tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73397812024-03-11T20:31:11.047-05:00phocas.netmusic . dance . life . art . culturejusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.comBlogger1198125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-74675529377973058142024-03-09T21:00:00.002-06:002024-03-11T20:30:38.200-05:00a rock show turns 62<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJ4aJhtdYiLWEklZUNDtpLPPlntLLKwDsLbvukk3k73W-epN15hpqK4RUdSCMRLqlXYiLh1JsJAOkkFTKAFfLMWgR5iOCwgm9EtmSa-JTQvPg_xIuSVPJLSzgZSwLHv5Vkya-hgT8EOemGl8C0DUX7Gbm7zz5WClTuobt35Jz3Tqh-FfLz0B2Bw/s774/Screenshot%202024-03-10%20200821.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="774" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJ4aJhtdYiLWEklZUNDtpLPPlntLLKwDsLbvukk3k73W-epN15hpqK4RUdSCMRLqlXYiLh1JsJAOkkFTKAFfLMWgR5iOCwgm9EtmSa-JTQvPg_xIuSVPJLSzgZSwLHv5Vkya-hgT8EOemGl8C0DUX7Gbm7zz5WClTuobt35Jz3Tqh-FfLz0B2Bw/w640-h220/Screenshot%202024-03-10%20200821.png" width="640" /></a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Other plans delayed an outing to the annual rock show until afternoon on Saturday, which turned out to be an advantage over most. Another visiting earlier told of a line stretching out of the entrance nearly a kilometer and spending 45 minutes locating a place to park. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNyQ3DXTwAEp-7P82xlDtl1Z9GH83InaEVj2I1na4x6R_K6ZPTvUNMTRqyzjS3ha52zP8cKUP25hyphenhyphen8rSVk1kMQpo60LnGTmFx4FtqbF_gPAK8ZJXo-wrHgozV2V8lbzdPXd92DvmgNuSde6DrreRR2jI8jCcdGj0-in9z8EX_4HXtGvQPjpgF3A/s2046/20240309_162944-COLLAGE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2046" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNyQ3DXTwAEp-7P82xlDtl1Z9GH83InaEVj2I1na4x6R_K6ZPTvUNMTRqyzjS3ha52zP8cKUP25hyphenhyphen8rSVk1kMQpo60LnGTmFx4FtqbF_gPAK8ZJXo-wrHgozV2V8lbzdPXd92DvmgNuSde6DrreRR2jI8jCcdGj0-in9z8EX_4HXtGvQPjpgF3A/w640-h480/20240309_162944-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />On arrival around 4 pm, it appeared most had given up their effort and retreated. Parking appeared in the lot, near the entrance, with no wait at all. Entry to the event proved equally simplified, walking right up to the ticket counter and progressing in without obstacle. Evidence of the throngs of people that had gone before greeted the senses upon entry though. The entire place smelled of a well-used locker room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-1qeNVWL288d5EPKd-_SizIKc0_yiiGY7rCUACA4EeyeDjj9SgiJ899wT8IMxT4DiRg2LpeSZuo31qId9UZwYLyJN5WJwpUqmlrlaYeeTI-EdvuZp4UWcyCyw6KM-lKPuEPzCGfGg4MWGQhyQcdoKYg5mxzD8DCV47H5ui9TFcyS0_y3qwxZ2g/s4618/20240309_165215.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3464" data-original-width="4618" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-1qeNVWL288d5EPKd-_SizIKc0_yiiGY7rCUACA4EeyeDjj9SgiJ899wT8IMxT4DiRg2LpeSZuo31qId9UZwYLyJN5WJwpUqmlrlaYeeTI-EdvuZp4UWcyCyw6KM-lKPuEPzCGfGg4MWGQhyQcdoKYg5mxzD8DCV47H5ui9TFcyS0_y3qwxZ2g/w640-h480/20240309_165215.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Undeterred and forging ahead offered a view of the typical over-priced gems, minerals, and fossils that dominate these affairs. Quite a few more were selling jewelry than usual, and an entire section stood ready for the glass and plastic bead lovers. A few other amusements at the <a href="http://kcgemshow.org/" target="_blank">KC Gem & Mineral Show</a> offered a more florescent and educational experience, if you knew where to look though. Those are the few priceless features that keep the ordinary geologist from shuddering too much, while making the journey worthwhile for the shorter participants.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0KCI Expo Center, 11730 N Ambassador Dr, Kansas City, MO 64153, USA39.3065413 -94.68249190000001610.996307463821154 -129.8387419 67.616775136178845 -59.526241900000016tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-50571364703420716332024-02-24T20:00:00.033-06:002024-02-25T20:29:44.518-06:00western farm show 62<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiFRbDyI7TxlLMmO66_8KJMmfP-4JWFdzHTNtiZJOzTQvDziCqeR3_IM1ZwEzBELxUt73w-keT_av9lA3eslcBqXUX4OtQTVeIAXzMn5wgKzu51WaZcTsNAR7yxgXVxVaBS9a39GSiEqgHq45XjYWsl7uqeLzVw4WNIjEMJtuEuTxScqtdS3UWQ/s795/Screenshot%202024-02-25%20194840.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="795" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiFRbDyI7TxlLMmO66_8KJMmfP-4JWFdzHTNtiZJOzTQvDziCqeR3_IM1ZwEzBELxUt73w-keT_av9lA3eslcBqXUX4OtQTVeIAXzMn5wgKzu51WaZcTsNAR7yxgXVxVaBS9a39GSiEqgHq45XjYWsl7uqeLzVw4WNIjEMJtuEuTxScqtdS3UWQ/w640-h297/Screenshot%202024-02-25%20194840.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The <a href="https://www.westernfarmshow.com/" target="_blank">Western Farm Show</a> returned to the American Royal Center in the West Bottoms of Kansas City, consuming all areas with a variety of implements to climb on, kick the tires, and learn a little bit about the latest technology. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_xCeuqBzo7licCXVhwH8wG1vFhDQqjDU9iV8TsgvHKL9PS4b-DsHBojh1rEKIDa-5Di9gfE69YdR2BupQS0jSDD49_ZsTKnUFe5NG4CgzJRSiyUZk32CiXjNHEEVPHHSr66D2oVcN3KMgkdv4Dg5d3mH1dCpapxDHAIjlGoVOksbT70ay2Hfbw/s2880/20240225_200552-COLLAGE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_xCeuqBzo7licCXVhwH8wG1vFhDQqjDU9iV8TsgvHKL9PS4b-DsHBojh1rEKIDa-5Di9gfE69YdR2BupQS0jSDD49_ZsTKnUFe5NG4CgzJRSiyUZk32CiXjNHEEVPHHSr66D2oVcN3KMgkdv4Dg5d3mH1dCpapxDHAIjlGoVOksbT70ay2Hfbw/w640-h640/20240225_200552-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All the usual equipment turned out, along with a puppy or two, and a few other unique pieces here and there. The entire complex offered a variety of machinery and steel constructions options to satisfy any curiosity and generate a bit more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZYqrM6IWE4SpZJddr18byyQsIrEHxYGoXpeGBb9GKlDGX4k0QZSMNK-Ky3C06VnuFyLbGYB4YPb9_drTnJ-qXAdfz9esxiePGsiqX05uOIjCnGPyLqZqHT1WsoUpz4y7QmkyPAF1YzjnmMj4UfmamIvg4mYh361qeN3rbV4XZQgHk84hT-35vQ/s2880/20240225_201231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZYqrM6IWE4SpZJddr18byyQsIrEHxYGoXpeGBb9GKlDGX4k0QZSMNK-Ky3C06VnuFyLbGYB4YPb9_drTnJ-qXAdfz9esxiePGsiqX05uOIjCnGPyLqZqHT1WsoUpz4y7QmkyPAF1YzjnmMj4UfmamIvg4mYh361qeN3rbV4XZQgHk84hT-35vQ/w640-h640/20240225_201231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>The visit also enabled a stop in on the American Royal Museum before it settles into<a href="https://www.wycokck.org/Engage-With-Us/News-articles/American-Royal-Complex-Breaks-Ground" target="_blank"> its new home on the other side of the state line in Wyandotte County</a>. The displays have seen better days though, and most of the interactive portions do not work any longer.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mC6xRFEZ--c" width="240" youtube-src-id="mC6xRFEZ--c"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One the more interesting highlights included a live performance by small group of heifers showing off how they were more eager to work with someone not scaring them at every opportunity. Their partner, Dr. Ron Gill, Professor & Extension Livestock Specialist with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@RanchTV/videos">RanchTV at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension</a> demonstrated exactly how much control you can exert over a beast such as this, without stressing them out with whips and other contraptions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6va4kU2Rf4no6FyPaCYVgzTwpYPn7tNHUtd1V3IiXD4iTRFqWtW5e5iVY0YfLJsTddR-AKqSh38FqNNgRzvhN6xlNaDlTGIeKbyZdLdHOx4ShYbZP5PWFadz4FF9jNPaI9mAIgJhrcItrSydqJ0JCKYIioE37bfE4DRHx52Y_RuI87yJT4Yc4hA/s4618/20240224_131411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4618" data-original-width="3464" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6va4kU2Rf4no6FyPaCYVgzTwpYPn7tNHUtd1V3IiXD4iTRFqWtW5e5iVY0YfLJsTddR-AKqSh38FqNNgRzvhN6xlNaDlTGIeKbyZdLdHOx4ShYbZP5PWFadz4FF9jNPaI9mAIgJhrcItrSydqJ0JCKYIioE37bfE4DRHx52Y_RuI87yJT4Yc4hA/w480-h640/20240224_131411.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div>With quite a few more events going on through July, the calendar for the <a href="https://www.americanroyal.com/" target="_blank">American Royal </a>appears to be mostly full for the year. There is little doubt we will be back down for another event before getting too deep into summer. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0American Royal Center, 1701 American Royal Ct, Kansas City, MO 64102, USA39.0889824 -94.604664210.778748563821154 -129.7609142 67.399216236178844 -59.4484142tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-6594292896089555912024-02-23T21:15:00.005-06:002024-02-23T21:15:42.861-06:00rolling on the river<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6sGLaraUXWwYxqDGORB-zRxXMG8e8I6vZMUIAJNp9jvl2o_Q82FI880Ws9vii0eXr0WuUiZzknS1P9TVZM4MdMRIbpxGz12NxE6fAYnBDAOmkNZ4M4dfhSdIVbvNTGyNmioW8Lyjv7ez-VGW8kAiVd4FvFubzu8y3MpYxPWaEe7RWwbevRthZw/s4072/20240223_185532.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3054" data-original-width="4072" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6sGLaraUXWwYxqDGORB-zRxXMG8e8I6vZMUIAJNp9jvl2o_Q82FI880Ws9vii0eXr0WuUiZzknS1P9TVZM4MdMRIbpxGz12NxE6fAYnBDAOmkNZ4M4dfhSdIVbvNTGyNmioW8Lyjv7ez-VGW8kAiVd4FvFubzu8y3MpYxPWaEe7RWwbevRthZw/w640-h480/20240223_185532.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Quite a lot of time has passed since rolling along to tunes at a skating party, but that is exactly how the evening turned out. In particular, at what is now <a href="https://www.riverroll.com/">River Roll</a>, but used to be Coachlight, a million years ago.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0chyUVVP3A_Z31QaaXdwFRCBg7tavPUWQt-nyYzf4A2LtDUMNwS_Ev2HtXy2_v3IwVSrOxa0ogySq1Cat-SBvYZxogwltv1PbyBIFumCRCFVELFfz_kYLAcLtGFJtGNsiabJDTXp4vmu7rZh-kXCerueLok9UP8_WCWGVFw61eSUhq-siNaR62A/s4391/20240223_183236.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2469" data-original-width="4391" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0chyUVVP3A_Z31QaaXdwFRCBg7tavPUWQt-nyYzf4A2LtDUMNwS_Ev2HtXy2_v3IwVSrOxa0ogySq1Cat-SBvYZxogwltv1PbyBIFumCRCFVELFfz_kYLAcLtGFJtGNsiabJDTXp4vmu7rZh-kXCerueLok9UP8_WCWGVFw61eSUhq-siNaR62A/w640-h360/20240223_183236.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The floor has taken quite a beating since our last visit, and danger lurked at every turn. Tiny humans crisscrossed the floor in nearly every direction, defying the most basic pattern. The more inexperienced crashed ceremoniously all around in a near domino effect, making very little progress.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglRg2oglfmW_Mij2GWdJ-Gzu3Wjge3g3nDN0vpjuZlx69V_b5VW9Smn3yZBYJvIE07PytlnyYjrMzngc9tmJdeMU3bCM-WTNryVPrdjzh4pvVYLdQAWAXnIfvN1fqSrveWAgdeEf8GkbP5NM0vo_5DsfMLbu_7AIHPVehGWuSpXQHeMb_niJeOnw/s4618/20240223_183357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2596" data-original-width="4618" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglRg2oglfmW_Mij2GWdJ-Gzu3Wjge3g3nDN0vpjuZlx69V_b5VW9Smn3yZBYJvIE07PytlnyYjrMzngc9tmJdeMU3bCM-WTNryVPrdjzh4pvVYLdQAWAXnIfvN1fqSrveWAgdeEf8GkbP5NM0vo_5DsfMLbu_7AIHPVehGWuSpXQHeMb_niJeOnw/w640-h360/20240223_183357.