http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/ Thu, 23 Feb 2012 03:42:21 +0000 43200 Interviews with members of the community http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-dirktator-r136 The most loved man of the Simtropolis community, and founder of the Simtropolis site as we know it today.

Interview with Dirk, Founder of Simtropolis.com
- Interview conducted by Thunderman

So Dirk, when and how was the idea born which began the Simtropolis site?

I guess it was November, 2002 on a dark and stormy night... Conspiring with my cohorts from the SimGolf community, we started a SimCity 4 forum with the colourful name of "Simcity-4.net"!

At the time, with months before the actual release of Simcity 4, 95% of the chatter on the forum belonged to the five of us. It was kinda silly but really fun.

Simtropolis eventually emerged from just a forum to an information site, with a little luck and some help from others, we started making some ripples in the SimCity community. I won't forget how back in our early days, big sites like SimGothia helped us make a name for ourselves.

Which part of simtropolis do you like the most?

Forums! Naturally, to me they are the most involved, the most interesting and the most engaging part of the site. Our community *was* our forums, this was before any "ST Exchange" was ever built. I still think it's true today. Forums are where I met all my closest online buddies. Forums are the root of everything at Simtropolis, it's where the greatest minds of Simcity met, and together, formed some of the greatest modding groups ever seen in the entire history of the internet! Ok, so forgive me for hyperbolizing, but I'm really proud of our forum community! forum/i/expressions/3.gif

What are your best memories and/or events that you've seen on this site during all those years?

The Simtropolis Star is by far a highlight. Some of the Moderators and Admins conspired one Christmas to officially register with the International Star Registry, a star called "Simtropolis". That was pretty sweet.

When Maxis flew Rybolton and I down to visit them in their Oakland office was a good time. Not only did I get to meet Rybo himself, but we got to hang with the development team and sit and chat with the father of SimCity himself, Will Wright. We came back with photos, stories, screenshots the first previews of Rush Hour for the community. Also, being able to meet the webmaster of SimGothia in person was pretty cool too. The three of us drove around San Francisco all night, which was a blast.

Do you have any idea on how this site has become so popular, looking at a listing of 100.000(!) members?

Build it and they will come! They come for the great collection of user-created lots, buildings, maps and mods of course! Thankfully, a lot of people love building stuff for other people to download, and there are a lot of people who love downloading! Of course, our forums are still thriving, with a few hundred regular members and lurkers logged on daily.

What is the worst thing you've seen happen with or on the Simtropolis site?

Sure, we get some high-drama on here from certain characters, but they are just part of the ebb and flow of virtual life, and it's easy to deal with it. The scary day when we had our bandwidth plug pulled was a pretty grim one. So I guess anything that brings us close to inexistence is pretty lousy.

Have you ever made a City journal by yourself? And if not, are you planning to make one?

Nope, never made a City Journal. I get a kick out of seeing how other people build their cities. The truth is, I feel wholly under qualified to post a City Journal!

What do you do in real life besides web mastering Simtropolis?

For work, I am the art director for an interactive media company. I'm a big gamer, I'm on Xbox Live, if anyone wants to buddy up some time, just PM me!

How much time do you spend working on the Simtropolis site?

I get a lot of help from the other Admins, Moderators, and Chat Ops on day to day maintenance, and it's usually minimal, and we typically have a lot of fun, though some of the tasks are pretty thankless, I'm really grateful for the staff for their daily work.

Simtropolis is almost going into it's fourth year, do you have any new ideas or big plans for the site for the upcoming year?

Oh yes, as has always been the case, each year comes another major revision and/or redesign. When exactly, I can't say (I just don't know, not trying to be mysterious) but you can expect a point-five update to the site in the coming weeks.

What do you find more important in life? Your work, or Simtropolis?

Well, work pays the bills and keeps me fed and sheltered and financially stable so that is somewhat important. I'm usually never far from Simtropolis, regardless of what's happening in life. As I've said before, Simtropolis has turned into my own version of a Simcity game.

If you were to be stranded on a desert island with 5 ST members, who would they be and why?

Let's see, my closest online friends, Skigeek, Rybolton, RalphaelNinja, Aronion and Samantha! Maybe being stranded on a deserted island with them would be kinda fun... and if the numbers 4,8,15,16,23,42 appeared that would be doubly interesting! forum/i/expressions/3.gif

If you'd compare all the Simcity editions that Maxis have produced so far, which edition('s) do you like the most and why?

For the sake of nostalgia, my favourite edition would be Simcity 2000. I have fond memories of skipping school to stay home and build roads and lay down water pipes!

Do you read some of the City Journals, and if so, which one(s) do/did you liked the most???

In the early days, I read almost every one. I don't have as much time, but I do have a few I read. The ones I enjoy the most are those with a unique presentation, with insane level of detail that I always appreciate. I like the ones where the author creates newspapers, ads, drama, and all the little extras that go beyond the game itself. City Journals with high humour are also my favourites.

Which BATS/LOTS do you like in particurly? And why?

I like recreations of real-world buildings. I'd like to eventually have almost every major world structure BATted and in our STEX!

And final question: Would you like to take this opportunity to say/comment anything to the Simtropolis Community?

What can I say? Thanks for making this community great and fun! Thanks to all the contributors who give us something new on a daily basis. Thanks to all the donors who help keep this little city of ours operating! And thank YOU for reading this, as I'm sure there could have been a dozen other better things worth doing!

Cheers!

Thank You Dirk, for taking your precious time for this interview, we all hope that this site may live long and prosper!
]]> Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:20:06 +0000 47a658229eb2368a99f1d032c8848542 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-jasoncw-r168 Midnight Taxi

The Front Seat: Jason Wagner

Hello, Jason. Pleased to be doing this interview. In your own ingenuity, kindly tell us more about yourself.
I’m a 19 year old architecture student from Detroit, Michigan.


How will you introduce your work to anybody who’s new to it?
Most of my BATs are older buildings. I also have some modern buildings in the pipeline. Some of my BATs are recreations of real buildings in Detroit.

What are the steps in your creative process?
Of course, I’d like to BAT everything. I have a lot of projects I’d like to do, but I don’t have time for all of them.

The first thing I do is I consider how difficult and time consuming the modeling and texturing will be. I also try to keep the strain on my computer in mind, since the more complicated things get, the more my programs will lag when I work on it. I also consider how hard it would be to lot and mod, although T Wrecks does almost all of my modding. And I consider how useful the creation will be in the game.

Real buildings are more difficult to recreate. Most of the time the building’s dimensions don’t fit nicely on a SC4 lot. For example, the David Broderick Tower in Detroit is about 22 meters on two sides, but 28 and 24 on the other sides, since the building isn't square. tiles in Sim City are 16x16 meters square, and this building is a wall to wall building in real life. The building could be modeled the same size as the real thing, but then it wouldn't work be as useful in the game. It could be changed to fit into the game really well, but then it wouldn't be as accurate. For this building, I'd have the choice between making the building square, and making it fit snuggly on a 2x2 lot (best for SC4 purposes), or keeping it a trapezoid, and fitting loosely on a 2x2 lot (keeping the building itself accurate).

../../library/Omnibus/jasoncw/jasoncw1.jpg
../../library/Omnibus/jasoncw/jasoncw2.gif

Perhaps to start with some questions on your work, tell us one of your
favorite pieces from your STEX portfolio and explain what it is about and how you came to create it?

Every BAT I make has a story to it. Some of their stories are more interesting than others. I'll tell a little bit about my more popular projects.

Wagner Hotel
Right now, Wagner Hotel is my most downloaded BAT. I started working on it in March of 2005. It was vaguely based on the Wrigley Building in Chicago. I started it because I felt that there weren’t enough diagonal buildings, CS§§§ buildings, and buildings for the New York or Chicago tile sets in the game and the STEX.

Before I started texturing it, the building was going to be a crisp white. The first texture I put on it turned out a lot darker and browner than I wanted, but it looked so good that I left it like that, and that texture is what you see on the building today.

At the very beginning, it was planned to be shaped like a triangle. After that, I decided that it should be longer, and it became a long (5x2) U shaped building. 5x2 is an unusual lot size, but I figured that it was ok, since the building would need to be manually plopped anyway, because of the diagonal part. However, the diagonal part ended up being more work than I thought it was worth, so I reworked the building into a 2x2 H shaped building.

Eventually I finished the building and uploaded it to the STEX in November of 2005. It took me about nine months to complete it.

Regal Theater
I started Regal Theater in April of 2006. Originally it was supposed to look like the smaller buildings in the Rockefeller Center landmark from the game. It was also an experiment to test out my ideas with LODs, and random props. I also wanted more theaters in the game, as well as more CS§§§ buildings. However, as I started working on the building, it shifted away from the original Rockefeller design, but other than that I stayed true to my original ideas.

The marquees on the building are props, which aren't randomized through prop families, but through a more advanced method that I don't know enough about to describe. The model for the entire theater was made and exported with its own LODs. Then I deleted those LODs and made new ones that only surrounded the marquee titles. I changed the titles on the marquees and exported them for each theater attraction. Because of this, part of the theater building appeared in the marquee props, which made the transition between the marquee props and the building smoother.

For some reason, the Bladerunner and Weezer marquee props didn't work right, so they weren't included.

I think the building tuned out really well. My only regret is size of the building. The proportions of the theater part are completely unrealistic. The theater would have fitted better if I had made it a 3x4 instead of a 2x4.

I uploaded this building to the STEX in July after four months of work.

The Detroit Free Press Building
I started this in March of 2005, and it was uploaded in February of 2006, taking almost a year to finish. This was my first recreation and my first project for the Barry Sanders Project. It took a long time to create a good compromise between what the building looks like in real life, and what kinds of textures would look good in Sim City 4. The building’s complexity made my computer lag, which made working harder.


