And It’s the Dogs Again!

By

Shelley Stepanek

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Let’s give a thanks to all the great dog sayings in this post.

Hey Ripley, Say It Ain’t So!

By

William Natale

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Hey Ripley, who do we believe?

The man in blue or the man driving while black

In that big Cadillac?

Stopped for license tags, missing then found

Or air fresheners – dangling on a rearview mirror

That brought Daunte to quiver

When Kim confused a TAZ-ER, with a TRACE-R from a GLOCK

That ROCKED Wright’s life AND Philandro Castile’s –

for an IOTA infraction in Minne-SOTA

that lead to chain reactions and subtractions of black souls snuffed by police

MIS-actions – mere distractions in a world where some lives matter

and others don’t warrant the chatter.

Hey Rip, say it ain’t so, BUT Say it loud and clear

That a STOP in traffic

Ceases to be pornographic

As images once never SEEN, now DEMEAN our screens

with the pitter-patter of why black lives don’t matter

when Derek in Minne-SOTA takes

a knee that intervenes with the breath of life for

nine minutes & some 29 SECONDS that BECKONS – and even

shocks the men and women in blue.

Say it ain’t so Rip

Say it ain’t so Van Winkle

As you wriggle from a 1619 nap to a TODAY as brittle as it was back then.

Who are you going to believe Rip?

The men in blue or Breonna who in the middle of the night took a trip into the beyonna.

Say Rip – can you give me a tip – when in God’s name do Black Lives Matter?

Is it EVER or NEVER – what say you Rip?

Enquiring minds want to know in Minne-SOTA, Oklahoma, Dakota,

Manitoba, Maricopa, Saratoga, and all points beyond.

Don’t give up, Rip – please don’t give up… it’s 2021, not 1619

and if we can reach out to the other side from the inside

as to WHY Black Lives Matter,

you won’t be asked to “Say It Ain’t So” anymore.

William Natale is the author of the children’s book, Woolly Wurm; “1968 – A Story As Relevant Today As It Was Then (based on a true story about two white teens who wind up working in an all-black factory immediately following the assassination of Dr. MLK; and The Resurrection of Boraichee (a story described quirky and clever with a bit of reincarnation as a DOG serves as the narrator about a family suffering from the opioid epidemic). All but the children’s book can be found on Amazon/KINDLE. Adelaide Press of New York will release “BLISS: Forever Elusive & Unique” – Short Stories by William Natale on August 16, 2021.

Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

By

John Loranger

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Crime and Punishment (1866) is a Russian novel about a young man named Raskolnikov who murders a pawnbroker and her mentally challenged sister. The crime is motivated in part by the young man’s poverty, but the more important element has to do with something else. He is obsessed by notions of superiority; namely, the idea that a Napoleon lives on a plane that transcends moral laws and restrictions. In other words, if an ordinary man commits murder, he has broken the law and consequently deserves to be punished; but if a Napoleon commits murder, even on a mass scale, that is permissible—because he is superior. Raskolnikov wants more than anything else to be such an extraordinary individual. But the theory and the grisly deeds that result reduce him to a broken state.

However, this is not an abstract philosophical treatise but a novel; and as such, it deals with flesh and blood people and concrete action. There are many and varied characters which are skillfully woven into the lengthy narrative. My favorites, aside from the protagonist himself, include the boisterous yet good-natured Razumikhin; the saintly Sonia; Porfiry, the brilliant detective (who might remind readers of television’s Columbo, starring Peter Falk); and there’s also the complex and creepy Svidrigaylov. The pivotal episode, the murder itself, is described with unsettling intensity. The author conveys with penetrating insight Raskolnikov’s virtual helplessness against the temptation to follow through with the plan. He is terrified and profoundly disgusted, and yet he goes on with it. But this is not a mere madman who has no control over his actions or cannot distinguish right from wrong, reality from fantasy. Raskolnikov is, I would say, disturbed but sane.

The novel has its share of weaknesses. The character named Luzhin is so despicable he comes off as a caricature for the most part. Also, some of the dialogue is dragged out to excess, and too frequently takes place in Raskolnikov’s room—which is described as being almost claustrophobically cramped and stuffy. In this miserable space, several sizable gatherings occur in which people chatter interminably and seem to be at ease. If this was an attempt at humor, that is one thing; but I don’t think that was the case.

Incidentally, Dostoyevsky can be quite humorous; not often but sometimes. That is a trait that most of his fans don’t seem to notice.

