The importance of community simply can’t be understated, and in Second Life, it’s invaluable. Think of how many different groups of people you interact with each day — what if you had a go-to comprehensive page that illustrates various aspects of each community in Second Life?

We’re excited to announce our new initiative! We’ve begun building in-depth community pages that will live directly on the Second Life website. Each of these pages will celebrate Residents in all different communities, and showcase the meaningful experiences that strengthen the social fabric of Second Life. This will include stories, quotes, photos, videos, and more — all directly from Second Life Residents.

“Humans have survived by living in communities since the beginning of time. We are born into families, and into the groups that our families choose to be a part of. We also deliberately seek out and create communities. Whether that’s based on proximity, shared values and beliefs, or individual interests, we intentionally create communities for shared goals — deepening relationships, creating feelings of belonging, and providing support for the health and wellbeing of all members.”

These community pages are living projects, and we want your input! These pages will be extensive resources by and for each community. If you would like to submit content for a page, please keep an eye out for announcements on specific community pages, as there will be a (google form) open to the public for each of them. Please understand that due to the volume of submissions, not all content will be published, but we appreciate your input.

Our first new community page is Black Culture in Second Life. “Black culture is rich because it is from the soul. When you see Blackness in real life, what you are seeing is a soul of a people. Some of us displaced from generations; some of us with long lineages of old worlds and traditions. From the way we talk, to the beliefs we hold, to our own language [African American Vernacular English, and the international derivatives of it], Blackness is a LIFE FORCE of Second Life,” writes Dondallia Graves.

Second Life should be an inclusive haven of self-expression, and we feel it’s important to highlight every community. We look forward to sharing more community pages as we publish them.

Photo by ZoeyNova Oatsmill

Explore our first community page: Black Culture in Second Life.

Ever since Second Life’s inception two decades ago we have seen many local, state and federal governments impose new ways to collect tax revenue from internet-based businesses. The Wayfair Sales Tax case decision by the Supreme Court was when prior rules about sales tax really changed.  Since then, we have done our best to shield our residents from these taxes as long as possible, but we are no longer able to absorb them.

As of March 31, 2022 we will begin charging sales tax in the U.S. For the time being we will charge taxes only on recurring billings, such as premium subscriptions and land fees. The amount of tax charged will be communicated clearly in the receipt or invoice.

We will continue to absorb the taxes at point-of-sale purchases such as one-time L$ buys, first-time premium subscriptions, and name changes. At some point in the future we will need to begin passing those taxes on to you. We will make another announcement when those charges are phased in.

Your individual charges will be determined by your local jurisdictions. There are more than 13,000 sales and use tax jurisdictions in the United States, with great variation in their rules and tax rates. Tax amounts are also affected by other factors such as the type of goods or services being purchased. To determine the charges, we will be relying on an automated third-party system which closely tracks local tax laws, so the tax amounts are always up to date.

This is news we don’t enjoy sharing, but for the health of the business and of Second Life, we can no longer continue absorbing these tax burdens.

Thank you for your understanding and your continued support of Second Life.
 

This week we are shining a spotlight on the virtual wellness and lifestyle publication Sage & Crystals Magazine, which was created to support and promote the rich ethnic and cultural diversity that exists in Second Life. Learn more about it from the Executive Editor/Co-Editor in Chief, ZoeyNova Oatsmill.

How long have you been in Second Life and how did you first hear about it?
I first learned about Second Life from my real life mother. She heard someone refer to it on a television show, which sparked her curiosity. As soon as she signed up, I remember her telling me, “You have to join this! It’s a virtual world of some sort.” Since then, we have both been Second Life Residents for 13+ years.

The issues of Sage and Crystals cover a comprehensive range of topics and feature stunning photography. Do you do everything yourself? If you have help, please tell us about your team and what they do.
The magazine was born out of my desire to represent the diversity of Residents on the grid. I got together with a group of wonderful, like-minded ladies and Sage and Crystals Magazine was created. Although I do a lot of the photography, Sage Absinthe and I share the task so we are responsible for the imagery represented and we contribute some of the editorials. For some of the features, like Spotlight, we use the pictures of the Residents we are showcasing.

Our staff consists of:
ZoeyNova Oatsmill - Executive Editor/Co-Editor in Chief
Sage Absinthe - Co-Editor in Chief
Pilar Mimulus - Editor-at-Large/Editorial Coordinator and Project Manager
Harper Nova - Relationship Manager/ Editor-at-Large
Ari Lexington - In-House Interior Stylist/Set Designer

A huge step forward in representation involves normalizing the idea that people of all backgrounds exist outside of stereotypes and are capable of a variety of interests and skills. You do such an amazing job of that with your magazine. How would you describe your approach to this?
The mission statement of our magazine states, “Sage and Crystals SL is a magazine created by a Second Life collective to present a virtual wellness and lifestyle magazine that supports and promotes the rich ethnic and cultural diversity that exists within SL.” The magazine is meant to be representative of the world at large as it exists on the grid without a bow to prejudice and stereotypes. I feel that the Second Life platform takes away some of the barriers that prevent us from interacting with different groups of people in {the physical world}. On the grid, you can be who you are or who you feel you are. My goal is to make an effort to show that at the core we are all human. We are all just people having experiences that could be teachable moments; moments that could expand you, or stunt/limit you. The opportunity to bridge some gaps and explore differences as a form of education exists in Second Life. The learned opportunity is transferable and  applicable to real life, too.

What are some things you hope people get out of reading your magazine?
By reading the magazine I hope people will suspend judgment to acknowledge and embrace the diversity that exists in Second Life. Our community is not linear and should reflect and relate to those in it. This social platform can allow us to build bridges and connect with different people and cultures on our own accord, as well as vigorously challenge the conditioned narratives and assumptions that have been echoed in real life.

Also, I hope that people can see that virtual wellness is essential. There are so many places on the grid to practice self-reflection, meditation, and other wellness activities to be a better version of ourselves, which can be so beneficial.

Are you accepting submissions from other Residents at this time? If so, where and how?
No, we aren’t accepting submissions at this time, However, we review suggestions and comments that come in from notecards, IMs, or via our social media platforms.

Where can people see your work? Please share links to your sites and social media accounts.
Second Life Residents can check out our work on Issuu, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr and Instagram.

Thank you for this opportunity!

Watch this fantastic video from the Sage and Crystals team:

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Sage & Crystals Magazine, and start living your best virtual life!

Each weekly post will feature a different Resident to showcase the spectrum of experiences and personalities found in our virtual world. If you have created something inworld that you’re proud of, or have had a deeply meaningful experience that could brighten someone else’s day, please sign up! More info here: https://second.life/spotlight-signup 

We are going to be introducing an additional way for you to keep your account safe! When we detect that your viewer is being accessed from a new device, we’ll send you an email that looks like this:

          SUBJECT: Important: [FIRSTNAME LASTNAME] accessed Second Life from a new machine.

          Your Second Life account has been accessed from a new machine. If you recently logged in to Second Life from a new device you may ignore this mail.

               Account: [FIRSTNAME LASTNAME]
               Time: [TIME IN SLT, example 2022-02-11 09:09.00 SLT]
               Originating IP Address: [IP ADDRESS OF NEW COMPUTER]
           
          If this was you, you don’t need to do anything. If not, we will help you secure your account: What To Do If Your Account Has Been Compromised

We are pleased to bring you this industry standard to help protect your SL account. Make sure to verify your email address to receive these notifications.  

We recently introduced Multi-Factor Authentication, another industry standard, as another layer of account protection. Read about it at https://second.life/mfa 

UPDATE: This feature is available as of 2/28 for accounts with a verified email address.

Get early access to a crisp spring morning by visiting Sous le Ciel de Paris, a chic rooftop garden brimming with rustic charm.

Creator Tolla Crisp, the mastermind behind Frogmore and Mousehole, crafted this tranquil resting spot in the Art Nouveau style, with architecture and furniture that evoke the graceful curves of tendrils and flowers. Tolla tells us, “Paris started off as my own personal home, not intended to be a public venue. I started with an old skybox from Pixel Mode which I modified and then I added on and modified builds from Milk Motion, Apple Fall, and Minimal.” This all culminated in a whimsically curated space that looks like a virtual home and garden magazine. Visitors can enjoy the ambience on cozy patio furniture, but don’t miss the chicken coop, ornate metalwork, or baskets of freshly picked produce. 

The region’s name roughly translates to Under Paris Skies, as Tolla says, “It evolved into a 'spring' Paris rooftop with lots of flowers: I think everyone is ready for a fresh break from winter.” There is something so soothing about spring’s themes of rebirth and fresh growth. It serves as a reminder that even on the gloomiest winter day, the cycle of life will continue and we will make it to another sunny morning. No matter what is happening in the physical world, Second Life should always be a safe haven where Residents can have fun and relax.

