FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: VWBPE 2026 Conference INSIGHTS 19-21 March 2026 in Second Life®

The 19th annual Virtual Worlds Best Practices in Education Conference, beginning on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, will be an online distributed conference happening in multiple virtual spaces. This conference focuses on the use of immersive virtual environments for educational purposes, including virtual and augmented reality. 

This year we are returning to our Earth build. Each region represents a different terrestrial biome, including wetlands, desert, badlands, grasslands, and forests. Conference attendees will be able to explore 3D immersive virtual representations of these biomes.

The conference regions will be open to the public on Sunday, March 15th at 9:00 am SLT (Second Life Time / Pacific Daylight Time).

**VWBPE 2026 GATEWAY** 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/VWBPE%20Grasslands%20Gateway/128/123/23 

To the best ability possible, VWBPE provides educational and networking opportunities that are relevant to educational curriculum development utilizing virtual environments and “best practices”. These include

helping to build community through extension of learning best practices to practical application of those ideas and techniques;

providing networking opportunities for educators and the communities that help support education; and

providing access to current innovations, trends, ideas, case studies, and other best practices for educators and the communities that help support education

One of the key challenges faced by the educational community is how to make the best use of new immersive technologies in a way that is sustainable and accessible based on limited budgets available to both instructors and students. Platforms that are free or open source, or that can be shared across a broad audience, are showcased, including methods and research around best practices in their use and applicability.

Our theme for this year is Insights.

The 2026 theme, “Insights”, invites us to look deeper—beyond the tools and platforms—toward the lessons, challenges, and opportunities that are redefining education in an age of rapid technological transformation. For more about the theme, see the blog post here: https://www.vwbpe.org/vwbpe-news/welcome-to-vwbpe-2026-insights.

Join us as we all share experiences and successes in how virtual technologies used in the classroom have helped shape education for the better.

This year's keynote speakers are Philip Rosedale, Ryan Schultz, and Mark Childs. Invited speakers include representatives from Linden Lab, and many of the Thinkerer Award winners. 

The VWBPE conference keynote speakers and their respective presentations are featured on the conference website (http://vwbpe.org), along with a program of exciting presentations, social activities, and networking events that will set extraordinary discussions in motion.  

The VWBPE Immersive Experiences showcase unique and interesting work being conducted across the metaverse. We invite you to join us as we explore eleven interactive and engaging locations across five virtual environments. The Immersive Experiences are scheduled from March 14th through April 1st (exclusive of the conference dates). Details and access instructions for the experiences are found at https://www.vwbpe.org/conference/vwbpe26-program.   

Additionally, this open and free conference would not be possible without the generous contributions of our VWBPE sponsors. https://www.vwbpe.org/vwbpe-2026-sponsors.   

The Rockcliffe Registration Portal is open for people to register new Second Life® avatars and find out more about the VWBPE conference in-world. Go to https://www.enroll.onl/secondlife.php . The instructions are there to get you and your friends started at this educator-friendly newcomers’ region in Second Life®.

The full conference program is online here: https://www.vwbpe.org/conference/vwbpe26-program. 

You can also view presentations live on YouTube at http://vwbpe.org/watch. 

All of the conference events will be in Second Life® this year, and the locations are included in the listings. When you click on a conference event and click Add to Calendar, you can add the event to your own calendar (Google and more).

NOTE: Daylight Savings Time

In most of the United States and Canada (and in Second Life), Daylight Savings Time is in effect as of 8 March 2026. In Europe, Great Britain, and many other locations, DST is in effect as of 29 March, 2026, after the conference begins. Check this page to find out when (and if) a time change is in effect for you: https://www.timeanddate.com/time/dst/2026.html.

**VWBPE 2026 GATEWAY**

SLurl: 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/VWBPE%20Grasslands%20Gateway/128/123/23 

**VWBPE 2026 SOCIAL VISITOR CENTER** http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/VWBPE%20Wetlands%20Marsh/175/158/21 

**KEYNOTES**

https://www.vwbpe.org/conference/vwbpe-2026-keynotes  

KEYNOTE:

Philip Rosedale / SL: Philip Linden

CTO, Linden Lab

Thursday 19 March 2026

12:00 pm noon SLT @ VWBPE Auditorium

KEYNOTE: 

Ryan Schultz

Science & Agriculture Librarian, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg

Friday 20 March 2026

9:00 am SLT @ VWBPE Auditorium

KEYNOTE:

Mark Childs / SL: Gann McGann

Senior Learning Designer, University of Durham (Durham UK)

