AVENUE Magazine September 2010 by AVENUE

New moon Arising

september 2010

EMO-tions

Photo by Boe Cortes

AVENUE | Publisher's note

Rusch Raymaker Rusch Raymaker Publisher & Editor in Chief AVENUE

s we creep up upon Fall and things are set to change, the AVENUE team is in a flurry to help you continue keeping a step ahead in your Second Life®.

This month, our fashion pages explode with vibrant styles that keeps you ahead of the fashionistas... with Thalia Jie shedding light on finding the quintessential pair of shades; revelling in Gold with Kyrie Source’s Golden Girls fashion spread; a peek into the creative minds of fashion designers Linka Demina and Landa Crystal; and our in-house stylists Boe Cortes and Vixie Rayna shows the men how to turn up the heat with woollies and the ladies looking sharp in pencil skirts. We also take a look behind the fashion scene, particularly on AVENUE Models’ backstage, where behind many of AVENUE’s unmatched productions stands a model who grew to be a powerhouse... our Senior Producer Livia Mastroianni. The grid is teeming with talent and we continue to celebrate it this month by showcasing interesting sims like The Berlin Project, the ever popular live musicians Mankind Tracer and Craig Lyons, and a celebration of various artists that have been hand selected by our Creative Director Paola Tauber in the return of our artful Inspirations pages. Next month, watch out for our 2nd anniversary issue and celebrations. We’re welcoming your greetings and messages so do drop me a notecard or email to rusch@avenuesl.com so we can publish it. Join us in the revelry and look ahead to another great year together.

AVENUE | Editor's note

Isadora Fiddlesticks Photo by Boe Cortes

Isadora Fiddlesticks Managing Editor AVENUE

t’s close, it’s coming, it’s... AVENUE Magazine’s 2nd anniversary next month, that is... :) It was tough starting this up with just 5 to 10 people onboard with us, and when you’re with AVENUE, it’s hard not to get carried into the excitement of meeting goals, and creatively setting out to be the best magazine in Second Life. Coming from a smaller SL publishing experience, I’ve always dreamed of having something bigger and better, and when Rusch invited me, I just had to grab the golden opportunity. Two years on, and with 40 staff, I have never regretted my decision. The growth that we’ve made with this magazine has been tremendous... we blazed the grid with our creative covers, impressive commentaries and interviews, and we really tried to feature people that we thought needed exposure, and we did our very best to show what makes Second Life a thriving, creative, and lively place to be in. With all those laurels, one would think that it’s time to just shine on those achievements, but being AVENUE, that notion is silly. So with that said, you can very much expect better things from this publication. AVENUE Magazine is for Second Life, and most of all, AVENUE Magazine is for you. We thank you for your support!

Fashion Icon Linka Demina

34 Cover Story EMO-tions

AVENUE Magazine September 2010 cover Featuring EMO-tions Yuna dress and DALA hair worn by AVENUE Model Cherie Parker Photographer: Jarl Soderstrom

Contents

106

Edge of Style Warming up to Woolies

56 Trendspotting 70 Designer Spotlight Landa Crystal 82 Signature Pieces 90 AVENUE Homme 98 Fun with Fashion 118 My Precious Queen Contest 128 AVENUE Model of the Month Livia Mastroianni

190

Inspirations A whiter shade of pale

138 Architecture 148 Interesting Sims 158 Sporting SL 166 Business Feature Philip Rosedale 172 For the Love of 176 Live Music 182 Featured Artist Fashion Rocks

Magazine : issue 24

VENU

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Rusch Raymaker

Managing Editor

Isadora Fiddlesticks

Copy Editor & Production Manager

Tandra Parx

Fashion Editor

Vixie Rayna

Marketing Director

Jesika Contepomi

Marketing Executives

Livia Mastroianni Tandra Parx Aaliyah Munro

Creative DirectoR

Paola Tauber

Designers

Paola Tauber Khea Karas Jesika Contepomi Sapphire Coakes Larson Gufler

Sensuous Soulstar Thalia Jie Imani Enzo Spruce Canning Vixie Rayna

Senior Writers

Augusta Carver Carissa Sockington Jarl Soderstrom Boe Cortes

Writers

Kyrie Source Thalia Jie Jarl Soderstrom Boe Cortes Vixie Rayna

Stylists

Jarl Soderstrom Boe Cortes Thalia Jie Kyrie Source Vixie Rayna Natasja Schumann Blaz Halfpint Tillie Ariantho

AVENUE Magazine is published and managed by AVENUE Inc which owns and operates AVENUE Models & Academy, AVENUE Marketing & PR and AVENUE Studio Online issues can be found at: issuu.com/avenue AVENUE Magazine blog: avenuemagazine.blogspot.com AVENUE Inc website: www.avenuesl.com Visit us inworld at: AVENUE at GOL [45, 153, 22]

Photographers

For exclusive updates, gifts, events and latest releases join our inworld group: AVENUE Magazine Readers ************************************* Press releases to: editorial@avenuesl.com Ad queries: ads@avenuesl.com For inworld queries on advertising and vendor requests please contact one of the following: Jesika Contepomi Livia Mastroianni Tandra Parx Aaliyah Munro

AVENUE | Cover Story

Mirja Mills EMO-tions shares her

Written by Sensuous Soulstar Photography by Jarl Soderstrom

here are times when our desires are our greatest inspirations. Just ask Mirja Mills! A desire to be able to shop for the things she loved eventually led her to create the genius that is collectively known as EMOtions. Her straight-to-the-point demeanor and tremendously creative mind has spawned one of the hottest selections of roleplay clothing on the grid. Follow along as this woman of few words shares a little about her start, her passion, and her EMO-tions through her own words.

"I can only create what I feel, never what people want me to"

As with many other Residents, Mills found her way to Second Life® after viewing a broadcast about the wonders of this, well, second life. She was instantly intrigued, spending eight hours in-world on her first login and of course, she eventually found her way to one of the biggest aspects of Second Life: shopping! According to Mills, the fashion she found was more than she’d expected, in quality and price: “I found so many amazing stores! The problem? I couldn’t afford to buy anything at all. So, I went about cleaning floors and camped for like a month just for one

pair of boots! People tried to show me how to create things, but at the time, I wanted to know NOTHING! I simply wanted to have boots and a dress, and so I kept camping, and meeting new friends. I loved that, and became addicted.” But one can only say no for so long before the designer’s itch comes along, and so Mills began to create. Starting with furniture, another luxury she couldn’t afford, she found that it was much easier than expected, and she began to create that which she could not purchase. After showing her pieces to a few friends, her talent began to shine, and eventually one friend asked her to try something new, and to create a neko belt, and eventually Mills began to create belts, collars and tails. This was the beginning of something beautiful, and the grassroots of the powerhouse known to the fashion world as EMO-tions. Using her love of unconventional fashion especially that found in the gothic and medieval scene, Mills began to design with a focus on the Emo style. She would visit gothic and medieval festivals in real life and bring those looks into Second Life, including the looks she felt were missing at the festivals. Here, she was able to expand her love for unconventional fashion. And what is great fashion according to Mills? “Great fashion is, for me, new ideas and good quality.” Today, although not focused on the Emo style any longer, this talented designer still creates with her emotions and adds “I can only create what I feel, never what people want me to.” The focus of her designs are now roleplay

clothing, a genre that she has now mastered. Originally, she was drawn to this genre as a result of the continual complaints of what was missing, especially in the world of Gor, and so she started making what she thought worked, and found her niche. Yet, she doesn’t just create fabulous attire for even the most serious roleplayer, she also focuses on the complete look, including hair. “I began making hair quite early, just because I wanted to find out how it worked, but it didn’t turn out nice at all. But, later when I started making kilts for roleplay, I saw that most of the customers’ hair didn’t fit the outfits, so I again started making roleplay hair. After such a long time creating hair, I now try to make all kinds of styles. Very often I get customer requests and inspirations which are fun, such as requests for the movie Avatar…I’d say I now have hair for everyone!” Want to know what to expect next from EMOtions? Well, you can’t. “I can never tell beforehand! Sometimes I see a picture or a person in RL and I think ‘I WANT TO MAKE THAT!’ And that’s when I feel it.” But rest assured, there will be more! Mills assures us that she will continue to make the quality roleplay hair and attire that we have all come to know and love. Anxious to get back to bringing her visions to life, Mills leaves these sage words of advice: “Never forget you meet real people in SL®. We are all here because it’s fun and who needs drama to have fun? I know I don’t, so please treat each other with respect and be friendly!” Incredibly simple, yet a reminder we all need to hear. A

AVENUE | Fashion Icon

Written by Sensuous Soulstar Photography by Boe Cortes

Linka Demina Second Life® Is A lot Safer When

Cares About Fashion…

here are very few words that could describe this month’s Fashion Icon that would do her justice, but the title says it all: Second Life is a lot safer when Linka Demina cares about fashion…and here, we’ll show you why.

