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2023 in Review: Las Vegas Marks a Year of Unprecedented Growth and Entertainment

Issue #021 - December 28, 2023

❤️ Inside this issue of SummerSouth Insider..

🔍Spotlight Feature: The Las Vegas Rescue Mission 🔍

📆 Local Events in December 2023 (includes 2024 New Year’s Eve Parties)

🌞Summerlin South Las Vegas Weather

🌎2023 in Review: Las Vegas Marks a Year of Unprecedented Growth and Entertainment

🚧Mayor Goodman Urges California to Widen I-15 Amid Las Vegas Traffic Woes

🏢Summerlin's 1700 Pavilion Welcomes Douglas Elliman and Snell & Wilmer

🏒Vegas Golden Knights Fall Short in Game Against Anaheim Ducks

🏈UNLV's Valiant Effort Falls Short in Bowl Game Against Resurgent Kansas Jayhawks

🏠Summerlin South Housing Market Report

👮‍♂️LVMPD Weekly Statistical Crime Briefing Report (week ending 12-22-23)

👮‍♂️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

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 Parties💃🍾🥂 

2023 in Review: Las Vegas Marks a Year of Unprecedented Growth and Entertainment

Las Vegas has enjoyed an exceptional year in 2023, marked by unparalleled success in its gaming, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Experts predict this trend will not only continue but also expand in 2024, following a year of record gaming revenues, major union contract signings, high airport passenger numbers, large-scale events, and the launch of new resorts.

Brendan Bussmann, a gaming industry analyst with Las Vegas-based B Global, praised the city’s achievements, noting the growth in both gaming and non-gaming sectors. The year saw the opening of local and Strip properties and record numbers in air traffic and visitation.

Josh Swissman, founding partner of the Las Vegas-based Strategy Organization, echoed these sentiments. He highlighted that Vegas, a city known for its constant evolution, hasn't seen such an array of developments in years, probably since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Significant Openings and Developments in 2023:

New Resort Launches: Red Rock Resorts' Durango and the Fontainebleau on the north Strip opened their doors in early December, signaling a new era in Las Vegas’ hospitality landscape. Durango’s opening was particularly noted for its innovative design and high-quality amenities, while Fontainebleau, a long-awaited luxury resort, finally opened after years of delays and ownership changes.

The Sphere: Another landmark addition was the $2.3 billion Sphere, a 17,500-seat live entertainment venue, which opened with U2’s “Achtung Baby” residency. The Sphere, known for its massive interior and exterior screens, has quickly become a hub for artistic content and a major promotional vehicle for the city.

Formula One Grand Prix: The Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix, which attracted over 100,000 attendees, was a highlight of the year. Although the financial impact is still being assessed, it is anticipated to be record-breaking. The event was significant not just for its scale but also for the luxury audience it attracted, despite some controversies involving local businesses and Strip views.

Union Contracts: The Culinary union secured new contracts with the three largest Strip employers, averting a potential strike. This agreement was crucial for thousands of workers in the hospitality industry.

Cyberattacks: Challenges included a cyberattack on MGM properties, highlighting the ongoing threat to digital security in the hospitality industry.

Looking Ahead to 2024:

  1. Infrastructure Developments: Projects such as Penn Entertainment Inc.’s expansion at the M Resort and Howard Hughes Holdings’ plans for a new casino above Fashion Show mall indicate continued growth in infrastructure.

  2. Upcoming Projects: Tilman Fertitta’s plans for a new mid-Strip resort, Hard Rock International’s construction of a guitar-shaped hotel tower, and redevelopment plans for the Tropicana resort site are all in progress.

  3. Transportation Advancements: The Brightline West high-speed rail project and expansions to The Boring Co.’s underground transit system are set to enhance connectivity in the region.

  4. Super Bowl 58: The upcoming Super Bowl at Allegiant Stadium is another major event that underscores Las Vegas’ status as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.

Bussmann remains optimistic about the city's momentum, despite potential economic and geopolitical challenges. The combination of Las Vegas' adaptability, innovative projects, and strong industry partnerships positions it for continued success in the coming years.

As Las Vegas prepares for 2024, it stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and the enduring appeal of one of the world's most dynamic cities. The blend of entertainment, sports, hospitality, and technology continues to attract visitors and investors alike, promising another year of achievements and milestones for the city.

