October 2017 – VEGAS UNFILTERED BLOG by Sam Novak

Hiding In Plain Sight: Gabe Ginsberg, The Invisible Man

Sin City’s own BMOC (Big Man of Cameras) is everywhere…but he doesn’t want you to see him…

There are certain people that we tend to bump into a lot, no matter what we’re doing or where we are. Sometimes we don’t even know those folks, but after several run-ins, there comes a point of “Hey, how are ya?”. Then friendship quite often ensues.

Gabe Ginsberg is one of those guys. While covering events for VegasChatter (and that other site), I’d frequently see him on the media scaffolds, snapping red-carpet shots for Getty Images. Clad in black from head to toe and carrying large amounts of gear on his imposing frame, Gabe still managed to blend into the background. He is quiet, efficient, completely inconspicuous…and delightfully intriguing.

There seems to be a certain culture among show-business photographers. Simultaneously friends and competitors, these guys kid around, gossip about happenings in the city and sometimes talk shit about one another. But not Gabe Ginsberg…he loves everyone and they all love him.

Hanging with The Man at the annual Mike Hammer Celeb Go-Kart fundraiser…

After rubbing shoulders a time or two, Gabe and I started chatting online and in person. His self-deprecating humor was infectious. He’d also tease me for being a “celebrity” while calling himself a “poor working schmuck”. You see, I’ve been in the unique situation of standing next to him with my camera AND being a guest at events he was covering. Funny how my face never made it to People Magazine.

Yes, Gabe Ginsberg’s photos make it to People. And Billboard, MSN, CBS All Access, Us Weekly, Forbes, USA Today, Men’s Health, Huffington Post and many other print and online outlets. His lenses have captured the likenesses of Miley Cyrus, Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, Drake, the Kardashian beasts (bills won’t pay themselves), Ben Affleck, John Cena, Ricky Martin, Floyd Mayweather and countless others.

Gabe (left) in action at John Carpenter’s Halloween concert at Hard Rock Hotel…

Always respectful of celebrities and their space, Gabe is anything but an aggressive paparazzi type. This family man is an avid lover of nature, animals and glorious landscapes. His compassion for Las Vegas came through gorgeously in his coverage of the recent shooting tragedy. But let’s stick to things of beauty.

Despite his worldwide coverage, Ginsberg is a favorite at local events and charity functions. He covers movie premieres, fundraisers, show openings, concerts and sporting events, too.

Earlier this year, Gabe kept busy by shooting menu items for restaurants hopping aboard the UberEATS delivery service. And on the personal side, his skills guarantee you’ll get amazing portraits, family photos and Christmas Cards (now is the time to schedule your session, folks).

What I love most about Gabe, aside from his cuddly demeanor, is his twisted sense of humor. Scouring every corner of Las Vegas during a typical day, Ginsberg encounters a wide array of bizarre situations…and he writes about them regularly on his Facebook page.

His “Dumbass of the Day” series never fails to crack me up. It’s biting, hysterical and brutally honest – even when he points the finger towards himself:

So wherever you may be in Las Vegas, keep on the lookout for the amazing Man In Black, Gabe Ginsberg. Despite his efforts to remain anonymous, he’ll be easy to spot. Just look for the crowd of celebrities clamoring to get their photos taken with HIM!

Gabe Ginsberg is available for many types of freelance work. You can learn more or contact him by clicking here.

Photos: Gabe Ginsberg via Facebook, Sammasseur

Alex O’Connor – Sin City Superman

Getting to know the hardest-working bartender in Las Vegas…

Much like the beacon atop the Luxor, the lights and excitement of Las Vegas are known to draw the ambitious and hopeful. There are limitless opportunities for a person with skill, drive, and personality to make a name for themselves. That’s what brought mixologist Alex O’Connor here four years ago. And this Sin City Superman has never slowed down.

I first met Alex O’Connor three summers ago under the misters at O’Shea’s Casino outdoor bar. Despite the stifling heat, the handsome bodybuilder was all smiles and charisma, serving out cold beers with a healthy dose of anecdotes and advice for Vegas newbies. It was his multi-tasking abilities and respectful attitude toward the customers that made me sit up and take note…not that a six-foot-three behemoth is likely to go unnoticed.

