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- 👨👨👧👦 Summerlin’s 30th Fourth of July Parade to Feature Military, Pop Culture Themes
👨👨👧👦 Summerlin’s 30th Fourth of July Parade to Feature Military, Pop Culture Themes
Issue #208 - July 2, 2024
John Wu
02 Jul
Dear SummerSouth Insiders!
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📆 Weekly Local Events for July 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
👨👨👧👦 Summerlin’s 30th Fourth of July Parade to Feature Military, Pop Culture Themes
Tommy Porrello feels a surge of patriotism every year watching Summerlin’s Fourth of July parade. Active-duty military members march in uniform, veterans proudly wear hats signifying their service, and attendees don red, white, and blue attire, creating a vibrant display of national pride.
Largest Parade in Las Vegas Valley
The Summerlin Council Patriotic Parade, the largest July 4th parade in the Las Vegas Valley, is set for its 30th rendition. The parade kicks off at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday at the intersection of Hillpointe Road and Hills Center Drive.
Porrello, the celebration’s spokesman, views the parade as an essential community event, offering a moment for residents to reflect on American values before heading to their own barbecues and fireworks.
“It really gives you the focus early to think about what the day means,” Porrello said.
Parade Highlights
This year’s grand marshal is Col. Nicholas R. Pederson, commander of the 432d Wing and the 432d Air Expeditionary Wing at Creech Air Force Base. Approximately 2,500 participants, including Gov. Joe Lombardo, will march in the parade, joined by dozens of glittering floats and giant inflatable balloons.
Parade participants, including the Bonanza High School marching band, will proceed south along Hills Center Drive towards Village Center Circle, circling back to Trailwood Drive where the parade concludes. The Summerlin Council anticipates over 50,000 spectators will line the parade route.
Float Preparations
On Monday morning, volunteer Jordyn Doyle was busy preparing a float named “Visions of Candy Land” at a park near the parade route. Doyle, who has volunteered for six years, enjoys watching the floats come to life.
“They start with a little pencil drawing,” she said.
Although Doyle is not a designer, she transforms flatbed trailers into vibrant floats by attaching colorful floral sheeting, twists, and fringes. Larger decorations require more secure methods, such as using a drill.
Themes and Attractions
This year’s floats will feature a mix of patriotic and pop culture themes. The “All-Star Salute to the Military” float includes a replica bald eagle and a giant version of the U.S. Constitution. Pop culture fans can look forward to floats like “Visions of Candy Land” and a “Star Wars”-inspired float titled “Star Wars: The Fourth Awakens.” Additionally, floats will celebrate Las Vegas sports teams, including the Golden Knights, the Raiders, and the Aviators.
Parade’s Humble Beginnings
Porrello reminisced about the parade’s simpler origins. “The Summerlin Patriotic Parade started out as kids on their bicycles riding from the library across the street just to the Trails Community Center here,” he said. “They decorated their bikes and they rode across.”
Conclusion
The Summerlin Patriotic Parade has grown significantly since its inception, now a major event that unites the community in celebration of Independence Day. As the parade marks its 30th year, it promises to be a grand spectacle that honors American values and traditions.
🏒 Golden Knights Star Chandler Stephenson Joins Seattle Kraken
Chandler Stephenson, a key player for the Vegas Golden Knights, has signed a seven-year contract with the Seattle Kraken, worth an average annual value of $6.25 million. The Kraken announced the deal on the first day of NHL free agency, marking a significant addition to their lineup.
Career Highlights with the Golden Knights
Stephenson, 30, had a standout season with 51 points in 75 games last year. Acquired in December 2019 from the Washington Capitals for a fifth-round pick, he quickly became a top-six fixture for the Knights. Over five seasons, Stephenson scored 237 points in 327 games and was named an All-Star during the 2022-23 season.
His journey from a fourth-line player in Washington to an All-Star with Vegas is a testament to his growth and adaptability. The trade that brought him to the Golden Knights is often considered one of the best in the franchise's history. In Washington, Stephenson had 33 points in 168 games, a stark contrast to his prolific performance in Vegas.
Impact and Legacy
Stephenson was instrumental in the Knights' success, contributing 20 points in the 22 playoff games last season to help secure his second Stanley Cup, having first won with the Capitals in 2018. His ability to play both ends of the rink effectively made him a valuable asset to the team. His departure leaves a significant void both on and off the ice for the Golden Knights.
Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon acknowledged Stephenson's contributions: "Chandler has been a cornerstone of our team since his arrival. His leadership and performance have been exemplary, and we wish him all the best in Seattle."
Reaction from Seattle Kraken
Seattle Kraken General Manager Ron Francis expressed excitement about the acquisition: “He can play both ends of the rink extremely well. Getting Chandler to add to our lineup is a huge addition.” The Kraken, a relatively new franchise in the NHL, continues to build a competitive roster, and Stephenson's signing is a major step in that direction.
Stephenson’s versatility and experience are expected to significantly bolster the Kraken's offensive and defensive strategies. His leadership qualities and playoff experience are also seen as crucial for the young team's development.
