Beach Decor! +mudshake


If you love the vintage retro look +mudshake is the place for you to really make your home you. Textures for sale here as well allow you to create your own lil slice of heaven.
Share:
Read More

Kantbe Serious: One Hand Clapping

submitted by Kantbe Thursday

What's that sound? One hand clapping? A tree falling in a forest when no one is there to hear it? No? It sounds just the same, but it's the sound of what used to be a public surfing sim.

Surf Watch has been updating it's public surfing sim list on the SW Wave Report blog. We've all heard about our famous surfing sims going away from time to time over this past year, but there are many other good surfing spots out there that may not be as famous because they can't be used to host an SLSA competition. But even these are dwindling. As of this writing, just since this past March, eighteen (yes, that's not a typo… 18) public surf sims have been closed. Only two have been added. Hopefully there are more out there that SW staff just haven't heard about yet. We'd like to solicit you're feedback about any public surf sims we may have missed.

Ideally, a public surf sim will have a loaner board or two for the new surfers who come to visit, and a rez area or some other accommodation for the more experienced surfers who would rather use their own board. At the least, a public surf sim should provide some way for a visitor to surf. This seems pretty obvious, but there are some surfing sims that have neither loaners nor the ability for a visitor to rez a board. Seems a bit like leaving out cold bottles of beer with no bottle opener.

Please take some time to look over the Wave Report sim list or ask for the inworld list of surf sim LM's and let us know of any you know that we should add to the list. Hopefully we won't one day end up with our our LM's to our favorite surf spot looking like this one:




Share:
Read More

Riders for a Cure Upcoming Events


Riders for a Cure's Relay for Life SL team has some upcoming events and wishes to thank everyone for your wonderful generosity and contributions to date. At the time of this post Riders for a Cure has raised $209,429L or $835.61USD and we are only about half way there!

Official Riders for a Cure 2011 Surfboard Design Contest:
Submit your design to Lissa Pinion to be set up on a long board. Voters will have 1 week to vote with their $L on their favorite design. The winning design will then become the Official 2011 Riders for a Cure RFL board with vendors out at each Surf for a Cure sim and at the Team beach as well as the team build site on the RFL sim.

Surf for a Cure: June 25th 9am to 9pm SL time
It's back! 12 hours of non stop surfing! If you would like to submit your sim please contact Lissa Pinion or Socks Clawtooth. Each sim will pay/donate $1000L and then riders will donate to ride and carry the torch. Sim hopping, great tunes, great friends, and riding anything that floats will make this a great day to remember!
Share:
Read More

Riders for a Cure Announces Board Design Contest!

It's official! The Riders for a Cure 2011 Board Design contest is on! Designs will be on display for one week only to allow people to vote with their $L for their favorite board design. The design with the most $L raised will become the official 2011 Riders for a Cure Relay for Life board.

All designs submitted must be full perm and fit a long board. Relay for Life logos cannot be used as they are registered trademarks. Submit your texture on a notecard with your name to both Socks Clawtooth and Lissa Pinion (Sands) no later than June 4th. Voting will then begin June 5th thru June 12th.

Till there is a cure we relay!
Share:
Read More

Wicked Art! Art in the Surf World


When you say the name WickedV Carver, it brings to mind a great surfer, a friend, bottles of tequila and for some, amazing art. We recently caught up with Wicked and sat down to discuss her work.





SurfWatch: How did you get started with creating art and taking pictures in SL?
WickedV: When I first started in SL, I put an airplane through my house, someone said to me to take a picture of it and show it because it was so funny, I guess thats what got me started. lol


SW: Do you have a muse? What inspires you?
WickedV: I have a few people who inspire me,the first one was Bonheur Chenaux, she showed me that you could actualy make something with the pictures from SL and now CK (Coolkat Delicioso), she gives me all the inspiration and support I need to be creative.


SW: What advice can you give someone wanting to get started with creating art or taking pictures in SL?
WickedV: Take lots of pictures, I mean LOTS! You might come up with three or four worthy enough to work on. Never be afraid to try something new outside your style, save to your hard drive, and always have back-up...oh! and never be too proud to ask for advice lol


SW: Any thing else you would like to share with our readers?
WickedV: Art is an expression of yourself, a window to your soul, so never create anything with others in mind, never worry about what others would like to see, just show whats in your heart and soul.

To see more of Wicked's work visit her site at: http://www.koinup.com/WickedV/
Share:
Read More

SLSA Director Candidates Interviews Part 2

SurfWatch conducts these in-depth interviews to help voters get a clear picture of the candidates that are running for the Board and gives candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves to the voters. All five candidates were sent the same interview, SurfWatch received five interviews back. See their interviews below. All interviews are posted in the order received. Voting opens on June 1st. Stay tuned for more details!


Candidate Name: GiavannaMarie Melody


SW: You are currently ranked 30 for last season's SLSA surf
rankings and you've been SL surfing for more than 2 years. We understand you have announced your intent to run for SLSA Director this term. What qualifications, skills, competencies, traits, etc.
would you bring as a director and why are you running?

