Rodney McGimsie's Ring Ceremony at Cafe LaPe'rouse @ Austin

A report by blogger Melinda Nyn on Rodney McGimsie's Ring Ceremony held at Cafe LaPe'rouse @ Austin on December 27, 2014. I should like to add that I have always held Rodney in high regard. He was one of the first to greet me in Austin, and friend me as well. I send him my warmest congratulations and wish him all the best in his endeavors in SL and RL!

A flurry of gorgeous gowns and  handsome Masters in tuxes gathered at the  imposing Ceremonial Arch at the heart of Austin on December 27, 2014 to celebrate the graduation of Master Rodney McGimsie. After months of deep study, both theoretical and practical, he was to receive his O ring and become a full Master.

Master Ratzu called the twittering masses to order and began by acknowledging all levels of members of the community - from the humble Amiees who organize events to the Girls in Study, Tyro Masters working towards their own graduations and the fully-fledged  O Girls and Masters. Then he  continued by inviting Rodney and his mentors, Sir  Jonathan and Sir Crux, to the stage.

It was interesting to discover that Sir Rodney had changed mentors at some stage  - Sir  Jonathan announced, in the opening of his speech, that he had only been so for a short while. He went on to congratulate Rodney on his achievement. Sir Crux, on the other hand was very forthright:

"When you arrived here I could sense we had a very a strong Master in the making.... You tested us, challenged us, and yes, pissed us off at times. You and I, let's say, tested our boundaries on manly talk... to put it mildly. But through it all you listened and persevered, keeping your eye on the prize and trudging on. ...."

It seems that Rafe also mentored Sir Rodney towards the end of his training and, although not present, he sent a message via O Girl Sassy Snoodle.  Others who spoke in praise of Sir  Rodney were  Maitre WW,  Aisleyransom, Sir Will, Orchid  and Sweetness.

Sir Rodney was invited to respond and he gave thanks to all who had spoken and to those who had helped, advised and guided him throughout his journey. It was very pleasing, and I felt very proud, to hear him include Sir MK in his words:

'To my friends Alvise, Arie, Hadaway, Hunter, Marq, Michael, MK, Nik, RB, Ronald, Silverfox, and Wild >>> Thank you for being contributors to my growth, and to the Austin community. I have enjoyed our chats, and I look forward to more.'

 Then it was time for Master Ratzu to  say the vows that Sir Rodney repeated after him to swear his allegiance to Austin and its code of ethics and conduct. The ring was placed on his finger and his tag now read "Master @ Austin' - and everyone burst forth with their applause and delight.

Then those who were able to stay had a great time dancing in the Cabaret room.

- by Melinda Nyn