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">No injuries were reported, and everyone enjoyed a few games along the way, to include the ever -popular Chubby Checker Limbo Rock. The entire situation proved itself quite an amusing affair and worth of repeating again.</div><p></p>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0River Roll, 4720 NW Gateway Ave, Riverside, MO 64150, USA39.1799468 -94.613876310.869712963821158 -129.77012630000002 67.490180636178849 -59.4576263tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-52231426365675965892024-02-20T18:00:00.004-06:002024-02-22T18:00:37.877-06:00legally and artificially intelligent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9gk7Ucwoh1iuhW8vxCii57mcyy5pKJU3TJQPeKEjRcfUWNxTwrJdJhq1Bgul9VdJF9FuTWcJvYqq8DDxDBBaCJW58Uw4KP3qFDerB_p8ZTaP0ojrzEDFUJDEIajmuzwZtUmuXI06773RYbOTgNB4nRZN2QZg7hKDapegs-t2oJqPYUZjt59PFWA/s1300/ai-microsoft(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="1300" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9gk7Ucwoh1iuhW8vxCii57mcyy5pKJU3TJQPeKEjRcfUWNxTwrJdJhq1Bgul9VdJF9FuTWcJvYqq8DDxDBBaCJW58Uw4KP3qFDerB_p8ZTaP0ojrzEDFUJDEIajmuzwZtUmuXI06773RYbOTgNB4nRZN2QZg7hKDapegs-t2oJqPYUZjt59PFWA/w640-h196/ai-microsoft(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>An opportunity arose to sit in on a discussion of the legal aspects surrounding the use of <a href="https://copilot.microsoft.com/" target="_blank">Copilot</a>, a relatively new artificial intelligence system taking over the world of Microsoft.</div><div><br /></div><div>A hundred or so from the technical and legal realms showed up to hear thoughts from the Polsinelli team and Microsoft. The lineup included Paul Bellacera, Microsoft Principal Technical Specialist, Lead Counsel Dale Kadlec from US Health and Life Sciences Division at Microsoft, Greg Kratofil, Jr, Polsinelli Technology Transactions & Data Privacy Chair from Kansas City, Greg Leighton, Polsinelli Privacy & Incident Response Vice Chair from Chicago, and Matt Todd, Polsinelli Licensing & Transactions Co-Chair and Restrictive Covenants & Trade Secrets Litigation Co-Chair.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Hosts and speakers were warm, inviting, and transparent, offering their thoughts on the current state of affairs and answer a variety of questions from the crowd to the best of their ability, given the lack of true test cases at this time. The only case cited directly was that of the <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/mollybohannon/2023/12/19/rite-aid-banned-from-using-ai-facial-recognition-technology-for-5-years-after-false-shoplifting-match-allegations/?sh=706b7e916eb4" target="_blank">Federal Trade Commission ban on convenience store chain Rite Aid from leveraging facial recognition technology for the next 5 years</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>One of the key takeaways was their discussion surrounding the latest concerns associated with copyright law. All were assured that <a href="https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/2023/09/07/copilot-copyright-commitment-ai-legal-concerns/" target="_blank">Microsoft is committed to protection of copyrighted materials across their AI services</a>. Unfortunately, this stands in contrast with the history of tech firms making lofty promises and then abruptly changing their mind. Remember when <a href="https://gizmodo.com/google-removes-nearly-all-mentions-of-dont-be-evil-from-1826153393">Google promised, "Don't Be Evil."</a> or perhaps, when <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-46618582" target="_blank">Facebook promised the Federal Trade Commission that it would not share user data without explicit consent.</a> The point at which promises becomes a strategy to manipulate, instead of keeping a commitment, the only thing promised is the delivery of a broken promise.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The biggest takeaway - "Copilot is not Autopilot."</div><div><br /></div></div><div>Coordinated with the self-proclaimed technology spokes-group in town, <a href="https://www.kctechcouncil.com/" target="_blank">KC Tech Council</a>, the affair included a light and tasty lunch from <a href="https://therussellonmain.com/">The Russell</a>. The presentation space proved relatively clean and well-lit, offering two massive screens for displaying various aspects of the conversation. If you missed any part of this discussion, you were simply not paying attention.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thoughts from the team proved sufficient in itself. However, they still insisted on imparting a few gifts in appreciation of our time. One will always remind us of who they believe holds the power, while the other should provide additional insight on the available apparatus and implements in this new digital territory.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpRubCINj19JevzOPogi1l22UE0mR7T7j9xMKs8KsIfJgHhhIXEZbsxOW_PEwqNaeptJ8iEPpUwpmzbIuzaPqpNtwh2BMdsI5NMef3wAc_PUR1WF-wszKWY04mVfoZtIdK2-wNGKuaIWQECouH46JF53thxEkAgckvJrqsFMg5XPsjFZsryunGQ/s2046/20240221_163144-COLLAGE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2046" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpRubCINj19JevzOPogi1l22UE0mR7T7j9xMKs8KsIfJgHhhIXEZbsxOW_PEwqNaeptJ8iEPpUwpmzbIuzaPqpNtwh2BMdsI5NMef3wAc_PUR1WF-wszKWY04mVfoZtIdK2-wNGKuaIWQECouH46JF53thxEkAgckvJrqsFMg5XPsjFZsryunGQ/w640-h480/20240221_163144-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Polsinelli 1st Floor Conference Center, 900 W 48th Pl, Kansas City, MO 64112, USA39.0404139 -94.59807510.730180063821152 -129.754325 67.350647736178843 -59.441824999999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-42494052820609082832024-02-17T21:00:00.034-06:002024-02-22T15:28:06.291-06:00speakeasy sorcerer<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDQWt5lRC1jAMv4aZZBcDVbX49wTxrYVJj-kqMT7PDX1Rat7pzirwFUSHHKfiCqRsfxxNYu5AVwuW07pMwb8OvmaI822JFzjMhdg-jkjp2nsAvqR2tMmTQEV_yTLtnKpsiEMmqtEoX0h44RXDuEXrqqYfeFPiyK796eDfQIEMIrlFeeltbT0qsw/s4618/20240217_195745.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="4618" data-original-width="3464" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDQWt5lRC1jAMv4aZZBcDVbX49wTxrYVJj-kqMT7PDX1Rat7pzirwFUSHHKfiCqRsfxxNYu5AVwuW07pMwb8OvmaI822JFzjMhdg-jkjp2nsAvqR2tMmTQEV_yTLtnKpsiEMmqtEoX0h44RXDuEXrqqYfeFPiyK796eDfQIEMIrlFeeltbT0qsw/s600/20240217_195745.jpg" /><br /></a></div>Invited to drop in on the latest "pop-up bar" at KC Power & Light District, the affair fell a little short of expectations. It was not awful, but it was not a profound experience either, landing somewhere unknown in the middle.<div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.powerandlightdistrict.com/events/20240202_sorcerers-speakeasy">Sorcerer's Speakeasy</a>, a magical-themed bar, leans heavily, if not completely, upon the Harry Potter movie series. House in the old Leinenkugel's, organizers put little effort into it beyond that. Much of the decor appeared as though it came straight out of the dollar store. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkw1ul88sxrNmXd6RCDCxSYnnbaeYM6dMOvZ_-EBBNdiOFLElF6tjPtzO9ONZkOFCAMf5C8pjxVX2uLjp1SFph6QaWCmjylbJ1te9ybpWEZfs0gjKAzFH5yhuhyg1-X19QaxbSQqQNAAXAjJ2fI25qBN9PdO0XwLJzhesoIBFGQUX1-RFRGnOZ-g/s3718/20240217_200248.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2760" data-original-width="3718" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkw1ul88sxrNmXd6RCDCxSYnnbaeYM6dMOvZ_-EBBNdiOFLElF6tjPtzO9ONZkOFCAMf5C8pjxVX2uLjp1SFph6QaWCmjylbJ1te9ybpWEZfs0gjKAzFH5yhuhyg1-X19QaxbSQqQNAAXAjJ2fI25qBN9PdO0XwLJzhesoIBFGQUX1-RFRGnOZ-g/w640-h476/20240217_200248.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Some folks seemed perfectly pleased enough with the scene. An equal amount seemed to desire more than Harry Potter on 4 screens with plastic library scenes taped to the walls. If we had been expected to pay for the experience, we might have felt cheated.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Appetizers and drinks were tasty and service, excellent. Staff were accommodating, squeezing us in without a reservation. Some sort of mix-up in the Open Table system had cancelled the original, leaving us somewhat stranded. That made up for short falls, and made for an amusing means of losing an hour or so of the evening.</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4JaHfw2MyQDjWJOzabTswodCYoKCcx5uY9XXsmkztfpD3X8QafBOLMIxpMT9nbHsLFJECxyCV1RWvcN3c3BoS7qVLAUopqFhrnqKbt47zGN3qTqE4AEOMCC5RvXpzxU2Yu2IAfJhCyrEv2mkFWG2Qi3LpNRQ6GGJxQ0R8cAp4-zsNCOZZ_eEUw/s4427/20240217_195808.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4427" data-original-width="3320" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4JaHfw2MyQDjWJOzabTswodCYoKCcx5uY9XXsmkztfpD3X8QafBOLMIxpMT9nbHsLFJECxyCV1RWvcN3c3BoS7qVLAUopqFhrnqKbt47zGN3qTqE4AEOMCC5RvXpzxU2Yu2IAfJhCyrEv2mkFWG2Qi3LpNRQ6GGJxQ0R8cAp4-zsNCOZZ_eEUw/w480-h640/20240217_195808.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Sorcerer's Speakeasy, 1323 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA39.0980985 -94.581909910.787864663821153 -129.7381599 67.408332336178844 -59.4256599tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-81116886767921940682024-02-16T16:20:00.001-06:002024-02-18T19:25:26.293-06:00friday fish in kc<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePSEq5akTC4-leUaTRkLcQj-DxNkUuBOo7d81pwzwl8Ur0HeQZKuaGPdthxzSJ4M-riRxNAmBEQzIlNx3sNehZoNLvDjAtKmAaPvpx-Y93p3NilRt6szcD1Sz4wjKFAoZPoBlIuUWWtX3ZCeBNHHp5CqFwx02MANMJ7RimL3iuXtcf-8x7Hi7YQ/s2661/IMG_7990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1774" data-original-width="2661" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePSEq5akTC4-leUaTRkLcQj-DxNkUuBOo7d81pwzwl8Ur0HeQZKuaGPdthxzSJ4M-riRxNAmBEQzIlNx3sNehZoNLvDjAtKmAaPvpx-Y93p3NilRt6szcD1Sz4wjKFAoZPoBlIuUWWtX3ZCeBNHHp5CqFwx02MANMJ7RimL3iuXtcf-8x7Hi7YQ/w640-h426/IMG_7990.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Whether you are religious or not, you probably know that Fish Friday is kind of global thing. According to popular legend, the Christian prophet Jesus died on a Friday. As a result fasting on Fridays became a way to honor his sacrifice.</p><p>I know what you're thinking. If you are eating fish, you are not exactly fasting. </p><p>As with most things, if you look close enough, you can find a loophole. </p><p>For this crowd, fasting simply meant abstinence from consuming the flesh of warm-blooded animals. The cold-blooded are fair game, and if you teach a man to fish, you will feed him for a lifetime; especially, during lent and other holy days. </p><p>In the medieval era, a holy day occurred just about every time one turned around too. Ordinary folks everywhere were expected to fast not just on Fridays during Lent, but also during Advent, as well as quite a few Wednesdays and Saturdays.</p><p>A man has to eat, and if cold-blooded critters are permitted, then we shall have the biggest fish fry the world has ever seen! </p><p>This is exactly what the Catholic Dioceses all over the world are doing these days, often in cooperation with organizations such as The Knights of Columbus.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://catholickey.org/2024/02/02/2024-fish-fries-and-lenten-fare/" target="_blank">Take a look at the lineup for a spot near you!