Neon City Festival Unveils Electrifying Lineup During F1 Weekend in Las Vegas

 {Music Entertainment Sports}

Las Vegas is about to pulse with neon-fueled energy as the free, all-ages Neon City Festival takes over Downtown from November 21–23, 2025, coinciding with the roar of the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Headliners Good Charlotte, deadmau5, and Breaking Benjamin will headline three days of nonstop music across multiple open-air stages, with no tickets or fences standing between fans and the action!

{About The Festival} 

Established in 2024 by downtown casino owner Derek Stevens with backing from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Neon City Festival was conceived as counter-programming to the F1 weekend. Billed as a “festival without fences,” it sprawls across the Fremont Street Experience canopy and the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, offering free entry and unrestricted sightlines to every performance.

Neon City’s 2025 roster blends rock, electronic, pop-punk, hip-hop, and alt-metal, ensuring there’s something for every music lover.

Headliners

• Good Charlotte; deadmau5; Breaking Benjamin

Supporting Acts & Bands

• Two Friends; Fitz and the Tantrums; Bowling for Soup; De La Soul; Acraze; Redferrin; Waka Flocka Flame; Skeez; Knuckle Puck; 3OH!3; Halocene; Shaylen; Daring Greatly; Diva Bleach; Ethan Garner; 12 Volt Sex; Dez Hoston; Heroine Honey; Hoity-Toity; Kings/Kings; Michael Richter; Moonlight; No Proof; Pure Sport; The Dollheads; The Far Worst; The Out There.

Beyond the main stages, Neon City Festival invites local talent through its Rock the Canopy competition. One winning act will join the official lineup. 

Attendees can fuel up at food and drink booths spotlighting Las Vegas favorites, marvel at laser shows and pop-up art installations, and soak in ever-shifting neon visuals projected across Fremont Street’s iconic canopy

{Final Details}

The event is Free, open to all ages, and spanning three action-packed days, Neon City Festival offers a vibrant soundtrack to the F1 weekend. Whether you’re tuning in to the race or simply reveling in downtown’s electrified streets, this festival is set to be an unmissable celebration of music, art, and community spirit.

In closing, I've just got to say ....

Only Las Vegas!

GE

Neon City Festival 

F1 Las Vegas

Rock The Canopy

Fremont Street Experience

Hot Rods Hot Cars And Hot Rock: Henderson Hot Rod Days Hits Water Street October 3rd And 4th In Downtown Henderson Nevada

 Henderson Hot Rod Days returns for its sixth year, transforming Water Street and the Water Street Plaza into the region’s premier car show destination. Presented in partnership with the Boulder City Cruisin’ Association, this two-day celebration invites automotive enthusiasts of all ages to explore classic, custom, and muscle vehicles in a vibrant downtown setting.

More than 700 vehicles will line the streets, featuring everything from polished vintage cruisers to cutting-edge custom builds. Alongside hot rods and muscle cars, attendees can admire an array of trucks and motorcycles, each meticulously maintained or innovatively modified to capture the spirit of automotive artistry.

Throughout the weekend, over 35 vendors and local businesses will offer everything from specialty parts to artisan crafts. 

Live bands will keep the energy high all weekend!

(Click on pic to enlarge)

While the City Lights Art Gallery hosts hubcap-themed art installations. Car show awards and interactive displays add competitive flair, recognizing standout entries in multiple categories.

Friday, October 3, runs from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Saturday, October 4, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Admission is free for all ages, though children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No registration is required for spectators, making it easy for families and individuals to drop in at any time.

Limited parking is available at the Water Street Parking Garage (235 S. Water St., access off Texas Avenue) and the Henderson City Hall Garage (240 S. Water St., access off Basic Road). Carpooling or ridesharing is strongly recommended, and a preferred drop-off point is 58 S. Water St. Nearby residents are encouraged to walk, as no shuttle service will be provided.