Jason's BATs from left to right: Detroit Free Press Building, Fisk Insurance, Regal Theater, Audubon Building(created in collaboration with Don Miguel), Wagner Hotel, Mary Hotel.

And what would be your most substantial project that has left a meaningful

impression? Why is that?
Wagner Hotel was my first big release, and is the most downloaded one today. I also learned a lot while making it.

What makes a BAT creator a good one?
There needs to be a good mix between caring and not caring. You need to be caring enough to make sure that it’s done well, but at the same time you can’t care so much that you’re too eager to finish something, or so that you don't give up from being too sensitive when something isn't working right. All in all though, patience is the most important trait.

Your work is a source of inspiration for many. Where does your inspiration come from?
My original inspiration was some of the BATers (good and bad) from when I started. The lack of old American buildings, midrises, small buildings, and detailed buildings made me want to make some. Don Miguel in particular did a good job, and his BAT quality was my initial goal.

Detroit

You specialize in creating exact replicas of the prominent Detroit buildings, is there something that you will not do?
No, but there are some buildings that I would do before others, and some buildings are so far down the list that I would work on anything else before working on them.




Shown on the photo: A replica of The Olde Building in Detroit created by Jason as part of the Barry Sanders project



Detroit has always been a perfect playground for some of the most affluent architects in the US such as Albert Kahn, Charles N. Agree, and Philip Johnson that laid down a foundation for Art Deco, Georgian Revival, and postmodern architectural tradition of the city. Did the city's great architectural legacy played a major role in your decision to apply to an architectural school?

It probably started with LEGO, which is an outstanding toy. There, I made things that looked good, had an imaginary purpose that had to be accommodated (for example, a car needs to resemble a car), a real purpose that had to be accommodated (the wheels need to be able to turn, the doors need to be able to open, etc.), and it had to be structurally strong (so it doesn't fall apart). So LEGO is similar to architecture. I mostly made sci-fi type stuff, and normal buildings, that generally looked like what Spa makes today.

Then there was Sim City, which has an obvious influence. And recently there has been BATing, which isn’t very realistic, but has the same kind of creative thinking as architecture.

When I was younger I liked to draw buildings and cities and maps (and I still do today, but now they’re for an actual reason), and the built environment and how people interact with it has always interested me.


By the time I was in middle school, it should have been clear to me that I should pursue architecture, but it took until freshman year in college to decide to actually do it (before then I was an animation major).


I only lived in Detroit for the first few years of my life, and after we moved, my family stayed involved with the organizations they were involved with (Girl Scouts for my sister, for example). But interestingly enough, in my mind, Detroit was still big scary Detroit, where you go to get your car stolen, even though I was regularly there for things. Only until a few years ago have I been going downtown.


So I think that I could be from any large city, and I would have still ended up in architecture. I do think that Detroit has great architecture though, and I’m very happy with where I live and how I grew up.



What do you think are the main attractions of Detroit and which is your favorite?

There’s sports, music, theater, museums, and art all the time. Aside from that, there are several big festivals every year, and I think a visitor should plan their visit to coincide with one of those events. There are also restaurants and casinos to supplement those events.

Something that I think should draw people to Detroit is the atmosphere. Other cities are a lot more touristy, and you feel like everyone is pushing you to spend money at their attraction. Detroit is a lot more laid back.





Once described as the largest factory town ever built, Detroit's population has halved since its 1960s peak. As a Detroit native, do you believe that decades of intensive capital investments into the city development helped to improve the situation? What would you do differently? Elaborate.

Unfortunately, many of those huge urban renewal projects ended up doing just as much harm as good. Or maybe even more harm.

I would have focused the money more on services, like the police, and on infrastructure, like mass transportation. On parks and community centers as well. Those are the types of things that enable the citizens and businesses of a city to be productive.

But funding is a complicated thing. There are grants from the government, private investments, tax breaks, and so much more. I don’t really think that when people say “why are you building that, while this is in disrepair” is fair, or realistic, but those are the things that I would have done differently.

If you are allowed to turn back the hands of time, at which age/areas of Motown's past would you like to repeat/change?

Well, the depression first of all. If the prosperity of the 20’s would have lasted a few more years, the city would have been stronger, and would have fared better against some of the hard times that would follow.


After that, I’d change the 50s, 60s and 70s, since the city was definitely hurt in those times, by the freeways, and other modernization projects.


Skeptics argue that many revival projects have failed and Detroit will never be the same again. For instance, they use an ambitious effort to turn Detroit into a gambling city that led to a dramatic increase in personal bankruptcy in Michigan as an example for the their reasoning. What is your response to them?


Most of those revival projects failed because they were bad projects. They were planned around ideologies that didn’t apply to real life. Aside from that, some of them failed because there wasn’t enough money or political support, and some of them succeeded.


I don’t think casinos are good for economies, but I also don’t think that the ones in downtown Detroit were the cause for that increase. I think local, state, national, and global social and economic trends are more responsible.


I think that it’s possible for Detroit to be as successful as it once was. Cities last for thousands of years, and in the long run, the last 40 years have not damaged Detroit enough to eliminate that possibility. I think in the next 40 years Detroit will improve, and people will compare it positively with other large American cities.





And





Is the word “impossible” in your vocabulary?



Some things really are impossible, and a lot of things are really unlikely. It applies to both good and bad things too. For instance, it’s possible for Detroit to become the world’s greatest city, but it’s not likely. It’s also possible for Detroit to become a ghost city within the next century, but that’s not very likely either.


How important is music to you? And what CD that never seems to be found
outside your stereo system?


Music is important to me. I listen to it a lot, and I play the guitar. I don’t want to pick a CD though, since I’d feel bad about the ones I didn’t pick.


Describe THE perfect weekend. A milkshake, a cup of tea or plain ol' coffee?


The perfect weekend would involve a lot of dessert, skyscrapers and money. I don’t drink alcohol or coffee though.


It has been great talking to you, Jason. Before you go, if there's a TAXI in front of you right now, where will you be heading to?


The taxi will take me from my computer to the TV. I’ll eat some ice cream and watch something before I head off to bed.







Learn More about Jason:



All of Jason's BATs on Stex


Official BAT Thread



Barry Sanders Project]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:34:23 +0000 2f29b6e3abc6ebdefb55456ea6ca5dc8 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-brenda-x-r161 Welcome, Brenda. How are you today?

Hi! I'm very good today thank you.

When did you join Simtropolis?

I believe it was back in 2003.

Why did you join Simtropolis?

I bought SC4 Deluxe Edition and after playing it for a while I was wondering if there was anything I could add to my game. To my surprise I found a lot of custom content here in Simtropolis. I joined the site and spent many evenings downloading several buildings. If I remember correctly back then the BAT wasn't available, so most buildings were a mix of Maxis buildings.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?

No, I honestly didn't expect to win this award. But I'm happy I did **smiles**

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?

I believe it is because a lot of people like my modern stations and buses.

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?

Yes!!

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?

I actually like to do many things; crafts, reading, hiking, watch movies, etc.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?

I remember the first time I uploaded one of my stations to the STEX. I didn't expect people to like it as much as they did. Seeing that people loved my work inspired me to continue making more SC4 things.

Another great moment was when I became part of NDEX.

And of course winning this award is already one of my favorite moments here in Simtropolis **smiles**

Do you have a job?

I work as a web designer and I'm planning on going back to school to study architectural design and yes, SC inspired me partly to study that and also because I just love making things =P

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?

I would choose any of the modders. If they can make something like the NAM then they would find a way to get us off the island or make it more hospitable.

What has been your main contributions to the site?

Modern Monorail Station, Modern El-Train Station, Modern NTA Buses, Modern GLR Station and my Modern Subway-Bus sets.

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?

Thank you all! ST is an awesome community!!!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:28:37 +0000 38ca89564b2259401518960f7a06f94b http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-darmok-creator-of-anduin-valley-r173 Please PM Mikeaut1 if you have any questions regarding this article.

When did you join Simtropolis?

In April 2003, I was before that on another SimCity BBS (I honestly don't remember which one it was), and one day the admins just closed it. I then found Simtropolis by pure chance, and have been here since then.

Why did you join Simtropolis?

After lurking a bit, I liked what I saw and read in the forums, so it was the sensible thing to do.

I never regretted it.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?
I never even thought about it! I saw it each month and I was glad to see members being recognized by their peers for their contribution to the community, I knew of course that in the recent weeks/months some of AVR readers nominated me, but I never saw myself as being that much important to the community compared to wouanagaine or others who are making great BAT's or like Jacqulina who is always helping everyone with her support. I'm not that active in other forums besides the CJ section.

But I must say that I'm really touched by this award, it means a lot to me.

What was your inspiration for Anduin Valley?

In 2003, when Simtrop was a bit more, shall we say, informal. I first tried my hand at a CJ, and as I was working on the same map that I'm using today by the way, I decided to name it "Minas Tirith" as a tribute to Tolkien's work in Lord of the Ring. That CJ came to an abrupt stop the day my computer crashed and I've lost everything on it except some pictures.
After that I was not playing with SC4 for quite a while, but still lurking in the CJ's forum.

