Post editor Kinnaird Resident (never seems to have a Display Name).

The Interview - Raven Luna

A relative newcomer to Bay City, very-busy-person Raven Luna nonetheless has some interesting perspectives on Our Fair City and recently shared them with me. Quite the surprise, too, as she is a very, very busy person.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Raven Luna: I came into Second Life in August 2006 by way of The Sims Online. Never really a fan of first-person shooter games, I had tried ActiveWorlds back in 2001 or so and then The Sims Online in 2004. I love free-form environments where I'm not told to "go over there" or "perform this specific mission."  I tend to wander about... so obviously I wasn't all that successful at The Sims Online. Ha.

I remember signing up for Second Life and going through Orientation Island, then Help Island - and then winding up at the Plum InfoHub. There were tons of people there, typing away in the air, some caging others - it was like the Wild West! So I took off to explore Sansara. I found the Ivory Tower of Primitives (my very first landmark and notecard) and then the Luna Oaks Mall (imagine - a mall named after my family!), and then Nova Albion. I met wonderful people there and called that my first home, parking myself on a prim couch in a friend's apartment.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

RL: Well, even though I've always regarded the Sansara Continent my true home, I had to go wandering about. A friend had a private island and a group of us made it into a medieval village. I lived there for a few years, learning how to terraform,  build, and script. Then off to other mainland continents and even the Blake Sea. I've always preferred to own land rather than rent, so I'd buy a parcel somewhere, build a house, sail and/or fly to and from it for a while, then put it up for sale and try something else.

Out of all the places to explore and enjoy, I think the most fun are established communities. People put so much time and effort in creating a theme and then becoming residents within that theme. I *always* wanted to live in Bay City. Like Nova Albion, a great majority of the landowners would build in theme. They didn't *have* to - they just did. I loved that. I wanted to be a part of that. My one obstacle was the very real cost of buying land there. So I would look at land for sale and wander through the city a LOT. Finally last year, I just did it - I bought my first parcel in Docklands and built a home. And was immediately greeted by four motorcycle riders on Route 66 as they passed by. That was awesome.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

RL: Well, I'm a relatively new resident of Bay City, so I'm still getting settled in and exploring. As a matter of fact, after buying a place in Docklands, my significant other and I decided on a quiet residential neighborhood in Moloch, across from the park. I like to consider this place my retreat. My favorite activity here is exploring the Mole builds and the railroad. My home in Moloch is right next door to what seems to be a Mole experimental laboratory/warehouse of sorts. I'm still trying to figure that one out. There is so much to see here! I spend a lot of time just walking through the city, exploring shops, parks, and community centers.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

RL: I currently work outside Bay City. I'm the Av-alumni Museum Director on the University of Washington islands and spend a fair amount of time there. During the weekends, I am an estate manager for HRE Realty over in Blake Passage, Balboa, and Honah Lee. Oh, and I primarily own and run several railroad stations, two railroad towns, and an airport on the Atoll Continent. Whew. I'm glad we have Hau Koda airport here.  It makes the daily commute from Bay City to Hooktip Airfield much easier.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

RL: The first thing I'd tell someone is to just start at North Channel and walk Route 66 all the way west. It is so worth it to take a walking tour of the city to get the feel of the neighborhoods. And there are different vibes in each neighborhood - some have themes within themes. The ports, the railroads, the community centers - just explore. Pretty soon you will find out which neighborhood suits you.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

RL: Ha ha - the wild frontier is just magnificent. Especially those lands in the Color Sims and the older parts of Sansara. I encourage everyone to hop on a flight or take a boat and travel around Sansara. We take our vacations in the snowlands and go skiing in Wengen. Lots of fun.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

RL: My Second Life persona is absolutely me in the Physical World (we’re both educators and work at universities). Everything in and out of Second Life is Real Life for me, so whether you are meeting me on a physical university campus or on a campus here in Second Life - you're basically meeting... me.  And people who have met me first in Second Life actually do call me Raven in the Physical World rather than my Physical World name.  I love that.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

RL: Wow. Do I have a philosophy for Second Life... No one has ever asked that before... I think the most important thing to remember is that there is a real person behind every avatar you meet. Treating people in Second Life the same way you’d like to be treated in the face-to-face Physical World is paramount to keeping this place active, immersive, and enjoyable. Also, always keep an open mind, explore this world with enthusiasm and curiosity, and have fun!

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
RL: I LOVE giving tours. And at the very least, Landmarks. I’d probably make a pretty decent SL travel agent.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

RL: I have to say, it’s a thrill to be interviewed by the Bay City Post. Thank you so much. It’s great to finally reside in Bay City and I hope to participate in more events very soon.

Do you know anyone this busy? Or maybe just anyone that is willing to be interviewed for The Bay City Post? Have them contact me, Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) or the paper's editor, Kinnaird. If they have time fore 10 questions, they could be in The Post!

The Interview - Punxsutawney Phil

The other day I was moderating comments on my blog when a guy named Phil went off on me, cursing and causing a ruckus. I had to delete and block comments on my Mole Day post (https://poultryreport.wordpress.com/2017/01/23/mole-day-2017/) but I got into a good conversation and invited Phil to join Second Life then grabbed him for The Interview!


Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Punxsutawney Phil: I saw a some blog post about a Mole Day last year and it was being held on my day. This year, I saw the same celebration encroaching on my day again, so I wanted to see what it was about.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
PP: This is where the big party will be, right? Saturday, February 4th, from 11 AM to 1 PM (SL time), I read. And there's entertainment. DJ GoSpeed of KONA Stream to start followed by a live performance by Oblee (Obleoinkment Wrigglesworth) at Noon.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
PP: I don't have one. I'm pretty busy back at my burrow in Pennsylvania. Maybe after the big day I'll stick around and see what's shakin'.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
PP: Well, DUH! I just got here!! But I will explore once I figure out why all these moles are digging groundhog holes all around town.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
PP: Dig down about 3 meters, lay a concrete slab, then put the fill back. That should keep all those moles from digging around and putting holes in your property.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
PP: I haven't seen it yet, Still looking about in Bay City, but from what I see on Kinnaird's blog (http://slmainlandmatters.blogspot.com), it looks great!

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
PP: Since I'm not the original Punxsutawney Phil (legend says I'm immortal, but there's a new one every 6-9 years, really), I'm more of a character. And many towns have a groundhog. It seems Bay City is at least a little original, what with Moles, and all.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
PP: Winter comes, Winter goes. Windlight is forever.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
PP: Profile? Is that like Facebook? Check http://www.punxsutawney.com/phantastic-phils

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
PP: Happy Mole Day, Bay City! Now how about pouring one out for a groundhog, too?

See? Another satisfied Second Lifer thanks to Social Media! Do you have an SL blog and want to tell me about it? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) to set up an interview!

The Interview - Dahlia Jayaram

As I'm fond of joking, everything on The Grid is a suburb of Bay City. In a sense it is true as you may have noticed that there are quite a few Bay City Alliance members that actually don't live or work in Our Fair City. Take Dahlia Jayaram for example.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Dahlia Jayaram: I first arrived in Second Life in October 2008 out of curiosity to find out if I might be able to find any kind of meaningful employment. In real life I was a jobless student who ran out of money to pay for my tuition, so I was looking for any kind of opportunities I could, and cast my net as far as I could throw it. I didn't know much about Second Life, but I had read about it in a few articles and saw that people could make and sell things, work for companies, and I thought to myself: “Go check it out. As long as it is free to join and you don't spend any money on it, there's no harm to look and find out what possible opportunity might be there.”

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

DJ: I don't recall exactly when I first encountered Bay City, but it might have been in 2009 when I followed the road west from Ahern Info Hub until it finally terminated at its furthest western sim at the time (Bay City has expanded westward since that time). From there, I discovered the NCI Infonode Bay City - Dockland, Bay City - Docklands (42, 216, 25), the airport and other interesting places in the area.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

DJ: I don't live or work in Bay City, but I do love to drive through it, thanks to its terrific network of streets. I occasionally test out newly acquired vehicles in the streets to see how they handle. But by far, my favourite activity is simply meeting people wherever I might encounter them along the way, whether I'm out driving or simply attending an event.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

DJ: Most of my inworld time is spent outside of Bay City. There's simply so much to see and do all across the grid, that Bay City is naturally just a small part of the greater grid landscape.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

DJ: Everyone has their own personal interests, style and financial abilities, and I don't know any specific information about residential prices in Bay City, but I would say to anyone interested in moving to Bay City to simply take time to scout out the full region for the range of opportunities that might be available both currently and in the potential future, compare the costs verses the allowable prims and other features and choose what speaks to their aesthetic preferences and financial abilities best.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

DJ: There is certainly a vast and wide range of “wild” out beyond Bay City's borders, ranging both in terms of geography as well as activities. I think whatever you are looking for, there is a good probability that you'll be able to find it. I think having the opportunity to experience those places is important because life is all about having the opportunity to discover new things and learn from your experiences. You become a deeper, richer person due to the wealth of experiences you have.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

DJ: My Second Life self reflects my real life interests, goals, curiosities, and pleasures whether or not I am able or even interested in doing all those same things in real life that I do in Second Life. For example, I like swimming and sailing in Second Life, but you wouldn't catch me doing that in real life because I can't swim and I'm afraid of sharks!

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

DJ: My philosophy for Second Life is to enjoy it for all that it is. Follow your interests wherever they take you, learn about yourself from what you like and don't like to do, enjoy meeting/making friends with like-minded people, and to remember that we are all people here, so be respectful to treat people the way you would like to be treated yourself, if not better.

UP-S: What is ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

DJ: I care about people.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

DJ: I have many interests and do a wide variety of things in Second Life. People interested to know more can visit my Second Life profile for some web site links, including www.flickr.com/photos/dahliajayaram ,   http://dahliajayaram.weebly.com , and http://about.me/dahliajayaram. Many people know about me through my travel adventures. I chronicled much of it in periodic installments via my blog at www.dahliajayaram.blogspot.com and also in books I wrote that are free to read at www.issuu.com/dahliasweet about my sailing and hot air balloon adventures as I traversed the continents. My hot air balloon exploration through Bay City is included in my book “The Great Balloon Adventure ~ Sansara” on pages 14-18.

Are you involved with Bay City in some way or do you know someone who is? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) or Kinnaird Resident to set up an interview for The Post!

Interview with Myf McMahon

Bay City is full of interesting people, hence this column, but quite often they are not always in plain sight. Myf McMahon is one of those people. I'd seen  her at a couple events, notably Expresso Yourself at The Pen, but didn't really know her so I was delighted when she agreed to an Interview for The Post.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Myf McMahon: Ennui and I was sick of grinding for hats...

Okay, less flip answer. Although I've had an interest in virtual worlds going back for years, my first real foray was into World of Warcraft back in 2004/5. I'd only just gotten an Internet connection capable of dealing with such things and a bunch of friends were playing so I dove in with them. A couple of years of raiding and grinding later, I was thoroughly sick of the whole thing but still had an online world itch to scratch. About that time the whole "Second Life Will Save Us All" hype was ramping up. I recalled looking at this SL thing a few years earlier but not having the connection to try it. Things had changed however, I had the connection, the time and the interest, so I dove in.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

MMcM: I'd been eyeing Bay City for a number of years now but had never been able to justify the costs involved. Then around the beginning of this year, I was looking to shake a few things up. One of the things I decided to do was make a long planned move, switching the Kino Haus from a skybox to somewhere on the ground. Bay City really appealed as a location because of the way folks build here, I wanted that "realistic" urban feel around me. So I figured I may as well take the plunge.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

MMcM: I run a cinema, the Kino Haus, down in the Docklands, where I regularly screen pretty much whatever takes my fancy. I'd been running the place for a few years before moving to BC, but based in a skybox and not on the ground. The skybox though was never ideal, the idea of relocating to the ground always appealed, it was just finding somewhere where a cinema would fit. Bay City fills that need nicely.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

MMcM: A fair bit, though I tend to base myself here now. I do a fair bit of clubbing and that takes me all over the grid. I'm also reasonably active in the 1920s Berlin Project and spend a decent chunk of time there too.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

MMcM: Bay City isn't just a collection of sims, it's a community. If you chose to live here, try to give yourself at least a taste of what others in the city are doing, even if it's only really interacting via the Alliance group, join in at least a little. I can't claim to have dived in feet first, but I like to keep at least somewhat in touch with what's going on, even that little bit of quasi-involvement has enriched my experience. So yeah, try to keep up with what's what.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

MMcM: I've always had a soft spot for the mainland. I really enjoy plonking down on a random stretch of road and taking a stroll across a dozen or so sims. Even today, with so much abandoned land out there, you're almost assured of stumbling across something interesting or unusual that will make the trip worthwhile.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

MMcM: Myf is a... a portrait, somewhat idealized but still recognizable. In some ways we're very much alike. In others, she's more the person I wish I was or strive to be, than the person I actually am.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

MMcM: First life, second life, the operative word in both cases is life. Just because this world is virtual, the interactions that begin here are still real and still deserve the same respect that you would afford those from you "first" life.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

MMcM: I'm not nearly as aloof and unapproachable as I sometimes seem.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

MMcM: I've been in Second Life now for something approaching ten years. I'm still finding new things, new people, new experiences. For all it's faults and problems, there is so much depth of experience to be found here that I really can't imagine not having this world to tap into.

Now that we all know more about Myf, how about we learn more about you? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) or Kinnaird Resident if you'd like to be interviewed in an upcoming edition of The Post.

Interview with Geohistoria Farshore

This month's interview subject was just leaving Bay City when I caught up with him at the port where he was awaiting a boat for return to his native lands. Geohistoria Farshore had lived in Bay City for several months thus qualifying him (along with his willingness to talk to me) as enough of a resident for this paper.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Geohistoria Farshore: Second Life? Do you mean my life in Bay City? Normally I live in Port Caledon, so I suppose you could say that is my First Life.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
GF: It was felt that living in Bay City would be expedient for my work with the Bay City Institute for Anomalous Research. I took up residence at the Y*Stay, in the Morton part of town.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
GF: Aside from my work with the Institute, I enjoyed regular constitutionals along your city's thoroughfares, swimming in the municipal sanatorium,  and enjoying the seaside (so reminiscent of Caledon Inish).

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
GF: Indeed! My investigations for the Institute take me across our world on almost a daily basis. My time in Bay City was a welcome respite from living out of my travel trunks.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
GF: Rent at the Y*Stay for a a visit of a moderate length or less. This will give you a base from which you can explore the city for more permanent accommodations. Many rentals are available from Robin Ivory for those who can't afford the often exorbitant sales prices I've seen for land.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
GF: Mainland can be quite disconcerting. The variety of architecture, construction quality, and such bewilder me and my typical Caledonian sensibilities.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
GF: A character with elements of my typist's Real Life whims and manners, though far better dressed.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
Explore! A capital idea whether one seeks simple recreations or has dedicated goals.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
GF: Rumors that I am a zebra are greatly exaggerated. At times.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
GF: I am not a spy for the Caledon state, despite any peculiarities or habits I may have exhibited while in your lovely city.

