Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
From the
Editor ...
CHRISTMAS IS UPON US ONCE AGAIN - WITH THE STORES OF
our virtual worlds being full of goods, and all manner of
treats for enjoyment in our virtual homes.
With this in mind, for our Christmas issue we took a trip
to a region that specialises in Winter - winter sports, win-
Saffia Widdershins
ter fun, winter celebrations! This is Wolf Mountain, where
skiing, skating, and a host of other fun activities can be en- held an Essay Competition to discover
joyed all year round. Our fearless team of reporters pulled the best description of the atmosphere
on their winter jerseys, their snow boots and their woolly of these sims and what they have to of-
hats to explore.... fer. There were some outstanding en-
Qwis Greenwood explores the region, and talks with the tries, and we decided to publish the
owner of the resort, Peach Fizz. Jvstin Tomorrow chooses winning one by Tekillya Mode.
his favourite spots to visit, while the intrepid Ceejay Writ- We have a serious theme for our
er tries her hand at winter sports. Scotti Lyle finds out all Pathfinders article this month. Gwen
about Winter Weddings in the region (and pays a visit to a Carillon is the designer that we focus
honeymoon cottage!). And Viv Trafalgar documents a win- on, and in her article she explains steps
ter walk as people discuss Christmas in Literature. that content creators can take to pro-
Our Designer of the Month is the very talented Xandi tect themselves ... and also what the
Mars; I met up with her, and had the pleasure of exploring next step should be if they find that they
the stunning home that she has created - a log cabin snug have been victims of content theft.
amidst the snow. Xandi was one of the pioneers of Second Once again, we have news from the
Life, and she has, in a fascinating interview, shared some Step UP! campaign - but this time we
stories of the “good old days”. are highlighting our next campaign: the
Nika Dreamscape has been gathering together some Step UP! University - which will offer
gift ideas, and Kittie Munro has put together an advertis- courses aimed both at newcomers to
ing feature showing gifts from some of our favourite cre- Second Life, and to creators who want
ators. And Qwis Greenwood’s advice for Newbies column to take action against copyright theft.
has some advice on gift giving, and how to ensure that Coughran Mayo discusses what the
lovely parcel you want to give to your nearest and dearest launch of the Second Life Enterprise
will actually transfer safely! inititative could mean for non-profits.
Planning to give a Christmas party? Annechen Lowey Then there’s all the latest from the
has some invaluable advice on how to set up a successful Designing Worlds show, while our team
dance machine that will keep your friends twirling, stomp- of talented photographers bring you
ing or hopping for hours! some of the most wintry seasonal eye
Raven Haalan has been looking at how to transform candy in Second Life!
your garden for winter. In association with that, we’ve de- All this – with News from the Grid
cided to start a new Where to Buy Page on the Prim Perfect ... and more! E
blog. Here people will be able to find out about where they
can buy some of the items featured in Prim Perfect - and
can ask questions about where to find Homes and Gardens
related products. More about this exciting new feature on
our News from the Grid page!
We have a real change with our Landscape of the Month
- just in case you were suffering from a surfeit of Christ-
mas! Regent Estates host a wonderful collection of motor-
bike regions around the theme of Route 66. Recently, they
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
conte
Prim Perfect • December 2009
primperfect
ARTICLES
28 Winter on Wolf Mountain
Sim of the Month
70 36 Peach Blossoms
in the Wintertime Interview
40 Ten Places to Visit in Wolf Mountain
Sim of the Month
48 Winter Sports at Wolf Mountain
Sim of the Month
55 Walking (down the isle)
in a Winter Wonderland
Sim of the Month
63 Standing the Test of Time:
Designer Xandi Mars
Designer of the Month
70 A Cabin in the Mountains
Home of the Month
87 74 A Winter’s Walk Special Feature
94 Take a Ride on the Mother Road -
Biker Style Landscape of the Month
108 Giving the Gift of Dance - A Review
of Intan Dance Machines Special Article
The Table of Contents and advertisements
in Prim Perfect magazine are
hyperlinked in the PDF and Calaméo versions.
Visit Prim Perfect online at:
http://www.primperfect.net and
http://primperfectblog.wordpress.com.
94
nts
Prim Perfect • December 2009
December 2009 • Issue 22
FEATURES
12 Prim Perfect Contributors
18 What’s New in Second Life
News from the Grid 102
024 SLEnterprise and Non-profits
Charity News
78 Gift Ideas to Inspire Gift Pages
82 Prim Perfect Pathfinders
84 A Word on Content Theft
Prim Perfect Pathfinders
87 With an Artist’s Eye: Gwen Carillon
Prim Perfect Pathfinders Interview
90 A Word on Content Theft:
A Response from a Pathfinder
Prim Perfect Pathfinders
92 The Future of Step UP! Step UP! News
102 A Change of Seasons: 112
Landscaping a Corner of Winter
Gardening in Second Life
[ON THE COVER]
112 Decorating for the Holidays
Nika’s Corner
116 An Exciting Season for
Designing Worlds Designing Worlds News
124 Gift Giving, with Permission
Advice for Newcomers
131 Advertiser’s Directory
132 How Do I Advertise?
133 How Do I Get Future Copies?
Enjoy winter sports and activities
134 Credits on Wolf Mountain, page 28.
Cover photo by Perry Applemoor.
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect Contributors
Annechen Lowey Gwen Carillon is a
The person behind Frau real-life sculptor, designer
Lowey was raised in the and jeweler who took her
wilds of the American skills to Second Life for the
Southeast by a pack of creative freedom it afforded.
feral English Literature Gwen makes no distinction
professors. This explains between “SL” and “RL” -
much about her tendency to write when not she says, “creativity knows no bounds and
otherwise hounded to other tasks, and the need accepts no limitations”, and applies that
for adult supervision when in book shops and philosophy in both worlds. Gwen is the owner
libraries. of Elements in Design and co-founder of the
Content Creators Association.
Ceejay Writer resides
in the Palisade district of Jvstin Tomorrow
New Babbage, a Steampunk first entered Second Life in
community. She is a staff August, 2007. The avatar of
writer for The Primgraph a New Yorker living between
and Prim Perfect magazines. the coasts in flyover coun-
She also is the owner, try, Jvstin Tomorrow works
barista and chocolatier of the CocoaJava Cafe, and for Prim Perfect as well as
a manager/dancer at the New Champagne Rooms its sister publication The Primgraph as an in-
burlesque club. She also runs a small editing/ trepid reporter. With a love of ancient cultures,
proofreading business called “The Little Red Pen”. steampunk worlds, and futuristic sims alike,
While this may seem a bit much, Ceejay considers Jvstin Tomorrow’s beat is bringing the best and
her magazine and burlesque pursuits to be quite most interesting places in each issue’s featured
fun, and takes pleasure from the challenges they sims to the attention of the magazine’s readers.
give her.
Delphina Audina Nika Dreamscape
has been exploring and joined Second Life at the
photographing her inworld very end of December,
experiences, memories, 2007. It was only a short
and moods for the last few time later that she began
years. She has a unique eye experimenting with scenic
for composition and her photography in Second Life.
photos reflect the colourful and small detail Nika had no experience or background in art
wonders of SL’s landscapes and avatars during before joining Second Life, but it is something
her SL exploring as founder of the popular that she enjoys deeply. Currently, she has a per-
travel tour business “SCOUT-IT”. manent exhibition of her work on display at S&S
a
Gallery Of Fine Art. She also owns a store called
G
Wine and Roses, where she sells decorative vas-
es and tea lamp candles made from her artwork.
Finally, Nika is also a writer, and contributes to
W
a few SL publications. Her work can be found in
Prim Perfect Magazine, Castle Keep magazine,
Second Chick, and her personal blogs.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect Contributors
PJ Trenton A Second Raven Haalan is an
Life resident for well over 3 SL scripter, photographer
years, PJ Trenton has been and writer. His typist is a
a member and supporter computer scientist, pho-
of the vibrant Second Life tographer and songwriter.
arts community since creat- A change is as good as rest,
ing his virtual self. Chief right? While Raven has yet
Executive Officer of the Exposure Art Gallery to hit his first rez day, his typist maxed his Visa
and Render Graphic Design, PJ now finds himself on CompuServe in the 80s and hasn’t been of-
wandering the grid on assignment as photogra- fline since. Raven maintains a personal blog, has
pher for Prim Perfect and The Primgraph maga- written for Shopping Cart Disco and contributed
zines ... exploring and documenting some of photography to Second Style.
the most incredible places and creations in the
metaverse. PJ is also photographer and designer Twisted Lemon
of the Quest for the Golden Prim, a serial run- “Twis” is most surprised to
ning regularly in issues of The Primgraph. find herself a photographer
for Prim Perfect and for
Perry Applemoor The Primgraph. A Photoshop
went to college to become habit and her inability to
an engineer and ended up say No to her friends have
instead in graphic design. resulted in far more work than she anticipated.
Formerly an art director for In RL, Twis is a freelance stylist which allows her
nine years, she now free- to work from home and spend a huge amount of
lances design from home time on the internet, ‘deaf as a post’ - having
and has returned to school to study medicine. been hearing impaired from birth, and faintly
Her favorite thing about Second Life is its amaz- bemused by anyone who thinks that any of her
ing potential for color and detail, a blank canvas hobbies or activities are anything unusual. Her
awaiting the creator’s imagination. favourite Second Life activities involve anything
NOT fashion related, and she is enjoying taking
happy snaps of some of the most amazing places
Qwis Greenwood
and people in Second Life.
first discovered the wonder
inside computers using her
father’s “portable” work Viv Trafalgar Viv is
computer - a teletypewriter a writer, graphic designer,
and an acoustic modem. and scripter in both lives.
In college she immersed In Second Life, she is the
herself in text-based virtual worlds, making her founder and co-host of the
first home in a duct-tape hammock. Her current monthly Aether Salon
home is only slightly larger and more comfort- (aethersalon.blogspot.com),
able as she spends most of her time experienc- a co-founder and co-builder of the Armada
ing the fantastic creations and residents of this Breakaway sim, owner of Viv Trafalgar
world. She enjoys describing those experiences Outfitters, and co-owner of Bespoke Architectur-
in Prim Perfect magazine and on the Prim Per- al Services. She is an educator with a focus on
fect blog. interaction design, information architecture,
narrative, and communication. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
NEW S F R O M T H E G R I D
What’s New in Second Life
compiled by SAFFIA WIDDERSHINS
New Feature on the Prim Perfect they are visiting too! But recently the Galaxy has
Blog for All Our Readers! undergone an exciting voyage across the virtual
seas! Formerly located in Sagittaria, the Galaxy
We’ve decided to start a new Where to Buy has moved to a new berth on the edge of the
Page as part of the popular Prim Perfect blog. Linden-owned Blake Sea. This will offer new and
Here people will be able to find out about where exciting opportunities for interaction with the
they can buy some of the items featured in ar- sailing and other water-orientated communities
ticles in Prim Perfect magazine – and they can of Second Life. We wish her every success in this
also ask questions about where to find Homes new and exciting location!
and Gardens related products. This month, you’ll
find a full Product List for our article on how to Christmas Already???!!!
transform your garden for winter, written by Ra- [Bay City - Falconmoon/76/76/26]
ven Haalan - and there’s also a place to ask your Yes indeed! And to help you get ready, True
Xmas shopping questions! And if we don’t know North Designs and Barefoot Apparel have trans-
the answers, perhaps there is someone out there formed the Urban Mode in Bay City into The
who does - because our readers can respond with Christmas Store for the season. Come on down
tips too!
The Galaxy
Steams Into the Blake Sea
[Galaxy AFT/56/42/22]
Every month, the Galaxy ‘docks’ at some
new port, and all that month the events will be
themed around that particular location – which is
great fun not only for the ship but for the place
and pick up your ribbons and wreaths, candles
and baubles. There are undressed modifiable
trees for you to decorate, or you can select one
that’s all ready to go. Seasonal furniture items,
rugs, clothes and scripted ornaments/toys round
out the selections. And do pop up to the rooftop
for a skate if you wish!
Prim Perfect • December 2009
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
Christmas Photo Contest the January Winterfell Campfire Chat 6:30SLT at
in Winterfell the Winterfell Library.
Winterfell has launched a competition to cel- • Prizes are as follows:
ebrate the beauties of their region this Christmas. 1st place - L$5000
This contest is about capturing the beauty of the 2nd place - L$3000
winter season in snow-covered Winterfell. Winter 3rd place - L$2000
landscapes, decorations, costumes, gatherings • In addition to the prize money, winners will
and generally everything that can be related to be announced on the Winterfell NING, on the
winter and the holiday season is eligible. Primgraph blog and on the Koinup blog.
In order to take part in the competition you • Please note that any unseemly images will
will need to do the following: be removed from the contest at any time with out
• Join the “Winter Fell” koinup group at [www. warning as deemed appropriate by the judges.
koinup.com/group/winter_fell_photo_contest].
• Visit Winterfell between December 1st and New Ideas for
December 31st and take photos of things you All Seasons from Ambiance!
find that are related to the winter and holiday [Lux Prometheus/58/62/24]
season. Ambiance is pleased to announce the reopen-
• Add your images to the pool, limit three per ing of their Outdoor Furniture Section located at
person. the island level of their Main Store. Their hopes
• Each image’s name must include the sim are that this is a place where people feel they
name where it was taken. can just come and hang out and spend time. You
• The Judges Klaus Wulfenbach, Saffia Wid- can explore the garden, relax on a comfy chaise
dershins, Serra Anansi and Uni Ninetails will re- or swing, cuddle with your special someone in the
view the collection of images between Jan 1st romantic gazebo, chill with a friend in the row
and Jan 2nd. boat, or soak away the day’s stresses in a luxuri-
• Winners will be announced on Jan 3rd at ous hot tub (featuring texture change and anima-
Prim Perfect • December 2009
tions for up to 4 people!). They also currently the Christmas spirit or stealing a kiss with Santa!
have a small selection of garden plants and trees Features include: seating that offers chatting and
available and plan on growing that selection over eating menu-driven animations (including utensils
the next couple of months. and wine glass to hold while eating/drinking), a
table with menu-driven animations for snuggling
with that special someone, tons of Christmas
decorations and candles, and fire and lights that
turn on/off by touch.
A Fresh Look at Sim Design
[Delphinium/24/234/22]
Mike Denneny, the talented young designer
behind Pure Design, has created his first full sim
and it’s an exciting departure from the usual
But if your mind is turning to more wintery
thoughts, Ambiance also has a new Christmas-
themed dining room collection – “I saw Mummy
kissing Santa Claus!” - which is appropriately
named after this well-known holiday song. It’s a
great setting for entertaining friends, enjoying News from the Grid continued on page 126
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
CH A R I T Y N E W S
SLEnterprise and Non-profits
written by COUGHRAN MAYO
Because of recent interesting make them attractive, including persistence and
presence: “You can represent yourself in the form
developments, Coughran Mayo, of an avatar, you can work in an environment that
our Charity News writer, thought persists after you leave ... it also offers layered
communication opportunities through text, spa-
that we might look at the newest tial voice and audio, and you can interact with
wrinkle in Second Life and virtual your environment in ways that you can’t, say, in
a videoconference.”
worlds and consider the potential Companies find many uses for virtual worlds
value of this project to non-profit like Second Life, to include:
• Virtual meetings and conferences
groups in virtual worlds. • Recruiting and orientation of new employees
• Scenario-based learning
ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2009, METANOMICS • Team building
broadcast the unveiling of Linden Lab’s Enter- • Data visualization
prise Solution code-named “Nebraska”. • Collaborative projects
Mark Kingdon, CEO of Linden Lab, was joined • Socialization
by several customers who have been using Ne- To a greater or lesser extent, all of these uses
braska in its “closed beta” phase of the proj- may be as relevant to non-profit organizations as
ect. During his introduction to this mixed real- they would be to a retailer, manufacturer, or any
ity event, Metanomics host Robert Bloomfield, other profit-driven business.
aka Beyers Sellers, looked back over Metanom- Working on the main Second Life grid has some
ics broadcasts which, in their own way, led up to challenges and roadblocks for business, however,
this moment, where Linden Lab introduces what including confidentiality, information security,
might be considered its first true “value proposi- visitor management (think “griefers”), grid main-
tion” for Second Life. Although Second Life has tenance issues (unexpected region restarts, for
been available to the public for over six years, it example), and other issues that stem from the ex-
has often defied understanding as a useful tool for ternality of the server space upon which Second
businesses, including non-profit organizations. Life is run. Second Life Enterprise is designed to
Virtual work is becoming a reality for many address these problems, by allowing companies to
of us. Organizations are finding many web-based run Second Life behind their own firewall. Since
collaboration tools to increase efficiency and save programming runs on your company’s server, you
money. “In order to rapidly innovate, you need can control access, you can schedule maintenance
to be together to create” notes Kingdon, but the when it is convenient for your organization, you
cost in terms of both “cash” and “carbon” for can create the space you want and need without
this togetherness can become increasingly - and worrying about neighbors adding objectionable
sometimes prohibitively - high. Kingdon notes things nearby, be that buildings or content. The
some of the features of virtual worlds that will structure of Second Life Enterprise accounts will
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Offices established at TechSoup’s Aloft Nonprofit Commons
allow businesses to use real names for avatars and Second Life Enterprise can be a valuable option,
have full administrative control over their space. is cost. There is a significant “presence” on the
Content you own on the main grid can be moved Main Grid in Second Life of non-profit organiza-
into private Enterprise space. You will be able to tions, and non-profit use of Second Life has been
use bulk accounts which will make it possible to in- facilitated by Linden Lab, which offers a signifi-
vite others to your space for brief projects or con- cant discount on “island” purchases, as well as
ferences without having to walk people through in-world projects such as TechSoup’s NonProfit
the usual enrollment process. Commons, where any non-profit who would like
In short, there are potentially some very real to establish a physical presence and try out the
benefits to Second Life Enterprise that go well technology can do so for free. Individual volun-
beyond the utilization benefits which currently teers, non-profit staffers, and Second Life con-
exist on the main grid. Plus, the purchaser gets tent creators are generous with their time and
pre-developed landscaped regions, pre-formed creations to assist non-profits who might be curi-
business avatars, and other extra tools. ous about using virtual worlds to meet their ob-
For non-profits, it is not clear yet that Sec- jectives. The announced price of Second Life En-
ond Life Enterprise is a tool that will be useful terprise is $55,000.00 (US) annually, which buys
or even usable. Many, if not most, non-profits do a lot, but may be well out of the reach of most
not invest heavily in research and development, non-profits for such a venture.
and the concept of diverting staff time towards a If Linden Lab were to extend their current
thorough exploration of future-focused tools such deep discounts to non-profit groups for Second
as virtual worlds may not be palatable. The scope Life Enterprise, and particularly if they were will-
of applications that can be envisioned, and ulti- ing to further reduce the commitment of space,
mately executed, may not yet be large enough perhaps offering four- or two-island regions to
to justify the virtual space which is made avail- non-profits, perhaps the adoption and use of the
able through the Second Life Enterprise platform Enterprise solution would be more likely. Unless
– which currently includes eight full islands. considerations such as these develop, it could be
Probably the most critical consideration for a long time before Second Life Enterprise sees
the average non-profit when considering whether any significant use by non-profit groups. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
SIM O F T H E M O N T H
W
Winter on olf Mountain
by QWIS GREENWOOD
photos by PJ TRENTON
Prim Perfect • December 2009
As the snow begins to fall around
the grid, we take a trip to Wolf
Mountain Ski Resort where snow
can be found year-round. Its
unique design allows an
immersive experience while
participating in many recreational
activities. A vibrant community of
staff members, residents of luxury
cabin homes, and regular “wolfies”
makes everyone feel welcome.