And in December 2004 (if memory serves me right) I found Jeronij's Sculpting Columbia River... that was like if I was strike by lightning! The way he was playing the game fascinated me! and more so something he told us in one of his first post in the CJ, he said "play WITH the game not AGAINST it". At this particular moment I began to see SC4 for what it was, a software so flexible that one can PLAY with it ANY way he wants to, like clay for a sculptor or paint and brushes for a painter... I never went back to the "regular" way of playing SC4 after this, and that was the best move I've made game wise. So I should say Jeronij made me do it! Before Jeroni, Jhipolitto and Paletexan were my biggest influence, and after that on the rural side I should name Dan (Dhoppeii), Bernhard (Nardo69) and Meinhosen plus many more, on the "concrete jungle" side I'd say that Alek "Aleking" is one of the top cookie!
Those are my main influences for the, shall I say skeleton part of the city, BUT I must say that lots of small details come from ideas I will "borrow" from lots and lots of other CJ's, some of the ideas come from me too but they often are triggered by things I've seen elsewhere and sometimes from RL.

Whew... that was long winded!

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?

Two things, the first and foremost is reading the comments of AVR readers, it's always a great pleasure to read them! People in Simtropolis are very analytical and have an inquiring mind. It's often a challenge to keep up with some of them


Do you have a job?


I'm a graphic designer, my tools of the trade are: Photoshop (of course) InDesign, Illustrator and Acrobat. I can't see myself doing anything else.

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?

Yes, this community is a very healthy one, and I never thought that I would meet here so many people from very different backgrounds sharing the same passion. I hope that this spirit will continue for a long time and will help bringing more understanding between different cultures. (hearing violins in the background.....) OK OK I didn't mean to be corny....
I'd just like to finish to finish this (looooong) interview, to salute and thanks all the friends I've made here. And remember: Take care and enjoy life!

Please PM Mikeaut1 if you have any questions regarding this article.]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:27:29 +0000 0a0a0c8aaa00ade50f74a3f0ca981ed7 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-blahdy-creator-of-the-big-dig-tunnels-r172 Interview with Blahdy, Winner of the January 2007 Member of the Month Award!

When did you join Simtropolis?

I've joined on 4/4/2005.

Why did you join Simtropolis?

Found it on Maxis.com's site while searching for more custom content and stuff other than what EA/Maxis provided.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?

Not really no ;-) I figured I may after completing and releasing most of unfinished tunnels, but winning MOTM even while BATing did come as a surprise.

How does it feel winning BAT of the year for your Big Dig Tunnels?

There are many excellent and awe-inspiring BATs out there in STEX that make your eyes just pop, and out of them all, for the Big Dig to receive "2006 BAT of the year" award was quite astonishing and I certainly did not expect that one. I'm humbled and appreciated by the nominations for Trixie, and certainly it is very encouraging!

What inspired you to build the Big Dig Tunnels?

A number of reasons have inspired me to BAT the Big Dig tunnels. First, since I was a kid I was always very interested in engineering and technical infrastructures, specifically on how they work and how designers and engineers built them. Secondly, I grew up in Boston metro area and Big Dig, being the largest public works project in history definitely did not go unnoticed by my eyes J.

In early 2003 when they opened I-90 extension to I-93 tunnel's northbound lanes, I drove through the new tunnels soon after their opening, and they were simply amazing. Wide lanes, bright and well lighted tunnels, and extensive network of interactive electronic signage, then topped off by the Zakim Bunker Hill bridge as you exit the tunnels kind of gave me a feeling of being in a different place than Boston I knew of in the past. It was also the most modern stretch of any highway system I've been to.

That's when I wanted to see complex transportation options such as the Big Dig in game. But at the time it didn't seem very possible to do so. Three years later, I'm glad to see that dream is now realized in our gaming experience.

How long did it take for you to build them?

At first, with my limited modeling skills it seemed impossible or took very long time. The first product of the project, Big Dig version 1.0 released in July 2006 happened to be ugly looking than I anticipated. But as the modeling skills got better as I learned about splines, advanced texturing, etc, things started to move a lot faster.

For modeling real world version of the Big Dig, such as the Atlantic Avenue onramp (ramp A-CN) and I-93 southbound exit (ramp CS-SA), the techniques got a lot better. Eventually, I used publicly available design blueprints and satellite photos to build precision models for best gaming experience and realism. This cut down a significant amount of modeling time than ever before - what took about a week to model a tunnel structure was now cut down to just 1 day. From there, significant time would then be spent in installing lot of details, such as individual signs, lights, etc.

Today it takes on average of about 1-2 week to fully model each tunnel piece complete with details, but it really depends on the complexity of each lot. But even when it is completed, there is very tight transit modding resource available right now to push them into game environment. I do thank Swamper77 and ardecila for helping me out in the past as well as now on modding aspect of the project.

Have you any advice for aspiring BATers?

Sure, absolutely. One of the ways you can get a lot of realistic details down is to better understand the structure itself. Researching and studying about how they were built, how engineers conceived them and thinking about why they built the structure in a way they did really helps you in recreating it for gaming environment. Place yourself in engineer's shoes and try it out yourself -- it definitely helps!

Also, many people assume that at zoom level and viewing angles, you won't be able to see the details you put, but in my view that certainly has not been the case. While it is true that you can't exactly see the details you make in viewing positions, you can still see and "feel" them as if you are looking at the real-world counterpart from a helicopter, as opposed to a simulation model that lacks many details. Many talented building BATers like Jasoncw, Dusktrooper, etc have put tremendous amount of details in their BATs too and it really shows as well.

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?

Sure certainly. I do want to continue to work with people with modding talents to release the completed models to game environment so that people can enjoy more of the project quicker. And I certainly look forward to revisit the Zakim Bunker Hill Bridge BAT project in the very near future - so stay tuned for updates on that.

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?

Hanging out with friends, drinking, driving, etc... nothing different than others in this department.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?

Seeing the work by talented custom content creators, especially in "Modding - Transit Networks" forum is always the best part in visiting Simtropolis.com.

Do you have a job?

Yes, I run a small Internet Service Provider business with a couple partners, and also consult for a few firms in Information Technology industry.

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?

That's a tough question. And simple answer would be anyone who can actually get something done to get us out of the said deserted island.

What has been your main contributions to the site?

My contributions have been relatively small, they are just 3 BATs, 2 of them are which the first two Big Dig releases so far - which is one of the reasons why I was a bit surprised to be nominated for MOTM. I do look forward to releasing more exciting contributions in the near future though.

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?

Well, take care, enjoy life and the game And many thanks to everyone who supported the Big Dig BAT project since its beginning.

Thanks, and congratulations again!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:27:09 +0000 36a1694bce9815b7e38a9dad05ad42e0 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-micah-r171 When did you join Simtropolis?

Well, I joined ST about 2 years after I joined Simcity.com. The official date of when I joined says August 1, 2005.

Why did you join Simtropolis?

The responce is most commonly the STEX; however, it's that and also the fact that I wanted to join a better community than Simcity.com.

Did you ever expect to win the EOTM?

Never. I didn't feel that I did enough to deserve it.

Why did you think you were nominated for the EOTM?

I seriously don't know. Perhaps it was my eyes that captivated them (The ones who gave me my nomination).

Will winning the EOTM inspire you to do more for the community?

Of course. I have many plans this summer and ,in fact, I'm hoping on working in more areas soon.

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?

Research nanotechnology and space science. Once I'm done doing that, I usually get out my tuba and start playing it for all the concerts I have. I even sometimes golf with my dad when we have the time to do so.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?

My favorite moment was when I joined the site. My second favorite moment would have to be when I met some great friends here (and they know who they are). The third would have to be when I became a moderator. And the final best moment would have to be the incident with the hillbilly and the "3 space" code.

Do you have a job?

No, but I certainly hope to get one soon. (Probably this summer).

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?

Blondetwiggy. Though, chances are, she would be a drain on resources. (She knows I'm messing with her).

What forums do you moderate?

Current Events, AU&P forum, and I hope that I can moderate more in the future to exceed what I'm doing now.

What is your favorite aspect of being a moderator on Simtropolis?

It has to be the family experience. I truly feel that, even though I've made some mistakes and some rather embarrassing comments, I've been added and have met a wonderful family. I couldn't have asked for a better uncle, a better mom, better siblings, and a better hillbilly than the ones I have now.]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:26:25 +0000 a113c1ecd3cace2237256f4c712f61b5 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-ripplejet-r170 When did you join Simtropolis?
January 7th, 2004

Why did you join Simtropolis?
I bought SC4 (for myself) for xmas 2003 and must have stumbled across Simtropolis soon after that.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?
Never.

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?
Maybe I helped one too many...

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?
Frankly, not really.
The best inspiration is the feedback from those I've helped and from those using my mods, and today from the members of BSC who encourage me more than anybody else.

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?
Besides modding, helping (and sometimes playing), I enjoy travelling, golfing, bowling and having fun with my kids.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?
BarbyW's invitation to join the BSC in february this year.

Do you have a job?
I'm a naval architect dealing mostly with stability of ships, making sure they stay upright both when damaged and undamaged in severe weather conditions.

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?
The best friend I had at Simtropolis was Tolomar/Indisguise, but unfortunately she is no longer a member...

What has been your main contributions to the site?
I shouldn't be the one telling that...
I guess the tutorial on how to correct landmarks growing on empty lots has been well received.
Of the mods I've made so far, I think version 2 of RalphaelNinja's Census Repository Facility is my personal favourite.

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?
CAM...]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:26:06 +0000 3eb71f6293a2a31f3569e10af6552658 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-tarkus-r169 When did you join Simtropolis?
February 24, 2006. Just over 15 months ago, in the last days of ST 4.0.

Why did you join Simtropolis?
I ran across the site by accident one fateful day in December 2005, actually from a link on Wikipedia. I had been looking around for SC4 custom content, and read about some of the stuff going on here in the article. When I finally followed the link, I was amazed particularly by some of the stuff that was going on in the Modding-Transit Networks forum--namely, the NAM, qurlix's Rural Highway mod, artforce1's Generic Highway Sign Development Project and ryanb_sc4's Two-Way Left Turn Lane mod.

