City Cast Las Vegas

Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown made history last year when she was elected to the North Las Vegas mayoral seat — and became the first Black mayor in the state of Nevada. Mayor Goynes-Brown sits down with co-host Vogue Robinson to talk about her vision for North Las Vegas, the city she grew up in, from her ambitious plan for downtown to commercial redevelopment, affordable housing, and the ongoing struggle to help the residents of the sinking neighborhood of Windsor Park. Thoughts? Questions? Let us know by calling or texting us at 702-514-0719. We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. For more news from across the Vegas Valley, make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here.

Deep in the Colorado River, monsters lurk in the murky waters — monster fish, that is, some the size of large person. But they aren’t invulnerable. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Dayvid Figler talks with National Geographic channel host Zeb Hogan, co-author of Chasing Giants, a new book about the world’s biggest freshwater fish. Zeb grew up on the Colorado, but by the time he was paddling on its waters, most of the truly big fish on our stretch of the lower Colorado had already died out. Zeb explains why monster fish are indicator species of our river’s health, and how some of our massive native fish have recently started to make a comeback. 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.

This week’s roundup deals with two of Vegas’ favorite topics, traffic and entertainment. The possible elimination of HOV lanes has pros and cons, but how will those lanes be repurposed? Also, after years of uncertainty, Brightline West’s high-speed rail from LA to Las Vegas seems to finally move forward and a new trend among Strip headliners to lock up phones gets mixed reviews. Co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson share their hot takes with lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson. 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.

The world of Las Vegas wine has traditionally been dominated by master sommeliers and snooty connoisseurs — at one point, 10% of the world’s master somms worked in Las Vegas. But there’s a new wine on the block: natural wines are cloudy, funky and little bit weird. And Las Vegas based writer Meg Bernhard tells co-host Dayvid Figler, you should give them a try. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, Meg talks about her time working on vineyards in Europe, where to get “nattywines” in Vegas (and why you maybe shouldn’t call them that), and how natural wines could change our local grape-scape. Meg’s book, titled “Wine,” is coming out from Bloomsbury next month. Have you tried natural wine? Planning to? Tag us when you imbibe — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. For more on what’s happening in Las Vegas, you’ll want to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here — it’s the best thing in your inbox every day at 6 a.m.

Take it from these old-timers: Navigating and surviving Las Vegas can be tricky. We’re an odd big-little town, where tourists outnumber the locals twenty-fold. So today, we’ve got co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler, along with lifelong Las Vegan Andrew Kiraly, publisher of thelist.vegas, to help you out. From car culture to comp karma, with tangents on making friends and the things you should never say to gamblers, we’ve got you covered with 15 rules for how to survive (and thrive) in Las Vegas. What do you think of our 15 rules? Did we miss any, or do you have more to add? 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.

Congresswoman Dina Titus has been representing Nevada’s First Congressional District since 2013, and before that she served in state government for two decades. So, it’s no surprise that she has opinions on some of the biggest issues Las Vegas is facing right now. Today she joins co-host Dayvid Figler to talk about water allocation, gaming, a not-so-old beef with the Nevada State Legislature, and more. 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.

Las Vegas is arguably the spectacle capital of the world — and yet, when it comes to popular-but-not-quite-stadium-sized musical acts (like The Cure, Boy Genius, and Bruce Springsteen), many of them skip Vegas but land in cities like Reno, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City. Yep, RENO. So what’s going on? Co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with Seth Yudof, a longtime entertainment producer in Las Vegas, about the unique entertainment economy in our spectacle-drenched town, and how things could (just maybe) someday change. Which of your favorite bands skip Vegas? Tell them about this episode on social media, and tag us, too! We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. Want even more Las Vegas news, events, and interesting commentary? Then make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here.

The Nevada Democratic Party saw two of their members, Clark County Commissioner Justin Jones and Chairwoman Daniele Monroe-Moreno, make headlines this week that were critical of their recent actions: Jones was sanctioned by a judge for deleting text messages related to developer Jim Rhodes’ efforts to build homes in Red Rock Canyon — some people even called for his resignation at a public comment meeting. Meanwhile, the GOP criticized Monroe-Moreno for comments she made about parents in a discussion on school choice. But was she taken out of context? Also, Governor Lombardo’s administration seeks a new building near the airport in place of their current downtown office, which they say is dilapidated. Co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler are joined by Andrew Kiraly, publisher of thelist.vegas, to explain the arguments and share some outdoor weekend events! What are your thoughts on school choice? Let us know in a voicemail and you could be featured in a future episode! Give us a call or text at 702-514-0719. And we’re on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Want some more daily Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is only 117 years old, which is young in comparison to Los Angeles’ 241 years. (Not that we wanna be LA) But we do think Las Vegas is still learning how to preserve its own history. One of the things we do cherish is our restaurants, especially our steakhouses! On today’s episode, co-host Vogue Robinson talks with artist and food writer, Brent Holmes about some of Vegas’ oldest and newest eateries that make up the quintessential Las Vegas menu. Restaurants mentioned: Bob Taylor’s Ranch House Oscar’s Steakhouse Top of Binion's Steakhouse Italian American Club The Golden Steer Ichiza Spago by Wolfgang Puck Esmerelda's Cafe Lotus of Siam Rani's World Foods Mint Indian Bistro Lindo Michoacan Dona Maria Tamales Tacos El Gordo Grits Cafe Mario’s Westside Market Chicago Joe’s 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.

