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- 🚗 Uber and Nevada Authorities Target Fake Rideshare Drivers in Las Vegas Crackdown
🚗 Uber and Nevada Authorities Target Fake Rideshare Drivers in Las Vegas Crackdown
Issue #268 - August 31, 2024
John Wu
31 Aug
Dear SummerSouth Insiders!
🚀Exciting News Ahead & We Need Your Support!🌟
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📆 Weekly Local Events for August 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
🚗 Uber and Nevada Authorities Target Fake Rideshare Drivers in Las Vegas Crackdown
This holiday weekend, Uber and the Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA) are launching a crackdown on unlicensed rideshare drivers in Las Vegas, a growing issue in the city’s bustling tourism scene. The collaboration marks the first time Uber has teamed up directly with a state agency to address this problem, which poses significant risks to public safety.
Fake Rideshare Drivers: A Growing Concern
John Foster, Chief of Enforcement for the NTA, highlighted the ease with which individuals can pose as rideshare drivers. “You can get a placard pretty much anywhere… you can parade around as an Uber driver,” Foster explained. He noted that many of these illegal operators drive black SUVs, making them nearly indistinguishable from legitimate Uber or Lyft vehicles.
The primary concern is that these drivers bypass essential safety measures, such as background checks and proper insurance, which are required for licensed rideshare operators. Foster emphasized that this issue is particularly prevalent in areas like the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown, where tourists are more likely to be targeted.
Uber’s Response to the Crisis
Harry Hartfield, Senior Public Affairs Manager for Uber, acknowledged that Las Vegas faces unique challenges due to the high volume of out-of-town visitors. The NTA regulates approximately 36,000 licensed drivers in the Vegas Valley, but Foster estimates that up to 10,000 drivers may be operating outside the rules by handing out business cards for off-app rides, which voids the commercial insurance coverage required for rides booked through the app.
In Nevada, legitimate rideshare drivers must have a $1.5 million insurance policy in place, but this protection doesn’t apply if a ride is not booked through the official platform. Hartfield warned that taking off-app rides is a risky choice for passengers.
Enforcement Efforts and Public Safety Tips
To combat the issue, the NTA has deployed undercover investigators who pose as tourists to catch illegal drivers in the act. Foster reported that about five unlicensed drivers are caught each week, with offenders facing severe penalties, including vehicle impoundment and a $10,000 fine.
Public vigilance plays a crucial role in these enforcement efforts. The NTA urges the public to report suspicious rideshare activity via a provided link, helping authorities curb the spread of fake Uber drivers.
For those using rideshare services, it’s essential to verify the driver’s identity and match the vehicle’s license plate number with the information provided in the app before entering the vehicle.
🏀 A’ja Wilson Shines as Aces Clinch Playoff Berth in Victory Over Atlanta
A Milestone Achievement, But Focus Remains Forward
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, Hammon downplayed the milestone, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming game against the Phoenix Mercury. “Great, we’re in the playoffs. Great,” Hammon remarked, underscoring her determination to stay focused on the task at hand.
A’ja Wilson, who led the Aces with a dominant performance, had a different perspective. “That’s a big deal for us,” said the two-time MVP, who scored 26 points, grabbed 16 rebounds, and recorded five blocks. Wilson became the first player in WNBA history to achieve multiple games with at least 25 points, 15 rebounds, and five blocks in a season, all without a turnover. She also reached the milestone of 2,000 rebounds, making her the second-youngest player in league history to do so.
Tiffany Hayes Shines Against Former Team
Tiffany Hayes added a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds, marking her first double-double since 2018. Starting in place of Jackie Young, who was rested, Hayes delivered a standout performance against her former team, the Dream, where she played for 10 seasons. “It’s hard to come by,” Hayes said of her achievement, making the moment even sweeter.
Allisha Gray led the Dream with 17 points, but their loss also secured a postseason spot for the Seattle Storm. The Aces’ win keeps them ahead of the Storm in the league standings, solidifying their position as they approach the playoffs.
Three Takeaways from the Aces’ Victory
Work to Do on Defense: Despite holding the Dream to 20 points or less in each quarter, Wilson and Hammon acknowledged that the team’s defense still needs improvement. “We’re not perfect, but... I’m very pleased with our defensive mindset today,” Wilson said. The Dream hit a season-high 11 three-pointers, highlighting areas for growth as the Aces aim for a WNBA title.
Strategic Rest for Jackie Young: Hammon made the decision to rest Jackie Young, a move that didn’t sit well with the guard. Young, who had recently returned from the Paris Olympics, was given a break as the Aces faced an undermanned Dream squad. Alysha Clark stepped into the starting lineup, contributing seven points, four rebounds, and four assists.