Since I have always been a bit of a "roadgeek" and focused a lot of my energy in playing the game on the transit networks, this was an absolute revelation. I lurked around for awhile, read a bunch of tutorials, and quietly picked up as much knowledge as I could, so that when I finally became an active part of the community, I could make a useful contribution.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?
A long time down the road, maybe. Winning it now was a bit of a surprise.

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?
Well, I'm not entirely sure why, honestly. Probably something to do with a few little transit modding projects I've been involved with.

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?
Regardless of winning this award, I already planned on doing more for the community on the transit modding end. But I am grateful that a few people in the community appreciated what I was doing to think it justified an award. I'm just doing my part to expand the capabilities for the game.

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?
I am a musician and composer by trade, so that generally takes up my free time. When I'm not writing or playing music, I'm usually listening to it--usually some sort of artistically inclined/prog rock, or modern classical music. Aside from that, hanging out with friends on occasion.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?
Well, there's a few I can think of. Generally, I've enjoyed interacting with some of the "regulars" in the Modding-Transit Modding forum. A lot of them are fellow transit nerds/roadgeeks, and it's really rewarding to help make some of the things that they (and I) felt were missing from the game possible. Admittedly, as some have suspected, I do, in a way, take glee in posting nebulous responses about release dates for various transit mods, like my fellow NAMites. We like to surprise people . . .

Do you have a job?
Right now, I'm primarily a full-time student. I'm working on my Ph.D. in Music Composition, though I'm also helping organize a music festival at the moment.

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?
Just one, eh? Well, going with the old Lay's potato chips ad, "betcha can't have just one", I'd prefer to have the rest of the NAM Team on the island with me, as well as a few other people I've worked with on the RHW/Network Widening Mod (NWM) project. They're a bright bunch of people. It would be like Gilligan's Island, but everyone would be the Professor. Admittedly, that's kind of "cheating" . . . er . . . "parameter modifying" . . . but I really can't pick just one. Two words--Ctrl-X.

What have been your main contributions to the site?
Well, just a few little transit modifications here and there, I suppose, and helping out where I might be needed.

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?
I can't think of much else. Enjoy life and SC4. And of course, thanks to all the ST staff and everyone who nominated me for this award. I'm just doing my part to make a great game we all enjoy even better--nothing to it. Look for a new NAM very, very soon . . .]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:25:34 +0000 1e1d184167ca7676cf665225e236a3d2 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-blondetwiggy-r167 When did you join Simtropolis?
April 12, 2006

Why did you join Simtropolis?
Everyone on the original site (simcity.com) kept talking about it, and I was really tired of hearing about Simtropolis lol, so I decided to join.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?
Well, not really, I didn’t think I really deserved it.

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?
I guess for trying to be nice, and helpful (well, as helpful as a blonde can be! forum/i/expressions/3.gif).

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?
Definitely!

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?
I enjoy swimming, playing piano, volleyball, and shopping (of course!!).

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?
The “Brown Beard Incident” and several other random conversations come to mind, As well as a few crazy times in the original Jacky's Kabin forum/i/expressions/3.gif

Do you have a job?
No

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be? Either Marc (micah) because he’s such a great Simtropolis brother, or Cristian (asturianu) because he would keep me entertained with his funny stories and random craziness!

What has been your main contributions to the site?
My CJ I guess

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?
Well I’d like to say thanks to all my friends on the site! You guys are great ]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:23:26 +0000 9da187a7a191431db943a9a5a6fec6f4 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-idiotbox-r166 When did you join Simtropolis?
I joined Simtropolis on October 3, 2005.

Why did you join Simtropolis?
Eastwinn, my little brother joined and I noticed him on here constantly. Although I didn't play much SC4, I wanted to join for the Sims 2 forums. I was never interested in the Sims 2 BBS on their website so I was excited to be able to help and get help on here.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?
Never! I always felt that people who were very active in the STEX and on the City Journal's would win the award. And plus I didn't think so many people knew who I was! Src=../../forum/i/expressions/3.gifforum/i/expressions/3.gif

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?
I think I was nominated for my Sim Diaries "Agrestic" and "Creek Heights". And I am very active on the other Sims 2 forums helping others with problems. Though usually I'm the one that post threads about lost sims and problems with Expansion Packs!

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?
hmm... Outside of the Sims forums, I do linger and lurk in all forums but now I would love to be more active.

The day after you won the MOTM, you became a moderator, were you expecting that?
oh no, not at all! I think I may have screamed when I got that PM.. I was very excited! Src=../../forum/i/expressions/3.gifforum/i/expressions/3.gif I really couldn't believe it because I am young compared to some of the other moderators (no offense! Src=../../forum/i/expressions/3.gifforum/i/expressions/3.gif ) and I would never think they would give a 16 year old some power in such a large site!

What forums do you moderate?
I moderate The Sims2-Open Discussion, Modification and Sim Diaries.

What is your favorite aspect of being a moderator on Simtropolis?
I really enjoy working with such a great group of moderators! I've met some really cool members that I've never talked to before becoming a moderator. Plus they are all hilarious!

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?
I'm going to be a Junior in high school next month so that takes up most of my time Src=../../forum/i/expressions/3.gifforum/i/expressions/3.gif I have three brothers and we do a lot together... play video games, jump our mountain bikes, go to concerts, work on cars and mostly just goof around. And I also love to read and play field hockey.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?
hmm... I'm usually in chat and one night 3 pairs of siblings were in chat. Hym and VT, 89 and 91 and Eastwinn and I. It was fun! Src=../../forum/i/expressions/4.gifforum/i/expressions/4.gif

Do you have a job?
Yes. My oldest brother owns a machining shop making after market parts for Volkswagens. I've always liked VW's and it's fun to actually get your hands dirty and make your own parts.

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?
Probably Cheese91. We have so much in common, sometimes I feel like we were separated at birth Src=../../forum/i/expressions/3.gifforum/i/expressions/3.gif

What has been your main contributions to the site?
My Sim Diaries "Agrestic" and "Creek Heights" and my activity in the other Sims forums.

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?
I want to thank you all you guys for voting for me and I am privileged to be part of such an amazing community! Don't believe all these "ST is dying!" theories, it's living strong!! Src=../../forum/i/expressions/44.gifforum/i/expressions/44.gif

Why did you think you were nominated for the EOTM?

Since I was put onto staff back in June, I have really put a lot of effort into learning everything possible about being a moderator. I'm always on ST making sure everything goes smoothly.

You recently made a record of winning the MOTM and being promoted the next day. That was just two months ago. Did you ever expect to win another award so soon?

Haha, no! Not at all! I checked the thread today to see if the member I voted for MOTM won, and there was my name. It was strange, I thought I had achieved everything I could possibly want!

What forums do you moderate?

I moderate The Sims2-Open Discussion, Modification and Sim Diaries.

What is your favorite aspect of being a moderator on Simtropolis?

I really enjoy working with such a great group of moderators! I've met some really cool members that I've never talked to before becoming a moderator. Plus they are all hilarious!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:22:19 +0000 0f2c9a93eea6f38fabb3acb1c31488c6 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-criquette-r160 How are you today?
I'm pretty fine, thank you!

When did you join Simtropolis?
Well, as a criquette I became a member in 2005 (as I remember). But before then I had a long break after my attempt to quit SC4 (I guess that quitting smoking is easier than stop playing SC4) .. so, before then I was a Marrast and I was here at Simtrop since 2003 as I remember..

Why did you join Simtropolis?
First I decided to join when I saw all this custom content. Of course i really wanted to grab all this stuff and put it in my plugins folder.. all these modds - oh, it was so great! And also I was amazed by in-game creations that I found on the forums.. I discovered Gothia on ST forums - that was really mindblowing...

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?
Actually never, I always thought that only good community members can win this award, I mean, people that spend their time in different forums.. not only in CJs, Bats, etc.. So.. that was really unexpected!

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?
Have no idea! I can only say by clicking on an award - info says: "For his wonderful creations on the STEX in the past and for his emergence in the city journal area once again" So.. I guess that's why

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?
Sure! I'll try to share all that i can with the community..

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?
Oh, i ride my bike, read books, listen favorite music, watch movies, TV.. I like to draw something from time to time
... Pity I don't have much free time with my new work to do all this..

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?
Oh.. there's a lot of..
You mean, the place itself? I like everything

Do you have a job?
Yes, I have one. And it eats my time like a monster! I even don't have time to make even a small update of my CJ

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?
Oh.. Morifari? lol don't know actually It could be anyone! Oh, maybe except Dusktrooper With his 'Silent knave' kinda thing.. hehe, just kidding..

What has been your main contributions to the site?
Well umm.. few BATs, few lots.. but it's all in the past - when I was a Marrast (huh)..

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?
Yes. Of course. I have a great idea about the future of Aureliano.. it will be really intresting I think. I will share it as soon as I can!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:21:45 +0000 884d79963bd8bc0ae9b13a1aa71add73 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-ilikehotdogsalot-r165 When did you join Simtropolis?

I joined Simtropolis on June 7th, 2006.

Why did you join Simtropolis?

Well, One day that summer I found my old Simcity 4 disk, and decided to reinstall the game and get back to creating cities. One day, I was very bored, so I did a google search on simcity 4 to find cheat codes, etc, and one of the results lead me to 6underground's journal in SimcityCentral. I started bugging him asking how he made the fireworks, get all those european cars, and a bunch other newbie questions lol. I looked around the site, Found out about Simtropolis, Custom Content and Winzip. After I saw all the cool stuff here in Simtropolis, I made up a cheesy username and few months later I began posting in the forums daily.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?