AT THE TOP OF A HIGH MOUNTAIN, SURROUNDED
by clouds and falling snow, I contemplate the snow
tube in front of me. I hear the wind blow past
me, and a wolf howls mournfully in the distance.
I’m at Wolf Mountain Ski Resort, and Peach Fizz,
one of the co-owners, encourages me to take a
ride on the tube. She’ll ski down and meet me at
the bottom. I carefully sit down on the tube, and
a few seconds later I am treated to an exhilarat-
ing ride down one of the steepest mountains on
the grid. Following a channel in the snow, I whiz
past wild animals, bounce over bumps, and ca-
reen around cabins until my tube comes to a rest
not far from the main lodge.
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
Wolf Mountain is an all-season ski resort, timber style, this expansive building always has
founded by Peach Fizz and co-owned by Peach, something happening. Staff members and regu-
Duncan Blackburn, and Snap Spitteler. With the lar “wolfies” can be found near the front desk,
help of staff, residents, and regular visitors, they ready to help with any questions or suggest some-
have created a wonderfully immersive atmo- thing fun to do. If possible, make sure to have
sphere and a warm, friendly community. When Voice enabled. Though you can chat with text,
founder Peach Fizz started exploring the grid in using Voice, even just to listen, is common at
2006, she searched for interesting places where the resort. Game tables and snacks are scattered
she could ski and ice skate as she had enjoyed around the lodge and the large indoor pool is beg-
doing so much when she was younger. Many of the ging for a rowdy pool party. For après-ski, large
places she found were unsatisfying, with a ski run comfortable chairs are arranged around the great
that was far too short or a property next to the fire for lounging and conversation. Sore muscles
skating pond that broke the illusion of winter. She can get some attention upstairs at the massage
knew she had to create her own self-contained all- tables and sauna. Wedding receptions and com-
season ski resort. Peach was very specific about munity parties are held in the large multi-pur-
what she wanted - steep slopes and long runs pose room on the main floor, while upstairs is a
for skiing and a pond where anyone could skate. movie theatre with plush seats and all the snacks
Now three years old, the resort is comprised of for community movie nights.
two full sims and four homesteads. On those six The area around the base lodge is designed to
sims, one finds luxury cabin homes, romantic change with the seasons. Preparing for the winter
honeymoon suites, numerous recreational activi- holidays, a blanket of snow has started to cover
ties, and plenty of public spaces for relaxing and the ground. Poinsettias, wreaths, and holiday
socializing. trees decorate both inside and outside the build-
The heart of the community is centered ings. Look for the red doghouse decorated with
around the base lodge. Built in a rustic yet airy lights, a tribute to a certain famous cartoon dog.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Snoopy can also be seen in the unique cartoon the lake where the Point Pinos Lighthouse stands.
avatar known as SNOOPY Littlething. The white A hiking and horseback riding trail starts not far
and black beagle is often found hanging around from the back door of the lodge. Hoofprints mark
the lodge. Make sure you have a cookie in your the scenic path where gorgeous views and cozy
pocket for him! campsites are waiting to be discovered on the
A few small stores are clustered in log cabins way up the mountain.
near the main lodge, each offering clothing or The mountain is high enough to have snow
gear appropriate to an activity at Wolf Mountain. year-round. It is stunning to stand on the summit
One shop has skis, snowboards, goggles, and styl- over 225 feet high, where clouds pass lazily below
ish ski clothes. Another is specific to ice skating and snowflakes are always in the air. I hear the
with beautiful skating dresses. For trail riding, snow crunch under my feet as I walk around and I
horses can be purchased or demos can be used pull my scarf closer to my cheeks to guard against
for the occasion. Any activity at Wolf Mountain the wind that is always blowing. Occasionally bird
can be done for free with equipment available song or sleigh bells or a wolf howl will hang in the
on the spot or through free or demo equipment air. From here you can get a view of the cabins as
found in the stores. well as one of the honeymoon suites. Four ski lifts
Varied recreational opportunities aboud at the and many ski, board, tube, and sled runs have
resort - and there is no charge for any of them. been carefully designed, so none of the lifts or
Walk down the steps from the main lodge to the runs cross sim boundaries; here, one never expe-
frozen pond. A hot air balloon waits in the centre riences that particularly awful jarring or sinking
of the pond to take guests on a scenic tour. Pose- sensation while trying to execute a perfect turn.
balls on the ice invite singles and couples to skate Peach Fizz has plans for more outdoor activi-
around the pond. A short walk away is a hot spring ties at the resort. She wants to expand the lake
with a waterfall just made for cliff diving. At the for more water sports and possibly bring back
lake below the lodge is a dock. The paddles are their volcanic island. On the mountain, the sleigh
on the rack and a canoe is always waiting to take and toboggan are brand new and she hopes to
people through the Tunnel of Love. Some very ro- have cross-country skiing soon. Peach seemed to
mantic places await your discovery including a have other plans as well, but she wants to keep
glide beneath the skating pond and stopping at a some things a secret until they are ready!
secret cave to explore, or you can paddle across While the recreation is free and open to ev-
Prim Perfect • December 2009
eryone, forty luxury cabin homes are nestled also generous and gave me a tour of his cabin. He
around the resort. Rough log and stone construc- loved the large screen television that streamed
tion give each of them a rustic feel, and large videos from You Tube. I loved the idea of soak-
windows offer a breathtaking view of the moun- ing in a hot tub with snow falling all around. Al-
tain and lake. Each cabin has the requisite cosy though there is a waiting list to rent a cabin, the
fireplace, but also includes a security system for three Honeymoon Suites can be rented by anyone
the privacy of the renters. They also come par- looking for a short getaway. No wedding or even
tially furnished. The renters are welcome to use partner are needed to spend a few days being
their own furnishings, but Peach Fizz took special pampered at the resort.
care in selecting items such as a timber bed, a Whether warm from the friendly conversa-
shiny copper bath tub, and modern flat screen tion, the toasty fireplace, or the warm drink at
television. Dunkie’s Donuts, I am not sure. What I did know
The cabins are very popular, all of them cur- was that I wanted to get out on the mountain one
rently rented with a waiting list of interested more time for a run down Peachy Trail. I bought
people for when one becomes available. There a cute pair of skis from one of the shops by the
are many longtime residents of the resort, but lodge and hiked over to the nearest ski lift. The
even the newer residents love the experience of church bells chimed the quarter hour as I rode
living here. While relaxing in the lodge one after- the lift and I smiled to myself. For anyone who
noon, I met one of the newer residents, Future loves the outdoors, romance, or a friendly com-
Adamski. We talked about how the resort felt munity, Wolf Mountain Ski Resort is a wonderful
like an idealized version of Christmas. He was place to be. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
INT E RV I E W W I T H S I M O W N ER PEACH FIZZ
How a misplaced Goth-Girl
found Lovecraft in all the
right places.
Peach Blossoms The founder of Wolf Mountain Ski
Resort, Peach Fizz, has created a
in the beautiful winter paradise of luxury
cabin homes and outdoor activities.
Wintertime Her clear vision, careful planning,
and warm hospitality combine to
create a resort that is both realistic
by QWIS GREENWOOD
photos by PJ TRENTON and romantic as well as home for
a friendly community of residents
and regulars.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Duncan Blackburn (left) and Peach Fizz,
owners of Wolf Mountain Ski Resort.
around the resort, she remembered something else that I abso-
lutely needed to see. Complementing that enthusiasm is a clear
vision for the resort making it feel realistic and creating a sense
of “home” for the residents.
She entered the Second Life world in June 2006 after a friend
showed her some snapshots. Peach was amazed at how life-like
the world and avatars looked. When she started exploring for
herself, the detail and animations hooked her, and she has stayed
ever since. She began looking for interesting places to ski and ice
skate. As a young girl, Peach loved participating in athletics and
outdoor sports. “Some of my favourite times that I can remem-
ber are ice skating on a frozen campus pond, throughout the
winter months, which I thoroughly enjoyed as well as other ex-
citing winter outdoor activities,” she says. Unfortunately, there
weren’t many to be found on the grid. Out of what she found,
the ski runs weren’t very exciting, and the illusion of an idyllic
winter landscape was often broken by a radically different land-
scapes on adjoining plots. Peach decided she needed to create
her own resort.
When Peach Fizz broke ground on Wolf Mountain, she did it
with specific plans in her head. The mountain had to be steep
enough for an exhilarating ride. It also had to feel realistic.
I WAS JUST A BIT NERVOUS TO
BE INTERVIEWING the founder of
Wolf Mountain Ski Resort. Peach
Fizz prefers to talk via Voice.
Being my first time using Voice,
I wondered how I would sound
and whether I could keep up ask-
ing questions, taking notes, and
walking around the resort. After
spending a lot of time talking
with Peach, I’m not sure why I
was so nervous. Her profile states
that she is an active owner of the
resort, and it is absolutely true.
She is warm, excited, and en-
thusiastic. Each time I saw her
Prim Perfect • December 2009
The jarring sensation that occurs when crossing sim
boundaries ruins that feeling, so it was important
that the lifts and runs did not cross sims. This proved
to be one of the biggest challenges in creating the
resort, but the talented terraformer Snap Spitteler is
more than up for the task.
The careful planning of the resort didn’t stop
with the landscape. Talking with Peach gave me the
sense that she has a purpose and reason for every-
thing at the resort. The main lodge has huge front
windows overlooking the skating pond, and the
view was breathtaking when a hot air tour balloon
lifted off from the centre of the pond. I wondered
about the semi-transparent ice on the skating pond
but Peach explained that the Tunnel of Love passed
below the ice. There was a long search process to
find the perfect lighthouse to put on the lake. Every
detail has to be just right, and that’s a big reason
why Wolf Mountain feels so realistic.
Peach Fizz is delighted by the popularity of wed-
dings at Wolf Mountain, and a new rustic wedding
chapel was built and installed this past November.
Peach helps couples create a truly magical event.
With a special gate on the skating pond the couple
can take a romantic carriage ride from the front
steps of the lodge up to the chapel. The bell of
the chapel rings to celebrate the event while the
reception gets underway in the main lodge. After-
Prim Perfect • December 2009
ward, the couple can retreat to one of three continued loyalty of our residents and ‘regular
different and lavishly decorated honeymoon wolfies’ here at Wolf Mountain,” says Peach. The
cabins. Honeymoon suite #2 is at the very top feeling of community and generosity is infectious.
of the mountain with a romantic table set at the In both Voice and chat, there are always warm
rooftop terrace. Also on the terrace is a “fiddler conversations at the main lodge. The communi-
on the roof” animation with music, an homage ty is one of the things Peach Fizz is most proud
to Peach’s real life violin talent. of. The residents are happy and feel “at home”
As special as she makes the couples feel, there. “It’s so rewarding to receive regular com-
Peach spoils the residents of Wolf Mountain as pliments from the residents and visitors.”
well. Through careful planning of prims on the She is also proud of the realistic feel and
mountain, she is able to give each cabin a gener- beauty of the resort. Peach and her family have
ous prim allowance. Rental and security systems their real life home in a busy metropolitan area.
for the cabins are administered with the help of Creating a place on the grid where the air was
co-owner Duncan Blackburn. Did I mention that crisp and clean was a bit of a dream for her. At
Peach also furnishes the cabins? She was very ex- the top of the mountain, listening to the wind
cited to tell me about the new beds she found and the occasional wolf howl, the feeling was as
- thrilled with their rustic design and romantic gorgeous and peaceful as the last time I was at a
animations. She was adding them to cabins as the real ski resort. I was thankful that Peach was so
residents requested or as cabins became avail- ready to talk during the interview, because I was
able for new rentals. The large flat screen televi- often too busy soaking in the scenery to ask many
sions in the cabins are popular as well. questions. As Peach Fizz herself said, “It is very
The residents respond to her generosity by hard to chose a favourite place at the resort be-
helping to create a lively community around Wolf cause each place is very special to me. However
Mountain. There are many long-time residents when I’m at the very top of the mountain and I’m
including one who has been there since the re- looking out over the whole resort, that’s when
sort opened. “Since opening, I’m amazed at the I’m most satisfied.” E
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
SIM O F T H E M O N T H
Ten Places to
W
Visit in olf Mountain
by JVSTIN TOMORROW
photos by TWISTED LEMON
Wolf Mountain seems the perfect
place for winter visitors. But Jvstin
Tomorrow discovers that there is
much more to the region than
winter sports!
Prim Perfect • December 2009
FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF WOLF MOUNTAIN MIGHT be
that it is one of the top tier winter resorts in Sec-
ond Life. A winter wonderland of outdoor and in-
door recreation, a cold climate milieu perfect for a
getaway, especially during the Christmas season.
In this case, however, first impressions would
be decidedly incomplete.
Wolf Mountain was conceived and designed
to be an all season resort, and indeed offers
much more than snowy wonders to the visi-
tor. I had the honour and privilege to see the
full breadth of Wolf Mountain in the company
of Miss Peach Fizz, co-creatrix and co-owner
of the six sims that make up Wolf Mountain.
Miss Peach Fizz explained that Wolf Mountain,
celebrating its third anniversary in Second Life,
was intended and designed to be reminiscent of
resorts in Colorado or the Sierra Nevadas such
as Lake Tahoe. While snow-laden activities have
definitely always been a primary focus for visitors
to Wolf Mountain, the islands and lake provide
the continuity of a full four season environment.
Such fullness of experience, such continuity is
important to Miss Fizz, who feels that a sim like
hers should provide a diverse and logical envi-
ronment that visitors can explore without overly
relying on teleports or flying to get around.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
A testament to the popularity of Wolf Moun- Mountain. You might enjoy the pool, sauna, or
tain are the permanent residents. Ever since the the spectacular views. There is a theatre on the
origin of the sim, there have been a constant second floor of the lodge with regular “movie
number of permanent residents on Wolf Moun- nights” as well. You will also find the guides,
tain. In fact, there is a waiting list for those official and unofficial, to help you get the best
looking to occupy one of the permanent cabins experience out of Wolf Mountain. Hint: Snoopy
in Wolf Mountain! With Wolf Mountain offering so Lightfoot, resident mascot, is a cookie fiend!
much for the visitor as well as the resident, lim-
iting myself to ten places to highlight is rather Winter Sports on Wolf Mountain
difficult. And given the variety of things to see [Wolf Creek/246/215/217]
and do, I have no doubt that you will find your Although I have already said that Wolf Moun-
own long list of favourites. But here are some to tain should properly be considered a four season
get you started. resort, the heart of Wolf Mountain is, for nearly
everyone, the winter fun and adventure found on
Wolf Mountain Ski Lodge the eponymous tall peak. Take one of the three
[PeachTree Resort/53/45/33] main ski lifts for a ride to the top of the peak.
Wolf Mountain Ski Lodge is the heart of Wolf Once there, you have a number of thrilling choic-
Mountain, the inbound location for teleporters, es for your descent, ranging from snow tubing
and more than that, a destination worth visiting and skiing (nearly a half dozen runs to suit your
in its own right. Created from a design by Miss fancy) to a full half-pipe for snowboard lovers.
Fizz herself, the beautiful Ski Lodge is the one- Follow the signs to your pleasure! Miss Fizz has
stop location for signing up for the cabin waiting promised that more winter sports, tobogganing
list and reserving one of the honeymoon suites. and sledding, will soon add even more options
In addition to that, it is the social centre of Wolf for those who desire to roar down the hillside.
Entrance to the Tunnel of Love
Prim Perfect • December 2009
A word of warning. Beware of the
wildlife! Deer, bears and even
wolves have been spotted on the
downward paths.
Canoeing and the Tun-
nel of Love
[Wolf Creek/216/37/22]
Going beyond the winter sports
is as easy as walking out the back of
the Ski Lodge. Here on the lakeside
you will find canoes for two, and
signs to direct you to the nearby en-
trance of the Tunnel of Love, which
winds its way from Wolf Mountain
Lake across the regions, underneath
the ice pond, and provides all sorts
of hidden delights and secret places
for you to find! It is strongly rec-
ommended that you use Mouselook
to best navigate through the often
very cozy channel.
Waterfall and Howling
Hot Springs
[PeachTree Resort/24/83/32]
Faithful readers of this column
are well aware of my love of water-
falls, in and out of Second Life. It
turns out that Miss Fizz has a similar
taste for waterfalls as well. There
are a couple to be discovered in
the back country of Wolf Mountain.
However, the largest and most im-
pressive of the waterfalls is this
one, which falls into the Howling
Hot Springs. The perfect space for
a soak with a view after a day on
the slopes, the more adventurous
can even take a high dive into the
naturally heated pool as well!
Balloon Ride
[PeachTree Resort/68/44/27]
After touring the lodge, and
before getting fully involved with
the many activities and things to
see in Wolf Mountain, getting ori-
ented by means of this Balloon
tour of the sims is the smart aerial
way to get a sense of all the rec-
reational opportunities that Wolf
Mountain has to offer, as well as
the stunning natural beauty that
Waterfall and Howling Hot Springs Miss Fizz has created.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Winter Gear Shopping tensive Horse Riding Trails that run through the
[PeachTree Resort/96/62/27] four land sims of Wolf Mountain. Get a demo
While Miss Fizz has provided a variety of basic horse at the start of the trail, or buy one in one of
free items for those who wish to hit the slopes or the shops. The Horse Riding Trails have numerous
explore the sims, those who want to go beyond secret spots and getaways hidden along its paths,
the basics, and look good doing it, can find a va- as well as places for campers who truly want to
riety of shopping options at the shops around the get away from the hustle and bustle of the rest
skating pond. For more basic items, you might try of the sims.
the General Store located behind the Ski Lodge.
You’ll find winter wear, sports gear, and even The Wolf’s Den
horses to ride for your shopping fancy. [Peachtree North/6/234/23]
There are many surprises and secret places
Tour the Lighthouse to discover in the back country of Wolf Mountain.