GM: This season I am ranked 30th. I have in the past been a top 20 rider. This season I have been concentrating more on the SLSA and the function of it as apposed to surfing competitons. I have been director twice. I have been a part of the SLSA for over two years now. One of my primary roles is the Sponsor Liaison. My team affiliation is with the Reef Rider, which I am team captain for. I own Surfari surf wear. I have also been designing some of the rashies for this season as well as past seasons. I believe one of my strongest assets is communication and being available to those who participate in our community.

SW: What areas of improvement do you currently see for the SLSA as an organization?

GM: One of the main focuses I think needs improving is having volunteers for our events that help with Judging, and Marshalling. It has become a real burden on some who love to donate there time, but we need more involvement. It is also important that this mix of volunteers come from each team.

SW: What do you see as the top issues facing SL surfing in general, and what would be your first priority as an SLSA director?

GM: One of the top issues facing SL surfing is still an ongoing issue. We need to find a way to save our current sims that are dedicated to sl surfing. We need to explore new alternatives or find solutions that can help with maintaining these great sims.

SW: Why are you the best candidate for this job?

GM: I feel that all my counterparts ave worthy of being a director. I believe that my experience as a director and character as a memeber of the community makes me the best candidate for one of the three open positions. I love being a part of the SLSA and give myself 100% to it.

SW: What were you most satisfied with as an SLSA member last season? What were you most dissatisfied with?

GM: It has been very refreshing to have brought a great season that saw some pretty radical ideas as far as wave setups go. It has been challenging. But it has added to a new level of excitement. The developement of new waves has really wet the appetite of our surfers who demand more from us. I really wasnt dissatisfied with anything. But two things I do feel strongly about is having more qualified judges and finding a way to improve on competition run time.

SW: Anything else you would like voters to know about you?

GM: I would love to continue to build upon the changes that have come with the last 6 months I been a director. We have some exciting projects in the works that I feel passionate about. The SLSA is a huge part of my sl life, and I am looking forward to serving the community that votes for us again.



Give us a brief statement or opinion on some of the major issues the SLSA faced in 2011 and possible issues moving into Season 2 (listed below):

1. Were you concerned with the low number of competitors signed up for the recent Open comps and what do you foresee for the future of the two-round, two-weekend SLSA competition format?

GM: It has been a great concern that our numbers have decreased. But in turn, we also have had some past surfers return this season. If we do move to a one event competition, I feel it could be spread out over 2 days. It could also help reduce the stress of having to find 6 judges for a two round series. This is definitly something the next group of directors need to focus on before the start of the next season.

2. With the continuing decline of full surf sims with supporting neighbor sims for specators, and with more and more surf sims set up on Homesteads, what can be done to support the sim owners and ensure smooth running competitions?

GM: A serious big issue. We have lost a few sims last year and we continue to lose them at an alarming rate. We have thought of some ideas in the past such as having one sim where we have the stands...not neccessarily the sim at the comp. But at another location, and have some sort of video feed to that sim. It has been something discussed in the past and is an issue the directors have been taking seriously. Without a variety of sims, our competitions cannot have the same level of excitement it currently has.


3. It has been an ongoing issue for the SLSA to find enough staff to work Pro comps, what are your thoughts on how to resolve this issue?

GM: It seems like it has been the same judges running each comp. I feel we need to look into ways to expand our pool of judges. One idea would to require teams that are registered with the SLSA to have one or two representatives trained as judges. and have a rotation from the teams. We did implement the drop one score to encourage more people to participate without penalty. But it seems this has not really helped our cause as we hoped originally.


4. The SLSA put into place a stipulation that a rider could miss one comp each season and not have it count against their rank in order to allow more people to volunteer to work comps. Most riders who use it are not using it to volunteer but to do things in rl. Should this stipulation go back to being for volunteers only or should all riders be able to use this?

GM: Again as previously mentioned we instituted this stipulation to encourage volunteers. I feel it may have to be revisited. Or a better solution can be resolved. That is something the directors have looked at, and feel during the break between seasons needs to be re looked at.





Candidate Name: Imzadi Amaterasu, just call me Zadi

SW: You are currently ranked n/a for last season's SLSA surf rankings and you've been SL surfing for more than 1 years. We understand you have announced your intent to run for SLSA Director this term. What qualifications, skills, competencies, traits, etc. would you bring as a director and why are you running?

IA: I was not in last season but I am in this season and currently tied for 10th place with Cierra.
With everything I do and support, I give my all in it. If I feel I can contribute, I do. When I started working for LV in SL for example, I started as a CSR assisting customers. Within two months I was being offered Manager which eventually led to my General Manager position. I showed the skills needed to see things done, the ambition and the maturity in handling everything put in front of me. The SLSA is no different in how I approach things. It was said the SLSA wanted fresh meat, smiles. I am just that. I don’t know all the happenings and *coughs* drama from the past which I think is great cause I can give unbiased ideas to the other directors when asked for ideas. I know being new means I have a lot to learn as opposed to some of my fellow running mates in regards to the operations of the SLSA but if you’re looking for a fresh perspective, I’m your woman.

SW: What areas of improvement do you currently see for the SLSA as an organization?

IA: The biggest area for improvement I see is event staff for competitions. Training people is great and I have seen Judges training. I have not seen EC or Marshall classes though. I would also like to see the new judges coming in being put to work quicker if possible. Without staff for these competitions, there is no competition.

