Thursday, July 14, 2011

The Mystery Royal Wedding

Sunday July 10th would go down in the history of the Mystery sim as one of its most important days. The occasion: the virtual wedding between sim manager Princess Amythe Moonlight and Bloodrose Writer. Amy’s title was bestowed upon her by Tygeria Mirabeau, whom has long been called the “Queen of Hearts” by staff and regulars alike. Bloodrose has long been called the “Evil DJ” of Mystery, known for his loud and wicked laugh that supposedly can be heard across the sim.

The event was set for 10AM SL time, but the guests began arriving much earlier. By 9:45, there were close to two dozen people already at Mystery. The wedding would not be held in the club, but it was held on a special set build just for the occasion. A platform of wood planks were set just over the surface of the water, with large white sails covering the seating area and ceremony position, an arch with a picture of a Star of David over the moon, with a rose in the middle. At the other end was a circular structure supported by four white columns where the bridesmaids stood.Next to that was a pile of presents, and not far from that a fancy royal carriage, placed there as if to take the newlyweds to the reception. And in the middle of the seating area was a lone chair with a shotgun leaning against it, set up for a touch of Tygeria’s brand of humor.

As the minutes passed, more people arrived. No one was counting, though it’s safe to assume more than forty people showed up, staff, regulars, and friends of both. The bridesmaids were in position, patiently waiting. Among them, Mystery live singer Debi Late. Also waiting, at the ceremony area, was the groom Bloodrose Writer. For whatever reason, he was dressed in a while suit for the occasion. While it’s possible he was not aware what white was supposed to signify, most likely it was part of some kind of funnery. Over the airwaves various romantic and love-themed tunes were played. At one point, the “wedding march” ran for five seconds before it was corrected. Tygeria chuckled, “not so fast.”

Finally, the bride appeared.Mystery’s Princess appeared in a beautiful white gown, which drew a few comments from the guests, “Wow!” “Very beautiful bride.” “Wow indeed!”The dress was designed just so slightly naughty that led one to wonder if Bloodrose or more likely Tygeria were behind the choice. As it turned out, it was only her involved with the dress. With her was Maxx Sabertooth, Mystery’s live R&B singer, who would be giving her away to Blood. After everyone had a moment to see them, the bridesmaids and the men walked down the isle, and then last walked Maxx and Amy. They reached the wedding arch, then Maxx took his place on the chair with the shotgun.

Tygeria then spoke, “Welcome all who have gathered here today. Thank you Maxx Sabretooth for giving your blessing and giving our Amythe away today. I see you have your shotgun, but I feel it won't be needed, for these two are already one. We are just here to publicly celebrate it. So relax, Dear Maxx, Our girl is in the safest hands.”

“Many are here and many others, who cannot be here, send their thoughts, their love and their blessings on this act we all witness here today. This is a wedding in Second Life, but what is Secondlife? Some feel it is an extension of oneself into the realm of the taboo, things you cannot do in first life you can in Second Life. Note how, even I, capitalize Second Life in defiance to the constraints of first life.”

“While this is true and the impossible is possible in Second Life, what if it is an extension but not of the impossible, but of the fated? The what is supposed to be, that has not happened yet, in first life. A dry rehearsal for the big debut. The unveiling of the secret in a way to eventually show the world (first life) this is what I am meant to become. This is the life I want to live and this is the partner, I have chosen. I like my second definition of what is Second Life better.”

“And here in the shadow of our labor of love for five years, the Queen of Hearts, we testify this. . . Amythe Moonlight, Our Amythe Moonlight, Princess of Hearts! Amy to those of us who love her, has been not in my employ but my partnership for almost all of this time. We have worked and slaved for others, now we celebrate her choice in a wedded mate. Not a partner or a flight of fancy but a man whose heart is pure under his gruff exterior.”

“We all know Amy for her art, her building, her clothes designing. But from this day forward, we will all know Amy's heart. For a moment we will see what lies in her heart as she gives it to the man she loves. A man who in time has overcome many obstacles to be here for her, and with her on many days and in large and small ways. Who is this man who claims the treasure of Mystery, the Princess of Hearts? The friend, the mentor, the artist, our precious Amy! Bloodrose Writer. Yes, Bloodrose Writer is this man's name.A valiant defender of good, in a backwards kind of way. A rebel ,a leader and a true, true friend.”

“To some of us forever these two will be the odd couple, but being odd in Second Life. . .as long as it not a TOS violation, there is no odd. In this world with no odds, there will be no obstacle to their success. A gifted man of music and well versed in the written word. A man who is giving and kind once you dig down a few layers.”

(laughter from audience)

“Forthright and fair, patient and kind, All traits that describe this man. The Lead DJ of Hearts, the Mystery Evil DJ, The man who poured his heart out in silence for a time before asking for consideration from our Amy. The Man who wept in the shadows now stands in the sun to be by her side: to be her leader and her greatest supporter. Yes I said her leader, but not in submissive terms.His goal as leader is to lead but not with her behind, but with her at his side and he in turn at hers. To fulfil her hearts desire, thusly consequentially fulfilling his , is his mission. Let no one stand in his way of accomplishing this mission the fates have bestowed upon him. Amy, friend, artist, mentor, creator, Princess of Hearts, let your heart speak to us and this man your heart's desire.”