Jump ahead to last winter, and I spot Alex behind the bar at Share, a now-shuttered gay nightclub on Wynn Road. Clad only in boxer briefs and a smile (sigh….), he was once more gathering crowds while serving drinks in a fast-and-furious fashion. That’s exactly what makes Alex O’Connor the happiest – heightening the customer’s experience however possible.

It turns out that Alex works in LOTS of places on and around the Strip. In addition to O’Shea’s, he’s been on the payroll for Drai’s Beachclub /Nightclub, the Center Bar at Hard Rock Hotel, Jewel Nightclub at Aria Resort, the pool bar at Treasure Island and private functions on the side.

With a schedule like that, it’s difficult to imagine how anyone could get proper sleep, let alone keep up a physique like his.

“During the week I try for at least 3-4 hours. On the weekends, I’m lucky to get an hour nap here or there between doubles. I pretty much plan my days around my work schedules and going to the gym as well. I love to put my headphones on and hit the LVAC. My size is dictated by my work schedule. If I have leftover time, rarely, I leave it for errands”.

When I asked Alex how he got to be so disciplined, he told me it was self-taught. Family difficulties motivated him to move out on his own while he was a junior in high school. He worked full time and supported himself in his North Haven Connecticut hometown while still going to high school. But he’d already been working at a country club since the age of thirteen, a job he kept and expanded on for several years.

Alex’s first experiences behind the bar were as a bar-back, helping keep things stocked and neat. Eventually, he became a full-fledged bartender and attributes his organizational skills as a secret to fast service. He likes to arrive far in advance of a shift, making sure everything is “just right” and where he wants it.

Alex says that some bars are much more stringent than others when it comes to monitoring the less-significant health code requirements, like the positioning of the ice scoop or keeping a bottle opener in the back pocket. While he recognized the importance of health department regulations, some are harder to adjust to…and it tends to be the minor ones that slow down his ability to keep the drinks flowing:

“We’re charging premium prices in the places I work. The customers deserve premium service to go along with it. It’s my job to give them what they want with a minimum of wait time…so they can get back to having fun”.

Nobody wants to give or receive slow service but think back to the number of times you’ve stood at the bar, seemingly ignored and passed over time and time again. Sure, it happens inadvertently, but Alex has some tips:

“Having your order and money ready will get the quickest service. Especially in the high volume venues, this is imperative. I like to make what the customer will enjoy. If they don’t know, I ask what spirit they enjoy and go from there. Generous tipping doesn’t hurt, either”.

Lightning-fast service is what got Alex hired for his first gig at Hard Rock Hotel’s infamous Rehab Pool Parties. He sent in an audition video of himself, rapidly slinging drinks during a peak period, to Rehab’s manager. One fortuitous plane flight later and O’Connor was trading a longtime gig in New Haven for the Las Vegas party scene. He enjoys working at all types of establishments, including LGBTQ clubs like Gotham Citi in New Haven and the former Krave of Vegas.

“I’ve worked in gay clubs for over ten years. I love the busy seasons, whether it be the holidays or convention time. The busier the better”.

With his name currently on at least three payrolls, Alex doesn’t get back home to Connecticut very often. But when he does, he picks up shifts at his old stomping grounds in New Haven. He literally works seven days a week, 365 days a year, making this young man the hardest-working bartender in Las Vegas. He clearly loves what he does and refuses to slow his pace.

When asked what form of Kryptonite can bring down this Sin City Superman, Alex quipped “Stealing my protein bars will ruin my day.”

This article previously appeared in a different form on another website.

Photos: Sammasseur, Alex O’Connor

Hidden Vegas: Aladdin’s Desert Passage Shops

Looking skyward for curiosities that make up “Hidden Vegas”…

Finding remnants from the bygone days of Vegas is always a treat. I’ve been scouring the mezzanines, peering under tarps and poking my camera through keyholes to find curiosities that sail under the radar for most people.

Last night while meeting friends for drinks and a show, I looked to the skies…from the inside of Miracle Mile Shops of Planet Hollywood. There I found remains of the formerly Arabian-themed Desert Passage Shops.

I started coming to Las Vegas in 2005, and had only been through the Aladdin Resort once or twice. At that time, the Planet Hollywood restaurant chain was in deep trouble with closures taking place around the country.