Chelsea Gray’s Grit: Chelsea Gray had a quiet night offensively, not scoring until the fourth quarter, but her impact was felt in other ways. She finished with four points, three assists, and two steals, including a near-highlight play that showcased her court vision. Hammon praised Gray’s effort, noting her progress in returning from a significant injury earlier in the season.
The Aces will next face the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday as they continue their push toward the playoffs with the goal of securing a WNBA championship.
❎ Harris vs. Trump: Competing Visions for America’s Climate and Energy Future
As the United States faces an increasingly urgent climate crisis, the approaches of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump present a stark contrast in addressing climate change and ensuring energy security. Both leaders have expressed strong views on these issues, but neither has provided detailed plans for how they would achieve their goals if elected in 2024.
Harris's Climate Vision: Building on the Biden Administration's Legacy
Vice President Kamala Harris has consistently positioned herself as a proponent of aggressive climate action. During her acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention, she highlighted the importance of addressing climate change, framing it as essential to protecting fundamental freedoms such as clean air, clean water, and a livable environment.
Harris's record as vice president includes casting the decisive vote for the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a significant piece of climate legislation that passed without Republican support. The IRA includes nearly $375 billion in incentives for clean energy projects and electric vehicles, marking it as a cornerstone of President Biden’s climate policy. As a senator from California, Harris was an early supporter of the Green New Deal, a set of ambitious proposals aimed at transitioning the U.S. to renewable energy.
Environmental groups widely back Harris, labeling her a “proven climate champion” who is committed to taking on Big Oil and expanding Biden’s climate legacy. Lena Moffitt, executive director of Evergreen Action, emphasized that Harris’s leadership would prevent a rollback to climate denialism in the Oval Office.
However, Harris has faced criticism from some quarters, particularly over her stance on fracking. During her brief 2020 presidential campaign, she expressed opposition to offshore drilling and fracking. But her campaign later clarified that she does not support an outright ban on fracking, a position that some environmentalists find disappointing.
Trump's Energy Strategy: Doubling Down on Fossil Fuels
Former President Donald Trump, in contrast, has focused on increasing fossil fuel production and dismantling the Biden administration’s climate initiatives. In his speech at the Republican National Convention, Trump denounced the “green new scam” and vowed to boost oil, natural gas, and coal production. He pledged to repeal key parts of the 2022 climate law, arguing that the U.S. is sitting on vast reserves of “liquid gold” that should be exploited for economic gain.
Trump’s approach to energy policy is grounded in his belief that the U.S. should prioritize cheap, abundant energy from domestic sources. He has promised to roll back regulations that he sees as burdensome to the energy industry, including environmental protections enacted by the Biden administration. His campaign has been vocal about supporting increased drilling on public lands, offering tax breaks to fossil fuel companies, and expediting the approval of natural gas pipelines.
Trump’s rhetoric on electric vehicles (EVs) has been particularly critical. He has repeatedly attacked the Biden administration’s vehicle emissions rules, which he falsely claims mandate electric vehicle sales. While Trump has softened his stance slightly, stating he supports a small percentage of EVs in the market, his overall position remains that the push for EVs threatens jobs in the auto industry. He has signaled that he would seek to repeal tax incentives for EVs, arguing that they disproportionately benefit China.
Contrasting Public Support and Policy Impact
Public opinion reflects a significant divide in trust between the two candidates on climate issues. A July poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that more than half of U.S. adults trust Harris “a lot” or “some” to handle climate change, while about 7 in 10 express little or no trust in Trump on the issue.
In terms of policy achievements, Harris has been involved in implementing the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law passed in 2021, as well as the IRA’s climate provisions. The Energy Department reported that under Biden and Harris, over 250,000 energy jobs were created last year, with clean energy jobs making up more than half of those positions. The Harris campaign argues that America is more energy secure than ever, with record levels of domestic energy production.
Trump, however, contends that the climate spending under Biden and Harris is a “money grab” for environmental groups and will lead to higher energy costs and job losses. He has promised to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement again, end subsidies for wind energy, and roll back energy efficiency regulations imposed by the Biden administration.
The Path Forward: Competing Visions for America's Energy Future
As the 2024 election approaches, the contrasting visions of Harris and Trump on climate and energy issues present voters with a clear choice. Harris is focused on continuing the Biden administration’s efforts to combat climate change through clean energy investment and regulation, while Trump is committed to reversing those policies and prioritizing fossil fuel production.
Both candidates face challenges in translating their broad visions into detailed, actionable plans that address the complexities of balancing environmental protection with economic growth. As the campaign progresses, voters will be looking for more specifics on how each candidate plans to achieve their climate and energy goals in a rapidly changing world.
🏘️ Las Vegas Leads Nation in Investor Home Purchases with 27% Surge
The Las Vegas Valley has become the epicenter of a significant surge in investor home purchases, leading the nation in a trend that reflects the broader dynamics of the U.S. housing market. According to a recent report by Redfin, investor purchases in Las Vegas increased by 27% year-over-year in the second quarter of 2024. This spike is the highest in the country, tied only with San Jose, California, underscoring the growing appeal of the region to corporate investors.
