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Showing posts with label Josh (Thomas1 Bellic). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Josh (Thomas1 Bellic). Show all posts

Tuesday, July 28, 2026

SL Enquirer- Feedspots 25 Best SecondLife Blogs for 2026: Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) Reporting

SL Enquirer has received many accolades in their 20+ years of existence.  But this recent recognition tops them all, in that this is a recognition from OUTSIDE SecondLife. To get her take on this accomplishment, I was able to catch up with SL Enquire Owner and Founder, Lanai Jarrico.  She was busily updating the list of businesses we support when I found her hard at work in the Office.  I asked her about this most recent award.  This is her story.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Hi Lanai.  Let me congratulate you on the SL Enquirer having been selected as one of Feedspots 25 Best Second Life Blogs to Follow in 2026.  Feedspot is an RSS Reader that lets you subscribe to blogs, news sites, and any website you want to keep up with. According to the FeedSpot Website, the best Second Life blogs are curated and ranked based on multiple factors, including content relevancy, subject expertise, posting frequency, and freshness of content. Blogs with highest credibility within the Second Life space are ranked higher. This list is updated regularly to ensure it reflects the most active, influential, and valuable Second Life blogs on the internet today.

JB:     What does this mean to you as the Owner of SL Enquirer?

Lanai Jarrico (LJ):     Thank you, Josh! I cannot accept this honor alone. Our team and everyone who has contributed to our growth made this possible!  I was surprised to be contacted by Anuj, one of the founders of  FeedSpot. I had no idea The SL Enquirer was included on their website. This means we are not just another blog on the internet, but we are part of a recognised list of Virtual world media sources that provide services to the virtual world and Second Life community. To be in the top 25 Second Life content creators is pretty cool. It means something to me that we are noticed outside of the virtual world. We are making a difference! 

JB:     I know the SL Enquirer has received various recognitions over the years, but have you ever been recognized as a Top Blog? 

LJ:     We have received many awards and plaques through the years for the work we do in Second Life. The closest recognition was probably from SpaceX of SL, but it happened in SL and Elon wasn’t there to hand out the award. I gave a speech, but I wasn't aware it was being live-streamed on YouTube! This one feels different because it is outside of Second Life. I don’t recall ever being recognized as a Top Blogger for a real-world website.  I’m grateful for the recognition from the panel that decided SLE should be on that list.

JB:     Did you submit Your Blog for their consideration, or did they find you? 

LJ:     I didn’t enter any contest or apply for anything. They found me! While sorting through my emails, I came across one from Anuj. At first I wasn’t sure if it was spam or the real deal. I’m glad I gave it a second look. I checked out their website, and to my surprise, it was legit, so I had to share the news with my team.

JB:     I see the Recognition is for being in the top 25, but if we drill down, we see that SL Enquirer actually came in as Number 9 of all the Blogs they reviewed. So you are actually in the Top 10 overall.  How cool is THAT?

 LJ:     That is pretty cool! I hope I don’t have to give a speech; I’m so not ready! lol

 JB:     I understand the SL Enquirer is the longest-running virtual world news source for fans by fans of Second Life(c), featuring events, fashion, music, culture and more.  Just how long has SL Enquirer been serving the Second Life Community? 

 LJ:     SLE has been in Second Life since 2005 when I migrated here from The SIMS Online. I actually created the original news source in TSO back in 2004. It started as a little blog I shared with my circle of friends. I’d write about the random things I was experiencing there. My friends told their friends, their friends told others, and so on. I didn’t set out to be a Media Mogul, but It went viral! With that, I felt a sense of responsibility to continue to spread news and open up SLE to other creative writers who wanted to share their experiences in this unique virtual world. Here we are 20 years later, being recognized outside of Second Life. Amazing.

JB:     In the past year, the SL Enquirer has experienced a major uptick in the number of monthly views.  At last count, you are averaging north of over a Quarter Million views every month.  To what do you attribute this uptick in popularity?

 LJ:     That’s pretty incredible! I’m still trying to wrap my head around the traffic. Last month we closed out with 447,361 views! While reviewing our Analytics, I saw that the majority of readers come from the United States, Asia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Germany. 

 JB:     What advice could you give other Blog owners looking to increase their visibility in the SL Community and beyond?

 LJ:     The only advice I can give is to be original and have fun. If you love what you do, it will show, and readers will follow. Engage with everyone at eye level and treat others the way you’d like to be treated. I’ve come across many bloggers who have lost sight of these simple principles, and it never works for them in the long run. After 20 years of service to the virtual community, I must say it has been an amazing experience. I’ve met so many talented people and learned so much from them.  I appreciate everyone who has followed us through the years and has been so kind and supportive. It is an honor to be part of such a one-of-a-kind environment. 

