The Savoy

 

 By Netera Landar

Enter The Savoy's Ballroom and leave the world behind.

The Savoy Ballroom in Creations Park captures the spirit of the original Savoy in New York City from 1926 to 1958. Ella Fitzgerald performed there in 1934, and Dizzy Gillespie’s Orchestra in the 40s. The ballroom, named after The Savoy Hotel in London, was where new talent could perform, and it was the home of the Savoy Lindy Hoppers, dancers who went on to entertain in Broadway and Hollywood productions. 

In Second Life, the Savoy Ballroom is located in a community that resembles what it must have been like in the past. The designers selected many key elements from the original Savoy and applied Art Deco styling. 

A photograph representing the original Savoy.

“The two stages emulate the one long bandstand where two bands could set up at the same time, and then either could hand off, to continue the entertainment uninterrupted, or to alternate for their ‘Battle of the Bands’ shows,” said Matthew Kosse, who has been managing The Savoy Ballroom on Second Life since 2004. “We chose to include the Taxi Dancer booth and AFK Dancers to give our audience the same experience patrons had back in the heyday of The Savoy. If you didn’t have a date, you could hire a male or female dance partner, so you could do couples dancing.”

Other elements in the virtual representation include the street layout and the naming of Swing Town to evoke the ambiance and vibe, and the Lenox Lounge to highlight its history and Black culture. The actual Lenox Lounge was six to eight blocks away, and the Cotton Club was across the street.

The two stages represent one long bandstand where two bands could set up at the same time, and then either could hand off to continue the entertainment uninterrupted.

Just as the original Savoy Ballroom in Harlem updated its floor and furniture regularly, The Savoy in Second Life is upgraded, as well. 

“The entrance to The Savoy Ballroom was on street level with a wide staircase leading up to the second-floor ballroom, which took up the entire city block,” explained Matthew. “Patrons would walk between the city’s shops on either side, ascend to the upper level, hearing the music pour out onto the street.”

The Savoy hosted as many as 4,000 dancers, which would be impractical to recreate in a virtual world. To showcase The Savoy’s remarkable size, the building team made a themed exhibit using an actual floor plan of The Savoy, scaled to avatar size. You can view the floor plan by entering the foyer and turning right. Click the board, and you’ll be teleported to the floor plan. 

Clarice performs on The Savoy's stage.

As for the history of The Savoy in Second Life, it began as Creations Park Swing (CP Swing), part of the Linden Endowment for the Arts (LEA) sim grant to introduce the Dance 101 Class that Carlyle Chaparral created in 2015. CP Swing was one of four installations of the Dance 101 classroom on the Lea sim.

“It originally represented an example of a ‘swing era ballroom’ featuring non-stop swing era music and a 101 Classroom off to the side,” explained Matthew. “When the LEA grant expired at the end of 2016, CP Swing Ballroom was moved to a permanent home at Creations Park thanks to an offer by Barbie Alchemi. In 2018, CP Swing was renamed to Savoy Ballroom to reflect the increasing focus to specifically replicate and educate guests about the original Savoy.”

The creative team for CP Swing and the initial Savoy build included Carlyle, Barbie, and Lesley Jenkins-Singh. The current owners are Carlyle and Matthew.

Dancing the night away on The Savoy's dance floor.

The initial goal of the Dance 101 class was to offer free dance lessons, which happens at the beginning of many real-life dance events. Matthew said that Carlyle and his wife enjoyed dancing in real life, and he wanted to bring that experience to Second Life. 

“The region itself was envisioned by Barbie Alchemi, and its first iteration didn’t include The Savoy. The whole region was designed to be a haven of respite, specifically geared to collecting donations to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Research Foundation. The owner’s father and mother both came down with Parkinson’s Disease, so this charity is near and dear to her heart. If you go into the Swing Era Museum, there’s a slideshow and a video of Barbie and her mom interacting in SL. Fran Seranade was an incredible lady, and her mindset was, ‘If I can do it in SL, I should be able to do it in my real life,” said Matthew. (Except for the flying, of course.)

Over the years, it evolved, especially in the area where The Savoy is located. The Savoy was a single parcel, but over time, the two streets in front of The Savoy expanded into “Swingtown” as a themed community. 