[Wolf Lake South/59/154/27] One that you shouldn’t miss after a long journey,
Based on the beautiful 145 year old Point Pi- either by canoe or by horse, is this warm-up spot
nos Lighthouse in Monterey, California, this Light- on the far side of Wolf Mountain. And once you
house on an island in the lake does have a full are warmed up inside this inviting shelter, you
time resident. However, visitors to the lighthouse can continue on the horse riding trail, continue
are more than welcome to tour the grounds (you to explore by canoe, or take the secret fourth ski
may find a conveniently placed picnic blanket for lift to ascend to the top of the mountain.
canoers and rowers to rest on) as well as look
around in the lighthouse itself. The Secret Cave
[PeachTree Resort/155/66/54]
Horse Riding Trail Near the site of the Wedding Chapel is the
[Wolf Creek/240/61/34] trapdoor entry to this secret multi-level cave
One of Miss Fizz’s pride and joys are the ex- getaway. (Perhaps to aid those who are planning
Prim Perfect • December 2009
to elope?). Inside of the cave, you will find all of access to the rest of the sim. The Love Nest
the comforts you could want for you and a special at the peak of Wolf Mountain provides amaz-
someone. Hot tub, cuddling couch, large screen ing views of the ski slopes and the entirety of
television, and water access at the bottom even- the sim. The lodge provides a sprawling winter
tually connects with the passages of the Tunnel retreat near the base of the mountain. And fi-
of Love. nally, the island retreat provides the seclusion
and beauty of a private island in the lake that
Bonus: Rent a Honeymoon Suite! is a place to bring your loved one any season of
As mentioned before, Miss Fizz allowed me the year.
a privileged look inside the three Honeymoon An all-season, expansive, and well-designed
Suites in Wolf Mountain. Bringing someone spe- resort, with family-friendly delights for any taste
cial to one of the three Honeymoon Suites for or season. Be it on Christmas or Midsummer’s
a stay could be the perfect way for you and Eve, Wolf Mountain is one of the most entertain-
that special someone to spend the Winter Holi- ing and fun regions to explore in Second Life. Miss
days, or any time of the year. All three of the Peach Fizz encourages our readers to come and
suites, each distinctly different, offers copious experience Wolf Mountain for themselves. And I
privacy, luxurious accommodations, and easy heartily agree. E
The Lighthouse on the Lake
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
SIM O F T H E M O N T H
W
Winter Sports at olf Mountain
by CEEJAY WRITER
photos by DELPHINA AUDINA
Prim Perfect • December 2009
If you’re in the mood for a day START YOUR DAY AT THE WOLF MOUNTAIN SKI
Resort Lodge [PeachTree Resort/53/44/33]. You’ll
filled with exciting winter sports, find information cards and friendly folk at the
welcome desk to answer any questions. Beyond
Wolf Mountain Ski Resort is ready the welcome desk, you’ll notice a huge fireplace
to fulfill all your wishes, including and comfy leather chairs, which local residents
and guests love to relax in. This is just the tip of
some you didn’t even know you the iceberg (pun intended) of what the lodge has
had! to offer. I recommend you return at the end of
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
your day outdoors and explore the lodge itself. The and onto someone’s roof (it’s happened to me!)
indoor pool room offers indoor swimming, hot tub, Now, let’s move on to the various sports you’ll be
able to enjoy through-
out the six sims that
make up this wonderful
winter resort area.
Ice Skating
Walk down the
front steps of the lodge
and you’ll find yourself
facing the ice skating
pond [PeachTree Re-
sort/64/50/27]. Pick
up your free skates at
the entrance, and have
fun limbering up with
some spins and figure
eights. Take notice of
the shops surrounding
the pond. If you’re in
need of winter gear,
the shops will see to
it that you’re warmly
dressed.
and yoga mats, while other rooms feature a pool Hot Air Balloon Ride
table, chess games, a full indoor theatre for special As you enjoy your ice skating, you’ll no doubt
movie showings, casual social areas, more fireplaces notice the huge colorful hot air balloon in the
to warm you, and even massages by appointment. center of the ice. I highly recommend hopping
Once you’ve discussed your plans and re- in the gondola! You’ll be taken on an air tour of
ceived some guidance, it’s time to step outside all six sims. The balloon will give you information
and get the day
started! But be-
fore we go rushing
for the mountains,
a bit of advice.
This region is not
only renowned
for its winter
sports, but is also
a popular honey-
moon destination,
where newlyweds
can rent cabins.
Most of these are
equipped with se-
curity features for
their privacy. You
may wish to set
a landmark for a
place to quickly re-
turn to should you
accidentally snow-
board off a cliff
Prim Perfect • December 2009
along the way. It’s a good way to get the overview Horse Back Riding
of what’s available at Wolf Mountain. You will be Behind the lodge you’ll find hoofprints in the
returned to the ice skating pond when the tour is snow [Wolf Creek/248/50/33]. This is the start of
completed. the riding trails. Saddle up a free horse and ride
up the snowy mountain trails which cover all four
Skiing - Sledding - of the snow-sims. Double Rider horses are avail-
Snow Tubing - Snow Boarding able for couples. Along the trail, you’ll pass Wolf
One might naturally expect to find ski- Creek Point, a popular resting point with camp-
ing opportunities in abundance - and you will! fires, skating and cozy tents.
Four lifts take eager skiers through the misty
clouds to the top of Wolf Mountain. Two of the Tunnel Of Love Gondola Ride
lifts are easily found by following the signs The bay behind the lodge is one of the loca-
on the boardwalk around the ice skating pond tions where you can obtain a canoe and paddles
[PeachTree Resort/76/69/27]. Upon arrival [Wolf Creek/215/38/22]. As you paddle away
On the Top of Wolf Mountain
at the top of Wolf Mountain, [Wolf Mountain from the docks, look to the left. You’ll see a
North/222/10/227], you’ll find skis, sleds, and heart-shaped entrance, just beckoning lovers to
snow tubes for sale to help make your trip back find a bit of romantic alone-time before hitting
down the mountain an exhilarating experience. the open waters again.
Wolf Mountain also offers a half-pipe for snow-
boarding enthusiasts. You’ll either be amused Canoeing
or disconcerted by the sign perched on a steep Another starting point for canoeing is the
hillside that reads “Avalanche Area - Caution lighthouse island in Wolf Lake South [Wolf Lake
- Warning”. South/57/158/26]- free oars are on the dock, and
Prim Perfect • December 2009
a canoe waits for you along side. Wolf Lake and Free Form Fun
Wolf Lake South are both water sims, with a half I’ve touched upon the popular, high-profile
dozen islands to paddle around. You may wish to sports in this guide, but I would encourage you
end your canoe trip back at the lighthouse, where to use your imagination and sense of adventure
you’ll find a picnic blanket and goodies all laid to push beyond these limits. Check your inven-
out for you. Oh, and by the way, rumour has it tory for inner tubes, jetskis, fun bathing or win-
there’s a trapdoor to the cellar in the light house, ter gear and customize your outing to match your
if you are the curious sort! mood. Also, take the time, wherever you are, to
really look around. Bits of hidden fun in unex-
Swimming And Cliff Diving pected places will enhance your day spent in the
Walk past the ski lift [PeachTree Resort/79/ great outdoors! E
s
84/28] and you’ll find Howling Hot Springs. Intrep-
id hikers will find a wobbly bridge, a magnificent
ae
waterfall, and the perfect spot to execute a triple-
flip high dive ... or a cannonball into the lake.
Camping And Picnicking
Scattered throughout all six sims, adventurers
will find ideal locations for relaxing and enjoying
the view and surrounding natural areas. As you
explore, keep an eye open for such places. Some
may be deliberately arranged for your enjoyment,
and others may simply be attractive locations you
have found on your own. Either way, do take time
to stop and truly savor the natural beauty.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
SI M O F T H E M O N T H
Walking (down the aisle)
W W
in a inter onderland
by SCOTTI LYLE
photos by PJ TRENTON
To marry in spring is to tie oneself
to the hope of new beginnings;
in summer, to align oneself with fun
and frolic; in autumn, to proclaim
one’s readiness for change.
Ah, but to marry in winter! To marry
when the world is blanketed, white
and silent save the softly spoken
vows, when the days are short and
cold but the nights, oh the nights!
are long and warmed by the pas-
sion and permanence of the love
there promised. This, then, is to an-
swer the question, will winter never
end? with a smile and a sigh:
Please never ever let it end.
THERE IS SOMETHING MAGICAL ABOUT A WINTER
wedding. Oh, yes, a June bride enjoys the prom-
ise of spring and the scent of newly opened flow-
ers in the air; the summer bride might marry
barefoot in the sand and the autumn bride with
a backdrop of Froot Loop colored hills. But what
could be more romantic than a horse drawn car-
riage ride through the snow to the chapel, where,
stepping out, the bride for just a second becomes
one with the landscape? Where icicles hang from
the chapel roof like so many prisms, catching the
sun and throwing it back in stunning bursts of
color? Where the groom, standing at the end of
the aisle, catches his first glimpse of his queen,
his only love, sweeping into the chapel in her
Prim Perfect • December 2009
dazzling, snow-white gown, and for that moment gown, the invitations, and getting to the church
he cannot breathe, he cannot move, frozen like on time. From the flowers and music (the cou-
an ice sculpture, unable to believe that this wom- ple can request particulars or leave it all up to
Peach), to the car-
riage ride (taking the
bride to the chapel
and taking the cou-
ple from the chapel
for a long or short
ride to the recep-
tion, as the couple
wishes), to some-
one to officiate (un-
less the couple has
someone already),
to the cake and the
reception (Peach
has the perfect DJ),
to the honeymoon
suite (complete with
a carry-me-across-
the-threshold anima-
tion), Peach has ev-
ery detail covered.
The beautiful
new wedding chapel
at Wolf Mountain ris-
es bright and gleam-
an, this woman whom he so loves, loves him! ing in the swirling snow, a testament to the time,
There are almost unlimited venues for wed- energy, and creativity of Musicole Overtones, who
dings on the grid, but for a winter wedding one built it to specifications he and Peach worked
need look no further than Wolf Mountain. With out together. Peach had definite ideas of what
its snow-covered land-
scape, a brand new
wedding chapel, and
three incredibly ro-
mantic honeymoon
cottages, Wolf Moun-
tain is the perfect
place to say “I do.”
Peach Fizz, propri-
etress of Wolf Moun-
tain, has been co-
ordinating weddings
for over three years
now and is an expert
at putting together
the wedding of her
clients’ dreams. The
happy couple can be
as involved as they
like, or they can leave
the whole thing up to
Peach and worry only
about the wedding
Prim Perfect • December 2009
this chapel should be: “I wanted something re- new chapel, where Linniekay Skute and Romeo-
ally special, something that would fit in with the heart Vyper plighted their troth. Linnie and Romeo
woodsy, mountain landscape but would also be are residents of Wolf Mountain and love every-
classy and elegant.” The finished chapel is just thing the area has to offer. “There is so much to
that, its pickled wood exterior and evergreen- do here on Wolf Mountain, and the owners really
and-pinecone-trimmed entrance giving way to a take pride in this place,” said Romeo. “They’re
warm and intimate yet stylish interior designed very active, making changes to the scenery for
and decorated by Peach herself. the different seasons and holidays.” Linnie add-
Inside, climbing roses wend their way up the ed, “We also love living in an area with snow. We
aisle columns, and an arch of roses welcomes the have falling snow by our cabin!”
guests through the double doors, all made espe- When they decided to get married, Romeo
cially for this chapel by Soliel Snook. “I normally and Linnie looked at a number of possible locales.
like to do all the decorating, including the flowers, “We wanted a church wedding,” said Romeo, and
myself,” Peach told us, “but I saw some of Soliel Wolf Mountain, as lovely as it was, offered only
Snook’s work and loved it, so I commissioned her an outdoor venue for weddings. Nothing they saw,
to do them this time. I was there when she made though, fit exactly with what they had in mind;
them to make sure they were what I wanted, and they kept coming back to “their” mountain. Then
I think she captured my vision perfectly.” To one Peach gave them a sneak peek at the wedding
side, a majestic Christmas tree stands, covered chapel under construction, and they were sold.
with snow (the kind that never leaves a puddle on They set the date, and Peach took care of the
the carpet), red bows, and candles. Opposite is a rest - not the least of which was getting the cha-
red-carpeted alcove where the harpist and string pel done in time! But with hard work and perse-
quartet play quietly, awaiting their cue to begin verance, and a little help from her friends, she
the processional and start the ceremony. managed to have everything in place for the spe-
Just last month saw the first wedding in the cial day. “No one could have planned a better
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
wedding than Peach did,” said Linnie. “She did fect - nearly. Every wedding has to have a glitch
everything to perfection.” so that there are funny stories to tell to the
Soft music greeted the guests as they ar- grandchildren; for Linnie and Romeo, that glitch
rived at the chapel and waited, with the anxious proved to be a recalcitrant carriage that didn’t
groom, for the bride to make her appearance. It seem to want to let the wedding party all ride
wasn’t long before the clip clop of horses’ hooves to the reception. After a few false starts (and
could be heard, and the carriage pulled up. The a little tumble into the pond, where they were
musicians launched into the traditional wedding caught for a time underneath the ice rink; thank
processional, the double doors opened, and in heaven the bride’s gown was drip dry!), every-
walked first the bridesmaid, and then the bride, thing worked as it should, and off they went to
dazzling in her flowing white gown, carrying a the lodge, where ColoradoCowboy Manen, who
gorgeous bouquet of red and white roses (also officiated at the wedding, donned a different hat
Soliel Snook’s creation). and DJ’d the reception. The happy couple danced
Vows were exchanged, as were rings, with the first dance alone on the floor but were soon
none of the herky-jerky movements we’ve all joined by their guests. A champagne fountain
come to know and hate inworld, thanks to the gave flutes of champagne to the guests for that
automated wedding animation Peach provides. all-important first toast, and the cake was cut. In
Then, with a first kiss as man and wife, it was the tradition of all good weddings, the groom had
back down the aisle and to the carriage for a ride an opportunity to sneak his hand up under the
to the reception. skirt of the bride’s gown and over her silky thigh;
This wedding, like the many before it and un- when his fingers touched the satin of her garter,
doubtedly the many to come, was picture per- he deftly slid it off. Then, in a surprising twist on
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
that tradition, the bride also relieved the groom of the suite for some fresh air, they can ski or snow-
of a garter (don’t ask). board down a challenging mountain; ice skate to-
But it’s not only the wedding ceremonies and gether on the glassy, almost transparent pond (even
the receptions that make starting a life together those with the worst balance can skate beautifully
at Wolf Mountain so special. When the newlyweds with the couples skate animations provided); jump on
have danced enough, been toasted enough, been magnificent horses and go galloping across the snow-
congratulated enough ... their eyes meet, and covered terrain; take a romantic canoe trip through
suddenly the music and laughter around them the tunnel of love (stopping to explore the caves
is replaced by the beating of their hearts. The and discovering the secret pleasures hidden there);
wind whistling through the pines whispers, “It’s even float through the sky in a hot air balloon, cud-
time,” and they smile and slip away into the dling high above the world. Lazy afternoons can be
night, to the honeymoon cottage waiting to en- spent strolling around the lodge, taking in a movie
velope them in privacy with a warm fire and a in the theater, or delighting each other with tender,
multitude of heavenly delights. Whether it’s one loving massages. (Peach offers some secret perks to
of the two honeymoon cabins on the mountain or honeymooners, but if we said what they were they
the one on its own private island, the couple finds wouldn’t be secret anymore, would they?)
everything they could want - beautiful furnish- If you’ve found the person of your dreams,
ings, heavenly bridal suites, hot tubs, swimming why not start your new (second) life together, at
pools, cuddles everywhere, big screen televisions a place inspired by dreams and built by dream-
for movie watching (when they’re too tired for ers? Beauty, romance, and adventure surround
anything else), even a pool table (the delights of you everywhere you go at Wolf Mountain, made
which are better discovered than described). all the more delightful because you’re sharing it
When our young lovers are ready to venture out with someone you love. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
DE S I G N E R O F T H E M O N T H
Standing the Test of Time:
Designer Xandi Mars
by SAFFIA WIDDERSHINS
photos by TWISTED LEMON
Second Life does not have that As the Second Life “boomers” come up to their
third rezzdays (yes, I’m talking about those who
long a history - but our designer joined in the expansion days of late 2006, early
of the month goes back nearly to 2007), it’s good to realise that some of the cre-
ators working here and still producing amazing
the start - and proves that good things go right back to ... oh, beta days in 2003!
design is timeless, even in a virtual Such is the case for Xandi Mars, our Christmas
Designer of the Month, a self-described “beta baby”
world! whose rezzday on the beta was 25th August 2003.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
“Second Life is really different now,” then. When teleporters went down, it was not a
she says demurely – and with considerable big deal. You could fly to the person. “It could take
understatement! some time but you would get there,” Xandi says.
A refugee from There.com, Xandi remembers One is struck by the simplicity and accessibili-
how open early Second Life was. ty of the world then when one looks at something
“Back then hardly anyone used ban lines or like the Wall of History [Kirkby/140/184/701],
security,” she explains. created for Second Life’s second birthday, which
But the world of Second Life was much smaller Xandi has as one of her picks. From this simple
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
wall you can gain something of a sense of the matter, however!
wonder and adventure that residents and Lindens But back in the early days this was definitely
shared. Here you can read of early Town Hall a world which was experimenting with ways of
meetings – seemingly less attended than a Linden being – and Xandi was one of the pioneers.
office hours today, and see Lindens and residents “They would have ‘Load Test’ on Sundays to
discussing the shape this world would take. It see if they could handle 400 logins at once,” she
does seem like a very different world! says. “And if you logged it, during it, you got a
And it was also a world with a rather limited counter and a gift.”
economy. “You could not buy lindens!” she re- Sometimes we might still feel we deserve a
calls. “But not many events were listed so LL paid reward if we manage to log in on a heavy SLun-
you 500 for each event you had, up to two a day. day – or perhaps managing to get in at all is our
You had to tally who reward! But things
came, theme, and are improving
how long it lasted.” since the bad days
A task that might of 2007 with the
make many of us re- regular Wednes-
coil today! day updates, when
Despite being the grid would be
unable to buy lin- closed from about
dens, there was the 5am – 9am SLT – rel-
weekly stipend. But, atively convenient
as Xandi recalls, it for those living on
was based on a rat- SLT time, or based
ing system. in Eastern Asia and
“You could rate Australasia – but
someone’s work or hugely frustrating
avatar or personal- for Europeans! And
ity,” she explains, it’s better again
“and depending on than the dark days
your rates for the of 2008 when as-
week you could set servers falling
make a bonus.” over and people
But there was a being locked out
down side too – and was an almost daily
this led to what we frustration.
might see as an early “In my opinion
example of gaming Second Life is al-
(or, to some people, ways evolving ...
perhaps an early form of griefing – because it was improving,” says Xandi. “We are in a world that is
possible to cause grief!). This was because resi- breaking new ground daily! I always look forward
dents could also be “neg rated” - that is, nega- to what comes next ... and love the surprises.”
tively rated and, in this case, your stipend would When Xandi settled in, creation was still in
actually go down. its infancy.
