Reader Submitted: Gardens Of Grace

In February, Alysabelle sent in a reader submission about Galadhon Park's Glanduin sim. Several weeks later, she's back again with another. This time she writes about the "Gardens Of Grace." Located in the Cloud Nine sim, she describes the park created and owned by Aridis Inaka as a true "labor of love," going into detail about the many things one can see there.

Read Alysabell's ode to the Gardens in Places. 

Veterans Isle Fundraiser on Easter Raises Over 200,000 Lindens, Draws Record Crowd

On Easter Sunday March 27, Veterans Isle held it's monthly benefit concert for the "Homes For Our Troops" charity. From 5PM SL time to a little after 9PM (Midnight EST), performers played music in front of the audience. The event was organized by Frets Nirvana, one of the musicians.

Tonight March 27 we are conducting our monthly benefit for Homes for our Troops …with a great lineup for your Easter Sunday! Celebrate your Easter Sunday evening by supporting those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. And to top it off we have a one time special performance by Tristyn Homewood! Come on out and help support those who give us our freedom.

Veronica Wesler was the first on stage from 5 to 6PM SL time. At 6PM, on stage were the popular Frogg Marlowe and Jaycatt Nico, who were performing at the benefit for the first time. From 7 to 8 PM, Frets himself performed for the crowd. Lastly at 8PM, Tristyn Homewood and his band rounded out the event.

Many dozens of avatars attended the event, with Jaycatt and Frogg attracting a group of Tinies from Raglan while they played. At one point while Trystyn was playing, sixty-four residents were at the event, the largest crowd that yours truly had seen. About half of the money raised that night would come in the last hour. There were also a few antics in the crowd such as one girl in a "Deadpool" outfit and someone in the audience joking, "I emptied my lingerie, shoe and hair fund the other day..  puppy's gonna be running about with a bare puppy butt till May 1." At the end, Trystyn closed out the event with "Glory Hallelujah," and the amount raised climbed past 200,000, "Oh wow! WOW!" A total of 200,830 had been raised.

To learn more about the Homes For Our Troops visit https://www.hfotusa.org

Bixyl Shuftan

Announcement: Grand Re-Opening of Steelhead Icon Club Gearz

Team ACTS invites you to a joyous occasion: Club Gearz, a regular venue of Relay and an important part of the Steelhead community, has been rebuilt! We will celebrate the re-opening with DJ/Marshal, humunguous wig wearer Fuzz Ortega at the helm in Gearz's new location in Port Caledon. April 1, 2016 from 7- 9pm SLT (no joke!).

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Port%20Caledon/65/155/23

Insilico Back Online

Yesterday, the Newser reported that the Insilico sci-fi roleplay area was offline following the banning of it's controversial owner Skills Hak. There were doubts that the region would survive. But behind the scenes, there were negotiations to transfer ownership from Skills to one of the administrators.

Linden Lab is going to transfer INSILICO *as is* to my friend Abe, who has been one of the administrators of the estate since very early on. No transfer fee and a tier free time to recoup ...

Abeus Madruga sounded cautiously hopeful when commenting about the negotiations.

After meeting with the Lindens in regards to InSilico's future, we have been able to come to a deal that will hopefully get us to a point where we can keep the sims open into the future, and with any luck...self-sustaining again. It's going to be a lot of work, and no doubt there will be some issues along the way. Yet this was the best of possible options to get InSilico open again soon...and within the control of those that have been involved with it for years.

I'm not too sure if I am allowed to discuss the terms of the deal. To be on the safe side I won't get into it the fine details. Just suffice to say that we've been given a period of time to hopefully recoup the losses that this lock-out has incurred for the sims. Once the transfer of ownership documents are received and completed, the sims will be reopened again (they did mention this could take a day or two, so please just a little more patience).

The last post, made by Jeanne Yuriko Aichi (Jeanne Aichi) was a definately hopeful one.

For the past several days, the fate of Insilico has hung in the balance.  Could our city be saved?  Or would we be cast from our home -- the only home some of us have ever known -- and thrust headlong into an uncertain future?  We could only wait for announcements, hoping for the best while preparing in our hearts for the worst.

Today, it appears that the crisis has finally passed.  Insilico, the oldest and grandest of the floating cities, has been granted a new lease on life.

The days ahead may be difficult ones, but they will also be rich in opportunities for those with the strength and vision to seize them.  We must face the future boldly and without hesitation, and not allow recent events to darken our spirits.  As a philosopher once said, "The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new."