Sensuous Soulstar: Congratulations on being selected as AVENUE’s fashion icon! Tell me, how long have you been involved with fashion, whether it’s designing, working for others or even modeling clothing? Linka Demina: Thank you very much; you surprised me with this nomination! At first, there was only my blog, an idea for boredom in SL®. Now it has been about 2 years that I’ve been blogging about fashion. In the best times of my blogging, when I was making one post per day, the blog was very popular – about 500 people per day were visiting Linka’s fashion. Now I am more focused on designing. [glow] studio is my SL passion. I own the shop together with Jocelyn Anatine and Anemysk Karu. Since the very first year we have done our best to make our shop unique. A few months ago I created a new project, The Dressing Room. So, for now, in Second Life®, I have no time for anything else than fashion. SS: Alright, so since you’ve been so immersed in fashion for such a long time, I’m curious to know how you define “fashion?” What does it take to make a true fashion icon? LD: Well, in Second Life, more than a half of the top shops take their ideas from real life. I am not interested in RL fashion too much, so

most of my designs in SL are my own ideas. It all depends on what people value more: the quality of the item or the idea. Machang Pichot, Minnu Palen, Onyx LeShelle are the queens of quality here. As for ideas…Sunami Beck and Emery are my number one, and I think. “Fashion in Second Life” are also bloggers. Uma Ceawlin and Vega Arida are true fashion icons for me. SS: Now that you’ve given us an idea about what you like, tell me a little about your style. How do you determine what Linka Demina gets to be seen in? Can your style be categorized, or even styled after something or someone? LD: My inspirations are people; Uma, Vega, Jocelyn Anatine (glow co-owner and my closest friend), and Irie Campese of So Many Styles, who is not only a great designer, but also a fantastic stylist. I think my outfits aren’t focused on one style. They depend on my mood, my day. For example, today I wear an outfit with shorts called ‘men are pigs’. So you can guess my mood! SS: Now let’s get into your work here: The Dressing Room Project. Tell me a little about its creation. What made you decide to put together a place to showcase other designers and how did you manage to put it all together?

LD: The Dressing Room project idea was a bit inspirited by 50L Fridays. But, I didn’t want too much of rotation; I wanted all the items in one place to make shopping easier for customers. The first team was created by inviting my designer friends, people who I knew for a long time and I was sure about the quality of their designs and their behavior in SL. The second team, of The Dressing Room BLUE, has great SL designers who were interested in being a part of the project, because customers liked the idea of the first TDR. The Dressing Room is getting more and more popular. As of now many great shops have joined us, including Maitreya, Aoharu, MADesign, Zaara, Cupcakes, Emery, Tuli and many others. Sometimes I want to kill them all, when they forget about dates, new collections etc., but the creators are so very nice, so it’s hard to fight with them. Oh, and Jocelyn, she helps me a lot, since I am not always able to organize it all by myself. SS: It’s absolutely an amazing project. Now let’s get into your next project: [glow]. You and two other creators together have one of the hottest shapes and accessories store on the grid. How did the idea come about and why the name [glow]?

LD: The idea was in heads of Jocelyn Anatine & Anemysk Karu. I joined them a bit later. The first goal of [glow] studio was to make unique lashes. After that, I started creating huge earrings because I didn’t see many of them on the grid. It’s strange, but we were popular from the beginning. I think we invaded an almost empty market. The name “[glow] studio” was created by Anemysk, and to be honest, I have never asked her why that name, lol. SS: So what should we expect next from [glow]?

Any plans to expand into a new area, or do something with accessories that we haven’t seen yet? LD: We don’t plan. Things are just going on, but I have started making clothes, so we will see. SS: And we will definitely wait and see! I want to thank you for taking the time out for this interview, and as always, I like to leave the readers on a positive note. So with that being

said, is there anything as far as advice, a life lesson, or even a funny story that you’d care to share with our readers? LD: Thank you for your questions. I could tell you millions of stories because my problem is that I often log in to SL after a party, (I am from Poland, vodka country) and make some kind of mess around. I’ve found that a lot of popular creators hide their “online” status from me. I guess they don’t understand my drunk jokes, lol.

But, before I started with fashion: - I got 11 reports from Linden Lab. - I was banned in Maitreya, I was spamming people, even though I don’t remember this. - I had 5 pixel husbands, and they all left SL after our “happy” relationships. - I tried to be a terrorist, an escort, a pimp, and a slave in some role play game. As you see it is better for everyone when I care about fashion…

AVENUE | Trendspotting

Styled, Modeled and Photographed by Kyrie Source

//skin Laqroki Mima //hair fab-u-lous Dallas //nails & rings Mandala Takara //body Designing Nicky Ree Rio Glitter Collection //sunglasses Armidi Machimo //shoes Kalnins Footwear Yolanda

skin\\ Laqroki Mima hair\\ fab-u-lous Qeelin nails & rings\\ Mandala Takara necklace\\ Kunglers Extra Sementes dress\\ Miamai Estaria gold

//skin Laqroki Mima //eye shadows Miamai Les Makeups //hair Vanity Hair Makeda //necklace Morantique Afrika //earrings Morantique 5th Element //dress Modern Gypsy RĂŞves de technologie //boots Jâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Thigh High boots

skin\\ Laqroki Mima hair\\ Tukinowaguma Helena bracelet, earrings & hand ring\\ Mandala Lotus dress\\ Muhi Marina shoes\\ Baiastice Damasamba

AVENUE | Designer Spotlight

Landa et Luanda Mode

Written by Sensuous Soulstar Photography by Boe Cortes

ith so many amazing designers in Second Life®, at times it seems almost impossible to separate the quality from the quantity. Yet, even when you’ve found the quality, going from one store to the next just to find a great selection of the latest and greatest designs of the fashion world can be a daunting process: the lag can turn a quick shopping spree into an all day affair, as well as battling crowds and slower rezzing times. How can you find the latest trends from some of the hottest designers in Second Life without fighting the gigantic lag monster? Follow the diamond studded road over to Landa et Luanda Mode, where owner Landa Crystal has done the hard work for you. Landa et Luanda Mode showcases only the top designers in Second Life and provides an ever-changing lineup of new styles, new designers and even better ambience for the truly efficient fashionista. Join AVENUE as we take a moment to explore the mind behind the solution to the shopping lag blues. Sensuous Soulstar: Greetings and welcome! It’s definitely an honor to sit down with such a defining fashionista! Let’s just jump right in, so we can learn a little more about the woman behind the idea. So tell me, how long have you had a hand in the fashion world?

Landa Crystal: From the very beginning! Whether in RL or SL®, we tend to gravitate towards that which interests us. I have usually found in my experiences that people’s true selves tend to come through the avatar. One can’t really hide their true essence. Fashion, or rather, what a look conveys, transmits, and communicates, has always been my passion in both RL and SL; as is any other form of Art Expression Media. As a former model and now a Corporate and Personal Image Consultant in RL, I wanted to experiment and observe firsthand how the entire concept of fashion was experienced in SL, where possibilities are the size of your dreams. So, I first began to offer image consultations using my RL skills, and some newly acquired SL techniques. I was amazed at the peace and happiness some of these consultations brought my clients. They were so happy to at last be seen as they truly were on the inside. So you see, there is actually more to the Fashion Industry than meets the eye. SS: So tell me, once you got accustomed to this place, and you found yourself navigating around pretty well, what did you think of the fashion you first encountered?

