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- ❎ Voter ID Initiative Secures Spot on Nevada’s November Ballot
❎ Voter ID Initiative Secures Spot on Nevada’s November Ballot
Issue #201 - June 25, 2024
John Wu
25 Jun
+
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📆 Weekly Local Events for June 2024
Regular weekly events in or near Summerlin, Las Vegas are listed below.
Visit here to lookup specific venue information or for upcoming and/or non-weekly events on Meetup.
Monday
Monday Classes At Latin Blendz: (Every week on Monday @ 10AM)
Socially Vegas - Monday Night Bowling @ The Orleans Bowling Center: Must arrive/check-in before 7pm; 7 - 10pm (Every week on Monday); COST (CASH Only) $10 for 2 games (includes shoes) COST: $12 for 3 games (includes shoes)
Monday Night TRIVIA at ReBAR, 1225 S Main St, Las Vegas: (Every week on Monday @ 7PM)
Tuesday
Terrific Tuesday Fun Pickleball @ Police Memorial, Bring a Chair: (Every week on Tuesday @ 2PM)
Sand Volleyball Intermediate, Rusty and Old Time Players @ Aloha Shores Park (NW), Cheyenne & Buffalo, 7550 Sauer St, Las Vegas: (Every week on Tuesday @ 6 - 8 PM)
Run Drink Las Vegas - Weekly Tuesday Run @ Frankie’s Uptown patio: 6:30 - 8:30 PM (Every week on Tuesday), FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @rundrinklv FOR THE LATEST WEATHER/TIMING UPDATES
Coed Soccer - Summerlin: Crossings Park, 1111 Crestdale Ln, Las Vegas: 7:30 - 9:45 PM (Every week on Tuesday/Thursday)
Wednesday
Business Leads Group - Networking Breakfast @ Summit Restaurant, Eagle Crest Golf Course, 2215 Thomas W Ryan Blvd, Las Vegas: Cost $20 cash, 7 - 8:30 AM (Every week on Wednesday)
Early Risers Toastmasters Meeting (In-Person - Summerlin Egg Works / Online Event: 7 - 8 AM (Every week on Wednesday)
Las Vegas Valley Bicycle Club - Wednesday Morning Ride @ Einstein Bagels: 9 - 11:30 AM (Every week on Wednesday)
Speakers & Leaders of Summerlin Toastmasters Meeting, Summerlin Egg Works, 2025 Village Center Cir, Las Vegas: 12 - 1:30 PM (Every week on Wednesday)
Live Music Yoga w/ Cheryl Slader @ Blue Sky Yoga: (Suggested Donation $12); 5:30 - 6:45 PM (Every week on Wednesday)
Country Crossroads Dance, Rhythms Dance Studio & Event Center, 4545 W Sahara Ave, Las Vegas: $15 Drop-in Rate / $50 for the whole month: 8 - 9 PM (Every week on Wednesday)
Thursday
Abundance Business Networking Group Online Event: 7 - 8:30 AM (Every week on Thursday). Please arrive 10-15 minutes early for networking. Steps to access our BNI Online™ Virtual Chapter Meeting, visit website.
Las Vegas Real Estate Investors Association - Weekly Power Lunch For Real Estate Investors: 11 AM - 1 PM (Every week on Thursday). Request to join here.
Free Salsa Classes @ Feel The Music Dance Studio: 7 - 8 PM (Every week on Thursday). Visit the website to register online.
Summerlin Bitcoin Happy Hour, SG Bar, 9580 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas: 6:30 PM (Every week on Thursday)
Coed Soccer - Summerlin: Crossings Park, 1111 Crestdale Ln, Las Vegas: 7:30 - 9:45 PM (Every week on Tuesday/Thursday)
Friday
Find Your Yoga Las Vegas - Flow & Yin W / Noé Hilyard @ Yoga Sanctuary: 6 - 7:15 PM (Every week on Friday) View Yoga Sanctuary's full schedule.