To ensure a fun and secure environment, the following items are prohibited on event grounds: outside alcohol; glass containers; coolers; personal tents or umbrellas; skateboards, scooters, and bicycles in the show area; pets (except service animals); and any weapons, including firearms and fireworks. All bags are subject to search, and smoking or vaping is not permitted.

Henderson Hot Rod Days blends automotive passion with community spirit, offering a dynamic weekend for car lovers, families, and curious visitors alike. Whether you’re there to admire chrome-plated classics or soak in live music and art, this year’s event promises unforgettable moments along Henderson’s historic Water Street.

What a cool event for the entire family!

GE

Henderson Hot Rod Days Information

City Of Henderson Hot Rod Days Information

Hot Rods And Hot Cars 

NFL Football What Makes More Sense: Win Lose Or Draw?

 {Professional Sports}

If you watched the Dallas Cowboys versus the Green Bay Packers last night on Sunday Night Football, you'll probably agree that the game last night seemed like it could have gone on well beyond the official sixty minutes of play, plus the ten-minute overtime. Seventy minutes and call it a draw! 

So, are tie games good for us fans? Are tie games good for the morale of the teams? 

Are tie games good for professional football?

Last night's 40–40 shootout between the Cowboys and Packers was pure chaos, both teams trading haymakers and field goals in overtime. It’s no wonder fans are asking whether the NFL should rethink its overtime rules.

Current Rule:

• Regular-season OT is 10 minutes.

• Each team gets a possession unless the first team scores a touchdown.

• If the score is still tied after 10 minutes, the game ends in a draw.

Arguments for Change:

• Fans want closure: A game that intense deserves a winner. A tie feels anticlimactic for the teams as well as for us fans!

• Playoff implications: Ties can muddy standings and playoff seeding, making outcomes harder to predict.

• Momentum matters: Teams like Dallas, who clawed back late, might feel robbed of a chance to finish the job.

Arguments against Change:

• Player safety: Extending overtime increases injury risk, especially in a brutal sport like football.

• Strategic depth: Ties force teams to play smarter during regulation, knowing they can’t rely on OT heroics.

• Tradition and fairness: The current format ensures both teams get a shot, unlike the old sudden-death model.

{Here are my Overtime thoughts}

The Cowboys-Packers clash last night was a barnburner, 40–40 and still no winner? It’s like watching a rock concert end mid-guitar solo. The current NFL overtime rules in the regular season can feel like a letdown after a game that intense. My best two cents about ending an NFL game with a tie like last night is to put in place a college-style shootout involving a tie. The game continues until a winner is crowned! < Rules > Or play the game until the first team scores! Safety, Field Goal, or TD. The End!

GE

What A Rush: NASCAR Hits The Las Vegas Motor Speedway South Point 400 October 10th Thru 12th 2025

 

NASCAR South Point 400 Information

Las Vegas Motor Speedway • Las Vegas, Nevada

Start your engines and mark your calendars, because the NASCAR Playoffs are roaring into Las Vegas for the South Point 400, and it’s going to be a weekend of speed, spectacle, and unforgettable entertainment. 

From Friday, October 10, through Sunday, October 12, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway transforms into the ultimate motorsports playground, hosting fans from across the country for one of the most pivotal races in the NASCAR Cup Series.

The Races

Focused Health 302 – NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoff Race

Saturday, October 11

Rising stars and seasoned pros go head-to-head in this high-stakes showdown. It’s the perfect warm-up to Sunday’s main event.

South Point 400 – NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Race

Sunday, October 12 at 2:30 PM PT

This is the first race in the Round of 8, where championship dreams are made or broken. Expect fierce competition, strategic pit stops, and edge-of-your-seat action as top drivers battle for playoff survival.

Fan-Favorite Events & Experiences

Neon Garage Access

Live music, driver interviews, autograph sessions, and behind-the-scenes views of the race teams. It’s part pit row, part rock concert.

