City Cast Las Vegas: Recent Episodes
City Cast
City Cast Las Vegas is a daily podcast and newsletter created by and for locals (and locals-at-heart) that’ll challenge the easy narratives about our city … and, okay, maybe confirm a few of them, too. Las Vegas is a city of reinvention, bursting at the seams as it welcomes newcomers into its various incarnations as a service-worker union town, a military town, a college town, and, most recently, a sports town.
There’s a four-mile street testifying to our entrepreneurial genius, not far from pockets of staggering inequality. Great wealth runs through our city, but how much of that actually stays in Vegas? We’re independent in spirit, but also ruled by orange traffic cones. Our 2.5 million residents anchor an ever-changing city of 42 million visitors.
Join us every morning for the messy, delightful, complicated conversations that Las Vegans are having: You’ll hear us ask hard questions about where we’ll get our water when Lake Mead runs out, and how we’ll keep housing affordable. We’ll argue over our favorite Chinatown bars, and share insider tips on the best tacos in town. City Cast Las Vegas will show you how loving a city means celebrating it and also holding it accountable, while having some fun along the way—because Las Vegans know how to have a good time.
As our host Dayvid Figler likes to say, Las Vegas is a city that people love to hate. And no one loves to hate on the city more than locals. Today, Dayvid sits down with former co-host Vogue Robinson and newsletter editor Scott Dickensheets to lay out their top complaints about our city. They also share some gripes from our newsletter readers and wonder how Las Vegans can turn our gripes into change.
What are your biggest gripes about Las Vegas? Big and small! Send them to us on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
Want some more Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Las Vegas, here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s been a big year for roads in Las Vegas, from “Dropicana” to F1 ensuring there is no shortage of orange cones on Las Vegas Blvd. Drivers have had to be more cautious than ever, which isn’t something we do well in our car-dependent city. Last year we were ranked #8 in the most dangerous states for pedestrians by Smart Growth Nevada. But is it our drivers’ fault or the roads? We are revisiting our conversation with plangineer Ray Delahanty, aka CityNerd on YouTube, to better understand why our streets are so deadly and if there’s any way to fix them. You’ll also hear why Ray chooses to live car-free in Las Vegas!
What do you think the worst intersection in Las Vegas is? Let us know on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Don’t let a road closure catch you off guard! For more traffic news and complaints, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our city’s fractious relationship with wild animals is once again back in the news: This time, it’s the Lion Habitat Ranch in Henderson. An animal rights activist claims the organization made fraudulent (and disturbing) claims in a recent fundraising letter… but what does this whole debacle say about the way Vegas treats our retired animal acts? Co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson are joined by contributor Andrew Kiraly to discuss the Lion Habitat, the recent Uber and Lyft ride share driver protests, and what we’d name our incoming MLB team if Oakland gets to keep the Athletics name in California.
And you might notice that you’ll be hearing a little less of Vogue in the coming months — she’s stepping down from hosting — but she will be a contributor and we’ll get to chat with her in more Friday news roundups. Stay up to date with all of her creative projects by following her on Instagram @voguer316 and @pearlsofgratitude!
If you’ve got thoughts on today’s episode, you can call or text us at 702-514-0719.
For more Las Vegas news, events, and commentary, sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most people know that the mob was heavily involved in shaping Las Vegas and our casino culture. That history combined with the mob’s reputation is the perfect recipe for rumors and myths to flourish. Casino.org journalist Corey Levitan dives into these tales and more in his series Vegas Myths Busted. He leads co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler through seven stories and asks them if these popular mob myths are fact or fiction.
Play along with us and check out our other myth-busting episodes about celebrities and casinos!
What other Vegas myths are you curious about? Let us know by leaving us a voicemail at 702-514-0719. We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
Don’t get caught up in the new Vegas myths being generated! Sign up for our morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Vegas has always been a celebrity magnet, from the Rat Pack days to the red carpet Kardashian era. So what does their version of Las Vegas look like, and where do you find celebrities in town? Longtime Las Vegas celebrity photographer Erik Kabik, who’s photographed everyone from Robert De Niro to Paris Hilton, spills the tea with co-host Vogue Robinson about how to approach celebs in the wild, and why their lives aren’t always so picture-perfect.
Where have you seen celebrities in Vegas? Share your stories with us on Instagram or by leaving us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
P.S. Wanna go see even more celebrities and listen to some amazing music for FREE? We’re giving away two pairs of Life is Beautiful GA tickets — get more details and enter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act of 1998, or SNPLMA, is one of those wonky, obscure federal laws that most of us have never heard of. But SNPLMA has had a huge impact on Las Vegas — it basically gave power brokers like Harry Reid the ability to play chess with public lands, giving Vegas lots of room to grow while protecting important conservation areas. And one very clever legislative move puts a lot more money in Nevada’s coffers, paying for things like bathrooms at Lake Mead and a brand-new pickleball complex. But it’s not without controversy, even within conservationist circles. Nevada Independent reporter Gabby Birenbaum recently penned a two-part deep dive into SNPLMA and breaks it all down for co-host Dayvid Figler.
Thoughts? Questions? Wanna tell us how much you love City Cast? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. You can also tag us in a pic of your next outing to a conservation area near Las Vegas! We’re @CityCastVegas on Instagram.
For more deep dives and hot takes on the latest in Vegas, be sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A lot of y’all scoffed when Hurricane Hilary actually reached our desert shores. Despite the state of emergency, the storm’s effects were pretty underwhelming — in most of the valley, that is. Today, co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson, along with journalist John L. Smith, talk about the devastation Hilary wrought on Mt. Charleston, and how we talk about storms like these in an era of increasingly unpredictable weather. Next, the team takes on notorious gambler, developer, and convicted inside-trader Billy Walters, whose new tell-all book just might be something of a redemption tour. And last, we explore the wild side of Strip hotels, where bedbugs have been found in no less than seven venues, and a recent bat incident led to a lawsuit.
How did you weather Hilary? Let us know by giving us a call at 702-514-0719 or tagging us in our weather photos and videos on Instagram (we’re @CityCastVegas).
For more on the latest and greatest in Las Vegas, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Cottage kitchen laws allow people to run certain small food businesses out of their private residences and since 2018, Brett Boyer and his husband have been doing just that with Desert Bread, a sourdough bread and bakery oasis. With new seasonal items about to hit the selves (looking at you, pumpkins!), we’re bringing back this conversation with Brett and co-host Vogue Robinson about how and why they started Desert Bread and the challenges of operating a business from home.
Tag us on social media if you visit Desert Bread after listening to this episode! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Want some more Las Vegas food reviews and recommendations? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here for all the goods and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Once again, school district drama is in the news: Southern Nevada’s largest teachers’ union, the Clark County Education Association, has given CCSD until Saturday to resolve a dispute over teacher pay. But there’s also a fight about, well, how to fight: A back and forth legal battle over whether the “work actions” the union has threatened are in fact an illegal strike, or whether teachers’ free speech is being curtailed — though a new ruling handed down yesterday appears to be a win for the union. To help us untangle this mess upon mess, contributor April Corbin Girnus, a reporter at the Nevada Current, sits down with co-host Vogue Robinson. April gives us the play by play of what exactly the two sides are fighting about, and how their plans are trying to solve the teacher vacancy crisis our district is facing.
Do you have thoughts on the school district showdown? Let us know: We’re on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitterand Instagram, or you can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Want some more Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nevada State College’s president, Dr. DeRionne Pollard, says the state college has been acting as a university for many years — the only thing missing was the title, which officially changed to Nevada State University on July 1st, and goes into effect on their website today. But what does something as simple as a name change mean for a state college that welcomes so many of the Valley’s non-traditional students? And what doors does a university distinction open for them? Dr. Pollard joins co-host Vogue Robinson in today’s episode to explain why the change is significant, how it will affect students and the community, and what’s next for the newly-minted university.
Celebrate the name change with Dr. Pollard and Nevada State University with fireworks and more on August 30th. Get more details and RSVP here.
What would you like to hear next on the pod? You can let us know by giving us a call or text at 702-514-0719.
We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
Want some more Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We love our city, but let’s be real, we don’t love everyone who shows up here. So what are the absolutely worst places in Las Vegas? Where would you send your terrible ex, that annoying drunk tourist, or your college nemesis? Today, we’re bringing you a conversation that co-host Dayvid Figler and producers Sonja Cho Swanson and Layla Muhammad had earlier this year that brings out the hater in all of us: We outline our favorite fiendishly awful itineraries to send to the worst of the worst. (Yes, we included the Spaghetti Bowl AND Circus Circus, you’re welcome.)
What’s in your hater’s guide to Vegas? Leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719, or tag us on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Instagram and Facebook).
If you’re loving the snark, you’ll get even more of it in our brilliant morning newsletter. It’s chock full of events, news, and commentary about our town. Sign up here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, we’re bringing you a special guest episode from our friends at Compassionate Las Vegas, hosted by Will Rucker. In this episode, you’ll hear Will interviewing Julian High, president and CEO of United Way of Southern Nevada. Julian talks about the leaders he observed growing up in Las Vegas and how they inspire his work now.
Compassionate Las Vegas just launched season 5, and the first episode is up right now — so be sure to check it out and subscribe wherever you get podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Clark County is busy setting up new rules for “PDDs,” or personal delivery devices — these are the food delivery robots that bring pizza, burritos and Thai takeout right to your door. A recently-passed bill will now allow them on sidewalks, so today, co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler, along with food writer Lorraine Blanco Moss, get into the specifics of how they’ll work, and the upsides and downsides of more robots in our lives. Plus, we talk about why Las Vegas is the number 1 most researched destination for people looking to move (and what 115 people moving here daily will mean for us), and the ninth island connection between Las Vegas and Lahaina as we look to support Maui in the wake of last week’s devastating fire. (NOTE: The Maui Strong fundraiser at the Downtown Container Park has been postponed to Sun., Aug. 27th due to weather.)
So: How do you feel about food delivery robots? Let us know on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Instagram) or by giving us a call at 702-514-0719.
Last but not least… GIVEAWAY ALERT!!! We’ve got 2 pairs of GA tickets to Life is Beautiful 2023! To enter, head over to lasvegas.citycast.fm/lib and enter your email address. It’ll also sign you up for our brilliant morning newsletter, with the latest in Las Vegas news, events and commentary. Good luck! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’re looking for the best grits, collard greens, and fried catfish in town, contributor Brent Holmes has some soul food recs for you — he’s a longtime Las Vegan with deep family roots in Texas. But, as Brent tells co-host Vogue Robinson, soul food restaurants here in Vegas tend to open and close on the regular. So why is it so hard to keep a soul food joint open in this town? What is authentic soul food, and where can a hungry local find the best soul food in Las Vegas?
Restaurants mentioned by Brent:
Gritz Cafe
EllaEm’s Soul Food
Soul Foo Young
Mario’s Westside Market
LoLo’s Chicken and Waffles
Sista Kim’s Kitchen
What’s your favorite soul food in Las Vegas? Tag us in a pic on social media — we’re @CityCastVegas on Instagram and Facebook. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Want some more Las Vegas news? Sign up for our morning newsletter here — it’s chock full of great tips, events, and news for locals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It has all the makings of an HBO special: A pro-athlete turned illegal sports betting bookie. A secret black book of names. And possibly even money laundering through comped chips in a scandal that could reach as far up as the President of Resorts World. And this isn’t fiction — it’s the subject of new investigative reporting from Dana Gentry at the Nevada Current. So what the hell’s going on? Co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with Dana to untangle this web of allegations and scandal, and discuss what this could mean for Las Vegas.
Thoughts? Questions? Give us a ring (702-514-0719) or tag us on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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You saw the news earlier this summer about a string of casino heists — a guy posing as the owner of the Circa walked away with $1 million in cash. While that number is stunning, it’s not the biggest heist Vegas has ever seen. In fact, this year is the 30th anniversary of the biggest casino heist in Las Vegas history, totaling $3 million — and it’s a wild ride involving a 21 year old woman trained in firearms who disguised herself as an old lady, a co-conspirator and lover some 27 years her senior, and ultimately, the change of heart that brought her right back to Las Vegas. Co-host Dayvid Figler watched the Netflix documentary about this heist and breaks it all down for co-host Vogue Robinson.
Did you love this episode? Here’s what you can do: Hit the share button and share it with all your friends on social media — and tag us! We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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For over 50 years, Nevada has been the only U.S. state with legalized prostitution — but it’s only allowed in brothels, and even then, only in a few rural counties. A small grassroots effort is underway this summer to expand legal brothels to Douglas and Churchill Counties — but why not Clark County? How did Sin City opt out of this particular “sin”? Today, co-host Dayvid Figler chats with UNLV sociology professor Barb Brents, a leading expert on sexual commerce, about how we got here, and if (and how) Clark County could get brothels, too.
What are your thoughts on legal brothels coming to Clark County? Should we get brothels here? Let us know what you think: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram, or you could leave us a voicemail or text us at 702-514-0719.
For more on what’s going on in Southern Nevada, check out our amazing morning newsletter here — it’s got news, events, commentary, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s been a turbulent week in Las Vegas! First, a downtown food pantry is at risk of shutting down after neighbors contest their new operating license. Then, a confrontation between Metro and a street food vendor at the Welcome to Las Vegas sign draws criticism from both sides of the aisle. Lastly, the North Las Vegas government gives AI a shot at translating public meetings in real-time. Co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler are joined by Nevada Independent reporter Jacob Solis to break it all down.
Do you trust the use of AI in public meetings? Let us know on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Stay up to date on all the latest Las Vegas news by signing up for our morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A new trend is sweeping Mexican food — and it’s actually ancient. Nixtamalization is a cooking method that uses calcium hydroxide (naturally found in limestone) to break down corn, unlocking essential nutrients and flavors, resulting in pliable, fragrant tortillas — a far cry from the preservative-laden grocery store tortillas that most of us know. Today, Chef Mariana Alvarado joins co-host Dayvid Figler to talk about why nixtamalization and heritage corn is at the heart of her business, Masazul, and where around the Las Vegas Valley you can try it.
Restaurants named by Chef Mariana:
Casa Playa at the Wynn
B.S. Taqueria at the UnCommons
Milpa in Spring Valley
Have you tried nixtamalized corn? Tag us on social media if you go! We’re @CityCastVegas Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Life is Beautiful is hosting the second year of the Rising Stars Competition, which will give local musicians the chance to be on this year’s festival lineup with local legends The Killers. 16 semi-finalists compete over two weekends, and then judges will pick the four finalists to play in a final round hosted at The Space. Co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler along with producer Layla Muhammad listened to all 16 competing musicians and share their favorites, so you can add some Las Vegas love to your playlists.
Listen to most of the musicians on CCLV’s playlist here. For a shorter list, check out Life is Beautiful’s Rising Star playlist here.
You can grab tickets to the second weekend of the Rising Stars Competition on Aug. 11 & 12 or the final on Aug. 18 here.
Let us know who your favorite local musician is! Tag us on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Many people think the library is just a stuffy place for books and some librarian telling you to keep quiet, but the Clark County Library District has transformed their 25 locations into resource hubs for the community. From employment assistance to 3D printing, DJ classes to podcasting, you’ll be surprised at all the power your free library card holds. The district’s digital content manager Ryan Simoneau explains to host Vogue Robinson the most interesting features you probably don’t know about and how our libraries have modernized their offerings.
Check out CCLD’s latest educational campaign here: https://thelibrarydistrict.org/free-to-be/
Show us what you are doing with your library card! Tag us on social media @CityCastVegas on Instagram! You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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The wild success of this year’s NBA Summer League in Vegas, with sold-out seats and all eyes on rookie superstar Victor Wembanyama, is a sign of things to come, says Channel 3 main sports anchor Bryan Salmond. In the last few years, our city has welcomed the NHL, NFL, and the WNBA. So the question we all have is: Is the NBA next? What team would we get, and where would they even play? Bryan lets co-host Dayvid Figler in on his industry insider sources.
Which basketball team would you like to see come to Las Vegas — or what would you name a homegrown team of our own? Let us know @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram, or leave us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719.
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Ever wondered why the Badlands Golf Course litigation continues to drag on — with a multi-million dollar price tag for taxpayers? You’re not alone: Councilwoman Victoria Seaman was the sole dissenting voice at a City Council meeting this Wednesday when the city voted to allocate another $1.5 million to even more litigation against the Badlands developer who’s sued the city (and won). Today, co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson, along with contributor Andrew Kiraly, discuss the implications of this ongoing battle and what should be built on the 250-acre site instead of even more McMansions. Next up, the team takes on the national conversation over age limits for politicians (spoiler: we’re not all on the same page), and who our oldest public servants are in Southern Nevada are. And finally, the mic that Cardi B threw at a fan (after another fan threw water at her) is up for auction at $100k with proceeds headed to charity. But is throwing things at entertainers becoming too much of a trend?
What do you think about age limits for politicians? Let us know on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram) or by voicemail/text: 702-514-0719
Want another way to stay in the Vegas loop? Sign up for our morning newsletter to get the latest in news, events, and happenings-around-town. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tinned fish first started trending in 2017 with cafes and restaurants in major cities adding them to the menu, then again in 2022 with “seacuterie” boards popping up on TikTok. Finally this year, the trend has made it to Las Vegas through Kris Wilson, Erica Bell, and Emily Baddock, founders of the Tinned Fish Club. The organizers have been partnering with local restaurants and introducing the European mainstay to the Las Vegas food chain. Kris and Erica tell co-host Dayvid Figler why tinned fish is growing in popularity, how they convince skeptics to give it a try, and the latest chef on the Strip to join the club.
