UNLV Receives Over $3 Million from NSF for Cybersecurity Scholarships

Issue #013 - December 20, 2023

Author

John Wu
20 Dec

❤️ Inside this issue of SummerSouth Insider..

🔍Spotlight Feature: The Las Vegas Rescue Mission 🔍

📆 Local Events in December 2023

🌞Summerlin South Las Vegas Weather

🎓UNLV Receives Over $3 Million from NSF for Cybersecurity Scholarships

🎫Parking Ticket Scam Hits Las Vegas Valley, City Officials Advise Caution

🏞Prehistoric Wonders Unveiled at New Ice Age Fossils State Park

🏨Fontainebleau Las Vegas to Host Vegas Chamber's Premier Networking Event in 2024

🎲Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Casino Experiences Cash Flow Decline, Mohegan Authority Reports Growth

🏀Las Vegas Aces Gear Up for Historic Three-Peat Bid in 2024 WNBA Season

🏈Double Victory: Las Vegas Youth Football Teams Conquer National Championships

🏠Summerlin South Housing Market Report

👮‍♂️LVMPD Statistical Crime Briefing Report

👮‍♂️Holiday Crime Prevention Tips

✅ We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

A Beacon of Hope in the Heart of Las Vegas

In the bustling city of Las Vegas, known for its glittering lights and endless entertainment, lies a haven of compassion and support - the Las Vegas Rescue Mission. This December, the mission shines even brighter as it embarks on a heartwarming initiative to gather donations for those in need, proving that the spirit of giving is alive and well in the city of neon lights.

A Mission of Giving

The Las Vegas Rescue Mission is not just a charity; it is a lifeline for many. This December, the mission is accepting donations at the Gardens, Trails, Vistas, and Willows Community Centers, inviting the community to share in the joy of giving. The items sought include blankets, winter coats, bath towels, underwear, and essential hygiene products, along with child and baby items like diapers and pajamas. These donations are more than just goods; they are gestures of hope and care for those facing challenging times.

More Than Just a Hand-Out

What sets the Las Vegas Rescue Mission apart is its philosophy of offering a 'hand-up, not just a hand-out.' This approach goes beyond mere charity; it's about empowering individuals. The mission provides meals, clothing, household items, and crucial life-skills counseling, all designed to help people regain their footing in life. It's a testament to the mission's belief in the potential of every individual to overcome adversity with the right support.

A Community United

The Las Vegas Rescue Mission's initiative is a reflection of the community's spirit. It's a reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, there's a community ready to support its most vulnerable members. The mission's efforts in December are not just about collecting items; they're about bringing people together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Join the Mission

As the holiday season approaches, the Las Vegas Rescue Mission invites everyone to be part of this noble cause. Whether it's through donating goods or volunteering time, every contribution makes a difference. It's an opportunity for the residents of Las Vegas to show that their city is not just about bright lights and entertainment, but also about warmth, generosity, and community spirit. Learn More.

December 2023

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Thursday, December 21, 2023

Friday, December 22, 2023

Saturday, December 23, 2023

Sunday, December 24, 2023 - Christmas Eve

Monday, December 25, 2023 - Christmas Day

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Thursday, December 28, 2023

 Ice Skating at the Rock Rink: 10 AM - 10 PM 

Friday, December 29, 2023

Saturday, December 30, 2023

 Ice Skating at the Rock Rink: 10 AM - 10 PM 

Sunday, December 31, 2023 - New Year’s Eve

UNLV Receives Over $3 Million from NSF for Cybersecurity Scholarships

U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto have recently unveiled a substantial grant awarded by the National Science Foundation, totaling $3,113,425, which is specifically aimed at supporting cybersecurity scholarships at the esteemed University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). This generous funding is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, who will be essential in safeguarding the nation's digital infrastructure and economy.

Senator Rosen, who herself possesses a background in computer programming, underscored the importance of investing in cybersecurity education for the overall well-being and security of the nation. She expressed her enthusiasm about the grant's potential to offer full scholarships to deserving UNLV students, focusing on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, while simultaneously encouraging a spirit of public service.

Senator Cortez Masto emphasized Nevada's position as a trailblazer in cutting-edge technology, with UNLV at the forefront of innovations in cybersecurity. She reaffirmed her dedication to bolstering cybersecurity programs in Nevada, acknowledging their role in fostering job creation and economic growth within the state.