• Hauler Parade – FREE Friday Fun

Kick off the weekend with a 2.75-mile parade of NASCAR haulers arriving in style. No ticket needed—just show up and soak in the energy.

• Fan Zone Festival

A carnival of entertainment featuring roaming Cirque performers, live DJs, food trucks, beer gardens (yes, free beer while supplies last!), and the legendary Budweiser Clydesdales.

• Luxury Suites & VIP Seating

Want to watch the race in style? Terrace seating, private concourses, and all-inclusive suites are available for fans who want the best view and amenities.

• Kids Weekend Passes

Bring the whole crew—kids 12 and under get in for just $10 with a ticketed adult. Family-friendly and full-throttle fun.

Tickets & Info

Weekend packages include admission to both playoff races, plus access to the Fan Zone and Neon Garage. Prices increase 30 days before the event, so grab your passes early and lock in your spot at one of NASCAR’s most electrifying weekends.

< For Tickets >

Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just looking for a wild weekend in Vegas, the South Point 400 delivers high-octane thrills, celebrity sightings, and nonstop entertainment. 

This isn’t just a race, it’s a full-blown Las Vegas experience!

GE

Andrew Freeman's Rock 'n’ Roll Church Lights Up The Composers Room: A Celebration Of Music That Renews The Soul

 After writing about professional sports every Sunday night for the last couple of months, I finally got the night off and headed to Church!

{Sunday night September 14th, 2025}

Last night, the Composers' Room was transformed into something more than just a venue. It became a sanctuary of sound, soul, and celebration when the Rock ’n’ Roll Church took the stage. It was a gathering of musical believers, where rock veterans and die-hard fans came together for an evening that felt as spiritual as it was electrifying!

The lineup alone read like a rock n' roll call of rock’s enduring legacy: Andrew Freeman (Last in Line, Lynch Mob), whose powerhouse vocals set the tone; Mitch Perry (Edgar Winter, MSG), delivering guitar work that was both fiery and melodic; Les Warner (The Cult), laying down thunderous grooves that reminded everyone why rhythm is the heartbeat of rock; and Barry Barnes (Count's 77, Stoney Curtis Band), whose presence added layers of depth and grit to the performance. Add in the soulful swagger of Paul Shortino (Quiet Riot, Rough Cutt) and the unshakable drive of drummer Shon McKee (Crashing Wayward, Stoney Curtis Band), and you had a lineup capable of shaking the rafters of any church, especially one that's built on rock ’n’ roll!

(Click On Picture To Enlarge)

Andrew Freeman’s vocals soared on tracks that demanded raw power, while Mitch Perry’s solos carved out moments that felt both spontaneous and divine. Paul Shortino, with his trademark grit, reminded the crowd that rock is as much about soul as it is about volume. Les Warner and Shon McKee drove the rhythm section like twin engines, propelling every song forward with precision and punch. Barry Barnes, meanwhile, tied it all together, grounding the performance with a steady hand that allowed the chaos to shine. 

What a musical Church service!

 In a city where glitz, glamour, and spectacle are the norm, the Rock ’n’ Roll Church stands out because of its heart. Last night wasn’t about pyrotechnics or choreographed perfection; it was about raw connection. It was about musicians with decades of history behind them still playing like it was their first gig, and fans responding with the same passion.

Las Vegas has always been a city of reinvention, and the Rock ’n’ Roll Church embodies that spirit. It’s not just a band or a night, it’s about a movement, a reminder that music can be sacred without ever losing its edge. 

{My Take}

The Rock 'n' Roll Church wasn’t just an awesome concert last night; it was a living testament to Las Vegas’ enduring spirit of music, fellowship, and pure rock energy. With Andrew Freeman, Mitch Perry, Les Warner, Barry Barnes, Paul Shortino, and Shon McKee leading the church service, the night reminded everyone that rock and roll is more than sound; it’s a community!

FYI: The Rock' n' Roll Church residency has been extended through the end of the year!