Mayor Goodman Urges California to Widen I-15 Amid Las Vegas Traffic Woes

Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman is continuing her longstanding campaign for the expansion of Interstate 15 south of the Nevada state line, an issue that gains prominence during the bustling holiday seasons in Las Vegas. This advocacy is particularly timely with the approach of the New Year's Eve weekend, which is expected to bring an estimated 356,000 visitors to the city.

In a recent social media post, Mayor Goodman extended a warm welcome to visitors coming to Las Vegas to celebrate the incoming year. However, she used this opportunity to highlight a critical infrastructural need: the widening of I-15 from Barstow to Stateline. Goodman’s renewed call for this expansion comes at a significant moment, coinciding with President Joe Biden’s visit to Las Vegas. During this visit, President Biden announced a substantial $3 billion grant awarded to Brightline West for a high-speed rail project connecting Southern California and Las Vegas. While acknowledging the potential long-term benefits of this rail project, Mayor Goodman underscored the immediate and pressing need for highway expansion to address the chronic issue of traffic congestion that plagues the route, especially during peak travel times.

Goodman's persistent requests for widening I-15 come against a backdrop of consistent refusals from Caltrans, the California Department of Transportation, which has repeatedly stated that there are no plans to widen this crucial section of the interstate. However, in an attempt to mitigate the severe traffic jams that regularly occur, Caltrans, in collaboration with the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), implemented a $5.1 million project. This initiative introduced a part-time lane on I-15 near the Nevada-California border. The lane, operational from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays, utilizes the interstate's shoulder and extends for about five miles from the state line to the agricultural checkpoint.

While this part-time lane has provided some relief by easing congestion to a certain extent, it has not been a panacea for the traffic woes. NDOT Director Tracy Larkin Thomason pointed out that while the project has shifted the bottleneck from Nevada to Mountain Pass in California, it has not eliminated the issue. The traffic, especially during holiday seasons and peak travel times, continues to be a significant concern for motorists traveling between Southern California and Las Vegas.

The situation underscores a broader challenge facing the region: the need for substantial infrastructure improvements to accommodate the growing influx of tourists and travelers. Las Vegas, a hub for entertainment and tourism, attracts millions of visitors annually, leading to increased pressure on its transportation infrastructure. The frequent traffic snarls on I-15 not only cause inconvenience to travelers but also have broader implications for the economy and environment of the region.

Mayor Goodman's repeated calls for action reflect the urgency of addressing these infrastructural needs. As Las Vegas continues to grow and attract visitors from across the country and the world, the improvement of critical transportation corridors like I-15 becomes increasingly important. The situation calls for a collaborative approach involving state and federal agencies to find a long-term solution that can support the region's growing transportation demands while ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience for all.

Summerlin's 1700 Pavilion Welcomes Douglas Elliman and Snell & Wilmer

Luxury real estate brokerage Douglas Elliman and law firm Snell & Wilmer have recently announced new leases at 1700 Pavilion, a 10-story office building in Summerlin, Las Vegas. The development was disclosed in a news release from Howard Hughes Holdings, the building's developer.

Snell & Wilmer will occupy the entire seventh floor, taking up approximately 27,500 square feet. Douglas Elliman, on the other hand, will be expanding to a new suite of nearly 4,000 square feet. This expansion reflects the growing demand for luxury real estate in the Las Vegas area. The new Summerlin office is three times larger than Douglas Elliman's current space near the 215 Beltway and South Town Center Drive.

Stephen Kotler, CEO of Douglas Elliman's western region, emphasized the company's rapid growth in the area, from about 30 brokers in 2022 to around 100 now. Factors contributing to this growth include Californians moving to Las Vegas, the rise of professional sports teams, and the anticipated Brightline West high-speed rail project.

The new Douglas Elliman office at 1700 Pavilion is expected to be a "showcase" space and is being designed to align with the firm's other locations nationwide. The completion of the office is anticipated by mid-2024. The location was chosen for its proximity to luxury homes in Summerlin, the firm's history with Howard Hughes, and the nearby amenities of Downtown Summerlin, including restaurants, retail options, and the Las Vegas Ballpark.