SW: What do you see as the top issues facing SL surfing in general, and what would be your first priority as an SLSA director?

IA: I think there are a lot of issues in SL surfing but the tops ones I think are that many people are losing sims due to rise in tier costs and the growth of the surfing community. Tier costs we really can’t control that however if sim owners ask I’m sure there are enough people around that can assist is setting up market areas where stores can be rented out if the sim owner didn’t now how to set that up. Growth on the other hand is something that we can control to a point. We can advertise and spread the word. I honestly didn’t know surfing did exist in SL until a few months ago. By spreading the word and reaching out to other areas of SL advertising, we might just bring in new surfers and grow as a community.
SW: Why are you the best candidate for this job?

I
A: As I mentioned before, I am a fresh face. Sometimes when a person has been doing things awhile, they get stuck in how things are done only being done one way. By bringing me in a fresh face I could possibly bring in alternative ideas that may be more efficient or things that may be exciting and new which would be attractive to gaining new members of the SLSA.

SW: What were you most satisfied with as an SLSA member last season? What were you most dissatisfied with?

IA: I cannot speak about last season since I was not around. I can however tell you that the only way I would not be satisfied with a member is if the member brought drama to me or to the position. We have enough drama in our lives and that is not what I am about nor do I think that’s what the SLSA is about either.

SW: Anything else you would like voters to know about you?

IA: I am very hard working as I am sure my fellow candidates are as well. I know I have a lot to learn and I look forward to learning it quickly so I can be an asset to the board and contribute my fair share.

Give us a brief statement or opinion on some of the major issues the SLSA faced in 2011 and possible issues moving into Season 2 (listed below):

1. Were you concerned with the low number of competitors signed up for the recent Open comps and what do you foresee for the future of the two-round, two-weekend SLSA competition format?

IA: I am concerned about the low number of competitors in the open which I do have an idea on a way to balance the open and pro comps so that we have a balance. It would strengthen the two weekend format I think and maybe appeal to people more.

2. With the continuing decline of full surf sims with supporting neighbor sims for specators, and with more and more surf sims set up on Homesteads, what can be done to support the sim owners and ensure smooth running competitions?

IA: Advances sim script and performance methods needs to be taught to sim owners who ask for help. Many sims I go to, not just SL surfing, sim owners have no clue how to check performance. They might know how to run diagnostics but not know what the numbers mean exactly which is vital.

3. It has been an ongoing issue for the SLSA to find enough staff to work Pro comps, what are your thoughts on how to resolve this issue?

IA: The first thing I would do is start training for other positions such as Marshall and EC. By training these positions, people could rotate between staff positions so they are not always only judging. I have seen Judges training a couple times from the time I did my judges training but I have not seen other position training classes. Maybe some variation might draw some interest. Also I would take a look at why people don’t want to work Pro comps. Ask them to be frank with you. If they don’t want to speak openly about it, have a drop box they can submit an already created notecard by an SLSA director into a box. the NC would provide complete anonymous answers or even create a web form which could be anonymous also. The basic point on how to resolve the issue is communication. You have to have communication with your staff and listen to them. Otherwise you will continue to face a dwindling staff.

4. The SLSA put into place a stipulation that a rider could miss one comp each season and not have it count against their rank in order to allow more people to volunteer to work comps. Most riders who use it are not using it to volunteer but to do things in rl. Should this stipulation go back to being for volunteers only or should all riders be able to use this?

IA: This question is kind of tough. On one hand, if the rule was specifically one pass for one volunteer staff and people are taking advantage of it then yes, I could see taking the privilege away. However, anywhere I have been I have been told RL first, SL later. Speaking for myself I know sometimes real life gets in the way at the worst times. As much as I can plan to be free from RL expectations for that day, it is nice to know that I could have a pass just in case. Real life does happen. Emergencies happen.
Honestly what I would purpose is a different structure. All surfers get one pass per season due to RL. All surfers who work a Pro comp get a pass up to 2 or 3 per season but only if they work the comp. Might boost some incentive for people to volunteer too.

I would like to thank SurfWatch for sending me this questionnaire interview and allowing me a chance to introduce myself.



Candidate Name: Coolkat Delicioso

SW: You are currently ranked god knows what for last season's SLSA surf rankings and you've been SL surfing for more than 99 years. We understand you have announced your intent to run for SLSA Director this term. What qualifications, skills, competencies, traits, etc. would you bring as a director and why are you running?

CD: Phew! here goes... lol...I learned a hellova lot from Abel when I came to the board this last term, he took me under his wing, and I'm eternally grateful for what he taught me too, thanks Abel, plus I've learned a lot more besides. My eyes are now wide open to what we have to deal with each season and at every competition, and that goes from understanding the needs and requirements of the surfer , the staff, and to that of the sim owner and sponsors. I consider myself a pretty positive person, and I like to think I speak in a clear way that most people can understand. Also being a competitor myself, I understand and listen to the voice of the surfers out there and hear what they have to say, and try to tackle the problems and requests they may have. So I feel I'm pretty qualified now to handle the job with the minimum of fuss and that's why I'm running.
Also I feel I could be an asset to the SLSA, in that I can help pass all this gained knowledge and experience onto new directors. I work hard and I play hard, and anyone who knows me or have served on the board with me,or worked on projects with me, know that I'm not bullshitting here, I'm a bloody grafter. There is an awful lot of hard work that needs to be done here each term, and I'm willing to do it. I'm under no illusions as to what this job entails .

