Registration Open for the SLSA Tai Chi Open/Pro

Registration has opened for the 50th event in SLSA competitions. The event will be held on the sim of Tai (http://slurl.com/secondlife/Tai/187/127/21) on May12th (Open) and May 19th (Pro). The wave is the Cortez and boards will be SSi Shortboards.

Registration will be open until midnight SLT, Tuesday, May 8th.  For all the details and to register head over to the SLSA fourm http://surfslsa.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=2027 and them over to Tai to start practicing!
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Virtual Highway - What We Offer Creators

Submitted by Marianna Monentes

Creators who come to Virtual Highway often ask what is it Virtual Highway can offer my business? We would first like to point out that you will find many of the same modern conveniences you have come to rely upon in Second Life. We have voice enabled for your presentations and meetings, you will find group choices and notices all working, we have group enabled search and currently working on our search features for InWorld businesses.


Set up your own world with meeting places for your Business, with 24/7 training or meeting facilities for your employees, complete with interaction.

Run your very own Radio Stations or set up your personal Streaming Music Server to broadcast your favorite music and advertising across the Internet.

Create Products and sell them, or rent out your own Regions to all your friends and all the new adventurers into the world you are part of creating.

What about Content how safe is it? We have purposely not enabled Hypergrid Our decision to not have Hyper Grid was reached after considering the problem of people buying your content, taking it to other grids and changing the permissions. We at Virtual Highway, are passionate about your creations, and just as passionate about protecting them. We have unique security systems in place as well as a dedicated team ready to respond quickly to help insure your content remains yours.

Are there any incentives to help my business move to Virtual Highway?

Yes we have offers of space depending on your needs from shops to SIMs, this is free initially. Tiers will be charged once traffic builds. We offer free uploads so that you can bring in your creations.

We offer everything you will ever need to create and enjoy your very own virtual world. No matter what your dreams or desires are, you can build it to share with others and enjoy. Please join us, let us show you there is a difference when you decide to become a creator in Virtual Highway, we will do everything in our power to help in your success.
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The Avatars Who Surf Megaprims SL Kayak Surf Competition Today!

Submitted by Kayaker Magic

What: "The Avatars Who Surf Megaprims" - A Monthly Kayak Surf Contest

When: April 29th, 2012, 2pm SLT
Fee: NONE

Prizez: 1st Place: $750L + Gold Trophy
2nd Place: $500L + Silver Trophy
3rd Place: $250L + Bronze Trophy

"The Avatars who Surf Megaprims" is a Kayak Surf Contest sponsored by:
Ocean Engineering - Don't give up land to surf, surf off-sim! See it in-world at the http://slurl.com/secondlife/Panthalassa/229/211/21


A free paddle and surf kayak is available at the landmark above. There are free waves to practice and demo on. Additional instructions will be given Sunday Evenings 8-9pm SLT by Lifeguard Kayaker Magic!

The contest will take place Sunday, April 29, Midafternoon (2pm SLT) when the waves are at their highest! Judging will be done by our local resident Kayaker Magic! Contestants will be judged based on:

Water Handling - paddling out over waves & exiting waves gracefully as they break.
Style Points - awarded for turns, riding high on a wave (without slipping over the back), using more of the wave face.

Surfers will have 3 attempts to obtain the best score possible. The highest of the 3 rides will be kept and used for the final judging.

The Fabulous DJ Ene will be spinning all the splashies tunes that you and he can find.

Spots are limited to the first 10 surfers to click on the sign-up-sign at this location: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Panthalassa/229/211/21


For more information, email Soulstress Resident at: SoulstressSL@hotmail.com
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SLSA LV Dominion Pro Results

The second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) LV Dominion Pro event was held on Saturday, April 28th. The stands were rocking and waves were pumping. Lots of new faces who did outstanding and two (!) surf-offs in the semi-finals. An exciting comp all-around!


Heat 1 
Sunrize Mornington  15.00000
Maldrul Morris   14.83333
Rayzza Rubble    15.16667
Roxxie Verino    14.33333

Heat 2 
Bobbi Laval      16.50000
Cierra Theriac   14.66667
Melian Catronis  13.66667
Violet Rain      14.33333
AllieJ Resident  9.000000

Heat 3
Damiana Babcock  15.00000
Harbor Piers     15.33333
Clyde Barrow     14.16667
Surfista Hurricane  14.50000

Heat 4 
Abel Halderman   15.33333
Imzadi Amaterasu  14.66667
Ashoka Mosely    15.16667
Sweetrage4chu Jinx  14.16667
lanky Silvercloud  15.16667

Heat 5 
Zelda Zimberman  14.83333
Vic Bonetto      15.66667
Lourinho Nizna   14.66667
Wilfrid Decuir   14.33333
CK Carver        15.16667

Heat 6 
Jordan Mendle    14.66667
Petra Xaris      14.66667
Giavannamarie Melody  13.66667
Robbin Ember     14.83333

Semi-Final 1
Rayzza Rubble    15.33333
Abel Halderman   14.50000
Cierra Theriac   14.50000
CK Carver    14.66667
Jordan Mendle    15.66667

Semi-Final 2
Bobbi Laval      16.50000
Vic Bonetto      14.83333  22 in surf off 
Damiana Babcock  14.33333
Petra Xaris      14.33333
lanky Silvercloud  14.83333  23 in surf off

Semi-Final 3
Harbor Piers     15.33333
Robbin Ember     14.50000
Sunrize Mornington  15.16667  22.5 surf off
Ashoka Mosely    15.16667  23.5 surf off

Finals
1st -Bobbi Laval      16.00000
2nd - Ashoka Mosely    15.33333
3rd - Rayzza Rubble    15.16667
3rd - lanky Silvercloud  15.16667
5th - Harbor Piers     15.00000
6th - Jordan Mendle    14.33333








Staff
Event Coordinator - Imzadi Amaterasu
Head Judge - Sally LaSalle
Judge - Mick Lunasea
Judge- Xander Dutera
Marshall - Maldrul Morris/Robbin Ember
DJ - DJ Dan
Rashies and Trophies - Imzadi Amaterasu

The event would not have gone so smoothly without a great staff. SLSA is in need of volunteers willing to help staff the events. No staff, no event. Anyone interested in training for a staff position is asked to contact Imzadi Amaterasu.