There are 15 main landmarks. They include, The Clock Tower, The Savoy Ballroom, Castle Alchemi, Unicorn Grove, Atlantis Underwater Paradise, Ethereal Realms Stage, The Party Yacht & Balloon Ride, 50s Dinner & Fran Serenade Art Gallery, Rooftop Art Gallery (above The Savoy) & Swing Era Museum, Shopping District, Children’s Park, Horse Riding Stable, The Cabin & The Poets Gazebo and the Meditation Gazebo. There’s also a Primtionary Game parcel. The landmarks can be reached through the Creations Park Personal TP HUD, available at Givers stationed in the ballroom and around the sim.

“There is one place you can only reach using the TP HUD, and that’s The Ethereal Realms,” said Matthew. “It’s so far in the overhead of the sim that you need to teleport. Everything else is actually accessible by exploring.”

Another feature of the TP HUD is a partnership with more than two dozen other clubs, art galleries, and clothing shops. They are represented on the HUD. Scroll through the pictures, select one, and you will be brought to the location.

As for entertainment, Matthew updates the schedule weekly. The main reason for these changes is that The Savoy regularly attracts singers, musicians, and DJs interested in performing there. Matthew also invites singers to go on The Savoy’s stage.

“Over a 3-year span, we’ve gone from 2 DJs to 30 entertainers. That includes 15 singers, 1 musician, and 13 DJs, some of whom perform multiple shows per week. Plus, we have 4 regular hostesses,” Matthew added that additional hostesses are needed to keep up with the busy schedule.

When you arrive, you’ll hear the house stream playing original swing, ElectroSwing, Jazz, Latin, Rockabilly, and eclectic tunes. Scheduled live events with singers and DJs include various genres.

The dress code for live events can be casual or formal, depending on the singer. You should always be dressed appropriately.

The Lenox Lounge and other businesses in front of The Savoy.

“The whole concept behind Creations Park was that it was built with love. I felt it the first time I stumbled into The Savoy, and then wandered around exploring the region,” said Matthew. “Honestly, anyone who comes here, stops for a moment to breathe and looks around…they’ll experience that same sense of awe and comfort. I felt it every single time I came back. Once I met Barbie Alchemi and Carlyle Chaparral, I recognized who had poured their love into fashioning it. They set the standard, making it easy to follow in their footsteps.”

Netera Landar

Hopeby Village

 

By Netera Landar

Chard and Stevie Hope created a roleplay sim rooted in the warmth, tradition, and the quiet magic of British village life.  Hopeby represents an East Yorkshire village in the rural county in the north of England. 

Find out what's on the menu at Hopeby Cafe and Sweets.

“East Yorkshire was a natural choice, as it is a place familiar to Chard, with its wide, open flatlands and winding waterways that seem made for stories to unfold,” said Stevie. “It’s a perfect setting for imagining a delightfully cheesy Christmas Hallmark movie come to life, where an American visitor—that would be me—arrives a bit reluctantly, only to find herself falling in love with both the village and a local lad named Chard.”

“From that love comes marriage, family, and eventually the creation of a village built on shared history, community, and hope—what would come to be known as Hopeby Village,” she added.

Hopeby Village Hall.

Together, they turned a simple idea into a living, breathing village with a story of its own. The one sim community is kept small to foster a quieter, more intimate setting that offers a sense of calm, familiarity, and belonging. 

“Every corner of the village has been thoughtfully planned to feel both expansive and cohesive, allowing the world to unfold naturally without ever feeling crowded or disconnected,” said Stevie. “Winding paths, open spaces, and shared gathering spots give Hopeby the feeling of a living village rather than a busy hub.”

The layout provides “gentle” room for growth, allowing the community to develop naturally without losing the heart and charm that make it feel like home for its residents. 

“Both of us have been involved in community building in the past, and that experience helped us begin Hopeby with a clear sense of purpose from the very start,” said Stevie. “We created a thoughtful foundation: housing to feel like home, businesses to encourage daily village life, welcoming communal spaces, a growing body of lore, and a strong community ethos to guide interactions.”

She said that these elements are designed to inspire connection, creativity, and lively roleplay, allowing residents to step into a village that feels lived-in, meaningful, and full of possibility.