“That was eliminated,” Xandi says with a “Skins were just getting in world when I
laugh. “So many started having rate parties and joined,” she says, “and prim hair. One person -
... fights would end up with multiple negative Washu Zebrastripe – was making it. She gave me
rates ... a good drama mix!” my first chance to work in Second Life. I started
Indeed, there seems to have been more of a making prim hair! And she let me have a space in
competitive edge back in the day; Xandi talks of her store. I was clueless on Photoshop so she even
how there were leader boards on the website, made me a sign.”
showing who had the most lindens, land and so And, like Xandi, Washu is sill creating in Sec-
forth. The idea of competition has now become ond Life – the proprietor of the Mirada hair store!
– at most – an unspoken thing, and for most resi- But Xandi moved on from hair and into
dents of Second Life has no meaning. Their rating furniture.
in Tiny Empires or Bloodlines may be a different “Over time, I rented an apartment and could
Prim Perfect • December 2009
not find anything but black furniture,” she says. when it has such good poses built in, who needs
“Black leather was the staple back then - so that to rush out and buy the latest fad?”
is where Del Sol Furniture came from: my per- One feature of Xandi’s builds is – sadly – miss-
sonal needs!” ing this year. For the last few years her Winter-
She began not with a store but by offering a land Classic Christmas has been one of the high-
personal decorating service. lights of the seasonal grid, but this year she has
“I would guess I did over a hundred homes!” simply been too busy with commissions to build
she says with a laugh. to the high standards she expects of herself. I
And this was, of course, before there were so shall miss it – I had tremendous fun last year
many homes across the grid. stomping through snow drifts, watching racing
The love of colour that motivated her early penguins, and spotting locations from a favourite
creations persists today. Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life!, and the
“I enjoy a lively mix of colours and styles,” she classic Christmas tale A Christmas Carol.
explains – and certainly this can be seen in her Fortunately, many of the products previ-
two linked sims of Del Sol Furniture and Del Sol ously found on the Winterland sim will be avail-
Patio [Del Sol/116/115/29], where colour is com- able in Xandi’s Little Christmas Shop [Del Sol
bined with style and elegance. Indeed, it must be Too/95/96/32] this year.
something of a problem that some of her classic, “I love the little things I’m making,” she says.
elegant styles stand the test of time so well that “The island is full of Christmas things, too many
there is no need to update them! When PJ Trenton to name!”
recently furnished his beautiful home (as seen on For Xandi continues to find joy in creating
the Thanksgiving edition of the Designing Worlds – and evolving with Second Life.
show), he used one of his earliest purchases – a “My designs become a part of me,” she says
Xandi Mars suite – to furnish his living room. cheerfully. “I put so much in to each one ... So
“It was perfect,” he says. “Simple and ele- the last thing I worked on is the one I love most,
gant. Good design stands the test of time – and and it continues ... since I started creating!” E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
HO M E O F T H E M O N T H
A Cabin in the Mountains
by SAFFIA WIDDERSHINS
photos by TWISTED LEMON
The beauties of the Wolf Mountain THE FIRST THING THAT STRIKES YOU IS THE VIEW
– the mountains all around are breathtaking, but
region have been well documented this cabin (created by Muzicole Undertone) is
elsewhere in this magazine. But particularly well situated to get the best possible
views. Great open windows allow you to take in
its beauties may be inside as well the best of the views, too, something that Xandi
as out - especially when you ask has taken full advantage of!
This is a chalet decked for Christmas, as you
Xandi Mars to furnish your home. realise as soon as you climb the steps to the front
Prim Perfect • December 2009
door. Loft lights twinkle, a welcome sight on dark story to tell too – of a long pattern of inhabit-
and snowy evenings, and warm red poinsettias ac- ants who have some new and impressive items
cent either side of the door, their red and green (the large LCD TV for example!), but who also
leaves a more seasonal greeting than the usual value family treasures – such as the rug in front
evergreens one might find there. of it, the much-loved Christmas records (yes, not
But even high in the mountains, there may CDS!) on the coffee table, the really beautiful
be days of bright, warm sunshine where it would red and gold table lamp, the cheerful hand-made
be a pleasure to enjoy a morning coffee out of rag rugs scattered throughout the house, and the
doors, and listen to the sparrow that perches on beautiful dark blue chest of drawers at the far
the guard rail – perhaps hoping his trill
will gain him a winter treat. Thus a
comfortable cushion in red and black
check is placed at the top of the stairs,
its pattern matching the cushion on the
rocking chair set out on the balcony
that runs outside the great picture win-
dows at the front of the house. This will
rock you – but not for so long that you
become giddy. Besides, there’s a whole
house to see yet!
A welcome mat invites you into
“our den”, and the wood carvings on
either side of the door show bears and
deer, while another bear graces the
wall sconce light – all pre-dating Xan-
di’s visit. But it was the glorious red
birds on the glass panels in the front
door that gave Xandi her inspiration.
“I always use colour,” she explains,
“and the doors had red birds on it. So
– boom! Birds and colour!”
This becomes apparent when you
open the doors. Highlights in red draw
the eye throughout the ground floor level
of the cabin ... not just the red ribbons
on the Christmas tree and the parcels
underneath it, but the carpet it stands
on (helpfully positioned to catch the
needles) is predominantly red too. Another red car- end of the room. Pictures here feature more bird
pet offsets the plain black and white of two austere pictures, and one cheerful Santa, too, to remind
chairs in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright grouped for us that Christmas is nearly here!
conversations towards the back of the cabin. The Pass under the mistletoe (tied with red rib-
cushions on the comfy blue couches pick up the red bon!) and through the double doors into the
and black check we saw outside – but also add in smaller of the two ground floor rooms. Xandi has
another theme, the pretty dark blue floral embroi- decided – quite rationally – that with all the fa-
dery that appears on the cushions, on the cloth for cilities of the Lodge a short hop away (there’s a
a side table, and on the two stools positioned half teleport directly to the Lodge from the lounge),
way down the room, where the floral pattern be- there is no need for a full kitchen. Instead this
comes the background for embroidered blackbirds. area is given over to entertainment for a couple,
The rug in this main seating area too features as seen in the dining table for two drawn up to-
robins, the bright red catching the eye. But the wards the fire, the black and red check table-
other delightful thing about this rug is that it cloth now adding a bistro air. Nearby is a small
doesn’t look new. It’s a rug that has been in the bar with seating for two (and a lovely bird design
family some time. The best homes tell stories, on the panels of the bar itself, reflecting the flo-
and Xandi has made sure that this home has a ral design of the upholstery). The Management
Prim Perfect • December 2009
has even supplied an Intan Ball, should you desire furnishings. The other piled pillows pick up the
some romantic dancing. red and black check and the cosy blue of the so-
And all around, the walls combine images of fas, while over it all hang white stars, reminding
birds and the season that pick up the touches of us of the glorious night sky high overhead.
red once again, most evident in the Star light that What a place to snuggle against the cold of
hangs over the dining table, and the two cheerful winter! E
Santas against the wall!
Take the curving stairs to the up-
per level, and you’ll find yourself in a
snug bedroom/bathroom, nestling un-
der the eaves. The back window has a
lovely view of snow-capped roofs and
the church steeple; the front over-
looks the mountains. A homey wood-
burning fire from Keith Extraordinaire
keeps the area warm, and Xandi has
worked with her long-time collabo-
rator Random Cole to create a wood
frame hot tub that is extremely hard
to resist as it gently steams in the cor-
ner, offering some really lovely posi-
tions for couples to share.
But the centrepiece of the room,
and of the cabin, is the bed. Here
Xandi draws together the elements
of the house to create a deliciously
cosy core of the home that the home
owner may never want to leave! The
foot and headboards echo the pan-
elling in the bar downstairs, edged
with vibrant red, while the plump
duvet and the base pillows pick up
on the floral design seen in the soft
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
SPE C I A L F E AT U R E
W W
A inter’s alk
by Viv Trafalgar, JJ Drinkwater, Kghia Gherardi,
Saffia Widdershins, and Simeon Beresford
photos by PJ Trenton
The crisp air is scented with pine is a ghost story. Think of the opening line: ‘Marley
was dead: to begin with. There is no doubt what-
and the snow reflects the bright ever about that.’ “
sun in a hundred glittering ways “This will be an interesting cultural conversa-
tion,” says Dame Kghia. “I’m not familiar with
as Dame Kghia Gherardi gazes ‘The Signalman’, and A Christmas Carol is the
out over Wolf Mountain ski resort’s only Dickens I can actually get through. It is short
enough that his characters don’t suffer from the
river. “This time of year,” she flatness one finds in his longer works. Plus, it
muses, “stories are inextricably speaks so much to human nature and a desire for
redemption.”
tied to childhood.” Saffia nods. “I enjoy Dickens taken as sips
rather than a long drink. Read as was originally
HER COMPANIONS NOD, THEN AFTER A MOMENT’S conceived, as episodes.”
thought Miss Saffia Widdershins counters with, The quartet begins to think of winter stories
“For me, stories tend to be ghostly.” The gentle- where the outdoors plays a role. Simeon points
men in this party of four, Mr Simeon Beresford and out the skating scene in The Pickwick Papers,
Sir JJ Drinkwater, rub their hands together, though while Dame Kghia’s thoughts turn to Laura Ingalls
whether this is due to the cold or the prospect of Wilder’s The Long Winter. “Those were such viv-
a literary standoff is still to be seen. id images of winter on the frontier. There was a
Yes, dear readers, Prim Perfect has once again scene where the father knew a blizzard was com-
brought the literary lights of the Caledon Library ing, and he strung a rope between the house and
out of doors, and encouraged them to think, the barn. When the blizzard was bad, he followed
talk, and walk for your enjoyment. This time, the rope to the barn to care for the animals.” She
they are accompanied by two friends, Miss Wid- muses on the Christmas scene in The Long Win-
dershins, editor and publisher of the proud pub- ter for a moment, quietly, and points out that it
lication you hold before you (have we mentioned was a good reminder that most pioneer Christmas
she is very Glamorous and Smart as well?), and gifts were made rather than purchased.
Mr Beresford, coordinator of Bookstacks. While a “Do you remember,” asks Simeon, “the carol
literary slalom event on Wolf Mountain’s slopes singers in The Wind in the Willows? Ratty and
was indeed considered, it was set aside for now Mole are trudging through the snow when Mole
in favour of something less likely to land us all suddenly gets the scent of home.”
in the hospital (and, possibly, for at least one of “What a wonderful scene,” Saffia agrees.
us, out of work). In that light, let us continue to “Mole abandoned home in the spring,” Sime-
listen in on the group as they turn and begin to on continues, “and has not been back since, but
stroll up the quiet mountain trail. is now homesick and starts to look for it. They
Dame Kghia nods at Saffia, smiling, “It’s Dick- eventually stumble on the doorscraper, as I re-
ens, then?” call, and they go in to Mole’s shabby abandoned
Saffia grins in reply. “Yes, ghost stories are a house.... And while they are there, the field mice
tradition that he certainly upheld with stories like appear; they form up outside the door to per-
‘The Signalman’, and of course, A Christmas Carol form. Poor Mole is unprepared, and he is usually
Prim Perfect • December 2009
so hospitable, but they get a fire going, and be- virtual ski resort. “Saffia, you mentioned this
fore long the Christmas spirit has taken over.” season and ghosts are tied together for you. It
“I love the way that when he leaves again, seems a little off for the holidays - what makes
Mole knows he always has home to come back the connection?”
to,” Saffia adds. “Winters tales are ghost stories,” says Sime-
“Ah,” says Dame Kghia, “That element of on, and Saffia agrees. “The ghost story is a part
homecoming - such a part of this time of year of Christmas in the sense of tales told around the
and the holidays.” fire. As I said, people tend to forget A Christmas
The group pauses to consider how holidays in Carol is a ghost story, complete with a ghost who
stories can help mark the time, and changes in rattles a chain ... Jacob Marley. One of the best
seasons, even as they reinforce traditions, and English ghost writers (with EF Benson) is M.R.
heighten the drama. “Think about The Lion, James, and many of his stories were written for
The Witch and the Wardrobe,” points out Dame Christmas Eve entertainments. He would gather
Kghia, “That first entrance through the wardrobe friends together on Christmas Eve and the high-
into Narnia.” light would be his reading a ghost story.
“Always winter ... and never Christmas,” says “No sugar plums for him?” asks Dame Kghia.
Saffia. “I think these events took place in his rooms
Dame Kghia nods at Saffia. “No rebirth there. at King’s College, Cambridge, so it was more like-
Everything frozen in a state of death without ly to be good brandy!” Saffia points out. “Stories
promise. That is so significant in that story, and like ‘Whistle and I’ll Come for You’.”
in the series.” Kghia thinks for a moment. “That “ ‘A Warning to the Curious’,” adds Simeon,
streetlamp in Narnia is an image that stays in my “is the one that springs to my mind. And he wrote
mind....” one for a school that I always enjoyed. It blended
“The Faun and the parcels ...” Saffia nods. humour with his usual sense of dread, called, I
“Tolkien, of course, was cross with C.S. Lewis for think, ‘Wailing Well’.”
mixing up myths.” At this point, Kghia looks at Saf- “And coming back to skating,” Saffia draws
fia intrigued, and the publisher goes on, “Greek the conversation around to the beginning, “One
fauns and satyrs, Bacchus and Father Christmas. of my favourite ghost stories has a winter setting,
Tolkien was more of a purist than Lewis. His field between Christmas and the New Year - ‘How Fear
of study, of course, made him aware of different Departed from the Long Gallery’ by EF Benson.”
mythological traditions.” The number of short stories that are created
Dame Kghia takes a moment to think on the for the winter season has captured Dame Kghia’s
idea of Tolkien and Lewis debating myths and imagination, “Perhaps because they are meant to
stories, perhaps in a different location than a be told among friends,” she says. “ ‘Stone Soup’,
Prim Perfect • December 2009
‘The Little Matchstick Girl’, ‘The Gift of the Magi’. these are I think I know./ His house is in the vil-
In ‘The Little Matchstick Girl’, to tie it in with Saf- lage though...” The woods belong the God, whose
fia’s earlier point, there is a spirit in that story as house, the church, is in the village ... such is the
well. The girl sees her dead mother calling to her.” interpretation.”
JJ Drinkwater, who has been following the con- “Why set the poem in a winter landscape?”
versation closely, observes how ‘The Little Match- Dame Kghia wonders.
stick Girl’ “has endured, when many of Andersen’s “Now that, I think, is because his inspiration was
a snowy evening,” Sir JJ responds. “He’s at some
pains to make us feel the environment; although I
could be missing some larger symbolism.”
“Perhaps a warning of the isolation from choos-
ing the less traveled path?” Kghia grins impishly as
she mixes poems. Sir JJ agrees that Frost is of-
ten going into the woods alone, and Kghia, looking
around her, considers that the woods might be “his
mental landscape.” As she looks around, however,
she notes that the winter light is failing, and the
cold growing closer. “My friends,” she says, “this
walk has been lovely. The discussion has moved
through isolation and homecoming. Outside dan-
gers and the pleasures of a warm hearth.”
“As well as a season of hope for the future,”
says Simeon.
“And childhood, traditions, and those who
have gone before us,” adds Saffia.
“Indeed,” Sir JJ chimes in, “Christmas carries
other stories have fallen into obscurity ... at least with it old ways long discarded from the daily
amongst adults. The pathos, as I recall, stems from
the glory of the visions the matchgirl sees in some-
thing so humble as a lit match. Such penury in the
middle of the luxuriance of Christmas.”
Simeon says, “I recall Connie Willis was Quite
scathing about Andersen, in her collection of
Christmas stories.”
The importance of the matchstick girl, Kghia
points out, is that she is “a vivid reminder that all is
not pleasant at Christmas.” Sir JJ nods emphatically
and suggests that this reveals the “universal good-
will” of the season as being very clannish, in a way.
“Rather than ending on such a sad note,” Dame Kghia
turns to her friends, “I’d like to invite Mr Drinkwater
to direct our attention to Robert Frost.”
Sir JJ grins and rubs his hands together once
more, “Does that mean we get to discuss ‘Stop-
ping by Woods’? One of my favorite poems, I con-
fess. When one attends to the structure of the
poem, the somewhat complicated rhyme scheme, round of life. We pause a moment, and celebrate
the ending quite jumps out, because Frost breaks as the year pauses before starting over again.”
the structure with the repetition of “And miles to “Reconnecting with the past as a foundation
go before I sleep”. for looking to the future,” concludes Dame Kghia.
“Do you think it is a poem of isolation? Deso- The four companions think on this last point,
lation in the snow?” asks Dame Kghia. and on their surroundings for a moment before
“Isolation from community, certainly,” pon- quietly disappearing like the literary carolers
ders Sir JJ. “And, some critics have thought, re- that they are, wishing you, dear readers, a hap-
jection of conventional religion. ‘Whose woods py holiday season, and to all, a good night. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Anna’s Blue Sky Summernator Magical Alchemy Lab in a Box
Gleaming brass supports shining blue-sky What do you give the avatar who has everything?
colored crystal, with a lovely oval of fresh summer Glowing, bubbling, magical items to furnish an entire
grass to share with your friends. Winter blues are no lair for any alchemist or magician ... Alchemy books,
match for your own blue-sky green-grass personal cryptograms, rugs, working oil lamp and rugs for the
space. Touch crystal shell for a shower of golden floor plus rustic/Medieval furniture (some with poses)
cog goodness and a message of inspiration and much more. Give the gift of wonder!
12 Prims - L$ 150 Made by the wonderful Koshari Mahana.
Anna Darwinian’s Steampunk Multiple objects with many prims - L$ 900
Adventures Store Anna Darwinian’s Steampunk
Winterfell Anodyne/76/28/22 Adventures Store
Winterfell Anodyne/76/28/22
Knightsbridge Damask Burgundy 3-tier Silver Cake Stand
47 Gorgeous Victorian textures to give Perfect for Christmas Dinner, or just for
your home that extra special, sumptuous feeling. visiting friends, this tasty tower of tea-time
Available in various colorways. cakes will deliver a choice of 8 cakes
Comes in a 1 prim box - L$ 699 to nibble on all through the winter.
Inkwell Textures 25 Prims - L$ 185
Fatimas Treasure/58/227/41 KitStar Designs
Vorlheim/54/211/270
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Viking Viper Steampunk Auto-Motionator
A gleaming horseless auto-motionator, powered by steam and cavorite.
Give one, keep one - share the love when you buy the matching pair
(one green, one scarlet). Fine wood and gleaming brass details on this
sporty physical vehicle - with many forward gears plus startling
Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang soaring action. One of many fine retro vehicles
by Roberto Viking of Viking & Asoc.
AZ Xmas Tree in Box Stand 62 Prims (31 prims per car) - L$ 500 for the pair
An elegantly traditional fairy-lighted Anna Darwinian’s Steampunk Adventures Store
Christmas Tree with controllable and Winterfell Anodyne/76/28/22
color changing lights.
