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18 Years and counting...Got SL News? Get it Published! Contact Lanai Jarrico at lanaijarrico@gmail.com
Showing posts with label Lanai Jarrico. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lanai Jarrico. Show all posts

Thursday, February 27, 2025

In loving memory of Reno Jones AKA Stephen Jonas - He brought a sense of community, kindness, and generosity to Second Life. He will be missed.- Lanai Jarrico Reporting...



“Every Linden I make from performing fees and tips goes directly to the American Cancer Society's Relay-For-Life. Thank you in advance! My shows are all posted in Events and my regular venues are listed in my Picks. IM me directly to book a show. Kindness is the only sane choice”.- Reno Jones (Taken from his profile)




 It doesn’t matter if we are in the virtual world and never met our Second Life friends in the real world.  A virtual bond can be made that could be just as strong as a physical friendship. Grief and loss is also a part of this global diverse community. Our connections reach beyond physical limits to people from around the globe. What better place than Second Life can we form a universal connection, unless you are an avid world traveler making friends everywhere you go?


In this unique environment we form long-lasting friendships and even fall in love.  Sometimes it leads to real-life relationships and friendships that travel to see each other.


 Behind every avatar is a human being with feelings and emotions. When a loss happens in Second Life, our hearts mourn deeply with the RL loved ones of our friend that have passed. It can be difficult to process a sudden loss, and the ability to go to where the family is to offer comfort and support. Many times, the passing of a Second Life friend’s impact is unknown by their real life family and friends and they don’t realize the true scope their passed loved one made on other people across the country and around the world.  


There are Facebook Groups that link Second Life residents to real-world events and activities where people have the opportunity to meet and enjoy similar interests like SL Live Music Jams. This group is about connections all for the love of Music and gathering together.


 Reno Jones was a beloved Musician in Second Life who graced many stages across the grid sharing his love for music with his fans.  Those who got the chance to know him are grieving alongside his family. 



On February 26th at 7 pm SLT, Owl Sweetwater along with some friends organized a gathering at Mother Road- Mirage Motel 66 with over 100 members of Second Life coming together at Reno Jones’ SL home to pay their respect and share their experiences and memories of Reno.  Several fellow Musicians also performed in his honor through tears and fond memories. These performers were Mimi Carpenter, Gyspy, Justine, Rosedrop

DJs: Jay Pockets, Owl Sweetwater and Chi. 





I stood in the crowd and could feel the love and admiration for a true gem lost in Second Life. He left his mark in the virtual world that will carry on through his friends and fans.  To commemorate Reno Jones, a statue was created and will be placed around various venues he frequented in his honor.




Here are some memories and words about Reno Jones from his friends and fans


Reno, he was unique in so many ways. His generosity knew few bounds, he would give and give and give.  He gave his time for many of the American Cancer Society fund raisers that I worked on, he never wanted to say no to the opportunity of working to defeat cancer.  He was so so giving, so full of life, so full of positivity.  He was a JOY to know and will be remembered always, absolutely always, that's the man that Reno was and the impact he left upon me”.-  Adrianna Biziou



 "Reno spent his working life with real rock stars and writers and artists and musicians- and yet he spent his time in here with us, heart as big as whale, singing like gravel rolling in a barrel, giggling like a toy steam engine, giving his hundreds of friends fearless empathy, and with skill and knowledge treating his performing friends like capable professionals.  Everything around him grew like it was planted in rich soil with clean water and plentiful sunshine. He knew what mattered - humanity, love, silliness, working tenderly and powerfully and cooperatively, pulling something beautiful from what can seem like nothing at all.  He recognized us. He sang with tender power.  It was so authentic, so joyful, and will be so very missed. " There were a lot of tears.  Whatever else SL is, the relationships, the humanity, the creativity is real.  There's an old song called Paper Moon, that he said described it all well”. - Owl Sweetwater

