Interview with a Florida Man of Second Life: A Public Service Announcement in Disguise- Lanai Jarrico Reporting

You know that moment when you’re at an event, minding your own virtual business, and suddenly some walking red flag in pixelated freebie jeans and T-shirt crashes through local chat like a Category 5 storm? Yeah. That guy.

Every grid has one, but in Second Life we’ve refined him into an art form: The Florida Man of SL.  He lives in everyone’s friend list, or questionable “people you may know” panel. In my case, this suspicious alt-looking avatar fell out of the sky and landed at the Media Center.

In the interest of science, journalism, and keeping from becoming the next “ I got griefed by an Alt named “C0ca1neD0lpHin” story, I decided to sit this dude down for an exclusive interview.

Meet C0ca1neD0lpHin AKA Florida Man of SL( Fake name to conceal his identity)

Lanai: Welcome to SL Enquirer, where everyone is welcome. Just don’t act up and find out. So, for the record, who are you and what exactly do you do in Second Life?

Florida Man of SL: Name’s (BLEEP), but my friends call me “Bro.”  I’m a visionary entrepreneur, social influencer, club owner, DJ, security expert, land tycoon, and part-time relationship coach.  Currently between clubs, lands, fans, and relationships, but that's just because the grid isn’t ready for my next big thing yet.

PSA: if someone’s SL profile says they’re a CEO/ Influencer/Land Baron/DJ/Secuirty all in one, they’re not a mogul.   They’re a walking ToS violation in freebie gear.  Ask for one concrete thing they actually run that you can visit right now.

Lanai: So… “ between clubs” is an interesting way to spell “ I have a Marketplace store with three free boxes from 2012.” What happened to your last venue and why is your avatar a literal 1st generation being from the beta days?

Florida Man of SL:  Listen,  I prefer to be called vintage.  Going back to your question, that club was legendary.  We had the best traffic money can buy.  I would have kept it open, but the staff was toxic, the DJs wanted pay, the landlord expected rent, and the grid lagged my vibe. So I shut it down on principle.  Also, the estate manager banned me, but that’s political.

PSA: Any club or “business” owner who blames everybody else (staff, DJs, haters, lag) and never once says “ I planned poorly” is telling you exactly how they’ll treat you when things go wrong.  Screenshot the excuses, not the promises.

Lanai:Uh Ok… I’m sure that’s how it went down. Anyway, walk me through a typical day in the life of a Florida Man of SL.

Florida Man of SL: Wait. How did you know I’m from Florida?

Lanai: Wild guess.

Florida Man of SL: Oh. You are good!  I wake up in my skybox. Rez a 4096 prim truck on a 512 parcel and check my notecards. Then I send out about 150 group invites that nobody asked for, drop a logo on at least three other people’s dance floors “ by accident,” and hit up every woman within a 30-meter radius with “ Hey sexy, voice?” After that, I stand in at Welcome center and tell everyone how rich I am. 

PSA: Unsolicited group invites= digital spam

 Randomly dropping objects on other people’s land= tacky and reportable

“Hey sexy, Voice?” as an opener= automatic mental recycle bin.

Mute Early. Mute often

Lanai: While wearing freebie shoes?... SMH.  Let's talk about money, since you swear you’re a tycoon. How do you “do business” on the grid?

Florida Man of SL: Correction, vintage shoes.  Easy. You make a group, call it something important like “ official SL Security Department”, then sell “ staff tags” for 500L a pop.  You tell people they’ll get paid “ from tips” but never actually set up a tip jar. Then you spam local: Advertising slots available!  Serious business owners only!” and wait for someone new to hand you their rent money because you have a logo.

PSA: Real advertisers will show you their website, traffic numbers, and how long they’ve been around.  Ask, “Can you show me examples of other ads you’re running right now?” If they can’t produce anything except a group tag and an attitude, keep your lindens in your pocket. 

Lanai: Has anyone ever told you that is the worst business advice you can offer?  I can see you’ve been around a while and should know better but honestly I’m not even surprised at this point. What are your thoughts on the “old” SL versus the new, grown-up virtual world community?