12 Prims - L$ 250
AZ Emporium
Bit Bat Bot/235/9/499
Painted Lady Building Textures
Nutcracker
A delightful and traditional doll which stands
an impressive 3 metres tall. Nutcracker doll is
creatively animated, and plays a short musical Grey Coral Wallpaper
piece from ‘The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy’. More stunning high quality Victorian textures to
Give as a gift, or stand one as a seasonal help you build your dream home, inside and out.
welcome at your door. Both selections come in a 1 Prim Box.
22 Prims - L$ 125 Grey Coral Wallpaper, 15 Textures - L$ 399
Four Winds Painted Lady Building Textures, 51 Textures - L$ 1995
Four Winds Victorian/110/127/23 Inkwell Textures
Fatimas Treasure/28/213/38
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
CFF - Beidermeier - Provencial - Sofa Persian Urn
Completely custom sculpted with custom textures, A stunning sculpted Persian urn,
it’s a stylish addition to any decor. This sofa features textured with a beautiful red and gold
a drop-down menu to change its appearance in a variety classic pattern that makes you just want
of ways. Choose between 5 woods/14 fabrics/shine to reach out and touch it.
or no shine/to rez pillows or remove pillows. Featuring 9 3 Prims - L$ 50
sit animations embedded in each piece of upholstery and Sofia’s Furniture Store
pillows and 18 very high quality cuddle and couple poses.
Serafina Island/213/133/24
13 Prims - L$ 500
Capalini Fine Furnishings
Babbage Canals/85/113/106
CFF - Personal Library
A book lover’s delight. Elegant crown and bottom
molding accent the dark gleaming woods. Dark copper
and brass detailing draw your eye to the sliding
ladder.The sliding ladder slides between one of
three positions, accessible via a drop-down menu.
Sit upon the ladder and choose from 1 of 2 custom
Castle Q2 Classic animations suited for the ladder, a thinking sit at
Fancy spending Christmas in your own castle? the bottom, and a browsing animation at the top.
Pull up the drawbridge and curl up by a There are 3 very carefully selected couple animations
roaring fire in this wonderful classic castle. and 1 custom animation for a more intimate conversation.
It also comes with a colour and shade change option. 32 Prims - L$ 450
90 Prims - L$ 2000 Capalini Fine Furnishings
Castle Q Babbage Canals/85/113/106
Castles/127/236/28
Prim Perfect • December 2009
AZ Xmas Lantern
This charming lantern has
a working candle and
twinkling lights.
22 Prims - L$ 250
AZ Emporium
Bit Bat Bot/235/9/499
CFF - Musicbox - Violocello - Heartstrings
This music box is sure to delight and haunt. Touch the front
of the cello and it swings open to reveal two roses, contrasting
in black and white against a red brocade lining. A moment more
and a dark melody strains forth from the body, at once haunting
and nostalgic, disturbing and ominous. Accented by dark
wood, specially sculpted strings, fingerboard and tuning keys.
A music box fashioned with love, for the one you love.
32 Prims - L$ 400
Capalini Fine Furnishings
Babbage Canals/85/113/106
Castle Q3 Princess
135 Prims - L$ 3000
Both of these wonderful
fairy-tale castles
come with working
drawbridges and many
other highly detailed and
working parts. Perfect for the Castle Q1 Gothic
Avatar who has everything. 67 Prims - L$ 1000
Castle Q
Castles/127/236/28
Persian Potted Palm
Flexi palm which moves with the breeze,
Moroccan Bench in a beautiful red and gold detailed pot.
An intricately carved timber bench in rich dark
Perfect for bringing a little tropical luxury
wood, with two conversation poses. into your home.
8 Prims - L$ 100 7 Prims - L$ 55
Sofia’s Furniture Store Sofia’s Furniture Store
Serafina Island/213/133/24 Serafina Island/213/133/24
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
PRIM PERFECT’S “PATHFINDERS” CONNECTS
experienced Second Life entrepreneurs with new business
owners. This year, three new designers have been selected
to receive a year of mentoring with some of Second Life’s
top designers, marketing specialists and business people.
They receive advice on a diverse range of issues, all essen-
tial to building a successful business in Second Life. Each
month, Prim Perfect invites readers to listen in on some
of the conversation, meet the mentors, and hear from the
Pathfinders themselves.
This month’s mentor is Gwen Carillon, owner of
Elements In Design. She offers advice on how to protect
yourself from content theft in Second Life.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Gwen Carillon
Prim Perfect • December 2009
PRI M P E RF E C T PAT HF I N D E R S
W
A ord on Content Theft
by GWEN CARILLON and VIV TRAFALGAR
Following on the heels of last IN DECEMBER OF 2007, I RETURNED TO SECOND
month’s Step Up! events, where Life after a vacation and found some of my de-
signs and textures in someone else’s store. I was
artists, developers, and smart citizens upset and unsure of what to do first. I contacted
friends, asked questions regarding Digital Mil-
from across the grid gathered to lennium Copyright Act (DMCA) procedure and
make their voices heard about did some research on Intellectual Property (IP)
rights. It was then that I realized that there must
Content Creation Theft, Prim Perfect be many creators who weren’t familiar with their
spoke with Gwen Carillion to rights or were intimidated by the DMCA process.
After talking with Arwen Eusebio, it became clear
discuss how our Pathfinders should that content creators needed more support, so
be thinking about the topic. Gwen, we founded Content Creators Association on
January 1, 2008. The Content Creators Associa-
who co-founded the Content tion (or CCA) is focused on providing information
on both legal links and practical recourse, to all
Creators Association in 2008 and creators of original content, as well as support
is a fantastic developer and artist and a sense of community. We endeavour at the
same time to help raise community awareness
in her own right, shares her insights on the issues of Intellectual Property theft and
into the topic below. If you haven’t rights. From my perspective, I wanted some good
to come from my bad experience. I didn’t want
already, you should read Gwen’s other creators to have to go it alone. I had help,
very personal statement so I’m paying it forward. I feel really honored to
be a part of CCA.
“September Wind” on the impact The definition of content theft is - and I’m
not a lawyer, I can only give you my personal
of content theft (Prim Perfect definition - intellectual property ... in this case
September 2009, issue 20). a creation in a virtual environment ... being cop-
Prim Perfect • December 2009
ied, used and /or sold without consent of the cre- should be on your bookmarks list. They can help
ator. It is important that Second Life artists and you understand the issues involved, as well as
creators have an understanding of what content point you in the direction of help if you need it.
theft is because it is the artist’s responsibility The Virtual Intellectual Property Organization
to protect his/her own work and work ethically website [www.vipo-online.org], Virtually Blind
within the creative community. My suggestion to [virtuallyblind.com], and The Content Creators
anyone reading this article is to do your own re- Association blog [contentcreatorsassociation.
search on the topic: look up the legal definition blogspot.com] are among them. The Linden Lab
of intellectual property theft or ask an attorney. DMCA page [secondlife.com/corporate/dmca.
It’s important to understand what constitutes php] on the Second Life website should also be
copyright infringement. bookmarked.
An important thing to bear in mind: When
Steps Artists Can Take: asked why I feel it is important to keep creating
• Register your copyright. new work even though I know that things have
• Sign and/or watermark your textures. been stolen, my answer focuses on why we cre-
• Establish guidelines on use and distribution ate in the first place. I can only speak for myself.
of an item. I create because I love the process. Thieves can
• Make sure these guidelines are clearly only steal our work, not our spark. By giving up,
marked. we hand the thieves something that they never
A creator can do everything right and still have could have taken on their own.
their work copied. Setting permissions is unfortu- Lastly, and this is key: Intellectual property
nately not much protection from theft. The best and ethical behaviour do not have boundaries
course of action is to be clear on your ownership with the physical world and the virtual one. Theft
of the item. If it is a texture, script or animation is theft. A creator cannot complain about content
you may want to state how an item can or cannot theft while using a ripped copy of another artist’s
be used. Check with an attorney for details on how texture or trademarked work off the internet.
best to accomplish this. Register your copyright. That’s just silly.
Some misconceptions people may make about Starting in December, I’m thrilled to an-
items sold in Second Life may help contribute to nounce that our CCA Legal Officer, Juris Amat will
content theft. If an item is sold with full per- be scheduling appointments for office hours in
missions, that doesn’t mean that the creator has world. The new Virtual Intellectual Property Or-
given away copyright. The permissions system in ganization’s offices will be located on Elements
place in Second Life only covers use inworld as in Design. Creators in need of legal advice can
designated by the creator of an item. contact Juris Amat or Aisling Sinclair with a note-
There are a number of resources online that card to schedule time. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
PRI M P E RF E C T PAT HF I N D E RS
With an Artist’s Eye:
Gwen Carillon
by VIV TRAFALGAR
ARTIST GWEN CARILLON’S SCULPTURE, JEWELLERY, bel, encouraging us to collaborate and explore
and vision exist in the both real and the virtual and accept new ideas,” writes Gwen in her blog
plane. Just as her pieces bridge the two worlds, [gwencarillondesigns.blogspot.com]. Gwen and
so too does the artist seek to bridge the space her creative spirit first arrived in the Second Life
between one person and another. “Art is the world in May 2006, when friend Robin Sojourn-
common language of the mythical Tower of Ba- er gave up on suggesting that Gwen try Second
Gewn Carillon hanging out at home IRL.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Life, which Robin had been doing since 2004, and jewellery designs in the physical world as well.”
dragged Gwen inworld. “It took me two years to One constant in her creative process is music,
finally do it,” Gwen recalls, adding, “I still don’t however. She plays it while she works, and the
know whether to smack Robin or thank her.” music she’s listening to flavours her designs.
Those early days in Second Life were filled with Gwen’s work can be seen at Elements in De-
learning opportunities. Robin offered Gwen her sign [Elements In Design/145/129/30]. She still
inworld home, and made an off-hand suggestion thrills at the idea that a purchase from her store
that Gwen could redecorate for her. Gwen notes, enhances a person’s inworld experience. “I will
“I primmed up her parcel on Benton in a matter of probably never get over the idea that people buy
a day or two.” There were also a few retexturing my work. It’s still a thrill,” she laughs.
incidents regarding Robin’s modifiable living room The attention to detail that is a signature of
furniture. “I’m sure Robin wanted me to have my Gwen’s work can be found in several places un-
own place; I destroyed the furniture,” says Gwen. der the EID Umbrella: Gwen Carillon Designs and
Later, when friends Sereine Bard, Mignuoette Dreamscapes Gallery of Art. Also part of EID is the
Mauriac, and Kim Anubis took her shopping, she Crosstime Pub. But one her her proudest achieve-
made her first inworld purchases. “I was anxious to ments was the beautiful sim of Eostara - featured
try on my new clothes,” she recalls. “After following on the Designing Worlds show.
their careful instructions, I promptly rezzed a box “Building Eostara (my pride and joy) was a
on my head and managed to take all of my clothing dream come true. It is a design I have had in my
off! There I stood in Luxe, naked and cubed.” head for nearly three years. Horris Fitzcarraldo
The desire to create drew Gwen into Second and Carabella Babii made that possible.” Gwen
Life, and a number of influences inspired her. also works with a talented team of people through
Friend Keith Extraordinaire’s work on Serenite was EID, helping creators play to their strengths and
a standard that Gwen felt she needed to work to- letting their talents shine through. “Collabo-
wards. Robin Sojourner not only gave her a place ration is a dance of shared vision,” she notes.
to stay, but helped her with Photoshop, buy her “Creators start out with individual concepts and
first land, and encouraged Gwen. Other friends if the team is good, the
also shaped her Second Life. Kim Anubis taught concepts morph and unify
her to explore the quirky, fun side of Second Life; into something more like a
Sereine Bard pushed her to sell the work she cre- symphony.” Gwen’s “build-
ated; Twome Rutledge helped her select land for ing buddy” Aisling Sinclair
her first store; and Morris Dillon showed her how helps coordinate this pro-
to select, align, and link prims. “I guess,” she cess as manager of Ele-
notes, “I not only wanted to create for myself, I ments in Design.
wanted to make my friends proud of me.” Gwen’s design and cre-
“I am a jewellery designer and sculptor in my ation philosophy can be
first life. I generally like to make a mess with summed up in a single word:
anything that’s handy,” she explains. Creating in vision. “I create for me ...
Second Life gave Gwen the opportunity to shape because I love to create
new things in new ways. Her first creation was a ... because I have to cre-
simple chaise that she still sells. In the three and ate. I don’t create to sell.
a half years since arriving in Second Life, Gwen I make things that I want. I
has improved her texturing skills, and has found make things that I see in my
a confidence that gives her an edge when taking head. I love that my work
chances in design. Also, she adds, “I found that sells, but that’s not my rea-
I love sim planning and design as much as I love son for building. I just crank
sculpting, jewellery, and furnishings.” Gwen’s up the music, dance, and
skill for shaping environments grows from her rez prims.” The results are
love of color and texture. “I started creating fur- the luminous sculptures,
nishings in Second Life because I was fried out on environments, and jewels
jewellery design in the physical world. I needed that Gwen adds to the Sec-
a break from metal and stone work.” About her ond Life experience. As she
creative process, Gwen says, “I never research. says, “Creativity knows no
I don’t use references, because my work comes bounds and accepts no limi-
from my imagination. That holds true with my tations.” E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
PRI M P E RF E C T PAT HF I N D E R S
A Word on Content Theft:
A Response from a Pathfinder
Aarcher Zenovka responds to I will certainly start adding watermarks to
Gwen Carillon’s advice about textures and I need to expand copyright state-
ments on goods to include use of my objects out-
content creation theft. side of Second Life.
I live in hope that the much touted and talked
BIG ISSUE ... SCARY ISSUE ... SAD ISSUE! about Linden protection system may emerge to
What to say really, when we are talking about assist with some of these issues.
this exciting new form of entertainment technol- In the meantime ... I create, I dream, I enjoy,
ogy that thrives on creative input from its very I respect and I expect others to do the same!
players ... and it is also a small percentage of Warm Regards and Seasons Greetings,
these players that choose to wantonly copy, steal Aarcher Zenovka E
and sell others’ imaginative ideas!
I suppose what is shows is that technology
may advance but not always human nature....
I appreciate all the advice that Gwen Caril-
lion provided. Unfortunately this is yet another
area that I need to spend more time on, (sadly
taking me away from the creativity that I love).
I understand why many designers desire to pack
up their stores in Second Life after having experi-
enced this kind of disrespect ... but I also believe
that what Gwen states is true. “Thieves can only
steal our work, not our spark.”
If and unfortunately when I discover that
something I have designed has been stolen ... this
will be the precipice I will stand on BUT it will
not stop me creating. However, it might stop
me selling, stop me investing in land and in other
creators!
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
STE P U P ! N E W S
The Future of Step UP!
by SAFFIA WIDDERSHINS
STEP UP! IS IS A GRASSROOTS CAMPAIGN AIMED the economic power
at educating virtual world residents about the of people acting to-
problem of copyright violations, and giving their gether, without harm-
residents the knowledge and power to refuse to ing content creators.
participate in any sales that cheat the content We wanted Linden Lab
creator. Learn about the first Step UP! day ... and to see the power of
about plans for what will come next. the feeling about the
Step UP! is a resident-driven campaign with a problem of content
focus is primarily on Education, Action and Cel- theft – and to discuss
ebration of Content Creators. On the Designing urgently strategies for
Worlds shows we’ve talked again and again about tackling it.
the need for a social shift – so that people see We asked that as
content theft as socially and morally unaccept- many people as pos-
able. So ... we decided to go for it! The concept sible wore an orange
originates with a small group. But more and more ribbon as a sign of support for creators.
people have become involved through joining the And we also produced Step UP! sky banners so
Step UP! Ning [step-up-sl.ning.com] and follow- that people could display the Step UP! message
ing the Step UP! blog [stepupsl.wordpress.com]. loudly and clearly across the grid.
And you can too.
Celebration:
How did it start? The day ended with parties. Bonfire parties.
In the wake of the wholesale theft of sims That means that all around the grid, people have
and content, like many people we wanted to do parties. We didn’t try to stage Big Events that
something about it – and also about all the other maybe only 60 or 70 people could cram into. In-
content theft that we have been fighting for so stead we encouraged every club to hold a Step
long – in the Content Creators Association and in Up! party. We encouraged every musician to play
magazines and on TV shows. As a result, we came Step UP! events and asked that they play original
up with the idea of the Step UP! campaign, a music. And Freddie Bleac created some very spe-
campaign centred on a special day of action that cial fireworks to help us celebrate!
everyone could become involved with, and that
can empower and inform people. Education:
We aimed for a day that drew together action, This came in several forms.
education, and celebration. We also felt that we 1.Info pack - handed out with orange ribbons
needed to make people feel empowered by what in stores and at parties.
they do. So we nominated a day as Step UP! Day 2.Media – through blogs, TV programmes, ra-
- November 5th – Guy Fawkes Day or Bonfire Night dio programmes and magazine articles. Everyone
in the UK. was able to play a part in getting out the message
that we have had enough, and we have chosen to
So What Happened Step UP! against content theft.
on Step UP! Day? 3.Video and short informational films (tutori-
Action: als about content theft) - two machinimas were
We asked that on this day – no-one upload- created by Toxic Menges that explored the issues
ed textures to the grid. The idea was to show – and which proved very popular!
Prim Perfect • December 2009
We would just like to say a HUGE thank you to of Step UP! materials, events and exhibitions.
everyone who took part in Step UP! Day. It was a There are also other issues that came up dur-
large undertaking, and it couldn’t have happened ing the planning – such as looking at having a real
without the time, patience, and sheer hard work life component to Step UP!, and even developing
by a whole range of people. a database or registry.
We believe that, for the first event of its kind,
started just over a month ago, this has been a Step UP! University:
great success. January 9th – 16th 2010
It wasn’t perfect, of course, and there are Step UP! University will be a totally mobile
lessons to be learned. But we believe that the schedule of conferences, classes, and presenta-
overall impact and effect of Step UP! has been tions open to all. We are inviting some people to
incredibly positive. give a presentation or teach a class, but anyone
can submit a course outline on what they want
What’s Next? to teach or talk about. People who want to offer
We now come to the next stage of Step UP! sims or spaces for meetings can do so, or we can
There is a legacy in terms of materials and ideas. organise provision of suitable spaces.
Over the next few weeks, we think we will be Some suggested topics for the University are:
exploring that legacy and how we can move for- • Help! I think this is stolen! What do I do?
ward. We’ll both be setting out some thoughts • How do I file a DMCA?
on our blogs and linking to the Ning – we want to • Content theft or copyright violation?
encourage other people who believe in the prin- • U.S. versus European law - can we use either?
ciples behind Step UP! to do the same, so that we • How can we protect our rights?
can move the discussion on. We are talking on the Ning about ways in
We now have some great educational materials, which these ideas – and the materials we devel-
for example, and some ideas have come up about oped – can be taken further, especially to re-en-
ways in which they could be used, such as creating force our campaign of education. If you’d like to
a Step UP! information book and /or information be part of that discussion, please join the Ning
packs. There’s also the idea of a coffee table book [step-up-sl.ning.com/]. E
Step UP! Art Gallery on Toor. Photo by PJ Trenton.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
LA N D S C A P E O F T H E M O N T H
LAN D S C A P E O F T H E M O N T H
Take a Ride on the
Mother Road - Biker Style
written by TEKILLYA MODE
written by TEKILLYA MODE
photos by DELPHINA AUDINA
photos by DELPHINA AUDINA
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Regent Estates (home of Venice
Island, which was the very first
Sim of the Month for Prim Perfect
magazine) this month hosted an
essay contest for their group of
“biker” sims around the theme of
Route 66. This was the winning
entry - read it, and you may be
tempted to try a whole new form
of transport!
