Normally, I try to be as neutral as possible when I cover other sites' content, but Newsweek has made this difficult with this video. If for some reason you don't see it with that link, it's on the link of pages referred to here.

What they've done right with this video: To begin, Jessica Bennett, the correspondent covering the story, is not the stereotypical webgeek that many non-SL users imagine residents to be in their real lives. She's attractive and well-spoken, and is comfortable with SL, leading me to believe she really is a resident, and not just a reporter assigned to the story.

Next, they give Wheelies some excellent coverage, which instantly puts the audience on SL's side. Who would be so dastardly as to deny the empowerment of someone suffering from Cerebral Palsy? And while I've not been there myself, it looks like a pretty happening place. When my self-imposed SL Sabbatical™ is over, I'm gonna check it out! (Incidentally: Simon's wheelchairs are awesome!)


Jessica's machine gives her great framerates; better than mine. Working for Newsweek does have its perks! And by the way, can anyone identify the musician on-stage at Wheelies?

Final word from Jessica: While SL clearly doesn't replace RL, for this age of increasing isolation, it provides a welcome means of reaching out and interacting with a community of like-minded citizens. Well done, Newsweek, I salute you.