Going, Going... Gone

 'Gone' is not a word we want to hear - not if you're talking about a grid being gone, especially if the gone grid is OSGrid. 

The historic 'Test Grid' of OpenSimulator, OSGrid, just celebrated its 15th anniversary. As tradition demands, in a couple of weeks there will be a Fundraiser Auction to help bring in some money to support the grid.

So here are some fundraiser questions, do you agree with these answers?

• Why does OSGrid need a Fundraiser?

OSgrid doesn't charge rent to its users. You can attach your regions to the grid for free, you can use the amenities, including having a free plot of land on the Residential Sims. The grid is administered by senior members who volunteer their time and talent. That free effort on their part doesn't cover the cost of the servers,  of course. Those need to be paid for in real world money

• I don't have a big income, would my small contribution really make a difference?

Yes! Every little helps. If you can make a small regular monthly contribution, that helps the grid admins to plan the grid's expenses, but of course a lump sum is also very welcome.

• My main residence is on another grid. Can I contribute to OSGrid... and why should I give?

Yes, you can certainly contribute to OSGrid even if you're not a regular user. Why consider a donating? OSgrid is the Test grid for Opensimulator. That means any changes and improvements are tested here, before other grids try them. So - think of it as feeding the guinea pig.

• How do I send money?

You can contribute via Credit cards, PayPal, checks or money orders. The Donate page on the OSGrid website makes the whole thing pretty simple. There are 8 Admins, located in RL all around the world, so you should be able to get hold of one of them if you have any difficulties or questions. 

• How does the fundraising auction help?

The Fundraising Auction is a special way of supporting the grid. Caro Fayray is organizing the items being donated, so contact her on OSgrid (or any of the Admins you see online, that's Foxx Bode, Sarah Kline, Aussie Envee, Wizard Azathoth, Dan Banner,  Paela Argus, Albertlr Landar, and Jim Jackson) if you have something you would like to be included in the Auction. 

If you're a builder, you can contribute an original, no-copy thing made by you. Could be as big as an OAR, or as small as a piece of jewelry. Perhaps you can offer a service instead of an object. Whatever it may be, it should not be copiable or available elsewhere - otherwise it kind of defeats the purpose of the Auction.

• What kind of items will be on offer at the auction? 

You can view the auction items, on hg.osgrid.org:80:ECHO 1

If you want to give something - do so now!  Don't wait!
At the beginning of October, these donations will be put up for Auction for real money go to the OSGrid donation funds. It's as simple as that!