Did this episode make you want to try tinned fish? Let us know on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitterand Instagram. You can find the Tinned Fish Club on Instagram too @tinnedfishclublv.
You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Want some more Las Vegas food news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Las Vegas, here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our city’s love-hate affair with orange cones is basically canon at this point (remember that RTC “Love the Cone” ad campaign a few years back?). A local brewery even debuted a beer this summer cheekily named “Nevada State Flower,” as orange traffic cones are often called. But why do we have so many dang orange cones all around town, and what’s on the other side of all that construction? Today, co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with Clark County’s Director of Traffic Safety, Andrew Bennett, to get the low-down on road construction around town, why there’s so much of it, and what those changes will do for us.
You can find a map of current orange cone projects here. Still irked by those orange cones? Weigh in on this episode by leaving us a voicemail or sending us a text at 702-514-0719.
You can also find us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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After four years of litigation against big pharmaceutical companies, Nevada has won $1.1 billion in the fight to hold drug manufacturers and distributors like Walgreens and CVS accountable for their part in the state’s opioid crisis. This was part of a national effort with other states, and July’s settlement with Walgreens marks the end of Nevada’s opioid litigation. In an announcement last month, Attorney General Aaron Ford said that Nevada is “one of the hardest hit by this crisis” and that the money will be used to fight opioid addiction across the state. Nevada Independent reporters Joey Lovato and Sean Golonka join co-host Vogue Robinson on the podcast to explain Clark County’s response to the opioid crisis, where the funds will go, and what we can do to keep our neighbors safe.
Listen to the Nevada Independent’s IndyMatters two-part deep dive “Facing the Fentanyl Crisis” here.
Keep the conversation going with us on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Wondering what’s up with this weather? Where to eat? What to do?! Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter for all the Vegas news and tips here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You’ve probably seen the “We Buy Ugly Houses” fliers on the streets of Las Vegas promising quick cash in return for selling your home to them. According to the franchise, owned by national corporate company HomeVestors, they are America’s #1 home buyers. But does it all seem too good to be true? Reporter Anjeanette Damon shares with co-host Dayvid Figler what her team at ProPublica found while following the story of Las Vegas homeowner Royanne McNair who was targeted by the company’s aggressive business practices.
If you are selling or already sold your home in Vegas recently, we want to hear about your experience! You can call or text us with your story at 702-514-0719. We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on the formerly known Twitter and Instagram.
Trying to avoid all the scams and shady businesses? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here to stay Las Vegas savvy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
According to CCSD, it is officially the last week of summer — school starts on August 7th (yes). So today, co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler sit down with contributor and Nevada Current reporter April Corbin to talk about whether school is starting too early now. Plus, we chat about the $20,000 fine levied on Governor Lombardo by the Ethics Commission, and what constitutes a fair fine for his campaign ethics violations. And in light of the recent news of a K-9 police dog getting stabbed, the team has an intense discussion about the use of dogs in policing — and whether law enforcement should be employing these dogs at all.
For those of you with family heading back to school, whether as students, teachers, or staff, here’s the guide to Southern Nevada back-to-school events that Vogue mentions in the episode.
What are your plans for the last week of summer? Tag us on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram) or leave us a voicemail or text at 702-514-0719.
Want more Las Vegas news, events, and commentary? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Need an indoor activity to get you out of the house during this seemingly never-ending heat wave? Nestled into multiple establishments around Las Vegas are speakeasies where you can chill out in the A/C away from the crowds while enjoying some great drinks. To no one’s surprise, Sin City has an interesting (and inclusive!) history with speakeasies during the prohibition. So before you venture out to find these hidden gems, take a listen to this conversation from January with Claire White, Director of Education at The Mob Museum. Claire tells co-host Vogue Robinson about how our city handled the prohibition while they sip on signature drinks from the museum’s own speakeasy, The Underground.
What Vegas speakeasies are you visiting this summer? Send us your list on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719 to share your speakeasy experience.
For more places to beat the Vegas heat, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Las Vegas, here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tipping is a deeply-entrenched part of Vegas culture, perhaps more here than in any other city. But lately, it seems like we’re being asked to tip in more and more places at higher and higher percentages. And according to some research, tipping isn’t great for workers, either. So what’s the deal with tipping — should Vegas get rid of tipping? Today on the podcast, co-host Dayvid Figler talks with writer and longtime Vegas service worker Brittany Bronson. Brittany tells us about how tipped jobs in Vegas can really change someone’s life — and what we’d need to do if we want to change the tipping conversation. Plus, Brittany gives us a few tips of her own on how to tip right.
How do you feel about tipping? Let us know — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram, and you can call or text us at 702-514-0719.
For more Vegas chatter, news, and goings-on-about-town, make sure to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rick Lax has found the perfect formula for making viral videos, whether that means deep frying a whole watermelon or taping a pilot proposing mid-flight. They’ve amassed billions of views on social media — you’ve probably seen a few, without even realizing they’re Rick Lax productions. Rick has had many careers (attorney, writer, Vegas magician), but these days, through his company Network Media, Rick helps other entertainers make money from creating viral online content. The model has been so successful that last month creator company Jellysmack acquired Network Media for an undisclosed amount. Rick tells co-host Vogue Robinson how Las Vegas helped his company grow during the pandemic, his changing views on social media, and the secret to making millions from viral videos.
Wanna help us go viral on social media? Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also dial in to tell us about your favorite (or least favorite) viral video — bonus points if it’s about Las Vegas: 702-514-0719.
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Before 2016, not a lot of Nevadans knew the name Jacky Rosen. But today, she’s finishing up her first 6-year term as one of our United States Senators. So who is Senator Jacky Rosen and how did her decades in Las Vegas shape her views, her causes, and political life? Why does bipartisanship matter to her so much, and how does that help Las Vegas? Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Dayvid Figler interviews Senator Jacky Rosen about how life in Las Vegas, from her summer as a cocktail waitress to her role as a synagogue president, shaped the trajectory of her life — and (spoiler alert) we learn how her family’s story is intimately connected to that of a certain local podcast host…!
Keep your eyes out for Bubbie’s famous bean salad recipe in our morning newsletter, Hey Las Vegas. Make sure to sign up here.
How have you seen bipartisanship affect Las Vegas? Let us know on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitterand Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s an annual complaint, sure, but can we all acknowledge that this year’s extreme freakin’ heat is on everyone’s minds right now? From that grounded Delta flight where people were passing out in 111F interior temps to puppies dying in hot cars, Las Vegas is feeling the effects — with some communities impacted even more than others. Today on the show, co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson are joined by contributor Michael “MJ” Lyle to talk about the extreme heat wreaking havoc on our city, the new food vendor law that was signed this summer, and why teachers are protesting at coffee shops (and more specifically, the “Java with Jara” events helmed by CCSD Superintendent Jesus Jara).
How are you dealing with this hot, hot summer? Got any tips or ideas to share? Leave us a voicemail or text at 702-514-0719. You can also tag us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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You’ve seen the videos: The best competitive eaters out there can scarf down dozens of hot dogs, donuts or tacos in mere minutes. So do you think you have what it takes? Today, co-host Dayvid Figler chats with internationally-ranked competitive eater Derek Hendrickson about the best restaurant food challenges around the Vegas Valley, from easy (a two-pound burrito) to medium (four double cheeseburgers, fries and a milkshake) to the wildly difficult (130 kinds of cereal with a gallon of milk). Derek shares his insider tips for tackling a food challenge, and what the life of a competitive eater is really like (spoiler alert: he works out — a LOT).
Let us know if you try a Vegas food challenge on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Celebrities are already prone to rumors, but when they step foot in Las Vegas it’s almost too easy for the rumor mill to kick into high gear. Some of these rumors stick and become Vegas myths that casino.org journalist Corey Levitan unravels in his series Vegas Myths Busted. Corey puts co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson’s knowledge to the test with 6 stories about celebrities that are either facts or myths.
Check out our casino myths episode!
Play along with us and let us know how you did! Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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At least according to recent home-buying trends, Millennials are thriving in Las Vegas right now. But how about Gen X and Gen Z? Which generation is Las Vegas best for — and where around town can you find each of these generations hanging out? Co-host Vogue Robinson (a Millennial) is joined by City Cast colleagues Dayvid Figler (Gen X) and Layla Muhammad (Gen Z) to talk about how each generation can live their best lives in Las Vegas.
Do you think Vegas is better for your generation? Why or why not? Let us know by giving us a call at 702-514-0719. We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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Last week, Wynn Resorts announced that the drilling for their section of the Vegas Loop was complete, putting them on track to open a Loop Station in 2024. For now, access to the Boring Company’s Loop, colloquially known as the “TeslaTunnels,” is limited to Convention Center attendees. So could expanding the Loop actually become a feasible alternative to public transit, or help reduce congestion on our busy streets? Today, we’re bringing you a conversation that co-host Dayvid Figler had in February with urban design expert Ray Delahanty (AKA City Nerd). Spoiler alert: The takes are hot, and the Loop doesn’t come out looking so great.
How do you feel about the Loop expanding in Las Vegas? Drop us a line at 702-514-0719, or find us on social media: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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This week’s news has been dominated by people misbehaving — mainly, tourists gone wild. There was the nearly-naked brawl at the Wynn, the flight diverted to Denver because of fights, the scary hostage situation at Caesars, and the fully-nude dude who fought a one-legged man before climbing on the poker tables at Harrah’s. What’s going on? Has our city’s unofficial motto of “do whatever you want here” come home to roost? On today’s news roundup, co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler, along with contributor Andrew Kiraly, discuss the impact of the free reign tourists get in our city, the so-called interview in which former President Donald Trump called Nevada “disgraceful,” and the “Go Back to California” license plate under dispute.
How do you feel about Californians in Nevada? Or are you a Californian in Vegas, and want to Let us know by tagging us at @CityCastVegas on Twitter or Instagram. Or leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
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Outdoor dining has grown over the past few years but with Las Vegas’ scorching summers, you may think we have to be excluded from that trend. Fear not because hometown chef and food journalist Lorraine Blanco-Moss tells co-host Dayvid Figler where to go for the best outdoor dining experiences year-round. From Henderson to Summerlin, you’ll be surprised at the amount of great patios you could be enjoying this summer.
List of restaurants mentioned: Basilico Ristorante Italiano Spago Mon Ami Gabi Lazy Dog (Summerlin and Town Square) Ocean Prime Ada’s Al Salito Posto Azzura Cucina Italiana North Italia
What restaurant has your favorite patio? Let us know on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Last week, conservation groups filed a lawsuit to stop exploratory drilling for lithium in an area super close to Ash Meadows, a storied National Wildlife Refuge just outside of Vegas. This tiny gem of a desert oasis is home to the highest concentration of endemic species found anywhere in the U.S. But advocates for the mines say that not only is the operation safe, it’s a crucial step in our urgent national campaign to replace gas-guzzlers with lithium-battery-powered electric vehicles. U.S. demand for lithium is expected to grow tenfold by 2030.
Today, co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with Review-Journal environment reporter Colton Lochhead, whose recent feature story on Ash Meadows examines this growing tension between conservationists and clean energy advocates for lithium mining. Colton says that conservationists see Ash Meadows as a flashpoint in the struggle over lithium — because if we allow lithium mining here, then where won’t it be allowed? And in a city like Las Vegas, currently under an ozone warning thanks to car pollution, are we asking the rurals to pay the price for our clean energy needs?
Have you been to Ash Meadows? How do you feel about electric cars cleaning up our roads? Let us know what you think by giving us a call and leaving a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719. You can also find us on social media: We’re@CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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Last month, the Clark County Commission voted to officially designate the neighborhood around Flamingo and Decatur“Little Ethiopia,” creating the county’s first-ever cultural district. So today, we’ve got an insider’s guide to Little Ethiopia: Community member and educator Messeret Sertse takes co-host Vogue Robinson out for a grocery store tour, dinner at her favorite restaurant, and a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Messeret talks about what this cultural district means for her and the next generation of young Ethiopians in Las Vegas, and how the community at large can appreciate Ethiopian culture here, too. Here are some stops to make on your next tour of Little Ethiopia:
Melkam Market
Unity Market
Yeshi Mart
Selam Market
Peace Ethiopian Market & Restaurant
Cafe Luhena
Lucy Ethiopian Restaurant
Do you have tips about where to hang out Little Ethiopia? Next time you’re in Little Ethiopia, post a pic and tag us on social media: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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It’s 110F this week, so outdoor recreation is basically out of the question for the next two months, right? Wrong! Today on the show, avid hiker and foodie Terri Galura-Chiong tells co-host Vogue Robinson about three of her favorite summer escapes with cooler temps, all within a few hours’ drive of Las Vegas. From kayaking on the Colorado to high-desert hikes in Utah, Terri’s got all the insider tips for how to get to these special spots and where to eat once you’re there.
What’s your favorite summer escape from Las Vegas? Tag us in a pic on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitterand Instagram) or send us a voicemail or text at 702-514-0719.
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The 4th of July celebrations kicked this week off with a bang as the MSG Sphere fully lit up for the first time as it prepares for an official open later this year. The LED screen-covered structure transformed the Vegas skyline with its debut show, featuring fireworks, metallic moving art, and a giant eye. Co-host Dayvid Figler explains why he’s not impressed to lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson and writer Brittany Bronson. The trio also tackles a lawsuit challenging election worker protections and dangers for outdoor workers as the temperatures rise in this week’s Friday news roundup.
In the one-upsmanship of spectacle on the Las Vegas Strip, what needs to come next to equal the Sphere? Send us a voicemail or text at 702-514-0719. We’re on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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It is a truth universally acknowledged that living in Las Vegas for any extended period means experiencing grief: Our city sees a lot of turnover, both in residents and small businesses. So today, co-host Dayvid Figler and contributor Brent Holmes, both lifelong Las Vegans, are talking about their favorite bygone restaurants. But here’s the fun twist: They’ll also share where in Las Vegas to go instead. So if you’re missing Flock and Fowl’s Hainanese chicken, Pots’ falafel, or Rosemary’s carpaccio salad, we’ve got you covered.
What Vegas restaurant do you miss the most? And where would you direct people to go instead? Leave us a voicemail or text us at 702-514-0719. Bonus points if you’ve got pics and you tag us on social media: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram
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Las Vegas is a city that sells sex… but when it comes to our sex shops, we’re actually kinda… basic. Today, co-host Vogue Robinson chats with UNLV professor Lynn Comella, author of the book “Vibrator Nation: How Feminist Sex-Toy Stores Changed the Business of Pleasure,” about sex shops in Vegas: How they’re evolving, the challenges faced by the one feminist sex shop we had (ever so briefly), and what a great sex shop can do for a city like ours.
What’s your favorite sex shop in Vegas? Never been, but now you have questions? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719, or tag us on social media at @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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Tell anyone you’re from Vegas, and you’re bound to get dumb questions: “Do you live in a casino? Does everyone gamble?” Last summer, we invited the City Cast CEO, David Plotz, an East Coaster through and through, to bring us all his most ridiculous Las Vegas questions. Co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson do their best to do our city justice: Is everyone a night owl or do people have day jobs? Is Vegas youth-friendly? Can you bike outside in the summertime? So — the next time someone asks you a dumb Vegas question, send them this episode. You’re welcome.
What are the dumbest Vegas questions you’ve ever heard? Let us know on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram). You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Not only have we learned that this month’s mind-boggling casino con was allegedly committed by a 23-year old, it’s apparently one of at least five such heists in recent months. So today, co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler sit down with Nevada Independent reporter Jacob Solis to hash out what these heists might mean for casino safety protocol, and dream up their perfect Vegas casino heist movie. They also chat about the news that the last two non-union casinos on the Strip, the Venetian and the Palazzo, agreeing to allow union organizing, and the news that yet another elected official, this time a Henderson city councilman, is under an ethics investigation for wearing his Metro uniform while campaigning.
Who would your perfect casino heist movie star and how would it all go down? Send us a voicemail at 702-514-0719 and describe it in two sentences, or tag us on social media: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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Las Vegas has some Thai food heavy hitters: Weera, Ocha, Archie’s, and of course, the James Beard Award-winning Lotus of Siam (which Saveur once called the “best Thai food in North America”). But how did we get here? Today, we’re bringing back a conversation that co-host Vogue Robinson had with UNLV professor Mark Padoongpatt. He’s the Director of Asian and Asian-American Studies at UNLV, and wrote a book about the history of Thai food in America called “Flavors of Empire.” Mark talks about how the Cold War helped Thai food make its way onto American plates, and how the rising fame of places like Lotus of Siam is changing the way that Americans value Thai food.
What’s your favorite Thai food in Vegas? Let us know by tagging us on social media — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Well, folks, it’s been a record-breaking year, but it looks like triple-digit temperatures are finally on deck this week. As Vegas starts its slow summer simmer, a lot of folks in the Valley make their escape up to Mt. Charleston, where temps are reliably 20 (or more) degrees cooler and pinyons and junipers shade trails along burbling creeks. Ahhh, paradise. Or is it? Today on the show, co-host Dayvid Figler talks with Jimmy Alderson, AKA Mt. Charleston Mountain Man, one of about 20 people who live year-round in Lee Canyon. He talks about the perils of off-grid mountain living, and why he’d still choose the mountain over the Valley any day.
Have you ever thought about moving up to Mt. Charleston? Have a favorite trail or place to hang out there? Tag us on social media — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Is there something about Las Vegas, city of spectacle, that makes us especially prone to mythmaking? Journalist Corey Levitan thinks so: He authors a series at Casino.org called Vegas Myths Busted, and today, he’s putting our two hosts, Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson, to the test with seven stories about casinos and gambling that are either fact or myth. Play along and let us know how many you get right: You can tag us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram or send us a text or voicemail at 702-514-0719.
