PREMIER WRESTLING: SL’s WRESTLING AT IT’S FINEST – JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING

 

PREMIER WRESTLING: SL’s WRESTLING AT IT’S FINEST – JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING

I was making my rounds the other day and happened to drop in at the Norsewood T Nightfire Arena, home to Premier Wrestling.  Of the few wrestling arenas in SL, Premier wrestling is fast becoming…well…Premier!   I saw a poster for an upcoming Wrestling match, “Full Circle”, to be held Nov 12 beginning at 1:00pm SLT,  and I just  happened to catch one of the Wrestlers, Texander Lee Carthage…. affectionately known as TLC by his friends and opponents alike…and he graciously consented to answer a few questions about this rapidly growing entertainment medium for the more discerning residents of SecondLife.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Thanks for agreeing to chat with me, TLC.  So....a softball question:  How long have you been involved with Premier Wrestling in SL?

Texander Lee Carthage  (TLC):     Ya boy TLC, the thrill seeker, the adrenaline rusher, has been doing this thing with Premier Wrestling for two years now, since February 2022.

JB:     So tell me, TLC. Why is it that you wrestle?

TLC:     Haha, that's a great question! There’re so many reasons, but if I had to sum it up - It was always a childhood dream of mine! Also, what could be more thrilling than fighting the bad guys and hearing the crowd shout your name? I fight for my wife, Nikki, my two daughters, and of course - my fans!

JB:     Who are some of the wrestlers you looked up to growing up?

TLC:     Well, if it isn't pretty obvious, my biggest influence is Bret the Hitman Hart. He's the best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be. Other big influences I have though are: Hulk Hogan, The Ultimate Warrior, The Rock, The Undertaker, and The 1-2-3 Kid. Yeah, I'm from that generation of wrestling!

JB:     Who would you say is the greatest wrestler of all SL Time?

TLC:     Ya know, I've fought against many opponents that really gave me the thrill that I'm seeking in the ring. Ya boy has had some insane moments that pushed me to my limits! But if I'm being real with ya, I gotta say the greatest wrestler of all time's gotta be none other than my own mentor, the one who got me started and to this day remains an incredible inspiration and friend to me - Dany The Thunder.

JB:     I understand there are several wrestling Sims in SL.  Why did you choose to wrestle with Premier Wrestling?

TLC:     Are you kidding? Premier Wrestling is AMAZING! This fed resonates with me so well. I had done my research before joining a fed and Premier Wrestling is just a great community. They take really great care of me so it was an easy choice!

JB:     In RL Wrestling, it is widely assumed that the matches are all "fixed" and the winner is usually the one with the most elaborate costume.  So, your secret is safe with me (and our 170,000 viewers each month)...Are Premier Wrestling Matches rigged?

TLC:     ...HAH. Rigged? Ya think ya boy could get the thrill he seeks if all his opponents just laid down and took the L? NEVER! When you see me bleed....you're seeing me bleeding. When you see me putting someone in their place, believe me, they remember it! What you see is what you get!

JB:     Do you have a “signature move” that you are known for?  That special thing that you do that is a guaranteed hit in the ring?

TLC:     Oh there are a few but I can tell you the one the fans come for is my Adrenaline Rush! That usually happens when I'm near losing the match...when it's all but certain that I'm going down...the adrenaline just surges through my veins and out of nowhere, my opponent is treated to a barrage of moves that puts them down for the count!

JB:     So tell me.  What do you think about your opponent for the upcoming match?

TLC:     This season, ya boy doesn't just have one opponent...I'm facing against THREE who seem committed to humiliate me both in the ring and out of the ring. These three are known as The Power Brokers! They've done some serious damage and are trying to overthrow my Undisputed Champion title for their own sick games but ya know what? It's NOT gonna happen! They're overly confident, and they're about to discover why I am ATTITUDE's Undisputed Champion!

JB:     How can your fans learn about your upcoming matches?

TLC:     First is always on Premier Wrestling's network: Twitter (https://twitter.com/PWrestling2019), and YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/@PremierWrestling). Second is my own network: Twitter (https://twitter.com/tlc_the_fighter), and YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/@tlcthefighter)

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to tell our SL Readers?

TLC:     Of course! I want to tell y'all about an incredible show coming up that we're doing called FULL CIRCLE! You DON'T want to miss this! There's going to be a LOT going on including ya boy in the ring! It's all going down NOVEMBER 12th at 1pm SLT! Tickets are on sale NOW! If you want that thrill, you'll be there!

So there you have it folks, straight from the mouth of the man who should know.  If you have never seen a big League wrestling in SL, now is your chance to do so.  If you have been in the past, and were waiting for an excuse to do so again, Come on out to the Norsewood T Nightfire Arena, located at:

SURL:    http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Elston/101/172/22

Learn more about TLC by checking out his social media sites below:

FLICKR:  https://www.flickr.com/photos/194160053@N05/

TWITTER:  https://twitter.com/tlc_the_fighter

For another take on this exciting event, check out our interview with PREMIER WRESTLING WOMEN'S WORLD CHAMPION- KANDY PEREZ, at   http://www.slenquirer.com/2024/11/premier-wrestling-womens-world-champion.html

 Get your tickets soon, because they do expect a sell-out crowd.  In order to keep the lag to a minimum, they keep the crowds small.  Only 15 people.  So, hurry and snag a ticket before they are all gone.