</a></p>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Kansas City, MO, USA39.0997265 -94.578566710.789492663821157 -129.7348167 67.409960336178841 -59.422316699999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-70479215304484375332024-01-30T22:00:00.003-06:002024-02-22T15:27:51.470-06:00cheeky argylle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIXq_SEsKxvca4UhNkqAZOIbLyDh9utqCJGYgSN6kdys4dfWym7TKdRQDFrqh-TLnM_zqdhE1QSxMwOisVH1S4ybVPJj4qE7klmiw_WcU_xrI7kVCBDCLj5jvuqkk__qK0h1yBcJl1sl8pM7RCvTeWCKnOn0p2J9TvmmCPg6D6nFZUgjTAhXRiVA/s4618/20240130_185216.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3464" data-original-width="4618" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIXq_SEsKxvca4UhNkqAZOIbLyDh9utqCJGYgSN6kdys4dfWym7TKdRQDFrqh-TLnM_zqdhE1QSxMwOisVH1S4ybVPJj4qE7klmiw_WcU_xrI7kVCBDCLj5jvuqkk__qK0h1yBcJl1sl8pM7RCvTeWCKnOn0p2J9TvmmCPg6D6nFZUgjTAhXRiVA/w640-h480/20240130_185216.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>An acquaintance won tickets to an special early screening of the upcoming movie "<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15009428/" target="_blank">Argylle</a>." They were unable to attend, so we made the journey down to North Kansas City for a look and a laugh or two.</p><p>Trivia kicked things off, with folks competing for the opportunity to win a movie t-shirt. Mostly oblivious to questions centering around the director, actors, their movies and other associated facts, we walked away empty-handed.</p><p>A mostly full house turned out, though the Press could not be bothered to make an appearance. They left nearly two full rows empty, of which the organizer took full advantage. More of the general audience had arrived than there were seats available. Those folks eagerly opted for hijacking an empty Press seat above standing or squatting for the two hours in Theater 1.</p><p>The movie began, proceeded and culminated in the style of James Bond, all the while mocking just about every other outlandish and extraordinary event occurring in that sort of spy thriller. What began as mildly amusing grew to its own level of peculiar cheeky hilarity and an enjoyable evening at the movies. </p><p>While it is probably not a must-see on the big screen, the experience is always worthwhile. Not everyone can squeeze a 12–15 meter screen into their house. </p><p><a href="https://www.screenland.com/" target="_blank">Screenland Armour</a> turned out a great place to enjoy this film too. While it does not boast as large a screen as many of the monster theater complexes in town, it does offer a level of intimacy not afforded anywhere else. This particular theater hosted a line of sofas up front, and well-padded and wide leather seating that allowed for stretching out and even a little rocking. </p>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Screenland Armour, 408 Armour Rd, North Kansas City, MO 64116, USA39.142568 -94.57569910.832334163821152 -129.731949 67.45280183617885 -59.419449tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-12412093063357582382024-01-28T15:00:00.002-06:002024-02-22T15:27:57.167-06:00oz returns to the big screen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LPhCk7Kno0M9LycavpZ5pgxLcY_A0Nw0vmgFUnVkvepB8aAO2YlE-HzoBSe79Hl4RsKjZpw54pxHU43CYYhyphenhyphenWC7g_1U6JqkfdU4rwBmXpgshiRHhoXkgR808i7x3uMVkRt-o7plzNlRQX8W-sGytzDqgULD5IbbwqLv6LJcvMEkuppPFSTaixg/s4097/20240128_143603.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3073" data-original-width="4097" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LPhCk7Kno0M9LycavpZ5pgxLcY_A0Nw0vmgFUnVkvepB8aAO2YlE-HzoBSe79Hl4RsKjZpw54pxHU43CYYhyphenhyphenWC7g_1U6JqkfdU4rwBmXpgshiRHhoXkgR808i7x3uMVkRt-o7plzNlRQX8W-sGytzDqgULD5IbbwqLv6LJcvMEkuppPFSTaixg/w640-h480/20240128_143603.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>"The Wizard of Oz" returned to the big screen this weekend in celebration of its 85th anniversary. A reflection of the days before digital, in more ways than one, those that cared most about this film did not miss the rare opportunity. </p><p>Alignment of the projector turned out the only drawback to this particular showing at Barrywoods AMC. A strip all the way across the top of the film appeared off screen, glaringly obvious in only a couple of scenes, though not so much as to detract from the experience.</p><p>We would not be at a loss at all if this showing, and others noted in the previews, stood as the new normal. In the days before digital, each year, we anxiously awaited the return of our favorite films to television. In the post-digital realm, perhaps we will now be waiting to see those same visions on the screen for which they were originally intended. </p>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0AMC Barrywoods, 8101 Roanridge Rd, Kansas City, MO 64151, USA39.2430502 -94.656066410.932816363821154 -129.8123164 67.553284036178837 -59.4998164tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-73839896262359564002023-12-09T22:00:00.034-06:002024-02-22T15:28:30.093-06:00a gladstone holiday evening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVltofVtDhXxfSOSd618WNQ83Bc8Pg2D2ycz1mOby8Zr_Qm8S93Kwc1l_v44wnDDqYQyjSz0YX1yC6OyhLovJld7mwsCI4tfoFn20e8iBbLXcBu5Cp3jjS0EKT6DHIod-I-rzDeIMZXvF2f7SZmhm3xnNUx7leIc_QwJO7HItiK1gVvCaA2r5y_A/s706/Screenshot%202023-12-11%20194004.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="706" data-original-width="542" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVltofVtDhXxfSOSd618WNQ83Bc8Pg2D2ycz1mOby8Zr_Qm8S93Kwc1l_v44wnDDqYQyjSz0YX1yC6OyhLovJld7mwsCI4tfoFn20e8iBbLXcBu5Cp3jjS0EKT6DHIod-I-rzDeIMZXvF2f7SZmhm3xnNUx7leIc_QwJO7HItiK1gVvCaA2r5y_A/w492-h640/Screenshot%202023-12-11%20194004.png" width="492" /></a></div><br /> A return visit to the Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum found the scene much as we had left it the year before. Indeed, it proved itself similar to it had been 100 years ago. <p></p><p>Greeted at the door by carolers, the interior stood warm and inviting, though somewhat crowded, early in the evening. A variety of activities absorbed the interested of short folks, including the opportunity to receive a free wooden toy, and have a chat with Santa, all while dribbling hot apple cider and scattering cookie crumbs throughout house. </p><p>Out at the campfire, others enjoyed the offering of roasted chestnuts, and the opportunity to lightly socialize on the topic. All in all, this low-key Christmas experience warmed heart and soul for attendees of the evening events.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyiQAJpkGlDwjnFn0tvhFLtyPe8iswlO3pXbA9xoNMLTfivZXuHpUFugdmp_ldLhZRY6nAbDQdEWQBXHixHACNlGf_2lrfGFV1NqaX3RsyE3vKDZaDgppD8Dh5pArTSjDNOFdj8ppgKBV5bJilcPG4M7JhGSsdc3SxelqVhiPKoGC6us4AVfJCQ/s4618/20231209_190452.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2596" data-original-width="4618" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyiQAJpkGlDwjnFn0tvhFLtyPe8iswlO3pXbA9xoNMLTfivZXuHpUFugdmp_ldLhZRY6nAbDQdEWQBXHixHACNlGf_2lrfGFV1NqaX3RsyE3vKDZaDgppD8Dh5pArTSjDNOFdj8ppgKBV5bJilcPG4M7JhGSsdc3SxelqVhiPKoGC6us4AVfJCQ/w640-h360/20231209_190452.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum, 4109 NE Pleasant Valley Rd, Kansas City, MO 64119, USA39.212782 -94.531008810.902548163821152 -129.6872588 67.523015836178843 -59.374758799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-47147036308206923242023-12-03T21:06:00.005-06:002024-02-22T15:28:35.693-06:00loess eagle days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A mostly cloudy and chilly 8°C afternoon encouraged on outing to the <a href="https://www.fws.gov/event/44th-annual-eagle-days">44th Annual Eagle Days</a> for a closer look at these impressive raptors. Hosted
at <a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/loess-bluffs">Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge</a>, a variety of new and familiar activities made for an interesting day in the rural landscape northwest of St Joseph.
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<div>The event witnessed a repeat appearance from the ever watchful and somewhat talkative Harpy eagle, a native of the southern Americas, and very much conservation dependent species. A Golden Eagle joined the conversation after that but appeared pre-occupied with escaping the crying baby in the front row. The row ended with the continuously piercing gaze from the American Bald Eagle, who lingered afterward the interviews ended for small talk and photos.</div>
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Numerous sites established around perimeter of the 16 km Wild Good Auto Tour loop offered young and
old the opportunity to get a closer look at the Bald Eagles in their locally
native habitat, as well as the chance to ask more questions from volunteers. The experience stood in stark contrast with previous visits, where only one station offered amenities, and a welcome change for all involved.<div><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwenQeD30iFTcVkuKuzqms9LTk3QxpKyQVkpwRfYDlGcuC4kV6TPBccydOx4zkrNH9wOJF9UPLig4s7arJ9L5Yj-l4fuqQ4DdN9fMaQjSgYyBL7KpEjLB07Mwtt-kM8a3wmyOyNp3TyVNx57eRxMVDMFpNj5xkAS_UIcqM33wmiCLjCxan3wpDqw/s4898/IMG_9105.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwenQeD30iFTcVkuKuzqms9LTk3QxpKyQVkpwRfYDlGcuC4kV6TPBccydOx4zkrNH9wOJF9UPLig4s7arJ9L5Yj-l4fuqQ4DdN9fMaQjSgYyBL7KpEjLB07Mwtt-kM8a3wmyOyNp3TyVNx57eRxMVDMFpNj5xkAS_UIcqM33wmiCLjCxan3wpDqw/w640-h426/IMG_9105.JPG" width="640" /></a>
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<div>It had been a hard year though. A lack of sufficient precipitation and
ongoing drought conditions left the Eagle Pool and surrounding associated wetlands
mostly dry. Only a portion of the northern tip of the Pelican Pool enabled aid and comfort to the resident avian populations. Where more than a hundred had stalked these swamplands during prior years, only fifteen numbered the surrounding treetops on this date, with another half-dozen or so perched atop beaver dens.</div>
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jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, 25542 US-159, Forest City, MO 64451, USA40.0901518 -95.245353711.779917963821156 -130.4016037 68.400385636178839 -60.089103699999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-43683978150765130992023-11-25T20:00:00.150-06:002023-11-29T20:01:30.230-06:00christmas traditions for charles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBW3LFbTNGtxiQgo1GbbiW5fY5Z1TQblW97CiqQIBrRPsU0ZNNvvvB_c6donh6fpQjC0yRE2q38MAOU8QwrSRFaSYE3sdC6nGgQqewaPbiMmF14vMx_b2XKVhd8Haqjks5ipYZotDoxy8KeUlBMHXWvKbLG-gMBNtkvDpMv-z-NAdDT0w0AqIjQ/s3347/20231125_122208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1882" data-original-width="3347" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBW3LFbTNGtxiQgo1GbbiW5fY5Z1TQblW97CiqQIBrRPsU0ZNNvvvB_c6donh6fpQjC0yRE2q38MAOU8QwrSRFaSYE3sdC6nGgQqewaPbiMmF14vMx_b2XKVhd8Haqjks5ipYZotDoxy8KeUlBMHXWvKbLG-gMBNtkvDpMv-z-NAdDT0w0AqIjQ/w640-h360/20231125_122208.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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A completely random encounter with St Charles Historic District discovered an
interesting little annual event along Main Street. It all started with the
thought of simply dropping in for a little breakfast and a walkabout to see what
the area had to offer.