The circus arts are a major attraction for Las Vegas, but have you heard of the Las Vegas Circus Center? Where performers, celebrities, hobbyists and everybody else can take classes and practices their acrobatic skills. It is a true hidden gem in the city of glitz and glamour where the fundamentals of the performers we see all over the strip are honed and perfected. So our host Dayvid Figler invited acclaimed acrobat Scott McDonald, both instructor and student at the center, to tells us about the path and challenges associated with the pursuit of circus arts and how everybody can find a class for them at the Circus Center! Sign up for classes at the Las Vegas Circus Center! Scott McDonald's Instagram! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Give us call or text us at 702-514-0719. Want some more Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter Hey Las Vegas.

After years of effort from activists, government officials, and Indigenous tribes, President Biden finally protected Avi Kwa Ame by declaring it Nevada’s fourth national monument in March. The 380,000 acres of land includes Spirit Mountain and is sacred to over 12 tribes. While celebrations happened all over the state, Governor Lombardo slammed the decision saying it was a “historic mistake” and that it would slow the development of affordable housing and disruptmining plans. Back in August, co-host Vogue Robinson spoke to Bertha Gutierrez of the Conservation Land Foundation. Bertha shares the story of Avi Kwa Ame, why it should be protected, and how Nevadans can enjoy it. 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.

As the Nevada 83rd legislative session continues multiple bills have been introduced in an effort to curb rising rent cost in the state and it has not been a clean process. With many of these bills missing their deadline to pass last week, 5 of them have made it through. In an effort to makes sense of this messy debate host Vogue Robinson is joined by Nevada Current Reporter and friend of the show Michael Lyle to break down the difference between rent control vs. rent stabilization and what do these bills mean for the residents of Las Vegas. Michael’s break down of the issue for the Nevada Current. We’re on social media! Catch us on Twitter and Instagram. Better yet you can call or text us at 702-514-0719. Wanna keep up with everything Las Vegas? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Las Vegas.

This Friday news roundup is a fun one: co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler are joined by Nevada Current reporter April Corbin Girnus to break down new legislation on illegal towing, explain some very Vegas neon sign laws, and a chauffeur service to LA with a big price tag. 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.

Recently Vegas has joined the ranks of cities throughout the nation to approve cottage kitchen laws. These laws allow for people to run small food businesses out of their private residences. But it isn’t all peaches and cream. In fact, the food items produced in cottage kitchens cannot contain uncooked cream, custard, nor cream cheese due to food safety regulations. Brett Boyer and his husband, Brendon Wilharber started their bakery, Desert Bread in 2018 and despite the challenges that rise, they’re rolling out the dough. Co-Host Vogue Robinson chops it up with Brett about how their business lets them spend more time doing what they love and how cottage laws have changed the pastry profession. Check out Dessert Bread! 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.

We are nearing the end of poetry month and the City Cast Las Vegas team couldn’t let it go by without celebrating our vibrant and bustling community. Luckily, our co-hosts are two poets who have been performing, organizing, and representing our city for 10+ years. But how did we cultivate a thriving and dedicated poetry scene in a city where the people and venues are constantly changing? Producer Layla Muhammad sits down with the co-hosts, former Clark County poet laureate Vogue Robinson and longtime Vegas writer and poet Dayvid Figler to learn more. 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.

Tax season may have officially ended last week, but some Las Vegans may still be feeling the heat. According to Fidelity National Financial, Las Vegas ranks #2 for biggest tax procrastinators. To get some insight into our tax aversion (not to be confused with tax evasion), lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson talks to Jodi Mobley, executive director of Nevada Free Taxes Coalition. They are a nonprofit that helps low and middle income people file their taxes, even after Tax Day and into the extended season. Jodi shares why taxes don’t have to be all that complicated and how they can be both a burden and a relief for families. The crew at Nevada Free Taxes Coalition will be on a well deserved break until May 8th. Appointments for the extended tax season will be available on their website in early May. 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.