Snell & Wilmer, which has been operating in Las Vegas since 2001, will base about 40 attorneys at their new 1700 Pavilion space. With these leases, 1700 Pavilion is now 90% occupied.

Vegas Golden Knights Fall Short in Game Against Anaheim Ducks

The Vegas Golden Knights experienced a disappointing return to the ice after their three-day Christmas break, losing 5-2 to the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center. The Knights had hoped for a reset following a tough road trip, but they conceded four goals within the first 12 minutes of the game.

Defenseman Alec Martinez acknowledged the team's unpreparedness and emphasized the need to address their defensive issues. The Knights have now allowed at least four goals in seven of their last eight games. Martinez stressed the importance of playing a more connected team game and paying attention to detail.

Despite the loss, there were a few bright spots for the Knights. The return of goaltender Logan Thompson from injury provided some hope, and the team avoided penalties, breaking a recent poor run on the penalty kill.

The Knights face the Los Angeles Kings next, hoping to bounce back from this four-game losing streak. The Kings have the best road record in the NHL, making it a challenging game for the Knights. The team must focus on rectifying their defensive lapses and finding consistency in their overall play to regain their form and confidence.

Looking at the bigger picture, the Vegas Golden Knights have had a rough time in the last few games, with defensive issues being a significant concern. However, it's not all doom and gloom for the team. The Knights have shown resilience in the past, and with the return of key players like Logan Thompson, there's still a chance for them to turn things around.

The upcoming game against the Los Angeles Kings will be a true test of character for the Knights. The Kings have been performing exceptionally well on the road, and the Knights need to bring their A-game to stand a chance. This game could be a turning point for the Knights, as a win could help them regain their confidence and form.

The Vegas Golden Knights have faced a challenging period, but it's not over yet. With a focus on improving their defensive play and working as a cohesive unit, the Knights have the potential to bounce back and make a strong push in the remaining games of the season.

UNLV's Valiant Effort Falls Short in Bowl Game Against Resurgent Kansas Jayhawks

The University of Kansas football team has undergone a remarkable transformation under Coach Lance Leipold, once considered one of the weakest in Power Five football. Their recent victory in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl against the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) in a 49-36 win, is a testament to this incredible turnaround. The Jayhawks, who only managed one win in two full seasons a few years ago, have now secured a prestigious trophy, marking a significant milestone in their journey back to prominence in college football.

In the thrilling Tuesday night game, Kansas quarterback Jason Bean put on a stunning performance, throwing for 449 yards and an astonishing six touchdown passes. Wide receivers Luke Grimm and Lawrence Arnold were instrumental in the win, each scoring three touchdowns – a first in the program's history.

Despite facing challenges, including 18 penalties for a total of 210 yards, Kansas' offense remained unstoppable, amassing 591 total yards. This offensive prowess was crucial in securing their first postseason win since the 2008 Insight Bowl.

UNLV, under Coach Barry Odom, showed resilience in the game, nearly erasing a 21-point deficit. Quarterback Jayden Maiava led the charge with two touchdown passes in the third quarter and a total of 291 passing yards. However, their efforts fell short against the relentless Jayhawks.

The win for Kansas is not just a victory in a bowl game but a testament to the progress and potential of a team that has undergone extensive rebuilding. Coach Leipold's vision and strategy have been instrumental in turning around the team's fortunes. The commitment of the players, especially those who stepped up in critical moments, reflects the team's resilience and determination.

On the other hand, the game was a significant achievement for UNLV, marking their first bowl game appearance since 2014 and their most wins since 1984. With a promising recruiting class and key players expected to return, the team looks to build on this season's success.

Looking ahead, both teams have reasons to be optimistic. Kansas, with a strong defensive front and a top 50 recruiting class, has laid a solid foundation for continued improvement in the coming seasons. UNLV, with a promising recruiting class and key players expected to return, has set a positive trajectory for the program.

The Guaranteed Rate Bowl victory is more than just a win for Kansas; it symbolizes a resurgence, a return to competitive football, and a bright future for a team that has faced its fair share of challenges. As the Jayhawks and the Rebels look ahead, they carry with them the lessons, achievements, and aspirations from a season that has set new benchmarks for both programs.

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: 2023-12-22

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

Courtesy of @LVMPD_Summerlin

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