Saturday 21 March 2026

9:00 am SLT @ VWBPE Auditorium

**INVITED SPEAKERS**

ABOVE THE BOOK: Catching Up with the Lindens

Host: Kevin Feenan / Phelan Corrimal

Linden Lab Guests: TBA

Friday 20 March 2026

1:00pm SLT @ VWBPE Auditorium

ABOVE THE BOOK: Catching up with the Thinkerers

Lynne Berrett / Lissena (Wisdomseeker)

VWBPE 2021 Thinkerer

Saturday 21 March 2026

3:00 pm SLT @ VWBPE Auditorium

**WEB PAGES**

Conference Information: http://vwbpe.org 

Program: https://www.vwbpe.org/conference/vwbpe26-program   

Registration: http://vwb.pe/register  

Sponsors: https://www.vwbpe.org/vwbpe-2026-sponsors 

Rockcliffe Gateway to Second Life®: https://www.enroll.onl/secondlife.php 

Watch VWBPE Livestream: https://www.vwbpe.org/watch 

**SOCIAL MEDIA**

Second Life® Group

secondlife:///app/group/8b03480a-793d-ba5b-5b6b-dd10afb5d38e/about

Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/vwbpe 

Flickr

http://www.flickr.com/photos/vwbpe_org/ 

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/vwbpe_organization/ 

LinkedIn

http://www.linkedin.com/groups/3754644/ 

X (formerly Twitter)

https://x.com/vwbpe  

YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/VWBPE 

**MAJOR SPONSORS**

Linden Lab

https://www.lindenlab.com/

Rockcliffe University Consortium

https://urockcliffe.com/ 

Knomaze Corporation

https://knomaze.com/ 

Virtual Ability

https://virtualability.org/ 

Agile Dimensions

https://www.agiledimensions.com/blog/ 

Whole Brain Health

https://www.agelessmindproject.org/  

**CONTACT**

Bevan Whitfield

VWBPE Communications Chair

marketing@vwbpe.com 

[Attached: VWBPE 2026 Insights logo]

last modified 3/11/2025

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PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SL Enquirer Singer-Songwriter Open Mic Competition

updated 3/13/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 SL Enquirer Open Mic Auditions – Country Music Edition 
 Saturday, March 21 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM SLT
 Featuring Wolfie Starfire | L$5000 Music Prize | Sponsored by SecondLife.music 

 Grab your boots, tune those strings, and bring a story worth singing. 
This March, the SL Enquirer Open Mic Auditions ride into town with a Country Music Edition, celebrating the heartfelt storytelling, twangy guitars, and down-home spirit that define the genre. From back-porch ballads to honky-tonk stompers, this afternoon is all about songs that tell a story and voices that mean every word.

 Whether you're performing an original tune about life’s winding roads or putting your own spin on a beloved country classic, this open mic is about authenticity, heart, and the timeless tradition of sharing stories through song. Bring the twang, bring the soul, and you could walk away with L$5000 and a featured spotlight in the SL Enquirer.

 Your hosts for the afternoon:
Ninja Antwoord, keeping things lively and welcoming, alongside the legendary Wolfie Starfire, whose passion for live music continues to inspire performers across the Second Life stage. Together, they’ll guide artists and music lovers through an afternoon filled with heartfelt performances, community spirit, and country music at its finest.

 Presented by SecondLife.music, this event celebrates the rich tradition of live music in the Second Life community—where artists share their stories, connect with audiences, and keep the spirit of live performance alive.

 The Prize:
 L$5000 + SL Enquirer Feature awarded to the most outstanding performance of the afternoon

 So polish up that guitar, warm up those vocals, and step into the spotlight. Whether you're performing or cheering from the crowd, expect great music, good company, and plenty of country soul.

 Saturday, March 21 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM SLT
 Live music. Real stories. Country soul.

 The mic is ready. The stage is waiting. Let’s bring a little country to Second Life. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Akamai/214/23/22

_____________________________________
With over 20 years experience reporting virtual world news and participating in numerous charities, events and sponsorships across the grid, the SL Enquirer is the longest running media source in SL. We love working with our fans!

Contact: Ninja, SLE Events Coordinator (ninjaantwoord resident)

About Ninja Antwoord:

Ninja Antwoord is a passionate and dynamic host in the Second Life music scene. Known for his love of live music and his ability to bring people together, Ninja continues to make waves by creating fun and engaging events for all music lovers.