Regarding creative processes, Tolla tells us, “My inspirations come from the research I do on Pinterest. I use a  board to gather ideas for each project,  as well as from my great friends in SL that are from France.” The region’s aesthetic is dappled with soft pastels; pops of color burst forth from the warm patina of the buildings and decor. This place is very much alive, with hummingbirds buzzing about the flower patch and a mischievous squirrel swinging from a bird feeder as it tries to snag some nuts and seeds.

Tolla has been a Resident for quite some time, telling us, “Second Life has meant many things over the years and like most people that do stay a long time, I have evolved and changed over that time… creating beautiful spaces that I can share with others has brought much happiness and satisfaction, and keeps me returning to SL. My journey with Frogmore has been very rewarding indeed.”

Given the increased conversation around virtual spaces and the concept of the metaverse, Tolla says, “I am very passionate about the freedom we have in SL versus anything FB might offer… I invite you to have a peek at a video my friend Tutsy Navaratha recently made regarding Metaverse and SL: Mon Metaverse."

Stay tuned for updates on Tolla's other creative endeavors, as they mentioned “I will continue to grow and change Frogmore and Mousehole regions and hopefully continue to deliver an immersive experience to share with all. We have big plans for both regions in 2022…”

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Sous le ciel de Paris

From the creators of Frogmore: Welcome to Sous le ciel de Paris! Under the sky of Paris is a Rooftop Garden sure to remember warm Parisian nights. This is a lush French garden experience, 4300 prims, open to the public. Owned by Frogmore, all group members will be able to Rezz at Paris as well. Come enjoy the scent of spring under the skies of Paris!

Visit in Second Life

Pictured: The Endless Graveyard

Take a moment to reflect at these thought-provoking destinations in Second Life this weekend. Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Second Life Destination Guide!

The Endless Graveyard

The Endless Graveyard is a forest in Sweden that exists at the edge of the land of the living. Can you find the hidden doorway to the realm of the dead? Add your images to their Flickr group: flickr.com/groups/legioamorte

Visit in Second Life

The Desire Realm

The Desire Realm brings the beauty of a tropical landscape surrounded by temples and monuments. Offering some interesting gifts, free for visitors and newbies. It's a great place to hang out, meditate, and take some water reflection photography. Everyone is welcome!

Visit in Second Life

The Nakano Forest currently has Payment Info and Age Restrictions set on their region.

Nakano Forest

Traverse through the deep lush forests of the Nakano Region, inspired by real and fantasy genre areas. This land is voice-enabled.

Visit in Second Life

Angels Rest

Angels Rest is a memorial garden in SL offering space for you to create a focal point for remembrance. Their aim is to offer a chance for quiet contemplation and reflection away from daily distractions.

Visit in Second Life

Eatonville Living History Museum

Welcome to Eatonville, a living, interactive museum paying homage to the strength and beauty of the African-American diaspora through an examination of popular Black Literature. Walk around the town and turn your sounds on to feel lived experiences of African-Americans through the times, through an exploration of culturally-affirming Black literature.

Visit in Second Life

Center for Mindfulness

Mindfulness can literally transform your entire world from the inside out and for the millions of mindfulness practitioners around the world, it’s doing just that! Come and discover the most incredible and wonderful surprise: everything you’ve been searching for ‘out there’ feelings of fulfillment, peace, and wholeness, have been within you all along. The Center for Mindfulness is a beautiful and calming place to come meditate and learn a few mindful tricks. Learn more at mindfulnessinsl.blogspot.com

Visit in Second Life

MHbM Memorial Garden

MHbM Memorial Garden is a quiet little area that sits beside a waterfall. Candles are set out that you can light with a message for your loved ones that have passed on. This is another way to keep their memory alive. ♥

Visit in Second Life

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form. Don’t forget to read more about the Destination Guide guidelines for Editors’ Picks or the Destinations Floater in the viewer, to increase your chances of being featured in those coveted spots!

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | TikTok | LinkedIn

This week we are shining a spotlight on the one-of-a-kind Pour Up Winery & Vineyard, an estate that hosts a variety of events for the Second Life Community. Learn more about it from the owner, Mᴀᴄʜ ᴋ. Dɪsɪᴄᴋ (BhampagnePapi).

How long have you been in Second Life and how did you first hear about it?
I’ve been on Second Life for about five years. I discovered SL by just playing many other virtual games growing up. At first I was on and off because I found it quite difficult to use it, it was very confusing to me. I came over from imvu, everything was so easy over there compared to Second Life, but I loved how realistic things were and that you can actually do and experience things differently here. Therefore I tried again and finally got the hang of things.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in SL. What made you decide to go with a winery?
I chose to go with a winery because I haven’t really seen one here. I wanted to bring something different to the grid. I explore quite often; the places and things I enjoy in my real life I try to enjoy in my second life. I am also a big wine guy and I knew most people would love to roleplay visiting and enjoying themselves at a winery/vineyard. When I mentioned the idea of a winery to my close friends/family they loved it and immediately supported it which really influenced me to actually make it happen.

What types of events does Pour Up host?
Pour Up Winery & Vineyard hosts several events. We have live singers, comedy shows, movie nights, parties, and date nights. We plan on extending the list throughout the year. Some events and themes change along with the seasons. The winery has been good with showcasing the talents of others on the grid.

What kind of experience do you hope visitors take away from Pour Up?
Simply have fun, enjoy, and pour up. That’s all Second Life is about: having a good time online. The destination is free to visit and available to the public with many enjoyable activities from painting, horse riding, and more. There are also items you can keep as a souvenir!

Where can people see your work? Please share links to your sites and social media accounts.
People can see some of Pour Up Winery’s work on Facebook , Flickr, and Instagram. We take pictures of the region every time it is updated and we share all of our guest pictures.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pour-Up-Winery-108813901449359 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pourupwinery 
Flickr: https://flic.kr/ps/3hR748 
Destination: https://secondlife.com/destination/pour-up-winery-vineyard 

Watch this fun video about Pour Up Winery on YouTube:

We hope you enjoyed learning more about this unique virtual winery. 

Each weekly post will feature a different Resident to showcase the spectrum of experiences and personalities found in our virtual world. If you have created something inworld that you’re proud of, or have had a deeply meaningful experience that could brighten someone else’s day, please sign up! More info here: https://second.life/spotlight-signup

As featured in Vogue today, designer Jonathan Simkhai has partnered with metaverse developer Everyrealm and metaverse production house Blueberry Entertainment to produce an exciting new Metaverse Fashion Week event inside Second Life - and you are invited!

Second Life community members can be among the first to preview all-new exclusive spring 2022 collections this week by attending any of the several runway shows scheduled throughout this week. 

Check out this video sneak peek of what to expect on the runway. Video Production by Vrutega. Music by Maison Labtonic.

Timed to coincide with New York Fashion Week (NYFW), Metaverse Fashion Week is designed to mirror Simkhai’s new 2022 collection revealed this week at NYFW. The Second Life fashion show features digital versions of select pieces from Jonathan Simkhai’s 2022 Fall/Winter collection. 
 
"We firmly believe that digital fashion is the future of fashion. It allows people to express themselves freely in the metaverse,” said Mishi McDuff, CEO and Founder of virtual fashion brand Blueberry Entertainment. “We know digital fashion is more sustainable, more accessible, and allows for limitless creativity without the constraints of the physical world. Having the honor to work with Jonathan Simkhai to bring his collection to the metaverse represents a huge step forward for the virtual fashion industry.”
 
In addition to coverage in Vogue, today’s reveal has generated additional news in several fashion magazines and technology news outlets including British GLAMOUR, Mobile Marketing, and the Fashion Network.

Check out the collections for yourself at one of the many inworld runway shows scheduled this week.

Metaverse Fashion Week 2022

Metaverse Fashion Week 2022, an event produced by Everyrealm and Blueberry, features the designs of Jonathan Simkhai. Watch the runway show on February 17th or 18th at 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, or 4pm PT.

Visit in Second Life

Check out this video tour of six love-themed regions so you can plan your visit ASAP.

There’s a quick peek at Isle of View, the Linden-run location that pops up every February. In fact, this region is hosting Dunk and Hug a Linden TODAY from 1pm to 3pm SLT. Come hang out and chat!