Graduation season is upon us! We’re starting to see high schoolers and college grads descending on scenic spots around Las Vegas to take portraits — sometimes with elaborate additions to their stoles, gowns, and mortar board graduation caps. In fact, decorating grad caps is a fairly recent tradition that Dr. Sheila Bock, a folklorist at UNLV has been studying. She and co-host Dayvid Figler talk about why the messages on grad caps (even the silly SpongeBob ones) are so significant, why cultural expression is particularly important for some communities at commencement, and whether graduation regalia can go too far. They also get into the debate over AB73, a bill being discussed right now, which would allow high schoolers the same graduation garb permissions that university students in Nevada currently have. Have you worn special attire to a graduation ceremony, or know someone who has? Tell us how and why (or why you didn’t) by dropping us a line at 702-514-0719. You can leave us a voicemail or send us a text. And don’t forget that you can also follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Last but certainly not least, make sure to sign up for our amazing newsletter. Written and curated by beloved local journalist Scott Dickensheets, it’s a daily dose of news, events, and delightful commentary in our inbox every morning at 6 a.m. Sign up here.

The A’s have just signed a binding agreement to purchase land for a new stadium near Tropicana and Dean Martin. Does that mean they’re really coming to town? And how do we feel about that? On today’s news roundup, co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler sit down with lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson to talk about the Oakland-slash-Vegas A’s, a controversial HOA bill being debated in the legislature (and the problem with HOAs), and what happened when the Animal Foundation was called before the County Commission this Tuesday. Last but not least, we play the messages you sent us about human composting (surprise, not everyone agrees!). Pull up a chair and a bag of popcorn, friends — this week is all about the drama. How do you feel about the A’s coming to town? Leave us a voicemail or a text (702-514-0719), or tag us on social media — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Love what you’re hearing? Get even more of this Vegas-y goodness with news, events and commentary in our morning newsletter here.

Cooking with cannabis has moved beyond the college dorm weed brownie. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Vogue Robinson sits down with Veronica Marquez, AKA Chef Vee, a Cordon Bleu-trained private chef who creates cannabis-infused fine dining feasts for celebrity clients — we’re talking clams stuffed with cannabis aioli, scallops basted in cannabutter, and steaks with CBD-laced chimichurri sauce. Chef Vee shares hilarious stories from the world of high dining, gives home cooks some tips for infusing, and talks about how her meals are breaking down the stigma of who cannabis consumers really are. Do you have strong feelings about cannabis-infused cooking? Love it or hate it, we’d love to hear from — leave us a voicemail or a text message at 702-514-0719. Don’t forget, we’re also on social media and you can always tag us there, too! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. For more Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here.

Artificial intelligence has arrived in Las Vegas, and it’s here to stay. Both Resorts World and the Cosmopolitan already use A.I. chatbots with friendly names like “Rose” and “Red” to answer guest queries about where to go and what to do. There’s even a laser-eyed robot bouncer on the Strip. But how will A.I. evolve, and will it take over our city’s legendary hospitality industry? Could A.I. make gambling even more addictive? Are the A.I.-enhanced robots going to replace us all? Geoff Carter, senior editor at the Las Vegas Weekly, asked those questions in a recent cover story that he discusses with co-host Dayvid Figler. Don’t miss the end of the episode, in which we pit Geoff’s Vegas cred against ChatGPT — the last question threw us all for a loop. Are you worried about A.I. in Las Vegas? Or excited about it? Let us know what you think by tagging us on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram) or leaving us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719. Oh, and if you’re not signed up for our brilliant morning newsletter yet… whatcha waiting for? Get on the list for the best thing in your inbox every morning at 6 a.m. — sign up here.

The two most common legal options for funerals in Nevada (the traditional burial and cremation) are not the most environmentally friendly. That could change with a bill currently being debated in the Nevada Senate for a greener option: natural organic reduction, or human composting. Assemblyman Max Carter II tells lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson about the issues with current burial options, how natural organic reduction can help the environment, and what made him want to sponsor the bill. Would you want to be planted under a tree? Let us know your thoughts on natural organic reduction, or what kind of tree you'd want to become, at 702-514-0719. We’re on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram to join the conversation. Sign up for our morning newsletter here to stay engaged with all the latest community news, chatter, and hot takes.

The dams built along the Colorado River some hundred years ago paved the way for Western cities to boom. Las Vegas wouldn’t exist without Lake Mead, our nation’s largest reservoir. But these dams came with a cost: environmental impact, cultural loss, and fraught political battles. So as Western states stare down a deadline for figuring out our Colorado River allocation, we gotta ask: Was the creation of Lake Mead… a mistake? Today, co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with UNLV hydrology professor David Kreamer to talk about the mistakes we made when damming the river first started, the salty agricultural mayhem the dam created downriver, and what needs to change if we’re going to keep Lake Mead, after all. 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.

