Gambling’s Most Exclusive List: Secrets of the Black Book

Join us for a deep dive into the history and significance of the Black Book, as Jonathan and Gary host James Taylor, former Chief of Enforcement at the Nevada Gaming Control Board. They explore Taylor’s 28 years of gaming enforcement, including detailed stories of organized crime, casino cheats, and notorious cases. Special guest feature by former Mayor Oscar Goodman brings a unique perspective on the legal battles surrounding the Black Book. Learn how this tool has evolved and its current role in safeguarding the integrity of Las Vegas casinos. Discover the fascinating insights and experiences from those who have dedicated their careers to maintaining order in the world of gaming.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Rob Goldstein: Inside the Operator Playbook of Iconic Resorts

In this podcast, Jonathan and Gary sit down with Rob Goldstein, a legend in the gaming industry. Goldstein shares his remarkable journey of over 30 years, primarily with the Sands Group, starting from an unexpected childhood experience that led him to a career in gaming and hospitality. He discusses his East Coast beginnings, his father’s gambling habits, and his transition from law school to the forefront of the gaming industry. The conversation highlights Goldstein’s instrumental role in the development of Las Vegas, including significant milestones like collaborating with Sheldon Adelson on the creation of the Venetian and Palazzo, the value of themes in hotels, outsourcing food and beverage operations, and non-gaming revenue. Goldstein also speaks about his future plans as he looks forward to new ventures after announcing his departure from Sands.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Hogs and Heifers: New Beginnings at the Plaza

Join Jonathan and Gary in this exciting episode as they welcome the ladies behind the iconic Hogs and Heifers – Michelle Sandler and Michelle Dell. Discover the rich history of this famous biker bar from its origins in New York’s meatpackings distirct to its thriving days on Downtown Las Vegas’ Third Street. Despite challenges and a recent closure, Hogs and Heifers is making a spirited comeback with a pop-up bar at the Plaza. Learn about their unique hiring process, upcoming events like the St. Patty’s Day firefighter fun games, and their passion-driven journey. Don’t miss their dynamic energy and plans for this thrilling Las Vegas venture!

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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CORE Arena at the Plaza Hotel & Casino to host free rodeo events during NFR Downtown Christmas Expo returns as exclusive premuin western wear shopping event

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 19, 2025) – Proud to continue the western legacy in downtown Las Vegas, the Plaza Hotel & Casino will again server as a hotel sponsor of the Wrangler National Final Rodeo (NFR) and host numerous free rodeo events at its outdoor equestrian center, the CORE Arena, Dec. 5-13. The Downtown Christmas Expo, a curated western wear shopping event, also returns to the Plaza’s convention center, Dec 4-13, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Free rodeo events at the CORE Arena include:

  • Hooey Junior Patriot Las Vegas College Showdown events, Dec. 11-13
  • Cowboy Town Showdown Cinch Ranch Sorting National Championships, Dec. 5-7
  • Rope for the Crown Breakaway Championship, Dec. 6-7
  • Cattle Dog National Trials, Dec. 8-10
  • Las Vegas Stars Tie-Down & Breakaway, Dec. 11-14

The RopeSmart Rope For The World Dummy Roping will also be held in the entry hall of the Plaza’s third floor convention space, Dec. 11-13.

The Plaza is offering special NFR hotel room rates, starting at $79 a night. And the CORE Arena offers covered and uncovered equine stalls for rental during NFR. Coupled with 24-hour onsite security, the Plaza makes it easy for rodeo participants and enthusiasts to “kiss their horses goodnight,” knowing their animals will be safe while they enjoy their evening just steps away, playing on the casino floor or eating a delicious steak dinner at Oscar’s Steakhouse.

The Downtown Christmas Expo again takes over the Plaza’s third-floor convention space from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Dec. 4-13. The carefully curated shopping event features a diverse array of premium apparel and accessory designers, artisans, jewelers, and Western couture. With dozens of Western industry vendors, including its top makers and trend setters, the expo showcases exclusive looks and products. The Downtown Christmas Expo is free to attend and offers parking validation with purchase.

Each night of NFR, the Plaza will host two free watch parties. A family-friendly watch party sponsored by American Hat Company will take place inside the Plaza’s showroom at 5:30 p.m. (doors open at 5 p.m.) and will offer nightly prizes and giveaways as well as special guest appearances. A VIP watch party sponsored by American Hat Company and Crown Royal will be held in the Sand Dollar Downtown for guest 21 years of age or older and offer commemorative photo ops, drink specials, and live entertainment after NFR concludes.

