Viva Las Vegas

Welcome to the Fabulous Las Vegas

In just moments Esteban and Laura’s son – Marcos – will be picking me up, and taking myself, Esteban, and Laura to Harrisburg International Airport (HIA), where we will meet up with Josh (MasterMind X Studios) and Drew (Knights of Nostalgia), to fly to Las Vegas and spend the next few days there. (We will be flying back on January 3rd.)

Drew is turning 40 today, and this trip will be to celebrate his birthday, celebrate New Years Eve / New Years Day, to visit his father (who will be driving up from Texas), and to most importantly – have some fun. I’ve known Drew since 5th grade (his 6th grade). The above link is his Facebook page, and this is his YouTube page where he streams video games (typically older games). (See: YouTube – Knights of Nostalgia. And also see: Facebook – Knights of Nostalgia.)

Drew and Esteban used to run a podcast together called “So a Mexican and a Scot Walk Into a Bar…” I appeared on several podcast episodes – including ones about The Irishman, Breaking Bad / Better Call Saul and El Camino, as well as Star Wars, The Umbrella Academy, and LOST themed ones. Josh (MasterMind X Studios) has also appeared on a few as well. (See: Moon of Vega Beer Review – where I discuss the podcasts a bit more.)

Josh will be joining us on the trip, he runs the MasterMind X Studios Facebook page as well as his own YouTube channel – MasterMind X Studios.

Itinerary

We don’t have a strict itinerary for the trip, but there is certainly things we all want to do while we’re in Vegas.

Some definite things we want to check out are all the various casinos, the fountain show at the Billagio, the old strip on Fremont Street, the Mob Museum, numerous breweries, and much more sight seeing.

Our flight path looks like this:

• Monday: Harrisburg (HIA) to Charlotte. Charlotte to Las Vegas.
• Friday: Las Vegas to Philadelphia. Philly to Harrisburg (via puddle jumper).

Breweries

In a perfect world, I’ll get to visit all these breweries, but we will see. Time will be both loose and tight while in Vegas (isn’t it always on vacations?), and the ones at the airport are very time restrictive, and are all determinate on terminals, landing times, boarding and off boarding times, etc.

But these are the possible, and hopeful breweries I could get to visit:

Charlotte Airport

• Sycamore Brewing
• NoDa Brewing Company
• Wicked Weed Brewery

Las Vegas

• BrewDog Las Vegas
• Beer Zombies
• Able Baker Brewing Company
• Nevada Brew Works
• CraftHaus Brewing
• HUDL Brewing
• Hop Nuts Brewing
• Voodoo Brewing Vegas
• Chicago Brewing Company
• Ellis Island Hotel and Brewery
• Tenaya Creek Brewing
• Beer District Brewing

Some of these are very doubtful, but some are quite possible. BrewDog is located near the New York Casino, so walkable from where we’ll be staying (Harrah’s Casino). Beer Zombies isn’t too far of an Uber ride from Fremont Street, and speaking of Fremont Street and the Old Strip, there is a few breweries inside of casinos there (Chicago Brewing and Ellis Island). In the Arts District (an Uber drive from the Harrah’s) there are several breweries all in a row – Able Baker, Nevada Brew Works, HUDL Brewing, CraftHaus Brewing, and Hop Nuts Brewing. On a side street somewhere in this area is also Voodoo Brewing Vegas, so that’s also a possible stop.

We’ll see what all we get to, fingers crossed, but would be great to knock off quite a few new breweries from the list.

Time to Go

Okay, Marcos is just about to pull up. I’ve walked Leela, I’ve drank a Fiddlehead Imperial IPA while writing this, and it’s not even 4:30 AM yet. Here’s the kick off to what should be a great vacation! Cheers everyone! Chat with you soon, and I’ll try to keep the social media accounts busy while I’m there. I will do a full recap post once I get back, and might even do some day recaps while I’m there (I am taking my laptop), or I might write each day up individually when I get back and slice them in. We’ll see.

Alright, cheers, and see ya Pennsylvania!

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Cheers.

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We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

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Voodoo Brewery, known for its eclectic and innovative craft beers, made its much-anticipated debut in Reno in November 2022. This opening marked a significant expansion for the brewery, which originated in Meadville, Pennsylvania, and has since gained a reputation for its unique brews and vibrant atmosphere.

