The past week was a phenomenal one for the West of Ireland. Our community was full of life and both new friends and old were exceptionally generous with donations. Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteers, or contributed. Some highlights of the week:

- Near Island was host to Gilbert Sapwood’s first official storytelling in Second Life. His choice of stories to share was outstanding and his delivery brought the tales to life. The sim reached capacity, and with the addition of remote listeners, Shoutcast reach capacity, too. We’ll have this fixed before Mr. Sapwood’s next event so that all who wish to enjoy his talents can.

- DJ Stev Foden hosted a four hour Saturday Beach Party on Bundoran that was a roaring success. Stev’s music collection is without parallel in Second Life and we danced to songs ranging from good old rock and roll to experimental music. Due to popular demand, Stev will now also be hosting a dance on Wedesdays at Noon on the deck of Nancy Blake’s.

- The Cezanne Barbosa exhibition opened at the Keeler Gallery to wide acclaim. Cezanne’s work captures the spirit and emotions of his subjects, whether landscapes or portraits. Please make sure to visit the Gallery (to the southeast of Nancy Blake’s) during the run of this exhibition. A percentage of any purchase made at the exhibition goes directly to Project Children.

- RL Dublin rocker, Mash Rhode, gave his first concert at Nancy Blake’s on Sunday night. Despite the impromptu nature of the performance, there was a packed house. Mash’s vocals and guitar were both outstanding during this solo performance. Look for announcements of other performance dates for Mash, possibly as early as the weekend.

- The West of Ireland hosted its first wedding this weekend! Selena Toland and Jimbo Qinin were joined in matrimony in a beautiful ceremony on Crab Island. A reception was then held in the new pavilion, designed and donated by Arch Angel Construction, in the center of the West of Ireland’s main island. Best wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity to the newlyweds. Since the pavilion was build, we’ve been receiving requests to host more weddings and events. Padula Bing has graciously agreed to become our wedding coordinator. Thank you, Padula! If you are interested in having your wedding in the West of Ireland, either in the pavilion or on one of the other sims, please contact Padula. Events can be hosted in exchange for a donation to Project Children. Additionally, if you happen to have wedding items in your inventory that you aren’t likely to use again, please consider donating or lending them for use at WOI events. Your donation or loan will directly result in donations to Project Children. Please contact Padula.