Florida Man of SL: Back in the day, this grid was wild. No mesh, no rules, just bling shoes, camping chair, and voice arguments that lasted three days.  Now you people got decor themes and event calendars and “ brand reputations.” Disgusting. I respect it though. Makes it easier to spot the suckers.  If your profile has “ New to SL, please help” in 2026, that’s basically an open wallet with legs.

PSA: We were all new once. Help people, but don’t fund strangers' “business ideas”. If someone’s first real conversation with you includes the word “loans,” “ invest,” or sponsor my land,” that’s not a friendship; that’s a sales pitch.

Lanai: Am I missing something here? I don’t know if you are serious or just being an outdated griefer at this point. Since you are such a “businessman”, what are your top money-making tips for the average SL resident that I can suggest to do the total opposite?

Florida Man: Easy. Step one: Stop trying to get rich off one event where your cousin’s DJing from his phone on hotel Wifi. You are no Coachella.  You are a skybox with lag,

Step two: If your brand is a packed profile full of “no drama”, no BS, good vibes only” I already know you’re about to bring the drama, BS, and terrible vibes… and probably ask for a discount on top of it. Step three: if you actually want to make money? Show up, same name, same place, same hours, every week. Consistency is more powerful than whatever glitter body oil you’re using on your dance team.

PSA: “I opened a club”! It's not a business plan.  Have a schedule, have a list, have someone on staff who can answer an IM without rage quitting. If you disappear for two weeks and come back with a new logo, that’s not a “rebrand”; that’s ghosting with extra steps.

Lanai: Ok so you are serious? I’m so damn confused at this point. Any last words for the good people of Second Life? I have a business to run.

Florida Man of SL: Yeah. Stop trying to impress everybody and start paying attention. Read profiles, read group notices, read fine print on the “ too good to be true” land deal.  If you’re having fun, not broke, and constantly rage-quitting? You’re already doing better than half this grid.

Lanai: Rage- quitting? OK… on that spiritually confusing note, we’ll wrap it up here. Whether you are a Florida Man of SL, a tired club owner, or just figuring out why your hair is attached to your spine, remember: the grid is what you make of it. Try not to make it a crime scene. Just remember that in SL, not everybody knows what they are doing, most are winging it, and half of us rezzed bald and half naked in the middle of a crowd at one point in time. Be an SL community team player have fun, be kind and tip your hosts, mute the gesture spammer, refrain from public disputes, and if all else fails, blame lag and log out.

PSA: At the end of the day, this is a pixel world with very real money and very real emotions wired into it. Laugh, document your stupid moments, protect your wallet, and remember you can always… just log out and come back refreshed and ready to bring your creativity. If logging in becomes a chore instead of bringing you joy. What’s the whole point?

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The great American Mascot Roundtable: An Exclusive Fourth of July Intervention- Lanai Jarrico reporting

Every year, humans drag out the same red, white, and blue clichés like they’re on a lifetime contract. So for this Fourth of July, I decided to go straight to the source in Second Life and host a roundtable with the holiday’s most awkward and overworked mascots: Uncle Sam (burned out patriot), the Liberty Bell named Karen (crackpot drama queen, literally), Steve; a Revolutionary War reenactor turned influencer, a sentient hot dog named Frank with strong feelings about condiments, and “Sparky,” a professional firework who is, unfortunately, afraid of heights. I expected inspiration and heartfelt patriotism. What I got instead was group therapy with snacks.

Lanai: Thank you all for being here today. Let’s start simple: how are you feeling about this year’s Fourth of July?

Uncle Sam: Tired. I have been pointing at people in that same recruiting pose since 1917, and all anyone does now is turn me into a meme. At this point, I don’t want YOU—I want a chair and a nap.

Lanai: Fair enough.  Liberty Bell, how about you?

Liberty Bell Karen: I was literally cracked by overwork and bad planning, so I am basically the original American infrastructure story. People come to see me, take a selfie, and then ask, “So… why don’t you ring?” Like I am not in my 200s with chronic metal fatigue and boundary issues. I want to speak to a Manager!

