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Las Vegas Prepares for Unprecedented New Year’s Eve Event with Heightened Security

Issue #022 - December 29, 2023

Author

John Wu
29 Dec

❤️ 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

🌎Las Vegas Prepares for Unprecedented New Year’s Eve Event with Heightened Security

👮‍♂️Southwest Valley Carjacking Spree Ends Tragically, Leaving Multiple Victims Including Father of Seven

🚧Clark County Hits Jackpot with Record $1.215 Billion Gaming Win in November

🏒Golden Knights Triumph Over Kings, Ending Four-Game Skid with Stellar Defense

🏠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

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💃🍾🥂 

Las Vegas Prepares for Unprecedented New Year’s Eve Event with Heightened Security

Las Vegas is gearing up for a massive New Year's Eve celebration as an estimated 400,000 people are expected to flock to the Strip and downtown areas. In anticipation of this grand event, local officials have detailed extensive safety measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all.

Strict rules will be in place during the festivities, prohibiting items such as glass or metal containers, strollers, coolers, backpacks, and large bags. The Strip will begin closing to vehicle traffic at 4:30 p.m., with a full closure by 8 p.m., and the I-15 off-ramps at Flamingo Road will close at 5:30 p.m. A curfew for unaccompanied minors under 18 will also be enforced on the Strip and in downtown Las Vegas.

Transportation options are being expanded to accommodate the influx of visitors. The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) will offer free rides on all bus routes from 6 p.m. New Year’s Eve until 9 a.m. New Year’s Day, while the Las Vegas Monorail will operate non-stop from 7 a.m. New Year’s Eve until 2 a.m. on Tuesday, with discounted rates for Nevada residents. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are encouraged to further reduce road congestion.

Public safety and emergency response are top priorities, with officials urging the public to call 911 in emergencies and report suspicious activities through the Homeland Security Tip Hotline. Mayor Carolyn Goodman emphasized the need for public vigilance and safe driving practices, while Fire Chief John Steinbeck advised dressing warmly due to the cold forecast and potential for showers.

Innovative security measures include a command post at Rob Roy's Innovation Center, which will serve as the central hub for police and first responders. Additionally, the National Nuclear Security Administration will conduct an aerial radiation assessment survey via helicopter to ensure public health and safety.

These comprehensive safety measures demonstrate Las Vegas' commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for one of the year's biggest celebrations. The city's combination of enhanced security, transportation options, and emergency preparedness, along with unique precautions like the radiation survey, serve as a model for how large-scale events can be managed effectively, ensuring a memorable and secure experience for all participants.

Southwest Valley Carjacking Spree Ends Tragically, Leaving Multiple Victims Including Father of Seven

A horrific carjacking spree occurred on Wednesday in the southwest valley of Las Vegas, leaving the community in mourning and disbelief. The series of events, which included multiple carjackings and a police shootout, resulted in the loss of several lives, including that of Jerry Lopez, a father of seven.

Details of the Incident:

Fatal Carjacking of Jerry Lopez: Jerry Lopez, 39, was killed when a suspect in his 30s carjacked his van at Durango Drive and Windmill Lane while fleeing from the police. Lopez, a delivery driver for a linen company, was on his way to work when he became an unsuspecting victim of the spree.

The Lopez Family: Lopez is survived by his wife Karen and their seven children, six of whom were adopted through the Clark County foster care system. Carly Souza, the director of Fostering Hope, a local organization supporting foster families, described Jerry as a devoted Christian, loving husband, and father who led his family with self-sacrificial love and deep commitment.

Prior Incidents: Before the fatal encounter with Lopez, the suspect had reportedly shot and killed his mother on Placid Street. He subsequently stole a police car and carjacked another citizen on Blue Diamond Road. The police engaged the suspect as he was stealing Lopez’s van, hearing a gunshot and witnessing the violent carjacking.

Police Chase and Shootout: The police chase ended at Durango and Agate Avenue, where SWAT officers discovered the suspect dead inside the van.

Community Support: In response to this tragedy, an online fundraiser for the Lopez family had garnered significant support, raising over $140,000 as of Thursday evening.

Impact on the Community:

The carjacking spree has left the local community reeling from the senseless violence. The loss of Jerry Lopez, in particular, has resonated deeply, touching many lives beyond his immediate family. The incident has raised concerns about public safety and the need for support for the victims' families during this difficult time.

Investigation Ongoing:

As of Thursday morning, the Clark County coroner’s office had not yet formally identified all the victims of the incident. The police are continuing their investigation to understand the sequence of events and the motive behind the suspect’s actions.

Conclusion:

The tragic events that unfolded in the southwest valley serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and fragility of life. The community is coming together to support the families affected by this tragedy, offering financial assistance and emotional support. As investigations continue, the focus remains on honoring the lives lost and providing necessary aid to those left behind in the wake of this devastating incident.