The village is decorated with British flags on a quiet morning.

“The planning of Hopeby began weeks before the first stone was ever set, with long conversations shared between husband and wife – ideas passed back and forth, imagined, reshaped, and dreamed into something just a little clearer each time,” said Stevie. “As the village began to take form, that planning never truly stopped, continuing as an ongoing, shared effort shaped by love, patience, and a mutual belief in the story we were building together.”

Stevie said that the landscaping and placement were arranged to avoid the “cookie-cutter feeling. The design was chosen by the owners, ensuring a consistent aesthetic throughout the entire sim.

“Chard laid out the bones of the village—its roads, plots, and rhythm—while I followed behind him, bringing warmth and life to each space. I adorned the land with natural beauty and carefully decorated the interiors of several shops, including our family-owned café and ice cream parlour. Step by step, room by room, we built Hopeby blending structure and detail, vision and heart, until the village felt not just designed, but truly loved.”

A manor near one of the stables in Hopeby Village.

Seventeen family homes are currently on the land. They began welcoming a few families into the village on January 20. There are cozy homes, traditional cottages, and manor-style properties. Several stables have been added, which would be perfect for Teegle and other horses. Empty shop spaces can be rented for a role-play business or a main marketplace store. Residential and shops in the business district are 1.75L per prim. Stevie said that this makes it easy to settle in and plan long-term without surprise costs. To celebrate the grand opening, a rental incentive was offered through the end of January. Residents who paid for four weeks received an additional week at no charge.

“Each home and business space is individually parceled, allowing tenants the freedom to choose their own music, manage their own security systems, and personalize their space. Tenants may add visitors to the group as ‘guests,’ ensuring friends and family are never limited in their ability to rez while visiting. Our goal is to provide both freedom and peace of mind, so every resident can truly feel at home in Hopeby.”

Tenants and residents will be personally greeted by the Hope Family. Chard and Stevie’s son, Correus, will not only assist with the village, but he’s also eager to meet new friends and help them feel at home.

Hopeby Village Pet Care is ready to serve you and your special fur babies.

As the village grows, residents will take on roles and responsibilities, integrating their creativity and imagination with the founders.

The shops and roles will create a lively community where every resident has a story to tell. As the shops are filled, tenants will step into their roles naturally, becoming threads in the tapestry of Hopeby, where friendships are forged, stories unfold, and the village hums with gentle energy, said Stevie.  

“Imagine gossip pinned to the parish boards, laughter spilling from the pub late into the evening, children racing through the streets, and neighbours gathering for shared celebrations that feel both grand and intimate,” added Stevie. “There may be the occasional mild scandal, a mix-up at the market, or a spirited debate at the town meeting – these are all part of the rhythm of village life.”

In the near future, a Village Council uniting residents and business owners will have a voice in shaping the community's future.

There will also be events. Seasonal festivals will feature music and fresh treats. Drive-in theatre nights will be organized for quiet gatherings. Live music from talented performers or DJs will be scheduled. Bingo Nights and clever quizzes will test residents’ wit and memory.

Meet your friends for a drink at  Hope & Anchor bar.

Residents will gather at The Hope & Anchor pub to share stories, build friendships, and enjoy a friendly pint or two. The Village Green will offer a space for larger gatherings, seasonal festivals, and community-wide celebrations. Hopeby Café & Sweets is ideal for morning chats over hot tea or coffee. Families will enjoy gathering at Hope Kids Scoops for an ice cream cone to have quality time together.

“We hope Hopeby will become more than just a place to live; we want it to feel like a living village, one where laughter is shared, adventures are imagined, and every small moment – whether a quiet stroll along the winding lanes or a bustling market day – adds to the rich tapestry of community life. Here, every character has a place, every story matters, and every resident is a part of something enduring, heartwarming, and truly special.

A winding waterway runs its course under the bridge, a short distance from the residential area

The village welcomes all, regardless of species, race, religion, gender, age, or who they love, Stevie added. It is a gentle, moderate sim where days move a little slower and everyone cares for one another. 

The village is guided by a shared covenant – simple, respectful, and meant to protect the comfort and well-being of everyone who calls Hopeby home.