(BTW - Congrats to Abel and Jordan who announced their Real Life engagement!)
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Carpe Diem Surf's Grand Opening Party

submitted by Kantbe Thursday

Date:    Friday, April 27, 2012
Where: Carpe Diem Surf @ the Party Deck
Time:   2pm slt - 5pm slt
           2pm slt - Icky Flux (live)
           3pm slt - Tone Uriza (live)

Music, dance, surf HP Jaws, sky dive, art sculpture by Bryn Oh.


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SLSA LV Dominion Pro Heat Draws

Here we go folks! 

The Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) LV Dominion Pro heat draws have been announced. The event is scheduled for 11am SLT, Saturday, April 28th at Jaguar. The wave is the Maverick and we are surfing on SSi Longboards. The event coordinators ask that all competitors be on site and ready at 10:45am SLT.



The Heat Draws are as follows:
Heat 1
Sunrize Mornington (RED)
Maldrul Morris (BLUE)
Rayzza Rubble (GREEN)
Jen Gustafson (ORANGE)
Roxxie Verino (PURPLE)
nevenjr Resident (BLACK)

Heat 2
Bobbi Laval (RED)
Cierra Theriac (BLUE)
Revlon Benoir (GREEN)
Melian Catronis (ORANGE)
Violet Rain (PURPLE)
AllieJ Resident  (BLACK)

Heat 3
Damiana Babcock (RED)
Harbor Piers (BLUE)
Sally LaSalle (GREEN)
Clyde Barrow (ORANGE)
Surfista Hurricane  (PURPLE)

Heat 4
Abel Halderman (RED)
Imzadi Amaterasu (BLUE)
Ashoka Mosely (GREEN)
Sweetrage4chu Jinx (ORANGE)
lanky Silvercloud (PURPLE)

Heat 5
Zelda Zimberman (RED)
Vic Bonetto (BLUE)
Lourinho Nizna (GREEN)
Wilfrid Decuir (ORANGE)
CK Carver (PURPLE)

Heat 6

Jordan Mendle (RED)
Petra Xaris (BLUE)
Giavannamarie Melody (GREEN)
Robbin Ember (ORANGE)
Dixson Martian (PURPLE)

There is still time for last minute practicing. If you are not surfing, join us in the stands for the party and to cheer on those out on the waves. See ya there!
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SLSA Team Member Informal Survey - Part 5

Submitted by Kantbe Thursday

Prompted by some of the questions about teams being asked by people who are new to surfing in Second Life® and the SL Surfing Association (SLSA), Surfwatch recently conducted an informal survey of surfers who are currently registered as team members for teams who have had competitors in the SLSA competitions over the past year. While individuals will not be identified by response, the nature of some responses may be a bit individually unique and suggest who provided that response. For the most part, any edits to responses were kept to a minimum in order to provide anonymity to all. (Editor's note: This is part of a continuing series as SurfWatch posts the survey questions and responses.)

SW: What kinds of activities, if any, are done as a team other than the surfing competitions themselves?

We have had birthday parties and team surf parties.

Surfing for fun, just hanging out..

Team Surfcrazy tries to ride daily at contest venues after previous contests.

Sometimes we get together informally to practice, but few or no formal team activities.
Being such a small team we can share activities without much planning. We might all just happen to be a Solace at the same time and then it is a party.

When new team member comes in there would be a group meeting to welcome them.

At the moment I don't know of any team activities outside of competitions, we do get together with other friends now and then for dances etc.

spark in my ass ....raves, shopping excursions...just chillin and jammin. Hihihiii*free coochin'

Not much, we try to practice together some times, but mostly just talk and hang out together when we can. I can't stress enough we are really good friends, first, and the other members of the team are great to just talk about things, anything with, they listen and care.

(Editor's note: Stay tuned to SurfWatch for the next part of the SLSA Team Member Informal Survey!)
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Mark Your Calendars! Carpe Diem Surf's Grand Opening Party

submitted by Kantbe Thursday



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Mark Your Calendars! SL Monthly Kayak Surf Contest Coming Up!

Submitted by Kayaker Magic

What: "The Avatars Who Surf Megaprims" - A Monthly Kayak Surf Contest

When: April 29th, 2012, 2pm SLT
Fee: NONE

Prizez: 1st Place: $750L + Gold Trophy
2nd Place: $500L + Silver Trophy
3rd Place: $250L + Bronze Trophy

"The Avatars who Surf Megaprims" is a Kayak Surf Contest sponsored by:
Ocean Engineering - Don't give up land to surf, surf off-sim! See it in-world at the http://slurl.com/secondlife/Panthalassa/229/211/21

A free paddle and surf kayak is available at the landmark above. There are free waves to practice and demo on. Additional instructions will be given Sunday Evenings 8-9pm SLT by Lifeguard Kayaker Magic!

The contest will take place Sunday, April 29, Midafternoon (2pm SLT) when the waves are at their highest! Judging will be done by our local resident Kayaker Magic! Contestants will be judged based on:

Water Handling - paddling out over waves & exiting waves gracefully as they break.
Style Points - awarded for turns, riding high on a wave (without slipping over the back), using more of the wave face.