It’s one of the more hotly-debated legislative items this session: Nevada is one of just five states without a lottery. We already have gambling, so what’s the big deal? In today’s news roundup, co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler along with newsletter editor Scott Dickensheets break it all down, and debate the pros and cons of a lottery in our state. They also discuss the MSG Sphere’s upcoming launch (and what they’d actually want to see in the sphere). And last but not least, we ask why Vegas was recently ranked the country’s sixth-best city for weed, below Buffalo, NY and Baltimore, MD (yes, the concentration of Taco Bells was a metric in this highly-scientific ranking). Are you excited enough for the MSG Sphere to score a $200+ ticket? Tell us your thoughts on the newest addition to our skyline on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719 and let us know if you’d vote yes or no to the lottery in Nevada. Don’t forget to sign up here for our morning newsletter to stay up to date and engaged with your wittiest neighbor Scott!

Many of the foods we think of as quintessentially Filipino (chicken adobo, lumpia, and pancit) are actually the result of centuries of colonization and cultural influence from Spain, China, Malaysia, and even the U.S. So what exactly makes Filipino food… Filipino? That’s the question driving Walbert Castillo, creator of the brand-new Filipino pop-up series Istorya — along with chef Catherine Carlucci and a team that includes culinary historians and cultural advisors, Istorya is peeling back the layers of history. Their first meal in the series, which is popping up on April 25th, explores pre-colonial Filipino ingredients and techniques, which includes tuna, ube, activated coconut charcoal, and a very special “dinosauregg”-shaped block of salt. And, as Walbert tells lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson, it turns out that Las Vegas is the perfect ground zero for this Filipino food movement. 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.

Many Vegas natives wouldn’t think gardening in our climate makes a lot of sense, but as our spring weather finally evens out and we spend more time outside, you may be glad to hear that gardening is possible for us! As our city grows and apartment living gets more common, our co-host Vogue Robinson asks Cheyenne Kyle, master gardener at the Obodo Collective, how to start a spring patio garden for any small space. From planting a watermelon in a bag to transitioning your garden for the summer, Cheyenne has all the Vegas planting tips you need to keep your plants alive. Let us know what else is on your mind this spring 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.

When Jordan Clark saw an e-bike in the lobby of his hotel a few years ago, he wasn’t sure he’d be able to ride it. At 330lbs, he wasn’t doing much cycling. One ride later, and he was hooked. Today, Jordan is 245lbs and now owns several e-bike stores in the Valley — and he’s not just an enthusiast, he’s an evangelist. As Jordan points out, people with limited mobility like the elderly and infirm can tackle rides that they wouldn’t have otherwise. But not everyone is happy about e-bikes and how fast they can go. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, Jordan and co-host Vogue Robinson chat about how e-bikes can offer accessible cycling, the debates around e-bike regulation, and where to hit the trails around Las Vegas. Are you an e-bike enthusiast? Adamantly opposed to their presence on the trails? Let us know what you think: Tag us on social media (@CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram) or leave us a text or a voicemail at 702-514-0719. Want more Las Vegas goings-on-about-town? Then make sure to sign up for our amazing morning newsletter here!

Nevada lawmakers are discussing a bill that would decriminalize psychedelics like shrooms and ketamine. Advocates argue that this will help open the door for more research on psychedelics’ clinical uses in mental health. But what’s the experience of using psychedelics really like? Perhaps no one is more qualified to talk about this than Shane Mauss — he’s a comedian, science podcaster, and self-described psychonaut who has been exploring the world of psychedelics (bothfirst-hand and through interviews and research) for over 20 years now. And on the heels of his 111-city tour of “A Good Trip,” Shane is now bringing a new art and video-filled special called “A Better Trip” to Area15, for a residency starting April 23rd. Co-host Dayvid Figler and Shane sit down to talk about how Shane’s views on psychedelics have evolved, his own mental health journey, and what Nevadans should know about psychedelics as we debate their decriminalization. Do you think Nevada should decriminalize psychedelics? Have you had a good trip or a bad trip you want to share? Leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719, or tag us on social media — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. For more of what Las Vegas is talking about, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here.