LC: There was art everywhere! I was amazed and humbled by the beauty, the care, the hours of work, and the generosity invested. More importantly, it made me fully aware of how we, as humans embody that gift: the power and spirit of creation was everywhere; some for money, some for very altruistic reasons or a combination of both. There is MAJOR talent everywhere. SS: Alright, now this must be asked because it’s so crucial in selecting truly quality pieces, but what is your definition of “fashion?” We always talk about the fashion community, or the latest “it” fashion, but what do you think really makes for truly iconic fashion? LC: I try not to be too judgmental in fashion, and appreciate it as a form of art expression: a medium just like painting or sculpture; an art form. But, I do feel that in order to create truly iconic fashion, you have to bring style, elegance, the reason for which it is created, the wearer and the reflection of the times into the equation. For it to be truly iconic, you cannot separate the item from the wearer or the wearer from the item…they become one. Truly iconic fashion embodies the marriage of Utilitarian Art, the person and the times. It becomes permanently fixated in our minds as a moment in time. It

holds power, in much the same way a perfume does when an aroma brings us back to a specific time. Equally important, it transcends itself and becomes a classic, meaning it will look as good tomorrow as it does today. SS: Now let’s get into Landa et Luanda Mode. Tell me a little about its creation, including the choosing of the name, and what, if anything it stands for. LC: Creating the business of my dreams seemed like that next logical step for my life in SL, but I do believe one should stick to what one knows. In RL, in addition to my image consulting business, I am also the Director or a major French fashion house in my Country. So, creating a Boutique and choosing exceptional designers was right up my alley. This is how “Landa et Luanda Mode” came to be. Landa, being my name, means “Irlanda” which is Ireland in Spanish. I had a half Irish Grandmother and you can probably imagine how that goes. <Giggles> The name Landa honors her heritage. Luanda, is the name of my beloved daughter in SL, Luanda Alenquer, a beautiful baby I had earlier this year. It is also the name of a former Portuguese colony. You can now probably accurately guess the nationality of the father. <Laughs>

Landa et Luanda Mode’s name reflects the multiculturalism I have been exposed to all my life. SS: Let’s talk a little about the setup. The store features different designers’ items that have been handpicked by you. What led you to choose the designers featured, and does the selection change over time? LC: Yes the store is a showcase for what I consider to be the BEST OF THE BEST. Designers whose work is the embodiment of the values, taste and quality I admire. In order to be considered to be showcased at Landa et Luanda Mode, the design and execution of the pieces need to be flawless and of the highest standards; they need to truly understand the need of the modern elegant woman. And yes, the styles keep changing, my choices keep changing and new designers will be invited in, but only if they truly embody Landa et Luanda Mode’s values and style. We change windows and bring in new styles all the time just as an RL store would. The designers currently featured exemplify all the requirements in exceptional ways and in their own right. They are truly the Best of the Best and they honor Landa et

Luanda Mode with their presence. They are: Anubis Harturian: Sensual lady like elegance with a contemporary feel. Her clothing makes me feel iconic and bring me compliments every time. Thera Taurog: Art inspired clothing of exceptional fit and infinite possibilities. Her clothing not only beautifies and enhances you but they also make YOU the topic of interesting conversation. It is also highly educational for those of us who are Art inclined. Landa et Luanda Mode features the Best of European Design now, with an American twist through the incorporation of an American and Italian-British descendant, Lorac Farela. She brings the gift of realistic beauty and sensuality. Her designs are natural looking concoctions of living sensuality. As a male client told me the other day on his way out: “...I’d rather stay here and look at how your dress moves all night...” SS: I want to thank you for taking the time out for this interview, and I always like to leave the readers on a positive note. So with that being said, is there anything as far as advice, a life lesson, or even a funny story that you’d care to share with our readers?

LC: I wish I could be funny, and I am not one to give advice, but maybe I can inspire the dreamers to make it real, to make it happen. The idea of Landa et Luanda Mode, burst out of mind at a moment’s notice. I had found the perfect spot, the perfect commercial space at BOSL and I went ahead and rented it. I had no designers, only the space, the idea, the belief and a passionate drive. Most amazingly being a newcomer, I had no real contacts and no clout within the fashion world. Still, I went straight to those designers whose work I admired and wanted. One night at 4 a.m., I struck a deal with Anubis and Thera. Lorac was later invited and accepted. I now had three generous, loving, beautiful and amazing artists. This is how a dream comes true and a business was born. It happened to me and it will happen to you....go for it. All you have to do is...BELIEVE!

“I cheer and celebrate your womanhood. Cheer with me!”

AVENUE | Signature Pieces

Written, Styled, Modeled and Photographed by: Thalia Jie

Do you really need sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays in a virtual world? Hardly, but you certainly need sunglasses as an indispensible fashion accessory. Whether it’s a retro Cat Eye or aviator shades or huge oversized specs, sunglasses can pull a fashion look together and add to the glamour quotient. Second Life designers have created a multitude of choices and styles for sunglasses, and like the ones shown here by ‘Gos’ they can be customized by color and detail to fit your every virtual mood.

Skin: Dream Ink Design ~ Milka in Vampire Makeup 18.2 Hair: Maitreya ~ Milla in Caramel Eyes: MADesigns Eyes ~ Autumn Gold Top: R.icielli ~ Tank in Cagan Shorts: R.icielli ~ Eleanor in Ice Earrings: Zaara ~ Sarayi Wood Hoops in Silver Sunglasses: Gos ~ Compulsive

Skin: Dream Ink Design ~ Milka in Vampire Makeup 18.12 Hair: Clawtooth ~ Louise Brooks in Softest Black Eyes: MADesigns Eyes ~ Autumn Gold Top: R.icielli ~ Larissa in Salmon Pants: R.icielli ~ Clarissa in Leopard Sunglasses: Gos ~ Cat Eye

Skin: Dream Ink Design ~ Milka in Vampire Makeup 18.11 Hair: BettiePage Voyager ~ Summer Chignon Eyes: MADesigns Eyes ~ Autumn Gold Top: R.icielli ~ Candyman Shirt in Tan Pants: R.icielli ~ Germanotta in Smoky Belt: R.icielli ~ Vanessa Sunglasses: Gos ~ Chronokit

AVENUE | Homme

Written, Styled & Photographed by Jarl Soderstrom

n the world of fashion they say that if you hold something in your closet long enough that trend will eventually come back in fashion. Sometimes something as innocuous as a music video or a film can trigger a nostalgic revival of a long forgotten fashion. Recently I have been watching tv shows from a time when men’s fashion was well classic and masculine. When smoking wasn’t politicly incorrect and the cold war was not just a distant memory. Some things never really go out of style in men’s fashion. A good suit should always be a staple of every man’s closet. Be it 50 years ago or today, nothing says success like a good suit. This month we are going to see some classic looks based around the 50’s style.

//Skin Belleza Ewan v2 SK 1 w/ hairbase //Suit SARTORIA SUIT grey //Fedora ARGRACE Fedora Hat //Tie Gisaci Classic Italia Tie Set (Flexi) - Black

Our first look would suit even the the most picky Madison Avenue executive. A classic grey suit with basic white shirt and black silk tie. Grey waistcoat buttoned snuggly across the midrif, white silk handkerchief carefully folded and tucked into the breast pocket of the jacket. The entire look is topped off with a sexy grey fedora worn at just the right angle. Yes, this outfit will turn the heads of men and women as they notice just how sexy and successful you are.

Our second outfit just screams Miami beach. It has that classic retro, laid back feel of walking on the seaside in the 1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. A lush creme colored, button down shirt worn over a classic v-neck cotton tshirt with long brown baggy bermuda shorts topped off by a finely woven straw hat that keeps the sun out of your sexy eyes.

Skin\\ Belleza Ewan v2 Deep Tan 3 w/ hairbase Shirt, Jacket, Hat\\ CheerNo LosTropicos AMERICA Sandals\\ CheerNo SEAL Slippers nude Shorts\\ Valiant Tan Cargo Shorts

AVENUE | Fun with Fashion

Balloon Envy /Top Tres Beau - Soho Summer in Evergreen /Blouse Tres Beau - Polka Spot in Navy /Skirt Maitreya - High in Malachite /Earrings Kunglers Extra - Bambu /Nails Candy Nail - #P025 Tresor in Red /Shoes Maitreya Gold - Salience in Emerald /Skin Dekade - Bardot in Vivienne Pale /Hair SyDS - Pas sur la bouche - Tea /Poses BeScene

Photographed, written and modeled by Vixie Rayna

Penciled-In T

he pencil skirt is back and it’s not just for the office. One can easily transform an outfit with this simple wardrobe staple. You can be an earthy couture tree hugger to romantically draped ingénue. In Second Life®, the system skirt can be tricky as everyone looks like they gained about 50 pounds below the waist. You can easily remedy this by adjusting your hip width, buttocks, and saddle bags in the appearance mode. Make slight adjustments until you get the shape you want. Styling a pencil skirt is the most fun! You can add belts, sashes and drapes to the waistline to create a dynamic looks. Fitted bodices and architectural blouses can take your simple skirt to the next level and offer a wonderful opportunity to stretch your creativity with styling. Until next month, remember that fashion is fun!

