Malibu mentioned during the infamous Trial that y'all had an active Greeter & Mentor Program ... shall we give that a boost? I'm not sure what's happened in the past with this - can someone pls fill us in with a brief history (so we don't have to reinvent the wheel)?
Calling for volunteers to greet & mentor the newer folk within our community ... maybe post whether you can be a Greeter (hang out at the LMs into Anty - the dock and in town) or Mentor [um, like a Corporal (military) or First Mate (navy & pirate)]
... whats the best time(s) that you're available? Is it possible to use the ning for a roster (if we want to be that organised)?
As a relatively new member of the Antiquity Community, I would like to offer some thoughts on what is has been like to be a visitor & new member.
"Chinitadoll Blaisdale" & I first visited Antiquity after visiting Jabberwock. We had been involved in sword-play there, but were looking for places to experience sailing & sea battle. We visited Antiquity without any real prior knowledge of it. Upon arrival, we met "Prissy206 Hammond" who politely welcomed us & gave us notecards with information about Antiquity. She did so "in-character" with all the charm of a proper lady of the period. We were impressed without being turned off by the roleplay.
We eventually found the Battle Dock in Port Royale and met "Eddy Cannonball", "Bosun", & "Hayaz Avril". Chini & I were able to experience sea battle as gunners for Bosun & Hayaz. This allowed us to experience the fun of sea battle without first investing the Lindens or training. We were immediately excited with the anticipation of getting our own vessels and joining in the fun! We later met "Oma Larnia" and "Thomas" who offered opinions and insight on the various TSS & SPD ships for sale. Buying a ship is a MAJOR step for a new-comer!
I truly believe that the exposure to sea battle (along with skirmishes between Navy & Pirates) can ignite the enthusiasm of a new-comer and capture their interest in Antiquity. Chini has recently allowed a friend of ours the chance to be gunner of her ship during a battle (9/6/09). I fully expect to hear enthusiastic feedback from her experience that will get her (& her friends too) to be active in Antiquity. The process is reminiscent of Seth Godin's book, "Tribes", when he describes the power of word of mouth among members to "grow the tribe".
Chini & I have since met MANY others (too many to name individually) who have all contributed to our enjoyment of Antiquity - Pirates & Navy (shudders) alike. Our positive experience has led other SL friends of ours to take an interest in the region. I believe it was "Bridget Jennings" who told me that the charm of Antiquity is in its members - such is the absolute truth! I encourage each of us to be patient of newcomers and welcome them "in-character" with encouragement to explore, enjoy, & eventually participate in the activities and charms of our community.
I believe the Greeters & Mentors program (formal or informal) will be the "hook" that yields "a good catch" for Antiquity.
Hold to the Code,
Joh
PS: Chini & I believe it would be a GREAT benefit to Aniquity to somehow encourage more sword fights or contests of swordplay - just another feature to enjoy in the realm. Caribia or SaZan (unsolicited plugs) might be able to offer ideas for a setting for an arena and regular contests.
Thanks for sharing that Joh - great story! Big welcome to you and Chinita!
As for the swordplay - oh yeah, you are so right there. Last week a gang of pirates laid siege to RAN headquarters after reports they held a pirate prisoner there. The pirates came off best, thanks to Marley and others, though we had to lick our wounds afterwards and practice up on melee. I've since learned that the Marie Galante sim has a melee training area, or combat zone, which is ideal to come to terms with the swords and muskets.
I'd personally like to see a melee happen during the ten minutes 'no-rez' period after someone is sunk. Gives people something to do while they wait to rejoin the sea battle.
Have you joined the forum? http://www.antiquitycommunity.com/phpbb/ Whilst this ning is for socialising, we discuss the various issues affecting the Antiquity sims in greater depth on the forum. Thanks again Joh for sharing your story :)