Living In Vegas – VEGAS Unfiltered by Sam Novak

Local “Pampered Chefs” Bring the Excitement of Italy to Your Home

Chef Piero Barbagallo and his colleagues help you to create a four-star Italian dining experience for your guests…

In today’s fast-paced world, the popularity of TV food channels and cooking classes continues to grow. Now you can experience the best of both in your own Vegas kitchen…with a world-renowned chef assisting you all the way.

Meet Chef Piero Barbagallo, a manic ball of energy who hails from Palermo, Italy. Chef Piero has cooked at some of the finest restaurants around the world. He’s also been Food and Beverage Manager for a little-known gentleman named Wolfgang Puck, done the same for Trump Tower Las Vegas and has an impressive history of hospitality and management at New York NY, Bellagio and Palazzo.

With credentials like those, it’s hard to grasp that a man of such revered status would be available to cook and entertain in your kitchen, but that’s exactly what Pampered Chef provides. Barbagallo and other members of the Pampered Chef team help you to host parties that spread the word on their products and services while giving you and your friends a true interactive experience.

While Chef Piero treasures his history with several popular Strip restaurants, the exhaustive hours were chipping away at precious time with his young daughter. “I wanted to try something different that would allow me to be home when my daughter returned from school. I’ve been with Pampered Chef only since December, but I already love it!”

It’s clear that Chef Piero’s outgoing personality and passion for his craft are ideal for this type of venture. “I love food. I love people. And I love to entertain. Let me cook for and with you” he exclaims.

Preparations were well underway when I arrived early for a 6 pm party. Chef Piero had already organized the ingredients, which are purchased by the party’s hosts. Special guest Chef Massimilliano Lanzafame of Sicily was hard at working creating a batch of dough. Bottles of wine and Pampered Chef catalogs/pamphlets were spread out on the reception table along with some snacks.

The host location for the party was the Summerlin home of Marina Johnson. Ms. Johnson is an Advanced Director/Trainer who leads her own team of Pampered Chefs. And she made one hell of an eggplant dish just for me when I revealed that my diet plan prohibited me from indulging in the evening’s featured dish….authentic homemade ravioli with bruschetta.

As the three Italians bantered throughout the kitchen in their native language, the flurry of activity felt like a warm, chaotic ballet. A growing number of arrivals filled the kitchen and were invited to have wine, ask questions and participate in the preparation. It all came together in an evening that was part show, part lesson…and all unforgettable fun.

Pampered Chef offers a lot more than in-home cooking parties. They’re a multi-level marketing company that produces kitchen tools, food products and recipe books for the home. Party guests can order items that they’ve tried, take a catalog home and even host a Pampered Chef party for themselves. That gets you free items and substantial discounts to turn your everyday kitchen into a culinary wizard’s workshop.

Although Ms. Johnson’s team consists of the finest Italian chefs, that’s far from the only cuisine that Pampered Chef can do. For instance, February is “Wine, Cheese and Chocolate” Month. Perhaps you’d prefer “Fajitas and Margaritas” or “Fast and Fresh Weeknight Meals”. Whatever your taste, there’s a Pampered Chef theme for you.

Not everyone is a natural-born entertainer (I’m certainly not). And how often do you say “I wish that I (or my spouse) could be a better cook”? With Pampered Chef, your wishes can easily become a reality. They can handle just about any special social event and help you to get it off the ground.

Let Pampered Chef organize your wedding/baby shower, birthday party or fundraiser. Or you can just arrange a traditional Tupperware-style catalog party to introduce your friends to the products they offer…and make a tidy profit for yourself at the same time.

If you’d like to view one of Chef Piero’s cooking classes remotely, tune to his frequent virtual demonstrations via Facebook Live. Or you can cheer him on in person this February 13th when he competes at CHEF BATTLE LAS VEGAS. The event begins 6 pm at Hofbrauhaus, 4510 Paradise Road.

To schedule a cooking party with Chef Piero Barbagallo, call or text him at 702-544-3173 and say that Sam from Vegas Unfiltered sent you. To learn more about Pampered Chef products and services, contact Marina Johnson via this link.

Photos: Sam Novak, Chef Piero Barbagallo

Hot Guys of Vegas: Gentlemen of Influence

Continuing my series on good-looking men who make Sin City a better place to live. In this chapter I visit stylish, classy guys who carry a lot of cultural weight. They’re a whole different kind of “Gentleman’s Club”.

Ricci Lopez-Hammargren – stylist/journalist/voice actor/entrepreneur

Ricci Lopez-Hammargren

Where you’ve seen him – FOX Sports/STITCHED menswear/magazines

It’s often said that when you look good, you feel good. And when you’re wearing a great outfit, your behavior and manners tend to become elevated. That’s how Ricci Lopez-Hammargren has made a significant cultural impact on the male of our species. He’s taken the very definition of “gentleman” and turned it into a living, breathing thing.

