Exploring Second Life's Top Music and Social Venues: A Guide for Residents. Moonite1687 Reporting...

 

As fellow residents of Second Life, you already know the magic our virtual world holds. From the bustling streets to the serene landscapes, there's always something new to explore. Among the myriad of experiences, our music and social venues stand out as vibrant hubs of activity. Whether you're looking for a lively pub, a cutting-edge club, an elegant jazz lounge, or an artistic retreat, these destinations offer unique and immersive experiences. Get ready to dive deeper into the best spots for live entertainment and socializing, where every visit brings something fresh and exciting.

The Blarney Stone Irish Pub in Second Life was established in 2004 and is currently managed by Jane Mercuy. It stands out as one of the best concert venues in the virtual world, known for its vibrant atmosphere, lively and welcoming environment, daily social events, and live DJ music. Therefore, the Blarney Stone is a nexus of activity and entertainment.

It is a central gathering place for residents, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie. As the oldest live music venue in Second Life, the Blarney Stone has hosted countless memorable performances, adding to its charm and appeal.

The venue recreates the look and feel of Dublin, Ireland, providing an immersive cultural experience. Besides concerts, the pub provides a host of events, including themed parties and social gatherings.

You can find the schedule for upcoming concerts on their events page located on the Blarney Stones website: https://www.dublinsl.net/index.php/events

To experience the Blarney Stone Irish Pub for yourself, use this SLURL to teleport directly to the venue in Second Life.

Enjoy your time at the Blarney Stone! Whether you're a fan of live music, themed parties, or just looking for a place to socialize, this iconic venue has something for everyone.

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Dublin/95/92/25



The V-Club is our second concert venue destination in Second Life. The dynamic video music club venue offers a unique and immersive experience with a diverse range of music genres to cater to various tastes. You can expect to hear a mix of electronic dance music (EDM), house, techno, trance, and electro. This club is known for hosting live events and playing videos 24/7, making it a go-to spot for music lovers at any time of the day.

One of the standout features of the V-Club is its special lighting effects and interactive HUD, which enhance the overall atmosphere and provide an engaging experience for visitors. The club's design and technology create a vibrant and visually stimulating environment that keeps guests entertained and coming back for more.

The V-Club is not just about music; it also fosters a sense of community among its patrons. Regular events and a welcoming atmosphere make it a popular destination for socializing and meeting new people in Second Life.

If you have not been to the V Club, gather your crew and take a trip to an unforgettable clubbing experience.

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Aspen%20Pines/177/194/21




Third on our list The Merry Prankster--  is a quirky, high-tech, and high-energy venue that has been supporting live music for many years. It is known for hosting both new and veteran performers, making it a vibrant spot for discovering a wide range of musical talents.

The Merry Prankster offers a distinctively engaging environment where you can expect great music, great friends, and good fun. The venue is designed to provide a high-quality audio-visual experience, enhancing the enjoyment of live performances. The community at the Merry Prankster is welcoming and inclusive, often described as a place where you can join the party and feel right at home.

The venue regularly hosts live music events, featuring a variety of genres and performers. This makes it a dynamic and ever-changing place to visit, with something new to experience each time. Whether you're into rock, jazz, blues, or electronic music, you're likely to find performances that suit your taste.

Something of note about the Merry Prankster is its strong sense of community. It's a place where you can meet new people, make friends, and enjoy shared experiences. The venue's lively atmosphere and friendly patrons contribute to its reputation as a fun and engaging destination in Second Life.

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Prankster%20Isle/136/127/55



If you seek a concert venue that is about sophistication, then Branagh's Jazz Club is for you. Coming in at number four on our list, this multi-venue jazz club offers a unique and elegant experience for jazz enthusiasts. The club features live music on weekends, providing a perfect setting for those who appreciate the smooth and soulful sounds of the genre.

Branagh's Jazz Club is set in an elegant penthouse overlooking a simulation of midtown Manhattan, where you can find two stages and the Stardust Restaurant. The setting offers a luxurious and immersive experience, making it feel like you're attending a high-end jazz club in the heart of the city. Additionally, there is an outdoor music venue located in a romantic seaside park, which adds a touch of nature and tranquility to the musical experience.

