Oral history interview with Jane Overy conducted by Claytee D. White on August 17 and December 20, 2023 for the Boyer Early Las Vegas Oral History Project. In this interview, Overy discusses her museum work, early life, and many civic projects she has participated in over the years. Overy grew up in Kansas, where she spent time playing pool (billards) and spending time outdoors. After high school, she joined the United States Air Force and served in Alaska where there were two women, each with a private guard. Additionally, she worked as a newspaper reporter and as an entertainer who sang around the world. Overy served in the military for four years. In 1981, she moved to Nevada and desert climate for the improvement of her overall health. Over the years, her work and civic projects connected her with Senator Harry Reid, the Walking Box Ranch, the Searchlight Nugget Casino, and many other experiences.
In this interview, Suzie discusses growing up in Las Vegas, with a strong community of friends, particularly within Temple Beth Sholom. She also talks about her real estate career, both in residential and commercial properties, highlighting some of the successes and challenges. She describes her working relationship with Milton Schwartz, as well her time working with the Greenspuns while selling advertising at the Las Vegas Sun.
Suzie Chenin was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in August of 1949. The next year, her parents, Joseph and Irene Chenin, moved the family to Las Vegas. Her father, a dentist, was stationed at Nellis Air Force Base, becoming the first Jewish dentist in the state ? and only the thirtieth overall. After graduating from Las Vegas High School, Suzie attended Arizona State University. However, she quit school and moved to Los Angeles where she got a job with a large real estate developer. This was her first foray into the industry. A few years later, back in Las Vegas, Suzie got her real estate license, eventually starting her own brokerage firm, Chenin and Associates.