The historic Huntridge Theater will light up its marquee neon sign tonight for the first time in two decades (event details here) — which developer J Dapper says is a sign to the community that the space is on its way to renovation. But soon — and how likely is it to happen? In today’s news roundup, co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler, along with contributor and thelist.vegas publisher Andrew Kiraly, discuss the Huntridge relighting and the “Lucy’s football” promise of the theater’s reopening. Then, it’s on to a heavier topic: A lawsuit against former associates of Tony Hsieh — it’s not the first such lawsuit, but this one comes with serious allegations, including a claim that Hsieh paid $30 million over actual value for the former Las Vegas city hall building. So what lessons can Las Vegas learn from this sad saga? And last, we discuss a proposed new beer garden on the roof of an apartment building — and how this debate could open up an interesting conversation about walkable neighborhoods and sensible zoning. Would you want a beer garden on your apartment rooftop? Or a coffeeshop in a house down the street? Let us know by leaving us a voicemail at 702-514-0719, or tagging us on social media: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also follow us for tips, pics, and soundbites from the show! For even more Las Vegas news, events and snarky commentary, you’ll want to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter. Don’t miss out, get it here.

During the pandemic, Victoria Flores started a food pantry from her home to help her community on the Eastside have better access to nutritious foods and essentials. Two years later, as SNAP benefits, or food assistance, that some Nevadans have been receiving since the pandemic began comes to an end this month, Victoria tells co-host Vogue Robinson how The Solidarity Fridge has been embraced by the community and will continue to meet people where they are at, no questions asked. Learn how you can get involved in supporting The Solidarity Fridge at https://www.thesolidarityfridge.org. Are you a Las Vegan working to solve an issue in our community? Let us know in a voicemail or text at 702-514-0719. You can also join the conversation 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.

The 2023 legislative session saw over 900 new bills introduced that ranged from serious to seriously curious. So how do the legislators make time to discuss all of them? Well, the wackiest ones don’t usually get a chance for debate on the floor, but Nevada Current reporter April Corbin Girnus tells co-host Dayvid Figler that there might be more to these “stunt” bills than you think. April and Dayvid discuss the wackiest bills proposed this session, and why they might serve a purpose, even if they’re dead on arrival. If you were elected to the legislature, whats the wackiest bill would you’d propose? Let us know on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to hit that follow button while you’re there. You can also call us at 702-514-0719 and leave it in a voicemail! Trying to keep up with Nevada politics, news, and culture? Let Scott Dickensheets help you stay in the know by signing up for our morning newsletter here.

When AB168 passed in 2019, it required school districts across the state to integrate restorative justice into their disciplinary plans — in other words, instead of going right to the punishments, like suspension or expulsion, schools needed to look at other behavioral remedies. But fast forward to today, and it seems like nobody (on any side of the political spectrum) is happy with how AB168 has played out. Even our governor recently spoke out against it, pushing a new bill that will make major revisions to AB168 in the name of school safety. So why didn’t restorative justice play out as planned? Has AB168 turned into a scapegoat for school safety concerns? What policies could actually work? Today, co-host Vogue Robinson sits down with Rocío Hernández, to talk about the drama over these two bills, and what’s being done about it. What are your school safety concerns — and how do you see restorative justice working (or not) in schools? Let us know by commenting and tagging us on socials (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram), or by leaving us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719. Then make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here. It’s chock-full of events, news, thoughtful (andoccasionally snarky) conversations about topics that matter to Las Vegans.

We’re a city where visitors outnumber locals many times over. Tourism is the lifeblood of our economy, but it’s also a source of tension when the party comes to local neighborhoods. So short-term rentals (or STRs) like Airbnbs or VRBOs are a hot-button issue here— where they should be allowed, how they affect communities, and who gets to operate how many. Today, co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with Jackie Flores and Louis Koorndyk, both STR operators and co-founders of the Greater Las Vegas STR Association. They explain why they’re challenging the County ordinance, and what they’re fighting for. It’s a spirited conversation — and a timely one: The County Commission will be discussing changes to the ordinance in their meeting tomorrow, Tuesday, April 4th. It’s on the agenda at 10 a.m. What are your thoughts on STRs in Las Vegas? Call or text us at 702-514-0719, or tag us on on Twitter and Instagram (we’re @CityCastVegas). Want more Las Vegas news? Then make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here.

Monday was the last day for members of the Senate and Assembly to introduce bills for the 2023 session and some of those proposals are already seeing pushback. Co-hosts Dayvid Figler and Vogue Robinson are joined by lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson to break down both sides of a proposal to ban hate symbols and another to out cheaters in online poker. Plus, the team shares their highlights from the first year of City Cast Las Vegas — along with two surprise special guests! Check out our birthday post on Instagram for a year of memories (we’re @CityCastVegas on both Twitter and Instagram). And if you’ve got any thoughts on our discussion topics today, let us know! You can call or text us at 702-514-0719. Want even more Las Vegas news, events, and fun commentary? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here — it lands fresh in your inbox at 6 a.m.