Heck no! lol. I was looking around the official Bat Request Thread and as soon as I saw the smilie face next to my name, the first thing I did was say 'WOAH' really loud. I was very surprised, especially since I was in Brazil for the first part of July. I was VERY happy though lol.

Why did you think you were nominated for the EOTM?

It says because of my popular journal, and for being a friendly, funny guy. lol.

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?

That's hard to answer, It has inspired me because I know I'm doing something right. I'll be starting some new journals and hoping to take up batting sooner or later. I will continue to post on the forums and try to post on the help forums more often.

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?

Well, School takes up most of my time, but I like to play sports, hang out with friends, photograph, listen to music , and travel. I also really enjoy eating a good hot dog.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?

Anytime when a good BAT is uploaded to the STEX, tons of random conversations in Chat, Cheese Grater Appreciation Day, and reading all the nice comments on my journals.

Do you have a job?

No, I will be starting high school very soon though, That's plenty of work for me heh.

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?

There are many, I can't pick just one lol. I'd probably pick fledder200, He's extremely funny. Brad, Patriots, and Seahawk are all around my age so they'll probably be the most fun to talk to since we can relate better. It would be fun to have mjig_dudy and Yoman there as well, they're good friends of mine.

What has been your main contributions to the site?

I think my main contributions to the site were/are my journals Eyecandy and World and my Mosaic Tutorial, I also like to share my travel pictures in the Architecture Forums, probably some of my posts cheered some people as well lol.

Your wit exceeds your city building talent. What prompted your name, and what do you like to put on your hot dogs?

Are you saying I'm not a good city builder? haha, kidding Src=../../forum/i/expressions/3.gifforum/i/expressions/3.gif . I don't try to be funny, I guess it just happens lol. The picking of my username is a really long story actually, I was chatting with my friend on MSN a long long time ago [like in 2005] and we were deciding on a username for websites for a long time, then some random day we got into a convo about hot dogs. So the name popped into my brain, ilikehotdogsalot! Src=../../forum/i/expressions/9.gifforum/i/expressions/9.gif It was perfect actually, since I love eating hot dogs. Then when registering up in Simtropolis, I remembered the whole story and made my username ilikehotdogsalot, and it stuck lol.
I usually try to keep the toppings on the hot dog simple, you know, ketchup and mustard. I don't go over the top with it like people think I do lol.

Do you have anything else that you would like to share with us?

Thank you everyone who nominated me, I'll make you proud!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:18:41 +0000 a3fb4fbf9a6f9cf09166aa9c20cbc1ad http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-purpledaddy-r164 When did you join Simtropolis?

I joined Simtropolis and other fan sites about two years ago when I bought and started playing The Sims II for the first time. It coincided when I wrote to Maxis about an idea for a Sim City sequel that had nothing to do with Sim City. I had no idea they would take me seriously! forum/i/expressions/6.gif

Why did you join Simtropolis?

I thought this would be a cool place to try a Sim Diary. There were only a couple of them out there compared to the millions of City Journals, and I'm really not talented enough yet to BAT. I hung around when my SD finished b/c it's a fun place to be online.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?

Never. I didn't even really set out to be a online persona of any sorts outside of my Sim Diary work, much less an MOTM-worthy one. But I appreciated that if I wanted others to notice my work then I needed to patronize other's efforts. I like all of these computer games but I'm not exceptionally great at them. So when I comment on other's efforts I want to be nice and entertaining w/out coming across as "me too". I try to be clever, unique, short, funny, good-natured, appreciative, and otherwise hide the fact that I otherwise no idea what I writing about, at least terms of the technical stuff. Fortunately people at the site are cool enough that I can get away with all of it! forum/i/expressions/9.gif

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?

I suspect it's b/c I'm in line for a moderatorship - that tends to be a site trend. And if I'm asked, I won't do it, I've got too much RL commitments!!! (How do you like that reverse psychology?) j/k!!! forum/i/expressions/3.gif

Actually, I suspect it was b/c of my snazzy pinstripe business suit. forum/i/expressions/9.gif

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?

I'm afraid to jinx myself. I set out to create a complex Sim Diary based on the Jonas Family a couple of years ago w/ my daughter and I did some Sim City work this past year, only to have my hard drive crash each time. Fortunately my daughter did teach me a new word in her second grade spelling class: B-A-C-K-U-P! She's so literate.

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?

I still have to ask my parole officer about what is legal! forum/i/expressions/18.gif

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?

I like the Trixies and MOTM/EOTM's and seeing people I nominate win, especially myself. forum/i/expressions/9.gif

Do you have a job?

I'm a mid-level bureaucrat with the Real Life Bureau of Bureaucracy. I envision myself as my avatar, an empty suit. forum/i/expressions/19.gif

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?

Whoever most likes pina coladas and getting caught in the rain! forum/i/expressions/10.gif

What has been your main contributions to the site?

Getting people to argue if saying "happy holidays" during Christmas is too politically correct. forum/i/expressions/3.gif (We can say Happy Fourth of July or anything else on that and any day for all I care! )... forum/i/expressions/49.gif

... j/k

Style perhaps? Getting people to appreciate hidden nooks and crannies of Simtropolis, including The Sims, maybe?]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:18:12 +0000 00e26af6ac3b1c1c49d7c3d79c60d000 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-codythemonkey-r163 Thanks for taking the time and effort to chat with us today, Cody. Src=../../forum/i/expressions/2.gifforum/i/expressions/2.gif

When did you join SimTropolis?

November 23rd, 2004

Why did you join SimTropolis?

Sim City 4, of course. When I bought it I googled a few help guides because I was confused on what to do. But then I came across simtropolis which I found to be an awesome site (especially the chat, very friendly people) and I got the help I needed. Then I found out about the STEX which really attracted me to the game. Very awesome BAT's.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?

No, definitely not lol. I check ST's news in the morning real quick before I leave my house to go to school. I actually saw the August 2007 MOTM news but I didn't have time to click the link. So I was very suprised when I came home from school.

Why do you think you were nominated for the MOTM?

Well I'm in the chat room a lot and people see how friendly I am and that I'm a nice person to talk to. I'm sure they missed me last year though (sorry)...I had alot of things on my mind from homework to school to friends..I didn't have time for the computer. Although! Whenever I did have freetime I did go on the site and look at news to see whats going.

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?

Actually yea...I love posting in the picture thread but I don't post a lot....you never know I might post a lot now because now I got the little badge next to my name hehe .

What do you do outside SimCity 4 and SimTropolis in your spare time?

I play my Playstation 3, I go out with my friends, and I get together with my family like a little Barbeque and stuff like that.

What are your favorite SimTropolis moments?

I always look at the news and I click the links to see what their about because I love news..I want up to date on stuff like that especially with sim city societies coming out I check the news on that alot. I also love when admins come into the chat its great to see dirk, skigeek, rybolton, and other admins coming in...its great to see admins talking to people and enjoying the atmosphere in the room. Oh yea and funny conversations with people in the chat where everyone will burst out laughing.

You are one of the few members of SimTropolis who won the MOTM award partically for chatting. What draws you to the ST chat room?

I love talking to people online. Before ST I used to play online games like Red faction on the PC and a few other games online but I loved talking to people around the world. So I saw the chat room and I was so excited to talk to people from Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other parts of the world. Even the United States. It's very interesting talking to people of different cultures and nationalities.

Do you have a job?

Not now. I'm still a student in high school but I do work for my sister's godfather who is renovating his house and i'm helping him fix things up and he pays me for that . I also help my uncle out and he pays me too but thats on rare occasions though if he needs help and im available.

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one SimTropolis member, who would it be?

Hmmm..who would it be..Boggy1 because he is inspiring, funny, and he's a great guy to talk. I talked to him almost everyday from 2004 even during inactivity..only because I had to do projects and assignments on the computer and we would just have a little conversations . Kinda hard to just choose one...there's many more members that are great to have around and talk to.

What have been your main contributions to the site?

Being a friendly, helpful, and talkative (chat room ) member. Logging on and brightening everyone's smile in the chat room!

Do you have anything else you'd like to share with us?

I'd like to say thanks to the people who nominated for me...you're an awesome community and you'll see me in the chat room maybe now or in a few minutes . Also Congrats to Idiotbox for EOTM too. Well done.

Congratulations on winning the MOTM award, Cody. I'm sure we'll all expect great things to come of you!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:17:33 +0000 6e7d2da6d3953058db75714ac400b584 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-sim1234-r151 When did you join Simtropolis?

I joined Simtropolis on March 25th 2005.

Why did you join Simtropolis?

I joined Simtropolis because I was looking for some plugins for Sim City 4 and when I saw the STEX, I knew this would be the right place.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?

I didn't expect to win it so soon. There are many more great members who have been here longer than me and so I was really surprised when I found out I had won.

Who do you think nominated you for the MOTM?

I honestly wouldn't know but I'd like to thank the members who did vote for me! I really appreciate it.

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?

I think it was because I'm good with the new members and I don't mind answering the same questions over and over again, I learn things myself as I go along. I also like welcoming the newcomers to the site as this makes them feel part of the community.

Do you think winning the MOTM will inspire you to do more for Simtropolis?

Yes, I will always do my best to continue to help members who need help.

What do you do in your free time away from Simtropolis and SimCity?

I like music a lot, I play the keyboard and the piano. I also spend time with my friends which is very important for me.

What do you consider your greatest contribution to Simtropolis?

Probably helping the new members of the website and being a part of the Simtropolis Help Squad ,helping them to convert the Omnibus.

What are your favourite Simtropolis memories?

I have lots of great memories of Simtropolis. A few of them are going into the chat for the first time, I didn't know what to expect but everyone was really nice and this made me feel welcome. Another one was when I joined the SHS, I never expected it and I was honoured to become a member.