Tree Hugger /Top Donna Flora - Lily /Skirt Paper Couture - Libations /Belt Fishy Strawberry - Geisha in Tweed Beige /Skin LAQ - Martina - Fair 10 /Hair SyDS - Je tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;aime...moi non plus in Tea /Shoes Baiastice - Dasamba in Tuscan Bronze /Bangle Baiastice - Sculp in Pearl /Nails Candy Nail - Birth Stone in June Pearl /Earrings Kunglers Extra - Orquidea /Lashes Glow Studio - Flutter Goddess /Poses Del May

Dramatic Drapes /Dress Kunglers - Angela in Cherry Rose /Skin LAQ - Mima in Milky 06 /Hair Lamb - Soma in Ink /Bracelet Kunglers Extra - Guarana Porcelain /Necklace Kunglers Extra - Guarana Porcelain /Earrings Kunglers Extra - Ipomoea - Golden /Shoes Maitreya Gold - Aequus in Golden /Poses DeLa

Warming up to

Woolies

AVENUE | Edge of Style

Photographed, Written, Styled and Modelled by AVENUE Model Boe Cortes

ep, it’s that time again, the time to change our wardrobe. With the summer on it’s way out and the autumn chills just around the corner, it’s time to warm up with woollies. so whether you’re digging out the old or just shopping around for new, here’s a few styles I’ve put together to give you an idea of how a collection of old with new can look very stylish for the autumn. There are cardis and sweaters for all occasions from shopping, clubbing or just chilling. Double up on your scarves, pile on the layers cos these knits are definitely made for men. Woollies dare I say it.. thoughts of your parents or grandparents maybe conjuring up in your mind but let me change that perception. Woollies are no longer seen as bland, boring or left for old age. By mixing and matching a variety of masculine woollen textures and thick high collars or hoodies coupled with chunky scarves from the likes of KiiToS! Aoharu, there’s nothing feminine here. With a diverse choice of patterns from Muism, Amerie and many designers, knits are no longer just for the old and retired.

/Skin Sacred - Ethan Tone 2 goatee 2 hair /Hair/Hat ARAI & Dura - Nakano hat in Baige /Jacket KiiToS! - Long Knit Gown in Gray with hood /Sweater IZUMIYA - Beige Sweater /Vest COCO - TankTop with Sunglasses in White /Pants Armidi - Lowrise Jeans Dirty in Blue Fade /Shoes VOONER - Deck Shoes in Diamond /Scarf Armidi - Inspired Scarf in Feather /Bag LeLutka - CAFETERO Bag in tan

/Skin CheerNo - Teseu in Tan with Beard#1.Shaved /Hat COCO - Homme KnitCap in Red /Jacket AMERIE - M Cardie in Strype01 /Sweater Muism - Pattern knit in Grey and Red /Pants BUKKA - harf denim jeans in light wash /Underpants Connors - Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LEGGINS in VerticalStripeR /Socks Connors - LEGGINS M in Border /Shoes hoorenbeek - Vaider in white /Scarf 1 Armidi - Frost Striped Scarf in Silver /Scarf 2 Armidi - Frost Striped Scarf in Sweet /Glasses Adjunct - Predator Glasses in Silver

/Skin CheerNo - Teseu in Tan with Beard#1. Shaved /Hat ARGRACE - Military Cap with Very Short hair in Dark brown /Jacket ARGRACE - Traveler Coat in black /Sweater AOHARU - BT_RibbedCollarSweater in Gray (mod longer) /Pants Muism - Knickerbockers with Braces in Black /Socks VITAMEN - Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sSocksGarter with BlackSocks /Shoes hoorenbeek - Dr. H in Zebra (tinted grey) /Scarf LeLutka - SCARFtube knitt2 in black

/Skin CheerNo - Wady in Tan with MOUSTACHE1. Shaved /Hat so what? - Hood (part of black vest and dirty shirt) /Vest KiiToS! - Drape Vest in Black /Sweater Euclid - Loose Knit in Black /Pants CheerNo - Deuil-Kizzing Pants V2 /Shoes Adjunct - Loner Boot in Black /Scarf Cheerno - Big Heavy Stole in Black /Glasses LeLutka - JAMES shades in purple

AVENUE | My Precious Queen Contest

Roadto R

“In addition to exposure and prestige, extraordinary prizes valued at over 250,000L await this year’s winners”

written by Imani Enzo photography by Natasja Schumann

t’s a new month and the quest for the coveted My Precious Queen crown continues. Agnes Finney and a group of notable sponsors have joined forces to create what has come to be one of the most popular contests in Second Life®. Each month three lucky and lovely ladies are selected as My Precious Princesses and earn the opportunity to compete for the title of My Precious Queen early next year. In addition, extraordinary prestige and prizes valued at over 250,000L await this year’s winners. AVENUE is a proud sponsor of the My Precious Queen Contest and will provide the winner with an opportunity to be the featured cover model in an issue of AVENUE Magazine as well as provide the winner with a scholarship to attend AVENUE Models Academy.

Royalty

Let’s find out a little about the latest group of ladies to be crowned as My Precious Princesses.

Suzie Marenwolf Royal Princess – August 2010

Suzie describes herself as a bubbly and outgoing lady who enjoys making new friends, shopping, styling, and dancing. Her passion is modeling and she got her start in the industry by participating in free runway classes and styling competitions at Classic with Style Corporation and has enjoyed quite a bit of success since she completed formal training there. When it comes to personal style, Suzie considers hers to be tasteful and classy because she likes wearing quality clothing and accessories that make her look good. Favorite My Precious Design: “My Favorite My Precious design is the Queen Lucia Gown. It is sexy and elegant at the same time. I love the stunning, fitted, and flirty lace top because it shows off my gorgeous figure. I also love the fact that the full skirt flows elegantly and makes me feel like a princess.” Thoughts about the My Precious Queen Crown: “I would be extremely honored to be selected as My Precious Queen. I believe that I would be a really good role model, serve with grace and style, and wear the My Precious crown and gowns with pride and the utmost joy. Simply put, it would be an amazing achievement for me.” Style tip: “Some of the best hair can be found at Boon and Tukinowaguma.”

Viola Rookswood Royal Princess – August 2010

Favorite My Precious Design: “The Mayur Grandeur Gown is my favorite because it is a statement piece. That gown really requires that you have full knowledge of how to work with flared pieces as a model. It is also visually striking when paired with the specially designed jewelry from Alienbear. Although this is not a difficult dress to style, you still really have to step up to the plate with this gown. You can’t just toss on the average shoe or hair. The gown throws down a gauntlet and you must raise the bar to meet the challenge.”

Viola is still a relatively newcomer to SL® and the modeling industry but has demonstrated her dedication and tenacity in her consistent efforts to be selected as a My Precious Princess. When she isn’t modeling, Viola enjoys surfing, exploring the grid, and spending time with her friends. Additionally, she tells us that she has an easy going personality, a great sense of humor, and prefers edgy blends of urban chic and California casual styles.

Thoughts about the My Precious Queen Crown: “It’s not for me to say I should or should not be selected. That seems pretentious to me. My goal is to show the judges who I am as a person and as a model, to do my best to style flawlessly for every event, and to make sure I am true to myself and my goals. It is also my goal to compete with honor and integrity. If the judges like my look and what I stand for, then fashion magic just might happen and I’ll be crowned. It would be my honor to represent Agnes and her brand of My Precious.” Style tip: “Be flawless. So many times we see girls come in for an audition or an evaluation with hair sticking through their ears or an earring hanging off. No one is immune to improper prim adjustment.”

Jamee is a friendly and loving lady who came to SL a little over a year ago with the hopes of finding fun and entertainment. After trying all sorts of things from club ownership to dragon slaying, she has finally settled upon modeling and live music as her primary activities. Now, she leads a fabulous and carefree Second Life filled with fashion, dancing, SL Def Leppard, and many great relationships that she has managed to build along the way. When it comes to style, Jamee describes hers as sexy elegant because she enjoys dressing up but doesn’t mind showing a tasteful amount of skin. Favorite My Precious Design: “I have to say that I truly LOVE all of the gowns that have intricate lacework on them. Ms. Finney has a tremendous talent for designing everything, but her lace designs are exquisite, feminine, elegant, sexy, flattering, and fun. Those are the reasons I love Narcisse Supreme. I chose the Dark Skin tone, elbow length version because it brings out the feminine, sexy woman within without baring everything. I love the way I feel in this gown!”