And when you get there, tell ‘em Josh sent ya.  You’ll be glad you did.

Be there! Aloha!

JB

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PREMIER WRESTLING WOMEN'S WORLD CHAMPION- KANDY PEREZ: JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING

For those neanderthals out there who think that women cannot wrestle, think again. Today’s guest, Kandy Perez, is deservedly the Premier Wrestling Women's World Champion, and to watch how she destroys her opponents in the ring is truly breathtaking. I caught up with Ms. Perez following a brutal practice session, and she graciously agreed to answer some of my questions in preparation for the upcoming Full Circle Match, Tuesday, Nov 12^nd, a@ 1pmSLT.  

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):  Greetings Kandy.  Thanks for chatting with me and the readers of the SL Enquirer.  So tell me, how long have you been involved with Premier Wrestling in SL?

Kandy Perez (KP):     "Oh wow, haha. Getting straight into it, huh? Well, I've been involved with Premier Wrestling since I was a rookie back in mid-2020. Unfortunately, it wasn't long, and Premier and I parted ways. Further, I began wrestling all over the SL Grid before ultimately coming back in the spring of 2022, and have been rocking it ever since."

JB:     Why do you wrestle?

KP:     "Well, I've always been a pro wrestling fan I just attended shows as a fan, years before even making my debut. I have years of experience in gymnastics, tumbling, and competitive cheer leading, so athletics is second-nature to me. I always thought that I would just enjoy behind the barrier, but now I get to live out my own dreams. Wouldn't trade it for the world."

JB:     Who are some of the wrestlers you looked up to growing up?

KP:     "Oh, how much time do you have there? Hahaha. Well, there are a lot of wrestlers that played a hand in being idols of Kandy Perez, but particular favorites and most notable inspirations have to be Maxine Fireguard, Rani Patel, Josh Poffo, Xander Garcia, and last but not least, the Legendary Honey Bluntz. She actually was one of the people who trained me, in fact."

JB:     Who would you say is the greatest wrestler of all SL Time?

KP:     "Whew, That's a hard thing. Being the 'greatest wrestler' is very subjective and not everyone has the same vision of great, ya know? In my personal opinion, greatest wrestler of all SL Time has to be...Cody Houley. Amazing Talent in the ring, with the chops to back it up on the microphone as well as the record-breaking achievements. Plus, I have learned quite a bit when I worked side-by-side with him right before coming back to Premier Wrestling."

JB:     I understand there are several wrestling Sims in SL.  Why did you choose to wrestle with Premier Wrestling?

  KP:     "I came back to Premier Wrestling with a lot to prove, and even as the Premier Wrestling Women's World Champion, it feels like I still have much more to prove. Tons of opportunities here, and great ways to learn things in the wrestling business beyond the mat, so we have plans when or if we decide to retire. We are putting our bodies on the line every week to entertain the fans in the crowd as well as the viewers at home, but we will get older."

JB:     In RL Wrestling, it is widely assumed that the matches are all "fixed" and the winner is usually the one with the most elaborate costume.  So, your secret is safe with me (and our 170,000 viewers each month)...Are Premier Wrestling Matches rigged?

KP:     "Hahaha, oh this is taking a turn. While there are sometimes where a disgruntled wrestler wants to sabotage a viable contender's match, or someone gets attacked before one, our job as talent is to put on the best display of athleticism, charm, and wittiness to our thousands of fans and viewers on Youtube."

JB:     Do you have a “signature move” that you are known for?  That special thing that you do that is a guaranteed hit in the ring?

KP:     "I have several actually. The ones that get the crowd red-hot the most frequent are my Sugar Rush Handspring and my Double Fudge Handspring. The Sugar Rush variation is a Double Front-Tuck into a Shoulder Thrust to my opponent in the corner. The Double Fudge is a round-up followed by two back tucks into a corner back elbow. They show off my gymnastics and tumbling experience and it's awesome to see and feel how alive the crowd comes."

JB:     So tell me.  What do you think about your opponent for the upcoming match?

KP:     "Well, as of right now, I'm not sure who my next opponent might be, but with me winning the Women's World Championship last week, I'm sure there are a lot of people looking to take on Liquorice Tough (That's me.) A few in particular are "Queen" Gina Rose, Nadie Darkmoon who is the woman I beat to win this title, and other tough women like Lyria Gruber, Anjelina Layne, and Tatsumi Kaido working up the ranks. All I can say to them is....Bring your best! Work hard, train even harder, and prove why you deserve this more than I do."

JB:     How can your fans learn about your upcoming matches?

KP:     "Easy! Just follow the Premier Wrestling X Page (Twitter) @PWrestling2019. You can also follow my page if you want to know more about Kandy @KandyPerezSL"

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to tell our SL Readers?

KP:     "Yes there is, in fact. Speaking of future opponents and upcoming matches, there is a huge, I mean massive event for Premier Wrestling on November 12th at 1pm slt called Full Circle. I'm sure one or two of those previously mentioned ladies will fight their way into that show to compete against me in one of 9 Championship Matches. It will be the biggest event in Premier Wrestling's history, so we really hope to see everyone out there, cheering me on and watching this amazing spectacle.

