Memorial Service for Jimmy Branagh

 
By Bixyl Shuftan

The Steamlands have a number of personalities among their communities. Some have a role in more than just a single group. Among these was Jimmy Branagh. In both places, he took on a child avatar to take on the role of a minor, an "urchin." When the Steelhead community reformed after getting a sim again, he managed to get the role of sheriff. But he was in other places as well, such as one Star Trek roleplay, and the Goonies.

Sadly, the person behind the avatar caught cancer, Lymphoma, last year. He last logged in on December 23 2021, and it is believed he passed away in January. As the evidence is not completely certain, he is considered not dead but missing, or "Lost at Sea," as described by Steelhead's leader Fuzzball Ortega. A memorial service was soon planned for Saturday February 12, for 1PM SL time.

Dropping by, I recognized a number of personalities from the Steamlands. But there were others from outside, such as Loki Eliot, noted builder and the founder of the "Goonies," one of the more well known groups for child avatars. There was also Avariel Falcon, the black unicorn seen at Relay for Life events and other occasions. Edward Pearse was in charge of the music stream, "It's funny trying to put background music for this. I have longer pieces but they end up being rather depressing." "It's a funeral," someone responded, "it should be a bit depressing." On the wall behind the speakers podium were a number of pictures of Jimmy, or pictures including him.

People were still hoping that since the evidence wasn't with 100% certainly, Jimmy might still be alive, "Wouldn't it be like the best thing ever if jimmy showed up for this?" "Aye." "I was expecting exactly that." "Indeed, it would be outstanding." Edward commented, " I'd strangle him, but out of kindness." Someone else commented, "I'd knock the tar out of him with nothing but the greatest of love." "I'd be furious just because I should have thought of it." "Fuzzbutt has already declared that, should Jimmy show up, we of Innsmouth send a team out to capture Jimmy and sacrifice him as first live offering to Fuzzbutt." "One heck of a welcome back party instead, yes."

Someone pondered sadly, "We all thought he'd be hear forever." "We did, Nathan, we did." "He will always be here in the bricks and smog and steel of New Babbage." "Jimmy was like the spirit of New Babbage for me." "Maybe we should name a ship the Spirit of Jimmy to honor him?" "If i ever finish that fancy victorian i have up in the fells it's going to be Branagh Hall." "There's still a few monuments he created here and there, isn't there?" "It would be nice to have something named in his honor.  He was such a good guy." "Well, Innsmouth now has a permanent tribute, made by his own hands." "Where is it?" "An entire Lovecraft story scene." "i want the landmark." "Was that the underwater story he made for LoveFest?" "We have his 'The Colour Out of Space' farm and forest scene as part of Innsmouth's Lovecraft experience."

"According to the menu.. he built the entire structure we're sitting in." "The whole chair?" "The whole town hall, you goofball!" "And the wax museum across the street." "I have his Dagon Hall as well." "I hope he deeded the museum to the city." "I'm not sure Jimmy realized how short his time was." "He was an amazing builder." "J.B.  it was an honor to meet ya."

"Did any of us know him in real life?" "No." "Jimmy was very careful to keep real-life and SL separated." "He was very private about that." "I don't think anyone knew him (in) real-life, Mr. Tenk coming closest." "Jimmy was like me in that." "Rarely broke character." "Rarely dropped the accent." "He even typed his accent in private IM." "He shared a few things here and there with me, but not about his latest health." "I started seeing a little of the real him at story time. He really loved horror." " Jimmy and I chatted about marginal stuff. His small quarters, his bad ass Alienware machine." "How long can the wax museum be expected to remain in place?" "For as long as New Babbage exists, I hope." "I think it was late November- to mid december when i started to suspect something wasn't okay; he was getting more and more erratic about logging in and didn't stay long. He kept saying it was because nothing was going on, but he also started talking about having Jimmy come into his inheritance."

Finally, Edward Pearse walked up to the podium, "All right, I might get started. Thank you everyone for coming. For me the worst part of this is not knowing if it's actually true. But that is one of the pitfalls of a digital life. It's certainly been something of a shock. Jimmy was a cornerstone of Babbage. I think I first met Jimmy around 2010 when he moved into the Coronet Gardens plot up on the cliffs when he set up the Church for the Esoteric Order of the Dagon. Lovecraft myths had seeped into steampunk and had found themselves a home within New Babbage. Jimmy had a thing for tentacles. Kids these days, really. Jimmy would always type with an accent, possibly the bastard accent of Dick Van Dyke and Keanu Reeves' versions of Cockney. But it was endearing. His greeting of 'Hoi Awl!; was a common occurrence. For a while he tried to convince me that I should type with a Connery akshent sho people would get a better feel for how I was shupposhed to shound. (a few chuckles from the audience). He even made me a mesh Connery head that I was using to try and model the Bento head.

"He was involved with roleplay within Second Life and was initially part of a Dune RPG sim called Arakis. When the sim got hit with a cease and desist and was shut down, I believe he moved here. For a time he roleplayed Joseph Merrick. I'm going to play a piece from that now." The background music then changed to The Elephant Man Main Theme, by John Morris (https://youtu.be/5ZIQFkSMiF8), and a few people complained about not being able to hear it. Edward commented of the stream, "It's supposed to cope with 100, but this is SL, and New Babbage.

"Continuing his roleplay exploits, he ran Popplefoot's Blacking Factory. He and Myrtil were behind the Midwich Cuckoo invasion of Babbage, As well as Creaky Gloom I believe. Jimmy was heavily into the Cthulhu mythos and was extensively involved in Lovefest over the years. We teamed up one year when there was a multi-sim expansion, building a secret cult temple under what is now Mornington Brewery in Academy of Industry. His Waxworks has become a tourist attraction for Babbage and this Town Hall, built by Jimmy, is the longest standing in Babbage so far. I didn't know him as well as some people but he was a respected friend and a generous soul. He will be dearly missed."