Ricci is the handsome face and a guiding force behind STITCHED, the men’s haberdashery at Cosmopolitan that I told you about a few months ago. Much more than a clothing boutique, STITCHED promotes a lifestyle of manners, class, dignity…and quite a lot of fun.

Ricci enjoys bringing his unique talents to the masses. He does so by outfitting many of the most cutting-edge celebrities and athletes in the world today. They turn to Ricci to make themselves better, thereby influencing their followers to do the same.

I’ve had the pleasure of watching Mr. Lopez-Hammargren in action a few times, most notably when he hosted a “Bad Santa” party at TAO Nightclub last month. He’s clearly revered by colleagues, friends and others around him. They’re energized by Ricci’s positivity and overwhelming charm. In our current society, where decorum and manners have seemingly taken flight to parts unknown, it’s wonderful to have men like Ricci Lopez-Hammargren to balance things out.

Notable traits – brooding gaze, warm heart

Mark Shunock – philanthropist/entertainer/emcee

Mark Shunock

Where you’ve seen him – Mondays Dark/Rock of Ages/LV Golden Knights

It’s truly impossible to discuss Las Vegas humanitarian efforts and NOT mention Mark Shunock. This multi-talented hunk personifies community charity on a scale few have ever envisioned, let alone achieve.

As the creator of Mondays Dark and The Space, Mark and his team have raised close to a million dollars for local charities. You can read all about Mondays Dark in my recently-published article on its Five Year Anniversary.

Mark’s a high-energy guy that never sits still. Whether he’s hosting a performance, singing, dancing or emceeing a Golden Knights game, Mark’s attention-grabbing voice and handsome face will hold your attention throughout the final moments. He and wife Cheryl Daro are especially fond of benefits for local animal shelters and have even hosted an adoption drive at The Space.

33157678_1259308327534294_3772229545118138368_n

100cf0ea16068e32fcd010f9ab3710f4_400x400

mv5bmtk2ndc2ndc4nl5bml5banbnxkftztcwmdgznzy4mg@@._v1_sy1000_cr0,0,1502,1000_al_

50049693_1463078687157256_3026121759330926592_n

44390124_1403876016410857_4150130849771159552_n

39032428_1343702872428172_6168155009419575296_n

33834442_1262838170514643_7523784118400712704_n

mv5bmje4odiwmzexof5bml5banbnxkftztcwmdqyndmyoq@@._v1_

46521381_1429518783846580_3127351690366287872_n

Of course, the fact that Mark’s one ridiculously handsome fella ensured that he would eventually make this column. That hair! Those teeth! The matinee-idol looks! No wonder audiences swooned when he entered the stage in the long-running ROCK OF AGES. Even with the mullet wig and 80’s threads, it was impossible to disguise Shunock’s hunk status. Nothing but a good time, Mark!

Notable traits – rosy cheeks, bedroom eyes

Gordon Prouty – public relations/media magnate/fashion icon

Gordon Prouty

Where you’ve seen him – media events/Westgate Las Vegas/charity functions

Any article on Las Vegas’ influential culture is destined to feature Gordon Prouty prominently. This fine gentleman is class personified. The fact that Gordon is such a beloved member of the professional community nicely compliments his status as the city’s best dressed man.

Gordon Prouty is the go-to emcee for any type of media event. He’s a perfect blend of wit, knowledge, charisma, humor and eye candy. “Everyone loves Gordy” is a phrase you’ll often hear when Mr. Prouty is at the podium. From awards programs that honor tech wizards to gatherings that recognize accomplished female professionals, Gordon is the voice and face pf many community functions.

10599556_10152627303323188_1673187926108118036_n (1)

1011800_10152476737644305_3021767560709193634_n

45121067_10217720058938930_5906714362927644672_n (1)

One of the great things about Gordon is that he doesn’t take himself too seriously. He’s always approachable, lighting up the room with his radiant smile and impressive tan. And even though his collection of suits is to be envied, this fitness fanatic looks just as stunning in workout wear.

A true inspiration, Gordon’s tireless efforts to educate, motivate and accelerate the cultural growth of Las Vegas makes him the ultimate role model. I’m proud to call him a friend.

Jamal Parker – publisher/restaurateur/advertising

Jamal Parker

Where you’ve seen him – media gatherings/community events

Our final example of refined class and influence comes courtesy of Jamal Parker. This handsome man about town is a publisher at Greenspun Media Group, the Vegas-based company behind such popular mags as Las Vegas Weekly and Vegas2Go. He’s also worked for labor relations at Bally’s and Paris casinos, owned and operated his own upscale jazz/blues restaurant in Philadelphia (Le Cochon Noir) and served as General Sales Manager for Clear Channel Radio.