Public Landmark:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Akamai/214/23/22

Website:

http://www.slenquirer.com/

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/TheSLEnquirer/

https://twitter.com/LanaiJarrico/

______________________________

Performer Website:

https://wolfiestarfire.com/

https://www.facebook.com/wolfie.starfire/

About Wolfie Starfire:

Wolfie Starfire is a soulful singer-songwriter with a powerful voice and a unique style. Her heartfelt lyrics and captivating performances have earned her a loyal following. With her warm presence, Wolfie is the perfect co-host to bring an extra spark of magic to this love-themed edition of the auditions.

_______________________________

About SecondLife.music

SecondLife.music is the go-to platform for virtual live music bookings, singer/songwriter showcases, and special event promotion within Second Life. Whether you're a musician seeking to perform, a venue looking for fresh talent, or an event organizer hoping to make a splash, SecondLife.music connects all the key players in the world of virtual live music.

Media Contact:

Ninja Antwoord (ninjaantwoord resident)
Founder/Owner, SecondLife.music
Email: ninjaantwoord@secondlife.music
Website: https://www.secondlife.music
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573566731384
Discord: https://discord.com/invite/RW9TdBpN5y

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MODELS SOUGHT FOR "THE GIRLS OF TRAVEL & ADVENTURE" PHOTO SHOOT IN PROVOCATEUR MAGAZINE

 

Are you a model or interested in modeling? You could be one of the "Girls of Travel & Adventure" and model designer clothing and outfits in exotic travel destinations.on the pages of Provocateur, a Second Life adult lifestyle and erotica magazine.  Travel & Adventure is currently holding a competition to find models to appear in a travel-themed fashion pictorial that will be published in an upcoming issue of Provocateur.  The modeling contest and photo shoot are being sponsored by Black Purrl Airlines, which is currently the largest travel provider in SL, providing air, sea, rail and bus trips to SL residents.  

The contest is currently underway and applications will be accepted until April 30, 2026.  Applicants need to provide a headshot and full body shot of their avatar, as well as a short essay introducing themselves to the judges.  The official contest rules and application form can be obtained in the Group Notices section of the Travel & Adventure group or at their office in Nautilus City.  

Travel & Adventure operates a group in which travel providers offer a wide variety of free travel and tourism experiences (e.g. airplane flights, sea cruises, rail trips, bus tours, etc.).  By joining this group, SL residents can view the various trips offered and select which ones they would like to experience.  There is never a charge for any of the trips offered in the group.  The group can be found in Search under "Travel & Adventure".  T&A also offers premium services such as private charter trips, vacation and short-term rentals, and complete custom vacation packages. 

Information is also available on the Travel & Adventure website at https://fawncobalt.wixsite.com/travel

Contact Fawn Cobalt for any questions.

The SLURL for the Travel & Adventure Group is secondlife:///app/group/5eed6fa3-6ea1-cdb5-16c6-9b5d312ed131/about

The SLURL for the T&A office is http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Nautilus%20-%20Adherbal/180/142/114

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NAAR ABSINTHE The LONGEST-SERVING LUXE Paris LOOK of the YEAR

Interview by Aria Absinthe 

Naar Absinthe is the longest-serving LUXE Paris LOOK of the YEAR winner still active on the grid, a distinction that reflects both her enduring presence and influence within the fashion house. 

Appointed LUXE Paris Ambassador in 2017, she has remained a close partner and friend of the brand ever since, serving as a member of the jury for the prestigious style competition and mentoring many of its finalists. 

FASHION as STATEMENT 

PRESENCE, DISCIPLINE & AUTHENTICITY

Naar Absinthe’s presence in fashion has never been about noise. It is about purpose. From the runway to the classroom of her In-Nova Modeling Academy, her work reflects a deep respect for craft, discipline, and self expression. Her journey is one of evolution, not away from fashion, but deeper into it. In this interview, Naar speaks candidly about confidence built through experience, authenticity over visibility, and the responsibility that comes with influence. 

What emerges is a portrait of a woman who understands fashion not as decoration, but as language, power, and purpose. Fashion has never been something Naar Absinthe simply wore. It has always been something she lived. 

Long before titles accumulated and roles expanded, fashion was already her language, a way to speak without asking permission, to express identity through purpose rather than volume. Today, when titles are stripped away, she defines herself simply: a model deeply passionate about her work.

A PASSION THAT NEVER FADED

That passion has never faded. The excitement remains. The butterflies still arrive backstage before every runway walk. Nervousness, she believes, is not weakness, it is proof of care. Proof that the work still matters. 