SW: What areas of improvement do you currently see for the SLSA as an organization?

CD: The areas of improvement that I currently see that are needed, are communications between the board, surfboard makers, wave makers and the ssi scripters is definitely lacking. I for one would like to see more involvement and communication by them, maybe its because I'm not old school here and they don't answer my NC's? I don't know? But we do all need to talk!
What good has happened.. well Archi looks nicer eh? lol, faster, smoother running comps have happened, not all mind, but a happier vibe all round is definitely felt. But this all has to be worked on and improved to achieve better results for all concerned in the future.
Also I think communications seem better, between the board and surfers.

SW: What do you see as the top issues facing SL surfing in general, and what would be your first priority as an SLSA director?

CD: I see the top issues facing SL surfing to be funding mainly, and the loss of surfing sims, plus the length of some competitions. All can be massively improved with good communication, plus when a surf sim goes, not only do we lose a sim, we sadly lose a part of our whole social environment.
So first priority would be to explore through positive discussion, different ways of tackling these problems, as this seems to be a reoccurring theme. Also making surfers aware of situations as they arise is always going to help, and sorting Archi out : )

SW: All the candidates are qualified - why should voters elect you over any other candidates?

CD: I'd say I'd be a good choice to vote for, but then I would say that, I want my old desk back..lol... mind that being said, everyone up for running is capable, once taught, of doing the job, so you make your own minds up voters.

SW: What were you most satisfied with as an SLSA member last season? What were you most dissatisfied with?
CD: I was most satisfied with the new venues, the waves, the vibe, DJ Dan, the fun had by all, and the general feeling that was going around, it's been an awesome past season.
Dissatisfied? With my health mainly, and having to quit the board before I had completed my term, plus I had not achieved all of my goals. (one being, turning Archi around .)But feeling fit again, I'm ready to continue where I left off.

SW: Anything else you would like voters to know about you?

CD: I work hard and do my best to get the job done. Also I say things as they are, in plain understandable English, no point in beating about the bush here, let people know, give them praise if they are doing good, or tell them politely what harm they are doing, if they are unaware they are causing difficulties or grief for other riders. we are here to help each other after all, not piss one another off. Plus I always endeavor to achieve my aims and that of the board. I try my utmost to please, and help comps run quickly , smoothly and with the minimum of fuss, and for surfers to enjoy themselves at comps, and to be able to relax, safe in the knowledge that they are in capable hands. I hate bullies, drama, people on power trips, sycophants, empty glasses and bs. oh, and surfers who don't bloody listen up to whats being said at comps, i.e. the silly buggers who click on waves and boards, and the ones who head down to the beach before being called, or turn up at the comp sim causing spikes for riders, instead of arriving at the stands..hehe jokin'.. no I'm not actually, it slows up comps and ruins rides! PAY ATTENTION YOU DUMBASS! hahaha!
I love life, having a laugh at surfing comps, music, dancing, and happy, helpful, friendly people. Oh, and the never ending supply of sl tequila, wacky hair and silly outfits..
I'm like marmite, you either love me or you don't. Either way, I'm all for the surfer in sl, and will do my utmost to help them.

Give us a brief statement or opinion on some of the major issues the SLSA faced in 2011 and possible issues moving into Season 2 (listed below):

1. Were you concerned with the low number of competitors signed up for the recent Open comps and what do you foresee for the future of the two-round, two-weekend SLSA competition format?

CD: It happens from time to time, as seen in previous seasons. The future of the two round comp? The thing is, sponsors pay for their ads to be placed at 2 comps not one, so that would have to be looked at, plus the revenue brought ins should be more with 2 comps, and plus we get to party two weekends in a row. Ok I know staff has to be paid. we could have the first come first served comp, where the first 40 riders get to surf, but that still leads to a long drawn out comp. Timed heats .. they aint the way forward either,, so personally I think it should be divided into two weekends with a first come first served format... with half the heats and semi on the first weekend, and the rest with a semi and final the following weekend.


2. With the continuing decline of full surf sims with supporting neighbor sims for spectators, and with more and more surf sims set up on Homesteads, what can be done to support the sim owners and ensure smooth running competitions?

CD: Sim owners,.. well holding comps at their sims, and holding their own fund-raisers and parties should help bring in traffic and funds, also use slsa open chat to spam it too, and ask the Comms officer to post announcements of events they may be holding, as long as they don't clash with comps, its all for the good of surfing in sl, so use it, why not. It will make more surfers aware of their sims, plus surfers should try and dip into their pockets a lil when visiting sims, if at all possible. The smooth running of comps? Communication is always the key to this, well as I've mentioned a few points earlier, listening to EC's announcements, plus making surfers aware of things that can slow up comps, like not getting ready on time etc, having good trained staff available is a must to having a smooth run comp.

3. It has been an ongoing issue for the SLSA to find enough staff to work Pro comps, what are your thoughts on how to resolve this issue?

CD: I think we are already working hard to resolve this issue. trained judges and marshalls are the key, and thats happening at last. Plus Sally has drawn up a list of who is trained up, so that HJ's wont find it so difficult in finding judges at pro events. But willingness to volunteer has to be stepped up by surfers if comps are to continue.