Future Prospects
Stephenson’s departure, while significant, was anticipated following the Knights' acquisition of Tomas Hertl from the San Jose Sharks. Hertl, who is under contract for the next six years with a $6.75 million cap hit, is expected to fill Stephenson's role in the top six. Hertl's presence should help mitigate the impact of losing Stephenson, but the team will undoubtedly miss his unique contributions.
Broader Implications
Stephenson’s move reflects broader trends in the NHL regarding player mobility and team strategies during free agency. High-profile player movements like this one underscore the dynamic nature of team compositions and the strategic planning involved in maintaining competitive rosters.
Community and Fan Reaction
Fans of the Golden Knights have expressed mixed emotions about Stephenson’s departure. While many are saddened to see a beloved player leave, there is also excitement and gratitude for his contributions to the team’s success. On social media, fans have shared highlights of his most memorable moments with the team, celebrating his time in Vegas.
In Seattle, Kraken fans are eagerly welcoming Stephenson, hopeful that his experience and skill will help elevate the team’s performance. Community events and fan meet-and-greets are being planned to introduce him to the Seattle fanbase, emphasizing the team’s commitment to building strong relationships with their supporters.
Conclusion
Chandler Stephenson’s transition from the Golden Knights to the Seattle Kraken marks the end of an era for Vegas and the beginning of a promising new chapter for Seattle. His impact on the Golden Knights will be remembered fondly, and his future with the Kraken holds much potential for both him and his new team. As the NHL free agency period continues, such moves will likely shape the upcoming season in exciting and unpredictable ways.
🎆 Southern Nevada Fourth of July Celebrations
Southern Nevada will celebrate the Fourth of July with an array of firework shows and special events across the region. Here are some highlights and details about the festivities:
Summerlin Council Patriotic Parade
Date/Time: July 4, 9 a.m.
Location: The parade route starts at Hillpointe Road and Hills Center Drive, traveling south to Village Center Circle, then west on Trailwood Drive, ending near the corner of Trailwood Drive and Spring Gate Lane.
Features: New floats and returning favorites such as “Stars and Stripes Forever,” “Visions of Candyland,” and “Ferris Bueller’s Independence Day Off.”
Blast Off in the Basin
Date/Time: July 4, 7 p.m.
Location: Buckskin Basin Park, 7350 Buckskin Ave., with an additional viewing area at Wayne Bunker Park, 7351 W. Alexander Road.
Features: Fireworks, a DJ, and food trucks.
Admission: Free
Info: lasvegasnevada.gov/ward4; 702-229-2524
Las Vegas Motor Speedway’s Night of Fire
Date/Time: July 3, gates open at 5 p.m.
Location: 7000 Las Vegas Blvd. North
Features: Stock car racing followed by a fireworks show.
Tickets: Starting at $15 (free for ages 12 and under)
Info: lvms.com
Boulder City’s 76th Annual Damboree
Date/Time: July 4, starts at 7 a.m. with a pancake breakfast.
Location: Bicentennial Park, 1100 Colorado St. Parade begins at Colorado Street and travels to Broadbent Memorial Park.
Features: Parade, live music, activities, food trucks, and fireworks at 9 p.m.
Admission: Free (parking $20)
Info: bcnv.org/damboree; 702-293-9256
Fireworks at Caesars Palace
Date/Time: July 4, 9 p.m.
Location: Caesars Palace
Info: caesarspalace.com
Cowabunga Bay and Cowabunga Canyon
Dates/Times:
Cowabunga Bay: July 4-5, 8:50 p.m.
Cowabunga Canyon: July 3-4, 8:50 p.m.
Locations:
Cowabunga Bay: 900 Galleria Drive, Henderson
Cowabunga Canyon: 7055 S. Fort Apache Road
Features: Fireworks, DJs, hot dog eating contests
Tickets: Prices vary
Info: cowabungabayvegas.com
Henderson’s Fourth of July Celebration
Date/Time: July 4, 6 p.m.
Location: Heritage Park, 350 S. Racetrack Road
Features: Live entertainment, activities, food vendors, fireworks at 9 p.m.
Admission: Free
Info: cityofhenderson.com
Lake Las Vegas Fireworks
Date/Time: July 4, 9 p.m.
Location: Lake Las Vegas
Info: Part of Henderson’s Fourth of July celebration.
Las Vegas Ballpark
Dates/Times:
July 2, 7:05 p.m.
July 3, 6:05 p.m.
Location: 1650 S. Pavilion Center Drive
Features: Fireworks show following the Las Vegas Aviators games.
Tickets: Prices vary
Info: aviatorslv.com
Laughlin’s Rockets Over the River
Date/Time: July 4, 9:30 p.m.
Location: Colorado River
Features: Fireworks synchronized with patriotic music.
Admission: Free
Info: visitlaughlin.com
Red Rock Resort
Date/Time: July 4, 9 p.m.
Location: Red Rock Resort
Features: Viewing party with a DJ at the Sandbar pool.