Chances are you’ll see Jamal and pal Gordon Prouty at the same events, as both are quite involved in the community efforts of Greenspun Media. Mr. Parker tends to gather crowds at any social function, drawing people in with his powerful voice, sly grin and epic storytelling skills. There’s no subject that Jamal can’t produce a great tale about.

Despite his refined presentation, Jamal is often just as comfortable hunkering down with his favorite team jersey. Whether sipping a fine wine at Edge Steakhouse or cheering on the Golden Knights at Lucky’s Lounge, Jamal knows how to savor every bit of fun and excitement that life in Las Vegas has to offer.

A true family man, Jamal is rarely without the companionship of gorgeous wife Mackenzie. Together with their twin son and daughter, this foursome is a close-knit unit of happiness, love and togetherness. While Sin City can be a rather….er, “complex” place to raise a family, these fine folks make it look easy…and beautiful.

16473137_10211317267547983_1688179724149191194_n

10314702_10208493881048624_5299743310769747793_n

16427795_10212021939487880_1035083089803650334_n

46488599_10218037166584798_8598877267961053184_n

Noteworthy traits – basso profundo voice, fleet-footed dancing skills

All of the gentlemen you’ve met above exemplify a new standard for being a “Hot Guy in Vegas”. I’m sure their friends, families and partners will agree.

Do you know someone who would make a great “Hot Guys of Vegas” candidate? Send me an email at sam@vegasunfiltered.blog and you may see them here in a future chapter.

Hot Guys of Vegas – Humanitarians and the Humane

The latest of my series on the good-looking men who make Las Vegas a better place to live…

Hard to believe so much time has passed, but it’s been five whole months since my last entry in the “Hot Guys of Vegas” series! Since we’ve just come out of the “Season of Giving”, it only seems fitting to salute this current crop of hunks. One way or another, they’re all doing their part to make Las Vegas more live-able, either by promoting businesses, supporting worthy causes…or sharing their love for the animal kingdom.

Ricardo Laguna – Pro BMX rider/ TV personality

Ricardo Laguna

Where you’ve seen him – sporting events, magazines, community functions

There are very few people in Las Vegas who haven’t encountered Ricardo Laguna. This stunning man has been a resident since the age of thirteen. When he’s not emceeing an event, helping with a charity or enjoying time with his family, he’s flying through the air on his BMX bikes. Sometimes he’s doing all of them at once.

Raising funds for the NSPCA at Vegas Indoor Skydiving Tunnel Jam…

Ricardo’s known for his charisma, community efforts and undying love for the city he calls home. He also owns an eye-catching wardrobe, thanks in part to friend Ricci Lopez-Hammargren at STITCHED Men’s Haberdashery (more on Ricci soon). But underneath those gorgeous clothes is an equally stunning body. In or out of a shirt, Ricardo Laguna is always dressed to impress.

46153724_10156028613413862_2131808288679919616_n

43450136_10155957245903862_3144954626713845760_n

44211353_10155977356188862_9194241343860244480_n

38935510_10155837776638862_1382519383825317888_n

44875053_10155992775723862_2660330359782113280_n

47322844_10156070246713862_6135094429939138560_n

44882434_10155994090338862_3866202759539720192_n

46494678_10156045869633862_2675248013856735232_n

44337459_10155981467683862_6972640420190748672_n

Several children’s charities are close to Ricardo’s chest…er, “heart” . You may find him doling out ice cream at Ben & Jerry’s “Free Cone Day” to benefit CASA Foundation or fighting childhood obesity via Jump 4 Joy Foundation. But whatever he’s doing or how high he soars. Ricardo Laguna eventually ends up with his feet…and his wheels…firmly on the ground.

Noteworthy traits – defiance of gravity, ability to great cheese on his abs

Mike Foland – entrepreneur/reality TV star/entertainer

Mike Foland

Where you’ve seen him – E!’s Men of the Strip/FLO Advertising/Chippendales

Mike Foland might not be a household name…unless you’ve seen him as the smooth-talking “Money Mike” in E! Television’s Men of the Strip movie event. Nevertheless, Mike’s presence is felt in just about every corner of Sin City. He’s a man on the move, just like his awesome FLO Advertising mobile digital billboards that you may have seen this blog displayed on.

Foland is one of those guys that everyone seems to know and love…and rightly so. He has his hands in so many operations and activities that it’s hard to describe exactly WHAT Mike does…or just how wide his interests are. Along with the advertising business, Foland works behind the scenes to create new Vegas entertainment, is a member of the National Addiction Center Treatment Alliance and owner of Sunshine Sober Home in Florida.

12074732_10207862724226286_7775955372357699700_n

12821373_10208891539786032_5734783386789388029_n

Mike’s remarkable background is just as varied. The West Palm Beach FL native began as a wrestler which segued into an MMA fighting career. Somehow along the way he managed to become a member of the world-famous Chippendales. No shortage of testosterone in this guy, that’s for sure.