Swing Dancing in Las Vegas Vintage and Modern Swing Dances @ The Mint Tavern: 7:30 - 8:30 PM (Every week on Friday)
Saturday
Vino Las Vegas Wine & Yacht Club Brunch: 9 AM - 2 PM (Every Saturday and Sunday)
Find Your Yoga Las Vegas - Saturday Morning Meditation with Practitioner Selina Kelly @ Yoga Kandy, LLC. Cost: Love Donation $5-$10 suggested. 11 - 11:45 AM (Every week on Saturday)
Sunday
Las Vegas Valley Bicycle Club - Sunday Morning Ride @ Einstein Bagels: 9 - 11:30 AM (Every week on Sunday)
Vino Las Vegas Wine & Yacht Club Brunch: 9 AM - 2 PM (Every Saturday and Sunday)
Level 1 West Coast Swing @ 2580 N Rancho Dr, North Las Vegas: 7 - 8 PM (Every week on Tuesday); Drop in Rate is $15, Monthly pass is $50; Register online.
⛽ Las Vegas Gas Prices
❎ Voter ID Initiative Secures Spot on Nevada’s November Ballot
Supporters of a ballot initiative to require voter ID in Nevada have announced they have gathered enough signatures to place the measure on the November ballot. The group, Repair the Vote PAC, reported on Monday evening that they had submitted over 179,000 signatures, exceeding the required threshold by approximately 77,000 signatures.
Initiative Details
The proposed measure would mandate that voters present acceptable identification to vote in person during early voting or on Election Day. Acceptable forms of ID include:
Nevada driver’s license
Passport
Tribal or university ID
Other government-issued photo IDs
For mail-in ballots, voters would need to verify their identity by providing the last four digits of their Nevada driver’s license or Social Security number when signing the ballot envelope.
Overwhelming Support
David Gibbs, chairman of Repair the Vote PAC, expressed the group’s enthusiasm in a statement, highlighting the strong support from Nevadans. “The overwhelming support from citizens across the Silver State demonstrates a clear demand for measures that protect the sanctity of our vote. By requiring voter identification, we aim to strengthen the integrity of our elections and ensure that every vote counts,” Gibbs said.
Legal Hurdles and Signature Verification
The initiative had faced a legal challenge earlier in the year. Opponents argued that the measure was vague and would result in an unfunded government mandate. However, a Carson City judge dismissed the lawsuit in late February, allowing the initiative to proceed.
With the June 26 deadline narrowly met, the next step involves election officials reviewing the submitted signatures to confirm their validity before the measure can be officially placed on the November ballot.
Broader Implications
The introduction of voter ID laws has been a contentious issue nationwide, with supporters arguing that such measures prevent voter fraud and opponents claiming they can disenfranchise vulnerable populations. The upcoming review and potential approval of this initiative could significantly impact voting procedures and voter accessibility in Nevada.
What’s Next?
Election officials will now scrutinize the submitted signatures to ensure they meet the necessary requirements. If verified, the measure will be included on the November ballot, where Nevada voters will have the final say on whether to implement the voter ID requirement.
Summary
Repair the Vote PAC has successfully submitted over 179,000 signatures to support a ballot initiative requiring voter ID in Nevada, surpassing the threshold needed to appear on the November ballot. Despite previous legal challenges, the initiative has garnered substantial support, reflecting a significant push towards changing the state’s voting regulations.
🏒 Florida Panthers Make History with First-Ever Stanley Cup Triumph
The Florida Panthers have made history by winning their first Stanley Cup title, overcoming significant challenges to achieve this milestone. The Panthers secured their victory in Game 7 against the Edmonton Oilers with a 2-1 win, thanks to goals from Sam Reinhart and Carter Verhaeghe, and a stellar performance by goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, who made 23 saves.
Historic Victory
This triumph marks the Panthers' third appearance in the Stanley Cup Final. Previously, they were swept by Colorado in 1996 and defeated 4-1 by the Vegas Golden Knights last season. This year, the Panthers avoided a historic collapse by winning the decisive Game 7 after nearly squandering a 3-0 series lead. They narrowly escaped joining the 1942 Detroit Red Wings as the only teams to lose the final after leading 3-0.
Key Moments in Game 7
First Period: Carter Verhaeghe opened the scoring for the Panthers at 4:27, redirecting a shot past Edmonton’s goaltender Stuart Skinner. The Oilers quickly responded, with Mattias Janmark tying the game at 6:44.
Second Period: Sam Reinhart scored the go-ahead goal late in the second period, capitalizing on a chaotic sequence in front of Edmonton’s net. This goal was Reinhart’s 67th of the season, setting a new Florida single-season record.
Final Period: The Panthers maintained their lead throughout the third period, with Bobrovsky making crucial saves to secure the victory.