"I would like to ask Loki Eliot to come up and say a few words," Edward spoke as he stepped away from the podium. "Thanks," Loki answered. Then the child avatar stepped up, "Um, i have a few words written. ... When I look back at my time in Second Life, those first lonely steps of anxiety into this virtual world in October 2005, I do not remember when or how we met. All I remember was that at some point not long after Jimmy was there. Through all the craziness at the start as we tried to work out the why, the whats and the point of all this, Jimmy ended up by my side along with Myrtil and many others some of which are here right now. His level head and calmness helped guide what we did, and he was loyal and kind to everyone without fault.You could count on Jimmy, and I counted on Jimmy many times.

"Without Jimmy so many things in Babbage would not have turned out the way they did, the epic role-plays we did, the stories we wove. The Barrel races he won year after year before opting out of the races to let others have a chance. We shared an interest in horror & Sci-Fi fiction, in movies, in history and it showed in how we collaborated. Through him I was introduced to H.P.Lovecraft, which have inspired many of my projects since.

"We are both kids at heart, and we found a new way to express that in a virtual world and even though a kid was his role here, he was a genuine soul. That is to say Jimmy was playful, full of heart, never to serious, always wanting to please others, and to see his generosity, you only have to look at the grand creation you stand within right now. We are the pioneers of socialising in digital space, we are the first generation to build a lifetime of memories in such a place, and Jimmy is without a doubt one of the greatest builders of some of the fondest memories i’ve had not just here in Second Life but in my actual life. I shall always be grateful and will never forget. Thank you my friend Jimmy." Loki then used his gesture, "Goonies never say DIE!" And then several in the audience used it.

After a number of compliments, "A moving tribute Loki." "I can't believe I remember all the things Loki talked about." It was Arik Metzger's (ArikTheRed Resident) turn to speak, "Thanks for having me on.  Always take advantage of a chance to have me on (smile). I first met Jimmy about two weeks into SL. I had already defined what and who I was to be, after my second day in, discovering Innsmouth.  And (I) was quckly set on the idea of Lovecraft Festival (LoveFest in SL).  Jimmy saw me driving a wagon I had commissioned to be built, the LoveFest Carnival Wagon, to promote the first 'Fest.  I sized him quickly up, and a few weeks later discerned that Jimmy Branagh was the embodiment of Lovecraft's spirit in Second Life. He shared with me many Lovecraft things, and took me somewhere that I strongly suspect perhaps only one other has been.  To his private, personal sim place a friend had let him call his retreat. It was full of everything ever made with Lovecraft's theme.  Things I had never seen, and many that will never be seen. In to Jimmy privacy, I did not keep a LM. I almost regret that now. ~~Ia Cthulhu~~ *In re-spect.

"Beginning in 2014, Jimmy became our primary builder for LoveFest's adventures.  And never failed to awe and impress. He has been a Council Member of Innsmouth since I first took possession to preserve the region. We are blessed at Innsmouth to have his 'Colour Out of Space' scene, a large area, built origiinally in 2013 for LoveFest.  It will be at Innsmouth for all to enjoy, as long as I am in SL. Any wishing, please IM me and I will invite you to our sim group to keep informed as I release our tribute details tonight, for  next Wednesday.  Any friend of Jimmy's is a Friend of Innsmouth." Several people requested landmarks.

"As I was telling someone the other day, I suspec ted Jimmy was facing something in October, because he last roleplayed at my REtrl*Trek project then. But, soon after he last RPed, I had a personal disaster in real life that set my mind to reeling. And, as I have said to a few, you're not a good friend of Arik unless Arik has in good faith neglected you repeatedly (frown). And, should that scoundrel resurface, we have indeed made sure he gets sacrificed to Fuzzbutt, as Fuzzbutt's first proper sacrifice. Jimmy would apprecate that statement. Thank you for having me.  I love the guy.  I don't use past tense, because he lives on in us."

As Arik stepped away from the podium, Edward spoke, "OK, I am shutting down the music for a bit. Tepic will be taking over. Tepic Harlequin, a child avatar, stepped up, "I will be playing a bit of music I hope is appropriate to being 'Lost at Sea.' It's in sounds, so yer may want ter turn them up..And if it's too quiet, cam in closer to me. Will play three verses." Tepic then took a flute and began playing some beautiful music. 

Someone commented, "This is stunning, I am mourning deeply for someone whose name I do not know, whose face I have not seen, and whose voice I have not heard. Jimmy and I have been friends since I first bought property here. What, 2012? And he and I would gossip a bit OOC." "His life here was as real as his other life in the other world." A third person "pictured the music wafting out of the building, over the city, and out to sea..." Another "Will miss Jimmy, they and Myrtil are how she ended up involved with Faire...and other stories here." Eventually, he finished, and got a number of complements. "Tepic plays beautifully." "(sniffling and bawling), Thank you Tepic." Tepic responded, "This is a sad time for us all, but let us remember the fun we had, the playing, jokes, together, and let that memory bring a sime to our lips." "Nice point Tepic," someone responded, "It's what ceremonies like this are for."