With multiple rodeo events at the CORE Arena as well as free viewing parties, the Downtown Christmas Expo, and complimentary shuttle service to and from the NFR’s evening events at the Thomas & Mack Center, the Plaza is an unparalleled destination for NFR. To learn more, visit: https://www.plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/nfr/.

Editor’s Note: Download high-resolution photos of prior NFR events at the Plaza and CORE Arena at https://tinyurl.com/4rjfhsdw

About the Plaza Hotel & Casino
Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, the Plaza Hotel & Casino combines a vintage Rat Pack attitude with modern styling and personal customer service for the ultimate Vegas experience. First opened in 1971and built on the site of the original Las Vegas railroad depot at 1 Main Street, the Plaza has transformed its historic location into a one-of-a-kind destination for cocktails, gaming, entertainment, and dining. Its glittering porte-cochère is home to the outdoor Carousel Bar that offers handmade cocktails inside a life-sized, animated Vegas-themed carousel setting. The Main Street entrance is also home to Pinkbox Doughnuts and downtown’s first and only smoke-free, social media-friendly gaming space created in partnership with social media influencer Brian Christopher. The Plaza has nearly 1,000 modern rooms and suites, a classic Vegas showroom, downtown’s only bingo hall, live music at the Sand Dollar Downtown, and 30,000 sq. ft. of refurbished ballroom and meeting space. The Plaza brought the rodeo back to downtown with its CORE Arena, downtown’s only outdoor equestrian and multipurpose facility. Guests enjoy a variety of dining options led by the renowned Oscar’s Steakhouse in the hotel’s iconic glass dome and on a rooftop patio overlooking the Fremont Street Experience. A lounge-style sports book, along with hundreds of slot machines and nearly two dozen table games, comprises an 80,000-square-foot casino floor. A rooftop pool and recreation deck with private cabanas, hot tub, food truck, and dedicated Pickleball courts provides a variety of outdoor amenities. For more information on the multiple award-winning Plaza Hotel & Casino, visit www.plazahotelcasino.com. Get updates via FacebookInstagram, and Twitter.

About the CORE Arena

Located adjacent to the Plaza Hotel & Casino, the CORE Arena is an outdoor equestrian center in downtown Las Vegas. The venue opened in December 2018 with two outdoor arenas for roping practice and exercise and hosting numerous events related to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) and Junior NFR. With 80 equine stalls for year-round use, it is easy for rodeo enthusiasts to “kiss their horses goodnight,” knowing their animals will be safe as they enjoy their evening just steps away playing on the casino floor or having a delicious steak dinner at Oscar’s Steakhouse. The CORE Arena is also a multipurpose outdoor event venue enabling the Plaza to host a variety of events – from sporting events to demolition derbies – further diversifying the downtown experience and attracting more business and people to the area all year long. For more details, visit https://www.plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/core-arena/.

MEDIA CONTACT: Amy E. S. Maier, The Warren Group, amy@twgpr.com, 702-904-0296

Beyond the Casino Floor: A Deep Dive with Pompsie & Greta

Jonathan and Gary welcome popular Las Vegas YouTubers Christopher Pomparelli and Greta Sereni, known as Pompsie and Greta, respectively. They discuss their rise to fame through their channels, Pompsie Slots, amassing over 276 million combined views by offering authentic perspectives on experiencing Las Vegas. The conversation spans various topics, including the appeal of slot machine content, the challenges of managing a YouTube channel, memorable video experiences like the ‘Cosmo Saga’, and future plans. The duo shares insights into their unique approach to competition, content creation, and maintaining work-life balance as a married couple, while shedding light on the business side of being YouTube influencers. The episode also features opening collectible sports and celebrity memorabilia from Lucky Box vending machines.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Behind the Scenes: Helldorado Days Rodeo and the People that Make it Happen

Join us for an exciting episode of our podcast recorded from Oscar’s office! This episode features special guest Natashia White, Director of Marketing, and Michele Evans, VP of Sales, Catering, and Core Arena. We dive into the transformative journey of Core Arena, the significance of rodeos, and the history of Helldorado Days. Discover the world of rodeos, mutton bustin’, and the collaborative effort behind this awe-inspiring event. Plus, get insights into upcoming activities, events, and exclusive stories straight from the Plaza Hotel & Casino. Don’t miss out on this vibrant discussion!