Surfers will have 3 attempts to obtain the best score possible. The highest of the 3 rides will be kept and used for the final judging.

The Fabulous DJ Ene will be spinning all the splashies tunes that you and he can find.

Spots are limited to the first 10 surfers to click on the sign-up-sign at this location:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Panthalassa/229/211/21

For more information, email Soulstress Resident at: SoulstressSL@hotmail.com
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CelticMaiden WarriorLancaster In Concert


Date:  Tuesday, April 24
Time:  5 PM PDT
Place:  Breakers Cove, Virtual Highway, VirtualHighway.us
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NOOB and NOW: Dax Verlaine

Submitted by Jimbo the Cart Boy

We all know that change can be good, especially when it comes to our personal appearances. Your friends at SurfWatch are excited to bring to you a new ongoing feature we like to call "NOOB and NOW". Today we proudly present to you, Dax Verlaine: 
Dax Verlaine - NOOB

Dax Verlaine - NOW
Would you like to be featured in an upcoming NOOB and NOW posting?
Click this link for instructions:
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SLSA Team Member Informal Survey - Part 4

Submitted by Kantbe Thursday

Prompted by some of the questions about teams being asked by people who are new to surfing in Second Life® and the SL Surfing Association (SLSA), Surfwatch recently conducted an informal survey of surfers who are currently registered as team members for teams who have had competitors in the SLSA competitions over the past year. While individuals will not be identified by response, the nature of some responses may be a bit individually unique and suggest who provided that response. For the most part, any edits to responses were kept to a minimum in order to provide anonymity to all. (Editor's note: This is part of a continuing series as SurfWatch posts the survey questions and responses.)

SW: What is your team's structure, like Captain, co-Captain, Recruiter, Trainer, etc.? Can you describe a little about how this structure works?

We have to unofficial Captains (only to provide point of contact) but really we have no hierarchal structure.

We have captains, they fill in on notices when Mick is away, and take care of logistics. Mick's the captain, recruiter, trainer, jail-bailer, whatever else is needed.

One owner, two team captains.

Captain helps motivate and sets training

My Mother is the team captain and recruited me.

Our team is very small and has a more intimate vibe. We don't really have captains and co-captains we have team leads.

Montego comes from Montego Bay, which is in Jamaica. The Rastafarai culture and free spiritness of Montego is very prevalent in all things associated with the team. The Team structure is no different, as while there is Captains and such, there is little red tape.

We have the captains, co-captains. As for recruiter and trainers I think everyone works together to teach a little about something. No one really recruits but when we see someone having fun out there we consider.

Not sure,I do know that without Bobbi, Kantbe and Gia's hard work there would not be a ReefRiders team.
The Team is hungry always.... HUNGRY...staying that way ........... moving onwards HUNGRY...

We designated a couple of us for contact purposes, however, at the same time that we decided to just try one more season surfing as friends, for fun, we also decided not to have any captains, trainers, etc. Although some of us have been on the team longer, we are all just friends and equally important.

(Editor's note: Stay tuned to SurfWatch for the next part of the SLSA Team Member Informal Survey!)


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SLSA LV Dominion Open Results

What a wonderful day out at Jaguar today! Such incredible surfing at the SLSA LV Dominion Open.  I was out in the judges stand and didn't get to take part in the party out in the stands, but I am sure it was loads of fun! I know we were have a great time out at the line up. The best part? All the competitors who surfed advance to next week's Pro event. Great job everyone!






Heat 1
nevenjr Resident   12.66667
Robbin Ember     14.66667
Roxxie Verino    14.16667
Violet Rain      14.16667
Surfista Hurricane  14.00000

Heat 2
Dixson Martian   13.83333
lanky Silvercloud  14.00000
Wilfrid Decuir   15.83333
AllieJ Resident  4.333333

Heat 3
Trista Potez     0.000000
Mick Lunasea     0.000000
Steve Bridger    0.000000
CK Carver        14.00000

Finals
1st - Wilfrid Decuir   15.33333
2nd - CK Carver        14.50000
3rd - Lanky Silvercloud   14.33333
4th (tied) Robbin Ember     13.66667
               Roxxie Verino    13.66667
5th - Violet Rain      13.50000

I hope to see you all back next Saturday, April 28th, same Bat Time, same Bat Channel for the Pro event.

Event Staff
Event Coordinator - Imzadi Amaterasu
Head Judge - Sally LaSalle
Judge - Bobbi Laval
Judge - Cierra Theriac
Marshal - Cloudy Mikado
Security - Robbin Ember
DJ - DJ Dan
Rashies - Imzadi Amaterasu
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LIVBLUE - Live Like You Love the Ocean

Submitted by Marianna Monentes


I want to tell you about an exciting new project I started in honor of Wallace “J.” Nichols, Ph.D.'s work with our oceans. I first learned of J's (as he likes to be called) work around 2007 when I began a blog to educate people about our environment. The ocean being my top concern since learning of the North Pacific Gyre, the amount of plastic and trash in our ocean, leaves me sickened when I think of it.

Here is an excerpt from How Stuff Works.

In t­he broad expanse of the northern Pacific Ocean, there exists the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, a slowly moving, clockwise spiral of currents created by a high-pressure system of air currents. The area is anoceanic desert, filled with tiny phytoplankton but few big fish or mammals. Due to its lack of large fish and gentle breezes, fishermen and­ s­ailors rarely travel through the gyre. But the area is filled with something besides plankton: trash, millions of pounds of it, most of it plastic. It's the largest landfill in the world, and it floats in the middle of the ocean.

The gyre has actually given birth to two large masses of ever-accumulating trash, known as theWestern and Eastern Pacific Garbage Patches, sometimes collectively called the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The Eastern Garbage Patch floats between Hawaii and California; scientists estimate its size as two times bigger than Texas.