So, there you have it Folks, the News and Information source you have known and trusted for so long is now being read outside the Virtual World of SecondLife. So, go check ‘em out.  For more information about FeedSpot, be sure to hit up their 55 second video at:   https://www.feedspot.com/rss-reader .  Then see what the Buzz is all about at www.slenquirer.com

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

The Phoenix: Bringing Exotic Adult Entertainment to a Whole New Level – Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) Reporting

The SL Enquirer prides itself on bringing you, our reader, reviews of the many and varied environments available throughout the entire SL Grid.  This week we happened upon one of the more recent additions:  The Phoenix: Exotic D/s BDSM Adult Entertainment Club.   We caught up with the Owners of this amazing venue, Max And Gabby Zsun Daemon as they were preparing for the weekend activities, and they graciously gave me a personalized tour of their wonderous and opulent creation.  They agreed to answer some of my questions in order that we might inform you all of this amazing Adult Entertainment venue.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Can you tell me something of the history of The Phoenix Club and what motivated you to open a BDSM club?

Max Daemon (MD): Dating back to Oct 2025 I had an idea to open a night club. The idea was to offer something different.  After visiting many clubs, I came up with the idea to open an Egyptian themed club which became what we are today: a BDSM & Hedonistic social and entertainment venue. I'd like to state that although we are a BDSM venue, it is only one aspect of what the club is about.

We are a social entertainment venue offering a variety of adult-themed events. We have a Dance floor, a beach and pool, and a wrestling ring. Events will vary using any one of the areas within the club grounds.  Phoenix has a very exotic, opulent environment. It's like stepping into a transporter, spiriting you to a modern-day Egyptian themed night club. It’s been designed with both Cyber-Tek and Art Deco elements making it a unique blend of old and new worlds. 

 JB:     So then, tell me about the sorts of events you host here..

Gabby Zsun Daemon (GZ):     Aside from our weekly parties, (DJs Tuesdays through Sundays in the evening 7-9 SLT),  we host special events every 4 - 6 weeks. We've had Cleopatra look-alike and Eyes Wide Shut contest events as well as Rock Concerts.  We want everybody to have fun.

JB:     As you know, there are lots of Gentleman Clubs in SecondLife.  What is distinctive about The Phoenix Club that sets you apart from all the others?

MD:  I am glad you asked.  There are actually several things we do that set us apart from the rest of the BDSM Community.  First, we are a multi ethnic group of individuals.  Second, we are not just a BDSM club, but we incorporate elements of the Hedonistic Lifestyle as well. Third, unlike most clubs that cater only to male dominants, we have special areas set aside for female dominants as well. Fourth, we offer not only a stand-alone clubhouse, but we also incorporate a beach, a garden area and dance floor, and more in one integrated, well-laid-out venue.  Fifth, we present our guests with an extremely elegant and opulent design throughout the sim.  And sixth, we pride ourselves on presenting a warm, easy-going, and friendly atmosphere.

JB:     I see kind of an “Ancient Egyptian” vibe going here.  What were you looking for here?

MD:     We wanted to have an ancient look but also modern.  Hence, Phoenix D/s is like stepping into a transporter, spiriting you to a modern day Egyptian themed night club. It’s been designed with both Cyber-Tek and Art Deco elements, making it a unique blend of old and new worlds.


JB:     And do you have a staff to help run the place?  Who might they be?

MD:     Yes, Lassey, a close and very dear friend, assisted us on the build and is also a DJ for us on Friday nights.   Additionally, Arabella Bloodraven Runewolf helps us operate our wrestling matches and as well assists in many other ways

JB:     What an amazing build.  Did you do it yourself, or who were some of the big contributors here?

MD:     Mainly Max was the designer/builder. Other than some technical assistance from a close friend, the design was from Max's mind, along with some input from Gabi who helped Max decide on design elements and textures etc.


 
JB:     What types of guests do you think would most enjoy visiting The Phoenix Club

GZ:     For people who want a friendly place to explore their SL fantasies, we provide that place; and of course we have dancers available for one-on-one exploration.

JB:     Did I see a Wrestling Ring out back?  What is that about and where do you get your wrestlers?

GZ:     We hold Girls Wrestling every Sunday 3-4:30 SLT.  The girls enjoy it and we  are also moving into addition of males too. Arabella helps us with fighter recruitment. We feel this gives us a wider audience. All are welcome to stay and enjoy the club after events as well.

JB:     This sounds like an amazingly “open” environment. Do you have any restrictions you place on activities here?

GZ:     First off, it is important that all our guests be Adults only, human forms please. Other than that, we are pretty much an open venue.

JB:     So then, do you maintain any Social Media presence, or a way for people to find out what is going on at Phoenix?

MD:     Certainly.  Interested folks can contact us on our Discord Channel:  Phoenix Ds Entertainment

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to say

GZ:     We didn't open this club to make Lindens. We had a vision to provide a beautiful and thoughtful area for people to relax and socialize with like-minded people.


 So, there you have it, folks.  For the latest and greatest in Adult Nightclub Entertainment, you won’t want to miss this place…Just a hop, skip, and a TP from where you are right now.  Check them out at:  

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Cyldane/12/195/21 

For any questions you might have about the Phoenix Club, please contact "Gabby Zsun - Daemon (gabrielle.zsun)"  

You’ll be glad you did.  And when you do, tell ‘em “Josh Sent ya.”

Be there!  Aloha!!