What has changed is fear. In her earliest days, fear was loud. Fear of mistakes. Fear of looking foolish. Fear of not being enough. Experience transformed that fear into perspective. Confidence didn’t arrive as arrogance, but as acceptance, the understanding that perfection is not required, that everything can be learned, adjusted, repaired. 

Today, she steps forward knowing that mistakes do not define her. Growth does. A stylist’s soul from the beginning, Naar was never meant to be just a model. Her teachers saw it early: a stylist’s soul, an instinct to turn clothing into statement. Every look carried her personality. Every choice said something. Fashion was never decoration, it was declaration. 

That belief crystallized during her first styling assignment. Asked to create a look that said “this is me,” she chose gothic while others leaned casual or minimal. When her teacher described her as dramatic, she bristled, until realization set in. Gothic is drama. The message had landed. The vision was clear. 

OWNING THE RUNWAY

From that moment on, Naar committed to fashion with purpose. No styling without meaning. No look without intent. Her runway presence, often described as controlled, intentional, powerful, was forged in fear. 

A mentor once told her to fake confidence until it became real. She did. Fear turned into energy. Energy into power. Power into presence. What once terrified her became addictive. 

Today, when she walks, she feels strong, confident, almost invincible, a balance of instinct and discipline earned through years of owning space. Authenticity over visibility.  

Authenticity, for her, has never been negotiable. In an industry driven by visibility, she defines it as consistency with self. On the runway, authenticity means honoring the design while maintaining identity. Off it, it means living honestly, without bending to trends or expectations. Authenticity is not pleasing everyone, it is respecting yourself. 

TEACHING WITH RESPONSABILITY

Teaching entered her life not as a side role, but as responsibility. She understands what it means to shape others in an industry that demands much and forgives little.

Her mentors taught her discipline, humility, professionalism, and respect, values she now passes on without compromise. She is clear about her mission: she does not create little models. She develops strong ones. 

She sees clearly where many go wrong. Success is often mistaken as a finish line rather than a practice. Visibility mistaken for permanence. 

Fashion is relentless. It rewards those who remain disciplined, humble, and committed. Those who forget this are often left behind. Balance is everything. Individuality gives a model presence. Professionalism gives them longevity. Naar teaches both, encouraging essence while demanding responsibility. One makes you memorable. The other keeps you standing.

Technical mastery, Naar insists, is no longer optional. Presence alone is not enough. Understanding the mechanics of Second Life, construction, editing, performance, is what separates those who adapt from those who falter. 

A strong foundation allows professionalism under pressure. 

FINDING HER VOICE

One of Naar’s most defining moments came quietly, without applause. When Naar chose to create her own academy without partners, she was told she would fail. Dismissed. Diminished. 

That rejection became fuel. Naar stopped seeking validation and began building for herself. In doing so, she found her voice, and refused to let it be silenced again. 

Naar’s definition of success has evolved. Once measured in milestones and recognition, it is now rooted in authenticity, growth, and impact. Success is not a moment. It is alignment. 

HER INSPIRATIONS:

GRACE JONES & LADY GAGA

Naar’s inspirations cross worlds. Grace Jones shapes her runway presence, strength, command, and unapologetic ownership, while Lady Gaga fuels her styling with fearless creativity and rule-breaking artistry. Together they remind her that fashion is communication, play, and the power to surprise. 

There is no divide between Naar's real-life self and her Second Life presence. They share the same essence and truth. Her fashion statement today reflects independence, creativity, and confidence, a belief in forging your own path while respecting the craft. 

What continues to excite her is possibility: reinvention, mentorship, and growth. Helping others find their voice while refining her own. 

Above all, she holds to a lesson that never fades, when humility is lost, excellence soon follows. Vanity may belong on the runway, but off it, respect defines greatness. And the day the nerves disappear is the day the passion has faded. 

Naar Absinthe reflects on fashion as more than style, it is discipline, identity, and purpose. From overcoming early fears on the runway to becoming a mentor and educator, her journey is rooted in authenticity and respect for the craft.

Inspired by icons, she views fashion as a powerful form of communication. For Naar, true success is not measured by visibility alone, but by growth, integrity, and the ability to inspire others. For Naar Absinthe, fashion is not about being seen. It is about being true, and letting that truth walk.

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EROTIQUE BURLESQUE:LOVE OF DANCE:A deep passion for movement and expression through dance, providing joy,a means of self-expression Friday March 13@7:15pm slt.

 

EROTIQUE BURLESQUE:LOVE OF DANCE: A deep passion for movement and expression through dance, providing joy, a means of self-expression. It is the drive that fuels dancers to pursue their art. Friday,  March 13@7:15pm slt.

