Institute of Biblical Defense

After a wonderful wedding in the little town of Athol, MA, and quite an adventure in Las Vegas, your webmaster has returned to Washington to resume his post. Of course, I’ve been barraged with a host of questions since my return. In response, I’ve created this FAQ:

1) How does it feel to be married?

It doesn’t feel any different. I suppose it takes time for that realization to sink in.

2) What did you do in Las Vegas?

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas

Since Katie formerly lived in Vegas, she made a perfect tour guide. We began at the “locals” casinos (i.e. the smaller ones off the main “strip”) and then proceeded to larger and grander venues. In the midst of that, we also trekked to the Hoover dam (an amazing feat of engineering) and caught a movie.

The locals’ casinos were mostly as I’d expected: good buffets, family oriented entertainment (bowling, movies, etc) and a little shopping. In comparison, the grand casinos on the strip were outrageous. The architecture was jaw-dropping. Huge Roman facades and statues decorated fountains while ornate paintings and amazing chandeliers shone from the ceilings. Each featured a theme, often featuring a city (sky included), where you could almost swear you were in a small town in Italy or in the streets of New York. Outside, brilliant and massive shows featured volcano’s, pirates, and timed fountains dancing to the rhythm of a beautiful and dramatic melody.

On a side note, we made $100 by watching a pilot for a television drama set in Miami and participating in a focus group at the MGM Grand. Nice.

The bad part? The prices were outrageous on the strip. $7 for an ordinary sandwich … seriously? Smoking in allowed inside … need I say more? And if you really enjoy scantily clad women serving you food, dancing in cages, and flashing at you from marquee’s of every size, shape and color, the Vegas strip is the place for you.

Lastly, I was surprised to find a number of Christians there, including the recently departed Danny Gans (entertainer of the year 11 times). They held onto their faith in the midst of greed and vice, addiction and humiliation. I suspect the other marquee entertainers on the strip are either Christian or lean that way. It was interesting and encouraging at the same time. I’m not sure what to think about it. How do you feel about it?