Lanai: Sorry to hear that. And you, sir, our Revolutionary War reenactor influencer?

Reenactor: My name is Steve: Please, it’s “Historically Accurate Content Creator.” I used to reload a musket three times a day in a field for ten people and a bored golden retriever. Now I do it on stream and argue with teenagers about the correct sock length in 1776. Progress, I guess.

Lanai: Sock length? Anyway… Frank the Hot Dog, you look… stressed. Ketchup problem again?

Frank the Hot Dog: It is always a ketchup problem. I am a proud grilled icon, and every year, some uncle in cargo shorts drowns me like I’m a crime scene. Mustard, onions, maybe relish. Don’t get me started on the Secret sauce….Let me just say, ketchup is for fries, and I will die on this bun if I get loaded with anything else.

Lanai: I feel your pain, Frank. So,  Sparky, be honest: are you excited for the big finale?

Sparky (Firework): Define “excited.” In a few days, a stranger in a tank top is going to light my butt on fire, launch me into the sky, and hope I don’t land on a 2003 Honda Civic. I was not consulted on this career path. I wanted to be a sparkler. Sparklers just vibe.

Lanai: Thank you all for the soft introduction. I have a few questions and would like your insight on the 4th of July and what you'd like to tell our readers. Let's start with you Uncle Sam.

Uncle Sam:  You see a parade; I see a nationwide group project with no coordinator and six different playlists blaring at once. By the time I hit Main Street, I’ve already survived three budget meetings, fifteen arguments about whether sparklers are “real fireworks” and at least one guy yelling that freedom means he can double park in a fire lane.  The holiday feels like being an exhausted dad at a birthday party who still makes sure every kid gets a balloon. I’m proud, I’m loud, and secretly counting the minutes until I can take this stupid hat off and eat a burger in peace.

Sparky (Firework): *side eyes Uncle Sam and ,mumbles*; you are the fake one around here… Anyway.  Honestly, the 4th of July feels like my performance review and my funeral scheduled for the same night.  I spend eleven months in a cardboard box next to a faded “Buy one get one free” sign, listening to kids mispronounce the stupid names given to all the various fireworks that do the same shit. And then suddenly everyone’s chanting for me to light up the sky on command. Half of you are thrilled. The other half are plugging their ears and tending to their animals with loud noise anxiety. I’m just hoping I don’t fizzle out in front of the many flashing cameras. It’s a lot of pressure for a firework. One bad launch and I end up being a YouTube cautionary tale. Gosh, I can stand wannabe influencers and Youtube shorts directors…

Reenactor: My name is Steve: This day is like content Christmas for me! I wake up at 4 am, lace myself into seventeen inaccurate historical layers, and spend the whole day running around on iced coffee and a selfie stick.  Half the crowd thinks I actually knew Washington, and the other half saw my “Did founders have Riz” series on Reels. By the time the fireworks start, my wig glue is coming undone, and the soles of my boots have worn down to my bare feet. Some peeps like to hate on us influencers but most of you wouldn’t be famous if it wasn’t for documentors like me! *side eyes Sparky*

Frank the Hot Dog: *shakes his head* Fame chasers are all alike… For me, the 4th of July is the one day a year when peeps admit I’m the main character.  All winter, I’m just mystery meat in aisle 7, and then suddenly I’m the star of every cookout, pressed onto a grill by a guy who swears he is a grill master because he owns tongs and a cheesy apron with abs.  It’s loud, it’s smoky, and I’m just trying not to roll off a paper plate into the grass and be carried off by an annoying chihuahua. Is that glamorous? No. But when the buns are toasted, and mustard hits just right, it’s the closest this country gets to a love letter to the mouth. Bananas got nothing on me!