THEME:L'AMOUR DE LA DANSE

🍸 Dress Code: Semi Formal or in theme

🍸 Bring Your Friends for a night of sexy fun!

🍸 Doors Open Early! Don't miss out!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/French%20Soleil/117/135/28

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EROTIQUE BURLESQUE:Luck Be A Lady! This might be your lucky night. Our encore show Sunday Feb 22@12:30 pm slt.

 EROTIQUE BURLESQUE: Luck Be A Lady! This might be your lucky night. Let our showgirls Roll the dice. It might be a dream come true! Just for you!

Sunday, Feb 22@12:30 pm slt.

THEME: Casino Royale

🍸 Dress Code: Semi Formal or in theme

🍸 Bring Your Friends for a night of sexy fun!

🍸 Doors Open Early! Don't miss out!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/French%20Soleil/117/135/28

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🖤🎸 SL Enquirer Open Mic Auditions – Anti-Valentine’s: No Love, Just Loud 🎸🖤 🗓 Sunday, February 22 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM SLT

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 SL Enquirer Open Mic Auditions – Anti-Valentine’s: No Love, Just Loud 
 Sunday, February 22 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM SLT
 Featuring Wolfie Starfire | L$5000 Music Prize | Sponsored by SecondLife.music 

 Forget the roses. Ditch the clichés. Turn the volume up. 
This February, the SL Enquirer Open Mic Auditions go full Anti-Valentine’s, delivering a night of raw emotion, rebellious sound, and music that doesn’t need a love story to hit hard. Whether it’s heartbreak, defiance, sarcasm, or straight-up sonic therapy—this is your stage.

 From savage originals to covers dripping with attitude, this open mic is about honesty, edge, and unapologetic expression. Bring the grit, bring the fire, and you could walk away with L$5000 and a featured spotlight in the SL Enquirer.

 Your hosts for the night:
Ninja Antwoord, keeping things loose, loud, and gloriously unfiltered, alongside the legendary Wolfie Starfire, whose presence and passion set the tone for a night where real music comes first. Together, they’ll steer performers and fans through an evening fueled by sound, community, and zero romantic pretense.

 Presented by SecondLife.music, this event celebrates the unpolished heart of the Second Life music scene—artists who speak their truth, play it loud, and aren’t here to sugarcoat a damn thing. This isn’t a Valentine. It’s a release.

 The Prize:
 L$5000 + SL Enquirer Feature awarded to the most outstanding performance of the night

 Tune up, plug in, and let it out. Whether you’re on stage or in the crowd, expect big feelings, bigger sound, and music that hits where it counts.

 Sunday, February 22 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM SLT
 Loud voices. Live music. No love songs required.

 The mic is hot. The filter is off. Let’s rock Second Life—heartbreak optional. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Akamai/214/23/22

_________________________________________________

With over 20 years of experience reporting virtual world news and participating in numerous charities, events, and sponsorships across the grid, the SL Enquirer is the longest running media source in SL. We love working with our fans!

Contact: Ninja, SLE Events Coordinator (ninjaantwoord resident)

About Ninja Antwoord:

Ninja Antwoord is a passionate and dynamic host in the Second Life music scene. Known for his love of live music and his ability to bring people together, Ninja continues to make waves by creating fun and engaging events for all music lovers.

Public Landmark:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Akamai/214/23/22

Website:

http://www.slenquirer.com/

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/TheSLEnquirer/

https://twitter.com/LanaiJarrico/

Performer Website:

https://wolfiestarfire.com/

https://www.facebook.com/wolfie.starfire/

About Wolfie Starfire:

Wolfie Starfire is a soulful singer-songwriter with a powerful voice and a unique style. Her heartfelt lyrics and captivating performances have earned her a loyal following. With her warm presence, Wolfie is the perfect co-host to bring an extra spark of magic to this love-themed edition of the auditions.


About SecondLife.music

SecondLife.music is the go-to platform for virtual live music bookings, singer/songwriter showcases, and special event promotion within Second Life. Whether you're a musician seeking to perform, a venue looking for fresh talent, or an event organizer hoping to make a splash, SecondLife.music connects all the key players in the world of virtual live music.

Media Contact:

Ninja Antwoord (ninjaantwoord resident)
Founder/Owner, SecondLife.music
Email: ninjaantwoord@secondlife.music
Website: https://www.secondlife.music
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573566731384
Discord: https://discord.com/invite/RW9TdBpN5y

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