Are you a full-time resident of our "Lovely City" or just passing through? Do you have even the vaguest connection to Bay City? If so and you are willing to talk to me (Uccello Poultry - Display Name Varies), let me or Kinnaird Resident know so we can get YOU in the Bay City Post!

Uccie Interviews Frankie Lindeman

You've seen him at Bay City Rumbles. You've seen him cruise about town. And you've seen him on the with an attractive blonde on his arm. But do you know who Frankie Lindemen is? Let's find out ...

Uccello Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Frankie Lindeman: It was during the big SL Hype  in late 2006/early 2007. I was curious about it and my RL Brother already had an account and asked me to join him. That days i never thought i would stay that long.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

FL: Bay City has been on my Exploring wish list for a long time. Last year I got me a nice Heterocera Parcel with connection to the ANWR Channel. I try to avoid teleporting as long as I can so I got my boat ready and sailed down to Bay City. I arrived at Newport Harbor, rezzed my car and explored the city. I was really impressed as Bay City is the only city on the grid that feels like a real city to me.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

FL: I own the Silver King Grill in Brewster. It’s a 50s Style Diner where you can hang out, have a snack, dance and listen to good music. And if your car needs a Clean Up you can visit my Gas Station and Car Wash located in Maddequet.  Rez is open at my places too.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

FL: Yes I do. I have some spots on several continents on the grid and I love to explore the mainland with all kinds of transportation.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

FL: It is really fun to build in Bay City and if you don't want to buy a parcel there are always  affordable rentals available. Then I recommend to join the Bay City Alliance and take part in the weekly events such as the Rumble. The Community there is really amazing.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

FL: As I said before I really love to explore the mainland and I love the “wild frontier” which  isn't that wild as it was some years ago.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

FL: What you get is pretty close to who I am in RL. I love the vintage Lifestyle in both Worlds. So when I´m not exploring the grid I usually can be found in my RL garage workin' on my classic cars.

UP-S:  Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

FL: Have Fun! Respect others and accept them as they are.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

FL: I'm a little bit lazy when it comes to updating my profile :-).

Besides that I'm very approachable. I really love to meet new people.

And now you know Frankie Lindeman. He's a very nice guy who enjoys Bay City! Be sure to say "Hi!" to him if you haven't already. There might be more Frankies out there. Do you know one? Are you one? Let Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) or Kinnaird know and we can set up an interview for this space next month.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

I'm glad I finally arrived in Bay City. I really don't know why it took me so long to get there.

The community is really fantastic and I'm looking forward for years to come. I certainly will stick to Bay City from now on.

The Interview - Robin Ivory

One of Bay City's  first residents is known Grid-wide and *isn't* a child. She's Robin Ivory, of the land management/sales fame. Maybe you've seen her office in Bay City - Argos, right off Route 66, near the Clinton campaign building. Here are her responses to the Ten Standard Questions:

Uccie Poultry-Seale: 1. What brought you to Second Life?

Robin Ivory, Land Baroness: I first read about Second Life in mid 06.  However, I was busy at the time and didn’t get around to joining until Jan 07. There was a lot of excitement in the RL press at that time and I wanted to get in SL and see what it was all about.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

RI,LB: By the time LL starting selling the Bay City land at auction, I had been in the land business for about a year. I bought my first lot in the LL auctions in Morton for an office and have been here ever since.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

RI,LB: For me SL is a nice part time RL job. Now instead of reselling land I try to find nice lots that I can rent. Bay City lends itself well to this endeavor as the sales prices tend to be high and there is a lot of competition for lots that are priced for sale at a reasonable amount so many people choose to rent.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

RI,LB: A lot. Sometimes I think I’ve been in every mainland sim in SL (probably not since there are something like 5000 of them). I really enjoy wandering about the mainland as there are many unique/interesting places.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

RI,LB: A good start would be to rent land, join the Bay City Alliance and become familiar with everything here. If you find you like it, then you can look around and maybe find a nice lot to buy.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

RI,LB: When I started mainland was the ‘Wild West’ and almost everything you can image was going on. Now, even on the Zindra continent it is quite tame compared to a few years ago. Bay City seems to be more civil than many areas and I feel that is one of the things that attract people here.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

RI,LB: A combination of both.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

RI,LB: Not really, I’ve been doing this so long is just seems to be a normal part of my everyday life.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

RI,LB: The business I’ve created in SL has had a very meaningful impact on my RL.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

RI,LB: I’ve been here almost 10 years and am looking forward to 10 more.

Robin's name is something I see several times a week in Second Life and yet I never knew about her very strong connections with Bay City. The more you know ...

Are you someone from Bay City but the community might not know a lot about? Then we need to talk. Contact me, Uccello Poultry (Display Name Varies) or my editor, Kinnaird.

The Interview - TJ and Silvia Hooker

What do the mail, a talking dog, a thriving garden, and crusty jugglers have in common? Why, T.J. and Silvia Hooker, of course. Call them a dynamic couple, a power couple, or just a couple of Hookers if you have to, but call them when you want to do something in Bay City because this family is everywhere.

UP-S: What brought you to Second Life?

T.J. Hooker: I came to SL at the request of a friend in RL. I had some experience with SL by watching them use it for a while and when I created my account I just happened to be watching a certain tv show, so that's how I got the name ;)

Silvia Hooker: My husband T.J. asked me join him, so I decided to take the plunge and join. Glad I did because I have met so many nice people since.

UP-S:What brought you to Bay City?

T.J.: I've always loved driving around on the Mainland, and Bay City fascinated me by being a good community with Linden roads and waterways. I just wish the roads would connect with the main road through Sansara. The retro aspect of Bay City is something that isn't usually found elsewhere. Everyone seems to want to be ultra modern for the roleplay regions.

Silvia: T.J. did lol.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

T.J.: Well, as everyone probably knows, I am the Chief of Police for Bay City. I also deliver mail through the Bay City Post Office and own several places with my wife Silvia such as the Community Garden we started in Argos, the Bay City Heliport, and Adam's Ribs coming eventually to Sandwich. Honestly, I couldn't pick a favorite. It's all a lot of fun and with the way we keep starting places there's not enough room here to list them all.

Silvia: Love decorating our places up, always an adventure shopping for them and getting them close to the era.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

T.J.: I love to go exploring the mainland, whether through the roads, planes, boats, or whatever else. Thanks to Mari and Damien, I've been known to spend a lot of time out in the Jeogeot Gulf too.

Silvia: A bit, mostly driving the roads with T.J. or failing a sim crossing in a plane.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

T.J.: Don't let the high prices scare you. There are several people who have rentals in Bay City, and a few places rent rooms out too. We have weekly races and several other events throughout the year so come out and join in, even if you don't own a place here yet. Bay City is a friendly community and is always happy to welcome visitors.

Silvia: As T.J. said, we have so many weekly events going on I am sure anyone looking to move to Bay City will find something they love or even discover something new!

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

UP-S: That wild frontier has gotten a lot better lately. One of the things that originally pointed me towards Bay City was the fact that the roads were free from O'Toole's automated cars. Lately, those cars no longer bother drivers and more land is coming up for either auction or sale all across the Mainland. All in all, the Mainland experience is more enjoyable now, but I'm still glad my home is Bay City.

Silvia: Its not too bad of a place but I'd rather live in Bay City! We have the greatest places and people :)

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

T.J.: Kinda both, really. As my name suggests I play a character, specifically T.J. Hooker from the TV show when I'm role-playing as a police officer. I'm not Shatner though, so aside from the occasional photo set most of the time what you get is me.

Silvia: Who I am in RL :)

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

T.J.: I always try to take people as their avatar looks and acts. For example: I tend to think of Mari as a kid and Ullock as a talking dog.

Silvia: A tried and true one "treat others as you want to be treated" need more of that in SL

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

T.J.: I'm a friendly person and if you see me around I'm always happy to help.

Silvia: *points up and smiles*

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

T.J.: SL has been billed as "Your world, Your imagination" and it's true, in SL you can do anything or be anyone you want to be. One thing I've found out is that no matter what it is that you enjoy doing, whether it's sailing, flying, or even living in the 1920s or 1950s, there's always a group or place full of like-minded people. I'm very grateful for the friends we've made in Bay City. I'd like to thank you for interviewing us, Uccie. It's been fun and harder than I thought to come up with these answers.

Silvia: I love that SL is a place where you can meet people from many walks of life :) I'm glad that I came to SL and live in Bay City, the people I have meet there are the best.
Ditto on the hard to come with answers since T.J. hit so many points I was thinking!

Keep an eye on The Post for news on the next Hooker enterprise or, as T.J. failed to mention, read his column right here in The Post! Do you know someone who should be interviewed? Single? Couple? Threesome? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) with some names. Please!

 Uccie Interviews the Harbormaster

With the changes for the Bay City boating community and the complete lack of responses from anyone that was asked to be interviewed for The Post this month, I thought that I'd interview myself as one of the four Harbormasters for the new Bay City Marina at New Port.

Reporter Uccie: In a nutshell, what happened to the Yacht Club?
Harbormaster Uccie: The then current Harbormasters felt that the Yacht Club had become moribund. Few users actually used the facilities, simply parking some prims and seldom visiting. One user even put out a non-working boat. So we went to The Lab and asked for changes.

RU: We?
HU: Marianne McCann and I talked to The Lab. Harbormaster Alx tends to disappear for stretches due to his commitments to the NSA/CIA/FBI or something. With this in mind, Fenix Eldritch has agreed to help out as a Harbormaster, too. This way if hard decisions need to be made we can have a 2/3 majority somehow.

RU: What other changes have happened?
HU: Quite a few, actually, like the name. We are now the Bay City Marina at New Port. This reflects a more local focus. The facilities are for  Bay City owners or renters only, or individuals that the Harbormasters deem to be strong contributors to Our Fair City. For details, check our Group Charger at https://baycitymarina.wordpress.com/about/

RU: Fine, fine. How about some highlights?
HU: Sure. The big one is that free leases now terminate after 6 months. Everyone will need to pick up their boats or have them returned and people on a wait list will be given spaces. The Lab, in a very generous and rare move, has given the Harbormasters Return rights for this purpose and to rid the harbor of trash. Members can now rez boats up to 150 Land Impact since more modern mesh craft often exceed the 32 LI limit of older vehicles.

RU: So only group members can use the facilities?
HU: No, that is not the case. Anyone can rez items at the Marina and can do so in more places. Auto Return has been set and the area is monitored regularly.

RU: Any other big changes?
HU: Not really. Marianne and I are still working on infrastructure improvements. The Website is new but mostly as a place publish our Charter.

RU: Are spaces still available?
HU: Absolutely. I've contacted quite a few people that have expressed an interest in having a space but haven't replied. As far as I'm concerned, those are now up for grabs so contact me (Uccello Poultry – Display Name varies) to apply.

RU: Anything else you'd like for our readers to know?
HU: The Marina should be an active space. Come down and enjoy it for boating, role play, or other activities. We don't want it to grow dull and unused like the Yacht Club.

RU: Thank you for your time, Harbormaster Uccie. You have been as generous with your time as you are lovely.
HU: No, really. The pleasure is mine, Reporter Uccie. Your beauty has kept me enthralled for our time together as have your skills as an interviewer. 

Ten Standard Questions with Priscilla Cox

Why it has taken me so long to get around to interviewing Priscilla Cox? I don't know. She's pleasant, approachable, and has a nice booty (her word, you'll see). What's not to like? "P" (as I call her) also adds quite a bit to our community, being a leader in rehabbing Truro, just to start. Let's get her answers to the Ten Standard Questions.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Priscilla Cox: Other than a very brief one week stint in 2005, my involvement in Second Life didn’t begin until May 2011.  I was doing a Google search for sailing simulators and SL caught my eye once more.  I use to sail a bit in RL when I lived along Lake Erie and missed it when I became landlocked due to a new job and family ties.  SL provided me to experience sailing once more in a virtual way. :-D  I left SL in late 2013 for personal reasons, but I couldn’t stay away from it for too long.  I came back under my current avi in March 2014 and been lovin’ it since!  My only regret was not taking SL seriously enough early on.

UP-S:  What brought you to Bay City?

PC: To be honest, I just stumbled upon it one day exploring the mainland.  I liked the whole area well enough that I hung around.  It is the only city on the mainland that feels like a city.  Sorries Nova Albion... :P

UP-S:  Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

PC: My first priority is goofing off, wasting time, and havin’ fun!  Beyond that I really enjoy some of the events held here in Bay City.  I especially love the Bay City Rumble races we have every Thursday night.  I also like to help out in any of the community events that we frequently have here.

In terms of jobs I run the Bay City Credit Union that uses a working currency for fun roleplay purposes (not to be taken seriously).  It seems to get robbed a lot though...  I also run a cute little bistro, a bookstore in perpetual “coming soon” status, and a grocery store all here in Bay City - Truro; which by the way is a sim that has recently developed into a nice micro-community. \o/  FWIW, I'd also like to bring back a public library when I have more time and resources.  I'm also itching to get us poor west-siders some street names!

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

PC: Very much so!  I’m a mainland girl and you’ll find me exploring a lot around the continents.  You’ll likely find me sailing around the Nautilus water regions and around the United Sailing Sims estates.  You’ll also find me at my place in Iris sim near the Moth Temple.  That sim holds a special place in my heart in my past Second Lives and still holds true to this day.  There’s an almost spiritual quality about Iris and it’s where I go to get away from it all.  Also, I have a tendency to buy and sell property all across the mainland, so you never know where I may be at!

UP-S:  What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

PC: Get involved in the Bay City community!  In my opinion it is the most open, welcoming, and friendly community across the grid.  SL has a tendency to be cliquey in its communities, but I find the Bay City Alliance to be the least so and very friendly to newcomers.  Also don’t let the high land prices turn you off.  If you’re patient and look hard enough, you can find some really good land deals here in the city.  Once you cross the land purchase hurdle, it’s much cheaper over time to own land here.  Plus you get a nicely zoned area with double prims! ^_^

UP-S:  Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

PC: As I said before I love exploring the mainland sims.  They can be much more “interesting” than those sterile private simulators. ;-D   That said, Bay City is a perfect example of what Linden Lab did right with mainland and what they should of done with the rest of the grid from the beginning.  Carefully zoning each sim in my opinion encourages people to build better when they get property.  I think a lot of people flee mainland because of the chaotic, unzoned, laissez-faire mess that mainland can be sometimes.