Investor Dominance in Las Vegas Real Estate
Investor purchases, as defined by Redfin, refer to transactions made by companies rather than individual buyers. In Las Vegas, the impact of these investors is substantial. A study conducted last year by the Lied Center for Real Estate at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) revealed that corporate investors now own approximately 14% of all residential single-family housing stock in the valley. The concentration is even higher in North Las Vegas, where 25% of such properties are in the hands of corporate entities.
The reasons behind this surge in investor activity are multifaceted. Chen Zhao, Redfin’s Economics Research lead, suggests that the rising rents in Las Vegas, which are increasing at a rate higher than the national median, make the area particularly attractive to investors. Additionally, as a major tourist destination, Las Vegas offers opportunities for short-term rentals, further enticing investors looking for profitable ventures.
Las Vegas Ranks High in Investor Share of Home Purchases
Beyond the year-over-year increase, Las Vegas ranks among the top five U.S. cities with the highest share of investor purchases at the end of the second quarter of 2024. Investors accounted for 22.3% of all home purchases in the area, placing Las Vegas just behind Miami, which leads the nation with 28.5% of homes bought by investors.
The significance of this trend is part of a broader national pattern. Across the United States, investors bought $43 billion worth of homes in the second quarter, marking a 13.7% increase from the previous year. This represents the largest uptick in investor purchases in two years, highlighting the increasing influence of corporate entities in the housing market.
The Impact of Rising Home Prices and Mortgage Rates
The surge in investor activity is closely linked to the rising home prices and elevated mortgage rates that have characterized the Las Vegas housing market. The average home price in the valley has climbed to $450,000, reflecting a 7.5% increase from the same period last year, according to Redfin. Mortgage rates, including fees, have remained around 7%, further exacerbating the challenges for potential homebuyers.
Redfin senior economist Sheharyar Bokhari notes that these factors are pushing more people into the rental market, as the dream of homeownership becomes increasingly out of reach for many. “Elevated home prices and mortgage rates have pushed homeownership out of reach for a lot of Americans, which is fueling demand for rentals,” Bokhari said in a statement. Investors, many of whom can pay in cash and thus avoid high mortgage rates, are capitalizing on this demand, further driving their interest in Las Vegas real estate.
A Slowing but Still Rising Rental Market
Despite a slowing pace, rental rates in Las Vegas continue to rise, in contrast to the national trend where rental prices are generally declining. This steady increase in rents makes the city an appealing destination for real estate investors who are looking to profit from a strong rental market. As Bokhari points out, robust demand from renters is one of the key reasons investors are becoming more active, seeing opportunities to secure steady returns in a challenging economic environment.
Housing Crisis in Las Vegas: A Complex Challenge
The growing investor presence in Las Vegas is also contributing to the city’s ongoing housing crisis. The median sale price for a single-family home is nearing a record high, and prices for condos and townhomes have already surpassed previous records. Real estate stakeholders in Las Vegas have expressed concerns that federal control over most of the land in the valley is restricting development, thereby driving up costs on both the residential and commercial sides.
This land scarcity, combined with high home prices and increasing investor activity, has created a challenging environment for local residents who are finding it increasingly difficult to afford housing. As investors continue to buy up properties, the competition for available homes intensifies, further limiting options for first-time buyers and those looking to move within the city.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Las Vegas Real Estate
As the Las Vegas housing market continues to attract national attention, the future remains uncertain. While investor interest brings capital and development opportunities, it also raises concerns about affordability and accessibility for local residents. The balance between encouraging investment and ensuring housing availability for all remains a key issue for policymakers and stakeholders in the region.
For now, Las Vegas stands at the forefront of a national trend, reflecting both the opportunities and challenges of a housing market shaped increasingly by investor activity. As the city navigates these complexities, the impact on its residents, economy, and future development will be closely watched.
Summerlin South, NV Demographics
What is the population of Summerlin South?
What are the employment statistics in Summerlin South?
How many households are there in Summerlin South?
What are the median and average incomes in Summerlin South?
How many homeowners and renters are there in Summerlin South?
What is the level of education in Summerlin South?
What is the marital status of Summerlin South residents?
What are the most common means of transportation in Summerlin South?
Methodology & Disclaimers
Demographic data shown in this section was gathered from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release, the 2022 American Community Survey. The information is updated yearly, as soon as new data is made available by the US Census Bureau.
No representation, guarantee or warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information modified or aggregated for specific neighborhoods and/or zip codes.
Zip codes included in this demographic data: 89135
Summerlin Area Command - Week Ending: August 23, 2024
Courtesy of The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
📌 🏠 Summerlin South - July 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.