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Sunday, March 25, 2012

WOW ONCE AGAIN THE MUSIC COMMUNITY HAS AMAZED ME!!!

I have seen quite a few different machinima and I always think it is nice, but today I was given a link of one that truly blew me away. It was sooo very well done. Whats more is that it was done for one of Second Life's oldest and most unique venues. For those that are not familiar with the Titanic, In rl, the Titanic has its 100 year anniversary this year on April 15th. To commemorate this occasion, Mara Menges, owner of the live music venue and ship The Titanic has worked with RG Giano has brought the movie The Titanic to life with Celine Dion's beautiful voice. The most I ca possibly say is that everyone should take a few minutes out of their busy day and watch this. It shows how much can be accomplished within Second Life, along with such a beautiful build and venue, a awesome lineup 7 days a week of wonderful talent (I am in the subscribo, so I can truly attest to that) hosting other Avi Choice Award winners....Savannah Coronet and Antonio Galloway. The list of awesome performers could go on. The most I can say, I recommend that everyone take that time and go to this link, it will leave you both in awe of what the machinima itself, as well as of Second Life and the wonderful things that can be accomplished. I am soooo very impressed, I believe you will be too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtU3ogPe3us

Yesterday, I had a chance to do something I have not had in a while.....I got out to a couple different venues. Smokin Aces.....My friend Rocky's venue.....because...and ladies hold on....the voice that we all loved so dearly has returned to Second Life---JOHNNY PARAMOUR is back...sounding better that ever. My other very close friend Raredread at the Drunkin Drow. I was able to catch the end of Bailey Bernard, then on to BlairBond and unfortunately was called away at the beginning of Keeba Tammas....a great line up...and I am always partial to the Drow.

When I had some time this afternoon I decided to go venue hopping, going a different route and hitting the live music ballrooms (always looking for an excuse to dress up). My first stop was Dreams for Dreamers where I stopped to hear the lovely Ms. Clarice Karu. Though it has been a while since I have had the opportunity to hear her.....this woman has such a strong voice....soo versatile...it was truly a treat to listen to her.

Now did you truly think I could end this without giving a link so that YOU can make a difference in the battle against cancer. Whether it be $5.00 or $500.00 every single penny counts. Most of us, no matter how hard times are can spare that dollar. Sooo please take some time and donate today, after all it is TIME FOR A CURE!!!!

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=42558&team_id=1115404

YOU DO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!!!!!

Monday, March 19, 2012

A MEMORIAL

There is something that I thought deserved its own blog and not swallowed up by other things, it is near and dear to my heart.

BS's "Bring a Friend & Stay Awhile" as well as PureLife Lodge...have each erected an area for memorials to loved ones we have lost to cancer.

There is a picture viewer in place at each location. If you have a picture of loved one lost one to cancer, whether it be sl or rl, please submit your picture to Still Braveheart or PureLife Magnifico, or both, to have their picture entered into the memorial. No names are needed or would be available to anyone viewing the memorial unless you would like that.

The slurl for BS's "Bring a Friend & Stay Awhile" : http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/222/43/26

The slurl for Purelife Lodge: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife//44/224/38

These memorials will remain long after the Relay For Life season is completed.

ITS RELAY SEASON AND 2 VERY SPECIAL TRIBUTES

Relay For Life of Second Life held the 2012 kick off ceremony this year. Last year it was one of the most memorable parts of the Relay season for me, and this year once again, it left me in tears.....thank goodness I could hear it...most of it was broadcast on the web as well. Second Life held true to form and I crashed a few times while trying to last. A special thank you goes out to APinkSwan Beauchamp, one of our very own live music venue owners, for putting together a wonderful kickoff that will live long in my heart. On that note, there are also a couple of other very special people that I have to take a moment to thank. Tamra Sands (Hayden), at the last minute put a poem written by a caregiver that had just in the past year, lost her husband to cancer. Tamra put that poem to music in less than 48 hours and made the time in her busy schedule to perform that song during the ceremony. With a voice like an angel, music and words to match not a dry eye was in the house. Tamra also took to the mainstage immediately following the ceremony. The other thank you I have to send to Max Kleene, who also at the last minute changed his schedule around giving up paying shows to perform for this wonderful cause. Skye Galaxy, Bones Writer, and Christopher Walmer also took to some of the various stages. As always, I am amazed and awestruck by the compassion and hearts that are soooo very big in our community. You never fail to inspire us all to be better people.

SL MUSIC RACES FOR A CURE is off to a wonderful Relay season, proving to be fun, creative, and truly making a difference. Our first event was actually a week long dual team event with Heros for Life. Wow, I can not thank the performers and DJ's enough, they took their time and donated it, threw out challenges, team members also threw out challenges. Thanks to so many wonderful people SL MUSIC RACES FOR A CURE shot to the top of the team totals, and made a huge difference for Heros for Life's totals as well shooting them into new levels. We also would like to thank all of the RFL of SL committee members that stopped by, made donations, encouraged the crowd. Your presence is always appreciated. There are so many people to than for all they put in hosting...Precious Rallier (the woman never sleeps), Inannia (even sick she keeps going), Chance Caldwell (never was a host before and wow he took to it like a fish to water), Rosepink Rossini, and countless others. Spiritfire Entertainment and Sher Salmson also put together an awesome lineup during the same week--Concerts for a Cure. Sher and I had a lot of fun bantering back and forth to see which of us would take us over the top and hit a million lindens. I was able to stop by Sher's event for a few minutes. That woman has put together a wonderful venue.

The duel team event concluded on Saturday, March 17th. Giggles, just when I thought I could catch up on some long overdue sleep; tricked me....Rusty and Kimmie then held an awesome event as well, tons of challenges and another great amount of lindens was raised.

Today I can breathe. So I am catching up. Not for long though. Everytime I log in someone is requesting to join the team, ask for a kiosk at their place of business or venue, turning in another event the calendar is truly filling and filling fast. At the end of this blog, I will put in links that show an awesome kick off ceremony, an article in slenquirer that Lacy Muircastle did on the dual team event. And of course---you know I can not forget the link where you can donate to the team and make a difference in the battle against cancer.

We do have a facebook page and are working on getting a team blog up and running. In the meantime, I will also include a link to a calendar so you can keep up with the events already in place. The lineups of our awesome performers will be in there as I get them.
There will be a raffle for performances that have been donated. As well as a unique auction, offering truly one of a kind clothing all surrounding the music community.

Giggles that is not counting the art show coming up, and the cd's that will be of our own loved performers that will be offered.

Stay tuned-----this team is doing some awesome things.

Here are some great links to check out:

Calendar of events: https://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=stillbraveheart@gmail.com&ctz=America/Los_Angeles&gsessionid=hBfPJYExIIl22lUM4UcVWg

Kick-off Ceremony : http://youtu.be/5D3YWjkEgrY

SLEnquirer: http://www.slenquirer.com/2012/03/time-for-cure.html

And of course---won't you make a difference in the battle against cancer and visit our team page---every single dollar counts...$1, $10, or $100 dollars....every penny counts. Always remember YOU can make a difference!!!!! You can make a donation. Donate to a team member....many are cancer survivors or going through treatments now. Join the team and create your own page! Every single one of us has been touched in some way by this devasting disease. I know it is TIME FOR A CURE!