—---



I stumbled across Reno singing one time and his avatar fascinated me -- so much so that I saw him many more times and then lassoed him into performing at my venue - Fins at Miktopia. He became part of a monthly Saturday show that featured him, Stratus McTavish, and FrankLee Anatra. And they were all amazing together. He learned our "theme" song, Fins, by Jimmy Buffet, and that was always entertaining. But he wasn't just a singer at a venue. He had an infectious personality. The three of those singers would try and stick around and support one another for that set. It felt more than just a few singers performing. I look back at those shows fondly. From that, Reno and I developed a friendship that I will cherish for eternity. We would talk about many things -- music, life, politics, and his time as an adjunct professor in New York, being the college he was at was close to where I live. I think sometimes we forget that despite this being a virtual world, we're all real behind the avatars. And we lose touch sometimes, and take advantage that people will be there. After we stopped live music for the most part at Miktopia ... I kind of stepped away from some things. And then I'd see notices here and there for a show and I would say "Oh, we need to go see Reno" and then it would be .. next time. We had talked here and there of getting him back, but our times never matched up. It's a lesson to keep in touch with one another, be kind, and hug one another. My partner Jess used to record some of the shows at Miktopia and we have four shows of Reno's. I'm thankful for that as I'll be able to hear his voice, his laugh, and his personality and be able to picture him on stage and living life to its fullest. I'll miss Reno the singer for sure, but I'll miss Reno the person the most. There aren't many kinder people in SL and he will be missed by all who he touched -- and he touched many people's lives. I hope he knew how many people were better for knowing him. Rest in peace my friend”. - mikhayla (mikhaylameow)




I am incredibly unfortunate that I did not get to know Reno as much as I wanted to, my schedule didn't align so often, but I loved his music, and who he was was a warm, witty, laid-back individual who inspired affection and acceptance wherever he went. He was like his voice- well-worn like a pair of old boots, and just as comfortable and welcoming. The grid is dimmer now than it was with Reno's passing”.  Merryjest Starchild




“ Reno was one of the sweetest, kindest people you would meet. He was always there to help if you needed him and he had some of the best stories that would just captivate you, make you smile, and make you laugh”. -  MєƖє ѕησω คηgєℓ-BαsÑ”vi  (melenda.yarrowroot)



We had trailers next to each other in Desert Ruins for a time. He was one of the first to greet me in Mother Road and was always friendly to me”.- Drifter (wastelanddrifter)




The thing I remember most about Reno was his rumbling laugh. I used to like making him laugh on mic and it was always joyful to hear” -Shae Bloodrose (shae70)



I met Reno early in 2019 and asked him if he would be interested in playing my bar in my 1930's Louisiana sim (Bayou Chat Noir)  well, I originally offered him work as a short order cook but he liked the place and wanted to play there,  life happened and it just didnt pan out for us, but I truly think he found his rightful home in Owl and Mother Road”- Mr Kitty (vinje)



Reno shared my beliefs. He has been to Tibet and we talked about his time there. I loved his rough and gruff voice. He could play so many songs and nail them. He played at my club Villa Lobos every third Tuesday until his neuropathy got too bad and he couldn't play any more. He was a good man. He was always laughing and fun” -  Cellandra Zon



“Reno was like a father figure to me. I always had a spot for him at my stage because he was so kind, so generous and his energy was infectious. It doesn't make sense to me why he was called home so soon, I will miss him so much. I wish more people were like him” - Taj Angel (taj.nishi)



“I didnt know Reno well but like many was thankful for him sharing his talent with us all”. -Ray (ray.dash)



“I met Reno because he came to visit relatives here in Portland. I picked him up and we came to my house and jammed. We got pretty high too”.-  RoseDrop Rust



It's great that you wrote about Reno, he was a remarkable character from SL. I knew him a little. What I remember about him is his kindness, his inimitable voice, his unique avatar, his humor. I am a friend of Owl, Chi, Rance, Peux... who perform every Wednesday at the Shack, here at Mother Road. I loved it when he said my name to welcome me during his sets when he spoke to us between two songs. Like a ritual, he lingered on my name each time, repeating it several times with amusement, but always with a great kindness that made me feel important. He really liked one of my photos, this one from his billboard. I heard tonight from people who knew him much better than I did, some even in real life”.- ZaZu (zazu.susa)