After reading this I discovered Wallace J. Nichols, PhD. site LIVBLUE ...where I then read this excerpt from "Occupy The Ocean"

We have put too much into the ocean, in the form of oil, sewage, fertilizers and pesticides, antibiotics, plastic pollution, noise and increasing levels of CO2.

We have taken too much out of the ocean by subsidizing and encouraging inefficient and destructive overfishing, bottom trawling, long-lining, purse seining, dynamite fishing, irresponsible aquaculture and illegal hunting.

We have destroyed the edge of the ocean -- places like wetlands, kelp forests, mangrove forests, river deltas, coral reefs and seagrass beds -- where diversity and abundance once thrived, now turned into dead zones growing in size and number.

As a result of our behavior, the wildest animals and most remote beaches on the planet carry plastic in them, coral reefs are on the verge of disappearing, shark populations have been decimated, the ocean is warming and becoming more acidic and fisheries are predicted to collapse globally.

This situation will only continue to spiral downward, unless we listen, learn and change.

To slow, stop and then reverse this trend will take immediate, widespread and drastic actions, not isolated, small and incremental adjustments.

The control large corporations have over our political processes must be severed, bold legislation enacted and new behavior patterns widely adopted.

We need an Ocean Revolution.

It is with this knowledge that I felt compelled to act however I can so I asked J then if I could publish his work on my blog site to help educate and promote his work. He agreed.

Then recently when Kayaker Magic created and gave me the Sea Turtle I requested, it was then that I realized I could help educate people virtually and direct them to J's work. I asked J if it would be okay to set up an ocean garden that would be interactive for the user. They could click on the various marine life and vegetation and learn about our ocean. Which would be an incredible way for the disabled or persons in the hospital to escape the reality of illness and learn and interact with our magnificent ocean. Again J, agreed that bringing this knowledge however we can is vital in preserving our ocean for our future.

So we have begun. Tiffany Magic and logger Sewell, yet again has been caring and could see just what it was I was trying to achieve. They have offered to help in whatever way they can to help bring this vital knowledge to you. That is what I love about Virtual Highway. The support these owners give when you become a resident is unlike any grid I have ever known.

So, with their help and help from Travis Hunter, also Melina Horten we have begun landscaping the ocean floor. We have sea turtles and giant mantas with more fish soon to come. We plan on working to bring all that we can to help educate about our oceans health.

Thank you Tiffany Magic, logger Sewell, Travis Hunter, Melina Horten, Kayaker Magic, and J.  We thank you for your undying love for our ocean.


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SLSA LV Dominion Open Heat Draws

The heat draws for the Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) LV Dominion Open have been announced. This is the third series event in the SLSA's historic 10th season.  The LV Dominion Open will be held on Saturday, April 21st at 11:00 am SLT on Jaguar.  Competitors are asked to be on site and ready to go at 10:45 am. The wave is the Maverick and the board is the SSi (5.1. 5.2, or 5.2dlg) Longboard.


The heat draws are as follows:

Heat 1
nevenjr Resident (RED)
Robbin Ember (BLUE)
Roxxie Verino (GREEN)
Violet Rain (ORANGE)
Surfista Hurricane (PURPLE)

Heat 2
Dixson Martian (RED)
lanky Silvercloud (BLUE)
Wilfrid Decuir (GREEN)
AllieJ (ORANGE)

Heat 3
Trista Potez (RED)
Mick Lunasea (BLUE)
Steve Bridger (GREEN)
CK Carver (ORANGE)

Time to head on over for some last minute practice. If you are not competing tomorrow, join us in the spectator stands for good music, good fun, and to cheer on those out on the waves. 

Surfers pre-qualifying for the Pro Event to be held Saturday, April 28th.
Sunrize Mornington
Bobbi Laval
Damiana Babcock
Abel Halderman
Zelda Zimberman
Jordan Mendle
Maldrul Morris
Cierra Theriac
Harbor Piers
Imzadi Amaterasu
Vic Bonetto
Petra Xaris
Rayzza Rubble
Revlon Benoir
Sally LaSalle
Ashoka Mosely
Buck Ghostraven
Lourinho Nizna
Giavannamarie Melody
Jen Gustafson
*Melian Catronis
*Clyde Barrow
*sweetrage4chu Jinx

* Melian, CClyde and Sweetrage4chu have equal rank and so all pre-qualify.



As posted on the SLSA Forum (http://surfslsa.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=53&t=2019)
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Mark Your Calendar for CelticMaiden Warrior!

When:  Tuesday, April 24, 5 PM PDT
Where:  Breakers Cove, Virtual Highway  VirtualHighway.us



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NOOB and NOW: Followingwaves Sirbu

Submitted by Jimbo the Cart Boy

We all know that change can be good, especially when it comes to our personal appearances. Your friends at SurfWatch are excited to bring to you a new ongoing feature we like to call "NOOB and NOW". Today we proudly present to you, Followingwaves: 

Followingwaves - NOOB

Followingwaves - NOW

Would you like to be featured in an upcoming NOOB and NOW posting?
Click this link for instructions:
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SLSA Team Member Informal Survey - Part 3

Submitted by Kantbe Thursday

Prompted by some of the questions about teams being asked by people who are new to surfing in Second Life® and the SL Surfing Association (SLSA), Surfwatch recently conducted an informal survey of surfers who are currently registered as team members for teams who have had competitors in the SLSA competitions over the past year. While individuals will not be identified by response, the nature of some responses may be a bit individually unique and suggest who provided that response. For the most part, any edits to responses were kept to a minimum in order to provide anonymity to all. (Editor's note: This is part of a continuing series as SurfWatch posts the survey questions and responses.)

SW: How does your team handle adding new members?


Any member can invite someone to join.