Tygeria Mirabeau nodded to Amy, and the bride spoke to Bloodrose, “My love, Your eyes captured me the first time we met and part of me remained with you. Years passed and we walked different paths but every time my eyes gazed on you, I would smile remembering that first day. Like the moon in the dark sky, I blaze in light when you are near. Without a word, you can make my heart soar and my soul sing. Your touch strengthens me and your love envelops me. You are my mirror, my truth, my passion, and my desire. With you I am more than I ever thought possible. With you I am complete. With all of my heart I love and cherish you. Today all my dreams come true as I stand here beside you and we begin our walk together on our new path.”

Tygeria smiled, then turned to Bloodrose, “Bloodrose, I know you many years as a DJ, as a friend in my life surpassing this game, and time itself,. What do you offer to show the world that you are more than what you allow most to see and worthy of My Amy?”

Bloodrose then spoke, “I, Bloodrose Writer, do solemnly take thee, my Princess as my wife, to love cherish and honor from this day forward as I have in our past. I commit to you in ways that I have shared with no other. Out of tragedy comes joy and the hope for a bigger and brighter tomorrow. With you through the years as my friend, yes my mentor and my love, we have enjoyed the pains of real life and the sorrows of Second Life. But we have also enjoyed magic as out friendship turned to love. I love you my Princess and shall ever remain faithful and true. No longer shall I roam and I shall make Second Life my home, till that day we that are two become one in all realms. Hard this shall be, but for the world will see. I cherish you my love, my Princess my Amy.”

Tygeria smiled, then spoke again, “Yes, though I officiate here today, I, like so many others claim a corner of the heart of Amy. So speak your heart old friend, drop your guise and let us know the treasure you will give to our greatest gift, Amythe Moonlight, my Amy. . . I, Tygeria Mirabeau, owner of the Sim of Mystery and the Queen of Hearts; Pledge to not only be the official of this union but to nurture it and protect it. In my eyes there is nothing that is stronger than two who have become one in the presence of friends.”

Tygeria asked, “The rings please?” And those acting as ring bearers presented them to the couple. As they exchanged them, Tygeria continued, “All of us gathered together to witness must agree that this is a union of love, made upon the bedrock of friendship and already tempered by time. I can say no more to this than the two have uttered and I find myself in the throws of emotion. Let us Pray! No matter your belief or faith we pray for blessings and strength for this incredible couple. We pray for happiness and smooth travels upon the path they shall walk together forever more. From their mouths, we have seen their hearts and lay low any doubt that these two should be one. We pray for the Writers as a family. And revel in the joy that their commitment brings to us.”

Finally, Tygeria gave the words, “Bloodrose. . . You may now kiss your Amy.” “Gladly,” the groom answered, and the couple embraced into a kiss. The guests then erupted into applause, with cheers for the couple, “Awwww.” “Splendid!!” “Congratulations!” “Jolly Good Show!!” “Congratulations to the beautiful couple,Love, Peace and Happiness follow you all days.” Over the sim came an announcement, “Presenting Bloodrose Writer and Amythe Moonlight ! We wish the happy couple a house full of sunshine, hearts full of cheer, and love that grows deeper each day of the year!” Fireworks then began dotting the skies with their colored lights. Then came another announcement, “Amythe Moonlight (amythe.moonlight) is now known as Amythe Moonlight-Writer”

After a few more congratulations, it was time for the reception. It was not at Mystery itself, but in a rented area. Guests were asked to touch an object to get the landmark. But everyone ended up in an empty building. People fanned out to find the right place, and it quickly was. The reception was at a beautiful marble structure with white curtains hanging down in places, resembling columns, with a sapphire blue dance floor in the middle. There were two chandeliers hanging down, with blue flame licking upwards, in addition to smaller blue flames on the floor near the edge. In front were marble floor sections separated by ice, with a posing place for pictures. And of course in the back of the reception area was the cake.

Tygeria asked for those helping out with the wedding to the posing area, and pictures were taken. Then all were asked to the dance area, where Maxx Sabertooth took the stream, congratulated the couple, and then began singing his rhythm & blues songs. Someone commented over his earlier sitting with the shotgun, “You know after hearing Maxx's voice I am sure glad Bloodrose didn't try to back out today *giggles playfully* He sounds like one who could sing your socks off AND enforce the 'rules'.” Debi Latte chuckled, “Yeah, plus he had the shotgun, hahaha!” “Well that was what I meant by 'enforce' *giggles* but I like the singing better.” “Yes, it rarely pays to argue with a shotgun.” “Unless you are the one holding it!” “Depends on which end you’re on. (laughter)”

Maxx sang for a while, then it was Debbi Latte’s turn. She sang some of her favorite tunes, including the Mystery sim’s theme song “Queen of Hearts.” During this time, Bloodrose's antics as the "Masked Lover" were discussed, some of the guests not having heard about them. That Blood was able to keep up the act in secret for so long impressed them, as well as how he revealed his secret.