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After satisfying ourselves with some delicious breakfast tacos, Chai for
some and coffee for others, at <a href="https://www.frontierperk.com/">Frontier Perk Cafe</a> we stepped out to find the street bustling with activity. A few
blocks south found evidence of greater activities afoot, and soon after a
simple parade that offered a glimpse of the various street performances that
would lurking throughout the day.
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The parade was not overwhelming as some that evaporated as quickly as it had
appeared, with Santa waving from one of the many horse-drawn carriages
serving the streets for the afternoon. The crowd trickled slowly into the
space left behind, soon consuming most available space. It had grown
considerably in the twenty minutes or so since the beginning of said parade.
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A frenzy of holiday shopping quickly ensued, carriage drivers shouted out
at folks to make way, and the smells of Christmas filled the air.
The variety of weird little shops bulged and pulsed with people coming and
coming throughout the afternoon. Many more activities and
performances were also planned on this first day of
<a href="https://www.discoverstcharles.com/events/christmas-traditions/" style="text-align: center;">St. Charles Christmas Traditions</a> surrounding Missouri's very first Captial building. We
neglected to get further involved on this occasion though, desiring more
to make the crossing back to Kansas City before too much snow settled over
home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>
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jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0St. Charles Historic District, St Charles, MO 63301, USA38.7772181 -90.482434410.466984263821153 -125.6386844 67.087451936178837 -55.3261844tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-20267030012168626502023-11-24T22:00:00.141-06:002023-11-29T20:00:01.259-06:00glowing garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4dfUwPYzyTBJQBViRRrhCT5CWa3932zBwgmloEs2FQjIw61iU_J864qrF4Ma8Sqp-v2G5dsM3E02J9Y417xNjKefnDkQIvocxgOtSgcJ_0kD6NZgGwOU1KDiXfBgii06mmxVdUty5cdgITfdhQn0xOh_VCGVQIP-GzGEznvFm31HFOZzVuyMSw/s4618/20231124_183018.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3464" data-original-width="4618" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4dfUwPYzyTBJQBViRRrhCT5CWa3932zBwgmloEs2FQjIw61iU_J864qrF4Ma8Sqp-v2G5dsM3E02J9Y417xNjKefnDkQIvocxgOtSgcJ_0kD6NZgGwOU1KDiXfBgii06mmxVdUty5cdgITfdhQn0xOh_VCGVQIP-GzGEznvFm31HFOZzVuyMSw/w640-h480/20231124_183018.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p>Leaving Kansas City and Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror to entertain other notions found us at the Missouri Botanical Garden in St Louis. There seemed no better place to be to avoid the harried shopping masses than surrounded by a dazzling array of Christmas lighting.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-CTEWhFMB8gEdT3M6hzvkNfz5ycoPlnj9H6GB8ah5zAAqcnVM0UqLh5DnJOLSV1T1CG5pujYBgx7BDtQ4XLfok2PNNl5iTd6rlJfKcAERlw1wFil7_kpmc7fs8By_VFAhehedfBj4zYh-FSCJG9CwV7GZK9erInggv8uOVi7s_0zu8QMkd9i8A/s972/20231124_184635-ANIMATION.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="730" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-CTEWhFMB8gEdT3M6hzvkNfz5ycoPlnj9H6GB8ah5zAAqcnVM0UqLh5DnJOLSV1T1CG5pujYBgx7BDtQ4XLfok2PNNl5iTd6rlJfKcAERlw1wFil7_kpmc7fs8By_VFAhehedfBj4zYh-FSCJG9CwV7GZK9erInggv8uOVi7s_0zu8QMkd9i8A/w481-h640/20231124_184635-ANIMATION.gif" width="481" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Arriving just in time for our appointed entry for the evening, we crossed into the garden space aglow with a variety of displays and other lighted artistic renderings. Each area enabled a different sort of experience, with a few interactive encounters mixed in along the way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf-2_Chh4l3eW009v0zNDWj77LOuH_dn6utVtrTkwv2sjhnyJY13WW6WzRGiYPyuW3yzNsA328pffUXHNFlHbJMkTJN1xnlkqM9wmc0O-tzQWihEqDnr1AI3nW6VAgAr5MXRhKqpAnrDlA0ZyZLuP49VkGsQQDm3qklkGl8XK0XAxSxezUmWCKw/s4000/20231124_194045.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf-2_Chh4l3eW009v0zNDWj77LOuH_dn6utVtrTkwv2sjhnyJY13WW6WzRGiYPyuW3yzNsA328pffUXHNFlHbJMkTJN1xnlkqM9wmc0O-tzQWihEqDnr1AI3nW6VAgAr5MXRhKqpAnrDlA0ZyZLuP49VkGsQQDm3qklkGl8XK0XAxSxezUmWCKw/w640-h480/20231124_194045.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Additionally, warm treats were spliced in between provided some comfort on this chilly 0°C evening. Adult beverages and those designed for the younger crowd steamed from inside gloved hands for many involved in the affair.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The temperature proved not much of a deterrent, in the end. The masses avoided through most of our journey to the garden emerged early and lingered longer than likely anticipated by organizers. In contrast, thankfully, very few actually entered the complex later in the evening on this day after Thanksgiving at <a href="https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/events-classes/signature-events/garden-glow" style="text-align: center;">Garden Glow</a>.</div><div><br /></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA38.6127672 -90.25937979999999110.302533363821155 -125.41562979999999 66.923001036178846 -55.103129799999991tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-81789506759052615102023-11-18T22:00:00.006-06:002023-12-04T20:12:56.388-06:00northern lights holiday lighting ceremony<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYx-YPcz8mLJSOB1HwdHS1z7Pp_x7xnTZAKNmW5b3scmm8o2RE1tHKtRpIITUEi77fQGfdvS0BRqt28mwf7KE5VJ258bwkbEqcDuGoP26fMgxFfX2-uq3NPrTxVK3MpXg4l8WbCVku7J3F0Jv_p6zdLYV6AK_Bu2xi5X4y8Bi7FveX-_wT2eBog/s4069/20231118_175038.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2288" data-original-width="4069" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYx-YPcz8mLJSOB1HwdHS1z7Pp_x7xnTZAKNmW5b3scmm8o2RE1tHKtRpIITUEi77fQGfdvS0BRqt28mwf7KE5VJ258bwkbEqcDuGoP26fMgxFfX2-uq3NPrTxVK3MpXg4l8WbCVku7J3F0Jv_p6zdLYV6AK_Bu2xi5X4y8Bi7FveX-_wT2eBog/w640-h360/20231118_175038.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The <a href="https://www.zonarosa.com/events/events/holiday-lights/">Christmas lighting ceremony at the Zona Rosa Shopping District</a> went off as expected, without complication, and to the immense profit of all involved with the sponsor, St. Luke's Health System.<div><br /></div><div>Hundreds turned out for generally good music, if you discount the occasional caterwauling. Multiple food trucks and tents enabled consumers to enjoy drinks and greasy delicacies at inflated prices. Additionally, the Mario Brothers, the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, and of course, Santa Claus made spotlight appearances to help ramp things up for the anti-climactic lighting of an oversized Christmas Tree.</div><div><br /></div><div>It is a bitter irony that a major healthcare provider in this town has enough profit to put up an event like this, when so many remain unable to afford healthcare, or are currently having their lives destroyed by healthcare costs. Merry Christmas?</div><div><br /></div><div>The event supported nothing in particular, unless one considers corrupt capitalism a worthy recipient of donations.</div><div><br /></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Zona Rosa, 7210 NW 86th Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64153, USA39.2508849 -94.663540410.940651063821157 -129.8197904 67.561118736178855 -59.5072904tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-55486760197893155082023-11-09T22:00:00.028-06:002023-11-29T20:00:43.330-06:00cheese resurrection in kansas city<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLeWUKaS41JpZTtJSTQWebC_9OttsZqTNtlQG9X3zM3vVos5sRnwkYXvwhLb8QF82DO4gTWADLM9_f_B411Q3z1hz1SXPvLJORyn-geG2qVRK5tdXm6k4Mm1Qb7kCVZsVKuf_vQ0EXsvBfJQosFVKT7lmMWCWb0TqPinAzk8Ewkxqkk537FSOOQ/s3307/20231111_090119.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3307" data-original-width="2264" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLeWUKaS41JpZTtJSTQWebC_9OttsZqTNtlQG9X3zM3vVos5sRnwkYXvwhLb8QF82DO4gTWADLM9_f_B411Q3z1hz1SXPvLJORyn-geG2qVRK5tdXm6k4Mm1Qb7kCVZsVKuf_vQ0EXsvBfJQosFVKT7lmMWCWb0TqPinAzk8Ewkxqkk537FSOOQ/w438-h640/20231111_090119.jpg" width="438" /></a></div><p>The opportunity arose to enjoy an evening with the recently resurrected John Cleese, a personal long-time comedic hero from across the pond. He is doing rather well with his recent return from the land of the dead and offered a visit to Kansas City to discuss relevant matters and answer a few questions about his past life.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvMgBWuZA-zER9cP2hkLckWawNcvQkbzj2_n3k-bMVy-kiPXOGCmln6Zui13Keam8oldjK0tCKAXqZicBEqhBpTyAXwpZPqJAPggarjnoYlQeRBdMrFESDse8pjmHHa1OfQbO1mGpOZF-y1G3cai3kjTOcZPQrGXJA5qc1cdj0Duv0azx90diSA/s3195/20231111_082810-COLLAGE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3195" data-original-width="2400" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvMgBWuZA-zER9cP2hkLckWawNcvQkbzj2_n3k-bMVy-kiPXOGCmln6Zui13Keam8oldjK0tCKAXqZicBEqhBpTyAXwpZPqJAPggarjnoYlQeRBdMrFESDse8pjmHHa1OfQbO1mGpOZF-y1G3cai3kjTOcZPQrGXJA5qc1cdj0Duv0azx90diSA/w480-h640/20231111_082810-COLLAGE.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The discussion, held at the beautiful Kauffman Center, opened with thoughts from his youngest daughter. While she is funny in her own right, it is entirely different situation. She is simply not silly enough. Although, this is likely through no fault of her own. It has to be difficult to stand in the shadow of a father renowned as the Master of Silly throughout his entire career. His comedic sense remains unparalleled, except by compadres of the Monty Python class. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAC-1_wtVsKxKFhyphenhyphen-EFfmkiicftlh6v7-SrvL6kTKP8wAYWLBa7yD6RMYV_Q-wBN94dJvM77qYy5Q1TEzIFhN77B9azaqbSGO5VgILf0q4HGg9n_EGfLIvKc6MM0lIqpiv8rUIaQ3JnIRE6vf3gIOIdiec1r6ViaIrtfdkP185i8st-deMCKhj3A/s4618/20231109_192247.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2596" data-original-width="4618" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAC-1_wtVsKxKFhyphenhyphen-EFfmkiicftlh6v7-SrvL6kTKP8wAYWLBa7yD6RMYV_Q-wBN94dJvM77qYy5Q1TEzIFhN77B9azaqbSGO5VgILf0q4HGg9n_EGfLIvKc6MM0lIqpiv8rUIaQ3JnIRE6vf3gIOIdiec1r6ViaIrtfdkP185i8st-deMCKhj3A/w640-h360/20231109_192247.