It's time to get your spirit renewed!

GE - Gary England

Rock n' Roll Church Tickets

Rock n' Roll Church Official Website

Rock n' Roll Church Facebook

Rock n' Roll Church Instagram

Rock n' Roll Church YouTube Channel

For syndication: #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #USAT #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #VegasInsider #GaryEngland

What Would It Take For Las Vegas To Become Las Vegas Again?

Due to the rising cost of just about everything in Las Vegas, Vegas Ain't What It Used To Be!

Much of Las Vegas' problems revolves around money, among other things!

Here’s a breakdown of what I believe the city could do to get tourism “back to where it once was,” in the good old days of Sin City, NV!

 Many visitors rightfully say Las Vegas has become too expensive (resort fees, parking fees, $20 drinks). Lowering hidden costs, offering budget-friendly packages, and highlighting value would attract middle-class tourists again. 

Live lounge acts, local bands, and classic entertainment could balance the ultra-luxury image with a dose of down-home charm.

 Las Vegas became famous as the “city that never sleeps.” Reviving late-night dining, jazz clubs, and small shows outside the mega-casino model could restore that magic.

Showcasing Vegas’s own creative talent (bands, art collectives, festivals) alongside the big residencies makes the city feel more authentic.

Expand residencies beyond pop icons: Include country, Latin music, EDM, Classic Rock, and indie residencies to the mix.

Build more signature festivals (similar to Life is Beautiful) that draw more national visitors to Las Vegas.

Maximize new stadiums & arenas. The Raiders’ Allegiant Stadium, the Golden Knights, and now the incoming MLB team are huge draws. Pair sports with Vegas entertainment packages.

Special sports/entertainment bundles. Game + concert + nightlife deals could keep fans in town a lot longer.

Promote downtown & local culture. Fremont East, the Arts District, and Chinatown, tourists want more than casinos. Highlight hidden neighborhoods and cultural districts.

Day trip packages. Grand Canyon, Red Rock, Lake Mead, Valley of Fire, combining nature/adventure with nightlife keeps visitors here longer.

Food tourism. Vegas has world-class chefs, but also needs to highlight authentic local dining, not just celebrity restaurants.

Tech-driven experiences. AR/VR casinos, immersive art like Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, digital concerts, and interactive shows appeal to younger travelers.

Esports & gaming tourism. Position Las Vegas as the esports capital of the U.S. with tournaments, conventions, and themed experiences.

Wellness tourism. With growing demand for spas, retreats, and health-conscious travel, Las Vegas can add balance to its party image.

Cheaper flights & packages. Partner with airlines to offer aggressive travel deals again.

Transparency in pricing. Reducing or bundling resort fees would immediately improve visitor satisfaction.

Better public transport & accessibility. More shuttles, monorail expansion, and easier Strip-to-downtown connections would keep tourists moving better. Spotlight UBER and other rideshare platforms' pickup and drop-off points for more visibility for the guests of the hotel.

{My Take}

To get tourism back, Las Vegas has got to rebalance between the high dollar luxury mega-shows and the accessible, quirky, value-driven fun that made it famous, while also capitalizing on new pillars like sports, local arts, festivals, and innovative experiences. And lastly, if Vegas can't bring back the $49 rooms, dollar beers, 99-cent shrimp cocktails, and the buck ninety-nine buffets, at least try and make Las Vegas a little bit more affordable again!

Las Vegas was once known as the ultimate playground of neon lights, inexpensive indulgence, and round-the-clock entertainment where anyone could feel like a high-roller for a night, without draining the family's savings account back home!

GE

Forever Young: Rock Legends On Why The Stage Keeps Calling Them

 This past Saturday, David Lee Roth performed at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Las Vegas. There were a handful of posts on Facebook from my friends who attended the show, with many mixed comments from people who attended. Some good, and some not too good. After reading these posts, I decided that it's time to address age and the musicians who entertain well into their golden age of retirement. 