As time went on, people had to get going, having commitments elsewhere or in real life. But taking the time to wish the couple well at first, “It was a beautiful wedidng, congrats Amy and Bloodrose. ... Best wishes in your future.” But the majority were abe to stay until the end of Debi’s singing, “Amy and Bloodrose, may the stars shine eternally on your union, may there be Mystery and Adventure around every corner, and may your love for each other only multiply each day. I will need to take my leave, but was so honored to share in your special day.”

Near the end, Tygeria spoke, “I have done a lot of speaking today, and to some it has been clearer than normal. To Bloodrose and Amy, I raise a glass to the heavens and hope that the fates cherish you as much as I do!” Other guests followed, “Amythe and Blood, Thank you for letting us be a part of your special day! I wish you nothing but the best!”

And so, Mystery’s Royal Wedding was at a close, with the guests departing with happy memories and the new couple heading to their honeymoon suite.

“Thank you ... for helping to make our day so wonderful!”

Source: Queen of Hearts

Bixyl Shuftan

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Events this Week in Second Life from July 12th to July 18th

Tuesday July 12



12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club
The club of the most active romance-themed sim in Second Life

Theme: Best in Boots
DJ: Blacktulip, Host: Borges
250L
12 to 2 PM, Mystery
(82, 96, 37)





4PM Happy Hour at the Writer's Block Cafe

"Happy Hour at the Writer's Block Cafe: Hakeber Haber returns for her biweekly reading of her collection of shorts, "The Life and Times of Car Johnson", Insanity never tasted so hilarious! [ Car Johnson one of Hakeber's characters, will read his own stories :-) ] ( She'll also be treating us to her horror writing :-) )"

4-5 PM Book Island (207, 227, 37)


5PM Lauren Live
"Presenting LaurenLive, a stand-up live comedy routine on the peculiarities and quirks of living in SL and RL! Catch me at ' Lauren's Place' on Cookie Island, Tuesday at 5:00 PM, a lively, open comedic conversation. No tipping. Just fun and laughter."

5 PM Cookie (208, 23, 23)




6 PM Club Zero Gravity
"A party among the stars" in a featured space club

Theme: Best in Tails, DJ to be announced

6 to 8 PM? Purrfection Estates (229, 11, 3365)



7:30 PM Saint Quentin Ballroom
DJ Lewt and his lovely wife Janna hosting dancing and music at the Saint Quentin Ballroom, music from all eras.
NOTE: The ballroom is set in the middle of a roleplay sim. The dance area is neutral ground, but guests are asked not to disturb players outside it.

7:30 - 10 PM Saint Quentin (64, 90, 32)



6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub
"Unleash Your Inner Animal"

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Timber
6-8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Khyra
8:30-11? PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)




* * * * * * * * * *

Wednesday July 13


11 AM. SLT. - The Writer's Support Group

"Eppie Shoreman's ever-popular, informal & informative Writer's Chat Support Group. Readers and Artists are especially welcome! We never know what we'll be talking about and even the seemingly random chatter is interesting :-) "

11 AM - 12 PM Book Island (198, 52, 25)


12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Angels and Devils
DJ: Buggie Breda aka Buggman, Host: Borges
1 Board - 250L
12 to 2 PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)


1PM Happy Hour with Morgue McMillan
"She will be reading her poetry (plus, other of her works) as well as helping us dig deep into the images and meanings of her art. This will be a new way to experience poetry--not critique or analysis, but understanding..."

1PM Book Island
(207, 227, 37)


3:30 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Live Music
Artist: Maxx Sabertooth
"Maxx sings romantic tunes from many genres including R&B, Soul, Pop, Jazz and even some Motown and Contemporary"
3:30 to 4:30 PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)



4 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub
"Unleash Your Inner Animal"

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Seato
4-7 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)




6 PM Cutlass Club Party
"Best open air club on SL. Always live-music, best dancers to entertain you. 125m above Sunweaver Air. Open wed, Fri, Sat nights 6pm SL, Sun 1pm SL time. Come enjoy and dance your cares away."