13407275_10209744986801674_7032504005172403553_n

28055870_10215664191898102_6476747793661971371_n

11253228_10207395337261904_5624059003519981380_n

14724561_10210997107623912_5715852992288528869_n

15193568_10211380555929880_667796606085747813_n

24991017_10215098706641324_1089280482644584637_n

15400469_10211565204785986_2700448880453716530_n

Mike says his dancing days are far behind him now, but love for animals will always be a part of him. Very much a cowboy at heart, Mike enjoys farmer life and outdoor activities. Fishing, boating, hiking and diving are all part of what makes this rugged hunk a real “man’s man”. But deep down inside and underneath that ever-present cowboy hat, Mike Foland is a true softie.

Noteworthy traits – gentle demeanor, major masculinity

Jeffrey Frischmann – showroom manager/animal rescuer

Jeffrey Frischmann

Where you’ve seen him – Mike Hammer Comedy Magic/Spirit of the King

If you’ve had the good fortune to attend one of the two sterling shows at Four Queens Hotel Casino, chances are you’ve met young Jeffrey Frischmann. This handsome, soft-spoken boyish gentleman presents himself with a demeanor and elegance reminiscent of the showroom maitre d’s of yesteryear Vegas.

Jeffrey joins Steve Connolly onstage at Spirit of the King…

Jeffrey usually wears a wacky logo t-shirt under his dark blazer. which adequately represents the dual personality of this outstanding guy. Jeffrey’s quite formal on the outside but life-loving and adventure-filled within.

You’d be hard pressed to find a photo of Mr. Frischmann by himself. He’s always with…or holding…someone or something he loves. Married to lovely Ayin with two-year-old daughter Farrah, this family shares their home with some other very special members.

Jeffrey and Ayin are actively involved in providing homes for French bulldogs. As part of Nevada Frenchie Rescue, the couple has been instrumental in relocating pets from other areas into better situations…and have adopted several of them as well. Of course, they’ve experienced many tearful farewells along the way, but Jeffrey knows that the pain is worth the rewards.

10422034_670046013103460_1787640938259845992_n

17191259_1314751848632870_4656181040778219634_n

This aficionado of all things retro-cool loves to hit up antique shops with his pal Carrot Top, listen to rock music on his vintage record changer and play pinball with pals. During the scorching Vegas summers, Jeffrey heads out to Lake Mead for swimming, boating and diving. In the winters, there’s snowboarding to keep him fit.

Being Mike Hammer’s right hand man means that Jeffrey is ever-present at fundraisers and charity functions that Hammer hosts and attends. Most notable is a series of annual Mike Hammer Celebrity Go-Kart Races that have benefited a long list of charities.

However Jeffrey spends his days, you can always find this great guy charming his guests at the Four Queens Showroom five nights a week. Making people smile comes naturally for Jeffrey. He represents his generation VERY well.

Notable traits – tough-guy tattoos, boyish grin

Straight to the Heart: Hospice, Therapy Dogs and a Pet Drive

“Man’s best friend will be there until the end”…

Having just lost my dear cat Sunny to cancer a few weeks ago, I’ve had plenty of hours to reflect on love, loss and courage. It’s been a rough time for this writer, so I can appreciate the enormous grief that families and friends face when losing a loved one. For patients who know that they won’t be recovering, there’s an absolute right to move on with dignity and compassion.

Not all of us are equipped to handle end-of-life situations. Thank goodness there are community resources to ease the journey and provide comfort along the way. Nathan Adelson Hospice of Las Vegas is one such organization. This non-profit has been around for four decades, providing top quality in-home and in-patient palliative treatment and hospice care.

Nathan Adelson was a visionary administrator for Sunrise Hospital, the largest medical facility in Nevada at the time of its construction. Mr. Adelson was deeply respected as a humanitarian, overflowing with kindness and compassion. When cancer took his life, friends and family established the hospice to continue his enormous legacy.

Nathan Adelson was taken by cancer in 1978…

The volunteers at Nathan Adelson Hospice dedicate time and their hearts to hundreds of dying patients each day. Naturally these special people come from all walks of life and a myriad of different social environments. Some volunteers even come from local animal shelters.

You see, therapy dogs are a big part of Nathan Adelson’s many programs. Their organization recognizes and promotes the comfort that animals bring to those undergoing emotional challenges. To make that happen, hospice patients get visits from specially trained support animals.

Paws for Paul Pet Therapy Program was created for in conjunction with celebrity Brad Garrett, a longtime advocate for NAH. Brad’s brother Paul Ames was the widely-respected manager of Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club at MGM Grand. Sadly Paul, who was an ardent supporter of animals, passed away from pancreatic cancer last year. To honor his legacy, Garrett and NAH President Carol Fisher launched the Paws For Paul pet therapy team.