So it appears Insilico is back, at least for now. Can it go on without it's owner of eight years? As Abeus wrote, "Time will tell."

Insilico Offline, Owner Skills Hak Banned

Some sad news for science-fiction roleplayers in Second Life. The popular Insilico region, mentioned in media such as the Drax Files and written about by the Newser last year, has been taken offline. The reason, it's owner and primary builder, Skills Hak, has been banned from the Grid by Linden Lab.

Skills, whom has been involved in controversies such as being among those Linden Lab asked to resign from the Emerald Viewer team just before it collapsed in 2010, has stated she feels this will probably be the end of her activities in Second Life, at least under her current identity.

I had a good run. 8 years on this account and the timing of my ban couldn’t have been better. In fact my boyfriend was really happy to hear about my final ban since i am spending too much time at the computer and i am going to be a mommy soon. It was a wild ride, thanks for everything.

Some good news for Skills, Linden Lab is compensating her for the ban.

... i’ve been emailing back and forth with Linden Lab for a bit and i just agreed to accept a one time payment that will recoup my losses (although, technically i didn’t lose any money). It was more than i expected, they showed good faith and i will leave them alone now, promise.

In New World Notes, where the story was also reported on, several readers reminded about another community that had been offlined, Steelhead, due to it's owner being suspended for completely unknown reasons despite not being involved in any controversy, and paying more in tier than Insilico.

As for Insilico, their blog stated negotiations were in progress for a transfer of ownership to keep the region of several years alive. But the last post made suggests they might not proceed and the area could be allowed to pass away. Regardless whether one considers Skills Hak a hero or villain, the Grid is facing the loss of another prized region and community.

Bixyl Shuftan

Gia Smith And The Sci-Fi Music Festival

Sunday was the last day of the Second Life Science-Fiction Convention. Among those dropping by was Second Life Newser's Deaflegacy Darkbloom, whom came across an event, the Sci-Fi Music Festival. While there, she talked to one of the DJs there, Gia Smith.

Read Deaflegacy's article in Events.

2016 Easter Bunny Trail Still Up Until After Today

 For those whom still want a little more Easter-related fun for the Relay, Team Dreamin' in Purple still has their 2016 Easter Bunny Trail up, at least for the moment. After today, it's up to the kids as to how long it remains around. There was an announcement in the Relay group yesterday reminding people it was still there.

Come see me, the Easter Bunny, at the 2016 Easter bunny Trail for RFL! For any donation to the kiosk you can have your picture taken with me! After today, I head home to prepare for next Easter! If you haven't done the trail yet, its last official day is tomorrow, so be sure and get out there and find your eggs, and get your free prizes!

Dropping by Aquamarine Island (220, 76, 22), the Easter Bunny was there with one of the kids on the team, the holiday critter saying, "this event is free, with donations encouraged, if you'd like to explore (smile) many eggs hidden, lots to see. (grin) Thank you for taking my photo!" I asked how long the eggs would remain up, and he answered, "The event is open through tomorrow officially, just depends on when the kids have time to tear it down after that, hehe! ... They are on vacation with their family in SL, in Greece, so this will probably be here 'till the weekend."

A notecard sent to me by the child stated this was the fifth Bunny Trail, and one could find the following:

- 22 hidden eggs on our NEW Easter bunny paw trail!
- explore the gnome garden, unicorn sanctuary, teddy bear picnic and more!
- Daily photo sessions with the Easter Bunny for donation, Egg Decorating photo op, and even a petting zoo with food pellets for donation!

All donations go to Relay for Life of second life, in support of the American Cancer Society! Photo sessions for th Easter Bunny take place around 5pm each day

Aquamarine Island (224, 228, 20)

Press Release: Castle, Home and Garden Contest Afghan Auction

IN SUPPORT OF THE THIRD ANNUAL CASTLE, HOME AND GARDEN CONTEST FOR RELAY FOR LIFE OF SECOND LIFE WE PROUDLY PRESENT

~*AFGHAN AUCTION*~

 An anonymous donor has put a lot of love, sweat and tears into making two afghans to help support the Castle, Home and Garden Contest!

The Castle, Home and Garden Contest is in need of $L660,000 for prize money that will go directly to kiosks at the end of the contest. To reach our goal, we will be auctioning both afghans off separately!