Ever since Ikea popped up on the south curve of the 215, the surrounding empty dirt lots have been filling up with businesses, housing, and soon-to-be a new Station Casino. But the most exciting development in the Rainbow and 215 area is a food hub that neighbors are dubbing Chinatown 2.0. Food blogger Phil Tzeng (AKA LasVegasFill) joins co-host Vogue Robinson to talk about the best new spots, how the concentration of Asian food started, and if Vegas is big enough for two thriving Chinatowns. What other Vegas food topics do you want to hear about? You can let us know in a text or voicemail at 702-514-0719. And we’re on social media! Follow us and let us know if Vegas is big enough for two Chinatowns: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Find more Vegas favorite food spots and a whole lot more by signing up for our morning newsletter here.

When you’ve got friends or family coming to town that you really, really like, you take them to the good Vegas spots. You know what we’re talking about — whatever the opposite of M&M’s World is. Today, co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with Coco Jenkins, creator of the popular Instagram account @NothingToDoLV. There is, of course, a TON to do in LV, and Coco’s got the best tips for where to take a family of six, the college friend who only visits Vegas ironically, and the auntie and uncle looking for a low-key good time. Follow us on social media for more Vegas tips, secrets, and explainers @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Have some Vegas recs of your own you’d like to share? Send us a text or voicemail at 702-514-0719. Don’t forget to sign up for the our morning newsletter here for your daily dose of local news, facts, and fun.

Last week, we asked our listeners and newsletter readers to tell us about the biggest tourist scams you’re all seeing in Las Vegas. And overwhelmingly, the number one response was the “fake cannabis” stores on Fremont Street. Yep — despite the green crosses and marijuana leaves all over their signs, none of their products will actually get you high. So how are they getting away with this… and why should locals care if tourists get a little swindled on Fremont Street? Today on City Cast Las Vegas, lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson talks with Scot Rutledge, a government and regulatory affairs specialist at Argentum Partners — he managed the 2016 campaign to legalize adult-use recreational cannabis. Scot visited one of these “fake cannabis” stores over the weekend and explains how they’re getting away with selling the pre-rolls, gummies, and bud that don’t contain enough THC to get even the most enthusiastic tourist high. Have you seen the fake cannabis stores in Las Vegas? Post a pic and tag us on social media: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. And if you’ve thoughts on today’s episode, let us know: call or text us at 702-514-0719. Want some more Las Vegas news, events, and commentary? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here.

No place in Las Vegas has changed more in the past few years than the Arts District downtown. Over the course of the pandemic, as businesses all over town closed their doors, a few brave locals launched their own small businesses in the Arts District — and they’ve thrived. Our hosts Vogue Robinson and lifelong downtowner Dayvid Figler take you on their tour through the newest places on and around Main St. You’ll hear about Dayvid’s favorite coffee joints, Vogue’s newest favorite gift shop, and also their discussion on how the neighborhood has changed for the better and maybe even the worse. Learn something new about our city? Give us a follow on social media for even more Vegas content! We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719. For more Las Vegas goings-on-about-town, do yourself a huge favor and sign up for our newsletter here — it arrives fresh in your inbox every morning at 6 a.m. You can thank us later.

Some long awaited news finally came down the federal pipeline to Nevada: Avi Kwa Ame, the sacred land to Indigenous communities, has officially been declared a national monument. On Tuesday, Biden protected over 500,000 acres of land in Clark County. Co-host Vogue Robinson and producers Sonja Cho Swanson and Layla Muhammad recap the efforts from multiple groups and discuss Governor Lombardo’s critical remarks. Also, Elon Musk’s Boring Company submits plans for an expanded Vegas Loop (hey, if it goes bust, we can always turn it into a giant Slip ‘N Slide). And last but not least, the team dreams up a very Vegas airport. How would you make the airport feel more Vegas? Let us know in a voicemail at 702-514-0719. You can also join the conversation on social media by following us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Stay current and stay engaged with all things Vegas by signing up for our brilliant morning newsletter here — it’s the best thing in your inbox at 6 a.m.

The days of the dirt-cheap buffet and the 99 cent shrimp cocktail are long gone — and with inflation on the rise, cheap eats are harder to find than ever in Las Vegas. But being on a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t (or shouldn’t) enjoy a meal out, says contributor Brent Holmes. Today on the podcast, Brent tells co-host Dayvid Figler all about their philosophy on cheap eats, and where to find the best ones in town, from falafel to food markets. A list of the restaurants that Brent and Dayvid discuss: Hot food counters at Marketon, Mariana’s, and Rani’s World Foods Pho Bosa Kitchen Fat Boy Restaurant Daikon Vegan Sushi Gyro Time Ellis Island Village Pub & Cafe Habanero Grill Esmeralda’s Cafe We’ve got them all mapped out for you here. Love what you’re hearing? Keep us with us on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Want to share your own favorite cheap eats in Vegas? Call or text us at 702-514-0719, or tag us on the social accounts above. For even more Las Vegas news, events, and whip-smart commentary, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here.