So there you have it, Folks.  Make plans to attend this Must See Event! And who knows.  You may even decide you want to become a part of this growing and thriving community. Join the largest wrestling fed in SeconLife and perform all over the grid.  At Premier Wrestling they’re hiring NEW TALENT for upcoming events and seasons!  Do you have what it takes to be Commentator, wrestler or referee?  Fill out an application ---> https://forms.gle/qLbt3pFGkUmU8VC69

Come check ‘em out on YouTube.  The most viewed SL Wrestling show on YouTube.   https://www.youtube.com/c/PremierWrestling 

Or better yet, come see them inworld at Vitality Arena The Mancini Group http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Elston/101/172/22

And when you do, tell ‘em Josh sent ya.  You’ll be glad you did.

Be there! Aloha!

JB

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AND THE WINNER IS...SPENCE WILDER!!!: SL ENQUIRER OPEN MIC SONGWRITER AUDITION CONTEST WINNER - JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING.

                                         

The SL Enquirer has long been a standard bearer here in SecondLife.  Over the years it has accrued nearly six million views. The Enquirer has supported causes from Relay for Life, to Virtual World Best Practices in Education. It has included stories on everything from gorgeous new builds, to residents making an impact. One of the ways we support the thriving music scene here is by sponsoring the Singer - Songwriter Open Mic contest. These contests bring out the best and the brightest members of the music scene, and this year was no exception. After some close competition, this year's winning songwriter is Spence Wilder.  After the contest, I caught up with Spence and got his "story". I think you'll like it.

I know I did.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     So Spence.   Congratulations on your win.  It was well deserved.   So tell me, who were your music idols, and those who most influenced your musical style?

Spence Wilder  (SW):     My dad sang and played guitar, and I grew up with rockabilly and outlaw country. Willie Nelson’s Redheaded Stranger was in heavy rotation. But by the time I was concert-going age, my tastes were more “stadium rock”, Queen, Zeppelin, and Van Halen. Then the 80’s had me turning to bands like U2, REM, and The Cure. So, by the time I began writing songs, I was all over the place (laughs). It’s a musical melting pot, my brain. Elvis Costello, Tom Petty, and Adam Schlesinger are in there too.  OK and of course The Beatles and Stones.

JB:     What was the inspiration for the song you sang at the contest? 

SW:     I sang The Bullring. It’s from a period when I was writing a song every week, based on a prompt I would assign myself. That week’s prompt was “rodeo clown”.  It’s sort of a “the grass is never greener” love song hiding inside some absurdist poetry.

                          (Photo Courtesy of  piperwaterfalls resident) 

JB:     And why did you choose that particular song?

SW:     I asked the audience to choose between a few. Songs are like kids, impossible to have a favorite. And of my songs, the ones I tend to favor are usually those least popular with others. On that day it was a good call letting someone else decide!

JB:     How long have you been performing your music, and what sorts of venues?

SW:     I learned of the music scene here from two musician friends, Leyah Renegade of the band What The? And Cylindrian Rutabaga. That was in 2007. My first show was at The Shelter, run by the skeleton man himself, Dolmere Talamasca. From there I played at some venues run by Nomad Rovio, who I’d later do amazing Relay for Life spectacle experience shows with.  The Peg Leg in Transylvania was a favorite. Pixel Hill had a thriving scene. Bend Bowie’s notorious Demonic strip club. After a few years I left for a while. That “while” turned out to be a decade or so. I just came back Summer 2024 to find that the music scene had absolutely exploded. I was happy to see The Merry Prankster was still standing, and The Blarney Stone, two places I’d played and still knew folks to help get me back into it. So many amazing venues now. I recently played at Boogeyman’s, and at Bespoke Caravan’s venue, both such fun builds! Shout outs also to Hotel Chelsea, Café Kismet, and especially Lyrical Star Café, one of the only places to feature exclusively original music.

JB:     How would you describe the brand that you now represent?

SW:     I’ve taken up residence in a converted shipping container studio home on a secluded beach called The Wild Blue Yonder. Next door my partner Speedstar Darkfire and I have an art gallery called BLUE Gallery.  The Wild Blue “brand” I suppose is a quirky, eclectic, indie-spirited blend of music and visual art. Even with songs I cover my approach is to make them my own somehow.

JB:     How did you take the news when they first announced your name as the winner?

SW:     There were some fantastic performers, so I was over the moon! So grateful just for the opportunity, and absolutely thrilled to win. I appreciate those who go above and beyond to support artists.

JB:     What does it take to be a successful musician these days?

SW:     I think you need an act that stands out somehow, for people to get invested. There are SO many performers. That differentiator can simply be your amazing vocal ability.  Or musicianship. Or innovative use of a looper. I like to think I’m a storyteller and a bit of a humorist. I try to make my sets something of a variety act in singer/songwriter clothing. Speaking of clothing, if there’s a theme, I’ll really lean into it and conjure up a cool outfit.

JB:     What advice could you give to someone who wants to be a songwriter?

Write routinely. Every day. Every week. Make it who you are. I was in cover bands for years, writing the occasional original song. But it wasn’t until I started my song-a-week experiment that I truly began to feel like a songwriter. Now it’s essential, something I need to do.

