Tony Romo Versus The Media Machine: The Media’s Rush To Paint a Villain!

 

Tony Romo’s getting dragged through the media mud like a frontman caught stumbling offstage after one too many, and honestly, it looks to me like the press is trying to crucify Tony before he even gets his day in court. The guy hasn’t been convicted of anything yet, but the headlines are already tuned to maximum outrage, like they’re dying to crank the amp and blow out the speakers.

This feels like another round of “let’s nail this good‑guy pro athlete to the wall” just to make the repeat-offender celebrities — the ones who get popped for DWIs over and over — look even worse by comparison. It’s cheap heat, man. Easy clicks. Manufactured drama.

Come on — lighten up on this good dude. Romo’s spent years being one of the most straight‑shooting, fan‑friendly athletes in the game. Everyone’s due one screw‑up in life, right? Even rock stars miss a note, even legends fall off the stage once in a while. Doesn’t mean you burn the whole tour down.

Right now, all we know is he refused the test, they pulled a warrant, and the results haven’t been released. That’s it. Everything else is noise — distortion — feedback from people who want a villain before the facts even drop.

Let the man breathe. Let the process play out. Then judge the performance.

{My Take}

Tony Romo’s record was cleaner than a freshly polished Stratocaster before this whole Milwaukee mess. The guy spent two decades in the spotlight — NFL star, CBS booth ace, family man — and never once got tangled in legal barbed wire. This 2026 stop is the first time his name has ever been dragged into the courthouse echo chamber, and the press is treating it like he’s the second coming of rock‑and‑roll chaos. I stand by Tony!

Gary England

When Baseball Went Bananas: The Banana Ball Takeover

Banana Ball didn’t just arrive on the sports scene — it literally detonated like a rock‑and‑roll pyro blast behind home plate. Born in 2018 as a wild experiment from the Savannah Bananas — a scrappy summer‑league team founded in 2016 — the game grew from a near‑bankrupt idea into a full‑blown touring spectacle that now packs MLB stadiums coast to coast. 

Founder Jesse Cole, the yellow‑tux showman who sold his house to keep the team alive, built Banana Ball on one core belief: baseball should move fast, hit hard, and entertain like a stadium tour. Two‑hour time limits, points for innings, walk‑off dances, sprint‑style ball‑four chaos — it’s baseball re‑wired for adrenaline junkies and sports fans who want action, not downtime.

The popularity boom came from pure spectacle: choreographed player dances, the Party Animals rival squad, TikTok‑melting walk‑ups, and a fan‑first philosophy that treats every game like a rock show. Media outlets from ESPN to Sports Illustrated jumped on the story, and suddenly Banana Ball was selling out 17 MLB parks, NFL stadiums, and launching its own championship league. Jesse Cole himself is a walking fun fact — he proposed in a yellow tux, lives by “Fans First,” and channels equal parts P.T. Barnum and sports‑mad ringmaster. 

Click on pic to enlarge

To catch the madness live, check out these links for more info about the madness of the bananas. 

The Bananas on Facebook

Jesse Cole

The Bananas Ticket Exchange

The Bananas on Instagram

The Bananas on YouTube

Watching Banana Ball is pure fun — a neon‑bright, high‑octane blast of athleticism from finely tuned players who perform with the swagger of rock stars and the precision of elite competitors. As the Bananas like to say: “If it’s not fun, why do it?”

{My Take}

After 58 years of writing about every sport under the sun — pro leagues, minor leagues, dusty backfields, neon‑lit arenas, you name it — I thought I’d seen every curveball the sports world could throw. But one night, sitting in my living room with the TV humming in the background, I stumbled onto a game that didn’t just catch my eye… it grabbed me by the collar. Banana Ball wasn’t baseball as I knew it — it was baseball with a jet engine strapped to its back, a rock‑concert heartbeat, and athletes who move like they’re powered by lightning. I’ve covered champions, dynasties, heartbreakers, miracle seasons — but nothing hits quite like this!