The announcement that Aladdin would be re-branded as Planet Hollywood Hotel Casino seemed very foolhardy. Sure, the movement to de-theme Strip resorts was in full swing and Middle-eastern-flavored places like Aladdin and Sahara had fallen out of fashion in a post-9/11 world. But Planet Hollywood??? That decision seemed as out-of-touch as renaming it after dying restaurant chains like Chi-Chi’s or Kenny Roger’s Roasters.

Shows how much I knew, as Planet Hollywood Hotel is now a hip, popular middle-tier destination, with stars like Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull frequently on the marquee. Of course their biggest draw is Britney Spears, so there’s still plenty of dried-up cheese on the Planet Hollywood menu.

The existing hotel is the second Aladdin to be built on this part of the Strip. The original opened in 1966 and was imploded in 1998. A new Aladdin was rebuilt from the ground up and opened its doors in 2000. Seven years later it officially became Planet Hollywood Resort.

The Arabian motif was gradually stripped from both the hotel and adjoining Desert Passage Shops, which received a new frontage and glossy modern exterior. Inside, the corridors got a top-to-bottom makeover. Most of the ceiling was painted into a matte-gray finish, discouraging shoppers from gazing upward at the former faux skies.

However, not everything was taken away. There are two distinct areas within the mall where the original decor survives. One surrounds the V Theater complex and fountain show.

The other is nestled under the indoor rainstorm.

Perhaps it’s telling that the domes, citadels and faux village structures that comprise the Desert Passage remnants exist where other attractions demand your attention…and offer a convenient distraction. You’ll find be hard-pressed to find any mention of them on the glitzy, contemporary Miracle Mile website.

The Arabian architecture of Desert Passage is clearly…and hilariously…out-of-sync with the rest of the Mile.

Until very recently, the south-facing exterior of the mall along Harmon Avenue still carried the Aladdin facade. The removal of Krave nightclub and opening of Buffalo Wild Wings and another Nacho Daddy finally jump-started the finishing of that section.

It’s uncertain if the remaining Arabic interior will eventually get stripped out and de-themed. But for the time being, it’s another chapter in our book of Vegas curiosities.

This article previously appeared in a different form on another website.

Images: Sammasseur with additional stills from Miracle Mile Shops via Facebook, wishuwerehere.com and Greg C.

Sin City Skydiving – The Ultimate Vegas High

That time when I took a flying leap for my birthday celebration…

This article previously appeared on another website…

Most of us have experienced the thrill of viewing Las Vegas from the air. But how many of you have seen that memorable skyline from a free-fall at 12,000 feet? I did just that on my 54th birthday at Sin City Skydiving a few weeks ago, and it truly was the ultimate Vegas thrill.

Before you say “No way in Hell!” –believe me– that this writer was once of that attitude. Friends have teased my lack of risk-taking and for always playing it safe. But when 2017 rolled around, I decided to make this my “Year of Adventure.”

Step number one was to take my first trip to Mexico…and a solo one at that. It was quite a saga, filled with mishaps, excitement…and lots of scratches to the bucket list. So January was a terrific start.

February is my birthday month, and I always celebrate it with festivities in and around Las Vegas. This time, my New Year’s resolution required a little more oomph than the ordinary nightclub-and-hangover debauchery. Not long after returning from Cancun, the idea to sky-dive hit me while sleeping. So I woke up, ran to my computer and did some research on skydiving services around the Las Vegas valley…at 3:30 in the morning.

Narrowing it down to three finalists, I decided to go with Sin City Skydiving in Jean, Nevada. There were various reasons to select this company, including very positive reviews, a nicely-kept Facebook page, the convenient location of their office and the lowest overall price (the regular rate for a tandem jump is $249, but mine qualified for a seasonal special of $199).

The short drive (20 minutes) from Vegas to Jean is pleasant and scenic. Sin City Skydiving is very easy to find off of Interstate 15 at exit 12, near the grand old Gold Strike Casino.

As you might expect from such a risky undertaking, there are certain health requirements to meet…and LOTS of paperwork to fill out in advance. While it isn’t stated in the official literature, you should not be afraid of heights or prone to panic attacks, IMO.

Jumper Requirements:
All jumpers must be at least 18 years old with a photo ID, weigh 220 pounds or less and height/weight proportionate, be in good physical and mental health. You must be 100% Alcohol & Drug-Free — absolutely no alcohol or illegal drugs may be in your system when you arrive for your jump. Every jumper needs to bring a government-issued photo ID with them — NO EXCEPTIONS.

