In 2003 former restaurant manager Bruno Smoje opened Plush and took in his then-wife Shari as manager. The two worked well with Shari on the front while Bruno managed the business side of things, and Plush was a hit amongst the locals of Glenside, Pennsylvania thanks to its nightclub vibe. The bar earned a lot of praise from the patrons and Bruno was able to take home $15,000 weekly.

Later on the stress in handling Plush strained Bruno and Shari’s marriage and arguments became a norm right within earshot of the employees and patrons. The two divorced in 2013 and after Shari left Plush the patrons followed suit. Bruno became a wreck and lost all motivation in properly running the business.

Now Bruno was left with a growing stack of bills, a dilapidated bar, and uncontrollable employees. The only option left on the table was a call for Jon Taffer and Bar Rescue.

Plush on Bar Rescue

Plush was situated right across the historic Keswick Theatre yet the bar failed to attract the pre and post show crowd into its fold thanks to its bland and uninviting exterior. The furniture inside the bar were mostly torn and neglected, and the kitchen was just as equally messy. Bartenders were free to take shots themselves as Bruno also chugged down bottles of beer while personally manning the kitchen.

For the recon Taffer crammed 200 customers into Plush and Bruno was too busy cooking dishes instead of fulfilling his role in the front lines as a leader. The lack of a POS system forced employees to manually write orders on notepads which slowed down transactions to a crawl. Some of the customers had to reach over the counter to serve their own drinks themselves as the bartenders moved at a snail’s pace.  Taffer then entered Plush with Shari and almost immediately she and Bruno clashed, forcing the Bar Rescue host to intervene and the owner kicking them both out of the bar.

Taffer returned the next day and reminded the Plush employees about what’s at stake. Bruno was reassigned to the bar area while bartender Chris was put in the kitchen as the front lines needed a manager. Expert bartender Mia Mastroianni tested the mixing time of the staff and noted that they needed a lot of improvement. Culinary connoisseur Nick Liberato taught Chris and Bruno how to cook Italian rice balls called arancini. He also introduced the technique of sweating, or the slow heating of vegetables with a little amount of butter or oil to draw out the flavors and intensify the dish’s taste.

For the stress test Shari was reinstated as a temporary bar manager much to Bruno’s chagrin, but it was Taffer’s way of teaching the man how to put aside emotion and be professional for the sake of Plush. The patrons for the test were composed of the pre-show crowd hence the employees had to move lightning-fast as the guests only had an hour to eat and drink their fill. Most of the customers loved seeing Shari back in Plush but Bruno still looked at her as if she was a curse. While the bartenders mixed in pressure Chris was all smiles in the kitchen as he cooked up excellent dishes and enjoyed his new post. Unfortunately his efforts were hampered by the lack of a POS system which had the dishes go cold before they could reach their intended tables.

After the test Taffer convened with the experts for Plush’s new concept. Given the time pressure of the pre-show crowd Mastroianni suggested cocktails that only had a few ingredients while dessert drinks were ideal for the post-show patrons, and Liberato’s food ideas revolved on homemade pasta to reinforce Taffer’s blueprint of an Italian bar. The next day Taffer sat with the Bruno and Shari and used his own divorce as an example on how to properly bury the hatchet. The two promised to work well and not bad mouth each other for the sake of their daughter Claudia.

The renovation tore down Plush and from the ashes rose Osteria Calabria Bar & Café Italia. The previously-bland façade was now splashed in vibrant colors, and the benches and plants helped make the bar a bit more noticeable. The interior was given new furniture with one side of the wall painted with a mural of Calabria’s beautiful coast. The former wooden countertop was replaced with smooth marble, a new beer tap system that poured a cold one in the right temperature, and three Revention POS systems made the handwritten ticketing process a thing of the past.

Plush Now in 2026 – The After Bar Rescue Update

Taffer and his team redesigned the bar’s interior, rebranded its image, and introduced a new drink menu during the episode. Not only that but they also provided management training to improve business operations and customer service.

Things weren’t smooth sailing, however, even with these changes. If anything, the bar continued to be plagued with problems, one of the main issues being a persistent negative reputation. Customer reviews were also generally poor with complaints on service quality and ambiance being common themes.

Over time, the bar also reverted to its old ways. The staff reportedly refused to implement many of the changes suggested by Jon Taffer and his team, including maintaining the new drink menu and improved customer service standards.

The final blow for Plush came when it faced legal trouble related to unpaid rent and liquor licenses. These financial issues led to the nightclub’s eventual closure within a year after their appearance on Bar Rescue.

As of 2026, there is a new restaurant at their old PA location.

The post Plush 2026 Update – What Happened After Bar Rescue appeared first on Gazette Review.

They have evolved into highly prized collectibles, with some fetching staggering prices at auctions and private sales. This article will delve into the realm of the top 10 most expensive and valuable action figures that have ever been bought or sold.

Top 10 Most Expensive and Valuable Action Figures in 2026

Without further ado, here are the most valuable action figures in the world.

10. Scratch the Cat – $1,000

Scratch the Cat is not a very well-known character in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. The feline convict is somewhat based on another character named Hallocat, and his action figure was only produced in very minimal numbers hence its price tag and rarity. He did make an appearance as the first boss in the 1993 video game Radical Rescue on the Game Boy. Some people are lucky enough to grab the figure for only hundreds of bucks but at the cost of missing accessories or box.

9. 8-back 1981 Skeletor – $1,650

He-Man’s skeletal nemesis had an action figure released in 1981 equipped with a purple ram-headed staff and a sword splashed in the same tint. An elastic spring is installed in its waist, allowing kids to twist Skeletor and deliver a powerful strike. There are cheaper versions of this Skeletor figure if it is a 12-back. If you are confused as to what 8-back and 12-back means, it is the number of the franchise’s characters displayed behind the package. So if you see eight Masters of the Universe characters then that’s an 8-back and that is pretty pricey.