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>He began with talk of the unique perils associated with the ventures of aging, splicing in snapshots of the Monty Python era. This led to thoughts on our anxieties and theories about what makes us laugh. Quickly moving on to a frank discussion of the equally dangerous front of refusing to find humor at our own expense at the hands of "The Woke," John defined precisely how important it is to affectionally laugh at ourselves and one another.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFNw9LCaWlxUSuzqo8rj5-_BrWEpfV77mwJk4GoA49LHYAD540p2-H5DDXmH1MEljmuknsZB4JFLWs_PS8A1AjHmnfOU5QNHu0sdGj2R2BlZVfuHBOOkF5TSxO5CgxebBlYnMomx9AH0dfEurKKg53IvMmAXuYCriwONkQYqtOx4pLOJXCq3SKA/s750/c7b278589ae9b02cc958b56507a47660.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="658" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFNw9LCaWlxUSuzqo8rj5-_BrWEpfV77mwJk4GoA49LHYAD540p2-H5DDXmH1MEljmuknsZB4JFLWs_PS8A1AjHmnfOU5QNHu0sdGj2R2BlZVfuHBOOkF5TSxO5CgxebBlYnMomx9AH0dfEurKKg53IvMmAXuYCriwONkQYqtOx4pLOJXCq3SKA/w562-h640/c7b278589ae9b02cc958b56507a47660.jpg" width="562" /></a></div><br /><div>"It gives others a momentary joy of liberation, as we [realize] in that instant that the social rules that constrict our lives so terribly are not actually very important." John stated in a 1989 eulogy to his dearest friend and colleague, Graham Chapman. The evening nearly closed there, with his reminding us that Graham's motto of pursuing life through anything but "mindless good taste," and a dreadfully dull round of questions from the audience. </div><div><br /></div><div>Why indeed do Americans believe everyone from England knows the truth about the death of Princess Diana? That is just Silly.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>further reading</i></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000092/">John Cleese - IMDb</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.johncleeselive.com/">John Cleese Live . com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://speakola.com/eulogy/graham-chapman-john-cleese">For Graham Chapman: "Good riddance ... the freeloading bastard!" by John Cleese - 1989 — Speakola</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.kauffmancenter.org/">Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | Official Website</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>... yes, we know it says "cheese" ...</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA39.0941068 -94.58762469999999210.783872963821153 -129.7438747 67.404340636178844 -59.431374699999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-49143886996288596992023-11-04T22:00:00.020-05:002023-11-29T20:00:54.242-06:00celebrating the dead in 2023<p> </p>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9gFJuApN7ol2WNBIrpoGJXIkKVXZxIBmINKGlrY_6zaYD307V-_R2oazwY10_qjhLovRDy9RpoKtawPfO6_0IqP54t9aE4zfy-hMYqnhIMmp0kuyQHckfKyARQ9cMm2sp0JmIgAcNHXaoxiXbVSxyUxBXwz_IhgrfBpqm3WZeV5pruO67wTilQ/s787/Screenshot%202023-11-04%20214127.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="787" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9gFJuApN7ol2WNBIrpoGJXIkKVXZxIBmINKGlrY_6zaYD307V-_R2oazwY10_qjhLovRDy9RpoKtawPfO6_0IqP54t9aE4zfy-hMYqnhIMmp0kuyQHckfKyARQ9cMm2sp0JmIgAcNHXaoxiXbVSxyUxBXwz_IhgrfBpqm3WZeV5pruO67wTilQ/w640-h402/Screenshot%202023-11-04%20214127.png" width="640" /></a>
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<p>
The remnants of ancient celebrations bubbled up in the heart of America in a
weekend long celebration for the dead filled with food, drinks, music, and
dancing along about six blocks of Central Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfJnUzA9iristBcvAViLiKKGOoo28aFFTz7Ibd4DFey5kE7fs7wXxlN1Ozyg2CY1DVykINzlMM8ltTWzi2XHTJ6tyjjS8ePnMBG1ro36G6NRG65co3FrObhTni2R7U-j1KrC8eLLmo5-LlRHXUqBIOD8uwFWB-r2OnpbE8qBh9z5QJc44c5_0LA/s2880/20231105_092545.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfJnUzA9iristBcvAViLiKKGOoo28aFFTz7Ibd4DFey5kE7fs7wXxlN1Ozyg2CY1DVykINzlMM8ltTWzi2XHTJ6tyjjS8ePnMBG1ro36G6NRG65co3FrObhTni2R7U-j1KrC8eLLmo5-LlRHXUqBIOD8uwFWB-r2OnpbE8qBh9z5QJc44c5_0LA/w640-h640/20231105_092545.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Cultures from every corner of the city came together to enjoy the day, in spite
of the gray and moody skies that occasionally dripped on attendees. Art, souvenirs, and activities like face painting continued throughout every block; the latter enabling youth and adults to join
in the look of the day.
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The most delicious, original, homegrown food appeared at every turn along
the route. Sampling a pambazo for the first time proved a superbly tasty experience! A fresh
tamale and pastry later, coupled with a luscious Horchata, satisfied an appetite constantly teased by the smells in
the air.
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<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CSPXL6pGsiUjt0jUMgBk9ShS965oUoWrZQ1WQWgOygKCEyE10QX8nv3SaGEPUB27dBAkLOqRcPQQh9tx5lNhUKjhY7hinOhvS7dO7gPkkNUFG-uUwvDjmvup74RNpiJUXFhZg_wIGcKMNP1-yClW_2_LypK0sCJ0zL9fnGo3m8cPaP5xKW_NkA/s2880/20231105_085621.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CSPXL6pGsiUjt0jUMgBk9ShS965oUoWrZQ1WQWgOygKCEyE10QX8nv3SaGEPUB27dBAkLOqRcPQQh9tx5lNhUKjhY7hinOhvS7dO7gPkkNUFG-uUwvDjmvup74RNpiJUXFhZg_wIGcKMNP1-yClW_2_LypK0sCJ0zL9fnGo3m8cPaP5xKW_NkA/w640-h640/20231105_085621.jpg" width="640" /> </a></center></div></div>
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Numerous memorials appeared regularly honoring those that had passed on stood out nearly as often, shining as brightly colored displays of love, longing, and happiness surrounding the life that had
been shared.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Beautiful vehicular art on display, freshly waxed, shined through rain drizzling off and on throughout the afternoon into the evening. Proud owners beamed as brightly as the reflecting steel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLed_tnJEF3ID7ogYeENzCOOdRexsxu6XFJJHZyNkuklgLKuFP1oxqaPd12xWB54kZE16Tt9yJOQoEnEtpu5AjIIvom50q4bNWWmaDxyQr1BFgAPCVsEfxVCvFT4DaB4Npk1D0mYMGGK5D0J4ctRwqPx9_F18_SfDA0pUFjeIfqgxyEWfY9LmYdQ/s2880/20231105_085018.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLed_tnJEF3ID7ogYeENzCOOdRexsxu6XFJJHZyNkuklgLKuFP1oxqaPd12xWB54kZE16Tt9yJOQoEnEtpu5AjIIvom50q4bNWWmaDxyQr1BFgAPCVsEfxVCvFT4DaB4Npk1D0mYMGGK5D0J4ctRwqPx9_F18_SfDA0pUFjeIfqgxyEWfY9LmYdQ/w640-h640/20231105_085018.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Variations of Mictecacihuatl wandered up and down Central Avenue, dressed in their very best, emanating a light of their own. They paused for photos for any and all that
asked, patiently waiting as adults and children enthusiastically posed with
them.
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<div><br /></div>The day of music, food and fun culminated in an evening parade stretching for miles, displaying slowing floats, extravagant costumes, dancing, fire and electronic arrays.
Smiles spread wide and bright as culture from
across the city merged as one to lay the dead to rest for another year.<div><div><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/msS7mWAkeFfDajeb6"><b>view more photos and video from this event and add your own to the mix</b></a>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></div>
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<p style="text-align: center;">further reading</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.dayofthedeadweekend.com/">Day of the Dead Weekend . com</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>
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</div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Central Ave, Kansas City, KS 66102, USA39.103232299999988 -94.639021812.23645295101937 -129.7952718 65.9700116489806 -59.482771799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-27753711247905535522023-10-20T22:00:00.005-05:002023-11-27T20:45:19.098-06:00c-vaughn mod<center><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCcWHb5BbU8cF0TrORONInjrCxALp37Yc8zQRJZ9iIh5OzjPR7d33ZF1Y9CyKRLVCuu107XXeIWoj3BWv2JqKcBRK0ci9GX1GrrYwkAgwPaQAqZXSivSlazs4771WrU1QqYiIwwxvMZEA7ethtshEeQtSNrDyaEm57z2GASLpU8Z-veN1fNv5Xg/s3928/20231020_202437.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2211" data-original-width="3928" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCcWHb5BbU8cF0TrORONInjrCxALp37Yc8zQRJZ9iIh5OzjPR7d33ZF1Y9CyKRLVCuu107XXeIWoj3BWv2JqKcBRK0ci9GX1GrrYwkAgwPaQAqZXSivSlazs4771WrU1QqYiIwwxvMZEA7ethtshEeQtSNrDyaEm57z2GASLpU8Z-veN1fNv5Xg/w640-h360/20231020_202437.jpg" width="640" /></a></p></center>
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Acting on personal invitation from DJ C-Vaughn, formerly of
96.5 The Buzz, we headed out for the evening to consume some early beats
before heading off to dreamland. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>
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We must have been just a bit too anxious though, since we arrived before
anything started. It did give us an opportunity to reconnect with some
old faces though before losing our hearing to anything less than shouting,
knowing smiles, and understanding nods. The artwork at MOD Gallery
offered up amusements of their own, always a flavorful cast, luring us into
its intrigue.
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In no time, Brian Flinn of local management company Night Shift Entertainment
started to spin his musical journey for the few in attendance, and those that
would arrive in time. He played a collection of current and past
favorites that didn't dip too far into the past, offering a up a rhythm that
stirred feets all around.
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Much later than had been planned for, but no less appreciated, DJ C-Vaughn
took over, mixing out of the progressive and trance laced set by Brian, and
into the Breaks that had made him popular with so many folks in the early days
of this new millennia.
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Dreamland beckoned more demandingly than ever though, a siren call much louder
than the music could drown. It was good to get back to a night out
filled with a little art and beats.