Jamee Sandalwood Royal Princess – August 2010

Thoughts about the My Precious Queen Crown: “My Precious was one of the very first stores a friend of mine introduced me to in SL. I fell in love with the designs immediately, and now I own just about every one of them in at least one color. I have entered the My Precious Queen contest faithfully since September 2009 because I believe in the quality of the designs and have the utmost respect for Ms. Finney. Simply put, I pretty much am a walking spokesmodel for the brand already. That being said, an opportunity to represent them as Queen for 2011 would be the ultimate honor as well as a natural extension of who I am in SL every day - a true My Precious Devotee.” Style tip: “Don’t be afraid to try something new. Sometimes, trying a completely different hairstyle or skin than you normally wear can end up creating a fantastic new look. Be open to suggestions from those around you that are professionals in this field - they see things we don’t always see and if you are willing to trust their vision and make changes, you just may end up with a new look that you love and that works well for you.” If you think you have what it takes to be My Precious Queen, please visit My Precious by Agnes Finney in world to learn what you need to do to enter. While you are there, take the time to shop for some of the most beautiful gowns in SL. A

Sweet Inspirat ion

t n I

nspiration can come from the smallest of things; a kind word, a positive interaction, or even a beautiful sight. No matter the size of the thing that inspires you, the effects are often profound in that it provides you with what you need to keep moving forward toward bigger and better things. A truly talented and gifted person has the ability to inspire others with little or no effort. Instead, they touch lives simply by doing the things that they enjoy and were called to do. One such person is Livia Mastroianni, AVENUE Magazine’s September Model of the Month. I am certain that most members of the AVENUE family would wholeheartedly agree that she is a most fitting selection. It is truly an honor to be interviewing an individual who inspires and is admired by a great deal of people, including me. You should know that Livia is not your typical

AVENUE | Model of the Month

Written by Imani Enzo Photography by Natasja Schumann

model. Seeing her walk the runway is no everyday occurrence, it’s more of a special occasion. In fact, modeling is more aptly described as her secondary career. Despite this, she is considered by many to be the heart of AVENUE Modeling. That is because Livia is also AVENUE’s Sr. Producer and is responsible for organizing many of the magnificently elaborate shows the agency is known for. We love and appreciate her, and are confident that you will too. What’s not to love? Not only is she the consummate professional with a great deal of experience, but she is also well respected in the industry as both a model and producer. I think the best way to do this lovely lady justice would be to allow her words to speak as opposed to mine. So without further adieu, this is what she had to say.

Imani Enzo: Congratulations on your selection as Model of the Month. Let’s start with you telling us what got you to start modeling in Second Life®. Livia Mastroianni: I started finding lots of stores with very high quality designs and just thought that modeling would be a fun way to couple my growing love for SL® fashion and earning few L$. I knew nothing about modeling so I did some research and found there were a couple of (costly) modeling schools. I earned the L$ I needed to pay the fee by working as dancer. My choice of modeling school was AVENUE. I was one of the first AVENUE graduates and the graduation show has been my first ever runway show. I apparently wasn’t that bad, because I was hired as AVENUE Model. In that period, I was also selected as JCNY Showcase Model. That contest was really a good way to start working, networking, and getting to know other models. I.E.: What are your views of formal model training? Is it necessary and beneficial? Why? L.M.: For me, formal model training was absolutely necessary. Outside of in-store modeling, I had no clue about the industry. I didn’t even know there were fashion shows in SL =). AVENUE gave me the basics, and opened my eyes to a new interesting world. I also learned a lot by observing and borrowing tips and secrets from more experienced models. In my personal experience, I never stopped attending advanced modeling workshops or classes. My aim was not having the chance to

join that agency but simply to learn different points of view, share experiences and improve and update myself as model. I.E.: What are the guiding principles of your SL? L.M.: I come to SL mainly to work. If I weren’t passionate about all these wonderful projects that I get the opportunity to work on, I wouldn’t be here. I am guided by my work ethic, sense of responsibility, and loyalty. I.E.: You appear to be a very busy lady who wears several hats in SL. Tell us more about all your work. L.M.: Modeling has become a secondary activity for me. Despite this, I do participate in a few fashion shows, do some print work, and work as live model for Gems & Kisses. I especially like participating in interesting modeling projects and I try to be active in all the agencies I am affiliated with. However, about 90% of my time is dedicated to working for AVENUE as show producer, choreographer, stage manager, designer liaison and marketing executive for the magazine. I have also expanded my marketing interests by working with Alatiel Malies, as chief marketing officer and store manager for Alatiel Fashions. Additionally, I recently joined the dance company of Dazzlers and I hope to start working with them soon! I.E.: How did you come to be involved with production and marketing? Do you prefer it to modeling? L.M.: After I was hired as AVENUE Model, my first model agency, I talked with Rusch

and let her know I was interested in learning more about show production. She hired me as designer liaison at first, and I learned things over time. Producing one show doesn’t make you a producer, but working 1-2 years with the best really makes you a confident and professional one. Additionally, I had no RL experience in marketing, but working for AVENUE and later for Alatiel Fashions made me discover a new interest. I can’t say I prefer production and marketing to modeling, they are just different things to me. Marketing and production are the cake, modeling is the icing. I.E.: Who or what has inspired your modeling career the most? Why? L.M.: One person is Mimmi Boa. I remember when she was at the beginning of her modeling career, before Miss Virtual World and I always thought she was stunning, a good example to follow because she has class, personality, and a golden heart. She’s also very generous and a hard worker. Additionally, I look up to Poptart Lilliehook; it’s incredible how perfect she is in everything. Poptart represents pure elegance to me. I.E.: What characteristics do you believe great models possess? L.M.: They have a good knowledge of RL fashion, a unique face and shape, a natural elegance, they are well aware of their limits and work hard to improve. Further, great models dedicate a lot of time to keeping track of new fashion trends (both in SL and RL). Most importantly, they are reliable and

committed, easy to work with, punctual, and mature enough to accept critiques and NOs. I.E.: What are the biggest mistakes that you think models tend to make as related to styling? What tips would you offer? L.M.: I notice that most models use the same skins. I myself often use a LeLutka skin, which is very common. Using a popular skin is not really a mistake, but it’s risky. If models don’t have a unique facial structure, they all look the same. So, my advice is to spend hours tweaking your face to create your own distinctive look. Also, create a shape for each new skin. Looking unique is necessary to help models stand out. Styling is not easy. It requires a good sense of balance and proportion. There are trends in SL, and each model should be updated of course, but my advice is to use those trendy accessories, hair, walks or poses wisely, and always in the context of your own style and personality. Models shouldn’t be print copies. I.E.: What do you consider to be the most difficult thing about modeling in SL? L.M.: Achieving excellent skills, respect, and popularity at the same time, while constantly raising the bar of your own standards is a huge task. It takes a lot of work and moral strength to be fabulous, talented, and loved. I.E.: What do you hope to achieve in your modeling career? L.M.: Modeling is about competition. You will be compared to other models and judged in everything you do from castings for runway shows, to beauty pageants. However, I think

competition needs to be healthy. Keep in mind that if you don’t win or if you’re not chosen, that doesn’t mean you’re not a good model. It just means that others were more fitting to the casting or pageant. I think good goals for a model include: maintaining very high standards; developing sound judgment; and, consistently exhibiting excellent skills. Those are the things I hope to achieve and maintain. I.E.: How difficult is it to succeed in modeling in SL? What advice would you offer new models? L.M.: I think nowadays succeeding in modeling can be both easy and difficult at the same time. SL residents have lots of tools, schools, information available to learn modeling. There are hundreds of contests that models can participate in to be noticed. There are also several interesting projects that put models together and let them network. However, there is also a lot of competition. It’s very difficult for someone to stand out among hundreds, so my advice to those who are entering modeling world is to keep working on making you unique. Be different, and be yourself. I’d also like to tell new models that may be experiencing their first difficulties and disappointments not to let SL modeling influence your mental state. Just continue to work hard and have a nice and positive attitude. I can’t promise you will win Miss Virtual World, but you will surely be recognized as a top model one day and will have lots of jobs opportunities. I.E.: Ok let’s wrap things up with a these two

"keep working on making you unique. Be different, and be yourself." questions. Who are your favorite designers and what is the one thing in your inventory that you can’t live without? L.M.: I think designers and brands like LeLutka and Stiletto Moody change SL fashion, and always set new standards. I also love Baiastice and Chantkare. They create different styles, but they both have a good vision and are always able to surprise. For jewelry, I really love Gems & Kisses for the same reason. My shape is the one thing that I can’t live without. I can lose everything else, but don’t delete my shapes from my inventory! Livia Matroianni is a great person to know and you can learn a lot from her regardless as to what status you hold in this industry. She is dedicated to and passionate about her work. Further, she has produced extraordinary results during the course of her career and is an inspiration to many of those fortunate enough to cross her path. Hopefully, you found a tiny bit of inspiration in her words. A

AVENUE | Architecture

Written by Carissa Sockington Photography by Tillie Ariantho

Milan Dream Beach House

ordy Ishnoo came to Second Life速 when it was still in the Beta stages. Five years later he began building. The end result? The magnificent creations of Dolphin Design. Inspired by real life design, Ishnoo takes this inspiration and makes it into something bigger and better here in the virtual world. The store is full of gorgeous, fully furnished homes and mansions each carrying their own personalities and each uniquely different. I had the privileged opportunity to speak with Ishoo, and his partner Bily Xue. Carissa Sockington: Where did the name Dolphin Design originate? Jordy Ishnoo: A dolphin is a kind of very smart and intelligential animal. They are interested in all the things around them. And they have never been an individual but a group. Just as we are now! CS: From where do the inspirations for your builds come? JI: All the inspirations come from the real life. But we make it higher than the real life.