JB:     Do you have any social media sites that folks can visit to see more of you and your work?

SW:     You can hear my music on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/spencewilder

To see my visual art, you can visit BLUE Gallery: https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Slushy/165/200/26

JB:     Do you post your performance schedule for anyone who wants to catch one or more of your gigs?

SW:     The best place to find out when and where I’m playing is on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spence.wilder.2024/

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to share with our SL Enquirer Readers?

Elton John said “Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.” I think that’s doubly true here (smiles). We are all in those moments the healers and the healed. I am so very grateful for everyone who comes to live music events to make that magic happen.

So there you have it, folks.  For those of you who have never had the opportunity to hear this gifted musician perform, you are really missing out.  For those of you who HAVE heard him, you know what I am talking about.  Either way, be sure and check out the URLs above to hear some of his music, see his art, and learn where is is performing next.  You won't want to mis it. And when you do, tell 'em Josh sent ya.  Believe me.  You'll be glad you did

Be there! Aloha!

JB

                                        (Photo Courtesy of  piperwaterfalls resident) 

 

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GISELE ANDREA: PICTORIAL POWERHOUSE IN PIXELS- JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC), REPORTING

I was at the barber shop the other day and I saw the magazine rack, a required fixture in ALL Barbershops.  Flipping past "Popular Pixels", "Better Linden Homes and Gardens" and a dog-eared copy of a "Victoria Pixels" catalogue, I selected an issue of HUSH magazine.  Of the models featured, I found the model, Gisele, to be particularly eye-catching.  Imagine my surprise when I looked at another magazine and saw Gisele there also, as the WHISKEY GIRL of the Month. Further surprise hit me when I picked up yet another magazine and found a statuesque pose of Gisele, gracing the pages of SLUST Magazine. Finally, I learned from another patron that the lovely Gisele was also featured in PROVOCATEUR magazine.   I was stunned, Who was this supermodel, and how did she come to grace the pages of FOUR separate magazines?

I approached my Editor and told her that I was sure the SLE Readers would enjoy learning about this Pictorial Powerhouse, and I promised I would do my absolute best to bring this story to the pages of our publication.  After she stopped smirking, she gave me the go-ahead.  What follows is the result of my tireless research, pouring over thousands of photos in order to bring you the best of the best.  It’s a tough job, but SOMEBODY has to do it, right?

I tracked her down as she was preparing for another photoshoot, and she graciously consented to an interview.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):      Hello Gisele.  Thanks so much for agreeing to chat with me today. Tell me, please. How long have you been modeling, and when was your first break into the world of Pictorial Modeling?

Gisele Andrea (giselea) (GA):     I have been modeling now 5-6 years...before that I didn't take a lot of interest in SL.  But Covid locked us down and I had time.  One day the owner of the old Tag Dance offered me to be Tagette of the Week if I would agree to pose nude for him to paint me and put the work on a wall in the club.  I agreed.  To be honest I was really scared and disrobing in front of him was very anxiety-ridden.  Then as I lay on the divan...I felt this warm erotic feeling as he painted.  Well, when the painting was hung up, I began to get other offers. 

JB:     So, what first got you interested in a career as a Pictorial Model?

GA:     The offers I received were primarily for Lingerie, Fashion, bikini, and nude.  I loved each but felt drawn to the sensuality and erotic power of nude modeling.  I had a Flickr page with a few old photos and I decided to begin posting there mostly topless or carefully posed nudes that didn't show full frontal.  Well, one day a man named Gaelen Able took an unsolicited photo of me in a bikini that was excellent, and I agreed to do a session with him. He produced some wonderful bikini and nude photos and that really propelled me forward. Then I got requests from a blogger to work with him.  He promotes a pose company and I began a wonderful relationship that still exists - Keyzer Nikolaidis, a wonderfully creative artist  He doesn't publish nudes but he would make alternates of me topless or nude for my page.  About a year later the magazines began recruiting me off Flickr, and then I reached out to others and I ended up in 5 of them, turning one down.

JB:     Is this an expensive profession, what with all the clothing and accessories you need to have?

GA:   That depends on who you are working with and what their requirements are.  Obviously, the fashion side is the most expensive but there are many tools: face lights, shiny skin enhancers, and other props as well.  Often a generous photographer - especially one I have a relationship with - will pay for those.  You rarely make any money as a model.  The market is flooded with us, so it's how much personal enjoyment and pleasure one gets from doing it that counts.

JB:     Do you do other types of modeling as well. Fashion, or advertising perhaps?

GA:     I love to model so yes.  I sometimes get a fashion gig, or model bikinis, or the bloggers.  They are a great and talented group that can get a model in some really great environments like my friend Keyzer did for me.

JB:     What part of doing this do you find the most rewarding?

GA:   It's hard to separate.  I think the rewards are 1.  the experience of each photo session, how it makes me feel, the really great collaboration, offering suggestions about a detail and so forth.  The interaction too.  Modeling nude for a man I might or might not know well can create sensual feelings that can conflict with both of our professionalism.  They are pleasant but must be managed.  Then there is the finished product and response from those who see it, whether in Flickr or print.  I'm very proud of the number of people who follow me and how they respond to me.  