Three fateful choices were made for the modern world during the 1800s; and those choices can be represented by three exceptionally brilliant writers: Marx, Nietzsche, and Dostoyevsky. It seems to me that each of us orbits around or gravitates toward one of the three, whether we know them or not. Maybe this is too simplistic, and yet I think it has enough validity to warrant close consideration. Insofar as Dostoyevsky is concerned, Crime and Punishment is the key work; and unlike Marx and Nietzsche, the prophetic vision of Dostoyevsky turns his readers toward God.

Independence Day and Patriotism

By

Richard Norton

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Independence Day is a day to pay tribute and remember all those who fought for the independence of our country. It’s a special day to celebrate independence and to wish our friends and relatives some beautiful messages and greetings.

Fourth of July is the day of celebration for every American as it is the USA Independence Day. On this occasion, various events and celebrations will be organized all over the country to commemorate America’s Birthday. When we get to this special day, it reminds us of the challenges we faced in becoming an independent country. No matter what, let us always value this independence.

Over the years, we have certainly paid a heavy price for this freedom and we always should be thankful for it. We are truly grateful for all who made sacrifices to fight for our freedom, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

I grew up in a Navy town in Connecticut and I have always felt patriotic towards my country. I loved seeing the fireworks displayed at the Navy base with the national anthem playing in the background. To this day, whenever I hear the national anthem, I feel that wonderful sense of pride of being an American. I am forever grateful to live in a country where I can be free, and I hope and pray that none of us ever take that for granted.

The Fourth of July is a happy day for all Americans. Let us celebrate this day with high spirits because this is a day of pride for all of us. Let us make it a memorable day by remembering all those who have fought for our independence. This day is a reminder to all of us of all the sacrifices that have been made to bring home this freedom.

There is definitely something special about independence that makes it so wonderful. Let us celebrate this day by coming together regardless of our differences, and be grateful for all of our national heroes for bringing us this freedom.

We are indeed fortunate to be in a country that gives its citizens the freedom that many other nations around the world only wish they had. Never let this freedom perish. Always value it and keep it safe.

Every day is special but Fourth of July is the most special day for any American. Let us promise to be the most responsible citizens of this great country and do wonderful things and help others to make our land truly proud.

So as Americans, let’s all come together and celebrate with many cheers and lots of joy. Wear the red, white, and blue proudly and greet one another with a big smile.

We come from all different walks of life and different backgrounds, but the thing that we have in common is—we are all Americans and we are free! Never take that for granted and always be grateful. As the song goes, “I am proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free and I won’t forget the ones who died who gave that right to me.”

Happy Independence Day!

RICH NORTON

Regional Sales Manager RMS

Photo by Lucas Sankey on Unsplash

Micro Summit 2021 Update from Las Vegas

By

Shelley Stepanek

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MICRO SUMMIT 2021 to see world leaders gather in Las Vegas. This is an update to earlier article on the Micro Summit.

Update 166 world leaders have now committed to be at Micro Summit 2021

Micro Summit 2021 will be held at the Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton Tropicana Las Vegas

Hotel Address: 4975 S. Dean Martin Dr.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Zipcode – 89118-1656

July 16-18, 2021—World leaders from 166 nations are now already committed to participating in the event. The first international Micro Summit was held in August 2003 at Finlandia Hall in Helsinki, Finland.

The event will be open, free to ladies and gentlemen of the public from 9am to 3:45pm Saturday July 17, 2021. Coins, stamps, postcards from around the world!!

One of the featured speakers will be His Majesty Alanus Rex the First from Bermania and author of the book, Please Ignore Our Time Machine.

Caesars Entertainment Announces their Latest Shows

By

Shelley Stepanek

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Thanks to Caesars Entertainment, we have a full list of shows that they have announced. It’s so great to have shows in Las Vegas back up and opening. I have been to “27-A Musical Experience” at Virgin Hotels, going to “Uncensored” a new male review show tomorrow night, and off to see “Extravaganza” at Bally’s in another week. Can’t wait for Criss Angel to open.

Entertainment at the Empire

Usher Makes History at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace

A historic night in Las Vegas is almost here as the spotlight shines on the opening night of Usher – The Las Vegas Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Friday, July 16. The global megastar and eight-time GRAMMYÒ Award-winner, Usher, takes the stage as the first headlining residency to launch in Las Vegas since the COVID-19 pandemic. General tickets for the 18 shows currently on sale are available and a limited number of VIP meet & greet packages are also available for each show.

Fully announced show schedule:

July 2021: 16, 17, 21, 23, 24, 28, 30, 31

August 2021: 4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14

Dec 2021: 28, 29, 31

Jan 2022: 1

All tickets and packages can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com/ushervegas. All shows begin at 9 p.m.