UP-S:  Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

PC: Not really...  I'm not nearly as interesting or rich or beautiful.  And I'd kill for the booty and rack I have in SL, haha!  In RL I'm pretty introverted, dorky and have my own set of problems like everyone else does.  Second Life provides a good therapeutic escape for me.

UP-S:  Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

PC: There was a time back in the mid 2000s when I used to make fun of SL.  I couldn't have been so wrong.  SL is what you make of it.  It is still one of the best platforms for creativity and allowing you to do things that you couldn't do in real life.  Also remember there are real people with real feelings behind that avatar, so be kind!

UP-S:  What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

PC: Don't take me seriously.  I know I don't! o_O

UP-S:  Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

PC: Ya!  Stay away from that Mari kid!  She’s a serial prank caller, reportedly a member of the FIC, hangs around with crusty jugglers, and an all-around bad apple!  }:->

Anyone who meets P should take her seriously but join her in the fun she always seems to in the middle of because she's bright and funny and really loves Our Fair City.

Do you know someone who should be interviewed? Please let me (Uccello Poultry – Display Name Varies) or editrix-in-chief Kinnaird know. Frankly, I'm out of people to ask.

Ten Standard Questions with Rachel Seelowe

Aside from the monthly Interview column for The Post, I have the "Where in Bay City is Uccie?" feature that is often included in each issue right after the Interview. It has gone from something fun for me to do for everyone to a mystery I have to make very hard for Rachel Seelowe to solve. So far her record is perfect, and she even tries to duplicate every part of the photo.

Uccie Poultry-Seale:  What brought you to Second Life?
Rachel Seelowe: Science Friday. I was a big fan of the show and heard they were going to broadcast live from Second Life. I couldn't get my bearings enough to find SciFri, and left for a couple years. When I came, back I fumbled around a bit, ran into a couple kind folks who helped me get going, then I found Bay City!

Check out this video of SciFri in SL: http://binged.it/1T4vJIN

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
RS: The old SL forums. I noticed that some of the kindest, smartest and silliest forum contributors were often connected to Bay City.  It took a long time to get my courage up to become part of Bay City, but one day I started attending BCA meetings, rumbles, and events...

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
RS: Events! I enjoy participating in and helping out with Our Fair City's events. I think Bay City is successful as a community because of the time we spend together planning and participating in events.  And the 'cherry on top'... our events are often used to raise money for charity! Thanks to Mari, I have been Bay City's first life ambassador to Child's Play charity, the charity our fine city raises funds for (http://www.childsplaycharity.org/). I helped facilitate a relationship with the folks at Child's Play so Ayame and Mari could work their magic, getting us fundraising kiosks which deposit funds directly to Child's Play. In the past, Mari was responsible for all the complicated dealings of holding onto and transferring funds from us, to Child's Play.                                    

As far as jobs go, I own a laundromat, a travel agency and just recently took over ownership of the Dennis Pub. (A side note: Afonasei was the previous owner of Dennis Pub, but wanted to pare down his properties. To ensure the Dennis properties were not bought up by real estate tycoons, he started asking around Bay City for interested buyers, offering the parcels up for a very reasonable price! A kind and thoughtful man, he is!)

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
RS: Yes, I have a few homes scattered about the continents, places to go when I need some time by myself. Although, I have found over the years that SL is a pretty small world, running into familiar faces in just about every corner of the grid (which I consider a good thing!). I even ran into your brother once, at a gacha yard sale :)

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
RS: Join the Bay City Alliance, attend as many meetings as you can, get involved in events, don't be afraid to jump feet first into the community! You will most likely be welcomed with open arms.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
RS: I love the “wild frontier.” There is a never ending list of places to go, things to see and do, people to meet.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
RS: Rachel's persona is a very close representation of who I am in RL. We are both a bit shy but easy going.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
RS: Be kind, be open, show up and have fun.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
RS: I am easily amused. Just ask Uccie, if you can find her.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
RS: I am grateful for the friendships I have made in SL. Y'all are in my heart and my head, giving me a quiet strength as I navigate first life.

At least as much as anyone, Rachel is in Bay City's heart, too. For me, at least, it is hard to imagine Our Fair City without her. Do you know someone like Rachel that should be featured here in The Post? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name may vary) or Editor-in-Chief Kinnaird.

Ten Standard Questions with Georgia Florence Sipe

Many thanks to this month's interviewee for jumping in at the last minute and saving this reporter's bacon. Georgia Florence Sipe (lilaskyheart Resident) impressed Bay City with her in-theme house recently and just this month she added a lovely hair salon in the Bay City style.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Georgia Florence Sipe:  I think back in 2010 I was searching something along the lines of online simulator games and somehow it popped up! I was on SL for that summer and then stopped using it but then thought of it again the following year and re-joined under this avi in June of 2011 :)

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
 
GFS: I have always loved vintage stuff.  Every since I can remember I've loved the 1960s and so I found Bay City and loved it!

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
 
GFS: Well aside from Bay City Squares and car racing, I love doing up my parcel in Truro. I have a hair salon there now that actually had it's opening night on April third which attracted 18 people!

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

GFS: I do spend a fair amount. I am also a tenant in the 1920s Berlin Project where I am the president of the Ladies Social Club. Past Berlin and Bay City I don't do too much. Everything I need is in those places!

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

GFS: Definitely do it! It took me awhile to decide to rent here but I'm so happy I have! I love the  sense of community that this place has and the fact you can build your own little world on a parcel and share it with your neighbors is an amazing thing that is hard to find in sl :)

Also....live in Truro ^^

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
 
GFS: It is definitely intriguing.  I love the idea of having a place on the mainland and people can just walk up and see it. Getting to share creations like that in sl is actually my favorite part of it! Of course I can do that right here in the comfort of Bay City :)

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

GFS: I would say it is a decent representation of myself. I love all thing vintage and my dream is to live in an old house with all old furnishings but of course I look nothing like my avi. Personality wise it's totally me too. Like if you could only hear these things said in my voice XD

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

GFS: Find a community you love and stick to it. I have no clue how you can go through SL without a community to call home.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

GFS:  I am answering these questions at 12am while eating tropical flavored jelly beans.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

GFS: Thank you to everyone that I have encountered in this community so far! From being in Berlin almost 2 years I have gotten a sense of what a strong community is like and I have definitely found that here and I couldn't be more grateful to have another wonderful family :)

Notice all the emphasis on "community"? Georgia certainly fits the bill and The Post welcomes her to ours. Do you know someone like Georgia? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) or Post Editrix Kinnaird and you (or they!) could be interviewed next.

Ten Standard Questions with ADudeNamedAnthony

 March 2016

And now for something completely different: Adudenamed Anthony, or just Anthony if you read his tag.  If you talk to him you'll learn there's a lot behind that simple-sounding moniker. Despite not liking Jazz or the Blues, preferring Kirk over Picard,  and dithering about Metallica, he still has some soul. After all, he likes strawberry more than vanilla or chocolate.

1. What brought you to Second Life?

    Answer #1: The Internet.
    Answer #2: I saw it covered on "60 Minutes" one night. I logged in soon after.

2. What brought you to Bay City?

    Answer #1: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/North%20Channel/105/128/29
    Answer #2: Ever Dreamscape and Marianne McCann invited me to a rumble. Marianne knew me from another group, so that is where the acquaintance started.

3. Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

    Answer #1: Playful Antagonist
    Answer #2: These days, I am really digging offering "features" to Bay City. As you know, I do the automated cars, Fairgrounds activity builds on occasion, etc. I find it satisfying. I hope to do more. There is, of course, the Rumble. It's a good "get-together" opportunity among others.

4. Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

    Answer #1: Yes. Especially when I go off-world at a sim crossing.
    Answer #2: Yes. I own a large piece of land on another continent so I can do larger builds in a shop. I am not much of a sandbox kinda guy. I need the space.

5. What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

    Answer #1: Remember, if it is too heavy to lift, two people should carry it. Also, tilt the couch so it fits through the door.
    Answer #2: Bay City is great to build in and look at. But that's only half of it. Don't forget all the great citizens. Be social.

6. Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

    Answer #1: /me manually derezzes the 256x256 "privacy" prim
    Answer #2: Frankly, the "wild frontier" needs some updates. It looked good in 2007... but even in first life, they repave the roads occasionally.

7. Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

    Answer #1: I have been called a "character" from time to time.
    Answer #2: I assure you, everything you see or hear from me, is first life me.

8. Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

    Answer #1: The philosopher Socrates said, "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing." Technically, this makes me a GENIUS!
    Answer #2: You don't have to like all of it. There are good people, good builds, good experiences. But just like first life, there are a few lousy people, bad neighborhoods, and Edsels. Be patient. The good stuff is there to find.

9. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

    Answer #1: That my profile is better from the other side.
    Answer #2: I am a builder nut. Always have been, even before Second Life. I was animating on an ATARI in 1985... I am into this.

10. Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

    Answer #1: Oh look! Something shiny!
    Answer #2: Second Life is not as "virtual" as one may think. It's as real as sitting in a room with other people. Why? Because you ARE sitting in a room with other people. Only the furniture is virtual. A kind word can make someone's day the same as ridicule can ruin it. The effect is the same in any realm.
...If you are reading this, you are a real person. I am a real person too. See how often the word "real" is used in this context?
   
A smart alec, a rogue, a passionate builder, and a very good friend of Bay City and this reporter, Anthony brings a lot of soul to Our Fair City. If you know of someone that is interesting or simply has a few minutes to answer these very same questions, contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name varies) and they could appear in a future issue.

Do you know a prominent or not so prominent Bay City citizen that needs to be interviewed. No? About nefarious or ne'er-to-well? I'll talk to anyone. Have them contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name Varies) and maybe I can get an interview turned in before deadline for once.

Ten Standard Questions with Kinnaird

February 2016

The name "Kinnaird" has intrigued me for sometime but since I'm lazy, I never got around to looking it up until now. It's Scottish and you'll find it on colleges and castles and other things. In Second Life, you'll find it on a prominent Bay City citizen, a truly lovely person in thought, in deed, and in person.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life? 

Kinnaird: Neil Gaiman. No, really. In 2007 he was doing a reading here, and it sounded interesting, so a friend and I joined up and figured out how to get to that event. I couldn't figure out much else, tho'...and gave up after about a week. Years later, I tried it again, but I couldn't remember that av's login info, so created Kinn. That time, I had a friend guide me through orientation, buy me a cheap AO, then take me to a few cool sims so I could see what was possible. It made a huge difference. On that first day in SL, my friend went afk for a bit and parked me at AM Radio's iconic build, The Far Away, saying, "This is a safe place." All these years later, I now help to curate The Far Away with my partner, Ziki Questi. 

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

K: Ever Dreamscape. I met her at the Bay City exhibit at one of the SLBirthday parties, and after that, she invited me to see the city and to participate in some of her late-night ETv shenanigans. I bought my first property from her, the seedy hotel called the Stinky Pink, which I turned into the Bay City Fire Department. Ever, of course, burned that down the same day it was rezzed.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

K: I am the owner of the Edgartown police station, the Bay City Fire Dept. #2 in Dennis,  the Bay City Brewery in Argos, Club Sandwich in Sandwich, and a reporter for the Bay City Post and ETv in Dennis. Mostly? I'm the beer supplier. ;) 

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

K: Quite a bit. I like to explore. 

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

K: Get involved in the community. Go to events, come play at the Rumble every Thursday, get to know the residents. Join the Alliance, even if only for the great group chats. ;) We're a friendly bunch. 

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

K: I'm actually pondering starting a blog about that wild frontier. I love the Mainland, and often wander the LDPW roads to explore the different continents. If you can ignore all of the sky junk, you can find some hidden treasures. I actually own a few properties on the old Teen Grid, which seems to have much less clutter in the sky. 

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

K: Kinn is mostly me. 

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

K: My philosophy? Play. Just play. SL is a place where an awful lot of silly fun is possible. Of all the folders in my seemingly-endless Mary Poppins Bag inventory, the one labeled "toys" is the largest. Even bigger than clothing and hair! Shocking, I know. ;) 

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

K: Ziki and I are also involved in RL...which makes both lives pretty fabulous. I'm a happy girl. :)

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

K: I don't have a house per se in Bay City, but the community here is a lot of what makes SL feel like home. 

Do you know a prominent or not so prominent Bay City citizen that needs to be interviewed. No? About nefarious or ne'er-to-well? I'll talk to anyone. Have them contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name Varies) and maybe I can get an interview turned in before deadline for once.

 

Ten Standard Questions with Ullock

January 2016

For this month's interview I had to lure the subject out with a bowl of pork chops and gravy. Then to keep his attention I had to keep playing fetch and asking questions each time he brought back the stick. Of course, this could only be Ullock, Bay City's police dog and family pet of T.J. and Silvia Hooker.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Ullock: I heard about it, checked it out and haven't left since :3

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
U: My owner, T.J. He told me about it so I decided to look around myself. If you couldn't tell I loved it.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
U: I roleplay as T.J and Silvia's pet pooch. I also love going to the many activities in Bay City such as the rumbles.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
U: A bit here and there, like out in the SL waterways and a sim a friend owns.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
U: Come and visit, look around and join some of events :3 I promise it won't disappoint!

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
U: It is not too bad if you have the right neighbors. The roads are much better too since a certain persons cars are no longer running you down.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
U: A representation of myself in RL, since I am hyper and shy at any given time LOL.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
U: I don't really have a philosophy for SL *looks sheepish*

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
U: I'm friendly :3

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add
U:  Bay City is one of the best communities on mainland that I have seen! I hope it makes many people happy in the years to come as it has for me.

Good thing these interviews are short because right after this last response Ullock started chasing a squirrel. If you know someone that can sit still for ten questions or think you can do that yourself, contact Uccello Poultry (display name varies) or Marianne McCann.

    *****

December 2015

Ten Standard Questions with Hendrix Portal

While reading  the quotes Hendrix Portal's Profile Picks I knew this would be a good interview. His comment "apologies for the lack of tongue-in-cheek, I didn't have face-in-coffee today" in IM pretty much confirmed my thought. Without further ado ...

Uccie Poultry- Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Hendrix Portal: A work acquaintance asked for help testing something.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
HP: Gridhopping one day years ago, landed in Rollers I think, fell in love and decided I was living there or else. Been there ever since on various sims.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
HP: Exploring! And riding the trolley, the ferry, the hot air balloon... and occasionally a T-Rex with Eden Malik as co-conspirator.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
HP: I hop all over SL. 

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
HP: Serious answer: BC is a community unlike any other in SL. Please be aware of the theme of the area you want to live and be considerate of your neighbors. Also, get to know the BCA folks, they're a great bunch. 