Milan Dream Beach House

Hawk Nest Home

CS: How do you first start a build? Do you do many builds at once or just one at a time from start to finish? JI: I will map out a blueprint before I build it in the Second Life. And I only do one building at a time. Finish it and then do the next one. I think I will do my best for every building. CS: Do you have a favorite build? JI: The build is endless. There is no favorite one for a builder. In other words - reaching beyond yourself. CS: Are there any builders here in Second Life that you admire or who have mentored you? JI: No one by now, although there are so many great builders in Second Life. No one has mentored us. All the members in our group are great designers in the real life. CS: Do you have any new projects in the works? JI: Yes, we will have some new prefabs soon. They will be better and better. From extraordinary homes created with warm, rich textures to home furnishings with a modern touch, Dolphin Design is truly a leader in Second Life building techniques and creativity. A

Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pearl Beach House

Mona Lisa House

AVENUE | Interesting Sims

Es Lebe Berlin!

Written by Sensuous Soulstar Photography by Blaz Halfpint

tep one foot in the region of Dudintsev, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be instantly transformed. Be forewarned that if you plan to make it past the entrance, you need to be in the proper attire for the atmosphere: clothing fit for a lady or gentleman of Berlin in the 1920s. Adherence to this code is strictly enforced, but for good reason: once you enter the sim, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a part of this historical city and you must look the part! Created by Jo Yardley to express her love of this amazing era in time, she longed to focus on a different side of the city. While most sims that aim to recreate history focus on the positive, more well-known tourist attractions, Yardley was determined to not follow suit. Instead, she focused on showing the more realistic side of the city that most people of the 1920s were used to seeing: a darker side, filled with poverty, but where the common man learned to live like

a king in his own way. Here you can walk along the littered streets amongst the debilitating buildings, or even have a friendly conversation with a filthy hobo living in a cardboard box, all within a few blocks! But there are happier sites as well. While here, you can also sit and watch live entertainment at the Odeon, or participate in authentic German classes at the “Hindenburg Schule,” or even enjoy an authentic German meal at the “Restaurant zum Nussbaum,” just to name a few. While a good portion of the sim is geared towards shopping, this doesn’t take away from the look and feel of the city. The shops are filled with authentic German goods of the 1920s, including home furnishings, stylish hairdos, and of course authentic apparel for both men and women. Not up to date on the happenings of the times? While wandering the town, you can pick up a copy of the local newspaper and read more about the highlights of the times. There are so many amazing recreations in this city that it’s hard to name just a few. Yet one of the most fascinating features of this sim is the Official Library of the 1920s Berlin Project. In this one small building there is an astounding number of resources on Berlin, including the architecture, intellectual life, culture,

Dudintsev: A realistic view of Berlin in the 1920s.

society, media, history, fiction and just the Weimar Republic in general. The library itself is interactive: clicking on the books provides you with these resources in both German and English. And what re-creation is complete without exposing the saucy, sensual side of the times? In the spirit of providing Residents with a more realistic view of Berlin in the 1920s, Yardley has even included an authentic Brothel within the sim. Yet, it does make one wonder if the options offered are a little more, shall we say, “varied” than those of the 1920s! But at a time when the economy was suffering from the end of World War I, it is inspiring to see the realism in portraying all of the entertainments that men chose to partake in to lift their spirits. From the decorations, to the poverty stricken living in boxes on the streets, this place is an excellent tribute to the life and times of a different side of the tracks in Berlin. Yardley, a historical consultant in real life, has done an outstanding job of bringing to Second Life® a side of Berlin that many may have never known. Yet, Yardley herself acknowledges that it’s all about the community and believes without the amazing group of people involved, this project would have never worked. But don’t just take

our word for it, teleport in to this enchanting sim and experience a voyage back into time. More importantly, don’t forget to donate so that the Project can continue to bring us more of this fascinating era. Donation meters can be found at the entrance. After one visit, you will find yourself saying “Es lebe Berlin!” (“Long Live Berlin!”) For more information on the 1920s Berlin Project, you can visit the website: http:// www.1920sberlin.com, join their Flickr group, their Facebook group, or even follow them on Twitter (1920sberlin).

Written by Spruce Canning Photography by Tillie Ariantho

AVENUE | Sporting SL

KJ Racing The One Stop Shop for Family and Racing Needs

acing in SL® can take many forms; from Go-Karts to of all things, Giant Snails. To provide the tracks and the Go-Karts up to a Full-Sized Race Car, one has KJ Racing. They specialize in the true racing experience for all ages in SL from Adults to Children providing Racetracks, Go Karts, and full size race cars to the SL public. “Well you are talking about Barkley, one of our sims. Spike was the original sim that started it all back in May of ‘08. We have grown since then and now have over 500 racing items for sale and are now starting to branch out into other areas such as very low lag rental boxes and other items as well.” said John Alturas, one of the proprietors of KJ Racing along with Kardargo Adamczyk. KJ Racing Go-Karts and

cars can be found all over the grid and are very easy to drive according to this writer. When asked if KJ Racing sponsored its own racing league, Alturas said, “Well it depends, as each vehicle in SL is scripted differently and react totally different I would not consider it that way. With the business end of KJ Racing I do not have time to run a league, otherwise I would be hosting races on a regular basis. I send people to some of the various leagues in SL when and if they are looking for racing. Our karts are used in a couple different leagues

at the moment in SL, some for fun others for money and points. We are about providing free karting for SL on our sims. We also have the largest assortment of garage tools in all of SL as well. We do build and sell race tracks, karts, suits and so much more.” When asked to expand on that statement and if KJ Racing was truly the “One Stop Shop for Racing in SL , Alturas said, “For sure, we have all in one track packages consisting of the race track, go kart rezzer for anyone to rez karts, timing gate system and grandstands. We are the only ones in SL to offer such a package. Most of

our competition can do everything, but the timing gate. The gate we sell is used on 99% of the race tracks in SL (note we did not build the gate, we worked out a deal with the gate designer a couple months ago to sell his gate in our packages)”. The tracks are customizable to the size of the land parcel. “We offer small parcel tracks in 64x64 foot prints to 1/4 sim tracks and up to full blown full sim tracks.” Alturas said. When asked about the experience I would come away with if I drove one of KJ’s Go-Karts down the track, Alturas said this, “If you had driven other cars in SL I would think that you would notice the difference in how our karts handle and react. We do get IM’s from people who love the tracks and bring their friends back to enjoy what we have to offer.” I took the opportunity to take the Next Gen F1 Mario Kart out on the track to see how it handled. After a few laps on the track, I was convinced that KJ Racing had come up with a winner with this kart. The sound from the engine and the handling despite the lag on the sim was very realistic. It handled just like a Real Life Go Kart and drove like a dream. The

thrill of racing and the fun that I had driving the car down the track even while I was learning how the car operated was as genuine as if I was on a real life track driving a Go-Kart down the track and feeling the wind rush against my face. At the end of the day, I asked Alturas what the appeal for racing was in SL besides the fun quotient and he said, “Really that is what it is about...fun. Even though we run a serious business in here at the end of the day SL really is about fun, at least in my opinion.” KJ Racing is much more than racing Go Karts and full size race cars. They have all the amenities that a Go-Kart Track would have for the entire family with games and Zyngo machines just like its Real Life counterparts. KJ Racing is all about fun and I would recommend racing to relax and just have fun. For news and customer support visit their website at http://www.kjracing.net

The Slurl for KJ Racing is here: Spike [70.197.616]

Rosedale

Philip His Post SLCC

Perspective

AVENUE | Business Feature

Written by Spruce Canning Pictures kind courtesy of Linden Lab®

ith SLCC in the record books for 2010, the information that was available to residents and the communities that were represented underscored the Back to Basics theme that Linden Lab has embraced since the end of the Mark Kingdon era. I have had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Philip Rosedale after the annual convention and he expanded on the points that he made during his Keynote speech on the 15th of August and he explained the direction that the Grid will be taking for the foreseeable future. Spruce Canning: How will the proposed changes to the grid such as the closure of the Teen Grid and the change from Prim construction to mesh affect the social aspects of SL® and the content that is created in-world? Philip Rosedale: Both of these will bring

changes to Second Life, but I’m confident the community and economy will adapt as it always does and these changes will be for the best. Lowering the minimum age on the Main Grid to 16 will open the world to a new demographic of creative and talented Residents, who are already doing impressive things on the Teen Grid. Among other things, it will mean that parents can interact with their teenage kids in-world, and that educators can use Second Life® for classes serving a broader age range. It will also mean that these teens can participate in the Second Life economy. As Terrence Linden wrote about in his blog post about this, ceasing development and support for an entirely separate grid will also help us to more quickly bring improvements that benefit all Residents.