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<b>. . .</b>
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<b><br /></b>
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<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/KTpeZeNJvp3X6hGE8"><b>click for more media or to add your own to the mix</b></a>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">. . .</div>
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<i>further reading</i>
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<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://www.boommod.com/">MOD Gallery (boommod.com)</a>
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<a href="https://youtu.be/xiG6EdcY66A?si=edPvsP8lagcmQV22">DJ C-Vaughn (youtube.com)</a>
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<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://www.nightshiftmgmt.agency/artists-brianflinn">BrianFlinn (nightshiftmgmt.agency)</a>
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<p></p>
jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0MOD Space & Gallery, 1809 McGee St, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA39.0912853 -94.579831212.197853801994651 -129.7360812 65.984716798005351 -59.4235812tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-21570192406346945502023-10-20T12:00:00.005-05:002023-11-20T20:11:51.074-06:00freight train rabbit killer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6Zg0TsckvE99T3pUTpgY6MDzTeX9hyphenhyphenv-iKcdV8Xk6k8FoGpnPG6LfeX-bCY1MVD7MR-tD9DEuhmAd5EQ5f3UAqNMj7hiNyPBaFNWcDhfbYj16iFdqhGmVWCa_L_CHmvUz7YZ8UPCLKbazHS-h3Vf_Sn-ZCdYrS53eNVsvXmBbo55MN3tELhyJg/s859/freight.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="706" data-original-width="859" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6Zg0TsckvE99T3pUTpgY6MDzTeX9hyphenhyphenv-iKcdV8Xk6k8FoGpnPG6LfeX-bCY1MVD7MR-tD9DEuhmAd5EQ5f3UAqNMj7hiNyPBaFNWcDhfbYj16iFdqhGmVWCa_L_CHmvUz7YZ8UPCLKbazHS-h3Vf_Sn-ZCdYrS53eNVsvXmBbo55MN3tELhyJg/w640-h526/freight.png" width="640" /></a></div><p><i>Originally published on KCUR > Arts & Life by Frank Morris on October 20, 2023 ... quoted and encapsulated for republication here. Read/Listen to the whole story and interview through the link at the bottom of this post.</i></p><p>Ten years ago on a cold dark night of the soul, Freight Train Rabbit Killer began its life as a scary band/opera/near-death experience for Kansas City music fans. This Halloween season, there's a flurry of live shows to celebrate their new record.</p><p>Just before Halloween 10 years ago, Kris Bruders and Mark Smeltzer forged Freight Train Rabbit Killer around a love of hardscrabble American music. The stuff they play is crashing, heavy blues, swirled with dark opera and the devil.</p><p>Freight Train Rabbit Killer songs tend towards an Old Testament sweep, and there aren’t a lot of happy endings. Like in “Saw Brother Judas,” about that time Judas was trying to hide from God.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBLn_gIyb13cz6h6wgmTp0gv1t4uaInGGI3qbvfBTgPl1z8SVgD9jpcNwm7mSJx2qeyAfqIv-FWUX4c912-wM0N4aFt01jKQs4K6c0SjmyyYeLKO0sv1V5ITmuyNnogLGWN3vfAdGA_cse6S2BHahdbQm2A2TDUas2H-5zkQMG186yH9zs1d6Zg/s718/train.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="718" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBLn_gIyb13cz6h6wgmTp0gv1t4uaInGGI3qbvfBTgPl1z8SVgD9jpcNwm7mSJx2qeyAfqIv-FWUX4c912-wM0N4aFt01jKQs4K6c0SjmyyYeLKO0sv1V5ITmuyNnogLGWN3vfAdGA_cse6S2BHahdbQm2A2TDUas2H-5zkQMG186yH9zs1d6Zg/w640-h528/train.png" width="640" /></a></div><p>Freight Train Rabbit Killer is more than a band, though. It’s a project that has taken over half of Smeltzer’s old house in Westport. The place is packed with costumes and banners, most of them splashed or speckled with the dead rabbit heads that Smeltzer paints on just about any piece of clothing he touches. Ancient amplifiers lurk in the corners and Frankenstein instruments sit there daring somebody to pick them up.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3UwidLx_Z13Wungc_EBJRyZ37BrZzu6jxmstiET4p6C0FR5aNCdvuCPgaVxZVAGMie86QGSnI8wMKr9gy1vLWqdptRQBg2ahPzxnDsnFioHtCtuZ_GCMBIqhJUjPo5jYlkvU7hPciELbeScfFLzIB7JPmR0CV-r6SYBN4AcOOoBrlseBen4TQZg/s712/rabbit.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="712" height="568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3UwidLx_Z13Wungc_EBJRyZ37BrZzu6jxmstiET4p6C0FR5aNCdvuCPgaVxZVAGMie86QGSnI8wMKr9gy1vLWqdptRQBg2ahPzxnDsnFioHtCtuZ_GCMBIqhJUjPo5jYlkvU7hPciELbeScfFLzIB7JPmR0CV-r6SYBN4AcOOoBrlseBen4TQZg/w640-h568/rabbit.png" width="640" /></a></div><p>Smeltzer and Bruders started playing together at Rural Grit Happy Hour, a regular Monday night music show at the Brick that Smeltzer has been putting on for close to 25 years.</p><p>“The Rural Grit is basically a music cult,” said Smeltzer. “You put your name into a hat, you get drawn out duet partners, then you get five minutes to learn or write a song, then you get on stage and do it. Well, we were not taking five minutes. We were not taking any time at all,” he said of early jams with Bruders.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDVQ6v9c-IxtvAqHLCbmZG1zR1SUZzX9Cv8iDAW9owD42rv0oNr7w53Y8PQT_jDkx5BEgTNM7SpJC3tzFDAmEa9CZuX0chlYeQnjVUbSJKEdt4YIO-RNxZruMFGCKI2rS7oKb689BOFmy_5OIzrgN9x1GHEl4jwavZcktuYiTpW64gAt_B5cnDw/s1625/killer.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="848" data-original-width="1625" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDVQ6v9c-IxtvAqHLCbmZG1zR1SUZzX9Cv8iDAW9owD42rv0oNr7w53Y8PQT_jDkx5BEgTNM7SpJC3tzFDAmEa9CZuX0chlYeQnjVUbSJKEdt4YIO-RNxZruMFGCKI2rS7oKb689BOFmy_5OIzrgN9x1GHEl4jwavZcktuYiTpW64gAt_B5cnDw/w640-h334/killer.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Now, after a decade of honing their doom blues, Freight Train Rabbit Killer is releasing its fourth record, “The 10 Year,” and doing a flurry of live shows culminating in a blacklight “cave show” at The Ship on Halloween.</p><p>Smeltzer promises it will be good for what ails you.</p><p>“If it makes you drool,” he said, “then that’s the right medicine.”</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Upcoming Freight Train Rabbit Killer Performances</i></p><p style="text-align: center;">Thursday, Oct. 24 - Boulevard Brewing Co. @ 8 p.m.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Saturday, Oct. 28 - Stockyards Brewing Co. @ 7 p.m</p><p style="text-align: center;">Tuesday, Oct. 31 at The Ship.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>further reading</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.kcur.org/arts-life/2023-10-20/freight-train-rabbit-killer-marks-10-years-of-haunting-kansas-city-with-doom-blues">Freight Train Rabbit Killer marks 10 years of haunting Kansas City with 'doom blues'</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://freighttrainrabbitkiller.com/">FreightTrainRabbitKiller.com</a></p>phocashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04200979937766644755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-29257096493377848182023-10-12T23:00:00.070-05:002023-11-20T20:05:04.866-06:00highway desperado tour in kc<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEU0sR8WiNwswVmJZbyVBt_qBRT3a9CkEJSdaJ0UyncCuS9U_bIOL7VHcBvM8I2t0d-L_wfLRjKGu3-y8E0CLVvBp5GZa50QuxrFBKdKn4boju-oQ-0wbzxoh0sAdnud2RYSmWzWwsOltYW-H4gPa3oDCOmMN0i0wC2EoX9XOuBvZsiUsYrO2XQ/s1280/jasonaldeenja-tour-1024x1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEU0sR8WiNwswVmJZbyVBt_qBRT3a9CkEJSdaJ0UyncCuS9U_bIOL7VHcBvM8I2t0d-L_wfLRjKGu3-y8E0CLVvBp5GZa50QuxrFBKdKn4boju-oQ-0wbzxoh0sAdnud2RYSmWzWwsOltYW-H4gPa3oDCOmMN0i0wC2EoX9XOuBvZsiUsYrO2XQ/w512-h640/jasonaldeenja-tour-1024x1280.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Jason Aldean ripped through Kansas City on Thursday night, flanked by Mitchell
Tenpenny and Corey Kent, with backup support from Deejay Silver. The
latter proved an interesting twist to this little adventure at T-Mobile. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIF8QrG0T0q-t6RqIiMGHr9K0EPTJj1vIS9w_RivEULAUfXXiADDTrU93NZ2l8zHDSFoa8Xs0SkwcuIsHLa_942kihCEHyAZw8HbsXExTlN47PVo3CzvoLCbRLSZfrvhbBl8387InhE4oFoG1jLg4FA_NyHTlAHngh46wJXBtiixFsSZOp8lgSA/s2880/20231012_211406.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIF8QrG0T0q-t6RqIiMGHr9K0EPTJj1vIS9w_RivEULAUfXXiADDTrU93NZ2l8zHDSFoa8Xs0SkwcuIsHLa_942kihCEHyAZw8HbsXExTlN47PVo3CzvoLCbRLSZfrvhbBl8387InhE4oFoG1jLg4FA_NyHTlAHngh46wJXBtiixFsSZOp8lgSA/w400-h400/20231012_211406.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Throughout most of the evening the folks in front of our row kept the game on for us, so that we did not have to miss a single beat. It was good to have a relatively solid view of the proceedings available on demand.</p>
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<p>It was also a pleasant surprise to recognize several of the tunes performed by the opening acts, who drew a solid crowd early in the game. Splicing the various sets together throughout the evening, Deejay Silver distributed a random array of popular country music tracks, along with a few of the more funky variety.</p>
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<p>Corey led the night off, belting out some of his latest work, eventually leading up to his recent hit single “Wild as
Her," which landed him a deal with Sony Music Nashville and their RCA
Nashville Imprint.
</p>
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<p>
Mitchell followed things up with his string of hits like "Drunk Me," Truth
About You," and "At the End of a Bar," together with accompaniment by most of the
stadium. His closing rendition of the Goo Goo
Dolls "Iris" found the entire arena joining with mobile device flashlights swaying across the scene.</p>
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<p>
Jason Aldean pounced on the back of that, after a short break, launching into a string of hits known
by nearly everyone in house. He only paused a couple times to talk with an
endearing crowd, at one point commenting on the backlash to his recent release
"Try That in a Small Town." His words could not have come closer to the
truth. He did not disappoint the crowd on hand, finishing the night out
with several of the new up and coming tracks. The end of show came quicker than expected and rather abruptly. The crowd
made no effort to encourage an encore, seeming to accept the inevitable, turning to depart without issue. That was kind of strange.</p><p><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/rr3KjdqDZYDrKLm1A">View more highlights from this event </a></h3><h3 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/rr3KjdqDZYDrKLm1A">and contribute your own to the mix.</a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Further Reading</i></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.jasonaldean.com/">JasonAldean.com</a>
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mitchell10penny.com/">Mitchell10penny.com</a>
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.coreykentofficial.com/">CoreyKentOfficial.com</a>
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.deejaysilver.com/">DeejaySilver.com</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.t-mobilecenter.com/">T-MobileCenter.com</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>
jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0T-Mobile Center, 1407 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA39.0974667 -94.580152910.787232863821153 -129.7364029 67.407700536178851 -59.4239029tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-57878334896204689862023-10-07T08:00:00.006-05:002023-11-20T20:04:40.560-06:00power platform conferencing<p> </p>
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<div><br /></div>
It all started off simple enough. The plan was to vacation a little in Las
Vegas, while my other half attended a conference. A few days after the
decision, Microsoft announced the Power Platform Conference to be held the same
week, in the same city.
<div><br /></div>
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<div>
Most of the affair was held at the MGM Conference Center, with Keynote and
other follow-up Kool-Aid functions in the adjacent MGM Grand Arena. It
was a nice spot, and in spite of warning by Microsoft, the two really were not
all that far apart.
</div>
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The first day of involvement through a workshop offered an opportunity to enjoy
a few perks that were otherwise unattainable during regular conference
time. Premium coffees served by a robot tasted no different than that
served by a human, and it took a lot longer. The frozen desserts were
tasty too and served much faster. The views left a bad taste in my mouth
though. Who wants to be at a conference when all the windows showcase
others lounging about the pool in beautiful weather?
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<div>
That is what we did though; all six or seven thousand. When it was a
bright and beautiful day, we hid inside and sipped Kool-Aid in the dark, lit
only by a multitude of LED configurations. Top folk at Microsoft told us
to be in awe of their new releases, eventually beating us over the head with
Copilot for longer than most wanted to hear about it.
</div>
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<div>
There were bright spots beyond the LED. We got breakfast every
morning, and lunch every afternoon. In between, we enjoyed cookies and
ice cream, and learned how to make life better for everyone involved by
simply empowering them to do it themselves.