We've taken a lot of newcomers in that we've helped learn to surf, or are new to surfing.

If a surfer shows desire to ride in contests and can give up the time to ride them SurfCrazy may invite to join team. By invitation from Captain Mick.

The team leaders is pretty particular about who joins our team. We meet surfers on the beach and surf with them. If they have that soul that we are looking for we invite them to join us.

Very efficiently and with open arms. It is a very flat structure and the people are warm and friendly.

The team is pretty open to letting anyone want to try out. I usually like to add people with specific requirements in my mind. I usually like to know I can get along with the person and makes an effort into actually trying. Also someone who is enthusiastic!

If one cares to realize, use of a surfboard... is rather obvious

There is no magic formula, just whoever seems to fit and wants to join and has fun. We have been really fortunate to have some great surfers and more importantly really great people join over the past couple of seasons.

(Editor's note: Stay tuned to SurfWatch for the next part of the SLSA Team Member Informal Survey!)
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SurfSide Hideaway New Location!

Where to go to find live music, dancing, banter and fun in Second Life?    SurfSide Hideaway!  Now at a new location - check it out!



Check out their schedule of events and join the party!  
http://tinyurl.com/SurfsideHideaway
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See Sea Life in Virtual Highway

Submitted by Marianna Monentes



Amazing sea turtles and giant manta's swim the waters of Breaker's Cove. You can come and explore the cove with these amazing creatures created by Kayaker Magic at www.virtualhighway.us
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Surfing the Virtual Highway

Submitted by Marianna Monentes



Kantbe Thursday former Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) Director and winner of many surf competitions hits the Virtual Highway waves!!  You can see clearly why she has won many competitions.  Kantbe is a member of V.H.S.A. and you will be seeing her on the waves…welcome Kantbe.

VirtualHighway.us
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SLSA Team Member Informal Survey - Part 2

Submitted by Kantbe Thursday



Prompted by some of the questions about teams being asked by people who are new to surfing in Second Life® and the SL Surfing Association (SLSA), Surfwatch recently conducted an informal survey of surfers who are currently registered as team members for teams who have had competitors in the SLSA competitions over the past year. While individuals will not be identified by response, the nature of some responses may be a bit individually unique and suggest who provided that response. For the most part, any edits to responses were kept to a minimum in order to provide anonymity to all. (Editor's note: This is part of a continuing series as SurfWatch posts the survey questions and responses.)

SW: How did you pick the team to join?

I selected the first team who asked me to join.
I was born into mine I guess :P

I'm Surfcrazy

I wanted to help support the sim that supported a charity

I joined the first team that invited me. :) GO SURFCRAZY!!

I have been around the community for a while. I never really considered surfing competitively until this season. I thought I would like join a team. I loved the name of the team and called the owner Sally. When she explained it was more a of surfing zen experience I knew it was the right team for me.

My experience with Montego was very different from the others. They welcomed my wife and myself equally, even though, I was the surfer. They were humble and didn't try to exude a feeling of elitism about their team. The culture seemed to be more about, connecting with people. My wife and I felt welcomed into the Montego family, it was a no brainer to join when asked.

They bugged me long enough. No, really. They wanted me on the team, and they worked me over for a month or two before I finally gave in.

I didn't really have any intention to join any team and wanted to surf independently. I thought many of the teams were huge in numbers and I just thought I might get lost in it. But one of my teammates changed my mind, she was sweet and genuine about the whole approach. The team was super small at first but I found the team morale freshly appealing.

As far as picking the team,it picked me lol, well Jordan Halderman,then Mendle picked me after I won my first comp at Braata beach and I couldn't have been more thrilled,her, Bobbi, Gia and all the others made me feel like family and I'll never forget that.

That trick is classic as f*ck...gut and heart decide

Montego was initially formed as a successor to the former Cornish Beach team, which is where I first started to compete. At the time, Cornish needed surfers, and I got my first chance to compete. But the team has completely changed since then and is its own team now.

(Editor's note: Stay tuned to SurfWatch for the next part of the SLSA Team Member Informal Survey!)
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Time for a Cure Relay for Life Musical Event

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World Surfing Reserve

Submitted by Marianna Monentes

MANLY-FRESHWATER BEACHES IN SYDNEY CHOSEN FOR ‘WORLD SURFING RESERVE’ HONOUR100 YEARS OF SURFING IN AUSTRALIA


Kelly Slater named to officially declare Australia’s first ‘World Surfing Reserve’

February 16, 2012 – A century after the first surf board hit the waves on Australian shores at Manly and Freshwater beaches in Sydney, this historic site will be enshrined as Australia’s first World Surfing Reserve (WSR).

World Surfing Reserves recognize and help protect the finest surfing sites in the world, inspired by UNESCO’s World Heritage model recognizing outstanding zones of universal value. Manly-Freshwater will become only the third WSR to be declared in the world to date.

Kelly Slater, WSR Ambassador and 11-time world surfing champion from the USA, will officially declare the WSR honour at a civic ceremony on Saturday, March 10, 2012 at Manly Beach. It will be the first time Slater has undertaken such a duty outside competition, as he has stated that ‘Australia has the world’s best beaches’ and rates many waves among his ‘favourites’. The Sydney event will also mark the Centenary of surfing in Australia. Governor Marie Bashir will also attend the ceremony.

“I'm very stoked to be working alongside WSR to lend a voice and help ensure we honor and recognize the beaches that have brought all of us the lifestyle we love so much,” said Slater.

The ceremony will officially establish this 4 km prime surfing coastline as a World Surfing Reserve, joining other iconic surfing locations already enshrined including Malibu, California (2010) and Ericeira, Portugal (2011).