JB

Thursday, June 18, 2026

MUSIC FROM THE HEART: BenDover Sporg, winner of the SL Enquirer Open Mic Competition June, 2026

 This Month we have a real treat for you.  BenDover Sporg, our winner of the June 2026 Sl Enquirer Singer-Songwriter Open Mic Competition is a different sort of musician.  While many live musicians focus on perfecting the notes and the technical aspects of their music, BenDover is more interested in “the soul” of a song - How to connect on an emotional level with his music.  But I’ll let him tell you in his own words.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Congratulations on your win, BenDover. It was well deserved. Thank you for agreeing to chat with me. To begin with, how long have you been performing your music, and at what sorts of venues?

BenDover Sporg (BS):     Thank you so much. I've been lucky and been given plenty of opportunities to perform shows in SL, but I’ve not really been performing too much as I do enjoy just doing it for fun and not being on a strict schedule. I've mostly just been in intimate live music venues, open mics, and places where people really come to listen rather than just have background music. I’ve always been drawn to rooms where the connection matters, where one voice can still hold people’s attention.

JB:     Who were your music idols, and those who most influenced your musical style?

BS:     My biggest influences have always come from country, singer-songwriters and pop artists who know how to tell a story and make you feel something. I’m drawn to singers who bring honesty and emotion into a song, whether it is a raw country ballad or a stripped-down acoustic version of a pop song. For me, it has never been about showing off technically as much as making the listener believe every word.

JB:     What was the inspiration for the songs you sang at the contest, and why did you choose those particular songs?

BS:     I chose songs that felt honest to who I am as a performer. I wanted to bring something raw and powerful, but still personal, the kind of music where you can hear the emotion before you even think about the notes. Those songs gave me a chance to connect with the audience and tell a story rather than just perform.

JB:     How would you describe the brand that you now represent? To really stand out in the SL Music scene, you have to have something special about your performances. How do you define your music style?

BS:     I would describe my music style as raw, emotional acoustic country-pop. I like performances that feel real, a little vulnerable, and powerful without needing too much polish around them. My “brand,” if I had to call it that, is honesty: songs sung from the heart, with the goal of making people feel something.

JB:     Are there any truly landmark performances you can recall? Best Memories performing both in RL and in SL?

BS:     Winning the SL Enquirer Open Mic Songwriters Contest is definitely a good Second Life memory now. I also remember stepping into the karaoke scene for the first time over at Elixir, for me that was a tough step to make, putting myself out there. There is something very special about singing in SL, because even though we are behind screens, the emotions and reactions from people are very real. Some of my best memories are the quiet moments after a song, when someone messages me and says it reminded them of something in their own life.


JB:     Do you play with other musicians as well, or are you strictly a soloist?

BS:     I mostly perform as a soloist, because I love the simplicity of one voice and one acoustic sound carrying the whole performance. I've only collaborated once in SL and that was great. And with  that said, I totally respect musicians who collaborate, and I’m always open to the right musical connection. For now, solo acoustic performance feels like the most natural way for me to express myself.

JB:     Many performers have some kind of “good luck ritual” they do before a performance. Do you have any such habits or rituals?

BS:     I don’t really have a lucky pair of socks or anything like that, but I do try to take a quiet moment before I sing. I like to clear my head and remind myself why I’m doing it: to connect, not to be perfect. Once I focus on the emotion of the song, the nerves usually turn into energy.

JB:     You’ve been on the grid for over 17 years now. What advice could you give to someone who wants to be a singer/songwriter?

BS:     My advice would be to be yourself before you try to impress anyone. People can feel honesty, and they remember a performance that touches them more than one that is technically perfect but empty. Keep showing up, keep trying new stuff, keep singing, and don’t be afraid to let your heart show a little.

JB:     I know you are not a big social media guy, but where can people learn more about you and perhaps come to hear you perform?

BS:     I’m not very big on social media, that’s true. The best way to catch me is inworld in Second Life, either through live music venues, karaoke/open mic events, or by checking my profile for upcoming performances, I also do have an old group from when I was DJ, so for anyone that's real interested - talk to me and I'll shoot you an invite. I enjoy meeting people through the music itself, and SL has always been a place where that feels natural to me.

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to share with our SL Enquirer Readers?

BS:     I just want to say thank you to everyone who listened, supported, or simply took the time to be present. Music and singing is real emotional for me, and it means a lot when people connect with that. Second Life has given many of us a place to share parts of ourselves we might not always show elsewhere, and I’m grateful to be part of that music and open mic community.

So folks, there you have it, folks.  Our judges have chosen well. But you should really judge for yourself.  Look for him at local Open Mic nights in SL, or contact him directly to see where he is performing next. 

And when you do, tell ‘em “Josh sent me.” You won’t regret it.

Be there! Aloha!

JB 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Kingdom City Church: Spreading the Gospel of Christ in a Pixelated World – Josh (Thomas1 Bellic, Reporting)

SecondLife a Virtual World creation from Linden Labs is known for its art, entertainment, building designs, fashion, theme parks, bars, dance halls, brothels, alternative life-style sims, and open-air forests.