This dashingly handsome fellow is named Panzer. He and his mom Becky Gang are part of the Paws for Paul team. Becky is Panzer’s trainer and the two of them volunteer for Nathan Adelson Hospice. Becky has been training service and support animals for many years. Panzer is her ninth NAH co-volunteer and her current star pupil.

Here’s an excerpt from the NAH blog that tells a fascinating story about Panzer’s gifts:

When Panzer was leaving the Swenson facility one day, he insisted on stopping at the door of a patient. Becky asked the family if it would be okay if Panzer visited the patient and they gladly approved. Panzer went right up to the person’s bed and stayed nearby on the floor, providing quiet, calming support. It appears Panzer also has an awareness of when a patient is nearing the very end of his or her journey of life, as that patient was in the stages of actively dying.

When Panzer puts on his work vest, he knows he’s on the job and his temperament suits the task at hand – providing that gentle comfort to patients in need of a furry friend. He’s more playful and energetic at home. Becky says, “When he gets home from visiting hospice patients, it’s almost like he’s bragging to the other pets that he got to go out and provide help that day.”

Panzer and trainer/co-volunteer Becky Gang….

Panzer and Becky are also doing their part for the 8th Annual Dog Bed and Blanket Drive. They’re asking the public to donate unopened food, blankets and bedding at designated collection sites to be distributed to local shelters. The winter months pose special challenges for local animal shelters. Contrary to popular belief, it does get cold in Las Vegas…and those concrete shelter floors can be unforgivable.

Shelter cats are also included in the drive. Kitty care requires food, toys, beds, bowls and litter. Please consider dropping off cleaning supplies, towels, wash cloths, paper towels and other basic necessities too. These items are desperately needed to help keep animals comfortable, safe and healthy while they wait for someone to adopt them…or recruit them as service and support animals.

The marvelous mission and multitude of community-driven programs that the folks at Nathan Adelson carry out require a great deal of funding. Fortunately they’ve been selected as a 2019 recipient of the MONDAYS DARK program.

You may recall my recent piece on MONDAYS DARK, an entertainment series which donates the proceeds from every performance to a different cause. Their March 18th production at The Space (3460 Cavaretta Court) will benefit Nathan Adelson Hospice…and by extension, the Paws for Paul pet therapy program. Click here to learn more and get tickets to the show.

The cycle of compassion, kindness and caring on display in this community is absolutely massive in scale. It demonstrates once more what a closely-knit group the citizens of Las Vegas truly are. As a new resident, I couldn’t be more excited and proud to call this place my home.

The Paws for Paul Pet Drive runs through February 1st. If you’d like to donate, please bring new or gently-used items and unopened food to any of the four Nathan Adelson Hospice locations:

* 4141 Swenson St., Las Vegas

* 3150 N. Tenaya Way (near Cheyenne), Suite 350, in the Mountain View Medical Office Building, Las Vegas

* 2270 E. Commercial Rd., Suite A/B in Pahrump

* 1201 Nevada State Drive in Henderson

You can also deliver donations to any Ovation Property Management location listed here.

Dedicated to Sunny Novak

(unknown- 1/2/19)

Special thanks to Emma Williams and Allison Duck for their assistance with this article.

NSPCA and FLO Advertising Team Up to Save Animals In Need

High-tech mobile digital billboard brings much-needed attention to Nevada’s no-kill shelter…

You’ve seen them on the Strip, grabbing the attention of thousands of tourists with its stunning clarity and brightness. You’ve read my articles touting their collaborations with PALMS Casino and SAW ESCAPE EXPERIENCE. You might have witnessed seen my own visage frightening visitors a few months ago.

There’s no question that FLO Advertising‘s mobile digital billboard service makes things happen. Now they’re using their technology to make a difference for homeless cats and dogs at the Nevada Society for the Protection Against Cruelty to Animals aka NSPCA.

22281705_1667984686555445_9122992678902376487_n

46518726_2154896801197562_3121992902620741632_n

46457953_2154951187858790_3740153389321814016_n

46470433_2156636127690296_8998208681304653824_n

46485498_2159269504093625_440447891182452736_n

Located at 4800 W. Dewey Drive, just a chew bone’s toss away from Mandalay Bay, the NSPCA operates as both a charitable organization and a no-kill shelter. The Las Vegas chapter, which is also the state headquarters, is home to over a thousand found and surrendered animals at any given time. This staggering number means that they operate at full capacity and rely on adoptions to make room for other needy animals.

Every soul is precious. Dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals offer perfect love — unconditional devotion — and depend on people for care and survival. Each one deserves kindness and a happy home.