Jesse Cole truly is doing everything right—with his bright yellow tux and larger-than-life enthusiasm, he’s become a role model for kids and adults alike. It’s not just about the game; it’s about creating joy and community, and he’s absolutely someone you can look up to for that! I hope to catch a game, or two the next time that the bananas are in Vegas!

So here it is, straight from a Vegas‑based lifer of the sports beat:

Banana Ball rules!

I Love The Bananas!

~Gary England~

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #Baseball #sports #professional

The Scene That Eats Its Own: Where Losers Come To Be Found And Winners Come And Get Lost!

Yesterday an old friend — one of the ink‑stained lifers I came up with in the newspaper trenches — dropped a surprise in my inbox. He said that I needed to see this! A clip from one of my first big assignments after I rolled into Las Vegas back in ’99. I was still ghosting back then, hiding behind other people’s bylines, so I can only legally spill a sliver of what that article said. But man… what a memory.

I got thrown straight into the fire the minute my boots hit the neon. No warm‑up act, no easing into the Vegas madness. One of the biggest names in showbiz — can’t say who because, well, ghost‑writer rules — sat across from me and kicked off the interview by saying he’d read my sports and entertainment stuff. Said my style would shake things up. Then he leaned back, gave me that showbiz half‑smirk, and dropped a line that’s been rattling around my skull for almost three decades:

“Vegas is where losers come to be found, and winners come and get lost.”

I didn’t know it then, but that quote would hit me harder 27 years later than it did that afternoon.

From ’99 to around 2020, my journalistic life felt pretty normal — or at least as normal as a writer’s life in Sin City can be. But the deeper I got into the scene, the more the ground started shifting under my feet. By last year (2025), it felt like I’d stepped straight into the Twilight Zone. Not what I signed up for, not by a long shot.

The higher‑up talent doesn’t need to hear this, and the folks still clawing their way up the food chain toward the spotlights sure as hell don’t want to hear it. But I’ve spent decades building up Las Vegas with my words — painting it as this friendly, electric, all‑for‑one carnival of neon dreams. A place where everyone was pulling the same rope, sweating for the same spotlight.

What the hell was I thinking?

The world’s gone sideways, and of course Vegas would too. This city doesn’t dodge the crazy — it amplifies it, turns it up to eleven, and blasts it through a busted speaker at 3 a.m. on Fremont.

For years I tried to convince myself — and everyone reading me — that Vegas was a warm, glitter‑dusted community. That the scene was a brotherhood, a sisterhood, a neon‑lit family. But the higher‑ups already know better, and the up‑and‑comers don’t want the truth messing with their climb.

Vegas isn’t a team sport. Vegas is a survival gig!

Gary England

Count's Vamp’d Family Resurrection: The Night That Celebrated The Club That We All Called Home!

 

What a killer way to spend a Sunday night in Las Vegas, the city where neon never sleeps and the rock ’n’ roll heartbeat never really dies. Rolling back into Count’s Vamp’d felt like stepping into a time machine tuned to the loudest, rowdiest frequency we ever knew. Catching up with old friends, family, and the diehard Vamp’d tribe reminded every one of us why this place wasn’t just a club; it was home!

First off, massive love to the people who made this reunion roar back to life. Danny and Korie Koker — the king and queen of the Vamp’d kingdom — thank you for all the years of music, madness, late‑night hangs, killer food, cold drinks, and the tightest rock‑family vibes anywhere in Las Vegas. You two don’t just rock… you RAWK!!

And to Valeri Rose, Cathy Alberts, Jen Lynn, and to the YoDog legend himself, Donny DeCecco — the four‑horsemen of Sunday night — thank you for grinding behind the scenes to make this celebration explode the way it did. You all RAWK too!