<a href="https://www.phocas.net/2023/10/carly-rae-jepsen-and-microsoft.html"
>Oh yea, there was free concert too.</a
>
</div>
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
Las Vegas? That's a whole different story. That town is
crazy.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<p><b>. . .</b></p>
<p><i>Further Reading</i></p>
<p><b>. . .</b></p>
<p>
<a href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/events/mppc-2023/"
>Microsoft Power Platform Conference 2023</a
>
</p>
<p>
<a
href="https://mgmgrand.mgmresorts.com/en/meetings-groups/grand_conference.html"
>Grand Conference - MGM Grand Las Vegas (mgmresorts.com)</a
>
</p>
<p>
<a
href="https://mgmgrand.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/grand-garden-arena.html"
>Grand Garden Arena - MGM Grand Las Vegas (mgmresorts.com)</a
>
</p>
</div>
<div><br /></div>
jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0MGM Conference Center, 4701 Koval Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA36.104579 -115.16501747.7943451638211556 -150.3212674 64.414812836178839 -80.0087674tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-10753868214611350512023-10-06T12:00:00.062-05:002023-11-20T20:10:43.632-06:00cosmopolitan meadows art<center>
<p>
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFw0laTAFMI1MSMEYJzxXoTfa_a7rbqrrfjk_SNt1S0MeMmbxAKefUhPF2VzhmWGUjI8X6y4JTFi6zBSLxMnI-W6qxJYtWr6RxUWeKaHwV0DS03TUWIcZeIRtjkGzZ-G_ebCGXv_YdaPvHkoWLAoAAyuLMnNkYyh7NnxoC-5PB8uiSqTsvJGbh9g/s2880/20231026_203155.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFw0laTAFMI1MSMEYJzxXoTfa_a7rbqrrfjk_SNt1S0MeMmbxAKefUhPF2VzhmWGUjI8X6y4JTFi6zBSLxMnI-W6qxJYtWr6RxUWeKaHwV0DS03TUWIcZeIRtjkGzZ-G_ebCGXv_YdaPvHkoWLAoAAyuLMnNkYyh7NnxoC-5PB8uiSqTsvJGbh9g/w640-h640/20231026_203155.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</p>
</center>
<div>
A local guidebook hinted at untold marvels collected within the walls of The
Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, demanding investigation at this particular bit of
intrigue beyond the glaring light and noise of the casinos.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<center>
<div>
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGL4ijMJuxBj9VGyvm6MwCTJNrtKFlO4POOAypwRMWCFqeDZh2Aae-iCwfJglsgsov2gnNW3Vs83Qs-WcixnLlO2yIaETkC79cXCqb05kraV3Sq63VWUVGbF7QmAGOSJV1HjqnYuj4IRgjbxW2ia6gPv4r0lvpp4UNHer5x4SLMvuYT4YxLDFFA/s2880/20231026_203229.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGL4ijMJuxBj9VGyvm6MwCTJNrtKFlO4POOAypwRMWCFqeDZh2Aae-iCwfJglsgsov2gnNW3Vs83Qs-WcixnLlO2yIaETkC79cXCqb05kraV3Sq63VWUVGbF7QmAGOSJV1HjqnYuj4IRgjbxW2ia6gPv4r0lvpp4UNHer5x4SLMvuYT4YxLDFFA/w640-h640/20231026_203229.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
</center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Turns out, contemporary art works by established and emerging artists from all
over the world appear throughout the casino, mall, and hotel areas. Some of the
art is simply the standard in Vegas, littering the walls, floors and ceilings of
the interior, though there are numerous unique works lounging about as well.
<div><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-qWsLynSWuiXzLaQ0eOsMDK9T6fyRtVf66KUt1PTV9nbIKcpW5eAfTe7-zB2qK6cA9JM3iIk0ubmHXh586vy-wzZrvqbK1lRlIsbwA7Hxnf03I5d7HQKR54dHh6bUltrg6l-gqu_dsaO85KIajDhmIQOIqdsZqTUe-EBAlG1AZfye-t2mSd23w/s2880/20231026_203301.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-qWsLynSWuiXzLaQ0eOsMDK9T6fyRtVf66KUt1PTV9nbIKcpW5eAfTe7-zB2qK6cA9JM3iIk0ubmHXh586vy-wzZrvqbK1lRlIsbwA7Hxnf03I5d7HQKR54dHh6bUltrg6l-gqu_dsaO85KIajDhmIQOIqdsZqTUe-EBAlG1AZfye-t2mSd23w/w640-h640/20231026_203301.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Large scale photographs, paintings, and other mixed media types are literally
everywhere, and around every corner. Additionally, Art-o-Mat machines
offer the opportunity to purchase smaller through recycled cigarette vending
machines at a reasonable price.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9Mam9jJ-C5Yq51Ucl1m4bVDbxDg886o41APBJsXhzWiyloAajCZsPM0juK086UCDRKqLBWuF2OATy5ZTRWBv8mDmkspUf2ZrKHK5zzuTQyWH4AEe1OpMWBfvI7vlrAERi705fqofJ1TCyrIvHZI8cIdw6vmJVPBBCgKKJJHM9pt2rZsXLrbE_w/s2880/20231026_203335.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9Mam9jJ-C5Yq51Ucl1m4bVDbxDg886o41APBJsXhzWiyloAajCZsPM0juK086UCDRKqLBWuF2OATy5ZTRWBv8mDmkspUf2ZrKHK5zzuTQyWH4AEe1OpMWBfvI7vlrAERi705fqofJ1TCyrIvHZI8cIdw6vmJVPBBCgKKJJHM9pt2rZsXLrbE_w/w640-h640/20231026_203335.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Sculptures abound as well, coupled with 3D wall displays and video walls,
capturing the imagination and causing even the most hurried to pause for a
moment of contemplation.
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe
allowfullscreen=""
class="BLOG_video_class"
height="480"
src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K3ZiCDggSTw"
width="360"
youtube-src-id="K3ZiCDggSTw"
></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One is literally surrounded by art at every turn, observing and being
observed.
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQR5emOTjEPeeHzF1Rd5soB2MKu5OjJomv7D_evEHp7iucfBzskFYZ0N1bCT6-dTwOsNgops5SCLN0y4K1UDLFhWafs-Ufw4EUT5-cYSsifai5eg0f1x7vqT8JuWNy4ZDacpUO3XGYh09GVCd9HbG41Swzono7rI6C6lXRylzapvBDeP0CRB52Q/s2880/20231026_203402.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQR5emOTjEPeeHzF1Rd5soB2MKu5OjJomv7D_evEHp7iucfBzskFYZ0N1bCT6-dTwOsNgops5SCLN0y4K1UDLFhWafs-Ufw4EUT5-cYSsifai5eg0f1x7vqT8JuWNy4ZDacpUO3XGYh09GVCd9HbG41Swzono7rI6C6lXRylzapvBDeP0CRB52Q/w640-h640/20231026_203402.jpg"
width="640"
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Even the most ordinary symbols require artistic presentation. Entries to
personal facilities are adorned with unique pieces, as well as the transport
between levels.
</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6U2ZUOUJFXaj5HiGxnDP-9k3DbHnno47wfSgDRPIjCz9gSkvl1R3ka0eyKFIlruxbDMwg7xrikC9r5SnXNSUfuJu9C7u4xp5YhmSDTk635qvlO9-bp7HbKEV3dmgbLxhQu6cupsuLtLq1n1F8Ac9FhIhkYHiYBE_tasuq34qvy4eQJsOcbU6lLg/s2880/20231026_203715.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
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data-original-height="2880"
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height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6U2ZUOUJFXaj5HiGxnDP-9k3DbHnno47wfSgDRPIjCz9gSkvl1R3ka0eyKFIlruxbDMwg7xrikC9r5SnXNSUfuJu9C7u4xp5YhmSDTk635qvlO9-bp7HbKEV3dmgbLxhQu6cupsuLtLq1n1F8Ac9FhIhkYHiYBE_tasuq34qvy4eQJsOcbU6lLg/w640-h640/20231026_203715.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div>
The entirety is a collaborative presentation with the New York-based Art
Production Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to commissioning and
producing ambitious public art projects, reaching new audiences and
expanding awareness through contemporary art.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>. . .</b>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>further reading</i>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/resort/art"
>Las Vegas Strip Art Collection | The Cosmopolitan
(cosmopolitanlasvegas.com)</a
>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p></p>
</div>
</div>
jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com03708 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA36.1097553 -115.17387698.3020802469348141 -150.33012689999998 63.917430353065193 -80.01762690000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-25587766671184648272023-10-06T01:00:00.004-05:002023-11-20T20:12:43.263-06:00closing out at omnia<center>
<p>
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvK1NVtAzPqbEJ4BqjvKGYo9RqZN0IT5f8VIj2OAPZuCkgYMpq2HBtX8um1LF61-wkinSLHSafkRu1lFf0HPpEcNQqactkq-tJv8r7Smub5fv7kF91I9Y2JyYk5nbT_5td2Y7eAuZJ-6YOp1bqIh1JlujTzsp2xc7h2B0nbqGl4665i-UjkZI6g/s2046/0mnia.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1535"
data-original-width="2046"
height="480"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvK1NVtAzPqbEJ4BqjvKGYo9RqZN0IT5f8VIj2OAPZuCkgYMpq2HBtX8um1LF61-wkinSLHSafkRu1lFf0HPpEcNQqactkq-tJv8r7Smub5fv7kF91I9Y2JyYk5nbT_5td2Y7eAuZJ-6YOp1bqIh1JlujTzsp2xc7h2B0nbqGl4665i-UjkZI6g/w640-h480/0mnia.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</p>
</center>
<p>
As with most invitations to enjoy an event in Las Vegas for free, this too was
a trap. It was an enjoyable little snare though, on this last night in
town. By the time we arrived at this juncture, the last night had
already turned faded into the last morning.
</p>
<p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8C19oNBmbFtutrKSdNHWuv20TP8D8A9zNipWR9ahLcqKqwC8d99SHWZs9vZ9NTolxO-o6xSqTmTBLoXJVFxw4d5bHs_LMYY-eq8t5rre0cviNIASW_LKNASLGn4ZbkxNGedbhYG4VkOMT1n5m5lyHAokei5V6zu7eifzrAYKazbo8VmMmNPWPA/s2880/20231015_195041.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8C19oNBmbFtutrKSdNHWuv20TP8D8A9zNipWR9ahLcqKqwC8d99SHWZs9vZ9NTolxO-o6xSqTmTBLoXJVFxw4d5bHs_LMYY-eq8t5rre0cviNIASW_LKNASLGn4ZbkxNGedbhYG4VkOMT1n5m5lyHAokei5V6zu7eifzrAYKazbo8VmMmNPWPA/w640-h640/20231015_195041.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<p>
That fact did not seem to slow anyone down in the least. Our arrival
marked only the beginning of a surge at the event, which by the time of our
departure, would find the rooftop of Caeser's Palace nearly packed and
grooving to the sounds of DJ Mikey Francis.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe
allowfullscreen=""
class="BLOG_video_class"
height="480"
src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Sw5s1CKlRtw"
width="360"
youtube-src-id="Sw5s1CKlRtw"
></iframe>
</div>
<p>
The only drawback to the whole affair proved to be the cost of drinks; even
then, that in itself was not much of detriment. The late hour and
impending travel arrangements for what was now later in the same day
discouraged much more of that sort of activity. It certainly did not stop
anyone from getting their groove on.
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">. . .</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Further Reading</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">. . .</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://djmikeyfrancis.com/">DJMikeyFrancis.com</a>
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://www.caesars.com/caesars-palace/things-to-do/nightlife/omnia-nightclub"
>Omnia Nightclub at Caesar's Palace</a
>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Omnia Nightclub @ Caeser's Palace, 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA36.1170243 -115.17416367.8067904638211516 -150.33041359999999 64.427258136178835 -80.0179136tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-1926258262977990042023-10-05T22:00:00.003-05:002023-11-20T20:04:40.556-06:00a freemont street experience<p> </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCTXnqC-uxMVQNDewU4HrYw3iBJcLSAhUaJmhUfiv5iSZrpMWvZsOhUN0C9Xlic-gbTUBSoKC1Ob1jjH4AXHyLf3RXlFvvRarmeIjq_WQt8sJkb76FyT1fUvq8tPa5uM51ftKDGXpuhhdXT2nYI8LLhOs1ANYaiFB4T3WbaP5O7LYSEFXKSIKlw/s4000/20231005_232427.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="3000"
data-original-width="4000"
height="480"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCTXnqC-uxMVQNDewU4HrYw3iBJcLSAhUaJmhUfiv5iSZrpMWvZsOhUN0C9Xlic-gbTUBSoKC1Ob1jjH4AXHyLf3RXlFvvRarmeIjq_WQt8sJkb76FyT1fUvq8tPa5uM51ftKDGXpuhhdXT2nYI8LLhOs1ANYaiFB4T3WbaP5O7LYSEFXKSIKlw/w640-h480/20231005_232427.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<p></p>
<p>
So much has been made about this particular situation, we felt obligated to
investigate the concern. Research uncovered that there could be an
admission involved. It would not have been surprising. However,
contrary to internet reports and attempts to lure unsuspecting individuals
into purchasing tickets to this, it is not required in the least.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDG9XNmlGgCRaK6f1jVv-IBtsseUK6HPB548BloS0LcIzIbTEOYdECMOXn4zaQFxke7-3oUi_ojZbUrU-PpnBMaWZRPjcUlsH24dztQaEOlyE0PJzmtzQsEAj5jh1h4EycKElnqDeEiAE3WUkvVF_YPidS4ZEvQmykbEZ2Y3ZmC_T1Rnkn63cig/s2880/20231017_191016.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDG9XNmlGgCRaK6f1jVv-IBtsseUK6HPB548BloS0LcIzIbTEOYdECMOXn4zaQFxke7-3oUi_ojZbUrU-PpnBMaWZRPjcUlsH24dztQaEOlyE0PJzmtzQsEAj5jh1h4EycKElnqDeEiAE3WUkvVF_YPidS4ZEvQmykbEZ2Y3ZmC_T1Rnkn63cig/w640-h640/20231017_191016.jpg"
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/></a>
</div>
We only thought that we had been dazzled by an excess of light further south on
the Strip. After a $30 cab ride north 9 km, we stood stunned by
consumption of electricity and assault on the senses. Three or four stages
tucked away so as not to audibly overlap offered everything from pop to
metal. Likely the most enjoyable part of the whole thing, a little latin
groove happening in the middle of the street.
