The New Zooby's

The most realistic pets in sl.

inV Remembers 9/11

The 9/11 Memorial in Second Life is a sobering reminder of the lives lost in the terrorists attacks that still affect us today. The large walls with names listed by location on the infamous date provides strong visual evidence of the sorrow on what started out to be a normal fall day.

Another area of the memorial provides a human aspect by displaying pictures of those who passed, covering walls.

This wonderful, annual build provides a chance for us to remember those who passed in a senseless act of terrorism. Please take a moment to visit and offer your respects. The owners have a flower rezzing system available for guests to use. It's a powerful site that you won't want to miss.

911/World Trade Center Memorial

Kids Shouldn't Play War with Real Guns

inV has verified the validity of this fundraiser. If you DJ any type of music and would like to donate one hour of your time to help this cause, please contact Wildlive Laville or Bleumoon Praga. Current availability on Friday is 9-10am and 3-4pm SLT. If more DJs are interested, the event will be extended.

War Child International is a network of independent organisations, working across the world to help children affected by war.

War Child was founded upon a fundamental goal: to advance the cause of peace through investing hope in the lives of children caught up in the horrors of war.

In DR Congo the militia FNI (Front des nationalistes et intégrationnistes) have ceased their hostilities. They have started surrendering their weapons. UNICEF has estimated that 500 out of the 1000 fighters were children.

In the last three years in Africa around 120.000 children were forced to participate in fighting. This is the conclusion of a report from the International Coalition against the Use of Child Soldiers. In countries like Uganda, Congo and Burundi tens of thousands of children are being used in the battle.

EVENT: Friday 09/12/08 8am -8pm
CONTACT: wildlive Laville in-world

At present, the event is set for 12 hours (8am - 8pm) but as more DJs and artists get involved, the organizers have been given the green light to expand those hours as far as needed.

War Child Fundraiser
If you prefer to make a donation directly, click here.

She Goes a Little Mad Sometimes...

As a horror writer and a Hitchcock fan, I was thrilled when I was asked to blog this latest find. Psycho is arguably the best suspense film ever made (and I'm talking the Psycho Hitchcock directed, not the remake), and Beckenbauer Productions' Second Life remake is a killer immersion into the world of Norman's dead-end motel.

Cabin 1 is one of the most "realistic" places to explore if you want the same effect as the movie. Setting: post-nyah-nyah-nyah shower scene with Marion in the shower curtain. Unfortunately for realism the plastic isn't torn down from the bathtub, but this is Second Life, we aren't seeking reality. If we were we could log and plug in to Real Life.

I took my turn in the shower (fully clothed) and despite the blood on the wall and floor I wasn't attacked by Norma or Norman. For some reason I did have visions of $L40,000 wrapped in a newspaper on the nightstand...

This view from the front porch into the office is a testament to the build and to Jade's vision. When I saw this photo, I got chills--something that's hard to do to me. This blog can't begin to cover the depths of Beckenbauer Productions' creations. I spent today watching Psycho again and went back and the details are outstanding. My only wish is for a Norman bot to stand at the check-in and say, "A boy's best friend is his mother," or "People always mean well. They cluck their thick tongues and shake their heads and suggest oh-so-very delicately."

And what Second Life horror-related build isn't complete without a Lament Configuration? While this little box has nothing to do with Psycho, it can be found in the Bates house on the first floor. Jade and I stopped to play with it. The Lament Configuration actually comes from Clive Barker's Hellraiser and is created by Anti Antonelli. Expect to see plenty of these evil devices around as we approach my favorite holiday.

Don't limit yourself to the Bates Motel, but be careful in the damage enabled areas unless you have a weapon against the not-so-well put together zombies. This photo of a damaged confessional in a church (I know my sit ao isn't all that flattering) was taken in a parcel with the lovely name of Happy Fun Times Memorial Park. Be sure to explore.

Are you Psycho enough?

AVENUE MODELS ACADEMY

Spot the alts anyone?

CLOSED FOR COMMENTS


#1 Anonymous said...
as for no bots at devilinside something poster earlier in the year
http://flickr.com/photos/rigz/2328392215/sizes/o/in/set-72157604101180164/

spot the altsssss anyone?

September 10, 2008 7:03 AM

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

#2 Anonymous said...
Let me put your mind at rest over the alts/bots question. There was indeed an alts platform on the DI club sim in January-February 2008, when it first became apparent that DI was losing visitors. It was located on the southern border of Incubus Islands, at a height of 750 metres.

In recent times they resorted to using a sploder in the ICE Mall sim to distort traffic numbers there, because of the increasing amount of unrented stores. The sploder would be rezzed for an hour or two, and then removed. On a Friday not so long ago, they collected a massive 65 sploder hunters on the sim.

The allegation that DI staff were using alts on the dancefloor seems to have originated around the same time they rezzed the alts platform at the start of this year. The allegation was persistant, and they were unable to shake it.

Not illegal, plenty of places use the same tactics. They did it to raise the club profile in Search, and to fool clubbers and store renters that the sims were more popular than reality. It's just a great shame that they needed to resort to such secretive methods to try and bucket the water out of a sinking boat.

September 8, 2008 10:30 PM

DI Closed: Take 438972546797?

CLOSED FOR COMMENTS

We've all seen the website or heard the news on the rumor mill: the gay club DEVILinside has closed (again). Yawn -- we've heard this before, as a ploy to get attention when attendance is down, and it's hard to believe this isn't yet another attempt to increase traffic when (and if) the public is allowed in again. As club guests, we don't want to be manipulated or made part of silly games. We are looking for a good place for music, conversation, fun and relaxation.

DEVILinside used to be *the* best place on the grid for gay parties. Guests would gather in the club to meet the hottest guys, and countless partnerships began there. It was full most days of the week. It was exciting. It was fun. Fast forward and today it is DEADinside. I interviewed Ayor for inV when DI was smoking and can't believe how hard it has fallen. So what happened to lead to the club's downfall? My one word answer: EGO. When you believe you can never fail is exactly when others find your weaknesses and prove that you can. It's amazing how Ayor and Luca ran that club into the ground.