I’d bet my last poker chip there were a little over 200 rockers packed into that parking lot — swapping stories, hugging it out, laughing loud, and reliving the nights that made Vamp’d the beating heart of the Vegas rock scene for so many years! Music blasting, YoDog serving up the kind of food that keeps the party upright, friends reconnecting, new faces joining the tribe. Memories drifting overhead like the last smoky breath of a midnight encore — hanging in the air long after the stage lights fade.

You could feel the love. You could feel the energy. You could feel the Vamp’d spirit rising again!

It wasn’t just a reunion — it was a celebration of the greatest rock club there ever was, there is, and there ever will be. Count’s Vamp’d lives in all of our hearts forever!

Will we do it again next year? Who knows. But damn… it sure would be nice!

Gary England

Sunday June 28th 6 To 9PM: The Parking Lot One Year Resurrection of Count’s Vamp’d Bar & Grill LV

 

As if you needed the reminder, the signal’s already in the sky. This Sunday, June 28th, from 6–9 PM, the Vamp’d faithful are rising like a pack of leather‑clad phoenixes — the kind that don’t ask permission, don’t apologize, and sure as hell don’t fade quietly into the Vegas night. The whole Vamp’d family is rolling back to the old haunt — not inside, yeah, we know, but out in that legendary parking lot where half the greatest stories were born, broken, and bragged about. It’s the perfect battleground to reconnect, trade war stories, and pump a little oxygen back into the place that raised us, wrecked us, and rocked us harder than any joint in this neon‑soaked city.

And speaking of war stories, I’ve got a vault full of them — all good, all loud, all stamped with the Vamp’d seal of chaos. You’d think picking a favorite would be impossible, but it’s not. One rises above the rest like a spotlight cutting through the smoke.

A few years back, my wife and I hit the Cannery Hotel Casino to see Great White, one of our all‑time favorites. We had no clue we were about to witness history. Great White unleashed their new frontman, Brett Carlisle, and the dude hit that stage like a lion that had been waiting his whole life to roar. He tore the roof off the Cannery Showroom and owned every inch of that stacked house. I did what I do — dropped a 5‑star write‑up that went viral overnight and lit up the rock world with over 25,000 views.

Fast‑forward to the next year. Great White at the Westgate. Killer night. After the show, our crew headed straight to Count’s Vamp’d to finish the night the only way rock people know how. I slid into my sweet spot — right by the green room, next to VIP — and boom. Look who’s here. Brett Carlisle himself, soaking up the Vamp’d vibe like he’d been born into it. He recognized me from the write‑up and the photos, and next thing you know, we’re backstage with me giving Brett a personal guided tour of the historic Vamp’d green room. Quick impromptu interview. Pure rock magic. Brett’s one cool cat! — genuine, sharp, and built for the stage.

The interview went worldwide, and my wife Dorrie got her picture with Brett, a moment stamped forever in our (Dorrie & I) personal Vamp’d history!

Tomorrow night, when the Vamp’d family rolls in, what's your favorite memory? The loud ones, the wild ones, the ones that still make your heart thump like a kick drum solo! You've heard mine, what's yours?

See you Sunday night. (June 28th from 6-9pm)

Out front of the bar. For what I predict will be one kick-a$$ party!

Gary England

Return to the Temple One Year Later: A Count's Vamp’d Family Gathering To Remember June 28th 2026

 

This Sunday, June 28th, marks one full year since COUNT’S VAMP’D went dark — the night the amps cooled, the neon dimmed, and an entire era of Vegas rock ’n’ roll swagger slammed its final shot on the bar. #vampdvegas

Read what I experienced that night. "The Night That Count's Lights Went Dim"

This Sunday, June 28th, from 6–9 PM, the Vamp’d faithful are rising like a pack of leather‑clad phoenixes. Everyone that is in the Vamp'd family are invited to gather at the old haunt — not inside, sadly, but out front in the parking lot where half the best stories started anyway. Time to reconnect, swap war stories, and breathe life back into the place that raised us, wrecked us, and rocked us harder than anywhere else in this city.