Plenty of musicians, especially in rock and pop, are still performing well into their retirement years, and like David Lee Roth, they all have their reasons for staying on stage. 

Here are some key examples and what they’ve said about why they keep on entertaining.

Mick Jagger & Keith Richards (The Rolling Stones)
Still touring in their 80s, they often say performing keeps them alive and energized. Jagger has said that the adrenaline rush of being in front of thousands of fans is irreplaceable. Richards jokes that he’ll stop “when the music stops” and that rock ’n’ roll is his way of life.

Paul McCartney
At 82, he continues to tour stadiums worldwide. McCartney has explained that he feels a duty to give fans the songs they grew up with, and performing keeps him young. He’s said he still gets the same thrill walking onstage as he did with The Beatles.

Bruce Springsteen
Even after health setbacks, Springsteen calls his concerts a “sacrament” and sees live performance as a bond between him and the audience. He says the road feels like home and gives him purpose.

Aerosmith (Steven Tyler & Joe Perry)
On their farewell tours, they’ve made it clear that performing keeps them grounded and that fans’ energy is addictive. Tyler often says music is “medicine” for him.

Willie Nelson
Still touring into his 90s, Nelson has said plainly: “I just love the music.” He sees performing as both joy and therapy, a way to stay connected with life itself.

Bob Dylan
Dylan is still on the road constantly in his 80s, calling it the Never-Ending Tour. He has said the routine of playing keeps him sharp, and he’s not interested in slowing down as long as people want to hear him.

And as for the X lead singer for Van Halen, David Lee Roth (70) hasn’t given one single reason, but over the years, he’s revealed several motivations for why he continues to entertain, even into his seventies. Roth has often said the stage is where he feels most alive. Performing gives him the kind of rush and purpose that he doesn’t find elsewhere. Being a showman isn’t just a job; it’s who he is. He’s said in interviews that he’s “built for this,” and that the role of frontman, storyteller, and provocateur is part of his DNA. His mind is wired to create and entertain, and live shows give him an outlet that’s both physical and artistic. He’s said that music is not a business you retire from, it’s a lifestyle. For Roth, it isn’t about money so much as staying true to what he was “put here to do.” And finally, even decades after Van Halen’s heyday, he thrives on the energy of the audience. He’s acknowledged that the loyalty of his fans and their ongoing demand to see him makes it hard to walk away.

{My Take}

For David Lee Roth and the countless others who tune their guitars, or step behind the mic well past their so-called retirement age, the stage isn’t just a workplace, it’s oxygen to them. Like their peers, Roth seems to know that the roar of the crowd doesn’t just validate a career; it keeps the pulse alive. Musicians may slow down, change their approach, or take fewer gigs, but few can truly walk away. The music has always been more than sound; it’s their life force.

As for my "Life Force", it's in my writing.

GE - Gary England

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork 

Weekend Warriors of Rock: Inside Blue String Theory’s Journey Of Performance And Commitment

 Las Vegas is a city built on sound and spectacle, and few bands embody that spirit as well as Blue String Theory. More than just another tribute act, this group of seasoned musicians has carved out a name for themselves by delivering the music fans love with authenticity, energy, and a clear respect for the rock legends they pay homage to.

(Click On Pic To Enlarge)

The band’s lineup is a showcase of top-level talent: Brian Pollack commands the stage with his powerhouse vocals that soar well above the mix, Kevin Woodall delivers precision and fire on guitar, Lonnie NaVeau locks down the groove on bass, Scott Mayhood brings depth and atmosphere on the keys, and James Sloan drives it all home with his steady, hard-hitting drum beats that are the engine behind this amazing band known as BST. Together, they form a tight unit that captures the magic of classic rock while putting their own stamp of approval on each and every performance.

What truly sets Blue String Theory apart isn’t just their skill, but their story. While the rest of the band calls Las Vegas home, frontman Brian Pollack has made a remarkable commitment to himself and to his fans. He flies in from Texas every weekend the band performs. That kind of dedication is rare in any industry, but especially in live music, where schedules are demanding and travel is relentless. For your commitment, I salute you, Brian!

