2022 was another rough one for the history books. Thank goodness people like these are there to help Sin City through the tough times.
In Chapter Three of our “2022 Best of, Worst of, and WTF?” I threw shade at the nastiest villains of the year. If the sins of those nasty losers are “ego” and “arrogance”, then the attributes of our heroes are “humility”, “generosity”, and “kindness”. VEGAS 411 gives thanks to those who had our backs this year and can hopefully guide us to a better tomorrow.
POLICE, FIRE, SECURITY, FIRST RESPONDERS, and MEDICAL PERSONNEL
When a city’s tourism is built around excess, outrageous behavior, and activities one would not normally participate in at home, there’s going to be a major need for heroes. Fortunately, the Las Vegas Valley is fully staffed with crackerjack police departments, doctors, nurses, ambulance drivers, firefighters, and other rescue workers.
These ladies and gentlemen selflessly put their own lives on the line each day to ensure your safety. They work under harsh conditions for relatively meager pay for the simple reason that they care. And that’s the true definition of a hero.
The mass shooting at Route 91 Harvest Festival on October 1st, 2017 was one of the darkest days in our history. It was also the moment that we got to witness these amazing individuals in action. We at VEGAS 411 send our heartfelt gratitude to all of you.
MARK SHUNOCK, CHERYL DARO, and ‘MONDAYS DARK’
This month, MONDAYS DARK celebrated nine amazing years of helping the Las Vegas community. So, what is MONDAYS DARK? It’s an initiative, a bi-weekly concert series, a fundraising event, a showcase for both local and national-level artists, and a not-for-profit organization. Essentially it’s a gift to Sin City, packaged in a black-box theater that’s wrapped with glorious entertainment.
The visionaries behind MONDAYS DARK and its home base THE SPACE are handsome, charismatic Mark Shunock and his wife, entertainer Cheryl Daro. A native Canadian who relocated to Vegas as part of Venetian’s ROCK OF AGES cast, Mark fell in love with the community and decided to remain once the production closed.
Nicknamed “Vegas’ Night To Give Back”, the organization aims to raise $10K in 90 minutes every other Monday. The charity on the receiving end is different for every performance, which is also a one-night showcase for amazing artists. A list of the coming year’s recipients is announced during the annual December gala.
A great big thank-you to everyone who donates their time, talents, and energies so MONDAYS DARK can carry out its mission. You make Las Vegas proud.
ANDREA DUPPER
Andrea Dupper isn’t a household name, but to the people of Las Vegas, this beautiful woman is a legend and superstar. If there is an event to benefit people or animals, Andrea will be there…and probably organized or volunteered on its behalf. Whenever there is a crisis, she offers aid, answers, and comfort. Yes, Andrea Dupper is a true angel.
Andrea Dupper is an inspiration to the Las Vegas community
There have been numerous times when I’ve turned to Andrea for advice. The response is never “I don’t know”. It’s “Let me see how I can help you”. And do you know what she asks for in return? Absolutely nada.
Ms. Dupper’s resume is quite extensive, covering her talents as a writer, marketing director, and director of sales. She’s also been on the Board of Directors for charitable organizations like Vegas-Wish and Pawtastic Friends. An avid film buff and horse enthusiast, Andrea spends her very rare free time at the ranch of Mike Foland, our next Vegas hero.
MIKE FOLAND
There are plenty of people who owe a debt of gratitude to Mike Foland, and I’m one of them. A philanthropist and activist, Mike has tipped me off to a number of injustices around the city. From serious problems at the Nevada SPCA to an eviction crisis at a senior citizen community, Mike entrusts me with situations that need a voice. We’ve worked together to hopefully make a difference. It’s only possible thanks to Mike’s love for Las Vegas.
The West Palm Beach Florida native began as a wrestler, which segued into an MMA fighting career. Somehow along the way, Mike managed to become a member of the world-famous Chippendales. Then he opened an addiction treatment center before launching MEN OF THE STRIP, a male revue fronted by boy bander Jeff Timmons.
With the advent of FLO ADVERTISING, Mike’s entrepreneurial skills can be seen on super-bright mobile digital billboards that glide up and down Las Vegas Boulevard. Foland has been known to donate advertising space to worthy causes and is also a champion of the entertainment community.
When not quietly taking on the role of a hero, you can find Mike Foland on his ranch at the southern end of the valley. There he enjoys quiet mornings with his numerous animals and Sanja, his lady love.
SERVICE, HOSPITALITY, and TRANSPORTATION WORKERS
A city based on tourism couldn’t survive without the men and women who make it all possible. From airport ground crews to delivery drivers, slot machine attendants to hotel housekeepers, these people thanklessly perform often tedious jobs in order for you to have fun.
The employment crisis of 2021/2022 has been especially trying on everyone, but it’s the front-of-house workers who face the brunt of customer frustrations. They’re there on holidays, late at night, and far into the morning, dealing with bad behavior and all manner of craziness.
Most of our labor force receives hourly wages that amount to a pittance. They rely on your tipping and appreciation to make their efforts worthwhile. Without them, we are nothing. And without you, they’ve lost their livelihood. Let’s work together to make 2023 a better experience for everyone. Remember….you could be at home washing dishes, but you’re in Vegas, baby! Let’s have a blast together.
Do you know of any unsung heroes that deserve praise? Have any memorable stories to share? If so, drop me a line at samnovak@vegas411.com or message us on our Official Facebook Page.