Clark County Hits Jackpot with Record $1.215 Billion Gaming Win in November

Clark County, Nevada, has shattered records with a gaming win of $1.215 billion for November 2023, according to the Nevada Gaming Control Board. This remarkable achievement, a 14.3 percent increase from November 2022, was significantly influenced by the inaugural Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix held from Nov. 16-18. The success of this event has sparked discussions about the benefits and disruptions caused by the race, especially considering its impact on traffic and local businesses.

Statewide gaming success:

The county's record gaming win contributed to a statewide record for November, totaling $1.374 billion. This figure is the second-highest for any month, trailing only July 2023’s $1.404 billion.

Contributing factors:

Formula One Grand Prix impact: Michael Lawton, the Control Board’s senior economic analyst, noted that the Grand Prix's four-day period starting Nov. 16 brought record levels of revenue for many Strip properties. Baccarat, a favorite among wealthy European race fans, played a crucial role in the Strip's second-best month ever.

Luxury properties and baccarat: The success of the event was particularly evident in luxury properties, with a significant increase in baccarat contributing to 78.6 percent of the state's growth for the month.

Comparison with previous records: Despite November's impressive performance, the records for both the statewide and the Strip's gaming win are still held by July 2023.

Other influential events and activities:

In addition to the Grand Prix, Las Vegas saw several other special events in November contributing to the high gaming win. These included U2’s residency at the Sphere, Usher's performances at Park MGM, and three home games for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Statewide and regional performance:

While the Strip saw the most significant gains, other Southern Nevada markets experienced mixed results. Downtown Las Vegas, Laughlin, and the Boulder Strip reported decreases, while North Las Vegas and Mesquite remained flat. South Lake Tahoe and North Lake Tahoe also saw decreases compared to last November.

Gaming tax collections:

Gaming tax collections for the state added $85.4 million to the general fund, marking the second-best month of the fiscal year. The six-month level of tax collections reached $499.5 million, a 3.2 percent increase from the previous fiscal year.

Diverse contributions to gaming win:

Apart from baccarat, other casino games also performed well. Baccarat win surged by 209.1 percent from a year ago, with the amount wagered increasing significantly. Table games and slot win on the Strip also showed noteworthy results, with table games experiencing the third-highest win ever and slots showing a slight decrease.

Sports betting performance:

Nevada sportsbooks also saw an increase, winning $41 million in November, an 8.8 percent rise from the previous year. The total amount wagered on sports was slightly down from last year, with mobile wagers accounting for a significant portion of total bets.

Conclusion:

November 2023 stands as a milestone for Clark County and Nevada's gaming industry, driven by major events like the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix and sustained by the enduring appeal of casino games and sports betting. As Las Vegas continues to host world-class events and offer diverse gaming and entertainment options, it solidifies its position as a leading destination for global tourism and gaming. The record-breaking figures not only reflect the city's economic strength but also its ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic industry.

Golden Knights Triumph Over Kings, Ending Four-Game Skid with Stellar Defense

The Vegas Golden Knights, under the guidance of coach Bruce Cassidy, broke their four-game losing streak with a vital 3-2 win against the Los Angeles Kings at T-Mobile Arena. Goaltender Logan Thompson's remarkable performance, which included 32 saves, played a significant role in the team's success, especially in the tense final moments of the game.

Key Performance by Logan Thompson:

Thompson, who had faced challenges in previous games, including conceding 11 goals in his last two starts, demonstrated resilience and focus. His timely saves, particularly in the frantic final two minutes where the Kings were aggressively seeking to level the score, were instrumental in securing the win for the Knights.

Team's Improved Defense:

The Knights (22-10-5), who had allowed at least four goals in seven of their last eight games, showed significant improvement in their defensive play. Thompson's performance, coupled with the team's overall defensive strategy, helped to contain the Kings' offense.

Scoring Highlights:

The Knights established their lead with goals from center Jack Eichel and right wing Michael Amadio. Despite the Kings' efforts, including a goal from center Anze Kopitar, the Knights maintained their lead, with center William Karlsson responding promptly to extend the advantage.

Takeaways from the Game:

Effective Penalty Killing: The Knights' penalty kill unit, which had been under pressure in recent games, effectively neutralized the Kings' power plays, reflecting an overall cleaner and more disciplined game from the team.

Playing with Reduced Defense: The Knights had to adapt to playing with only five defensemen for most of the game, as Ben Hutton left with an upper-body injury. This added to the team's existing challenges, with defensemen Shea Theodore and Kaedan Korczak also out.

Looking Ahead: The win marks a positive end to the calendar year for the Knights, who are now preparing for their next major challenge, facing the Seattle Kraken in the Winter Classic at T-Mobile Park on New Year's Day.

Conclusion:

The Golden Knights' victory over the Kings not only ends their losing streak but also serves as a testament to their resilience and capability to bounce back under pressure. The team's improved defensive performance, along with Thompson's exceptional goalkeeping, provides a strong foundation as they move forward into the new year with high-profile matches on the horizon. As the Knights gear up for the Winter Classic, they carry the momentum and confidence gained from this crucial win.

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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