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Vegas Unveiled: Insights from Casino Veteran Dennis Conrad

In this special episode, Jonathan and Gary are joined by casino marketing legend Dennis Conrad, who brings over four decades of experience to the table. Dive deep into the exciting world of casino marketing, where Dennis shares his vast insight on engagement, the role of social media, and the evolving nature of the gambling industry. From his early days as a dealer at the mob-run Stardust to launching his own successful consulting firm, Dennis reveals the secrets behind creating compelling casino promotions, understanding player DNA, and fostering a player-first culture. Plus, get the inside scoop on the current trends at the global gaming expo G2E and enjoy some fun surprises with the Plaza’s unique Lucky Box vending machine. Whether you’re a casino enthusiast or a marketing professional, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune now!

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Helldorado Days Rodeo at the Plaza Hotel & Casino offering fun for the whole family with addition of a carnival, petting zoo and line dancing

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 13, 2025) – This year, the Helldorado Days Rodeo on Friday, Nov. 7 and Saturday, Nov. 8 at the Core Arena at the Plaza Hotel & Casino will offer even more fun with a family-friendly festival before the rodeo excitement begins each night.

Opening at 4 p.m. each day, the Helldorado Carnival at the Plaza will include a variety of classic carnival rides and games as well as the crowd-favorite mechanical bull. Produced by GR81 Amusements, most rides and games will cost 3 to 5 tickets per person. Tickets can be purchased onsite with cash or credit and start at $1.25 per ticket, with savings for buying 20 tickets or an all-day wristband for $25. Children of all ages are welcome, with most rides requiring a minimum height of 36 inches and select thrill rides (like Gravitron & Trooper) requiring 42 inches.

Adjacent to the carnival will be a Western-style petting zoo where kids and adults can meet friendly farm animals up close. Managed by Petting Zoo 2 U, it’s hands-on fun that brings the barnyard to Downtown Vegas.

Also, at the festival, there will be open-air line dancing by DFX Entertainment. Guests of all skill levels can dance to the beats of popular country music under the neon lights.

Then beginning at 6 p.m., the Hellldorado Days Rodeo will feature bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, breakaway, and bareback riding, with prize purses totaling $40,000. The rodeo also features related western-themed events, like mutton bustin (a sheep riding competition for future cowboys and cowgirls who are 4-10 year old and under 60 pounds), a Whislerino contest, and a historical exhibit area. The winning artwork of a children’s coloring contest will also be on display on the first night.

General admission tickets for the Helldorado Rodeo are on sale online starting at $10 per person (plus taxes). VIP tickets starting at $30 each (plus taxes) offer guaranteed seating as well as access to an exclusive bar and restrooms. Only tickets purchased from the Plaza’s website are officially sanctioned for the event. Tickets are not being sold for the event via any other retail site.

After the rodeo ends, guests can keep the night alive back on the festival grounds with a free Rodeo After Party offering drink specials, a live DJ set, and the electrifying energy of Forest House Art Car in a legendary Vegas nightlife setting.

Sponsored by the Commission for the Las Vegas Centennial and the Plaza Hotel & Casino, the mission of the Helldorado Days Rodeo is to bring the community together to celebrate the spirit of Old Las Vegas, including those who shaped the city’s history and those who are working to preserve the western lifestyle while looking toward the future.

Details about the Helldorado Days Rodeo, the carnival, and all associated events are at: https://www.plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/helldorado-days-rodeo/.

About the Plaza Hotel & Casino
Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, the Plaza Hotel & Casino combines a vintage Rat Pack attitude with modern styling and personal customer service for the ultimate Vegas experience. First opened in 1971and built on the site of the original Las Vegas railroad depot at 1 Main Street, the Plaza has transformed its historic location into a one-of-a-kind destination for cocktails, gaming, entertainment, and dining. Its glittering porte-cochère is home to the outdoor Carousel Bar that offers handmade cocktails inside a life-sized, animated Vegas-themed carousel setting. The Main Street entrance is also home to Pinkbox Doughnuts and downtown’s first and only smoke-free, social media-friendly gaming space created in partnership with social media influencer Brian Christopher. The Plaza has nearly 1,000 modern rooms and suites, a classic Vegas showroom, downtown’s only bingo hall, live music at the Sand Dollar Downtown, and 30,000 sq. ft. of refurbished ballroom and meeting space. The Plaza brought the rodeo back to downtown with its CORE Arena, downtown’s only outdoor equestrian and multipurpose facility. Guests enjoy a variety of dining options led by the renowned Oscar’s Steakhouse in the hotel’s iconic glass dome and on a rooftop patio overlooking the Fremont Street Experience. A lounge-style sports book along with hundreds of slot machines and nearly two dozen table games comprise an 80,000-square-foot casino floor. A rooftop pool and recreation deck with private cabanas, hot tub, food truck, and dedicated Pickleball courts, provide a variety of outdoor amenities. For more information on the multiple award-winning Plaza Hotel & Casino, visit www.plazahotelcasino.com. Get updates via FacebookInstagram and Twitter.

MEDIA CONTACT: Amy E. S. Maier, amy@twgpr.com, 702-904-0296

Helldorado Days Coloring Contest

The Helldorado Days Rodeo is excited to announce the return of its annual Coloring Contest, inviting young artists in grades K-6 to showcase their creativity and celebrate the spirit of the West.

The contest is open to children in three grade divisions: Kindergarten-1st grade, 2nd-3rd grade, and 4th-6th grade. First, second, and third place prizes will be awarded in each division, with all winning artwork displayed prominently at the Helldorado Days Rodeo on Friday, November 7, 2025, at CORE Arena.

Contest Details:

  • Eligibility: Students in grades K-6, divided into three age categories
  • Entry Deadline: Friday, October 17, 2025, by 11:59 PM PST
  • Winner Announcement: October 24, 2025
  • Entry: Free, one submission per person

How to Participate:
Children can download the official coloring sheet at here. Entries must be hand-colored using traditional methods—no electronic coloring permitted. Each submission requires a parent or guardian signature and must be uploaded through the online submission form with a clear scan or photograph of the completed artwork.

Prizes:

Winners will receive gift certificates from Boulevard Trophy, Nevada Natural History Museum, Flip N Out Extreme, and additional local sponsors. All prize winners must pick up their awards in person at the Helldorado Days Rodeo.

The Helldorado Days Rodeo, a cherished Nevada tradition, features professional bull riding, barrel racing, roping competitions, and family-friendly entertainment.

For contest rules, entry forms, and more information, visit the coloring contest page.

About the Plaza Hotel & Casino
Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, the Plaza Hotel & Casino combines a vintage Rat Pack attitude with modern styling and personal customer service for the ultimate Vegas experience. First opened in 1971and built on the site of the original Las Vegas railroad depot at 1 Main Street, the Plaza has transformed its historic location into a one-of-a-kind destination for cocktails, gaming, entertainment, and dining. Its glittering porte-cochère is home to the outdoor Carousel Bar that offers handmade cocktails inside a life-sized, animated Vegas-themed carousel setting. The Main Street entrance is also home to Pinkbox Doughnuts and downtown’s first and only smoke-free, social media-friendly gaming space created in partnership with social media influencer Brian Christopher. The Plaza has nearly 1,000 modern rooms and suites, a classic Vegas showroom, downtown’s only bingo hall, live music at the Sand Dollar Downtown, and 30,000 sq. ft. of refurbished ballroom and meeting space. The Plaza brought the rodeo back to downtown with its CORE Arena, downtown’s only outdoor equestrian and multipurpose facility. Guests enjoy a variety of dining options led by the renowned Oscar’s Steakhouse in the hotel’s iconic glass dome and on a rooftop patio overlooking the Fremont Street Experience. A lounge-style sports book along with hundreds of slot machines and nearly two dozen table games comprise an 80,000-square-foot casino floor. A rooftop pool and recreation deck with private cabanas, hot tub, food truck, and dedicated Pickleball courts, provide a variety of outdoor amenities. For more information on the multiple award-winning Plaza Hotel & Casino, visit www.plazahotelcasino.com. Get updates via FacebookInstagram and Twitter.

Inside Vegas: Oscar Goodman’s Tales from the Mob Era

At the latest Oscar’s Dinner Series, Oscar shares a variety of anecdotes, ranging from humorous tales about local legends to the rich history of Las Vegas, including its connections to organized crime. Guests, including Las Vegas icons and regular supporters of the series, participated in a Q&A session while enjoying a curated dinner. The event highlighted Goodman’s personal experiences, his stint as a criminal lawyer representing a reputed mobster, and the evolution of Las Vegas as a city influenced by its colorful past and contemporary challenges.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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