A free shuttle can be arranged to pick you up at your hotel if you wish. Jumpers must arrive at the office no less than 30 minutes prior to their jump time…this is to sign waivers, receive instruction and suit up. Jumpsuit and goggles are provided – it’s recommended that you dress for the temperature and are required to wear lace-up shoes (I wish I’d brought gloves, too). You’ll be put through a variety of physical maneuvers, shown an instructional video and given a one-on-one lecture on do’s/don’ts and an opportunity to ask questions.

From there, it’s just a short walk out to the runway and into the plane that will lift you high over the desert. The plane itself is very small, and you will be tethered to your instructor the whole way. He will be recording the entire experience via a high-def GoPro camera. You can purchase pictures and/or video to take home with you on a data DVD (I sprang for both for $99….after all, it IS a once-in-a-lifetime event…maybe).

My instructor Jake was very charismatic and made me feel at ease the entire time. A seasoned police officer, he now works full time at Sin City Skydiving, doing what he REALLY loves. His confidence and professionalism were quite reassuring…I never felt uncomfortable or in danger.

The ride to 12,000 feet was wonderfully scenic. As we climbed to the jump altitude, Jake pointed out the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Charleston, the shimmer of Lake Mead, an astonishing array of solar collectors…and of course, the beautiful Las Vegas skyline. Below us, I spotted the landing area we’d be heading for, along with Jean Airport itself, which now seemed so tiny.

Although the day was clear and sunny (February 23rd), it was surprisingly chilly…especially once the jump door was opened and I swung my legs outside. The cold air hit my face like a blast of ice (and stayed numb for several hours afterward).

Before I realized, we were already in free fall. It’s nearly impossible to explain the number of thoughts and emotions that crossed through my mind as we plunged towards the Earth. But one thing stood out: This was REALLY happening! From the whim of an idea to actuality in just a few short weeks, I was doing something I’d never have imagined trying before.

I’d kind of expected to have a shocking jolt to my body once the chute was pulled, but that wasn’t the case. In fact, I had to look up to confirm that we were now gliding. Jake gave me the straps to hold onto for awhile; then he steered us into spirals and swoops as we headed towards the landing spot.

The adrenaline rush was somewhat overwhelming….I may have shed an emotional tear or two, although the expression on my face looks more like terror in the photographs. It was actually a combination of the wind, cold and pressure…I was never once afraid.

As the ground drew closer, I spotted my friend, taking photos of us and the other tandem pair from our flight. Two crew members were near her, waiting to safely guide us into place and detach us from our chute when we arrived. The landing was amazingly smooth and peaceful…a sharp contrast to the jubilant pumping of my own heart.

The drive back to Sin City Skydiving was brief but exhilarating. My friend, who’d flown in from Pittsburgh to witness the jump and celebrate my birthday, was almost as giddy as me. Despite having little sleep in the hours leading up to that morning, I found myself unable to nap that afternoon or easily fall asleep in the evening. The imagery and adrenaline came back every time I closed my eyes…and I didn’t mind it one darn bit.

As a regular visitor, I’ve experienced many thrills, memorable moments and once-in-a-lifetime adventures during my stays. But nothing can surpass the thrill of leaping from a plane over the Mojave desert. Sin City Skydiving truly is the ultimate Las Vegas high.

Sin City Skydiving operates 365 days per year (weather permitting). Gratuities are accepted (this writer tipped 20%). Located at 23600 S. Las Vegas Blvd in Jean, Nevada. Call 702.300.8508 or toll-free 877.727.5867 for reservations or more information.

Photos: Sammasseur, Jake at Sin City Skydiving

Future Superstars: Singer Willie Gomez Emerges From Britney’s Shadow

Spear’s longtime dancer is a vocalist who’s about to explode…

People flocked to Britney Spear‘s residency ever since it opened at Planet Hollywood in 2013. The large-scale production turned out to be a huge hit with her fans across the world. Britney – Piece Of Me was all about the star’s impressive songbook, spectacle, costumes, and dancing.

However, there was secretly a powerhouse singer on that stage along with the pop star. His name is Willie Gomez, and he’s working to make sure his voice is also heard around the world.

Gomez, who grew up in Miami, was inspired to take dance lessons after watching Britney Spears videos in his youth. That inner fire served him well, as he’s been featured in three of Britney’s music videos. A few months after appearing in Womanizer with her in 2008, he was cast as a principal in the pop singer’s Circus tour.