JB:     What is the biggest challenge to working in this industry?

GA:     Time and scheduling.  Everyone has their own time zones and RL commitments, etc.    Getting on someone's schedule can be difficult.

JB:     Some of your photos are really quite well done.  Who are some of your favorite photographers in SL?

GA:     Keyzer Nikolaidis, Kadon Doge, Martin LeGrand (I just did my third session with him), Cesare Drucker (he says I was his first great model and helped make his career), Billy Darkthief, we do some interracial poses, Cain Grosesnore751, Theadore Themis who taught me Chiaroscuro lighting, Alex Star, a guy named Pau who disappeared, Valerie Muircastle who did the Whiskey Girl Pictorial and we collaborated so effortlessly, and Mitch Silverfang, who has done a few of my most popular Flickr photos.

JB:     Everyone talks about the fake photographers who lure beautiful women to their studios for non-photographic reasons.  Do you meet many of them in this line of work, and how do you handle those?

GA:     Simple.  They are easy to spot.  I can filter out 90% before even agreeing to a session. The other 10%...I call on professionalism and usually cut it short.  The bigger difficulty is when one or both parties feel themselves slipping past professional protocol, in which case it's like any other office romance.  It can't affect the product and certain boundaries need to be maintained

JB:     Do you have a social media following?  And where might our readers go to see more of your work?

GA:     My Flickr of course:   https://www.flickr.com/people/191375085@N08/

JB:     How would you advise other women looking to start a modeling career?

GA:     I don't know because I fell into mine by accident. Really.  From that simple offer at Tag to all the other lucky breaks, I find myself in a whole different spot than I ever dreamed. I guess I would say hard work like anything else, have a creative side, understand your brand (we are all brands in this business), your messaging through your art, and network, network, network.

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

GA:     Only that I would like to thank all the people that helped me, all the photographers that were patient with me, and the magazines that gave me a chance: Hush, Whiskey Girls, Provocateur, Luscious Beauties, and SLUST.  Most Importantly all my 5000+ followers on flicker, all the flickr group moderators and the other individuals who enjoy my photos.  You are the best!

So there you have it folks.  Straight from the expert's mouth. As one of the grid's most successful models and gorgeous Pin-Up Girls, Gisele is clearly one woman who has "Been there. Done that. Got the tee-shirt".  Now I need to explain to my boss why, in addition to all the other expenses of running a business, we need to add five more magazine subscriptions to the expense ledger - just in case Gisele does a re-shoot. 

For anyone wishing to collaborate with her, feel free to reach out - GiseleA: giselea resident (key nr. 0a3ac4f2-eaaf-4cba-9eac-e18711fc8f05).

And if you are out and about sometime, and you happen to see Gisele between sheets...uhhh between SHOOTS, be sure and say "Hi" for me.

You'll be glad you did. 

Aloha!

JB

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LUXE Paris LOOK of the YEAR 2024 Winner VANESSAJANE

As a writer for the SL Enquirer, I get to travel the Grid in search of the absolute best creations by our many residents, and seeking the ultimate "High" that is possible in this pixelated paradise called SecondLife. I have found High Velocity Motorcycle Raceways, High Energy Cocktail Lounges, High Flying Air Shows. Highly Skilled DJs, and High Quality Builds. But this year was different.  This year I git to peek behind the curtain of High Fashion, and the results were stunning.  No.  I did NOT get to judge a Fashion Event (my boss kept THAT duty), but I did get to interview the winner of this year's LUXE LOOK OF THE YEAR 2024 competition. I caught up with this year's winner, Vanessa(VANESSAJANE66).  She was packing her bag to catch a TP on the first stop of a promotional tour, but she did manage a few minutes to share some of her experiences with our SLE readers.  

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Why did you decide to participate in the LUXE Look of the YEAR 2024 Competition? 

Vanessa Jane (VJ):     I had been a Finalist in the 2022 Look of the Year contest and had enjoyed the experience.  I met new friends, gained valuable modeling knowledge, and loved the fun of the contest itself.  The 2022 competition left very positive memories so when the contest came around again in 2024 I was keen to experience it again and see how far I had grown as a model and stylist.

JB:     How was the experience? What did you find to be the most enjoyable aspect of the competition?

VJ:     As expected it was another great experience.  The contest is very well organised and lots of thought is put into developing the Finalists during the process.  

 I loved the theme this year, using the style Icons of Jade Pono (the Look of the Year winner in 2022), Ponchituti Boucher, Frolic Mills, Zuri Rayna, and Coco Chanel.  We had to pay homage to their style but interpret it creatively in our unique way.  My assigned Icon was Coco Chanel and I wanted to capture the essence of her fashion ethos but take it to the 21st Century.

JB:     What part did you find to be the most was the most difficult

VJ:     We had a surprise challenge assigned to us by In-Nova Models.  Naar, who is a previous Look of the Year winner, gave us a headpiece and gave us half an hour to style it for a photo shoot where the headpiece was the focus.  We were given no other advice.  Luckily I realised I should use Luxe Paris clothing, but forgot you don't need to worry about shoes if being photographed from the shoulders up!

JB:     Why is fashion important to you?