Theme: Stripes, DJ Jenni
6-8 PM Sunweaver Air (62, 119, 133)




7PM The Odd Ball

No Odd Ball scheduled this week (may change)

Research Center (123, 135, 652)




8 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Brexx
8-11 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



* * * * * * * * * *

Thursday July 14


12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Best in Red
DJ: Blacktulp, Host: Pint (1 Board 250L)
12 PM to 2 PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)


1 PM "Global Peace, How Can It Happen?"
Sandndor Zabelin's New Event. We'll be discussing issues raised in his book, "Notes from An Alien", but you don't have to read the book to join in :-) We'll be discussing many Global Issues and possible resolutions. Everyone gets a free book :-)
Book Island (197, 56, 25)


2 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Animals and Animal prints
DJ: Talyn Bellios, Host: Eva (1 board L$250)
2PM to 4PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)


4PM Another Happy Hour at the Writers Block Cafe
"Hakeber's continued reading of hilarious shorts about Car Johnson."
4-5 PM Book Island (207, 227, 37)



6 PM Virtually Speaking

“A weekly news review and counterpoint to the network opinion shows. Each week, two well regarded bloggers discuss the events of the week, with an emphasis on U.S. politics and policy. “
Jay Ackroyd hosts.

6-7 PM Virtually Speaking (164, 111, 25)


6 PM Club Zero Gravity
"A party among the stars" in a featured space club

Theme: "Epic Fail" DJ to be announced

6 to 8 PM? Purrfection Estates (229, 11, 3365)



6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Lakota
6 - 8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Khyra
8:30 PM - Midnight ? Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



* * * * * * * * * *

Friday July 15th


10 AM Mystery Moonlight Cafe & Lake

7Seas Fishing (at lake)
, DJ: BlackTulip, Host: Venum
500L Prize
10 AM, Mystery (138, 189, 21)



5PM Friday Micro/Nano-Fiction
"Join Relish for his Nano & Micro Fiction stories. Short but touching. Very often funny. This man has already mastered this genre of literature :-)"

Book Island (199, 213, 37)


6PM Cutlass Club Party

Theme: "Friday Rave," DJ to be announced
6-8 PM Sunweaver Air (62, 119, 133)



6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Rayne
6 - 8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Crisp
8:30-11 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



* * * * * * * * * *

Saturday July 16th

10AM SL Time: The Relay For Life Walk Begins!

Stay tuned for times of hourly events





Netera's Coffee Lounge
Welcome to Netera's Coffee Lounge. Hope you enjoy our informative chat in our new jazzy set. In this venue you'll participate in interviews with real life writers, singers and artists

10AM SL time - Dragonfly

11 AM SL time - DeepSky Timeless

Terric (43, 137, 28)


11 AM Reader's Chat at Book Island
"You can talk about the books, short stories, or poetry you've read recently (or long ago) -- even the books you didn't like :-) This is a casual, welcoming group and we'd love to hear what YOU are, or were, reading!"

11 AM Book Island (197, 56, 25)


11 AM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Kuregi
11 AM - 2 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)




4 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub
"Unleash Your Inner Animal"

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Seato
4PM - 6:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)




6PM Cutlass Club Party

Theme: "Fire & Ice," DJ to be announced
6-8 PM Sunweaver Air (62, 119, 133)



6PM The Happy Vixen Beach Club
Theme: "Halfway thru July party"
6 to 8 PM, Purrfection Estates (229, 11, 3365) (teleport down to beach)



6:30 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ: Rayne
6:30 - 8 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



7:30 PM Saint Quentin Ballroom
DJ Lewt and his lovely wife Janna hosting dancing and music at the Saint Quentin Ballroom, music from all eras.
NOTE: The ballroom is set in the middle of a roleplay sim. The dance area is neutral ground, but guests are asked not to disturb players outside it.
7:30 - 10 PM Saint Quentin (64, 90, 32)


* * * * * * * * * *

Sunday July 17th


10AM The Relay For Life Walk - Closing Ceremony

11AM The Relay For Life Walk - Victory Lap Celebrations

11AM The Odd Ball

No Odd Ball scheduled this week (may change)

Research Center (123, 135, 652)



12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Live Music
Artist: Debi Latte
Debi Latte has a wonderful rich smooth voice and sings a variety of covers from many artists including Lionel Richie, Dan Hill and Sarah McLachlan!! Don't miss this entertaining and heartfelt singer!!

12 PM to 2 PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)


1 PM "Open Mike Event" Book Island

"Join Sandor Zabelin for our Open Mic In The Sky in the Scottish Panorama. Bring your own writings (fiction, non-fiction, poetry...) or the writings of one of your favorite authors. You can read on Voice Chat *or* one of our regulars can read for you. And, we sure won't kick you out if all you want to do is listen :-) "
1 PM Book Island (227, 211, 868)




2 PM: DJ Quark at The LightTower

Join DJ Quark and Gemma Cleanslate at the Lightower Social Club

2PM - 4:00 PM Alentejo (200, 175, 21)



3PM Happy Hour at the Writers Block Cafe

"A Poetic Happy Hour with Bonchance Longfall. Come to the Writer's Block Cafe and hear Bonchance read his evocative poetry; then, take part in discussions about the images and meanings :-) Often, Bonchance extends his Happy Hour a bit and that's when he invites other poets in attendance to read and receive insights from the other attendees!"
Book Island (207, 227, 37)


4:30 "The 1st Question"

Live viewing of "The Quiz Show to the Stars! If you have an answer, we have a question."

