It is interesting the amount of work it has taken to get where we are.  It is interesting at the different friends we have seen come and go, or just temporarily go to "other worlds."  Our friendships and bonds are strong and we call each other friend.  This all from an idea or a group of ideas. 

It is hard to imagine what it was like before Destiny for me.   Destiny is like an everyday reality really.  I miss it when I'm away, and I want to make it better when I am there.  I am proud when I see others enjoying what Destiny provides.  I know it can provide even more.

That is why I feel it is time for me to let someone else take it further.  I am stepping down as Mayor of Destiny.  My time at this position has run its course, for Destiny and for myself.  I have put forth what I believe Destiny should embody, that of diversity and acceptance.  I have tried to provide a place for all types of social friendly activities to be born and grow. 

I am proud at what we have accomplished and it has not been at a small price.  We didn't choose the easy road to develop this broad range of activity and interest.  It is, however, the most rewarding.  There is yet many more avenues for Destiny and I do have a person in mind for my support in replacing me.   This will be decided democratically mind you.

I have asked Hyz (never remember the full spelling) to run the election.  In my mind, she is the most impartial and well known individual in Destiny.  She will go into the specifics of how she wants the election to be run.   Basically, there will be a registration phase, nomination phase, and then a voting phase.  We will try not to draw this out too much so we can get a new leader into the position.  I will, of course, continue my duties until that final vote has been cast.   Now for my nomination (I'm already registered.)

I give full support to Carina.  I believe she will keep the programs, interests, and ideals of this community as they are, but introduce many more that are needed.  Her support and activities in the roleplaying community amaze me especially remembering how she started in our "world."  At first, she was quite reluctant to communicate with others.  In fact, I believe she left our world for awhile and returned.  I remember my first meeting with her (I didn't know who I was talking to....thought it was just a new friend looking for citizenship.)

I hope that I had something to do with her further involvement in our community.  I do know that she accomplished much more than I had even thought.   She is level headed and opts for peace rather than violence in situations.   However, she does not back down from a good fight if forced. 

She has the enthusiasm that it takes to get new ideas and programs going.  She has the tools and interest in keeping the communication going on these pages and more to come.  I could go on, but I think most of you know that she would be a great candidate in this position of diplomacy and judgement for the masses. 

To answer what you are going to probably ask, no, I am not quitting UO.  I will be playing just as much as before and I hope to be put into a position of perhaps advisor.  I will help with the websites as best I can and will always support Destiny in general.  My involvment in Destiny will not decrease, but it will be in a different manner.  As many of you know I have characters in most all the different factions in Destiny.  If you don't know then you'll just have to find out who they are *wink.*

Look to the boards for more information from Hyz on how exactly to be involved in the election process.  I am looking forward to seeing how this all ends up.  Whatever happens, I'm sure it will be the best for Destiny.

--Dren Jootz, Mayor of Destiny