Ceejay Writer spoke from the seats, "Not going to move, I'll just trip over something.  I have a short thing to say. Over the years, Jimmy spoke at the Aether Salon *eight* times. Clearly he had a lot of knowledge to impart to us. June 2021 - Spiritualism! April 2020 - Disposal! June 2017 - Whitechapel! May 2016 - Secret Societies! April 2015 - Freaks! April 2014 - Chirurgia!March 2013 - Kinder! January 2010 - Children! If you'd like to read the archival transcripts of his salons, follow this link, it will pull up all salons with the category "Jimmy Branagh" for your browsing convenience. (https://aethersalon.home.blog/tag/jimmy-branagh/ ) That's all from me! Enjoy the transcripts, they show a mind with a vast amount of knowledge." Someone commented, "My keyboard caddy's first Aether Salon was Jimmy and Myrtil presenting on Victorian children" "I associate Jimmy with so many things outside of Babbage as well."

Edward then asked the audience, "Does anyone else want to say anything?" Liz Wilner spoke, "Jimmy was so very kind, except when I tried to sneak in more than a one word title for a Salon poster (laugh) I got zinged on that a few times (chuckle)." Ceejay commented, "Liz, Jimmy was terrified of ME on those one word Salon titles!" 

Edward continued, "I wanted to add that while today is mostly about Jimmy. he's 'Lost at Sea.' We've had others in the past we know have gone. Blackberry, Nix and a few others were able to say their farewells. Others we're still waiting on. Yelly Donut has been MIA for over a year.  And despite my best efforts I haven't been able to contact Caesar Osterham since about 2015. There's a few bits and bobs around Babbage belonging to Denver Hax, who may be another." Someone responded, "Caesar's eyesight was failing. IT may be that he just can't see this world any more." "He was losing his vision...yes what Cee said." Edward noddedn, "Yeah, his vision was going, but it was health related.

Edward added, "I believe Mr. Tenk is looking at some sort of memorial that will combine Lost at Sea with those who have passed." Tenk added, "Something less final than laying down the hammers." Someone commented, "Nothing sweeter than those long disappeared names turning up again." "(I) just lights candles. Have one on my hearth at home for Jimmy." 

Edward then concluded, "So thank you again for coming.  I'm going to switch musical themes for something on a more positive note." "Thank you Edward for hosting," someone responded. Some got up and left, others stayed for a while, some chatting, "Jimmy features heavily in the Fleet Week video which called me into Second Life in the first place, I think he'll always be dancing somewhere in my heart (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjGWaA4x73M). " Loki asked, "Is that the one Connor where me JImmy and Myrtil take part in the submarine race against Dr O? We got disqualified cos i used depth charges."

Then the stream played "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul, and Mary. "(I) finds this song depressing." someone commented, and others agreed because of a few particular lyrics.

A dragon lives forever, but not so little boys
Painted wings and giant's rings make way for other toys
One gray night it happened, Jackie Paper came no more
And Puff, that mighty dragon, he ceased his fearless roar

While the lines have been a reference to growing up and abandoning love for fantasy, here it took on a new meaning. Second Life allows one to take on more or less whatever form they wanted. And for some it allows them to relive their childhood or have the childhood they never did in real life. And for Jimmy Branagh, his second childhood would not be interrupted by growing up, but by cancer. And while it isn't 100% certain, it appears he and his imagination have gone on to the hereafter.

There were many more comments, too many to mention in the article. Many can be summed up by that of one lady, "I will mess let the cutest little boy in Babbage."

For anyone wishing for a transcript, contact Ceejay Writer, or check the Aether Salon's website: https://aethersalon.home.blog/2022/02/24/memorial-for-jimmy-branagh/ .

Bixyl Shuftan
 

Memorial Service For Indea Vaher

 
By Gemma Cleanslate

JardenAlexis called to say there would be a memorial for her Second Life sister. Though I did not know her sister I decided to attend the memorial out of respect for the Phenomenal family of which she was a member and I am so glad I did.

Indea Vaher is a well known artist both in Second Life and in real life. Her roots are in South Carolina and Georgia. She had a Gullah ancestry. To be honest I am pretty sure I visited one of the installations she created to help people in Second Life learn Black History. I have a memory of the Gullah village I visited some years ago.

The chapel at the Premier Business Center which belongs to JardenAlexis is very lovely. There were 76 people who attended the service. ⓂⓈ ⓂⒾⓃⓍⓎ (Juanita Petrovic) greeted with “Welcome to PBC House of Prayer Memorial Service for Indea Vaher. WE LOVE AND MISS YOU INDEA!
~GONE FROM SIGHT, FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS~” and handed me a lovely program to follow.

Pastor Kitty Cummings (DulcetKitty Melody) opened the celebration with an invocation followed by scripture readings by Jonquel (Jonquel Jiagu) .The theme for the Memorial service was "Celebrating the Life of a Phenomenal Woman."

Family members did special tributes which included a Libation ceremony requested by her daughter PlumQueen, and a dance performance to the audio of the late Maya Angelou's "Phenomenal Woman" poem which was choreographed and performed by Denyayii along with two other dancers MzzSapphire, and Muñeca (monaka.harris)

There were 76 attendees in the chapel for most of the ceremony. JardenAlexis read her sister’s biography and I am going to reprint it here .

“Indea Vaher graced the Second life grid with her presence, her knowledge, wisdom, and her art on July 29, 2008. She departed this life on January 31, 2021 after 13 years of meeting and leaving an everlasting impact upon everyone that she encountered in Real Life and Second Life.

"Indea was one of the most high spirited, fun loving, and caring people on the SL grid. She was always spreading love, kindness, knowledge, and words of wisdom. No matter the subject she had an answer. She was especially passionate about her Gullah culture and the traditions of those who lived in the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and Georgia, which includes both the coastal plain and the Beaufort Sea Islands on the South Carolina Coast.

"Her Spirit, Her Art, Her Wisdom and so much more will be remembered and forever treasured by everyone who had the honor of merely speaking to her. To know her was to love her and it is an understatement to say that Indea Vaher our 'Phenomenal Woman' will be deeply missed.