4:30-5 PM Spinthrift (70, 241, 700)



5 PM Virtually Speaking
5-6 PM Virtually Speaking (164, 111, 25)



5:30PM The East Coast Conservative Podcast
"The East Coast Conservative Podcast is a weekly news & commentary podcast hosted by Hatton Humphrey (aka Hatton Hunghi in SL) and Ken Johnston (who barely has time for a real life). Our take on the world is generally conservative with a lot of humor and enough bad jokes to make a clown cry. Okay, the bad jokes are normally from Hatton, but whaddya do?"
5:30 PM Grand Old Party (166, 130, 23)




8PM Cypress Rosewood

The "Best Ambient Artist in SL" performs at the Space Music Theater
Spinthrift (156, 81, 98)




* * * * * * * * * *

Monday
July 18th


12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club
Theme: To be Announced
12 to 2 PM, Mystery (79, 89, 23)



6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Rayne
6 - 8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Crisp
8:30-11 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)

Thursday, July 7, 2011

The Last Space Shuttle

This Friday if all goes as scheduled, NASA’s Space Shuttle Atlantis will launch from the Kenedy Space Center. To those interested in space, any shuttle launch is newsworthy. But this one is different. Friday July 8, 2011 at 8:26 SL time will be the last flight of the last Space Shuttle.

One will be able to see the shuttle launch, officially called STS-135 in Second Life. The International Space Museum in the Sci-Lands has broadcasted shuttle launches in the past, as has the Star Trek Museum. The NASA eEducation sim is another place. One group of people plan to do more than just show the shuttle’s final takeoff. They plan to recreate it in Second Life.

Readers may remember when after Osama Bin-Laden’s compound in Abbottabad was stormed, the building was recreated in Second Life. The team of people behind it, the Avitarian development team, have been up to a new build. The Avitarian Central and Last Shuttle sims have been made to look like Cape Kennedy. Next to the roadway to the launch pad, an event area was set up, which included seating stands, poll questions, a DJ stand, a raffle wheel, and a large digital countdown clock.

Dropping by the place, I ran into Chenin Anabuki, whom founded the Avatrian team, “We are basically mirroring the very last space shuttle launch of Atlantis STS-135. And, we are inviting the public to celebrate the event with us in world,” he told me, “We are big on space technology.”

Gesturing to the wheel, “We are doing a bit of a fund raiser as a tie in as well. We're basically raffling the four astronaut crew positions for the Atlantis STS-135 launch on Friday. Today, we will be selecting the ones for the Commander and Pilot positions. The wheel here in front of me is the roulette. It has all the tickets purchased to date with names of the avatars.” The wheel had a number of names on it. Some, such as Pooky Amsterdam, were on there just once. Others, like Stone Semyorka, appeared a number of times, reflecting multiple ticket purchases, “This Friday, an hour before the launch, we will draw the winners for the two Mission Specialist positions. So, there will be 4 crew members total for the launch. All proceeds will go to the Youth Science Center.”

Of this being the last mission, they had heard a number of opinions, “Some are happy that the shuttle era is ending. There are groups who favor the privatization of space exploration. But of course, there are also many who are sad that it is going away and there is nothing to follow it in the near future.” Pointing to the digital clock, “This timer countdown is in sync already with NASA's current launch day/time, by the way.” He then gestured to the shuttle in the distance in the appropriately named “Last Shuttle” sim, “We separated the sim for the rocket launch with the sim where the public viewers will be so we can avoid any lag issues as much as possible. The rocket was custom scripted to mimic as much of the real-life shuttle's movement as we could, just so the experience is much closer to how it is in actuality. It even does the roll.”

Their work on the Abbottabad Bin-Laden compound came up, of which they were thankful for the attention of Grid media coverage, such as Second Life Newser. They described their work on the place as quite fast, “That was very rapid-fire development. In contrast, this one took weeks. (It was) mainly because we also have to build the website and the graphic images, and programming the database for the raffle.”

It was about time for them to chose the designated Commander of the Shuttle mission. The wheel was spun, set for a random roll between sixty and 180 seconds. After a while, it settled on a name: Phelpsa Resident. Phelpsa was a new resident whose groups suggested he or she was a college student. In contrast to those buying over a dozen tickets, Phelpsa had only gotten one, “very lucky, only one ticket but still got drawn.”

Chenin told me they planned to book a DJ for the launch, “ so there is a bit of entertainment right before the actual launch. She'll start her playlist at around 7AM SLT. ... Some songs will be space related. We have special instructions for her.” He described the course of the mission, “The shuttle will reache an altitude of 3000+ SL meters. Once there, the passengers will be treated to a simulation of reaching Low Earth orbit. Then the shuttle will disappear and they will find themselves on a platform where there is a TP back to the visitors area. We originally wanted a landing event, but it wouild prove too complicated. Doable, but given the amount of time we have for prepping, we opted for just the ascent.”