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
HP: I much prefer the mannered gentry of BC. And the general lack of giant orbiting prims. But all of SL is fun to explore if you have an open mind and a little patience when your train gets stuck at a sim crossing.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
HP: A little of both. Obviously I can do things in SL that I cannot do in RL, but I suck at RP, so who you talk to is who I am.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
HP: Take everyone as they present themselves. Whether that's a Furry, a human, or a talking cactus, accept that's what they want to be and roll with it.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
HP: My sense of humor is a bit left of center. 

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
HP: Do I get a toaster oven for this?

No, he didn't. But I did send a gacha prize present. While I can't promise thrilling prizes if you would like to be interviewed, I can promise the same basic ten questions (more or less). Drop a line to Uccello Poultry (Display Name Varies) or Marianne McCann if you (or someone you know) would like to be interviewed!

    *****

Where in Bay City is Uccie?

    *****

November 2015

Ten Standard Questions with Belle and Taelor Mistwallow

It wasn't long after Belle Mistwallow was chosen as the fourth Miss Bay City that I contacted her for a Bay City Post interview, but this is one busy lady! We were able to coordinate after a while and would up with a bonus interview subject, too, her son Taelor.

Uccello Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Belle Mistwallow: I wish I had a sophisticated response for you, but I'm afraid my reason is fairly basic and a tad silly.

Don't laugh, but it was because I wanted to know what Sheldon Cooper was talking about in an episode of The Big Bang Theory where he mentioned having a swimming pool in "Second Life". I took to Google and without really knowing what I was doing, downloaded it, logged in, and, once I'd learned to walk and talk, spent the subsequent year chasing after that pool for myself!

Taelor Madison Mistwallow: Magic

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
BM: Again, curiosity! You may detect a pattern with me soon. I do a lot of things out of sheer curiosity.

Community has always been key for me since I discovered there was such a thing to be had here in second life. There is so much benefit I've taken away from living in a community. However, I've found that with the benefits come a great deal of unnecessary strife, a lot of which is associated to simply being in the sphere of "roleplaying" - which, as a mother in this world, I am.

On my first visit to the Bay City, I loved how it felt like a community but it was only a community if you CHOOSE to get involved. I much prefer this approach, as I feel it pulls genuine interest from people who are like minded. So far, I've been right.

TMM: A car.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
BM: Well, I've always dabbled in one thing or the other. For a long while, I ran an Orphanage. Sadly, I had to close that down as I couldn't afford to run it long term. That would have been a lovely thing to continue here, but that's hypothetical.

What I DO have on ground right now is a little bit of a pet project that seems to be receiving a lot of acceptance. I'm pretty excited to be a self proclaimed seamstress as now I've begun making these cute little ragdolls. I made about 10 girl ragdolls and in the process of making some boy ones. With that I decided to open a doll shop called ~Belle's Babydolls~ (named by my son, Taelor). It's located in Handa and is a cute little store. You should check it out. :)

TMM: Eatin' chocolate.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
BM: Yes. On occasion, but not often anymore. Thankfully there's lots to get into here, especially with my store and the maze I made in my community, Falconmoon. There's so much to do here and my heart is here. However, being the adventurers we are we (reluctantly) venture out of the region. I've grown to despise Teleporting anywhere now, but sadly there are things that take us out of town like Taelor's Ballet classes, visiting friends/family, vacationing, shopping, etc. I consider the time spent outside Bay City to be pretty limited, as we have just one home in SL and that is PROUDLY smack dab in the middle of Falconmoon.

TMM: Sometimes. Me and Mommy go adventurin' lotsa places!

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
BM: Be excited!

Get a car or bicycle. Primtastic (on Route 66) has some excellent bicycles and a rez zone near by!

Join the Bay Alliance and get connected with other citizens!

Be friendly and explore, but don't get too carried away and forget your manners. Wondering into people's homes without knocking or asking first, is illegal in RL and very rude in SL.

Oh and finally, please please please do not enable any ban lines. It's just awful to see and not very neighborly.

TMM: Bring a car. It's really hard movin' all your stuff if ya gotta carry it.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
BM: I love it all! Taelor and I have explored some of it and despite it not being as awesome or, in my opinion, as carefully created as the Bay City (*giggling*), it's got its pluses. To be honest, we're the sort of people that see the beauty in all things. Recently we were in Koss, one of the snowy mountain lands. We loved it! There weren't many street signs, but it definitely has its charms AND SNOW! Lots of snow!

TMM: Ummm...is there tigers there?

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
BM: Definitely a representation of who I am in Real Life, only in HD. I really love detail in RL and SL. My SL life is a bit of a RL parallel, and so I really endeavor to infuse RL realness touches in my world. The term "roleplay" is a term I'm slowly hating as it connotes putting on another persona. I'd like to coin a new term "realplay", as that's more fitting to how I interact with others and with things here. For instance, I've taken up the role of a mother in this world, and even though it is SL based, I certainly don't treat it as trivial or "game based". My personality is such that when I take things up, I take them up conscious and intentionally in RL. I strive to be transcendent and whole. I very rarely separate my SL person from my RL person, even down to my emoting. The way I look at it, if it takes up my time then I have to make it real to me. As such, even my RL family is aware of my roles as Taelor's mother, a doll maker, a Bay City citizen, an Orphanage caretaker, etc etc.

TMM: Person A? I'm not Person A. I'm Taelor!

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
BM: My philosophy is faith based. I think on this a lot: "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father", Colossians 3:17.

Hobbies can be wrong if we have them to escape! This isn't Second Life specific, it applies to any hobby i.e. sports, etc. The temptation with hobbies is to use them as an escape from life and consequently from God. They can rob us of time, become idols in our lives and distract us from our purpose in life. In other words, it can very easily become your religion.

When I think of Second Life, I see how it became my religion for a long time. I became unbalanced and my focus shifted from real like in many places. I feel like the wisest way to exist in Second Life is to be conscious of its power in our mind, that way you can keep it from taking over your life.

Nowadays, Second Life is becoming more and more a tool for expression rather than my escape. I use it to express my creativity when I create textures for things; to improve the skills of my vocation when I script something; to connect with others when I spend time with my son and others; to appreciate others when I see the fruits of other people's creative expression. When I use it this way, I realize that my being in Second Life isn't just about doing a hobby, but about being exactly where God has placed me to be. It's purposeful. Each person I meet is a subject in my heart when I pray now. Each experience I create for me and my son shows me the depths of my own creativity, which is God given, and causes me to praise Him more as the Creator of all things. Slowly Second Life, for me, is becoming more of a ministry than a hobby. Albeit a fun ministry as it touches on all my God given gifts.

Now if only I got a salary for being here, that'd be heaven! *giggling*

TMM: Uh huh! Have fun, but play nice too. Don't really know why so many grownups don't unnerstan' that. I think they mights skipped Kinnergerten or somethin' like that.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
BM: Hmmmm. I guess it depends on who is looking and why, but a very clean thing everyone should know is the order of my priorities: God, Taelor, Family, Close Friends, Doll Shop, my Bay City Community, Other Friends, Customers, Strangers, Men who want to date me.

Being busier and busier these days, I tend to answer IMs according to the subject in this order. *laughing* It's a bit nerdy, but true.

Example 1: I'd answer an IM saying "I have a problem. Can we talk? I need someone to pray with me." a lot quicker than I would a message from someone who says "You're pretty and talented, can we talk?".

Example 2: I'd answer an IM saying "Did Taelor get his ballet outfit yet?" a lot quicker than I would a message from someone who says "How can I change my doll's clothes?"

Example 3: I'd answer an IM saying "Coming for the Bay City Alliance meeting?" a lot quicker than I would a message from an acquaintance who says "Hey long time we chatted, if you're free want to hang out?" (Nope, cant hangout...going to a meeting *laughing*)

I think you have enough examples.

TMM: mm...that I'd like people to take a look at my profile

     

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
BM: I just want to thank the Bay City community for being so warm and accepting of me and my son. We're so at home here.

Many thanks also to you, Uccie, for being so warm in welcoming me to the station of Miss Bay City. Really big shoes to fill!

Without wanting to ramble on any further (since I've talked quite a lot already), there's so much more you can learn about me from my blog (http://thesecondlifeofbellemistwallow.com/). I write about my SLife, so feel free to subscribe and read it.

TMM: Yes! Oh wait, I forgot it now. Can I start over?

Maybe we can do a more in-depth interview with you sometime, Taelor, but no backsies at this point. If you, Dear Reader, know of someone that should be interviewed let me know or have them contact me, Uccello Poultry (Display Name may vary).

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

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October 2015


Ten Standard Questions with Afonasei

Bay City - Truro seems to be the new hot spot in Our Fair City. What is behind all this? You'd be better off asking "who," instead. Afonasei Resident is one of the movers and shakers.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Afonasei: I always had a very active imagination so I was continuously looking for new ways to vent it.  I needed a break from my World of Warcraft addiction and had read an article about Second Life.  It sounded right up my alley.  I created my first avatar back when last names were allowed but after a while I realized how ridiculous the name sounded (Imawildone Zadark).  So I re-created myself as afonasei and have never looked back. 

(Editor's Note: afonasei is Russian for "immortal.")

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

A: I lived here a few years ago but never really embraced all that the city had to offer.  In fact, I was quite antisocial because I was completely absorbed with and addicted to building.  Unfortunately, I decided to sell my Bay City lot for a bigger parcel elsewhere on the mainland that could support the building of larger structures.  Even though I have lived on most mainland continents I have never experienced anything else like Bay City.  I came for Hot Bay City Nights and immediately fell back in love with this amazing place.  I decided I want to move back because this place is awesome.  This time I decided I would completely embrace all the that the city has to offer.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity.

A: I am an avid explorer in the RP sense.  I am not a big fan of teleporting unless I have to.  I love to take off from the Bay City Municipal Airport and fly around the area.  I also love to set sail from the marina.  I noticed an almost complete lack of taxis in the city so I turned my car into one.  Flag me down if you see me around town.  I offer free rides to any location in the Tri-Cities area, but Bay City Dollar tips are always appreciated for a better RP experience.  I also just purchased a small lot in Truro where I am opening up a new Pouloco service station.  Thank you Uccie for providing me with and allowing me to use the Pouloco textures, items and name.  

(Editor's Note: Visit http://bit.ly/1Ww4haO to see the new gas station under construction in Truro, which is also discussed in Keli's column this month. Afonasei also lives in Dennis.)

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

A: Not since I've moved back here.  However, I do plan on taking some road, air, and sea trips outside the Bay City area in the near future.  

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?  If you like friendly people, an active and welcoming community, and an immersive environment then go for it.  Take it from someone who has lived all over the mainland, Bay City has no equal.  Do not let the high real estate prices scare you. There are periodic deals to be had and there are plenty of rentals available.    

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

A: It's fun to visit but I wouldn't want to live there again.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

A: I consider afonasei to be a younger and much hotter representation of who I am in Real Life. 

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

A: Who says you have to lose your imagination when you grow up?

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

A: I have no tolerance for bigotry in RL or SL and do not want to be friends with discriminatory people/avatars.  I can't understand how there can be so much prejudice against certain types of avatars in an environment where one can be absolutely anything one wants to be as long as he or she honors LL's terms of service.  Who hasn't fantasized about being a mermaid/merman, a bird, a dragon, reliving one's childhood; or wondered what life would be like as a different gender or ethnicity?  

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

A: To all the citizens of Bay City I would like to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for the warm welcome I have received.  You and the Moles have created a great community and an amazing city that I am proud to call home. 

Do you know anyone you think is a mover and shaker in Bay City or anyone else that should be interviewed in the Bay City post? Contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name may vary). Maybe it is you!

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

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August 2015

A Very Special Interview with Wuznu Pussycat

Wuznu Pussycat is a  Bay City legend by any other name. Maybe not ANY other name, but in this interview you might recognize a couple of other names and learn about Bay City's history.

Uccie Poultry- Seale: What brought you to Second Life over 12 years ago?

Wuznu Pussycat: I recall reading an article about architects using a new world to "sketch" their ideas for buildings and became immediately invested in the idea of a space filled with user-created content. I was unaware of any other place online that allowed you to share 3D content with others that didn't require each person to manually download that file.  

UP-S: Many Residents 9 years old or older can pin-point a moment of wonder or magic from their first month in-world. Do you have one?

WP: One day, in a Sandbox region, a few folks were talking about Monty Python and the sketch featuring "the machine that goes PING!" Within 10 minutes, we had built, textured, scripted, and added the actual PING sound to an inworld version, just because it seemed like a silly thing to do.  At that point it really hit me just how powerful the toolset is. It seems a bit "well DUH" these days, what with all the fancy Minecrafts kids have on their phones, but real-time remote collaboration was a game changer for me.

UP-S: Some residents know you by a name other than Wuznu. Do you like to keep that secret?

WP: I was known as Blue Linden from '05-'10 and sometimes you'll find me walking the world as Wuznu Pussycat.  The alts I keep secret are made for Halloween each year, with the intent of tricking and/or treating  (sometimes known as griefing) my good friends.

(UP-S:  Blue Linden's counterpart was Cyan Linden, as you could probably guess.)

UP-S: How did your involvement with Second Life’s first Route 66, part of the Americana project, lead to your work on creating Bay City in 2008?

WP: Americana had, most certainly, instilled in me a love of theme based regions and building projects. I was a bit of a Mole even back then, as one of my projects was to create an underground sewer system in Americana.  Tunneling features prominently on my resume.

UP-S: Who decided that Bay City should typify “the American urban experience, between 1940 and 1965, perhaps best typified by Chicago circa 1950 and marked by a distinct deco influence”(1).

WP: Jack, Michael and I had brainstormed a list of possible themes and "Art Deco" was on there...Jack's Idea I believe.  Michael and I both said OH HELL YES to that one, though I did have a certain fondness for "Monster Forest".

UP-S: Who gets the credit for the unusual angular layout of roads and canals?

WP: Nothing says "build a box" like a grid layout, and we wanted to encourage a more organic, creative type of neighborhood. I sketched out a number of tiles, not unlike the classic "pipe game" pieces, allowing roads and canals to connect in multiple arrangements while maximizing Jack's ability to just click new sims into place, as desired. Michael defined all the parcels and where the public parks and builds would be located, breaking the sims up into unique "neighborhoods."

UP-S: If Americana and Bay City weren’t enough, you are somewhat famous for leading a tax revolt back in 2003. (2) During interviews at Second Life’s 12th Birthday Celebration, a few Lindens mentioned that the up-coming Sansar project would involve taxes, possibly on land (they were rather vague). Any thoughts?

WP: Back in Beta, Second Life maintained an economic model with no connection to real world currency, and so the use of the word "tax" in association with "land" was appropriate to the environment...as was taking up arms in semi-mock revolt. 