If you grabbed one of those final‑night Vamp’d shirts — or if you’ve got any Vamp’d gear in your closet — throw it on like armor.

Jen Lynn is shooting a video for a song she wrote, so the cameras will be rolling, and the vibe will be pure hometown rock‑family reunion.

Bring a chair. Bring an appetite. Donny DeCecco is rolling in with the YoDog food truck, stacked with the kind of grub that keeps rockers upright and smiling. Show Donny some love — he’s feeding the tribe!

If you’re coming, hit up Cathy Alberts or Valeri Rose. This hang is open to anyone who ever called Count's Vamp’d home!

RSVP on the thread on Cathy's or on Val's Facebook page, so Donny will know just how much food to prepare.

{My Take}

June 28th isn’t just a meetup in a parking lot — it’s a celebration of the greatest rock club this city ever birthed, the one that raised us, wrecked us, saved us, and stitched us together under its red lights and roaring amps. We gather not out of sadness, but out of pride — because Count’s Vamp’d wasn’t just a venue; it was a living, breathing beast, and every one of us was part of its pulse. On June 28th, we'll be standing shoulder to shoulder, loud and unbroken, honoring the best rock club there ever was, the best rock club there is, and the best rock club there will ever be!

We celebrate Count’s Vamp’d — forever our home, forever in our memories, and forever in our hearts!

You are truly missed!!

Gary England

Wonderland In The Desert: How Las Vegas Does December And Christmas

 Las Vegas transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland each December, offering locals and visitors endless ways to celebrate Christmas, from glittering light displays to festive concerts and charitable traditions. Here’s my guide to enjoying the season from now through December 25th.

 Iconic Light Displays

• Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: Drive through more than six million twinkling lights or join the PJ5K pajama run for a charitable twist. One of my Christmas faves!

• Ethel M Cactus Garden Lights (Henderson): A desert holiday classic, featuring over a million lights strung across the cactus garden, running nightly through January 3.

• Magical Forest at Opportunity Village: A 2.5-acre holiday theme park with decorated trees, carnival rides, mini golf, and nightly entertainment.

 Holiday Shows & Entertainment

• Barry Manilow’s “A Very Barry Christmas”: A seasonal headliner at Westgate International Theater, blending Vegas showmanship with holiday cheer.

• “A Charlie Brown Christmas” at The Orleans: A family-friendly stage adaptation of the beloved classic, perfect for kids and nostalgic adults.

• Enchant Christmas at Las Vegas Ballpark: A massive immersive light maze, ice skating trail, and live entertainment.

 Family-Friendly Attractions

• Mystic Falls Park Winter Wonderland (Sam’s Town): Indoor snowfalls, holiday laser light shows, and animatronic displays. This is an annual tradition for my family!

• Fontainebleau Winter Wonderland: A new addition to the Strip, offering themed décor, skating, and festive cocktails.

• Electric City Light Show: A high-tech spectacle of synchronized lights and music.

Spiritual & Community Celebrations

• Christmas Eve Services: Churches across Las Vegas host candlelight services on December 24, offering a reflective pause amid the city’s glitz.

• Hanukkah Celebrations (Dec 14–22): Citywide menorah lightings and cultural events highlight Las Vegas’s diverse holiday spirit.

• Charity Events: Many attractions, like Glittering Lights and Opportunity Village, directly support local nonprofits, making your holiday fun also a way to give back.

Seasonal Indulgences

• Holiday Cocktails & Dining: Resorts and restaurants roll out themed menus—think peppermint martinis, gingerbread desserts, and prix fixe Christmas dinners.

• Festive Shopping: The Strip’s malls and Downtown Container Park offer holiday markets, perfect for last-minute gifts.