Proven to be the ‘birthplace of Australian surfing’, with the earliest surfing activities conducted in the late 1880’s, Manly and Freshwater beaches in Sydney are iconic. Surfing has helped mold the unique culture of Sydney, the largest city in Australia, combining the vibrant and cosmopolitan character with a natural coastal lifestyle.

“Manly hosted the first World Surfboard-riding Championship in 1964, which was won by Australian’s ‘Midget’ Farrelly and Phyllis O’Donnell. Since those days, there has grown a long list of locals, including surfers and surf lifesavers, who have won national and world championships,” said Mayor of Manly Jean Hay AM and Chair of the Local World Surfing Reserve Steering Committee.

The history that Manly-Freshwater encompasses is a vital part of Australia’s heritage:

•       It was the site of Australia’s first legal daylight bathing in 1902
•       It hosted the first known body surfing contest in 1908
•       It was the launch site of Australia’s first official surf patrol boat
•       The first surf board riding was performed here in 1912
•       Freshwater hosted Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku in Australia’s first ever surfing demonstration in 1914

"This spot marks the genesis of surfing in Australia, a sport, pastime, industry and culture emblematic of our nation’s image,” said Brad Farmer of World Surfing Reserves. “Surfing in Australia has come of age after a century, with Kelly Slater encouraging coastal users to think about the real value of these irreplaceable resources. This is a historic moment for all Australians and their long and patriotic love affair with surfing and beaches,” said Mr Farmer.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, the coastal and marine environment of the Manly-Freshwater World Surfing Reserve provides habitat for an important ecosystem. The Reserve boasts one of the largest resident populations of protected weedy sea dragons and a number of threatened and protected species including the eastern water dragon lizard, the grey nurse shark and little penguins. Additionally, more than 160 species of fish have been recorded in the waters of the Reserve.
 
“What better spot than Manly-Freshwater for a World Surfing Reserve?” remarked Mayor Jean Hay AM. “This place has it all, and I’m delighted to see it get the recognition it deserves.”


“Manly-Freshwater can now take its rightful place in the history of world surfing. Manly-Freshwater is where surfing started its journey as one of Australia’s national obsessions,” said Michael Regan, the Mayor of the Warringah Council which also has jurisdiction of the Manly-Freshwater beaches.

About World Surfing Reserves

World Surfing Reserves (WSR) proactively identifies, designates and preserves outstanding waves, surf zones and their surrounding environments around the world. WSR is an initiative launched by Save the Waves Coalition (USA) in 2009 in conjunction with National Surfing Reserves (Australia) and other partners.

For more information: www.worldsurfingreserves.org
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Surfing the Virtual Highway

Submitted by Marianna Monentes





Melina Horten rises to the Top!! Check out Mel as she takes this wave! This is amazing as she has only been surfing for 2 days!!  Mel Great Job!

VirtualHighway.us
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Up Close and Personal: Imzadi "Zadi" Amaterasu

Submitted by Cierra Theriac

SurfWatch Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) special correspondent, Cierra Theriac, recently met with newly elected SLSA Director, Imzadi "Zadi" Amaterasu, to share more about her background and interests with the virtual surfing community.



SurfWatch (SW): Tell us how you got involved in Second Life (SL) surfing?
Imzadi Amaterasu (IA): I have to give that credit to DJ Dan. He asked me to help him with competitions hosting and keeping track of local chat while he got requests and loaded them up. The crowd was great and the surfing looked so much fun.

SW:  You have served one term as a director previously. What prompted your decision to run for SLSA Director again?
IA: Well besides the fact that I am a workaholic *laughs* I guess I would have to say the desire to be involved.

SW:  What areas of improvement do you currently see for the SLSA as an organization?
IA: Staffing is a major concern at the moment that we need to improve on. It seems like the same people month after month are working comps.

SW:  What do you see as the top issues facing SL surfing in general, and what do you see as your first priority as an SLSA director?
IA: The top issue I see facing SL surfing in general are the creators. I dont mean to offend any of them and its not about blaming either. There has been a definite absence of surfing creators who develop both board scripting and waves. Now RL could of manifested its ugly self taking them away, we all know how that goes but I think we all have seen where some people just move on to the next big thing. I hope thats not the case and nothing too bad has happened to any of them but I am concerned if their absence continues and no new development occurs, what the future of SL surfing will become. Ya, we can always hop on a Sunset but with SL always changing ya never know what can break. We all know how they like the break stuff and give us headaches.

SW:  The SLSA modified the 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 judge comps. Now if a surfer judges a competition they are "given rank points for that event equal to their averaged surfing place for the season." Do you feel this will address the issue of getting more surfers to volunteer to judge and how do your feel about everyone still being able to drop their lowest score for the season?
IA: I think its an awesome incentive and is a fair way to give the judges credit for spending 3+ sometimes 5+ hours on a saturday rather than being in the spectator stands having fun but.. do I think it will get more volunteers, I would have to say no, I dont. To be honest, I dont know what will. In the past we have tried letting the community know we were low on staff and formed classes, but how many of those who took the class actually put it to use? I know several did and props to them for hearing the cry for help and following thru but how many didnt. I am tryin to get classes formed for April for both judges and marshall.
As for the dropping of the lowest score for the season.. whew.. I know there are just days when its all down hill. So thats a great thing if someone is just having an off day.