Extending that nomenclature into the real world where those terms have legal definitions, however, can be problematic. So perhaps in talking about Sansar, Lindens might avoid confusion by referring not to "taxes" but to "fees", lest some "cat" from New England decide to do a bit of historical re-enactment on their "lawn".

Kidding aside, I believe that LL's CEO Ebbe had indicated that the intent is to lower the cost of space by taking a larger cut from content sales. Personally I would find this acceptable in that I'd definitely want a space inworld, especially if I was selling rezzable content, and the current cost of a region in SL is prohibitive. 

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

WP: Attend a BCA meeting, or Marianne's open mic night at The Pen.  You'll find super nice, community-minded people who can answer questions and perhaps take you on a sightseeing flight or leisurely float through the canals.  

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the “wild frontier” outside Bay City?

WP:  Am not familiar with the "wild frontier," but drop me a SLurl and I'll check it out.

UP-S: Of all the things you’ve done in Second Life, which do you like to point to and say “I’m proud of that!”?

WP: I was most proud of my time spent on the Linden Lab Community Team. Working for Jeska and Robin was wonderful in that their concern for the well being of the community was just as heartfelt as mine.  It was amazing to have had the opportunity (and to be empowered by the company) to spend so much time inworld researching and listening, and then acting an advocate for so many amazing groups and individuals. It may sound cheesy, but it's absolutely true. 

And special props to The Moles who contributed their considerable talents to Bay City.  I loved working with those critters.

Talking with a friend of Wuznu's I learned that this legend has even more names, more than even me, the Queen of Alts. But you'll agree, by any name he's been an important part of Bay City and even Second Life's history. Thank you to Post Editor Pro Tem Marianne McCann for helping facilitate this interview. If you know anyone that should be featured, contact me (Uccello Poultry) or Marianne.

(1) http://wiki.secondlife.com/wiki/Bay_City(2) http://nwn.blogs.com/nwn/2003/09/tax_revolt_in_a.html

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

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May 2015


Ten Standard Questions with Echelon Sands


Echelon Sands, the busy man with a name which I find so much trouble to type, has been making an impact in Bay City. With a coffee shop, a gymnasium, and soon a gas station, he never seems to sleep.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Echelon Sands: I came to Second Life cause a friend of mine wanted help building a club. After it flopped I stayed & build a bunch of clubs of my own & DJ’d all over Second Life for years till I got burned out wanted to do something else.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
ES: At first the airport then the roads then the people & the opportunity. When I first moved to Bay City I moved into The Plaza in Dennis in a tiny room with 15 prim with no job or money or anything, but I stuck it out & a year later I’m still here. I have a nice house & several businesses. Its the American dream, I guess. If you can’t do it in RL you can in SL. 

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
ES: I run the Bay City Coffee House, Two Brothers Gym with my SL brother, Ziggie, & I’m  building Nightmare Motors so i have a lot of hats to wear. But i think my favorite thing is just building & it could be anything. I just really enjoy it.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
ES: Yea, I like to fly so I’m often found at airports around the Blake sea & I like to ride all the Linden routes though the Mainland on my bike. Route 9 & 8 are my favorites outside Bay City & like anyone, I go to clubs & stuff, but Bay City is home.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
ES: I’d say come on down & join the BCA meetings. It’s a good way to meet people & network around the city & learn about things going on around town. Best of all its a great place to explore & get lost in.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the “wild frontier” outside Bay City?
ES: I like the frontier town I just wish they would do some planed role play out there I’d love to ride my horse in all my cowboy getup down 66 to the frontier town & have a good drink & a good gun fight.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a “character” or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
ES: I am Echelon Sands. It’s kinda like Fight Club where he realizes he’s both people. That’s kinda how I like to see it. Yes there’s another person in the RL thats me. 2 but when I’m here this is me.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
ES: If you have a dream build it! Everyone should learn to build a little. It’s very relaxing & the joy of seeing something you built out in the world is a great feeling.  

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
ES: I’m a little crazy but in a good way =-)~ 

UP-S: Any last thoughts you’d like to add?
ES: Bay City is the best place on the grid thanks for having me guys.

Yep, Echelon (who I’m tempted to rename Ferd because it is easier to type) is a busy, busy guy. Do you know of anyone busy or otherwise that should be interviewed for The Bay City Post? Contact Uccello Poultry (AKA Display Name Varies) or Marianne McCann (not the Mayori), The Post’s editrix.

The Coffee Shop & Two Brothers Gym can be found at http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bay%20City%20-%20Argos/37/249/25

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

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April 2015


Ten Standard Questions with Xeriko Melnik


If you are like me, when you think about yard sales in Second Life you grab the Search box, but did you know that several Bay City residents  use their land to sell excess gacha items and more? One is Xeriko Melnik, our Interview subject this month.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Xeriko Melnik: Boredom, nothing that transcendental, I'm afraid.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
XM: Lionheart Estate, yep. Of course they didn't tell me Bay City was a better place to live or anything. I just moved to Lionheart Estate for some time and got used to the city structure. It was a good place to be. Then I learned it was based on a Mainland region, and so I looked for the original "source". I eventually landed in Bay City because the rent was cheaper and because residents were more "noisy." I no longer know if the rent is cheaper, though.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
XM: Landscaping (not that it's that fantastic in Bay City --it's too restrictive. I do it somewhere else. In Bay City I just try to have some fun with more simple tasks, as "gardening", so to speak.

Look for Xeriko’s yard sale in Bay City - Sandwich (http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bay%20City%20-%20Sandwich/51/217/25)

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
SM: Yep, kind of half the time I spend in SL, due to my landscaping interests ... and sailing.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
XM: Advice? Hmm, I don't know... Look for the cheapest rental? Or maybe: Forget about buying a parcel in here; it's too expensive, really. Only do it once you're completely certain you like the suburban landscape and want to spend the rest of your second life in here. Or do it out of a sporadic outbreak of madness, as I did. The cost of land demands that, or a 100% certainty.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
XM: It's equally interesting sans the double bonus factor, which is a significant difference. The rest of Mainland is the place to be for explorers of any kind. It's not the most beautiful place of course, but everybody knows that. 

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
XM: What's the difference anyway? If there's a difference, then it's a little bit of both.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
XM: Maybe, maybe not (that's my philosophy, no kidding).

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
XM: That my name is Xeriko, I'm a little bit androgynous and I love the black color. Those are the exact three things they will learn if they look at my profile anyway. Hell, you said ONE, sorry. Just pick the first one then.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
XM: …quoth the raven, "Nevermore" (roll eyes).

A word to the wise: Whilst editing this interview I stood in Xeriko’s shop and managed to spend some L$200 … with Marianne McCann standing there encouraging me. So always work in your office, not in a shop when you have L$ in your pocket.

(Editor's note: I fear I may have dropped a few L$ here as well while there, too)

Should you come across a Bay City resident that you think should be interviewed or should you think that you are just such an individual, then contact Uccello Poultry (Display Name Varies) via IM or email (ucciepoultry(at)gmail.com). IM is probably best. Come to think of it, forget that she has email.

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

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March 2015

A Very Special Interview with Michael Linden

When looking around the sumptuous reading room of Michael Linden’s mansion in Shamon (http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Shamon/65/59/29) one can easily be distracted by the first edition books, the fine antiques, and the really, really comfy chairs. But as Michael and I sat down for an interview he set me to ease by confiding that he doesn’t live like this in Real Life except for being surrounded by books.

If you recognize the name you might know that Michael is the lead mole in the Linden Department of Public Works, or as his tag often shows, “Janitor.” In this respect, he is a very important part of Bay City so considerable time was spent in arranging an interview with him for The Post.

Uccello Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Michael Linden: I had been working at Skotos Tech, an online text game company, and needed to move on. My boss at Skotos knew some of the SL founders, and suggested that I apply for a customer support position (governance, in the form of Agent Linden). The position turned into (pretty quickly) part of the Liaison staff.

UP-S: What do you like best about Bay City and/or what would you like to change?
ML: I’m a big fan of “built in theme” areas, so more stuff in the Art Deco/Streamline era style would be nice. We could also improve some of the older Linden-created content.

UP-S: You’ve been with Bay City since the start. What can you tell us about how Our Fair City started?
ML: Hmm. The first city, Nova Albion, was kinda … cluttered. We were going to make the new area “double prim”, but wanted a more harmonious look to it. A lot of different urban styles were considered, before the Art Deco/Streamline period was settled on.

UP-S: Was Bay City Second Life’s first themed area?
ML: There were themed areas before Bay City, but the theming wasn’t very strong. Boardman, Lusk and … Deharo, I think … were themed, but the Lab didn’t show a lot of “here’s what it might look like” images to Residents.

UP-S: A question about New Port. As one of the harbor masters I’m often asked if space is available. Will the changes to the other port in BayCity have an effect on the Yacht Club?
ML: I really can’t say.

UP-S: Even for a nice can of grubs and worms?
ML: The Land Operations team is aware of the issues with New Port, yacht sales slips, etc. … That’s about all I can say. At some point, the yacht sales slips will … change. I may buy some freighters from Joe Sparrow’s “WWII Pacific Land Group” … very nice mesh boats. Might have them sail around Daley Bay and past the Shermerville regions. We have lots of water regions north of Bay City, after all.

UP-S: Whose idea was Bay City?
ML: As in, “let’s build a double-prim, themed urban area”? I think that goes to Jack Linden, but I could be wrong. I see the alpha template for parcels is dated February 21, 2008.

UP-S: What do you see for the future of Bay City? I know a public pool is going in, the LOLlercoaster should be done soon, and changes to New Port.
ML: Yes, we’re looking at those; our moles are of course busy on content for the whole grid, but Bay City gets regular notice by the LDPW. The worm-mine will be developed someday. We are pondering how to make a working rail-ferry, to connect the Bay City tracks with the SLRR. Some upgrades in content might be useful. And anything we can do to make Hau Koda less … hmm … laggy. Not quite Bay City, but we do want to fix the trolleys in Nova Albion, too.

UP-S: When the big anniversary for Bay City comes up, can we expect something special from The Lab?
ML: I hope so! Something on the scale of the Asylum or Hotel Falmouth would be nice. With three years [to the 10th anniversary] we should be able to make something nice!

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
ML: Adding signs, improving the urban infrastructure.

UP-S: From what I see at your mansion, you love aviation and boating. What sort of things do you do for fun outside Bay City? Without naming names, you can include activities for alts or non-Linden avatars.
ML: I’m always active monitoring the SLRR, and looking into railways around Second Life. Lately, I’ve been having fun watching the “sea battle” folks out of Tulagi.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City or any themed community in Second Life?
ML: Find a good inspiration for an in-theme build. Linden Lab usually makes some textures or components available for people in a themed area; or you can find a skilled builder.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the “wild frontier” outside Bay City?
ML: Well, of course it’s more varied, and has more open space. Part of my job in the Department of Public Works is to “pretty up” land for sale.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a “character” or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
ML: More of a representation. I haven’t really been involved in role-playing in SL.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
ML: Don’t be a griefer; and, stay out of the Drama Triangle.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
ML: I’m not part of, and have no authority in, the governance or discipline system in Second Life!

UP-S: Any last thoughts you’d like to add?
ML: The Lab is always trying to improve the Second Life experience for all Residents.

Upon leaving Michael and his mansion I thought about one of his other titles: Moletivator. This Friend of Bay City leads an incredible team of builders and artists that help make Our Fair City a wonderful place for residents and visitors alike. If you know someone important to Bay City, resident or not, contact Uccello Poultry (the Uccie Poultry-Seale in this interview) for an interview.

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

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February 2015

Ten Standard Questions with Vick Forcella

Self-appointed Dictator of Bay City and waffle enthusiast Vick Forcella has strong armed many into thinking he actually lives in Our Fair City, but he is a part of our community nonetheless. He attends more events that most regular citizens and strongly supports the city's adopted charities so don't be surprised at his being interviewed for The Post.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Dictator Vick Forcella: Was looking for a 3D editor. Tried Blender, Newton and Ogre, then came in SL. Due to RL I got stuck in 24/7 and killed off my avatar. Took some time and returned, now strictly in RL evenings to protect myself.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
DVF: The feed and some crazy girl named Ever that spammed it.

Of course, Vick means the beloved Ever Dreamscape.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
DVF: Supreme (beloved) citizen. Though, I was informed my Rule is over. Don't know who is sending me waffles each day, but Thanks!

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
DVF: Most of it, yes :)

Vick owns a baronage and a hilltop in the far lands of Zindra and has been known to claim various rez zones as his own. Famously, Vick also owns land adjacent to Mt G'al where he frequently sacrifices .. um .. stuff.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
DVF: Patience to find a plot for a normal price. Try and participate in the Alliance even if it's an hour every month. The sense of community is quite pleasant.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
DVF: Love every inch of it, including piles of [Annmarie] Otoole vehicles. Not hitting a ban line is Score and Yay! One thing saddens me and that is the amount of unused land and lost avatars behind that. I rarely visit private sims.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
DVF: My avatar does things my RL can't do. Vick is about 100% different as my RL. RL don't own a castle. Though Vick is 100% unreal, I am very aware that SL can leak into RL and have an effect there. I try to be cautious, with others, and myself.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
DVF: SL is for fun. If it's something different, take a break.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
DVF: *check profile* Most of my profile is outdated? (and I'm too lazy to change it). I'm a bad friend, I don't take the initiative to contact friends. Dunno why I'm wired like that.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
DVF: I am not an active blogger. I only blog when I have an opinion to drop that I can't drop anywhere else. I am not a resident of Bay City and I'll never be, since that would mean loosing land somewhere else. I would like to have God powers. Returning griefer objects, Terraforming matching land of residents, removing security orbs that work on public land.

Indeed, Vick is a good friend of Bay City, dictator or not. He certainly earns his waffles. Know someone important to Our Fair City, resident or not? Refer them to Uccie Poultry-Seale (AKA Uccello Poultry) for a shot at an interview in The Post.

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

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January 2015

Ten Standard Questions with Celeste Auer

Celeste Auer has been in Second Life for over seven years so she's quite familiar with Our World and Our Fair City. She enjoys the Krafties game in SL as well as Tiny Empires and is quite involved in other ventures check out her Groups list!).

Uccie Poultry- Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Celeste Auer: RL family owning sims and needed help with estate management.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City? 
CA: Double Prims and events.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
CA: I like the live events

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City? 
CA: Most [of my] time, due to what I mainly do in SL.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City? 
CA: Oh wow, sadly, get use to griefing.

I asked Celeste to elaborate and it seems she sees quite a bit of griefing in West Haven, a suburb of Bay City adjacent to the Shermerville sims. "It was going on daily," she told me, "and I have  my av on 24/7 due to the sims we own, so see the IMs in Bay city group chat and the amount of griefing and sometimes it is huge and goes on for an hour or more."