Willie remains a member of Britney’s dance crew and was a part of the Piece of Me residency from the beginning. They embarked on a short-term set of dates across Israel and Asia last summer before returning to Planet Hollywood for a final round of performances that ended on New Year’s Eve 2017.

Even though this writer is not a Britney fan, friends frequently urged me to check out the show. So I did…by way of YouTube. What I discovered was riveting – a small army of very attractive dancers with precision choreography and stage presence. Despite all of them being world class performers, one in particular stood out. His physique, facial gestures and movements were just in another league.

Being an admirer of hard-working performers, I had to know more. It took a bit of research to identify Willie’s name. Fortunately, he has an established fan base who mentioned his name in the video comments. They raved about his dancing…and his singing?

Yes, Willie has his own Youtube Channel with a growing collection of music videos. This is his most recent:

https://youtu.be/3UEqva4_eTE?si=BtSA8Qi1lE1zBg7i

You can also check out his cover songs via Soundcloud by clicking here.

As the fates would have it, Willie is friends with a Hollywood chiropractor that I used to work with a dozen years ago in Fort Lauderdale. Dr. Steve Hoorn connected us and Willie agreed to meet for a conversation. A short while later, the two of us were having coffee before one of his performances at Britney: Piece of Me at Planet Hollywood.

It’s hard to describe the feeling you get when you encounter a person with that intangible “something.” There’s an energy they give off…an electric feeling you perceive almost subliminally. Willie has that aura. There’s a fire in his eyes and he crackles with energy, magnetism, and lots of warmth.

As much as Willie loves to dance, he feels he’s ready to share his passion for singing with the world. The videos that he’s released so far have been covers of songs by other artists. His expressive vocals give those familiar compositions a unique flavor. Now he’s preparing a collection of original recordings.

“I’m very involved in song-writing. I know what kind of songs I want to sing and there are some great writers working with me. They understand what I feel and how I want to bring those emotions across. Together we’ve collaborated on pieces that reflect who I am as an artist”.

Willie’s great looks have placed him on the cover of several magazines. Modeling and acting have brought him plenty of attention, but now he’d like to scale that back a little. When asked how important looks and sexuality are for a successful music career, he had this to say:

“I’ve done plenty of magazine shoots…and I’ve shown a lot of my body. It’s been fun, but they always want you to show more…and more. The past few years I’ve been getting away from that. I want my music to speak for itself, without relying on sex or gimmicks to sell it”.

While that philosophy is great for career longevity, there’s no question that Willie’s video performances have been drenched in fluid sexuality. Much of it undoubtedly came from his collaborations with Britney, which overflow with hot bodies of both genders.

After our conversation, Willie had me as his guest for Piece of Me. It was my first time seeing the show, but I learned during our conversation that I’d unknowingly seen him perform a few years back at the Caesars Palace Coliseum.

Willie was an aerialist in Australian pop star Kylie Minogue‘s incredible Aphrodite tour. That stunning, massive production was once rumored to be eyeing a Vegas residency. “I doubt you would have recognized me back then” he joked. “My head was shaved and I was mostly hanging upside down”.

Along with Minogue, Willie has shared the stage with the likes of Katy Perry, Christina Aguilera, Mary J. Blige, Kesha and many prominent Latino artists. But his loyalty to the pop princess is strong.

“The thing about Britney is that she allows us to be ourselves. Sure, we’re doing the choreo, but she encourages me and the others to make it our own. She’s very supportive, which is why I work with her. Not all artists are like that”.

Eventually, Britney posted a video message on her Instagram page, wishing Gomez luck on his singing career: “Willie is a dancer of mine, and not only is he a great dancer, but he is an amazing singer…and I had no clue. You’re amazing, good luck on your project, and I’m sending all my kisses to you”.

With a few years of preparation behind him, the Dominican Republic native made plans to release a four-song EP, tentatively entitled “My Life”. He began the process by enlisting his favorite writers, producers, and directors. Then came an Indiegogo crowd-funding campaign to help finance the project.

The hardest thing, though, was just gathering enough courage to take the first steps:

“From the time I was a little boy I had big dreams, with music running through my veins. But, I had fear in my heart. I was afraid of rejection and sharing who I really was, and what I always wanted to be – a singer”.