4. The SLSA put into place a stipulation that a rider could miss one comp each season and not have it count against their rank in order to allow more people to volunteer to work comps. Most riders who use it are not using it to volunteer but to do things in rl. Should this stipulation go back to being for volunteers only or should all riders be able to use this?

CD: In short no. You may have a hospital appointment or some other RL issue that you have to attend to. Some people are free enough to devote all their spare time to sl issues, and others don't have that luxury. I think most surfers, if they have the time, should offer to volunteer at least once a season tho, if they possibly can.


Share:
Read More

SLSA Candidates for Directors Interviews

SurfWatch conducts these in-depth interviews to help voters get a clear picture of the candidates that are running for the Board and gives candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves to the voters. All five candidates were sent the same interview. See their interviews below. All interviews are posted in the order received. Voting opens on June 1st. Stay tuned for more details!



Candidate Name: Maldrul Morris

SW: You are currently ranked
#5 for last season's SLSA surf rankings and you've been SL surfing for more than 2 years. We understand you have announced your intent to run for SLSA Director this term. What qualifications,
skills, competencies, traits, etc. would you bring as a director and why are you running?

MM: I am a computer consultant and have skills that could be utilized for maintenace of the SLSA website and forum. I have been the unofficial official score keeper for Team Montego. I have been trained as an SLSA competition judge and judged more than a few competitions. This means I understand what is expected of surfers in a competition. I am a fair and honest elf with
a good work ethic. I am running for director because I wish to offer my services to help keep the SLSA organized and efficient.

SW: What areas of improvement do you currently see for the SLSA as an organization?

MM: I see a need for refinement of the ranking calculation, both for placement in individual competitions and season ranking. I also think that a campaign of general awareness of the existance of the organization and their sanctioned events in the larger SL community could revitalize the organization and increase participaion in associated events.

SW: What do you see as the top issues facing SL surfing in general, and what would be your first priority as an SLSA director?

MM: I feel that the #1 issue facing the SLSA today is recruiting members to participate in the administration of events. My first priority as an SLSA director would be to forge sincere friendly relationships with as many SLSA members as possible so that I would be able to effectively assist the SLSA where I am needed most.

SW: Why are you the best candidate for this job?

MM: I am the best candidate because I am thorough, intelligent and hard working. I will take the position of Director of the SLSA seriously and always consider the surfers when performing my duties.

SW: What were you most satisfied with as an SLSA member last season? What were you most dissatisfied with?

MM: I was most satisfied with the hard work of the event staff last season. I was most dissatisfied with lag.

SW: Anything else you would like voters to know about you?

MM: I make great cookies! ;>

Give us a brief statement or opinion on some of the major issues the SLSA faced in 2011 and possible issues moving into Season 2 (listed below):

1. Were you concerned with the low number of competitors signed up for the recent Open comps and what do you foresee for the future of the two-round, two-weekend SLSA competition format?

MM: Yes, I was concerned, enough to apply for a position as Director. I believe that the two round format is still viable if we can raise awareness of the SLSA and it's events within the larger SL community.

2. With the continuing decline of full surf sims with supporting neighbor sims for specators, and with more and more surf sims set up on Homesteads, what can be done to support the sim owners and ensure smooth running competitions?

MM: Make certain that tip jars for the sim are prominent and pointed out by the event DJ and coordinator during a competition. Negotiate with venue providers to remove or reduce lag inducing scripts and objects prior to a competition.

3. It has been an ongoing issue for the SLSA to find enough staff to work Pro comps, what are your thoughts on how to resolve this issue?

MM: Increased schedule of training classes for all support positions. Exempting judges and staff of Pro competitions from the DNC ranking they would receive for that competition.

4. The SLSA put into place a stipulation that a rider could miss one comp each season and not have it count against their rank in order to allow more people to volunteer to work comps. Most riders who use it are not using it to voluneteer but to do things in rl. Should this stipulation go back to being for volunteers only or should all riders be able to use this?

MM: SecondLife is called that because that is what it is: a second life. Real life has a way of interjecting itself frequently into all of our enjoyment of the game. The dropping of the worst competition score (or NS score) has helped otherwise great surfers obtain rankings more in line with their talent and less with their ability to attend. I think further incentives should be considered for event administration volunteers.



Candidate Name: Jac Mornington

SW: You are currently ranked 9th in this season's SLSA surf rankings and you've been SL surfing for more than 3 years. We understand you have announced your intent to run for SLSA Director this term. What qualifications, skills, competencies, traits, etc. would you bring as a director and why are you running?

JM: I am willing and able to volunteer my time to assist managing and directing the activities of the SLSA. I have participated in the SLSA at just about every level as surfer, event staff, sponsor, and sim host. As have many still with the group, I have seen both high and low times for the SLSA. Throughout all of it, SLSA still remains because at its core is a group of people who truely enjoy sharing what surfing has to offer to the greater SL community. I would like to think I have been a part of promoting that spirit.

SW: What areas of improvement do you currently see for the SLSA as an organization?