There is also Hypnotic Romance, owned by Miss B. Miss B met her partner in SL, so she really means it when she says, “avatars can fall in love, after all they are real people.. you don't have the boundaries of looks. You find it easier to open up and learn so much more about the other person just by talking.” Miss B owns several Linden Homes and is a very active user, telling us, “I love everything about Second Life because I can explore, dance, build, design and {do} anything I want to (I can even dance naked). What I love most is being able to talk to people from all over the world and from different walks of life!” In terms of what inspired Hypnotic Romance, Miss B says, “I wanted a romantic {region} to reflect my vision of a perfect date in a moderate and beautiful setting. Hypnotic Romance was developed for avatars to have a place to meet, to spend time alone, getting to know someone intimately, with a romantic interest or someone special.”

Valentine’s Skiing, owned by Lestat Zalivstok, champions the idea that a more wintery vibe can make snuggling with someone special extra fun. Lestat tells us, “the idea of Valentine's Skiing came from the fact that my SL brother Kwajkid (who owns the region with me) and I love mountains and snow. What's better than a cozy place with a fireplace for you and your loved one after a day of having fun in the snow?” It’s important to celebrate and engage in traditions to both connect to others as well as maintain a sense of normalcy. As Lestat knows, “it's not easy to be together on Valentine's day, especially during these years of pandemic. Second Life has been an amazing and safe way to meet, and to spend romantic and fun time together.”

Ashley's Oasis Elite is owned by Ashley Bellows, who believes that “each day should have love, caring, loyalty, joy, enjoyment. I find each of them in Second Life on a daily basis from friends who have crossed my path and have remained friends for years.” Ashley encourages everyone to be open to the special connections waiting in SL, and Oasis Elite has fun games and gorgeous scenery to get conversations started. Need a last minute V Day plan? Stop by today, as Ashley would like us to know that “on Valentine's Day we will be enjoying an hour together with anyone that would like to attend our Love in Air Formal/ Sim Formal at Ashley's Oasis Elite. Chris London will be performing live from his home in London England.”

Crystal Line Romantic Ballroom, is an opulent region owned by Anzenpin, a Resident from Japan. For Anzenpin, “Second Life is a part of my hobby where I can enjoy riding a marimo, playing a guitar and singing live. You can also make friends with people from all over the world.”

Last but not least is Incanto Musical Dreams, a colorful fantasy region owned by Nicky Mirajkar, as well as the Valentine’s category of the Destination Guide. We hope everybody has a fantastic and safe V Day that serves as a warm reminder that love will always prevail.

Plus, stay tuned to find out about the love story between Ajay McDowwll and her husband Syn Zabelin, who met on Help Island and have been married for over a decade. Episode coming May 3rd.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres 

Pictured: Aerial view of Isle of View

This Valentine's weekend take your loved one for a trip across the grid and hit up all the romantic spots! Or, book a room at one of the many Vacation Spots on the Destination Guide, they offer loads or amenities and activities. You can also check our Valentine's Day category for all of the Valentine-themed events and destinations during this season; many will close by the end of next week! Additionally, Virtual Hotels has also shared a list of their Romantic hotel picks for Valentine’s and beyond in Second Life! 

Love is in the air and there is so much to do in Second Life this weekend, so hit that teleport button and start exploring! Happy Valentine's Day! 

Isle of View

Looking for something romantic? The Isle of View by Linden Lab brings together everything the discerning romantic looks for in romantic festivities: boat rides, fireworks, kissing booths, forest walks, and more. So bring that special someone to the Isle of View and tell them how you really feel.

Visit in Second Life

Valentine's Skiing

Rebel Yell Headquarters presents Valentine's Skiing Winter holidays Lux Resort, a romantic village at the feet of a big ski mountain. There is a Valentine's Restaurant, a cozy bar, snowy paths, and more! It's the perfect place for spending quality time with your special one or family. There are many fun winter activities: skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, snowmobiles, horseback riding, sledding, with luxury cabins for rent.

Visit in Second Life

Hypnotic Romance

Hypnotic is a special place for love and romance with couples dances and secluded places to cuddle and kiss. Hidden throughout are special romantic animations. Can you find them? Bring your partner, lover or date...or come alone to meet someone with romance on their mind.

Visit in Second Life

Seasons Change at Peaceful Dreams

Let the magic of Seasons Change guide you across the undulating meadows of snow to an enchanting secluded cabin and cozy photographic spots, or camp beneath the snowy sky. It's the perfect place for a quiet Valentine's date. Bring a loved one and enjoy yourself in the romantic atmosphere. Ride the carousel, have fun dancing, or snuggle up together at several places around the region.

Visit in Second Life

Aurora Falls

Nestled beside the coastal mountains, Aurora Falls is the perfect location for a romantic date, the avid explorer, photographer, or just a place to come and relax. Enjoy the ambiance, nature, food, and animals.

Visit in Second Life

Two Seasons Resort

Two Seasons Resort offers a romantic getaway featuring a snowy escape to the mountains or a warm trip to the tropics that includes all the amenities of a premier resort experience with private, themed cabins that offer maximum privacy. Travel by horseback through the region, cliff dive into the cool blue waters, relax on the beach with only the sounds of the waves, ski down Two Seasons Mountain, ice skate hand-in-hand with that special someone, relax in the private spa and explore all Two Seasons has to offer for that perfect getaway.

Visit in Second Life

Rizzi on the Beach - Hotel and Resort

Welcome to RIZZI on the BEACH, a Grand Hotel and beach resort offering you beauty and luxury for your dream holidays. Enjoy the amenities like the beautiful restaurant, the pool bar, beach cabanas, and the day spa. Enjoy vivid roleplay with the Rizzi staff! The "Honeymoon Wintergarten" is the perfect hideaway for lovers, offering maximum privacy including a terrace and pool.

Visit in Second Life

The Ritz - Second Life - Hotel

Inspired by five-star grand hotels, The Ritz - Second Life - Hotel evokes an atmosphere of luxury and relaxation of the highest quality for those seeking elegant surroundings for their mini-break, business trip, holiday, or honeymoon. Visit The Ritz, and discover more at theritzsecondlife.wixsite.com/ritz

Visit in Second Life

And only on Monday, there are two special events that you don't want to miss!

One Billion Rising in Second Life

On February 14th, Residents in Second Life will join people across the world to Rise to protest violence against women, as a show of unity, individual strength, and the need for change. The Second Life event will feature a four-region stage where 200 people can come together to dance, surrounded by an area of art installations, an arena for poetry, a stage for dance performances, informational exhibits, and free gifts. For more information, visit onebillionrisingsl.wordpress.com.

Visit in Second Life

Dunk-A-Linden & Hug-A-Linden Event

Party with the Lindens at the Isle of View on February 14th from 1pm to 3pm (Pacific). Meet your Valentine, enjoy music, and don’t miss the Dunk-a-Linden and Hug-a-Linden booths!

Visit in Second Life

Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Second Life Destination Guide!

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form. Don’t forget to read more about the Destination Guide guidelines for Editors’ Picks or the Destinations Floater in the viewer, to increase your chances of being featured in those coveted spots!

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | TikTok | LinkedIn

Watch a special pre-recorded edition of “Lab Gab,” a talk show about the virtual world of Second Life, on Friday, February 11th at 11am PT as host Strawberry Linden speaks with Van Star.

Van is a world traveled musician, songwriter, producer, and TV actor from Los Angeles California. His span of work includes working with the likes of Chris James & Deadmaus, Groove Armada, David Guetta, Jamie Foxx, Angie Stone, MTV Awards, the Grammy Awards, and more. 

Parts of the official video for his new single “Closer” (also being released on February 11th) were shot in Second Life using his Second Life avatar. Get an exclusive look at that video during this Lab Gab! Follow the official countdown to the release of his single on his Facebook and Instagram!

This edition of Lab Gab was recorded at the virtual NFL Alumni Association Stadium in Second Life!

Tune in on Friday, February 11th at 11am PT on our YouTube channel!

For full episodes of Lab Gab, click over to the Lab Gab YouTube Playlist.

This week we are shining a spotlight on Sydd Sinister, an award-winning blogger who has curated an inclusive vision of beauty for over a decade.

How long have you been in Second Life and how did you first hear about it?
In 2006, an online friend (My dear Sheda) introduced me to Second Life as a way for us to hang out online. Unfortunately at the time my PC was in no shape to run SL (lol), so for about a year I did not play. Then, I got a brand new PC and thought, "Hey, I wonder if I can play that Second Life now?" Sure enough it worked, and I have been logging in ever since!

Tell us about your avatar’s style and how it has evolved over the years.
When I started playing Second Life, in SL & RL I was very much into punk style: piercings, tattoos, all of it, and I thought it was so cool to be able to have that reflected in my avatar. I still very much love that style but through Second Life I've been able to experiment with a ton of different styles, as pretty much any style you can think of can be found in Second Life. So as I've grown, it's been less about a specific ‘style’ and more “things I love, I wear."

