I am so delighted to be a part of the online community here at VCO and writing “From Parker’s Pen.” I had the pleasure of meeting the lady herself — Marleen Marino — after “knowing” her by phone for over a year and a half. It’s funny: now that we have actually met and shared some laughs, she and hubby Frank are transitioning to a new place in Northern California. (Well, darn it, I hope it wasn’t something I said!)  

Nope it wasn’t. She and Frank have family there and other matters to handle, so I wish them a fond “Happy Trails,” comfortable in the knowledge that all of us at VegasCommunityOnline.com will still be the VCO “family,” and “Mom” Marino will take her usual care in publishing our columns for local community readers and for those who login to VCO from all across the www — world-wide Web!  

Marleen, count on any help I can give you, because you deserve huge kudos for all you do. I’m sure other VCO writers feel the same. Right, writers???  

And it’s exactly because of the terrific talent on VCO that I’m eager to write more, share more and read more on VCO. Last week’s Friday Flyer (July 17, 2009) was the most informative, entertaining, enlightening, inspiring and information-filled issue ever.  

I always read the VCO FF, but something about that issue was incredibly power-packed. I read virtually every column, top to bottom. I learned a lot and laughed a lot.  

Even though the top news recently concerned deaths of so many of our well-known and well-loved celebrities and other talents — Cronkite, Farrah, Michael, and others — the VCO writers continued to give respects where they could but also brought good quality info and insight to help readers in day-to-day living and decision making.  

Little Anthony, I am a newly pledged, secret admirer of your column because of your enthusiasm for writing it and your great topics — just ask Marleen :)  

From our elected officials’ spaces on VCO and other political columnists, I like getting a synopsis of the political scene (not my natural niche). And I’m hopelessly hooked on the furry faces in that frame on the Nevada SPCA’s Pet-Of-The-Week. (Stop, you’re killing me. I can’t adopt them all — but our subscribers can.) Readers, how about it? Send the link to friends, and let’s get these animals immediate happy homes.)  

I’m not a poker player; though I know the basics. But, Ms. Poker, your column was so interesting that I might join you someday (After all, we are both hat-wearing, wild women. Am I bluffing???)  

I’m not going to name everything and everyone I’m growing to love about VCO and its content, but I want to encourage Marleen and all of the VCO contributors to keep smiling and typing, even when she’s working for us from the state next door.  

It’s because of her and those who sponsor, support and subscribe to VegasCommunityOnline.com that so many diverse, subject-matter-experts — chefs, artists, entertainers, politicos, pundits, film critics, community organizers, poets, photographers, astrologers, entrepreneurs, comics, restaurant reviewers, animal rights activists, medical professionals, herbalists, therapists, fashion stylists, female meet-and-greeters (gotta’ love that Chick ;) and plenty others — can come together in one place.  

I’m among the relative newcomers in the lineup, but I’m glad to be here and wish everyone a great summer, great fun, great ideas and a great spell-check program for all of us.  

Have a smooth move, Marleen and Frank. Love ya!  

Quote of the Week:

“Some people are entrepreneurs because they are ‘emotionally unemployable.’” Thanks to “BP” James for that insight on why some have workplace woes.  

Kindest Deed of the Week:  

You still have time to do one! Call an elderly or ill neighbor, especially one who’s often overlooked, and offer to give 30 minutes of your time to do something helpful: yard work, dusting a high shelf, decluttering a corner, shopping; or, you can just sit and listen about the children, late spouse or war stories. Time is the best gift of all.  

Best Place of the Week:  

Finally, I visited Lake Las Vegas. Now that I’ve experienced it, call me slightly nuts for waiting so long. I had a business meeting that resulted in my realizing the best getaway in town. Splendid, serene, snazzy and so close to town! I thank my lovely, Feng Shui friend, Phree; you were right! I really saw what I’d been missing.  

If any of you have not been, go. Just go. You will be taken away to an idyllic setting with views that bring peace and centering. It’s only about 12 minutes east off Boulder Hwy and Lake Mead Drive. It’s nearly a straight drive (I somehow, embarrassingly, thought it was on a narrow road, winding around mini mountain sides.) It’s not that way at all, as some others have mistakenly thought, too. Right? So, visit the Lake Las Vegas area right away for a personal treat.  

Upcoming From Parker’s Pen:  

“Mingle Easy Moves to Market” — The featured Business Kudo of the Week will be local inventors Jim and Julie Vernes’ amazing new, perfect party plate for food and beverages — held safely and securely in the same hand. It’s amazing, smart and simply great! Plus, their products are eco-friendly. If your next event can’t wait for the full story, email me for quick info and a special link.  

“Krav Maga for You & Me” — Survival skills against all odds, prevent a personal assault and fend off an attack. Ladies and young girls, this is must-know info!  

“What Comes Naturally” — Food and cosmetic ingredients for better health, skin and intimacy. I visited the Natural MarketPlace 2009 recently and found some new favs.  

I invite you to add me to your contacts list and bookmark this section of VCO. Have a wonderful weekend, and please visit next week. There will be lots of good news and views to share next week From Parker’s Pen.