JM: I see new faces...new surfers, new staff, new visitors. I think the SLSA has been making great progress training new people to fill event staffing needs. I thank all of those who donate their time, and in many cases their opportunity to surf, so that we can continue to host a great experience.
SW: What do you see as the top issues facing SL surfing in general, and what would be your first priority as an SLSA director?

JM: I am first concerned with the SLSA event experience. Organizing and running these events is our core function. Providing the members, sponsors, and vistors with a positive experience is most important for the continued success of the SLSA and promoting our activity in SL.

Secondly, I am concerned with the transparency in regards to finances. I would like to see a schedule of payouts and prizes posted prior an event. At the very least, I would like to see actual payouts for staff and surfer prizes posted afterwards, as it states to be done on the SLSA website under Rulebook/SLSA Prizes and Payments:
"When Sponsorships are finalised for an event we will publish a list of what the actual prizes and fees will be for that event."
It is difficult to recieve support and donations from others when so much is unclear in the SLSA financial reporting practices.


SW: Why are you the best candidate for this job?

JM: My real life experience in planning and running projects from start to finish gives me the awareness of what is required to make something happen. I am dedicated to volunteering my time and energy to further the mission of the SLSA. I look forward to working as a team putting forth the best experience we can to the members, sponsors, and visitors.

SW: What were you most satisfied with as an SLSA member last season? What were you most dissatisfied with?

JM: Most satisfied ...... all the new faces.
Most dissatisfied ..... long comps

SW: Anything else you would like voters to know about you?

JM: Apparently I have a thing for rocks;)

Give us a brief statement or opinion on some of the major issues the SLSA faced in 2011 and possible issues moving into Season 2 (listed below):

1. Were you concerned with the low number of competitors signed up for the recent Open comps and what do you foresee for the future of the two-round, two-weekend SLSA competition format?

JM: Yes I am concerned with turn-outs in general. New surfers were made at surfing sims, such as Tsunami, Monkey, HP, Bundy, Chi, and in the past Mori and SOL (go back further to Bishara) and many others. Each of these sims provide thier own surf cultures and drew new members to the sport and fellowship. These are where new members and the keepers of the surf spirit in SL reside. These sims and those like it are in need of the SLSA support.

I am not in favor of the 2 event format now in place. It drains a lot of resources and time from both staffing, hosting, and participants. I understand a time came when events were over subscribed, and this was a way to faciliate a means for all to surf.

I would explore with the directors a new seating/registering process. Maybe only Top 10 instead of 20 get a pass, and the rest are open seats. No preference would be given to your place registering online, but if more surfers were signed up than allowed, a simple drawing would be held.

Maybe the answer lies in a new surfing format, instead of the 5/6 surfer heat with 3 waves. Maybe timed heats would facilitate more surfers. Maybe head to head heats. Someone mentioned eliminating semi finals as well.

I am open to all these ideas.


2. With the continuing decline of full surf sims with supporting neighbor sims for specators, and with more and more surf sims set up on Homesteads, what can be done to support the sim owners and ensure smooth running competitions?

JM: As I stated above, our surf sims must be supported. These sim owners not only provide the sims we surf events on, but most likely also sponsor the event they are hosting. Believe me, none of them gain anything from hosting an event., other then the enjoyment of others and thier desire to give to surfing community.

I do not support SLSA resources going towards Archipelago Sim. I feel it is under utilized, unnecessary, and competes with our surfing sims for resources. The SLSA can support and raise 150,000L (6 mos @ 25K) for a sim not used as event, not staffed, and poorly organizied, but can not support in some fashion those sims that host our events? I would propose a means for SLSA sponsoring sims to be compensated. In return, those sims would promote the SLSA, host events and training, and be available for all in SL to surf. These sims and thier owners are at the core of SL surfing.

3. It has been an ongoing issue for the SLSA to find enough staff to work Pro comps, what are your thoughts on how to resolve this issue?

JM: I have yet to be at an event that was canceled due to staffing. Members always find a way to step up. Encourage all to participate. I hear the last training seesion for judges was a success. Open the opportunities for people to volunteer and train and they will. Eliminate the barriers to training and support these new people. It isnt all about SL Surfing, that part is easy (relatively speaking). It is more about working together and creating enjoyable experiences.


4. The SLSA put into place a stipulation that a rider could miss one comp each season and not have it count against their rank in order to allow more people to volunteer to work comps. Most riders who use it are not using it to volunteer but to do things in rl. Should this stipulation go back to being for volunteers only or should all riders be able to use this?

JM: I have no problem with the one event off option, regardless if one volunteers or not. It relieves some of the burden on over registration, it allows for RL to happen, and it encourages people to volunteer.

Share:
Read More

Surfing with Lissa

Now that Spring is in full swing and we can see Summer right around the corner, I'm out and about soaking in some sun and working on my tan lines! Join me as we explore two great surf spots this week. Don't forget your sunblock or suntan oil!


Ahhhh Costa Rica! Spread out your beach blanket on the white sands and grab your board or if you wanna mix it up a bit, grab one of the loaner windsurfers and hit the Cortes wave out in the bay. After a fun surf sesh, kick back on the blanket and watch the leatherback turtles moving towards the water or check out the shops and museum.


