a lookalike band out of Los Angeles. And I had driven the guys to the Stardust, I think it was, for their first Las Vegas Bigtime Show! Well, suddenly this group of guys comes up to us backstage, and asks me, "Are you in the Union?" And I replied, "Of course not!" And the leader of the band explained I was just the roadie, the other guys were the musicians. And the thugs turn their attention to them and ask, "Well, are YOU guys in the Union?" The leader explained they were Members of the Los Angeles Musicians Union and showed their cards, but that didn't quite cut it.

"Pay us the Membership Dues NOW, for each of you," commanded the union rep, "Or we're throwin' you guys out!"

We all had to dig into our wallets to pay, I think it was some outrageous sum like $50 a man including a penalty for not joining in advance (a lot back in 1976) and I contributed $20 to the kitty. The ransom having been paid, the Union Guy and his - ahem - helpers withdrew and the concert went on. Just glad they didn't have a Roadies Union in Las Vegas! (Or if they did, that those union guys weren't around.)