GIANO: A FAMILY FRIENDLY PARADISE IN PIXELS – JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING

One of the things I occasionally like to do in SL is to open the world map, randomly look for new regions, and TP there.  Last week I happened to land on the Main Street of a charming New England town named Giano. As a long-time RL resident of that part if the country, I was immediately struck by the phenomenal similarities between this place, and my happy childhood residence.  From the Giano Pizza Parlor, to the horse ranch, to the Drive-In Theater, I felt immediately “at home”.

As I strolled the streets, I came upon Stacey Giano and Ikonn Giano, the owners of Giano.  Ikonn was on a ladder, and Stacey was directing him from the recently shoveled sidewalk below, directing Ikonn as he strung Christmas lights and other decorations of the season.  After introducing myself, they invited me inside the café for a cup of steaming hot chocolate, and agreed to tell me the story of Giano.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Hi Guys.  Thanks for agreeing to chat with me. Let’s start with a softball question.  Just what is Giano all about?

Ikonn Giano (IG):   WE are a small community with laid back role play. We try to provide an environment where people can role play if they like but if they don’t and just want to be in a community that’s ok to. We don’t force anyone to role play we are also inclusive. We do our best to make this a place for everyone to have a fun.

Stacey Giano (SG)  To me, Giano is a lot like the community I live in real life. It's a sleepy small town with mountains, woods, and small businesses. It's where everyone knows each other. It's not full of crime. And it's beautiful. 

JB:     There are many beautiful Sims out there, and several of them dedicated to RP activities. What would you say is the "Giano Difference"?     

IG:     I think the biggest thing is how long we have been around. I started this back 2007 and it has been going ever since. There have been many other RP communities that have come and gone. Most will not make it.  There are things that come with the years of experience and how we do things here and a formula that I use to ensure we have enough prims and how we price them.

SG:     The Giano difference is it's just a nice clean and cozy New England style town where you can spend your time with friends and family without constant crime and violence.  It's a place where you can have a good quality home, customize it, and enjoy your time in comfort. 

JB:     What a lovely build.  Did you do this yourself?  Or were others involved, and what were their roles?

IG:     Yes, I did most of the build and layout. I did take in a lot of good feedback and ideas from my team. I had to custom-make most of the textures for example, the police and fire department vehicles and other various custom-made mesh projects around the community.  

JB:     Where did you get the inspiration for Giano City?  And can you share a bit about the history of the place?

SG:     This was Ikonn's idea. The town's history comes from the hard-working farmers or ranchers in the New England part of the United States. These were people who faced harsh winters and warm summers. It's a close-knit community with a main street. While there are people from all backgrounds and countries, our culture and traditions are deeply rooted in a rural way of life.

JB:     WOW...Lots of different areas. from Fire station to Bowling alley, Beach Front and a Ranch.  You even have a Drive in Movie theater...with real movies.  What are some of the more interesting areas here?

SG:     For me, the interesting areas include the trails through the woods. And we love to watch movies together. Our drive-in has been a really great spot to watch movies with friends and family.

IG:     I would have to say some of the most interesting things here are mini golf.  It seems to be a favorite among the residents. Our horse trails are popular. They run through 4 of sims. With 7seas fishing you can fish in an open water here. 

JB:     And are you showing that classic iconic Drive-in theater movie: "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre"? (grins)

SG:     I am sure if its available we could show this. lol

IG:     Maybe around Halloween but we don’t’ normally do horror flicks 

JB:     I managed to snag a copy of this month's Giano Magazine. What is that all about?

SG:     The Giano Magazine is pretty new. Every month, we feature as much local information, events, and public notices. We also provide some grid-wide news, i.e. the last issue had a feature of a top SL model Dametria. Every month, we will feature something new and different. 

 JB:     What has been your greatest challenge in building the Town of Giano?

IG:     One of the biggest challenges is yes, advertising.  So many places come and go. So always looking for new and improved ways to advertise. We do a lot of this and sometimes keeping up with all of it can be challenge.

