2003-12-10: Stargazer Comments: A Community that Cares

Stargazer Comments: A Community that Cares

Dec 10 2003 4:40PM

As the end of the year draws close, like many of you, I tend to take stock of what I have achieved this year. I think about my professional achievements, of course, but I also contemplate family moments and times when I reached out beyond my immediate circle to the greater community to give something to others. I take time to reflect on how lucky I am both with my incredible work environment and my wonderful family and hope that I am sharing some of my heart with others.

In looking back at the year with respect to the Ultima Online community, I see so many shining moments. I remember the time when one of our board hosts reached out to save a player who was having a rough time. I think about all the stories of people helping people in-game. I think back with pride on the players who contributed to special charities and reached out to others in need. And, finally, I think about the in-game tributes for those extra-special people we have lost. I feel really lucky to be a part of such a diverse and devoted community, and on behalf of Origin and EA I want to thank all of you for making UO the warm and welcoming world it is. If communities like ours are the future of online, then the future looks bright!

In closing, I would like to say that there are some fun ways to thank those who have helped you out in-game, put a smile on a Guild mate’s face or just surprise someone with some UO cheer. This year, for the first time ever, we are offering a program called UO Gift of Giving, which will allow you to purchase a Game Time code for a friend and give it to them via an in-game holiday greeting. We are also creating a holiday-themed Magic Moments event. We just sent out Anniversary registration codes to all active opt-in players to share with friends and loved ones, offering those significant others a chance to join you in UO and see our community of friends firsthand (By the way, more UO boxes will be hitting retail shelves any day now — just in time for the holidays!). So, gather round the PC, decorate your virtual house with some great new gifts you will soon be receiving, and celebrate being part of the greatest community online!

You can be sure that we have lots of great surprises planned for you next year that should give you all good cheer! So take a moment this holiday season to share some virtual goodwill and be thankful for everything you have, including your friends in UO!

Happy Holidays!

Debysue "Stargazer" Wolfcale

Director of Marketing/Media Relations