And Avarrian’s next project? Chenin answered, “We’re going to make an announcement after the launch. It will contain details on what will happen to the build after the flight of the 4 chosen crew members. We're being Kennedy-ish about it. (grin)”

The public area for the launch is at Avatrian Central (214, 21, 26). For more information, check the website for the event at http://lastshuttle.avatrian.com/ , or their blog entry of the event at http://www.avatrian.com/blogs/ .

As of Wednesday July 6, weather conditions were looking iffy for Friday, the forcast giving only a 30% chance of conditions acceptable for a Friday launch, which improved to 60% on Sunday.

Bixyl Shuftan

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Events this Week in Second Life from July 5th to July 11

Tuesday July 5



12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club
The club of the most active romance-themed sim in Second Life

Theme: Wings
DJ: Blacktulip, Host: Borges
250L
12 to 2 PM, Mystery
(82, 96, 37)





4PM Happy Hour at the Writer's Block Cafe

"Happy Hour at the Writer's Block Cafe: Hakeber Haber returns for her biweekly reading of her collection of shorts, "The Life and Times of Car Johnson", Insanity never tasted so hilarious! [ Car Johnson one of Hakeber's characters, will read his own stories :-) ] ( She'll also be treating us to her horror writing :-) )"

4-5 PM Book Island (207, 227, 37)


5PM Lauren Live
"Presenting LaurenLive, a stand-up live comedy routine on the peculiarities and quirks of living in SL and RL! Catch me at ' Lauren's Place' on Cookie Island, Tuesday at 5:00 PM, a lively, open comedic conversation. No tipping. Just fun and laughter."

5 PM Cookie (208, 23, 23)


5PM Ambrosia Live

The Ambrosia Live Talk show, by Monarch Productions, starring Ambrosia Kamala, "Let's talk about it."
5 to 6 PM
aMuse (32, 16, 2994)


6 PM Club Zero Gravity
"A party among the stars" in a featured space club

Theme: Pink, DJ to be announced

6 to 8 PM? Purrfection Estates (229, 11, 3365)





7:30 PM Saint Quentin Ballroom
DJ Lewt and his lovely wife Janna hosting dancing and music at the Saint Quentin Ballroom, music from all eras.
NOTE: The ballroom is set in the middle of a roleplay sim. The dance area is neutral ground, but guests are asked not to disturb players outside it.
7:30 - 10 PM Saint Quentin (64, 90, 32)

6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub
"Unleash Your Inner Animal"

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Timber
6-8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Khyra
8:30-11? PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)




* * * * * * * * * *

Wednesday July 6


11 AM. SLT. - The Writer's Support Group

"Eppie Shoreman's ever-popular, informal & informative Writer's Chat Support Group. Readers and Artists are especially welcome! We never know what we'll be talking about and even the seemingly random chatter is interesting :-) "

11 AM - 12 PM Book Island (198, 52, 25)


12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Leather & Lace
DJ: Buggie Breda aka Buggman, Host: Borges
1 Board - 250L
12 to 2 PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)


1PM Happy Hour with Morgue McMillan
"She will be reading her poetry (plus, other of her works) as well as helping us dig deep into the images and meanings of her art. This will be a new way to experience poetry--not critique or analysis, but understanding..."

1PM Book Island
(207, 227, 37)



4 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub
"Unleash Your Inner Animal"

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Seato
4-7 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



6 PM Cutlass Club Party
"Best open air club on SL. Always live-music, best dancers to entertain you. 125m above Sunweaver Air. Open Wed, Fri, Sat nights 6pm SL time. Come enjoy and dance your cares away."

Theme: Black & White, DJ to be announced
6-8 PM Sunweaver Air (62, 119, 133)




7PM The Odd Ball

"Hello Tunaverse! I am Tuna Oddfellow and this is my partner Shava. We are your hosts on this wild ride. Do not attempt to adjust your monitors we are controling transmission!"

11AM to 1PM Research Center (123, 135, 652)


(Tuna is in the process of moving, so it's possible the event may be canceled)


8 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Brexx
8-11 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



* * * * * * * * * *

Thursday July 7


12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Cowboys & Indians
DJ: Blacktulp, Host: Pint (1 Board 250L)
12 PM to 2 PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)


1 PM "Global Peace, How Can It Happen?"
Sandndor Zabelin's New Event. We'll be discussing issues raised in his book, "Notes from An Alien", but you don't have to read the book to join in :-) We'll be discussing many Global Issues and possible resolutions. Everyone gets a free book :-)
Book Island (197, 56, 25)


2 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club

Theme: Rockin' Romance (Come as you are contest)
DJ: Talyn Bellios, Host: Eva, To Be Anounced (1 board 250L)
2PM to 4PM, Mystery (82, 96, 37)


4PM Another Happy Hour at the Writers Block Cafe
"Hakeber's continued reading of hilarious shorts about Car Johnson, and excerpts from her horror classics."
4-5 PM Book Island (207, 227, 37)


5PM Ambrosia Live

The Ambrosia Live Talk show, by Monarch Productions, starring Ambrosia Kamala, "Let's talk about it."
5 to 6 PM
aMuse (32, 16, 2994)



6 PM Virtually Speaking

“A weekly news review and counterpoint to the network opinion shows. Each week, two well regarded bloggers discuss the events of the week, with an emphasis on U.S. politics and policy. “
Jay Ackroyd hosts.