SG:     I wasn't part of the building of the city in the beginning. However, as Ikonn's wife, I have learned the biggest challenge has been advertising the community grid-wide. Advertising and marketing in SL needs to be a college level course. It's just simply not an easy task. However, I have learned a lot of little tricks along the way. And it's constantly researching all the different new mediums coming available, i.e. social media platforms. And cutting out the old way of doing things that don't offer any results as they might have done before. Most importantly, it's important to really examine the various seasons of virtual commerce and what is driving interest.

JB:     I see you have private residences here for rent. Who would you envision as the ideal renter?

IG:     Anyone who wants to be part of community. We try to have something for everyone from apartments to mansions. To lots of role play opportunities.  

SG:     I think anyone interested in starting a family, growing a family, or enjoys living in a small town.

JB:     So, tell our readers about the "1st Annual Giano Christmas Stroll" coming up on Dec 14.

SG:     The Giano Christmas Stroll is going to be one of the top events of the year. It's a chance for everyone to come out and spend time with their friends and family while sipping on hot coco, taking photos with Santa, and shop, and hang out in downtown Giano. And then we'll watch a movie in the drive-in. A great way to celebrate the Christmas season and get to know your neighbors.

 JB:     Do you have any other special events planned? And how can people find out what’s happening at Giano Properties?  Any Social Media Sites or similar things?

SG:     We do many social events throughout the year. Notifications are sent out in our community group. And we love to play games, go mini-golfing, movie nights, bowling, hanging out at the community pool, or having happy hour at the local Admirals Bar. And we also have a community center, church, and dancing club.  Some things are planned in advance. And then, if we have time, we just send a message to the community that a group of us are gathering someplace to do something together.

IG:     Yes, we do plan special events all year long. We also have weekly and pop-up events like a few of us getting together to play a game or do some mini golf. We use our community group as well as our own Website and social media.  We are on pretty much all the platforms. We also have a discord server. 

Check us out at https://www.gianoproperties.com/ 

JB:     And how about the future?  Do you have any construction projects in mind?

IG:     We do have plans to expand and add more sims. For details on what we have planned I guess you'll have to stay tuned.

SG:     Additionally, we are building a community library. That is unique as I don't know any other communities that offer a library. This library will eventually have books and our Giano magazine past issues. As well as any other services you can find at a public library. And a great place to chill and read a book. 

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

SG:     Giano has been around since 2007. That is nearly 20 years long. And some of the same residents still live here from the beginning. And I've been here for the better part of 14 of those years. While the buildings have changed some, the core of what Giano has been has never changed. And that kind of stability is hard to find anywhere. The success of Giano is due in large part of Ikonn's fairness, kindness, and willingness to listen to his residents. Ikonn has put a lot of love into building this community. And it really shows.

IG:     Well, I opened this back in 2007 and I have seen ups and downs multiple times. So I do have a lot of experience in dealing with all these things. I have seen it all. Me being the only owner prevents there from being any issues, unlike other places that may have multiple owners.  

SB:     So, there you have it, folks.  For those of you who are already familiar with the delights of a New England community, you will immediately feel right at home, as you are embraced by the hospitality and warmth of this lovely and charming build. For those of you who have never experienced this type of place, you are indeed missing out on one of the most endearing regions of the Grid.  Either way – longtime resident, or Bucket-List visitor – A trip to Giano will warm both heart and soul. You simply MUST see this amazing build. 

Hop on over to: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Newport%20Keys/142/120/24

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

Be there! Aloha!

JB

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OPEN MIC AUDITION WINNER FOR NOVEMBER, 2024 –SVOXY, TALENT EXTRAORDINAIRE: JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING.

I was cruising around the grid the other day, just kind of sim hopping with no real objective, minding my own business. I was kind of floating along, “in the zone” as it were, when my reverie was interrupted by a captivating melody?  Had I strayed over an Adel Concert, or perhaps some other great soul singer? Or maybe it was the voice of an Angel?  I had to find out.  Following the sound of the music, I came upon a lovely lady, standing before an audience and a microphone, just singing her heart out. It turns out, the voice I heard belonged to none other than this month’s winner of the SL Enquirer Open Mic Songwriters Contest.   The lovely and talented  - SVOX.