Challenge your friends! Send this episode to five friends and buy a round for the one who gets the most right.
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Earlier this month, a ProPublica investigation uncovered a massive flaw in SNWA’s calculations: Their turf removal program, which was estimated to remove some 3,900 acres of nonfunctional grass, might only remove as little as 1,000 acres, not nearly the amount of Colorado River water savings as predicted. So how did this happen in Las Vegas, a city held up as a model of water conservation in the Southwest? Co-host Dayvid Figler talks with ProPublica environment reporter Mark Olalde about the investigation he co-authored, and what solutions lie ahead for Las Vegas if turf removal isn’t as impactful as we’d hoped.
We’re on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Want some more Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s been a WTF week of news in Vegas starting off with the major fire that overtook an unfinished 5-story apartment building. This has been the biggest blaze among a string of apartment fires since 2019. Also, Adele tickets are being resold for $15,000 and alien sighting claims are running rampant around town despite NASA saying otherwise. Co-host Dayvid Figler is joined by lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson and co-host Vogue Robinson to explain (some of) the madness.
Read about Harry Reid’s alien connection here.
What other weird news in Vegas have you noticed recently? Let us know by giving us a call at 702-514-0719. We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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This year’s legislative session felt particularly grueling, with the addition of not just one, but two hotly-debated special sessions tacked on to the end of our constitutionally-mandated 120 days of deliberation. Lawmakers passed over 600 bills, and Governor Lombardo vetoed a record-breaking 75 of them. So what exactly did our lawmakers get done up in Carson City for us down here in Las Vegas? Today, co-host Dayvid Figler chats with contributor and Nevada Current reporter April Corbin Girnus about the bills passed this session that will have the biggest impact on those of us down here in Southern Nevada. Plus: With our GOP governor and Democratic legislature, what does all the horse trading and political jockeying say about the future of our divided government?
Did we miss anything? Was there a bill you were following that you hoped would pass? Let us know on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also share your thoughts with us on this legislative session by leaving us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
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For a desert city, Las Vegas has surprisingly fresh fish. Combine that with our supply of international culinary talent, and you’ve got all the ingredients for an amazing Japanese food scene. From the extravagant luxury dining of the Strip to simpler fare like noodles and curry bowls, Las Vegas has it all. Today on the show, food influencer and veteran Vegas diner Phil Tzeng (AKA Las Vegas Fill) takes co-host Dayvid Figler on a Japanese food journey around Las Vegas at every price point, from $ to $$$.
Have you been to any of these spots? Heading there over the weekend? Take some pics and tag us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Or hey, just for fun, you can call us FROM the restaurant and leave us a voicemail: We’re at 702-514-0719.
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Yes, Vegas is known for its vices — and our gambling, smoking, drinking, clubs, and weed are exclusive to the 21+ crowd. But locals, especially those who’ve grown up here, know that there’s plenty for the kids and teens to do. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Vogue Robinson is joined by Las Vegas Weekly reporter Amber Sampson, who grew up here. Amber’s got all the insider tips on where to take the kiddos this summer — and where teens and 20-year-olds can(legally) go without their parents in tow.
This is the third episode in a series on summer entertainment. Make sure to check out our episodes on the best shows in Vegas this summer, and entertainment on a budget, too!
Are you heading to any of these events? Tag us when you go: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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We are going into this Friday roundup celebrating our Golden Knights winning the Stanley Cup! Co-host Vogue Robinson is joined by publisher of TheList.Vegas Andrew Kiraly and co-host Dayvid Figler to discuss the latest sports news, the loss of the last great eccentric local, Lonnie Hammargren, and where you can find good barbecue in town since an electrical fire closed down Jessie Rae’s BBQ.
Are you tired of hearing about the A’s possible Las Vegas move? We are too! Lament with us on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us about your support or opposition for the A’s at 702-514-0719.
Stay up-to-date on all the latest Vegas news and interesting facts with our morning newsletter! Make sure to sign up for Hey Las Vegas on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Who doesn’t love ice cream? Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Vogue Robinson sits down with food historian Sarah Lohman, author of Eight Flavors: The Untold Story of American Cuisine. Sarah’s not only working on a new book about ice cream, she’s also a Las Vegas local — and in doing her research, she’s uncovered some fascinating facts about ice cream in Las Vegas. Like, did you know that Henderson has the country’s second largest ice cream plant? Or that ice cream used to be a luxury product — but Las Vegas still found a way to sell it, well before refrigeration existed? Sarah and Vogue also talk about the history of our most famous frozen custard spot, the latest trends in ice cream, and where to find them in the Valley.
What’s your favorite ice cream in Southern Nevada? Post a pic and tag us on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram, or leave us a voicemail with your Vegas insider ice cream tip at 702-514-0719.
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As Nevada’s two largest metropolitan areas, Las Vegas and Reno have a sibling-like rivalry — our beef with Reno just might be the state’s biggest beef. But when you stack these two cities against each other, which one is better? Co-host Vogue Robinson hears Indy Matters producer Joey Lovato and fellow co-host Dayvid Figler make the case for their respective cities.
What categories did we leave out and who wins? Leave us a voicemail and let us know at 702-514-0719!
We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram.
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Las Vegas relies on the performers and creators who work to maintain the Vegas level of spectacle that keeps tourism alive. Jason Nious is a professional dancer and in his 16 years in the city, he's seen how our dance and performance scene has evolved. From Cirque du Soleil to Usher, Jason shares what it's like to be a dancer in the entertainment capital of the world with co-host Vogue Robinson.
What's the most spectacular Vegas show you’ve seen? Let us know on social media and follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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Events are popping up left and right this summer but as Las Vegas leans towards more big ticket events, where can you go that won’t break your bank? With the next installment of our Summer Entertainment Guide, publisher of TheList.Vegas Andrew Kiraly joins co-host Dayvid Figler to share an array of free and low-cost entertainment options.
What are you looking forward to in Vegas this summer? Let us know your thoughts on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
Check out more of our Summer Entertainment Guide in our morning newsletter! Make sure to sign up for Hey Las Vegas here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Just when you thought this legislative session was over — it arises once again, zombie-like, to sine die another day. Since Wednesday night, legislators have been locked in a second special session to debate giving public funds to the Oakland A’s for a brand-new baseball stadium (and oh, have the debates been raging). Nevada Current reporter and CCLV contributor April Corbin Girnus joins co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson from Carson City to give us the latest, and explains the pressure levers that this extremely close vote could hinge on. Next up, our team digests the tough news that “absolutely zero” chefs or restaurants from Vegas got a medal in this year’s James Beard Awards (which are basically the Oscars of food). But we don’t care! (Or do we? Kinda sorta?) And lastly, a small victory: The legendary million-dollar display is returning to Binion’s, so you, too can get a selfie with all that money schmoney — but what would make it even better? A money bathtub selfie. Just sayin’.
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You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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The legislature recently passed a bill that extends American Rescue Plan funds for universal free breakfast and lunch to ALL Clark County School District kids, at least through the 2024-25 school year. So while school lunch might now be free lunch — is it good lunch? Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with award-winning food writer Kim Foster. She explains why money for free lunch is going towards some pretty problematic grub, and also offers up changes that the school district and the community need to hear.
How would you change school lunch at CCSD? Or do you think it’s just fine the way it is? Let us know what you think: Call or text us at 702-514-0719, or tag us on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram).
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Vegas is a notoriously superstitious town — so we’re all just over here, trying to hold in our excitement as the Vegas Golden Knights head into game 3 of the Stanley Cup finals with a 2-0 lead against the Florida Panthers. This is the Vegas-born hockey team’s second appearance in the finals after their impressive 2018 run in their inaugural season. News 3 sports anchor Bryan Salmond returns to break down the hype and the hate for the Golden Knights and tells co-host Dayvid Figler what a championship could mean for all the major league teams in Las Vegas.
Do you have a pregame ritual to support our Golden Knights? Share it with us on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also send us a picture at 702-514-0719!
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While Nevada legislators passed a law that could make your prescription meds cheaper, Governor Lombardo vetoed the measure late yesterday. Under AB250, the discounted rates that Medicare negotiates for some of the highest-need, most expensive drugs would have been available for all Nevadans. What could a law like this mean for Las Vegas, where pharmacy deserts abound, and could lawmakers bring it back next session? Co-host Vogue Robinson is joined by Nevada Current reporter Camalot Todd, who breaks it all down for us.
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Hello, sweet, sweet Friday. We’re back in your feeds with a roundup of the week’s news. Vogue, Davyid & Scott start things off with some BIG news for Nevada: President Biden has announced he’ll approve the designation of Avi Kwa Ame as a national monument! That’s right, a protected area for night skies, nature, and the sacred Spirit Mountain, right in our backyard. Then it’s onto a tough conversation about a lawsuit that the mother brought against CCSD after her son was brutally attacked on a school bus — and how privacy laws have tied the school district’s hands. And last but not least, a Very Important Sandwich Debate: Should we call a sandwich a “sammie,” a “sando,” a “sammich,” or (gasp) a “sarno?”Scott has strong feelings, and we get into it.Want to weigh in on the proper name for a sandwich? Are you excited to visit Avi Kwa Ame? Let us know by leaving us a voicemail or a texting us at 702-514-0719. We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas.Psst — by the way, do your inbox a favor and sign up for our amazing morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter, if you haven’t already.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you love good food, Chinatown is THE happening neighborhood in Las Vegas right now, says Lorraine Blanco Moss. Lorraine is not only a producer at KNPR and host of the podcast Exit Spring Mountain, she’s also a professional chef who’s cooked in high-end kitchens on the Strip — so you’re going to want all of her insider knowledge on where to eat and what to order in Chinatown. Today, Vogue gets all the deets on where industry folks hang out, how to spot good dim sum, and why you shouldn’t always trust the Yelp reviews.Where do you love to eat in Chinatown? Got any parking tips for us? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719, or hit us up on Twitter @CityCastVegas.Bring the party to your inbox every morning at 6am: Make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!And last but not least, here’s the list of Chinatown restaurants that Lorraine mentioned in today’s episode. We created a handy Google Map with all the restaurants for you, too!Edo Gastro Tapas & WinePhở Kim LongJ KaraokeSushi House GoyemonOrchids GardenXiao Long DumplingsPartageSparrow & WolfHalf BirdTake It Easy RoastersLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As people find themselves with more downtime around the holidays, the age old question presents itself: what do we watch? Luckily, there is no shortage of movies that are about, set in, or mention our city. So what makes a Vegas movie and which ones are worth watching? Co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with cinephile, poet, and professor Gregory Crosby to debate which Vegas movies should make your watchlist and which ones miss the mark.
Our (non-exhaustive) Vegas movie watchlist: The Hangover Trilogy Honeymoon in Vegas (1992) Viva Las Vegas (1964) Casino (1995) The Night Stalker (1972) Hacks (TV) Fright Night (2011) Queen of Diamonds (1991) One from the Heart (1981) Con Air (1997) Leaving Las Vegas (1995) Lost in America (1985) Blade Runner 2049 (2017) Army of the Dead (2021) Damnation Alley (1977) Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) Diamonds Are Forever (1971) Showgirls (1995)
Did your favorite Vegas movie make the list? What did we miss? Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CityCastVegas or leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
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Decades after his passing, mid-century architect Paul Revere Williams is finally getting his due: He was the first Black certified architect west of the Mississippi, the first Black member of the American Institute of Architects, and the first to receive the AIA’s Gold Medal, its highest honor, posthumously in 2017. Despite the prejudices of the era, Williams became known as an architect to the stars, building homes for celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Cary Grant — and in the 1930s to the 70s, left his mark on Nevada’s cityscapes, too.
Today, Dayvid sits down with Nevada Museum of Art curator Carmen Beals to talk about Paul Revere Williams’ Las Vegas legacy. Be sure to check out their upcoming exhibit at the Nevada State Museum, featuring photos of Williams’ iconic Nevada buildings by photographer Janna Ireland, which opens on December 3rd.
Do you have any memories of La Concha Inn, the Guardian Angel Cathedral, or other Paul Revere Williams buildings in Las Vegas? Let us know! Leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719 or find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
For more Vegas history, happenings and hot takes, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Like many Las Vegans, the beloved sandwich shop Capriotti’s wasn’t born in this town — but they made Las Vegas their home. Since moving their headquarters to Las Vegas, Capriotti’s has integrated themselves into the community so much so that some think they did start here! Today, co-host Dayvid Figler chats with Chief Operating Officer David Bloom about their famous “Thanksgiving in a Sandwich,” why Butterball raises a line of turkeys just for them (it’s called the “Capriotti’s Super Tom”), and the secret sauce that makes Capriotti’s a Vegas fave.
What are you doing with your Thanksgiving leftovers? Let us know on Twitter @CityCastVegas!
You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.
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It’s not the weekend, but it’s also kinda the weekend — so we’ve got a special roundup episode of our short but not uneventful week! Today, Sonja, Layla and Dayvid look back at a pivotal moment in Vegas history, when the Mirage opened 33 years ago this week, a massive gamble as the Strip’s first mega-resort. Plus: What’s going to happen to the Mirage’s volcano — and would we get to keep it if they made it sexy like the TI pirate show?
Next, we look at Gov. Sisolak’s newest NV Supreme Court nomination: Patricia Lee, and what makes her nomination surprising. Last, we chat about our Thanksgiving plans, why Dayvid’s involves a turkey costume, why Sonja’s involves barbecue, and why Layla plans on doing no cooking whatsoever (shout out to her sisters).
What do you think should be done with the Mirage volcano? Have you seen the crosswalk turkey downtown? Let us know by leaving us a text or a voicemail at 702-514-0719, or send a tweet our way @CityCastVegas (if you’re still on the bird app).
For even more Vegas news, happenings, and fun commentary, you’ll want to sign up for Hey Las Vegas!, our morning newsletter, at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter. Trust, it’s the best thing in your inbox at 6 a.m. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Thanksgiving in 1966, Howard Hughes arrived in Las Vegas in the dead of night on a secret train from Boston. The billionaire businessman, aviator, and movie producer was highly eccentric and at this point in his life had little to no communication with the outside world. As he secluded himself on the 9th floor of the Desert Inn hotel, he began to reshape the future of Las Vegas by buying up casinos and land. But what attracted him to Las Vegas in the first place? Co-host Vogue Robinson sits down with Geoff Schumacher, author of Howard Hughes: Power, Paranoia, and Palace Intrigue, to discuss the impact Hughes had on our city, and what his reclusive life in Las Vegas looked like.
Don't miss Geoff's talk at the Clark County Library on Thursday, December 1st at 7 p.m. He'll explain the mysterious "Mormon Will" that supposedly gave a massive share of Hughes' fortune to a complete stranger — and you'll hear Geoff's take on whether the will was real or not.
Where do you see Howard Hughes’ footprint around the city? Let us know on Twitter @CityCastVegas or leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
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Las Vegas is a food town. From the high-end restaurants to the gas station taco stands, there are almost too many places to explore and take your family and friends when they visit for the holidays. To make it a little easier for you, co-host Vogue Robinson sits down with artist and food critic Brent Holmes to get the best spots that might get overshadowed by the glitz and glam of fine dining on The Strip. They also dive in to what makes the Vegas food scene so delicious … and underrated. Whether you’re in the mood for soul food fusion or a parking lot taco, you’re in for a treat.
Places mentioned in this episode: Weiss Deli Bagel Cafe Burritos Guisos de el Canelo Birrieria Los Rojos YEN Viet Kitchen Soul Foo Young Aroma Latin American Cocina
Brent’s write-up about Burritos Guisos de el Canelo: https://knpr.org/desert-companion/2021-11/eat-now-wet-burrito-burritos-guisos-de-el-canelo
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Is there a hidden food gem we didn’t mention? Let us know by sending us a text or leaving a voicemail: 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Producer Layla Muhammad jumps into the host seat to welcome co-host Dayvid Figler and friend of the pod reporter Michael “MJ” Lyle of the Nevada Current to the roundup of Las Vegas’ last week. We start with the new Governor-elect Joe Lombardo’s first public address since winning the election. In a “tight 10” minute speech, he hit his priorities, the top of which was “education.” The speech was overshadowed, however, by what wasn’t in the room - specifically reporters from publications who had arguably been critical of the Governor-elect Lombardo in the past. Then, we shift gears and talk about the unveiling this week of a $125,000 dollar bronze statue of former (and living) Mayor Oscar B. Goodman. Finally, we move on to things that make us happy this week/holiday traditions.
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We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas
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Nevada State Senator Pat Spearman lost her bid for North Las Vegas’s mayoral seat this election cycle — but less well known is her win with Question 1. Spearman was a co-sponsor for the bill that got that Question 1 on the ballot this November, which passed and puts the country’s most sweeping Equal Rights Amendment in Nevada’s constitution. What’s more, she was the driving force behind Nevada’s ratification of the federal ERA, reviving it after 40 years of zombie-hood.
So who is Dr. Pat Spearman? Today, we’ve got a special guest episode from Ordinary Equality and Womanica, hosted by Kate Kelly (you might remember her from our episode on Question 1) — Kate interviews Senator Spearman, who shares the life experiences that brought her to the Nevada Senate, and why she fights for equal rights.
Thoughts? Questions? Call or text us at 702-514-0719. We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas.
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YES we love our city, but sometimes we gotta complain about it. Today, Vogue, Dayvid, Scott and Sonja sit down to kvetch about the buildings in Las Vegas that we hate — because they’re out of place, poorly-designed, or downright ugly.