Are there any other game you play besides SimCity and if so could you name us a few of them?

Yes, I play lots more games. A few of them are Roller Coaster Tycoon 3, The Sims 2, Football (Soccer) Manager 2006, FIFA 2006, Flight Simulator, other manager simulator games and a few more XBOX and PS2 games.

What is it about Simtropolis that keeps you coming back?

The great community spirit we have here is what keeps me coming back. It's safe, fun and there's something new every day. I'd like to thank the membership who make Simtropolis such a great site to be a member of.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I'd like to thank you for interviewing me, I've enjoyed completing it.]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:15:44 +0000 f197002b9a0853eca5e046d9ca4663d5 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-hamish-r158 When did you join Simtropolis?

I joined three years ago, on the 6^th of September.

Why did you join Simtropolis?

Like most people I wanted to find some downloads for simcity. Fortunately the mac serial codes don't work on the EA site. So I had to find another place to download from. The first site I came across was Simtropolis. I've been here ever since.

Did you ever expect to win the MOTM?

No, I never expected to win the MOTM award.

Why did you think you were nominated for the MOTM?

Well, the award says that it was for being a kind helping hand to new members in the mac forums. So I assume it is for the help that I give fellow mac users in the Mac forums.

Will winning the MOTM inspire you to do more for the community?

Yes, it will inspire me to do more for the community. I just have to figure out what that will be...

What do you do outside of Sim City 4 and Simtropolis in your free time?

I like spending time with my friends just chilling out doing almost nothing. I also like to play the sport Cricket on a Saturday in the summer and I also enjoy watching the "Chiefs" or the "Waikato Rugby Team" playing rugby in the winter.

What are your favorite Simtropolis moments?

Times like these basically, But mainly all the random and funny moments that sometimes arise while browsing these forums.

Do you have a job?

Currently I am enjoying a nice, peaceful period of un-employment.

If you were stuck on a deserted island with one Simtropolis member, who would it be?

Do I have to pick?
If anyone here has ever survived being stuck on a deserted island I'll take them.

What has been your main contributions to the site?

I think it would be the help that I have given to numerous people over the few years that I have been here, and I have also made a few maps for the STEX.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

No, that's about it. But I would just like to take the opportunity to say thank you to the people that nominated me for the MOTM award.]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:15:17 +0000 0c048b3a434e49e655c1247efb389cec http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-dusktrooper-ndex-skyscraper-machine-r143
What made you want to BAT?

Well...It all started back when my brother bought SC2K, with the SCURK. I would spend hours on that thing, building my stuff pixel by pixel, lol. Then, I bought SC3K with the BA+/BAT, and, I mostly focused on smaller houses, and suburban stuff. These homes, though, were full of architectural detailing, and were done in many "mock" architectural styles, such as mock tudor, mock tuscan, etc. After that, I also made a bunch of nice shopping centers, and mixed use developments, which I used to recreate many of the master planned communities and suburban areas in Houston.

Then, SC4 came out. I originally wanted to do my entire suburban thing with SC, too, but with the way the game was set up, it was nearly impossible, since the BAT had not come out yet, and all of the commute bugs, etc involved would crush my visions of sprawl, so, I then put my focus on skyscrapers, and such. Of course, I had always been a fan of architecture, especially since we began looking at houses back in 2001. That is where most of my SC3K inspiration came from, since many of the homes in the Houston area feature unique mock architecture (I say "mock" architecture many times, since they attempt to emulate various architectural styles, without actually completely copying it, which reduces cost, and allows for "mass production" of such abodes.).

My enrolment in Architectural Graphics, CADI and CAD II (which I just finished) did not hurt, either. Of course, to sum it all up, I BAT because I love having control over customizable stuff. I always loved seeing my own creations inside a game, especially since the days when I would customize war vehicles for the game Command & Conquer: Tiberian Sun. And, I always did it my way!

What is your favorite time of day for BATting?

Any, as long as I am not sleeping, eating, taking care of business, doing other forms of recreation, etc. I do not, contrary to popular belief, BAT all day. My best work usually takes place at night, though, when it is cool (since the Texas summer, coupled with my heat-producing computer can make my workplace quite uncomfortable), and when it is quiet. Rendering, which takes several hours, is done overnight. Smaller BATs are rendered whenever I take care of other things. Multitasking is great!

What do you like doing in your free time?

Besides BATting, I like to read up on architecture, which my bookshelf can attest to (especially with my ever growing collection of architecture related books and articles). I also like to surf online, on Simtropolis (of course), architectural websites, etc. In the evenings, I sometimes like to take nice bike rides around the neighborhood (which gives me about 30 minutes to an hour to render stuff) because, after all, one should not be sedentary, and on the computer all day long.

On these biking sorties, I like to check things out... such as the nearby golf course, certain wooded areas, etc., since I like to explore. Occasionally, if I can get a ride in town(I usually do this with a friend), I like to do some urban exploring. Either by car, rail, or foot, I like to explore the great city of Houston. This is another source of ideas for me. TV is not really much of a thing for me anymore, since most of the modern day television offerings, frankly, are garbage. I do watch the occasional episode of CSI and Law & Order, as well as a few old shows, such as MacGuyver where the main character makes weapons and devices out of everyday objects, etc. You don't really see good stuff like that anymore. Oh, and I like to chat!

What is it that keeps you BATting?

The ideas never stop coming. Plus, I like to "develop" my city, rather than simply play it, and in many of the cities today, exciting new mixed use projects/skyscraper projects are being proposed and built in many cities across the US (such as Victory in Dallas, Atlantic Station in Atlanta, The Pavilions in Houston, etc.), and I like emulating these developments in my game. My lofts (on the STEX) are similar to those in such developments that can be found in Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta. Also, my love of architecture keeps me BATting, of course.


Where do you get all your inspiration for BATting from?

Everywhere. Of course, most of my inspiration comes from my home town of Houston, Texas (as you can tell from many of my older towers, which have an obvious Houston influence). Plus, with the emergence of new mixed use projects(as stated above) in Houston, as well as other cities, the ideas never stop coming. Oh, and yes, I DO in fact get a lot of inspiration from Atlanta. Atlanta has a lot of beautiful post-modern buildings, particularly, those designed by late architect Phillip Johnson, who is one of my favorites, due to his consistent post-modern flair. Other architectural firms of inspiration include: Kohn Pedersen Fox, SOM, Sir Norman Foster, Murphy/Jahn, Renzio Piano, etc.

Who is your favorite BATter?

That nod would have to go to Oneil_1, simply because his BATs are absolutely beautiful and well made. From day one, his buildings have always shown consistent quality, and elegant design (along the lines of postmodernism, which is my favorite style). Plus, he is so quick to adapt his style, while still staying along the lines of postmodernism (ie, his BATs for the NDEX marina project).

What is your favorite BAT on the STEX?

I don't really know, lol. Many of them are good, but, my favorites include the stuff by Oneil_1, and NDEX, of course...

What's your favorite Maxis building in SC4, and why?
The one that looks like the Messeturm in Frakfurt, Germany. I forgot what it is called, lol, since I rarely use MAXIS towers anymore. I love it, due to its post-modern design.

Who do you enjoy working with, and why?

Besides myself(j/k), I'd say every working person on NDEX. Every member has their own unique style, and character. Of course, sometimes, things can get a bit tense, but, alas, all teams go through such times.

Who have you enjoyed working with the most?

I would have to say N747. At first, we were both fierce enemies, particularly, back when the BAT first came out, and I was a stumbling ***** when it came to detailing, architecture in general, etc.

Thankfully, these have been permanently deleted from my hard drive(but, they are on a disc, just in case..) However, after a fair amount of resistance, I began to actually talk to N747 (via ST chat),on how I could improve my creations. It was a long and arduous process, with many of the consultations lasting into the early morning hours, but, after multitudes of decimated splines, exploded meshes, and blood, sweat, and tears (along with the occasional late night dose of caffeine, and snacks) we finally got my style established! I can never thank N747 enough for all of his help, and hours we spent tinkering and tweaking.

What project have you enjoyed working on the most?

I'm not too sure, really, since I have not really done any big "projects" in the past. All I do is model the thing, and then, it's off to be modded.

Any helpful tips for budding BATters?

Search! ST has plenty of information on BATting. I, personally, have developed quite a strange modeling method that no one seems to understand(at least that's what everyone I've tried to teach has told me, lol). I am a horrible instructor, because some things just cannot be put into words. I tend to think empirically, so, no set theory, or frameset can be used to explain certain things. Oh, and yes, you should also try downloading a few of my GMAX scenes on the exchange. If one cannot teach through words, then one must teach through example. Besides, it is easier for some people to learn through a hands-on experience.

What made you choose SimCity 4 over the more popular [Sims] games that are out there?

I did not really like the concept of controlling the more boring aspects of things, since we all live life already, and playing life like that seems agonizingly boring. Sure, one can design the house, but the spectrum is sort of narrow. I like SC4 because one has control over more things. SC4 for me is not really a "mayor" type of thing- it is more of a city planner/developer type of thing.

Many BATters, myself included, don't play SC4 any more, how about you?
Oh, I still do play SC4. I am actually working on a region right now, Montaukshire, which is supposed to be a full scale American style metro, without certain negative aspects, such as crime, poverty, lack of education, congestion(hence, my ultra freeways) etc. Essentially, it is "the great urban experiment". I don't just test my BATs - I actually use them. I only play for about an hour or two a day, though, since I have been diversifying my activities lately.

What do you want next from Maxis?

A well designed SC5, with BAT, of course. OH, and the new BAT preferably should be integrated into GMAX once again, so we can use our SC4 creations in SC5!

What other games do you play?

There are other games?