So, what are some things I observed that drove people away from DI? While I was never banned from the club, I saw several people banned for minor issues; sometimes for simply disagreeing with the owners. Yes, sometimes people need to be banned (think griefers), but when a club depends on filling the room with people, banning someone just because you don't like them isn't good business.

In addition, the attitude of DI management to staff and DJs many times left the staff feeling underappreciated. The bad staff took it out on the guests (or ignored them totally), the good staff left and took the crowds with them. And who can blame them? As staff problems got worse many people were alienated, and is it any wonder that people choose to party at BLU, Tainted Boys or High Energy instead? DIs response was typical: in desperation they banned many club owners for simply having a club that drew their usual crowd, which turned even more people off of the club. Did they not think people noticed there boor business and behavior?

It's a shame that a club with so much potential had to turn to such low measures in a futile attempt to keep a crowd. Close to the end there were rumors they were using bots to fill the place. People don't appreciate manipulation, and won't fall for the "club closing" ploy. If DI had wanted to recover, it was possible through strong management and client focus, but anger and ego got in the way. Was this because they had a kid with no experience run the club? The glory days will be missed, but the struggles and manipulative games won't. Even if it *does* return it will never be respected and appreciated as it once was. The king is dead.

This is the notecard for the first ploy at getting attention. It was apparently leaked out by accident, yeah right. Have a look.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After many weeks of procrastination Ayor and myself have decided to close DEVILInside. This will take effect from Friday May 16th at 12 midnight.

The closure is due for the most part to our "Lack of Motivation" and the lack of motivation of staff. This closure may or may not be permanent. The club will remain in place but no public access will be permitted.

If you would like to discuss this please IM Ayor or myself as we are not closed to suggestions regarding the club.

We would like to thank you all for your support over the past 18 months. It has been a fantastic journey for us all.

At this stage we may re-open after the Northern summer, but we will assess that closer to the time.

Kind regards

Ayor & Luca

If it is dead why haven't we been ejected from the group?

Rapture/Blu Party

It seemed that everyone turned out for Rapture's event at Blu's special build in the sky. Despite SL's tantrums the party went on for hours. As usual, conversation, music and hot men filled the scene, making this the place to be in Second Life.

Even though the event wasn't at Blu's usual location, the trademark logo and colors transferred the atmosphere. The Blu Boys provided eye candy and kept the crowd pumped while some of SL's hottest DJs (Dj Shep, Dj Wes and Dj Adham)played our favorite music. For great fun and dancing, we couldn't have asked anything more. Thank you Rapture Club Circuit for another great job.

Obama Fundraiser Event

inV has verified the validity of this fundraiser and Naro Nagy is willing to provide documentation of the donation to Obama's fundraising campaign.

The conventions are over and the race is on for November! Now, more than ever, Barack needs the financial support from all of us to help push his message for change and ensure his victory in the upcoming election. But can't we have fun raising money?

I am pleased to announce a special Obama-Biden fundraiser dance event that I hope you will attend.

When: Sunday, September 14th (4-7pm SL time PST)

DJ Wes will be spinning great music for this special 3-hour event. Donation boxes will be set up for you to donate money in the hopes of helping us reach our 100,000L goal.

....................................................................

Can't make it to the event but want to show your support?

We have set up a donation box outside Club High Energy, so you can still help us reach our fundraising goal. Simply use the LM provided above and look for the Obama-Biden Fundraiser poster and donation box at the entrance to the club. If just 200 people each donate 500L we will reach our 100,000 goal.

We hope you will be able to attend in person, but will certainly appreciate your financial support for this historic and very important campaign.

...........................................................................
Do you have a business that would like to sponsor this event?

We have special programs created that will give your business both graphic and DJ exposure during the fundraising event. Details about the corporate sponsorship packages is available by contacting Naro Nagy.

Club High Energy

Scams in sl,

All comments have been removed and all future comments will not be published for this post.

inV has chosen to re-run this post due to new information regarding the person responsible for the initial posting. While she isn't the only person to be wary of in Second Life, she has proven to be seeking money from those who are generous enough to give it to her. Her stories play on sympathy. Please do not give in. There are community resources she can turn to and if times are rough she has the option to turn off her Internet and cable services until she can stand on her own in RL. Don't be scammed. If you want to help, search for Salvation Army, Samaritan or church services in her area. Do NOT send money to her, whether it be Lindens or RL funds. Thank you.

Second Life is full of kind, generous people. In-world charities have been known to raise up to 1 million Lindens during events and individuals are often helping newbies get out of their ugly birth shapes and into attractive forms. However, as in RL, there are people who will take advantage of those who are giving.

How do we protect ourselves from scams? Legitimate in-world charities will offer documentation that funds were given to the charity. Feel free to ask for an upload of the documentation. Those who are working hard for Relay for Life, City of Hope or Toys for Tots understand the concerns people have and don't want money going to a con artist.

Not all fraud takes place behind the mask of an established charity, though. Some individuals may play on the sympathy card, requesting $500 USD to help "feed my family" or "pay my car note." Should this request come through--even from a trusted friend--be wary. Instead of giving in to what is likely a scam being played on several individuals, suggest that the person go to a local food bank or suggest maybe a rl job. It makes use of resources that are there for just this purpose and protects both you and the person in question from future hurt regarding the money. Other possible issues can also be resolved with community resources.

For some of us, saying no is nearly impossible, but it's necessary. Scams follow wherever the opportunity to make money can be found. SL is no exception. Aiding those who truly need is a rewarding experience, but in an Internet setting where the need can't be verified, the possibility of fraud is too great. Help with information, not money. It will make a difference in the long run.

cont. of BloodLines

Greetings, Second-Lifers!

In my recent post on the BloodLines vampire role-play for Second Life, I documented my experience with this “dark” role play genre, and my distaste for such pursuits, and promised, via a blog comment that I’d do a follow-on piece consisting of my own “Interview with a Vampire”.

Well, dear reader, I’ve conducted that interview, not with one, but with two of my “friends” from Second Life, who valued my friendship enough to be rather upset with me for removing them from my friends list, and invited me to discuss the issues that led to my actions.

Also, in one of the responses to this blog, I was taken to task by an “anonymous” comment that noted that I, while claiming not to “moralize” about dark role play, had done just that. Touché, “anonymous”! I wish you didn’t hide your identity, as I’d love further dialogue with someone so obviously capable of sharp analysis and constructive criticism; one is never too much of an “old dog” to learn a new trick or two, even from someone much younger.

First off, let me recount something worth documenting here, in relation to my experience with the BloodLines product:

Their own website and terms of service state that by messaging certain key personnel, one may have one’s data removed from their records. I contacted the “maker” of the products, received a polite and prompt reply that my data and avatar name would, indeed, be removed, and was quite happy with that result. Then, on Tuesday morning, Sept. 2, after the long “Labor Day” weekend, I returned to work to find that my corporate “Inbox” contained a Google Alert with a link directly to the BloodLines website, where I am documented as having my “soul” owned by another Second Life account name, as having been “bitten” four times, and as having a “Clan” membership, and as being only “82% human”. This information is stored on a public website, and is now also stored on my corporate email server. Just a note of caution to those who think that their Second Life activities can have no effect on their real life pursuits; as of this date, September 5th, the information is still resident on the BloodLines public website, and I’m debating legal recourse to have it removed.

Now, to the gist of this post, and a much more positive note:

I spoke at length with a couple of friends involved in dark role play, and specifically in the BloodLines vampire “game”, and came away with a renewed appreciation for the nature of these pursuits, as well as a somewhat lessened sense of revulsion at the topical characteristics thereof. It seems that for many, playing these games merely represents a sense of “family” within Second Life, and a like-minded affinity for a movie- or literature-based form of “play”, all regarded as pure fantasy and fun, and allowing the participants to cultivate a sense of “belonging” or affinity with one another, quite harmless and in fact contributory to their sense of well being. I still don’t embrace the menace, the blood-related nature of it all, but I think I’ve learned that perception is everything, and for those who’ve done RP for long periods, the benefits can far outweigh the negatives in these online (and sometimes real-life) pursuits.

One of these friends spoke to me at length of his multi-year history of dark role play in text-based forms, and of his own efforts, when faced with depressive or behaviorally affected personalities who perhaps shouldn’t be involved in such activities, in contacting the FBI or other agencies of assistance, in the interests of preventing potential suicide or homicide related to the RPG “actor” in question. Of course, my thought is that if one is mentally imbalanced, prone to depression or rage, or under treatment for such maladies as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and the like, perhaps dark RP is just something that should be left completely alone; for me, at least, that is my personal decision, and I still would not spend one minute in pursuit of blood, slavery, or other potentially depressing topical content.

I also spoke with a dear Second Life friend about “dark role play” in general, someone who is close to me, and who shares my distaste toward the objectification of people represented in Gorean slave-trading, for instance. However, she recounted to me an incident in which she had messaged a Gorean “slaver”, who had appeared in a public venue in Second Life, with his group of three “slaves” in tow, and had asked him what possible joy he could derive from such activities. The response, to one like myself who is repulsed by the “roles” but always intrigued by human nature, was nothing short of highly educational and thought provoking. The individual told my friend, in private conversation, that he is a quadriplegic, totally dependent upon others to take care of even his most mundane of daily needs. He cannot urinate, defecate, feed, or cleanse himself, without asking someone else to help him or to actually perform these tasks we all take so for granted. So, when he uses Second Life, he chooses the power, influence, and independence of being a “Master”, and capturing submissives, then controlling their activities, which gives him a sense of control and power that he’ll never achieve in his real life, and a therapeutic “outlet” perhaps, for his frustration at the powerlessness of his real, physical state. Wow, makes one step back and consider!

I still choose to be “real” and pursue happy and “upbeat” things in my Second Life. I will never understand the attraction of signing up for a massively immersive virtual environment, then relinquishing your “persona” to the control of another. But some, it seems, have this need, or desire, or just have such low self-esteem that they’re more comfortable with someone else in the “driver’s seat” of their virtual life. Wrong of me or anyone to judge, I’ve decided, and “live and let live” is the way to be, methinks.

You see, dear reader, I’ve learned something, here: SL is populated by “players”, and by “people”. They are one and the same, but then again, they’re not. If the guy or gal you take up with is deep in a perceived “RP”, then you may or may not be getting anything resembling truth from their tales, commentary, or claims of affection. "I love you" may mean, "You're dumb enough to believe this crap! ha ha!". That’s just a fact of Second Life.

I’ve been fortunate to find real business contacts, real people, and real social exchange in Second Life, and I’ve also had my brushes with the “gamers” who really don’t give damn who they hurt, in pursuit of their fantasy or “points” or perceived “advancement”. I still choose to remain somewhat naïve, vulnerable, and completely honest and open about who/what I am, as a man, as an avatar, and as a Second Life resident, but others do not, and that’s their right. One minute of genuine love, respect, integrity or companionship is worth every hour of pain when it all goes terribly wrong, in my view. Silly old romantic, I am, but it's my decision, just as biting folks may be someone else's.

There is an “upside” to the RP genre, for many, and I’m glad they share this wonderful platform for their activities, and some of my better friends and contacts are among them, often using “alts” for their dark and brooding “persona”, while appearing in another account as “normal”, whatever that means.

My only caution? Be careful with your heart, out there, and recognize that Second Life is like a tabloid newspaper; believe half of what you see, and none of what you hear, and take each day as it comes. Sow what you want to reap, and it’ll come back to ya, in spades! Sort of similar to First Life, isn’t it, after all?

Sleep Well

So, let's set the scene. You're getitng more and more involved with this new man or woman you've been dating. You wonder what the future might hold for the two of you. How can you determine if this is the one? Hw will things fair in the long run? Well, you can learn things about your mate - Like how good a boyfriend/girlfriend and lover they might be by simply watching the way that they sleep. This, according to Alex Lukeman, PhD and author of 'Sleep Well, Sleep Deep' and Michael Breus, PhD and author of 'Beauty Sleep'. According to these experts, here is how it breaks down. Find the category of sleeper that best describes your mate, and see how they rank in and out of bed.

The light sleeper: Those who are hyper-sensitive to noise and movement in the room while they sleep are likely to also be just as sensitive to your feelings. If you're a guy or girl who cries durring mushy movies or gets upset easily, they will be supportive and understanding by nature. But in bed, they may be tentative and less experimental, so you may need to take the reins and tell him/her what to do and how to do it to please your specific needs.


The sound sleeper: A mate who has no trouble getting a great night's sleep is usually mellow and handles stress very well - they will also be likely to have healthy physical and emotional relationships. According to these experts, they won't freak out when you drop the "L" word or when you have the "where is this all going" talk. In bed, he/she will be raring to go and will do whatever it takes for as long as it takes to make sure you have a mind-bending time - everytime.


They toss and turn: If your mate wakes up in a tangled mess of sheets, he/she can be just as unsettled while awake. Being with them for the long haul will take lots of patience on your part. Accordgin to these experts, they may go on and on about their day and completely forget to ask about yours, possibly being too self-centered for their own good. And, according to Lukeman, this goes double for bedroom behavior.


The insomniac: Having trouble falling, or staying asleep usually is a sign that your mate has a million things on their mind. Chances are you've fallen for an A-type who pushes themselves to the limit in all areas of life - including relationships. Since he/she is a perfectionist by nature, they will be punctual, pick the best places to wine and dine you, but because they're running on fumes, they may not have much left for the end of the night. However, according to these experts, when he/she does have the energy, the bedroom skills will definitely impress you.

Submit your ideas for future articles to Larz Beresford in world via notecard.

Article by Larz Beresford

Relativity

Most of us are aware of the works of M.C. Escher (1898-1972) whose graphic art challenges the mind with stunning depictions of illusions that defy physics. His works became noted among mathematicians who recognized their role in portraying mathematical paradoxes. For laymen, his pieces are brilliant studies of optical challenges.


One piece, Relativity (1953), has been recreated in-world by Furia Freeloader. The three-dimensional build recreates the work fully with custom created poseballs and items from the original work. Using a rezzing cube, which was custom scripted for the house, one can turn the building to experience each point of gravity depicted by Escher in the original piece.


The function of the rezzing cube in the display home is blocked, but Freeloader offers the home for sale for $L9000. For those who are unsure about purchasing the building, but would like a souvenier of their visit, a book explaining the build and Escher's work is available by clicking the sale sign. Escher's Relativity in Second Life is definitely a site worth checking out and a unique home for those who want something different than the standard.

Relativity

BloodLines

In an excellent piece recently published here, DeMerick Creely wrote of the early days of Second Life, when “age play” with child avatars was a common occurrence, and identified this and other real-world “crossovers” related to the Second Life experience. He recounted the experience of an adult in a child avvie being inundated in IM’s by offers of sexual dalliances, which, if proffered in the real world, would land someone behind bars.

Recently, I had occasion to brush up against a new, and equally repulsive, (at least to me) form of “game” or “RP”, and one which is enjoying massive success across the SL grid.

This new “game”, which is exploitative and disgusting to many, is promulgated under the name “BloodLines”, and consists of purchasing game HUDs and fangs, then setting out to achieve “status” or “advancement” within the Bloodlines’ collective “clans”, by biting people virtually, sucking their “blood”, and absconding with their “soul”.

To some of us, this is not only sick, depraved, and repulsive, but it represents a real danger, in that we do not disguise our real world identities in Second Life, and the BloodLines product is storing and doling out information about their victims’ avatar names, (which represent one’s Second Life account), in their databases, along with such disturbing bits of information as to one’s “percentage of remaining humanity”, one’s status as the “minion” of another SL user, and ownership of a SL user’s “soul”. The religious connotations of this tripe are bad enough, but not a concern, in my case, thankfully, though my Pagan devotion to things of light and energy and positives really cannot embrace the dark and depressive nature of vampirism.

On an idle Sunday afternoon, not too long back, I let an acquaintance, who is not even on my “friends” list, induce me to allow one of these “bites”. Subsequently, I was asked to accompany him to his new build, a castle, and then to avail myself of some cool fangs and other gear from a vending prim. In my mind, I was thinking a pair of nice fangs might fit well with my Neko outfits, and in a weak moment elected to purchase the “vampire gear”. Understand, dear reader, I don’t completely exonerate myself here, I participated in this process, to be sure… but I was not adequately informed, nor was I aware of the outcome, which is that my avatar name now resides in a database, listed as my “soul” being owned by this other individual, and listing me as his “minion”, and as having only 82% humanity remaining, and as being a member of his “clan”. Note the meaning of the term, “minion”, from Merriam Webster: min•ion - 1 : a servile dependent, follower, or underling 2 : one highly favored 3 : a subordinate or petty official. Meaning number 2 is not so bad, but it’s definition number 1 that’s perceived by most “players” of BloodLines, I’m afraid.

Gorean and other “dark” roleplay have always been somewhat repulsive to me, and don’t get me wrong; I profess no moral “high ground” or “Christian ethic” here. I just don’t care for role play that objectifies any sex, gender, or even animal, nor do I take well to relinquishing control of myself or my “fantasy” SL persona to another avatar and the accompanying “player” behind the keyboard. Additionally, I am HIV positive, and the very idea of “drinking blood” in order to “stay alive” in a roleplay game is exceedingly repulsive to me, for obvious reasons. It took me quite awhile to convince my local blood bank to stop calling me for donations, and remove me from their calling lists, a hurtful and emotionally disruptive thing, as I’d enjoyed donating blood to save lives for many years, prior to contracting this horrible virus.

Recently, I lost my beloved partner in SL, because he would not give up this disgusting game, and I could not, and would not participate, and felt I had to force him to choose between me, and my companionship, or his “clan” of bloodsucking exploiters, who even boasted of how easy it was to grab “noobs”, (new and ignorant SL residents), and victimize them in this way. Some of my friends thought me “silly”, and advised me that it was all just pixels, and of no consequence, but tell that to someone who’s just been diagnosed with HIV, and is looking for a reliable source of information, companionship, or empathy within Second Life. Somehow, I don’t think a vampire is gonna be their first choice. I know, I know, Braham Stoker and Anne Rice, and all that… excellent literature and movies, and the “horror” genre is quite popular, with some. With thos of us who choose to focus on things that uplift, enhance, or contribute to humanity, as opposed to degrade, objectify, and focus upon death, damnation, and the macabre, do we not have our choices, too? And why, pray tell, should we endure offers of vampirism, any more than a religious group be entitled to go about Second Life offering “baptism” to every idle avatar they encounter?

Needless to say, I’m not happy about a Second Life “vendor” who makes profits from these toys, storing ANY information about me in a database, without informed consent and authorization on my part. It is my feeling that such role play should rightfully be confined to SIMS that are dedicated for the purpose, and that those who wish to spend their Second Life hours hanging out in dank, castle basements “feeding” from barrels of virtual blood should have every opportunity to do so, but not in public, open areas of Second Life, and certainly should be restrained from approaching new residents in Second Life and victimizing them to “collect souls” and advance their standings in their disgusting pastime. I have been approached, and presented with that annoying “Yes/No” menu many, many times in my daily Second Life, receiving requests to be “bitten” by these RP freaks, and I’m sick of it, and my responses are becoming increasingly impolite and intolerant, as my annoyance increases. I intend to contact the purveyors of this “game” soon, and request that any information they’ve stored about my SL account name be expunged from their databases, along with any information linking me in any way to another account, or to a “clan”, or to the concept of vampirism, which I find repulsive, as is my right to do.

What to do you think? Harmless game, of no consequence to anyone? Minor annoyance and interruption of your day? Should it be confined to RP sims, away from the general populace of SL? Are you a “clan member” and participant, and do you think twice, and read someone’s profile, and practice a bit of sensitivity, before triggering your “bite” offers? And most of all, are you comfortable with your account name being stored in a database, by someone accountable to nobody, and listing you as the “servile and dependent follower” of some other SL resident?

AUGUST Bday/Rezzday Party

AUGUST's Bday/Rezzday Party will run from 5-8 SLT on *SUNDAY* August 31st at the one and only FIRE ISLAND!

It's time again! Last SUNDAY of the month and we got a great party planned! A hot DJ and a brand new venue! The Fantastic Marky Monentes and Jt Volos have agreed to be my cohosts! AND Rickie Zabaleta is gonna be our DJ (he's new and I'm very excited to have him!)

Anyone with a a bday/rezzday in August, plus their friends and well wishers are invited (plus all you other people that just want a great party!)

Fire Island

AVENUE Models Academy's PIONEER GRADUATION SHOW

★ AVENUE Models ★

31 August 2008

PR Contact: Annette Wilder, Wilder Public Relations Inc. for AVENUE Models Academy

Re: AVENUE Models Academy's PIONEER GRADUATION SHOW
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AVENUE Models Academy is proud to announce that it is having its first set of modeling students graduate from the academy. Come join us August 31, at 12 noon to help show support for the new fresh face talents as they strut their stuff on the catwalk. The seven model trainees will be wearing clothing sponsored by Madison's Creations and Kar'Ona Couture. The model trainees are Caylla Winnikow, Zelda Homewood, Kinji Lockjaw, Esskinny Juliesse, Madilyn Boucher, Marsha Perlman and Cody Bolero. Each of them worked hard and went through a six weeks comprehensive training program that was under the tutelage of top AVENUE models and fashion professionals such as Summer Deadlight (founder of Runway Kidz), Emmz Tzara (Fashion Stylist of Runway Magazine), Kryptonia Paperdoll (Head Instructor and VP of AVENUE Models), Tillie Ariantho (AVENUE Model & Photographer) and Rusch Raymaker (CEO of AVENUE Models). Truly the best of the best were training these models and watching them show what they have learned on stage should be a joy to the attending audience.

AVENUE Models has gained a reputation of having a professional work environment and being very creative with their fashion shows. These model trainees, once graduation is completed, have a huge opportunity depending on how well they performed and how much effort and potential they showed during training to become part of the prestigious AVENUE Models modeling agency. AVENUE Models Academy will have plenty more graduation's to follow but the first will hold a special place in the heart of both these students and their trainers.

Date : August 31, 2008 (Sunday)
Time : 12 noon
SLurl : http://slurl.com/secondlife/Royal%20Properties/183/202/224

For questions or more information regarding AVENUE INC., AVENUE Models, or AVENUE Models Academy please contact Rusch Raymaker.

To contact AVENUE by e-mail:
avenuemodelsinc@gmail.com

blog:
http://avenuemodels.wordpress.com

AVENUE Models' land and build is sponsored by:
ROYAL PROPERTIES AND JC DESIGNS

Just arrived

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Original%20Sin/130/78/22

Club High Energy

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nasturtium%20Island/31/60/22

Club High Energy's - Search for a DJ Superstar

Club High Energy's - Search for a DJ Superstar

The ultimate contest has been setup for all emerging and aspiring DJ's in Second Life. SL's number one gay dance club, Club High Energy is inviting 6 lucky DJ's to compete in the ultimate "Search for a DJ Superstar Contest." The event takes place at 4pm SL time on Sunday, September 21st 2008 at Club High Energy.􀀂

6 DJs, 3 Judges, 1 Winner!

Six DJ's will all be given 45 minute slots to impress the Judges. The winner will be judged on:
1) The selection of music;
2) How the crowd is engaged;
3) Unique & Creative appeal.

Which DJ has the X-factor? The Judges are SL's top graphic artist and entrepreneur, Eddi Haskell. SL's top fashion guru and INV Magazine Editor, Ammon Pera. SL's flamboyant and charismatic DJ and Club High Energy Owner, Jason Feingold. Will any of these 3 judges make Simon Cowell quiver at their nastiness's? Or will any of them help propel an up and coming DJ to meteoric success? Perhaps the 3 Judges will all come to blows on the night about who they see fit as the DJ who should be a superstar. We will find out on Sunday, September 21st!

CALLING ALL BUDDING AND ASPIRING DJ'S in Second Life. Please contact Jason Feingold to register your interest in participating in this great event. The winner will pickup a cool 5000 Lindens, exclusive coverage,photo shoot and interview with INV Daily. The winner will also have his/her own set the following Sunday at SL's number one gaydance club, CLUB HIGH ENERGY!􀀁 This great contest is sponsored by inV daily.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nasturtium%20Island/31/60/22

Second Life and Real Life Society

Not all of us are old enough to remember when age play was commonplace in Second Life. It was lucrative for those who were willing to cross that line. One child prostitute made such a name for herself that even those who paid little attention to the age play scene knew of her. It was disturbing. What was more disturbing was Linden Labs' approach to the practice at the time.

I have a daughter in SL. A wonderful girl who I knew as an adult av before she began playing a child. My first partner and I adopted her and while she doesn't play much anymore, I love her dearly. She plays a child av as an innocent child, not to feed the perversions of others. Unfortunately her IMs would be capped because of men seeking age play with her. They would find her profile in search, with her pic as a child, and try to seduce her. Fed up, and the protective father I am, I contacted Live Help.

They were less than helpful. Their stance at the time was that if two real life adults were involved, it wasn't illegal, therefore they weren't getting involved. It's true that Second Life is a game for adults and Linden Labs makes an effort to keep children from accessing the world. Additionally, there are ways for land owners to keep those who fail to provide adequate age verification (I say adequate because any teen could grab Mom or Dad's information for verification) off property that is questionable.

However, allowing age play in Second Life is something that is harmful to children in real life, whether children know about it or not. The permissiveness of the youngsters on playgrounds and ultimately in bedrooms gives predators the sense that children in real playgrounds will share permissiveness. As a parent, that disturbs me.

Linden Labs banned age play following public outcry, but I'm sure it still happens in secret locations somewhere on the grid. The point is, Linden Labs can't police everyone and everything. That's what our real life systems are for. But we can hold to our personal value systems and understand what impact our actions may have on society as a whole.

DJ’s and Hosts: For Whom Do They Perform?

I’ve penned two previous posts for this blog, one about my experience attempting to become an “escort”, and one about the life of a pro dancer in SL, and the up- and down-side of club design.

That brings me to another element of the club-hopping set in SL: DJ’s and hosts. Some are great, some are not, and some are just “phoning it in”, and we can tell, can’t we? If I pass a 250-linden tip to a DJ, and request a song, and he tells me there’s no time, or he doesn’t do repeats and the song’s been played, previously, do you think I’ll tip him again? Not bloody likely!

There are some club operators, hosts, and DJ’s who seem to forget that this experience is NOT for them! It’s not about how cool and sexy they are, or how massively bitchin’ their taste in music is, or how they can stuff their club with friends and “fan club” members. It’s for the clientele!. And no matter how “famous” or “successful” your venue has become, it can become a “ghost town” just as quickly, when word spreads that “attitude” has changed, and it’s not a customer’s best choice anymore, or it’s a “clique”, where new folks are not embraced. And let’s face it; every day in SL brings a new competitor into the club and dance business, and a new corpse on the map. Some will fail, but some will rise and prevail, and I’m attempting to provide just a little food for thought, for those who want to get into the club and dancing business.

I watch, and listen, very carefully, to how “diplomacy” is practiced with a customer who chat-spams, disobeys club rules, dances in areas reserved for club dancers, strips down a bit too far, or inflicts drama into the open chat. Are they approached with patience, kindness, and tolerance? Or, do the club owners/managers immediately become “authoritarian” and threatening, or wax smart-assed and “tuff guy” with the offender, flexing their imaginary muscles in open chat?

I’ve seen some folks treated very, very poorly in a club venue, and made a practice of never returning to that place, nor contributing my generous tips and donations to their clubs, DJ’s, or charitable causes. Correcting someone in open chat, with an “attitude” and an authoritarian approach, is just wrong, to my thinking. It only invites the offender to retaliate and become defensive. Take it to private IM, negotiate skillfully to resolve the problem, and inject humor, love, and kindness into the conversation. Pay a compliment, or share a joke, or take the time to explain the rule or policy, and why it’s necessary. Some “offenders” just don’t know that the dance platforms are “reserved” for staff, or that the poles are off-limits to customers, and if it’s near to “last call”, and someone offends, think again! Is it really a big deal? Would it serve your major goals of a profitable and full venue, to sometimes overlook a little rules violation? Is this about YOU, and your control over your venue?

I hate to be unkind, or negative; it isn’t my way, and that’s why I won’t criticize specific venues or people in my writing. Hopefully, those who recognize what my words depict, will react positively too, and take their own efforts to new levels of attraction for those of us who love, love, love to dance!

If you own a club, or know someone who does, and recognize any of these “negatives” in your own practices, think about easing up, or giving consideration to your management, design, and operating policies. We in SL know where it’s fun to be, and which parties always attract the hottest guys, and the most interesting and amusing chat, and that’s where we’ll be on any given night!

Thanks, dear reader, for enduring my little missive! Hope to see you soon, on a dance floor!

Coming soon

We are currently working out the details on a new link in www.invoguehommes.com. Coming soon.

What you gon’ do with all that junk?

All that junk inside your trunk?...
SELL IT AT THE BOYSTOWN YARD SALE!

We've set up a special area for all friends and residents of Boystown to have a chance to get rid of any transfer items in their inventory you no longer use, that someone else may get use of. Clothing, Furniture, ect. What else are you going to do with that X3 you no longer use???? It’s Easy and FREE to setup your stuff. This week only! Come claim a spot before they are all gone. Read the RULES on site before starting.. xoxo, Adham
http://slurl.com/secondlife/North%20Halsted/202/51/22

Hair for Charity

For great male hair choices, check out Bryce on the Pink sim. The Pink sim also features Jolie Femme, Rezzable and Tickled Pink. The Red sim offers such creators as Curious Kitties, Panache, Diversity Hair and Calla. To see creations by Aitui, Minnu, Pazazz and Torridwear, go to the Orange Sim. And for the creations of BishHair, Exile, Here Comes Trouble and Tousled, be sure to check out the Purple Sim.

While lag is an issue on the sims, it is worth fighting to see the selections. The best part is the charity aspect of the fair. Many options donate 50% to Locks of Love, a charitable organization that makes wigs for children who have lost their hair to cancer treatments or other illnesses. Bryce's "Pickins" which I am wearing in the photo, is one of the pieces that makes such a contribution.

This event gives us an opportunity to not only feed our desire to shop and look good, it also provides a way to help others in the process. Check it out. You won't be disappointed.

A Sensual Release

Just when you thought the world of SL sex couldn't get any steamier, Bits and Bobs releases the new version of the popular Lovescene. Like the first lovescene, Lovescene II offers a combination of foreplay and intercourse. It has the same focus on sensual exploration as the original and a slow, loving penetration animation.

Lovescene II is much different than the first, however. It places the female or bottom on top in the love making portions, while the foreplay has a back to front exploration animation. Overall, the combination sets a perfect mood for lovers to enjoy. Lovescene II is available at Bits and Bobs stores in Second Life.

Bits and Bobs

A Dancer's Life

I learned, the hard way, that being an escort in SL has a downside: you’ve got to be willing to “fake” your persona for the sake of the customer’s perceived “experience.” Not this kid, nope!

So I says to myself, I says, “What now?” And then it occurred to me! What do I love best about SL? What would I spend most of my time doing, given the choice? Am I a “builder?" Nope, only of prim clothing items. Some pretty damn nice ones, but limited skills required. Do I like sales and store management and vending issues? Naw, I’ve seen what that can do to friends with popular products! Their SL is now a “job," and their fun is constantly interrupted by puerile avatars who don’t understand how to rezz, open, and wear an item, but have more money than brains. Not for me!

There is ONE thing I love, and do almost constantly, and enjoy immensely. I dance, and I socialize, talk to my friends, family, and gay brothers in SL, and have serious fun doing it!

So I says to the escort manager guy, I says, “Do you employ guys just for dancing?”, and bingo!
“Yes, Mike, we’ll get you a dancer tag, and start assigning you to our contracted clubs!”

Woohoo! I got me a job!

Well, now the fun, and sometimes the excruciating boredom, begins. How often, as you dance through Second Life, patronizing your favorite clubs and venues, do you really pay attention to those pretty avatars stuck up on poles around the room, for your viewing pleasure? How often to you pass ‘em a few Lindens, for the pleasure they provide? Well, I can tell ya, not enough, especially if the dancers are mute and wooden, as most pole dancers tend to be. This, to me, is the bane of the dancer’s existence: the pole! Poorly animated, most of ‘em, few controls to play with, no movement allowed, and two hours of listening and attempting to follow a chat conversation thread, notice and compliment all new arrivals, chat the requisite goodbyes to those departing and stay awake, while feeling like you’re tied to a chair? It’s work. No other way to see it! it’s an endurance test!

And here’s where some really important stuff, to a pro dancer, comes into play. Design, design, design! Working a club that’s beautifully designed, with a nicely textured dance floor and walls that enhance the appearance of the avatars within, and that is small enough to allow intimate chatter, while large enough to accommodate the crowd that shows up, make an evening of fun, frolic, sparkling conversation, entertaining and flirtatious banter. All the elements of a great party!

Conversely, I’ve experienced the entire opposite end of the spectrum. Club owners or managers who fail to show up for their own events, so that group tags can be distributed allowing dancers to rezz their tip jars. Events so poorly publicized and promoted that other than staff, 3 avatars show up for the two-hour venue. And worst of all, garish, obnoxious, and nearly unusable club designs.

Those in which some misguided club “builder” installs every eyeball-blistering spotlight, floor texture changers, spinning prim lights, animated alpha-layers, mist or balloon-object generators, and on, and on, and on, like some penny arcade run amok! Oh, and then sticks the pole dancers in opposite corners, completely out of chat range of each other, and of half the room! Sheesh! Then, to add insult to injury, take 10% of the dancers’ tips, even though half your attendees are the friends your dancers invited and teleported in for the two-hour “ordeal!" Double-sheesh!

The result? A proud and puffy club owner, pleased with all his glitzy purchases and installations, and a room that is not only impossibly congested for dancing, but does not allow camera anchoring, or avatar movement, without constantly encountering a barrage of “effects,” most of which assault the senses and annoy both patrons and staff alike. As a pro dancer, I’ve been admonished by my managers never to comment negatively on a venue, so I don’t. But I dodge the assignments, avoid those places like the plague, and watch them fail, as their potential patrons tire of the environment, too. Sad, that a simple consultation could cure the problem, but the egos involved won’t allow the subject to be broached. So be it, (sigh).

At the opposite end of the spectrum, there are the “class” clubs, and I determined to remain journalistically neutral in this piece, so I won’t name names. You, me, and the rest of SL know them.

Good, wide-awake DJ’s, great, avatar-enhancing floor and wall patterns, tip jars and freebie stations clear of the dance floor, wide, spacious entrances that force a “walk-up,” so that avatars arrive on the dance floor fully rezzed; these are thoughtful, well-considered design features that impress, and bring me back again and again to those delightful places, whether working or just having my own SL fun! Subtle and flattering lighting, conversation areas and couple-dance areas off from the “crowd zone,” no excessive product vending inside the club, few annoying camera obstacles to obscure one’s view of the entrance and the avatars. These make for a wonderful evening! And, best of all, club dancers who are good with their avatars, and can move thru the crowd, “sexing up” individual patrons, talking, greeting, paying attention to what’s worn and displayed, paying compliments and correctly spelling names! And not, not, not, stuck to a piece of furniture!

‘Nuff said! Let’s go dancing!

When SL+RL=WTF?!

Kimberly Jernigan, 33, went postal in an attempt to kidnap her ex-boyfriend, a 52 year old man from Claymont, Delaware. Jernigan and the victim met in Second Life where she was a human woman and he was a Lion. After ending the relationship, Jernigan drove hundreds of miles and spent four days locating him.

When her attempt to abduct her ex-boyfriend from work failed, Jernigan broke into his apartment with duct tape, a taser, handcuffs and her dog. Apparently her pet made too much noise while she waited for the virtual lion's return home she duct taped the animal and left it in the bathtub. The victim arrived home and became aware of a laser light on his torso, then ran from the apartment.