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY12SL?team_id=1115404&pg=team&fr_id=42558


Watch for the upcoming blog----we will be adding pictures of so many of our events in there.

Hugs to all of you, we are all making a difference everyday and we have a completely awesome team.......ALL OF YOU ARE THE VERY BEST!!!!

Sunday, February 26, 2012

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT IS ALMOST MARCH!!!!

Hmmm I have apologized in the past for slacking and procrastinating, this time though I have been busy, I have been doing other things within the music community that have really kept me running.

SL MUSIC RACES FOR A CURE! I appreciated the music community and have always loved it. Working on this team has given me an entirely new appreciation for it. Though the team itself will have its own blog (hopefully soon), I would like to bring you up to date on this. What started out as an idea has truly blossomed. We currently have 120 members on our roster on the Relay For Life of Second Life website. Our team is set up to take on donations in USD instead of having to log in to Second Life!!! This is wonderful as it allows many of us to let friends, family etc., know how they can make a difference.

Now I have to tell you, there is nothing like getting a bunch of venue owners that love live music together and asking for event ideas. This is absolutely the most creative bunch of people. The events this team has planned, hold on to your hats....we are going for a ride through live music that will be phenomenal. On that note I have to add, not only do these venue owners have wonderfully creative ideas, and a lot of them.....giggles I am still getting them. They go one step further and start putting together and organizing the events.

Earlier today while discussing our teams with a Second Life publication, I realized that while heart and caring can not be measured with factual numbers, I am truly lucky to be surrounded by so very many people with such huge hearts. So in the upcoming weeks and months, though I will try to find the time to bounce around to the venues and listen to performers, you will also likely hear a great deal about this team. After all this is a team that is all about our beloved live music community.

Watch those event boards across the grid, the Second Life events, Facebook, Moolto, SL Profiles and many other places that you will be able to see what SL MUSIC RACES FOR A CURE is up to in the battle against a devastating disease that has affected each of us....or just click on my calendar in my profile in world. As fast as we finalize dates, line ups and locations they are in there.

What kind of team member would I be though if I did not give you each a place to donate.....no matter where you are...inworld or out. One dollar or one thousand, it all adds up to help others. Just copy and paste the following link:

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=42558&team_id=1115404

Sunday, February 5, 2012

LET'S START WITH AN APOLOGY

Here is the apology: I have neglected you. This blog was actually written a week ago, and I have been so busy with the SL MUSIC RACES FOR A CURE TEAM for RFL of SL, that I never hit publish. I will also say though, this past week has been completely overwhelming. This team is growing so rapidly, that we should hit 100 members by registration on the 15th. The support and enthusiasm of the music community as a whole is ...WOW... I can not find the words to describe it. If I could reach out and hug each of you, I would and tightly. So I apologize for neglecting the blog yet am sooo proud of the things we are accomplishing. SSSShhhh I will share a secret, watch this team for a true collaboration on a project. It will be AWESOME!!!!

I am not sure how many of you subscribe to Google Alerts, I have found them quite helpful in keeping up with things I am interested in. One of the alerts I follow is the Second Life key words. This particular day there was a blog I read about someone starting a new venue. It is enlightening to those considering it and a reminder, or a walk down memory lane to others of us from when we first started. I included the site below:

http://acrossthegridwithlindal.blogspot.com/2012/01/hey-gang-lets-put-on-show.html?showComment=1327759600689#c4594567517463465243

I had such a great time yesterday that I thought a bit more venue hopping and good music was in order today. Starting out at one of my very good friend's venues...The Drunkin Drow listening to Branden Shoreland, one of the most relaxing performers to listen to. The Drunkin Drow is always filled with people that are near and dear to my heart, so this is always a fun place for me to visit. I stayed for Taka Coeur....another wow!!! I swear this is a weekend for some of the best music in Second Life. I never regret taking this time.

After taking a break I headed to the Mad Hatter to see a very special person...Sassy Nightly. Sassy is not only an awesome performer, but also a good friend and one of wonderful people working to organize the Nashville Jam. This was the first time I had been at Mad Hatter and it is another cool venue. I love listening to Sassy and then I stayed to hear some of Frets Nirvana.

Something I have noticed in my wanderings is the many ingenious ways that venues tend to do things. Some are sooo unique that I think of ways that I could incorporate something like that into my own venue. I think too many times we tend to get stuck in our own world soooo sure that we are doing the very best we can. Yet it is by going out and venturing, learning, observing, and doing it with an open mind that we could often see things that work great. I will be the first to say that in all the different things I have done and organized over the years, especially in rl...that I am a bit of a thief. I was never out to reinvent the wheel, but others soooo often have wonderful ideas and methods...the idea is to learn about things then find a way to improve upon it and adapt it to fit the individual needs at the time...another wards change it so it is yours to take ownership of. Yet never forget where you got the idea and always give credit where credit is due.

I have been having so much fun bouncing venue to venue lately that I started today at B&B's. Seeing my old and very dear friend Bundy. I was given the opportunity to see one of the greats in SL....SOAR. Normally time zone wise, I miss them so this morning was a special treat.

Later after housecleaning in rl was done (never fun but a neccessity) I wnt on to visit venues I had not been to...first stop--Alligator Beach, an awesome Grateful Dead Tribute sim and hippie community, where I had the opportunity to listen to Pan and Doofus. Then on to Snippets to listen to Saintess Larnia. Another venue I had not visited before, an absolutely awesome show by Saintess on an absolutely awesome venue.

While I was there, I received a conference chat from one of the most talented artists Syl Darcy. Syl has combined both her art and music at Moonlit Gardens and it is beautiful. Smiles, I am a bit biased after having the opportunity to work closely with Syl last RFL season, then purchasing some of her artwork myself. I truly regretted not getting to the FL jam to meet her and give her a hug in person. I was able to listen to Glenn Sporg.....Another WOW in fact a double WOW. This is a great day not only great music and great venues, but my friend said she had so much fun at the FL jam that she will be at the Nashville jam too.....I can't wait to see her there.

That Nashville jam should be awesome.....some of the best friends in SL will be there and some of my favorite performers.....counting the days.

Friday, January 27, 2012

BACK TO NORMAL (WELL NORMAL AS CAN BE)

After being out of town for almost a week, I got back last night and I am finally back to normal....though not to knock Indiana....but coming from the Chicago suburbs, I was used to salt trucks being out in front of the storm coming through....On 65 headed south through Indiana...they do not do that. I realized that I am getting too old to think that 70mph on pure ice is fun. So it took me two days to get home, as I spent the night in Indiana. BUT with that and my complaining on Facebook, I learned it really is a small small world. One of the venue owners here in Second Life lived there...and that much of our high school days we were closer than we ever thought.