Brian’s weekly trips are more than logistics; they’re a reflection of his passion. “It’s all for the love of the music,” and that love shows in every song he sings. His presence transforms Blue String Theory’s shows into more than performances; they become celebrations of music that has defined generations over the years!

Audiences in Las Vegas have high expectations, after all, this is the Entertainment Capital of the World. Blue String Theory rises to that challenge with every set. The band doesn’t just cover the classics; they recreate the energy, attitude, and excitement of an era when rock and roll ruled the airwaves.

Their shows aren’t just concerts; they’re experiences. Fans leave with smiles, memories, and that feeling of being transported back to the soundtrack of their lives. Whether it’s a hard-driving anthem or a soulful ballad, Blue String Theory makes each song feel alive and relevant today.

In Las Vegas, tribute bands are plentiful, but Blue String Theory offers something deeper. Their authenticity comes not only from their talent, but from their personal investment in what they do. 

Brian Pollack’s weekly flight from Texas is the perfect symbol of that commitment, proof that for these musicians, the stage is where they truly belong!

{My Take}

To me, Blue String Theory isn’t just another tribute band in Las Vegas. They’re a living example of what passion, talent, and dedication look like when it all comes together on stage. 

From Brian Pollack flying in from Texas each weekend to join his bandmates to the seamless blend of Kevin Woodall’s guitar, Lonnie NaVeau’s bass, Scott Mayhood’s keys, and James Sloan’s drums, this group proves that the love of music can transcend distance, schedules, and the everyday grind. 

For their audiences in Las Vegas, that means one thing: every performance is delivered with heart and soul, power, and the kind of energy that keeps fans coming back for more!

GE - Gary England

Blue String Theory Official Website

Blue String Theory Facebook

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldWideEntertainmentNetwork

Musician Michael Braun: From Childhood Dreams To Singing On The Las Vegas Strip To Headlining Las Vegas Venues To National Recording Artist

Las Vegas’s vibrant streets and iconic venues are the backdrop of many success stories, but few are as compelling as that of Michael Braun. What started as childhood dreams, to humble street performances on the Las Vegas Strip, has blossomed into a thriving career as a headlining musician at Las Vegas's storied venues. 

He began strumming the guitar at just seven and, by nine, was already performing professionally with country bands. His early passion quickly evolved: he later performed with classic rock touring acts like Rock Candy and co-founded the acoustic trio 30 Stories. 

Michael’s stage presence is hard to miss. He’s brought his faithful, energetic renditions of classic rock and country hits to venues across Las Vegas, as well as in Laughlin, Nevada. His performances have spanned venues such as Silverton's Mermaid Lounge, Gilley’s at Treasure Island, Rosalia’s Cantina, and the Gaudi Bar inside Sunset Station Hotel Casino.

His setlist reads like a "greatest hits" roll call, featuring the Rolling Stones, Journey, Bon Jovi, Eagles, Aerosmith, U2, and Prince. Plus, Garth Brooks, Brooks & Dunn, John Denver, and Chris Stapleton, to mention a few from Michael's country setlist.

I call Michael's setlist "A Buffet Of Classic Rock And Country Music That Any Music Fan Can Enjoy"!

Since I first met Michael a few years back, and saw him perform onstage, I knew that someday he'd be discovered. That someday is here! Recently, Michael was approached by producer Rob Hegel to collaborate on a music venture. Along with Sound Engineer Rob Katz, Michael will soon be a national recording artist. 

I'm so very proud to announce that Michael's EP will be stream and download available on the 9th of September (official release date), and Michael will have physical copies of his EP available at his performances around the 27th of this month.

Here's a little tease for you to watch and listen to from Michael Braun's new EP. 

