I worked in Maryland for several years at the racetracks there and I knew some of the LCN guys (no names!) And some of the NY guys would come down when they had horses entered. One day I was waiting at the barn for the "owners" to come by and visit their horse. This Rolls Royce with NY plates pulls up and 4 guys right out of central casting for the Sopranos get out. They had the shiny suits, big rings and cigars, the whole get-up. First thing one of the guy's says is "Yo, where's the fucking horse?"
One of them grabbed me around the neck, playfully bear hugging me, and I could feel his gun under the jacket. I was terrified, but they were cool and very funny.

Another story:
I had some friends coming into town and I wanted to take them to a nice Italian restaurant in Little Italy in Baltimore. So one of these mafioso's came around and I asked him what would be a good one to go to. He says, "My friend, take them to Luigi's. Make a reservation, and tell them "Vinnie" (name changed to protect myself) sent you."
So we go to Luigi's, and I walk up to the maitre'd, an old Italian gentleman and he asked if I had reservations. I said yes and gave him my name. Then I leaned in and whispered, "Vinnie sent me."
It was like I stuck him with a cattle prod. He jumped up and clapped his hands together and shouted "Vinnie! Right this way, sir!" He gave us the best table in the house and a free bottle of wine. It was freaking incredible! I never had service that good. I can see why those guys get addicted to that lifestyle.