An integral component of the scholarship program is the pledge from recipients to employ their cybersecurity expertise in federal, state, local, or tribal government roles after graduation. This requirement highlights the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals across various sectors of government and ensures that educational opportunities are aligned with the critical workforce needs of the future.

Parking Ticket Scam Hits Las Vegas Valley, City Officials Advise Caution

City officials in Las Vegas have recently issued a warning to residents about a new scam involving fake parking tickets that have been circulating throughout the valley. This alert comes after numerous reports of fraudulent activity surfaced on various social media platforms, prompting authorities to take action and inform the public on how to identify legitimate tickets and avoid falling victim to this scam.

In an effort to protect residents from being deceived, officials have provided a set of key tips to help distinguish genuine parking tickets from the fake ones. One of the most important factors to consider is that legitimate parking tickets will never feature any handwritten notes. Additionally, every authentic ticket will include a citation number, the date of issue, and the name of the issuing officer.

Furthermore, it is crucial to note that payments for parking violations in Las Vegas are not accepted through mobile payment services like Cash App. This is a critical piece of information, as it serves as a clear indicator of a fraudulent parking ticket. If a ticket requests payment through such an app, it is most likely a scam, and the recipient should take appropriate action to report the incident.

For residents who have concerns or doubts regarding any parking tickets they may have received, it is highly recommended that they contact the city's parking team directly at 702-229-4700. By taking this proactive measure, citizens can ensure that they are not being deceived by scammers and that the city's parking enforcement process remains fair and transparent.

In conclusion, being well-informed about the characteristics of genuine parking tickets and the proper methods of payment is essential in preventing citizens from falling victim to these scams. It is also important to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities. By doing so, the Las Vegas community can work together to maintain a safe and trustworthy environment for all residents and visitors.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas to Host Vegas Chamber's Premier Networking Event in 2024

The Vegas Chamber has recently announced that the magnificent Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Southern Nevada's newest luxury resort, will play host to its highly anticipated annual networking event, Preview Las Vegas 2024. This grand affair is set to take place on January 24, 2024, and marks a significant collaboration with the Fontainebleau, which made its dazzling debut on December 13, 2023. Standing at a towering 67 stories, the resort not only enhances the already iconic Las Vegas skyline but also brings with it a wealth of opportunities for the local job market and the burgeoning business travel industry.

As the excitement builds for Preview Las Vegas 2024, the Vegas Chamber is working diligently to curate a list of esteemed speakers for the event. Attendees can look forward to engaging discussions on economic forecasts and tourism trends, all while being immersed in the unparalleled luxury and sophistication that the Fontainebleau has to offer. This year, the event will place a special emphasis on the latest developments in Southern Nevada, such as the opening of the groundbreaking MSG Sphere, the thrilling inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix, and the much-anticipated Super Bowl 58.

The Fontainebleau, with its impressive 3,644 rooms and prime location near the Las Vegas Convention Center, is poised to become a major player in the meetings and conventions sector. This strategic positioning will undoubtedly contribute significantly to the region's economy, further cementing Southern Nevada's status as a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers.

To register for this event, click here.

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Casino Experiences Cash Flow Decline, Mohegan Authority Reports Growth

The Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority has recently reported a revenue increase of 7.6% to $444.3 million for the quarter ending September 30, despite a significant cash flow decline at their Las Vegas casino operation, Virgin Hotels. The cash flow at Mohegan Casino Las Vegas decreased by a staggering 434.2% compared to the previous year, primarily due to reduced gaming revenue. The lower revenue was attributed to a decrease in table-game hold, which was below the average. Had the table hold been normal, the casino's adjusted cash flow would have been $1.8 million for the period.

Despite the challenges faced in Las Vegas, the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority demonstrated strong overall financial performance. CEO Raymond Pineault emphasized that the adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) for fiscal 2023 reached $399.9 million, the second-highest in the company's 27-year history. This success can be attributed to growth in digital gaming and the recent opening of the highly anticipated Mohegan Inspire in South Korea.

As a gaming authority with a diverse portfolio, the tribe operates multiple properties, including their flagship in Connecticut, venues in Niagara Falls, Pennsylvania, Washington, and New Jersey, and owns the WNBA franchise Connecticut Sun. This broad range of ventures has undoubtedly contributed to their ability to weather the challenges faced in the Las Vegas market.

