Only twice in recent history, has Las Vegas seen a so-called "shutdown" of the famed Vegas Strip.
In November 1963, casinos closed their doors for a National Day of Mourning following the assassination of then-US President John F. Kennedy. That closure lasted about 17 hours and even then, only a few casinos took part with several just shutting down their gaming areas for the duration of the funeral - about 3 hours.
The next shutdown would happen 57 years later...and last much MUCH longer.
Due to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak issued a directive ordering a month-long closure of all non-essential businesses as well as a freeze on all gaming & gambling, effective March 18, 2020. This essentially brought Las Vegas to a screeching halt.
Originally slated to last 30 days, the total shutdown lasted almost 90 days.
To say the effects of the closure were "devastating" for the people who live & work in Las Vegas would be the understatement of the century. And, due to ongoing restrictions & limitations, the effects are still being felt to this day - almost 10 months later.
Joining me for this episode of the podcast is C. Regi Rodgers, the Managing Partner & Director of Entertainment for Connoisseur Entertainment and Action Shot Productions. Regi & his partner, Stephen Cibo are behind a new documentary called "Closed For Business", which gets up close & personal with the people who've been hit hardest by COVID-19 in Las Vegas.
Regi & I chatted about the inspiration behind the production, some of the stories shared by people appearing in the documentary and much more.
Be sure to check out the trailer for "Closed For Business" and follow Regi & his team on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
And if you'd like to help get "Closed For Business" completed & released, become a backer on INDIEGOGO.
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Vegas Book Club - ”Dealt: Stories From My Life On The Felt” by Eric Sherwood
Vegas Book Club - ”Dark Days, Bright Nights” by Matthew O’Brien
Vegas Book Club - ”Elvis In Vegas” by Richard Zoglin
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Viva Las PUNK - The Punk Rock Museum
The Summer Update - Bonus Episode
The Cowboy - The Life & Times of the Legendary Benny Binion
Not For Sale - Human Trafficking In Las Vegas
My Special Guest - Chef Alicia Shevetone
Ties That Bind - Vegas Entertainment & The Mob Connection
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Evolution: The Ever Changing World Of Vegas Entertainment
The March Trip Report
Thirty Years Of Mania - The History Of Wrestlemania IX
Evel In The City Of Sin
Petra Massey - Inside The Atomic Saloon
The March Update - Bonus Episode
VIP - Casino Comps & Loyalty Rewards
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