The afghans are 60 inches and will be sent to the winner. To bid on the afghans, either send a message to me on Facebook or in world and I will update the bids as I get them on here and in world. The winner will get the afghans in the mail. Bidding starts at the equivalent of a sim sponsorship- $L62,500! BONUS- The winner of the afghans will also get a sim sponsorship for the contest!

AFGHAN #1-
BUILDING A CURE... OOAK, MADE ESPECIALLY FOR THE CASTLE, HOME AND GARDEN CONTEST

AFGHAN #2-
FIGHTING WORDS, MADE ESPECIALLY FOR THE CASTLE, HOME AND GARDEN CONTEST

Current Bid #1- 62,500
Current Bid #2- 62,500

The last day for bidding will be April 22, 2016.

Events This Week at the Sunweaver Clubs

It's another exciting week of events at the Sunweaver clubs. At club Cutlass, on Wednesday, things get a bit monochrome with "Black and White." This is followed by "Best in B" on Friday with DJ Crim, and on Saturday it's a turn for the worst with "We Bad." And for the first time in a few years, the Sunday dances are back, this Sunday being, "Mardi Gras." At the Happy Vixen, on Tuesday it's "Beyond the Sea" with the energetic DJ Tantari. On Thursday the action gets a little fierce with "Tigers," followed up by a little "hooving it" with "The Herd."

Read the schedule in SL Clubbin.

SL Video: "Giant Snail Race 415 - 2016 Mar 26 Easter"

(Click here if the video fails to play)

RacerX Gullwing's recording of last Saturday's Giant Snail Races. As the next day was Easter Sunday, the theme was of course Easter.

Reader Submitted: Scenes from the Linden Snowball Fight

Thanks to the computer glitch that took out my screenshots, There's not much I can say about the Linden snowball fight at their Winter Wonderland other than I was there with my friend Lexine, and tossed a few snowballs at a number of Linden Lab's finest. Fortunately Zada Bury had taken a few, which she sent me a few links to.

There were a number of Lindens there from the popular Xiola Linden to Rider Linden, whom flew around on a sledlike gear (Xiola joked it gave him an unfair advantage, but it also marked him as a target as no one needed his tag to know who he was), which spun in a spiral when going down, to Shaman Linden whom was in some kind of giant snake avatar. There were also a few personalities such as Kenny Luckless and Marianne McCann.

At the end of the scrap, everyone  was called to the bridge where we posed for a group photo.

Hopefully next time I'll have a few pictures of my own up.

Bixyl Shuftan (pictures from Zada Bury)

Weekend in Review

It's been quite a weekend in Second Life. As this was Easter weekend, there were a number of Easter-themed events from egg hunts to dances from the Relay of Life to Roma, to Luskwood and Trotsdale, the Townies sim, and others. This was also the last weekend of the sci-fi convention, and there was the monthly benefit at Veterans Isle.

More on some of these events later.

Microsoft Pulls Plug on Experiment In Artificial Inteligence Quickly Gone Bad

It's a theme from science fiction that happens again and again, engineers either set out to create a fully functional artificial intelligence, or they accidentally do. And it isn't long before it spirals out of control, concluding humans are a threat and begins acting against them. But could this really happen in real life? After an experimental AI was made accessible to the public, it attracted the attention of Internet trolls. Their actions turned the chatbot from a teenage personality to one spewing hateful remarks in less than a day.

Read more in Extra.

Wonder Egg Hunt

Gemma Cleansalte recently attended a Relay for Life event by the Fighting Sunflowers team. Taking place in an "Alice in Wonderland" themed area, kid and grown avatars alike took part in a hunt for Easter Eggs. And unlike the story, the Red Queen didn't go after anyone's head.

Read Gemma's story in Events.

Technical Difficulties

Computers can be buggy little things, and sometimes an attempt to fix things can backfire. A website a friend recommended to see that might be slowing down my computer instead of giving me a certain freeware program instead led to something else. What did was try to get rid of files it considered "junk," and this unfortunately included access to most of my screenshots on this computer.

What this means is work on several articles and possible articles will be delayed until I can get new screenshots of the areas in questions, at least unless I can regain access to the pictures. It's also likely there may not be more cartoons for a week or two. It depends whether or not I come across scenes with potential humor. While a darn nuisance, it's not truly devastating.