Jernigan faces charges of kidnapping, burglary and aggravated menacing for her RL actions. And to think, if she'd kept it in SL she probably would've just gotten a ban and a warning.

Escort, Anyone?

Escort, Anyone?

Okay, so I say to the guy, I say, “I wanna be an escort! I’m sexy, I emote well, I love mutual masturbation, and I love men, and I’ve got at least two of all the better “naughty bits” offered in SL! What else could be required?”

Boy, was I surprised by the answer! First of all, disguise your age! Clients don’t want to think they’re with a 56 year old! The “fantasy” requires that you appear to really be the 19 year old that your avatar portrays. Also, “dumb down” your language, and adopt more current slang. You sound too literate, and therefore too educated and too old. That breaks the “fantasy”, too. Sheesh! I need to appear young and dumb to attract a sex partner? Go figger!

My reaction? F*ck this! I’ve always worn a completely open profile in Second Life, and attempted to reach out to my fellow gay men, and especially anyone dealing with issues related to HIV/AIDS, because I’m a positive-positive; I’m infected with HIV, diagnosed 15 years back, and this is my first year of being “out” in real life, to everyone in my life, and I’m not letting go of that feeling of relief, pride, and accomplishment that accompanies 20 years of alcohol and drug addiction recovery, 15 years of healthy living despite HIV, and nearly 40 years of living in “that damned closet”, now, finally behind me! I find SL’s gay community the most refreshing and liberating experience I’ve encountered in many, many years, and love it dearly! And I will always be a willing set of ears, an open heart, and a kindred spirit; and just “Mike”, to those who share my joy, or seek some reliable information or just a pair of ears to “vent” upon.

So, no “escort” for me! I won’t lie or pretend to be what I am not, not in real life, and not in Second Life! What do you think? Would you hire an “escort” in SL for sex? If you did, would you want them masquerading as some “fake” identity, for the sake of appearances, or would you want to know something real and personal about the guy with whom you’re sharing an “intimate encounter”?

Food for cogitation!

lighted cock

Miro Collas and Island Projects have released their latest invention in the Living Lights line. The Living Lights Cock combines the great accentual aspects of the Living Lights collections and the coming and peeing functions of the best cocks in Second Life. It is designed to be worn in place of the standard codpieces which come with other Living Lights collections and is included as part of the newest outfit, Exhibitionist. It is sold for $799 in the outfit or separately for $250.

The cock was created by Island and Miro and the color can be changed using the HUDs which come with the Living Light outfits. Peeing and coming functions are controlled with a separate cock HUD. Additional surprises can be discovered when you or someone else plays with the cock. The creation can be found at Animations Rising along with the other Living Lights outfits.

Animations Rising

Wedding

The staff of inV daily and inV monthly wish Michael25843 Darkstone & Brett Fargis the happiest day and sl lives together.

We're Joining in the Fun

Why Paris in Jail? Well, you'd be surprised how much Ammon has in common with Ms. Hilton. For example, did you know Ammon's orange jumpsuit has 6969 on it too? While in the pen, Ammon also had a roommate named Mitch. They grew very close from what I hear. I think he uses the name Jade in world, but I'm not sure about that.

We've all seen Paris with walking around with her designer chihuahua, and I'd be surprised if you haven't seen Ammon wandering around with his designer monkey (I'd also be surprised if you've escaped the barrage of bottles the monkey throws at you). And that Paris sex tape? According to an undisclosed source, there's a hot Internet sex tape out there of Ammon and the monkey.

One of the biggest Paris Hilton calamities was her attempt to patent the phrase, "That's Hot." What does this have to do with Ammon? Well, shortly after its release in SL, Ammon attempted to patent the "Hooooo!" as his. Yep, I speak the truth. Add to all this the fact that Ammon is big money for the scandal rags, hounded by the paparazzi and a dumb blonde at heart, and it's easy to see that Ammon is SL's own Paris Hilton.

Congrats to Ibayn Kyomoon for winning 2500L. Answer: photgrapher

Thongs for Men in RL

If you know me, you know I wear thongs in SL. In fact, I have 55 items named "thong" in my inventory (perhaps 10 are pants layer copies of underwear layers). They're sexy, skimpy and thanks to low-cut jeans they can be as much a part of your fashion as something you wear for that special someone--if your RL kiddo doesn't see and want your av to pull up his pants...

Wearing thongs in RL varies by country and culture. Many in North America see men wearing thongs as gay (despite whether women like it or not), while England is more acceptable of men in the skimpy underthings. Sacrificing comfort for sexiness is something women are much more willing to do than men in many parts of the globe, but we are seeing an increase in fashion consciousness among males. How much of a role do thongs play in being sexy in and out of the RL bedroom? Statistics aren't too easy to find or, if they can be found, are skewed by the underwear company that performed the poll. So, here's inV's own poll:

Do you wear thongs in RL and how often?

The Case for Moderation

click to watch video

Ever wonder what spending too much time playing SL could do to you? Take a look at the above video. Second Life provides some sort of escape for all of us, but there comes a time when we need to disconnect from the world of avatars and reconnect with our RL selves. Remember camping and hiking and swimming?

Sure, Second Life gives us amazing homes, the ability to defy physics, the chance to create without buying expensive materials first, but that doesn't mean it has to be our constant obsession. Real Life gives us the chance to challenge our bodies and minds, connect with others on a face-to-face basis and breathe in fresh air rather than the stale air in our homes.

So, instead of turning into the blob in front of the screen who is featured in the video above, try logging in to RL a bit. Like with SL there are technical issues, but chances are you'll never be ruthed or find your hair, shoes and jewelry lodged in your ass. You may even rediscover your family, friends and even your pets. It's worth checking out. Withdrawal is likely, but after a week or two, you may discover that you like it.

ANNIVERSARY of DJ Night Event

rl ages in sl

Everyday we see, hear, and read statistics from the media and people, but are they really that accurate. The fact is in rl we fib about our ages all the time. I also know for a fact some people are under 18 in sl. Where is that percentage or an estimate above? To be honest I don't know if any age statistic is really that accurate but it's fun.

Have a good morning in rl.