Mesh import is going to be the next step in the evolution of content in Second Life, and the capability will certainly have an impact on content creation and the in-world economy, much like sculpties did. It will bring a new level of richness to content in-world. We’re moving carefully as we bring this feature to Second Life, because of the potential ways it can impact on the in-world economy and content creators, but are excited to bring mesh import to Second Life this year. S.C.: Will the third party viewer policy be more strictly enforced with the problems in the Emerald Development team coming to light? Will Viewer 2.1 and its future updates incorporate some of the innovations to the user experience that the Emerald Viewer brought to the SL public? P.R.: The recent issue with the Emerald Viewer demonstrates the importance of our Third Party Viewer Policy and our Directory, which are both in place to minimize the risks for Residents using third-party Viewers. In the case of the Emerald Viewer, we did strictly enforce our policy, and we will definitely continue to do so in the future. Part of the value Third Party Viewers bring is in offering features that are desirable for specific communities of users, but that wouldn’t be appropriate to include in the main Viewer for everyone. That said, the community of thirdparty open source developers has a lot to offer, and our new Snowstorm project will enable us to bring improvements from this community directly into the main Viewer. S.C.: What ramifications can come from the Evans v. Linden Research suit in Philadelphia and

what effect would it have on the TOS as it is written now? P.R.: We do not comment on pending litigation. S.C.: With Linden Lab returning to its basic principles, how will that affect the normal resident in world and will resident input be listened to as SL develops into a

more mainstream Virtual World? P.R.: Our focus on ‘back to basics’ is going to improve the experience for everyone who uses Second Life. The projects I listed on our 2010 roadmap at SLCC – fixing group chat, fixing region crossings, increasing startup speed, lowering crashrates, for example – impact everyone. As we move forward, we’re going to be more transparent about what we’re working on, and you’ll see more frequent updates on our progress from the Lindens leading the teams involved. We’ll always be listening to Resident feedback, but to be clear, this doesn’t mean that we’re going to start running Linden Lab as an experiment in democracy or developing

Second Life based solely or primarily on advice from Residents. That wouldn’t be a successful strategy for us as a business, nor would it enable us to make the real progress in improving Second Life for all Residents. However, in many areas, Residents can have a direct and valuable impact on Second Life

development. The Snowstorm project is a great example of this. As Esbee Linden described in her blog post, the Viewer team is going to be working completely in the open and engaging with the community to develop new project proposals. S.C.: In conclusion. Where do you see the SL Economy faring as to the Real Life economy? Do you think it will thrive as the World Economy struggles to find its direction? P.R.: The Second Life and real world economies aren’t closely connected, but without speculating as to how the real world economy will fare, I can say yes, the Second Life economy will be ok. We’ve seen some growth in activity in the in-world economy even

while user growth has been rather stagnant, but generally speaking, user growth really drives the growth in the Second Life economy. The improvements to Second Life that we’re focused on now will help us bring about that growth, which will support the success of the in-world economy as well. Seeing many of my fellow Residents at SLCC inworld and the photos and the live video feeds from the convention in Boston, I was convinced that SL will grow from the Back-to-Basics philosophy that Philip Rosedale set out before both the Real Life audience in Boston, the In-World audience at the SLCC Sims and on the web. SL has a bright future and will grow into the mainstream of the Internet as it has since it went online in 2003. It has and will be an augmentation of Reality as we know it.

"Our focus on ‘back to basics’ is going to improve the experience for everyone who uses Second Life" A

AVENUE | For the Love of

GIVING WOMEN A SECOND CHANCE IN LIFE Written by Augusta Carver Photography by Blaz Halfpint

he Bridges for Women Society has been offering help to women in need for over 20 years. Their programs are used to help reduce the effects abuse and violence can have on employment. Abused women often have few jobs skills and have little or no money to build new lives. Even women with impressive career backgrounds and advanced degrees may lack the confidence to leave oftenviolent relationships. This is where Bridges comes in; they help women work on their self awareness, self esteem, communication, and anger management skills. Next they progress to career assessments, resume and interview skills and successful workplace habits in order to help them become more financially stable. Their virtual office was started in Second Life® in 2007. It has been a great tool for people in SL® to utilize and get the same knowledge and help that they need, in a virtual setting. “Our vision is that every woman affected by violence or abuse will have the economic security to sustain herself and her family, in safety, health and freedom”; says Buffy Beale a volunteer for Bridges for Women in SL. I had the pleasure of speaking to Buffy more to capture a further look into the organization. Augusta Carver: What is Bridges for Women and how does it work? Buffy Beale: Bridges (http://www. bridgesforwoman.ca) is a non-profit agency based in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada with over 20 years of experience in empowering women with a background of abuse and trauma.

Bridges is a gutsy, innovative community agency that delivers employment training and supportive programs to women impacted by violence or abuse. AC: What kind of services do Bridges for Women provide in RL & SL? BB: In RL, we train women in life skills and job skills so they leave our program feeling good about themselves and ready to make change for the better in their life. We have classroom sessions with facilitators and onstaff counseling, and operate an on-line program with content in English and French for outreach services. Bridges in SL has a virtual office at the Nonprofit Commons since it opened in August 2007. The Nonprofit Commons is free office space for nonprofits managed by TechSoup Global which has now expanded to host over 80 non-profits from around the world. Currently, virtual reality is not one of our priorities so we don’t offer any services as I’m the only member from Bridges in SL. However, I have made many global connections with like-minded organizations and Bridges is participating in a joint project with 5 other non-profits who met at the Nonprofit Commons. The Nonprofit Commons meet every Friday at 8:30 AM SLT, all are welcome. Their site: http://bit.ly/nonprofitcommons AC: What advice would you give women who are seeking help? BB: Know you are not alone, there are many programs such as Bridges geared towards women, who like you, need a helping hand

and we are here to help you in a caring and supportive environment. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on your side! Whether you are interested in obtaining help for yourself or looking to volunteer, you can

stop by their office in-world to find out more. You can also find more information about Bridges for Women through their website: www.bridgesforwomen.ca A

AVENUE | Live Music

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usic has always been a part of Mankind Tracer’s life from his younger years when his mother would sing around the house through to his thriving career as one of Second Life®’s top Live performers. Carissa Sockington: How did you first get started in music? Mankind Tracer: I was definitely exposed to music from when I was a baby... lots of old standards, Sinatra, Johnny Mathis and the like. At about 4 or 5 years old, I started taking a real liking to sounds in general like cars going by, even thunder. I think it was that interest in “sounds” that really got me into the feel for music. CS: Tell me a little about your musical career. MT: I picked up my first guitar probably at about 7 years old. I didn’t do much with it except pick out the notes of songs, which I was pretty good at! But I started teaching myself piano at about 8 or 9 years old. Later at about 13 or 14, I met up with a new friend who was taking guitar lessons. I then also tried lessons, but found I didn’t have the patience for the slow pace of the structure so I began teaching myself, playing by ear. I bought a bunch of music books and spent every spare moment trying to figure it all out. Then, at 15, I started a little garage-band. We didn’t tour much but it was great fun and experience collaborating with others. My first solo gig was when I was 16, playing a bar in NY’s Greenwich Village. I did that for a bit. I took a summer off and

spent it in Wildwood, NJ where I became known as the “jukebox”. Every day I would be out on the beach with my new friends, with my guitar in hand of course, just hanging out, laughing and playing music. By the end of each day, we probably had 50 kids hanging out. This was pretty much EVERY day and by the end of the summer, every morning there were people waiting to start the party! Off to college in Miami where I played solo acoustic shows on the South Beach Strip and other Southern Florida bars/clubs/venues while putting myself through school. This was a solid 5 years of basically non-stop performing which taught me a great deal, including collaboration with other artists. After college in Miami, I returned to NY and wanted to learn recording techniques so I entered a trade school in NY City where I met up with a few guys who would later join me to form the band Mankind. We began writing originals and soon after began to tour.... a lot! But just as we began to have a great following and started getting somewhere, some personal matters and differences of opinion and direction forced me to quit the band. But we were a great writing team and some truly magnificent music came out of our collaborations. I began touring with a cover/original “party” band for the next 10 years. I was the lead singer/front man and often ended up dancing with a wireless mic on the bar! But all through these times, the ups and the downs, I was writing and recording on my own. My first SLCD release, “Beyond the Shade”, has a few songs from back then! I have found Second Life more rewarding than all the touring. Reaching a wider audience on such a personal level and having kept the

“machine” rolling along is in great part to the generosity and kindness the SL® residents have shown me and for that I am very grateful. CS: You mentioned that you write your own music. What inspires the music that you write? MT: Yes I do write my own music. In fact I’ve released two full CD’s of my originals in SL. Inspiration comes from all directions. It could be a wave crashing or a leaf falling, overhearing a conversation in a restaurant, the birth of my son. Each of my songs has definitely had its own inspiration for sure. CS: What got you interested in performing in SL? MT: After first registering, I think I forgot about SL actually for a few weeks but then came back in and found it was possible to “stream” my music... so I did! My sincerest gratitude goes out to the friends and fans who have shown me such generous support over the 3.5+ years I have been performing constantly. I’m still amazed, every time I perform, that I am still shown such kindness after so long. Thank you :-) The smooth voice of Mankind Tracer has entertained and swooned SL residents for years and with the passion behind the voice, will continue to do so for time to come. A

STAR

Rocks

Fashion

Shining

AVENUE | Featured Artist

Written by Imani Enzo Photography by Blaz Halfpint

n RL, Craig Lyons is an extraordinarily talented singer, songwriter, producer, and musician who has recorded four studio albums and is on a clear path to stardom. He is also a passionate, creative and driven artist with a big voice and a heart of gold. There is absolutely no question that Craig Lyons was born to sing. This is due to the fact that he brings his heart to every performance; he possesses the ability to capture our attention and touch our hearts with the beautiful lyrics he writes and the amazing sound of his voice. Craig is also a humble and socially conscious man who often uses his stage as a platform to champion eco-friendly activities and social issues that are near and dear to his heart. It is easy to follow him because his passion is evident in his words, his music, and his actions. Simply put, Craig Lyons was born to lead. Additionally, Craig is also a solid business man who effectively manages his career and is not afraid to make gutsy yet innovative steps to

further his objectives. Fortunately for us, one of those moves led Craig to make a decision to promote his talents in Second Life®. From the moment of his arrival, Craig worked diligently to build his presence and in a relatively short amount of time, he amassed a rather large following of loyal fans from all over the world. Recently, Craig collaborated with heavy hitters in the fashion industry to launch ‘The Fashion Rocks’, a performance series that began on September 4th and will go on for six weeks until October 16th. The initiative was created by Craig’s team in an effort to forge the incredible bond that exists between fashion and music. Approximately 30 popular SL® designers have signed on to participate in ‘The Fashion Rocks’. Scheduled events include: live performances at fashion venues, hunts, giveaways and a gigantic raffle at the end of the series. ‘The Fashion Rocks’ series promises to be a lot of fun and is a wonderful opportunity to experience music and fashion at their best.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with CraigLyons Writer (as he is known in SL) about his career in SL and RL. Here’s your opportunity to learn more about the phenomenal talent. Imani Enzo: Hi Craig. Let’s start with you telling our readers how you came to know about SL and what about it keeps you coming back? CraigLyons Writer: A friend on the business side of music suggested that I give SL a shot. After I heard Ben Folds did a concert here, I was convinced to at least give it a chance. I come back because of the people. There’s an unparalleled artist-to-fan relationship in this platform, and it feels good to tour the world daily without the damage to the environment. I.E.: What types of music do you enjoy playing? Do you play original works only? C.W.: I play a unique brand of singer/ songwriter meets alt/rock/pop material & style. I play mostly from my catalog of 60+ originals, though I also play some covers from time to time. When I do play covers, I generally put a pretty heavy spin on them. I.E.: How would you describe the music you perform? Do you have a band? C.W.: My music tends to be pretty heavily arranged as I’m a producer as well - I hear the full scope of a song pretty early on. I use a blend of traditional and technologically advanced equipment to achieve my sound including an acoustic guitar, fender rhodes, piano, kaos pad, 3 microphones with different treatments, a looper, and percussion. Due to the amount of shows I’ve been playing, I’ve

decided to go solo for the time being. Playing solo allows me the freedom and flexibility to handle the business side of my career the way that my team and I want to. I.E.: How do you market yourself and how difficult has it been to make a name for yourself in SL? C.W.: I am lucky enough to have the best team in the world! I’d say I’m self-managed, though everyone on the team has a part in management as well. We’re continually working on crossing between RL and SL. As a result, everyone on my team is involved on both sides of my career. Our goal is to blur that line between the two until everyone realizes that it doesn’t matter how people choose to enjoy a performance. Additionally, the music community has been overwhelmingly supportive, which has made it fun & easy to build my name here as well. I.E.: Is performing in SL easier than it is in RL? What can AVENUE readers expect from one of your performances? C.W.: It’s significantly different, but I wouldn’t say one is easier than the other because they require drastically different skill sets. Connecting with a virtual audience requires a different type of presence and timing. There’s a 10-20 second delay between me and the venue, so that puts me in more of a broadcast mode. It’s more difficult because I’m generating all of the energy at each moment (until it’s returned after the delay), but it’s easier because I’m usually in a comfortable & well-controlled sonic environment, never competing for attention.

Readers can expect me and my team to put in 100% at every show. From my perspective, that means they can expect a custom and interactive performance, unique to each performance. It also means I won’t hold back - I throw myself in completely whether it’s in front of a full RL crowd or a small virtual crowd. I.E.: What do you consider to be your most amazing work? C.W.: I’d say that it is my latest CD ‘On Reflection’, which was recorded last year and features a full rock band and a live string orchestra. That CD is definitely the most polished, and is my biggest achievement in organizing some of the best players in the world. I’m also pretty proud of ‘Equilibrium Theory’ though, I think I really discovered who I was going to be as a writer on that album. I.E.: Has your presence in SL enhanced your RL career? C.W: Absolutely! Whether or not they choose to admit it, almost all artists today rely heavily on the internet for reach, distribution, and promotion. SL takes that one giant step further, providing a platform for people to engage in a real time live social experience at a concert. This results in a new social media fan base, increase in the rest of my social media fan bases, and invaluable experience performing for a virtual crowd which will set me ahead of the curve when that becomes the norm. I.E.: Who are some of your favorite artists or songwriters? C.W.: I like Jeff Buckley, The Beatles, and Ben

"I throw myself in completely whether it’s in front of a full RL crowd or a small virtual crowd" Folds. However, I have to say that I draw more inspiration from people who aren’t songwriters. There’s poetry in conversation every day, you just have to listen for it. I.E.: What are your aspirations within this forum? What do you hope to accomplish? C.W.: My aspirations are to put on the best virtual broadcast show I can, continually pushing the envelope in terms of immersion, community, and technology. Performing virtually allows me the ability to reach people I wouldn’t be able to reach otherwise, without leaving a carbon footprint. The answer to the second part of the question is no different than my answer for the RL version - to help, heal, share experiences, and bring people together, all while putting forth a positive message of peace and sustainability. I.E.: What advice would you offer aspiring artists? C.W.: Stay independent! The only way to do that is to apply your creativity to your business and your approach. Also, be real with everyone you meet, as an artist and a person. They can tell when you are not.

I.E.: What’s in the works for CraigLyons? C.W.: I’m very excited about touring through the Southwest U.S. in late October. It’s going to be a very unusual tour and I’m doing everything I can to make sure I’ll be able to broadcast the shows back in SL. Also, early next year, I’ll be releasing my newest project, an EP with a short film accompanying it.

CraigLyons Writer is definitely an entertainer on the rise and we wish him continued success inworld and out. If you are interested in booking Craig for a show, contact him in-world or via email at craiglyonsmusic@gmail.com. Additionally, you can keep up with performance info and all the happenings in his career by visiting http://facebook.com/craiglyonsmusic. A

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AVENUE | Inspirations

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