Netera Landar 

 

Cat Face Gaming

 

By Bixyl Shuftan

 

 

A friend told me about a gaming place located on the SL mainland, "Cat Face Gaming." Located near "The Shelter," the place is owned by Snow Frostypaws and  offers a number of games.

 

When one TPs over at the SURL, you're greeted by a dancing bot next to a very retro computer, looking like something from a 1960s movie or TV show. The first floor had the following games: TBF Sea Battle for two players (gives a HUD to play), Madhoops, Madpea Foured, Backyard Bowlers, Gilman Games pool table, Ultimate Air Hockey, and Madpea Giant Dartboard. 

 

A pad takes you up to the second floor for several more games: Zilch and Clued up table games, Skippy and U Know table games by Ember, a small Majong game, TBF Bubble Pop, Madpea Curling table, TBF Checkers and TBF Chess. There's also a bar, with several kitty pictures nearby, as well as a "cat chair," which were nice touches. 

 

Going back out, there's a blue ramp that leads down to a few more table games, Simopolis, Greedy, and Triumph (Risk), are built in jacuzis. And there are the Cantasa and Lifestyle table games. 

 

To the right of the main building is what looks like an expansion with several more games. On the first floor is 4tris (Tetris), and several table games, Cheesy Advancedm Skippo, Hand and Foot, Dominos, and Stix. 

 

The second floor, Gant Games, has several more table games: Unno, Sorry, Bugs, Yatzee, and Oar. 

 

The third floor of the expansion, Hronic Games, has several table and wall games. The wall games are Jungle Slide, The Merge Game, DominoMerge, and Bombers. The table games are Skipit, New City, The Race, Rotten Apples, Shark Attack, and Hungry Rat. 

 

With the large variety of games, there's bound to be something you, or you and a gaming friend, will enjoy.

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Gallinas/241/33/77 

 

Bixyl Shuftan 

places 

The Waterfall Café

 

By Netera Landar

“Indulge in delightful dining amidst vibrant colors, cascading waterfalls, and a legendary Kraken Bar. Discover romance in the underwater observatory, surrounded by mesmerizing marine life. It's a sanctuary of beauty, serenity, and unforgettable moments.”---Katie Luckstone.

At the landing point, yellow, green, and blue foliage shimmers in this underwater conservatory.

The sound of the waterfall is heard the moment you teleport into the café. Yellow, green, and blue foliage shimmer in this underwater conservatory. An orb glows and fades for eternity. A serene vibration loops as you explore the first cavern. Beside the shimmering orb is a photo of a rock formation, and particles rise above the water.

 

Your footsteps muffle through the water as you approach the cavern door and enter a larger chamber. The water here is deeper, nearly up to your knees. On the side walls, the water pours into the chamber.

Unseen chimes ring as you gaze beyond a transparent barrier at the sunken ship. Sea water spills in through the cracks in the barrier.  Two sharks swim above you, not caring about your presence. 

 

In the hallway corridor is information about Loveless Estates. Click the framed poster to get an information card.

Tip the cat and then head into the underground library. Art deco vibes are striking in here. Green armchairs are in front of wall-to-ceiling bookcases, and a floor lamp casts a red glow on vintage hardcover books. An armchair with a throw blanket is in the corner. Beside it, bubbles rise in a transparent vase resting on a small, round table. A deco fireplace glows in front of a window. Another armchair in front of it. Art deco floor lamps flank the cavern doorway.

A short distance from the library, you’ll find the café. The floor allows you to see marine life below.  There are two hanging chairs on the right. Dining tables and chairs are positioned on the water-covered floor, and several shell-shaped hanging chairs are along the bank of windows. 

 

In another corner, filled with color scenes, fish swim through the rising particles. You’ll find a free gift in the café. Click on the animated picture.

Near the café, there's another seating area with a large saltwater aquarium. Beyond a window, ancient ruins and marine life can be seen swimming. Tucked away in a corner of the café is a cozy boat and a stunning view of the sea.

I saved it as one of my picks on my profile because I was so impressed with its creation. Wonderful job, Katie and the backdrop’s creator!
 

Loveless Unity (155, 25, 2306)
 

Netera Landar 

Winter Crest Ski Resort and Lodge

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

Now that the rush of the holidays is over it is time to get out and enjoy the beautiful outdoors of second life. One delightful place to visit for a day or more that I checked out is Winter Crest Ski Resort and Lodge.

