Talk About Las Vegas with Ira

Talking With Eric P. Endy – June 5, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with Eric P. Endy, author of “Paul S. Endy Jr. Las Vegas Casino Gaming Legend ” In this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Eric talks about why he wrote the book about his father’s legacy; how his research included both internal documents and speaking with old-timers who worked with his dad; why his book also includes the history of gaming products that his father produced, including dice and casino chips; how his father standardized the colors of chips; and why casino chip collectors are an important part of the gaming economy.

Talking With Alan Snel – May 29, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with Alan Snel, whose popular website, LVSportsBiz.com, reports the business side of Las Vegas’ expanding sports industry. In this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Alan talks about the probable move of the Oakland A’s to Las Vegas and the ramifications of building a stadium here; the financing involved (including partial public funding); the effects on tourism; and the competition of the ballpark with other venues (nonsports) on the Las Vegas Strip.

Talking With Giada Valenti – May 22, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with Giada Valenti, performing in Myron’s at The Smith Center May 24 at 7 p.m. In this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Giada talks about why her grandmother was her guide through life; how cooking is part of her life, along with performing; why some songs that are thought to be American or British are actually Italian; how she ended up living in Las Vegas, but performing around the world; why she sees herself as a storyteller; and the surprising country artist she idolizes.

Talking With Kevin Sucher – May 15, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with three-time Grammy nominee Kevin Sucher, leader of Las Vegas’ favorite yacht rock band, The Docksiders (performing every Thursday night at 7 at Notoriety Live in Neonopolis, Downtown Las Vegas). In this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Kevin talks about defining yacht rock; why he loves the genre; what establishing a residency in Las Vegas means to him; why he only wanted top-notch musicians for his band; and his favorite song (hint: Kenny Loggins).