As a running theme, Branagh's offers a multitude of special features that leave no question as to where you are. The club boasts multiple venues, including an elegant penthouse and a romantic seaside park, each offering a unique ambiance for enjoying live jazz. Within the penthouse, the Stardust Restaurant provides a refined dining experience, complementing the live music with exquisite cuisine. Both features coupled with the urbane touches are perfect for those looking to enjoy music with a touch of lip-smacking sentimentality.

Branagh's Jazz Club hosts live music performances primarily on weekends, featuring a variety of jazz styles and talented musicians for the discerning ear.

Please note that while the emphasis is on romance, those of us who are currently single can find space in an elegant environment amongst lovers. And who knows, perhaps some of the lachrymose may decide to rub off.

*Formal attire is recommended for the events held in the penthouse and your best casual attire is appropriate otherwise.

Event Calendar: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/embed?src=cdiunro449s313kc8ptnkdle50@group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Los_Angeles&pli=1

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/West%20Egg/199/75/2033



Rounding out our list at number five is the Virtual Hotel Chelsea. As the name already implies, this venue is not like the others in that it was designed to be a replica of the famous RL Chelsea Hotel in New York City known for its rich Bohemian heritage. Created in 2009 by Mykal Skall and passionately managed by the late Enola Em Vaher, this virtual venue continues the tradition of being a haven for artists, musicians, and writers like those of us here at SLE.

The Virtual Hotel Chelsea offers a unique blend of live music, art, and community events. It features weekly live music performances by accomplished musicians who play actual instruments, creating an authentic and engaging experience. The venue also hosts DJ events and is surrounded by over 40 art galleries, making it a cultural hotspot in Secondlife.

The hotel regularly organizes special events, such as poetry contests, art exhibitions, and themed parties, which attract a diverse crowd of creative individuals these events help with the maintenance of the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere that the original Chelsea Hotel was famous for.

In addition to being a venue for events, the Virtual Hotel Chelsea offers rental rooms and apartments, allowing residents to live out their Bohemian dreams in a virtual setting and easy access to the various events that take place within the simulation. The rental policies and prices are designed to support artists at all levels, making it an inclusive and supportive community for creative minds.


To learn more about the Virtual Hotel Chelsea, you can use this SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Lanestris/129/182/103 to teleport directly to the venue in Secondlife or visit their website at: https://virtualhotelchelsea.com/


Second Life continues to offer its users a vibrant array of adventures and destinations that cater to diverse tastes and social experiences. And our list of top five musical venues is no exception. Get lost in the sights and sounds wafting on chords of live music from the historic charm of the Blarney Stone Irish Pub and the high-energy atmosphere of the V-Club, to the eclectic and supportive community at the Merry Prankster, the sophisticated elegance of Branagh's Jazz Club, and the artistic haven of the Virtual Hotel Chelsea.

Each venue provides a unique and immersive experience. Whether you're a seasoned resident or a newcomer, these destinations promise unforgettable moments filled with music, art, and camaraderie. Dive into the rich cultural tapestry of Second Life and discover your next favorite spot for live entertainment and socializing. 

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Virtual Museums in Second Life: A Tour of the Best Destinations - Moonite1687 Reporting...

Second Life is renowned for a number of key features that signify it as more than a social platform; it's a dynamic tool for education and professional development, particularly through its virtual museums. These museums offer immersive, interactive learning experiences that go beyond traditional methods. Visitors can engage with exhibits in a hands-on manner, participate in educational programs, and attend workshops and lectures on a wide range of topics.

Virtual museums also collaborate with educational institutions and organizations to bring users professional development courses, making them invaluable resources for students and professionals alike. The accessibility of these virtual museums allows people from around the world to benefit from consuming high-quality educational content, fostering inclusivity and global learning.

Moreover, these virtual spaces serve as platforms for collaborative projects, enabling educators, students, and professionals to work together on creating new exhibits and conducting virtual research. The skills and knowledge gained from these experiences, as is common with Second Life, can be applied in real-world settings, offering practical benefits for future endeavors.

By leveraging the educational and professional features of Second Life, the list of virtual museums below are the best at creating rich environments for learning and growth, making them essential destinations for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and skills in a unique virtual setting.

The Virtual Black History Museum

Starting off the list is a place that I personally found the most valuable as an admittedly African-American user of Second Life—The Virtual Black History Museum. This museum offers a deeply reflective environment with exhibits on notable figures and moments in the timeline of Black history in America. The detailed timeline covers significant events and milestones in African-American history, including everything from the sobering events of the transatlantic slave trade to the empowering civil rights movement and beyond.

The timeline is designed to be both informative and engaging, helping visitors understand the historical context and impact of these events. As aforementioned, the museum also does a phenomenal job of placing focus on prolific figures in Black history. This includes well-known individuals like Harriet Tubman, conductor of the Underground Railroad, and Rosa Parks, a courageous African-American woman who refused to give up her seat on segregated buses.

The institution underscores the contributions of lesser-known but equally important figures such as Amelia Boynton Robinson, Daisy Bates, and Marsha P. Johnson, an African-American gay liberation activist and self-professed drag queen, responsible for a profound role in the Stonewall Inn Riots in Greenwich Village of 1969. The museum aims to amplify awareness of these events and the mentioned individuals for their contributions to African-American lives in America.

The museum hosts educational programs and events in a park-like environment that further explore the poignant themes and topics, enhancing the overall experience for visitors to placidly contemplate and appreciate the significance of African-American history.

**It is great remorse that I share the news that this museum is no longer available for visitors. However, I decided to share its distinction with you posthumously. **

The Vordun Museum and Gallery

As you approach the Vordun Museum and Gallery in Second Life, a wave of anticipation and curiosity washes over you. From the moment you step through the portal, you can begin to comprehend why. The Vordun Museum and Gallery stands out with its rotating exhibits that showcase a wide range of art styles and historical artifacts that transition visitors in time, such as “Danse Macabre.”

Danse Macabre, or "Dance of Death," is an exhibit that explores the omnipresence of death in art and culture from the 15th through 17th centuries. This exhibition includes a powerful collection of woodcuts, murals, and paintings that confront mortality head-on.

Visitors are then welcomed to stop in and enjoy the Common Grounds Cafe, an inviting and charming cafe at the Vordun Museum, designed to complement the museum's aesthetic.  where visitors can take a break from exploring the affecting exhibits and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere. Located within the museum, the cafe offers a cozy environment where you can sip on coffee or tea while reflecting on the art and history consumed.

The cafe is designed to complement the museum's aesthetic, providing a tranquil space with convenient seating and a hospitable ambiance. It's a great place to meet up with friends, have a casual conversation, or simply unwind after touring the galleries. The

Common Grounds Cafe enhances the overall experience of the Vordun Museum by offering a place to slacken and recharge, making your visit even more enjoyable.

Web: https://thevordunsl.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevordunsl/
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/people/thevordunsl/
Email: thevordunsl@gmail.com

inworld group: secondlife:///app/group/005649e9-e0e2-e914-082b-47559966e879/about

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Vordun/155/227/32



Museum of Computing History

Located in Pippen, next to the Sea of Fables, the Museum of Computing History offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of computing technology. Not only do we get a close-up of the early mechanical devices all the way up to modern personal computers, artificial intelligence, and gaming, we also are made acquainted with the influential people who have contributed to the field, such as Charles Babbage, the "father of computers" who designed the Analytical Engine.

One of the other key attractions of the museum is its human-computer interaction, a field of research situated at the intersection of computer science, behavioral sciences, design, media studies, and several other fields of study.

Visitors can interact with various exhibits, participate in educational programs, and attend special events that delve deeper into specific aspects of computing history. This makes the museum a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding how computing technology has evolved and shaped the world we live in today.

This museum offers a comprehensive and immersive experience that mirrors the educational value of real-world computing museums, highlighting the milestones and innovations of the digital age.

Inworld group: secondlife:///app/group/8e940b44-e2c1-1d94-bcec-dffd0dbba4b9/about

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Pippen/66/54/47

Museum of Telecommunications

Also in Pippen, the Museum of Telecommunications explores the history of communication technology.

The Second Life version of the Museum of Telecommunications features several exhibits that closely mirror those found in real-world telecommunications museums. For instance, the exhibit on early optical communications showcases the use of light and visual signals for communication, such as signal fires and semaphore towers, similar to what you might see in a physical museum. The telegraphy displays cover the development and use of the telegraph, including Morse code and early telegraph machines, present in both virtual and real-world settings.

The evolution of the telephone, from Alexander Graham Bell's first invention to modern smartphones, is a staple exhibit in both the virtual museum and its real-world counterparts. Additionally, exhibits on the history and development of mobile phones and wireless communication technologies are featured in both types of museums. Finally, the modern data networks exhibit covers the development of packet networks and Internet communications, reflecting the advancements in telecommunications technology. These exhibits aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the history and advancements in telecommunications and how communication has evolved over the centuries and its impact on society.

Inworld group: secondlife:///app/group/1774f55b-0042-3e05-8df6-aeb75d5ad10d/about

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Pippen/61/120/46

These four museums are among many equally educational and important institutions in Second Life that offer a diverse range of experiences, from art and history to technology and marine life. Each museum provides a unique opportunity to learn and explore in a virtual environment, making them some of the best destinations in Second Life. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or tech enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in these virtual museums.

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OPEN MIC Audition WINNER 10/30/24- Meet Veo Voom! Uniting people through Music- Lanai Jarrico Reporting…

 

On October 30th, Open Mic Auditions took place at The SL Enquirer hosted by DJ Ninja and co host Wolfie Starfire. Talented artists from across the grid showed up to performance for a chance to win 5000L and a Spotlight Feature in the SL Enquirer. This event is gaining momentum on the music scene as a place for new and seasoned musicians to share their music with the SL World. It was hard to pick just one winner this round. 2nd place went to Miss Trish Crafton (oomissoootrishoo.nightingale) and the Winner  of the night was Veo Voom who surprised the audience with his performances.

Veo Voom began playing the piano in the 4th grade and later picked up his first guitar in the 6th grade. There was a period in his late teens and early twenties when he briefly took a break from the guitar to pursue electronic music production. 

During this time, he was signed to a UK record label and produced a remix of the main theme from the video game Skyrim, which garnered over 3 million views on YouTube. Yet again, Veo took another hiatus from all music due to a challenging relationship. This lasted for 4 years in his early twenties. 

After escaping that relationship, Veo immersed himself in playing acoustic guitar and singing. Veo has an eclectic taste and enjoys performing a wide range of music, from Oldies and Folk to Alternative Rock. He's also a multi-instrumentalist, proficient in guitar, piano, harmonica, accordion, bass, drums, and almost anything that's playable. Veo is dedicated to uplifting spirits and uniting people through his music.  The SL Enquirer sat down with Veo to learn more about this talented SL star.

Interview with Veo Voom

Lanai: Hi Veo, it is such a pleasure to be interviewing you. Congratulations on winning Open Mic Auditions at SLE! The prize was well deserved, you have a wonderful stage presence. How did you discover Second life?

Veo Voom: I discovered Second Life a little over 17 years ago. One of my friends told me about it and the thought of a virtual world that's created mainly by the users is such a brilliant idea. A place where people can create and share their love for so many things is so beautiful.

Lanai:I agree!  It’s always exciting to get up close and personal with musical talent here in Second life. You’ve been involved in music from a very young age beginning with Piano. Who were your music inspirations leading you to picking up a guitar in your teen years?

Veo Voom: My biggest inspiration was my dad. He would always be playing guitar or piano in the house growing up and he was always so very supportive of my musical endeavors. For my 12th birthday, I was surprised with a red Squier Stratocaster and a practice amp and I was over the moon! I'll never forget, within minutes of opening it and picking it up, the very first song I figured out by ear was Crazy Train by Black Sabbath haha.

Lanai: I love it! My father played guitar. When I was little I would dance on his guitar case while he played.   You have come a long way in your music career.  You signed to a label in The UK in your early 20’s and created the remix of the main theme from the video game Skyrim. That’s pretty cool. Can you tell me a little bit about that and how it helped enhance your presence online? 

Veo Voom: Oh yes! I've always had a love for electronic music ever since I heard Eiffel 65's album Europop. During my last year of high school and through the following couple of years I started learning more about producing electronic music. I went down many rabbit holes online learning as much as possible about music production, synthesizer programming, and much more! I would frequent many forums and subreddits to learn and grow with other producers. I then started putting out originals on Soundcloud and started up a YouTube as well. I would try to enter as many remix contests as possible just to get more practice under my belt. I was putting out a lot of originals both on Soundcloud and Youtube and it caught the eye of Rockforce Records. I ended up signing with them and putting out a 4 track EP under the artist name Kostya. Eventually, the label dissolved and I didn't see anything from it other than my tunes being on streaming services. Then when the video game Skyrim came out in 2011, I was so entranced by the main theme. 14 hours later I created an entire remix and only used the chanting vocals from the theme. It received some positive feedback initially and I was happy with what I put out. Fast forward a few months it started ramping up to 25 thousand views. Every time the game had a different version or remaster come out on a new system, it would make the remix relevant again. Today the video is at over 3.2 million views and I never believed it would reach such heights.

Lanai: Very impressive! On a personal level. Relationships can shape the trajectory of our lives. In your case it was a small setback in your career. How has this changed your life for the better?

Veo Voom: Well in my worst relationship, I put music down for about 4 years. Being without it for that long and losing who I was makes me appreciate it even more now than ever! If I ever have a day where I'm not feeling as creative as I could be, I just think back to those years when I wasn't allowed to create. 

Lanai: I feel you creativity should never be stifled. 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?  

Veo Voom: I would consider my music style folky, indie, and eclectic. I'm always trying to keep things interesting and fun during my performances. I'll try to add a joke lyric relevant to something in chat or I'll mix it up and switch to banjo from guitar.

Lanai: Personalizing shows for a Sl audience is a perfect way to engage your audience here.  If you can collaborate with any musician in SL or RL, who would it be and why?

Veo Voom: One day I would love to collaborate with Tally Mercury! We've got a lot of similar tastes in music and I feel like our sounds would mesh well. He's just such a talented musician, performer and songwriter.

Lanai: I'd be interested to see that collaboration too.  An SL stage is so different from performing in RL. How Does it differ from your RL stage presence?

Veo Voom: In RL I'll be bopping around a good bit and I try to bring that into SL (though it's hard sitting in a chair and not being able to move my avi independently). I do feel like I'm more comfortable in SL just because I feel like I can connect with the audience more directly versus some RL spots I've played at.

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

Veo Voom: I think some of my best memories come from performing at friends' birthdays and rezz days. There's just something so special about an intimate show with your close friends on SL.

Lanai: You’ve been on the grid for over 17 years now. What advice would  you give new musicians starting out in SL?

Veo Voom: Go to as many open mics or karaoke as you can! Just get out there, make friends, lift each other up, and have fun!

Lanai: Great advice.  Do you have a manager? If not, How can venues book you for performances?

Veo Voom: Yes! You can either contact Nikole Messmer or Creatively Bazar.

Lanai: Thank you for sharing that information. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Veo Voom: Just thank you so much for the interview and for listening!

Lanai: It was a pleasure! Congratulations on Winning Open Mic Auditions!

October 30th Open Mic Winning  Audition Performance

Additional Information

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veo.voom

Other Links: https://www.soundcloud.com/VeoVoom

https://linktr.ee/VeoVoom

https://tinyurl.com/VeoVoomSched

Preferred Contact: Veo Voom

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JOIN THE SL ENQUIRER MEDIA GROUP FOR THE NEXT OPEN MIC AUDITION COMING NOVEMBER 17TH 1PM SLT- 4PM SLT!

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GET TO THE POLLS AND VOTE! LANAI JARRICO MAKING SL AWESOME AGAIN!

Politics and Religion are the worst conversation starters in any arena if you are not ready to knuckle up with those who do not share your views.  All it does is create drama and chaos, especially with Karens. This is a very important election year and your voice needs to be heard! As you know every vote counts unless you mail in your ballot and it ends up in a pile of ashes because entitled ignoramuses like to start fires in hopes that they make a difference. 

This year we are adding a new candidate to split the chaos right down the middle.  None other than the infamous Lanai Jarrico.  She can hold her own in Second Life with 18 years of experience dealing every f*ckery you can imagine in the virtual world when it comes to speaking her mind and bringing something different to the table.  In light of all the recent events that have been clouding the elections in particular this P. Diddy fiasco that seems to grow every day taking away from the Election Spotlight.  We are asking that no bottles of baby oil be brought to any political events within Second life. We would also like to kindly ask that anyone wishing to storm the Sl Enquirer Media Center with any insurrection rhetoric, you will be automatically given a lifetime ban and clowned hard in a griefer police report.

President Self Elect, Lanai Jarrico promises very important reforms that will enhance your Second life experience and protect the good people of this global community. She believes in the right to protect yourself. She doesn't own a gun .. yet but she holds a pen that would slice through a crowd like butter so rest assured you have a guardian in the virtual world that will serve and protect you by any virtual world storytelling means necessary.