Nevada SPCA rescues “unwanted” animals, those with advanced challenges (abuse, birth defects, illness, injury, neglect, starvation), and those in peril at other shelters. Volunteers and staff help mend broken hearts and broken bones. They heal without deadlines and learn that people can be compassionate and nurturing. We then strive to match each rescued animal with people by personality and lifestyle in order to find them lifelong, stable homes.

Besides annually adopting and rescuing thousands of cats and dogs, and hundreds of birds and rabbits, Nevada SPCA also rescues and adopts more than a dozen other domesticated species in urgent need, including guinea pigs, ferrets, fish, goats, pigs, gerbils, hamsters, mice, rats, degus, sugar gliders, and turtles.

NSPCA

It’s vital to recognize that any shelter worth its mission statement is very careful to match pets with the proper families. This vetting process ensures that each cat, dog or other pet will have the greatest success in integrating with someone’s household. It’s a painful truth, but not every person is meant to be a pet parent, and not every pet is right for every home.

So along with protecting and providing for these animals, the NSPCA provides education to the public. A vast amount of their resources and time are devoted to rehabilitating pets that come from bad situations and/or health issues and injuries. All of these challenges require money, of course, so fundraising and community outreach make up a big part of the NSPCA‘s operations.

Celebrities and other organizations often come to the aid of NSPCA. In October of this past year, Vegas Indoor Skydiving hosted the Third Annual Tunnel Flight Jam Competition and Celebrity Challenge. Familiar faces like Carrot Top, Golden Knights announcer Mark Shunock and BMX Pro Ricardo Laguna gathered to raise money for the shelter. Along with food, blankets and toys, the event collected over $3,000.00

Mark Shunock of MONDAYS DARK (with “Rugby”) is a big supporter of NSPCA…

As I’ve mentioned many times in the past, Las Vegas is a tight-knit community. The residents here are always eager to lend a hand and help one another. As luck would have it, popular thrill-maker Jason Egan of SAW Escape Experience is on the NSPCA’s Board of Directors.

After his successful FLO Advertising campaign for the thrilling SAW attraction, Egan invited FLO’s Mike Foland to volunteer his mobile digital billboard services to the NSPCA. In no time, FLO was touting the glories of gorgeous Mamma Cass and her pups, along with Chevy (banner photo above), a badly-injured cat that was saved from a car engine and brought back to health.

It’s easy to recognize a FLO Advertising truck. They’re the biggest and brightest on the Strip, so naturally they leave a lasting impression. I can speak from experience, for when I advertised on FLO my readership absolutely soared. My billboard also expanded Vegas Unfiltered‘s demographics and coverage far beyond Las Vegas. In fact, I was recognized in the small town of Tonopah NV, over two hundred miles away, simply because of the advertisement you see below…and my enormous cranium, of course.

All of the animals you see below and hundreds more are waiting for loving parents. If that person is you. make plans to visit the NSPCA and discover your new family member. Not only will you change their life, but they will change yours, too.

For information on NSPCA, including adopting, donating or volunteering, click here. Hours for visiting are 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Thursday, 10 am to 5 pm on Friday and Saturday (no public hours on Sundays).

To learn more about FLO Advertising or to request a quote, visit their webpage at floadvertising.com or call Mike Foland at 702.203.0471.

Photos: NSPCA, Jason Egan, FLO Advertising, Sam Novak

2018 Events, Trends & Moments…The Personal Side

Sharing some of the more intimate moments and thoughts of 2018 as I bring this year-end retrospective to a close…

THAT WONDERFUL HELICOPTER RIDE

There were a lot of changes in my personal life during the latter half of 2018. The biggest began during a fortuitous flight from my home in Salem Oregon to Las Vegas. A conversation with my seat mate and his wife, who was directly in front of him, led to a new friendship. And that friendship yielded one of the most (if not THE most) spectacular events of the year.

It’s quite common to see helicopters slicing through the skies of Sin City, but only one offers the experience as a luxurious jaunt over Hoover Dam to the Grand Canyon. I could go on and on with words, but this one deserves a visual. Thanks to Trina Larmony, Jim Gisclair and all the wonderful folks at Serenity Helicopters for making my heart soar. Read about the full experience here.

GONE AND FORGOTTEN – Vegas Bright

VegasBright.com was an idea that had so much potential. The brainchild of a fan of VegasChatter.com (the site that got me started in this industry), VB could have been an enormous success. I was approached by this particular reader with a proposal to gather former VC contributors, regroup and carry on the tradition. And I’d get to work (sans compensation, mind you) with wonderful photographer and friend Greg C. once more.

Alas, there was no direction, organization or cohesive path from the very start. Writers left with abandon and those who stuck around offered pedestrian pieces like the painful series “My Halloween Visit to Fremont Street” (that began the first week of November and carried on for ten insipid chapters into June of the following year), endless burger joint reviews (which earned our site the nickname “Burger Bright”) and week after week of fluffy reader-contributed “Must-do” filler.