8. Transformers Jetfire Super Valkyrie Fighter – $2,500

The Super Valkyrie Fighter was a mecha that appeared in the 1982 anime series Super Dimension Fortress Macross. Toy company Hasbro saw the popularity of the mecha in the east and realized that the western audiences might also find the design cool. Hasbro acquired the Valkyrie’s design from Japanese toy company Takatoku which led to the creation of the Transformer Jetfire. After Takatoku’s closure in 1984 plus the resurgence of Macross and its arrival on western shores, Jetfire was changed to Skyfire and went a cosmetic overhaul. The original Jetfire with the Valkyrie design can fetch a high price especially if the detachable armor is still complete and with a package.

7. He-Man with Battle Cat Set $7,000

He-Man leaps into the fray with his feline steed Battle Cat, who is originally known as the cowardly cat Cringer. This toy set was released in 1981 during the height of the original cartoon series. Individual pieces without a box can purchased for only triple digits or less. On the other hand, a complete set encased inside an unopened 8-back box is worth a fortune.

6. Mego Elastic Batman – $15,000

Toy company Mego was famous for their affordable dime store toys and action figures of known characters. In 1979 they ventured in the realm of stretch toys as the interest in 8” action figures waned. Mego manufactured the line of stretchable figures known as the Elastic Superheroes line, and Mego Elastic Batman was part of it. This caught the attention of Kenner, the toy company responsible for the famous Stretch Armstrong action figure, as these elastic superheroes were quite similar to their stretchy blonde. A lawsuit from Kenner, coupled by poor build quality, effectively axed the production of Elastic Superheroes. It is reported that only two Elastic Batman figures exist and they fetch quite a handsome price.

5. Vinyl Cape Jawa – $18,000

Jawas are the small caped humanoids who were responsible for bringing C-3PO and R2D2 to Luke Skywalker in A New Hope. The action figure version of these humanoids originally donned vinyl capes until Kenner decided to change the material to cloth for aesthetic purposes. The sudden switch of capes made the original Jawas rare as it took place only a few months after their release. There are a lot of fake vinyl cape Jawas out there as it is quite easy to do so: by equipping the Jawa with a vinyl cape obtained from a different action figure like a vintage Obi-Wan, then insert the figure to a 12-back card. Such deception however cannot easily fool eagle-eyed collectors.

4. 1978 Telescoping Lightsaber Darth Vader

This action figure is considered the ‘holy grail’ among collectors, primarily due to its rarity. Only a handful were made before Kenner Products decided to change the design, making it an extremely sought-after piece. It has been known to fetch up to $25,000 in mint condition.

3. Michael Lau Gardener “Uncle” – $35,000

Michael Lau is an artist responsible for the propagation of toys designed in urban vinyl style. His efforts earned him numerous awards and accolades. His Gardener line of figures is based on his comic strip of the same name featured in the magazine East Touch. The Uncle figure from his Gardener line features a man with a grocery bag and a skateboard. Only a few pieces of this figure were created by Lau hence its high value. He has other rare high-cost figures whose release in Asia was sponsored by Sony.

2. 1979 Boba Fett Prototype – $150,000

The bounty hunter Boba Fett is without a doubt one of the most popular characters in Star Wars. Kenner made an action figure of Boba Fett with a backpack that can fire a rocket, and showcased it during the New York Toy Fair in 1979. However production was cancelled due to safety concerns involving the backpack as its projectile could possibly hurt a child. The prototype was featured in the “The Pawn Awakens” episode of Pawn Stars in which the seller put it up for $150 grand. It was auctioned in eBay for the same price and now the item is no longer available. Maybe some lucky (and rich) individual got his / her hands on what could possibly be the holy grail of collectibles in a galaxy far far away.

1. G.I. Joe Prototype $200,000

The G.I. Joe toys from Hasbro were famous to boys as how Barbie was to the little girls, and these army men were responsible for the creation of the term “action figure”. Millions of action figures were sold and the 11” prototype itself rested in the home of its creator Don Levine for 40 years. It boasted 21 movable parts and came with a helmet and canteen. The olive green fatigues and backpack it wore were all hand-sewn. In August 2003 the prototype was auctioned and comic store businessman Stephen Geppi took home the prize for $200 grand.

There we go with the most expensive action figures. Do you know other action figures that cost a lot of dough? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Top 10 Most Expensive and Valuable Action Figures in 2026 appeared first on Gazette Review.

In 2009 entrepreneur Brandon Klintworth turned his sights towards owning a bar after experiencing success with his landscaping company. He forked $210,000 and started martini nightclub Cashmere in Raleigh, North Carolina. Locals poured in the new club and Klintworth’s earnings spiked to $60 grand a month.

Soon enough competition popped out all over the place and the patrons flocked to these newer haunts, forcing Klintworth to hire his friend James Iadanza, a.k.a. DJ Blue Steel, in hopes of recharging the bar’s lost spark. Unfortunately Iadanza turned Cashmere into his personal playground, exhibiting obnoxious behavior and antagonizing the employees, not to mention bringing in his friends to party with him.

With Cashmere down in debt and jeopardized by an immature friend-turned-manager, Klintworth called for Jon Taffer and Bar Rescue for help.

Cashmere on Bar Rescue

Despite being situated in the busy neighborhood of Glenwood South, Cashmere lacked any crowds when Taffer performed his outside surveillance. Accompanied by his experts namely bartender Joe Brooke and service expert Jessie Barnes, Taffer noted that there was nothing outside that could attract people into the bar.

Taffer sent in two couples for the inside recon and immediately notice Iadanza sitting on the counter and drinking with friends. Chelsea, one of the bartenders, was just frozen in place behind the counter and did not even do her job. The kitchen behind the bar area was not put to good use and only served as storage. Iadanza was becoming increasingly obnoxious as the night went on, and when he did his job as a DJ he took off his shirt and only played according to his personal preference and not what the crowd wanted.

When Taffer confronted Klintworth about his friend’s actions the owner only defended Iadanza, and the latter claimed that he was “capable” of changing his ways. Iadanza took Taffer’s words as a challenge and told the Bar Rescue host that he can prove himself.

The following day Taffer returned with his experts plus chef Nick Liberato. The experts inspected Cashmere and found mostly filth in every nook and cranny, even had particles swirling inside the liquor bottles, while in the storage area Liberato counted one too many cockroaches running around. When Taffer noticed that the liquor bottles had scotch tape on the stickers he tested the proof of the drinks with a hydrometer, and Klintworth himself then admitted that bartenders refilled premium liquor bottles with cheap booze. The illegal act was done under the instruction of Iadanza who thought that it could save the bar money, oblivious to the fact that it could also cost Cashmere its liquor license. Klintworth confronted Iadanza and the latter vowed to stop acting like a manchild.

Brooke met with the bartenders and Chelsea was extremely lacking in the basics of making a martini no thanks to mismanagement. At the back Liberato introduced three simple dishes that complement a glass of martini, and on the floor Barnes trained the servers with the do’s and don’ts of proper serving. That night Taffer filled the bar to the brim with a stress test to assess the capabilities of the owners and the employees.

Brooke hovered behind the bartenders armed with an airhorn which he blew whenever they made a mistake. One of the servers named Leda was not practicing what Barnes taught her and mostly slacked off. Iadanza tried to help behind the bar but he was more of a hindrance thanks to his inexperience, and later on he was around the place as he juggled multiple responsibilities. On a positive note the cook Samir was doing a good job in the kitchen.

The morning after the stress test Iadanza was missing in action along with Leda, and Klintworth fired them both for the sake of the bar. Brooke and Taffer came up with a new drink menu composed of cocktails that have a minimal amount of ingredients to hasten serving times. Chelsea still had slipups but it was evident that she had a good working attitude. The kitchen was provided with new equipment so Samir could efficiently whip out excellent dishes. Taffer revealed his blueprints to Klintworth which included a “double deep butt funnel” and two DJ tables.

After the renovation Cashmere was renamed to Dual Ultra Nightclub, the name derived from having dual DJ tables and Taffer’s concept of Dualing deejays. From the outside you can now see the insides of the bar thanks to the windows and the lighting system that flickered with different colors. The sound systems were decked with better speakers, glassware replaced with virtually indestructible counterparts, walls adorned with artwork, and the double deep butt funnel leading to the dance floor increased the chances of patrons interacting with each other.

The grand reopening night showed how energetic Dual could be with two DJs duking it out in a showcase of killer mixes. The employees moved cohesively and Klintworth did his duties as a manager, and this good display of teamwork plus the great food and drink ensured that patrons had nothing but big smiles and commendations for Dual.

Taffer left the bar rescued and Klintworth in a better state without his friend.

Cashmere Now in 2026 – The After Bar Rescue Update

Cashmere was initially known for its unique blend of music and energetic nightlife. However, it had been struggling with financial difficulties and operational inefficiencies before appearing on Bar Rescue.

With Taffer’s help, they were able to make significant changes in the nightclub’s design, management, and overall operations. Along with these changes, the club was also renamed as “The Dragon Room” to give it a fresh identity.

However, despite the major overhaul and the national exposure from Bar Rescue, Cashmere’s fortunes did not dramatically improve. For one thing, the new changes did not generate the desired impact on its customer base and revenues, which meant the bar continued to struggle with management issues and financial instability.

To add to these woes, there were several negative customer reviews about the quality of service and the overall atmosphere at the nightclub.

In fact, just a few months after its appearance on Bar Rescue, Cashmere (known then as The Dragon Room) closed down permanently. The reasons behind its closure were not explicitly confirmed but it is believed that the recurrent financial problems and inadequate management practices led to its downfall.

As of 2026, there is a new bar at their old Raleigh location.

If anything, the story of Cashmere serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by businesses in the hospitality industry. Even with external assistance and a comprehensive overhaul, success is not guaranteed unless there’s a consistent focus on effective management, customer service, and financial stability.

The post Cashmere 2026 Update – What Happened After Bar Rescue appeared first on Gazette Review.

Artful Dodger in Huntington, New York was purchased in 2006 and owner Mike Conforti relished in its success thanks to being the only bar in the area with a dance floor and DJs. For the first five years Conforti was able to rake in $50,000 monthly until similar establishments popped around the place and patrons chose those better haunts as Artful Dodger eventually became neglected and outdated.

In 2011 Conforti sought the services of nightclub promoter Brian Gordon who changed a lot of things in the bar and gave it the new name Radio. The rebranding came with a couple of new promotions that attracted a younger and rowdier clientele, and later on the bar’s fresh concept proved to be ineffective with nary a bit of improvement in profits. Tensions escalated between Conforti and Gordon as they pointed fingers at each other for Artful Dodger’s decline.

With a hundred thousand dollars in debt plus an immature customer base threatening to destroy the bar, Conforti had no other choice but to call Jon Taffer.

Artful Dodger on Bar Rescue

Artful Dodger’s dull exterior made it look like an auto repair shop from the outside and it lacked anything that could entice the locals in this affluent town. Things were also equally flaccid inside the bar as the place was decked with outdated décor and damaged furniture. Taffer visited successful haunts in the area which teemed with customers and he pulled a hundred of them to serve as spies for his recon. The scouts reported Artful Dodger’s disgustingly unkempt conditions with rat droppings on the couches and flies buzzing around and kamikaze diving into the drink cups.

Taffer personally witnessed the infestation when he entered Artful Dodger and saw drowned flies floating inside one of the booze bottles. The customers showered Conforti and Gordon with expletives upon seeing that their drinks were not in a very sanitary condition, and the owner drank the shot Taffer served out of the same disgusting bottle. The Bar Rescue team then spent the entire night cleaning and sanitizing every nook and cranny of Artful Dodger which revealed that mosquitoes were also part of the bar’s infestation woes. In the following staff meeting Conforti and Gordon once again blamed each other as to who was responsible for the bar’s sorry state.

With the bar now clean and free from insects the experts began their work in training the staff. Bartender Phil Wills demonstrated a few tricks to enhance the employees’ serving speed while service expert Jessie Barnes subjected them to several possible bar scenarios to analyze their multitasking capabilities. During the stress test the bartenders seemingly forgot everything Wills taught them and resorted to their own cumbersome ways of mixing and serving. The customers Taffer sent in for the night were mostly over 18 and some of them were becoming rowdy, and a few “underage” clientele were able to slip through the bouncers and order drinks.

After the test Taffer and the experts drafted the bar’s new incarnation. As the bar needed something unique Taffer came up with the concept of turning Artful Dodger into a speakeasy. Speakeasies were illegal establishments during the Prohibition Era that relied on heavy secrecy to avoid detection and closure. Gin, rum, and whiskey cocktails were prominent during those years coupled by sophisticated table service. Wills introduced some of these cocktails like The Bootician and the P’s and Q’s Ginger, and Barnes taught the bartenders hospitality do’s and don’ts.

After the renovation the Artful Dodger was renamed to P’s and Q’s Auto Body. The new exterior hid the establishment’s true nature as it was a speakeasy but the name gave a subtle hint that the place was a bar. The front garage door only led to a small ‘lobby’ and the true entrance into the bar was behind a secret passage. The interior was decorated with Prohibition Era adornments and furniture.

Hundreds of customers slammed the bar during its grand reopening night and they loved the new concept as if they stepped into the past. The employees showcased their improved mixing and serving skills with utmost confidence, and the bar no longer had uncontrollably-rowdy patrons.

Artful Dodger Now in 2026 – The After Bar Rescue Update

When Artful Dodger first appeared on Bar Rescue in 2016, it was struggling with a lack of steady clientele and financial instability. With Taffer’s help, however, they underwent a significant transformation – for the better. The owner was provided with new tools and strategies to better manage the establishment, the staff received professional training, and the premises were drastically redesigned.

Despite that, however, the bar struggled to maintain its initial momentum after the show According to reports, there were problems with customer service and quality control. The new decor and menu also failed to resonate with regular customers who were accustomed to the old laid-back vibe of Artful Dodger.

The bar continued to face criticism for poor management and lackluster service, which led to a loss in customer base. Financial difficulties persisted and eventually led to the closure of Artful Dodger in 2017, just a year after their appearance on Bar Rescue. The renovation and rebranding efforts simply couldn’t save the establishment from its ongoing issues.

As of 2026, there is a new business called Repeal XVIII at their old Huntington location.

If anything, their story is a reminder that while television makeovers can provide a temporary boost, they do not guarantee long-term success. It underscores the importance of strong management, quality service, and customer satisfaction in the hospitality industry. A bar’s success relies not only on its physical features but also on the experience it provides to its customers.

The post Artful Dodger Update 2026 – What Happened After Bar Rescue appeared first on Gazette Review.

Spin a Yarn in Fremont, California, was bought by Saki Kavouniaris in 1995 as the 60-year-old restaurant was struggling to stay afloat. The establishment got back up to its feet as business was booming, that is until Saki hired bartender Jennifer and got married to her two years later.

Turns out, Jennifer was inexperienced in the restaurant business and lied her way into getting the job. Fellow employees admitted that she didn’t know what she was doing while on the floor. Additionally, when the establishment’s profits slowed to a crawl, Jennifer suggested to Saki that the place needed a remodeling. She was tasked with purchasing the furniture and décor needed to achieve this, and she did so without looking at the price tag of the items she bought. This ended with Saki accumulating more than $900 grand in expenditures.

Eventually, the relationship between Saki and Jennifer became sour as the restaurant became increasingly plagued by problems. Their daughter Mikayla was caught in between, and she knew that her parents were headed towards divorce. With nowhere else to turn to, the couple wrote an emotional letter to Gordon Ramsay and Kitchen Nightmares before it is all too late.

Spin a Yarn on Kitchen Nightmares

After receiving the letter, Chef Ramsay decided to visit Jennifer at her home before going to Spin a Yarn. In their conversation, Jennifer admitted that she lied to get the job and that Saki hired her even if it was glaringly obvious that she lacked the necessary skills to be one of the servers. She also confessed that she wasn’t totally attracted to Saki at first, and it took her eight months before she fell for the man. Nowadays, the couple rarely talked especially after that remodeling incident that put the restaurant in a very difficult situation.

Ramsay then visited Spin a Yarn and, after seeing the attire of the male servers (which they didn’t like), commented that they looked more like funeral undertakers and fat penguins. Saki gave Ramsay a tour of the restaurant where the latter got a glimpse of what Jennifer bought during her shopping spree such as expensive bathroom tiles, the shockingly-pricey granite countertops, and a fireplace. Adding to the many problems of the restaurant is its lack of identity as Saki couldn’t even tell what cuisine his business specialized in.

To sample the menu of Spin a Yarn, Ramsay ordered a handful of dishes like the Greek Sampler which was made of canned ingredients, the crab louie which was not quite fresh, and the rubbery filet mignon with a teriyaki sauce that tasted like cough medicine. After the disastrous taste test, Ramsay headed to the kitchen to chat with the personnel. The kitchen staff revealed that Saki was holding them back from what they wanted to do with the food, and the owner was unable to defend himself from these claims.

During the dinner service that night, the kitchen had troubles with staffing as their head chef was washing dishes no thanks to the lack of personnel, a problem that could’ve been solved if Saki was not hesitant to pay additional expenditures. This led to the food being returned as the customers weren’t pleased with what the chefs cooked up, and Saki just stood in one place without doing anything to alleviate the situation. Jennifer was also in the restaurant, but she was unable to help as she didn’t know what to do, no thanks to the lack of communication between her and Saki. To make matters worse, Ramsay discovered that the ingredients stored in the freezer were moldy and rancid. After some words from the Kitchen Nightmares host, the couple began working on cleaning the contents of their freezer and Saki taking responsibility instead of blaming others.

The next day, Ramsay sat with the couple to try and mend their marriage. Saki admitted that he must change his ways, and he realized that he really needed Jennifer to be on his side. With the two committed to being a team, Ramsay delegated the couple to hands-on responsibilities for that night’s dinner service to make them more involved. Jennifer was frustrated as she was tasked with serving prime rib, something she’s never done before. After making one too many mistakes, she finally got a hang of things and became more confident in cutting and serving the meat.

To give Spin a Yarn the makeover it truly needed, Ramsay focused its cuisine on steak so the menu isn’t a confusing mess of dishes. During the relaunch night, the customers loved the new dishes. However, Jennifer was having trouble again in cutting the prime rib as she carved them at inconsistent sizes. Because of this, the restaurant’s stock of the meat ran dangerously low as a large number of orders came in. Fortunately, the kitchen had an emergency prime rib stashed in their storage, and Saki and Jennifer worked together in serving those.

In the end, things turned out well with the couple having a renewed relationship and the restaurant not in troubled waters anymore.

Spin a Yarn Now in 2026 – The After Kitchen Nightmares Update

Spin a Yarn’s journey after Kitchen Nightmares wasn’t as smooth as one might expect. Despite the initial boost in business due to the renewed interest and publicity from the show, the restaurant faced mixed reviews from customers. While some praised the changes made by Ramsay, others were less impressed, citing inconsistency in food quality and service.

Alas, the transformation didn’t seem to have a lasting positive impact on the restaurant’s overall reputation.

While the restaurant managed to stay open for a few years following its appearance on Kitchen Nightmares, it continued to face financial struggles. Not only did they receive customer complaints, but there were also reports of internal issues including management disputes and financial mismanagement. If anything, these issues further added to the business’ instability.

In spite of these challenges, Spin a Yarn persevered and managed to remain operational. The restaurant still exists today, having made additional changes to its menu and management in an attempt to address some of the ongoing issues. It continues to serve its customers with its diverse menu and unique dining experience.

To summarize, Spin a Yarn’s journey after their appearance on Kitchen Nightmares has been one filled with ups and downs. While the initial makeover provided by Gordon Ramsay brought about significant changes and a temporary boost in business, it wasn’t enough to completely turn around the restaurant’s fortunes.

Despite facing numerous obstacles, Spin a Yarn has managed to navigate through the turbulent waters of the restaurant industry and continues to stay afloat. As of 2026, they’re still open and serving customers in their original location.

The post Spin a Yarn After Kitchen Nightmares – 2026 Update appeared first on Gazette Review.

Brothers Max and Ryke Zahir were both enlisted in the U.S. military and were deployed overseas as an attachment with Special Forces. In 2012, Ryke was injured in Afghanistan after an enemy grenade blew up and damaged his eyes. The brothers returned to America afterwards and, since they find it hard to go back to the force, Max decided to open his own bar as he already had experience in restaurants and bars. Celebrities Sports Grill in Yucaipa, California, then opened its doors with Ryke as co-owner. The bar easily raked in $200,000 on a monthly basis as the patrons consistently flooded in, and Max decided that he should share his blessings to the community.

In 2015, Max uploaded a video on the Internet where he was shown giving food to a homeless veteran. He also started a fundraiser to help homeless vets and raised around $20 grand. Unfortunately, the man on the video was not actually a veteran and this attracted lots of negative online backlash. A lot of people also demanded that their donations should be returned. Max insisted that he was targeted by false accusations, and eventually he fought back with harsh words both online and offline. This resulted in a dip on their sales as patrons didn’t return to the bar. To make matters worse, they were also running out of food and drink items to sell.

Celebrities Sports Grill accumulated a massive debt of $750 grand. Max also tried to sell the bar online but to no avail. With no other choice left, the brothers decided to call for Jon Taffer and Bar Rescue for help.

Celebrities Sports Grill on Bar Rescue

From his SUV, Taffer inspected the interior of Celebrities Sports Grill and found the décor to be very confusing. He also read some of the insults that Max made on social media which of course did not bring a very good reputation to the bar. Taffer summoned the people who were insulted by Max online and sent them as the recon spies for that night. They were served awful drinks made by bartenders who seemed to be unaware on how to properly mix cocktails. The employees were also continuously serving cocktails without even getting the payment of the customers first, so most of the patrons were basically drinking for free. As some of the customers were bailing, Max comped their orders just to make them stay. The owner’s temper was also steadily rising as the complaints piled up, forcing Taffer to go into the bar and teach Max a lesson on how to be a proper manager.

The Bar Rescue host was very vocal about how much of a failure Max was. He also ordered the owner to apologize to everyone but Max thought that it would be better to hurl profanities at everyone, including the ladies. The next day, Taffer returned for a meeting with the staff and learned that they all had very little love for Max. Eventually, he humbled up to his staff as Taffer made him realize how much he was hated, not to mention that he was barely making any money as well.

After the meeting, the training with the experts commenced. Master mixologist Rob Floyd taught the bartenders how to properly mix by using a mixer filled with rice so they can listen to the rhythm indicating that they are properly shaking. In the kitchen, master chef Ryan Scott introduced the concept of great food that is also good for the customer’s pocket. He taught the cooks how to create a scrumptious burger that does not cost too much.

During the stress test, Taffer instructed the clientele (including Yucaipa mayor Denise Hoyt) to vote if the bar was worth rescuing or not. The staff earned negative comments from the customers no thanks to the sluggish pace in serving the drinks. The tickets on the bar piled up due to the lack of an efficient system. Max was trying his best to be calm as he helped around, thus earning him some praise from his workers. The owner was also actively making amends with the community as he shook hands with the customers and interacted with them. At the end of the test, 85% decided that Celebrities deserved to be rescued.

The next day, Floyd introduced cocktails such as The Podium Punch and The Overtime. Both of the drinks took advantage of perceived value as they looked fancy, but they are actually affordable. In the kitchen, Scott whipped out dishes tailored for customers during non-peak hours like bacon fondue. Taffer sat down with Max and had the owner put the donated money in the Semper Fi Fund.

After the renovation, Celebrities Sports Grill was turned into The Victory Bar & Restaurant. Taffer decided that a new brand was fitting for the bar so the not-so-colorful past can be finally put behind. The interior was decked with new furniture and warm colors on the walls. The bar area looked a lot better with shiny wooden countertops and fresh fruit on display alongside bottles of liquor. Five new POS systems guarantee that there will be an efficient system from now on.

Celebrities Sports Grill Now in 2026 – The After ‘Bar Rescue’ Update

After appearing on the show, Celebrities Sports Grill underwent a complete overhaul. From the name and décor to the menu and management practices, everything was revamped.

The bar was also renamed to The Victory Bar and Grill in an attempt to shed its old image and attract a new clientele. New systems were put into place as well to maximize efficiency and profitability, and staff were retrained to provide superior service.

Despite these changes, however, reviews were mixed from customers. While some appreciated the changes and felt that the bar had indeed improved in terms of service and ambiance, others felt that it had lost its original charm and appeal. Not only that but internal management issues also continued to persist.

In 2015, Celebrities Sports Grill decided to revert back to its original name. They hoped to strike a balance between maintaining their traditional identity and incorporating some of the improvements suggested by Bar Rescue.

This included a more streamlined menu offering popular sports bar fare and a renewed focus on providing excellent customer service.

Alas, their original location wasn’t able to keep up with the momentum and eventually closed down in 2016. A second location in San Bernardino, which the brothers had opened, however, is still open and serving customers as of 2026.

The post Celebrities Sports Grill 2026 Update – What Happened After Bar Rescue appeared first on Gazette Review.

However, due to potential side effects, some individuals may prefer to explore natural alternatives to Ketoconazole shampoo. This article will introduce five such substitutes that are not only natural but also highly effective in addressing scalp issues.

5 Alternatives to Ketoconazole Shampoo in 2026

1. Tea Tree Oil Shampoo

The first alternative to Ketoconazole is tea tree oil shampoo. Known for its potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil is an excellent choice for those looking to treat dandruff and other scalp conditions naturally.

It has been found to combat the Malassezia fungus, which is often responsible for dandruff. Not only that but it also soothes the scalp and reduces itching and inflammation.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar rinse can also serve as a natural replacement for Ketoconazole shampoo. For one thing, it’ll help balance the pH level of the scalp, making it less susceptible to fungal growth.

It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe an irritated scalp and reduce flakes and itchiness. Due to its high acidity, however, it should be diluted with water before use.

3. Neem Oil Shampoo

Neem oil is a powerful antifungal agent that is effective against the fungi causing dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. It also promotes healthy hair growth and reduces inflammation.

4. Aloe Vera

Known for its healing properties, Aloe Vera can soothe an irritated scalp, reduce inflammation, and fight against dandruff-causing fungi. It can also be used to moisturize the hair and scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness.

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is another alternative to Ketoconazole shampoo. It’s rich in medium-chain fatty acids like lauric acid, which have antimicrobial properties that can help fight against dandruff.

On top of that, it’ll also moisturize and nourish the scalp and hair, promoting healthier hair growth.

While these natural alternatives to Ketoconazole shampoo may not provide immediate results as Ketoconazole would, they are free from harsh chemicals and less likely to cause side effects.

It’s important to note, however, that everyone’s hair and scalp conditions are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Because of that, it’s always recommended to conduct a patch test before fully incorporating these alternatives into your hair care routine.

Please consult with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist if your symptoms persist or worsen.

The post Alternatives to Ketoconazole Shampoo – Best Natural Options in 2026 appeared first on Gazette Review.

In 2007 barber shop entrepreneur Kervin Cinton pooled his earnings and purchased the 40-year-old establishment named Weber’s Place in the Los Angeles suburb of Reseda. Cinton turned the place into a prime entertainment venue and hired bands to draw the crowds in.

Unfortunately Weber’s Place was crushed by the better music haunts in nearby Hollywood, and Cinton’s habit of booking too many bands made the bar bleed money. Aside from that the establishment, being a former failed strip club, has no clear identity and the owner never bothered in redecorating the place. Some of the employees blatantly stole money and liquor from Cinton because they know that the owner won’t even lift a finger to stop them. In fact he won’t even reprimand his bartenders when they were not performing their duties.

As Cinton’s $500 grand investment was not showing any signs of improvement he decided to call for Jon Taffer and Bar Rescue for help.

Weber’s Place on Bar Rescue

Taffer brought in two experts to aid him in this rescue namely mixologist Michael Tipps and chef Keith Jones, and the latter was sent to the bar to gain a customer’s perspective on things.

The first few errors were committed by the bartenders. Not only did they scoop ice out of the cooler using glassware, they also delayed their serving time to watch the live band perfor. The kitchen staff was inefficient and the quality of food was lackluster. Taffer entered the bar and met with Cinton, and in their discussion the Bar Rescue host learned that the owner didn’t fire the employees that stole from the bar.

Jones toured the kitchen and saw filth accumulating on the shelves where the ingredients are placed, old grease being used on the fryers, and malfunctioning equipment being used for improper food storage. In the bar area Tipps was greeted by the same unsanitary conditions on the counter. Taffer’s wrath was roused when he found a dirty rag at the bottom of the cooler where the beer bottles were kept and one of the bartenders named Rodiah had the gall to laugh at the matter, not to mention being disrespectful as well.  The employees, except Rodiah who was sent away by Taffer, were then ordered to clean every nook and cranny of Weber’s Place.

The next day Taffer and the experts returned to the bar which was now spotless. Taffer confronted Cinton about the massive losses incurred by liquor overpouring which was an eye-opener for the owner. Cinton discussed the matter with his remaining bartenders and axed Mario, the employee on duty during the night when the bar lost $700. The firing effectively sent a message to the other bartenders that Cinton was no longer a softie unlike before.

Tipps then taught the bartenders a handy tip to ensure that they poured the right amount of booze, and at the same time the expert watched the employees closely to gauge their capabilities. In the kitchen Jones tutored chef Van with the right food storage practices. At nightfall Taffer subjected Weber’s Place to a stress test to find out the areas that needed his attention.

Customers poured in and Tipps found the first weak spot in the form of bartender Tyler who was struggling with the basics in bartending. Cinton was actively managing his staff particularly the server Leila but he was doing it too much that it actually put pressure on her instead of helping her out. Van moved at a snail’s pace in the kitchen as the orders piled up, and the overworked fryer ended up not cooking some of the dishes. Some of the customers even found hair on their food. Taffer had Leila work on the bar area as the bartenders were not exhibiting competence under pressure. She proved to be a fast learner and was a capable mixer behind the counter.

After the stress test Taffer conceptualized the bar’s theme with the experts and they agreed on giving Weber’s Place a Caribbean twist, given Cinton’s ancestry, and making it less dependent on live bands. The food items were diversified according to the theme with fewer fried items to lessen the stress on the fryer. As for the drinks the new cocktails featured fresh fruit with lower alcohol content to encourage the patrons to order more.  Taffer straightened out the problem with theft by giving the keys to the liquor vault only to Cinton and manager Joe, and the experts trained the employees with the revamped menu.

Taffer and his team tore apart Weber’s Place and renovated it into Weber’s Rum Bar & Grill, finally giving the place an identity of its own. The façade’s color was changed from red to gray and light green. The same colors adorn the interior with a bit of red, blue, and black. Decorative fruit adorn the counter with potted plants and flowers on some corners to make the place fresher. Shutters were installed on the windows and the obnoxious giant lip on the kitchen was replaced with a simple rectangular border. A TouchTunes jukebox was installed on the wall so there will always be music in the absence of a live band, and CCTV cameras on the bar area ensure tighter security with the feeds viewable from a smartphone.

Additional tables and chairs were installed on the stage area to accommodate more patrons. The furniture and the decorative pieces on the area can be easily set aside if ever a band was set to perform. In the kitchen a new refrigerator was installed next to the fryer to cut down time spent by Van running back and forth for ingredients.

Cinton welcomed the patrons to his new bar on the relaunch and the sudden influx quickly overwhelmed Tyler, forcing Taffer to swap him with Leila who quickly adapted to the new cocktails. Van exhibited faster meal preparation and her dishes were warmly received by the customers. Cinton was more confident than before and he was no longer overbearing on his employees.

Weber’s Place Now in 2026 – The After Bar Rescue Update

Weber’s Place struggled with multiple issues prior to being on the show. For one thing, they had an outdated decor and a lackluster menu. The staff also lacked adequate training and the management was inefficient.

Fortunately, with Taffer’s help, they were able to regain their status in the local nightlife scene. Not only did Taffer and his team renovate the bar’s interior, but they also trained the staff, introduced a new Caribbean-inspired menu and renamed the bar to “The End”.

Despite these changes, however, the bar still faced a number of challenges. While customer numbers initially went up after the episode aired, it eventually declined over the next months.

Several factors contributed to this downturn: customers were reportedly unhappy with the new menu and missed the old karaoke-style ambiance of Weber’s Place. Some customers also felt that the new theme didn’t align with the bar’s identity. Not only that but there were also complaints about poor service and high prices.

Within a year of their Bar Rescue episode airing, Weber’s Place reverted back to its original name but kept some of the changes introduced by the show. Unfortunately, this didn’t help to turn their fortunes around either.

By 2013, Weber’s Place had permanently closed its doors. This closure has raised questions about the long-term success rate of bars featured on “Bar Rescue”. While the show undoubtedly offers an initial boost in publicity for establishments like Weber’s Place, maintaining this momentum appears to be a significant challenge.

As of 2026, their old Reseda location appears to be empty.

The post Weber’s Place 2026 Update – What Happened After Bar Rescue appeared first on Gazette Review.

Gipsy was the first gay nightclub in Las Vegas when it opened in 1977. 16 years later Paul San Filipo bought the place and it easily made him more than a hundred grand a month during its heyday. One of its main attractions was a drag show that pulled in a good amount of locals into its fold.

Around the late 90s more gay nightclubs sprouted around Las Vegas during the megaresort boom. Patrons moved to better haunts as Gipsy did not keep up with its competitors, and as the profits went down San Filipo cracked under pressure and developed a habit of irresponsible management that led to problems in the workforce. To make matters worse San Filipo was slapped with a $400 grand penalty for not paying live entertainment taxes, and ultimately his debt climbed up to a staggering $2 million.

With no other options left San Filipo decided to call Jon Taffer and Bar Rescue for help before Gipsy gets dragged to the ground.

Gipsy on Bar Rescue

From the outside Taffer and mixologist Rachel Ford noticed Gipsy’s outdated façade as if it was still stuck in the 70s, not to mention its problems with maintenance and bird droppings on the roof. Taffer then sends in two nightlife experts to perform recon inside the Gipsy, and when they entered the bar they were welcomed by the sight of its emptiness. They were served bland drinks thanks to the bar’s lack of simple necessities, and San Filipo’s screaming voice pierced the silence as he tried to order bartender Brandon to play some Janet Jackson. Later on the heavily inebriated San Filipo became more verbal and inappropriate as he degraded his employees and made them uncomfortable while constantly yelling “BRANDON!”

Taffer entered Gipsy and confronted San Filipo who was quick to point out that his employees “suck” and that they deserved to be mistreated. Despite Taffer’s harsh words San Filipo still insisted on getting a drink and his Janet Jackson on the jukebox, forcing the Bar Rescue host to walk out and postpone the rescue until the owner was sober. San Filipo went home with a glass of booze in hand and with the aspiration of partying with Taffer soon.

The next day Taffer returned to Gipsy in a calmer mood and he was welcomed by the owner who was not drunk. During their conversation San Filipo revealed that his mother recently passed away and that he was drinking away his depression. Taffer then warned San Filipo that the rescue will stop if ever he drinks again while on the job. In the following staff meeting the owner apologized to the employees and some of them wanted to see San Filipo back to his old drive, although Brandon took it with a grain of salt as he believed that the owner was more of a Jekyll and Hyde kind of guy. Ford then toured the bar area and found numerous sanitary problems wrought by management problems.

To remedy the problem experienced by the spies during the recon night Ford taught the bartenders how to properly make martini and how to work as a team by having them mix drinks with arms interlocked. That night Taffer opened Gipsy for a stress test to weed out the bar’s weak links.

The bartenders were divided into pairs as they took turns in managing the bar. Brandon and Justin struggled in the face of pressure while Livio and Jerry easily made it through with speed and skill. The need of a service bar was also evident as the main area was congested during the busy hours. San Filipo mingled with the patrons without taking a sip of booze which was, according to Taffer, a massive improvement. When the drag show began the patrons turned their attention towards the stage and virtually forgot about the bar area, thus cutting off income as the performance commenced and the bartenders stood in the midst of a ghost town.

Two days before the relaunch Taffer welcomed the Gipsy staff outside the bar with the signage being taken down and the act was met with disbelief and a couple of teary eyes. Taffer explained that the past had to make way to the future just like some of the demolished landmarks in Las Vegas that were once legendary.

Taffer then introduces expert choreographer Dominique Kelley to work with his new concept of three stages with shorter performances than a single show of almost an hour. This new plan of Taffer not only involved the use of better stage lighting but also had the entire staff on dance class as they will all be choreographers / bartenders from now on.

The new drink menu was composed of cocktails inspired by the atmosphere of 1950’s South Beach. Before the relaunch Taffer was summoned by San Filipo to a meeting outside the bar where he relayed his concerns about Brandon. During Taffer’s countdown of Gipsy’s new incarnation San Filipo axed Brandon on the spot.

SBLV was the bar’s new name which was an acronym for South Beach Las Vegas with the exterior now brightly lit with green and white thanks to the signs.  For the interior the bar was equipped with new furniture, couches, and a service station for faster drink service now that SBLV has 28 seats.  Three performance platforms stood on select areas of the bar and the new sound system ensured a crisp auditory experience. The main bar’s plumbing system was fixed plus a new POS system and South Beach inspired uniforms for the bartenders to finally complete the theme. Unfortunately San Filipo was not very happy with the changes made by Taffer and he walked out during the tour of the new bar.

Even without San Filipo around the employees efficiently handled the customers during the launch of SBLV.

Gipsy Now in 2026 – The After Bar Rescue Update

Despite the rebranding efforts and operational improvements, the club faced significant challenges in attracting a consistent customer base after the episode aired. For one thing, Gipsy’s remote location was a significant barrier to attracting regular patrons, and it struggled to compete with the more centrally located establishments.

Not only that but they also faced harsh criticism from long-time patrons who weren’t pleased with the drastic changes made during the Bar Rescue makeover.

Many felt that the new name and modern look stripped away the club’s unique character and charm that had initially drawn them to the establishment. As a result, Gipsy struggled to retain its loyal customers while also failing to attract a new clientele.

To make matters worse, club owner Paul San Filippo found himself in legal troubles, which significantly affected the business. San Filippo was charged with multiple counts of arson and insurance fraud related to a fire at another one of his properties. These charges brought unwanted negative publicity to Gipsy, further damaging its reputation and business.

In the end, Gipsy’s doors were permanently closed in early 2014, less than a year after its appearance on Bar Rescue. While the show provided a brief glimmer of hope for this struggling Las Vegas nightclub, the combination of location challenges, customer dissatisfaction, and legal issues proved too much for it to overcome.

If anything, the tale of Gipsy serves as a reminder that while reality television interventions can provide initial boosts, ultimate success depends on factors far beyond just a makeover.

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