Liberty Bell Karen: *stares awkwardly but interested at Frank* From where I sit, this holiday feels like an annual performance of nobody’s greatest hits with spectators staring at me wanting to hit me with a hammer to see if I still ring. The last time that happened, I was left bruised and wanting to just crumble to the ground. *busts out ugly crying*

Lanai: Aww, Karen,  I’m sure you’ll find somebody who really rings your bell, and your outlook will be much better. As for the rest of you, I hope you all get to enjoy the holiday in your own special way, just please, no fighting with each other. This day is for you all to come together to recreate the spirit of Independence Day.

 So, there you have it readers, a bell that wants to be loved not heard, a sparkler having an emotional crisis and major height anxiety, a hot dog pretending to be the big dog of all BBQs, a failing reenactor influencer in a dollar store soldier costume and finally good ol’ Uncle Sam, who wants peeps to stop confusing freedom with leaving firework aftermath scattered everywhere and lawn chairs in the street for days.

To all, may your grills be hot, hamburgers cooked through, your fireworks stay in the sky, you have all your fingers by the end of the night, and your relatives and friends only argue about whose potato salad was a hate crime.

Happy 4th of July, everyone. 

Xoxo Lanai

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DISCLOSURE DAY- INTERVIEW WITH AN ALIEN- Lanai Jarrico reporting…

I’ve come across many Avatars in my day as a reporter here in Second Life, but I have to say, this particular being set the bar high for special guests like Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and even that flirtatious Cupid, whom I've had the opportunity to interview on a few occasions. It happened very unexpectedly and caught me a bit off guard as I was making my rounds at the SL Enquirer Media Center. I noticed the air was thick with the scent of ozone and something ancient, a metallic tang that clung to the back of my throat. I stood across from a being that defied every law of virtual biology I knew. They called him Enox. He didn't breathe, yet the center vibrated with a low-frequency hum that seemed to emanate from his translucent grey skin. As I secretly clicked my recorder on, the flickering lights near the stage area dimmed and turned off, leaving us in an awkward silence stare. This was the moment humanity had been both craving and dreading: the first recorded words from beyond our stars. I slowly walked closer and introduced myself.

Interview with Enox

Lanai: Hi…. Welcome to SLE. How can I help you?

Enox: Lanai, just the Avatar I was looking for. I was sent here on a mission from the Zeta Reticuli star system.

Lanai: Where’s that?  You came here specifically to speak to me? OMG, what did I do? Are you here to abduct me??

Enox: This star system is located in the southern constellation of Reticulum, and no, I’m not here to abduct you again. Last time we tried that, you woke up in the middle of the experiments and caused a whole scene, destroying our equipment and using language that offended us. We had to knock you back out and put you back in your bed. You are flagged as a feisty, foul-mouthed abductee not suitable for our breeding program. We cannot have another one of you cloned for the safety of mankind, but you are still very much a person of interest to us.  

Lanai: o.O… I should be offended! You snatched me out of my bed, and I can’t even remember what happened! I’ll have you know I make beautiful children. Pfft.

Enox: You humans are still strange and feral. We are trying to figure out if you humans are ready before we fully disclose the truth about the Universe and all the life forms in it.  We tried that thousands of years ago when we came here to mine for gold and constructed the Pyramids. At that time, humans were at least willing to work with us until they began carving graffiti all over the place, depicting images of us and our spacecraft. We are a shy culture and wish to stay out of the way and let you all thrive on your own. Sadly, you all are causing so much commotion on this planet that it might be time to intervene. In particular the use of social media. The type of TikTok videos you species make is utterly ridiculous. Whoever invented twerking should be ashamed of themselves. Anyway, You are the CEO of The SL Enquirer. Who better than you to deliver our message to the masses?

Lanai: “blinks” OK. Well, you caught me off guard. If I had known you were coming, I would have prepared a proper interview. I have so many questions, but I don’t even know where to start. Do you have a name?

Enox: My name is Enox.

Lanai: That’s a start. Nice to meet you… again apparently. Why did you pick today to come?

Enox: Well, the World Cup is happening, and apparently, an abductee went and told someone we were preparing to do a mass abduction in Miami.