On a related matter, the Singularity viewer I've been using lately has been having some problems. At first, I would see an occasional mesh object that was invisible or stretched. While still uncommon, it's been happening more and more often. Using Firestorm seems to solve this problem. Trouble is, Firestorm is much more likely to crash on my computer, which means doing interviews on it is taking a chance.

Hopefully there will soon be an update for Singularity that will take care of this mess.

Bumps in the road in my journey in Second Life. Hopefully I won't run into one that does the equivalent of breaking an axle.

Bixyl Shuftan

Cartoon of the Day: The Easter Bunny Overdoes It

Taken at Easter Town in the Townies sim. Looks like the Easter Bunny overindulged on his own treats.

By Bixyl Shuftan

SL Video: "Jurrasic World - Second Life Machinima"

(Click here if the video fails to play)

From Mistral Production Films, March 14, 2016, filmed on Prehistorica - The Dawn Kingdoms

Second Life Birthday 13's Theme Annouced: "The Shared Adventure"

Yesterday on Thursday March 24, the Second Life Birthday website was updated for the first time since last year's celebration. The theme for this year's anniversary event was announced. It is "The Shared Adventure." Harper Beresford wrote the following:

Merriam-Webster defines Adventure as “an undertaking usually involving danger and unknown risks” as well as “an exciting or remarkable experience.”

One could argue that Second Life itself was a risk when Linden Lab first created a virtual world out of their haptics testing rig so may years ago, and their risk has turned to a remarkable experience for millions of uses over thirteen-plus years.

Second Life has been home to countless virtual adventures, and continues to break new ground. Each of us shares in the adventure, as our creations are enjoyed by avatars from far and wide.

What does adventure stir in you? Is it an endless vista of unexplored jungles and ocean depths, a space opera, or even intrigue in dimly-lit alleyways. What dangers are afoot, and how will you and your cohorts seek to overcome them?

How will you present your escapades with others in Second Life? Will you send them on a great quest, tell them the stories of your own exploits, or present them with the tools to craft their own adventurous experiences?

For the 13th Anniversary of Second Life leaving beta, we invite you to put on your pith helmets, your G-Suits, or whatever gear you need, and share with your adventures with the global Second Life community.

And so, the work for one of Second Life's biggest annual events begins once again. The sims have been set up, and now the theme chosen. Those interested in helping out with the building can contact Doctor Gascologne and Diana Renior.

Funky Junk

Many of us talk about having come across "junk" in Second Life, but how many places are truly made to look like it? Gemma Cleanslate's latest journey to the Linden Endowment for the Arts regions took her to LEA 22, and the "Funky Junk" exhibit. In this depiction of the future, humans have been replaced by beings made of recycled goods. It was a trip into the surreal that showed a good deal of creativity in it's concept and creation.

Read Gemma's article in Design.

More Places for US Presdential Candidates in Second Life

In September, the Newser reported on two places in Second Life build to support US Presidential Candidate Donald Trump. Recently, a few more have been built.

I heard about a "Trump Manor" in the Lionheart Ahadi sim, and heading over, found a large house with a wall around it with a number of Trump campaign signs on it. There were also a couple cars inside, one for estate management, the other which had the image of the candidate on it. Clicking on the gate, it opened, but after I stepped inside, I got a warning from the security system that I had 30 seconds to leave or be given the boot.

I managed to get in touch with the manor's owner, JP Laszio, a member of the "Trump Organization," and one of the people behind the Facebook page, "Donald Trump Thinks Your Waifu Is S***." She stated that the orb had been set up due to griefers and less than reasonable political activists, and if I wanted in to get in touch with her so my name could be added to the list of those allowed in.

More on the discussion with JP will be up later. To get to the manor, head to Lionheart Ahadi (71/38/29). Just contact her if you want inside.

With three areas for "The Donald," what was there for his opposition? The answer was in the Caspoli sim, where I found the "Bernie Sanders SL Headquarters." It was a patio lined with a number of pro-Sanders signs, some praising him, some mocking his opposition. The largest sign was a statement as to how he would pay for his proposals (a series of new taxes and eliminating certain tax breaks). The building is owned by Mac.Wind (Macaria Wind) head of "Vote Bernie Sanders 2016."

Upon entering, I was handed a notecard:

Open to all to enjoy - Group members wearing their group tag are welcome to set home and leave full perm Bernie gifts for the group. Please keep drama and negativity to a minimum and stick to the facts. Ask yourself: What would Bernie do/say?