Willie did his first concert appearance in LA not long after the original version of this article appeared on another site. He posted some highlights and was thrilled by the response:

It’s only matter of time before Willie Gomez goes from a backup dancer to a full-fledged marquee name. With so many successes already under his belt, I asked the dancer/singer/actor/model how he’d most like to be remembered years from now:

No matter what I do, I give it my all. Right now I’m focused on my passion for singing. But I don’t want to be categorized for just one thing. I’m a performer.

That’s who I am.

Britney Spears has reportedly signed for an upcoming series of shows at PARK MGM Theater beginning in 2019.

.Photos: Willie Gomez via Instagram/Facebook/Youtube, Sammasseur

Pride, Prejudice and a “Pitchfork”

Choreographer Glenn Douglas Packard redefines coming-out dramas with a genre-bending slasher film…

People who run on creative energy frequently have a passion project tucked away deep inside their mind. It lives there, growing and taking shape until it finally breaks free and becomes reality. For Emmy-nominated dance man Glenn Douglas Packard, that secret desire has been the creation of his own horror epic.

Glenn and I first connected in the cyber-world a few years back when a mutual friend posted a review of a movie thriller. As my longtime Florida buddy (who also happens to be named Glenn) and I were discussing the merits and shortcomings of the film, Packard chimed in…and I was like “Hey…aren’t you the guy from Men of the Strip?”.

Being a fan of MOTS frontman Jeff Timmons (98 Degrees), I’d had the good fortune to pen numerous Vegas Chatter articles about the show. Packard and crew had just wrapped up their splashy showcase at Mandalay Bay’s House of Blues and it seemed surreal that we were now debating slasher films from far-flung corners of the country.

Packard, Timmons and Foland at Men of the Strip rehearsal…

Fast forward to summer 2017, and once again I’m in Las Vegas, shadowing Timmons, show financier “Money” Mike Foland and Packard for a relaunch of Men of the Strip. One evening after rehearsals, Glenn and I (along with his associate and right-hand man David Mayorga) headed over to LGBTQ locals’ gem The Garage for cocktails…and to discuss how they turned Packard’s imagination into a silver-screen reality.

Pitchfork was created in the spirit of 70’s and 80’s franchises that, like their titular villains, refuse to stay dead. But the film’s tagline “Every Generation Has Its Monster” cuts a bit deeper. In our era of political turmoil, where LGBTQ citizens view the White House with concern and suspicion, one might ask who the true monster is.

At the home of main character “Hunter”, that answer is even more complex. Returning to his family’s sprawling rural dairy farm and estate, Hunter is about to face a stern father who recently learned of his son’s homosexuality. Hunter’s not coming back alone though, as his art-school classmates have packed into a van for the weekend to throw him a coming-out party of sorts.

Sexual dynamics are front and center in most slasher films. Those barn-loft trysts and back-seat hookups inevitably lead to a bloody demise. In Pitchfork, sex and sexual subtext permeate nearly every sequence, especially as the story reaches its outrageous climax.

It’s no accident that Pitchfork‘s maniac is a muscular, shirtless man…abs and pecs on display as he slices his way through the cast of characters. Under other circumstances he might be considered hot…in a kinky kind of way. But there’s the issue of a farm tool in place of his left hand. That’s one detail you’d probably leave out of your Grindr profile.

Both Hunter and “Pitch” have daddy issues and highly involved mothers. Each views himself as an outsider, desiring acceptance from his respective family. How they deal with being different, the way they were raised…and how they turn out as adults…offer a strong metaphor for “growing up gay” in today’s volatile and ever-changing society.

When dreaming up the concept for Pitchfork, it’s unlikely that Packard envisioned he’d one day be acting as its producer, director, casting supervisor and choreographer, too. Yes…choreographer. Would you seriously expect a bunch of vacationing art students to NOT have a barn dance on their gay buddy’s farm?

Did someone say “Barn Dance”?

Despite this being his directorial debut, Packard fills Pitchfork with plenty of style and memorable imagery. The camera swoops in and around each scene, accentuated with glorious aerial shots and starkly-lit night sequences by cinematographer/editor Rey Gutierrez. It boggles the mind that the film was recorded with a single camera in 21 days on the director’s own family farm.

Men of the Strip’s Keith Webb gets a sticky facial…

Like most passion projects, family and friends offered their time and energy to make Pitchfork a reality. Dancer Keith Webb, who also worked with Packard on Men of the Strip, amps up the cast’s hunk quotient as an ill-fated jock.