Lanai: Yeah, I heard about that on TikTok, but you can’t believe everything you read on the internet. So, is it true?

Enox: If I disclosed that information, it would ruin the element of surprise. You will just have to wait and see. Right now, I can only tell you that we are real and have been watching from afar. We are still trying to understand why the Kardashians are famous, what Elon is planning to do with his Trillions, and what animal Spam is actually made of. There are so many things we are still trying to figure out. 

Lanai: There are things I’m trying to figure out, too. Like, what's up with random cow mutilations, crop circles, and those Nasca lines? Can you at least tell me if Bigfoot is real or why it is illegal to speak to dolphins?

Enox: Sighs…The crop circles and Nasca Lines are just art and road maps for us. They only got discovered when airplanes were invented and became visible from the sky.  I hate to break it to you about Bigfoot. Yes, they are real, but smart enough to stay away from populated areas. They don’t want to catch all the diseases and drama your species is riddled with. Also, don’t try speaking to dolphins; they know way too much, and they like to kidnap people to help build their underwater cities in the Gulf of Mexico.

Lanai: I get it.  That’s some weird shit. So, what exactly do you want me to share with the masses since you seem to be very vague with your information?

Enox: Honestly, I just wanted to meet you. Are you seeing someone?

Lanai: What!?! Are you kidding me?

Enox: Of course, I’m kidding. I will disclose that this planet is actually a simulator. Second Life is the closest replica of what all of you are experiencing in the “real world”. AI is actually disclosure, and the more tech intervenes, the more desensitized you will become to the world around you. Once everyone is acclimated to the new normal, we will be back to reclaim this planet and reset it again. Are you ready?

Lanai: That kinda sounds freakishly believable…Should I pack a bag and come with you now?

Enox let out a sound like static, a dry laugh that vibrated in my chest. "Keep your bags packed, Lanai. But don’t worry about coming with me—not yet. For now, just keep reporting on the madness. We’ll be watching to see if you can tell the difference between the code and the truth." 

With that, the metallic scent of ozone spiked, the lights flickered violently, and in a blink, he was gone. I was left standing alone in the silent Media Center, staring at the empty spot where an alien had just casually explained the end of the world, wondering if I should write this up or if my system was just glitching again.

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For Immediate Release Date: Dave Hyde of Coalville Public Radio Hosts Exclusive Interview with Second Life Musical Sensation Wolfie Starfire (Meg Groves)

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
Date: September 4, 2025

Dave Hyde of Coalville Public Radio Hosts Exclusive Interview with Second Life Musical Sensation Wolfie Starfire (Meg Groves)

Coalville, UK / Second Life — The SL Enquirer is thrilled to announce a special feature interview hosted by Dave Hyde of Coalville Public Radio with internationally recognized Second Life performer and acclaimed songwriter Wolfie Starfire — known in real life as Meg Groves. The interview originally aired on Coalville Public Radio on Friday, August 29, 2025, and brought listeners an intimate look into the artistry, inspiration, and creative journey of one of Second Life’s most beloved musical talents.

During the broadcast, Dave and Wolfie discussed her unique path as a virtual world musician, her real-world songwriting career, and the powerful ways she connects with fans across both realities. With her signature blend of authenticity, soul, and fearless creativity, Wolfie Starfire continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a performer in the digital age.

The highlight of the interview came as Wolfie — stepping fully into her real-world persona, Meg Groves — unveiled her heartfelt new single, “Thank You Letter.” The broadcast concluded with Meg personally introducing the track, a poignant and deeply moving song that has already begun resonating with audiences around the globe.

Fans can now experience the official music video for “Thank You Letter” on YouTube:
 Watch Here

“This song is my way of giving back,” Meg shared during the program. “It’s a thank-you to those who believed in me, supported me, and made this dream possible. Music is the bridge — and I’m so grateful for everyone who chooses to walk across it with me.”

This rare and compelling interview, produced in partnership between the SL Enquirer and Coalville Public Radio, shines a spotlight on the evolving world of digital performance and the powerful real-world artistry it fosters.