What kind of music do you listen to?

I do not really listen to much music. I sometimes listen to the occasional video game soundtrack, or remix, but, other than that, I usually prefer...Silence...of course.

What is your favorite website?

Simtropolis, of course, for many reasons, and that would be too many to list here. I also like skyscrapercity.com, which is a great place for ideas, as well as information. I have a bunch of other sites, too, but, they might be considered boring by you people(blogs, cartoons, etc.).

Do you have any bad habits, and if so, what are they?

I tend to sleep late (since I like doing things at night, when it is quiet, and cool) and thus wake late, which tends to ruin the flow of a certain thing called life. That habit must be broken, of course, since I am going to college soon, but, for now, a full summer waits ahead of me so, bring out the tankers of midnight oil!

What's your favorite building in real life?

I don't really know... I tend to have a strong preference for anything post-modern, though, since post-modern architecture is timeless. Post-modern architecture is a movement that avoids all of the negative aspects of the past, while retaining neoclassical and timeless design elements, and combining them with new design features and technologies. Thus, my favorites are such buildings like the Williams Tower in Houston, 191 Peachtree in Atlanta, and 900 N Michigan in Chicago.

Do you have a specific dream or achievement you'd like to accomplish in your lifetime? Also, What can you see yourself doing in the future, job-wise?

I want to become an architect of course. Besides that, I'd also like to become a developer, creating new urban environments in places that really do not have any (such as Houston). Of course, it would be unique. That's one of my main goals... to be unique; to develop my own style. As for other goals/dreams, there is no limit to those, and hopefully, I will dream up something particularly grand, as the future has no limits. The sky is not even a limit. Finally... please release the BATs! A. Silence, Knave!

And that concludes the interview with DuskTrooper, special thanks to him for taking his time to answer my questions. Thanks to the readers, too, and remember to look out for interviews with other founding members of NDEX, in the near future!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:14:12 +0000 208e43f0e45c4c78cafadb83d2888cb6 http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-equinox-ndex-batter-and-founder-r140
Hello, and welcome to the first in a series of interview with the founding members of NDEX, one of SimTropolis' BATting teams. Today, we will be talking with Equinox, the modder, and as some say, heart of NDEX (not to mention the founder).

What made you choose SimCity 4 over the more popular [Sims] games that are out there?

I've always loved seeing something come together, from start to finish (hence, the SimCity affixation). The answer, in short, is that SimCity 4 is the most dynamic and open-ended game I've found. It's not the same type of open-endedness as what The Sims 2 offers, but SimCity allows more individuality and creativity to show through, especially with custom content added to the picture.

What is your favorite time of day to "work"?

Between 12 AM and 4 AM I am the most productive; I despise sleeping, and consequently the late night time is great for getting things done. I do my modding all throughout the weekend, but in the end, most of it is done during this time period. (I also do even more tedious things here, like extracting game soundtracks by hex editing, or whatever the case may be.)

What do you like doing in your spare time?

I enjoy playing my Xbox and PSP a lot. I also like to read books (my favorites would probably be the Descent series by Peter Telep, and the Halo books), listen to music, draw, and learn new things - as long as it's not biology.

Do you have any bad habits, and if so, what are they?

Yeah - not sleeping. I have a tendancy to put off sleep as a minimal priority and at times I go three or four days without it. I don't ever really feel tired, just obligated to sleep. I also tend to talk too much - or sometimes my thoughts go on too long for my friends' patiences.

What is it that keeps you motivated to mod?

The results: getting those well-balanced, tweaked lots to grow in the game. In addition, the fans and their feedback (via comments, ratings, and downloads) are very important to me. (Thanks for the continual support, everyone!)

Where do you get all your inspiration from?

Inspiration for what? Perfecting and tweaking things? Probably my mom, who's really big into organizing things: I've always been the same way. This isn't just in real life: I can't stand it if my game menus are full of unorganized junk that's not up to the standards of what's already in the game - hence, my job as the tweaker.

Is there anyone you would like to thank for getting you into modding, and teaching you the ways of the trade?

DarkMatter: his continual patience and answering of questions (not to mention his programs) were really helpful in my learning how SimCity 4 functions and how to manipulate it. GrampaAl: always provided help when I asked, and even sometimes when I didn't. Very kind and thorough, and a good lot maker/tweaker, too. Vlakhaas/Daeley: they have been immensely helpful and informative in my querymaking and my minimalistic LUA scripting for SimCity 4. SimGoober: for pointing out that the Plugin Manager's statistics were skewed so heavily and causing me to look into the issue and discover just how inaccurate and unbalanced they really are. ... and last but certainly not least, Dirk, for providing an awesome site and an awesome community: a place where knowledge can be shared freely and people are kind and respectful.

What is your favorite website?

I've had problems with links to this site in the past and since this is intended to be a website appropriate for all ages, I'll just say it's written by a man nicknamed "Maddox". Beyond that, my favorite site is Simtropolis, of course.

What can you see yourself doing in the future, job-wise?

I can see myself being a programmer, an architect, or a writer (books - no media articles from this guy). I'm not sure which of the three ways to go as of right now, but I'm thinking of double-majoring in Japanese and computer science.

What is your favorite BAT on the STEX?

Without a doubt, Somy's Microwave Rectenna Plant. In just the Simtropolis community, it's a harder choice ... I like the PDA Headquarters Building, Club Riddle Me This (by N74704 - the derelict nuclear plant-slash-nightclub), the Bosworth Tower (by Oneil_1), and the Nitron Center (by Superstar).

What have you enjoyed working on the most?

I don't know that I enjoy working on anything, really; I do it for the end results (to be perfectly honest). So the technical answer to your question is "N/A", but in relative terms, I liked working on Somy's Fishing Harbor 2, or Oneil_1's Bosworth Tower.

Who is your favorite BAT designer?

All-inclusive: without a doubt, As for in the Simtropolis community ... there's a group of people, each with his own strengths. Best Utility Buildings: RalphaelNinja Best Residentials: Oneil_1 Best Commercials: Superstar, PDA Best BATs Overall: N74704

What's your favorite Maxis-made building in the game - either Rush Hour or SimCity 4 vanilla, and why?

Lucky Lizard Lofts. I like its general Euro style and my favorite colors are black and white. I like how detailed the building is, as well. (Then again, all of the Maxis buildings are high-detail). I also like the Hurt Enterprise Headquarters, because - as mentioned below - it is based off of one of my favorite buildings in real life, the Commerzbank Tower.

Do you actually play SC4 any more?

No, not really. Given that my time on the PC is restricted (my parents think my 3.6 GPA is not nearly as well as what I could get if I weren't so distracted by my PC - a good point) until school's out, the only time I ever spend in the game is testing lots to make sure they show up in the game and work. Once summer arrives, I probably will be playing a lot more, especially since I'm building a screaming new PC.

Is there any advice you'd like to give people learning to mod?

Be patient, read tutorials (although admittedly, sometimes they aren't so helpful and end up leaving you more confused than you were initially), and don't be afraid to ask questions. Also, don't shoot yourself if you post one of the Modding forums and get bashed for "not searching first": the forum search system here is questionable, and even when it works, it's hard to find answers to specifically what you're looking for. Even if it is a duplicate thread of some other long-buried one, people usually will give you links to places that explain your question. Use your head; the modding programs (and the way SimCity 4 itself works) are really logical. It really helps to be a person who thinks almost enitrely with the "logic" side of their brain - for the basics, I hardly ever used any tutorials; I just fiddled with lot files and saw what changing different things did.

What other, non-Maxis games do you play?

I play just about any racing game out there (I'm cutting class tomorrow to go buy Forza Motorsport on its day of release - hahaha). I also play Unreal Tournament 2004, Lumines, and my all-time favorite game: Ninja Gaiden. Oh, and DOA3 ... but that goes without saying.

What kind of music do you like?

I have a few kinds, really ... original game music (take that, EA!); trance - and J-Pop, too - Ayumi Hamasaki; techno; and finally, classic rock ... I like a lot of different bands in this category, but I'd have to say my overall favorite would be Pink Floyd.

What do you want next from the Maxis guys?

hmm ... I'm not really sure, but it looks like between The Sims 2 + expansions, SimCity, and the new Spore, it'll be hard to wish for anything more.

What's with your Hitomi obsession?

Originally, I was playing Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball - since all the characters are girls, it came down to who looked the best (of course), and I choose Hitomi. Later on, while having an Xbox party and playing Dead or Alive 3, I picked Hitomi as my character and ever since then, that's who I've used in any multiplayer fights. I guess that's really all there is to it. (I now have a Hitomi "skin" for the exterior of my Xbox, even...)

Who do you enjoy working with most?

First, I'm assuming you mean within the NDEX team. With that said, all of the NDEX members have their own qualities that make working with them a pleasure. They're all excessively nice and quite funny, so I don't really favor one person (although I tend to talk to Decius and Fosterk about personal matters more than anyone else; don't know if that counts as working or not).

What's your favorite building or landmark in real life?

The Petronas Twin Towers, without a doubt. (The Burj Al Arab looks pretty awesome so far, as well.) Second-place is the Commerzbank Tower in Frankfurt (that's spoofed in SimCity 4 - look at the Hurt Enterprise Headquarters).

Do you have a specific dream or achievement you'd like to accomplish in your lifetime?

Yes. I aspire to learn Japanese in Seattle (University of Washington) and then eventually move to Japan. That would be a dream come true for me: everything about Japan I find to be very interesting, and the vast majority of its culture I find much more respectable than that of Western societies (although sadly enough, the two are getting closer together all the time).

Have you played any sports? Do you enjoy watching any sports?

