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So far Jake has created 773 blog entries.

Swingin' on a Las Vegas Star

Once you've experienced The Swing It! Girls, you can't sashay out of the theatre without humming and grinning, your heart vibrating and your body bobbing to the rhythms. Such is the power of three young women on stage—seducing their audiences with three-part harmony, hyper-synchronized choreography and infectious tunes with a vivid past.

Swingin' on a Las Vegas Star2026-08-30T19:35:04-07:00

Cecilia Violetta López

Acclaimed soprano Cecilia Violetta López takes the reins at Opera Las Vegas (OLV) in its 27th season as the first Latina general director of an American opera company. López comes full circle, having made her professional debut in Don Giovanni with OLV in 2012. She returned to perform more recently with the company in leading roles as Adina in L'elisir d'amore, Violetta in La traviata and the stand-out star in OLV's "Silver Anniversary Salute" at The Smith Center.

Cecilia Violetta López2026-08-30T19:35:11-07:00

Chef Michael Mina Talks Flavor, Art and Heritage

Bourbon Steak at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas exemplifies Chef Michael Mina's signature approach to modern American dining—bold flavors, refined technique and a touch of indulgence. A fixture on the Las Vegas Strip, Mina is no stranger to the city's dining scene, with acclaimed concepts like Bardot Brasserie at Aria Resort & Casino among his many successes.

Chef Michael Mina Talks Flavor, Art and Heritage2026-08-30T19:35:21-07:00

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.

Fashion Designer Puey Quiñones Returns to L.A.2026-08-30T19:35:30-07:00

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.

From the Editor2026-06-21T16:57:47-07:00

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.

Champagne, Stardust and Steel: Wil Stutz Brings Mid-Mod Magic to Life2026-08-30T19:35:38-07:00

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 Gallery2026-08-30T19:35:56-07:00
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