The Magnificent Return of The Magic Attic at Bally’s Las Vegas

July is the month of magic at Bally’s Las Vegas as The Magic Attic welcomes back magic-inspired shows for guests. Paranormal – Mind Reading Magic returns to performances on select days with all shows starting at 4 p.m. Experience an afternoon of mystery, magic, hypnosis and mind-reading that leaves the audience astonished and amazed as international mentalist Frederic Da Silva showcases the powers of his mind in this renowned show. Starting Thursday, July 15, Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Potter Experience plays inside The Magic Attic showroom at Bally’s Las Vegas. The critically acclaimed comedic rendition of all seven Harry Potter books condensed into 70 minutes will have guests flying off their seat (or broomstick) with laughter. The show schedule is Monday through Sunday at 8:00 p.m. (dark Wednesday) with matinee performances Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 pm.

Tickets for all shows in The Magic Attic can be purchased caesars.com/shows.

Criss Angel Mindfreak^®– The Immersive Visual Spectacular – Returns to Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, July 7

More magic inspired productions are available at Planet Hollywood starting Wednesday, July 7 as Criss Angel returns to his custom-designed Las Vegas stage. The show is a euphoric visual spectacular unlike any other experience. After a 14-month pause, guests will be welcomed back with an innovative and technologically advanced production. MINDFREAK features Angel’s ground-breaking illusions and revolutionary magic including his signature levitation voted “The Greatest Illusion of All Time” by the most prestigious magic organization in the world, the International Brotherhood of Magicians.

Criss Angel MINDFREAK performs in the Criss Angel Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Wednesday – Sunday at 7 p.m. beginning July 7, 2021. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $69 plus tax and applicable fees, and can be purchased by visiting CrissAngel.com, Ticketmaster.com/crissangel, or by calling (855) 234-7469. For groups of 25 or more, please call (855) 234-7469 or email EntertainmentGroupSales@caesars.com.

Previously Announced Entertainment

Caesars Entertainment recently announced new shows and ticket availability for a variety of headlining resident and one-off performers set to return including Rod Stewart, Pitbull, OneRepublic, Van Morrison, and more. Previously announced production shows with performances during July include “Extravaganza – The Vegas Spectacular”, “Potted Potter” and “Paranormal – Mind Reading Magic” at Bally’s Las Vegas, “ABSINTHE” at Caesars Palace, “Piff the Magic Dragon” and “X Burlesque” at Flamingo Las Vegas, “Tape Face” and “X Country” at Harrah’s Las Vegas, “Mat Franco – Magic Reinvented Nightly” at The LINQ Hotel + Experience, “Criss Angel MINDFREAK” at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, “Penn & Teller” and “The Comedy Cellar” at Rio-All Suite Hotel & Casino continue to bring guests world-class entertainment. For more information on schedule and tickets, please visit www.caesars.com/shows.

Drai’s Beachclub • Nightclub Presents Explosive July Lineup

Drai’s Beachclub • Nightclub at The Cromwell proudly offers an explosive lineup of performers this July. Drai’s Beachclub is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Drai’s Nightclub is open Friday through Sunday from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m, with additional programming every Thursday for Swim Night throughout the summer. Tickets and VIP table reservations are available on the website at www.draisgroup.com. Other special requests are available by emailing info@draislv.com.

The Beachclub lineup:

Friday, July 2: Patrick Cornett
Saturday, July 3: Wiz Khalifa
Sunday, July 4: Irie
Friday, July 9: Baddies Only
Saturday, July 10: 2 Chainz
Sunday, July 11: Maria Romano
Friday, July 16: Maria Romano
Saturday, July 17: Nelly
Sunday, July 18: DJ Franzen
Friday, July 23: Maria Romano
Saturday, July 24: French Montana
Sunday, July 25: Murda Beatz
Friday, July 30: Maria Romano
Saturday, July 31: Wiz Khalifa

The Nightclub lineup:

Friday, July 2: Migos
Saturday, July 3: Lil Wayne
Sunday, July 4: Wiz Khalifa
Friday, July 9: 2 Chainz
Saturday, July 10: Future
Sunday, July 11: Sundrais with DJ Franzen
Friday, July 16: Special Guest
Saturday, July 17: Big Sean
Sunday, July 18: Nelly
Friday, July 23: French Montana
Saturday, July 24: 50 Cent
Sunday, July 25: Sundrais with DJ Franzen
Friday, July 30: Wiz Khalifa
Saturday, July 31: 2 Chainz

Drai’s Beachclub • Nightclub at The Cromwell

*Top photo by Patrick Robert Doyle on Unsplash

Caesars Entertainment Updates for the Summer

By

Shelley Stepanek

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Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas resorts welcome guests this July with a variety of new hospitality, food and beverage, gaming and entertainment offerings.

Summertime Spa & Salon Experiences

Escape the heat and treat yourself to unique spa and salon experiences at Caesars Entertainment resorts this summer.

Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace
- After a $1 million refresh, Qua Baths & Spa will reopen its spa facilities in mid-July, including the famed Roman Baths, Arctic Ice Room, Laconium Room, steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools and locker rooms. To book a spa service, visit caesarspalace.com.
COLOR Salon at Caesars Palace
- Get bikini-ready, just in time for National Bikini Day on July 5. Indulge in a classic customized spray tan and bikini wax at COLOR Salon for the summertime teeny bikini ($145). To book, visit caesarspalace.com.
Spa at The LINQ
- Ideal for a couple’s spa day, Spa at The LINQ is now offering co-ed facilities, including steam rooms, whirlpools and the popular Himalayan salt caves. To book a service, visit thelinq.com
Voie Spa & Salon at Paris Las Vegas
- The new Mi Amore Couples Journey at Voie Spa & Salon is the perfect couple’s spa getaway. The couple’s package includes a 50- or 80-minute aromatherapy customized massage, followed by a premium candlelight bath experience in a couple’s suite that includes a glass of champagne and French macarons. To book, visit parislasvegas.com.
  - 50-minute Massage + Bath Experience (30 minutes) – $445 per couple
  - 80-minute Massage + Bath Experience (30 minutes) – $595 per couple

Mi Amore Couples Journey Bath Experience at Voie Spa & Salon inside Paris Las Vegas

Catch the Game and the New Menu at Sports Deli at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

Don’t miss a minute of the action as delicious dishes are a few steps away from the Rio sportsbook at Sports Deli. Sports Deli’s menu of burgers, pizzas, homemade sandwiches and other comfort food specialties has new game day offerings such as the MVP Burger with pepper jack cheese, egg, jalapeños, bacon, blackberry jam, lettuce, tomato and onion; the chicken Caprese sandwich, with grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella cheese, roasted red peppers, pesto mayo and balsamic glaze on a tomato and Parmesan bun; as well as traditional offerings like wings, mozzarella sticks and fries. For the full menu, see here.

MVP Burger at Sports Deli at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

Sink ’em and Drink ’em — Beer Pong is Back at O’Sheas and Bird Bar

O’Sheas Irish Pub and Casino at The LINQ Promenade and Bird Bar at Flamingo Las Vegas have brought back their ever-popular beer pong tables. Guests are invited to round up their friends or make new ones with a social game of beer pong. Purchase your favorite beer and let the games begin.

Beer Pong Tables at Bird Bar at Flamingo Las Vegas

*Top photo by Queen Ahumareze on Unsplash

Close the Place Down- Episode 3

By

Shelley Stepanek

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https://mobbedup.podbean.com/e/close-the-place-down/

I remember this well—what a story! Everyone fighting to see who would win in the battle between the Mob and the Gaming Commission. Once again, I had met most of the people involved including Judge Claiborne.

This podcast is from the Mob Museum and Las Vegas Review Journal. They have done a terrific job on these stories. Be sure to listen to the whole season.

‘Close the Place Down’ | S2E3

June 28, 2021

The Nevada Gaming Commission voted unanimously to close the Aladdin’s mob-controlled gaming floor in August 1979, but colorful federal judge Harry Claiborne ordered it reopened. It was a big blow to both state regulators and federal mob-fighting prosecutors. Everyone was mad. The state had taken away the gaming licenses of the Aladdin’s top executives following their federal convictions in Detroit and fought Claiborne to regain control over the casino. Eventually, an unprecedented feud erupted between federal organized crime prosecutors and Nevada’s two federal judges.

*Photo Credit: By Nancy Claiborne – Claybourn Genealogical Society, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52416306

Lansky the Movie

By

Shelley Stepanek

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I highly recommend this film that premiered over the weekend. Based on the true story of Meyer Lansky, who lived in Miami and Cuba, anyone loving mob stories will be intrigued—it is 128 minutes long.

While in Miami years ago, I met Meyer himself about eight times at the Dunes Hotel office. He walked his dog and stopped in every morning for a cup of coffee.

The movie premiere was at the Cannery Theater and I was lucky enough to attend with his grandson (Meyer Lansky) and wife, along with well-known comic Kathleen Dunbar who performs in many comedy clubs all over the country.

Mobbed Up in Las Vegas Season 2, Episode 2

By

Shelley Stepanek

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Thanks to the wonderful Mob Museum, in downtown Las Vegas, they have created a series of podcasts lasting approximately 40 minutes. Warning: it does contain serious language.

I am lucky enough to live in Las Vegas and was at the opening media night, and the following morning I hosted a group of 102 for a breakfast and tour. I also was lucky enough to have known Jimmy Hoffa Jr., well over the last 25 years.