After I caught up on some notecards, I headed out to hear some great music and my first stop was Ragged Edge, Katspurs' venue is one of those that you feel right at home in, and she always makes me feel so welcome. I listened to a performer I had not heard before Marshallw. Very impressive. Tonight in honor of Kat, Marshallw leaned toward more country...I have a feeling this is a very versatile performer.

After spending some time listening to Marshallw and catching up with my good friend Katspurs, I moved on to My Wish Venue....Lo, I love your dance floor!!! I have been here a few times to meet with Lo and set up the Rodanthe fundraiser, but this is the first time I ever attended an event here. Hazie Moonwall WOW. Such different styles and genres of music....Hazie I loved listening to you.

On to Sweet Whispers, what a beautiful and large venue; listening to Davadean Madrigal. Then on to a new venue for me--Portland...a newer venue and looking around it is really nice. Marble, the owner, was sooo welcoming and made me feel comfortable from the time I arrived. I listened to Katrose Serendipity. I have not had a chance to hear her in a while, then stayed for Music Oxygen....I could listen to him for hours...he has that kind of voice.

I have to add that I love the enthusiasm and the impatience for kiosks, for SL Music Races For a Cure. I know this is going to be an awesome team. Many of you have brought tears already and the kickoff ceremony, where I turn into a blubbering idiot is still over a month away....so many of you I have known for a long time and you are sharing parts of yourself with me.....it is truly touching and overwhelming. Together we will make a difference and I will consider it an honor to have worked with you.

Saturday, January 21, 2012

THE SECOND LIFE MUSIC COMMUNITY NEVER FAILS TO AMAZE ME

Last campaign, I was in a position to attend so many events for Relay For Life....no matter which event I attended, though every event was held in support of Relay For Life, each a unique event in its own way... there was a common thread between all of them,,,the music community. Performers gave of their time, their talents, their hard earned lindens. Performers groups attended and dug deep within their wallets to support Relay For Life. Managers, hosts, and venues...organized and donated. If many of you have been having following my blog for a while, you know how deeply touched I was by the open hearts of the music community. Now if you know me well, you know that got the wheels in this peabrain to spinning. We are always talking about increasing exposure of Second Life Music, and to do so in a positive way.

The subject was bounced around between a few people...and viola....an idea was born. We have put together a team....hopefully encompassing the many different avenues of the Second Life music community. Performers, venues, managers, fans, and promoters. Yesterday was the first time I publicly asked if people would be interested in joining. I only asked through the Live Music Venue Group, my own venue groups, and subscribo, and then my friends list. OMG as usual, the response from the Second Life Music Community overwhelmed me. I did not leave my computer last night until I was literally crosseyed. The requests for more information, the automatic joining of the team, the real life experiences I heard....the unconditional, "whatever I can do to help" attitude. All this from a community that I already love so much....You tend to leave me speechless (giggles and that is a difficult task) The team is growing by leaps and bounds. Already comparable in size to more established teams. So I will submit to you, my readers, the same note card that I put out inworld yesterday.

"We are putting together a team for 2012 Relay For Life in Second Life. The team is made up of all the different avenues of the music community; performers, managers, venue owners, fans, music group owners. This is a wonderful way for the entire music community to achieve a few things--camaraderie, exposure to the music community, and most importantly, the ability to make a difference in the battle against cancer. A devastating disease that has affected everyone in some way, shape, or form. Your participation in this team would be greatly appreciated. The team’s name is SL Music Races for a Cure. Please send me an im if you would be interested in joining forces with us to truly make a difference, of if you would like more information.

Thank you so very much, Still Braveheart"



As with anything else, the more people that participate the better of a job that we as a team can do for Relay For Life"

I have not been bouncing around that much in the past week or so, but will be updating a blog soon with those venues I have been to and the performers I have had the opportunity to hear. Yesterday, I peeked in the Secondraters site as well.....wow I am such a slacker....His list of performers has also grown....I need to get busy with my goal of hearing every performer in Second Life. As well as keep a promise to compare the many profiles I have to the newer site SecondLive.net, to give him any profiles that I may have and he is missing.

But for now I am listening to the awesome stream taking place at the Florida Jam!!! and wishing I was there

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

2012 BEGINS IN SECOND LIFE

I am soooo proud of myself. I have spent the first week of the new year cleaning and organizing. Smiles my inventory is smaller than it has been in over 2 years. Now that I am organized, I am ready to move forward with this years projects. Consisting of taking care of something in rl that will possibly effect a lot, but now I am ready for it. Ready to get a full line up going again in my own venue, ready to co-captain a team of the musical community for RFL, ready to truly work on filling the new Second Life Music Venue Directory Website, and ready to keep up better with this blog.

I have a confession to make on organizing though, it is absolutely amazing how many notecards one can accumulate. WOW....giggles anyone need an artist's bio....I have a ton of them.

I started this new day by doing something a bit different. If you ever have free time and you don't do this already, I would suggest trying it. I went to search and hit the destination guide. WOW I saw some amazing builds. There is one that I just have to mention as it made me think of the old AM Radio build of the gas station and the details that were done so extremely well...taking me back to my own childhood of growing up with a mechanic as a grandfather. If you get a chance, check out the Houmas House, This is a plantation built with the collaborative efforts of some of the very best in Second Life, and based on the real life plantation. The details are some of the most accurate I have seen when it comes to duplicating real life in Second Life.

I avoided the hunts that were listed, and once finished went on to live music events. Sitting here and writing while visiting the venue Starriders and listening to JayP Burnstein doing an entire set of Elvis songs with the most amazing voice. True it is Elvis's birthday, but I could also listen to this man's voice for hours. Sille has done a great job with this venue it is both comfortable feeling and fun.

The hard part is pulling myself away to go on to another. Well crashing made that easier. Logged in and headed to Lost Lovers Dancing Club to listen to Gwen Marshdevil. One thing I will never do is to put down track singers.....I believe in my heart that their voice is their instrument. Listening to Gwen reaffirms that, she has truly mastered her instrument....such a beautiful voice. Newer to performing, it is just a matter of time before her following swells to overflowing.

On to a new venue for me....Limburg Live Venue. This venue has a huge dance floor. Waiting for the performer to begin,Lance Windlow, someone I have not listened to a long time. I got a chance to chat for a minute with one of the owners Eromara, she is so nice and welcoming. I am looking all around realizing this is a venue that is truly built to accomodate huge groups, it is pretty awesome. In talking to Eromara she was telling me that her partner also has a light show that he adds with the performances....i am anxiously waiting to see it. This is something that will truly set this venue out and be awesome at the same time. My recommendation---put your viewer on midnight. I have to admit that so many of us have lights on our stages (for me the stages are seasonal so not always) but I have yet to see a venue use them so well. This is awesome. I have to hand it to Lance, I just listened to one of the most sincere requests to tip the venue, thank you Lance for that recognition.