70 years ago, iconic Black musicians like Sammy Davis Jr. and Harry Belafonte might have graced the stage at Vegas casinos — but wouldn’t be allowed to stay on-site, or walk through the front door (though many pushed back). Despite Las Vegas’s reputation for some freedom from societal norms, segregation was one line in the sand casino operators wouldn’t cross. Why was that? Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Vogue Robinson chats with historian Claytee White, director of UNLV’s Oral History Research Center. She points us back to March 26, 1960, the day the Strip finally agreed to desegregate — and why that agreement was never written down on paper. Did you learn something new from this episode? Have a question for Claytee White? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 702-514-0719. You can also find us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. For even more Vegas news, history, and goings-on about town, make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here.

In Nevada and 11 other states, an obscure statute allows the trash company to put a lien on your home if you don’t pay your bills. They say it’s because unlike water and gas utilities, they can’t cut off service — they have to keep picking up your trash. But over the course of 2022, Republic Services has doubled their lawsuits, and they’re not saying why. Today, co-host Vogue Robinson chats with Michael “MJ” Lyle, who just wrote a story about a Henderson woman who could lose her home because of 20-year-old unpaid trash bills, and the solutions he sees as an alternative. (Spoiler alert: One of them involves Rihanna.) What’s been your experience with Republic Services? Let us know on socials — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram — or by leaving us a voicemail at 702-514-0719. Stay in the loop on all things Vegas, from news to events and more: Sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter! Get it right here.

If you follow any kind of Vegas news online, the algorithms will inevitably surface “gambling influencers” on your social media feeds. These are typically accounts that livestream hours and hours of slot play — with millions and millions of views. It’s a new phenomenon, casino industry expert Scott Roeben (AKA Vital Vegas) tells co-host Dayvid Figler. And casinos aren’t quite sure what to do with them — are they helping casinos? What about the influencers dabbling in illegal betting practices, or other questionable legal gray areas? And then there’s the dark side of it all: Are they making problem gambling worse? What’s your take on gambling influencers? Got a favorite gambling influencer? Let us know, and tell us why! Tag us on social media (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram). And hey, we’ve got another question for you: Have you seen any tourists getting swindled in Vegas? What do you think are the biggest tourist scams in town? Leave us a message at 702-514-0719 — we may play it on a future episode. For more Vegas news, events and commentary (it’ll make you laugh, we promise), sign up for our morning newsletter here.

Should animal abusers be put on a publicly-available registry, much like sex offenders are? That’s what one bill recently proposed in the legislature wants to do — but as always, we’ve got some hot takes on that proposal. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with producer Layla Muhammad and Nevada Current reporter April Corbin to talk about the week of news. After discussing the animal abuse bill, we tackle another tough topic: A bill that would legalize physician-assisted death for terminally ill patients — and all the complications involved. Last but not least, anyone who attempted to hit the highways on Wednesday knows that President Biden came to town. So why did he discuss healthcare… and not Avi Kwa Ame? What are your thoughts on the proposed registry of animal abusers? Let us know by leaving a voicemail or sending us a text message at 702-514-0719. You can also comment on social media — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Want to stay even more in the know on Las Vegas news, events, and more? Make sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here.

As Vegas creeps towards warmer weather, we find ourselves in the perfect season for brunch. But this is the entertainment capital of the world, so we can’t just brunch — in this city we turn every occasion into a party. The Review Journal’s restaurant reporter Johnathan Wright and co-host Vogue Robinson share their thoughts on the “party brunch,” how brunch culture has taken a turn, and their favorite spots in Vegas. Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know in a voicemail at 702-514-0719. Or let us know your best party brunch experience on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. For more food news and recs, be sure to sign up here for our deliciously curated morning newsletter.

On the heels of the February closure of Village Square, the one movie theater in town that would regularly play indie films, a new theater opened its doors: The Beverly is a glamorous, brand-new construction with top-of-the-line tech. It’s also privately-funded by noted Vegas philanthropist Bev Rogers. So where Village Square failed, can the Beverly succeed? Founding creative director Kip Kelly thinks so. He tells co-host Dayvid Figler how “event-izing,” quirky curatorial picks like “Leprechaun 3,” and catering to our 2.3 million locals (and not our 42 million visitors) is all part of the plan. What do you want to see at the Beverly? Got an indie film or cult favorite that you’re hoping they’ll screen? Comment on socials (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram) or leave us a voicemail at 702-514-0719. To stay in the loop on all things Vegas, sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter here. You’ll get a delightfully-curated selection of news, events, and musings about our city, fresh in your inbox every day at 6 a.m.