But without a thorough deep dive into SL, you might well miss another side to life on the grid:  The Spiritual.  Today’s guest is Samuel James, pastor at Kingdom City Church.  Unique, even among other churches in SL, Kingdom City Church is, according to Samuel, inspired by God, and provides a place for the Gospel message of Jesus Christ to be made available to people who might not otherwise have access, or simply choose not to attend, mainline RL churches.  With Kingdom City Church being a fairly new arrival on the SL scene, I caught up with Samuel who agreed to share his vision with SL Enquirer readers.  What follows in his story.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Hello, Samuel.  Thanks so much for agreeing to meet with me today.  To start things off, please share with us how you decided to establish a Church in SecondLife?

(Samuel James) (SJ):     I saw a need, I felt that the way I envisioned church is SL was not available, I saw no real live worship in the churches and poor quality 96kb sermons on 40 dollar microphones, I’m not trying to sound mean here, I just felt like there needed to be the same standard we give to worldly things, like SL music/DJ scene, given to the things of the kingdom, and I have the equipment.. I have the zeal, so I took a page of Isiah's book, literally, here I am, send me.

JB:     I understand you are an ordained Minister of the Gospel. Isn't it quite a leap from RL ordained Minister to SL Church Leader?

SJ:     I am not ordained in that sense.  To be ordained, you have to go to a Baptist church or an Anglican church, recognized by a top-down hierarchy of promotion.  There is no high educational degree that makes you a pastor, no board of directors in a city has sanctioned my ministry. It is true that I have served as a pastor at 2 different RL churches and have been in ministry for over 10 years but, that was through "showing myself approved" to those local church bodies who were non-denominational and did not have a pope-like hierarchy to answer to…the word “ordained” is an archaic word that means older men gave me permission to do this.  God gave me permission, not a man in Rome.

JB:     Do you do this full-time, or is this a supplemental job for you?

SJ:     Ministry is a full-time lifestyle.  To pay my bills, I perform shows all around the grid, but that is not my job, its simply what I do to eat and live.  My job is to be about my Father's business, and that is the business of Kingdom Building

JB:     Have you done this on your own?  Or have you had help?

SJ:     Thanks to God I have a team of Godly people who started this with me, starting with my Wife Esther, and my two wonderful friends, Mandy and Zelly.

JB:     How big is your congregation?

SJ:     At the moment, we have around 10-20 coming as of our 2nd week, our building seats 72 with room to expand

JB:     I noticed your attire is a bit different from what is normally worn by pastors.  Why the difference?

SJ:     Yes so, lol, we are not interested in being what society deems as fancy.  I preach barefoot. I do not care about labels, expectations or dressing like an upper middle-class bank manager.  I was born in dirt. I come from the side of the tracks you don’t take your children to for picnics. I’m Australian… but I am what Americans would call "white trash".

JB:     I saw some other buildings on your property when I visited.  What are they for?

SJ:     So, we have lots of things on the KCC land, including two cabins, with general seating areas for activities such as bible studies etc.  We also host a podcast from the location called the Kingdom Think Podcast, as well as an entire area dedicated to games such as put-put golf, skippo and much, much more.

JB:     Are you on any other Social Media Websites?

SJ:     As a matter of fact, we are.  Please check us out at the sites below:

·         Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kingdomcitychurchsl/

·         FaceBook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588822524101

·         TicTok:    https://www.tiktok.com/@kingdomcitychurchsl

·         YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/@KingdomCityChurchSecondLife

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to share with our SL Enquirer readers?

SJ:     The kind of church God wants to build will make children laugh and adults angry, it makes demons scream in shopping centers, it loves people away from their suicide game, it invokes the ancient dream of Eden, it could eat caviar on Monday and crusts on Tuesday, and it wouldn't even notice the difference, it is dangerously, obsessively, undeniably Jesus.  He will breathe out and we will breathe in.  I’m not interested in building a hangout sim; I mean to change lives, period.  We live as if it all depends on us but pray as if it all depends on God.

JB:     Tell me, Samuel.  How is your church different from other churches here in SecondLife?

SJ:     For one thing, we have real actually live worship with High Quality, along with the words on stage so all can see just like RL church.  Secondly, we have cameras in our church like other churches, but they are not for show, we stream live to YouTube.  Also, one of our missions is to build up leaders.  The obvious question to me is why haven’t I led worship at other churches in SL before now? The answer is most churches don’t want the help, the leaders log on… preach... log off.  They have no intention of raising up secondary pastors, preachers, worship leaders and ministers, and they certainly are not open to how things can be done differently, not that I’ve observed.  I tried going to many churches before I started this, and not one pastor ever had the time of day to have a coffee and a chat or sit among the people and fellowship.  It was always to log on, tell us how to think, and log off.  Even their bible studies are carefully curated mini sermons with no room for exploration or creativity.  We mean to break each...and every...one of those rules.  I wanna see hungry men and women of God with that Jeremiah fire that I can raise up to preach as I glorify God in their gifts.  I mean to see anointed worship leaders step into God’s calling for them.  I will be there to explain sound production to them and walk them through how to give God the best we can give with excellence and zeal.

So there you have it, folks.  Straight from the Pastor’s mouth.  If you are tired of the other options available here.  If you are looking to renew your faith…or perhaps build your faith or even if you have none…..Give Pastor Samuel James and King City Church a try.