"Indea is survived by her beloved SL partner DJ Blackcinder; her SL daughter Plum (plumqueen) and SL God Daughter Iɳԃια Bҽʅʅαιɾҽ (india.umia); her sisters Rhyme Gardner, Jackie Lefko-Hawk, and JardenAlexis; Her brothers Moobeemoo Redenblack, and Iwan Sweetwater; her "Cuzzo" Stew (justew.goodnight); a special nephew Kayden Colman; her very special and dear friend Zephrane Staton (zephrane) and so many other family members and friends who will tremendously miss her PHENOMENALLY.”

She then read a letter tribute by her SL brother. Moobeemoo Redenblack who could not attend.

DJ Blackcinder, her Second Life partner, with his heart breaking spoke of their relationship and closeness and his wonderful memories of her that will last forever. He said that their birthdays were the same day but one year apart and spoke of their private times talking together as the best of all in sl. Her sisters, Rhyme Gardner and Jackie Lefko-ℋąωk (Jackie Lefko), sang lovely songs for her. Each sister and brother all talked of their love and memories of their lost sister.

Other family members and friends , one after the other stood to talk of her help and contribution to helping them with their art in Second Life. One attendee, who happened to be in China at this time, actually came in at that time of night there with loving memory of her. One after another stood at the podium to praise her kindness and genuine proud Black womanhood and artistry both in SL and real-life. Their stories were done in voice and I wish I could print every one here. They were so real and full of love and loss.

Following the ceremony there was a final celebration for Indea at the PBC Botanical Gardens with her favorite music provided by her SL God daughter India Bellaire(india.umia), and a special Tribute performed by Monrocie Pontecorvo dressed as one of Indea's favorite characters from the SLeople's Court. The final event at PBC Botanical Gardens was the sequel to Indea's final request for JardenAlexis to create her a "Magical Midsummer Night's Dream SL Rezz Day party." on July 29, 2021. Indea's memorial service and final celebration was just that! A "magical" event from the beginning of the Ceremony to the final party at the PBC Botanical Gardens. This was a beautiful memorial and ending celebration for everyone.

I was amazed to attend such a beautiful memorial, It was uplifting, beautiful and educational. I did not know her but now I feel a loss that I missed making her acquaintance. I actually LEARNED her at the memorial. I almost feel that I did know her by the words I heard. Thank you Indea.

Thanks to all who arranged the inspiring celebration of her life. There are no words to really express all that I experienced. Here is some of her art.

Gemma Cleanslate
 

The BBB Anniversary Concludes

 
By Gemma Cleanslate

The last days of the BBB event were full and busy. The staff hung around the fairgrounds greeting those who were still gathering stamps for their visas. Some gatherings were planned and on the events calendar. Some were impromtu, so I did miss a few. But everyone who visited the fairgrounds had a marvelous time just exploring , riding the train and meeting the staff who were there.

A pop party where DJ FAR (fwdfwd Farslider) provided the entertaining tunes. Great attendance as usual!

Ambassador Yukiko Yeshto led another of her fun tours on Saturday to other regions of the Bellisseria continent. One amazing part of the tour was by bus. We entered a tunnel under the waterway on a region . Everyone was shocked to see the tunnel and then more surprised to enter another tunnel for the next stop. Then we transferred to the train to get us to the next stops. At each stop we picked up another visa stamp that was especially for event. Yuki advised us there would be another tour Sunday and we could hardly wait!

The start of the tour Sunday was by minicopter! That was an experience . I started flying my mini and following the course that was charted for us. Everything was fine until I wandered off the coast line and too close to a security orb I think. Next thing I know I was in the water with no copter. Thank goodness I was able to get into a passing copter and continue as a passenger.

After collecting the stamp at Fishtail Point we continued over to Molehenge that was the site of the next stamp and also a magical stone. Touching the stone was enough to take each one of us off to the next stop, Fantasseria. This is where Kalia and Riot were married a while back. We tried out the beautiful flying luna moths around the lovely community center. I missed the end of the tour but know it ended at Rigamarole pier.

Later the final planned event party took place at the fairgrounds again. DJ Stephanie spun some lovely tunes as staff and many members of the group and friends enjoyed the fireworks overhead. What a week! It was a jam packed week and it will take a while for attendees, and I am sure the staff , to recover and slow down. Thanks to Boo and all the staff for the great event! The beautiful venue at the Fairgrounds will be gone but will be replaced ty another for the next event. We will see what will come.

In the middle of all this I went over to Burn2 Winter event to do Ranger work. I took some photos of the cute gingerbread houses and the parties going on . Here is a look at some of the builds and party if you did not make it. 

Gemma Cleanslate
 

The Tenebris Falls Roleplay Community

 
By Bixyl Shuftan

Solista (Mistressbubbles Bondar) recently told me about a new roleplay sim and group: Tenebris Falls. It is located in the Nava sim. There was a grand opening party on Saturday January 22. She described it as a dark modern fantasy roleplay, adding they wanted a sim for it they could protect, and the RP itself "open to as broad a player base as possible. We are furry-friendly. Not many role play sim's like ours are."

"The Admin team here are all players that met on various Role Play Sim's that were great up till they weren't and shut down for various reasons. Well we got tired of losing story lines that we had dedicated ourselves to. So many of us carried our characters over and adapted them to each new sim." She pointed out Samasue, "Sam over there put forward the desire to own our own sim. He's the owner of this place. The other admins are also financial backers to keep the place going. This way we are not reliant on rentals to keep up open."