Yes, Las Vegas lights are visible from space and yes, you aren’t going to see much of the night sky from the middle of town. But, as David Blanchette, vice president of special events at the Las Vegas Astronomical Society, tells co-host Dayvid Figler, the open desert just beyond the light dome of our city is a fantastic place to view the night sky. He spills the beans on some great out-of-the-way spots to stargaze, and explains how humidity in the air and proteins in the human eye can change your viewing experience. David and Dayvid also touch on the new development out at Red Rock Canyon, and how a simple change in light fixtures could help cut back on light pollution. Don’t miss the LV Astronomical Society’s next community event on March 25th. Do you have a special spot to go look up at the stars? More tips for getting a good night sky show? Let us know on socials (we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram), or leave us a voicemail or a text at 702-514-0719. We love getting your feedback, so fire away! For more on the latest, greatest, and sometimes irate-est goings-on in Las Vegas, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here. It’s the best thing in your inbox at 6 a.m. daily!

Mojave Max is Las Vegas’s most elusive celebrity… literally. Like all desert tortoises, he spends 95% of his life underground. But as every Vegas schoolchild knows, the day that Mojave Max emerges from his winter brumation (that’s the reptilian version of hibernation), spring officially begins. Today on City Cast Las Vegas, as we await Mojave Max’s return, we’re bringing back a favorite conversation from last spring: Co-host Dayvid Figler sits down with Audrie Locke from the Clark County Desert Conservation Program to talk about how Mojave Max came to be, why you should never pick up a tortoise (spoiler: they’ll pee on you), and why these hard-shelled friends are surprisingly fragile, much like our desert ecosystem. Have you ever guessed Mojave Max’s emergence correctly? You’ve got bragging rights: Let us know by calling us at 702-514-0719, or commenting on socials: We’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. For more on the latest and greatest in Vegas news, arts, and culture, be sure to sign up for our brilliant morning newsletter, right here.

Vegas icons Siegfried and Roy’s massive jungle-theme palace has been put up for sale for $3 million. Does this signify the end to the over the top, kitschy Vegas era that the late performers made their mark on? Also, CCSD takes on the fight against vaping in a lawsuit against e-cigarette maker Juul and a new proposed bill sparks debate between craft beer breweries and distributors. Co-hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler discuss with newsletter editor Scott Dickensheets for this week’s Friday news roundup. What do you think of the new Vegas design trends? Missing the OTT era or loving the lean towards minimalism? Let us know on social media @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. And if you have some really strong feelings go ahead and rant it in a voicemail at 702-514-0719! Make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here for more Dickensheetsian wit and humor in your inbox.

We’re “Mariana Trench” deep when it comes to the state of mental health in Nevada, Dr. Jim Jobin, psychotherapist and co-host of PodTherapy, tells CCLV co-host Dayvid Figler. That might sound like hyperbole, but it’s backed up with data: Nevada ranks 51st in the nation for access to mental health. But why? Why is it so hard for us keep providers in the state, and how do our current insurance laws make it harder to get care? Can any of the bills currently being debated in our legislature do anything about it? We take notes so you don’t have to! Here are the bills that Dr. Jim mentions: SB 119 - Allows for continuing coverage of telehealth AB 138 - Provides Medicaid coverage for integrated behavioral healthcare SB 177 - Allows Medicaid to cover stronger meds for psychiatric medication, like antipsychotics AB 69 - Expands student loan forgiveness to increase the number of mental health providers SB 146 - As initially proposed: An “any willing provider” law, basically to require insurance companies to accept otherwise qualified healthcare providers into their system. What other proposals are you curious about this legislative session? Let us know in a text or voicemail at 702-514-0719. We’re also on social media! Follow us @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. Keep up with all the happenings in Carson City by signing up for our morning newsletter here.

Las Vegas is one of the most well-known destinations in the world, yet the best known works about the city are mainly from visitors who don’t always get things right. Co-Hosts Vogue Robinson and Dayvid Figler are both accomplished writers living in Las Vegas who struggle with biases and expectations about how Las Vegas can or should be depicted. At this very special live taping at the brand new Beverly Theater, Vogue and Dayvid sit down with accomplished Las Vegas-based writers Kim Foster and Veeda Bybee in front of an engaged, live audience, to discuss the balance between being protective of your home town but also writing true, intriguing accounts of a city as unique as Las Vegas. Kim and Veeda also discuss pushback in presenting Las Vegas stories to editors and publishers and making sure Las Vegas is given its fair due. Want to hear the full panel plus audience Q&A? Find that on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyfahv7ApjAVGufMbFlHP5A Let us know what you’d like to hear at a live City Cast Las Vegas panel! Send us a message @CityCastVegas on Twitterand Instagram. You can also send us a voicemail or text at 702-514-0719. Make sure to sign up for our always entertaining morning newsletter here for more Vegas insights and hot takes.