Panthers’ Road to Victory
Under the guidance of coach Paul Maurice, the Panthers demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the playoffs. Captain Aleksander Barkov celebrated the win by taking the first lap with the Stanley Cup, followed by Bobrovsky and the rest of the team. The victory denied Connor McDavid his first Stanley Cup title and extended Canada’s championship drought, with no Canadian-based team winning since Montreal in 1993.
Player Highlights
Sergei Bobrovsky: His calm and composed goaltending was pivotal in the Panthers’ success, especially in the final moments of Game 7.
Sam Reinhart: His crucial goal in the second period ensured the Panthers’ lead, contributing significantly to the team's historic win.
Aleksander Barkov: The captain’s leadership and performance were instrumental throughout the playoffs.
Celebrations and Reflections
Florida’s victory adds to South Florida’s collection of titles from the four major pro sports leagues. The Panthers join the Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, and Florida Marlins in bringing championship glory to the region. Maurice, along with general manager Bill Zito and the players, celebrated this monumental achievement with heartfelt emotions and exuberant celebrations.
Looking Ahead
This victory sets a new standard for the Panthers, establishing them as a formidable team in the NHL. The success of this season is expected to fuel further ambitions and set the stage for future achievements.
👨👨👧👦 North Las Vegas Overtakes Reno in Population Amid Economic Growth
North Las Vegas and Reno are in a close race for the title of Nevada’s third most populated city, according to new U.S. Census Bureau data. Once known for their distinct and modest origins, both cities have evolved significantly over the years, reshaping their economies and expanding their populations.
Population Trends
As of the 2020 census, Reno was the third most populated city in Nevada with 264,981 residents, trailing behind Las Vegas and Henderson. However, by 2021, North Las Vegas had surpassed Reno with a population of 271,104 compared to Reno’s 270,019. This trend continued in the 2023 and 2024 estimates, with the gap between the two cities widening further.
North Las Vegas: From Bootlegging Settlement to Industrial Powerhouse
North Las Vegas, once a bootlegging settlement during the Prohibition era, has transformed into an industrial hub. The city is now home to Apex Industrial Park, which hosts numerous warehousing and distribution centers. Despite its growth, North Las Vegas has faced challenges, including economic downturns and racial conflicts.
Economic History and Challenges
UNLV history professor Michael Green notes that the city’s early economy relied heavily on bootlegging, which contributed to its less prestigious reputation compared to cities developed by railroads or wealthy founders. Additionally, racial tensions during the desegregation era, particularly at Rancho High School, have historically impacted the city’s image.
The 2008 Great Recession hit North Las Vegas hard, making it the epicenter of foreclosures and drastically reducing property tax revenues. By 2014, the city struggled to pay public employees and maintain a balanced budget. However, the development of Apex Industrial Park played a crucial role in the city’s economic recovery.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
Recent projects at Apex include distribution centers for companies like Hey Dude and Smith’s. According to Michaela Moore, the city manager, North Las Vegas has focused on creating jobs and developing affordable housing to attract residents and workers. Future projects such as Hylo Park and Gateway Village aim to boost commercial revenue and provide retail, entertainment, and sporting jobs.
Reno: From Agricultural Hub to Tech and Recreation Destination
Reno, once dubbed “cow county” for its agriculture and gaming-centered economy, has also undergone significant changes. The decline of its gaming industry began when California signed compacts with tribes to establish casinos, leading to the need for economic diversification.
Economic Transition
Brian Bonnenfant, project manager for the Center for Regional Studies at UNR, highlights that Reno’s economy struggled to transition away from gaming through the early 2000s and the recession. However, its strategic location near Interstate 80 and Silicon Valley attracted major corporations like Tesla, Google, and Apple, revitalizing the economy.
Growth in Outdoor Recreation and Technology
Reno has capitalized on its natural attractions, such as Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, to promote outdoor recreation. Additionally, the city has expanded into the renewable energy sector, particularly with lithium mining for electric vehicle batteries.
Future Outlook
Bonnenfant hopes Reno will continue developing its downtown area and attracting employees to support its growing labor market. In North Las Vegas, Moore plans to focus on affordable housing, business development, and improving the quality of life for residents.
Conclusion
Both North Las Vegas and Reno have transformed significantly from their humble beginnings, evolving into vibrant cities with diverse economies. Their ongoing competition for population rank reflects their dynamic growth and the continued efforts to improve and expand.
🎰 MGM Resorts Resolves Internal Outage Affecting Multiple Properties
An afternoon computer system outage affected multiple MGM Resorts International properties on Sunday, leaving many guests temporarily inconvenienced. Company officials clarified on Monday that the outage was due to an internal issue, not a cybersecurity breach.