If I sound bitter about this matter, I most definitely am. There was no excuse for such a wasted opportunity. My attempts to bring our team to a unified whole were consistently met with resistance by the founding editor. In fact, our writers never actually gathered a single time. Articles that I penned about fresh and exciting events were set aside for dusty reviews of long-running shows (that had nothing new to report on) and restaurants that had been around forever. It became a predictable and boring snooze fest, nothing at all like the site we’d set out to emulate.

After I departed in frustration to start this blog, a replacement editor came in. This guy subsequently put Vegas Bright on hiatus…not once but twice. That didn’t stop him, someone whom I’ve never actually met, from slandering both me and my brand-new page on Twitter (several times, actually). Not cool, dude! He mocked my readership and writing abilities (“You write? I’ve never heard of you”). Such childish behavior, despite the fact that dozens of my articles continue to fill the archives of his now-dead site.

Sounds an awful lot like our current White House regime, doesn’t it? When you feel inferior or threatened, it’s easier to insult than to up your own game. All bluster, little logic, zero action.

I feel pride in having an intimate and discerning readership (thank you all) and for not churning out the same recycled news bits as others do. What’s really cute is that, despite ripping my page apart, there were at least three separate incidences where Vegas Bright cribbed my headlines, articles, layout and photographs.

The most recent…or final…Vegas Bright piece was published on June 8th, 2018. It, too, was a knockoff of my ongoing series on Sin City oddities hiding in plain sight. Thanks for flattering me….yet again.

There’s been no explanation for the continued inactivity, no official “farewell” and no reason to believe that Vegas Bright will ever return. What a nice way to disrespect your loyal readers. Not that anyone actually cares. If a website utters its dying gasp in the virtual woods, does it make a sound?

MOVING TO LAS VEGAS

The biggest personal event I have to share is the decision to relocate from Oregon to Las Vegas. To say that frequent flying between the cities is trying would be an understatement. Southwest Airlines, the primary carrier between the two cities, has yet to master the art of an on-time departure. Competitor Alaska Airlines, my preferred airline by leaps and bounds, has unfortunately scaled back the number of non-stops between the two cities.

To make things more frustrating, an incident at McCarran International Airport last November had me deeming their TSA checkpoint “the worst in the nation”. Then there are all the recent changes that make staying in a hotel on the Strip much less pleasant and affordable than just a few short years ago.

A typical morning view from my home in the Mountain’s Edge community…

Surprisingly, life for Vegas locals is quite a pleasant affair. Homes are newer, cheaper and slicker than you’d expect. The cost of groceries, gasoline and dining out are lower than where I came from (which is why so many locals see the Strip for the ripoff it is), and there are many outlying attractions and activities that tourists never know about.

My four-level home has a rooftop deck with a view of the entire valley…

After making the decision spontaneously, I contacted Jeff Desruisseaux, a realtor whom I’d recently met at Leon Spinks’ birthday party. We arranged to meet and I headed down here to go house-hunting. Within 24 hours I had an offer in on my dream home, a four-level beauty, which was accepted immediately. Some things are meant to be.

42160652_10217385206807836_9196013503201148928_n

46764430_10217949732880635_4132681248051036160_n

49314276_10218235367341318_3010276134622330880_n

34907777_10156723077323623_2171713108999929856_n

43275566_10217582717705485_4367576509867622400_n

36229386_10216688725156230_7671257288002240512_n

34364541_10216483817193659_666661765668405248_n

48984795_10156528539645399_3751906940989472768_n

41237212_10217292510570488_3641451609180864512_n

26239247_10215241401934054_910876543489111723_n

44504191_10217654816227903_2511437888172851200_n

26238888_10215259252660311_7749754842309038202_n

41853747_10217346322035741_5298003633206460416_n

41435236_10217295006712890_1686574919166459904_n

49158483_10218197280869180_125658038567698432_n

42953272_10217479279719600_5264541637492604928_n

38012333_10216955561666976_947713761114849280_n

26239390_10215259250980269_4982756839252304675_n

46480302_10217870608982587_4091398052466655232_n

I’ve made a lot of fantastic friends in this city…

In no time I was back in Oregon, packing the SUV with my rescue cats and getting on the road. On board was my orange tabby Sunny, who had lymphoma and was about to begin chemotherapy. Sadly, he passed away on January second. But the time we spent together on the highway was unforgettable.

My little buddy stayed hidden for most of the trip, but when the sun began to break the horizon, he came out of his carrier and watched the beautiful sunrise with me. As we drove along the lake, the warmth of the sun hit both of our faces and I knew it was a special moment never to be forgotten.

It was hard to start 2019 by saying goodbye to my little pal. Thank goodness he was treated with loving care by the staff and oncologists at Las Vegas Veterinary Specialty Center right up to his final moments. Amazingly, both Branden Powers of The Golden Tiki and Chef Bruno Morabito of Sid’s Cafe at Westgate have offered to make tributes to Sunny at their respective businesses. This community has a deep soul indeed.

Life in Sin City has taken some adjusting to but there are no regrets….only new opportunities. This valley is packed with wonderful, giving and talented men and women. I look forward to telling you about them in the weeks and months ahead. And why, despite all the things that make Vegas less than perfect, it’s still a wonderful place to call home.

Thank you for being a loyal reader and friend. Happy New Year.

Teresa Van – Trainer to the Stars

Dynamic inspiration keeps Sin City’s top performers in peak condition…

Reno NV is called “The Biggest Little City In The World”. But once you get to know the locals of Las Vegas, that slogan could just as easily apply here. It’s a tight-knit community of people who live and work amid the glitz and flashing lights, yet are extremely supportive of one another in everyday life.

Recently I did a profile of Alejandro and Sarah Le Clear Domingo, the husband-and-wife team that tore a roof through the Palazzo Theater in BAZ. These amazing dancers are also stunning physical specimens. Sarah credits much of her success to her friend, trainer Teresa Van.

Teresa McAuliffe Van is a fitness and lifestyle coach as well as owner of ENVY TRAINING. This hard-working wife and mother of two is an inspiration for many stars and featured performers in the Las Vegas Valley. With over 18 years of experience, Teresa knows how to get the most out of their bodies. Being that Teresa is a seasoned choreographer and a former professional dancer herself, it’s no surprise that today’s crop of athletes and dancers depend on her to maximize the primary tool of their craft.

Teresa’s impact has been felt in many gyms throughout the area. Before starting her own business in conjunction with Tim Soder Physical Therapy, she trained clients at the former Edge Fitness (this writer’s personal retreat), EOS Fitness and David Barton Gym. Onstage, eagle-eyed show-goers may recognizer her as one of Matt Goss‘s “Gossy Girls” and her stint in iCandy Burlesque.

Teresa says “I truly have a passion for helping people feel their best”. One of her favorite sessions meets regularly on Saturday mornings. These boot camps gather performers from a variety of shows like Legends In Concert, Zombie Burlesque, Vegas! The Show and even Chippendales.

Teresa (left) and Sarah Le Clear-Domingo after a performance of Palazzo’s BAZ…

Sarah is a regular member of that weekly class…and couldn’t be more please with the results.

We are all “seasoned” performers and in the same upper age bracket. We still put in the work to maintain our tool and do what we are passionate about. Teresa has devoted her life to fitness and keeping us current performers in shape. She’s such a wonderful person who gives so much to us.

Teresa (far left) and the cast of iCandy Burlesque at Planet Hollywood…

Teresa’s personal evolution is uniquely “Sin City”. She’s gone from sharing the spotlight with SEXXY‘s Jennifer Romas to building a family with her handsome husband (loan officer Brenton Van). Teresa understands the changes that hard-working bodies go through as life progresses. She’s now using her own experiences to guide those facing similar challenges.

I have struggled in regards to keeping a tight, toned body for both my career and postpartum. I know that accountability is a key factor in maintaining a fitness regimen. Adopting new fitness habits is difficult and often times frustrating. My goal is to change your view on fitness, so that it becomes a part of who you are and your overall lifestyle.

To that end, Teresa’s ENVY TRAINING offers personalized courses, written and audio plans along with online support. Whether you come to her facility or she designs an in-home course for you, Teresa promises to be there every step of the way:

I am capable of analyzing your body and creating an in-home or on-location fitness plan that will help you achieve your highest potential. Most plans include healthy eating and exercise to ensure the best results. I will always be in contact with you to keep you on track and motivated on your fitness journey. I am also available for personal training sessions in both Las Vegas and Henderson. If you’ve never worked with a personal trainer, get ready to WORK and SEE RESULTS!

Perhaps that’s why so many Strip stars entrust their health, fitness and longevity to the UNLV graduate and certified personal trainer. Sarah Domingo is very grateful for the time they spend together.

Each session is different, fun, hard and always a full body work out. So thrilled to have her training me! Thank you so much for always keeping my injuries in check and pushing me so I can do this nightly.

As for Teresa, she couldn’t be happier to make a difference she makes in the lives of her clients, friends and colleagues. “It feels awesome to be strong, and that’s why I love training around this city…helping everyone feel healthier and more AWESOME!”.

Teresa and her family count their blessings during a recent holiday season…

You can contact Teresa Van for a personalized workout by calling 520-820-9258 or visiting EnvyTraining.com. Envy Training is located at 6440 Medical Center St #100, Las Vegas, Nevada 89148. Gift cards are available by clicking here.

Photos: Teresa Van, Sarah Le Clear-Domingo