Zen thy name is Chi. One of the oldest surf spots in SL, Chi boasts the famous pipes and fluffies rolling hard and fast into the bay. This is a challenging set to ride and if you are really good, jump the bridge at the end. When you are done with the waves, check out all the hidden spots on the sim or replace your now broken stick (didn't make it over the bridge after all did ya?) or maybe pick up a windsurfer and give it another go.


Share:
Read More

Director Spotlight

The June SLSA Board of Directors election is coming up and there are always a lot of questions about just what each Director does so here at SurfWatch, we are spotlighting each position. Each week in May you will find a new spotlight on each position held.

Name: GiavannaMarie Melody

Role/Responsibilty: Sponsor Liason

SW: What do you enjoy about this position?
Gia: One of my biggest responsibilities on the board is being the Sponsor Liaison. This job includes gathering sponsors for our season. This includes getting all their information as far as Landmarks and Textures to their place of business. I am also responsible for getting the stands out for each competition, making sure all our sponsors textures and landmarks are set out on the displays on the stands, and updating the displays behind the winners stand. I find it fun and a challenge at the same time. Trying to find new sponsors is one of the biggest challenges. We have so many great sponsors; it has been a privilege to work with all of them. Then there is the day to day operation of being a director; voting on topics and regularly checking the forums and completing new registrations to name a few of my other responsibilities.

SW: What do you find the most challenging about this position?
Gia: One of the other challenges that my position faces is finding volunteers to work our events. This includes Head judge, Judge, and Marshals. I believe that we are starting to make great strides in this focus area of the directors. I really hope more people are willing to help, and if they are not sure how, I encourage them to contact the directors. Remember, without these people, having a competition could not be possible.


SW: Anything else you would like to add?
Gia: This season has been really fun. We added a challenging course this season. Some feel that it was very reminiscent of the old Bone yard. Trying to come up with innovative and fresh new layouts for the competitions is something I strongly believe in. Also, we have seen a great growth in SL surfing altogether. I would like to encourage this growth of development. But on the turn side, we still need to focus on how we can save our current surf sims and seek out new venues.

I would like to end with thanking everyone who has trusted me in being one of their representatives on the board. I would also like to thank those who have helped me develop as a director and guided my process. Their knowledge and lessons are not forgotten.

Share:
Read More

Flashback! Week of May 23, 2010

Grab your seats and lets journey back to what was going on in the surf community the week of May 23,2010. Enjoy!
Share:
Read More

SLSA Announces Board of Director Election Candidates

The SLSA has announced they have received five submissions for the three soon to be vacated seats on the Board. GiavannaMarie Melody, Maldrul Morris, Jac Mornington, CoolKat Delicioso, and Imzadi Amaterasu have submitted their official intent to run to each of the directors. Surfwatch will be conducting interviews with each candidate and posting them here before the election which is scheduled for June 1st.
Share:
Read More

Surfing with Lissa

Heeelllllooooo! Now where did I put my favorite surf stick? I know it's here somewhere! While I dig through the garage looking, let's talk black beaches and home. Pull up some sand and let's explore!
Have a new surf sim or just your favorite surf spot? Hollar at me inworld or at lissapinion@gmail.com

Tsunami Beach is one of the only black sand beaches in SL. When you toss your board in the water here, you have a pier to slam into, er dodge, I meant dodge! Shops and two surf team clubhouses to explore in between sets. This beach features LSD waves so you never know what you will find when you visit. SSi, HP, LSD...the wave combos are endless here.


Vibes beach of course is near and dear to me as it is home to VW and myself and two great friends. Waves change as the storms kick them up and with the famous "Mori Deck" in place, you have a place to hang out as well as the beach campfire to warm up and dry off. SurfWatch Headquarters are located here as well as the Vibes team clubhouse.
Share:
Read More

Sol Existence: Art in the Surf World

SurfWatch recently caught up with artist Sunshine Zhangsun to discuss her new venture Sol Existence Gallery.

SurfWatch: How did you get started with pictures in SL?
Sunshine Zhangsun: I started taking snaps when I first came in to SL...loved to capture the colors, the scenes, and the creativity of others. That hasn't changed much, but one of my friends ages ago is more of an artist and pushed me to try more and more. I realized that I enjoyed capturing scenes most of all, and work at angles to make them more interesting. I also started using Photoshop and made it a goal to learn something new every week. This way I could enhance my captures and work at making them more inviting.

SW: Do you have a muse? What inspires you?
SZ: No muse... thought music sometimes might be considered that. I'm inspired by the creativity of others, by the beauty that people can create in SL, by natural surroundings, and just about anything creative. I've been blessed to have our sim as a huge scenic playground and with the changes we make, I rarely run out of a nice place to capture a quick shot.

SW: What advice can you give someone wanting to get started with taking pictures in SL?
SZ: Mostly having a good graphics card, and the ability to push your graphics settings up to the max is important. However, depending on your creativity, your ability to use photoshop or other graphics software and your willingness to play with the image you capture... to get started, you can just just hit that button called "snapshot" and get started. I'm more in to scenic shots, builds and themes...find what you like and just build from that.

