The President's decision to federalize the National Guard in Los Angeles has sparked legal debate, as it marks the first time such an action has been taken against a governor's wishes since the Civil Rights Movement.

On this episode of The Middle Ground Radio Show, Tom Letizia welcomes Dr. David G. Schwartz — acclaimed author, gaming historian, and UNLV Ombuds — for a deep conversation on the rich history and evolving future of Las Vegas. From his global journey through the origins of gambling in Roll the Bones, to the golden era glamour of At the Sands, and the bold vision of Jay Sarno in Grandissimo, Dr. Schwartz shares powerful insights about what made Las Vegas what it is — and where it might be heading.

As anti-ICE demonstrations continue to grow nationwide, a UNLV sociology professor, Dr. Robert Futrell, weighs in on how protests, demonstrations, or rallies can bring change. He says that change and how long the change can be seen is all relative.

Since at least the early 1900s, Las Vegas has been known as Sin City, a place meant to be an adult playground where anything goes. Historically, that playground included a heavy dose of gambling and alcohol, along with all manner of nightlife.

It’s not a good sign in Carson City when members of your own party vote down your bill. But with less than two hours left in the Nevada Legislature’s 83rd session, a new version of Gov. Joe Lombardo’s landmark health care proposal — heavily amended by Democrats in the state Senate — left Republicans with little choice but to reject Senate Bill 495.

With big holidays like Memorial Day –that just passed –Fourth of July, and Labor Day, Las Vegas brings in thousands of people. However, as the years have gone by Las Vegas is experiencing a mixed bag in its tourism sector, with some metrics showing positive trends and others indicating a decline.