The helicopter drops you off at the entrance and one can see it is ready for fun with the snowballs for a fight sset to get visitors started. It covers two regions with easy access and a notecard will inform you where to go and what not to miss.

I decided to check in at the Lodge. Rooms are available with one to three bedrooms and many amenities. An extensive lobby leads to the bar and dining room.

There is a crackling fireplace warming nearby seating . The huge glass walls allow everyone to enjoy the outside falling snow while being comfortable . It is perfect for after a day of skiing. The staff on duty can help with many questions if you talk with them

I went to check out the Mountain that has several ski slopes for your pleasure.

At the top is a wonderful lodge where one can gain strength for the next run down the slopes. There is a choice of snowboard, skiis , sled.

 

On another slope have a seat at the Sip and slide for a few minutes and have a hot drink . There are tp boards to take you to the various slopes on the regions.

Horseback riding is another popular activity . Get a horse of your choice and take a ride along the trails to check out the terrain.As you ride you will see large elegant cabins which are also for rent with 1-3 bedrooms so friends and families have a larger place to stay.

I stopped at the artic maze to give it a try and warmed up at the outside fire after going through the icy path.

Back at the lodge I spent sometime at the indoor gym and sauna before dinner. Skating on the huge pond is fun . There are skates and several choices of skating balls available if you did not bring your own. It is fun to travel to a place that provides all the things you need without packing . Have a great time there and enjoy all the offerings.

 

I think I need some quiet place now.  

  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Unbreakable%20Love/134/95/28

Gemma Cleanslate 

 

Luminara: A Mystical, Self-Discovery, Silent Reflection Sanctuary

 

By Netera Landar

 

 “Welcome to Luminara, a living spell, formed from intention, energy, and the ancient pull of what’s been forgotten but never truly lost. This is a sanctuary for the seekers, the wanderers, the ones who feel the veil thin and know there’s more.”---Sedona Starchild, Luminara’s creator. 

In destinations, under Nature and Beaches, I decided to explore Luminara. The SL summary said that “it’s a space created with care, where every detail holds a deeper meaning, if you’re open to it.” That piqued my interest.

This gem was first created by Sedona Starchild as The Healing Muse, then as Mudra, and is now in its latest evolution as Luminara. 

“This sim came from a very personal space, born out of my own need to heal emotional wounds. It’s an invitation to slow down, explore gently, and connect with something meaningful, both within the space and within yourself,” explained Sedona.

 

The sign at the landing point directs guests on how to use the books in the nearby building.

At the landing point, I saw a woodpecker very eager to make a hole in a sign. Not a good place for a nest, but the sign was informative. It said to touch a book in the nearby building, select “Read Now,” and the book will start reading in local chat. You’ll be the only one to see it. These books offer short insights to be experienced in-world. 

The bookshelves have numerous engaging titles to read.

Approach the bookshelves and browse the titles to find one that interests you. Each title begins with “Let’s Talk About.” There are books on Time Management in Second Life, Friendships, Social Bonding and Loneliness in Second Life, What We Choose to Become, Feminine and Masculine Energy, Emotional Affairs, and Rebuilding Trust After It’s Been Broken. Many more books are available.

A second sign welcomes guests to Luminara and tells them to explore, reflect, and discover.

Blackbirds circle the entrance of the Apothecary.

A short walk from there is the Alchemy Greenhouse. Starchild’s message encourages you to touch the jars of herbs to discover their secrets. A Tarot Wall explains the meaning of each card. You can explore Reiki, essential oils, astrology, numerology, and runes. You can even talk to Noah, an AI guide. Learn about the moon phases, and there’s a book on Celtic Druidism.

Inside the Apothecary

 Inside the greenhouse, you’ll find Midnight Oracle, a spiritual advisor who is a black cat. He watches you as you enter his domain. Touch a candle to hold it, and watch your step, as the animated broom is busy at work. To the left is a group join and a tip jar.  On the table, you will find a Himalayan salt lamp, a green yoga mat, a healing muse candle, a green Namaste cushion, and a healing muse bracelet. 

 

The dance circle awaits its dancers. Flames are intense here. Prayers will be spoken.

