Philosophically, I am very interested in Nevada's journalism shield law. But as an entertainment reporter, I really don't invoke it that often (ever). I was curious though how the journalism shield law would apply when a manager at the House of Blues last night was screaming in my face that I could either give the camera to him or Metro Police would come take the camera from me. Can that happen? Was he bluffing? I lied. I denied having a camera. I tried to surreptitiously slip the camera into another pocket while looking the manager direct in the eye like a magician once taught me. Nothing worked, and the Britney Spears show was plodding on in front of me. I was missing the show. I had no picture, and clearly was not going to get one. So, I  decided on the practical route. I gave him the camera. Any guy who manages a music venue deserved better than I was treating him, but if ever there was a concert more about a picture than the music...Handing the camera over symbolized failure. I failed.

 

Some effort had gone into the process of smuggling the tiny camera into the House of Blues. They required every last cell phone or camera to be checked at the door for this concert. I was prepared. I had a decoy camera that I willingly gave up at the entrance. All part of the plan. Meanwhile, I had a spy and myself observe the entrance protocol and found the security guard who was laziest with his wand and most perfunctory in his checks. So, after some consideration, I placed the camera in my sock and picked the line with the security guard who had the work ethic I wanted. The plan worked; I got to my seat at the M&M's concert with a tiny key chain camera. I wasn't the only one. I ran into Robin Leach who gave up two cameras on his way into House of Blues while still managing to smuggle a third into the show. His date also got a cell phone camera inside. The woman sitting next to me had a cell phone camera she smuggled in her bra. And, the entire time Britney was on stage, fans on the floor were holding up cell phones and cameras to take pictures. So, check the Internet and I am sure you will find plenty of photos of Britney in Vegas at House of Blues. Sadly, none from me.