SW: There has been discussion and polling of surfers about allowing other board types and wave types other than SSi.  The SLSA is planning one competition this season with LSD boards. What are your thoughts on allowing other scripts into the competition season?
IA: Im on the fence about this to be honest. I see both the pros and cons. It will give a challenge to people to learn new boards and new styles, a new freshness to comps. However now everyone knows how these boards work. By this I am meaning, in order to have a LSD board comp, I would think the judges would have to know what a LSD board can do. How else can they judge fairly on handling of board, smoothness of ride, trick etc. They can visually see it but they might not know the skill needed to carve. Personally my first official board was a LSD and I found it more advanced, it definitely takes skill.
Another factor that makes me on the fence is overall fairness to the other board makers. I've heard a lot of stories of the past and I can agree some people were wronged but is it fair to the riders who love these other manufacturer boards. Is it right to endorse one maker and not the others. Is it right to base the decision of allowing other boards on a single persons opinion of a manufacturer.
I could go on and on about this but I wont bore you. But you can see why I am on the fence. Most of my thoughts about it contradict one another and I just cant come to a final thought because there is so many things to consider.
Dislike the creator, not the board. The board just wants to find the perfect wave.

SW: That's it for the tough questions. (Laughs)
IA: Geez, I was about to get a headache with those tough questions but they needed addressed. I hate being so negative but the only way to find issues and get them resolved isnt by putting on a smiling face and say theres nothing wrong. Its done by realizing whats going on, addressing it, and ramming it down with a giant 4x4 LOL

SW: What board is your current favorite and why?
IA: My current fav is my Surfcrazy board cause my sweetie made it for me. Yes, Im biased. LOL

SW: What wave is your current favorite and why?
IA: The Sunset by High Performance has always been one of my favorite waves.

SW: What are some of your favorite SL surfing spots and why?
IA: Aside from our home sim that we surf on, which is my favorite because its private, I would have to say Braata and Monkey. Monkey cause of its 200m Sunset and Braata cause of the open feel of the sim and I love the sharks.

SW:  Anything else you would like readers to know about you?
IA: Relay For Life is very close to me. The RFL season started in March and runs till July. If you see donation kiosks, I encourage you to drop some linden in them. To me, it doesnt matter which team it goes to. All money ends up to the same place, American Cancer Society. We are also taking cash USD donations too this year that go straight to ACS. Cancer effects so many peoples lives and the lives of their families. By relaying and spreading the message, we can give the support to the researchers who work diligently to try and find a cure that takes so many peoples lives. If you would like details on how to participate or information on how to donate, please contact me. And lastly, I have a secret!

SW: I want to thank for taking the time to talk to us and letting us get to know you a little better.
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Virtual Highway Update!

Submitted by Marianna Monentes

Virtual Highway has exciting news that will change how residents live their daily lives.  We now have voice enabled!  The next time you pop InWorld check it out!!

VirtualHighway.us
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SLSA Team Member Informal Survey - Part 1

Submitted by Kantbe Thursday

Prompted by some of the questions about teams being asked by people who are new to surfing in Second Life® and the SL Surfing Association (SLSA), Surfwatch recently conducted an informal survey of surfers who are currently registered as team members for teams who have had competitors in the SLSA competitions over the past year.  While individuals will not be identified by response, the nature of some responses may be a bit individually unique and suggest who provided that response.  For the most part, any edits to responses were kept to a minimum in order to provide anonymity to all.  (Editor's note:  This is part of a continuing series as SurfWatch posts the full survey questions and responses.)

SW: What does being on a surfing team mean to you?
Support. We all share what we have learned about how to surf in SL and we encourage each other to do better. We praise each other for our accomplishments and comfort each other over failures.

Adds another goal for the season i guess, and can push one to do better in a competition knowing their teammates are rooting for them, and counting on them.

Team Surfcrazy is a Surfcrazy Surf Shop sponsored team. Following tradition of RL sponsors, Surfcrazy supplies riders garments and surfboards. Other teams are more of a surf club. I enjoy being able to ride with friends and family, sponsor them as well. 

A chance to make friends, encourage on another.

Being associated with friends and getting tips, tricks, etc. that are exclusive to the team.

Being a part of something bigger then just logging into SL each day. Gives me a goal to try and reach. Practicing to achieve something and be ranked up with the best in SL.

Our team T'ai Ch'i Zen is one of the smaller teams.  Our focus on the harmony and joy of surfing together.  We are not really worried about points or rank as we are about being there for each other.

A community within the greater SL surfing community. A community of like minded individuals with shared values and an honest feeling of good-will and wanting the best for each other.

It's all fun! I like hanging out and talking to my other teammates. We all get along and encourage each other.  

Being a member of The ReefRiders means a  great deal to me, I'm a proud Reefie from the first time I got to wear the tag as a noob to S/L it gave me a sense of belonging and ambition to do my best ..for myself and my team

( like  freeboobing....extremely exciting) or  (pointless and stupid )

Being on Montego means a lot to me, but most important, it means my friends. Not to exclude other surfers, but at a point when the team almost split up, four of us, decided to just try another season, surfing as friends, for the fun, and that is most important.  

(Editor's note:  Stay tuned to SurfWatch for the next part of the SLSA Team Member Informal Survey!)
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Mark Your Calendar! It's Time for a Cure Coming up!


Don't miss it!  Coming up April 15!!!

Date:  Sunday, April 15
Time:  12 - 6 PM SLT
Place:  Second Life, Straight Tequila Nights
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CelticMaiden WarriorLancaster LIVE Today!!!

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VHSA - Surfing the Virtual Highway

Submitted by Marianna Monentes


Travis Hunter and I took a wave ALL the WAY to da beach together on a wave like our own party wave!!  We weaved back and forth without crashing into each other all the way in !!!  It was his very first time ever and he made it look more believable than me - lmao!!  For the first timers who have never ever been on a board this is GREAT!
Travis Hunter takes his shot at the waves riding BombOra SurfWatch fishboard scripted by Kayaker Magic!! Looking great Travis!!
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BREAKING NEWS!!! TSUNAMI WATCH ISSUED

Submitted by Jimbo the Cart Boy

On Easter Sunday, a message crackled over the SLSA group chat at 9:32 PM SLT from somewhere near Easter Island in the vast Pacific Ocean….