I got busy in rl after that and called it a day. Started today by popping into different venues to drop off and speak with the owners about the website directory. I love doing this, it really makes me realize how big and wonderful this community is. After crashing a few times, courtesy of Second Life, I managed to head over to Guthries and listen to Lefty Unplugged. Guthries has always been a favorite venue of mine. A great place to listen to some awesome performers and at the same time enjoy my morning coffee as the day gets going. My first time here a close friend had tp'd me in to hear one of the most awesome performers and my very good friend Russell Eponym. I have been stuck on this venue ever since. As always, Guthries did not let me down today.....such a relaxed atmosphere and a wonderful performer in Lefty.

Ok I confess, I allowed rl to distract me from Second Life and just getting back to it today. Starting out at a morning favorite, Guthries where I listened to Camme Carver for the first time. She is someone to see when you check notices, she brought both talent and an extremely likeable personality. I will be watching for her more often. On to another favorite, Kickin, and another first for me Christion
Dinzeo....once again...the WOW factor.

Another thing that really brought me back to what being new was like. One of the newbies at Kickin complimented me on my gown....as we talked it came out that she was brand new to Second Life, did not know how to find things, and had no lindens. I did tell her that she needed to learn more about sl, explore find her passions in sl and pursue those....but to help her get started I gave her the skin I started with, the hair i started with, a tent to try clothes in, a lm to a sandbox so she could rezz, as well as some clothes that were not freebies but were transferrable. It made me remember over three years ago when someone did the exact same to me. Sometimes it takes a reminder to remember "Pay it Forward"

Saturday, December 31, 2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Wow can you really believe another year has passed??? They really do go faster and faster.

Looking back over the year it has been amazing. It seems like the world has thrown one curve ball after another out there. There have been catastrophes and losses. There have also been so many successes. No matter which it has been, I have been able to stand on the sidelines and watch so many people open their hearts and their wallets, give their time and their talents to reach out and help each other. No where is it any more pronounced then right here in Second Life. The caring I see for other people, even when I know for a fact how times have made things so hard for so many here in Second Life, yet you still find ways to make a difference.

I see the fundraisers that I have been involved in, Relay for Life, Rodanthe, North Carolina, and most recently Toys 4 Tots. I see it in the music community and it is a community that each of us should be so proud to belong to.

"Every new year people make resolutions to change aspects of themselves they believe are negative. A majority of people revert back to how they were before and feel like failures. This year I challenge you to a new resolution. I challenge you to just be yourself." Aisha Elderwyn

To each and every one of you, I wish you all a very Happy New Year! May it bring you good health, and happiness, (a little wealth isn't bad either).

"We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called "Opportunity" and its first chapter is New Year's Day." Edith Lovejoy Pierce

SO MUCH TO SHARE

Before Christmas I had done some venue hopping and wanted to tell you about these, but we all know what holiday hustle and bustle is like. So that is my procrastination excuse for this one.

For those of you that celebrate Christmas, I hope yours was as wonderful as mine. Though I received some awesome gifts, I have actually received one of the best gifts possible about a month and a half before with the news that I am going to be a grandmother. To those of you that have grandchildren, I know you completely understand the overwhelming emotions that come over you with the realization that your baby is going to have her own baby. (and the need to brag)

Enough about me.

I also wish those of you that celebrated your own holidays the very best. I would list them all, but I am a terrible speller and would torture your holiday names. Some things are just never spelled the way they sound.

Here we go some venue hopping. My first stop was Cafe Casablanca. It has been a while since I have been here and Nyteyes made me feel as welcome as if I had never left. Kev Tyson on stage as a giant santa hat and a great sense of humor. I had a great time while there.

On to Sammy's Pub to hear Carols by Candlelight but it appeared to be cancelled though the venue looked like it would be a warm comfortable outdoor venue....I will have to watch for other events being held here.

On to Templemore....a bit early due to the cancel at Sammy's gave me a chance to look around and see what an absolutely beautiful build this is, Hmmm 10 minutes to show time and I am still by myself....I hope this is not an omen...both venues were scheduled to have performers I have never listened to before. Looking back into events to see what else is going on just to be on the safe side. Ok showtime and no one is here....on to the next.

Now this is a show....Spirited Emor singing some of my favorite Christmas songs at Clan LoewenHerz/Lion Clubs. A Beautiful venue, beautiful songs.....who could ask for more.

I can't go venue hopping without stopping at one of my all time favorite venues Kickin Club, now this is a venue that is always packed . I got there in time to catch the end of Liberty Lyrics performance she is awesome, then stayed for Premium Composer.......wow the energy he has, I was trying to eat some wings while he was coming through the speakers and i wanted to put down some delicious wings and get up and dance. Anytime I want to put down food....it is a reason for celebration.

I did get back from out of town to hear something that is to me hmmmm well you make your own judgements. There is a hunt being put together that will culminate in a concert consisting of one of my favorite groups as well as another performer in Second Life. I think this is such a unique idea. But I got to thinking as I do a couple of hunts each year..... I was kind of surprised that a hunt needed sponsors to the tune of quite a few Lindens, and then that they were also charging the merchants to participate. Though I had only looked into participating in a hunt once as a venue, I do participate as a hunter in a couple. I asked a few of the vendors that i know rather well, they are friends, participate in hunts and provide wonderful quality items that I receive both as a hunter and the fact that I am a shopoholic. They have never paid to participate in a hunt. to me this understandable, there is no guarantee that a hunt will bring in more sales as most good hunters go to find the item and hurry out to the next location.

I do know that some people think that those individuals that started organizing hunts a long time ago did themselves a disservice by not charging and making money off of the vendors. I look at it a bit differently. To those that take the time to organize a hunt and do it solely because it is something you love to do, I salute you. You are doing something for others to enjoy and not always trying to make a buck. I will always speak of you in the highest regard and if ever asked will always refer people to your hunts and the vendors that also take their time to produce a gift for Second Life residents that hunt. I will also be looking to include my own venue in some of your hunts and will go to the vendors that are there to participate. That is an idea that other venue owners may also want to look into since so many of us have stores on our sims.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

PROCRASTINATION

I am the self proclaimed Queen of Procrastination--as easily seen by the rate I update this blog.

I can blame it on rl, or the season, or the latest hunt I am doing, but the bottom line is that it is pure procrastination. Something I think so many of us do all the time. Not to take anything away from the procrastinators, some of my best work is done due to procrastination, after all, I am not getting a second chance to fix it...well gee I can table it until next year...a common reason to not fix it the first time around. No if I am going to do it, it should be done right the first time. If I see something wrong it is my responsibility to say something, many of you know me and respect me for this character flaw. And I love you for it. So I have no excuse for waiting so late to update this, just that I am the Queen of Procrastination.

I do need to bring you up to date between the timer going off on holiday baking today.

Hmmmm new stuff first....I have been at the most fun venue, Under the Willows. I have not had as much fun at such a unique venue. Though I must also admit, that my wonderful friend Max Kleene was performing and his group and team are some of the most fun in sl. Always clean, never obnoxious, giggles though there may be innuendos. No one ever feels left out at a Max show....this is a group that makes everyone feel so very welcome and knows how to have fun, always lots of laughter. No matter what kind of day you are having, attending a Max show will always leave you with a smile on your face. Add to that dancing on a giant bed at Under the Willows and you have a dynamite show. Hmmmm wondering if they make jumping on the bed animations, I will have to look and send some to the mastermind Precious Rallier, owner of Under the Willows. This is one venue that everyone should see, it is awesome. I know I will be attending again.