Samasue was happy to talk about the place, "We are a unique approach, the setting itself allows for almost every kind of race, and most "realistic" furry types....yes we are happy to accept Furry character for RP...but the lore and character creation guidelines allow for the most diverse character population possible, without the restraint of a masquerade.  And the roleplay here can be anything from slice of life, to dark RP (if you know you know) and everything in between.  its set to modern times, with current tech, and realistic expectations.  Magic is also here.

In the background lore of the story world (link), creatures from the four pillars of creation, Aether (order), Void (disorder), Veil (life and growth), and Pale (death and enthropy), had been subtly manipulating the human world, held in check only by magic-using humans and hunters. For millenia, the truth was kept away from the masses of ordinary humans. But with advancing technology it became more and more difficult to preserve the secret. So recently after secret meetings between magic-users, supernaturals, and world leaders, the Masquerade was dropped. Legally, supernaturals could live alongside humans with the same rights and responsibilities. But not all humans and demihumans were satisfied with this arrangement, the biggest problem being human vigilantes who were going after known supernaturals.

Samasue described the area, Tenebris Falls, as a city on an island off the mainland, "the city is a city in North America set aside after the break of the masquerade, where there could be some freedom from racism with humans. There are humans here, and there are some tensions. But for the most part, there is no requirement to 'hide' there is currently no governmental control. But there are local laws. Anything can happen, you can open a business....you can just life your life.....develop a crime syndicate, run with a werewolf pack, work a normal job....what ever..."

Samasue would say besides previous roleplay sims closing down for various reasons, there was also a problem with a few not paying attention to what most of the players desired, "we saw too much martial law out there trying to make people role play the way the minority wanted. Well, with our entire build, we had the community in mind.  We really really try not to say no.  There has to be /SOME/ limitations, has to be. Some people just don't know when enough is enough.  But we're not going to fence in anyone's creativity.  The Lore and RP was designed the same way, how could we give the community the widest possible choices for character creation, and still have a lore that would support it.  It was tough, but our team pulled it off. The main lore writer Kaiya Otelier put in so many hours of work refining and working, and came up with a master piece.  And its community based, for as many possible builds as we could think of.  The City build, same thing. We have aquatics, caves, forests, city, rural, parks, slums, we really wanted an open canvas for the community."

Samasue stated there was an effort to be open-minded, "myself and my staff, are all diverse long time role players, we are friendly and welcoming to any. The community is a SAFE place for anyone, LGBTQ, BDSM, what ever, there is no hate. And if we find hate in our community its dealt with swiftly, with a zero tolerance system."

Of how many were in the roleplay, Samasue told me, "The active community on sim is small, but active, and we're always looking for more....anyone from the 15-20 year veteran RPer (like me) to the first timer, everyone is welcome. But the number is like 10-15 active currently."

Of future plans, there will be monthly concerts at the sim, and most likely some in-character events as the community grows. Samasue also mentioned, "we have a couple projects that we didn't get to add into this build," but they may be done in the future. 

Looking around later, I ran into one of the locals. While he asked to be anonymous, he did say, "As a regular joe player, and I've been playing in Second Life for a long time. Many sims have come and gone. You get nostalgic and looking for a home for old characters. Even if you've got to modify it to theme for whatever sim you've landed in. People are just looking for a home for some version of their beloved characters, to invest and grow stories in again, chance to explore a different aspect or change things up, dare to go a new direction with an old favorite. Sims like Tenebris Falls, fit that bill. Allowing creative freedom within the common sense balance of strengths and weaknesses and consent based paragraph roleplay.

He would then get me in tough with the lore writer and Kaiya Otelier (Hotarru Resident). Of how Tenebris Falls has been doing, "Well we've gotten a few people who rp here regularly, and a few shop owners who've already set up. But the official opening was technically today. I wasn't expecting anything to big because the idea of the sim was basically a place for all of us to RP and be friends, and.. we just wanted to open it to everyone else who would want to join. So, we made it so anyone could be whatever they liked, and.. we had a surprisingly high turn out for opening. I wasn't expecting us to get as many as we did so quick given we weren't trying to hard to advertise."

When I asked if there was a favorite type among the characters here, "Hm. (We) got some unique ones, honestly. I think because we don't use predetermined races and racials, we get quite a wide variety from normal people hosting Eldritch Horrors, to Kumihos people continue to mistake as Kitsune. Some typical fae, but I think that Fae are always so popular because of their varieties. Could have a group of ten fae and not one of them look anything like any of the others. But given all of the admins but one have at least 1 fae character, I'd say they are fairly popular. Fae and witches. People always love magic. Surprised I've only seen two or three demons, so far honestly.

"We are furry friendly, as long as they match their character up with the lore and setting.  I don't see why that needs to be stated.. As if furries shouldn't be allowed for some reason? But yeah, we let in anyone as long as they abide the roleplay etiquette, and character creation rules."

I pointed out the variety of buildings, "Yup. Tried to add a lot of different ones so people could find things that suit them. And I think we got a few different kinds, modern to old style, homey to run down.. people like a variety." I then asked what was the most unusual place made into a home, "That would undoubtedly be April Jean. During the build, (she) requested we give her a cave that she could set up a cardboard box in. (She) offered to pay rent, and Sam told her she didn't have to pay L for a 2li box. So yeah, we got her a cave. And a dumpster here in the city (chuckle). ... she's a bit of an insane and young unruly lycan.

"We want to be that place you can bring your character that doesn't fit anywhere else. (The) only thing we don't really have a spot for is scifi and cyber punk set characters. ... We are set in modern day, a place just off the coast of north west America. Separate mind you, as we try to keep politics, covid, and all that jazz out of the picture. People come here to avoid real-life, not get into it, ya know?  But yeah, you'll find a lot of people are playing characters that are either warped to present day from older time framed sims, or just grew to be a couple hundred or thousand years old. So you'll find their places fashioned up and decorated to be more old fashioned.

