Day 253 on the road.
Firehouse Coffee Co., Laughlin

The 26th Annual River Run begins officially today in Laughlin, with bikers from around the world riding into town for a weekend of shows, contests, and general mayhem. I'm glad I'm leaving for the weekend.

I walked the strip yesterday afternoon to see vendors getting ready to open their booths for selling everything from T-shirts to motorcycles. Hummer and Harley Davidson are the big

sponsors, along with Jack Daniels and Miller Beer. Although I read that 60,000 bikers are expected to attend the events, the economy and gas prices are having an effect. Many of the casinos have vacant rooms. If you are willing to pay the high price, plenty of rooms are available.

The parking lots at each of the casinos are full of white tents and semi-trucks bringing in supplies and party goods. Some of the sponsors are having outdoor concerts and setting up eating facilities under the tents. Dozens of port-a-potties are scattered up and down the strip. The entire length of Casino Drive is fenced off so that underaged party goers can't enter the drinking areas.









I'm driving 90 miles north to Las Vegas for the weekend. My free "comped" room is not available at the River Palms. I'd have to pay the weekend rate, which is doubled for this event. In addition, I don't want to mess with the traffic and crowds. Therefore, I'm taking the opportunity to venture into the City That Never Sleeps.

I'll be staying at The Orleans in Las Vegas and will return to Laughlin on Sunday.