Pova Rustamova: "Hey everyone, an Easter gift from MaryAnn (Maa) and Me. Tsunami Beach to be reborn. More to follow in the days to come..."

SurfWatch has deployed Tsunami warning buoys in the area and will alert you immediately at the first signs of surfable waves!

SurfWatch's tsunami early warning buoy system
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SLSA LV Dominion Open Registration

Submitted by Cierra Theriac

Registration has opened for the Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) LV Dominion Open and Pro competition. This is the third series to be held in historic Season 10. The event will be held on the sim of Jaguar http://slurl.com/secondlife/Jaguar/129/234/23. The event will feature SSi Longboards on the 100m Maverick wave. The Open is scheduled to be on Saturday, April 21th (11am SLT) and the Pro will be on Saturday, April 28th (11am SLT). Registration will close at midnight SLT on Thursday, April 19th.


To register head over to the SLSA forum http://surfslsa.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=2011. Then it is off to Jaguar to start practicing. See you out on the waves!
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NOOB and NOW: Dahvie Vanity

Submitted by Jimbo the Cart Boy

We all know that change can be good, especially when it comes to our personal appearances. Your friends at SurfWatch are excited to bring to you a new ongoing feature we like to call "NOOB and NOW". Today we proudly present to you, Dahvie Vanity: 

Dahvie Vanity - NOOB

Dahvie Vanity - NOW

Would you like to be featured in an upcoming NOOB and NOW posting?
Click this link for instructions:
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PixelObsessions Easter Comp Results


PixelObsessions and LiveWaves Music venue presented an Old School, Vibe Stoked Surf Comp on April 8th, Easter Sunday.

Robin Mapp and his Mrs. Monq Pinklady Mapp with Lissa Sands, Mick Lunasea and JT and Shi Castanea worked some cool time to present this event.

Single sim comp with the lag monster on our heels we held together to make this comp a cool vibe.  Thanks to all who participated.

Winner was VW Sands....when was the last time we saw this dude surf?

Second place was a tie with Robin Mapp and Sunrize Mornington and our third place went to Petra Xaris.

We learned a lot and are already preparing the next comp to be held somewhere on an awesome surf sim.

Stay tuned into PixelObsessions  http://slurl.com/secondlife/Costa%20Iberia/108/42/28

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PixelObsessions Surf Comp and Party Today!




PixelObsessions Comp Rez Area http://slurl.com/secondlife/Costa%20Iberia/111/215/21

LiveWaves Music Venue http://slurl.com/secondlife/Costa%20Iberia/44/223/26
THE DAY WILL END WITH SOME AWESOME LIVE MUSIC AT THE LIVEWAVES MUSIC VENUE...
LiveWaves Music Venue http://slurl.com/secondlife/Costa%20Iberia/44/223/26
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Registration Deadline PixelObsessions Surf Comp!


Deadline to register is today!
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A New Golden Age

Submitted by Syx Toshi

June 23, 2003, it’s been a while! For all that don’t know that date, it's the day Second Life (SL) was launched by Linden Labs (LL). Now I’m sure the world that came into existence that day was very different from what we see today. Like SL itself, our little community of surfers and beach loving avatars have changed over the years.  Our waves, boards, even appearances only have a passing resemblance to their predecessors.


I first experienced SL in the Beta phase.  Hated it and didn’t try it again until 2007. Recently I have been away from the surfing scene and SL as a whole for over 6 months, just popping in here and there when my schedule would permit. It seems like a lot of my oldest friends and acquaintances are doing the same. Upon my return I was hit with the terrible news that Tsunami Beach was being retired. Tsunami was one of my very favorite places and Colleen (Brennan) made me feel welcome from the moment I met her.

We, like all of SL, have seen highs and low, but one thing is constant is evolution. Old friends return to the beach less frequently, but we also meet new eager friends discovering SL and surfing in SL for the first time. Can you remember when you saw your first wave? You were probably as mesmerized as I was. I had explored the many landscapes and worlds here in SL and couldn’t believe it when I stumbled on a beach where there were waves, and then spotting someone paddling out on a board I almost jumped out of my avatar skin!

Surfing in SL is where I found my home, the beaches, waves, boards and most importantly people were what I was looking for. Even with the drama of competitions, organizations, creators, you name it, one thing is constant; we all live and breath SL surfing. We love it!

Returning to SL has been somewhat melancholy for me. I am sad to see great beaches and people no longer here. I was feeling really down and was really thinking about packing it in. I have been coming in world here and there talking to a few friends, but I was so down about “how it used to be”, I didn’t even like going in my own shop.

This past Saturday the Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) had a surf competition at Monkey Cove. Although I couldn’t be at the competition past the opening heat, something I didn’t expect happened; My mood changed! It was a simple thing really, just talking here and there with the surfers competing really made me feel happy. For me there were names I had never seen before and new surfers truly excited, and some nervous about competing.

This was a great experience for me. There are certainly people in surfing that have been here and involved much longer then me, but my AV’s also no spring chicken. I’ve seen what some have said was the apex of SL excitement. I recently read an article that SL is primed for a renaissance. With changes in management and the in-world experience, some are saying LL could see an influx of new users and in turn new exciting advancements. http://massively.joystiq.com/category/second-life/

Slowly I’m starting to feel the same about my own SL experience. I feel some sort of small energy out there that if nurtured could explode into a new golden age. This isn’t only for SL but for our own little corner of the world. With new beaches and new surfers dipping their toe in the virtual water, it’s up to all of us to welcome them into the pool. The more we can look at our sport and favorite pastime in new creative ways, the more people we can include. Just like everything that exists or ever existed, we must evolve or go the way of the dinosaur. I would love to hear comments from everyone and as always I enjoy the negative as much as the positive.
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