Voodoo Brewery in Reno, NV

The Grand Opening

The grand opening of Voodoo Brewery in Reno attracted a crowd eager to experience the brewery’s offerings. Located in a space that previously housed another establishment, Voodoo Brewery transformed the venue into a welcoming environment that reflects its brand’s quirky and artistic spirit. The interior design features bold colors and eclectic decor, creating an inviting atmosphere for both craft beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

(See Also: Voodoo Brewery to Open in Reno)

Craft Beer Selection

Voodoo Brewery is celebrated for its diverse lineup of craft beers, ranging from IPAs to stouts, each crafted with creativity and quality in mind. Signature brews include their popular “Voodoo Ranger” series, which showcases various hoppy flavors that appeal to a wide audience. The brewery also emphasizes seasonal and limited-edition releases, ensuring that there is always something new for patrons to try.

(See Also: Voodoo Brewing Co. Brings Craft Beer Magic to Reno)

Community Engagement

From the outset, Voodoo Brewery aimed to integrate itself into the Reno community. The brewery hosts regular events such as trivia nights, live music performances, and beer tastings, fostering a sense of camaraderie among locals. This commitment to community engagement not only enhances the brewery’s visibility but also strengthens its ties with residents.

Challenges and Closure

Despite the initial excitement surrounding its opening, Voodoo Brewery faced challenges that ultimately led to its closure just months after launching. Reports indicated that the brewery struggled to maintain operations, with some patrons expressing disappointment over the experience. By May 2024, it was confirmed that Voodoo Brewery had permanently closed its doors in Reno, leaving many fans of craft beer lamenting the loss of this unique venue.

The brewery will be replaced with a ‘Champagne and Chocolate, a franchise of The Chocolate Factory.

Conclusion

Voodoo Brewery’s brief tenure in Reno serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by new establishments in the competitive craft beer market. While it brought a fresh perspective and vibrant energy to the local scene during its time, the closure highlights the unpredictable nature of the hospitality industry. As Reno continues to grow as a destination for craft beer lovers, it will be interesting to see what new ventures emerge to fill the void left by Voodoo Brewery.

Other Voodoo Brewing Articles

• Voodoo Brewery to Open in Reno
• Voodoo Brewing Co. Brings Craft Beer Magic to Reno
• Voodoo Brewing Seven Fields Coming Spring 2024
• Voodoo Opening Brewpub in North Shore of Pittsburgh on August 27th
• Voodoo Brewery in Lancaster is Closing
• Voodoo Brewing Company Names New CFO and Employee Owner, Reinforcing Its Dedication to a Diverse and Dynamic Community

Drinks at a Roulette Table at a casino in Atlantic City

Sip and Spin: Navigating the Interplay Between Beer and Bets

As someone who worked as a dealer at a casino for 11 years (nearly 12 years), and who now works in the brewing industry, the idea of how gambling and alcohol correlate and cross-intersect is one I find very interesting. While working at the casino we had signs up “We don’t deal to intoxicated gamblers” and things like “Intoxicated Gambling is Illegal Gambling”…. but where’s the line and how do you draw it? …And does anyone even pay attention to the line? If a guy comes in with 50$ that line is a lot more apparent, than when a guy brings 25,000$ to the table.

So with that all in mind, I did a bit of research to look at the intersectionality of gambling and alcohol.

From Casinos to Couches: The Role of Beer in Gambling Dynamics

Gambling and Drinking

The intricate relationship between beer consumption and gambling activities is evident in settings like casinos, where the allure of free alcoholic beverages serves as a strategic enticement to enrich the gambling experience. Alcohol’s well-known effect of lowering inhibitions contributes to a more relaxed approach to gambling, often leading to higher stakes and more spontaneous betting decisions.

This concept of complimentary incentives is not confined to physical casinos but extends into the digital gambling space. Online gambling platforms lure new users with attractive promotions, such as the “$200 no deposit bonus 200 free spins,” allowing individuals to gamble from home. In such settings, the choice of drinking beer remains, but without the physical environment’s constraints, offering a different yet impactful dynamic.