It shows how Reno was generous. I have a friend, I won't name names.. but they were struggling in real life financially. Reno knew them too, not as much as I did, but I let him know how I was worried about that person (Reno always gave me an ear and advice). Anyhow, Reno.. without prompting, sent my friend some money to help them out. It was a nice thing to do. He was a caring person”. - Bubbles Osterham (bubbles.roxan)


I saw Reno for the first time when I went to "Nude on the Moon" at Mother Road. This gravely voice, stories, and infectious laugh had me hooked from the start and wanted to be a part of it, and I was lucky enough to get that opportunity and become friends with Reno... By far, one of the most genuine, amazing people I have met here”. -Jay Pockets


We'd been coming over to the Hootenanny Shack and I started to IMing him. I found the guy funny, knowledgeable, really good as a player/singer, but I could tell he was curious. I think he honestly loved people. We talked music. Always interesting. I'll miss him--Speelo Snook



“I have had the great pleasure of knowing Reno  Jones not only as an sl friend but as a real life friend. He will forever be in my heart and will forever impact my life for the better.  About 5 years ago, I was wandering the Mother Road Sim and saw a Billboard with Reno Jones on it and thought this was the most amazingly detailed billboard I have ever seen in Sl and the character on it, you could write stories about. Later on that day, I had gone to hear some Music that was being played on Sim, and while I was standing there Reno shows up. I got so excited! I immediately  messaged  him and I said, " Wow, you're real." not thinking that he would have no idea what I was even  talking about, He laughed and said, " I think I am?." I then told him of the billboard and said how happy I was that he was real and from that one silly conversation would be the start of many conversations on various topics about Life,  Travel,  and his love for Music,  This is just a small glimpse into how  I came to know such a person, There could be many, many more things said but I will leave it here with the other memories I have left inside my mind. May he go down in Infamy in all realms.  I say to him, Fly high, dear one. You are loved by all who knew you”. - WilamenaFrandcineSchittChastity (wilazarco83)




“I have so many beautiful memories of sitting by a campfire with Reno and sharing life stories.I loved him dearly, and still do, always will. Lots of tears right now”. - Indigo Solo



The SL Enquirer covers a lot of stories in SL, this type of event is sad, but also beautiful at the same time to see so much comfort and support for each other during this difficult time. There were over a hundred friends and fans in attendance, each with their own story to tell about Reno.  SL truly lost a kind talented soul. He will be missed by many.  


Rest in peace Reno. Thank you for sharing your gifts of music and your positive spirit with everyone who had the pleasure of meeting you. 


If you weren’t at Reno’s memorial gathering in Second Life and would like to share a few words, please share your memories and thoughts in the comment box below. We are all in this healing process together. *hugs*


- Lanai Jarrico



You tube video in memory of Reno Jones made by Gypsy Dhrua;  Member of SL Live Music Jams 


https://youtu.be/5EtKLBnEoFU?si=YFB_RnIBR_zBbLV7


Obituary: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/mission-viejo-ca/stephan-jonas-12254634

Thursday, February 13, 2025

HOLIDAY MASCOT SERIES: Interview with Cupid 2025- Lanai Jarrico Reporting…

 





Recently I met up with Father Time who seemed annoyed but still did an interview.  He reminded me why Cupid and I had a falling out so not only did I go on my quest to find him but I wanted to apologize for last year. I really didn’t mean to beat him to a pulp with a fist full of roses. I don’t like to get startled. With that said, I search across the grid and found him minding his own business at  Japanese Tempura  Island where he was taking a Tai Chi Class.



Lanai: CUPID! Long time no see! Let me apologize for last year. I really didn’t mean to attack you with roses. I’m sorry *makes a pouty face*


Cupid: OMG, it’s you! Stay away from me. You are like a sour patch kid commercials amplified!  Can’t you see I’m busy!



Lanai: Don’t tell me you are still butt hurt over what happened. It’s been a year, let that shit go. You shouldn’t have startled me. You know my swing reflex is something different..