<div><br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7DUYeA2jElzeJrEZR1bMUCrOANx683HpBrd_l-O1u3z6n0LiF9IiRxkqq4U5fsr43iOztSV2a5GckVw5uFbfVF3DMRruwMpUdGZlcJsgKT3LYdcZrQ5axA4N7miF1SdnVKzk5SV_BDLHQ3oTozcIq2ewshLRLFtewPuHsH4ZpiCWeh6wvFQaIdg/s2880/20231017_190936.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="2880"
data-original-width="2880"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7DUYeA2jElzeJrEZR1bMUCrOANx683HpBrd_l-O1u3z6n0LiF9IiRxkqq4U5fsr43iOztSV2a5GckVw5uFbfVF3DMRruwMpUdGZlcJsgKT3LYdcZrQ5axA4N7miF1SdnVKzk5SV_BDLHQ3oTozcIq2ewshLRLFtewPuHsH4ZpiCWeh6wvFQaIdg/w640-h640/20231017_190936.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<br />There were parts that were not quite as dazzling, but attempts were
obviously underway in an effort to change all that. Others joined us in
taking a small break away from the excess. It just kept drawing everyone
back though, in a weird sort of neon loop.
</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe
allowfullscreen=""
class="BLOG_video_class"
height="480"
src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k1Pb9KG3zD4"
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youtube-src-id="k1Pb9KG3zD4"
></iframe>
</div>
<p>
The center mass of this experience included an overhead display of lights
and lasers, set to music by Tiësto, Steve Aoki, Imagine Dragons,
Shakira, Katy Perry, The Chainsmokers, and Stone Temple Pilots.
Everything kind of paused when this show started. It was the main
distraction. Then, all the surrounding chaos fired up again.
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><i>Further Reading</i></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://vegasexperience.com/"
>Fremont Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas (vegasexperience.com)</a
>
</p>
</div>
jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV, USA36.1591689 -115.11734717.8489350638211519 -150.27359710000002 64.469402736178836 -79.9610971tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-1017718099035807382023-10-05T21:00:00.004-05:002023-11-20T20:04:40.555-06:00thursday mat franco<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DtWbsST7Mji-XjtldNPuAxlZ7jZRKBAGulBZqUZYsoZ3laE1BMqKc3HpGN3sqLsZ21bcKGgyYpY4oLJAjpY6qY9e2bQyvFkUSx_RjRq0Wh3tkOJDNT_llktE_yZg4SPTKjDJ8wh8EUnLPHywb4D5i2dwxS67U3qLnf5JduhF5tPtwzsWW_hZdg/s1536/MatFranco_Linq_1800x800-1536x683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1536" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DtWbsST7Mji-XjtldNPuAxlZ7jZRKBAGulBZqUZYsoZ3laE1BMqKc3HpGN3sqLsZ21bcKGgyYpY4oLJAjpY6qY9e2bQyvFkUSx_RjRq0Wh3tkOJDNT_llktE_yZg4SPTKjDJ8wh8EUnLPHywb4D5i2dwxS67U3qLnf5JduhF5tPtwzsWW_hZdg/w640-h284/MatFranco_Linq_1800x800-1536x683.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The last evening in Las Vegas offered up the opportunity to see magician Mat Franco at no cost. That is a fairly rare occurrence on The Strip. In reality, show tickets without financial obligation appear the order of the day, more often than not. It is usually a trap.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuN1hOG7FaCIobgyrUnz0qyf1d9oJ04voENP2jtEx8950-gcb6RhDtRe7PoQ50doymkTwNlX-TFYBj5u3RSsAl0q_6yQbS8f_8fza2ENf3ErMHI8QbJuwbbTVGqjxPN25n3D-Bpi4iGwDEq32NYwb5hFtiyxtu6fVWQ2FLsm0pKZ0IRyYsRwCZRw/s4000/20231005_194203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuN1hOG7FaCIobgyrUnz0qyf1d9oJ04voENP2jtEx8950-gcb6RhDtRe7PoQ50doymkTwNlX-TFYBj5u3RSsAl0q_6yQbS8f_8fza2ENf3ErMHI8QbJuwbbTVGqjxPN25n3D-Bpi4iGwDEq32NYwb5hFtiyxtu6fVWQ2FLsm0pKZ0IRyYsRwCZRw/w640-h480/20231005_194203.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>The hosts don't make any money on these shows. They just want to draw you hoping you will consider losing some of your money in their casino. This did not feel that way, except for having to pass through one just to get to the show, which caused us to be a bit late.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3kcBket4q-fH1K6ExtOwPctLmWn1jPHmRdrtOoiQlqdd1aF5KofnkM8YKQAzR2-Zs2kQqrIP9usOJ-maayMgq2rGzJFahaa8ow-sT3hCmOscQYTlInboRtx6fgf8Xa2Frj9UsNaT3_GKbX5HEDdUq3hAbANSqUyzPBgcAOkWNSqKY-ofC1k-2A/s2880/20231015_185211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3kcBket4q-fH1K6ExtOwPctLmWn1jPHmRdrtOoiQlqdd1aF5KofnkM8YKQAzR2-Zs2kQqrIP9usOJ-maayMgq2rGzJFahaa8ow-sT3hCmOscQYTlInboRtx6fgf8Xa2Frj9UsNaT3_GKbX5HEDdUq3hAbANSqUyzPBgcAOkWNSqKY-ofC1k-2A/w640-h640/20231015_185211.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>We did not miss much though, and he performed well. His guests were the punchline for the evening that he included in every act. Mat mocked, laughed and bewildered them in good fun. It is hard to believe he has been holding down this spot for eight years now.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYpfWPDNfivtyn2XE09hyL1R7Dq1uu-ljKSJXGJ7Hf3yVxSS-TWpy07rRXKjo6IplfBUjHxFgfGCsEzAXBL73Gt1fPW4vs7IABxAy-t0WBOZL2UcItS1hJDbKp-Un_J4Lp3poARv5OjexQDy2BWA3z4J4-ZW0vSffzp0XMAC90QintKrsn4yorA/s2880/20231015_185238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYpfWPDNfivtyn2XE09hyL1R7Dq1uu-ljKSJXGJ7Hf3yVxSS-TWpy07rRXKjo6IplfBUjHxFgfGCsEzAXBL73Gt1fPW4vs7IABxAy-t0WBOZL2UcItS1hJDbKp-Un_J4Lp3poARv5OjexQDy2BWA3z4J4-ZW0vSffzp0XMAC90QintKrsn4yorA/w640-h640/20231015_185238.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>A few mentioned on the way out that any part of it could have been written off as planned participation. Responses from the crowd leaned in that direction as well, a few times. There is really no saying whether it was true or not. Sometimes it is more fun to indulge your imagination, and it proved a good way to kick off the last night in town.<div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">. . .</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Further Reading</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">. . .</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://matfranco.com/">MatFranco.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><p><br /></p></div></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Mat Franco Theater, 3535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA36.1181779 -115.17131517.8079440638211537 -150.32756510000002 64.428411736178845 -80.0150651tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-47238254233744017522023-10-04T22:00:00.001-05:002023-11-20T20:04:40.559-06:00vegas casino royale style<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjumWQroSuCWVbXV-hqC0wrt2xyX49SBBnK-laEUHEanW7CGpCrDg_EpZVAQWAw-Xd64xDygsXddCcxVzfARI8j5_y-SLs2nPQBVCaolxAW7wTYZJ5vmYB3VOumlQbAO7tdB6HF0vX1_XqONqrNhwmufCVLgK8dIxNzxaB5O8tkB3Zx9HzkOvKRwg/s2880/20231015_084138-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="2880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjumWQroSuCWVbXV-hqC0wrt2xyX49SBBnK-laEUHEanW7CGpCrDg_EpZVAQWAw-Xd64xDygsXddCcxVzfARI8j5_y-SLs2nPQBVCaolxAW7wTYZJ5vmYB3VOumlQbAO7tdB6HF0vX1_XqONqrNhwmufCVLgK8dIxNzxaB5O8tkB3Zx9HzkOvKRwg/w640-h640/20231015_084138-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>One conference host took over the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caeser's Palace on a Wednesday night for dinner, drinks, and dancing under the theme of Casino Royale. Interesting little photo opportunities appeared here and there about the place, along with random Martini glass performances. <div><br /></div><div>While not required, though encouraged, most of us made our appearance in our best James Bond regalia. There were others that showed up looking like party-crashing hobos in shorts and sandals. They did not linger for long though, as the best dressed dominated the scene.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>The DJ stood out as welcome surprise, tossing out a solid mix of pop and underground favorites spliced together neatly and without any sort of wreckage.<div><div><p></p></div></div></div></div>jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caeser's Palace, 3570 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA36.1157297 -115.17323198.3266759772839087 -150.32948190000002 63.904783422716093 -80.0169819tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7339781.post-68599596327784426982023-10-03T23:00:00.002-05:002023-11-20T20:07:35.453-06:00carly rae jepsen and microsoft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPm2YjsTHEJssIQ0n8DWR_LpQaWWNbfpzSiva9pRBqonjuTCRDriOGI8OhubnI-eByEYQzhly-Ownh2Er1cWp6T_jOE7J7i2O8JGcRxwjl23Jgt82RbSM5WlpMMWhp2l_osCOTif3E_jfAAeSz4lHVdaf0-m9L5sjhAjjPsM0FwXPKN2sp0Lk39A/s4000/20231003_210336.jpg"
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<br />
<p>
As part of the Microsoft Power Platform perks, a concert for attendees and
only attendees, brought most out for a look at who would take center
stage this year.
</p>
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<div><br /></div>
Microsoft offered up pizza, beer, and cupcakes to start things off, and a little
mingling, prior to the entertainment for the evening, Carly Rae Jepsen taking
the stage.
<div>
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Who? Never heard of her. Call me Baby. Oh. That. It was an amusing little
tune, once upon a time. You could tell she thought as much too, holding it
out until the second to the last tune, in spite of repeated calls for her to
just get it over with.
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allowfullscreen=""
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<p>
The crowd began to evacuate after she did. She performed well though;
again, in spite of the audience. With only an hour to play, she
pounded through several new releases and a few that I might have heard at
one time or another, before getting on to that one song. There was one
more after that, and all the while carrying with her an air of positivity
and optimism. Perhaps, that is why she was hired for the gig.
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><i>Further Reading</i></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>. . .</b></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.carlyraemusic.com/"
>Carly Rae Jepsen (carlyraemusic.com)</a
>
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/events/mppc-2023/"
>Microsoft Power Platform Conference 2023</a
>
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://mgmgrand.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/grand-garden-arena.html"
>Grand Garden Arena - MGM Grand Las Vegas (mgmresorts.com)</a
>
</p>
</div>
jusToddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02993710800802764769noreply@blogger.com0MGM Grand Garden Arena, 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA36.1019132 -115.16882047.791679363821153 -150.32507040000002 64.412147036178851 -80.0125704