THE “MOTHER ROAD” - THE VERY NAME CONJURES
visions of motherhood and apple pie ... but for
motorists, it epitomizes the “super-highway”
that linked Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, Cali-
fornia, dating back to 1926. The venerable U.S.
Route 66, a Mecca for world-wide motorists, was
more than a highway: “It became”, according to
one admirer, “an icon of free-spirited indepen-
dence linking the United States across the Rocky
Mountain divide to the Pacific Ocean.”
That same spirit of freedom and indepen-
dence can be experienced in the virtual-world of
*Second Life* (SL) thanks to the vision of Melody
Regent and Motor Loon. Their vision of Regent
Estates was spawned from their love of motor-
cycling and their desire to provide SL bikers with
the perfect virtual simulation for cruising, rac-
ing, shopping, and living within a bikers’ utopia.
To this end, Route 66 Biker Sims consist of eight
locations carefully designed to provide a unique
and memorable experience for SL bikers. Starting
from the South, the sims are: MotorWorld, Death
Valley, Route 66, Sunset Crater, Flagstaff, Twin
Arrows, Mojave Desert, and MLCC Headquarters.
Death Valley, Sunset Crater, and Twin Arrows are
members-only sims requiring a one-time mem-
bership fee of L$250. Otherwise, these sims are
accessible to anyone in SL regardless of age, gen-
der, lifestyles, and are not affiliated with any par-
ticular group or motor cycle club.
Rules are simple ... No cars. No littering. No
drama. So ... let’s hop on the bikes of our virtual
imagination and take a cruise ... shall we? Did I
mention NO CARS?
Prim Perfect • December 2009
MotorWorld
[MotorWorld/132/182/21] is a free-access sim
located in the southernmost tip of the Route 66
sims. From the moment you materialize (rezz) in
this sim, you quickly realize that this metaverse
is a convergence point for all motorcycle lovers
regardless of their taste or personal experience
in Second Life.
The atmosphere is hospitable as residents
tend to shoot the breeze, make friends, hook
up for cruising the sims, show off their beautiful
bikes, or impress others with their biking skills.
The road is ample and suitable for opening the
throttle and pushing the envelope - with a couple
of hairpin turns to challenge your reflexes and
control. If you like the excitement of jumping
and want to impress the audience with your best
imitation of Evel Knievel, try the flaming ramp in
front of the spawn point. Then, if you managed
not to set yourself on fire, continue down the road
where you’ll find another ramp on the southeast
edge. Just make sure you have enough speed to
clear the ramp - otherwise, you’ll dunk yourself
into the drink with more than just a bruised ego!
Death Valley
[Death Valley/108/125/125] is one of three
members-only region located north of Motor-
World. Best access is to teleport to MotorWorld,
rezz your bike, take the road due southwest,
through a couple of hairpin turns, and take a left
at the bridge. to come visit. Take it all in ... because the titilla-
If you’re not a member of Regent Rider’s tion to your senses is remarkable!
group, now is the time to become a member. For
a mere L$250, all the members-only regions of Route 66
Route 66 will be available for your bike cruising [Route 66/75/249/29] is a free-access sim
pleasure. I recommend that you go slow at the located north of Death Valley. As we continue our
sim crossing; as you may know, speed is not your trek coming from Death Valley, take the East road
friend when it comes to crossing into new sims through the covered bridge and proceed with
on the SL grid. Make it across the bridge, up the caution through the sim crossing into Route 66.
hill, and a tight right turn — take note of the wa- You will soon notice that this sim is populated
terfall on your right and the mist flowing across with businesses, motorcycle clubs, garages, and a
the bridge. It’s an awesome sight and a prelude few residences. Just like the real Route 66, which
of what lies ahead. Take the bridge into the mist received many nicknames including “The Will Rog-
and go up the mountain with the option of hook- ers Highway”, the road is named the “Cutter Luik
ing a right to a small secluded area to rest your Memorial Highway” in honor of a biker, business-
loins or to snuggle with your significant other. Af- man, and local resident who passed at the young
ter your optional stop, go up the mountain and age of 42 years (RL). Melody Regent remembers
be challenged by the steep road and tight curves. him fondly and said, “He was a very well loved
Stop at the look-out. Your reward is a magnifi- member of the biker family and his loss hit a lot of
cent view of the regions of MotorWorld, Route 66, people pretty hard.” After a pause to honor fallen
Sunset Crater, Flagstaff, and Twin Arrows. Potent biker friends, continue North and take in the sights
binoculars will be needed to discern Mojave Des- by taking a circuitous path through the town. Visit
ert and MLCC Headquarters just beyond Sunset the shops and don’t be shy about stopping by the
Crater but the sims are there — beckoning for you motorcycle clubs (MC). Bikes and merchandise are
Prim Perfect • December 2009
reasonably priced and MCs are friendly. You never never know when it’s the last chance!
know! You may be invited to join their ranks! Backtrack down the Sunset Crater volcano
and when you reach the bottom of the road, turn
Sunset Crater left at the chicane.
[Sunset Crater/252/55/27] is the second of
three members-only sim, featuring a colossal vol- Flagstaff
cano that dominates the landscape. [Flagstaff/30/173/27] is a free-access sim
The best way to approach Sunset Crater is to located East of Sunset Crater.
take the road due North from Route 66, carefully This region is much flatter than the rest of
cross the sim, and head straight towards the vol- the Route 66 sims, featuring smaller parcels and
cano. It’s an astounding sight as the colossus rises many merchant stores. Flagstaff is a paradise for
from the water and spews crimson lava on two of shoppers, encompassing several custom choppers
its sides and under the road. The road spirals up shops and various skins, clothing, shoes, toys,
the sides of the volcano and comes very close to firearms, guitars, body art, and jewelry stores.
the rivers of lava gravitating towards the water. The merchandise is of high value with prices that
You can almost smell the smoke and feel the pave- rival the best deals in SL. But don’t take my word
ment tremble under your bike! Make your way up for it ... come visit and compare for yourself. You
the igneous mountain until you reach the end of the will not be disappointed! After you finish with
road and a look-out terrace. Once again, treat your your shopping and exploring the nooks and cran-
sight to an ample view of Mojave Desert and MLCC nies of Flagstaff, head East towards Twin Arrows.
Headquarters to the North, and catch a glimpse of
Flagstaff to the East. There’s a portable toilet on Twin Arrows
the terrace so ... follow the unwritten rule of Route [Twin Arrows/125/133/22] is the last of the
66 - “Never pass up a gas station ... or a toilet.” You three members-only regions, and currently high-
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
lights one of the greatest timed motorcycle race- is the difference in texture of the reddish sand
tracks in Second Life. of Twin Arrows and the beige sand/dirt mix of
To find this desert jewel, find the gravel road Flagstaff.
located in the South-East quadrant of Flagstaff Go between the fence on your right and the
and take the road towards the East. Look for the building on your left to the paved road of Flag-
giant twin arrows landmark. You can’t miss them! staff. Take a right at the mailboxes and head west.
Be prepared to go slow at the sim crossing and If you didn’t get a chance to visit all the shops in
be ready to experience driving on hard packed Flagstaff or something caught your eye and you
gravel. Take in the sights of a typical Arizona des- hesitated ... this is your chance to make amends.
ert town with its one-and-only gas station and And then, onto Sunset Crater where you’ll pass
unique diner. Remember the unwritten rule of through a sim crossing and travel the steel arched
Route 66 and make sure you gas up and visit the bridge, which will link you to Mojave Desert.
rest room!
Keep on going up the road, which is surround- Mojave Desert
ed by gigantic sand dunes and rock formations. [MojaveDesert/224/254/22] is a free-access
Watch out for the tumbleweeds and continue up sim with a vastly developed commercial district
the road until you get to the Twin Arrows Speed- comprised of several MC clubs and highly special-
way. Aside from a couple of large estates on the ized merchants. This is also the sim that over-
premises, the track occupies almost half the sim looks the main office of MLCC and Regent Estates.
and is the main attraction of the region. If you’re There’s no better place to have your business
the daring type, this is where you can open it up than this prime real estate location!
and let it rip! The track is in pristine condition The merchants feature custom choppers, fu-
and you can race on it to your heart’s content. turistic motorcycles, firearms, eyewear, motor-
After you have burned the rubber off your tires, cycle parts, custom painting, and a vast selection
go down the gravel road again and hang a right of bikers’ clothing items. Roam around and check
between the rock formations. At the end of the the merchandise, services, and prices. There are
gravel road, take it slow to go through the sim always hidden treasures to be had. There’s even
crossing. Your cue of the impending boundary a range for target practice next to one of the fire-
00 Prim Perfect • December 2009
arms dealers. So ... if shopping and cruis-
ing warms the cockles of your heart, warm
up the bike and head to Mojave Desert.
After all the cruising and shopping, take
either of the two covered bridges that
lead to MLCC. Slow and steady at the sim
crossing. You’ll find that this technique
will allow you to cross sims faster and
relatively painlessly.
MLCC Headquarters
[MLCC/214/92/23] is a free-access
sim that serves as the flagship store and
workshop for Motor Loon Custom Chop-
pers (MLCC). It is also the corporate
headquarters for Regent Estates. MLCC
is where the namesake custom chop-
pers are designed, manufactured, and
sold. This is where you can test drive ev-
ery bike made by Motor Loon. The show
room features all the shine and bling that
makes MLCC what it is ... the best bikes
on the grid!
The Regent Estates Headquarters is
the nerve center for the rental of proper-
ties and operation of all eight sims. It is
the home of a dedicated staff of individu-
als that work 24/7 to maintain the sims in
working order. And once in a while, they
have to intervene in unruly situations to
ensure the well-being of all residents and patrons. After you have teased your choppers’ craving and
Take your time going around the massive gleaned future bikes, visit the lobby of Regent
building and try your skills at jumping the ramp States Headquarters. You’ll be amazed at the ex-
located on the North side. Align yourself with the tent of the different sims owned by Regent Estates
centerline, shift to highest gear, kiss yourself, and awestruck by the variety of sims themes. Your
and twist the throttle to its max. Make sure your future nest or place of business may be winking
insurance is up-to-date as the management is at you. You never know! But one thing is for sure,
not responsible for damages to your bike or ava- MLCC and Regent Estates will be present on the SL
tar! A good set of brakes are important, if you grid for a long time to come.
don’t want to end up in the drink. If you make it OUR VIRTUAL CRUISE comes to an end, but not
unscathed, give yourself a pat on the back, kiss before we take a moment to take an inventory of
yourself again, and ... DO IT ALL AGAIN! our encounter. Take note of the visual stimulation,
Note that on the North side there are trail- the titillation of the senses, and the visceral ex-
ers for super cheap rental and a basketball court. perience of traveling through a virtual Route 66.
Good luck finding a place though - they have a The journey took us through beautiful waterfalls,
waiting list a mile long. If your backside is not steep mountains, hairpin turns, awesome volcano,
too sore from all the jumping, try to shoot some myriad shops and vendors, and most important — a
hoops. Daredevils or basketball players are al- rediscovery of the essence of Route 66 in a virtual
ways in demand in SL! environment. The fidelity of the simulation by the
After all the jumping and shooting hoops, go Regent Estates pays tribute to the Mother Road,
inside and take a look. Just try not to drool over creating a Mecca for Second Life bikers and an
the bikes. The management gets upset about icon for the free-spirit independence that we all
having to mop-up drool after the customers! yearn for in our Second Life. Hope to see you soon
Don’t forget to take a look at the work shop - ... exploring and enjoying the magnificence of the
where you can see the newest bikes in progress. Route 66 Biker Sims. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009 0
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
e
GA R D E N I N G I N S E C O N D L I F E
A Change of Seasons:
W
Landscaping a Corner of inter
written and photographed by RAVEN HAALAN
THE CANADIAN THANKSGIVING OCCURS IN OCTOBER A further design decision on the landscape
because our fair nation is often well into winter was to portray winter somewhat more realisti-
by late November (this year proving to be a happy cally than some of the more fanciful renderings
exception). I started switching my 4096 square you can find in Second Life. Why I wanted to vir-
meter parcel to a winter theme early. tually replicate something I will have in plenty
Fellow sim residents were unlikely to share shortly remains a mystery, but I do have a session
my enthusiasm for the cold and ice and give up scheduled to discuss it.
their lush green ground textures in favor of snowy
ground, so I had the task of constructing a com- Tearing Down and Covering Up
pletely self contained 70m x 70m winter environ- The first task was to strip the parcel of all
ment in my little corner. things summer - green deciduous trees, snow-
There is nothing like a completely “off theme” less conifers, fields of flowers, a hammock, a ga-
bit of a sim to unsettle your otherwise agreeable zebo, bulrushes, and lily pads. What remained
neighbors. With that in mind, I set out to create a were rocks, logs around a campfire and a brown
winter playground open to visitors, so they could wood, glass floored dance platform extending
have a fun place nearby for a skate or dance as over the water.
recompense for the visual discontinuity. To cover the ground with winter’s cloak I
Prim Perfect • December 2009 0
needed ground cover prims in quantity (I was un- cided to enclose the entire parcel inside a Reich
able to change the ground textures). It’s a popu- & Rexen holodeck (described by Nika Dreamscape
lar myth that the Inuit have hundreds of words for in the June 2009 issue of Prim Perfect), which
snow; nevertheless, snow does come in a variety provided a perfectly seamless winter sky on all
of forms and characters, from unbroken track- sides of the parcel.
Planting Trees
I wanted a forested feel
to the area, to reflect its
previously dense summer
woods. The trick to con-
structing believable woods
is to have variety, but not
too much, and to think
of the growth patterns of
the foliage. In this case I
settled on two major ven-
dors of high quality trees,
Heart Garden Center and
Botanical.
I put down a mix of
evergreens, bare decidu-
ous and holly trees in front
of the ice formations and
encroaching on the dance
floor and camp fire. The
peninsula near the coast-
line usually gets a “high-
less drifts to hard pack ice in trafficked areas. light” tree or two to make it stand out, so I placed
I arranged three different snow prims reflecting Botanical’s “Mid Winter Oak” and a recommenda-
this diversity to lay out travelled and untraveled tion by watcher Castaignede, new Trails’ “abies
patterns on the parcel. Megaprim snow drifts iced silver gloo” as biological eye candy.
from the Heart Garden Center became my “deep
woods fluffy drifts.” They were complemented by
two different winter ground covers from Botani-
cal for the high traffic areas.
A 70 x 70 megaprim centered on the parcel
and positioned just above the water level, cou-
pled with a rink ice scratch texture by Joseph
Brooks, created a convincing skating surface.
The Outer Edge
The parcel was now covered in snow and
bounded on two sides by date palms and maple
trees. Looking in my pack for ideas on how to
isolate the parcel from the surrounding balmy
weather, I encountered another of Dolly Heart’s
goodies, megaprim jagged ice formations. I used
them to build a spiky wall of jutting snow along
my boundaries. I quickly realized that while they
look great, too much of a good thing was required
to achieve the level of isolation required.
The “exterior parcel wall” loomed as the only
option. Walls rarely work well because the seam
on the corners and sky is obvious and jarring. I de-
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
Let’s Dance great looking, while the Skoopf pair have tremen-
The rich mahogany tones of my dance floor dous animations.
blended nicely with my previous summer land-
scape, but are now out of place. A search of Refreshments
Xstreet found a gem of a texture, “Dreamscape- Winter activities go hand in glove with hot
Snowy-Wood” by Mikhail Obscure, and by simply chocolate and rum. That is just how it is. I found
retexturing the existing structure, it fit right in. a terrific hot chocolate wagon by Laura Liberty,
Further additions of icicles by Dirk Talamasca, but I really wanted to put the hot chocolate pro-
sparkling light strings, mistletoe, and a snowflake viders on a sideboard, rather than have a sepa-
texture on the floor, and the structure fit right in. rate stand. Careful unlink surgery and sideboard
I also realized that steps were required, as I’d construction, some napkins and styrofoam cup
raised it above the snow drifts and it could not be stacks, the addition of a bottle of rum from
stepped onto easily. I had previously used Kinex Kitchen Korner and the refreshment sideboard
sculpts for the railings - their sculpted steps were was complete. Visitors could stamp their feet and
quickly added. warm up at the refreshment stand as needed.
I had failed to place proper music gear on the
floor for the summer build, so further additions The Campfire
of a stream switching mixer and turntables by I already had a summer campfire set up with
3FX and speakers by dandellion Kimban provided logs and pose balls so folks could lay about and
visual support for the music. gab. The only problem was, no-one really lays
about in the snow (and the logs were pretty
Skating deeply buried in snow prims at this point). Rais-
I live four blocks from one of the world’s largest ing the logs to be only slightly buried, replacing
skating surfaces, so I wanted skating to be a part the sits in the pose balls to something a bit more
of the build. I already had the ice surface, so all I “huddled” and repositioning the poses made the
needed were some benches, a snowman, and some campfire winter ready.
gas lamps from Nirvana to round out the mood.
I decided to add vendors for the Skoopf and The Back Corner
Bax skates for the few visitors who might be in The back corner of the parcel had me stumped.
need of such winter wear. The Bax skates are It was ideal for a little “special place” but I was
out of ideas. Isle Lunasea provided the ringer sug-
Prim Perfect • December 2009 0
gestion: “This nook needs a hay wagon.” I had just
seen an excellent one by artilleri, so with a crow
of delight I was off to get it. It was fortunately
copy/mod, so I was able to clone the hay bales to
create a surrounding conversation space.
Hay bales are always accompanied by a scatter-
ing of straw. I took a snap of a hay bale up close to get
the color match and went into photo shop to create
several “scattered straw” textures which, laid just
above the ice, lent some credibility to the scene.
An Invitation
The final addition to the build was a snow
generator from the LOLO Pet Store. I love falling
snow, and wanted to avoid the large fancy flakes
so often found in Second Life in favor of some-
thing more realistic.
This parcel, as mentioned, has been designed
as a social space. You’re more than welcome to
drop in, skate, dance, hang out and chat. The
build will be publicly available until the end of
February. [Cabeza Island/19/220/21]
Hope to see you there and don’t forget to say
“Hi.” E
For imformation on products referenced in this
article, please visit the Prim Perfect blog.
