Last Day

(If you're wondering where the pictures are, check here. Sheree's done an awesome job as the official photographer.)

The last day of MindVention always takes me by surprise.  Maybe it's the sleep deprivation...maybe it's constant stimulation. It could even be the non-stop barrage of cigarette smoke. But here it is: the last day.

Last night seems like several days ago. Gee...where to start? Cashetta, I guess. She/he has had a psychic show here in Vegas for years. You have to get this picture: over six feet tall (in heels), with a multi-sequined evening gown...along with a black boa. The show starts with a Show-tuney sounding song and roars through three standard effects...but what powers the show is the bigger-than-life personality and the really polished presentational skills he...or she...has.

The surprise? Cashetta is actually a very good psychic. She concluded the show by having various people take one tarot card from her deck. She blew (maybe that's a bad word choice...) through readings.

"You have to let that woman who has authority over you have her way...maybe that change in your life is happening for a good reason...your business is going to turn around. Just ride it out."

The show is peppered with really risque references and concludes with some...long balloon...swallowing...and got a partial standing ovation from the attendees. A powerful character.

The Bob Cassidy Roast was well done. (Get it?) Ken and Mike Weber, Cashetta, Jheff and more took the stage. There were the expected stories about Bob's drinking and anti-focus talking -- but underlying all of it was a real affection for the guy. He got a minute long standing ovation at the end of it.

Through it all, Bob sat onstage, sipping an endless stream of rum and Cokes, laughing, grimacing and occasionally cringing. It was a lot of fun with just enough of an edge to make keep you on your toes.

In the bar afterward, Bob came by and told me that the things they said weren't all true. He's never actually been in prison..."except for that one night."

Today the schedule starts with Docc Hilford at 10:00, and a panel discussion on Q and A. John Riggs closes off the day with a lecture just before the Masters of Mentalism show which will feature Cashetta, Cassidy, Hilford and Riggs.

I don't expect to be back in this room until 2. :)

MindVention...if it was a week long I am pretty sure I'd be in a coma.