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?  
CA: Got to count some of the areas outside Bay City proper which is very nice too like West Haven and Shermerville.

UP-S Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life? 
CA: For the most part [like I am in Real Life], the same ethic and believes in character things I  keep here, but I do love flying and TPs and my crown :)

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life? 
CA: Don't take that it to serious or what others say as fact about themselves or others, to many it is just a game and anything goes.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
CA: Some of my family in RL are in SL also and this is not my first or only avatar

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
CA: I love the Bay City area and think is it one of the best region area on the  grid, But SL is vast and outside it is a wonderful world.

Always great to hear from residents in the suburbs and the extended areas outside the city proper so don't feel you have to live in a sim that has Bay City in the name to ask to be interviewed for The Post. Just contact Uccie Poultry-Seale (AKA Uccello Poultry) for an appointment.

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

Uccie is ready for caturday.. but where is she?

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December 2014

Ten Standard Questions with Morgan W. Mickalobe

Last month’s interview subject for The Post contacted me just a couple days after publication to eagerly suggest that I speak with Morgan W. Mickalobe (mmorganwhitfield), another Bay City Resident with some deep roots in Our Fair City. Not one to look a gift resident in the mouth, I quicky dropped the idea of thinking about when I should start thinking about finding another resident to interview and contacted Mrs. Mickalobe.

Uccie Poultry- Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Morgan W. Mickalobe: I discovered SL because in RL I am a university student in Virginia and two summer semesters ago I enrolled in a class called "history and origins of virtual worlds". The class was held here in SL. We had to create our own avatars and had to first immerse ourselves in this unique setting. After the class was over, I wanted to stay and be part of this fascinating world and meet the residents.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
MWM: I read in one of the class handouts about how Bay City was one of the first huge cities created in SL. Bay City helped me learn about SL and even learn how to fly, walk, run, and do monetary transactions. I loved the brownstones where BC residents lived. When I saw an opening for some parcels available over the summer, my dream of living here came into fruition.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
MWM: I love and am proud to have made a center for residents to learn about the horrors of domestic violence. There is really nothing like it in SL. Nadia and the wonderful staff at Tower Rental have always supported me in this endeavor. So, I decided to do it. My other favorite activity is to home decorate here. I love sight seeing here in BC looking at all of the wonderful brownstones and homes decorated by our talented residents. I love also building my park Bay City Rollers Park to honor the residents of Bay City.

- - -
UP-S: This is somewhat timely news as I had just learned that  Jade Winthorpe, owner of the popular shop “Epic” in Second Life was leaving an abusive relationship and looking for help. I mentioned this to Morgan and provided a link with information (http://bit.ly/1pxSa0K) and talked about how often SL’s residents can be found helping each other.
[18:11] Morgan W. Mickalobe: When I made this center and even the park, I received a lot of support from vendors who heard about my mission
[18:12] Uccie Galway: oh, nice.
[18:12] Morgan W. Mickalobe: Some have even donated their product especially for me.
- - -

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
MWM: I do have my main residence at another sim by the ocean. I also frequent the various events in SL. But, I do come to the Center and visit my condo here mostly every day.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
MWM: Take a walk around the sim and enjoy the sites. Find a place here that you feel you can call "home". Visit the wonderful staff at Tower Rental and see what is available. Sometimes you will find parcels that you may have missed. If you do not see anything you like, just ask Nadia, Red, or Alyssa your concerns and wants. That is what I did. They are so helpful.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
MWM: The residents at BC are proud living here. It shows when they decorate their property. Residents care about one another and supportive. Management cares about YOU as a person. BC is city living and it is exciting!

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
MWM: Our avatars may start out as a character in the beginning. However, your true self does come out thru your avatar. It cannot be helped. You cannot truly hide that. I feel that Morgan does represent who I am in RL. I treat people with kindness here as I do in RL. This is just another medium to meet people from all around the world in a unique and enjoyable manner.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
MWM: Be true to yourself and your values and morals. Do not fake it here. Otherwise, you will not see the true joy of Second Life. There is more to this place than the sexual aspect of it. Oh no.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
MWM: One of my secret dream here in SL is to become a super model, but I'm too scared to pursue it. LOL! Seriously.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
MWM: Second Life is something that others in the RW may not "get" and have stereotypes of those who invest their time here. Some of those stereotypes are legitimate but really, there is so much enjoyment and ways to improve oneself emotionally, spiritually, and even financially which will in turn make a positive impact in our real lives.  If I can educate one resident here on the horrors of domestic violence and violence to women and girls, all of this is worth it.

Everyone contributes to Bay City in small ways or big ways, all according to their gifts and we call all be proud of the big things that Morgan does in Our Fair City.

Do you know someone who should be recognized in our community? If so, contact Uccie Poultry-Seale (AKA Uccello Poultry or “Display Name Varies"). Help me earn my $L1/month (invested for me by The Post in Dreamscape Insurance stocks rather than getting actual pay) by interviewing more 
people.

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

Where has Uccie gotten herself to now?

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November 2014

Ten Standard Questions with Ayame Kintsugi

If you've spent any time in Bay City of late you've probably run into, heard of, or even met Ayame Kintsugi (Zombiegal). If you are a Profile Purveyor, you also might have noticed that she and I have the same Orson Scott Card quote in our Profiles (ha! Made you look!!). Clearly that makes her an interesting person and an ideal candidate for my Ten Standard Questions for the Bay City Post.

Artwork of the Kinstugi family by local Bay City artist SpiffyDame Resident. 

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Ayame Kintsugi: I first came to Second Life in late 2003, but didn't really stick to it until early 2005 (my very first avatar was actually my Real Life name!). Ever since I was a little zombiegal I've loved to read and much of my taste in fiction tends towards the Science Fiction genre. Authors like Neal Stephenson, Carl Sagan, his son Nick Sagan, and yes, Orson Scott Card gave me such a deep yearning for the immerse experience of virtual reality I was reading about that I spent most of my time (even back on 56K!) searching for the latest advancements in the future of 3D worlds (my first VR worlds were MUDs!). Nothing has compared to the level of depth and possibility as what Linden Labs has provided with Second Life.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
AK: I have hovered on the edges of Bay City since its appearance on the grid in 2008 as a frequent visitor, but I didn't really get involved until 2013 when Nadia invited me to work with her on Tower Rental. You, Uccie, actually have the distinction of being my fist visitor at the Bay City Trailer Park project last Halloween, shortly before Ever Dreamscape rolled through on her tornado and offered her infamous insurance policy of protection against future "natural" disasters! 

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
AK: Community Building, hands down. The variety of interests to be found here amongst the denizens of Bay City and the passion they bring to every project means there is something new to be discovered around every corner. That's really just the tip of the iceberg though, because pretty much everyone here has given a piece of their heart to Bay City and it really shows in the way everyone supports their neighbors, no matter how many meters apart they may be in Bay City's almost 50 sims!

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
AK: There's life outside of Bay City? *laughs* In all seriousness, anyone who knows me will tell you that I eat, sleep, and breathe life in Bay City. If I can be found anywhere else besides here, the list is very short - Either shopping, visiting my family, or enjoying an event some place (probably of the Live Music variety). 

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
AK: I know that it's hard to visit Bay City and not fall in love with it; I did and I fell hard. Immediately folks find themselves wanting to live here, but then they start to look around at the land sale prices and are scared off (some truly are exorbitantly overpriced, but most are pretty true to market).  To them I would say, it's worth it. You're not only getting double prims for your monthly tier, but you're also stepping into one of the best experiences of your virtual life by making Bay City home to yourself or your business. If you look around, there's also a plethora of rental opportunities all over Bay City from various organizations that make being a part of the community here affordable to almost anyone's budget if your heart isn't already set on owning a little piece of Bay City yourself.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
AK: Oh boy... I think the "wild frontier" that is Mainland is definitely something I hope Linden Labs better tackles in Second Life 2.0, because it's a mess out there! Too many people hide in skyboxes, unable to enjoy their property on the ground level because of their neighbors. To me, Mainland has almost become the post apocalyptic wasteland of virtual land and it's a darn shame. That said, I don't even know what solution I would suggest as it is a very large and complex problem when one of the best things about Second Life has always been that it is almost entirely user created, and I wouldn't want to give that up. 

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
AK: I guess this is a good time to talk about that quote from Orson Scott Card which we both love so much? It says, "Perhaps it is impossible to wear an identity without becoming what you pretend to be." I truly believe that. Who I am in RL directly affects my SL character, and surprisingly, vice versa.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
AK: I do. I believe that it's a shame to place limitations on a world created to be without limitation on the imagination. It may sound counter intuitive at first, but I believe that the anonymity provided by existing in a virtual environment through the use of an avatar releases us from so many of our real world limitations; be they physical, mental, economical, social, etc, etc, etc... 

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
AK: I am an open book and entirely approachable. I believe that we have something to learn from each and every person who passes through our lives, no matter how briefly, and I am always eager to find that lesson. I have met several people, especially in Bay City, who have seen someone or heard of someone through their social groups but not said hello to them for any number of reasons, usually shyness or something similar. I challenge you to always say "Hello!" because great things can happen just because you did.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

AK: I mentioned Second Life 2.0 in passing and I'd like to go back to that. Everyone seems to be wondering what's next and some are even abandoning projects in fear of the end of Second Life as we know it. Our virtual lives are indeed changing, but that's nothing new and this isn't the first time we've made huge leaps forward at the seeming sacrifice of the old. Technology is ever advancing and with it grows our ability to further immerse ourselves in these worlds and the lives we've created. Let's not stop creating, and let's not stop experimenting, let's not stop dreaming. So much of what we do here, right now and tomorrow, will contribute to our future virtual lives as we shift platforms. To pull from another science fiction great: Don't Panic! 

Behind every strong woman is another one, I've heard some say, and now you know that is Ayame behind Nadia. I'm glad she's in the spotlight now and I'm sure you are, too.

If you know someone that needs their 15Kb of fame, have them contact Uccello Poultry (AKA "DISPLAY NAME CHANGES") OR Marianne McCann to set up an interview for The Bay City 

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

Can you guess where Uccie is in our fair city?

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October 2014

Ten Standard Questions with Cheree Shippe

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?
Cheree Shippe: Actually, one day I was really bored at home and perusing some of my favorite websites at the time, wow that was a long time ago, and I came across a post talking about a virtual world where you can pretty much be anyone or do anything you wanted...  I was intrigued and from there I went on a search for this 'SecondLife' client and decided to give it a whirl.  What I thought would be a passing fad for me, my original account was dated back in early 2006, turned into an adventure that has lasted many, many years.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?
CS: One of the first places I ever explored in Second Life was actually Bay City, I remember seeing all the roads (to drive those AWFUL texture cars) and just the enjoyment of poking around seeing all the amazing builds.  Here we are 8 years later and I find myself doing much of the same, venturing through the different little nooks and crannys in the city to see everything there is to offer from behind the wheel of my (admittedly much better) vehicle!

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
CS: Trick question? ;)  Most people know me, and have known me throughout the years, as a Police Officer.  It's my first love, and I thought it might even be my calling in real life given that I'm from a long line of Police Officers...  With that being said, my father decided he didn't want me to be a cop in the real world so I've taken up my passion in Second Life and thus in Bay City.

I run the Bay City Metropolitan Police Department, a role-play organization that provides the citizens of Bay City with a true to form, reality based, Police role-play organization.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
CS: What time I spend out of Bay City is on my private sim or out in the Blake Sea it seems.  Either flying, sailing, or building. (I own and operate Second Life's largest urban Role-play structure prefab company.) (https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/28215)

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
CS: Don't wait.

The community in Bay City is singular, there are people here who care more than anywhere else on the grid.  The land prices may be obscene, they really are, but you can carve yourself out a little spot and experience what it feels like to actually belong in part of a community.  The events, the activities, and the people make it perfect for new and old residents alike.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
CS: Do I have to think about it?  ;)  As a rule I really do avoid the mainland outside of Bay City, the 'burbs', and Blake Sea....I see very little out there to draw my attention anymore sadly.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
CS: Without a doubt Cheree is me.  It's my real name, I actually share initials with my SL character, and I feel that if anyone were to meet me in real life they'd recognize my personality right away.  I may not be quite as good looking as she is, but without a doubt Cheree in SL is a mere extension on Cheree in RL.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
CS: Live, Learn, Explore, and Grow.

Each of these things is part of the Second Life experience.  You live here in the world as your avatar, you learn new skills (building, driving, flying, and so on), you explore new places and find new interests, and that leads to growth and experience both as an avatar and as a person behind the avatar.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
CS: I'm approachable.  Don't let the uniform or the car scare you, I love to talk to people...  I'm a very diverse woman who enjoys a lot of different topics!

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
CS: Really, not much, only would like to add that I've seen Bay City evolve over the last 8 years and I hope to see it continue to grow for 8 more...  If the residents of the city have accomplished this much in this time I only can wonder and dream about what we will all be seeing and doing in another 8.

Dear Reader, if you know someone that would like to be Interviewed for The Post, let me (Uccello Poultry) know. It can even be you!!

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Where in Bay City is Uccie?

Can you guess where Uccie is in our fair city?

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September 2014

Ten Standard Questions with Linsey Carter 

Spend some time with Linsey Carter and you find she's more than a pretty face. She's sharp, charming, and quite interesting. Here's her answers to my "10 Standard Questions."

1. What brought you to Second Life?
Research. Back in late 2006 and early 2007, I kept seeing news reports of companies like IBM, Sears, and American Apparel setting up places in a virtual world called Second Life. I decided to check it out and see what it was all about. I am still researching Second Life, not sure when I will finish 

2. What brought you to Bay City?
The SL Feeds, back when they were useful. I saw pictures and event announcements from Bay City residents there. The first time I came to explore Bay City was back in 2012 during Hot Bay City Nights. 

3. Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
I am the owner of Inspired Creativity Studio in The Docklands, which will be opening soon. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bay%20City%20-%20Docklands/32/100/26

4. Do you spend much time outside Bay City? 
I spend most of my time outside of Bay City. I am mainly here on the weekends when the traffic is not so bad  :) or for events during the week.

5. What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
Get involved with the Bay City Alliance and try to attend an occasional meeting. It is the best way to find out what is going on around Bay City.

6. Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
Walking around the Mainland is like a treasure hunt. There are gems out there but they are few and far between, and if you are not looking you might miss them. 

7. Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
My persona represents who i am in Real Life. It is hard to separate RL from SL as I am in SL so much. So one "Life" affects how I am in the other "Life". 

8. Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
My current philosophy about Second Life is "Nothing ventured, nothing gained." 

9. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
I am not a one dimensional character. I have many interests and have a diverse group of friends here in SL. That is what makes Second Life different than Real Life.  You can do many different things. I can be in Bay City for an event then leave and go to an event on Zindra  I can express myself many different ways depending on where I am and who I am with.  

10. Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
I have only been in Bay City a short time. While the infrastructure is nice, and there are many places to visit and do things. It is the residents of Bay City that made this a community in Second Life that I wanted to be a part of.

Thank you, Linsey! I'm sure there are many like me waiting to see your studio open, but just having you around is fun, too.

Dear Reader, if you know someone that would like to be Interviewed for The Post, let me (Uccello Poultry) know. It can even be you!!

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August 2014

Uccello Poultry – Seale sits down with Zyx Flux!

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Zyx Flux: Pixies are everywhere. Are you surprised to see us in Second Life? There are so many gardens and woodlands that need our help in this world that you should see quite a few of us.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

ZF: The curator of the Bay City Arboretum of Rather Atypical Vegetation contacted me about my collection of rather atypical vegetation in hopes that I would be able to stock the exhibits since, apparently, he had everything he needed except the flora. Now I'm the Chief Gardener.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

ZF: Wasn't I clear? I'm the Chief Gardener at the Bay City Arboretum of Rather Atypical Vegetation. In my spare time, I'm a freelance gardener and explorer.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

ZF: You can often find me at the LDPW green houses in Clearwing and Dokkaebi. Or I'm in Lost Halls. Or Calas Galadon. And Nangrim. Actually, I'm anywhere there are gardens and forests.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

ZF: Find an empty house and move in. I live in the gardener's shed behind the arboretum without the owner even knowing it. Once I rented at the Y-Stay. Bay City residents would do well to set out a nice space for a garden to attract pixy families.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

ZF: The Lindens have lots of places to explore. Moles like gardens and forests, too, so Mainland is so exciting to explore. You'll often find me zipping along the roads and tending to the LDPW rest area rezz zones and writing posts as a guest blogger for The Poultry Report.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

ZF: I'm told I'm quite a character.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

ZF: Take time to smell the roses. Maybe pull a few weeds. Teach some frogs which pests to eat. Roll in the hay.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

ZF: I'm polychromatic.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

ZF: Walt Disney once said "I don't like formal gardens. I like wild nature. It's just the wilderness instinct in me, I guess" but invented cartoon character topiary. Think about it.

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March 2014

Every month I've talked to Ever Dreamscape, Editor of the Bay City Post, about assignments, her SL arrest record, and other topics, but I never thought of interviewing her. After several pointed hints and a note tied to a brick that was heaved onto my desk, the idea finally occurred to me.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Ever Dreamscape (My Boss): I saw something about Anshe on TV, and thought hmm real estate and computers… two of my favorite pastimes… what could go wrong? I had intended to become madly rich but didn’t understand at the time that real estate in SL is much more like playing the market (something I was not familiar with) landscaping and property development had very little to do with profit at least at that time, and I lost my virtual shirt during the whole gamble shutdown thing. I gave up and now just play.

UC-P: What brought you to Bay City?

ED(MB): I had taken a virtual break for about a year and when I came back wanted a small lot that *might* hold some value, so I opened up the map and found that there were historical and seemingly valuable parcels for sale. My intention was to build a small gallery… somehow I got distracted ;o

UC-P: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

ED(MB): ?Well I seem to have (somehow) gotten a reputation for burning things down… but my favorite activity is actually building new things. By building; I mean buying and rezzing, there is always something more I would like to build, oh to have more land!!! “I love the smell of freshly rezzed prims in the morning”. :D

UC-P: If you could advise Linden Lab what would you say?

ED(MB): That SL is too sophisticated for the average Facebook/mobile phone app user. Most people expect things to come fast and easy and aren’t really interested in “computing” the way they once were. If they could make it easy and provide decent support for the new users they might have something. Aside from that I think they should focus on addressing the needs and interests of their “base.” It’s a difficult challenge; I don’t envy anyone trying to address it.

UC-P: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

ED(MB): There is an outside to Bay City? I spend so much time here I rarely see anything other than a few of my favorite shops, and Burn, and SLxB. However, sadly so much is abandoned and ugly, I really wish they would do something with it like compact it to drive prices back up and maybe create some form of homesteading program… seriously I think something should be done. There are however some decent areas where people have come together to create some pretty awesome communities. I think community developers should be of consideration to the “Lab”.

UC-P: Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

ED(MB): Well I of course am much taller, thinner, and better looking than Ever :D But seriously, I never thought I would get to play “Barbies” again so this is fun. That said after being skeptical many years ago, I’ve also gained a good understanding of kid avies and shape shifters who are here just to play unencumbered by adult worries and flirtations etc. I have really come to find my former kid here.

For me (as many or most) RL is very stressful, I enjoy coming here and being as dumb and silly as possible; it’s a release. RL is challenging and I don’t care to be challenged here. I like to relax, play, and be the “dumb” blonde that is too dumb to be blonde.

UC-P: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

ED(MB): Everyone comes here for a different reason has a different agenda, and view on how SL should be “played.” I try to respect that.

UC-P: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

ED(MB): That I haven’t read Nietzsche in a really long time?! That and although I can seem very mindless and perhaps destructive/reckless… I am really a very contemplative and sensitive person. Oh one?!  oops :/

UC-P: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

ED(MB): My BFF iRL has always referred to me as his little peach; all soft juicy and sweet on the outside, and one big NUT on the inside. :o (guess that seems contrary to my last statement).

Now that this brick is off my desk, feel free to tie a note with your name to a brick and toss it on my desk next if you'd like to be interviewed for the next issue of the Bay City Post. Or contact Ever Dreamscape, My Boss.

     *****

February 2014

Join Uccello Poultry – Seale as she sits down with Jehuty Niemi (Zessinthal!

1. What brought you to Second Life?

Five years ago, I was flipping through channels on one of those rare occasions where I felt like watching TV, and I just happened to come across a piece on the news that covered various virtual worlds, including SL.  What piqued my interest the most about SL at the time was the notion that it possesses near-limitless possibilities in what you can create and do within it, and while I currently lack the skills to really create much of anything here, I've since spent much of my time in-world exploring, wandering and meeting all kinds of people.  Eventually I found a home within a hockey league in SL, the Global Online Hockey Association (GOHA), and have since invested much of my time and energies toward the league as both a manager and a player.  Everyone eventually finds their niche.

2. What brought you to Bay City?

GOHA developed a number of community partnerships with various communities, including Bay City, starting in my 2nd season with the league.  For two seasons (approximately a year), I represented both communities as the goaltender for the Bay City Whales and helped the team to consecutive championships.  In doing so, I was invited to several events within the city, including one of the Rumbles and a party hosted at the Tavern, and was immediately impressed by both the scale of the city as well as how inviting and passionate the community is.  These were my first visits to Bay City and to this day, I remember them fondly.

3. Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

I hope to be able to attend and perhaps even drive in another Rumble, and I'd love to have the chance to attend one of the monthly gatherings at The Pen.  I've been brushing up on my haikus and some Vogon poetry for the occasion.

4. As a non-resident, do you spend much time in Bay City?

Not as much as I would like to, but I do occasionally peek in and roam around...the city is so expansive that I'm still exploring the place.  Most recently, a friend of mine took me to a silent auction held in one of the regions, and one of my fellow co-conspirators and I took a leisurely stroll through the bayside before casually breaking the sound barrier by passing through the zoo on her motorcycle.  We apologize for any tire markings we may have left behind.

5. Would you like to move to Our Fair City?

Perhaps one of these days, when I get a better sense of where everything is in the city.

6. Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

"Wild" doesn't even begin to describe it.  The world is a volatile place, with new regions coming and going seemingly with each change in the wind.  I visit a number of sims catered toward furs and also do a lot of general sightseeing on my own since I'm not the most sociable person you'll meet, and while I find that the quietest places on here are often the most peaceful, beautiful and well-constructed, these places usually aren't around for long and should not be taken for granted.  Outside the city, I feel that there is a lot that is worth seeing, if you can find it before it disappears.

7. Do you consider your Second Life persona a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

My persona in SL is that of an anthropomorphic grey fox, which I feel makes this question a bit tricky to answer.  I don't act any differently on here than I do in reality, even in roleplay most of the time, but to put it in the simplest terms that I can, the reason why I choose to be a fox is because it best represents the qualities, traits and idealizations that make up who I am in reality.

For example, many people, including myself, think of foxes as being clever and nimble creatures, diminuitive, isolated and not known for physical prowess, but adaptable, tenacious and independent.  Among others, these are traits that either describe me or are things that I aspire to be, and so in summary, my AV here is a representation of both who I am and who I wish to become in reality.

8. Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

While you may find people who may leave a lasting impression on you, try never to take SL, nor anyone you may come across in it, too seriously.

9. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

I'm a hard person to get to know, and most people can barely get a word out of me, but I feel that there's something profound to be said by merely being present and keeping your ears open to others in their time of need.

10. Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

Nah, I think I've rambled on enough.  Namaste everyone!

    *****

January 2014

Join Uccello Poultry – Seale as she sits down with Group Chat!

After another month of unsuccessfully tracking down people to interview for The Post, I started asking questions in the Bay City Alliance Chat. Here's what I got ...

1. What brought you to Second Life?

Pygar BuPygar Bu points at the Mayori

Imnotgoing Sideways: Cable Internet, a good video card, and delay after delay of Playstation Home. (^_^)

Marianne McCann: 1. A couple friends of mine were here, and as it finally hd a mac client by then, I joined

Lexxi Gynoid: What brought me to SL? A book website I was on was going to have a meeting in SL. ?

Ever Dreamscape: I’m gonna say dialup… but it wasn’t… just felt that way at times :/

2. What brought you to Bay City?

Marianne McCann: 2. I read about the building on the SL blog and was intrigued by the theme

Pygar Bu: I started hanging out at the Alliance meetings :-)

Lexxi Gynoid:  What brought me to Bay City? Hype at the time.  Ended up with a bunch of land.  Now I have no land and no lindens.

Ever Dreamscape: worldmap

3. Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

Marianne McCann: 3. "yes"

4. Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

Pygar Bu: yep, but I have the run of the whole Grid, so there's that

Pygar Bu: I build at Livingtree or in one of the sandboxes, and I have a garden in Varney

Ever Dreamscape: there's an outside??? i wasn't given information about that place.

Marianne McCann: 4. I tend to fly all over the place, including around here and the Blake Sea. I RP Pin some of the kid/family regions, and I do stuff in Livingtree

5. What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

Marianne McCann: 6. Come to the meetings and events and get to know us all.

Pygar Bu: the land price is worth it, if you can afford it. Otherwise there are plenty of rentals around

Pygar Bu: come join us!

Ever Dreamscape: bring matches?

Ever Dreamscape: oh... and buy insurance!  LOTS of insurance!!!

6. Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

ADudeNamed Anthony: you pay through the nose for it, so the noobs can get it free

Pygar Bu: I used to have a teeny parcel in the Heterocera Atoll

Pygar Bu: there were three gardens, two houses and a road wayyyyy over on the other side of the region

Marianne McCann: 6. I have always lived in Mainland, so it's home. Yes, it does come with its share of headaches, but it's mine. That is, I won't log in and find all my stuff returned and the land abandoned unless I choose to do so. Also, the mainland is great for long trips and just random exploring

Ever Dreamscape: again.. there *is* such a place??? i missed that memo :o

Ever Dreamscape: oh you mean where Mari sends me when ive been bad... Mahulu something?

7. Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

Pygar Bu: 7. Yes.

Marianne McCann: 7. "Yes." I am an RP character, but I'm also an aspect of my first life self too. So it's all packed in one small package

Pygar BuPygar Bu is a slightly larger package  :p   though my first life self doesn't have a halo

Ever Dreamscape: yes/no/maybe

8. Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

Marianne McCann: 8. "Have Fun"

Ever Dreamscape: Rez and let Rez (but not on my land )  :/

Pygar Bu: 8> Make something

9. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

Ever Dreamscape: that I am an avatar irl too

10. Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

Ever Dreamscape: are we there yet?

Ever Dreamscape: so long and thanks for all the fish!!!?

Uccello Poultry: Okies. Thanks, everyone for the group interview. I'll just change everyone's name to protect the innocent and turn this into me editor.

Seriously, now, if you'd like to be interviewed for The Post or if you know of someone that should be interviewed, contact Uccello Poultry or Ever Dreamscape. It's a small city and we are running out of people to talk about .. rem .. talk to for the paper.

     *****

December 2013

The Interview

Join Uccello Poultry – Seale as she sits down with Laetizia "Tish" Coronet!

Not everyone that enjoys Bay City lives here but almost everyone in Our Fair City knows Laetizia "Tish" Coronet. She travels through often, attends events in the city, and is an active member of the New Port Yacht Club. You can also find her at Bay City Alliance meetings and the Bay City Municipal Airport in Hau Koda.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Laetizia "Tish" Coronet: Back in 2006 "everyone" was talking about Second Life, when free accounts became available, so I decided to try it out. Didn't think I would last longer than two weeks really.

UP-S: What brings you to Bay City?

L"T"C: Actually I found a home in the old seaside village at Cowell, thanks to the kindness of Salazar Jack and the people of the Trust. And being so close to the city you get drawn in. I do not actually have a plot in the city.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What so you like to do around our Fair City?

L"T"C: Well, I run the Civil Protection to prepare for disasters, and I run the Sansara National Guard, so that is what I do around town.

UP-S: Do you spend much time in Bay City?

L"T"C: A bit less since my main hangar moved way out to the ERC airfield at Kirkstone.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to explore Bay City?

L"T"C: Leave Route 66 and drive around the neighborhoods. I guess lots of people just stay on the main road. Oh and apart from Hairy Hippo Land, visit the aquatic zoo or whatchamacallit behind it.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

L"T"C: Mainland Sansara has some very beautiful and special spots, historic ones like the oldest sims and Mount G'al and the various dams, but also fine Resident-created communities like the East River Community. And yes, there's trash, too. Lots of it. That's the way it is, without the freedom people have to do what they want on the Mainland I guess nobody would go there. And the price of freedom is 2004 vintage castles with crappy textures and misaligned sleazy poseballs.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

L"T"C: Tish Coronet is mostly me, but looks nothing like me. Yeah she's a character.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

L"T"C: God no. If anything it would be "don't take it so seriously that you need a philosophy for it"!

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

L"T"C: I'm quite shy. Hesitant to IM someone or speak to them in-world. This is something about me most people hardly notice.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

L"T"C: Yeah. In light of what's going on with Mari in Shermerville: just be nice to people. You don't have to like everyone but don't be hateful and spiteful. Nobody enjoys that, not even you, and we're here to enjoy ourselves.

Tish's last response is about a neighbor of Marianne McCann's that is actively posting defamatory messages on large prims in defiance of Governor Linden's recent ToS enforcement measures. (See https://my.secondlife.com/marianne.mccann/snapshots/529e1a3f0172bd0b6c000001 for an example.)

Seriously, now, if you'd like to be interviewed for The Post or if you know of someone that should be interviewed, contact Uccello Poultry or Ever Dreamscape. It's a small city and we are running out of people to talk about .. rem .. talk to for the paper.

     *****

Join Uccello Poultry – Seale as she sits down with Jack O'Lantern!

November 2013

This month I came across an "older" citizen with the Display Name Jack O'Lantern but whose User Name drew my attention: Uccello Resident (https://my.secondlife.com/uccello). He was talking to the ghosts flying around the Hay Maze on the Bay City Fairgrounds. Despite having kicked around th Grid for a bit, he's new to Bay City and rents at the camper park.

Uccello Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Jack O'Lantern: The Internet is the only way I know of to access Second Life but I understand that some people use a wireless connection to this electronic highway. Sounds a bit trendy for me. Something for hipsters.

UP-S: What brought you to Bay City?

JO'L: Actually, I was lost and hungry so I stopped at El Taco Toxicos in Bay City - Harwich and I haven't left since. Locals tell me that there is just one road out of town but I have yet to find it. Since then I rented a unit at the Vagabond Way Trailer Park and I've been looking for a job.

Note: If you haven't seen Vagabond, head to Bay City - Falconmoon (http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bay%20City%20-%20Falconmoon/118/95/25) for a look.

UP-S: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

JO'L: As I mentioned, I'm looking for a job. None of the businesses seem to have staff so surely there are openings everywhere. I'm a holiday icon by training, but that is very much like public relations or customer service so I could probably fit in anywhere.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

JO'L: In other parts of Second Life? Until I got lost in this town, yes, primarily in Halloween Town, but I got around. This time of year, though, I have to devote hours and hours to Real Life. People expect me be just about everywhere.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

JO'L: Know how to leave. The maps never seem to show that. Take the one at the gas station in Bay City - Dennis, for example. It goes to the edge and stops? Like there is nothing outside the city.

We paused the interview for a bit so I could take him to the Pouloco gas station (where use of the city map is free!) and explain to him how difficult it would be to infinitely extend the map on the wall and how he could, after a fashion, use http://maps.secondlife.com to find more places.

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

JO'L: It wasn't that wild. Most people seemed to cluster in places called Infohubs, simply standing there and not interacting. I was warned, "Oh, don't go to Zindra!" but when I did I found that people simply stood around there, too, but with fewer clothes. That place called Gor? Half were standing around and half were kneeling.

UP-S: Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

JO'L: I prefer "beloved seasonal tradition," but I try to be modest, unlike my brother who stylizes himself as The Great Pumpkin.

UP-S: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

JO'L: No matter how thick the skin, everyone is mushy on the inside, so be careful. No, wait. That's my Real Life philosophy. For Second Life?  Everyone is mushy behind the keyboard. That can't be right. Can I get back to you?

Note: More than a week has passed since we concluded this interview and Jack still has no philosophy for Second Life but he did mention that it is a good idea to make sure one is wearing pants before they log out from a session.

UP-S: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

JO'L: I like the night life. I got to boogie. On the disco 'round, oh yeah.

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

JO'L: Pumpkins are fruit, not vegetables. Look it up.

If you know a Bay City regular (or irregular) that should be grilled for a Post interview or if you are such a person, contact Uccie Poultry-Seale (AKA Uccello Poultry) with the information.

     *****

October 2013

This month's Interview is with Roc Plutonian, a popular figure in Bay City and suspected alt of Ever Dreamscape. Many know Roc as the proprietor of the Park Plaza in Bay City - Dennis Dennis Park Plaza a lovely hotel featuring short and long-term rentals, a rooftop bar, a lobby bar, and a staff* that spends a lot of time in bars.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life, Roc?

Roc Plutonian: I saw an online ad for it I I thought that it looked pretty cool.

UP-S: And what brought you to Bay City?

RC: Well, to tell you the truth I found it by accident.  I was just out exploring and I happen to notice the names of the sims.  I am very familiar with the names of the sims in this this part of Bay City..

UP-S: Everyone in Our Fair City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours?

RC: Apartment owner seems to be my latest job here in SL.

UP-S: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

RC: I do spend time in and out of Bay City. I like to explore the sights and sounds of SL.

At this point I pressed the issue but to no avail. All that I could discern was that adult activities with Furries is not involved nor is there a Linden connection.

UP-S: What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

RC: Ask around there are lots of folks willing to rent at affordable prices. 

UP-S: Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

RC: I can't say I am a fan of the ad farms.  Having a little structure makes it for a better place to be.

UPS: Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

RC: Thats a rough call but mostly it’s a character with a lot of the RL in it.

UPS: Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

RC: Relax it’s only a virtual world, have fun with it.

UPS: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

RC: I am not Ever Dreamscape's Alt.     

UP-S: Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

RC: I would just like to thank you for the opportunity to be interviewed.  I really appreciate all that you do for the Bay City Community. 

Very kind of you to say that, it’s been my pleasure, Roc. Thank you for your time.

*It should be noted that Ever Dreamscape is the only staff at the Park Plaza.

If you know a Bay City regular (or irregular) that should be grilled for a Post interview or if you are such a person, contact Uccie Poultry-Seale (AKA Uccello Poultry) with the information.

     *****

September 2013

This month's Resident Interview features Saphyre Cyberstar, a builder, an explorer, and a recent addition to Bay City. We met at my home and relaxed despite one crash, popping textures, and other virtual interruptions.

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Saphyre Cyberstar: I actually came in because someone I knew was here, and I wanted to get to know them better. Didn't really pan out ;P

UP: But it looks like you stayed so, what kept you here?

SC: When I saw what SL was, and the vast endless ness of what could be done here it grew on me. Took time of course.

UP: SL can be an amazing place with lots of things to do. Which is really my 2nd question ... Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

SC: I am a builder, at first it started out of need, and now I just like to create, have a shop on marketplace, and in the process of building my in world shop on the coast of Nautilus.

UP: I saw your Marketplace shop at https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/128369

UP: Will you have a spot in Bay City for your store, too?

SC: I am afraid our plot on Bay City is just big enough for the home, and I build some boats that need water access. So most likely not in the plan. ;/ We have a rezzer in our back yard with one of my boats. Shoots you into the channel. And Bay City is an amazing ride in the channels.

UP: You mentioned that you are building a shop in Nautilus and I've seen pictures of you from across the Grid. What are some of your favorite things to do outside Bay City?

SC: I like to take long trips by boat or plane, fun to see if you can make it to your destination, I also race some stock cars, and of course endless building, and up keep on our homes. We also very frequent SL music and the arts.

UP: Wow. Busy, busy girl.

SC: That is what I was meaning the possibilities are endless.

UP: As a recent mover-inner to Our Fair City, what advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

SC: Go to the alliance meetings whenever you can, the people are always friendly and helpful, and if you see a spot at a decent price grab it!! Yes many catch some of the bugs and such with roll outs give you a head up on some useful stuff and always good fun.

UP: Very good advice, especially the meetings. I learn something new most every time.

UP: Now about you ... Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

SC: I believe it is a pretty close match but i have a lot more toys to play with in world, and can do things like watch three different performers in one night, so a lot more freedom as well.

UP: The joys of a virtual world, indeed. Like I'll dress like this at home but no way I'd have the guts to wear this in public *giggle*

UP: Which leads into the next question ... Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

SC: Be who you want to be, it is endless, do the things you cant on RL, and explore it is an amazing journey if you let yourself find it.

UP: Excellent. That's something one might find on a Profile page. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

SC: Never judge the book by its cover ;p

UP: Very enigmatic, indeed.

It was my hope that ZZ Bottom (Foneco Zuzu), a close friend of Saphyre's (Profiles show that they are not Partnered, but 'close' means 'really, really close'), but she was not in-world at the time.

Are you a Bay City resident and itching to be famous in the pages of The Bay City Post? Contact Uccello Poultry in-world to set up an interview. Do you know someone like that? Back away slowly with your hands in full view and tell them to contact Uccello Poultry.

     *****

August 2013

The Interview: Join Uccie Poultry-Seale as she interviews Benjamin Wahl!

1. What brought you to Second Life?

I heard that in SL avatars could free fly and build in-world. I signed up, escaped the welcome area and made my first flight! Almost immediately I flew into a nightclub mall and was ejected. Following a blank period, to repent flying to shiny things that read, “touch me.” I emerged into colorful mayhem and my viewer locked up. A month or two later, I tried again and this time found beautiful places to explore and photograph.

2. What brought you to Bay City?

The urban layout and keystone builds, including many thematic, and the community activities and spirit were all appealing. Already many Bay City residents have helped me settle in. Also, just across the road, Chris Benek has been cooperating in a project to make a region-spanning artwalk corridor across Tisbury. Not to mention the surreal Bay City Rumble races that kept me coming back.

3. Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?

The evolution of artistic expression in our digital environment intrigues me. As a gallery curator in Bay City, I can share my interests in virtual art, photography and sculpture. Also, art helps connect SL's international membership. We host artists from four countries in our first exhibit.

4. Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

Yes, visiting galleries and art installations, enjoying music with friends, or making rounds of other mainland parcels. Recently, Bay City has been a fairly constant occupation.

5. What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?

Rob a bank. Also join the Bay City Alliance for event announcements and such. Check and add events to the Post events calendar. And come out for the Rumble!

6. Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?

I dig the frontier, especially where there are unusual architectural and landscape values. I like the visual qualities of SL water too and mainland has large-scale water features like river networks or the Bay City canals. My photography often shows riparian or coastal landscapes.

7. Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?

More or less. I'm more an introspective nature lover in RL, so the social activities of SL balance that out a bit. And obviously, my avatar is less buff than me.

8. Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?

Enjoy the ride.

9. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

I am actually a bearded collie.

10. Any last thoughts you'd like to add?

I hope people get out and support galleries and art installations around Bay City and the entire grid. There's always fascinating work to be seen at the Linden Endowment for the Arts regions and SL Burn 2 events too. Exploring these places of artistic skill and inspiration, I find beauty and surprises around almost every corner.

Well thank you for the pleasant s̶e̶x̶t̶i̶n̶g̶ chat Uccie Poultry-Seale. Also, thanks to your esteemed and understandably furtive publisher for bringing us all the updates that matter, in a convenient litter box size!

*

July 2013

The Interview: Join Uccie Poultry-Seale as she interviews Christopher Benek!

Uccie Poultry-Seale: What brought you to Second Life?

Christopher Benek (benekcj Resident): I am actually in the world's first Doctor of Ministry program focusing in Science and Theology that was started in association with the American Association for the Advancement of Science.  I have been doing work in human enhancement and SL kept coming up.  I figured - better start the journey to my personal upgrade now.

UP:  That sounds really cool. May I ask what school that might be?

CB: Pittsburgh Theological Seminary - I also have two masters degrees from Princeton Seminary in Theology (Ethics) and Divinity and I've been accepted upon my DMIN graduation to do a research PHD in Human Enhancement and Eschatology at Durham University in England.

UP:  Wow. That sounds way beyond me. I wish you luck with that.

UP: What brought you to Bay City?

CB: I was looking for a place in SL where there was authentic community.  After intensive searching I found BC happened into the tail end of a "BC Rumble" and really enjoyed the crowd.

UP: *giggle* Lots of people stumble onto the rumble and stay.

UP: Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City? I saw a really nice church of yours.

CB: Well I am a pastor of a Presbyterian Church in RL and my hope is to start an active faith community in Bay City as well - we are working on several outreach initiatives to be revealed over the next six months that we hope will being to change the face of SL to promote goodness and love :)

UP:  Sounds exciting. I hope to learn more about it soon.

UP: Do you spend much time outside Bay City?

CB: I haven't really - just initially I had a beach lot which ironically I sold to one of our Bay City friends by happenstance.  But I am open to exploring and learning more and hope to start doing a small speaking tour in the coming months at prominent SL churches that are open to guest pastors :)

UP: Will you have regular services at your church in Bay City?

CB: Eventually - we hope to.  Right now we are really in the New-Church Development phase - and trying to get ourselves established.  Drew Slate has agreed to help coordinate and manage affairs for the numerous properties that I've bought recently including the parcel that the church is on.  Currently we are offing sermons each week from sermons of mine from RL on viewers located in the church and outside for passers by. The church of course is always open for prayer, is looking for new members, and is in need of some church furniture still which may either be designed or donated :)

UP:  Drew is a good guy. I'm sure he'll be lots of help.

CB: Yes he's really been great.

UP: What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?

CB: My life has been transformed by God's working in my life.  I believe that I've been led to SL to show how good can be done in all aspects of our lives... even those that are virtual.

UP:  What an awesome way to end the interview! Thank you for your time, Christopher, and I'm glad you've come to make a home and a difference in Bay City.

***

June 2013

The Interview: Join Uccie Poultry-Seale as she interviews Curious Hazelnut



1. What brought you to Second Life?
If you mean "Curious Hazelnut", then I came into Second Life because my first account was wandering around Shermerville and saw Marianne McCann and her siblings playing in the park and I thought "oh I so want to play". So I made a short alt.

2. What brought you to Bay City?
The trolly.

3. Everyone in Bay City seems to have a job or favorite activity. What is yours in Our Fair City?
It's a toss-up. Either playing in traffic, which is hard to do what with almost no traffic, or pestering my friends, which is less easier.

4. Do you spend much time outside Bay City?
Yes. My home is in Coriander, my play place is in Sun Trap (next to Bay City), my friend has an awesome beach in Shrikhande (which is also next to Coriander.

5. What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Bay City?
Join the Bay City Alliance. Seriously, all the fun things that happen in Bay City are announced there and I made many friends. I wouldn't even have gotten land in Bay City without them.

6. Bay City is not like typical Mainland, of course, but what do you think of the "wild frontier" outside Bay City?
There are some excellent well maintained areas with good themes. Well worth exploring. My home is out there in the "wild frontier".

7. Do you consider your Second Life personna a "character" or a representation of who you are in Real Life?
both, neither? A chance to try out new things I could never do in real life or express parts of my personality that I don't get to normally?

8. Do you have a philosophy for Second Life?
Have fun.

9. What ONE thing should anyone not looking in your Profile know about you?
I think I'm pretty self explanatory without my profile.

10. Any last thoughts you'd like to add?
My favorite colors are pink and purple and skulls. Yes skulls are so a color.



If you would like to participate in my "Ten Standard Questions" (or a variation on same), drop me a line. I'm Uccello Poutlry.

Editors Note: thank you Curi for being the best secretary ever!!!

Reporter Uccie Blue Galway

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