LOL. No, I have never played any sports and find P.E. class to be bad enough, to be honest. As for watching, I think golf is pretty cool, probably because of the strategy and true skill it takes, rather than the ability to run around in circles beating other people up, or kicking a ball through two posts, or whatever. I love to watch racing, and am a big rally race fan, although I don't know if racing is really considered a sport.

Any thoughts you want to throw out to the community?

Please watch the NDEX lots for updates, particularly the older ones. They all need to be updated to give realistic statistics and to have balanced properties, plus there are bug fixes and lot/model improvements to be done on some of them. ... Oh: two thumbs up correlates to "perfect", so if I have a lot with all two-thumbs-up icons next to the comments [on the STEX], why do I have a non-10 rating? (you have to post before you can rate.) I don't understand that, although it's not a very big deal.

What do you enjoy the most about the Simtropolis community?

I like the interfacing between adults and teenagers. I think it's great how well the two "parties" (the BSC and NDEX) get along and are able to cooperate so well - the BSC's demographic is mostly adult professionals, while NDEX's demographic is mainly high-school to college-age students. On most forums, let alone in the real world, I doubt such thing would ever be able to exist and work nearly as well as it does here. Hopefully NDEX can show people that there are still a few respectful, polite, talented, and determined teenage members of society who aren't rap-listening drug-dealing rebellious high school dropouts.

Finally, what's your secret to being so gosh-darn awesome?

If you mean being helpful, nothing, I guess - I enjoy being able to help others learn and improve upon the quality of their stuff, and I try to do what I can to assist, whether it's writing tutorials for modding, answering questions, or just doing the modding for others' creations, because they're too lazy to do it (j/k).

And that concludes the interview with Equinox, and I extend a special thanks to him for taking his time to answer my questions. Thanks to the readers, too, and remember to look out for interviews with other founding members of NDEX, in the near future. ]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:06:38 +0000 8248a99e81e752cb9b41da3fc43fbe7f http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-mikeaut1-r139
- When did you join Simtropolis?

I joined Simtropolis early in the morning on June 29th,
2004.

- Why did you join Simtropolis?

Well, when I got the game for Christmas in December 2003, I knew of Simtropolis, but I was reluctant in joining it. I did, however, lurk the site from December until June. But then I was motivated to join, mainly the buildings available to download and the city journal forum inspired me to join.

- When did you become a member of staff?

Ha-ha, one of my fondest memories on Simtropolis was when I became a staff member late at night on November 20th 2005. ThatMonkeySim, DragonAnime, and I were in chat and TMS just learned he was upgraded to a moderator. After he told me, I was really excited for him. SkiGeek then entered chat, PMed me, and asked me to be a chat op. At first, I was taken back but I soon calmed myself, lol. It was a fun experience for me forum/i/expressions/3.gif.

- Why do you think you became a member of staff?

Well, I guess the admins saw that I am a laid-back, easy going type of guy. I guess I was qualified to be a chat operator because I was friendly and helpful to newcomers in chat.

- Did you ever expect to win the EOTM?

Honestly, I wasn't expecting on winning this early. In my opinion, there are many other staff members that are qualified for
the award. It was quite a surprise for me when I learned that I was
the EOTM for January.

- Why do you think the admins chose you for the EOTM?

Well, according to what my award in my custom member label says, I'm good with the newcomers by helping them and directing them around the site and also show kindness towards members in the community. So these were traits that helped them decide on me for the Employee of the Month award. Honestly, I don't do what I do on Simtropolis to merit any awards. I just like welcoming new people to the site, they deserve a warm welcome so they feel as if they belong to the "family" of Simtropolis.

- Do you think winning the EOTM will inspire you to do more for Simtropolis?

Of course, even without winning the EOTM, my ideas and
inspirations will continue!

-What do you consider your greatest contribution to Simtropolis?

Hmm... probably helping out in the SHS and submitting some articles to the Omnibus, it is a good squad. Also opping could count as a contribution to the site.

- What are your favourite Simtropolis memories?

There are many. One of them include staying up all night
waiting for Chicago333 to update his city journal, Mandursuro. Others
include Rybolton proposing to Samantha (how could that not be a fond ST memory? forum/i/expressions/3.gif). Another one as I said earlier was been asked to become a chat operator.

- What are your main staff jobs on Simtropolis?

Opping! I go into the chat and I kick and ban everyone and have a jolly old time for myself. Just kidding! But yes, that is my only staff job here at ST!

- What is your favourite part of being on the Simtropolis
staff?

Hmm... well I guess associating with other ops, like
ThatMonkeySim for example. He's been a great help, as well as
DragonAnime and SkiGeek, when I first became a op.

- Are there any other game you play besides SimCity and if so could you name us a few of them?

I play some other games: Halo 2, Driver 3, The Sims 2, Roller Coaster Tycoon, and some other PS2 games.

- What do you do as a job in real life?

Heh, I'm a student in high school. forum/i/expressions/3.gif

- What do you do in your free time away from Simtropolis and SimCity?

Something to know about me, I love my friends. So if I'm
away from ST, I'm usually with friends. My favourite TV show is Seinfeld, so I collect the DVDs and watch those in my free time too. Also, music is really big in my life. I'm a drummer, so I like music a lot. You can always see me with my Ipod or with a CD in hand!

- Is there anything else you would like to tell us?

Hmm... I'm 100% Italian and I like Chinese Food! forum/i/expressions/3.gif

Thank you Mikeaut for been with us today. Credits for this interview go to your_adress_here for conducting the interview and to Compromise for writing it up. We look forward to doing more MOTM/EOTM interviews!]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:05:54 +0000 184260348236f9554fe9375772ff966e http://www.simtropolis.com/omnibus/_/simtropolis-articles/interviews/interview-with-hogmeister-r138 1.Who was the guy in your old ST avatar?

Well, surprisingly enough it was me about 10 years ago, in those days when the job was less stressful and the kids were younger, so there was less of me and more hair, lol, you experience having 3 kids in 3 years (2 in the same year and not twins) and see what it does to the body beautiful.

2. Where do you get all of the amazing architectural images you are known for posting, and what is the inspiration that fuels your passion for finding such images?

I get all the images off of the net, simple really, I have always loved buildings (here speaks a guy who was always interested in architecture but never had the maths to pursue the interest, so I went into banking instead, go figure), and having worked in the city of London most of my life I have been surrounded by some of the best and worst buildings around, and worked in a fair number of them too boot. Having always read widely (its one of the things you do with a 50 minute 50 mile commute each way each day) I find searching the net for pictures a challenge I relish, I normally have an idea of what I want to find from what I already know, and where I might find it, so then its a question of refining the search in just the right way and lots of perseverance and following up the right leads.

3. What are your favourite architectural and geographical buildings and or landmarks and why?

That is a difficult one to answer, at heart I love classical style buildings, the more columns the better, lol. When you walk up the steps and through their portals I am filled with wonder at what man has achieved, the proportions, the use of space, the interplay of materials, and of course the history, use and age of the place, they all go towards making up the wow factor for me. I also feel that whilst they can be monolithic structures, they still retain a human scale to them, whereas the towering office spires that today dominate our business districts have lost all sense of human perspective.

All in all, my favourite classical style building has to be Blenheim Palace, built by a grateful sovereign to honour the first Duke of Marlborough, who beat the army's of Louis XIV at a place called Blenheim, thus saving Holland and Austria from invasion and Europe from French domination. In more recent times it happens to be the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, and the world would likely be a very different place for us all today without his actions. As for modern buildings, my favourite has to be IFC 2 in Hong Kong; it's a Cesar Pelli masterpiece, the shape is just so right, its strong yet simple and reminds me of a glass clad version of an O'Neil New York Style skyscraper.

4. Is a Hogmeister anything like a groundhog? Or a woodchuck? Or is it more like a Jakalope?

Hog hastily flips through his dictionary, a Jakalope, one of the rarest animals in the world, hum, that sounds about right, lol. This Hog likes nothing better than to soak in a bath of warm refreshing mud for as long as he can get away with, or until dinners ready, ah, if only life were that simple.

5. Do you / have you played and sports? Which is your favourite and why?

Me, play sport, but that would take time away from my PC, lol. Sports have just never been a real big thing with me; I reserve my competitive side for business. I did used to swim during my school days, for my county and I have several medals for my efforts and it gave me great shoulders, but that's about it.

6. What is your favourite Maxis building? Why?

Ah, an easy question for a change, NOT. I don't actually have a favourite maxis building, there are several I like to see in my cities, like the Brandenburg Gate but I really just look at them as stuff that shipped with the game and that's all. It's the Bat's that are my favourites, as I actually choose them personally by downloading them from the STEX. Those are the buildings I am always willing my city's to build, or plopping myself.

7. What is your favourite Bat building? Why? (Please say Jibboo, please say Jibboo , obviously, don't say Jibboo on my account)

Sorry to disappoint you, Cerulean, however my favourite BAT building tends to change from time to time as ever more and better stuff is created, so my current favourite happens to be Deadwoods.

8. What do you like most about SimCity, and what would you like most to see in a new expansion pack or SimCity game?

What I like most about the game are the various transportation networks, and the way they work together, or not as the case may be, lol. As for the future I would like to see better interaction between neighbouring cities in the game so that you could truly build central metropolitan areas and suburbs around them and semi rural exurbs around that, and have them really work together in a much more unified way than at present.

Extra Credit: What's your pet called?

Our cat is called Cinders; she is the third to bear that name in 20 year, as long as the name stays the same the kids don't seem to mind. Since she is a Manx cat and so has no tail, when the time comes to replace her, the kids, now being teenagers, might notice a re grown tail, or being teenagers they might not, lol.]]> Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:03:24 +0000 c3e0c62ee91db8dc7382bde7419bb573