After her stunning performance and the winners were announced, I asked SVOX if she would agree to sit for an interview, as I was certain our readers would enjoy reading about this Melodious Marvel.  This Wizard of Words.  This plucker of guitar strings and of heartstrings.  And she said “Yes”.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     So SVOXY,  Congratulations on your win.  It was well deserved.   Thanks for agreeing to chat with me.  To begin with, how long have you been performing your music, and what sorts of venues?

SVOXY:     It's been about 2 years. It started at the Savoy Ballroom and then about a year ago, I joined Simstar. I met the founders, Darius Anthony and Melly Faith who founded Simstar in 2023. The idea was to create a community of artists that support each other and since then, I've been performing at many different kinds of venues. Anything from beach cafes to large Latin style venues to big stage events. Charity Events like " Scare me silly" for diabetes Awareness Team.. "Relay for Life " American Cancer Society.. And at the Savoy Ballroom they collect for the research of Parkinsons.

Simstar has helped me explore and broaden my exploration of different Venue’s

I choose to do 1-2 sets a week on SL maximum so I can keep exploring and listening to other artists.

JB:     Who were your music idols, and those who most influenced your musical style?

SVOXY:     I love all kinds of music so there's no specific influence I can state. There are some amazing 60’s soul singers like Etta James and Aretha Franklin, there are awesome 70’s composers, 80s style and pop, 90’s Grunge and ROCK scene. BBKing from the blues scene and Erika Badu from the RnB Jazz world.

JB:     What was the inspiration for the song you sang at the contest, and why did you choose that particular song?

SVOXY:     When at a new venue I just grab for the newest things I've worked on to display if it be at an open mic. I chose my latest song “Just the way it is” because of the high energy and relatable story behind the lyric… at some point every one meets and connects with someone that can sweep you into a whirlwind of excitement.

My second song being called “one way” is more of a reflection of life, your choices pave the way of life path. You can always be kicked back to the start again but you often need to endure and learn, so that song is about being strong and empowering yourself to make the choices you need to make.

JB:     How would you describe the brand that you now represent? To really stand out in the SL Music scene, you have to have something special about your performances. How do you define your music style?

SVOXY:      I strive to represent myself by keeping true to the journey in life. I am not sure it is a brand or if it makes me stand out. I am just being me in the world, gaining and sharing experiences and then telling those stories through lyrics; if it be about connectivity and love or just fantasy. So, I think what I try to make special is sharing the stories with the listeners and that lets us all feel connected as people during the live sets.

The other thing is I keep the music organic. We play and record everything you hear with real instruments and microphones and I think (hope) that comes across as relatable and engaging. I love talking to listeners, laughing at mistakes and having fun together so we all feel good at the end.

JB:     What are your landmark performances?  Best Memories performing both in RL and in SL?

SVOXY:     In SL, it would be sharing the stage with Dorian Dragon at the Renaissance Fair 2023 for the American Cancer Society. I truely love supporting other artists. I consider us all on the same path to sharing our talent. In RL, I have great memories of a world tour I did many years ago as part of a live stage production, singing to lots of people in so many different countries.

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

SVOXY:     Overwhelmed and surprised. A friend, Samuel James, sent me a link to jump in a check it out so it was a surprise to be competing and a bigger surprise to win. It's very humbling and I'm so thankful to everyone involved. It's a true honour.

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

SVOXY:     I think it's the same as it has always been and that is to really connect with people. If you create the music you love, it will eventually find it's right audience and the connection will happen. Of course, you need to learn how to create the music and make it sound good which can be very challenging, but once you get to a point where it's ready to share, then you find your listeners one by one. Just like they did decades ago, you hit different venues to find your audience except now we are doing it in virtual venues and not in a touring van haha. It feels like the real success is finding people that you can enjoy the experience with.

JB:     You’ve been on the grid for over 17 years now What advice could you give to someone who wants to be a songwriter?

SVOXY:     We all love stories so focus on telling a story through lyrics and melody. And tell the stories that you enjoy yourself. Life and experience is the best inspiration for relatable stories and remember there are lots of people out there with similar tastes to you so if you feel connected to what you've written, others will too. Once you have some stuff written, then be brave and share at open mics. Enjoy the journey and be patient with your songs finding their audience.