Speaking of Max Kleene, I have to give him credit for this find. After chatting one evening, Max asked me to come listen to someone. In all honesty, though I should not be biased, bluegrass has never been my cup of tea...as much as I love country, it is such a different type. Max did tell me I would be impressed so I took a chance. WOW...he was right. It was Cosmic Haystack streaming in with his rl band from his studio in Kentucky. These guys were great. Not only was the music great but the band itself is also very entertaining. Thanks Max for pointing me in that direction.

There were a couple of things that happened in the Second Life music community lately. The Avi Choice Awards held at the SL Christmas expo on the 10th of December. I was so proud as I was listening to them, the music community made a strong showing in appearing at the awards. If you had a chance to look at the list of nominees, it was outstanding, though one little thing caught my attention. Under SL music groups, up against groups such as the Follow was an actual Second Life group that so many of use to send out notices of events. I giggled every time I thought of that group winning....all 470+ members. Though the nominees in each category was amazing, a special congratulations goes out to the winners:

Favorite Formal Venue: Nanceeee & Gymmy Sinatra – Frank’s Elite Jazz Club

Favorite Live Music Venue: Reborn Wingtips & Mara Menges – RMS Titanic

Favorite Country Singer: Savannah Coronet

Favorite Pop Singer: Antonio Galloway

Favorite Rock Singer: Skye Galaxy

Favorite SL Musical Group: Powers Avon – The Follow

Favorite Singing Duo: Erin68Frogg & Satin Galli

Favorite Female Musician: Noma Falta

Favorite Male Musician: Russell Eponym

Congratulations to all those that were nominated and to all those that won!!!! Everyone of you is soooo awesome!!!

Though there are still 5 days of campaigning left, congratulations goes out to Rocky Hillburten and his staff for making Toys4Tots so successful this year. Too many children that don't deserve it, go without through the Christmas Season, the United States Marines go out of their way to help kids during the holidays and throughout the year. Once again, the music community in Second Life has opened their hearts and their wallets to help make a difference this year. Toys4Tots this year is just under 5 million lindens, lets all dig just a little more into our pockets and hit that 5 million mark.

A new venture in Second Life. Many of you remember when I had written about Live Gig Alley. Unfortunately instead of making changes that were needed. I do believe it is closed down. Voice Doobie has since gone and created Event Connection. Though it seems to revolve around events of all kinds, I was able to take a look at it. While it holds a great deal of potential, there are still quite a few technical kinks to work out which he is working on. It appears to be a venture worth watching to see the direction it takes, it may be a very good venture for the music community, but only time will tell. His grand opening is scheduled tentatively for January 15.

Now lets get back to procrastination...giggles there are still a ton more venues to be included in the music venue directory, along with live music event groups and services. Hint hint, we have waited so long for this....lets use it to our advantage.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe healthy prosperous New Year! Thank you for allowing me to a small part of this community this year.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

SLMUSICVENUES

What started out as an idea for a venue directory is becoming even more.

SLMUSICVENUES opened on the 21st of November. The amount of people stopping in has been staggering. Thirty-three venues are listed already with more coming. Quite often though what can start as one idea grows. The directory is growing to include all the different tools and resources that a performer could use, or a fan could use. For performers there is a page for management companies to list themselves. A page for tools such as instruments, streams, animations, tip jars etc. For fans that would like to keep up with the events going on, there is a page for groups to list themselves. (Please keep in mind,that the group page is not for individual performers groups or event notices)

Recently a venue owner asked how much it would cost to place their venue on the site. They were a bit surprised but happy when the answer came back .... nothing. There is not a cost associated with any listings on the site. No advertisement will be sold. It is done solely to bring the music community together in one place, a one stop resource for the many different aspects of the live music community with the exception of the performers. There is another site already in place for all performers to be listed and it is kept up to date.

If you have a live music venue or offer a service in the live music community, submitting the information only take a couple of minutes.

AN OVERWHELMING WEEK!!

I hope those in the US had a wonderful Thanksgiving. To everyone though, no matter where you are in the world, each of us have so very many things to give thanks for. We tend to take for granted so many things. There is not a thing in our lives that does not deserve thanks. Even when the road before us is tough and we can't see our way....the fact that we were able to get up that morning and face that world, or hide from that world---however you react to it...the bottom line is that you were able to get up that morning and have the ability to choose. All too often we are reminded of those that have the choice taken from them. I do not know all of the people that the music community has lost, or any other community in SL, but for those I did know...LoneWolf55 and Syn...know that you are both in my prayers, as I am sure so many of you do as well. Every now and then, remember to stop and give thanks for the things you do have, the people in your lives and the people that have touched your life; I know I do and have to remind myself to give thanks for the things we take so easily for granted.

On to what I have seen this past week. I took one of the days and went venue hopping. This is always such fun for me.

Sound Berlin first time I listened to Pilgrim75 Swashbuckler. Wow how did i go so long without hearing him....I have truly missed a lot. Sound Berlin is the kind of venue that gives you a warm comfortable feeling.....A place I would want to hang out with and without the live performers.

On to Ocean Live Music Under the Sea, my good friends Tia and Remy had Gina Gracemont there, another woman that I just love listening to and a really fun performance. I stayed to hear a newer Performer Billie1465 Tigerpaw..impressive ....had me dancing in my chair....it will be fun to watch him grow in SL.

On to another favorite....Lost Lovers Dancing Club....always a great crowd...listening to Rafaella Docherty.....listen to her if you get a chance....she does a wide range that truly keeps you entertained. Lost Lovers another venue working for children this holiday season....with Toys for Tots.


The PureLife Lodge what a great venue....I loved the waterfalls. I was able to hear Constantius Warbaum.....ya know I have a friend that melts with the sound of a good voice, well today for the first time I understood that feeling....wow. Ladies if you have not heard him -- run do not stop at go, just get there and you will know what i mean. Sorry ladies it is a listen don't touch...he is very happily taken. PureLife Lodge, another venue doing all they can for Toys4Tots.

A close friend of mine sent me a message to join her at Bonaire Estates Beach Club, Grotto Nightclub....I adore underwater venues they are absolutely beautiful. Dancing with fish swimming around me. I had the pleasure of listening to Seamore Wildehart.....another musician to watch, for he is great.

Another day...smiling more venues this is fun. You should try it, so many wonderful venues, so many wonderful performers, so many wonderful people.

Started at Chez Roz, another awesome Toys4Tots venue. I love the way the music community has come together to support this and keep the magic in the holidays for those children that may not otherwise have it.