Tickets: Starting at $35 for ages 12+, $10 for ages 2-11
Sphere Fourth of July Celebration
Date/Time: July 4, 9:30 p.m. and 11:40 p.m.
Location: Sphere
Features: New Exosphere show, XO Stream livestream, and XO Audio.
Info: thesphere.com
🎰 MGM Resorts Plans Major Bellagio Expansion with New Dining and Retail
MGM Resorts International has proposed a significant expansion to the Bellagio hotel-casino, introducing new dining, retail, and entertainment amenities near its entrance along Las Vegas Boulevard. The expansion, referred to as Project Mojave in county planning documents, promises to enhance the iconic property's offerings and attract more visitors.
Expansion Details
The proposed expansion will include over a dozen new retail spaces, multiple food and beverage outlets, and new viewing areas overlooking the famous Bellagio fountains. These additions are expected to elevate the visitor experience, offering a wider variety of attractions within the Bellagio complex.
Design and Architecture
Las Vegas-based Marnell Architecture, known for its extensive experience in casino hotel architecture, designed the proposal. The firm has previously worked on significant projects such as the original Bellagio design, the Aria Convention Center expansion, M Resort, Rio, and Wynn. Their involvement in Project Mojave ensures a high standard of architectural excellence and integration with the existing Bellagio aesthetics.
Approval and Timeline
The documents for the expansion were submitted to Clark County last week. While specific details about the project are not yet available, MGM Resorts International has indicated that more information will be released in the coming weeks and months. The timeline for the project's approval and commencement is still unclear, as it awaits county commissioners' review and approval.
Recent and Ongoing Upgrades
This expansion follows a recent $110 million redesign of 819 guest rooms and 104 suites in the Bellagio’s Spa Tower, completed at the end of 2023. Additionally, a similar makeover of 400 suites in the Bellagio Tower is planned for later this year. These continuous upgrades reflect MGM's commitment to maintaining and enhancing the luxury and appeal of the Bellagio.
Economic and Community Impact
The proposed expansion is expected to create numerous job opportunities during and after construction, boosting the local economy. By adding new attractions, the Bellagio aims to increase its appeal to both tourists and locals, further solidifying its status as a premier destination on the Las Vegas Strip.
Future Announcements
An MGM spokesperson has confirmed that the company will share "additional details about this exciting project in the coming weeks and months." This forthcoming information is highly anticipated, as it will provide more insight into the specific features and timeline of the expansion.
Conclusion
Project Mojave represents a significant investment in the future of the Bellagio hotel-casino, promising to enhance its already impressive array of amenities. As details emerge, the expansion is expected to generate excitement and interest from both the local community and visitors to Las Vegas.
🐶 How to Keep Your Pets Safe and Calm During Fourth of July Fireworks
Fourth of July fireworks can be extremely stressful for pets. With some preparation, pet owners can help their furry friends stay calm and safe during the celebrations.
Understand Past Behavior
Amy Joshua, a dog coordinator with the Las Vegas Valley Humane Society, advises pet owners to review their pets' past holiday behavior. "Pet owners should prepare their pet by reviewing past holiday behavior," she says, pointing to New Year’s Eve firework celebrations as an example.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Joshua suggests creating a cozy, secure space for pets, especially those that are new or get anxious. "A soft, cozy space should be prepared for them. Dog beds, favorite toys, and blankets create a safe and familiar haven," she recommends.
Stay Home with Your Pet
Johnna Holland, a dog trainer with Smarty Paws Canine Training, emphasizes the importance of staying home with your pet. "My best piece of advice is to ride out the storm... Your dog’s safety should mean everything to you. If you have to sacrifice one night out with friends to stay home, that ensures that your dog doesn’t get out," she says.
Microchip Your Pet
Joshua highlights that more pets become lost on the Fourth of July than any other holiday. She urges pet owners to get their pets microchipped and ensure the contact information is up-to-date. "This is to ensure their pet gets returned to them as soon as possible if it comes to a rescue or shelter," she explains.
Plan Ahead
Holland suggests pet owners should start preparing their pets at least six months in advance by setting goals for socialization and desensitization to loud sounds. Gradually exposing dogs to louder environments can help. "Start with a trip to a coffee shop to get dogs used to loud human movements and progress to louder places," she advises. Even simple actions like clanging pots and pans together in the kitchen can help.
Consider Medication
For pets that need extra help, medication is an option. However, Holland notes that medications often take several weeks to be effective. "A lot of medications, whether it be CBD or a prescribed sedative from your veterinarian, take a couple of weeks to really take effect and build a chemical baseline within the body," she explains.
Key Takeaways
Both Holland and Joshua emphasize that preparation is crucial to ensure pets have a safe and anxiety-free Fourth of July. By understanding past behavior, creating a comfortable environment, staying home with your pet, microchipping, planning ahead, and considering medication, pet owners can help their pets cope with the stress of fireworks.
Summerlin Area Command - Week Ending: June 28, 2024
Courtesy of The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
📌🏠 Summerlin South - June 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.