Exploring Alcohol’s Psychological Effects on Gambling

Gambling in a Saloon

The impact of alcohol on gambling behavior is complex. Moderate beer consumption might reduce stress, potentially leading to clearer decision-making by reducing the anxiety associated with gambling. However, excessive drinking can impair judgment, complicating strategic gambling efforts and the ability to recognize when to quit. The outcome depends greatly on individual tolerance and the gambling context.

Even minimal alcohol consumption can subtly influence the balance between caution and risk in decision-making, with long-term effects on gambling outcomes. Additionally, alcohol can affect memory, possibly altering the perception of wins and losses and amplifying the perceived benefits of gambling while minimizing the risks through the social aspect of drinking and gambling together.

Key Psychological Considerations:

• Risk Perception: Alcohol may make the risks of gambling seem less daunting, encouraging bolder bets.
• Impulse Control: Drinking beer can reduce self-control, leading to more impulsive gambling decisions.
• Stress and Cognitive Clarity: The stress-reducing effects of alcohol need to be balanced with its potential to cloud judgment and decision-making.
• Social Influence: The social aspect of drinking while gambling can intensify alcohol’s impact on gambling choices, influenced by the behavior and suggestions of peers.

Statistical Trends and Gambling Behaviors

The global online gambling market is expected to grow significantly, highlighting the increasing popularity of digital gambling platforms. Research shows that alcohol consumption is linked to riskier gambling behaviors and an increased likelihood of regrettable decisions, underscoring the importance of moderation and awareness in combining beer with gambling activities.

According to Statista, the global online gambling market is expected to experience a growth rate of 6.59% from 2024 to 2028, reaching a total market size of €126.60 billion by the end of 2028. Engaging with statistical data reveals telling patterns about the correlation between beer consumption and gambling behaviors. Studies indicate that individuals under the influence of alcohol are more likely to engage in risky gambling behaviors compared to those who abstain. The likelihood of regrettable gambling decisions increases parallel to the amount of alcohol consumed. These statistics underscore the importance of awareness and moderation in the consumption of beer within gambling contexts.

The Growing Role of Online Gambling

Online gambling introduces a unique aspect to the beer-gambling dynamic. Even without the physical presence of free alcoholic drinks, the decision to consume beer at home can influence gambling behaviors and decisions. The online environment emphasizes personal responsibility and awareness in managing alcohol’s impact on gambling, given the ease of excessive drinking and the challenges in tracking time and money spent.

The Intersection of Beer and Gambling: A Complex Dynamic

Conclusion

The link between beer consumption and gambling is nuanced, affecting cognitive functions, emotional states, and decision-making processes. While the combination of beer and gambling in social scenarios is appealing, it requires mindful navigation to ensure a balanced experience. Recognizing alcohol’s influence on gambling behaviors is crucial for enhancing the enjoyment of these activities while avoiding negative consequences. Informed choices and self-regulation emerge as essential strategies for maintaining a balanced gambling experience in both physical and online environments.

Nuns drinking beers at a Phillies game.

It has been a long crazy road to get back to this point – brewfests again! Live, interaction, with other human beings, in public, in person. ……and I wish so badly I could go. But sadly, this year has been a giant monkeywrench unforeseen, just like last year, and I will be sadly missing out on the AC Brewfest this year.

Last year’s event was cancelled due to COVID-19 / coronavirus, as was most of everything else last year. Typically the AC Brewfest is in April (usually the first weekend), and so it was hit right at the time COVID-19 really hit America, and was postponed to August of 2020, but as the summer came and we all realized that in – person events were not a good idea, it was cancelled / postponed until now.

Last year, the event was cancelled, the year before that, Drew and I went, and the year before that, Drew, Rory, and I went. Both of those times, we did two sessions – the Friday night 8PM – 12 Midnight session, and then the Saturday session, which both times was also the earlier session. So its certainly a ‘hard on the liver weekend’. Unfortunately, this year, I am unable to go, due to events from earlier in the year, but Drew as a correspondent here of The Beer Thrillers will be going.

In the past, we stayed at Baily’s and went to the Convention Center (by walking) to go to the brewfest. This year, however, the event has been moved to an outdoor venue – the Bader Field Ballpark. Would have been interesting to see it in it’s new venue. Hopefully this will keep some social distancing and help alleviate some of the issues with COVID-19 and everything.