I apologize for being so adamant about this fundraiser, for there are many worthwhile heart wrenching fundraisers that strive to make a difference in people's lives, whether it be through research, providing help and resources to those struck by some form of tragedy. At the same time there is one part of the world that can not speak for themselves, can't vote, can't choose, yet always seem to pay the price of the adults...and I personally do not know of one child that has asked to be brought into this world or voluntarily done things to cause them daily sufferage whether it be through economic times, abuse, or a form of a devastating disease, yet all to often many pay the price of adults in so many ways, Toys4Tots is just one way to give to a silent community that continues to pay the price of adults. ok off my soapbox, I am just the sort that has stood up for kids for almost as long as I can remember.

While at Chez Roz, a classy elegant ambiance gives you such a warm feeling, I had the opportunity to hear a favorite performer and a very good friend, Nigel Palmer whether you listen to him once or daily, his voice will blow you away. This is an extremely talented songwriter, he has some of the very best originals, as well as an awesome musician and voice. He keeps his audience involved doing both his own music and will also do backing tracks...either way he is awesome.


Stopped in at Tayla's "Palm Springs Live Music" to hear Whirli Placebo. Soo early for me, I marveled at the energy. Listening to a combination of Whirli's originals and Dillon what a great way to start the day.

So often these days I am seeing venues working together to give each other and live music exposure. Tayla's is a venue that does just that....besides having the tropical theme that makes me forget that it is almost time for snow by my rl house.....Tayla also has a musical friends board made up of many different live music venues and lm's to each of them.

As always the music community amazes me. I watch the Christmas Expo site for RFL and see the performers once again giving of their time and talents, the venues donating their services. The large number of venues and performers that are diligently working for Toys4Tots. Whether you are chairing a committee for the organization, or volunteering your services to help those chairs, or making a donation or item. Feed a Smile, another ongoing fundraiser. Each of you gives of your time, your money, your hearts.....I am truly proud to be a small part of this community, its compassion for its fellow man is sooo overwhelming. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this community.

Monday, November 21, 2011

AN AWESOME AUCTION

So many venues, performers, etc are participating in the Toys 4 Tots fundraiser. I would be remiss to not copy this auction information into here. I have to hand it to Rocky Hilburton of Smokin Aces, he has organized all of this and I love the way he packaged the auction together. So another copy and paste---I can not describe it any better than has been done.

Hello friends!
We have teamed up with some of Char's most favorite designers and friends to create auctions with all proceeds going to Toys for Tots!

We have three packages that are open for bidding -

*****************************************************

Package A includes -

A fabulous 550L gift card to Sascha's Designs has been kindly donated by Sascha Frangilli. Some of Char's most beautiful dresses come from Sascha's! You can find a wide selection of women's formal and casual as well as men's formal clothing to select from. Designs can be viewed/purchased in the marketplace (https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/13877) or personally in SL.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Coco%20Beach%20Kelina/145/243/24

A gift card has been generously donated by Kira Spaatz & Lin Ochs of Houses For You! This gift card is redeemable on their sims for any one of their beautiful and unique homes, retail value up to 5500L. Designs can be viewed/purchased in the marketplace (https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/11895) or personally in SL.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Houses/6/128/22

Potlatch Foggarty & Bellaby Ballyhoo have kindly donated a 500L certificate to their wonderful furniture store; Encore Interiors! A great addition to help furnish your new home - see above! Designs can be viewed at their new location here in SL!

A voucher good for 1 photo session of 3 photos or equivalent value up to 1500L has been graciously donated by Trixee Trotter & Chief Blackhawk of Timeless Photography. This package includes a photo session with your choice of poses/backgrounds by the best in the business! All photos come with full permissions, you will be able to select them personally from the session samples; additional photos can also be purchased. Trust me it will be hard to choose! You can view a sampling of their work in Trixee's Flickr account (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30676243@N08/page1/) or at their studio personally in SL.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Kalamata/176/105/27

THIS AUCTION WILL END ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8TH, 4 PM SLT. WINNER NEED NOT BE PRESENT, BUT BEWARE OF LAST MINUTE BIDDING!
***********************************************************************************

Package B Includes -

A 500L Gift Certificate to Damselfly has been kindly donated by TOmmy Fairplay. This is the hair Char wears most often and we hope you'll enjoy it just as much as she does! Designs can be viewed/purchased in the marketplace (https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/1536) or personally in SL.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Damselfly%20Hair%20Salon/145/237/32

A gift card has been generously donated by Kira Spaatz & Lin Ochs of Houses For You! This gift card is redeemable on their sims for any one of their beautiful and unique homes, retail value up to 5500L. Designs can be viewed/purchased in the marketplace (https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/11895) or personally in SL.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Houses/6/128/22

Savannah Coronet has kindly donated two of her fabulous CD's; Just being Savvy & her Patsy Cline Tribute CD. Savvy is a dear friend of Char and one of her most favorite entertainers! Savannah & Hogan Baily have also generously donated two Amaretto Horse bundles with an approximated 4k + retail value! The attached notecard has all of the details for the horses included in this auction.

THESE BUNDLES ARE VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY 2000L.. DEPENDING ON WHAT SEX THEY ARE WHEN BIRTHED... COULD BE WORTH MORE IF A MALE.

1ST BUNDLE

10T GEMINI EMERALD BOTH PARENTS 10T
Coat: Black/White Mustang
Eye: Gemini Emerald
Mane: Long
Tail: Long
High Coat Gleam
High Hair Gleam
Low Coat Luster
High Hair Luster
Coat Gloom
Hair Gloom

2NS BUNDLE

10T Creme Pinto Gloom/Chill
Coat: Creme Pinto
Eye: Emerald
Mane: Long
Tail: Long
Low Coat Gleam
Low Hair Gleam
Low Coat Luster
High Hair Luster
Hair Gloom
Coat Chill


You can stop in at the stables and view a selection of their horses/bundles for sale - http://slurl.com/secondlife/Dover%20Downs/73/178/21

THIS AUCTION WILL END ON FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH, 4 PM SLT. WINNER NEED NOT BE PRESENT, BUT BEWARE OF LAST MINUTE BIDDING!

********************************************************************************

Package C Includes - (For the Char Fans!)

A necklace, earring, and belly chain set featuring a musical theme. This jewelry set was donated by Zahara Dawn from Adorned. It is a discontinued item that was brought back solely for the Toys for Tots auction and is one of Char's absolute favorites. Designs can be viewed/purchased in the marketplace (https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/24289) or personally in SL.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Baia%20Dei%20Segreti/93/205/22

Two never released tracks by Char - these are tracks you've heard at the set, but have yet to be released on the blog or CD. (http://charndonkass.blogspot.com/) You will be the first to receive copies!

A single mystery track that has never been heard - you will receive this track prior to it even being heard at the sets, a great way to tease other Char fans! You can be the first to tell everyone how amazing it is!

A two hour date with Char! You can go dancing, shopping, gossip while you play greedy, take photos - this is our version of a fan meet & greet. Keep it clean as the First Lady has a reputation to uphold; no strip clubs, hanky panky, or questionable poses. Remember she wears four layers!

Your own trivia question! - It can be fun, silly, whatever you want it to be as long as it is PG rated.

