About Jake

This author has not yet filled in any details.
So far Jake has created 757 blog entries.

Linda Smith: A Mother's Fight and Lasting Legacy

In this episode, we discuss the inspiring life of Linda Smith, a prominent Las Vegas figure and disability advocate. It outlines her challenging upbringing, marked by a traumatic escape from her father and struggles with self-esteem, which she ultimately overcame to pursue a successful career in entertainment. The narrative then shifts to the profound impact of her son, Christopher, who was born with Down Syndrome, chronicling their 17-year battle for his legal status in the U.S. and the family's dedication to his well-being. This experience spurred Linda to establish the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN) and significantly contribute to Opportunity Village, a highly respected disability organization, where she raised substantial funds and created impactful events.

Linda Smith: A Mother's Fight and Lasting Legacy2026-07-19T23:00:00-07:00

Tony Pearson: Driven, From Abuse to Bodybuilding Legend

Tony Pearson's life story is emphasized by his journey from a childhood marked by abuse and poverty in the Deep South to becoming a world-renowned professional bodybuilder. It highlights how bodybuilding served as an escape and a path to healing, showcasing his remarkable success in the sport, including winning Mr. America and Mr. Universe titles, and his mentorship by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Pearson's later career as a personal trainer is also touched upon, where he helps others achieve fitness goals, and his decision to openly share his past struggles through his book, "Driven: My Secret Untold Story," ultimately finding peace and forgiveness.

Tony Pearson: Driven, From Abuse to Bodybuilding Legend2026-07-19T22:58:31-07:00

'BLACK and white' A Powerful Dialogue in Monochrome at ThirtyThree Gallery

Founded by multidisciplinary artist and cultural catalyst Chase R. McCurdy, ThirtyThree Gallery—also known as 33.G—is more than a gallery. It’s a sanctuary for thought, storytelling, and intentional connection. McCurdy, who has contributed large-scale murals and public art projects to the Westside through the City of Las Vegas and the Mayor’s Fund for Las Vegas Life, infuses every exhibition with vision.

'BLACK and white' A Powerful Dialogue in Monochrome at ThirtyThree Gallery2026-06-21T20:39:34-07:00

Greg O’Connor’s Newest Single: "Through Your Eyes"

Greg O’Connor, a prolific artist and Emmy winner, has composed scores for more than 30 television series and written more than 1,000 featured songs for TV, films and commercials. After four Primetime Emmy nominations, he won the coveted award for the song “A Wonderful Normal Day” for "Mad TV," where he served as composer and songwriter for all 14 seasons.

Greg O’Connor’s Newest Single: "Through Your Eyes"2025-06-06T13:29:27-07:00

Milestones & Memories – A Night to Remember

Chic Compass pulled out all the stops for its latest launch at another sold-out event. Held at the fun and fabulous Loaded Empanadas on May 15 in Las Vegas, we introduced our cover star, Tony Pearson, and met many of the other fascinating individuals featured in this edition. It was an action-packed evening filled with celebrity performers, writers, designers, our valued advertisers, and many other interesting guests.

Milestones & Memories – A Night to Remember2025-05-23T07:45:07-07:00

Driven to Perfection

Professional bodybuilding champion Tony Pearson's life reads like a Hollywood script. An abused child from Memphis, Tennessee, meets his hero Muhammad Ali; buys a one-way bus ticket to Muscle Beach; gets discovered by seven-time Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger; perfects the famous stomach vacuum pose; earns multiple bodybuilding titles, including Mr. America in 1978 and the Pro Mr. Universe—and remains a bodybuilding legend.

Driven to Perfection2025-05-16T10:20:37-07:00

Valerie Perri

Listening to Valerie Perri recall stories of how she landed roles as two of the most iconic female characters in musical theater: Eva Perón ("Evita") and Golde ("Fiddler on the Roof"), and how she snagged one of the coveted spots as a dancer in the classic musical film "Grease," it's as if Perri was destined to be onstage.

Valerie Perri2025-05-17T16:59:59-07:00

Heart of the Eternal

With the release of his 11th studio album, "Heart of the Eternal," Adrian James "A.J." Croce compiles a delicious recipe of eclectic songs that highlight his aptitude for fusing rock, blues, gospel and soul. In addition to exploring diverse musical roadways, Croce delves deep into psychological and spiritual themes with curiosity, humor and homegrown wisdom earned along life's painful paths.

Heart of the Eternal2025-05-17T17:02:50-07:00
Go to Top