Returning to a place you once frequented and finding that it has changed can be rather disappointing. Maybe the places you once loved are now gone, and the replacements just don't meet your expectations. Let me elaborate:
Hi, I'm hoopnotic, but I used to be known as chilibean. According to the City Records, I last logged on as chilibean on August 17, 2005, nearly two years ago. I used to be a very active member of Whyville: chatting, playing games, and writing for the Times (in fact, you can still read my articles in the archives), but after awhile I just lost interest. About two weeks ago I decided to find out what was going on in Whyville. I was sad to discover that I could no longer use my old screen name as it had been too long since my last login. So, I made my new account and proceeded toward my old stomping-grounds.
Oh the shock I experienced! What had happened to my beloved town?! There were cars everywhere, colored speech bubbles, places to discuss video games, and so much more! Oh my! It had really happened: Whyville had sold out to the man! (Or, more specifically, advertisers.)
I took a deep breath, and told myself there had to be a logical explanation for this. I remembered not long before I left Whyville as chilibean that the City Workers were beginning to consider advertising to keep the website running. I have to give them some credit for that, because running a website is not cheap. I decided to give this new Whyville a chance, and I have to say, I was actually pretty impressed.
I would say that I was the most skeptical of the Scions. What's the point, other than to have a flashy car you can brag about? Then I realized that there's a whole section of Club Scion devoted to learning about loans and credit scores, the things that can make-or-break you in the real world. I was also impressed by the climate center, where Whyvillians can learn about climate change. And of all the new things I discovered, I absolutely love the new WhyEat game. I vaguely remember when this program was being developed and I'm very impressed by what it has become. As a nursing student, I am more than well aware of the obesity problem we face in America, and WhyEat is an excellent way for kids to learn how to balance their meals so they can stay healthy and happy.
I've really got to give you credit, Whyville. You did what was necessary to keep the town up and running, but education, the heart and soul of Whyville, still exists in a very big way.
Signing off, this is hoopnotic, the user formerly known as chilibean.