About Wolfie Starfire (Meg Groves)

Wolfie Starfire has become a household name in the Second Life music community, celebrated for her magnetic performances, evocative songwriting, and ability to connect with audiences in both virtual and physical spaces. As Meg Groves, her real-world work continues to gain recognition, blending heartfelt storytelling with an indie-pop edge that is uniquely her own.

Artist Website: https://www.musicallymeggroves.com

Second Life Bookings: Contact Kaysie Michigan in-world or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jaala.coulson/

About Coalville Public Radio

Coalville Public Radio is a respected voice in community broadcasting, known for showcasing independent music, diverse perspectives, and authentic storytelling. All rights to the original broadcast remain with Coalville Public Radio.

Website: https://coalvillepublicradio.com/

__________________________________________________

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!

Media Inquiries Contact: Lanai Jarrico - CEO, SL Enquirer  lanaijarrico@gmail.com

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http://www.slenquirer.com/

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

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Preview YouTube video Meg Groves - "Thank You Letter" (Official Music Video 4K)

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Interview with Uncle Sam- Darron Buckenberger Reporting..

 

It’s 4th of July and what better way to celebrate this day in Second Life than an interview with Uncle Sam. He’s like that stoner Uncle everyone has that is always at the annual BBQ and everyone just rolls their eyes and laughs when he begins singing his favorite rendition of “Yankee Doodle” during  Karaoke…

Interview with Uncle Sam

Darron: Happy Fourth of July, Uncle Sam! Thanks for joining me here at the Enquirer Headquarters. How’s the barbecue treating you?

Uncle Sam: Happy Fourth, Darron! The barbecue’s great, though I’ve had to dodge a few overcooked hot dogs. You know how it is – can’t have a party without a little char! And I must say, this setup is quite… festive.

Darron: Absolutely! Nothing says freedom like a well-stocked rolling tray. So, Uncle Sam, what’s your favorite thing about celebrating the Fourth of July?

Uncle Sam: Oh, it’s gotta be the fireworks! Nothing lights up the sky like a good display of freedom. And, of course, the endless supply of potato salad. You can never have too much potato salad – or too many nugs, apparently.

Darron: Speaking of freedom, what do you think about the state of the nation these days? Any thoughts on the lively political scene?

Uncle Sam: Well, Darron, it’s a bit like this rolling tray – a lot of pieces, a lot of mess, but somehow it all comes together. Everyone’s got an opinion, and that’s the beauty of it. Freedom to speak your mind, even if it sometimes feels like a never-ending debate over who rolled the best joint.

Darron: True enough! And what about taxes? People say you have quite the knack for collecting them.

Uncle Sam: Ah, taxes. The necessary evil that keeps this party going. I always say, pay your dues, but make sure you’re getting your fair share of the pie. It’s not always perfect, but we’re working on it – like trying to get that perfect roll without spilling any nugs.

Darron: Speaking of pies, any dessert recommendations for today?

Uncle Sam: Definitely apple pie – with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. And if you really want to impress, try a red, white, and blue trifle. It’s festive, delicious, and pairs well with a nice, relaxing smoke.

Darron: Yum! I’ll have to give that a try. Now, some folks think you hang out with some questionable characters. Any comments on that?

Uncle Sam: Well, every family has its characters, right? The important thing is to focus on the good – the people who work hard, support each other, and keep the spirit of the nation alive. And maybe we can all agree that a little less drama and a bit more cooperation would do us good. Sort of like sharing the last nug in the grinder.

Darron: Well said! And what’s your secret to giving those memorable speeches everyone talks about?

Uncle Sam: It’s all about timing. Start strong with a toast, throw in a few jokes, and when you see people reaching for another drink, or another joint, you know it’s time to wrap it up. Keep it short and sweet – like a good apple pie or a quick hit.

Darron: (laughs) You really know how to work a crowd! Now, Uncle Sam, any hidden talents?

Uncle Sam: Well, I can juggle flaming sparklers – just kidding! But I do have a mean karaoke rendition of “Yankee Doodle.” And I can roll a joint in under a minute, which I’d say is quite the talent.

