From the Editor
BY JOAN S. PECK
This issue of Chic Compass magazine is all about celebrating the ARTS in many forms. Once again, our multi-talented writers have done a splendid job bringing stories that showcase talented artists who bring beauty and pleasure to us in different forms. Each artist is gifted in their creativity, and you will marvel at reading each one’s story.
We share the stories of talented artists Gig Diplo, who creates enormous, detailed murals; Niki Sands with her figurative style is equal parts surrealism and Cubism and a hint of the abstract; Mario Barth with his ink artistry in tattoos, Pamela Nielsen with her vivid passion and color), and Rita Deanin Abbey, the former UNLV Emeritus of Art in 1987. The newly opened Rita Deanin Abbey Museum honors Rita and is a glorious monument to her endless talent and an astonishing array of mediums. You will be amazed that anything this outstanding is right here in our valley.
On a different note, it’s always fun to read about a local artist making it big time. You will read more about the fabulous Jazz artist Paul Taylor and his latest CD album, And Now This, which has succeeded with more number 1 hits.
Christopher Todd shows us how his innate ability to mix and match designs and materials makes him one of the most sought-after local designers and decorators with clients across the country. Read to discover that his talent doesn’t stop there.
Kelley Poling’s story takes you from her being a stuntwoman to becoming an actress. She has accomplished so much more, and you will be amazed as you read her article.
We are delighted to feature Donna Mills on our cover, a testament to the belief that beautiful women at a certain age only become more attractive. Donna is always delighted to encourage women to keep doing more than sitting as they age. You’ll read about some of her views on the importance of confidence and how she keeps the spark in how she lives today. She is one busy lady.
On the health side, there is a heart-warming and inspiring article, Beauty Meets Bravery, highlighting the newest health-conscious spa offering organic products, run by Las Vegas cancer survivor Susan Salas. A story that will grip your heart.
As always, we are honored to show you some of what’s happening in the fashion world. Mark Gunter shares with us his first-time-ever photoshoot of a new fashion show held in Tokyo, Japan, and his photos from the Coast-to-Coast Swim Week fashion shows in Los Angeles and Miami. The designs show us how gorgeous and unique swimwear can be.
Claire Nagel’s story shows why she is an award-winning Realtor with Las Vegas Sotheby’s International Realty. Her love of selling luxury real estate has brought her worldwide recognition, from her beginnings in Europe to landing in Las Vegas.
Joe Amato demonstrates the importance of a business always looking forward and preparing and planning for unexpected happenings to protect your business.
On the lighter side, we celebrate our ability to travel, dine out, and be entertained. If you want to know more about Maui, reading Ann Parenti’s delightful story about her “home away from home” will urge you to make your reservations and go!
And once again, we bring you news about some of the most delightful dining places. The Siena Italian Authentic Trattoria and Deli in Summerlin will have you drooling and loosening your belt just by seeing what they offer!
This autumn issue of Chic Compass is gorgeous, and I can’t wait for you to see what’s inside this edition of the magazine. As you read each piece, I hope that you enjoy it as much as we did to create it for you.
Happy Fall in Las Vegas!