And when you do, tell ‘em “Josh sent ya.”  You’ll be glad you did

Be there!  Aloha!!

JB

Sunday, May 3, 2026

JUSTINE AMETHYST, MUSICIAN EXTRAORDINAIRE: APRIL 2026 OPEN MIC WINNER – JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING

As many of you know, in support of the Arts here in SecondLife, the SL Enquirer sponsors a monthly singer-songwriter open mic competition. Musicians from all over the Grid have come and graced our stage with their individually unique sound, sharing their hearts and passion for music with the viewing audience.  Selecting the best of these artists is no easy task, but the winner walks away with L$5,000 in prize money and a Spotlight Feature article here in the SL Enquirer.  The winner for April 2026 is Justine (justinejohndory.amethyst).  I caught up with Justine right after she finished a gig at Fantasy Fair, and she was able to share her story with us.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Congratulations on your win, Justine.  It is well-deserved. So, tell us please. How long have you been performing your music, and in what types of venues?

Justine (justinejohndory.amethyst) (JA):     My first ever gig on the grid was at the Dirty Grind back in December of 2022.  I think they closed shortly after that, which was a shame.  It was a beautiful space and so supportive of the arts in SL.

Mostly I play at places that feature live musicians and mostly acoustic performances, like The Chelsea Hotel, Guthrie's, Cafe Kismet and Villa Lobos, and of course my home venue, The Slippy Ship.

And for any groups or venues that are opposed to the current rise of fascism and authoritarianism around the world.  Like Cafe Resistance, Democracy Defenders, and United Rhythms.

And for a lot of communities that value individuality and freedom of self-expression like Bespoke Caravan, Lefthand Path, and the Velvet Grope. 

I play a lot of charity events and festivals.  I'll be at SLB for the 4th year running, and I just completed my fourth show at Fantasy Faire. 

JB:     What is your favorite Musical Genre, and who were your musical idols that have been the greatest influencers of your musical style?

JA:     I perform primarily acoustic folk music, just me and my guitar.  Sometimes I'm accompanied by Sanson Feilding on the banjo.  He's incredible.  I'll play any song that catches my fancy, but my favorite song writers to draw from are Juliana Finch, Gillian Welch, Tim O'Brien, The Doubleclicks and the Decemberists.  But no genres are safe from me and my guitar.  I'll attack pop, metal, disco, prog rock, all the indie, you name it.

JB:     Do you perform in RL as well?

JA:     I do.  I'm an upright bass player and vocalist, playing mostly bluegrass.  I never performed solo before coming to SL. In my early shows, when I was first learning how to play the guitar, I would accompany myself on upright bass, which wasn't entirely effective. But now that I've become pretty comfortable with the 6-string, I don't often pull the doghouse out.

JB:     What has been the most memorable performance of your career so far?

JA:     The show I put together to celebrate International Women's Day this year.  It was at Bespoke Caravan.  Women's rights are naturally very important to me, and I really poured my heart into curating and presenting that set.

https://soundcloud.com/justine-johndory/2026-03-09-bespoke?si=a49b2f2ab9554018aa2cf323adff9276&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

JB:     What has been your biggest challenge breaking into the Music Industry?

JA:     I don't know that I have tried to "break into" the SL Music Industry?  When I started performing in world, my goal was to play 3 or 4 shows a week consistently, and I've done that.  RL is too busy for anything more than that.  The people I play for are the ones picking up what I'm putting down.  What more could I want?

JB:     How would you describe the brand that you now represent?

JA:     In two words: Passion and principles.  The songs I sing say something to me, and when I play I _feel_ what I'm singing, and try to convey that to the audience.  I sing songs of mutual respect and acceptance, of believing in yourself and living your own truth, rather than trying to live up to the expectations of others. Songs about standing up for what's right.   I'll often get emotional during my shows.  Life is hard, and music is cathartic and empowering and the best way I've found to help deal with hard stuff. 

 If I were to have a "theme song," it would be "Crooked Tree" by Molly Tuttle.  It's about accepting one's flaws and faults and turning them into strengths.  People seem to really resonate with that and it gets requested a lot.

 https://soundcloud.com/justine-johndory/crooked-tree-feat-sanson

More than anything else, though, I have become well known as an old-school guitar-slinging protest singer in the fashion of Woody Guthrie and Carsie Blanton.  I'm outspoken and unapologetic about speaking out against injustice and fascism and I don't take kindly to people who think that music should be apolitical.  It never has been and it should not be.

That said, I will do entire sets of songs about Dinosaurs or Pirates.  I never lose sight of the fact that music is FUN.

JB:     Where would our SL readers go who want to hear you live and in concert?

JA:     I'm at the Velvet Grope (Adult sim) every Tuesday at 6pm, and I have fortnightly shows at the Slippy Ship, Kittenz, and Bespoke Caravan. and Monthly shows at the Virtual Hotel Chelsea. More casual shows all over the place.  I've got the usual subscribo and group (Justine Time!) for notices, and we also post to a bunch of live music groups in world, and I try to have a listing in SL Events for every show.