Did we get it right? Or horribly wrong? Are you itching to argue against one of our picks? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719 or blast us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
For more Vegas snark (ok, and some thoughtful commentary, too), make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Election denialism hit hard in Nevada. So hard, in fact, that our neighbors in Nye County moved to hand-count their ballots thanks to distrust in tabulation machines. The county accounts for about 30,000 of our state’s votes, which is significant in a year of super close races. So the American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada sued the county and headed out to observe their tedious hand-counting process. Today, host Vogue Robinson chats with the Executive Director of the ACLUNV, Athar Haseebullah, about what he observed at the polls, why they sued Nye County four times, and what poll watchers are supposed to do.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
What are your thoughts on hand-counts? Let us know on Twitter @CityCastVegas. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Did you know Las Vegas has an Erotic Heritage Museum? Of course we do! On the outside, it looks like a seedy strip club, covered in neon, advertising shows like Naked Boys Singing and Puppetry of the Penis, but on the inside…the museum examines and preserves our erotic heritage with art and science (they even have a Picasso)! They’re working to de-stigmatize sex in Sin City! How? Co-host Vogue Robinson is gonna find out by talking with sexologist Dr. Victoria Hartmann, who is the Executive Director and Officer of The Erotic Heritage Museum.
Have you been to the Erotic Heritage Museum? What was your favorite part? Send us a PG voicemail at 702-514-0719. You can also tell us on Twitter @CityCastVegas
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Everybody loves a true-crime story. Today, we have a special guest episode from our friends at the Las Vegas Review Journal’s Mobbed Up podcast. Produced in partnership with The Mob Museum, Mobbed Up is a true-crime series that dives in to the fight against organized crime in 1960s and 1970s Las Vegas. You’ll love this bonus episode from season 2 where a waiter from Vegas’s oldest steakhouse shares his personal memories of a mob hitman.
Jeff German, Review-Journal investigative reporter and host for Season 2, interviews longtime Golden Steer waiter Venko Nikolov about his memories of mob hitman Frank Cullotta and some of the celebrities he served at the iconic Las Vegas steakhouse.
We dedicate this episode to the memory of Jeff German, in honor of his long history of reporting in Las Vegas.
Listen to seasons 1 and 2 of Mobbed Up: The Fight for Las Vegas.
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You can call or text us at 702-514-0719. We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler welcome Nevada Independent political reporter Tabitha Mueller to the Round up to figure out the shape of things as the count goes on and on. We take a dip into the most current numbers, why its taking SO LONG, and the implications as the march towards finality continues. We also take a sojourn down the fun tradition of journalists eating pizza through election night with a survey of local newsrooms to . Then, despite the election distraction, the real world doesnt stop. In addition to election numbers, we have COVID numbers to discuss too.
Looking for digestible election updates? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
What would be your election night pizza choice? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719 or send us a tweet@CityCastVegas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A few weeks ago, a sixth set of human remains was found in Lake Mead. And just last week, a Texas woman got confirmation that the 5th body found this year belonged to her father, who drowned in the lake 20 years ago.
These discoveries come in the wake of water levels reaching their lowest point since the reservoir was being filled in 1937. Officials have yet to identify the victims, but that isn’t stopping Las Vegas from buzzing with speculation, curiosity… and tactless billboards. Given our infamous history with organized crime, it’s no surprise that people have been bursting with theories about their connection to the mob.
Today, we’re bringing you a conversation that host Vogue Robinson had with Geoff Schumacher, Vice President of Exhibits and Programs for The Mob Museum, in August. They discuss why most of these theories relate to the mob, why they may or may not be true, and what Las Vegans aren’t thinking about as we romanticize the mob’s involvement.
Do you have a wild Lake Mead story? Call or text us at 702-514-0719 or find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas. Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter for updates on all things Vegas at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Congratulations everyone, we’ve made it past Election Day! Voting for the 2022 General Election may be over but the counting continues in Nevada as mail-in ballots come in and polling stations finalize results. Nevada is in the spotlight as efforts to flip our purple state come to a head in key races. So lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson and host Dayvid Figler got up EARLY this morning to share their first impressions on the results so far.
Looking for more takeaways as results come in from the election? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
Share your thoughts with us on Twitter @CityCastVegas. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The day is finally here! Dawn has broken on Election Day 2022 and whether you’re braving the weather to go stand in line (we applaud you), you’re anxiously refreshing pages to watch the results, or you’re tuning it all out with some well-deserved R&R, we hear you. Today, Vogue, Sonja and Layla sit down for a chat about voting: Why we vote, the conversations we’ve had with friends and family who don’t, and our experiences at the polls. Plus: Layla brings us some snippets of conversations she had with voters and a poll worker at the Galleria Mall (the County’s second busiest polling place!). It’s a national day of waiting — come sit and hang with us.
What did you do this Election Day? Let us know by leaving us a message or a text at 702-514-0719. You can also find us Twitter @CityCastVegas.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Look, the elections fatigue, stress, and anxiety is real. We’re all feeling it, no matter what side of the aisle you’re on. And all of those doom-and-gloom ads EVERYWHERE aren’t helping much either — not to mention, how are they affecting our kids? So City Cast is getting a little help from Dr. Jim Jobin today, co-host of the podcast Pod Therapy. Dayvid and Jim talk about how we can talk children through the noise, how therapists are dealing with conspiracy theorists, and how we can all take a deep, collective breath and steady ourselves amidst the storm.
What’s keeping you sane these days? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. We’re also on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
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Not all the news this week is election-related! In our Friday news roundup, host Vogue Robinson talks with lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson and producer Layla Muhammad about the raid on the Boulevard Mall and Aces coach Becky Hammon’s new job as NBA analyst for ESPN. Plus, we dive into our favorite off-Strip casinos, and what distinguishes a“local” casino from one on the Strip. Off-Strip Casinos mentioned in this episode:
Lotus of Siam (Red Rock)
The Orleans
Red Rock
Suncoast
The Palms
Virgin Hotels Casino
Palace Station
South Point
Do you have a favorite off-Strip casino — or an opinion on what counts as off-Strip? Let us know by leaving us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719, or shoot us a tweet @CityCastVegas. Want more Vegas news with a side of whimsy? Check out our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Vegas restaurant icon Lotus of Siam put Thai food in our city on the national map — one food critic called it the “bestThai food in North America,” and chef Saipin Chutima has won a James Beard award (which is basically the Grammys of food). When Lotus announced their third location at Red Rock Casino, opening next week, locals rejoiced. The Thai food love doesn’t stop there: We’ve got incredible Thai food in town, and lots of it. But (and look, we’re not complaining)… why?
Today, Vogue sits down with Mark Padoongpatt, Director of Asian and Asian American studies at UNLV, and subject of a recent Taste the Nation episode, to get the deets on how the Cold War brought Thai food to America, when Thai food took off in Vegas, and why one of the most popular menu items — pad Thai — was actually invented by the Thai government in the 1930s.
What’s your favorite Thai restaurant in town? On a scale of 1 to 5, what’s your spice level? Let us know in a text or a voicemail (we’re at 702-514-0719), or a tweet @CityCastVegas.
For even more tasty Vegas news, you’ll want to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Dooooo it now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sure, we tell folks that we’re “from Las Vegas” when we’re traveling… but how many of us are actually from the city itself? The majority of the Valley lives in either one of the adjacent municipalities (like Henderson and North Las Vegas), or in unincorporated Clark County. So how did we get this weird patchwork of townships and jurisdictions, and how did it set up the city and the county for their many tensions today? Why do celebrities get the “Key to the Strip” and not the “Key to the City,” and how were mobsters involved in keeping the Strip (a Vegas icon!) out of the City of Las Vegas?
Today, Dayvid chats with UNLV history professor Michael Green about the last century of Las Vegas (and Clark County) history, and how a city-county showdown brought us to this utterly unique arrangement.
Do you have a story like Dr. Green’s, about a time you observed a clash between jurisdictions in the Valley? Or had to explain to out-of-towners why you don’t actually live in Las Vegas? Tell us about it! Leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719. Don’t forget, you can also find us on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas.
Want even more Vegas news and whip-smart commentary? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With Las Vegas’ close proximity to Lake Mead, it is no surprise that the Valley has put some serious thought into addressing the 170 foot bathtub ring that indicates the lake’s decline over the past 20 years. One of the unique steps the Las Vegas Valley Water District and Southern Nevada Water Authority have taken is the use of water investigators — or water cops — to monitor residential water waste around the city. Many of us have probably seen the blue and white patrol car circling our neighborhoods or seen the job parodied on television, but what does a water cop’s day actually look like? Host Dayvid Figler and producer Layla Muhammad hop in the car with outreach and media manager Bronson Mack to see how water cop Cameron Donnarumma does his job.
Be sure to check out SNWA’s winter watering schedule, that starts November 1st, at SNWA.com.
Have you run into a water cop before? Tell us about your experience by leaving us a message or a text at 702-514-0719 or on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
For even more Vegas news, events, and happenings, make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Happy Halloween! Las Vegas is a fairly young city, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have some (literal) skeletons in our closet, especially on our boulevard of debauchery. Are some of the ghosts of Vegas’ past sticking around to continue the party? Today, host Vogue Robinson talks with Tandi Hornsby, a tour guide from Vegas Ghosts, about the real life stories behind the most haunted properties on the Las Vegas Strip.
Where have you seen or felt ghosts in Las Vegas? Tell us your spectral tales by leaving us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719. We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The weather may be cooling down but the news just keeps coming in hot! In this week’s Friday news roundup, lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson tells us how a local pawn shop takes a stand against Kanye West’s anti-semitic remarks, producer Layla Muhammad and host Dayvid Figler explain how Trump supporters are looking for fraud in Nevada’s election process through record requests, and we all debate some fun food news!
Do you have strong feelings about the McRib or the cronut? (Or, ya know, election denialism?) Let us know by leaving us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719, or shoot us a tweet @CityCastVegas.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our DELIGHT of a morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter. Sign up now, thank us later. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Every year, the Mental Health Institute releases a report on the state of mental health in America. One of the measures looks at the incidence of youth mental illness compared to the availability of quality mental healthcare. And for the last five years, through 2022, Nevada has ranked dead last in youth mental health. Just earlier this month, a U.S. Department of Justice report indicated that Nevada likely broke federal law for putting too many children with behavioral issues into residential care instead of community care (a less intense “middle space” that advocates say is lacking in Nevada).
To help us understand why the problem is so bad, Dayvid sits down with Dr. Michelle Paul, a longtime Las Vegan and Executive Director of UNLV’s Practice, a community mental health clinic that just opened a youth-focused satellite clinic last week. They get into the mental health crisis our youth are facing (pre- and post-pandemic), why mental health treatment is increasingly inaccessible, and what policies need to change for it all to get better.
What’s your take on the state of mental health care in Nevada? Do you have a story to share? Leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719, or find us on the blue bird app @CityCastVegas.
Then, do your inbox the biggest favor ever, and make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Saturday, high winds brought in roiling dust clouds, grounded hundreds of flights, and forced the organizers of the nostalgia-driven pop-punk festival When We Were Young to cancel their first day. Thousands of forlorn fans wandered the Strip (a few even got tattoos of broken hearts)… until something kinda extraordinary happened. Over the course of a few hours, community members rallied and found spaces for dozens of the cancelled acts to perform, from a barbecue joint to dive bars to downtown casinos. The shows were nearly all free to fans (who’d gotten a full ticket refund), and also brought a windfall to downtown small businesses.
Today on the show, Vogue, Dayvid and Layla sit down to talk about what this quick-thinking pivot says about both Las Vegas entertainment culture, and the culture of emo and pop-punk music.
Did you get re-routed during WWWY Fest? How did Saturday’s high winds affect your weekend? Let us know by leaving us a text message or voicemail at 702-514-0719, or tweet at us! We’re @CityCastVegas.
For even more interesting stuff going on around town, you’re gonna want to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Don’t let your inbox miss out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The November election is right around the corner and if there is any indication of that, it’s the political ads that find their way onto every screen or into our mailboxes — barely regulated, never-ending, irritating as hell. At the only gubernatorial debate we will see this cycle, the Nevada Independent dedicated a whole section to the misinformation in Sisolak and Lombardo attack ads. And they aren't the only candidates from Nevada who were caught spreading lies, misquotes, or exaggerations. Here to guide us through this wilderness of innuendo and manipulation is Review-Journal politics and government editor Steve Sebelius, who talks to host Vogue Robinson about the worn out tactics used in political ads. And get to a crucial question: What is the actual purpose of the political ad?
What’s the best/worst political ad you’ve seen this election cycle? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. You can also find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
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Just when you thought Nevada was swinging blue, we swung right back into the murky middle. All eyes are on Nevada in this year’s elections, where 75% of our house seats are up for grabs, and we have what might be the most hotly-contested Senate race in the country. So — whence all this purple?? Why do we have so many independent voters, and are we witnessing the demise of the Harry Reid Democratic machine?
Today, Dayvid chats it up with Jon Ralston, CEO of the Nevada Independent, and one of our favorite Silver State pundits(hey, he used the P-word first). They get into all of the shifting party power dynamics in Nevada, and why Jon thinks there are no certain wins in this year’s race — but make sure to listen to the end for his “canary in the coal mine,” carnage-for-the-Dems-if-they-lose candidate.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
Do you have questions about the election as November approaches? Call or text us at 702-514-0719. You can also find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What did the open hand say to the Nevada State Athletic Commission? SLAP. And then they all unanimously agreed to make it a sport in Nevada! In this week’s news roundup, host Vogue Robinson contemplates auditioning for slap fighting, lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson updates us on a new parking garage downtown that brings on some nostalgia for the days of free parking everywhere, and newsletter editor Scott Dickensheets teases some events from the Las Vegas Book Festival happening this Saturday downtown!
Go see Scott IRL at The Las Vegas Book Festival at The Historic Fifth Street School this Saturday. He’ll be in the Empowered Tent at 3:30pm talking about the Las Vegas Writes anthologies. More information here. If you haven’t already, sign up to get his morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
Are you going to audition to be Las Vegas’ next slap fighting champion? Tell us your thoughts at 702-514-0719 or follow us on Twitter @CityCastVegas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The federal Equal Rights Amendment was a simple thing: An amendment to the Constitution to guarantee equal rights regardless of gender, for both men and women. But the bill languished in 1977 without enough state support... Until Nevada (yes, our very own Silver State) brought it back from the dead and ratified it in 2017 — thanks to NV, the federal ERA is back in play. And then, we took it one step further: A state-level ERA that’s even more expansive than the federal ERA is on the ballot as Question 1 this November.
To help us parse out just why Question 1 is so confusing and what voters can expect if it passes, Dayvid sits down with Kate Kelly, an attorney and advocate for the ERA who’s currently campaigning for “Yes on 1” in Las Vegas right now. Kate answers all your ERA questions, like: Will the ERA be the end of girls’ sports? (No.) Will kids be able to buy beer?(Again, no.) And will the ERA protect abortion rights? (A resounding yes.)
How are you planning to vote on Question 1? Or what questions do you have about it? Call or text us at 702-514-0719, or shoot us a note on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
Don’t forget to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter for even more news, events, and commentary at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Chris Giunchigliani, or Chris G. as she’s often known, is a familiar name to Nevadans — from teacher’s union president to Nevada Assemblywoman for 15 years, she then served as a Clark County Commissioner for 12 years. Today, Vogue sits down with Chris G. to look back at some of her pivotal career moves, from voting yes on voting machines and no on the Raiders’ Stadium. We ask how Nevada might be different if she’d won the 2018 gubernatorial primary against Steve Sisolak, and hear what she’s been up to in retirement (hint: she owns multiple chainsaws and her own cement mixer). And we look to the future, to what she hopes for Nevada in next month’s elections and beyond.
Do you have thoughts or questions for Chris G.? Leave us a voicemail or give us a call at 702-514-0719. We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas.
For even more Vegas news and goings-on-about-town, make sure to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
During his time in Nevada, journalist John M. Glionna has visited pretty much every city, town, township, hamlet, burg, village, and wide spot in the road in this state. In every spot he’s found a compelling story, a very human character — the last sheep farmer, an Indigenous artist, dozens more. He’s gathered the best of those tales in Outback Nevada: Real Stories from the Silver State. In today’s episode, Glionna regales Dayvid with outback anecdotes, and dishes on what the rurals really think of Las Vegas. You can catch John Glionna at the Las Vegas Book Festival this weekend on Oct. 22nd at 11 a.m. in Room 125. What’s on your rural Nevada travel itinerary? Let us know at 702-514-0719. We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Yes, Las Vegas has rapidly become a sports town — but could we also become an eSports town, too? Ryan Smith and Lukas Eggen, co-hosts of the RJ’s eSports and gaming podcast LAN Parties, think so. Today, they sit down with Dayvid to talk about how this billion dollar global industry could take hold in our city, how betting and superstars might help, and what it takes to be a professional gamer (spoiler: it’s not just lounging in a comfy chair and eating Flamin’ Hot Cheetos).
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas
You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aaaand eyebrows UP! We’ve got some head-turning news for you in the roundup this week. Vogue, Dayvid and Sonja are talking about this week’s surprising endorsements… and lack thereof. The Clark County Education Assocation declined to endorse either gubernatorial candidate, while 14 members of Adam Laxalt’s family just endorsed his opponent, Catherine Cortez Masto… without mentioning poor Adam’s name once. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce has endorsed Joe Lombardo for governor, and Sonja’s got thoughts on why.
Next, we get into the creation of a new evictions diversion court, and what that could do for renters… and where it still falls short. And, last but not least, we’re talking about the imminent arrival of the world’s first comprehensive punk rock museum, right here in Las Vegas! It’ll be a 12,000 square foot homage to the genre, located downtown, right next to Little Darlings. All in a week’s news in Las Vegas!