SW: Any thing else you would like to share with our readers?
SZ: I opened my main gallery on Inspiration Cove on a whim. Walked out of the Coyote sim which has some awesome artist galleries into the next sim one day...and saw a storefront available. I then though... why not?!? So that was how my main Sol Existence Gallery came to be. I also have a small gallery in the Colonial Shopping District on the Old Costa Rica where I share a few of the same and a series of photos taken in Costa Rica sims. My gallery, my flickr and my blog are mostly to share locations that were awesome that might no longer exist; encourage others to visit new places; show off creations and just a chronicle of my Second Life.

To visit Sunshine's gallery and view her amazing work visit one of these locations:
Share:
Read More

Beach Decor! {what next}


{what next} located at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Alliance%20Surf/117/79/26 has a great assortment of beach themed shacks, furnishings, and accessories to really make your home comfy.
Share:
Read More

Director Spotlight -Financial Officer


The June SLSA Board of Directors election is coming up and there are always a lot of questions about just what each Director does so here at SurfWatch, we are spotlighting each position. Each week in May you will find a new spotlight on each position held.

Name: Robbin Ember

Role/Responsibility: Financial Officer

SW: What do you enjoy about this position:
Robbin: I don't know, I really don't like numbers or balancing budgets. But I do enjoy the opportunity to help out and give back to the community.

SW: What do you find challenging:
Robbin: When I am only a few cents off, in balancing the budget. That drives me crazy.

SW: Anything else:
Robbin: Seriously, again, this is the most amazing group of people, and just having the chance to show my appreciation is my motivation. It really is, thanks.
Share:
Read More

SLSA Director's Election June 1st

The Board of Directors of the SLSA are now accepting applications for those who intend to run for election on June 1st. Seats being vacated at this election are Lissa Pinion, Robbin Ember, and GiavannaMarie Melody. Notecards with your intent to run as outlined on the SLSA forum at http://www.surfslsa.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=1547 will be accepted between May 11th and May 18th.
Share:
Read More

Flashback! Week of May 18, 2008

Grab your boards and park yourselves in the sand as we travel back to what was going on the week of May 18, 2008.
Share:
Read More

SLSA Monkey Cove Pro Scores

pics courtesy of Dixson Martin and Lissa Pinion, Scores courtesy of Lissa Pinion
Finals:
Heat 1
Maldrul Morris 17.00
Harbor Piers 16.83
Tonguemy Badger 16.33
Dixson Martin 15.83
Cierra Theriac 15.33
Jac Mornington 14.83
Figger Arun 14.16

Semis:
Heat 1
Maldrul Morris 15.66
Van Valeeva 14.83
Tonguemy Badger 15.66
Dixson Martin 15.83

Heat 2
Cierra Theriac 15.33
Curshaw MacTagairt 10.50
Colleen Brennan 14.33
Jac Mornington 14.50

Heat 3
Harbor Piers 15.33
Figger Arun 15.66
Donni Dibou 15.16
Lanky Silvercloud 13.83

Heats:
Heat 1
Maldrul Morris 16.16
jayden Domenci NS
Cierra Theriac 13.66
Rain Tigerfish 13.50
Cristal Rowlands 12.33

Heat 2
Harbor Piers 16.00
Van Valeeva 15.66
Followingwaves Sirbu 15.50
Mick Lunasea 15.00
bullet Admiral 15.33

Heat 3
Bobbi Laval NS
Figger Arun 13.16
Robbin Ember Worked Comp
Zelda Zimberman NS
Curshaw MacTagairt 14.83

Heat 4
Imzai Amatersu Worked Comp
Dane Kutenai NS
Colleen Brennan 15.83
D4amon Resident NS
Tonguemy Badger 16.00

Heat 5
Sunrize Mornington Worked comp
Dixson Martin 15.66
Rayzza Rubble 15.50
Donni Dibou 16.00

Heat 6
Velvetori Twine 13.83
Jac Mornington 15.67
Lanky Silvercloud 15.50
Lourinho Nizna 14.83

Staff:
Robbin Ember, Colleen Brennan, Sunrize Mornington,Imzai Amatersu, Lissa Pinion, DJ Dan, Syx Toshi
Share:
Read More

SLSA Monkey Cove Pro Heat Draws



Monkey Cove
Pro: 14th 11:00am sl time
Wave: Maverick
Board: longboard


Heat 1
Maldrul Morris (RED)
jayden Domenci (BLUE)
Cierra Theriac (GREEN)
Rain Tigerfish (ORANGE)
Cristal Rowlands (PURPLE)


Heat 2
Harbor Piers (RED)
Van Valeeva (BLUE)
Followingwaves Sirbu (GREEN)
Mick Lunasea (ORANGE)
bullet Admiral (PURPLE)

Heat 3
Bobbi Laval (RED)
Figger Arun (BLUE)
Robbin Ember (GREEN)
Zelda Zimberman (ORANGE)
Curshaw MacTagairt (PURPLE)


Heat 4
Imzadi Amaterasu (RED)
Dane Kutenai (BLUE)
Colleen Brennan (GREEN)
Katey Spiritweaver (ORANGE)
D4amon Resident (PURPLE)


Heat 5
Sunrize Mornington (RED)
Dixson Martin (BLUE)
Rayzza Rubble (GREEN)
Donni Dibou (ORANGE)


Heat 6
Velvetori Twine (RED)
Jac Mornington (BLUE)
Lanky Silvercloud (GREEN)
Lourinho Nizna (ORANGE)
Share:
Read More