JB:     Do you have any Social Media Sites out there where readers can learn more about you?

JA:     Just my soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/justine-johndory  

If people want to know more about me, then my SL profile is really the best source, that or come to a show!

JB:     There are lots of budding musicians in SecondLife.  What advice would you give to any aspiring musicians out there today?

JA:     None that would do anyone any good.  I think my continued lack of profile is evidence enough of that!  I gotta say, it does often feel that it's more "who you know," as so many things are in this world.  So my advice is go to shows, get to know people.  Play for tips.  Always give 10% back to the venue.  Play charitable events.  Don't do it if it doesn't bring you joy.

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to share with our SL Enquirer Readers.

JA:     Big thanks to everyone who attends live music events in SL.  Tips are nice, but your presence is the real present.  Please, don't be shy about reaching out and saying hi.  What is SL for if not to make connection with others?

So there you have it, Folks.  Straight from the artist’s mouth to the pixelated page.  If you’re looking for a quiet evening in a small coffee shop, or a larger, more formal venue, check her out. For a musician with real talent…and a bit of sass…Justine delivers on all fronts.  This one is the Real Deal, folks.  So, head on out and catch her live performance. You’ll be glad ya did.

And when you do, tell ‘em “Josh sent ya”.

Be there! Aloha!

JB

 

Saturday, April 25, 2026

Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment: Coming to a Venue near YOU! Josh Bellic, Reporting

OK..Sooo… It has been said that I am a man of rather eclectic tastes in entertainment. But come on!  Who doesn’t enjoy watching a smack-down wrestling show with beefy men and sexy ladies throwing each other around the wrestling ring?  Even those who won’t admit it publicly find this one of the world’s most fascinating sports.  And now you no longer have to travel long distances, find a place to park, and hike into the arena.  Now RWE can come to YOU.  I recently caught up with Fyre Ember, the Executive LIVE Events Director at RWE, and asked her to share their story with the approximately quarter million people who view our publication each month.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     Greetings Frye.  Thanks for agreeing to chat with us today.  So, tell our readers, please, just what is this “Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment” that is all the buzz about anyway?

Fyre Ember (FE):     Josh, thanks so much for having me here today—I really appreciate it.

Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment (RWE) is Premier Wrestling’s touring show, and honestly, it’s the one place where you’ll see talent from all of Premier’s brands—Attitude, Overload, All Victory Wrestling, and Rise—all mixing it up and competing in front of crowds across the SL Grid.

Unplugged will soon officially rebranded as Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment, and the name really fits what it’s become. The RWE truck rolls in, we set up, put on a high-energy show, then pack it all up and head back out on the road to the next stop. It’s all about bringing that full Premier vibe to different locations—same great action, just more up close, more interactive, and right in front of the fans.

JB:     How did you ever come up with such a creative way to bring professional wrestling to “the masses” anyway?

FE:     Honestly? It came from seeing what we already had and realizing we could do more.

At Premier Wrestling, we have all these amazing brands—Attitude, Overload, All Victory Wrestling, and Rise—but they were all happening in their own spaces. So we thought: why not bring it all together and take it to the fans?

That’s how Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment rebrand was born. The RWE truck rolls in, we set up, put on a high-energy show, then pack up and head to the next stop—mixing up matchups and giving fans across the SL Grid a Premier experience like no other.

And we’re taking it even further—imagine having Dany Thunder sign autographs at your child’s birthday party, or The Ace reveal your baby’s gender. The possibilities are crazy, and we’re so excited for it!

JB:     I understand Wrestling has been around SecondLife for years?  Can you share with us some of the highlights of that history?

FE:     Wrestling has been part of Second Life for 18 years, growing from small local shows to full-scale productions with multiple brands, storylines, and passionate fans.

For Premier Wrestling, the journey started with Overload, then Attitude, followed by Rise, and our newest brand, All Victory Wrestling. We’re also thrilled to welcome back Alpin Criss, the grandfather of SL wrestling, who created the first wrestling HUD and helped get everything started 18 years ago.

Fans have stuck with us through every twist and high-flying moment, and that loyalty keeps this world alive. SL wrestling has always been about creativity, community, and giving people experiences they can’t get anywhere else—and that’s exactly what we bring to Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment.

JB:     What types of clients might be most interested in hosting a RWE event, and who is your expected audience?

FE:     That’s an easy one—everyone! Haha. I’m laughing, but I’m also completely serious. Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment is for anyone. Whether you’re looking to bring traffic to your land, raise money for charity, or just enjoy a fun Saturday afternoon, RWE is there for you.

We can bring full wrestling shows, birthday parties, gender reveals, marriage proposals, meet & greets, or even just for someone who’s feeling lazy and doesn’t want to leave their land but still wants to watch a wrestling show—give me a call!

We’ve got fans who’ve been watching wrestling since childhood, and others who’ve never seen a single match before—and they end up falling in love with what we do. That’s what makes this so special. The Premier Wrestling fan base is truly something else—they’re passionate, supportive, and without a doubt, the greatest.

JB:     Do you have your own cadre of wrestlers. Or can your matches involve wrestlers from other venues and clubs?