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas
You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s a big week for the Vegas cannabis industry. Cannabis consumption lounge applications open tomorrow after 5 years of back and forth in the state legislature. Forty-five dispensaries and 20 individuals will be granted licenses to open lounges in Las Vegas and Unincorporated Clark County. While no alcohol or gaming will be allowed, other business models like movie theaters, bakeries, and music venues are fair game. So, what will these heavily regulated and expensive cannabis consumption lounges look like? And more importantly… what will they smell like?
Christopher LaPorte, founder of the cannabis hospitality management company RESET and future operator of THRIVE Dispensary’s lounge, sits down with host Dayvid Figler to discuss how we got here, the potential of this new industry, and what our city and its tourists have to look forward to.
What would your dream cannabis lounge look like? Tell us your thoughts or concerns about cannabis lounges in a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
You can also let us know on Twitter @CityCastVegas
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last week, the Clark County Zoning Commission voted unanimously to approve Jim Rhodes’ housing project near Red Rock Canyon — predictably, Vegas Twitter exploded. Building near Red Rock just might be one of our city’s most contentious issues (just ask Rhodes, who’s been locked in a 20 year battle with the County to build here). But — deep breath, everyone — the approved project contains just 429 homes, a fraction of the originally proposed 5,000. And Rhodes still needs approval from the BLM to build a road out there.
So today on City Cast Las Vegas, we’ve got the whole backstory on this housing development: we’re bringing you an interview we did with environment reporter Daniel Rothberg back in August. Daniel detailed the decades-long saga of the battle to build at Red Rock in an investigative piece for the Nevada Independent (it’s reeeally juicy, go read it now). We also get into roads — the ones you drive on, not the developer! — and why they’re trouble for wildlife.
How do you feel about development at Red Rock? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719 or find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
For more Vegas news and goings-on-about-town, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Look, we’ve got some great galleries and small art museums here in town — we’re not denying that. But when it comes to the massive, three-story, famous-permanent-collection kinda museums that other cities have… where’s ours?? Even Reno has one. We were actually supposed to get one, until the pandemic put a halt to it. In 2020, the Nevada Museum of Art, which runs programs throughout the Silver State, actually gave back $4 million of state funding that was earmarked for a Las Vegas branch.
Today, Vogue talks with Carmen Beals, associate curator and outreach director with the Nevada Museum of Art, about why the project was put on hold, and if we might, juuuust might, get an art museum of our own someday.
Where do you think we should put an art museum in Las Vegas? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719, or hit us up on Twitter @CityCastVegas
For even more Vegas news, events and general shenanigans, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What. A week. Of news. Before we get into today’s topics, we wanted to acknowledge the violence that occurred on the Strip yesterday: Six people were injured and two died in a mass stabbing attack near Las Vegas Blvd. and Sands. It’s a lot to process and the story is still developing, so we’ll be coming back to it next week.
In the meantime, we’re got plenty more news to discuss today. Vogue is joined by Dayvid and special guest Geoff Carter, Senior Editor at the Las Vegas Weekly, and they’re tackling: 1. The latest news about the Rhodes development abutting Red Rock Canyon (and what some sources are getting wrong about it) 2. Sad puppies at the Animal Foundation! Or at least, the ups and downs of a nonprofit that’s now facing a wave of seriously sick pups 3. First Friday’s 20th birthday (as Vogue puts it, it’s not quite old enough to drink yet) — and Geoff’s fantastic retrospective in the Weekly about the evolution of First Friday, for better, worse, and somewhere in between
What are your thoughts on the week’s news? Call or text us at 702-514-0719, or find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
And a quick note: We're observing Indigenous Peoples' Day on Monday, so we'll be back in your feeds on Tuesday. Happy weekend, everyone! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As we’ve discussed on City Cast, homelessness in the Vegas Valley is an urgent issue that’s only getting worse. Our patchwork of municipalities—including the County and the City—have taken different approaches (and have sometimes publicly sparred about them). But City Councilman Brian Knudsen has quietly been laying the groundwork for longterm solutions through healthcare — some of which might not bear fruit for 30 years, he says.
Today, Dayvid sits down with Brian to talk about a new pilot program that brings social workers along with Metro on crisis calls, how Medicaid funding could support mental health centers, and just why this problem is so intractable in Las Vegas.
Do you have questions about homelessness in Las Vegas? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
You can also ask us on Twitter @CityCastVegas
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
Special thanks to Jason and Wes over at KUNR for their technical support for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Sunday, The Nevada Independent hosted a debate between Nevada gubernatorial candidates Steve Sisolak, the Democratic incumbent, and Sheriff Joe Lombardo, a Republican. The heated debate, moderated by CEO Jon Ralston, was an hour and a half long and went over education, taxes, crime rates, and more (read the full rundown on the Indy here). City Cast was one of the sponsors of IndyFest this year, so host Dayvid Figler and producer Layla Muhammad got to watch the debate in real-time.
So today on the show, host Vogue Robinson sits down with Dayvid and Layla to give you the quick and dirty recap of what may be the only gubernatorial debate ahead of the November election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Remember that Vice article about Vegas dive bars? Yeah, we panned it in a Friday roundup — it was full of breathy, gleeful observations that painted a lurid picture of the down-and-out. Consider this episode your antidote. Dayvid sits down with P Moss, longtime local, writer, and owner of two Las Vegas bars, one of which is the world-famous Double Down Saloon, a punk rock dive bar where you can buy puke insurance and shots of Ass Juice. Dayvid and Moss talk about what makes a dive bar a dive bar, the wildest things he’s seen at his bars, and why dive bars are so susceptible to romanticization.
Don’t miss out: Dayvid will be moderating a conversation with Moss at The Writer’s Block this Thursday at 7 p.m., about Moss’s newest novel, Dead Ringer. Come say hello! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’re listening to this podcast, you probably know how to pronounce “Nevada.” Or do you…? Is the Spanish “ah”more historically accurate, and why did we start saying “Nuh-vadda?” Plus, you’ve seen Nevadans boo politicians across the political spectrum, from Donald Trump to Michelle Obama, for saying “Nev-ah-da,” so why do we care so much, and do Nevadans have an extra-deep chip on our shoulder about this compared to other places?
Today, Dayvid talks with Valerie Fridland, professor of linguistics at UNR, to get the DL on all of this. Don’t forget to check our Instagram page for a special outtake of a quiz YOU can take alongside Dayvid, testing how Western of a speaker you are.
Let us hear how you say Nevada! Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The escape and eventual capture of prisoner Porfirio Duarte-Herrera was all over the news this week — but could it become a hot button topic in this year’s fiercely competitive governor’s race? After all, Sheriff Joe Lombardo is running on a public safety platform, and the Nevada Department of Corrections director was a Gov. Sisolak appointee.
Today, Sonja, Dayvid and Scott get into the potential political fallout of a highly-publicized manhunt. Then it’s on to a lawsuit filed this week by Councilwoman Victoria Seaman against fellow Councilwoman Michele Fiore and the City of Las Vegas, claiming that not only did Fiore assault Seaman at City Hall (breaking Seaman’s finger in the process), City Hall impeded the investigation and destroyed video evidence. (Yes, it’s a hot mess, and yes, we get into it!)
Last but not least, you may have seen a few more grasshoppers flying around — but don’t worry, this isn’t the return of 2019’s hopper-pocalypse, at least according to 8 News Now. And hey, if the swarms do return, you could always take advantage of the bounty and cook a few up.
Have you been following the Seaman-Fiore feud and do you have thoughts? Any ideas for what to do about all those ‘hoppers? Let us know! Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. You can also find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
Want even more Vegas news, observations, and goings-on-about-town? You’re gonna want to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Despite being the most diverse city in Nevada, North Las Vegas has yet to see a Black woman mayor. This November, all that will change as Councilwoman Pamela Goynes-Brown and Democratic state Senator Pat Spearman, both Black women, go head to head for the nonpartisan seat. They take on major issues facing the city including housing, policing, and education. Host Vogue Robinson is joined by The Nevada Independent journalist Naoka Foreman to explain where the two candidates stand on the issues.
Read Naoka’s coverage here.
Are you in North Las Vegas? What issues do you care about? What questions would you have for the NLV mayoral candidates? Call or text us at 702-514-0719. And don’t forget, you can always find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas
Want more Vegas news, events and whip-smart observations? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“Break a leg” takes on new meaning for Dr. Kevin Debiparshad, a Las Vegas doctor and the subject of a recent viral article on GQ. Dr. D, as he often goes by, has pioneered a minimally-invasive limb-lengthening procedure that will nonetheless leave many squeamish: Via a small thigh incision, he breaks the femur bone, inserts a remote-controlled titanium gadget, and leaves the bone to fill the carefully-extending gap — giving his patients an extra three to six inches of height. It’s gruesome, painful, and expensive. But in a world where height has been shown to matter, both in hiring and dating, Dr. D’s patients are happy with the results.
Today, Dayvid talks with Dr. D about how this procedure came about, why Las Vegas was the perfect place for him to set up shop, and how he thinks attitudes will change towards more involved cosmetic procedures like these.
Would you spend $70k for a surgery like this? Why or why not? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719 or send us a tweet @CityCastVegas.
For a well-blended dose of news, events and all things Vegas, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Baz Luhrmann directed a new film, which was recently released on HBO Max, about Elvis Presley’s life from childhood to riches, fame, and eventual demise. The film stars Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as his devilish manager, Colonel Tom Parker. No Elvis story is complete without our city, as Elvis had a seven-year-long residency at the International Hotel (which later became the Las Vegas Hilton and is now the Westgate).
Co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler talk with producer Layla Muhammad about Elvis’ legacy in Las Vegas. Elvis was a superstar, a rock 'n' roll icon, who had impersonators on the Strip prior to his passing. We have Elvis-themed weddings, sell Elvis tchotchkes in our airport, and fake Elvis accompanies our mayor at parades… But are we honoring his legacy, or have we all turned him into a caricature? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Amy Saunders’s stage presence, Miss Behave, is more than an alter ego. Think more like “Amy times Amy,” — and if you’ve seen any of the Miss Behave shows, you know that Miss B is a brash, warm, comedic force, an androgynous drag queen in spectacular costumes, a master of audience interaction.
Today, Dayvid talks with Amy (and Miss B) about the journey from London to Vegas via freak shows and the Festival Fringe, how aging Trump supporters helped hone the show at Bally’s, and why performing off the Strip creates an entirely unique audience experience.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas
You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wow, Friday snuck up on us FAST this week — there’s just so much going on the news! Today, Vogue, Layla and Dayvid break it all down for us: What’s going on with Yucca Mountain (we thought that plan was dead), and why Governor Sisolak’s office just proposed that we kill it for once and for all. Plus, how other states vastly underestimated Senator Harry Reid when Yucca Mountain was first proposed back in the 80's. Next up, we revisit the long reach of the Route 91 shootings and how its aftereffects are felt even now: In the debates over exactly how many lives were claimed, what to do about guns, and what we should even call the massacre. And lastly, the team takes on the city’s newly-approved cannabis lounges, whether locals will actually go, and what we’d want to see in a cannabis lounge.
Oh, and let us not forget: CONGRATULATIONS to the Las Vegas Aces!!! WNBA Champions, bayybeeeee! That’s right, Las Vegas just got its first major league sports championship. We love to see it.
What would you want to see at Yucca Mountain? What does the weed lounge of your dreams look like? Leave us a voicemail or shoot us a text at 702-514-0719. You can always find us on Twitter too: @CityCastVegas
For more news, events, and commentary about the city we love best, get our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today on City Cast Las Vegas, Vogue chats with Dr. Erika Gisela Abad Merced, (AKA Dr. Abad) an educator, writer, and curator. We talk about Vegas as a multicultural city and how that encompasses generation gaps, sexuality, race, & ethnicity. Dr. Abad shares how she’s turned her personal story into art and invited others to do so too with her show, Two Cultures, One Family. In a press release, Dr. Abad says, “I hope this exhibition helps people feel seen. To have their families feel seen. Two Cultures is a love letter to my mother and grandmother. While our struggles are different, I am here because of them – a testament to their resilience and sacrifice.” Dr. Abad also tell us how Las Vegas celebrates & respects different cultures, especially for our LGBTQ community, but also what we could do better.
Two Cultures, One Family will be on display until January 28, 2023 inside the Barrick Museum at UNLV. It is free and open to the public. Visit the show and create art of your own during the Zine Workshop Friday, Sep. 23, 2022, 4pm to 6pm
Do you have thoughts about multiculturalism in Las Vegas? Share them with us at 702-514-0719.
Keep the conversation going with us on Twitter @CityCastVegas
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When Kim Foster started the cookbook club Please Send Noodles (a cheeky play on “please send nudes”), it was a gathering of local home cooks who discussed a new cookbook and met for a potluck every month. Then, the pandemic shut down Las Vegas — and the cookbook club. Our hospitality-centric city was devastated… and hungry. The Please Send Noodles crew swung into action, pivoting from potlucks to pantry, cooking hundreds of meals each month for struggling Las Vegans. Next week, Please Send Noodles will hold its first in-person gathering since the pandemic started. Kim joins host Dayvid Figler to talk about how the cookbook club met the challenges of the moment, why restaurant-centric Las Vegas needs a cookbook club, and how both trauma and resilience can show up when the table is set.
For more information about Monday’s cookbook club event, visit The Writer’s Block website.
Kim Foster is a James Beard Award-winning food writer and essayist. Her book, The Meth Lunches: Food and Longing in an American City, will be released from St. Martin’s Press in Fall 2023.
Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas
Do you have an interesting club or organization that Vegas needs to know more about? Tell us about it by calling or texting 702-514-0719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nevada Senator Catherine Cortez Masto made headlines when she publicly criticized President Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan, breaking rank with Democrats. So is this a play for Republican votes during a tough battle for reelection? Or is she actually swinging left of the Dems on this issue — especially given the fact that she’d already proposed a college affordability and loan forgiveness bill? Today, Dayvid talks with Nevada Independent reporter Tabitha Mueller, who recently wrote about Cortez Masto’s stance on the Biden plan, and how it all might play out in her reelection campaign.
What do you think about Biden’s loan forgiveness plan? How are student loans affecting you? Leave us a voicemail or a send us a text at 702-514-0719. We’re all ears on Twitter, too: @CityCastVegas
Want more Vegas news, observations, and goings-on about town? You’ll want to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A few weeks ago, our team talked about the movers and shakers from Las Vegas history who would be on our(hypothetical) Mt. Rushmore. The problem? We had no women on our list! Here to help us fix that glaring omission is Dr. Su Kim Chung, Head of Public Services in Special Collections and Archives at UNLV Libraries. She and host Vogue Robinson talk about four iconic women in Vegas history that we should all know (plus one bonus pick!), and how they made our city what it is today.
For more information about the women on Su Kim’s list, click on the links below:
Helen Stewart
Lubertha Johnson
Claudine Williams
Carol Harter
Margaret Kelly (Miss Bluebell)
Did you know about all of these Las Vegas women? Who would you add? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719, or hit us up on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
For even more Vegas insider history, news, events, and more — you’re gonna want to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
Note: In the introduction to this episode, we incorrectly called Su Kim Chung the Head of Special Collections. Her correct job title is Head of Public Services in Special Collections and Archives at UNLV Libraries. Apologies for the error! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sonja and Dayvid are joined today by a very special guest: Joey Lovato, host of the Nevada Independent’s podcast IndyMatters. (Psst, it’s his birthday today, y’all!) Joey catches us up on the cannabis news — namely, that the ACLU has won its lawsuit against the State Board of Pharmacy, who will now be required to de-classify cannabis as a Schedule 1 drug. So what does that mean for Las Vegans?
We also talk about the endorsement that six local chambers of commerce recently gave to a ballot initiative that proposes to split up Clark County School District into smaller school districts. CCSD is the fifth-largest school district in the country — but splitting it up comes with some pros and cons. We round out the roundup with a remembrance of Blair Dewane, a beloved local indie musician who passed this week at too young of an age.
Last but most certainly not least, we learn that Dayvid is in a polka punk band called Tippy Elvis, and that Joey was in a Justin Bieber-meets-Alvin the Chipmunks band called Full Silver… in the 5th grade. We’re currently looking for the Full Silver deep cut album, so let us know if you find footage anywhere!
How do YOU feel about the CCSD ballot initiative? Are you in a local indie band that you want to shout out? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719 or hit us up on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
Want more Vegas news and events? Reward yourself every morning with our 6 a.m. newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Vegas is buzzing as the top-seeded Las Vegas Aces make their way to Connecticut tonight with a 2-0 lead over the Sun in the WNBA Finals. They are one game away from bringing home our city’s first major league sports championship — it could happen tonight! News 3 sports anchor Bryan Salmond tells host Dayvid Figler how the team got there with a rookie coach and all-star roster. Also, what its win could mean for Las Vegas and a hint as to how they might celebrate a W.
GO ACES!
How do you hope to celebrate Vegas’s first major league sports championship? Share your excitement with us at 702-514-0719.
We’re also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastVegas
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The music, food, and art festival Life is Beautiful starts Friday — you may have already noticed street closures downtown as it sets up. Since 2013, Life is Beautiful has taken over several blocks of downtown for three days. Headliners have included huge artists, like Megan Thee Stallion, the Gorillaz, Kendrick Lamar, Arcade Fire. Celebrity chefs show up. Apparently Banksy was there one year? It’s all wild and magical… but maybe not for everyone.
Today, Sonja (an LiB newbie) talks with Dayvid and Layla, both veterans of Life is Beautiful, about why so many locals have mixed feelings about it. Dayvid shares a conversation with musician Jack Evan Johnson, who started the cheeky Life is Shit event, while Layla talks with local artist Tanna Marie, who’s getting a huge break at this year’s festival.