"I think a good idea of separation would be the confectionery shop run by a human that looks like a normal confectionery. Then if you go out to the woods, you can find a bath house run by a fae who grew up in the roman times. So it's an open roof dual sex bath house with lots of statues themed to look like it was run that time, but made to fit in with the settings."

I would look around. There was a small city area, and a housing area with a small event area in between. The houses themselves ranged from large homes fit for a wealthy man to small rustic looking ones for those with not much income. The town area had some businesses from manufacturing to local ones such as the coffee shop and the confectionery. There was a movie theater and what looked like a disco. And there was the clinic and police station. There was also a Japanese garden and a church with a cemetery. A tunnel led to the countryside (located on another level), with an asphalt road leading to a biker bar, and dirt paths that went into the woods. I found one abandoned building.

For those looking for more information about the roleplay community, check out the website at https://tenebris-falls.wixsite.com/tenebris-falls . You can also find a little information as well as ways to contact the admins at http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Nava/97/152/2501 . 

Bixyl Shuftan

Interview With Mattie Carlton of the RFL Sunbeamers

 
By Penny Shuftan

I had an opportunity to sit down with one of the Sunbeamer Relay team, Mattie Carlton (MattDCarlton Resident), for an interview about hir being in the Relay for Life in Second Life.

The first question was how long she had been in Relay for Life in real life. "Well, basically since I was old enough to walk," replied Mattie, "My grandma was big into (it), as it meant a lot to her, and when I was old enough I was going with her to the big 24hrs, even if just for a couple of hours to start. As I got older I started going door to door for donations and staying all night there with her. I took a break for a few years when she got sick again and had to stop going. It wasn't till a year after she died, I started to get involved again. The about another year after that I met Bix and you (Penny) that introduced me to the one on here, that I somehow never knew about. And I thank you both for that!"

I smiled and said, "You're welcome." before continuing on with the interview.  I was wondering if Mattie would continue her work in the Relay for Life. "I plan to as long as I am able," said Mattie, "I have ideas and hope some help out this season."

The next question would be what is Mattie's favorite part of the Relay for Life.  "Hmm that is a tough one. Let me think," Mattie said, "I think or me it is the camaraderie, the way we help each other despite being on different teams, and having a playful rivalry. That kind of one team mind set that helps all of us come together to raise the amounts that we do each year. Then the icing on the cake for me is seeing that final total.  Seeing all those epic builds for relay weekend is pretty epic too."

The next couple of questions came to being about her grandmother.  It would be about Mattie's grandmother being Mattie's inspiration.  "Yes, I would say she was my biggest inspiration for RFL," replied Mattie, "Especially when I was younger, she was the reason I went. As I got older and met more people I found more and more reason to help with Relay, but she was that initial spark that started the flame I suppose." 

I was wondering if Mattie's grandmother still inspires Mattie. "Very much so," she said, "A lot of the parties and little things she would do with her team still make me giggle or smile to this day, and I remember the smile I would see on her face during relay weekend at the one here in town. I hope to try and keep that spirit alive."

The interview changed to Mattie's writing. "Yes I have been off and on (on it)," said Mattie, "I suffer from CPTSD and Depression with anxiety. I am also autistic. The writing was and is an outlet for some of this. However I have a lot of self-motivation issues, and so sometimes I go months in between working on a story." 

 I was wondering if her grandmother inspires Mattie to be a writer. "Hmm, I would say to some degree, yes," said Mattie, "She did some writing and such as well, but she was a very creative person. She wrote poems, essays, stories, made her own blouses, my costumes as a kid, painted her home, decorated, etc. She even did skits for her Relay team. She had a big imagination as well. She was also a good cook."

I asked her if she's going to keep writing, and this is her response. "I plan to yes. I at the very least would like to finish one short story collection and get it published. I already have the cover art," Mattie said with a smile.

The next question was what is her best work, and Mattie replied,"That is a tough call. Some have really liked the story about my odd convention dream. Others like The Holiday Gift story. Then there was the one about my dysphoria and becoming my true self or fursona, via surgeries and experimental procedures.  That last one is called, 'Recoded.' "

As the interview drew to an end, I asked Mattie what her real life hobbies would be.  "Well, Some of my real-life hobbies, include photography, storm chasing (when able), going to various car shows and motor sports events," Mattie replied, "I am a furry on Second Life and in real life, (so) I go to a lot of conventions, and often Ren-fairs in my fursuit and hope to make a few people smile. As for here in world, I DJ from time to time, and mostly just hang out or visit with friends. I also like to spend time on VR Chat with a few friends to play games or fly planes. I used to fly a bit in real life, but my uncle moved away and I have not been able to as much as I used to.  I also like to make TikToks at times."

When the interview ended, I told Mattie that she had inspired me to start thinking more about joining Sunbeamers.  With a good feeling, I did check and guess what? I already am a member of Sunbeamers, and it was all Mattie's inspiring me to join the awesome Relay for Life group.  I thanked Mattie for inspiring me to be a part of them.

Here you have it, an interview with Sunbeamer Mattie Carlton.  To this very day, she continues to sing (she's a really good singer), as well as write, and continues to be a part of the Sunbeamers and Sunweavers group.  I don't know about you, but in my opinion, what Mattie had done so far with the Relay for Life is just that ... very amazing!
 
Penny Shuftan

Interview With Sunnweaver Leader Rita Mariner

 
By Penny Shuftan

I was lucky enough to be able to get together with Rita Mariner, the leader of the Sunweaver community.  