Her first day in office she will sign executive orders on the following topics to ensure every breedable pet is safe and unharmed by anyone looking for a cheap meal.  

When it comes to the economy. To each their own.  If it's a strip pole, you get to keep all your tips! Pimps and hoes will have the same rights!

 Land Barons can continue to hike up home rental prices all they want. It’s cheaper to be a premium member and get a free Linden Home… just sayin.

For the whole month of November anyone who messages lanai Jarrico with “ I voted for you!”, will receive a FREE One Month Ad. (Limited space available.. First come first serve!)

Broke Newbies will no longer be frowned upon for begging for lindens. The SL Enquirer has job opportunities so send the broke avies to us! We  also promise free shoes. 

Next order of business will be making sure every avatar is treated with the same respect received. Lanai will practice the golden rule until the opposite party forfeits their right to be treated with respect.  There goes the Grid Wide Peace talk.

Griefers who continue to harass others and create issues for no apparent reason will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the non existent law and will receive a lifetime archived SLE police report that will tarnish their avatar name and reputation forcing them to create an ALT with the same consequences. That’s Griefer Reform!

UFOS ARE REAL, There goes your full disclosure. If you ever looked up at the sky and said WTF is that? Then you my friend… saw an unidentified flying object.

I just want to end this with a very important quote. Presidents come and go… WU TANG FOREVER B*TCHES!

VOTE FOR LANAI JARRICO FOR UNOFFICIAL PRESIDENT OF SECOND LIFE!

This message is approved by the SL Enquirer

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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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Virtual Traditions: Exploring India’s Cultural Richness in Second Life - Wanda Starchild reporting

As a reporter navigating the vibrant landscapes of Second Life, I’ve uncovered an exciting realm where players from around the globe come together to celebrate and explore the rich tapestry of Indian culture. This virtual world, launched in 2003, has become a canvas for creativity, allowing users to build immersive experiences that reflect their cultural heritage.

Stepping into the lively scenes of virtual Diwali and Holi celebrations, I witnessed firsthand the joy and exuberance that these festivals bring to life. Participants donned colorful outfits and engaged in traditional dances, with avatars glowing in a spectrum of hues. These events are not just about fun; they serve as a bridge for players to learn about the customs and stories that make these festivals special. 

Architectural marvels also abound in this digital landscape. I had the chance to explore stunning recreations of iconic Indian landmarks, from the majestic Taj Mahal to ancient temples adorned with intricate details. These virtual representations invite players to delve into India’s rich history and appreciate the artistry that has shaped its cultural identity. It’s a unique opportunity for players to experience sites they may only dream of visiting in real life.

Moreover, the artistic spirit of India thrives here. Virtual galleries showcase traditional crafts, and players can participate in workshops to learn skills such as Rangoli design or classical dance. These activities encourage creativity and foster a deeper understanding of India’s diverse artistic traditions.

The community aspect of Second Life adds another layer to this cultural exploration. I encountered numerous groups dedicated to various facets of Indian life, from culinary enthusiasts sharing recipes to language learners connecting over their shared interests. Events such as cultural nights bring players together, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie. In these gatherings, avatars become vibrant representations of cultural identity, allowing players to express their heritage in engaging and meaningful ways.

Several notable locations within Second Life offer immersive experiences of Indian cultural festivals. Among them are Ayodhya Ram Mandir, Apna Parivar, and Zaara. Each of these venues provides a unique opportunity to engage with the rich traditions and vibrant celebrations that characterize Indian culture, making them must-visit destinations for players interested in exploring this heritage.

As I navigated these virtual experiences, I spoke with players who shared their transformative journeys. One participant reflected on their experience at a virtual Diwali celebration, saying, “I felt a deep connection to a culture I had only read about. It was enlightening to see traditions come to life in such an interactive way.” 

In this ever-evolving digital world, Second Life serves as a powerful platform for cultural exploration and celebration. It not only preserves the richness of traditions but also fosters a sense of global community. As we continue to engage with diverse cultures online, we create opportunities to enrich our collective human experience. So, fellow players, I invite you to dive into this vibrant world and explore the cultural richness that awaits you in Second Life!

SLURLs : 

Ayodhya Ram Mandir : http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Star%20Dreamers/35/204/22

Zaara : http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Zaara/117/108/37

Apna Parivar : http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hunnicutt/45/44/1001

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