Click Here For < Michael Braun > Music 

Michael Braun Facebook

Michael Braun Instagram

Michael Braun's new EP will be available on September 9th on these music platforms as Michael Braun.

Spotify
Apple
Pandora
Amazon
YouTube Music
Deezer

https://michaelbraun.hearnow.com

You can also view Michael on YouTube beginning at 9pm PST on September 8th.

< Michael Braun on YouTube >

{My Take}

From his childhood dreams to his humble beginnings as a street performer, to now headlining premier Las Vegas venues, Michael Braun’s journey is a true testament to his passion and his persistence. With his new EP release on September 9th, Michael Braun is ready to take his music and his fans to the next level in the music industry!

Yes, good things come from passion for what you're doing, from hard work, and from being a nice person. To me, Michael Braun is all of these!

GE - Gary England

Band Promotions 101: Creative Ways For Bands To Attract Larger Crowds To Their Next Music Gig

 Today I'll be talking about band gigs, advertising, and promotion. 

I learned early in my AD & Marketing days (1970's & 80's), when you advertise a band or concert event, it's all about the Who, what, where, when, why, and what time. The Six W's! 

As long as you cover those six subjects in what you're advertising, you'll be ok.

Talking about promoting an upcoming band gig (In the internet age).

Because drawing a crowd isn’t just about playing well onstage, it’s about creating excitement before people even walk through the door. Here are a few ways that I've learned over the years, how a band can attract fans to their upcoming gig.

As simple as it may seem, start promoting smart & early.

• Social Media Buzz – Post teasers, flyers, rehearsal clips, and behind-the-scenes content. 

• Use countdowns (“3 days until we rock…”) ("See you this Friday").

• Event Pages – Use platforms like Facebook Events, Instagram, Bandsintown, or Songkick to get listed.

• Don’t just sell it as “another gig.” Highlight what’s different, a theme, special guest, new song debut, or even free merch for the first 20 people.

• A strong poster/flyer design with bold visuals grabs attention (especially at the venue and local hangouts). 

The use of colorful posters & flyers, with a group picture of the band, including the Who, what, where, when, why, and what time on the flyer, is a quick and easy way to catch the attention of your fans for your upcoming shows. 

* One flyer that caught my attention on Facebook this week is this awesome flyer for this coming Saturday night. It includes a cool picture of The Hit Squad (Who), who will be performing this Saturday night, September 6th (When), at 9pm (What time), at the Bonfire LV (Where), they'll be performing 70's, 80's, and 90's rock (What), at their "Let Love Rule" show (Why). 

Add an "Event Link" and it's done! The perfect music event announcement!

This band gig event flyer kicks major booty!

And by the way, The Hit Squad Kicks Major booty too!

Go See Them!

{More ways to attract larger crowds}

Encourage friends, family, and loyal fans to share the event online. Word-of-mouth is still one of the most powerful tools.

Work with other bands on the lineup, and you’ll double or triple your reach by sharing fanbases.

Partner with the venue and nearby businesses, coffee shops, record stores, tattoo shops, etc, to display flyers or even run ticket giveaways.

Local radio, community calendars, and online groups (Facebook groups, Reddit, etc.) can spread the word.

Post “soundcheck sneak peeks” or a quick live stream to remind fans it’s happening tonight.

Offer something like a QR code on your socials for discounted or free entry before a certain time.

Poll your followers: “Which cover do you want us to play?” or “Vote on our set opener!”

Sharing fan photos or tagging them after gigs makes people more likely to show up again.

Nothing attracts fans like word-of-mouth after a killer show. If people know you bring energy, fun, and connection every time, they’ll bring their friend's next time.

{My Take}

My Golden Rule.

The bands that succeed are the ones that connect both on and off of the stage with their fans!

GE - Gary England

Casinos Over Scratchers: Reasons Why Nevada Has No State Lottery

Tonight, there will be a Powerball drawing for $1.3 billion, that's a billion with a "B"!

That's a lot of bucks!