Cupid: Something different?? That was totally a manic Karen episode! To top it all off you were trespassing in MY garden!


Lanai: Cupid, you know you love me so stop putting up a front. Father time told me all about your holiday date switching plan to avoid me. That’s not how you treat your FWB.


Cupid: Oh he did? So you tracked him down too? You are supposed to stay at least 500 yards away from me.




Lanai: Yea.. that expired.  And stop acting jealous. You didn't have to get the other mascots involved in our personal business.


Cupid: Ohh they have their own reasons for avoiding you. Do I need to remind you what you did to the Easter Bunny on April Fools day? He had to wear a furry pink onesie on Easter and  spent the rest of the year hiding so his own fur would grow back in. He looked like a giant overstuffed mole rat with big ears. I never want to see a grown Easter Bunny ugly cry ever again in my life. It’s horrifying.



Lanai:  It was kinda funny… at the time. Don’t tell me you never switched someone's shampoo for Nair before. Live a little.


Cupid: NO!!! That’s a terrible prank.  What about the time you caused a vicious fight between Larry the Leprechaun and one of Santa’s helpers. They accidentally sewed the wrong ear onto the other. I don’t think they ever found the other missing ear.


Lanai: Hey, that had nothing to do with me. I was at The Blarney Stone having a couple drinks while minding my own business when I heard them arguing about who’s taller. All I did was say, Larry had about a centimeter over the elf. That's when the ear tugging began and well. Yea , that wasn't my fault!


Cupid: MMhmm. Ok what about the time you put cannabis oil in Mrs. Clause’s brownies and  Santa got pulled over while delivering Christmas presents. Good thing everyone loves Santa and they let him off with a warning. Mrs. Clause broke an ankle trying to dance on the table and slipped.  You nearly canceled Christmas for everyone!


Lanai: Wasn’t me.


Cupid: Lanai, you dropped your medical marijuana card and Mrs.Claus found it in her kitchen… Why do you think you got coal this year?




Lanai:Oh, I was wondering where it was. About the coal though,  I collect rocks and figured it was a thoughtful gift! All I was doing was adding a little jolliness to his long night. Lighten up, Christmas was a success. I heard even naughty kids got presents this year.


Cupid: SMH. Why are we having this interview again?


Lanai: Because Valentine’s day is coming up and I wanted to know if you had any words of wisdom for all the lovers out there.


Cupid: Well first of all to any guy who has the slightest interest in asking you to be their Valentine should think twice. Your reputation for being a heartbreaker is probably the most frequently used search term on the internet next to Drones in New Jersey.


Lanai: Anyway…You are just mad that I wouldn't be your Valentine. Remember the time I caught you trying to play a harp at my window while humming a rap song? That was really weird. Of course I threw a shoe at you and turned you down.




Cupid: See. You can’t even appreciate a kind gesture after an amazing time. You… You… heart of stone Queen! I totally regret that night.



Lanai: Not the night before though… lol.  Stop spreading fake news and work on your name calling…



Cupid:*facepalm*  Lanai, you have a way of making people love and hate you at the same time. I’m not sure where this interview is going but I need to pick up my arrows and get ready for Valentine’s day. I have Love to spread.



Lanai: So do I.   I’ll see you later. *winks*


Cupid: *rolls eyes* You are something else. Want to Netflix and chill?


Lanai: Are you asking me out?


Cupid: No…


Lanai: OK, come over.










Special thanks to Edge Catteneo


Thursday, January 30, 2025

HOLIDAY MASCOT SERIES: Interview with Father Time- Lanai Jarrico Reporting…



Time sure does fly when you are havin fun, But it also does the same sitting on your ass planning your next move.


Looking back at the past year. It has been one hellified journey for me. Between family matters, friendship matters, work life, SL life and all the fuckery in between.  I’m exhausted. Time has a way of coming at us in waves. There’s ups and downs, back and forth and at the end of it all, we are left thinking WTF happened to the year! It’s now the end of January and I’m wondering what surprises are to come. The good, the bad and yessss… even the ugly.


For the most part, I try to keep my nose clean. I work, pay my bills, feed my cat and keep keepin’ on with my day to day stuff. If I told you what I really was up to yall would collectively do a citizen's arrest and have me committed to a place that would protect me from myself.


Anyway, When the world begins to feel like I can’t possibly do anything else shameless, I turn to Second life and whip out my pen and begin to write.


 There’s nothing like bringing fantasy to life and reminding myself a good laugh is needed to balance things out. In the thick of things time is the most valuable thing we all have. It can’t be bought for any amount of money. There are no do overs, a rewind button or even a pause so what we do in the here and now should make us happy.


With that said, I set out to find Father time in Second Life. He tried to avoid me because it seems he doesn’t have the time for my Holiday Mascot Interviews. I heard from a friend of a friend that he thinks I’m a time waster. I was relentless until he finally gave in and decided to  sit down with me at a train station.


Interview with father time





Lanai: Hey Big Daddy, Thank you for agreeing to meet with me. It’s been a while. I think the last time we spoke I was about to make the craziest decision of my life until I got a flat tire and lost my debit card.


Father Time: Lanai, Ugh your nicknames are just… extra.  Of all the people I have met through the years, you stand out to me as the biggest pain in the ass but for some reason you find my weak spot.  You are a good kid when you are sleeping but a complete disaster the moment you wake up. I can write a whole series of history books just on you alone. SO what is it you wanted to interview me about?


Lanai: Well dang, tell me how you really feel.. No need to be a Scrooge.


Father Time: Hey watch your tone young lady and leave the Scrooge out of this. I cannot believe the prank you pulled on him this December. If I was him, I’d ban you from Christmas altogether but that's not my holiday to decide so I’ll leave that to him and Santa. I heard about what you did to him too.


Lanai: I didn't do anything to Scrooge. It was just  a glitter bomb. I thought it would brighten his day.


Father Time: Just a Glitter Bomb? Lanai ,has anyone ever told you to read the room before the things you do? Poor Scrooge had to hire a team of professionals to remove all that glitter from his entire neighborhood. They are still working on it and the bill is getting enormous.



Lanai: *blinks* Who doesn’t like glitter?


Father Time: *Sighs* Anyway, so what do you want with me? I was almost afraid to decline your interview offer when you found me trying to hop on a train to visit an old friend in the North pole.


Lanai: I just wanted to say hi and just get some of your wise insight about aging and what to expect next as I lean towards 50.


Father Time: 50? Are you kidding me? You are still a baby in my eyes. You still have about 3 years left. The only advice I can offer is start to stock up on butterscotch candy, get a few cats and learn to knit. Hell I don’t know what you almost half a century beings do with your time. For you specifically, word on the street is you still act like you are a defiant teenager going around stirring things up. I recently went to a holiday mascot support group and we spent an hour and a half discussing you. The mediator suggested we change holiday dates just to avoid you.


Lanai: You are such a drama queen. You make me out to be some kind of menace to SL society when I’ve been laying low these days. I’m finally coming around again and you wanna be all mean.


Father Time: Ok , you are wasting my time right now. I got a train to catch. What is this interview really about?




Lanai: Well, nothing really. I just wanted to prove to myself that Father time still has a little time for me. So thank you for that.


Father Time: You’re welcome… I think?


Lanai: Can you do me one small favor and I promise I won't bother you again for another year?


Father Time: What’s that?



Lanai: Can you tell Cupid he's next for an interview the next time you are at one of those weird holiday mascot support groups?


Father Time: Not sure that will go over well since he was appointed the mediator after that stunt you pulled on him last Valentine’s day. He is still pulling thorns out of hard to reach places. You had no business trespassing in Cupid’s Garden. Listen, I gotta go before I miss this train!


Lanai: o.O.  But wait! Let me defend myself. That sooooo wasn’t my fault, He startled me while I was attempting to pick roses.



Father Time: AHHHHHHHH!  I missed the train!  Lanai once again you managed to make me late!



Lanai: Don't’ worry the next train is coming soon. Thank you for your time. Gotta go!




Happy Belated New year All! 



Interview with Cupid Coming February 14th!


 
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