Ah, well, look here. The fifth (or was that fourth?) IMMY Awards. What an interesting journey it's been! If you haven't read the herstory of the IMMYs, there is a link at the bottom of this page. This year they were the Millenium IMMYs (I know, I know... none of that straightlaced stuff about 2001 being the millenium, it matters not to me).

The Awards were started (and maintained for the first two ceremonies, at least) out of a spirit of fun and sharing; a celebration of community. And, I truly believe, they WERE that. Of course, way "back then" the community was much smaller. It's grown now, and has developed, as things are wont to do. This is fitting. But, I'm afraid, the IMMYs themselves, no longer fit. I would much prefer to see them pass on into the mists of memory than to serve another purpose than initially intended. For those of you who have found them offensive, for whatever reason, I extend my own personal apologies. They were not intended for this purpose.

I thank all of you who have supported them over the years. I've had a couple people of ask me why I continue to do the IMMYs. Other than what has already been stated, let's just say that I love a good party. I've been involved in theatre for a long time, and producing the IMMYs, even though they are online and "virtual", has been just like producing a live stage show. It's been frustrating, irritating, exhausting - and rewarding, fun and a joy.

I especially want to thank those people who have helped me run the show - Resident_Princess_Geek, who is a close personal friend of mine online and IRL, has helped me out 2 years running (it's interesting what our perceptions are of people when we develop them based only on "virtual" contact with a person - Lori is a dear friend and a good person and I am very grateful to have her as a friend -yes, Lori, the colors this year were for you! *grin* ), Lord_Vaden helped me out this year on the technical end, which I desperately needed assistance in (another case of "virtual" contact - Vaden is a personal friend too, honest and a good person), Yodwynn helped me "behind the scenes" this year, and it was appreciated beyond words (Yod is just a sweetheart in every way). And of course, all of you who have served as my "presenters" over the course of all of the ceremonies - you are all "stars" in my eyes. I recommend getting to know them all, really getting to know them. I know that I'm thankful these people are in my life. I wish more people would take the time to dig under the "virtual facade" a little bit - I think we would all be pleasantly surprised at the immense potential these other people have for enriching our lives.

...But, as I was saying, I'm older now, and more tired, and very busy IRL and I care very much for my friends at the Lake and for all of the Lake in general. So, this seems a fitting time to retire the IMMY Awards, let them pass into the previous millenium as just another piece of Lake history. I love you all... and so, the IMMYs are no more.  Let us move on...