Quick note, you’re gonna hear some profanity in this one, including a well-executed F bomb.
How do YOU feel about Life is Beautiful? Let us know: 702-514-0719 or @CityCastVegas on Twitter.
For even more Vegas news, events, and snarky commentary, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Twenty-six years ago today, Tupac Amaru Shakur died at University Medical Center here in Las Vegas. A few days before his death, he was shot at the intersection of Flamingo and Koval — you may have driven past the spontaneous, informal memorial at the site, a collection of fan tributes scrawled onto a telephone pole. There is no official memorial or plaque here, or anywhere in Las Vegas. Tupac didn’t get the accolades he deserved during his lifetime, but today, he’s remembered as one of the most influential hip-hop artists of all time — so where’s our memorial?
Host Vogue Robinson is joined by DJ Warren Peace, a local who was on the Death Row street team and was playing at Club 662 the night Tupac never arrived. He tells us stories from the 90s club scene, and lays out the big picture: How the Vegas powers that be viewed hip-hop in the 90s, and why he thinks we don’t have a Tupac memorial.
Where were you when Tupac was shot? Who else do you think deserves to be memorialized in Las Vegas? Let us know at 702-514-0719 or on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
Looking for more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’ve been in Vegas for a while, you might’ve seen “Rogers” in an organization’s name or two. That’s Beverly Rogers, who grew up in Las Vegas and has become one of Las Vegas’ biggest donors to education and the arts. The Rogers Foundation’s commitment to supporting students in Las Vegas was created to advance the passion of Jim Rogers (Beverly’s late husband) for education. Today on the podcast, Beverly tells host Vogue Robinson about her early life and how its led her to philanthropy, the influence Vegas has had on her, and the scoop on when The Beverly Theater will be opening!
Do you have first-hand experience with the work of the Rogers Foundation? Or thoughts on philanthropy in Las Vegas broadly? Fill us in! Leave us a message or send us a text at 702-514-0719. Or drop us tweet @CityCastVegas.
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In our look back at the week’s news, our team is tackling the story of local journalist Jeff German’s murder, which has made national headlines. Today, Dayvid, Scott and Sonja catch you up on the news, reflect on the tense environment for journalists, and how that might (or might not) bear on this particular case.
In case you missed it, here’s a summary of the news so far: Investigative journalist Jeff German was found murdered outside his home Saturday morning following an altercation the night before that left him with multiple stab wounds. After four days of investigations, police arrested Clark County Public Administrator Robert Telles on Wednesday evening in connection with the murder. Evidence was found linking Telles to the scene, including his car, a ripped-up hat that matched a video of the suspect, and DNA under German’s nails. It is believed that reporting from German (which exposed a toxic work environment at Telles's office) contributed to the loss of Telles's reelection bid in the June primaries. It was announced on Thursday that Telles was charged with open murder and will be held without bail. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Where have all the showgirls gone? No, we’re not talking about the costumed photo ops on Fremont Street, or those 50-foot clip art signs downtown. We’re talking about the classic showgirl revue — like Jubilee, the last showgirl show, which closed in 2016. Kelly O remembers those years well: She’s a dancer who performed in the iconic Jubilee show during its sunset years.
In this special guest episode from our friends at the Faces and Aces LV podcast, Chris Kim talks with Kelly O about how she moved from ballet in NYC to the feathered world of Vegas showgirls, what a day in the life of a showgirl is like, and all of the other dancing gigs she’s taken up in Vegas since her showgirl days.
You can listen to more Faces and Aces LV at facesandaceslv.com.
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Football season starts tomorrow, and for some of you, it’s not just ego and bragging rights on the line. Ever since the Supreme Court allowed for sports betting outside of Nevada, the industry has seen major growth: It doubled in 2021 with over $57 billion wagered across the U.S. So what does that mean for Las Vegas?
Yahoo sports betting analyst and Las Vegas local Minty (who goes by “Minty Bets” online) joins host Vogue Robinson to answer all of our most pressing and ridiculous questions about sports betting: What kind of prep does she have to do? Does sports betting ruin the experience of the game? Is Las Vegas still important in the ever-expanding world of sports-betting? And how can you tell when you’ve gone a little too far with the wagers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last month, CCSD confirmed their first Monkeypox case at Palo Verde High School. With Las Vegas being a global destination for tourism, how concerned should we be about Monkeypox? While our numbers remain low compared to the rest of the country, issues around messaging create a harmful stigma and false sense of safety for groups not included in the language. Southern Nevada Health District senior health educator Cheryl Radeloff talks with host Vogue Robinson about our case and vaccine numbers, the similarities in messaging with HIV/AIDS, and what we can to do protect ourselves. You can find the EPA's list of disinfectants for emerging viral pathogens here. Do you have more thoughts or questions about Monkeypox? A story to share? Tweet at us @CityCastVegas or leave us a voicemail or text 702-514-0719. Want more Vegas news? Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Millennial content warning: We reference BOTH The Dark Crystal and the Mayor of Flavortown in today’s episode. But before that — in this week’s Friday roundup, lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson sits down with producer Layla Muhammad and host Dayvid Figler to discuss the most important news items to share at the BBQ this Labor Day weekend. A proposal from the Nevada Department of Corrections is on ice after Gov. Sisolak asks for more data on how restricting greeting cards and colored ink in mail would decrease the amount of contraband in prisons. Advocates say the proposal is anti-family and dehumanizing. With autumn at our doorstep, elections aren’t far behind. We take a deeper look at Question No. 3 on this year’s ballot and how the results in Alaska could give some insight on how Nevada’s elections could go in the future. Lastly, a new name in Nevada’s “Black Book” could open the floodgates for people restricted from casinos.
Still confused about ranked choice voting? Want to share who YOU’D vote in as the Mayor of Flavortown? Let us know on Twitter @CityCastVegas or leave us a voicemail or text at 702-514-0719.
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Las Vegas doesn’t run on rum, tequila, or vodka — that’s tourist juice. Coffee’s the true lifeblood of our 24-hour city. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, Scott, Dayvid and Vogue talk about their favorite spots around town to get excellent brews, where to take a coffee date, and why a city needs a vibrant, healthy coffee scene.
Did we miss your go-to coffee shop? Let us know at 702-514-0719 or tell us on Twitter @CityCastVegas!
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City Cast Las Vegas co-host Dayvid Figler has a decades-long friend in Anne Kellogg. Anne is a fiercely proud born-and-raised Nevadan, businessperson, an arts supporter, a ranch caretaker and maybe beyond all else, one of the biggest cheerleaders for Nevada you’ll ever meet. She and her husband spend much of the year bouncing between her hometown Las Vegas and her adopted city of Ely. With its plentiful charms, artistic endeavors and abundantly magnetic sights and sounds, Ely has become a favorite for Las Vegans. But are Las Vegas residents always welcome, and why don’t Ely residents seem to embrace much that comes from Las Vegas? In a State where blue cities and red rurals make us perpetual purple, is there still time to embrace "One Nevada?" Dayvid and Anne talk about the differences, the similarities and the causes of disconnect between two very different but both unique Nevada towns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Amid the attention given to predictions in a recent UNLV study that valley’s population will grow by more than 1 million by 2060, another interesting trend seemed largely overlooked. That is, that the number of residents 65 and older is expected to more than double. Among other implications of this is a likely boom of the healthcare industry to cater to these seniors. Today on the podcast, host Vogue Robinson is joined by independent Medicare broker La’Chelle Buckner to discuss why Las Vegas is the new retirement Mecca and how the healthcare system works — or doesn't — for our aging populace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Las Vegas has shifted its slogan from “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” to “What Happens Here, Only Happens Here.” Both slogans shroud our city in mystery and encourage outsiders to speculate about our culture. What happens when you tell someone you live in Vegas? You get a slew of ridiculous questions! Do you gamble everyday? Do you only eat at fancy restaurants? Can I get a job outside of a casino in daytime hours?
City Cast CEO, David Plotz, lives in Washington, D.C., and hasn’t visited Vegas for almost 20 years! Today on the show he asks our hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson a series of wild and ridiculous questions about Las Vegas. You might learn a bit more about the weird jobs people can have in town, plus a few fun places you’d actually want to take your kiddos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this Friday’s news roundup, the question of whether Vegas is a “cesspool of crime” as former president Trump claimed is debated yet again, but this time by our very own Dayvid Figler, Vogue Robinson, and Scott Dickensheets. Oh, and they’ve got some numbers! Also, what’s with that new megasculpture, “City,” and why haven’t any local outlets covered it yet? Plus, the team talks about how Lake Las Vegas ended up on the 2021 list of top Las Vegas valley water users.
Hear more from Scott in our daily morning newsletter! You can sign up at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Everyone we know in the Valley has an opinion about water — so why not make it an informed opinion? You can start by listening to the highly informative and entertaining podcast Water Smarts, from the experts at the Southern Nevada Water Authority. You’ll get deep dives on topics like wastewater surveillance, tips on how to save water in your landscaping, and insights into our decades-long water crisis, straight from the source.
Today, we’re sharing an episode of Water Smarts all about our tap water — yep, it’s safe to drink.
Carolyn Faircloth, the Water Quality Laboratory Manager for the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA), shares how she and her team test and monitor our drinking water to ensure high-quality water is delivered to your home or business every day. Hosts Crystal Zuelke and Bronson Mack talk water quality and how you can find out what’s in our water on episode 25 of Water Smarts Podcast, “Yes, you can drink the tap water.”
Do you have feelings about the tap water in town? Got a burning tap water question? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text message at 702-514-0719. You can shoot us a tweet @CityCastVegas.
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While our producers are taking a much-needed vacation, we’re revisiting one of our favorite City Cast Las Vegas interviews with the woman we’ve dubbed the Lorax of Las Vegas: Lisa Ortega, Master Arborist. This episode originally aired on June 14, 2022.
Las Vegas is the fastest-warming city in the U.S. — and that's only made worse by the urban heat island effect, caused by dense concentrations of heat-trapping concrete, asphalt, glass, and steel. (Read more about Southern Nevada's extreme heat vulnerability on this site from RTC: Southern Nevada Strong.) The effect isn't evenly distributed: Our neighbors in the center and Eastside of the city see even higher temperatures from older infrastructure and more blacktop.
This April, the City of Las Vegas announced a plan to plant 60,000 trees by 2025 to combat the city's extreme heat. In today's episode, the state’s only female Master Arborist and founder of the non-profit Nevada Plants, Lisa Ortega, joins host Dayvid Figler to discuss why trees are the answer to our heat problems, how this disproportionally affects communities of color, and why we might just be able to dub her the Lorax of Las Vegas.
Do you have a favorite trees? Thoughts on our warming city? Leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719. Or find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas and gives us your best hot take.
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Today, we're bringing you a special guest episode from The Nevada Independent's podcast IndyMatters. (If you're not already listening to their show, do yourself a favor and go subscribe right now!) IndyMatters host and producer Joey Lovato joins our host, Dayvid Figler, to introduce the three segments he's sharing with us today:
Indy reporter Carmen Landinger explores why East Las Vegas is disproportionately affected by poor air quality and what’s being done to combat that problem
Reporter and co-host Jacob Solis talks with a Nevada State College professor, Jo Meuris, about her animated short she showed at Comic-Con, and a dream of hers realized
Joey Lovato dives into the world of the Bristlecone Pine, one of the oldest living trees on the planet. He talks to experts James Woolsey and Gretchen Baker about what makes the trees unique, what we can learn from them and what threats they face. This segment was co-produced with Indy environment reporter Daniel Rothberg.
Thoughts, ideas, questions? Leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719. Or find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
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Clark County sentences more people to death than almost any other county in the nation — we come in fourth (fourth!)out of thousands. But as it turns out, we very rarely actually execute prisoners on death row. So why is that? Kim Foster, writer and friend of the pod, brought us this question when she saw the recent news about an 18 year old and a 20 year old facing the death penalty — would our county really put these young people to death? And if not, why seek the death penalty at all?
Kim and lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson talk with host Dayvid Figler (a longtime criminal defense attorney) about how the death penalty is used in the Clark County courts, why it’s so easy to deploy here, and what justice might look like. Come for the knowledge, stay for the Baretta and Princess Bride references.
Find Dayvid and Kim on Twitter at @OyVegas and @KimFosterNYC.
We’re on Twitter too @CityCastVegas!
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On this week’s Friday news round up, the team laments over some of our small city’s big problems. Lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson wonders how the demographics of our city could change, after reading a UNLV study that says Las Vegas’ population will grow by over 1 million people by 2060. Host Dayvid Figler expresses concern over the lack of mental health professionals in our schools. Meanwhile, Producer Layla Muhammad shares her philosophy about parking in Las Vegas as a local after the city generously tosses us a few crumbs with new free lunchtime parking in the Arts District. Plus, our picks for who should be on Las Vegas’ Mt. Rushmore!
Who would you put on your Las Vegas Mt. Rushmore? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719 with your ridiculous, sleeper, and/or must-have picks!
You can also complain about paid parking with us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
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Food writer Johnathan Wright has had his eye on Las Vegas for a long time — so when longtime Review-Journal food writer Heidi Knapp Rinella retired earlier this year, he jumped at the opportunity. Host Vogue Robinson sits down with Johnathan to chat about his first impressions of the Vegas food scene, his favorite martini in town (so far), and why he can’t find a good slice of pizza here (yet). We dig into meatier topics, too: Why do so many Americans assume that Chinese, Thai and Mexican food has to be cheap? And can you really separate the art from the artist when it comes to restaurants and troubling chefs at their helm?
If you know where Johnathan can find a good New York slice in town, give us the deets! Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. We’re on Twitter, too! @CityCastVegas
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On Monday evening, human remains were found at Lake Mead’s Swim Beach. This is the fifth body found by visitors since May and the second at Swim Beach. These discoveries come in the wake of water levels reaching their lowest point since the reservoir was being filled in 1937. Officials have yet to identify the victims, but that isn’t stopping Las Vegas from buzzing with speculation, curiosity… and tactless billboards. Given our infamous history with organized crime, it’s no surprise that people have been bursting with theories about their connection to the mob.
Today, host Vogue Robinson chats with Geoff Schumacher, Vice President of Exhibits and Programs for The Mob Museum. They discuss why most of these theories relate to the mob, why they may or may not be true, and what Las Vegans aren’t thinking about as we romanticize the mob’s involvement.
Do you have a wild Lake Mead story? Call or text us at 702-514-0719 or find us on Twitter @CityCastVegas
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You’ve probably driven past this swirly, swooped steel structure on Bonneville across from the outlet mall. It’s also all over social media every summer: “Hey, Vegas is so hot, this building melted!” You might even know that it’s officially titled the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health — but as it turns out, none of the theories we’ve heard about its origins (modeled after a brain, fashioned after sand dunes, and certainly not actually melted) are true.
Here to share the true story behind the building is Director Dr. Dylan Wint, who’s been with the Center since it opened in 2010. As it turns out, famed architect Frank Gehry didn’t want to build anything in Las Vegas — but something changed his mind. Host Vogue Robinson and Dr. Wint talk about the origins of the building, the research and care that happens inside, and why Las Vegas so desperately needed the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.
Have you been to the Lou Ruvo Center? Do you have a “what’s that building” episode idea? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719, or email us as lasvegas@citycast.fm. You can always shoot us a note on Twitter, too: @CityCastVegas
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The pews were filled with the who’s who of the Las Vegas legal world last Thursday, from politicians to police officers, criminal defense attorneys, and more — all for a “tiny, fierce” woman named Bonnie Polley, who was Clark County Detention Center’s first chaplain. In this remembrance from host Dayvid Figler (himself a criminal defense attorney who knew Pastor Bonnie for many years), he describes her impact in the community and how her unique role enabled her to humanize people on all sides of the aisle in an all-too-often dehumanizing system.
Did you know Pastor Bonnie Polley, or have stories from those impacted by her advocacy work? Leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719, or send us a tweet @CityCastVegas.
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Oh hello, Friday friends — if you’re here for hot takes and cool dad jokes, you’re in the right place. In this Friday roundup of the news, Layla, Scott and Sonja discuss the pros (smell of desert rain, Lake Mead gains 3 inches) and cons(uh, majorly destructive flood damage) of monsoon season and the wreckage in Death Valley. (Do we hate to love it? Love to hate it? Who can say.) Next up, the first week of school is coming to a close, and the students in our families fill us in on the general vibe. Word on the street is that some classrooms are so crowded, some students are sitting on the floors. Whoa.
We also discuss an investigation from the R-J about an affordable housing program that’s coming to a sudden end… just as rents are peaking in the Valley. (Didn’t Nevada just get $500 million to create and preserve affordable housing? AHEM.) Last but not least, we name our Vegas residency dream tickets. Stay tuned to hear about the heavy metal band we’re forming, called Petrichor, after the smell of desert rain. insert melodic screaming here
Do you have a hot take on our hot takes? A dad joke to usurp our dad jokes? Send ‘em our way on Twitter @CityCastVegas or leave us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719. (We might even play the best ones on the pod!)
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Avi Kwa Ame is the Mojave name for Spirit Mountain and the surrounding landscape, which is sacred to over 12 Indigenous tribes. In February, Representative Dina Titus introduced a bill to designate Avi Kwa Ame as a national monument that would protect the area for cultural and recreational purposes. There hasn't been any legislative action on the bill since it was filed, so advocates are looking to President Biden to sign a presidential decree to protect the lands.