6-7 PM Virtually Speaking (164, 111, 25)


6 PM Club Zero Gravity
"A party among the stars" in a featured space club

Theme: Silks, DJ to be announced

6 to 8 PM? Purrfection Estates (229, 11, 3365)


6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Lakota
6 - 8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Khyra
8:30 PM - Midnight ? Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



* * * * * * * * * *

Friday July 8


Time to be Announced: Mystery Moonlight Cafe & Lake

7Seas Fishing (at lake)
, DJ: BlackTulip, Host: Venim
500L Prize
10 AM, Mystery (138, 189, 21)



5PM Friday Micro/Nano-Fiction
"Join Relish for his Nano & Micro Fiction stories. Short but touching. Very often funny. This man has already mastered this genre of literature :-)"

Book Island (199, 213, 37)


6PM Cutlass Club Party

Theme: "Beach Party," DJ to be announced
6-8 PM Sunweaver Air (62, 119, 133)



6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Rayne
6 - 8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Crisp
8:30-11 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



* * * * * * * * * *

Saturday July 9


Netera's Coffee Lounge
Welcome to Netera's Coffee Lounge. Hope you enjoy our informative chat in our new jazzy set. In this venue you'll participate in interviews with real life writers, singers and artists


Lounge closed for two week break

Terric (43, 137, 28)


11 AM Reader's Chat at Book Island
"You can talk about the books, short stories, or poetry you've read recently (or long ago) -- even the books you didn't like :-) This is a casual, welcoming group and we'd love to hear what YOU are, or were, reading!"

11 AM Book Island (197, 56, 25)


11 AM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Kuregi
11 AM - 2 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)




4 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub
"Unleash Your Inner Animal"

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Seato
4PM - 6:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)




6PM Cutlass Club Party

Theme: "Formal Dance," DJ to be announced
6-8 PM Sunweaver Air (62, 119, 133)



6:30 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ: Rayne
6:30 - 8 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)



7:30 PM Saint Quentin Ballroom
DJ Lewt and his lovely wife Janna hosting dancing and music at the Saint Quentin Ballroom, music from all eras.
NOTE: The ballroom is set in the middle of a roleplay sim. The dance area is neutral ground, but guests are asked not to disturb players outside it.
7:30 - 10 PM Saint Quentin (64, 90, 32)


* * * * * * * * * *

Sunday July 10



10 AM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club
Special Event: Royal Wedding
Princess Amythe Moonlight to wed Bloodrose Writer

10AM to ??
Mystery (20, 45, 41)
Those wanting in must let Amythe Moonlight or Tygeria Mirabeau know ahead of time. Early arrival for those who do is requested.




11AM The Odd Ball

11AM to 1PM, Research Center (123, 135, 652)

(Tuna is in the process of moving, so it's possible the event may be canceled)


1 PM "Open Mike Event" Book Island

"Join Sandor Zabelin for our Open Mic In The Sky in the Scottish Panorama. Bring your own writings (fiction, non-fiction, poetry...) or the writings of one of your favorite authors. You can read on Voice Chat *or* one of our regulars can read for you. And, we sure won't kick you out if all you want to do is listen :-) "
1 PM Book Island (227, 211, 868)




2 PM: DJ Quark at The LightTower

Join DJ Quark and Gemma Cleanslate at the Lightower Social Club

2PM - 4:00 PM Alentejo (200, 175, 21)



3PM Happy Hour at the Writers Block Cafe

"A Poetic Happy Hour with Bonchance Longfall. Come to the Writer's Block Cafe and hear Bonchance read his evocative poetry; then, take part in discussions about the images and meanings :-) Often, Bonchance extends his Happy Hour a bit and that's when he invites other poets in attendance to read and receive insights from the other attendees!"
Book Island (207, 227, 37)


4:30 "The 1st Question" Season Premier

Live viewing of "The Quiz Show to the Stars! If you have an answer, we have a question."
4:30-5 PM Spinthrift (70, 241, 700)




5 PM Virtually Speaking
5-6 PM Virtually Speaking (164, 111, 25)



5:30PM The East Coast Conservative Podcast
"The East Coast Conservative Podcast is a weekly news & commentary podcast hosted by Hatton Humphrey (aka Hatton Hunghi in SL) and Ken Johnston (who barely has time for a real life). Our take on the world is generally conservative with a lot of humor and enough bad jokes to make a clown cry. Okay, the bad jokes are normally from Hatton, but whaddya do?"
5:30 PM Grand Old Party (166, 130, 23)