So why doesn't the state of Nevada have a state lottery?

Nevada is one of the few states in the U.S. that does not have a state lottery, and the primary reason is tied to the state’s deep connection to the casino and gaming industry. Here's why.

Nevada’s state constitution prohibits lotteries, except for certain charitable raffles.

To introduce a lottery, the constitution would have to be amended, which requires approval from both the legislature and the voters.

Nevada’s economy is built around its casino and gaming industry, especially in Las Vegas and Reno.

Casinos have historically lobbied against state lotteries because they view them as direct competition for gambling dollars.

A lottery would provide residents with an alternative to gambling in casinos, potentially reducing casino revenue.

Over the years, proposals to establish a lottery have been introduced in the Nevada Legislature, particularly during periods of budget shortfall.

However, strong opposition from gaming interests and lawmakers aligned with them has always stopped these efforts before they gained real traction.

Unlike many other states that turned to lotteries to raise money for schools and infrastructure, Nevada relies heavily on gaming taxes and tourism.

Lawmakers have historically believed that the presence of casinos makes a lottery unnecessary.

In recent years, as online gaming and out-of-state lottery ticket sales (such as Powerball and Mega Millions) have grown, some Nevadans have shown interest in having access to a state lottery.

However, as of today, the constitutional ban remains in effect.

{In short}

 Nevada doesn’t have a state lottery because it’s constitutionally prohibited, and the powerful casino industry has kept it that way to avoid competition.

What the casino industry wants, the casino industry gets!

GE - Gary England

Stretching Your Casino Dollar: Beginner Friendly Slot Machine Tips And Strategies

 

Five nice bonus rounds in three days is a slot player's dream! It sure doesn't happen that often to me.

Over the years, I've picked up a few tricks of the trade to help me improve my odds of winning.

Slot machines in Las Vegas are designed with a house edge, so the odds are always tilted in the casino’s favor. You can’t completely even them up, but you can improve your chances, stretch your bankroll, and maximize the entertainment value with smart choices. Here are some ways that can be used to level the playing field.

Choose the Right Machines

• Higher Denominations Pay Better – Generally, $1 machines or higher have better return-to-player (RTP) percentages than penny slots.

• Classics vs. Video Slots – Simple three-reel machines usually offer better odds than complex multi-line video slots with big bonus features.

• Know the Payback – Las Vegas Strip slots often pay back less (85–90%) compared to off-Strip or local casinos (92–97%).

Manage Your Bankroll

• Set a Budget – Decide how much you’re willing to lose before sitting down.

• Bet Size Matters – Some machines require the maximum bet for the best payouts or jackpots. If that’s too high, choose a lower denomination so you can still play max credits.

• Cash Out Wins – If you double your buy-in, consider taking profits instead of feeding them back in.

Pick the Right Casino

• Local Casinos Have Looser Slots – Casinos like Stations, Boyd, or Fremont Street venues often advertise higher paybacks than Strip resorts.

• Avoid Airport & Convenience Slots – These usually have the worst payouts since players aren’t expected to play long.

Play Smart

• Use Players Club Cards – Always swipe your rewards card. It doesn’t change the odds, but you’ll get comps, free play, and perks that offset losses.

• Time of Play Doesn’t Matter – Slots are random, so don’t believe myths about “hot” or “due” machines.

• Know When to Walk Away – Don’t chase losses. Think of slot play as entertainment, not income.

Strategies to Stretch Play

• Pick Machines with Smaller Jackpots – They hit more often than life-changing progressives.

• Free Spins & Bonuses – Hunt for games with frequent free spin features—they give more time on the machine without extra cost.

• Casino Promotions – Look for multiplier days, free slot tournaments, and giveaways that add value.

{My Take}

You can’t eliminate the house edge, but by choosing the right machines, casinos, and bankroll strategy, you can get closer to evening up the odds while enjoying longer sessions.

Good Luck!

GE - Gary England