A one hour private Char show; meaning no lindens involved - Char will come sing at your home, venue, etc. and you can invite all of your friends. If you don't have a location, we will help get something figured out.

THIS AUCTION WILL END ON SATURDAY DECEMBER 10TH, 4 PM SLT. WINNER NEED NOT BE PRESENT, BUT BEWARE OF LAST MINUTE BIDDING!

....................................................................................

How the auctions work -

Visit the following landmark -

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Kookaburra/82/158/22

You will see the boards for bidding; A, B, & C auction packages. Please pay the auction boards, lindens will be taken from your account at that time. You must outbid the previous bidder - previous bids will automatically be refunded once they are outbid. Please do not place a bid you do not intend to honor, there are no refunds - unless of course someone else outbids you. Winners will be contacted at auction end for the transfer of prizes associated with each auction.

All auction proceeds are donated to the Toys for Tots Charity.
http://toysfortots.org

You can track the SL fundraising progress at; http://toys4tots.snowcrashdigital.com/

We thank you for your participation, together we can give the gift of Christmas!

If you have any questions; please contact Charndon Kass or Jade Berry. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

SLMUSICVENUES IS LAUNCHED

Finally a Directory for venues and a complete resource for the music community is up and running. http://slmusicvenues.com/

I am going to just copy and paste the notecards that were sent out.

After so much discussion in the past about a directory for venues, it is finally being put together.
A website is being created, similar to SecondRaters, but without a rating system.
Each Venue will have it’s own page. All of the information will be included, the exception being tips or paying which will only be represented by a T or P or B at the bottom of a page. This will assist managers as they seek out venues for the performers they represent. You will each be given the link to pass along as well as a direct link to your venue page.

If things change, i.e. you are haunted for the Halloween season, we will try to keep your page updated with this info.

If your venue closes, please let us know so that we can keep this directory as updated as possible.

Please keep in mind that this will not be the location to post events at your venue, we all have enough places to do that. If your venue maintains kiosks for fundraisers that are transparent and accountable....i.e. RFL, Toys For Tots, etc., we will be happy to include that information on your page.

Please fill out the attached nc and rename it with your venue name and return it to me.

http://slmusicvenues.com/

Your venue will be entered as soon as we receive it.

There is a page also put together for management to list themselves, as well as a page for stream companies and other things a performer may need (i.e. ani's, tip jars, instruments, etc)

And the notecard to turn in:

Information Needed:

Venue Name:
Owner Name:
Contact Person for Booking:
Date Venue Established:
Tips or Paying or Both Venue:
Genre:
Dress Code:
Capacity:
Sim Rating:

Brief paragraph describing venue:

Slurl:

Please attach a logo texture:

You can paste that into a nc and submit it to Still Braveheart inworld

MY WANDERINGS AND THOUGHTS THIS WEEK

I had a busy week venue hopping this week, and made some wonderful finds.

On Thursday, I spent an hour on the Titanic, no matter how often I visit, the build alone continues to amaze me. Mara was there at the time and went out of her way to make both myself and another venue owner feel appreciated. Hugs Mara, I love our friendship. I had actually gone to Titanic with an agenda, I had been told that I just had to hear Strider Quan, both an RL and SL Elvis impersonator. He only performs once a week in SL and that is at the Titanic. I have to admit, I could close my eyes and truly believe I was listening to the King himself. Though normally I would suggest that this a man that can't be missed and to watch events, smiles this time I have to say that but also tell you to visit Titanic on Thursdays to do so. Titanic is also a proud sponsor of the Toys 4 Tots program.

Over the weekend I visited a few more venues. Though there were no live performances at the time, I did stop in at Rojo's VIP Lounge and fell in love with the ambiance. Ronus LeFevre outdid himself, I know I will be a frequent visitor.

Temptation Falls, another absolutely beautiful venue where I had the pleasure of listening to CelticMaidenWarrior Lancaster. If you have never heard Celtic you are truly missing a piece of magic. Her voice is wonderful, and if you are truly lucky you will have the opportunity to hear her acapella. Temptation Falls is a venue that is also supporting the Toys 4 Tots program. There are so many venues participating in this fundraiser. So many wonderful performers on the Christmas CD that supports Toys 4 Tots.....all working to make a difference in a child's life this holiday season.

On to one of my favorite venues for fun...Kickin Club Live Music Venue, I got there early and listened to my old friend Paul Knowles rock the house. Awesome as always. LilMissPriss has truly created a venue that is plain old fun....no matter what kind of day you are having, stop at Kickin and you will leave with a smile. I stayed for Theresa Nayar.

Key West another favorite venue, owned by my close friend Liz Harley. Stopped in to listen to a performer I had not heard in quite a while...Mimi Carpenter. She has a unique voice that I enjoy. Key West, one of my favorite places in rl, they have truly managed to transport me there whenever I visit the venue. Key West is another wonderful supporter of Toys 4 Tots, stop in and keep the magic in the holidays for children.

I stopped in Waffles where Ugh Yeu was performing for his birthday. Everyone was having a wonderful time. I noticed something I am seeing more and more with venues....sponsorships. Waffles is doing this, The Roof is also, as is the Titanic; I am sure there are many others. I like the fact that venues are stepping outside the box to support the rising costs of maintaining a venue. It shows a dedication to the music community...smiling.... even better, it is increasing the exposure of sl music, a common goal of all parts of the music community.

Now many of you know me well so this is pure sarcasm based upon something I have seen done recently. A performer did an event with 50% going to charity and had stated that the other 50& was going to cover the cost of the event. Mind you there were sponsors and only he was accepting tips. Please do not get me wrong, the cause itself was excellent and I will give credit for choosing to help with a fundraiser....but there are a couple of things that go on when all proceeds do not go to the non-profit. First and foremost was there transparency, who actually monitored the fundraising, it should have been one or two people that did not have a vested interest besides the performer and his manager. And second...it had been announced that $1000+ USD was being forwarded to the non-profit organization. By my calculations and math was not my high point but I think even I can handle this one....at 50% the performer walked away with $1000+ USD as well. Hmmmmm I have never known a performer that has to pay that much out of pocket to cover costs of a two hour show even with video. So I do feel as if a performer used the nonprofit as a way to solicit more sponsors, higher audience numbers and more profit for himself than he would have had without it, and took advantage of the hearts that give so very much in SL. Maybe I am dead wrong...if so please let me know.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

New Website Being Built

For the longest time, as a music community, we have all agreed on the need for a live music venue directory. There is one through a magazine, some venues have walls with other venues on it, another venue owner was putting together something for the mentors, there is the destination guide through Second Life.

The largest problem is that everyone wants something different. Some want genres, others want tips versus paid, etc.

If many of you have gone on and taken a look at the SecondRaters website; there is a website being built solely for live music venues. Without the rating system. Each Venue will have its own page, description, genre, logo, capacity, dress code, date established, owner, contact person, slurl, and even fundraisers they support.

There are still one or two technical issues that are being worked out and the site will be ready to publish. Just like the SecondRaters site, there will be a page that offers the opportunity to state who is missing in there.