VJ:     I am a creative person generally and love the ability of fashion to visually represent who I am as a person, and how I wish to show myself to the world.  In Second Life I have the perfect 'clothes horse' figure so that expands my ability to explore different styles and different aspects of myself through them.  As a model and stylist who is also an artist, I love to find the 'voice' of clothes and express that in how I style and present them.  I must also say that in real life I live in the far north of Scotland.  It is a beautiful place with often awful weather.  Nothing beats coming into SL and putting on fabulous fashion after being enveloped in wool and waterproofs in real life! 

JB:     How would you describe the brand that you now represent?

VJ:     Luxe Paris is a brand with genuine passion, vision, and aim to bring elegant, European Couture-inspired fashion to men and women in Second Life.  It is not a shallow, purely commercially driven business but a true fashion house with a mission and drive.  I love how the Designers bring real-life experience and skills into their work, which truly gives the brand its unique look.  I also love how they continually push to make Luxe Paris designs as good as they can be.  Second Life is often a shallow place and it is a pleasure to find such authenticity and integrity, in both the lovely people who make up the team, but also in what they want to achieve with the brand.

JB:     How did you take the news when they first announced your name as the winner?

VJ:     I was in complete shock as I hadn't expected to win.  My brain kind of evaporated when they announced my name.  It was not my finest hour when they gave me the winner's tiara, which was boxed. I floundered way too long before realising I could rez and unbox the tiara behind the winner's podium to wear it for my photograph to be taken.  

JB:     How do LUXE Fashion Shows stand out from all the other similar events out there?

TVJ:     This question makes me think of Look of the Year Winner Jade Pono's amazing 2022 show 'We Are the World'.  It had a clear and wonderful theme, of highlighting and celebrating Diversity through the medium of Fashion.  The participating models were all ethnicities and were given creative rein to interpret their looks.  The show was superbly organised and staged by the Powerhouse Collective and great attention to detail was paid to every element.  The Show encapsulates for me why Luxe Paris shows stand out.

JB:     What does it take to be a successful Fashion Show contestant?

VJ:     Don't expect to win, but work hard towards always getting better because one day you might reach the level where you could win.  Do competitions for the holistic experience they give, the memories and friends you make, the fun of the challenges, and the opportunities to measure progress and grow. Leave your ego at the door and be positive and nice to your fellow candidates.  Remember most, if not all of the time, you will not become the winner.  If you have gone into competitions for all the other positive experiences and benefits you will never be a loser either.  

JB:     What advice could you give to someone wanting to enter the world of High Fashion?

VJ:     This depends.  Do you want to be a High Fashionista or a Model / Pageant competitor?  Modeling in SL isn't a place for big fragile egos.  Do it if it's your passion, and you are driven by a desire to keep learning and improving.    There are many disappointments, especially today because opportunities are fewer as the Modeling and Pageant worlds are smaller.  

Being a High Fashionista is easier, do your research into RL trends and explore widely among the SL Fashion brands in SL.  There is so much to explore.  Remember too the RL trick, you can make even a basic outfit high fashion if you style it with creative, fabulous accessories.

JB:     And of course, what is a Fashion Show without social commentary? What social stigma does society need to get over? What makes you roll your eyes every time you hear it?

VJ:     Unfortunately, we live in an imperfect World.  For me, this isn't helped by many who have closed minds, set and rigid beliefs, and an almost tribal 'them or us' attitude, which cannot be swayed by evidence.  Mother Teresa said 'If you judge people you have no time to love them'.  We all have our human condition to connect us and it saddens me that people for whatever reason cannot develop open minds.

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to share with our SL Enquirer Readers?

VJ:     I am looking forward to working hard as Brand Ambassador, and the opportunities and experiences that are opening for me.  I am truly passionate about paying back the trust and the belief Mika, Paris, and the team put in me when I won.  Luxe Paris feels like a home I have come to and will contribute to, both during my reign and perhaps, if I am lucky, as a Designer going forward.

You can watch the grand finale LUXE Paris LOOK of the YEAR again on SL4Live-TV channel on YouTube at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAzobyQazqw

Soooo...there you have it.  What better advice can you find than that coming directly from this year's winner?  If you have ever thought about entering the world of High Fashion, take in a show or two.  Talk to the contestants - they don't bite.  And who knows?  Maybe some year you, too, might find yourself featured in SL Enquirer as a LUXE Paris: Look of the Year WINNER

Give it a shot.  Tell 'em Josh sent ya.  You'll be glad you did

Aloha!

JB

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PERVERTS ZONE - SL's NEWEST WAY TO CONNECT WITH LIKE-MINDED ADULTS. JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING.

OK..Soooo..those of you who have followed us for a while know that the SL Enquirer is a great place to learn about the hottest, clubs, entertainers, and sporting events on the Grid.

But did you ALSO know it is THE place to go to learn about "Systems" as well?  Who knew, right?  Well Folks, today we have come upon one of the undiscovered Gems of the System Community: SIN Tracker. Before you think “SIN Tracker?  Sounds like a way to keep track of all the bad things I have done in my life.  Well, thanks, but no thanks”  let me set the record straight here.  That is so NOT what this is all about.  This is like the coolest way out there to find your perfect match or like-minded individuals for RP or anything else you have in mind as a way to add richness to your SecondLife experience.