FE:     Premier Wrestling is home to four full brands — Attitude, Overload AVW and Rise — each with its own stacked roster and unique identity. Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment is where it all comes together—a place where everyone is welcome. Alongside our incredible talent, we open the door to wrestlers from other federations to jump in, sign up, and be part of the experience. We’ve already had several competitors come through for a few shows, and it’s been a blast—not just for them, but for our roster and the fans as well. It’s all about creating something fun, collaborative, and exciting for everyone involved.

JB:     I imagine this is a fairly complicated maneuver, what with Wrestlers, announcers, stage hands, set designers.  Who are some of the key players in this endeavor, and what do they do?

FE:     Oh, absolutely—it’s a massive operation! Every show is a moving machine with a lot of people making it all happen. Our bookers and directors plan out the matches and storylines, making sure the action flows just right. Production handles the lighting, cameras, and sound, while our referees and commentators make sure the in-ring action is seen and heard exactly the way it should be. And of course, the wrestlers bring it all to life in the ring—they’re the heart and soul of the show.

At the center of it all is our Tribal Chief, Vince Aftermath. He’s the guiding force, the one whose vision and leadership elevate everything we do. Without him—or the entire team working together—you wouldn’t get the high-energy, seamless experience that fans see at every Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment event.

JB:     OK now…just between you and me (and our quarter-million monthly views) Is this Wrestling for real?  Or are the events rigged and the eventual champions predetermined before the first “double-axel-triple-whammy” contender hits the mat?

FE:     Haha, I love this question… but you’re really asking a lady to give away secrets? I don’t think so. 😉

In Second Life, wrestling is less about physical strength and more about mental performance. Everything comes down to timing, coordination, and creativity. Performers have to stay sharp, work their HUDs, and keep the match flowing—while also bringing charisma, strong mic skills, and a standout look.

The crowd plays a huge role too, feeding the energy with every cheer, boo, and chant, making everything feel larger than life.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about winning or losing—it’s about the stories, the emotion, and the unforgettable moments that make it all so exciting.

JB:     This sounds like a lot of fun.  How do I find out where and when your events are to take place?

FE:     I can honestly say I’ve never had this much fun in the five years I’ve been part of this—it’s been an incredible ride from day one. Every show brings something new, and being part of that energy week after week is what makes it so special.

We also have a website that keeps track of all our weekly shows, including Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment, so fans can stay up to date, catch what they’ve missed, and follow along as everything unfolds. On top of that, we have a YouTube channel where you can watch Attitude, Overload, and more, along with some of the fun and creative antics our team comes up with.

And we’ve got a Discord group too, where fans can find out when and where we’ll be on any given day—so no matter where the Roadshow goes, you won’t miss a thing.

JB:     Do you have any websites or Social Media platforms where people can learn more about RWE?

FE:     Oh, absolutely—Premier Wrestling is all over social media. We’re on Instagram, X, Primfeed, and Facebook, so fans can stay connected no matter where they are.

As I mentioned before, we also have a website that keeps track of all our weekly shows, including Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment, and a YouTube channel where fans can catch Attitude, Overload, and more.

Between all of that, plus our Discord community, there are plenty of ways for fans to follow along, stay updated, and be part of everything we’re doing.

JB:     Any last words you would like to share with our SL enquirer readers?

FE:     Honestly, just a huge thank you. The support from the Second Life community—and the Lindens themselves—means the world to us. Whether you’ve been watching for years or you’re just discovering Premier Wrestling for the first time, there’s a place for you here. We couldn’t do any of this without the fans, the creators, and the platform that allows us to bring these shows to life.

If you haven’t checked out Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment yet, now’s the time. You never know where we’ll pop up next, from full-scale wrestling events to birthday parties, gender reveals, or even spontaneous shows on your own land. Follow us on social media—Instagram, X, Primfeed, and Facebook—join our Discord, check out the website and YouTube channel, and get involved with everything Premier Wrestling has to offer.

At the end of the day, it’s about the fans, the energy, the stories, and creating moments that people remember long after the match is over. We’re here to entertain, to innovate, and to keep pushing the boundaries of what wrestling in Second Life can be. And trust me… we’re just getting started.

So there you have it, folks.  Straight from the mouth of one who knows.  And if you are reading this on the internet, you know it MUST be true.  So come on out and catch one of these unbelievable shows put on by Roadshow Wrestling Entertainment. You’ll be glad ya did. 

And when you do, tell ‘em Josh sent ya.

Be there!  Aloha!

JB

Friday, April 10, 2026

CHIPPER CARVER – SLE OPEN MIC WINNER FOR MAR 2026 – JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC), REPORTING


One of the many ways that SecondLife Enquirer contributes to the vibrant life on the Grid is to identify up-and-coming musicians through the monthly SL Enquirer Singer Songwriter Open Mic competitions. Up and coming, as well as established musicians across the grid compete for a L$5,000 prize, along with the promotional value of being featured in the SL Enquirer, with our QUARTER MILLION views each month!  This month’s winner, Chipper Carver, managed to impress our judges and walked away with the top prize.  I was able to catch up with Chipper, who is naturally shy by nature, and managed to get him to answer a few questions for our SLE Readers.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     So tell us, Chipper… How long have you been performing your music, and in what types of venues?