We’re so grateful for the Second Life creators of products that add small authentic details for avatars of color. What are some body parts (hair, skin, freckles, etc.) that really blew you away in terms of offering diverse choices, and what would you like to see more of?
Recently, especially as far as mesh bodies in Second Life, I've been extremely impressed with eBody Reborn and Kalhene Erika, as I love all the curves you can create on these bodies. Of course as a blogger and continual shopper in SL there are so many hair and skin brands that I absolutely love. The diversity in SL has come a long way. A few skin brands who continually impress me and will always be favorites of mine are Modish, Public Figure, Leronso (seriously amazing), Revoul, Amara Beauty, Lueur Beauty, Glam Affair, Koonz, Boataom, Birth, ItGirls, Nonative, The Skinnery, Tres Beau, Purple Beauty, Nuve, Pumec. Moccino Beaute, Dernier, Velour, Ives Beauty… I could keep going forever. Skins are one of my favorite parts of SL! There are some things where I have no trouble picking favorites though. For eyes, Avi-Glam are my absolute favorite, and for eyebrows, the-Haus by Princess Usbourne and Marsh are two definite must haves for me. Hoodlem, Garden of Ku, Carol G and Mister Razzor are my go-to tattoo spots, and TOP1SALON has come out with some of the best makeup for all skin tones, from light to dark they are flawless.

Tell us about how you got started with your award-winning blog and what topics/styles you get excited about.
When I got back into Second Life in 2007, the most fun I had was dressing up my avatar and shopping. I started taking pics of my avi, just wanting to share with anyone. Through that I found the world of SL Blogging. Back then it was a much smaller community but it really helped me to find stores and places in SL I loved. The only thing lacking for me was diversity, and then I found Khitten Kurka's blog! She was the first Black American plus-size blogger I saw in Second Life, I related to her so much and it was because of her blog that I decided to try and start blogging myself. Not only did I want to share whatever I thought was "cool," I wanted to share as many skins with different tone ranges as possible. Back then it was a lot harder to find diverse skins and I felt like if I could show all the great skins I came across, maybe it could help someone like me who was new to SL and didn't know where to find themselves, y’know. Skin Fair is always my favorite time of year to blog, not only because it falls in my birthday month, but because I love seeing what everyone comes up with and what new brands I might find. The talent in SL always amazes me.

Where can people see your work? Please share links to your sites and social media accounts.
Blog: http://sydd0sinister.wordpress.com 
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/sydd_sinister 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sydd.sinister 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/syddsinister.sl 

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Sydd and her many years of contribution to the Second Life fashion blogging community. 

Each weekly post will feature a different Resident to showcase the spectrum of experiences and personalities found in our virtual world. If you have created something inworld that you’re proud of, or have had a deeply meaningful experience that could brighten someone else’s day, please sign up! More info here: https://second.life/spotlight-signup

This week Ras Solaris, curator of the Meroe Museum, eloquently describes the value of sharing culture as a way to enable an authentic and three-dimensional understanding of the Black community.

Ras describes the Meroe as a “hub to learn the origins of all cultures in an interactive and engaging way. {It’s} Focused on providing a safe space for people to discuss cultural differences and to challenge current ways of thinking.” Ras became a Resident years ago, recently returning from a hiatus “because I noticed the amazing changes in technology, architecture, and the incredible amount of multiculturalism from across the world. Although many spend their time on FB, I prefer the Metaverse space, Second Life… where privacy and content creation are key for Residents to be able to help create in this amazing world.”

Throughout the video, Ras illustrates how a more thorough understanding of other cultures can help deconstruct bias. He also shows us the humanizing power of diverse representation in all fields of study. For example, the Innovation and Black Inventions exhibit presents essential items from modern life that, unbeknownst to many of us, were invented by Black people. By tying in the contributions of Black people in the physical world to the creations of Black Residents in the virtual world, the Meroe reminds us that every avatar you meet has a rich history that led them to this moment.

This venue has two exhibit halls, a vibrant gallery, and don’t forget to explore outside the museum walls! THE BLVD. and Jamrock City offer a variety of terrains, seasons, and exploration. 

Plus, mark your calendars, as there will be a two day music festival at the end of the month. However, Ras wants us to know that the Meroe Museum will not disappear at the end of Black History Month. We hope that patronage continues to be robust throughout the year, and that the knowledge gained in this space breeds kindness and positive change. As a bonus, Ras tells us  “100% of donations are given to RL not-for-profits focused on community service and STEM programs.”

Contributors to this project include:
Fly Toretto: An inworld automotive designer, Fly’s contribution is a part of the Innovations and Inventions Exhibit that highlights core inventions created by Black people that we use in our daily lives. 
Diamond Martinez: Founder of Rho Gamma Psi sorority, Diamond’s contribution is a part of the Kente Cloth Exhibit that highlights the traditional cloth and the history and messaging behind it.
Alora Taurus: Model, Artist, and Photographer. Alora’s contribution is a part of our Tech and Communications and the Innovations and Inventions Exhibit. Her art titled “Cosmological” is featured in both exhibits.
Dehja Dahl: Model, artist, and photographer. Dehja contributed her recent art piece, which incorporates the work of the infamous artist, Basquiat. Her art is featured as part of MEROE standard communications and will be featured in the Basquiat Exhibit this summer. 
Ms Warm: Owner of Business Minded, a networking business group. Ms Warm specializes in identifying SL Residents with high-value unique offerings. She is an avid entrepreneur in the community who has a keen eye for representation.
GiGi Monet: Director at MEROE and founder of The BLVD., GiGi specializes in creating interactive experiences in Second Life. She is passionate about bringing in quality, process, and structure into aesthetically pleasing viewscapes. GiGi’s contributions to the Museum vary from Operations, Graphics, Marketing, Landscaping, and more. 
Tyesia Xevious: DJ and CEO of Frequency Radio, Tyesia is our main Media contributor and has curated an afro-centric experience on Frequency Radio, which is currently featured on the region. 
Nedar Koba: As a mesh designer, Nedar specializes in creating high quality unique designs. His contribution includes the Adinkra symbol, which happens to be the only Adinkra symbol created in Second Life, the Gye Nyame that you see throughout the region. 
The BLVD.: Home to MEROE Museum, JamRock City Residential Community, and A XeoLife Roleplay Shopping and Dining Experience. The region is lightly based on tropical islands around the world with a flare of luxury, serenity, and waterfalls surrounding you. 

We’d also like to share the other ways we are celebrating Black History Month inworld: Pic of the Day will feature a Black Resident every weekday, don’t miss our weekly Second Life Spotlight posts, and please visit the Social Awareness Category of the Destination Guide.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

MEROE Museum - Home of Black culture

MEROE Museum, is the Home of Black and Aboriginal cultures in Second Life. The Museum's purpose is to provide a safe space for the repository of black culture from across the diaspora, and a place for dialog in an effort to resolve many of the conflicts that plague our communities. During Black History Month they will have many activities including a bookstore and an art gallery.

Visit in Second Life

Pictured: International Spaceflight Museum

Do you know how many virtual museums there are in Second Life? Find out this weekend! Grab a friend and explore the Museum category on the Destination Guide to learn about art, science, and global cultures! Don't forget to also check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Second Life Destination Guide!

International Spaceflight Museum

The International Spaceflight Museum hosts a series of exhibits and events about real-world space travel. Ride a rocket into space and explore the planets! Rockets and spacecraft from the past, present and future. More info at: ismuseum.org

Visit in Second Life

MEROE Museum - Home of Black culture

MEROE Museum, is the Home of Black and Aboriginal cultures in Second Life. The Museum's purpose is to provide a safe space for the repository of black culture from across the diaspora, and a place for dialog in an effort to resolve many of the conflicts that plague our communities. During Black History Month they will have many activities including a bookstore and an art gallery.

Visit in Second Life

Eatonville Living History Museum

Welcome to Eatonville, a living, interactive museum paying homage to the strength and beauty of the African-American diaspora through an examination of popular Black Literature. Walk around the town and turn your sounds on to feel lived experiences of African-Americans through the times, through an exploration of culturally-affirming Black literature.

Visit in Second Life

The Peale

The Peale in Baltimore, which is housed in the first purpose-built museum building in the United States, has extended its reach into the virtual world known as Second Life. While the current pandemic may prevent many people from visiting the Peale in person, this ambitious new project allows virtual visitors to explore the 1814 museum building online and attend curated exhibits and interactive events safely from the comfort of their homes. For more information, visit: thepealecenter.org

Visit in Second Life

The Vordun Museum and Gallery

The Vordun Museum and Gallery is an art and history experience like no other in Second Life! Browse the many galleries and exhibits, then enjoy a coffee in the Common Grounds cafe.

Visit in Second Life

Holocaust Memorial Museum

"Witnessing History: Kristallnacht, the 1938 Pogroms" is an unforgettable virtual exhibit created by the US Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Visit in Second Life

The Jules Verne Museum

Visitors can take an extraordinary underwater voyage here. With a full-size submarine to explore, this museum offers insight into the life and work of French science fiction writer Jules Verne.

Visit in Second Life

Abyss Observatory

A museum of ocean science and technology which celebrates the sense of wonder people often have about the mysteries of the deep sea. Visitors can even travel 2,000 meters down into the dark depths of the ocean floor.

Visit in Second Life

Museum Island

Museum Island is a historical region and gives many opportunities in art, education, socializing. Wonderful replicas of monuments, theater, digital art, and schools.

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See even more Museums on the Second Life Destination Guide!

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form. Don’t forget to read more about the Destination Guide guidelines for Editors’ Picks or the Destinations Floater in the viewer, to increase your chances of being featured in those coveted spots!

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | TikTok | LinkedIn

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, we have released new limited edition last names today!

The following valentine-themed names are only available until February 17th:  
Cupid
Lovely
XOXO
Desire
Enamour
Cuddles
Snookipuss
Schatzi

These names for Valentine’s Day are seasonal and may come back around this time next year, for a limited time.

The following is a screenshot of the full list of current last names available:

We have been very pleased to see the response to our limited edition last names. We will continue to make additional updates to the available last name pool, so if these options aren’t for you, stay tuned for future updates. You can also suggest your favorite name on our suggestion form, most of the new names were chosen from there! 

For more information about the costs and how-tos involved in name changes, read the Changing your username FAQ. Click to change your name now!
 

This week we are shining a spotlight on Kurimu Kuma (MiruBani), a fashion and lifestyle blogger whose carefree style is often influenced by her deep interest in fantasy and cosplay.

How long have you been in Second Life and how did you first hear about it?
I've been in Second Life for over eight years. The first time I heard about Second Life was through an invite by a friend. She invited me to come and see her store inworld, and I remember trying to wrap my brain around the concept of having a real store in a virtual world. I wasn't sure what it was going to be like but I was very intrigued. In the end, the store was but one of the many wonders {to be discovered}. I clearly remember being excited about the novelty of being able to run and fly in such an unconstrained fashion. I was used to a completely different 3D environment in which such free movement wasn't really a thing. I couldn't find the end of this room, it just went on and on. {There} was a learning curve, definitely, but one I enjoyed getting around.

I still really love flying, it's not going to get old. I do it less now because I've learnt “some” etiquette along the way. However, if it wasn't quite so rude to, I would fly through and over everything I possibly could. Walking is so terribly pedestrian now. If only I could really fly like my avatar.

There is an element of fantasy and cosplay in your avatar’s style. Where did that come from?
It's definitely seeping in from my real life; fantasy and cosplay do feature quite heavily. {They are} but a few of my favorite subjects. I absolutely adore cosplay and it's something I like to indulge in my everyday life. I've just never outgrown playing dress up. I really enjoy the whole process of trying to put together an outfit and if I can sew it myself, even better still. In Second Life I get to do that on an almost regular basis every time I log in, but with so many more things available to me. My first thoughts once I've pressed the button to log in are usually along the lines of “What shall I dress my avatar up in today?” And, even better, I'm less likely to go broke from it.

Fantasy has always been something I've loved from my first interactions with it in books, and I have an overactive imagination to boot. Writing and creating characters, outfits, and worlds for them to live in has been something I've done since I was little. The idea of escaping into a fantastical world even for a moment is something oh-so-magically exciting. Most of my hobbies are creative in some way, shape, or form; my imagination is always being fed in different ways. My avatar herself is just a fantastical creature I made a story about.

Your in-world photography is amazing. Can you tell us about your setup process for taking a great shot?
I am very much my own worst critic so I'm not always satisfied with my images when they come out. I'm always thinking of things I could have done better. However, there are a few things that I do every time I take an image in Second Life.

I always like to tell a story, even if I am the only one aware of it. It's how I get my ideas for what I want the picture to be. I think a lot about what the focus items are and build the story around that. I decide what the mood will be, and I find that lighting really helps with that, but ultimately the items that go into setting up the scene will reflect that also. I rely a lot on windlights and inworld lighting to help me. I love playing with shadows too, I find it always makes a scene look so different when added. Working with larger scenes can be a bit daunting for me because I worry how I'm going to fill it, but I've found that focusing on a small area first and working outwards helps keep me focused instead of getting overwhelmed.

Now I also have a bad habit of being very nitpicky with setting up, and I've slowly just come to accept the fact that I like to take my time about everything that's going to be in the shot… Turning it here and there numerous times only to later decide I don't want it in at all. Funnily enough I do this with the camera angles from which I take the shot. I do try out a few angles and then pick the one I like the most before going in to take the final shot. The aim is always to get as much from Second Life as I can so I don't have to change too much in editing. If I don't accomplish what I want completely? Well, there's always next time. I try not to let it get to me too much and instead take away from it the things I would and wouldn't do next time.

Tell us about your blog and what kinds of topics you like to write about.
When I set up my blog it was made to be like a picture diary of my avatar's Second Life adventures. The pictures I take and its subjects revolve around decorating, food, fashion and friends. It tends to be done in the style of me writing about my avatar as a person in her own right, though we are both in firm agreement on many things. In most cases it merges a lot with my real life and I end up hijacking her story for a while, but we eventually get on track and find a balance between ourselves.

There is something about decorating that is even more satisfying than putting together outfits and taking pictures of them. It's the feeling of accomplishment that comes with turning an empty space into something decorated, then sitting in it and existing uninterrupted for a while. I adore decorating so I always cover decor shots. Food tends to fall into this area too but sometimes I just like to focus on the food itself. The more edible it looks the happier I become. It's like indulging sans the calories. I'm one of those people that loves to take pictures of her meals before eating, and I love cooking so much. It is strange because at one point I hated cooking. Now I love it and the level of excitement that occurs when I find beautiful virtual foods is unreal. I have a bad habit of putting it in almost anything I can.

Fashion is another topic you'll find on my blog. My own fashion tastes have been projected onto my avatar, for good or bad, and I tend to lean towards girly fashion with a lot of light colours. Florals, frills, ribbons, and cute adorable companions. However, there are times when I go outside of my norm, because where's the fun if you don't? At the end of the day if I try on an outfit and I'm feeling very happy with it, chances are I'm taking a picture of it and it most definitely includes magical girls and costumes.

Where can people see your work? Please share links to your sites and social media accounts.
My blog and Flickr are the two places that I use the most. 
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/people/137212676@N02 
Blog: https://kurimu-kuma.com 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kurimu_kuma 

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Kurimu. Each weekly post will feature a different Resident to showcase the spectrum of experiences and personalities found in our virtual world. If you have created something inworld that you’re proud of, or have had a deeply meaningful experience that could brighten someone else’s day, please sign up! More info here: https://second.life/spotlight-signup 

Metro City is an urban metropolis that was crafted with the intention of being a safe and inclusive space for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Creator Aesu Morningstar, aka the mayor of Metro City, tells us “I came to SL almost 17 years ago and to this day, I've been a die hard fan. Second Life has been my single most used social media platform and is truly the most immersive platform of its kind out there. Second Life has been the first and only true Metaverse.”

Given Aesu’s extensive experience in SL, when Covid first entered our lives it was only natural to build a meeting place for people to get through these difficult times. Metro City unsurprisingly had a powerful and positive impact on countless Residents. Aesu states “I credit Second Life for helping me stay sane while I stayed home! Over the span of the pandemic, Second Life gave me hope and I was able to stay mentally healthy because I could continue to be social even though I was locked inside.”

Metro City has an inviting aesthetic that is clean and modern, and yet ambiguous enough for it to exist anywhere in the world. This speaks to Aesu’s focus on inclusivity on a global level: “Although we're primarily in the USA, we have visitors and regulars from all over the world spanning many different time zones. And thankfully we have translators so we can all communicate with ease.”

Chat with friends at a cafe or take a peaceful stroll through a tree-lined courtyard or park. Metro City offers the tranquility of a perfect fall afternoon. There is also a steady stream of events! To name a few: trivia and other game nights, live DJs and performers, regular photo contests, themed parties, pop-up events, shopping and more.

Aesu would also like to inform people that “We are home to many full time Residents who either live in our main social region or in one of our "Metro City Destination" regions… Our staff of experienced managers are on-call most of the day to help new Residents with almost anything they could need.”

Visit Metro City today for a huge dose of relaxation and good vibes.

Video Production Credits
Draxtor Despres

Metro City - LGBTQ+ Community

Metro City is a premier entertainment and residential community for the LGBTQ+ community. Featuring many places to hang out, meet new people, attend events, and live across multiple beautifully themed regions.

Visit in Second Life

The 2022 Valentine Shop & Hop is almost here with 200+ participating merchants across 10 shopping regions. All are offering their best to inspire your Valentine fantasies from a romantic evening with your bae, to a party with your friends, and everything in between. You will definitely find something to suit you! There will also be a 20% discount on all items and a new and exclusive gift available for free!

The event formally opens to the public on Wednesday, February 2nd at 9am PT - but who wants to wait when you can get early access! If you can’t contain your excitement, join the official Second Life Birthday group inworld to be granted immediate access.

Before you jump inworld, you can get a sneak peek at many of the items that will be available in the official Second Life Shop & Hop Flickr pool. And don’t forget to share photos of your haul after your shopping excursion!

Scroll to the end of this post for a complete list of all 200+ participating Shop & Hop Merchants in alphabetical order, and their direct slurls! To visit the 2022 Valentine Shop & Hop - start at any one of the Regions - but be sure to visit them all to see everything that's available. Happy shopping!

ISLE OF VIEW AND MORE VALENTINE’S EVENTS

The Isle of View, which opens on February 4th, is our annual tribute to all-things-romantic via four regions filled with forested walks, cozy nooks for cuddling, and romantic swan boat rides.

Visit one of the Love Pavilion gift kiosks to browse through a variety of gift selections that you can send to your friends and loved ones on Valentine’s Day. This year’s selection includes heart lollipops and balloons, an adorable teddy bear, a chocolate box with rings, cutesy cupcakes, love lanterns, and, of course, romantic roses. To select and send your free gifts, follow the directions on the sign adjacent to the kiosk. 

We have also dusted off our Valentine’s Day Destination Guide category! You’ll find a few romantic Valentine’s-themed destinations in there already - so grab a loved one and go on a romantic date or just some friendly exploration.

If you would like your Valentine-themed event or destination listed there, make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form. Don’t forget to read more about the Destination Guide guidelines and criteria to be featured.

VALENTINE'S LOVE BOAT CRUISE AND PARTY

This year will also feature a special Valentine's event on the Bellisseria continent, the Valentine's Love Boat Cruise and Party! Learn more about it from Patch Linden's forum post.

DUNK-A-LINDEN & HUG-A-LINDEN EVENT

Are you feeling “some kind of way” about the Lindens? Show your love (or friendly aggression) for the makers of Second Life at our annual Dunk-A-Linden & Hug-A-Linden Event, held this year on February 14th from 1pm to 3pm PT at the Isle of View. Come early for some fun conversations and plenty of soaked Lindens!

Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
Hug and dunk some Lindens,
At the Isle of View!

NEW LAST NAMES

Additionally, we have released new limited edition last names for Valentine's Day! You have until February 17th to pick one of these names, click for more info.

A complete list of all 200+ participating Shop & Hop Merchants in alphabetical order, and their direct slurls:

Pictured: Alexandreia

Partake in a little Roleplay this weekend! Choose from Historical, Fantasy, Urban, Community, and more! Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Second Life Destination Guide!

Alexandreia

Alexandreia is a region with beautifully crafted and historically accurate architecture from Ptolemaic Egypt. It has a strong role-play community, and a remarkable reproduction of Nefertari's tomb above ground level.

Visit in Second Life

Cocoon

It is the year 2488. Enter Cocoon space station, a medium-sized commercial hub that has grown exponentially in the past decade, home to mega-corporations, crime syndicates, and much more. With shady deals taking place in every dark corner, Cocoon is the one stop for commuters or even those who make a home in the station. Come for the neon, stay for the intrigue.

Visit in Second Life

Fox Hollow Roleplay Community

Nestled in the mountains of rural North Carolina, Fox Hollow is one of Second Life’s largest roleplay communities with 17 regions spanning residential areas of all types, businesses, industry, and an entire undeveloped State Park. Fox Hollow provides a home for all those who want that neighborly, southern hospitality. You can find more information at www.foxhollowsl.com

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Luxe LA Roleplay Community

Welcome to Luxe LA RP, hollywood inspired immersive roleplay in Second Life featuring xeolife, nexus, and custom rp huds to make your SL more interactive created by YouTuber Angelface. In a city ruled by capitalism, greed, and power, those who have nothing will do anything to obtain wealth, while those who have it all will do anything to keep it. How will you maintain your position or climb the ranks in Sunset City?

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1920s - 1940s New York in Time Portal

Step through the Time Portal in their mysterious laboratory and visit New York during the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s. The time machine has a virus, so the time zones have been a bit mixed up. Go shopping and find items from the golden age of style and when you're all dolled up, have a meal at Delmonico's, catch a show, get a drink at the speakeasy and dance the night away at the Cocoanut Grove and rent a room at the Ambassador hotel!

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Crosswinds

Crosswinds is an anime roleplaying region set in a fantasy world, with a MMORPG leveling and battle system, filled with monsters, dungeons, classes, and more! A living RPG in Second Life! Join today!

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Riverside Falls

Riverside Falls is an LGBTQ+ Friendly roleplay destination featuring lore based around a Masquerade-style modern supernatural community. It is set in Denver, Colorado, and provides faction-based, region-wide, and personal roleplay. Rentals are available for members. Founded January 14, 2021.

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Mischief Managed

What toil and trouble awaits at Mischief Managed? For more info on this fantasy adventure role-play area, visit mischiefmanagedsl.net.

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Bayside City

Bayside City is a residential and role-play destination owned by Meela Vanderbuilt. Pleasantville on the surface but something a little more sinister is going on. For more info, visit BaysideCityRp.com

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The Citadel - The Legion Chronicles

The Citadel is a staging point for the Legion. An alliance of worlds that have come together to set up a new system of government to unify the worlds in the galaxy. With no system in place bandits and pirates have taken over space but as the Legion grows in strength, the outlaw factions are being pushed back to the outer reaches of the galaxy. The Citadel was a supermassive station built by the republic but left abandoned during the fall. The Legion has reclaimed the Citadel and begun work to rebuild the Citadel as a beacon of hope for those that desire peace and stability and a warning to those that desire to keep the galaxy in chaos.

Visit in Second Life

We've also dusted off our Valentine's Day Category and planning to add all your Valentine's-themed destinations and events starting next month! 

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form. Don’t forget to read more about the Destination Guide guidelines for Editors’ Picks or the Destinations Floater in the viewer, to increase your chances of being featured in those coveted spots!

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | TikTok | LinkedIn

This week we are shining a spotlight on Colpo Wexler, an Italian Resident who is an architectural and design maven in both the physical and virtual worlds. Having been in SL since close to the beginning, his style and ability to navigate change have adapted with finesse.

Custom build for PARÉ Mega Store

How long have you been in Second Life and how did you first hear about it?
I {have been} in SL since December 2006. I heard about it through a friend with whom I then founded one of the first Italian {regions} in SL: "ITLAND," which later also became Orientation Island as part of the Community Gateway of SL.

Custom build for Palette Mega Store

What first inspired your love of architecture?
I studied scenography at the Academy of Fine Arts of Brera in Milan, and previously at the Art School with a specialization in architecture. From that time I imagined that my scenography in the future would be dedicated to virtual reality and that's what I did. Creating architectural set designs for metaverse.

Custom build for UBER Event

Had you done 3D modeling before you started building in SL, and what 3D modeling software do you use?
Yes, I used to model both architectures and objects but obviously I applied meshes only when they were introduced in SL. Previously for years I specialized in the realization of buildings in prims. The software I use is Blender.

Custom build for T O X I I N Store

How would you describe your virtual architectural style?
My style is generally minimal/modern but I often like to range and contaminate styles. Clearly I also love cyberpunk, new retrowave, and urban style. This taste for the contamination of styles comes from the requests of my clients, who often propose interesting ideas that stimulate creativity. As you can see on my portfolio on Flickr, many of my buildings are the result of the fusion of the styles I mentioned before, and sometimes also of oriental or classical motifs.

Custom build for Elle et Lui store

Tell us about some of the other Residents in SL that inspire you and whose work you admire.
As you can see I've been in SL for a long time, and I was inspired by other architects or designers I had seen in the early periods. One of them is definitely Botha, who made houses. Then there was a beautiful furniture store (with a lot of prims also) called CULT. Obviously there are, and have been, a lot of really good creatives in Second Life throughout its history.

Custom build for H A P P Y Event

Where can people follow you to learn more about your work? Please share links to your sites and social media accounts.
My Bio: http://www.colpowexler.com
Portfolio: https://www.flickr.com/photos/colpowexler
Website: http://www.mydigitalcult.com
FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/colpowexlervr

Custom build for UBER 2021

Colpo has been creating custom builds for content creators and events in Second Life for many years. Check his Flickr for his full portfolio.