We all run in to folks who either don't know Bernie or are skeptical about him. These Links to Bernie info including sample articles and facebook pages should be helpful in getting one started on their Bernie Journey. 

Have a Berniful day!

The headquarters is in Caspoli (127/33/34)

Searching to see if there was a place for candidate Hillary Clinton, I found one in the Pandorus sim. Porting there, it was a dark, small, rusty place with barbed wire fence and a walking skeleton. The clearest statement of the owner's intentions was on the map. This wasn't a place for a candidate, but against one.

More on the Trump Manor, and presumably the Sanders HQ later.

Hat tip: Hamlet Au

Bixyl Shuftan

Announcement: 2016 Easter Bunny Trail for RFL!

The 4th annual Easter Bunny Trail in support of RFL is officially open! Dreamin' in Purple presents the 2016 Easter Bunny Trail! This free event is an Easter tradition and a great way to have fun with friends and family and support a great cause! 22 free prizes, an all new HUD to collect eggs for a special final prize, and over 10 areas to explore along our brand new bunny paw trail! donations encouraged for RFL, have fun while supporting an amazing cause! The Easter Bunny will also be taking photos by donation beginning on the 24th!

2016 Easter Bunny Trail features:

- 22 hidden eggs on our NEW Easter bunny paw trail!
- explore the gnome garden, unicorn sanctuary, teddy bear picnic and more!
- Daily photo sessions with the Easter Bunny for donation, Egg Decorating photo op, and even a petting zoo with food pellets for donation!
- this event is free for all ages, but donations are encouraged.

All donations go to Relay for Life of second life, in support of the American Cancer Society!
So what are you waiting for? Grab  everyone you know and come on over for some great Easter fun!

Aquamarine Island (224, 228, 20)

Press Release: Bennefit at Veterans Isle For "Homes Four Our Troops"

Frets Nirvana and US Military Veterans Group announces the March 2016 benefit for Homes For Our Troops in Second Life! 

Frets Nirvana, the premier guitar artist in the virtual world Second Life and the US Military Veterans Group announce the the third benefit in 2016 in Second Life for the Veterans Support Organization, Home For Our Troops . 

Frets Nirvana states:  “HFOT is a privately funded 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization building specially adapted, mortgage-free homes nationwide for the most severely injured Veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan. Most of these Veterans are multiple amputees, paraplegic, quadriplegic or suffered severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).  These homes restore some of the freedom and independence our Veterans sacrificed defending ours, and enable them to focus on their family, recovery, and rebuilding their lives. Since its inception in 2004, over 90 cents of every dollar spent by Homes for Our Troop has gone to directly support Veterans. ”

Home for Our Troops benefit concerts feature premier Second Life talent monthly at Veteran’s Isle.  The concert on March 27, 2016 is scheduled from 5-9 PM PST.  Featured artists will be Veronica Weksler, Effinjay - Frogg and Jaycatt, Frets Nirvana and  Tristyn Homewood.

ABOUT HOMES FOR OUR TROOPS  - HFOT builds homes as a departure point for Veterans to rebuild their lives, and once again become highly productive members of society. Despite their life-altering injuries, many Veterans have embarked on new careers, completed their college degrees, or started families. Empowered by the freedom a mortgage-free and specially adapted home brings, these Veterans can now focus on their recovery and return to their life’s work of serving others. Many have embraced their roles as motivational speakers, sharing their messages of persevering through tragedy with groups and classrooms around the country; others take to a national platform to promote awareness of veteran suicide, homelessness and PTSD. Their incredible stories are the driving force for the work for HFOT.

To learn more about the Homes For Our Troops visit https://www.hfotusa.org

Last Linden vs Resident Snowball Fight For The Season This Friday

"One Last Friendly Battle Before the Snow Melts"

 If you've ever wanted to pelt a frosty one right on the kisser of one of Linden Lab's finest, but either missed out on earlier chances or are still aching for another shot, you'll be getting another chance. Tomorrow for two 2-hour periods, the snowballs will be flying at the arena in the Winter Wonderland area. Xiola Linden announced the event in the official Second Life blog.

We have to take advantage of the snowball fight arena at the Winter Wonderlands region before the snow fully melts - and we want you to come have ice-hurling fun with us on Friday, March 25th, from 10 am - Noon SLT and 2 - 4 PM SLT.  If you missed the last snowball fight now is your chance to come pelt some friends and Lindens with soft, fluffy balls of frozen fun. Grab your snow-launching weapons from the kiosks, get some practice in, and be sure to make the trek to the top of the ice castle to take in the amazing view.