My first question was if she owns Sunweaver and other lands. "I own 10 sims, four full, 6 homesteads," said Rita,  "About 10 years, I started out with Sunweaver Isle and expanded from there, as demand grew." According to Rita, the best thing about rental people would be people.

Rita not only has these sims, she also have two clubs; Club Cutlass, and Club Zero Gravity.  "I had them, when we lived in Pockwock," Rita replied, "on the mainland, just moved them, when he had the room here."  I also asked Rita what's the best part about owning the clubs.  She said, "The
people again, I don't run either club for profit. I Just wanted a fun place to hangout with friends."

Rita is also with the Relay For Life in Second Life.  "Yes, I've started with the Passionate Redheads, until they broke up," said Rita, "I then started the Sunbeamers, and been going with them, ever since. I created the team, so I am the boss bunny." The best part of working with the Sunbeamer team would be her team members, and thinking up crazy stuff to do each year with the teams and its members.

One game created for the Sunbeamers' Relay events is the Demolition Derby, which Shockwave created based on her idea.  "It has audience participation, they get to fire cannons at the drivers," said
Rita, after saying that they all have a blast there.

Rita's goal for 2022 is to keep in doing what she has been doing, running the Sunweavers and Sunbeamer team and enjoy the company of her friends while doing so, "It's fun to hangout with my friends, some of them I know in real-life," said Rita, "I used to attend furry conventions as an artist/dealer.  There would be Sunweavers there, we would all get together for dinner one night at the conventions."

Rita's original avatar was a rat, who she named after a female rat in "Flushed Away." She later settled on the Kani Bunny as her main avatar, although she has dozens topick from. 

As we ended the interview, Rita had one more thing to say, "I just follow The Golden Rule, treat others, as you wish to be treated." 

Rita is a hard worker, who cares a lot about the others in many ways.  She is very successful at running the sims, and the clubs.  As we ended the interviews, I did so with a smile because Rita is truly a remarkable person.

Penny

Editor's Note: Just after the interview, Rita gave her renters a month's free rent.
 

Interview With Snowy AngelBun Lefavre (Skylark Lefavre)

 
By Penny Shuftan

Earlier, I had a chance for an interview with a very successful DJ, and club manager, Snowy AngelBun Lefavre.  My first question was how long she had been Djing.  "Seems like a while, least over five years now," said Snowy.  

My next question would be if Snowy could remember where she was when she first Djing.  "I think it was The Happy Vixen," Snowy replied.  I then asked if she is a manager at any other club, and according to Snowy, she is a manager at Bouncing Bunny Beach Club.  That's where she also DJs. Snowy had been Djing and managing at the BBB Club for close to a year she thinks.

Snowy's favorite thing to do would be DJing. But the thing she enjoys the most is having people to share her passion with and enjoy her music that she plays.

I wanted to know something about Snowy being a very empathic caring furry with a big heart who has a very successful DJing and managing club.  "I would be flattered," said Snowy, "but I am just being how I was raised to be It's all I know how to be." 

I had been wondering about the fact that Snowy is one of the hard-working DJ and manager of the most popular clubs ever. How does she feel about being the most popular (in my opinion), especially with a very successful DJ career. "I never really think about any of that," Snowy said, "I just do it to have fun with friends and fans. I like to party and I like partying with those that enjoy partying."

According to Snowy, she's going to be around as a DJ, and manager for as long as she is wanted and needed. I told Snowy that since she is one of the most popular DJ and manager, I don't think that Snowy will ever stop being wanted or needed.  "I am pleased that I am still wanted and needed," Snowy replied, "I will continue making others happy." 

I pointed out that Snowy also has a kind heart, always helping people with their health problems. I was just curious to see how Snowy feel about people referring to her as someone they could count on when it comes to their health issues. "I help others so they can continue to be around and enjoy life. I don't think much except parental thoughts." said Snowy.

I did bring up something about people coming to Snowy's clubs.  From what I can see from my time at these two very popular clubs, many people are coming to the clubs, even deaf people.  That should tell Snowy about her popularity. "It says a lot," Snowy said, "but I also know DJing is more than just the music. It means interacting with the fans in a way that brings comfort and enjoyment." 

We started talking about goals for 2022. "Yes I plan on rebuilding my life so I can be here much longer as I have my own health issues to overcome. I hope to be around to keep being me," replied Snowy, "It would be hard to be here unless i take care of myself."

The conversation changed to the fact that Snowy had been through surgeries.  "I am thankful I survived my surgeries," she said, "But yes I am more stubborn as I djed while healing after surgeries cause I never wanted to let anyone down."

Snowy is happy DJing and managing at the most popular clubs.  She also try to help any place she works at to become a fun place to be.

Snowy has advice for anyone who wants to become a DJ.  "Everyone starts from the same place, no one is born good. We all work at it and it takes several variables to make a working combination," said Snowy, "but it is possible for anyone that puts their mind to it." 

We started talking about a club that used to be around, Castaway Cove Club.  It was a club built into a shipwreck of an old 18th century club.  "It was small, but we had fun there," said Snowy, who had been a manager until its' closure due to the sim owner, Sunray, giving up his sims.  He died shortly after.

I sent Snowy my condolences, and wanted to know about her role in Castaway Cove Club.  According to her, she was just the manager.  Snowy thanked me for my condolences, saying that Sunray was the sweetest guy she ever knew.  "He is missed," she added.  

As we continued to talk about the Castaway Cove Club, she said that Kitacelia was her only hostess at that time.  Now, right now, Kitacelia works for Snowy at two different clubs.  "I chose her because of Castaway Cove Club." Snowy said.  "Castaway Cove Club was a themed club, but it was fun."