There will also eventually be a page that lists management organizations for performers seeking representation.

Many venues have already submitted their information to be included. I have copied the nc for the information that is needed to be included. Please copy the information into a notecard and rename it with the venue name, then submit it to me inworld....still Braveheart

The original notecard that went out:

After so much discussion in the past about a directory for venues, it is finally being put together.
A website is being created, similar to SecondRaters, but without a rating system.
Each Venue will have it’s own page. All of the information will be included, the exception being tips or paying which will only be represented by a T or P or B at the bottom of a page. This will assist managers as they seek out venues for the performers they represent. You will each be given the link to pass along as well as a direct link to your venue page.

If things change, i.e. you are haunted for the Halloween season, we will try to keep your page updated with this info.

If your venue closes, please let us know so that we can keep this directory as updated as possible.

Please keep in mind that this will not be the location to post events at your venue, we all have enough places to do that. If your venue maintains kiosks for fundraisers that are transparent and accountable....i.e. RFL, Toys For Tots, etc., we will be happy to include that information on your page.

Please fill out the attached nc and rename it with your venue name and return it to me. The site is being put together as we speak so it will be ready to go as soon as possible. Your venue will be entered as soon as we receive it.

This is the attached notecard.

Information Needed:

Venue Name:
Owner Name:
Contact Person for Booking:
Date Venue Established:
Tips or Paying or Both Venue:
Genre:
Dress Code:
Capacity:

Brief paragraph describing venue:

Slurl:

Please attach a logo texture:

I'M BACK!!!!

I spent the day venue hopping and it was a lot of fun. I had forgotten just how much fun it was. Seeing new places, hearing new performers, and seeing old friends.

I started out at Kameleonz, what a wonderful Aussie Pub. While there I had the pleasure of listening to Saintess Larnia. As many times as I have seen this woman at different venues and have heard other performers mention how good she is, yet I had never actually listened to her.What a wonderfully delightful strong voice. I am looking forward to see her more often. I stuck around to hear MarkSeery Melodie. I truly enjoyed listening to him, but when he brought out the bagpipes it was awesome. I had a hard time holding my feet still.

I went on to Guthries, always a favorite stop and had a chance to see Dottie. Then on to Kickin Club. It is always so much fun to see friends I haven't seen in a while. While at Kickin, I had listened to another performer I had not heard before, but will look to hear him again.....Glenn Bunjie. He has that just rough enough voice to draw you in and hold you.

Time for another new venue for me. Waffles Music Agency. What a wonderfully fun place to visit. There is only one word I can use to describe the performer that I listened to there....Dje Atolia....that word is WOW!!!! After that I got to hear my friends Wolf n Hawk. These are two very special people.

I went on to Cameo Music Park where Sasinq was celebrating her three week anniversary. Congratulations Sas! While there I caught the end of Stela Rajal though I could not understand a word she sang---after all I am linguistically challenged (even with English)--can't even remember French from High school....but the sound of her voice was amazing. Stayed for Donny Collazo...this is a crooner no one should miss...his voice is soooo smooth.

I was ready to dance and went on to Smokin ACES. Rocky is ready for winter. This is always a fun venue, and Rocky continually outdoes himself. This is a venue that supports Toys for Tots in every way, donating all venue tips right now to Toys for Tots. While there I saw Brixton Canning, another wow. SL has had some great country singers and Brixton does not disappoint......the kind of voice I could listen to all night.

I had every intention of leaving after Brixton....but though I needed to head down to the kitchen (hoping my dinner doesn't burn) but then ElvisAronPresley Lisa came on.....I am a hard one to impress with Elvis impersonators. This guy is good though. If you love Elvis, this is the performer to see!!!!

Smiles and then hunger took over. It was so good to be back though!!!!

Monday, November 7, 2011

WOW YOU ARE THE VERY BEST!!!

I wanted to take a moment to say thank you! Each time I log into SL there are notecards and im's offering your best thoughts, wishing me well....and just showing me what a wonderful community this is. If I had the time to sit and answer each every notecard I would. Just know that I love each and every one of you.

Something I forgot to say earlier......Toys For Tots is underway. Though I have not had a chance to listen to the CD earlier, the line up is totally awesome. Stop by venues (my own included) and make a donation, or purchase the CD. You have the power to make this holiday season so much brighter for so many children. Though Toys For Tots has always been important, this year with the economic hardships felt everywhere, it is rougher than in the past. It is visible in so many ways. Though as adults we understand the rough times....lets do all we can to keep the magic of the holiday for those that should not have to feel the hardships of adults....Children!!!!!

If you are a venue owner, it is not too late to help out. Contact Rocky Hilburton and ask him how you can help make a difference for these children. Help keep the magic in the holidays!!!!

Sunday, November 6, 2011

LET'S PLAY CATCH UP

It has been so long that I feel as though I owe you all an explanation. Unfortunately, due to some rl health issues, I have had to make some changes. It was a bitter pill to swallow; I had to go through my self pity stage where I kind of hid away from the world. The acceptance of it has settled in though and then I had to take stock of exactly what it meant to me. Many of you may have heard that the Halloween Party at BS's was the last big hurrah for awhile and that BS's was closing for a while. This is true with the exception of one Saturday night slot. I chose to do this simply because I am ---the sad (at least to me) part is that I have to move back to the bitter cold of Illinois after waiting so many years to leave it. There is a treatment program that I need to go through and I refuse to change doctors as where I am now is one of the best in country, but they want me closer for monitoring through this program. From all I am hearing, the side effects can be rough which will lead to many more bad days mixed in with the good. I can not, in all fairness to performers and fans, run a scheduled venue. I am afraid of having to cancel too much on them to be dependable. On the flip side, I am currently talking someone to run BS's for me. If this works out, BS's will reopen. I will keep you updated.

Now I have to say, it seems like everytime I do take the time to log inworld....laughing there is always something going on with the music community. So much of it is so positive.

Two years ago, I held two different meetings--one with venue owners and one with performers. I came up with, what I still believe is an awesome idea, but extremely time consuming to do on a large scale. Recently, I have had the pleasure of speaking with a venue owner that had attended one of those meetings. He, in turn, was explaining to me that he did walk away with thinking outside the box and also between the things I had said and some ideas that another performer had discussed with him, put together a venue that was his experiment. I believe that it is one of the most successful live music venues in SL. Continually showcasing the best and biggest of SL performers; the times I have visited it, always packed. Yet this venue has a zero budget. It goes to show that thinking outside the box and becoming flexible is a very good thing. Possibly if more venues were to think outside the box, there would not be as many venues going through the revolving door process.

I will be putting together two major projects for the music community. I am hoping as they come together and either myself or others that I am working with reach out that the music community comes together to do something absolutely wonderful.

Another venue owner has put together a sister wall so to speak for venues to work together. One of the projects I will be working on with others is also a way for venues to come together. As details and how to's get worked out I will be posting more information.

Starting this next week I will be back to venue hopping and seeking out the newest performers, still determined to hear, at least once, every performer in SL. Look for these updates and I promise they won't be spaced so far apart.