Chic Compass Issue 23
Chic Compass Magazine Issue 23 - 8th Anniversary [...]
Fashion Designer Puey Quiñones Returns to L.A.
Don't look now, but fashion designer Puey Quiñones is back in Los Angeles, and this time, he is planning to stay for good. Born in Bobon, Northern Samar, the humble and talented fashion designer, who also has an atelier in Manila and a Q Bridal shop in downtown L.A., will launch his new couture collection and his new couture shop in the City of Angels.
From the Editor
Welcome to the summer 2025 edition of Chic Compass. This one feels extra special because, as of this season, we're officially entering our eighth year. And that's a milestone that makes us stop and take a breath.
Champagne, Stardust and Steel: Wil Stutz Brings Mid-Mod Magic to Life
She glows poolside like a dream from vintage Vegas. Her feet point skyward and her hands stretch mid-dive, her neon silhouette reflected perfectly in still water. Her name is Ruby, and she isn’t just a sculpture. She’s a love letter to Las Vegas—a tribute to the city’s glittering past, its obsession with spectacle and the quiet artistry of light in motion.
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.
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.
‘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.
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.
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.
Seven Decades of Happiness
"Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world." These words, spoken by Walt Disney, continue to ring true almost 70 years after Disneyland opened in Anaheim, California.