Guest Impact and Resolution
Videos shared on social media platforms Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) showed long lines of guests at the check-out areas of prominent MGM properties, including the Aria and Mandalay Bay hotel-casinos. The outage led to delays in service as staff worked to resolve the issue.
An MGM Resorts spokesperson described the incident as a "brief internal issue" that was swiftly resolved by Sunday evening. He emphasized that the issue was not related to any cybersecurity threats.
Previous Cybersecurity Concerns
This incident comes after MGM Resorts was the target of a significant cybersecurity breach in September 2023. The breach severely disrupted hotel operations, casino games, and credit card payment systems across MGM’s properties for over a week. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is currently pressing the company for information about the cyberattacks as part of an ongoing investigation.
Steps Forward
In response to the recent outage, MGM Resorts assured guests that all systems are now functioning normally and that the internal issue was promptly addressed. The company continues to implement robust measures to protect against potential cybersecurity threats and ensure smooth operations.
Historical Context and Company Assurance
MGM Resorts' quick resolution of the internal outage contrasts with the prolonged impact of the September 2023 cyberattack. During that incident, guests experienced significant disruptions, and the company's recovery process highlighted vulnerabilities in their system. Since then, MGM Resorts has bolstered its cybersecurity defenses and enhanced protocols to prevent future breaches.
The company remains committed to maintaining high standards of service and security for its guests. Regular updates and rigorous testing of their systems are part of MGM's ongoing efforts to safeguard against both internal and external issues.
Industry and Regulatory Oversight
The FTC's interest in the September 2023 cybersecurity breach underscores the importance of cybersecurity in the hospitality industry. MGM Resorts, like other major companies, is under scrutiny to provide transparent information about their security practices and responses to incidents. This regulatory oversight aims to ensure that companies are adequately protecting consumer data and maintaining robust security measures.
Summary
MGM Resorts International experienced a temporary computer system outage on Sunday due to an internal issue, quickly resolved without any cybersecurity breach. The incident follows a significant cyberattack in September 2023, which had a prolonged impact on the company's operations. MGM Resorts assures guests of their commitment to security and efficient service, continuing to enhance their systems to prevent future disruptions.
🎰 Mirage Hotel Offers Last-Minute Deals Before July Closure
Fans of the iconic Mirage Hotel have just over three weeks to book their stay at discounted rates before the property closes its doors. The hotel will cease operations on July 14, followed by the property closure on July 17, marking the end of an era for the iconic Las Vegas Strip location.
Discounted Room Rates
According to Wall Street analyst reports and the hotel’s booking website, room rates for the Mirage are significantly lower for its final days compared to the previous summer. As of Monday afternoon, average nightly rates are around $106 for mid-week stays and approximately $300 for weekends, not including taxes and resort fees. These reduced rates are available for the last three weeks of operations, which include the high-travel period around Independence Day.
Impact on the Market
Barry Jonas, a Truist Securities analyst, noted that the Mirage’s closure could benefit other Strip properties by reducing market supply. However, the lower room rates might result in less revenue for competing hotel-casinos. Jonas pointed out that June and July room rates at the Mirage have decreased by 46% and 44%, respectively, year-over-year, indicating low demand as the closure approaches.
Mirage's Historical Significance
The Mirage, designed by Steve Wynn, opened in November 1989 and has been a landmark on the Las Vegas Strip for over 30 years. Its opening initiated a boom in megaresort developments that have come to define modern Las Vegas. The hotel-casino is renowned for its lavish design and significant contributions to the Strip’s allure.
Future Plans for the Site
Hard Rock International, which acquired the Mirage from MGM Resorts International in 2022, plans to transform the site. Renovations will include the existing buildings and the construction of a 660-foot-tall, guitar-shaped hotel tower near Las Vegas Boulevard. The new Hard Rock Las Vegas is scheduled to open in the spring of 2027.
Summary
With its final days approaching, the Mirage is offering attractive room rates for last-minute visitors eager to experience the iconic hotel before it closes. While the closure might benefit other properties by reducing market supply, the significant discount in room rates reflects a drop in demand. The Mirage’s departure marks the end of an era but paves the way for Hard Rock International’s ambitious plans to revitalize the site.
Summerlin Area Command - Week Ending: June 21, 2024
Courtesy of The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
📌🏠 Summerlin South - May 2024
*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.
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Until next time, John Wu.