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

SVOXY:     I mainly use one focal point for social media:

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/selaperforms

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

SVOXY:     I have some regular gigs that I do each fortnight or month. The easiest way to see them is on the SIMSTAR Website: under artist SVOXY you can access my Calendar to catch my show information - date and time. You can also join my Svoxy group so you get notified when I'm hoping on for a live set.

https://simstarsl.com

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

SVOXY:      I send greetings and Happy, Happy Holiday Season

And so there you have it folks.  Direct from the Singer’s mouth to the written word.  As you can see, SVOXY is a multitalented musician, composer and performer. For those of you who enjoy the finest in live entertainment in SL – and you KNOW who you are – make it a special point to catch SVOXY Live, in concert. Go to the website above and check it out.  Believe me when I tell you, you do NOT want to miss this Lady.

And by the way…when you do….Tell ‘em Josh sent ya.  You’ll be glad you did

Be there! Aloha!

JB

 

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MAGNOLIA CITY – SECONDLIFE’S PREMIER ROLE PLAY COMMUNITY: JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING

Sooooo..I was out sim hopping the other day, looking for new stories to share with our SL Enquirer readers.  It was getting late, and I was just about to call it a night, when I noticed a glow on the horizon.  I was intrigued and thought I would give a look before heading home.  The closer I got, the brighter the glow, until I realized this was no mere hovel I had stumbled upon in the vast expanses of the SL Grid, but was instead a fully functioning CITY of massive proportions!

At the side of the road stood a sign, noting that I had entered the great and fabled RP build – Magnolia City. I located the Municipal Center and located the office of Mr. Vic Mornington, Director of Marketing.  He was busy approving some newly printed posters announcing the upcoming FLICKR Photo contest they are running, and he graciously agreed to chat with me about this marvelous build.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Hi Vic...for the benefit of our readers...just what is this place called Magnolia City all about?

Vic Mornington (VM):     Hi!  So, to break it down to its basics...Magnolia City is a family roleplay town which, as the name suggests, is set up for town style roleplay.  We have the foundation elements already in place, police, fire dept, hospital etc.  It's based in Florida, somewhere south of Miami. Its currently at 7 regions, with the 7th region, the marina, currently under development.  There are plans for future expansions of the city.

JB:     But aren't there several "RP Cities" in SL?  What would you say is the "Magnolia City" difference"?

VM:     At the last count, at least in the Destination Guide ran by Linden Lab, there are about 16 RP towns and cities.  Some of them are in the past (Victorian Age) some of them are sci-fi and set in the future.  Magnolia City is set in the contemporary current times.  Practically all of the large RP town and city communities are set either on the west coast, or the north east coast.  Magnolia is unusual in that its set on the south east coast...Florida, where we can do some things a bit differently than a lot of other communities have done, especially with the landscaping of the regions

JB:     OK.  Share with us some of the history of Magnolia City?  Is there anyone still around from those early days?

VM:     It officially opened on June 1st of 2024, so it’s still a relatively new community.  At the start, it was a group of people who were already all friends due to being in another RP town which was having difficulties, later on that RP town basically shut down. 

At the beginning of May of this year the original Magnolia website was launched with a 30-day countdown to the regions opening up.  Most of the people who moved in to the then two region sized city are still around to this day,

JB:     Who are some of the key Movers and Shakers here?

VM:     Well, you have Niko as the owner, then Jenna as the City Admin and Roxy as the moderator.  The landscaping is down to Dacio and Violet, with Dacio being the design director for all 7 regions.  The main departments, including my own (marketing) is listed on the site here https://www.magnolia-sl.com/officials/ there are a lot of people who are running the roleplay side of things, the Fire Dept and Police Departments for instance.

When it comes to the IT side of things, the Magnolia City website is run by Niko and includes some things not seen before in websites that cover Second Life RP towns.  Character sheets, job applications, a direct chat tie in to discord – it’s all available on the Magnolia website!

Events are very important for any community in Second Life as well.  Well-run and regular events ties a community closer together.  Electra runs the events department, and she going to get busy with the Christmas season just around the corner.

JB:     What types of activities can folks get involved with here?