Custom build for ASCEND Mega Store

We hope you enjoyed learning about how Colpo was drawn to building and designing in Second Life.

Each weekly post will feature a different Resident to showcase the spectrum of experiences and personalities found in our virtual world. If you have created something inworld that you’re proud of, or have had a deeply meaningful experience that could brighten someone else’s day, please sign up! More info here: https://second.life/spotlight-signup

Take a look at Ashemi Remarkable, an artfully constructed futuristic city inspired by Asian culture.

Creators Ime Poplin and Jay met about eight years ago. They are both artistically inclined, with Ime painting in her spare time and Jay playing the guitar. Given their mutual interests, they decided to build together in SL. When picking a theme, their longtime shared tastes included “An interest in Asian items {and} culture, and also futuristic vibes. We thought.. well, let's do a kind of futuristic-styled {region} to begin with.”

Building came naturally to Ime, as she tells us, “Growing up in Denmark, the country where Lego was invented, I {am} used to tearing down and building new and just playing around. Building blocks, all the items we buy in SL… the many, many cool and talented creators, tons of items {are essentially} building blocks, in both Jay’s and my inventory.”

Ashemi Remarkable is a stellar example of what takes exceptional design to the next level; every part of this region has a story, and that makes it come alive. In the middle of the city, one finds a spooky cemetery with a mysterious volcanic eruption. What happened here? Check out the sky high restaurant with glass walls so you can enjoy a romantic dinner with a panoramic view. What types of people come here?

One of the most visually striking design elements of Ashemi Remarkable is the artwork on the street. Paintings abound in varying styles, hanging above storefronts and in businesses. These paintings bring a human touch to the concrete and bright lights, reminding us who created all of this. This speaks to Ime’s process: “The fact that we have a nice balance with nature and urban scenery is very important to us. We like balance, darks and colors and contrasts.”

This sprawling urban playground blends traditional and modern decor to pay homage to the past and give a playful glimpse of what the future might hold. Ime thinks of this place as “A world for us to experiment. Always evolving, always changing. That is very important to us. And then of course, the fact that we love being together as much as we can. That is what makes us happy. Jay is my muse, and I'm pretty sure I am his as well.”

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Ashemi Remarkable

Ashemi returns with a highly detailed urban landscape. Mixing the past with the present and offering something of interest to those who love to explore. Get lost in the streets and alleyways or hop onto a train to admire the neon reflections that dance upon the sea. Visit the cave that sits underneath the city or simply let your mind wander as you meditate in some of the many beauty spots in and around the region. Parts of the old city can still be seen but also boasts a more modern sleek look with its club and high-class restaurant. Tucked away are many strange and bizarre surprises to make your visit an entertaining one. Welcome to Ashemi and enjoy your stay!

Visit in Second Life

As 2022 begins, we are looking to set new goals and make Second Life Residents happier! 

Later today and in the following weeks, research@secondlife.com will be emailing thousands of Residents with an invitation to complete a survey and give feedback. Please keep an eye out for it, and feel free to share your thoughts on how to make Second Life a more pleasant experience for all. We’ve also been conducting qualitative research with a smaller group over the past few weeks. If you participated in that research, you are still eligible to take part in this survey.

Also, for Residents active on Flickr, the Flickr team is conducting its own independent research on the Second Life community. Flickr has sent some of its own users an email in the last few days asking for feedback and suggestions to make their website a more seamless and engaging experience for the Second Life community. The email also mentions 360 Snapshots and Flickr’s new efforts to help connect Second Life Residents on their platform. If you received this email, please consider participating! And if you haven’t already, make sure to follow our official Second Life account on Flickr and join our official Second Life Flickr Group. 

So check those spam folders and don’t hit the delete button. We hope you take this opportunity to have your voice be heard!

In other news, we are really excited to see the response from the community on Philip Rosedale’s return. We’ve received hundreds of questions from all of you and are including many of them in the forthcoming “Lab Gab.” We should be announcing the streaming date for “Lab Gab” with both Philip and Oberwolf in the next week or two. Keep an eye on the Second Life Public Calendar for the date!

Pictured: Bellisserian Bureau of Bureaucracy 2nd Anniversary

Are you ready to party this weekend? Teleport to these events and hot spots! Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Second Life Destination Guide!

The Bellisserian Bureau of Bureaucracy is celebrating its 2nd anniversary with many activities starting on the 23rd. See a full schedule of events in this forum post.

Bellisserian Bureau of Bureaucracy 2nd Anniversary

The Bellisserian Bureau of Bureaucracy is a volunteer group of Bellisserians issuing driving licenses, vehicle registrations, and passports to Bellisseria residents, along with other services. They are celebrating their 2nd anniversary at the Bellisseria Fairgrounds from January 23-31, 2022. There will be many builds and events for visitors to enjoy. The event stamp for the Bellisseria Passport will be the 300th issued. There are also stamps to collect from buoys at sea on the Boat Rally at their opening party and from Belli's bureaucrats and diplomats.

Visit in Second Life

Second Life Endowment for the Arts is celebrating their Second Annual Celebration of The Arts with their Crystal Carnival’ 2022 which will be open from January 23rd to February 28th. Read their blog post for more info.

Second Life Endowment For The Arts

The Second Life Endowment For The Arts (SLEA) is opening with a bang at midnight SLT 1/1/2021. Use the SLEA experience to visit 9 regions of diverse creativity representing the many levels of virtual art in SL, including 2 & 3D, Theater, Literature, Visual, Machinima, Art Education, and Media Art. Cost-free grants are awarded! For more info, visit: slendowmentforthearts.wordpress.com

Visit in Second Life

Muddy's Music Cafe is celebrating 12 years in Second Life this weekend! There will be 3 days of celebrations, so teleport over now!

Muddy's Music Cafe

Muddy's Music Cafe is the place in SL where everyone knows your name. Find friends, fun, family and an old dog named Muddy at this long-lasting and popular club. Grab the little yellow Muddy's cab and head on over.

Visit in Second Life

The Amani Hotspot has Sunday Jams, Manic Mondays, and Coffee on the Beach with open discussions every week. Check their Facebook Page for details.

Amani HotSpot

The Amani HotSpot offers guests a peaceful environment to mingle with others while being entertained by some of the best entertainers in SL. Enjoy fun events such as Sunday Jams, Manic Mondays, and Coffee on the Beach. More info on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/The-Amani-252619948223399

Visit in Second Life

Did you want to do some shopping with friends? Scope out the Shopping Events Category or just hop over to these three new themed events currently going on!

Mainframe - Cyberpunk Scifi Event

Mainframe is a Cyberpunk/Sci-fi Shopping event with some of the best designers in Second Life offering lots of incredible accessories, clothing, decor, as well as discounts and gifts! The event runs from January 20th 1PM SLT to February 13th. More info at mainframeevent.com

Visit in Second Life

Midnight Order

Ever wonder what happens after dark? Come to the noir-styled market and discover for yourself. Midnight Order brings the best of Dark/Goth/Macabre, etc. from all across the grid. The event runs from January 20th to February 10th.

Visit in Second Life

CozyFest '22

Join the FLF family of designers and their guests for a super cozy, Mid-Winter shopping festival! Over 100 stores with a brand new cozy Winter-themed item, plus a FREE GIFT at every store. Join the Fifty Linden Fridays group for more info, see you there! The event runs from January 14th to February 4th.

Visit in Second Life

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form. Don’t forget to read more about the Destination Guide criteria for Editors’ Picks or the Destinations Floater in the viewer, to increase your chances of being featured in those coveted spots!

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | TikTok | LinkedIn

Happy new year!  We released a change this week that hopefully will help fight the winter blues.

Uplift has been an ongoing adventure for a number of engineering teams, but the goal of improving the SL experience for all residents has not changed.

Uplift brought in new hardware and the ability to reconfigure it quickly to react to changing circumstances. A few months ago, we quietly changed hardware configurations to provide better performance for the simulators, but our job was not done there.

After this upgrade our engineering teams dug deep into the simulator to modernize it and take better advantage of AWS capabilities. We referred to this as our “Tooling Update,”  which allows LSL scripts to run more efficiently. Regions with heavy script usage will likely see more scripts run and even some spare time returning to the simulator.  The release also includes a modernization of our compiler and supporting runtime.  Newer tools allows for better code generation and awareness of modern CPU designs.