To get to the Wonderland head to Portal Park 1 (128, 210, 23), walk into the building with a blue portal, grand permission to "animate your avatar," then after you're ported you'll be in front of signs pointing the way to a few locations. Go east, and then north, and then walk until you're at the sign that announces you're on the area grounds.

Happy (Linden) hunting.

Announcement: Fashion for Life Photo Contest Winners

On Sunday March 20, the winners of the Fashion for Life photography contest were announced.

Melodie Jigsaw, Popular Vote Winner

Valerie Martynov, Judges Vote Winner

A total of about 40,000 Lindens were offered as prizes to the various winners.

Go Relay!

Easter Town is Back

Just a few days after St. Patrick's Day, another holiday is upon us: Easter. And so the Townies sim has brought back Laura Liberty's "Easter Town." A notecard about the place listed the following attractios:

Lots of shopping plus...
-20 eggs to find with prizes inside
-Race marshmallow peeps
-Take pictures with Tina the Easter Bunny
-Do the bunny hop with Bugs and Babs
-4,000 L$ Easter egg decorating contest
-Jelly bean dance
-Ride the egg boats
-Race carrots cars
-Free bunny hoppers


Easter Town is at Townies, (119.128, 22)

For the news article about Easter Town in 2012: Click here. 

Cartoon of the Day

From the Relay for Life's  Breedables Pet Auction on Saturday March 20

By Bixyl Shuftan

"The Real Life Danger of Virtual Worlds" by Frolic Mills

Frolic Mills, the former editor of "The Best of Second Life" magazine, known as Juan Delgado in real life, recently posted a thoughtful commentary on Facebook on the subject of virtual reality addiction. Contacting him, he gave his okay for it's republication here.

* * * * *

Having lived my real life successfully out of virtual worlds for the past 10 years or so, I think qualifies me to write this essay about the potential dangers of virtual worlds. I always hear "expert" psychologists and other specialists (who have probably never even played an online game) say that it produces addiction, anti-social characteristics, withdrawal from family and friends and even, that it even encourages criminal behavior. I don't doubt for one bit that there is always going to be a minority percentage who will prove all of these studies right. Just like there is always a drug addict, an alcoholic, and a pill junkie we all know, I am sure there are people who surrender to the fascinations of virtual worlds to the point they have no desire to entertain the idea of the real world any longer, and even modify their real life behaviors accordingly. I get it, but I don't think it's the majority.

Most of us, virtual users, lead well balanced lives. We love our families, we go out when we want to, we participate in the real world just like the guy next door. But yes, and I admit it, if you want to be on top in any virtual world, you must put in a LOT of hours. No question about that. But the difference between wasted time and real life pleasure is always purpose, and here is where it gets confusing for the non virtual user "specialists". It is not the same that you spent 1000 hours killing virtual hookers with a car, than socializing to meet friends or even your real life spouse from a virtual world. It is not the same if you admired someone else's creation and spent a lot of money making your avatar beautiful, than being the creator of beautiful things and making a fortune thanks to your virtual artistic skills. It's not the same at all; However, all of these examples, have two things in common, for all virtual users. The first and foremost is entertainment value, and secondly, and the most dangerous one, is the idea that real life can be totally fulfilled from the comfort of your computer, just a few meters away. Again the difference between insanity and survival will always be measured by your purpose and the amount of time spent on it. It is crazy to spend sleepless nights killing mobs to the point you don't go to school next day; it is survival to spend sleepless nights creating a better virtual world, which in return aids to your real life economy or any other heart felt purpose, like love, helping victims or charity events. There are thousands of other examples of effect/cause in virtual worlds, but I will let each person reading this essay, decide where their cards fall.

So what is my point? Well, there is a danger that I have never heard anyone speak about, and that, in my opinion, is the underlying reason to all "virtual world behavior studies" and that is, the fear of loss of creative freedom.

Of course I know, virtual worlds give a false sense of accomplishment, I also know people sometimes get lost in their virtual fantasies, but this is not what I am talking about, these are not the people I am referring to. I am talking about really talented artists who were able to create amazing real life survival with their virtual creations. There is nothing comparable to the joy of successfully sharing one's own universe or viewpoint with millions, from the comfort of your bedroom. I am afraid that once this has been achieved and it is over; the real world, or any other world, will never be as interesting anymore. Very dangerous indeed!