VM:     Events and RP are the mainstays of Magnolia. Every week there are regular events on like Bingo.  Murphys Old Ale House has live singers on as well and Loose Change has semi regular parties.  My own bar will hopefully soon be starting up mid-week events.  Trivia night has recently become a regular event in the city too and we also have games nights ran by the Dept of Public Works.

The events aren’t just dictated by the staff either.  Anyone living in Magnolia City can submit an event idea in the Discord channel and the events team will work with them to see if it can be done in Magnolia, the team will help organize it and even provide a DJ if the person with the event idea doesn't know any DJ's.

On top of that, there is the roleplay.  The police dept, fire dept, department of public works, hospital, criminal group (yes, we have a criminal group), and the DMV all roleplay around the town, currently the Dept of Public works is replacing all the fire hydrants in the town, and medical dept is in the process of giving residents flu vaccinations. Whatever your flavor of RP, there’s something to do in Magnolia.

JB:     I notice several distinct areas here.  can you break it down for our readers?

VM:     The original two regions, Magnolia City and Paradise Palms laid down the foundation of what is the eastern end of the city.  A more contemporary themed Floridian city with the beach and boardwalk taking up the far eastern edge.  Those two region themes move north into the Coconut Terrance and Sunshine Keys regions which are an extension of that city feel.  The western side of the city though slowly transforms into something you would expect to see in the south of Florida.  Swamplands.

Bramble Brook, Mango Grove and then Mandarin Marina is the first stage of the westward expansion of the city, with Bramble Brook and Mango Grove being the first section of what will be a large swampland area in Magnolia.  The way it was landscaped is a "Partial Drained" swampland, so yes, there are houses actually in the swamplands that are only accessible by boat, there are off branch roads leading in to more contemporary streets which are surrounded by swamps.

The entire northern edge of the town is the "Downtown" area of Magnolia.  High rise condo apartments and hotels and a concentration of businesses surrounding them (including the gym).  The main events park, which is a 100m x 60m open land area is, as the name suggests, set aside for large events, like the Christmas event which is currently being set up by the events team.  The area surrounding the events park is still currently under construction but eventually will have the docklands and the new city hall.

JB:     So, Vic.  Tell me about this FLICKR contest?  There must have been a typo on the poster I saw because it said there are 40 THOUSAND lindens in prize money up for grabs.  Really?  40K?

VM:     Nope it's not a typo!  The Flickr contest runs until November 30th and the prize money is from the sponsors of the event, those three women you seen in the video with the Scottish accents.  They go by the name Charlie's Angels in Second Life.  So, they are putting up the money for 1st place (25,000), 2nd place (10,000) and 3rd place (5,000).  Judged by the angels and two of their blogger friends if a tie-break should happen.  If you want more info, have a look at the post in the Flickr group here https://www.flickr.com/groups/magnoliacity

JB:     Just where might someone go to learn more about Magnolia City?  Social Media sites, SURL, etc?

VM:     All of the major info on Magnolia can be found on our awesome website, to gain access to it all you’ll need to make an account but once you do, you’ll have access to job listings, character sheets and more!  https://www.magnolia-sl.com

I run the social media side of things, the two to keep an eye on would be:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/magnoliacitysl/  and

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@magnoliacitysl

However, the Discord is the central place for chatter and news. 

The Discord main channels (Chat and RP Chat) have got relays into the same group channels within Second Life.  So, if you are in the RP and chat groups for Magnolia City inworld, you can chat to those groups via Discord and vice versa!  You can find the Discord link on the social media bar at the very top of the site page.

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

VM:     If you do decide to visit Magnolia, I hope you have an awesome visit!  Also, we have been running a Thanksgiving month special rental offer for current and new renters.  If you rent three weeks, you get one week added free!  That offer, like the Flickr contest, ends on November 30th!  If you have any other questions, pop into the discord or just pop a message off to me inworld! :D

So, there you have it, Folks.  Whether you are a noob RPer, a more experienced person interested in the field, or one with years under your belt as a seasoned RPer…or just interested in visiting this amazing build…Magnolia City is DEFINITELY worth checking out.  

So, head on over to Magnolia City. Tell ‘em Josh sent ya. You’ll be glad ya did

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Magnolia%20City/208/41/22

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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