The Conservation Lands Foundation works with advocates to hold the Bureau of Land Management accountable and works to secure the safety of Avi Kwa Ame. Associate Program Director Bertha Gutierrez sits down with Host Vogue Robinson to explain its importance to Indigenous tribes, why they are working towards a national monument designation, and how this would benefit all of us.
Have you been to Avi Kwa Ame? What do you think about the monument proposal? Leave us a message or send us a text at 702-514-0719, or tweet at us @CityCastVegas.
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When it comes to local mottos, we've got a few: #VegasStrong, "What happens here, stays here," and "it's a dry heat." Over the last couple decades, some locals have added "Save Red Rock" to their list. That's because the legal fights over where, how, and whether to develop near Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area have become long-term, entrenched battles. The Nevada Independent's environment reporter Daniel Rothberg recently wrote an in-depth investigative piece detailing the latest twists and turns in developer Jim Rhodes' lawsuit against the county, which he claims has stalled his plans to construct a high-density residential development abutting the park. Daniel joins us today to help us put this lawsuit (and development around Red Rock, broadly) into context: What makes a project like Rhodes' different from, say, the construction at Bonnie Springs? Why should we care about the impact of a road through the desert? And who gets to make decisions about the lands bordering our national conservation areas? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Contributor Michael Lyle, a reporter at the Nevada Current, joins us today to talk about the results of the Valley’s latest homeless census — we’re seeing the largest uptick in homelessness since 2019. That’s not surprising, Michael explains, since we’re also in the midst of soaring rents (which, despite some reports of cooling, is still nearly 25% more expensive than it was in 2019). In fact, Michael points to research showing that a $100 increase in median rent is associated with a 9% increase in homelessness. So what’s a Valley to do about it, and is relief on the way any time soon?
Read Michael Lyle's full report on nevadacurrent.com.
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The pandemic floodgates have opened, and gambling is hot hot HOT once again. Southern Nevada is raking in months upon months of record-breaking gambling revenue. Reid International Airport saw its busiest month ever in June. And gambling influencers are apparently a thing now — the Plaza debuted an influencer-themed slot machine last month, making a play for the screen-addicted millennial generation.
But with the highs come the lows, and host Dayvid Figler knows a thing or two about the low-lows that come with problem gambling: He helped create a diversion court to keep those suffering from gambling addiction out of prison and get them into treatment. So how do you figure out if you, or your friend, or your Uncle Benny, has a gambling problem? And what can families, casinos, and our government do about it?
For more resources on problem gambling, visit the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, or call their confidential 24-hour hotline at 1-800-522-4700. You can also start the conversation with yourself: Take the 20-question problem gambling questionnaire here.
Do you have thoughts, questions, or ideas for us? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. You can go find us on the ol’ bird app too — tweet at us: @CityCastVegas
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Today, hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler, along with lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson, indulge in the cleansing fires of RAAAAGE: Cuz there’s so much rage-inducing news this week! First up, we talk about the new 50-foot showgirl signs planned for the entrance to the Arts District (spoiler: Dayvid compares them to “clip art”). Then it’s on to the Clark County Commission’s recent unanimous vote to expand an “order out” ordinance on the Strip: Now anyone with convicted of any crime can be ordered out of the area, and could face a misdemeanor arrest for violating the rule.
Oh, and don’t forget RAGE item three: The results of a recent House committee investigation were released last week, and Siegel Suites (the subject of our episode on Pinkbox Doughnuts) were found to use egregiously underhanded tactics to evict tenants before, during, and after the moratorium on evictions — even those whose rental relief applications were underway.
Don’t worry, we end on a sweet note: Bacon milkshakes, puppies, and art gallery openings. Come along for the emotional rollercoaster!
What’s got your goat in this week of news? Do you actually love the showgirls and are we off the mark? Let us know! Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. Or send us a tweet @CityCastVegas.
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As rising rents push artists out of the Arts District, could the newly-revitalized New Orleans square be the answer? New Orleans Square is a two-story complex in the historic Commercial Center — once a hub for business, dining, and nightlife in the 60s and 70s. It has since gained a reputation (whether fair or not) as a dangerous hotspot for illicit activities. But business owners are working to rebrand the Commercial Center: Ron and Judy McMenemy bought New Orlean Square in the 2000s and curated it to create a center of arts and culture. Since their passing in the last few years, their children took over the building and have recently listed it for sale.
Host Vogue Robinson visits gallerist Nancy Good at Core Contemporary Art Gallery inside New Orleans Square. They talk about how Nancy is continuing Ron’s work to make New Orleans Square a desirable place for artists, and why Las Vegas shouldn’t be afraid of the area.
Have you been to New Orleans Square? Let us know what you think of the area by leaving us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719. Or tweet at us! Follow us on Twitter @CityCastVegas.
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Tony Hsieh has long been painted as a tortured visionary — most recently in the posthumous biography by two Wall Street Journal reporters dramatically titled “Happy at Any Cost: The Revolutionary Vision and Fatal Quest of Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh.” But longtime Las Vegas locals have observed the last decade of transformations along Fremont East (funded by Tony’s company Downtown Project) with mixed emotions.
Lifelong resident and writer Nicholas Russell recently penned an essay in the Baffler about the problem with mythologizing Tony Hsieh — he and host Dayvid Figler bust some Downtown Project myths, examine Tony’s legacy downtown, and break down just why it was so easy for Tony Hsieh to set up shop in Las Vegas.
How do you feel about downtown Las Vegas? Leave us a message or shoot us a text at 702-514-0719.
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Even before the pandemic, Nevada had the second-largest nursing deficit in the country, and the pandemic has only worsened nurse burnout and retention. According to a 2022 report, nurses are leaving their jobs at “a dramatically higher rate” — Nevada needs to hire 4,000 nurses just to meet the national average.
Nursing schools are responding: In 2019, the UNLV School of Nursing launched a summer Nurse Camp to help high school students “develop realistic expectations about nursing school and working as a registered nurse” through hands-on activities, simulations, and lectures. Producer Layla Muhammad takes us through the camp as she talks to UNLV alumni and organizer Jennifer Pfannes about the camp, their goals, and how they hope the program can mitigate Nevada’s nursing shortage. Plus, hear from two high school students about their experiences at Nurse Camp.
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Nevada’s ballot initiative process can be confusing. The deadline for gathering signatures for measures proposing to amend the state Constitution passed in June, with another deadline approaching in the fall for measures to amend the law. After the signatures are verified by election officials, they make it on to our ballots. Some measure get caught up in court while others breeze through the process. Producer Layla Muhammad talks with Host Dayvid Figler about what we’ll see on our ballots this November, where the process goes right, and where it goes terribly wrong.
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Producer Layla Muhammad hosts newsletter editor Scott Dickensheets and host Dayvid Figler in a spirited conversation for this week’s Friday news roundup! The team discusses why residents may or may not care about the demolition of three casinos that cater to locals, and Dayvid’s idea on how the city could repurpose these properties. Also, the hits and (many) misses in The Vice Guide to Travel Las Vegas and what we would do with the billion dollar Mega Millions jackpot money ... even though we have to drive to the state line to buy lottery tickets.
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We call Vegas “Sin City,” and we have the strippers, cocktail waitresses, escorts, Little Darlings billboards, and The Love Store to prove it. Sex is a part of everyday life in Las Vegas. But there’s more to this conversation… and most of us aren’t comfortable talking about it. Is Sin City… Sex Positive?
Today on City Cast Las Vegas, host Vogue Robinson talks with Rebecca Bosetti, assistant professor at the UNLV School of Social Work, about her new course, “Sexual Behavior & Society: The Good, the Bad, and the Controversial,” and why Las Vegas needs more sex-positive social workers.
Every morning, Scott Dickensheets serves up a fantastic newsletter filled with news items, events, and other things you should know about our city. Sign up here: lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter!
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The Las Vegas Valley has a speeding problem: 2021 was the worst year for traffic fatalities in over a decade (2022 is on track to beat that), and speeding is the cause of a third of fatal crashes. The Review-Journal recently published an investigative piece that looked at 95,000 speeding tickets from one of our biggest municipal courts, and found that 80% of them were reduced to parking violations. That means no traffic school and — crucially — no record of repeat dangerous drivers. But is ratcheting up the consequences in a criminalized system the answer? What solutions are on the table? Host Vogue Robinson talks with Michael Scott Davidson, the investigative reporter behind this piece, about his findings and what the experts are saying.
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As rents rise all over the valley, some business owners in the Arts District got hit with 200-400 percent rent increases, making life more difficult for everyone — but especially cultural businesses. Priscilla Fowler has owned her eponymous fine art gallery in the area since 2016, moving three times within the Arts District, most recently this year after her rent was doubled. Downside: In her current location, away from Main Street, foot traffic has declined. Host Vogue Robinson talks to Fowler about her experience, how things have changed, and what we can do to keep the arts in the Arts District. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
KSNV News 3 sports anchor Bryan Salmond calls Las Vegas the sports and entertainment capital of the world. With another successful NBA Summer League in the books and the WNBA’s success with the Aces here in the valley, could it finally be time for an NBA team in Las Vegas? Lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson and Bryan discuss what the prospects are for our basketball city and why LeBron James just might be the one to bring a team here.
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Our Roving Producer Lizzie Goldsmith is from Denver and has never been to Vegas! Host Vogue Robinson and Lead Producer Sonja Cho Swanson plan out Lizzie’s perfect Vegas itinerary including bars, views, food, outdoor activities, and(reluctantly) what to do on The Strip. The millennials also explain why Bennifer’s Vegas wedding brought on the nostalgia and some very Vegas news items.
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When’s the last time you exited Spring Mountain Rd. and visited Las Vegas’ Chinatown? Today on City Cast Las Vegas, lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson chats it up with Lorraine Blanco Moss. She’s the host of Nevada Public Radio’s Exit Spring Mountain, a podcast that takes its name from the east-west artery that runs through the heart of town. The show — which launches their second season on July 27th! — focuses on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, the fastest growing ethnic group in Nevada. Sonja and Lorraine talk about why representation is so important, and how sharing stories by and for the AAPI community builds empathy, especially in the wake of rising anti-Asian violence.
Want to dive deeper into Vegas news and happenings? Then head on over to our website and make sure you’re signed up for our morning newsletter! lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter
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It’s been a long hard summer for many reasons. Ways to find relief are more important than ever, but where do you go in a city that’s known to be shallow and culture-less? Host and former Clark County Poet Laureate Vogue Robinson sits down with Producer Layla Muhammad to set the record straight about the culture surrounding Vegas’ thriving poetry scene. Vogue gives you everything you need to know on how to engage with the poetry community in Las Vegas and why it’s important for the city to support.
Check out Wednesday’s newsletter for a list of recurring poetry open mics, slams, and jams happening in town.
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How worried should Nevadans be about the BA.4 and BA.5 variants? Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the sixth wave is making its way across the globe. Nevada’s weekly updates show an increase in hospitalizations despite the decrease in reported cases week to week. In her conversation with host Vogue Robinson, The Nevada Independent’s Tabitha Mueller shares her reporting on the disparities in the numbers, vaccination rates, and wastewater monitoring.
Visit The Nevada Independent COVID data page here.
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Mary Blankenship is a researcher at Brookings Mountain West at UNLV who studies internet misinformation — and her most recent study suggests that sentiments on gun reform across the political aisle are converging. The study looked at millions of tweets and examined users’ emotions and reactions to mass shootings in the United States dating back to 2017 to the 1 October shooting in Las Vegas. As the conversation around gun reform changes, Blankenship and her co-author, Carol Graham, hope “this analysis can provide an opening toward a solution where one did not seem to exist before.”
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It’s Friday (can we get a FriYAY?) which means it’s time for a news roundup! Sonja, Scott and Layla sit down to talk about our relatively quiet week in the news. First up, neighbors in Centennial Hills are divided over a proposed low-income housing development up at Rome & Decatur Blvd. Sonja brings up this research from NYU, which suggests property values can sometimes go up when low-income housing comes in. We talk about the tiny homes for the unhoused that New Leaf Community built—before they were razed by the city of North Las Vegas. Here’s the city-led tiny homes project in Sacramento that Layla mentions. And last but not least, the county is asking for community input on a permanent 1 October memorial — we weigh in. Here’s an interactive site with photos and videos of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, from which Scott suggests we might take some inspiration.
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Local wrestling champion Anthony “Da Shade” Shade says being raised in the Fight Capital of the World helped him make his way into wrestling. Not only is Vegas the best place to combine the sport with the entertainment, but the local independent scene is LGBTQ+ inclusive. Da Shade joins us to explain why Vegas is the place for big money matches, how the pro side of wrestling could be more inclusive, and more with host Vogue Robinson.
You can catch Da Shade in action on Saturday, July 23 at Versus Pro and Friday, August 12 at PrideStyle's "Slowdeath". Both matches at Versus Pro Studios inside the Boulevard Mall. Check out their Twitters at @VersusProStudio and @PrideStylePro for more information.
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You may have noticed a few changes around town: Slowly but surely, patches of grass in medians, under street signs, and in between buildings are being replaced with desert landscaping. That’s thanks to a bill, AB356, that was passed last year in response to our ever-worsening drought — landscaping is the Valley’s biggest water guzzler. AB356 cuts back “nonfunctional turf” on business properties, like your local McDonald’s and perhaps your very own HOA. Today, JC Davis from the Southern Nevada Water Authority breaks down what exactly AB356 mandates, what “nonfunctional turf” means, and why it’s so important right now.
Got thoughts on our water use or grassy medians? Hit us up on Twitter @CityCastVegas or leave us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719.
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The pandemic created a lot of new dog owners and a lot of new outdoors enthusiasts — resulting in more newbie dog hikers on our local trails. Today, we sit down with Kimberly Lewis and Paula Jacoby-Garrett, co-authors of “Best Hikes with Dogs: Las Vegas & Beyond.” Kimberly and Paula tell us how to be responsible hikers with dogs, from picking up their poop (yep, it’s a problem) to keeping them protected from the sun and heat (dogs can get skin cancer, too!). They also share their favorite cool and shady dog-friendly trails in the Valley.
Sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter and you’ll get roundups of the latest news, whip-smart commentary, and links to upcoming events around town.
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If you follow sports news, you probably know that the Las Vegas Raiders have had a bumpy few years: The city of Oakland is suing them for leaving, they’ve faced lawsuits and allegations of a boys club culture, their head coach resigned after his racist & homophobic emails were released, a star rookie had a horrible car crash that killed a woman… believe it or not, the list goes on. But last Thursday, the team announced their new president: Sandra Douglass Morgan, an attorney and former chair of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, and the NFL’s first Black woman president. Could this signal a new beginning for the team?
Today, host Vogue Robinson sits down with Vegas Nation host and award-winning Review-Journal videographer Heidi Fang to talk about what the Raiders have been through, how they’ve displayed resilience on and off the field, and why more Las Vegans should get behind our new football team.
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It’s Friday, which means it’s time for a news roundup! Every Friday, members of the team sit down to talk about what’s going on in Las Vegas news. Today, lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson sits down with producer Layla Muhammad and newsletter editor Scott Dickensheets. At the top of the ticket is the recent spate of violence at the Fremont Street Experience, and the curfews the city is talking about enacting for those under age 21. How can we keep Fremont safe — and also keep it weird? Next up, Layla, Scott, and Sonja share their Las Vegas origin stories (only one of us was born here — can you guess who?). And we wrap things up with some feel-good news, including a friend of Layla’s, Vegas boxer Hasim Rahman Jr., who is headed to Madison Square Garden next month to face Jake Paul. We’re rooting for the home team!!!
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Cheers, Las Vegas! John Oliver praised the city for being a model for water conservation in the Colorado River Basin while pointing out that our friends in Utah aren’t doing so well. City Cast Salt Lake Host Ali Vallarta sits down with our Lead Producer Sonja Cho Swanson to compare notes on their cities’ water usage.
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Throughout the month of June, the Neon Museum hosted a series of Pride Gallery talks, tying iconic neon signs (like the Silver Slipper and the Riviera signs) to important moments in Las Vegas LGBTQIA+ history. For example: Did you know that the “Red Barn” sign advertised one of the Valley’s first openly gay bars in the 1970s? Or that the Silver Slipper was a casino with a “boylesque” female impersonators show?
Today on the show, producer Layla Muhammad interviews Emily Daura, Tour Development Coordinator at the Neon Museum, about how the Pride gallery talks were developed, how they’ll carry forward beyond June, and what other new programming the museum has planned.
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The pandemic accelerated a lot of new technologies (like Zoom meetings and online shopping), and the gaming industry was certainly not left behind. Poker players are using A.I. to optimize their game. The newly-opened casino Resorts World is the first casino in town to offer cashless wagering at slots and table games. And can we talk about all those new, immersive slots showing up everywhere?
Today, Dayvid talks with Dr. Brett Abarbanel, Director of Research at the UNLV International Gaming Institute, about the blurring lines between “gambling” and “gaming,” the consequences of high-tech gambling getting too fun, and if technology could actually be part of the solution.
For more news, events, and snarky commentary, sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter
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Nevada is one of just a handful of states with a “citizen legislature” — our lawmakers convene every other year, get paid a nominal fee, and have day jobs. A recent lawsuit claims that at least some of those legislators violate our state constitution: Government employees aren’t supposed to be legislators. But, as host Dayvid Figler points out, lawmakers with any sort of day job inevitably have conflicts of interest. And because they’re biennial part-timers, guess who ends up wielding a lot of influence? Lobbyists! Dayvid has some big feels about all of this, so lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson chats him up about why the framers of the state constitution created a citizen legislature … and why it might not be such a good idea anymore.