Darron: Now that’s impressive! And finally, Uncle Sam, any last words of wisdom for our readers?

Uncle Sam: Enjoy the day with family and friends, eat well, laugh a lot, and remember – freedom is about enjoying the little things. And maybe skipping the heavy politics just for today. Oh, and always keep a box of Altoids handy – never know when you’ll need fresh breath.

Darron: Perfect advice. Thanks for the chat, Uncle Sam. Happy Fourth of July!

Uncle Sam: Anytime, Darron! Happy Fourth to all!

Darron: Wait a minute… is that a USB port on your neck?

Uncle Sam: (laughs) Oh, you caught me! Yep, I’m an AI cyborg. Helps keep the speeches consistent and the joints perfectly rolled.

Darron: Well, that explains a lot! Cheers to our cyborg Uncle Sam!

Uncle Sam: Cheers, Darron! And remember – in the land of the free, even AI can celebrate the Fourth of July!

Darron: Right! It’s just unfortunate that you can’t feel the effects of a well toked nug… I’ll be sure to take a hit for you!

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HOLIDAY MASCOT SERIES: Interview with a Female Leprechaun 2024- Lanai Jarrico Reporting

 

Before we get into this extra peculiar interview with this year’s St Patrick’s day mascot, I wanted to remind St Patrick’s Day fans what the holiday is really about since it seems to be associated with drinking….heavily.

  St Patricks Day was first officially observed in 1631 when the church put together a feast day honoring St Patrick; the Patron Saint of Ireland.

 Back story time… Did you know St Patrick was kidnapped from Britain and sold into slavery in Ireland when he was 16 years old.  He escaped six years later and vowed to convert Ireland into Christianity and vanquished all snakes from Ireland not that there were any there to begin with. I think it's a metaphor for banishing evil.

 He wasn’t Irish nor was Patrick his real name. It was derived from the word “Patricus' ' in Latin; meaning nobleman or father figure. His real name was Maewyn Succat and he claimed that he deserved being kidnapped because of his lack of faith in God. He also claimed to hear voices and have visions too. Kinda like Joan of Arc. That’s pretty deep ya’ll.

Besides that, green wasn’t his favorite color either. It was blue. But be careful though…. rumor has it, If you don’t wear green on St. Patrick’s Day, you might get pinched by a Leprechaun! 

Let me not even get started on the history of those holiday mascots...they are shoemakers that have some sort of fetish for gold that they hide at the end of a rainbow. If the gold is found, the little imp will grant three wishes.  Shrugs  I don’t know about you but I think it got a bit too Disney for me.

As far as the shamrock is concerned, there’s no evidence St Patrick was a gardener or ever wore a clover...It's a metaphor, a symbol for the holy trinity with the 3 leaves presenting the Father, the son and the holy spirit.

If we wanna throw it out there and keep it real. This holiday was really derived from Pagans,  there was a lot of that witchery going on back then. March 17th was originally Ostara; the spring equinox, celebrating rebirth and the balance of the universe but it got hijacked by another religion. Now it seems to hold no religious value at all.

I’m no historian or religious freak but I know a little somethin’.  I frankly don’t know what is being celebrated today though. It turned into a universal day of  heavy drinking, pub crawls, lots of green and a hangover the next day.

In Second life, the holiday is about venue hopping,music and dancing while double fisting virtual beverages. Our avatar is not responsible for our real person's consumption habits on this day or any other day for that matter.

 I think I like this version of holiday observation best because I can actually interview a leprechaun and not even feel weird about it.

 With that said…

St. Patrick’s day is right around the corner so off I ventured the grid in search of this year’s  little green dude to snatch up and interrogate errrr…. Interview. I went to my old haunt for holiday mascots and didn’t find any leprechauns at an AA meeting…oddly enough.

 I even tried looking for the end of a rainbow and it led me to an LGBTQIA club. I hung out there a bit with great music and friendly peeps,  then decided to go to the next best place…. The Blarney Stone -Irish Pub.