As far as 1 of "My Favorite Picks" for Christmas Cheer:

One of the most spectacular ways to celebrate Christmas in Las Vegas is to visit the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, “All Aboard the Holiday Bells and Whistles.” Running through January 3, 2026, it’s a must-see centerpiece of the season. Children of all ages (Including moms and dads) love it!

Las Vegas proves that Christmas can be both dazzling and heartfelt. From the grandeur of the Bellagio Conservatory’s Christmas wonderland to the community warmth of Opportunity Village’s Magical Forest, the city offers experiences that blend spectacle with tradition. Whether you’re sipping a peppermint martini on the Strip, driving through millions of lights at the Speedway, or pausing for candlelight services on Christmas Eve, the season here is about connection, joy, and wonder. In true Vegas style, Christmas shines brighter, lasts longer, and leaves memories that sparkle well beyond December 25th. 

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas month of December!

GE

Boom in the Desert Where to Catch Las Vegas Fireworks This 4th of July

 

Tomorrow night, the summer skies over Las Vegas will once again ignite with dazzling Fourth of July fireworks across the city!

On Friday, July 4, the Valley’s iconic skyline, from the Las Vegas Strip to family-friendly parks to downtown Las Vegas, will erupt in patriotic colors starting around 9 p.m.. Highlights include spectacular displays at Caesars Palace and downtown Plaza Hotel & Casino, along with paid rooftop and poolside viewings at multiple Station Casinos properties. Beyond the Strip, expect many vibrant celebrations across the entire city. Las Vegas Loves The 4th of July!

Here are the (Scheduled) major Fourth of July fireworks events in Las Vegas for Friday, July 4, 2025.

Downtown & Public Parks

• Buckskin Basin Park (7350 Buckskin Ave) – Free aerial fireworks at ~9 p.m., along with music, a marching band, and food trucks.

• Plaza Hotel & Casino (Downtown) – Rooftop fireworks at ~9:15 p.m. (also part of their Friday night tradition), free admission, with the show viewable from Fremont Street.

Casino & Resort Displays (Station Casinos)

(Ticketed events, usually $35/adult, $10/child—check with venues for exact pricing)

• Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa – Poolside viewing with fireworks at ~9 p.m.

• Green Valley Ranch Resort & Spa – Similar setup: pool party leading to fireworks at 9 p.m.

• Durango Casino & Resort – Viewing from their Bel‑Aire Backyard starting at 7 p.m., fireworks at ~9 p.m.

Strip & Sphere

• Caesars Palace (Las Vegas Strip) – Fireworks from the Julius Tower rooftop at ~9 p.m., visible up and down the Boulevard.

• Las Vegas Sphere – Special digital/audio “illumination” events at approximately 9:30 p.m. and 11:40 p.m.

Beyond Las Vegas

• Lake Las Vegas – Patriotic fireworks over the water at 9 p.m. 

• Cowabunga Canyon (Las Vegas) & Cowabunga Bay (Henderson) – “Red, White & Kaboom” water‑park celebration with fireworks at 8:50 p.m., entry around $50.

• M Resort Spa & Casino (Henderson) – “Red, White & Boots” event with a live concert at 7:45 p.m. and fireworks at ~9 p.m.

• Henderson Heritage Park – Family-friendly celebration beginning ~6 p.m., fireworks at 9 p.m. 

• Boulder City (Veterans Memorial Park) – Afternoon parade and fireworks at 9 p.m.

Other Notable Mentions

• Floyd Lamb State Park – Additional fireworks display at 9 p.m.

• Various golf & residential clubs (e.g., Red Rock Country Club, Las Vegas Country Club) also have separate fireworks around 8:30–9 p.m.

No matter where you are in the Las Vegas Valley this Fourth of July, there’s a fireworks show lighting up the sky nearby, from the vibrant Strip to family-friendly parks, to stunning lakeside displays, to Fremont Street in downtown LV.

Las Vegas is going all out to celebrate Independence Day 2025.

Happy 4th!

GE