Plenty of Sin City DNA infuses the heart and soul of Pitchfork. Vegas resident Mayorga from Zombie Burlesque and Men of the Strip served as Assistant Director. Darryl F. Gariglio of Grand Adventures Tours Las Vegas was its Executive Producer/writer. Chris Arrendondo, who creates the eerie creatures and characters for Circus Circus Fright Dome, did the stunning make-up work.

Packard and David Mayorga (back row) clown around with the cast….

During filming, Packard revealed a rather moving detail in the film’s making-of documentary: the lair where “Pitch” brings his victims is the actual shack that the director retreated to when he was bullied as a child.

Growing up as a gay person, especially in a rural community, can leave scars that never disappear. In Packard’s case, he used his own safe haven as a symbol for the damage that society can inflict on a developing psyche. His courage to face those memories and channel them into something positive is echoed in a soul-baring “It Gets Better” video from 2010.

Packard told me in our conversations that the effort that went into filming Pitchfork was crazy and intense, yet everyone seemed to have a great time. One would assume that the cast of eager young actors found it cool to be in a horror movie.

Since its release, Pitchfork has won accolades and awards throughout the horror-film universe. Now that Halloween season has arrived it’s finding a new legion of fans, especially within the LGBTQ community.

Glenn continues to promote the film via conventions and screenings. And there’s even a new comic-book novelization by actor/artist Andrew Dawe-collins (“Pa Hollister” in the film) that you can check out here.

Any worthwhile slasher entry teases a sequel, even when the killer seems to be dead and dismembered. In Pitchfork, the unpredictable left-field denouement will leave you gasping…and clamoring for more. Luckily, Glenn told me that ideas for Pitchfork 2 and 3 are already swirling in his semi-twisted mind.

That’s great news for chiller-thriller fans, because every generation needs its monster-movie king. Like John Carpenter and Wes Craven before him, Glenn Douglas Packard is on his way to becoming the next Master of Horror.

Pitchfork is available on a Special Edition Blu Ray/DVD and streaming services like REVRY, YouTube Movies and Amazon Prime.

Photos: Pitchfork, David Mayorga

“Greece” Is The Word

“Vegas Unfiltered” is about to go on a very short hiatus…

Hi, all! I want to express my appreciation to everyone who has joined me here at Vegas Unfiltered. I’m having a great time sharing my experiences and thoughts with you and hope you’re enjoying yourself as well.

I’ll be taking a short break to head off to Europe on my first cruise…ever. Italy, Greece, Albania and Croatia are on the itinerary. Hubby and some friends will be with me for the biggest adventure yet…outside of Vegas, of course.

When V/U returns in two weeks, you may see a new look to the site. I’m working with a fantastic media person, a local Vegas mover-and-shaker, who is planning on integrating my page into his platform. This will yield a superior user-friendly design and a very attractive site. The date isn’t specific right now, but very close.

Until then, enjoy the articles already here and have a great couple of weeks.

Sammasseur

#VegasStrong

Finding Serenity At Westgate’s New Spa

Park City’s award-winning facility brings mountain-retreat comforts to Vegas…

There’s something uniquely American about the community of Park City, Utah. No matter the season, the mountain top ski-centric Park City offers crystal clean air, gorgeous vistas and a warm, eclectic culture.

Westgate Las Vegas (my favorite middle-tier resort) benefited from Park City’s dining offerings when it opened its own branch of Edge Steakhouse. That exceptional restaurant is always my response when friends/readers ask “Where should I go for that one special meal?”.

It was only a matter of time before the local Westgate Resort welcomed another Park City treasure to their Sin City line-up…and their spa is a great one at that. Serenity Spa of Park City has won dual awards from Best of State – Utah for the past five years, including 2017: “Best Spa in Park City” and “Best Destination Spa”.

Bringing the reputation and quality of a popular mountain retreat to the Mojave Valley results in a natural pairing, even without the snow and ski lifts. The expansive and easily-accessible Serenity Las Vegas should be a popular go-to for anxious, tired visitors…especially in these troubled times.

The impressive footprint of Serenity is located on the hotel’s third level, where a massive pool deck is also home to one of the best workout facilities of any Vegas hotel. In fact, the size of the gym area has nearly doubled since my last visit and it was already superior to most.