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As Pride Month comes to a close and midterm elections loom over us, Nevada Current reporter Michael Lyle shares his findings on how anti-LGBTQ bills and rhetoric from politicians, both locally and nationally, are affecting the queer community. With over 300 proposed bills nationwide to limit the rights of LGBTQ community members this year and local candidates adopting hateful language, the current atmosphere is creating a what Michael calls “chilling effect." It's not all doom and gloom, though: Listen through to the end to hear what has brought Michael joy and pride this Pride month.
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Food writer Kim Foster loves a good donut — but you won’t ever find her at Pinkbox Doughnuts, a booming chain here in the Valley. That’s because Pinkbox is owned by the Siegel Group, a Vegas-based corporation that manages dozens of weekly stay apartments across several states. The Siegel Group is currently being investigated by a House panel regarding its eviction practices during the pandemic. And, as Kim explains, far from being the solution to our housing crisis, weeklies can drive people into even more instability.
Want some more Vegas news, events, and insider hot takes? Then be sure to sign up for our morning newsletter!
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The Nevada primary election ended last Tuesday and the road to the general election has begun. Some races turned out as expected, while others were a little surprising. Assistant editor and political reporter from the Nevada Independent Michelle Rindels joins Dayvid to discuss how some of these results could give us insights into November’s election, and what it says about the broader political climate in Nevada.
Be sure to also check out today’s episode of IndyMatters for more takeaways from the NV primary!
Looking to stay up-to-date this election cycle? Sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter for major election news and some much more.
You can also keep up with us on Twitter at @CityCastVegas or call/text us at 702-514-0719! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Juneteenth, the day Union soldiers took over in Galveston, TX and delivered the news of the Emancipation Proclamation to the last enslaved people on June 19, 1865, is being honored as a federal holiday for the second year since President Biden signed it into law in 2021. Since many people did not learn about the Juneteenth in school, our hosts Vogue and Dayvid offer some historical context and where Nevada stood at the time. Vogue then talks to Dre Whitfield of Juneteenth365 about their work, celebrations in Las Vegas, how the community can continue offering support to Black businesses 365 days a year.
You can find more about the work Juneteenth365 does year-round and events this weekend on Instagram at @officialJuneteenth365.
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Las Vegas is the fastest-warming city in the U.S. — and that's only made worse by the urban heat island effect, caused by dense concentrations of heat-trapping concrete, asphalt, glass, and steel. (Read more about Southern Nevada's extreme heat vulnerability on this site from RTC: Southern Nevada Strong.) The effect isn't evenly distributed: Our neighbors in the center and Eastside of the city see even higher temperatures from older infrastructure and more blacktop. This April, the City of Las Vegas announced a plan to plant 60,000 trees by 2025 to combat the city's extreme heat. In today's episode, the state’s only female Master Arborist and founder of the non-profit Nevada Plants, Lisa Ortega, joins us to discuss why trees are the answer to our heat problems, how this disproportionally affects communities of color, and why we might just be able to dub her the Lorax of Las Vegas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Three Square’s Restaurant Week is here! For its 15th year, about 200 restaurants have joined Southern Nevada’s only food bank to work towards their goal of a hunger-free community. In Nevada, 1 in 8 residents, and 1 in 6 children, struggle with food insecurity. The pandemic exacerbated this issue, putting the state among the most food-insecure in the nation. Kate Hibbard Gaines, Director of Development at Three Square, joins us to talk about Restaurant Week (June 6 - 17), how they support food-insecure residents, and what’s on the menu that she is looking forward to.
You can visit www.restaurantweeklv.org for more information about participating restaurants and www.threesquare.org for how to support their fight against food insecurity in Southern Nevada. And be sure to share your experiences on social media using the hashtag #LVRW!
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The nationwide formula shortage hit Las Vegas hard: According to the Nevada Independent, we were the number one metro area with a formula deficiency in May. And while production was brought back online this weekend, supplies are expected to remain tight until at least June 20th. Nearly four-fifths of Nevada’s babies rely on formula — why the high demand? UNLV Public Health Professor Gabriela Buccini, who studies maternal health and infant nutrition, chats with lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson about what’s missing in the formula shortage conversation today. We hear about formula marketing strategies, America‘s woefully inadequate maternity leave, and why bodybuilders have created a black market for human breast milk.
Do you have opinions on breastfeeding, the formula shortage, or how babies get fed? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text! We’re at 702-514-0719.
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And for even more Vegas news, events, and observations, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s true, the news is out: We have a brand new host joining the team. Please join us in welcoming Vogue Robinson to City Cast Las Vegas! Many of you already know Vogue from her work as a poet, author, mentor, and teaching artist in Las Vegas — but if you don’t, we’re so excited for you to get to know and love her as much as we do. On today’s show, our producers queued up some very-Vegas questions for Dayvid and Vogue to draw from a (metaphorical) hat: Where to find the best ice cream in town, parking strategies when it’s 120F outside, and what Vegas stereotypes are actually (yes!) true.
Be sure to head over to Twitter to follow Vogue @Vogue_316 and join us in welcoming her to the team (we’re at @CityCastVegas).
If you have questions or a welcome message for Vogue, you can send us a text or leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719.
And last but not least, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nevada's Secretary of State election isn’t one that typically makes too many headlines—after all, how many of us know what exactly that job entails? But, as the Review-Journal Politics and Government Editor Steve Sebelius reminds us, when it comes to elections integrity, the Secretary of State matters a whole lot: They preside over the state Electoral College, and ensure that the will of the people is carried out during elections. Today, Dayvid and Steve talk about outgoing Secretary Barbara Cegavske’s strikingly nonpartisan tenure, where the candidates lie on the Big Lie spectrum, and why Steve thinks the Secretary of State race is Nevada’s single most important race of 2022—and how democracy itself might be at stake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, we have a special guest episode with Graham MacLennon, host of the podcast Cheftimony. Graham is a lawyer-turned-chef-turned-lawyer once again who brings his inquisitive eye to the food world—and quite often, the Las Vegas food world. Graham is one of those special Las Vegas regulars who not only takes frequent trips here, but has also taken the time to immerse himself in life off the Strip and learn how locals see the food scene here. In this guest episode, Graham shares two excerpts: One from an interview with Josh Crain, Executive Chef of Bouchon Bistro at The Venetian, and another with Laura Tucker, food enthusiast, craft beer lover, and Nevada Senior Deputy Attorney General.
You can learn more about Cheftimony and hear more of their excellent episodes at www.cheftimony.com. Be sure to give them a follow on Twitter @cheftimony and Instagram @cheftimony. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last week, ProPublica co-published a stunning investigative piece with The Nevada Independent detailing how a politically-connected COVID testing company called Northshore scored contracts across the state — but, as later investigations revealed, Northshore’s PCR tests were wildly inaccurate (in one instance, they had a 96% false negative rate), sending sick people back out into the community.
Today, Dayvid talks with Anjeanette Damon, the journalist who wrote the piece, about what this investigation tells us about Nevada’s pandemic response, our faith in public health officials, and the potential political fallout from the revelations.
Get even more Vegas news (and events and more!) in our newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter
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Last Thursday, Dapper Companies announced two winners for The Great Las Vegas Coffee Shop Giveaway, Dinette Luncheonette and Winnie & Ethel’s Downtown Diner. The latter of the two will receive a fully built out restaurant with goods and services estimated to be over $950,000 at the historic Huntridge Shopping Center. Winnie & Ethel’s will be a part of the Dapper Companies’ plan to reopen the shopping center and neighboring Huntridge Theater, which have been fixtures in Downtown Las Vegas for over half a century.
Like many historic sites that fall into disrepair, the significance can get lost with time, so on today’s episode, our host and Downtown Las Vegas resident Dayvid Figler explains to our producer Layla Muhammad why the Huntridge neighborhood is considered historic. Then, we talk to the owners of Winnie & Ethel’s Downtown Diner, Mallory Gott and Aaron Lee, about their new spot and what they hope to add to the community.
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Despite being legal in our state for medical and recreational use since 2016, the Nevada Board of Pharmacy has marijuana classified as a Schedule I substance, the strictest classification for drugs with "no currently accepted medical use," up there with methamphetamine and heroin. So last month, the American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada (ACLUNV) filed a lawsuit against the state to have marijuana removed from the list of Schedule I drugs. ACLUNV Executive Director Athar Haseebullah explains how Nevadans are still being impacted by the possession of marijuana because of this “loophole” that disproportionately affects communities of color and what they hope to achieve starting with their first major hearing on Monday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last month, the rising violence in Clark County School District came to a head in a horrific attack on a teacher, sending shockwaves through the community. In response, the Clark County Education Association, the Valley’s largest teacher’s union, presented a statement pointing a finger at restorative justice, which they called an “unfunded law” that “handcuffs”educators from taking action against violent students.
So what exactly is this restorative justice policy in CCSD, and what are the challenges it’s facing? Why do advocates think it’s needed, and how can it improve? Lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson sits down with CCSD Police Captain Ken Young, who’s been with the District for 30 years, to talk about school safety and the culture shift required within the police force to get kids off the track to juvie and on track to graduation.
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The world premiere of “Clown Bar 2,” a film-noir-meets-circus-clowns immersive theater project, opens TONIGHT at Majestic Repertory Theatre—and we’ve got the inside scoop. Dayvid sits down with Artistic Director Troy Heard to talk about what makes immersive theatre unique, the give-and-take symbiosis between entertainment on the Strip and local productions, and where the Las Vegas arts scene is headed.
Plus, we’ve got a bonus segment for you at the end of the episode: Producer Layla Muhammad brings us sounds and scenes from Clown Bar 2’s dress rehearsal. (Per Layla, it’s “freakin’ hilarious,” so you’re not gonna want to miss this one.)
Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm/newsletter for even more news and events from around the city.
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So far this year, over 460 babies have entered Clark County foster care system—at this rate, we’ll have 40% more babies in the system than last year. To help us understand this surge, we talk with Kim Foster, a local writer and foster advocate who has both fostered and adopted children in Clark County. We talk about the issues in our foster care system, why helping biological families is so important, and why you, too, might want to consider becoming a foster parent.
If you’re interested in fostering, Clark County holds both in-person and virtual info sessions. Find out more at countmein.vegas
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A leaked draft opinion from the U.S. Supreme Court suggests that Roe v. Wade, the 1973 case that guaranteed the right to abortion, will be overturned by a majority vote. With the draft likely to become official in the next few months, Western states like Utah, Idaho and Arizona face looming abortion bans that might have their cities turning to Nevada, where abortion rights are far more protected—they've been codified in state law since 1990. City Cast hosts from Salt Lake City and Boise, Ali Vallarta and Frankie Barnhill, join Dayvid to discuss what this means across state lines, and for the upcoming elections.
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May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) History Month (or AAPI Heritage Month, depending on who you ask). Here in Clark County, AAPI is our fastest-growing ethnic group, with an expanding footprint in a growing city. Lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson sits down with Mark Padoongpatt, Director of Asian and American Studies at UNLV, to talk about the things he loves about AAPI History Month, his hesitations about it, and what he hopes everyone in Las Vegas takes away from the spotlight on AAPI in May.
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Today we’re bringing you a guest episode from the Nevada Independent’s podcast IndyMatters, which features original interviews and Q&As with the Indy’s reporters on some of their top stories of the week. Joey Lovato hosts and produces the show every Tuesday. It’s one of our go-to podcasts, and we think you’ll love it, too! Make sure to subscribe to IndyMatters wherever you get podcasts.
In this guest episode, City Cast Las Vegas host Dayvid Figler talks with Joey about what makes IndyMatters special, before moving into the IndyMatters guest segment: An interview Joey held with Sheryln Hayes-Zorn from the Nevada Historical Society, about our many and varied state symbols. Did you know that Nevada’s official fossil is the ichthyosaur, and that we have TWO state trees? Why do we have a state tartan… and why have state symbols at all? Find out in today’s episode.
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Fawn Douglas is an artist, activist, and community leader doing work to educate Las Vegas on Native American culture and center joy with the Nuwu Art Gallery and Community Center. The gallery has been opened to the public for the first time to show Douglas’s MFA thesis exhibition, SOOV, until May 6. She sits down with City Cast Las Vegas producer Layla Muhammad to share a look into the creation of the arts complex and her work within the Las Vegas community.
Support Fawn and learn more at nuwuart.com and IAFInc.org
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Short-term rentals like Airbnbs are legal (and hotly contested) in some parts of the valley, but they’re still illegal in unincorporated Clark County, where about half our population lives. That’s about to change: Assembly Bill 363, passed by the state last year, will force Clark County to create the legal infrastructure to regulate these SRTs by July 1st, 2022. You might already know that City Cast LV’s host, Dayvid Figler, is an attorney and neighborhood activist who’s written extensively on the topic—so today, he sits on the other side of the table as lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson interviews him about what we’re getting wrong (and right) about the Airbnb debates.
Ready to join the conversation? First, you can email the County about STRs at: STRComment@ClarkCountyNV.gov
Next, shoot us a text or leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719: What do you think should happen with short-term rentals in your neighborhood?
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Last summer, the federal government declared the first-ever shortage in the Colorado River Basin, where Las Vegas gets about 90% of its water. The trend continues this year as Lake Mead and Lake Powell sit at their lowest levels—just looking at those bathtub rings is enough to give any desert-dweller anxiety. Today, lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson sits down with Nevada Independent environment reporter Daniel Rothberg, who explains how it all comes down to “a math problem gone wrong”—less water in and more water out.
So why does Las Vegas get the blame when we’re actually doing a pretty good job as a city at water conservation? How are we still reliant on major water guzzlers like agriculture in California and Arizona (thanks for all the lettuce)? And why does Daniel still have hope when asked if an apocalyptic Mad Max future awaits us?
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The decision on whether or not the Oakland Athletics will find their new home in Las Vegas is expected soon. That means yet another new sporting venue on the Strip could be on the pitch. We talk with UNLV assistant professor of economics Dr. William Robinson to weigh the pros and the cons of the MLB team’s possible move and if our city should even want it.
Listen until the end of the episode for the secret code to enter at lasvegas.citycast.fm to win 2 full festival tickets to Wave In: A BMI Festival! Giveaway ends Friday, April 22, 2022.
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Our community is still reeling from the North Las Vegas crash that killed 9 people in late January. Recently, Clark County has seen a rise in traffic fatalities and pedestrian deaths in the first quarter of 2022 with several high profile crashes. How can our growing city’s streets be safer? Director of the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), Kristina Swallow, joins us in the first of many conversations about how to make our roads work for everyone.
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Las Vegas and Chicago have emerged as top candidates to host the Democratic National Convention in 2024—the Windy City has hosted the DNC before (most recently in ’96), but this would be a first for Vegas. In this special crossover episode, Las Vegas host Dayvid Figler talks with City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran to debate the merits of having the DNC in each of our cities. Chicago’s got the history and the heartland geography; Las Vegas has the convention infrastructure and out-West issues of immigration, water and climate change (and let’s be real, Vegas is where the party’s at). But the biggest question of all just might be: Do either of our cities want the DNC at all?
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If you’ve somehow missed the news about K-pop sensation BTS starting their concerts this weekend, here’s your primer: They sold out four shows at Allegiant Stadium (yes, 65k-seat Allegiant Stadium)… in pre-sale. In 90 minutes. They’ll be painting the town purple (their signature color) with special events, merch, and even BTS-themed hotel rooms. So what’s the big deal, you ask? Well, host Dayvid Figler asked, and he got an earful from our producers: Sonja Cho Swanson and BTS Army member Layla Muhammad, who explain why K-pop has a global reach and just how powerful the BTS Army is.
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Allergy season in the desert can be brutal, especially when the wind hits you with pollen that isn’t native to the environment. As a majority of residents (and some visitors) are suffering with their sinuses this spring, we wonder what makes allergy season so notoriously bad in Las Vegas. Asma Tahir and Dr. Joram Seggev from the CCSD/UNLV Pollen Monitoring Program join us to break down allergy season, and tell us what could help with symptoms, and what doesn’t (spoiler: you could be wasting money on honey).
Learn more about the program and see the Valley’s pollen levels at unlv.edu/publichealth/pollen
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Desert tortoises spend 95% of their lives underground, making Mojave Max the most elusive celebrity in Las Vegas. After a long winter brumation (that’s hibernation for reptiles), Mojave Max emerged from his burrow on Saturday, March 26th at 12:21pm—and as everyone in Las Vegas knows, the arrival of Mojave Max marks the unofficial start of spring.
So who is Mojave Max, and how did he become the official mascot of desert conservation? We talk with Audrie Locke, PIO at the Clark County Desert Conservation Program, about the past lives of early Mojave Maxes (including one daring jailbreak), the unmarked “Area 51” for tortoises, and why you should never pick up a desert tortoise (spoiler alert: they’ll pee on you). Happy spring, everyone! Visit mojavemax.com for more information.
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Rent in Las Vegas has soared since the pandemic began—up 33% since Feb. 2020, double the national average. Nevadans are making hard decisions between rent checks and insulin, childcare, and food. So when Governor Steve Sisolak pledged $500 million to affordable housing programs during his State of the State last month, housing advocates cautiously welcomed the proposal. But where is all that money going, and can it do enough to close the gap? Nevada Currentjournalist Michael Lyle joins us to break down the funding and help us understand the challenges ahead. You can find Michael’s most recent article about rent control here.
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Announcing City Cast Las Vegas! Las Vegas is a place of colossal contradictions. It’s a city that says, “Oh, we’re in an arid desert? Perfect spot for some manmade lakes and dancing fountains!” It’s a city of shiny surfaces but also deep complexity if you know where to look. Starting March 29th, join us every weekday morning for 15 minutes to get all the Las Vegas news you need (and want) to know. Subscribe to the newsletter at lasvegas.citycast.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices