Looking Back: The Palestinian Extremist Sim

 

In real-life news, it's been about a month since the Hamas terrorist organization attacked Israel. In the resulting carnage, over 1400 Israelis were killed, notably many civilians in their own neighborhoods or attending a music concert. There have been numerous stories of grenades tossed into safe rooms where terrified families were hiding, and piles of decapitated babies. Many were also taken hostage. American visitors were among both the dead and abducted. 

 

In response, Israel responded by bombing Hamas positions in Gaza, the tiny but densely populated strip of land controlled by the terrorists, and then following up with an invasion. With so many people in the place and the terrorists taking positions so close to where noncombatants lived, the result has been scores of civilian casualties. With the stories of civilian suffering, there have been numerous calls among neighboring Arab states for a ceasefire, and pro-Palestinian demonstrations in the US and Europe. But there has been no alternative plan to get rid of the terrorists. 

 

Eleven years ago in November 2012, there was a less devastating attack on Israel from Hamas involving a number of rockets, resulting in a fight in which Hamas claimed victory despite coming out of it heavily damaged. In Second Life, there was also a Palestinian militant propaganda sim, Jordan River. The place was full of propaganda, referring to the Israelis as "Zionists," comparing them to Nazis, and calling for the end of the nation of Israel. Others spoke out against the place, Hamlet Au of New World Notes calling it a place with the "most extreme forms of expression."One commentator would say, "It seems strange to me that one can have a sim that calls for the annhilation of the state of Israel. And that's okay. But if (I) created one calling for the annhilation of Syria, Iran, Palestine or Egypt, why, then I'd be in violation of the TOS for 'hate speech'. Seems unfair to me."

 

Checking again several months later, Jordon River was gone. While it's possible the owner closed the sim on his own, more likely Linden Lab finally caught wind of the place and shut it down. 

Bixyl Shuftan

Announcement: "Stand With Ukraine" by Theatre on The Hill

 

We all know what happened on February 24, 2022. The Russian Federation invaded Ukraine and war has been raging in that country ever since. After 12 months of suffering, this country bravely stands up to the aggressor and defends the values that we understand as freedom and democracy. On this anniversary, "Theatre on the Hill" would like to present a special solidarity show with very beautiful Ukrainian and international songs in honor of the Ukrainian people.

There is also an opportunity to donate L$ to the benefit of suffering people during the show.

The show takes place on 02/24/2023 at 01:00pm SLT.

And here is the cab:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/TheaterOn%20The%20Hill/194/39/21

 

The Russian Veteran Newcomer, Update on Hanna

 

 

 The Russia-Ukraine War remains in the daily news, the recent headlines being drone attacks on the capital city of Kiev (Kyiv). In Second Life, while the initial massive show of support has somewhat ebbed, some people still fly Ukrainian flags or have blue and gold displays up as a show of support. Last weekend, I'd gotten another reminder when someone in a veterans community, Soldier Waverider, announced in group chat he'd come across a Russian solider who'd just joined up with Second Life, and invited people to talk to him. As I was trying to calm down a friend who had a stressful day, I sent my alt Rezzdarnnit over. 

The soldier, whose name will not be mentioned in the Newser, had escaped Russia with his immediate family, and was now in Sweden. He had left partly out of not wanting to be part of the invasion again, and partially that he was about to be sent back despite post-traumatic stress disorder. He disagreed with Putin, and found no fault at all with the Ukrainians. 

Most of our conversation was in voice, and the man in question spoke in English with a strong accent. When he had first arrived, most greeted him with suspicion, some wondering if he was a troll. But then he ran into Waverider, and after some conversation the American veteran was convinced his story was genuine.

 

There's also an update on an Ukrainian resident of Second Life. Hanna Linberg (gabby11196), the owner of Osmia, was last reported hiding out in a city under Russian occupation, her situation complicated by pregnancy. Late last week, Hamlet Au would report that she escaped with her family and went to a free part of the country where she would give birth to her baby. While the war is still far from won, this one story has a happy update.

 

Addition: Third paragraph was added several hours after this story first went up. Sorry for those details being late.

Source: New World Notes.

Bixyl Shuftan

More Reactions By Residents To The Invasion of The Ukraine

 
It's been over two weeks into the Russian Invasion of Ukraine, which has turned into a slow but bloody advance with two million (as of now) women and children fleeing the country as refugees. There has been plenty of reaction to it from around the world, as well as within Second Life. Earlier, the Newser reported on a demonstration, as well as flagmakers giving away Ukrainian flags.  The latter has certainly encouraged the country's blue and gold banner being seen across various places inworld. Linden Lab itself has also stepped in, saying Second Life residents from the Ukraine would get a break from paying tier and premium accounts for at least 30 days (which will likely be extended unless the war ends soon).

There have also been efforts beyond symbolic support. On Saturday March 5, there was a "Peace Rally in Support of the People of Ukraine" at Exposure Park in Lono Ku. From 2 to 11 PM SL time, eight DJs performed for the crowd. "Ukraine facepaint" was available at a booth at one side of the concert area. Donations were made to a kiosk showing the schedule and had a picture of a child waving the blue and gold flag, stepping on toy tanks. I was invited over by Nance Clowes, whom was encouraging the people to donate, "We wanna send (DJ) Rapa home with a happy 500k smile. ... So much Love pouring in for Ukrainians who have lost it all. YOU are giving them Hope back." "Not just for the childs," the DJ spoke, "for all Ukraine. All is suffer, child, woman, men, pets, all."

In the end, they more than met the half million goal. A total of 533,972 Linden dollars was raised. "You did great, and keep it going!!! Peace for Ukraine!" After the event, I had a few words with organizer, MrZogs Resident, who told me the donations were planned to be split between the Red Cross and UNICIF. "What a journey," he told me, "from a idea on Sunday morning to this. Only one artist said no and we had many wanting to get scheduled in."

They also encouraged people to donate off Second Life, pointing out the UNICEF USA and Red Cross websites.

At the Relay for Life's Home and Garden Expo, there was a shop for Ukranian artist Tara Aers at  Hope 8 (166,55,23). There was one noteworthy discussion in Home and Garden chat that I overheard. Some wondered if there should be an official statement of support. Others weren't so sure, wanting to keep international conflicts and politics out and concentrate on fighting cancer. But there was a general agreement that individuals could show support in small ways. I've seen various people wearing blue and gold shirts and other clothes and items, such as ribbons and cloth. One of the shops at "The Guild" shopping event is also Ukrainian owned.

For one Ukrainian resident, however, the situation has become truly serious. New World Notes reported that Hana, the owner of Osmia, lives in one of the cities that came under attack, then occupation by Russian forces. She had gone from posting pictures of Second Life fashion on her Flickr to pictures and video of her hometown under attack and of the shelter she's taken refuge in to keep from getting killed from shelling and bombs, "The contrast is surreal and wrenching." To complicate matters, she's also six months pregnant. 

She would tell Hamlet Au, "Honestly, I don't know what to write to you. Children, families die, people disappear (they are found shot in their cars)... my city is surrounded. Now I don't know what this will lead to." Later, she would write, "my city is occupied. There are a lot of soldiers and equipment on the streets. We don’t go out because they can kill." Her access to Second Life has been cut off, and her Internet connection is sporadic." With her access to Linden dollars cut off, she suggested another way to help would be to donate to the National Bank of Ukraine to help fund it's armed forces.

Stay tuned for further updates.

Sources: Wikipedia, Associated Press, New World Notes

Bixyl Shuftan
 

Press Release: Fundraising Performance in Support of Ukraine

 

To you my friend...in  reality as well as in virtuality

I take the liberty, as the war in Ukraine is ongoing with mutilation and death to many of its people,  and while million of refugees right at this moment  flee the country trying to save their lives, to tell you about the upcoming  show on Saturday 12 of March 12 pm SL time at the Ambient 1o1 sim

LM: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Ambient%20101/196/238/23

WE are all here  to support the people of Ukraine in their attempt to liberate  their land from the Russian aggressors.

So please share your Light of Love and support the Lives of the Ukrainian people.

From the following performers:
Cypress Rosewood, Wytchwhisper, Cylindrian Rutabaga, Doczith, Sky Fire and stage builder Carl Landfall and The ChangHigh Trinity  Sisters of Light, Life & Love : Nikira Naimarc,Sklavin Randt, & Yman juran
We hope to see you on Saturday 12 of March 12 pm SL time or just please donate.

War in Europe, millions on the run, they need your help, no matter amount.

Money goes to the Ukrainian Red Cross.

 Дякую  -Thank You - Gracias - Merci - Danke - תודה  - ありがとうございます  - Takk skal du ha  - Dziękuję Ci  - obrigada  - Tack - teşekkür ederim - shukran

Cypress Rosewood
 

EOTB: "Linden Lab's Statement on Ukraine"

 
Today, Fruday March 4, Linden Lab issued a statement on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has turned into a war with civilians often in desperate situations and over a million refugees having fled the country. It encouraged readers to donate to organizations helping out the Ukrainians, and free speech in Russia. They would also be suspending land tier and premium account charges to Ukrainian residents for at least thirty days (possibly in response to a thread in the forums).

*  *  *  *  *

Linden Lab strives to make positive change in the world by helping people connect, discover themselves, and grow both personally and financially. Ultimately, we build and support communities. Therefore, it is especially shocking to see the actions in Ukraine, to see the unwarranted attacks on people – on communities. We are heartbroken and horrified by the situation in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis it has perpetuated. We are a proudly diverse team, and many of us have ties to these events - historically, emotionally, professionally, and socially. Our products reach worldwide, and many of our partners and customers are directly affected by this crisis. 

As a leadership team, this crisis has challenged us to better define and embrace what we believe to be the core principles at Linden Lab – our TAO so to speak.

Specifically, our TAO says:

MAKE CHANGE ON A GLOBAL SCALE

Our work brings people together, builds communities. Our work helps people understand who they are, helps them be better. Our work brings empathy, helps people see the world through others’ eyes. Settle for nothing less than changing the world for the better.

We intend to live up to this principle, and while there is much work to be done, we are starting with: 

• Providing financial support for humanitarian crisis aid through a donation to the Red Cross Ukraine and HIAS
• Supporting independent journalism in Ukraine through a donation to Keep Ukraine’s Media Going
• Supporting free speech in Russia through a donation to Meduza and OVD-INFO 

Effective Monday, we will be further supporting our eligible Ukrainian-based community members by granting them a temporary 30-day moratorium on recurring account fees such as Premium Membership and Land Maintenance fees.  We will review this again after 30 days and assess what we can do as next steps where necessary. We invite any of our Ukraine-based community members to contact support with any specific questions they may have.

Finally, we encourage our community to look at ways that they can help show their support. It is heartening to see the Second Life community come together to support each other with numerous inworld events and helpful initiatives that bring us together as a force for good in both the physical and virtual worlds.

 

The New Vietnam Veterans Memorial

 

In 2007, a team created a replica of the Vietnam Veterans memorial in Second Life, highly detailed with all 58,000 names. Four years later, it was gone. Recently, over ten years later, the Newser came across a new Vietnam Wall. Getting in touch with the group behind it, Legacy Vets, they explained much about how it came to be, and of course the meaning behind it.
 
Read more in Places.
 

Reader Submitted Poetry: Glory

 

Recently, Aola Tyrian (Ratatosk Independent) sent some poetry to the Newser. For November, she sent some originally done by "Laura." They make up what Aola calls "The War Suite." Today has the fourth and last of the poems.
 
Read Aola's poetry in Extra.
 

Reader Submitted Poetry: The Gray Platoon

 

Recently, Aola Tyrian (Ratatosk Independent) sent some poetry to the Newser. For November, she sent some originally done by "Laura." They make up what Aola calls "The War Suite." Today has the third of the poems.
 
Read Aola's poetry in Extra.
 

Reader Submitted Poetry: The Soldier

 

Recently, Aola Tyrian (Ratatosk Independent) sent some poetry to the Newser. For November, she sent some originally done by "Laura." They make up what Aola calls "The War Suite." Today has the second of the poems.
 
Read Aola's poetry in Extra.
 

Reader Submitted Poetry: Be Ready When The Call Comes

 

A few weeks ago, Aola Tyrian (Ratatosk Independent) sent some poetry to the Newser. For November, she recently sent some more. Originally done by "Laura," these make up what Aola calls "The War Suite." Today has the first of the poems. *
 
Read Aola's poetry in Extra.
 

Sacred Ground

This Memorial Day, many are looking for ways to remember this country's veterans whom died while in service. Second Life has a number of memorials. One place with a number of them is Sacred Ground in the Urban Style sim. From the Civil War and earlier to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, those who perished are remembered here, both in a park at ground level and places further up the sim.

Read the article in Places.

Eve Online: The (Goonswarm) Empire To Strike Back

It's been a while since the Newser last reported on the game "Eve Online," in which a massive space battle took place, costing those involved $300,000 USD. Since then, there hasn't been a single bloodbath of time and money on that scale. But there has been plenty of action. The big fight which has been going on for over a year has been called "World War Bee" by it's players, which has played out much like a science fiction story as after suffering losses, a coalition calling itself "The Imperium" is preparing for revenge.

Read the story in Other Grids, MMOs, and Games.

Reader Submission: Second Life Museum of Nuclear War

Fritter Enzyme was a regular writer for the Newser in the past. While real life has kept him busy, he still writes on occasion about Second Life. Next month are the 72nd anniversaries of the atomic bombings of two cities of the Japanese Empire, Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These superweapons finally brought an end to the most destructive war of modern history. But it wasn't long before the Soviet Union developed it's own nuclear weapons, and for decades it and the West were engaged in a nuclear standoff that many feared would end in war and each side destroying the other with their arsenals of atomic weapons. Eventually, the Cold War ended. But rouge states and terrorist organizations are still trying to develop or acquire these weapons of mass destruction. Fritter came across a place in Second Life which takes a look at these issues: The Second Life Museum of Nuclear War.

Read Fritter's reader submission in Places.

The Western Front (2009)

Originally published in Second Life Newspaper in November 2009

*  *  *  *  *

By Grey Lupindo

To honor Veterańs Day, I visited the First World War Poetry Digital Archives at the Western Front exhibit. (219, 199, 646).

This site focuses on the First World War and how it was experienced by the British poets, soldiers, and nurses who served in it. The site has archived poetry, letters, interviews and photographs into an interactive exhibit.

At the point of arrival, the site requests that you change into one of its free uniforms, either a soldier or nurse, before you proceed into the encampment. I chose a nursés uniform for my tour. To enhance your viewing, it also gives directions on changing your sky to evoke the mood that existed near the front lines. This is easy to do and adds a lot to the experience.

The exhibit starts with a typical encampment of tents. As you walk through the sim, the sounds of marching soldiers and bugles can be heard. (Walk slowly because it takes time for the soldiers to rez.) When they do, you will hear interviews with the men who lived through that War.

The topics include typical war information on weapons and training, but also less common information on day-to-day life in the camps.

In addition to the figures that rez, there are blue and red boxes scattered around the site. The red boxes are archived interviews, images and videos of the veterans. The blue boxes are readings of the poetry by Edward Thomas, Siegfried Sassoon, and others, accompanied by images of the poets and their manuscripts. There is a teleport to the hospital tents, trenches, and front lines. Near the rear of the site there is a transport that will give you an aerial view of the trench system, but I couldń't get this to work. However, I teleported easily to the hospital tents and trenches. 

The interviews at the hospital were an interesting and sober reminder of the horros of  that war.  From here you can walk through the trenches to the front lines. Allow yourself time to go slowly through the trenches because many of the items are not initially visible.

Grey Lupindo 

*  *  *  *  *

Over five years later, the Western Front exhibit is still up at Frideswide (219, 199, 646). Grey Lupindo would be among the reporters founding Second Life Newser.

"Stars in War" Photography Exhibition

Monday 15th is last day to see our exhibition "Stars in War"; if you don't  had still seen it, what are you waiting for?

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Homely%20Isle/147/111/32

Cartoon of the Day

By Bixyl Shuftan

SL Video: SL Aviation Magazine - Issue 1

(Click Here if the video fails to load)

Luke Flywalker hosts "SL Aviation," in which he attends a flight by the French Air Force Acrobatic team, and goes to the set of the "War in Vietnam" film.

SL Video: The War In Vietnam Part 1 The Ground War

(Click Here if the video fails to load)

Vickster Khun announced recently in the WW2 Combat RP group, "You may recall last month WWII Players were asked to participate in an SL movie production about Vietnam. The first segment has just been released on youtube! Check it out!" Vickster herself played the roles of a soldier and an F105 "Thunderchief" pilot. Produced and directed by Luke Flywalker.

Palestinian Propaganda Sim

Recent events in the news included the latest eruption of violence between Israel and the Palestinians with the launching of rockets into the former from Gaza. It isn't just in the news that one can find Arabs and Israeli's bickering. There's a sim in Second Life owned by residents supporting Palestinian resistance, made as a place to display propaganda.

Read more in Places.