Chipper Carver (CC):     I have played guitar and sung for many years, but the vast majority of that was just for myself and occasionally for family. I had a two-person garage band back in high school.  We had cheap equipment and a handful of Beatles tunes we tried.  Then I got on with living life and only picked up the guitar now and then.  Fifteen years ago, or so, I started playing a lot more, but still for my own enjoyment and sometimes with a group of friends in a circle.  Around five years ago, I started joining open mics here in Second Life and muscled my way through audience anxiety and lots of mistakes.  Eventually, I must have gotten a little better because venues started offering me gigs.  I have played gigs at various venues like The Merry Prankster, Cafe Kismet, Blarney Stone, Pirette's Music Cove, Guthrie's Folk Club.  I've also enjoyed playing for protest rallies because music has an important place in the fight for democracy.

JB:     What is your favorite Musical Genre?

CC:     I have very eclectic musical tastes including Folk (Don't Think Twice, Circles, Can't Help Wondering Where I'm Bound), Pop (American Pie, Dream a Little Dream of Me, Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues, The Boxer) , Rock {Sister Golden Hair, Take it Easy, I've Just Seen a Face),  Country (Gentle on My Mind, Me and Bobbie McGee, King of the Road).   People might not agree with my classification there. I just care more about it being a good song than what genre it's in.   

I was also a teen and young adult in the 70's, so I love music from the 60's and 70's. 

JB:     Do you perform in RL as well?

CC:     I've played in some guitar circles and open mics.  I am a poster child for introversion so promoting myself isn't at the top of my list. 

JB:     What has been the most memorable performance of your career so far?

CC:     I performed at an open mic in a brewery in McKinney Texas.  I was playing the Bob Dylan classic, “You Ain’t Going Nowhere”.  A fellow performer jumped up and joined in the chorus, but he didn't know the song that well and it went horribly and we botched the whole thing!  I was relieved we were in a brewery.

JB:     Who were your musical idols and those who have been the greatest influencers of your musical style?

CC:     Oh, the list is long, and I won't include them all here, but probably in order:  Glen Campbell's musicality on guitar and with his voice made him an extraordinary crossover talent.  John Denver's writing and performance spanned ballads, social issues, down home fun. The Beatles - What can you say?  Nothing about them I didn't like.  Eagles and America were so emblematic of youth in the 1970's.   Gordon Lightfoot was among the best singer-songwriters ever and was so revered in his native Canada (John Prine called him his hero), Pete Seeger, in addition to his encyclopedic knowledge of world folk music, was a great and courageous American. And John Prine...well if you don't know him, go find his music.  If you don't admire his humor and awareness, I'm not sure what to say...  But there were many more.

JB:     What has been your biggest challenge breaking into the Music Industry?

CC:     When my family was living in Germany in the 1960's, my sister saved up some money and we walked to a German department store where she had her eye on a guitar.  She bought the guitar and it was her pride and joy. When I wanted to borrow it to learn how to play, she didn't hesitate.  I bought a book of Beatles songs with a chord chart in the back and slogged through teaching myself how to play.  I never took lessons, which was a huge mistake (if you're learning, take lessons).  From there, I had a series of progressively better guitars.  But I am not an attention seeker (this interview is awkward).  So most of my playing has been for my own private enjoyment.  It wasn't until Second Life that a friend coaxed me into playing in an open mic.  It wasn't a disaster, so I kept at it, and now it feels pretty comfortable.  As for breaking into the music industry, I'm not sure I've actually done that.

JB:     How would you describe the brand that you now represent?

CC:     The perfect combination of song variety and mistakes.  I also dabble in songwriting.  My favorite original is “I've Got a Fabulous Watchdog” which can be heard on Sound Cloud.   I have a wonderful dog named Maple, and I noticed one day that she almost always sits and watches me play and sing.   The song just popped into my head and I had it written in under an hour.  If they were always so easy!

JB:     Where would our SL readers go who want to hear you live and in concert?

CC:     Currently, I am performing at  Pirette's Music Cove every other Saturday and The Blarney Stone every other Thursday.  I am also listed in the SL Live Music schedule, so you can find me there. Come check it out.

JB:     Do you have any Social Media Sites out there where readers can learn more about you?

CC:     I don't.  Humanity isn't ready for social media, and it's eating our lunch. But I would love for you to join my group.  Just give me a shout and I'll add you.

JB:     Chipper, there are lots of budding musicians in SecondLife.  What advice would you give to any aspiring musicians out there today?

CC:     Find open mics to play and don't be afraid to ask for help.  The streaming mechanics can be daunting at first, but it's really not so hard.  Don't be afraid to perform. There are people performing at all skill levels doing it.


So there you have it, folks.  Nobody has said it better. You really do need to catch this guy’s act.  He really is quite amazing. Go check him out at Pirette's Music Cove, or at The Blarney Stone.  You’ll be glad ya did.

And when you do, tell ‘em “Josh sent ya”

Be there!  Aloha!

JB

 
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