Models: Harper Beresford, Neeks Karu, Angeiz
Violet, Aisling Easterwood, Gweneth Lange, Devin
Littleboots, Jaime Kenin, and Raven Haalan
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009 0
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
SPE C I A L A RT I C L E
Giving the Gift of Dance -
A Review of Intan Dance Machines
by ANNECHEN LOWEY
photos by PERRY APPLEMOOR
THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS UPON US, AND PERHAPS handlers on the grid, mostly for bedroom furni-
you would like to host a New Year’s Eve dance. ture use, and they can handle dances. However if
You have a few dance pairs, but want to host all you want to accommodate more than one couple
of your friends at once. Or you remember the dancing at a time, you might want to invest in
last time you had friends over and one couple a ballroom machine. One of the currently most
kept the slow-dance to themselves all night. You popular machines is the Intan Couple Dance Ball.
could hold a Bring Your Own Dance party ... or The Intan Couple Dance Ball currently sells
you could get the most out of the dance pairs you for L$1850. This is just the machine with a small
already own with a couples’ dance machine. number of sample animations in them, one dance
There have been several paired animation and one hug, for demonstration purposes. The
Prim Perfect • December 2009 0
ICDB has 15 dance pair scripts, enough for 30 your camera about for the ICDB or the remote
avatars to dance, which is a respectable number station to access the menu. With the HUD, danc-
of attendees for any party. Additional dance pair ers can access the Dance Menu, the Filter Menu,
scripts can be added if you want to max out the and change modes.
avatar limit in your sim. Unfortunately, one of the Dancers can select a type or range of dances
limitations of the Intan is that the response time with the Filter Menu, which can suit the mood
for the dance pair to reach the requesting couple of the dance. If you have just been introduced
is lagged when the sim is under heavy use. to your dance partner, you can tell the machine
Another benefit to using these is you only to only select “Ballroom “ dances. Alternately,
need one couple dance machine for all of your if you are dancing with your one-and-only, you
can tell the machine you only
want the slow dances. “Free-
style”, “Latin” and “Historical”
are other moods offered by the
dance classifications, as well as
“Tinies”. Though if you do keep
both Tall and Tiny pair dances
in your machine, it is best to
warn your guests, or hope they
have a sense of humor.
A word of caution to danc-
ers, the Intan Couple Dance
Machine is capable of handling
any paired animation - and that
includes intimate animations.
Random dance mode is only
suggested with machines that
you know, or can confirm they
hold just dances.
Changing modes refers to
telling the Intan Couple Dance
Machine to give you a Random
selection of dances (not sug-
gested if there are Tiny or Cud-
dle animations in the machine),
running through the dances in
Sequence, or dancing as a syn-
chronized Group.
Intan also makes solo dance
machines, ranging in price from
the basic at L$500, to a pair of
dancing needs in one sim. The ICDB comes with gendered dance machines for L$1000. These are
an Intan Dance Anyplace that will work anywhere simple to load, just drop the dance animation in
in the same sim. Unfortunately, the remotes will the contents, and let it run. The dancers are giv-
not work across sim lines. en the choice of the dances in the machine. Why
There are some additional perks from the sys- would you spend money on solo machines when
tem to the individual dancers. Besides being able there are free machines out there? Because the
to adjust their heights with a simple page up or Intan line also includes specialized remotes that
page down, without needing edit permissions for will access the solo dance balls as well as the
the dance pairs, they can request a HUD from ICDB from anywhere in the sim.
the Intan Couple Dance Ball to make controlling You can find machines for sale that are al-
the dance easier. A HUD from any of the Intan ready programmed and loaded. However, that
Couple Dance Machines will work on any of the means you do not put your stamp on it. If you are
publicly-accessible ICDBs. This will allow you to not experienced in building, or are nervous about
resynchronize the dance without having to pan loading your dances yourself, many authorized
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
loaders are available. The instructions can seem fit every venue. Luckily, these can be changed
daunting at first, but it is actually very simple as well. Any solo dance animation can be used,
once you have had practice with editing linked and if you have a dance pair from Maar Auer, the
prims and loaded a few dances. There are also waiting animation in those dance pairs is a simple
many dance providers that have “Intan Ready” bow or curtsy. Very elegant and formal, and not
packages, with the animations and setting cards flailing about as a frog in a blender or frozen in
ready to drop into the contents of the ICDB. the starting pose.
Loading your own dances in the machines is Speaking of making the machine fit your style,
not a difficult task, but it does take some atten- there are also ways to reshape the machine and
tion to detail. Read the Couple Dance Setting the dance pairs. It is a simple sculpt, and in pub-
card, available from either the Intan website, or lic areas you may prefer to leave the machine
from the dance vendor. In the case of the Jesse itself in the original double-sphere, so others will
Sexy Motion dances, the fact they are not modifi- recognize the machine for its function. You can
able means the male and female animations must still cover the sphere with a different surface
be loaded in the correct order, because they can- texture. The dance pairs can also be reshaped
not be renamed. The repair for this if you have to match the venue - seashells, a ship’s wheel,
loaded the ladies’ dance first is to change the gears, or music notes. You are only limited by
names on the card to reflect the reversed order. what sculpt maps you can obtain.
The Bits & Bobs dances, on the other hand can All told, customising your dance machine
be renamed, and you should use the card as your should take less than an afternoon, and will pro-
guide for renaming the animation sequences. vide many hours of enjoyment in return for your
Another way to make the dance machines re- investment of patience. By taking a little time
flect your personal tastes is to replace the wait- and some effort, you can create a dance machine
ing animations. The club dance animations that that not only has your unique signature, but pro-
are the waiting dances in the ICDB might not vides a wonderful experience for guests. E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
NIK A’ S C O R N E R
Decorating for the Holidays
written and photographed by
NIKA DREAMSCAPE
Kick the snow off your boots, and Aisuru. Arriving at her store, I found myself standing
pull up a chair by the fire. Its time within a topiary hedge walkway, dusted with snow.
Lots of snow! It was billowing down from above
to explore some of the best plac- at a rapid rate. I’ve seen lots of snow generators
es to get holiday decor for your in Second Life before ... but what I really liked
about Aisuru’s was that it was different. Rather
home! than the fat, lazy snowflakes that drift gradually
down - this was very fine, and coming down fast!
I STARTED MAKING PLANS FOR THE HOLIDAY It reminded me of a blizzard, and it was beautiful.
season early, this year. By the first days of fall, I paused to indulge myself in a bit of photography,
I was already thinking about what sort of build before continuing on to find that castle. After a
I wanted to have for December. I knew I wanted teleport up to her sky platform where she keeps
to go all out on decorating, so I started trying her prefabs, I found just what I was looking for.
This ice castle is quite impressive. The center is
open air, allowing the snow to drift in from above.
In the middle is a cracked ice floor, which lets you
see the water shimmering beneath. The windows
are frosted with ice and snow crystals, and I love
the rounded alcove that would be just perfect for
a Christmas tree. Across the room you will find a
spiral staircase of ice leading to the upper level.
From the balcony up here, you can look down at
the lower level below ... and crystals of ice form a
railing to keep you safe from falling.
To find the Ice Castle and many other won-
derful items from Aisuru Rieko, visit her store
Beloved Designs. [Fourd/127/160/1005]
various houses and skyboxes. What style would By the time I got my ice castle home and set
be the best showcase for some really spectacular up, I knew the theme I wanted to go with this year
holiday cheer? Turns out, it was a picture I saw ... ice, sparkle, and glow. And I knew a couple of
posted on Plurk that instantly made up my mind. terrific places to find everything I would need. My
It wasn’t just a house I needed. It was a castle ... first stop was at Nirvana [Frostbite/109/153/23].
made entirely of ice! Carrie Grant has a true talent for every kind of
Aisuru Rieko has been delighting her custom- plant and tree you could imagine - including fan-
ers for quite some time now with her beautiful and tasy-style creations for your garden. I found my
unique creations. I’ve seen her amazing sparkle way to her winter sim, which was full of every
and mystic grass in many photos and blog posts type of wintry plant I could ever want. But plants
- delicate looking wisps of stems and leaves that are not the only thing that Carrie has to offer
appear to be made of silvery crystal. So if anyone on her sims. There are all sorts of fantastic win-
could pull off a castle made of ice, it would be ter items here - a snow bridge with lanterns will
Prim Perfect • December 2009
by Vitrail Illios. These incredible trees are made
with crystalline leaves that shimmer and sparkle,
and come in several different colours. When I vis-
lead you across an icy creek to the cobblestone
pathway that winds its way between cozy looking
prefab homes. Overhead, strings of holiday lights
will brighten your way. There is a deluxe kit avail- ited his store on New Trail [New Trail/225/58/23],
able to create your own snow palace, and the I was thrilled to see that he also had some Christ-
ice skating rink is simply beautiful. After picking mas Trees also available. The whole sim is beauti-
up a frosty-looking Victorian Heart Tree and some ful, and I love exploring here.
phantasmal plants, I was off to my next stop. My winter build was nearly complete. All I had
I recalled that Isolahara Catteneo of Mud- left to do was to find a few more pretty trinkets
shake always had the most interesting plants and to finish out the holiday cheer. Sasaya Kayo is so
vintage homes, so I paid her sim a visit to see well known for the brilliant work at HappyMood,
I was curious to see what holiday items I might
find there [HappyMood/178/161/26]. Right away
I spotted the glow lamps, which were breathtak-
what sort of holidays delights she had available
[Mudshake/201/195/23]. I fell completely in love
with her white glitter trees with floating snow
crystals ... how absolutely perfect for my win-
ter build! Her Happy Hollie Berry bush was also
adorable, as well as her glowing winter flowers
and branches trees. What I love most about Iso- ingly beautiful. My favorite was the snowman
lahara’s work is that she is so creative with her lamp. The gentle glow of the sparkling stars was
plants; rather than traditional leaves and flower just enough to illuminate the smiling snowman in-
petals, many of her plants are made up of stars, side. I can’t begin to tell you how impressed I am
little birds, hearts, and other cute designs. And I with the detail that was put into this treasure.
also really like the floating petals, snowflakes or My last stop brought me to one of my all time
sparkles that tend to drift down from her trees. favorite sims in Second Life: Summer Seale. Sum-
Now I had my ice and sparkle ... but what I mer is a brilliant artist, and she has a remark-
was missing still was a bit of glow. I remembered able talent for turning anything she touches into
an amazing find I discovered awhile back, while a true masterpiece. Every time I come to her sim,
shopping. The store owner had the most magnifi- I always find myself losing track of time as I enjoy
cent tree in her store, called a sculpted gloo tree, exploring and taking pictures. I was excited to
Prim Perfect • December 2009
see what items she had for the holidays this year,
and I checked back many times over the course of
a couple of weeks, waiting for her new releases. I
always loved her will-o-wisps and tree spirits, so I
was very happy to find her Christmas Spirits: tiny
little gift wrapped packages that spin and dance
in the air around one another, leaving glittery
trails of particle dust in their wake. Summer has
also released some wonderful sculpted Christ-
mas trees with particle stars. They are so lovely!
Come see for yourself. [Summer/107/35/22]
Now that I had all the items for my Christmas
build, it was time to put it all together. And I
have to say, I had as much fun setting everything
up as I did shopping for it all. The end result left
me quite pleased. I hope that everyone reading
this has a safe and happy holiday season!
Cheers,
b
k
Nika Dreamscape E
e
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
DE S I G N I N G W O R L D S N E W S
An Exciting Season
for Designing Worlds
by SAFFIA WIDDERSHINS
We feature material about design, especially
Designing Worlds is Prim homes, gardens, and related topics – as well as
Perfect’s sister programme on makeovers of Second Life homes like yours! In
those shows, we take a house and make it over,
Treet.TV, and it has an exciting deploying up to three skilled designers – who
mission: to bring to the metaverse might tackle a room each, or a floor, or a garden.
They’ll be interviewed about why they’ve made
all the best and most remarkable the choices that they have – with the delighted
in design for homes, gardens, (or appalled) owner having a chance to say what
they love or loathe about their new home.
landscapes ... and beyond! We also have shows set in our fantastic new stu-
dios. These shows feature tips for the home owner
DESIGNING WORLDS IS SHOWN LIVE EVERY 2 P.M. and home renter, discussions of interest to us all,
SLT on Tuesday. If you have an inworld SLCN TV or and a chance to hear from some wonderful design-
Treet.TV set, you can watch the programme live, ers and creators! We also take you on some tours
and then catch repeats on the Lifestyle chan- to see the amazing homes and other locations that
nel (times vary), or download the show from the already exist around Second Life and other meta-
Treet.TV site, or download from the iTunes store verses, and the designers who create them.
(just search on Designing Worlds or - for older All our earlier shows are available on the SLCN
shows - Meta Makeover). site, and available for FREE download from iTunes
as a podcast (just go to the iTunes store and search
So What Is Designing Worlds? on Meta Makeover or Designing Worlds – it’s free to
Designing Worlds is one of the range of shows download, or to subscribe to the podcast).
from Treet.TV, virtual worlds’ very own cable
network – brought to you by Prim Perfect Produc- Recent Shows Season 5
tions, the people behind Prim Perfect magazine Episode 4
and the Prim Perfect blog. The programme is pre- Exploring Burning Life!
sented by Saffia Widdershins, the Editor of Prim Designing Worlds show took a trip to the stun-
Perfect magazine and Elrik Merlin of Radio Riel. ning resident experience that is Burning Life – 34
The show explores the work of designers and sims of creativity built by residents for an amaz-
the issues affecting designers in virtual worlds. ing week of art, music, celebration and fire! Not
Prim Perfect • December 2009
to mention the multi-coloured porta-potties! Our there are all sorts of strange legends and rumours
guides around Burning Life were Dusty Linden, about the oldest parts of the city ... nor were we
Linden Labs’ liaison for community events; White be put off by the fact that this was, actually, our
Lebed from the Art Department; Drakon Cortes closest show to Halloween. No, we were going to
have having a nice, calm, peaceful show. Really.
Well, at all events, it was a show unlike any other
Designing Worlds, that we can promise you!
This show is available on the web or get it
from the iTunes store.
Episode 6
Step UP! to - and on - Designing Worlds!
This was a Designing Worlds show all about
the Step UP! campaign against intellectual prop-
erty violation and content theft. We explored the
who has been working with the Performance De-
partment; and Raven Haalan, who has not only
created a fantastic Escher-like build out on the
burning sands of the playa, but who also took
time out to be the man behind the Prim Perfect
Guide to Burning Life 2009 – a must-have guide
and map to the event and Prim Perfect’s Images
of Burning Life 2009 - a stunning collection of im-
ages of the event by many of Second Life’s top
photographers. It was an amazing show – and
filled with fascinating behind-the-scenes details,
as well as highlighting some of the unmissable el- beautiful sim, created by Lumiere Noir and Ca-
ements that were part of this year’s event. Simone Aquitaine, which was kindly donated by
The show is available on the web or get it Lumiere for the duration of the campaign, and
from the iTunes store. viewed a special video showing some of the ways
that content theft can happen, created by Toxic
Episode 5 Menges. Then we talked to Dijodi Dubratt who
A Spooky Night in New Babbage – with her partner Ironwolf Taurog – loaned the
We were in New Babbage to inspect some of use of their sim Toor to stage an amazing art ex-
the fascinating new engineering works deep be- hibition by top Second Life artists, curated by Tri-
neath this most steampunk of cities and – as the cia Afterdita, in support of Step UP! And we talk-
people of Babbage say – What Could Possibly Go ed about the Step UP! parties that people were
Wrong? For we weren’t deterred by the fact that planning for November 5th – as well as giving a
sneak preview of the awesome Step UP! firework
display created by Freddie Bleac (and available
for free on XStreetSL).
This show is available on the web or get it
from the iTunes store.
Episode 7
Designing Worlds - On the Western Front
This week Designing Worlds featured a very
special – and timely – project. The First World
War Poetry Digital Archive and the Learning Tech-
nologies Group at the University of Oxford have
Prim Perfect • December 2009
collaborated to bring a wealth of First World War from the major poets of the First World War (in-
poetry and information together in an environ- cluding poetry manuscripts, letters and diaries)
ment that allows this powerful material to be ex- along with contextual primary source materials,
into the Second Life environment. These have
been located within a presentation modelled to
represent areas of the Western Front, 1914 – 1918
[Frideswide/221/197/646]. As they say, “This im-
mersive experience attempts to demonstrate
how effective it can be to expose items from
a research project (the First World War Poetry
Digital Archive) in its context. You can see items
from the collection, hear interviews with veter-
ans, and watch contemporary film footage as you
explore the area – a training camp, communica-
tion trench, a casualty clearing station, a front-
line trench – as well as listen to readings of the
poetry.” But the simple description of what it is
cannot equal the power of visiting for yourself, as
Saffia and Elrik do in this programme. Exploring
the sim with Csteph Submariner, the sim design-
er, they shared the accounts of veterans, listened
to the poetry, and added their own thoughts on
plored and experienced in a radically new way. the impressive environment in a deeply moving
The First World War Poetry Digital Archive has programe. The poignant closing sequence of the
imported a range of digitised archival materials show was accompanied by the haunting music of
Prim Perfect • December 2009
the folk trio Coope, Boyes and Simpson, noted Steelhead area is part of those regions popularly
for bringing to life songs associated with the First known as the Steamlands – such as Caledon, New
World War, who very kindly made their record- Babbage, Steeltopia and Steelhead – which com-
ing Only Remembered available for this unusual bine elements of a vintage lifestyle with a steam-
programme. punk ethos. Steelhead, however, has a great deal
This show is available on the web or get it of diversity and strong fantasy elements (after
from the iTunes store. all, one of the owners and creative forces behind
the region is a Moon Elf!). Based on Oregon of
Episode 8 the late nineteenth century, its latest area owes
The Mysteries of the East in a Western Set- much to the influx of Chinese workers who trav-
ting: Steelhead Shanghai! elled to Oregon to be part of the teams working
In this show, we explore the mysterious and on the great transcontinental railroads, and who
beautiful new sim of Steelhead Shanghai. The subequently left their mark in the ‘Chinatowns’
of large American cities. Perhaps there are ele-
ments too of the pulp fiction of the times, where
the mysterious Orient came into juxtaposition
with the brash new West. Join Saffia and Elrik
as they explored this richly fascinating region,
accompanied by the owners of Steelhead, Total-
Lunar Eclipse and Tensai Hira. And they also met
Elegia Underwood, proprietress of the Dragon-
lands hotel, who introduced Elrik to some secrets
deep in her cellars …
This show is available on the web or get it
from the iTunes store.
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
Episode 9 known buildings, such as the Jacobs House and,
A Thanksgiving Dinner of course, the Falling Water house, all of which
This week, Saffia & Elrik were guests this
week at a traditional turkey dinner party hosted
by great friend PJ Trenton, well-known Second
Life photographer and owner of the Exposure Art
Gallery. They were joined for the dinner party by
Aisling Sinclair, the Designing World producer, Pa-
mela Galli of La Galleria, the designer renowned
for her special dining room and food delivery
we show you, with the help of CEO Frey Bravin,
Assistant Director Rosalie Oldrich and Education
Director Barbara Collazo. The show, of course, can
only show you a little of the information about this
wonderful innovative and immersive experience.