I was a bit hesitant to go inside at first because of past history that I do not care to discuss. Let’s just say it was so worth the SLE police report at the time lol.

Anyway, while ordering up a nice cold Guiness and scanning the place, I noticed what looked like a giant Leprechaun.  She seemed a bit intoxicated while dancing around and somewhat singing the lyrics to a song like a drunken karaoke superstar.

 I dropped my tab and tip on the bar and walked over to her. The first question I wanted to ask was where she shops when she voluntarily slurred out that she was a Leprechaun lookin for a good time. I found it a bit strange being that she was the height of an average avatar and that she was…. what appeared to be a woman…

Thinking to myself, this holiday cannot get any stranger with its constant evolution but decided I’ll interview her. What do I have to lose, except for readers who aren't into this crazy kinda shit.

INTERVIEW WITH JEZEBEL THE LEPRECHAUN

Lanai: Excuse me, I couldn't help but notice you from across the room. I wanted to ask…

Jezebel: Hey beautiful. Come dance with me.

Lanai: Oh thank you for the offer but I wasn’t hitting on you. I just wanted to know where you shop. That is a creative outfit you have on.

Jezebel: Ohh my bad. I’m a Leprechaun.. Well half. My dad is… my mom…she’s an elf. I get my ears from my momma.

Lanai: Who’d you get the height from?

Jezebel: My mother told me to never ask her those types of questions... She was a drunk when I was conceived and barely remembers my dad.

Lanai: Sorry I didn't mean to get all personal.

Jezebel: Not at all. I’ve been trying to get him to take a paternity test but he refused to give up gold in child support.

Lanai: Dang, Sorry to hear all that.  I must say you are the first female leprechaun I’ve met or even heard of.

Jezebel: I get that all the time lol. I wasn’t born this way. With the abundance of acceptance in the SL community, my love of Lady Gaga and excessive amounts of makeup and lashes I am living my true self and loving it. 

Lanai: Well you go girl! Live your best Slife. There is nothing wrong with that!

Jezebel: Thank you! So you're a journalist huh?

Lanai: I’ve been called worse lol. Yes and was out looking for a Leprechaun to interview for St Patrick's day

Jezebel: Well you came to the right place honey. I’ll answer your questions since I’m technically one.

Lanai: *looks at her with a long contemplating stare*

Jezebel: What?

Lanai: This is the first time I'm lost for words. I don’t even know what to ask you.

Jezebel: I understand all that glitters is not gold and all those tacky sayings but you did hit the jackpot lady luck. I’ll be your best interview ever!

Lanai: Ok… So what are your plans for St. Patrick’s Day?

Jezebel: I really didn’t have any plans, I was hoping you could give me some ideas.

Lanai: What’s the point if a leprechaun doesn’t even have plans? I think most avies nowadays just treat it like another day in SL. Others, I suppose visit St. Patty’s Day themed events to take advantage of any contests or sales happening. Other than that, I’m as stumped as you are.

Jezebel: As a leprechaun and unofficial St. Patrick’s Day representative I propose that everyone visit The Blarney Stone Irish Pub. It’s as Irish as it gets in SL. *shrugs* Besides that, name dropping their venue in The SL Enquirer might get me some popularity points with management. I’ve been looking for a job.

Lanai: FFS… Would you happen to know where the Easter Bunny likes to hang out?

Jezebel: Umm. Why am I suddenly feeling used for your next interview project?

Lanai:  Well yeah, thank you for the inspiration. I  wish you luck with your new job if you get it.

Jezebel: Thanks. Sorry gotta run!  my wife just pulled into the driveway, I was supposed to take chicken out of the freezer a couple hours ago to defrost. 

*oops* I’m so embarrassed. I didn’t mean to type that in open chat.

Lanai: *stares in disbelief*

Sometimes you have to admit defeat, even in the writing game. Not all interviews come easy and this one just baffled the hell out of me.

*Cheers* 

 Happy St Patrick's day!

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