8PM Cypress Rosewood

The "Best Ambient Artist in SL" performs at the Space Music Theater
Spinthrift (156, 81, 98)




* * * * * * * * * *

Monday
July 11

12 PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club
Theme: To be Announced
12 to 2 PM, Mystery (79, 89, 23)


3PM Queen of Hearts Riverboat Club
Theme: Live Music, Artist Declan Greenfield
3 to 4 PM, Mystery (79, 89, 23)



6PM The Happy Vixen Beach Club
Theme: "Rule 34"
6 to 8 PM, Purrfection Estates (229, 11, 3365) (teleport down to beach)


6 PM SpiritValley Studios Nightclub

Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Rayne
6 - 8:30 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)


Theme: To Be Announced, DJ Crisp
8:30-11 PM Sunweaver Space (187, 99, 263)

Monday, July 4, 2011

The SL8B Weekend

From June 20th to June 26th, Second Life held it’s official eighth birthday celebrations. The last two days fell on the weekend, so it was a chance for those busy during the week to come by, as well as be there longer. Time to see some of the events, both DJs and live musicians playing, plus the lectures and talk and game shows making special appearances.

Dropping in on Saturday the 25th, I found out Marx Dudek, the “Unique Bunny” as she once called herself with her custom avatar, was DJing at the Bay City Exhibit. So I dropped in to say hello, and enjoyed listening and dancing to the classic rock songs of the 1950’s and early 60’s. It was about this time a few friends I hadn’t seen much online lately logged on. We chatted a little over Instant Message, and thinking they would enjoy the music , I suggested the come over. They did, asking where the dance animator was, and joining in.

The friends in question are worth a mention. One is a US Army soldier back home from Afghanistan. He was wearing, of all things, a “Brony” avatar. What the hey would the symbol of American testosterone be doing in an “ODed on cute” avatar? Maybe it was for some joke. Or maybe it suggests something about what he had to face while performing the duties of “rough men who ensure the rest of civilization sleeps peacefully at night.”

The other friend was Gwyenalin Gausman, who came over with her real-life daughter. Gwen’s been on Second Life for a couple years, her “Gathering Place” in Second Life a testimony for those suffering from chronic pain and Fybromyalgia. She told me she had started a group for chronic pain, which recently had it’s first meeting.

After the Bay City event, I looked around for a while. I came across another group of people dancing away, and recognized the DJ: GoSpeed Racer. Longtime readers of Second Life Newspaper may recognize the name: she DJed for a few of it’s newspaper parties, as well as her station sponsoring the paper for a time. Speed appears in a female av, and not a dark-haired male, but she does have her own Mach-5 (I never saw it jack up in the air, though). Besides DJing, Speed’s spent some time in the sci-fi multiplayer online game “Eve Online” and told me of a recent development there (more on that in another article).

Before long, I heard Gemma Cleanslate’s partner DJ Quark was doing his own event, so I told Speed and her friends goodbye and ported over. Quark was doing his Trance tunes, and Gemma was there in her “dwarf giant” racing snail avatar. The place was quite crowded (the picture taken before everyone rezzed), and Quark was making a good impression on everyone. Then came a problem. Someone was streaming the place with particles, not just once or twice but again and again, and rezzing objects. She was politely asked to stop, but she angrily gripped she had every right to display whatever she wanted to, and had no intention of stopping. Maybe I should have changed to my skunk avatar and shot some spray particles in her direction.

Sunday June 26th was the last chance to see public events in the SL8B area. Some of the events were recorded on Second Life TV, such as Lauren Live and the First Question. Lauren Wayland’s usual comedy routine occasionally gets a little off-color, so she had to check with Linden labs about which words she could use for her Second Life Birthday special, “don’t worry, they’re all okay.” Still, although individual words were sometimes clean, the meaning was obvious, “What’s the worst chat line? ‘Is it big enough?’ I mean, come on! if it isn’t big enough, right click and just, stretch. (laughter) If only we could do that in real life.” And there were other jokes, like the made-up word, “Lagalicious: lag that you actually enjoy.” And one questions he was asked, “As a girl in Second Life, do you get cramps? Only when I TP.”

Also on Sunday was Pookymedia’s “The 1st Question” Championship show, with winners of three previous shows, Troy McLuhan, CathyWyo1 Haystack, and Patio Plasma. It wasn’t the easiest episode to listen to, as the stream carried background music instead of the Treet.tv broadcast. But the winner’s name was clearly on the screen: Troy McLuhan. Following the show, Pooky Amsterdam’s staff of tinies lined up and did one of the “Tiny Riverdance” routines that had been occurring at the SL8B time to time. This one was a little smaller than others that were screenshotted, but it drew cheers and applause all the same.

There were a few more events that night, but the nagging migraine in my head was Mother Nature telling me it was time to give Second Life a break and return to reality, celebrations be darned. And so, farewell to the Second Life Eighth Birthday event. I would be able to return to see the exhibits ( although not as often as I wanted to), but the official events were over.

Bixyl Shuftan