The spa and fitness center share an entrance with iBlowDry hair salon. The welcoming lobby has a reception counter and waiting area along with various products displayed for sale. Notable is the new Queen of Versailles skin care and treatment line, launched in recognition of Jackie Siegel (Mrs. Florida Pageant winner and wife of Westgate Resorts owner David Siegel).

As is customary with stateside spas, there are separate areas for male and female guests with the treatment rooms in between. You’ll be provided with a robe, sandals and a digital locker prior to your treatment, along with a brief tour of the wet areas (saunas, steam rooms, soaking tubs) and relaxation spots. Juices, bottled water, cucumber slices and towel are offered, so be sure to indulge.

Following the tradition of most health spas, certain areas are clothing-optional, so cameras and phones are prohibited (their usage would also detract from the soothing atmosphere). Therefore, expect to leave your electronics and belongings in a secured locker at all times. You’ll note that this prevented me from taking pictures of those areas as well.

Services at the spa are grouped into four major categories: nail services (like a “lush manicure” or gel pedicure), facials (including a 50-minute “Gentleman’s”), body treatments for exfoliation and detoxification…and of course, a variety of individual and couples’ massages.

An entire list of services and prices can be seen by clicking here. For those who are new to the world of spas, a breakdown of procedures and etiquette is included at the bottom of the chart.

Keep in mind that these are luxury services performed by expertly-trained licensed professionals in a custom-designed environment. Therefore, the associated fees reflect that…but are well worth it for the pampering and lasting effects you’ll enjoy.

As an invited guest, I was scheduled for a 75-minute Himalayan Salt Stone Massage ($195). This therapeutic session combines precise relaxation strokes with the melting comforts of heated, hand-carved Himalayan salt stones. My therapist, Eric, was incredibly skilled with them, easing the tensions in my workout-stiff muscles and bringing my mind and body to an amazing level of calm.

In case you’ve wondered, my pen name “Sammasseur” comes from the fact that I was a licensed massage therapist for many years. I performed hundreds of hours of massage at numerous resorts, hotels, a chiropractic office and in my own studio. So I feel pretty qualified in recognizing a skilled body-worker…and Eric was top-notch.

After your scheduled treatment, you will have access to all of the spa facilities for the remainder of the day. This fella chose to drink in the steam room vapors while reclining with chilled eucalyptus towels on my forehead and neck. Then it was back to the relaxation room for some fruit-infused water.

If you need to prepare for your next adventure or an evening out, fully-stocked showers are available, along with toiletries to shave, shine your choppers and style your hair. Or you can venture out to the pool deck for some fun, sun and refreshments….

On certain evenings, Westgate is one of several hosts to a relatively new activity – Silent Savasana yoga classes. These large-scale sunset events provide participants with LED-lit headphones that bring creator/instructor Dray Gardner‘s voice intimately close as the sun’s rays diminish. Simultaneously, a custom-designed music playlist yields an enhanced feeling of focus, discipline and strength of mind.

I was invited to attend Silent Savasana but had another adventure planned for that evening. However, I did stop by briefly beforehand and witnessed dozens upon dozens of dedicated Silent Savasana fans pouring onto the pool deck.

If you’re intrigued, the next one at Westgate is scheduled for November 4th at 7pm. There is no entry fee and all ages are welcome.

With all of the tensions that the world throws at us on a regular basis, it’s wonderfully therapeutic to splurge and allow yourself to be pampered on vacation…or during a stay-cation. Serenity Spa at Westgate is a great new destination for your serene experience.

Serenity Spa’s business hours are from 6am to 8pm daily. Special discounted package rates are available each Monday, Thursday and Sunday which include gratuity and a glass of wine. For more information or to book a service, call 702.732.5648.

Photos: Sammasseur, Westgate Las Vegas, Silent Savasana, TripAdvisor

A Day of Sorrow

Today we face yet another horrible tragedy. This one will linger for a very long time as it hits so close to home.

I was with a friend on the north end of the Strip at a show last evening. We decided to leave early and I was already in my room at Westgate as events unfolded. I’ve spent the better part of this morning contacting friends to check their status and advise them on mine.

If you are in the area and would like to help, blood donations are needed. Please stay away from the crime scene to allow the investigation to continue.

A big thank you to everyone who reached out to check on me. May everyone find their loved ones. My condolences to those who have suffered injury or loss. We stand together, united in courage and love.

Sammasseur