As the interview came to an end, I did have one last question for Snowy.  I was just wondering how Snowy feels about being an inspiration to some people.  "It pleases me I am of such valued use to others in needs," she replied.

Here you have it, an interview with one of the most popular DJ, and club managers, Snowy AngelBun Lefavre.  I will be having a follow-up interview with her in January.  As I have looked forward to this particular interview, I am really looking forward to the follow-up interview.  Of course, I'd have to add that Snowy had inspired me many times, and will come to inspire me for many months and years to come.  After all, she's an inspiration.

Penny
 

Interview With Strawberry Linden

 
By Bixyl Shuftan

A few days ago, I had a chance to talk to Strawberry Linden. Strawberry is a popular Linden, having gotten her start as a noted fashion blogger. When hired, she became a marketing specialist, eventually moving up to Senior Social Media Manager. She appears in Linden Lab's "Lab Gab" shows, but also communicates to the residents in occasional Linden blog posts, interviews such as the Meet the Lindens events at the Second Life Birthday events, and others. While much is already know about her, here was a chance to learn a little more.

Bixyl Shuftan: To begin with, how did you find out about Second Life?

Strawberry Linden: An old friend told me about it, so I decided to sign up and check it out. I was confused at first and logged out right away. But then 2 weeks later I logged back in to give it another try and got hooked.

Bixyl Shuftan: How were your first days here after your second try?

Strawberry Linden: It was fun, I made some more friends and we "lucky chair" hopped together, and I won this beautiful red gown and walked around with it for like a month (laughter). Of course I first attached the box to my head, until someone showed me how to rez and open it and then wear it.

Bixyl Shuftan: How long did that take?

Strawberry Linden: Within a few days once I returned. Then I found this club that was all about bollywood music, which I am obsessed with, so I started hanging out there and made a lot of friends and just had so much fun. ... lot of social events.

Bixyl Shuftan: How did the idea of becoming a fashion blogger come about?

Strawberry Linden: One of the friends I made at the club had her own fashion blog, and she kept pestering me to join her, and for two months I kept saying no, and then December of 2007 I finally gave in and did my first post. A lot of people like the way I styled my avatar and gave me positive feedback from my blog posts, so I kept doing it and once she left Second Life a few months later, I created my own personal blog.

Bixyl Shuftan: In your opinion what were your most noteworthy posts?

Strawberry Linden: My tutorials and my meme and blog challenges. They got the most amount of attention early on. Then later when mesh heads and bodies were released and I started showcasing those in detail, those were the most requested.

Bixyl Shuftan: What were some of the challenges in operating the blog? Were any subjects hard to write about? 

Strawberry Linden: Nothing really, my blog was just a fun hobby for when I had time. The only challenging thing that happened was around the end I was just getting burnt out over blogging all the mesh heads and bodies that people kept requesting. So I'm happy I was able to stop doing those. I didn't like that my blog started feeling like something I had to do, instead of the fun and creative outlet it was for me.

Bixyl Shuftan: When did the Lab approach you about joining them? 

Strawberry Linden: They didn't approach me. They put up a position for a Marketing Content Specialist. They wanted someone to take high quality images and videos in Second Life and help them with marketing content. One of my friends told me that a lot of people were talking about the position and saying that it's what Strawberry does. I laughed and then I looked at the description and I thought, hey yeah maybe I can do this. So I applied, and 6 interviews later, i was hired.

Bixyl Shuftan: Nice, in April 2019?

Strawberry Linden: Yes, April 15th.

Bixyl Shuftan: What were some of your biggest surprises after you joined the Lab? 

Strawberry Linden: I was pleasantly surprised to see how passionately the employees are about the platform, majority of them are active Residents as well. It's been so amazing to work with people that absolutely love what they do and actually use and enjoy the product as well, just like myself.

Bixyl Shuftan: Nice, whom did you get along with the best? 

Strawberry Linden: Oh goodness, you're asking me to pick favorites (laughter), gonna get me in trouble. I interact with so many of them, and they are all so friendly and nice. I have to say that my absolute favorite person is Brett Linden, and not just because he's my boss. He's probably the best boss I've ever had and I feel like I can go to him for anything. Ebbe was also one of my favorites.

Bixyl Shuftan: I recall you've been on Lab Gab a number of times, with Xiola Linden.

Strawberry Linden: Yes, Xiola and I started the show together. She is actually the one that named it, Lab Gab. She was so much fun to work with as well. She was one of my first friends in the company and was my buddy that helped me through all the paperwork on the first day of work (laughter).

Bixyl Shuftan: Will Lab Gab continue to air on occasion?

Strawberry Linden: Yes definitely. I did try to do it every week or every other week, but it's just a lot of work to do it regularly like that, especially with all the other projects on my plate. But yes, it will continue in the new year and in fact I will be having some Linden employees on to talk about updates and other news, etc, in the new year.

Bixyl Shuftan: Was there anything you wanted to mention about the upcoming year?

Strawberry Linden: A lot of good news hopefully. I am excited for it and to see the platform grow even more. As for specifics, I can't say much aside from upcoming community events like Shop & Hop for Valentine's Day is already schedule and of course our 19th birthday this year in June will hopefully be even bigger.

Bixyl Shuftan: Should be fun. Was there anything else you wanted to mention?

Strawberry Linden: I wanted to wish everyone in the community and really happy holiday season with their virtual family and friends. I hope everyone stays safe!

Bixyl Shuftan: Thank you Strawberry, and Merry Christmas to you as well.

That concluded the interview with Strawberry, though we talked for a few more minutes. She also wanted to take a few pictures. 

So no doubt Strawberry will be continuing to do what she does. 

Bixyl Shuftan