So we would urge you to log into Second Life and
explore the amazing Frank Lloyd Wright experi-
ence on Usonia for yourselves!
This show is available on the web or get it
creations (and who created the wonderful meal from the iTunes store.
we saw being cooked and eaten on on the show!)
and Mavromichali Szondi, designer of Table Ser- Episode 11
vice Food Catering Services for Cafes and Restau- The Games People Play in Second Life
rants. Mav had created a lovely restaurant in PJ’s Perhaps you’re a player, or perhaps you’ve
walled garden – perhaps a new career as a restau- heard of such things as Tiny Empires, Bloodlines
rateur beckons for PJ ... In addition to learning or the games where people breed special animals
about wining and dining in Second Life, we also (such as chickens, turtles or bunnies). Or perhaps
had the chance to admire some of the fabulous you’ve never even realised that within Second
art that PJ displays in his home, including works Life there are a series of fascinating games fol-
by Fuschia Nightfire, Rik Zwiers, Tricia Aferdita,
Gracie Kendal, AM Radio, Konrad Jansma, and
Terry Woodward. And we definitely have some
turkey sandwiches to finish up. And turkey vol au
vents ... turkey soup ...
This show is available on the web or get it
from the iTunes store.
Episode 10
A Visit to the Frank Lloyd Wright Museum
This week, Saffia & Elrik visited the amazing
Frank Lloyd Wright Museum on Usonia (a name that
will definitely have resonance for fans of the great
American architect!). We didn’t just explore the lowed by thosusands of players … This Design-
museum itself – with its wealth of material on the ing Worlds show offered you the chance to find
life and work of the man who was arguably Amer- out more! We were joined by three people who
ica’s greatest architect, including a detailed exhi- can tell us something about these games – Mo-
bition on the Meyer May house. Because as well LoveMoFun Hammerer, who is deeply involved in
as the displays within the main museum, there are the game of Tiny Empires – and indeed is Pha-
re-creations of some of Frank Lloyd Wright’s best raoh of the Kingdom of Egypt within the game, by
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Jadebelgie Wylie who is a Clan Queen in the vam- buy their favourite pieces as well!
pire game, Bloodlines, and by Candy Cerveau Remember – you can see and buy all the ex-
who is one of the people behind the latest and hibits in our Exhibition Hall – so come and pur-
soon to be released animal breeding and rearing chase for yourself the lovely things that you’ve
game – Ozimals bunnies. All of them told us about seen on the show!
the games that have captured their interests and We’ve recently extended our exhibition area
enthusiasm – and we’ll have some of the amazing to include an outdoor space to the side of the
bunnies joining us in the studio too! studio building - and we will be hosting a range
This show is available on the web at [not yet of art and interactive exhibitions here over the
available] or get it from the iTunes store. coming months.
Forthcoming Episodes ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
15 Dec - Winter in Wunderbar
22 Dec - Christmas in Caledon Rothesay As part of our show, Designing Worlds, we are
29 Dec & 5 Jan - Season Break - but don’t worry! still doing Meta Makeovers segments, where we
We’ll be back in the New Year bring in a top designer to make over your virtual
home or garden!
Exhibitions in the Hall So if you would like to have a virtual home
One advantage of our Designing Worlds stu- or garden given the treatment by a top designer,
dios on Northpoint is that we have a large exhibi- send an email to us at metamakeover@gmail.
tion hall where we can display information and com with three or four pictures of your home or
objects related to our programmes. Here, visi- garden attached, and stating your reasons why
tors are able to learn more about the background you would like a makeover.
to our shows, and to see and try out furnishings And if you know a special place in Second Life
used on the show – or different pieces made by that we should really feature on the show, drop
our designers. And visitors have the chance to us a line, too! E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
AD V I C E F O R N E W C O M E R S
Gift Giving, with Permission
written and photographed by
QWIS GREENWOOD
EXCHANGING GIFTS WITH FRIENDS AND LOVED es the ownership of the object from you to the re-
ones is popular and fun around this time of year. cipient. To give an item to a person who is not near
Some may argue that shopping for the perfect you, bring up their profile. Near the bottom of the
gift is almost as much fun as receiving that gift. 2nd Life tab is a section labelled “Give item”. Drag
Many wonderful items are offered around the the item from your inventory to that line on theirs.
grid, some highlighted in the special supplement If the item isn’t allowed to be transferred, your cur-
in this issue. Before you rush out to get them, do sor will turn into a circle with a slash through it.
not click the “buy” button until you’ve checked How can you tell whether that perfect gift
the item’s permissions! will be transferable once you buy it? Let’s look at
In order to give an item to someone, you must a few examples courtesy of Dellybean North and
have permission to Transfer the object. This chang- True North Designs.
In order to be able to give the item away as a gift, the “Resell/Give away” box must be checked.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
When shopping in a store, look carefully at the find the name of the item’s creator. Check the
displays. You only want to buy the gift if the sign creator’s profile to see if the creator prefers a
indicates that item transfer is allowed. There are specific manner of contact - IM, notecards, and
almost as many ways of showing that item trans- email are the three most common ways. Which-
fer is allowed as there are designers. Some use ever way is requested, use that to let the cre-
check boxes next to the words Mod, Copy, and ator know that you’d like to give a non-transfer-
Trans. Others list what is or isn’t allowed. Delly’s able item as a gift and which item it is. If all
sign specifies “Transfer” at the bottom of the sign goes well, the creator will contact you back to
to let you know it can be given as a gift. work out delivery and payment details.
If the item is on display without a sign, you’ll Then once you have a gift, wrapping the
have to examine the object. Right click on the present is the fun part. If you wish to try your
object and select the Edit option from the menu. hand at creating your own gift box, there is a
Look near the bottom of the Edit window where video on the official Second Life blog to make a
it says “Next owner can”. It is very dim, but it simple box wrapped up with a ribbon and bow.
can be read. You want the “Resell/Give away” If you’d like something prettier, look around the
box to have a check in it. stores for gift boxes. They usually cost very lit-
If you learn that the item cannot be trans- tle, but you have the advantage of the design-
ferred or cannot figure out whether it can be, do er’s skill with building and textures to make the
not give up hope. You may still be able to give it gift even more special. Whether you buy a gift
as a gift. Try to contact the item’s creator. Del- box or build your own, I recommend watching
lybean North posted a sign in the jewelry sec- the second half of the video for tips on how to
tion of her store asking people to contact her package and give your gift.
if they wish to make gifts of her non-transfer- Share the joy of the season with someone
able items. Using the Edit menu again, this time special! Have a wonderful winter! E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
News from the Grid continued from page 21 Marcel Eats Buckios -
at Fruit Islands Art
mall! Mike has designed the majority of the sim [Mango/31/55/21]
to be below ground by creating a vast mountain Fruit Islands Art welcomes artist Rod Mandel
to cover the stores. Pure Design will be sharing with an installation titled Marcel Eats Buckios on
the sim with ARIA Interior Design. Yelo Uriza will display from November 29 to December 25. Rod
become the Head of Interior Design while Mike is Mandel is the founder of the Invisible Museum of
the Head of Architecture. Their goal is to offer Post Contemporary Art [Glashtan/215/65/134].
residents beautiful and creative items for a low
prim cost – and they’ve certainly made a highly
promising start in this area!
A Taste of India
Comes to Second Life
[Shekhawati/167/51/400/]
Veekay Navarathna, owner of Shekhawati Is-
land and Medley Estates, proudly announced the
opening of Medley Builds on Dec 11th. The store
sells prefabs and architectural elements based on
the beautiful and exciting builds of Shekhawati
Island. Shekhawati is a region in Rajasthan, India,
famous for its fresco paintings.
IMOPCA’S focus is to bridge RL studio practices re-
lating to miminal and ephemeral projects to the
virtual. Inspired by the works and ideas of Marcel
Duchamp and Buckminster Fuller, Rod Mandel cre-
ated art based on the idea that if there was cereal
named “Buckios”, Marcel Duchamp would eat it.
Nearly all the works were created specially for this
installation and designed to work with the physi-
cal setting of the exhibit space on Mango. Look for
quirky takes on famous works by these artists, play-
ful use of space and dimension, and fun with chairs
Now residents of Second Life can own and en- and breakfast cereal. Fantasy and reality meet in
joy these beautiful builds and architectural el- unusual ways, but only for a limited time.
ements to build their own dream luxury house.
Elements include arches, pillars, wall panels, Another Fruit for Christmas!
fresco paintings, balconies, and railings. The [Fig/44/171/497]
excellent textures are photo-realistic, based on Every year Equinox Pinion and the other own-
photographs taken by veekay Navarathna. ers of the Fruit Islands build a Winterworld for
The Shekhawati Island region is also an open
art gallery, showcasing modern and classic paint-
ings from India and the works of other artists of
Second Life.
Special inaugural 50% off pricing will remain
until 26th December so you can own a new house
and celebrate Christmas in a unique environment
of artistic surroundings. Some furniture is also
available, based on the designs of the Shekhawati
region. More luxurious builds are planned for the
near future to give residents that royal feeling of
18th - 19th century Rajasthan.
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
their residents which they also share with the New Days of Wine And Roses
Second Life community. It is a beautiful area to [Sugar Mill Grove/88/168/27]
spend time with friends and enjoy one of their Wine And Roses, the popular store owned by
events. It is built above Fig, which is located in Nika Dreamscape, has moved to a new location.
the tropical 80 Sims sailing estate. Nika has also been busy working on new releases
Ally with Alliez for Christmas!
[Christmas at dAlliez/138/116/25]
Another Christmas sim well worth a visit is
Christmas at dAlliez. A combination of Christmas
shopping village and activity centre, the region is
a Christmas special supplied every year by Alliez
Mysterio. If you want the fun of winter sports com-
and is very pleased to announce that several new
items are available, as well as a new prize in the
lucky board- the Serene Backyard Window.
Expansion for Natural Fantasies
[Natural Fantasies/65/209/29]
Natural Fantasies, one of the grid’s premier
landscape facilities, is pleased to announce the
opening of two new additions to its multi-sim
bined with the opportunity to catch up on Christ- complex. Both reflect Natural Fantasies commit-
mas shopping, this is a great place to come! ment to just a bit more beauty, a bit more inter-
est and a bit more involvement to the residents
Enjoy Tranquility and Fine Shopping of Second Life.
Beside the Sea with Julia Collection
[Gear Jammer/23/76/28]
Julez Odigaunt is pleased and thrilled to an-
nounce the opening of the brand new Julia Col-
lection main store, sited in a large and beautiful
harbour. Her designs are, she says, “Inspired by
Victorian, steampunk, grunge and fantasy ele-
ments infused to make your home flabbergast-
ing.” And when you visit the store, there will be
a free gift!
The first is the addition of The Art Park at
Natural Fantasies [Sterling Vineyard/34/112/40].
The Art Park represents a joint effort with Twi-
light’s Peace, who the Natural Fantasies team is
honoured to be working with. The Art Park is lo-
cated next door to Sterling Music Park and the
two will compliment each other’s ability to show-
case some of the finest talent in Second Life. As
the Music Park provides a stage for twelve to fif-
Prim Perfect • December 2009
teen featured musicians each week, the Art Park
DC
will provide exhibitions of Second Life artists on
a rotating basis. In keeping with the traditions of
Natural Fantasies, it is designed to be open and
a part of the natural surroundings. The area will
also feature a collection of Fantasies’ low prim
and one prim trees and plants. Both the Art Park
and Music Park are free to the public. Anybody
who enjoys the creative side of the Second Life
community is welcomed with open arms.
The second new addition is an area dedicat-
P
ed to Fae/Fairy side of us all. While showcasing
our recent efforts towards creating elfin-type
trees, plants and Dryads, the area also offers a
free wonderland to just hang out and have fun in
or to follow a path to quiet conversation areas.
There are dance floors and music, places to sit
and bridges leading to places to explore. Take off
that Tux, slip into those butterfly wings and elfin
capes, bring a date or a friend, and come dance
the night away under the stars. E
0 Prim Perfect • December 2009
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Advertiser’s Directory
Alchemy Immortalis 2
Ambiance Interactive Furnishings 26
Antique Artistry 58
Barefoot Homes 101
Basic Elements 45
Caledon Sims 20
Castles by Q 47, 73
Cherished 22
Creative Fantasy 13
Cristalle Properties 110
Dragonlands Sim 77
Elements in Design 86
Flowers by Sylvie 39
Galaxy sim 6
Giverny 19, 121
Gos 15
Highland Meadow Homes 106
House of Cristalle 114
Incwell Textures 61
Islands of New England 122
Irkmade Animations 53
Jaded Modern Designs 118
Kitstar Designs 130
Kismet 10
La Galleria 119
Luna Bliss Sim Design 34
Medley Builds 68
Regent Estates 98, 127
Silent’s Folly Estates 67
Snook’s Garden Centre 115
Sofia’s 31
Temasek sim 62
Toor sim 52
Treesong Designs 105
treet.tv 65
True North Designs 111
V-Innovate 16
Virtualworldi 5
Vulcania Estates 91
Prim Perfect • December 2009
How Do I Advertise?
WE WELCOME YOU TO CONSIDER JOINING OUR Rates
Prim Perfect community of satisfied advertisers. Standard rates:
Our circulation is rapidly growing, and includes Two-page spread L$18,000
readers who are among the most discerning life- Full-page 12,500
style consumers in the Second Life world. Our Half-page 7,500
blog has been included in WordPress’ list of the
top 20 fastest-growing sites. Premium placement (in first 30 pages of mag-
Our Pledge to YOU: We do not have block azine): 20% above standard rates (Two-page and
pages of advertising. We work to make sure that full-page only)
YOUR advert receives maximum attention by po- Business-class placement (in 2nd 30 pages of
sitioning it within our high-quality content. We magazine): 10% above standard rates
guarantee that readers will never turn more than Other premium opportunities (please contact
two pages without content. Aisling Sinclair in-world): Inside Front Cover (cur-
rently pre-booked and not available), Inside Back
If You Design Your Own Ad Cover, Special Insert.
In order to display your advertisement to best Discounts are available for multi-issue con-
advantage, we ask you to follow our guidelines tracts or if you have a subscription kiosk at your
for size and graphic quality, which you can find at location.
[http://primperfect.net/advertising.htm].
(Please follow the specifications carefully, or Newcomer Spotlight Program
your artwork may need to be returned to you for We are now accepting applications for our
revision.) Ads should be submitted to Perry Apple- Newcomer Spotlight program. This program,
moor (perry.applemoor@gmail.com). We recom- which is intended to help new clients reach a
mend that you include a SLurl for your location, broader audience, is open to businesses that
which we can enable as a click-through from the have been operating in Second Life for six
online and PDF versions of the magazine. months or less. Please contact Aisling Sinclair
in-world to apply.
If You Want Design Assistance
Please contact Aisling Sinclair via notecard or Deadlines
email (aisling.sinclair@gmail.com). She will be Prim Perfect is published approximately ev-
happy to design an ad for you at reasonable rates ery 6 weeks. We ask that you follow the guide-
(in addition to the regular ad submission rates lines below for booking your ad placement and
following). submitting artwork. E
To advertise in this issue: Book your ad by: Submit your artwork by:
February 1 January 11 January 25
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June 15 May 25 June 8
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September 15 August 25 September 8
October 20 September 29 October 13
December 1 November 3 November 24
Prim Perfect • December 2009
How Do I Get Future Copies?
PRIM PERFECT CAN BE OBTAINED EITHER IN THE In some places, you can also buy it from our old
form of a Thinc book for inworld reading, or as style inworld vendors (located at various stores).
a downloadable PDF, or in a special web for- Sometimes we have had problems with these, but
mat called Calaméo, which allows you to move you can help! If you see a vendor still selling an
smoothly through the pages, giving you the feel- earlier issue, contact [primperfect@gmail.com],
ing of reading a real magazine. and we’ll send someone to update it.
Or you can have it delivered to you auto-
On the Web matically each month as a Thinc Book, by join-
You’ll find the Prim Perfect magazines (includ- ing the Prim Perfect Readers group inworld. It
ing back issues) all listed here at Calaméo – and costs nothing to join and, apart from deliver-
you can also see copies of our other publication, ing the magazine each month, we won’t over-
The Primgraph – aimed at historical and steam- load you with chat or messages! How to Join
punk sims, and of the web comic: The Quest for Prim Perfect Readers: Inworld, open Search.
the Golden Prim. Search Groups for Prim Perfect Readers. Click
Details of the exact link for the latest edition to join.
on Calaméo will appear on our blog – as will a link In addition to delivering the Thinc Book ver-
to a standard pdf for downloading and printing, sion of the magazine, you’ll also get a link to the
if you like to download and print out your maga- online Calaméo version of the magazine, so you’ll
zines to read as you commute to work, or in the be able to access that too.
bath, or wherever!
Archive Copies
On the web
Inworld All of our previous issues are archived at our
If you prefer to read the magazine inworld, Calaméo site, and listed on our web blog. If you
you will find Prim Perfect subscribe-o-matic ki- want to read a little more about them, you can
osks throughout the grid, so you can just click to look at our web archive page.
subscribe and get an issue regularly! When you
click a kiosk, you will be given a copy of the latest Inworld
magazine and from then on, you will receive your You can obtain any back copy you may have
copy of the magazine on the day of publication missed from the wall display in our offices on
(technology permitting)! Subscribe-o-matic ki- Oliveto.
osks are also located at our offices on Oliveto and So ... enjoy! And let us know what you think
at Northpoint at the Designing Worlds Studios. of our new edition! E
Prim Perfect • December 2009
Credits
PUBLISHER AND EDITOR:
Saffia Widdershins
DEPUTY EDITOR:
Ceejay Writer
DESIGNER:
Perry Applemoor
ADVERTISING AND CLIENT RELATIONS:
Aisling Sinclair
COPY EDITOR:
Myfanwy Davies
WRITERS:
Qwis Greenwood, Ceejay Writer,
Viv Trafalgar, Scotti Lyle, Jvstin Tomorrow,
Raven Haalan, Annechen Lowey,
Gwen Carillon, Nika Dreamscape,
Tekillya Mode, and Coughran Mayo
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
PJ Trenton, Twisted Lemon, Delphina Audina,
Raven Haalan, Nika Dreamscape, and
Qwis Greenwood
BLOGGERS:
Saffia Widdershins, Raven Haalan and
Qwis Greenwood
Special thanks to Peach Fizz, and the people of
the Wolf Mountain region for their support, their
creativity, their ideas, and their time in helping us
bring their story to this month’s magazine. Thanks
to Gwen Carillon for mentoring the Prim Perfect
Pathfinders, and to everyone who responded
with such enthusiasm to our questions!
Our thanks go to all the designers and other peo-
ple across the Second Life world who have given
advice and support to help us produce this edition
of Prim Perfect. E
December 2009 • Issue 22
primperfect