I caught up with Clover McGregor, and she agreed to discuss this amazing system with me to share with our amazing SL Enquirer Readers.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     So, Tell me, Clover.  Just what is SIN Tracker anyway?

Clover McGregor (CM):     SIN Tracker is a system designed for ADULT roleplay.

JB:     Tell me more, please. I understand you have both a "Tracker" and a "Catalog"   Can you tell me about each of those, please?

CM:     SIN tracker is a scripted HUD that you attach to your avatar, set up a profile with your likes, dislikes, wants needs, desires/kinks add photos, roleplay style. It gives users the ability to find each other.

The Catalogue (Perverts Zone) contains the created profiles of people who have chosen to use the tracker, you can make your profile listing as detailed or as simple as you wish, add times when you will be online, use the anonymous messaging system outside of virtual worlds, search though people's profile to find your playmate, add profiles to favorites or ban profiles (because as we all know in virtual worlds not everyone is perfect)

I access it from work and doom scroll reading profiles! Once registered you don't need to be in a virtual world to be nosey or set up play for later.

JB:     Where did the inspiration for the system come from? 

CM:     SIN was created in 2009/10 (yes, we are THAT old). We were inspired by the RDF system and that idea. RDF was difficult to work.  The owner of RDF grew tired of SL and didn't want to update or change RDF. So SIN tracker was born. With time we have also added the additional features of lottery and the catalogue, with more ideas in the works.

JB:     Who developed the system? When did it start? 

CM:     The creator and architect is iezious guisse, the system itself is managed by Shani Bellic, the design (up to the last version) was done by Aymeric Pelazzi.

JB:     So then....will you be hosting special events, like a "Meet and Greet" for the users of your System? 

CM:     At the moment we have a number of 'social' events - usually unplanned, spontaneity is the key. Field trips - where we meet and visit some of our hunting grounds, there is also a Halloween Ball in the planning. There are plans to have more social events at Glass n Stone, and our club at Perverts ZONE which is SIN home. There you can pick up SIN tracker and register for SIN karma.

JB:     You mentioned Hunting grounds, can you elaborate?

 CM:     Hunting grounds are a group of lands that encourage SIN Tracker users to use their land/play area. For Land owners it’s a simple set up. 

We add a profile board to the land the board is attached to in the Pervert Zone Catalogue so it will show the profile photo of the girls and guys hanging out who are wearing an active SIN tracker.

Set up is simple and free. We provide the board, the activation and the advertising on Pervert Zone. 

JB:     I understand you have a weekly Lottery Game?   Describe that, please? Once you join SIN tracker and set up your profile, you can register for SIN Karma. 

CM:     SIN Karma is a lottery-like matchmaking services, where you may be lucky enough to find a matching partner to play with or date, someone with similar adult interests. It chooses a partner for play for you. You aren't always successful! You are then free to contact one another to set up a date/scene. The lottery result is valid for 7 days!

JB:     It sounds like a system like you have here will be kind of pricey for people to join.  Is it? 

CM:     FREE, absolutely free however we would never discourage a donation, every single linden is appreciated. Additionally, we have patron should people wish to donate that way.

JB:     Who would you see as the ideal user of SIN Karma? 

CM:     People who enjoy adult roleplay, in whatever capacity that is. There are many options to choose your level of play and involvement and who you interact with.

JB:     Where can a person go who might be interested in learning more about the SIN Karma system. 

CM:     That's easy.  People can go to the following location,  No Perverts Zone (31,142,2502) - collect a tracker from the vendor.

SURL:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Perverts%20Zone/31/142/2502 

Once you have your Tracker, click on the following links and follow the simple directions.

For directions on how to set up and use your SIN Perverts tracker, go to https://perverts.zone/article/contacts 

For a list of our Frequently Asked Questions,(FAQs), go to: https://perverts.zone/article/faq 

And finally, for a list of our staff who will gladly assist you with anything else you may need, go to: https://perverts.zone/article/help

People can join our group, or contact a member of staff. We are always up to discuss the tracker or pervert zone when asked. 

So there you have it folks.  One of the most innovative and comprehensive ways on teh grid to cut through all the drama and wasted time as you try and find the ideal Adult Playmate for your RP experience.  So go grab a tracker and get started.  And when you see a staff member, tell 'em Josh sent ya.   You'll be glad you did.

Be there! Aloha!!

JB

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BLUE RIDGE COUNTRY – AUTHENTIC COUNTRY WITH AN APPALACHIAN TWIST - JOSH(THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING

In the many years that I have been writing for SL Enquirer, I have visited Scores of Regions, hundreds of Sims, and probably thousands of parcels in my search for excellence.  Most of those places miss that standard by a mile.  Some places come a little closer.  A very select few of those builds actually accomplish what they set out to do, and become a showcase for excellence in the Virtual World.  Blue Ridge Country is one of those that truly "makes the cut".  I was hopping around the grid the other day and ran into Hannock Evergarden and his lovely bride, ʟoʟǟ Ďεмυřε-ɛʋɛʀɢǟʀɖɛռ (jyden812).  Hannock graciously agreed to take a break from his labors and answer my burning questions about this "Center of Excellence" called Blue Ridge Country.  What follows is the result of that interview.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) JB:     So, Tell me, Just what makes Blue Ridge Country different from teh other Western Clubs out there?