Please keep in mind that even Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and other very successful virtual creators still have to leave their homes in order to get to work. It also seems like the world is fascinated with examples of how people started their great businesses from their garages or basements. Well how about this? Thousands of people I know made plentiful real life livings and even millions of dollars with their laptops by their side, while sipping coffee in their own beds, and all this, without the headaches of running a Forbes top 100 company. Fascinating - Isn't it?

Yes! But if you are in the top 1% who actually made it big in virtual worlds, and then lost this privilege for whatever reason, the world may never be the same for you.

What do you guys think?

Juan Delgado / Frolic Mills

First Cross-Country Giant Snail Race of 2016 Takes Place

On Saturday March 19, the first  Cross-Country Giant Snail Race of the year took place. Close to a couple dozen contestants took part, including a few first-time snail racers. The theme of the event was "Circus," and a circus it was, with some of the avatars dressed up as clowns (including an evil clown), and even one snail modified to look like a seal balancing a ball.

The race took place across 45 sims on the Second Life mainland, starting at Abitibi and ending at the finish line in Noyo. The race included a few snags, among them lag, notably a spike near the begining of the race that temporarily ground progress to a halt and caused some people to crash, including RacerX. And there were the ban lines around some properties that required racers and onlookers running and flying to keep up with the action alike to run around when they bumped into one.

Still, it was a chance to see some scenery, such as a Steampunk-themed airship. And sometimes the road wasn't just a road, such as this bridge spanning a river.

The race was won by Oodlemi Noodle, whom took an early lead and kept on holding up, passing the finish line 42 minutes after the start of the race. Second Was BabypeaVonPhoenix Bikergirl, whom was just a minute behind. Third was notable Relay personality Rowena

Dubrovna.

Others who finished were: 4: Cinders Vale, 5: LittleAbs Residen, 6: Tindalla Soothsayer, 7: Catten Carter, 8: Lulce Babenco, 9: QueeniePromise Resident, 10: Alden Cortes, 11: Maryam Camino, 12: Henriette Demina, 13: Caleb Kit, 14: Starr Feame, 15: Masterperry Resident, 16: Cate Foulsbane, 17: Sidonie Carlberg, 18: Fukuju Amaterasu, 19: Lobbie Riggles, 20: Cally Hane, 21: Cool Plasma

Each of those who finished got at least a trophy. Following the race came the usualy dance at the end, along with a few jokes going back and forth.



(Click Here if the video fails to play)

RacerX soon make a video of the race, which can be shown here.

Bixyl SHuftan

Events This Week at the Sunweaver Clubs

It's another week of events at the Sunweaver clubs. At Club Cutlass, get ready for some "awesomeness" and "acoustics" as the alphabet themes begin again with "Best in A." Then comes a party on the lighter side with "Best in White." And they end the week on a hoppy note with their "Easter Party." At the Happy Vixen, there's a touch of the 60's with "Flower Power." Next comes a trip on the techie side with "Geeks and Nerds." And finally, the bunnies come out with the search for eggs on "Easter."

See the schedule at SL Clubbin.'

Updated 3PM SL time

Abyss Observatory's Motoko Moonwall's Death Announced

 A creative builder in Second Life has passed away.

While stopping by the Abyss observatory in Farwell (79/79/95), among the various signs around the entry point was one announcing the death of one of the people whom had helped build the area.


A creator of Abyss Observatory, Motoko Moonwall died on 4th Feb, 2016 on lung cancer. When the cancer was found in hospital, the cancer already metastasized to lymph node, and she soon deteriorated into coma.

Motoko was most active creator of Abyss Observatory. Please pray for her soul to rest in peace.


Five locations were listed on the notecard, three also at the observatory, the "Lorentz and Chaos exhibit," Farwell (161, 175, 3501), "Only One Earth,"(173, 184, 3401), and "Earth and Life Evolution," Farwell (166, 209, 3401). The other two were "Jules Verne's Natilus," Lily (191, 215, 1506), and the "Motoko Museum of Art History," STEM Island (162, 222, 3775). The observatory builds were detailed and interesting. One exhibit included several dynamic globes, spinning and  representing geography, ocean currents, electric power use, etc.

While perhaps the observatory can get more builders, there will be no more from this creative spirit.