While the news is mostly good, a word of caution that with more scripts running, other areas of the simulation environment may be driven harder.  Scripts that were already approaching throttles or other limits may find a throttle engaged; this also applies to remote services accessed via llHTTPRequest. We do see the possibility of revisiting these throttling limits as a result of these improvements. They could see higher request rates as scripts perform more work.  

We hope that you enjoy the additional script performance for your regions. Anecdotes from region owners on the RC channels before release were generally positive. We are keeping an eye on the data with expectations that these improvements are here to stay.  We hope that as the regions improve performance you will find ways to create and explore in ways that you could only dream of before.

SSL Support

Library upgrades include more recent SSL support.  Removal of old protocols and obsolete ciphers is underway and some new restrictions are in effect for llHTTPRequest, llRequestURL, and llRequestSecureURL functions.  With this release, SSLv3, TLS 1.0, TLS 1.1, and related
ciphers are deprecated for these functions. This does not change the login service in any way.  These changes are restricted to simhosts.

We hope you benefit from this update!  As ever, we welcome your thoughts.

This week we are shining a spotlight on Sassy Nitely, a busy mom and lifelong musician who rediscovered her passion for performing through the live music scene in Second Life.

Sassy about to start a show in 2021 – Photo by Kaitlyn Pruitt

How long have you been in Second Life and how did you first hear about it?

I have been in Second Life since October 2007. I first heard of Second Life through a coworker; she explained the platform to me. However, like many new Residents of Second Life, I had no idea what I was doing or what would come out of that decision. {Joining} Second Life was one of my best decisions and has impacted my life tremendously. I owe a lot of gratitude to Second Life. I was 30 years old when I signed up and nearly 15 years later, I can say without a shadow of a doubt: Second Life has taught me a lot about myself, shaped real life relationships, and brought me back to my musical roots.

Sassy (top center) in Madrigals (1995), Antioch High School, Antioch, TN

How did music become such an important part of your life?

For musicians, music is our lifeline, much like the air we breathe. I grew up in the music industry here in Nashville, so this life of being a musician and being the daughter of a musician is all I have ever really known. My dad began his music career playing drums at the age of 15, and by the time he was in his late 20s, he was playing at the Grand Ole Opry behind many country music icons.

When I was 11, I loved to sing. I was obsessed with lyrics and started to write my own songs with catchy hooks and melodies. At the age of 12, I decided I wanted to be a drummer like my dad. I loved to sing, but growing up around a professional drummer I naturally wanted to follow that path. I put the notepad of lyrics down and switched it out with staff paper. He taught me how to read and write rhythm patterns and I learned the bible of all drummers: drum rudiments. In sixth grade, I joined the middle school band’s percussion section. I excelled in music, but found I gravitated more toward the melodic percussion instruments like the bells, xylophone, and marimba. Playing those instruments, I had to learn how to read sheet music and become more involved with music theory. Missing the singing aspect, I signed up for choir and finished out my sixth grade year in band and show choir. In high school I continued in concert band, choir and “Madrigals,” which is a select choir of 16-18 vocalists.

Those are my roots, and although so many amazing things happened musically in my youth through honor band and choir, I moved on to my college years and majored in Vocal Music Education. This era in my life taught me more about music composition, theory, and I also became a decent pianist and a classically trained vocalist.

In 1999, my husband {at the time} and I started a family. The music was put on hold for a while. Then, in January 2008, due to Second Life, music came rushing back into my life and I picked up the guitar that had been sitting in my closet for years.

Sassy (bottom, third from right) at a Madrigals showcase rehearsal in 1995, Antioch High School, Antioch, TN

When did you start performing live in Second Life, and what venues can people visit to hear you play?

In January 2008, I found music on Second Life. A new friend sent a message asking if I’d like to join him at a music concert with some friends. I was excited and intrigued because I had no idea live music was even a part of Second Life. I gladly accepted the invitation. I landed at The Freudian Slip and my Second Life was forever changed with the sound of one voice and one guitar.  

Lyndon Heart was singing his heart out and strumming his guitar that day at The Freudian Slip. I knew instantly that this was exactly what I needed to do. Second Life was a way that I could be at home in the evenings with my son and bring me back into performing. That concert gave me an epiphany that saved me in many ways. I found my way back to music and have been performing in Second Life since February of 2008, and in real life since 2011.  

Sassy performing in April 2008, photo by Sassy

In my years of performing in Second Life, I have had so many incredible opportunities to help raise money for charity through music. I’ve played concerts for Homes for our Troops, American Cancer Society, Feed a Smile, Power Up for Charge, Team Diabetes and others. This gives me a great sense of purpose and the charities listed mean a great deal to me. I have also performed for the Bloggies and most recently a halftime performer at the NFL Alumni Association's ESTV event.

Sassy at the ESTV Halftime Show, photo by Linden Lab

I am grateful and beyond blessed to play many of Second Life’s premier live music venues. I play every other week or once a month at After Dark, The Blue Cornflower Lounge, The Black Diamond, Free Spirit Farms and Swamp Water Bluz. This family of venues has been around a while; they are a staple of live music in Second Life. If you want to hear the best talent Second Life has to offer, go to one of these venues. Those who own/manage these venues and their crew are very selective about the performers they pick.

How would you describe your music? Who are some of the musicians who have influenced your style?

My roots started in country, rock, and eventually pop, but I was introduced to many genres growing up. My music is soulfully strong with a bit of sweetness and sass (hence the name). I grew up listening to Bob Seger, Aretha Franklin, Fleetwood Mac, Janis Joplin, The Judds, CCR, and many others. A great singing voice is an amazing instrument and I grew great admiration for those artists who could also accompany themselves with an instrument. In my teen years I listened to Shania Twain, Jewel, Martina McBride, Whitney Houston, Taylor Dayne, Melissa Etheridge, Reba McEntire and Sarah McLachlan. These ladies are all incredible artists with strong, soulful, and sweet voices. They sing with raw emotion and conviction. If the performer feels the music and lyrics, it will radiate to their audience. Just like the artists mentioned above, I leave a piece of me on every stage and if I touched at least one person through a song, I did my job right.

Sassy performing in her band “My July”

Sassy with her newest music project “New Binge”

Tell us about some of the other Residents in SL that inspire you and whose work you admire.

I cannot miss the opportunity to point out Lyndon Heart again. I had the extraordinary honor of meeting and playing music with Lyndon at the Nashville Music City Jam in 2012. He is quite a songwriter and I encourage everyone to look him up. Other incredible songwriters I admire and consider professional in their art are Zak Claxton and Phemie Alcott. These artists not only enjoy writing, but they also accompany themselves well on their instruments and tell their stories with conviction. There is a mixed bag of incredible artists on Second Life. There are vocalists who sing to high quality tracks, instrumentalists, musicians who sing and play multiple instruments or electroacoustic artists who compose electronic music on the spot. You just have to go concert-hopping to find who fits your niche and follow them. The talent in Second Life is endless and there is something for everyone. Do a quick search of live music events in Second Life. Drop into any show and you will find greatness.

The live music community in Second Life is a tight knit family and every year there are several chances for us to get together in real life to make music. My SL and RL best friend Anastasia Yanwu and I organized the 2012 and 2014 Nashville Music City Jam. This year, Yvie Caproni and Marina Sharpshire are bringing the jam back to Nashville to continue the tradition! I cannot wait to meet up with our community and make new memories filled with fun, laughter and of course, MUSIC! From Nashville to Baltimore, Dallas, Minneapolis, London, and others there are many destinations to attend a jam. Be sure to check out the SL Live Music Jams Facebook page to keep up to date on where the next live jam will be.

All attendees signed this board at the first “Nashville Music City Jam” in 2012

Where can people follow you to know more about your next shows? Please share links to your sites and social media accounts.

You can find me listed in live music events inworld or at any of the links below. I included my RL band information as well for our Nashville-based SL Residents.

Sassy on the Web: www.newbingemusic.com/sassy 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sassynitelymusic 
Calendar: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=sassy.nitely%40gmail.com&ctz=America/Los_Angeles 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2PTVKG-njH-ekhkIwsiHtg 
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/barbie-horsley 
SL Life Music Jams: https://www.facebook.com/groups/186627631374381 
RL Band: www.newbingemusic.com 

Thank you for this opportunity to share my story with you all. Second Life is full of surprises, and you never know what doors can open for you as a result. Thank you, Second Life – for everything. ♥

Thank you Sassy for bringing your melodious music to the live music scene in Second Life!

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Sassy today and get a chance to enjoy some of her virtual concerts in the near future.

Each of these weekly Spotlight posts will feature a different Resident to showcase the spectrum of experiences and personalities found in our virtual world. If you have created something inworld that you’re proud of, or have had a deeply meaningful experience that could brighten someone else’s day, please sign up! More info here: https://second.life/spotlight-signup