To sum up, despite the notable decrease in cash flow at their Las Vegas casino, the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority's financial standing stays robust and optimistic, primarily due to their diverse array of properties and ventures into digital gaming and global markets.

Las Vegas Aces Gear Up for Historic Three-Peat Bid in 2024 WNBA Season

The Las Vegas Aces, the reigning two-time WNBA champions, are preparing to make history as they aim to secure a third consecutive title. This remarkable feat hasn't been achieved since the legendary Houston Comets' four-title streak from 1997-2000. The Aces' journey to potential glory will begin on May 14, 2024, when they face off against the Phoenix Mercury at the Michelob Ultra Arena.

As the Aces' full 2024 season schedule was released on Monday, fans and analysts alike eagerly marked their calendars for some of the most anticipated matchups. One such game is the June 15th showdown against the New York Liberty, the Aces' formidable opponents in the 2023 WNBA Finals. Adding to the excitement, the Aces will also take to the court at T-Mobile Arena on September 3rd to face the Chicago Fire.

The Aces' regular season will culminate on September 19th against the Dallas Wings, after a grueling 40-game campaign. A notable change to the WNBA schedule this year is the four-week break for the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will take place from July 21st to August 16th. The All-Star Weekend is scheduled for July 19-20 in Phoenix, offering a brief respite for the league's top stars to showcase their skills and celebrate the sport.

The Commissioner’s Cup format has been updated as well. Teams will now play five games against conference opponents from June 1-13, instead of the previous 10 games spanning the first half of the season. The Aces, who won the 2022 Commissioner’s Cup but lost in 2023, will have another shot at the title, with the championship game scheduled for June 25th.

As the Las Vegas Aces prepare to embark on their quest for a third straight championship, the basketball world is buzzing with anticipation. Will the Aces make history and cement their legacy as one of the greatest WNBA dynasties? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the 2024 season promises to be a thrilling ride for fans and players alike.

Double Victory: Las Vegas Youth Football Teams Conquer National Championships

Earlier this month, two youth football teams from Las Vegas, the 12U Las Vegas Tribe and a 13U all-star team from National Youth Sports-Nevada, achieved remarkable success at the American Youth Football national championship in Naples, Florida. Both teams demonstrated their prowess by winning three games each over six days against formidable opponents from across the United States.

The Las Vegas Tribe's impenetrable defense played a pivotal role in their championship victory, allowing a mere 10 points in two regional games in Phoenix. This triumph came after three consecutive years of regional losses for the team. Coach Devin Conway lauded the defense's remarkable improvement, which significantly contributed to their overall win. The Tribe triumphed over teams from Maryland, New York, and Dallas, with a stunning 39-13 win against PHU Dallas in the finals.

For many of the Tribe players, this experience marked their first time traveling outside Southern Nevada, providing them with valuable life experiences and memories. Standout player Trey Washington was named the tournament's most valuable player, scoring an impressive seven touchdowns.

The 13U all-star team, composed of talented players from various backgrounds, also had a remarkable run, outscoring their opponents by an astounding 212-15 across three games. Despite the team's limited time to prepare, they showcased a powerful spread offense led by quarterback Ayden McClendon. The team secured a decisive 42-7 victory over a formidable Maryland team in the championship game. Coach Geoff Matthews expressed confidence in the players' potential to excel in high school football, describing them as future "giants" in the sport.

These two teams' achievements not only highlight the incredible talent and teamwork within the Las Vegas youth football community but also demonstrate their ability to overcome challenges on the national stage. Their accomplishments mark a significant milestone for youth football in Las Vegas, setting the stage for a bright future for these young athletes.

Summerlin South Housing Market Report

*Median Sold Price By Bedroom Count

This is the middle price for which all homes in the area were sold based on the number of bedrooms. Half of all the homes sold were below this price, and half were above.

Visit here to see the entire report.

Statistical Crime Briefing

Summerlin Area Command - Week Ending: 2023-12-08

Courtesy of The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The entire report for all Area Commands may be viewed here.

Courtesy of @LVMPD_Summerlin

We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Summerlin South area residents in an upcoming issue of SummerSouth Insider?

We ❤️ Local Businesses!
We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "SummerSouth Insider" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Summerlin South together!

👇Select an option below:

✅ Own a local Business? Apply to be featured.

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

🙌 We could use your help

We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!

One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

Know someone who lives in the Summerlin South Area and would benefit from being kept in the know?

Please share SummerSouth Insider with them!

It’s simple! 👇👇👇