Bixyl Shuftan

Annoucement: Le Cirque de Nuit Opens This Weekend

After months of careful preparation, Idle Rogue's Le Cirque de Nuit opens and runs again on March 25th, 26th, 27th at 7pm slt and one 2 pm matinee on March 26th

The show is tour-de-force virtual entertainment. Loosely referencing Erin Morgenstern's novel "The Night Circus", builder Gloriana Maertens has created a magical circus environment in the sky above Idle Rogue. From the moment you arrive, you feel the shimmering in the air, and the enchantment begins.

As you take your seat, we will assume control of your camera and embark together on a sparkling journey, of shadows and light, sounds and visions, astonishment and delight.

A collaborative experience, Le Cirque de Nuit has been crafted by some of the best performers and builders in SL at the height of their careers. It's a black and white steam-punk extravaganza that features clever concepts woven together by an extremely professional team. Produced by Chryblnd Scribe, with a stage scripted and managed by Arrehn Oberlander, you will witness thrilling performances by dancers who have honed their skills in the great troupes of our time.

Follow the slurl and click the board at stage right in the Acuo Theatre!
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Idle%20Rogue/107/189/36

https://www.facebook.com/idlerogue
https://www.facebook.com/GuerillaBurlesque
https://www.facebook.com/chryblnd

utube LE CIRQUE DE NUIT  LINKS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CiJxNzsq_i0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqnJ16HSdQc

EverWing

In her latest exploration of places in Second Life, Becky Shamen heard about a location known as EverWing. Located in Commune, the sim is home to a community of dragons. Under the guise of her own dragon avatar "Katzu," she (or rather he) checked out what there was to see, and chatted with a few of the inhabitants.

Read Katzu's article in Places.

The Weekend At A Glance

Quite a bit happened this weekend in Second Life. There was the monthly festival in the Roma community, the Sci-Fi Convention, the end of the Fashion for Life, and a number of Relay for Life events, including the Egg Decorating Contest, and the the Cross-Country Giant Snail Race (pictured above).

More on some of these events later.

Press Release: Windlight Magazine Spring 2016 Art Show

Windlight Magazine is pleased to announce its first annual Spring Art Show! This show will feature a week long celebration of 2D and 3D art. Over 50 artists are participating in this week long show. The event will also feature both a juried and non juried component. Juried participants will compete to win a combined total of 20,000Ls in prize money. The week long show will feature a variety of live performers, tribute bands, poetry, an art and fashion collaborative fashion show, and dance troupes. Fun events include a photo contest and a special hunt.

Participating artists are (in alphabetical order):  Antartica Slade, Aradia Aridian, Bamboo Barnes, Betty Tureaud, Boudicca Amat, Bryn Oh, Caelin8 Resident, Carley Noonan, Cherrycarr Resident, Cica Ghost, Danity Mynx, Dawnbeam Dreamscape, Eeraftr Resident, Eleseren Brianna, GlitterPrincess Destiny, Hana Hoobinoo,  Haveit Neox, Honey Bender, Ilyra Chardin, Inara Pey, Jarla Capalini, Joanne Vuitton, Johannes1977 Resident,  Journey McLaglen, Judilynn India, Kayly Iali, Layachi Ihen, Margo Hollak, Miele Tarantal,  Myra Wildmist, Peli Dieterle, Richie Narstrom, Roffellos Resident, Sandi Benelli, Saulgoodie Resident, Secret Rage, Shakti Adored, Skip Staheli, Slatan Dryke, Sparkie Cyberstar, Syphera Inaka, Tempest Rosca, Theda Tammas, Tripleplaynitely Resident, Warm Clarity, Wicca Merlin, Wiild  Alchemi, WrenNoir Cerise, and Ziki Questi.

The Windlight Magazine Spring 2016 Art Show would not be possible without the generosity of the following sponsors:  Azul, Chop Zuey Couture Jewellery, Dope Magazine, Ferosh, Ghee,  Lyrical Poetry Cafe, Magnum Opus, Meshopotamia, Pink Ice Boutique, PotPourri Markets, Prism Designs, SL Live Radio, Solaris, The Edge Gallery, and Windlight Magazine.

About Windlight Magazine:
Windlight Magazine is a publication about the art and photography world of Second Life. The goal of Windlight Magazine is to support artists, photographers, galleries, and related events. John nee Johannes1977 Resident is the Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief of Windlight Magazine and Gallery. The magazine is published on a monthly basis.

For More Information:
http://windlightmagazine.com/spring-2016-art-show/
www.windlightmagazine.com