This was also going to be the first year that we were going to do the 5K on Saturday. They host an annual 5K as part of the brewfest, where doing the 5K gets you a little bit of extra time inside the brewfest to start your drinking early….. assuming 1) you survive the 5K, and 2) you get done in a timely manner. Let’s see how Drew does this year.

This is a two day event, with live music, events, games, podcasts, a beard and hair barber; and much more. In the past there were Wipeout like obstacle courses, mazes, hatchet throwing, food trucks, silent raves / discos, and much more.

Of course, live music is a big feature of the event. In past years they’ve had some big band names; one of which was the Mighty Mighty Boss Tones that we got to see in 2018. Last year’s event was supposed to have New Found Glory, but they did not return for this year’s event after last year’s was cancelled.

For more information, you can check out the Facebook Events page here: Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival Events Page. Jon Henderson does an amazing job running this event and puts so much effort and time into it, so its so great to see it up and running again, as this year’s events start to come back to life and breweries can get back out to doing brewfests, beer events, and tap takeovers again.

The information listed on the events page reads:

“Here are the dates for 15th Atlantic City Beer & Music Festival. Session 1 Friday, June 4th – The Early November / Knuckle Puck
Session 2 Saturday, June 5th 12pm – 4pm – Less Than Jake
Session 3 Saturday, June 5th 6pm – 10p – Face To FaceWow, what a crazy year it’s been full of unwanted postponements and cancelations. Good Time Tricycle Productions is excited to announce a fun and necessary changes to the 2021 festival initially slated for April 9th and 10th at the Atlantic City Convention Center.
The Festival team has been working closely with Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, the City of Atlantic City, Meet AC, Spectra, and the CRDA to bring you the first outdoor Atlantic City Beer & Music Festival to be held on Bader Field June 4th and 5th 2021. We are excited about the opportunity to host our festival on the 142-acre piece of property, allowing for producers to create a fun interactive celebration while also enabling the festivities to be spread out for an open-air experience. As a productions company, we are confident that we can maintain attendee safety while delivering the experience that some have come to expect from The Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival. Here are a few things you need to know (or answers to questions you may have)
• All tickets purchased for the 2020 festival will be honored for the June 2021 dates.
• Tickets on sale January 15th
• Refunds are available until March 9th. Head to your Ticketmaster account and request your refund.
• New Musical acts will be announced on March 22nd. (all headliners for 2020 are unavailable for the 2021 date)
• HOPS Trot 5k June 5th
• Ticket prices will increase to $65 plus fees on May 1st.This, like all things related to Covid is a fluid situation. We are optimistically moving forward with all the fun and shenanigans the festival holds. To be candid we are #hellbentonbeerfest! We will keep you updated as we progress. For more information on the festival, including Covid processes and procedure, please visit www.acbeerfest.com Stay awesome and be excellent to each other. 100 brewers and thousands of friends stay tuned for updates.
Tix: linktr.ee/acbeerfest or at JOE CANAL’S DISCOUNT LIQUOR – EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP locations on Fire Rd or Black Horse Pike.”

Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival Facebook

According to the events page, 4K are listed as ‘going’ and 13.2K are listed as ‘interested’ in the event. (In the twenty minutes of writing this article, its actually gone up to 4.1K listed as ‘going’ now.)

Drew is leaving today at noon-ish with Rome, possibly A. Parys and maybe a few others. Hopefully, next year I’ll be able to rejoin the fun and festivities. Drew will be sending pictures and comments and videos back, both for here on the blog, and his video game streaming page – Knights of Nostalgia – so be on the lookout for those updates. Next Saturday (June 12th) is the Renaissance Faire brewfest, which I will also be missing, but Drew will be attending, and will give us updates on as well. So be on the lookout for these articles.

So be sure to check tomorrow morning for Day 1 comments / correspondence / clips / pics of the AC Brewfest, and then Sunday for Day 2 of the event.

As always, make sure to check out our social media pages to stay up to date on everything going on with The Beer Thrillers.

Summer is here and events are starting to happen, what are some cool events you all know of? What all events are everyone going to? Let us know in the comments!

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

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Thanks for reading!

-B. Kline