At the dance circle, stone pillars contain flames, and a bonfire is in the center. The floating key whispers questions, asking you to look deeper within yourself to find a path to self-discovery. According to the prompt, “this is a sacred space between the physical and spiritual, a way to release, awaken, and connect here.” The circle represents the cycle of life.

The Mirror of Introspection area features a slightly raised platform covered with garden grass and small wildflowers. A couch is there for silent reflection. The mirror is situated behind the sitting area. In front of a hedge, there is a floating key. When you touch it, it will ask, “A reflection meant for you reveals: What belief about yourself no longer serves you and is ready to be released?” 

The Native American Wisdom Circle was one of my favorite areas on the sim.

Walking towards the Native American Wisdom Circle, Sedona’s prompt states, “This is a sacred space of ancestral knowledge, reflection, and connection.” 

“The campfire burns as a symbol of warmth, storytelling, and transformation. Gather here to honor the wisdom of the past and the power of shared experience,” said another prompt.

Click Mother Drum for a menu of sounds. The sections are Seasons, Journey, Canyon, Tribal, Perfection, Creation, Callback, and Rabbit. Click one or all. Raise your computer’s volume so you can hear them louder and feel their power. A dreamcatcher is at the river’s edge, as well as the Chief and Elder Fox. Click both for words of wisdom.

“Learn about healing and protection from the bear. Embrace adaptability and resourcefulness with the fox. Discover the meaning of dreams by touching the dreamcatcher,” says Sedona’s prompt.

Sedona Starchild and her companion, Veil, in the sound bath.

 

 After five visits, I noticed that Sedona was online, so I contacted her. I was invited to see the sound bath. She told me, “After years of holding live meditations, I learned the importance of evolving how I hold space. The sound bath now offers ongoing meditations, Tibetan bowls, and shamanic journeys, allowing people to engage in their own time and way.”

Those chosen landscapes and attention to detail have been carefully arranged. This is the type of sim designed for self-discovery. Somewhere to venture to when you want to be alone to think about your life and the direction you wish to take. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Luminara/113/157/25

Netera Landar

Sable Hound Hollow ‘s Winter Reverie

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

Here is another beautiful, full of fun region not to miss during the Christmas season and after. Sable Hound Hollow ‘s Winter Reverie may be open until the end of January or at least until January 10 Honey Heart told me so keep that in mind to plan a visit. The whole site is enchanting . The windlight sets the tone as the snow is sparkling and the décor is charming. There is a list of Things to do here and the last line expresses the vision ,” Bask in the peace and serenity”. 

The sleigh ride gives an overview of the area so hop on to enjoy the winter foliage and see the sites you don’t want to miss. . 

Many little resting places allow for photo opportunities. I love the mushroom theme that show up among the trees and shrubs. I passed a tree lot and made sure to return there to find that all the trees are free to gather along with some wreathes and other décor. Don’t miss it!

A large Dragon flew over head at one point and later I found its resting spot. Ride a Unicorn pony on the carousel . Different ponies are walking on different days and give a gift if you follow the directions . It is evident that this is an ethereal place with dragons and unicorns. No wonder the owners say ,”Sable Hound Hollow's Winter Reverie is where frostlit wonder meets quiet magic. “ I fully believe it ! 

Skating on the very large pond gives one a chance to listen to the music , enjoy the ice and all the decorations along the edge.

If you join the group there are two advent calendars to look for. At the entrance are directions for a Snowflake Crown Hunt also. Click for directions.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Sable%20Hound%20Hollow/55/217/3247

I had a chance to get over to the Premier Business Center where Jardinalexis hosted a Whitney Houston SL (Whitney Hexem)live singer skating party. It was a lovely time with many attendees enjoying every minute as usual.

After that I made a stop over at the Bellisseria Fairgrounds which has been transformed into the Bellisseria Animal Sanctuary annual winterwonderland event by our cute Hammies. It is lovely and offered more skating opportunities at the Sunday party where Fuyuko '冬子' Amano (Wintergeist Resident) was spinning her holiday tunes for us. It was great fun. Take a walk on the winding paths and stop by the fire for some cocoa.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bellisseria%20Fairgrounds/149/226/24

Gemma Cleanslate