Hannock Evergarden (HE):     Well first, Blue Ridge Country went out of it's way to not be a western country club. The theme of the club is based on the rural hills of the Appalachian Mountains. Western clubs are a dime a dozen and we wanted to be different. 

JB:     Where did you get the inspiration for your Blue Ridge Country?  and can you share a bit about the history of the place?

HE:     Hannock’s home is in the state of Virginia and is very familiar with the scenery and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains. That's why you see a lot of moonshine stills around the club, lol.  

BRC opened on September 1, 2023 on a small 1/4 parcel before moving onto a full region in March of '24, adding so much more activities and scenic atmosphere to the club region.

JB:     Did you two develop this on your own, or were you working with others?

HE:     Lola and I conceived and built Blue Ridge Country initially and then brought in our general manager Ange Blackwell to help us on the full sim.  At first, we didn't know how we were going to fill an entire region but in time we actually ran out of room, lol.  After nearly one year of daily operation, we decided to take a 2-month hiatus to reorganize and redesign the club region, so on July 13 operations were shut down and we began working on a plan to revitalize and refresh the club. 

JB:     What did you find was the Biggest challenge in preparing for your Grand reOpening?

HE:     Attracting attention.  23 VIP’s left our group during the shutdown, probably thinking we were permanently closed in spite of our advertising that it was for only 2 months.  We hope to regain those VIPs and add many more after we reopen.  We pulled out the stops in advertising and getting the word out but it's not easy to attract guests when they don't know we're there.   

While the club was shut down many additions and improvements were made to the surrounding club region. The trails were replaced with a simple dirt path making it easier for horseback riding.  The cave now includes a scenic, enchanted cavern with cuddle spots and poses perfect for photography.  Access to the boat dock has been made easier and more boat rezzers have been added to enjoy in our sim wide open water area. A tall water slide has been added to the open water area with a hang glider rezzer at the top that allows guests to view the Blue Ridge region from the air. The beach has been expanded to include a volley ball court and a basketball hoop. Completing the beach additions is a wind surfer rezzer. 

JB:     So then....Tell us about your Grand (re)Opening.

HE:     After a 2-month hiatus, we intend to have a reopening party on Saturday August 31 at 4 PM for staff and VIP’s out on the beach. On Friday, September 6, Blue Ridge Country will reopen full time, 7 days a week 12 PM to 8 PM, with a fresh look and a revitalized staff.  Our fantastic staff is what makes Blue Ridge Country the awesome club that it is.  We would have understood if the staff had decided to move on to other clubs and venues but almost all of BRC's DJ's and Hosts hung in there during the break and will return on September 6. Our staff is eager to get the club rolling again.  

JB:     What are some of the things people can do at Blue Ridge Country?

HE:     The list is long but some things are: Horseback riding with expanded and improved trails, cave exploration, a multi-level tree house for cuddling or to just take in sounds of wildlife and scenery, stores for shopping, an expanded beach area with a volley ball court, bowling alley, trampoline and a diving board as well as our DJ Desires music sets every Saturday.  The boat dock has easier access and includes rezzers for Kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, bumper boats and jet skis and an open water area to have fun in.  We have added a water slide and also a hang glider rezzer at the top, it's easy to use and the views are spectacular!

JB:     Do you have full time rental property available here?  And maybe a link for potential renters?  

HE:       The most exciting addition are rental cottages.  Now guests can vacation at BRC and enjoy all the fun things as well as being right next to the club where they can enjoy our awesome DJ's and perhaps make some new BRC friends.  

On the Blue Ridge region, we have 5 short term vacation rentals ranging from L$50/day to L$300/day.  There are rental kiosks at each rental cottage. 

Although not a part of the club region there are two more regions connected to it both also owned by Lola and myself.  Sweet Magnolia Bay for full time land rental and Blue Water Bay vacation rentals with full access to the open water area. 

JB:     Who would you see as the ideal guest at Blue Ridge Country?

HE:     The ideal guest would be just down to Earth people that want to have a good time free of drama and stress. We love seeing people enjoy the surrounding areas and the best country music our awesome DJ's provide.

JB:     Is there anything else you would care to share with our readers?

HE:     Blue Ridge Country has zero tolerance for drama. We simply want everyone to have fun and to be a part of our crazy family.  Blue Ridge Country wants to be a place everyone feels welcome and have a good time.  So come hang out with us and come get your fun fix! 

JB:     Where can a person go who might be interested in learning more about Blue Ridge Country?

HE:     Come straight to the club, everything you need to know is there.  You can leave a note card to one of the owners if we are not open or just ask any staff member and they will be happy to help you. 

SURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/lohana/70/116/28

FACEBOOK  https://www.facebook.com/groups/234507606210971/

FLICKR:      https://www.flickr.com/photos/199052932@N06/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/201333702@N08/"s/201333702@N08/

So there ya have it folks.  Have I ever lied to you before?  Trust me, you are definitely going to want to check this place out.  You will be SOOOOooo glad you did!  Go alone, or better yet, take a friend. And when you get there, tell 'em Josh sent ya.

Be There!  Aloha!

JB

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