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- 🦹♂️ Nearly 60 Culinary Workers Union Members Arrested During Virgin Hotels Strike Protest
🦹♂️ Nearly 60 Culinary Workers Union Members Arrested During Virgin Hotels Strike Protest
Issue #352 - November 23, 2024
John Wu
23 Nov
Dear SummerSouth Insiders!
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📆 Weekly Local Events for November 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
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: 7PM (Every week on Tuesday), FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @rundrinklv FOR THE LATEST WEATHER/TIMING UPDATES
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)
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
🦹♂️ Nearly 60 Culinary Workers Union Members Arrested During Virgin Hotels Strike Protest
Nearly 60 members of the Culinary Workers Union Local 226 were arrested Thursday evening during a peaceful civil disobedience demonstration outside Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The union workers, striking for better wages and benefits, escalated their efforts to draw attention to their demands, now in the seventh day of their labor action.
The protest, which began around 6 p.m., involved members of Culinary Local 226 and Bartenders Local 165 blocking traffic on Paradise Road. Union leaders, including Secretary-Treasurer Ted Pappageorge and President Diana Valles, were among those arrested after sitting in the street to disrupt traffic. The demonstration aimed to pressure Virgin Hotels management to return to negotiations and meet the union's demands for a fair contract.
“The company has gone more than a year without providing a fair contract. It’s time for Virgin to step up and respect the hard work of its employees,” the union said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Strike Background and Demands
The dispute centers on negotiations over a new five-year contract for approximately 700 non-gaming employees at Virgin Hotels. Their previous agreement expired in June 2023, and the union has been in intermittent talks with management ever since. Union members are calling for significant wage increases and improved benefits, claiming that Virgin's current economic proposals are far below what comparable properties on or near the Strip have already offered.
The strike has disrupted operations at Virgin Hotels, located about a mile east of the Las Vegas Strip. As part of its Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix involvement, the property serves as a designated ride-share drop-off zone and is hosting promotional events. The union hopes the heightened visibility during the city’s global F1 showcase will bolster their cause.
Virgin Hotels Responds
Virgin Hotels has pushed back against the union’s tactics, describing Thursday’s protest as “media stunt theatrics.” The company also criticized union leadership for what it sees as a refusal to engage in productive negotiations.
“It is disappointing that Culinary Union leaders are prioritizing staged arrests over constructive bargaining,” Virgin Hotels said in a statement. “Union leadership should allow its members to vote on the latest economic proposal, which we believe is fair and sustainable for the property.”
Virgin management added that the company is committed to continuing operations despite the strike, implementing contingency plans to minimize disruptions.
Union Members Double Down
For union members, the arrests are part of a broader strategy to spotlight their demands and draw attention to what they describe as unfair treatment. Those arrested included rank-and-file members and senior union leadership. The union emphasized the protest was nonviolent and intended to underline the workers' resolve.
Union members who participate in the strike five days a week are eligible for $500 in weekly strike pay from the union’s strike fund.
“This is about more than just paychecks,” said union spokesperson Bethany Khan. “It’s about ensuring these workers, who are essential to the success of Virgin Hotels, receive the respect and compensation they deserve.”
Economic Stakes and Public Support
The timing of the strike coincides with one of the most high-profile weeks in Las Vegas, as the city hosts the inaugural Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix. Virgin Hotels’ proximity to key F1-related events has amplified the impact of the strike.
The union has called on patrons to boycott Virgin Hotels during the strike, urging community members and visitors to respect the picket line. Support from local and national labor groups has also bolstered the union’s efforts.
A Broader Labor Movement
This is not the Culinary Union’s first significant protest at Virgin Hotels. A similar demonstration in August resulted in two dozen arrests. Earlier this year, the union secured favorable contracts with several major properties on the Strip, following months of negotiations and the threat of strikes during other high-profile events.
The union has framed its current struggle at Virgin as part of a broader movement to ensure fair treatment for hospitality workers across Las Vegas, particularly at properties not directly connected to the major Strip operators.
“We’ve seen progress at other properties because we stood together and fought for what’s right,” said one striking worker. “We’re not backing down until Virgin Hotels does the same.”
What’s Next?
Negotiations between the Culinary Union and Virgin Hotels remain stalled, with no meetings scheduled as of Thursday night. Virgin has shown little indication it will significantly alter its proposals, while the union has vowed to continue its strike indefinitely until an agreement is reached.
With the Formula One Grand Prix underway and global attention on Las Vegas, the stakes for both sides are high. For Virgin Hotels, the strike presents operational challenges during a marquee event, while for the union, it represents an opportunity to leverage the city’s spotlight to amplify their cause.
As the protest drew to a close Thursday, union members reaffirmed their commitment to the strike. “This is just the beginning,” Pappageorge said. “We’ll keep fighting until we win.”
🏈 Raiders Mailbag: Addressing Fans' Burning Questions Amid Losing Streak
The Las Vegas Raiders, struggling to break a six-game losing streak, will face the Denver Broncos this Sunday at Allegiant Stadium. While the team is focused on the task at hand, fans are already looking ahead to offseason moves, coaching futures, and roster needs. Here’s a look at some of the most pressing questions submitted to this week’s mailbag:
Will Coach Antonio Pierce Be Back Next Season?
Question from ledtear (@ledtear): What is the percentage chance that coach Antonio Pierce will be back next season?
Vincent Bonsignore: It’s too early to assign a specific percentage. However, the next seven games will be crucial in determining Pierce’s future with the team. A major factor will be the Raiders’ confidence in Pierce’s ability to develop a young quarterback, should they draft one of the top prospects in 2024. His performance and the team’s progress in these final games will heavily influence the decision.
What Are the Raiders' Other Offseason Needs?
Question from Matt Berger (@matt_berger): Other than quarterback, what positions should the Raiders prioritize for next season?
Bonsignore: The Raiders need reinforcements at wide receiver, defensive line, and running back. Addressing these areas will be critical to improving overall team performance.
Would Deion Sanders Join the Raiders if Pierce is Fired?
Question from PhilipTheTerrible (@StraightUpMAGA): With Deion Sanders hinting at an interest in coaching in the NFL, would the Raiders hire him as an assistant or head coach if Pierce gets fired?
Bonsignore: Deion Sanders would almost certainly not leave his position at Colorado to take an assistant coaching job in the NFL. However, if the Raiders decide to part ways with Pierce, Sanders could become a wildcard candidate for the head coaching position.
Who Are the New Raiders Investors?
Question from Raiders Man Cave (@CaveRaiders): Raiders owner Mark Davis sold 15% of the team to two individuals. Who are they, and what are their intentions?
Bonsignore: Mark Davis has agreed in principle to sell 15% of the Raiders in two separate deals (7.5% each). The NFL is expected to approve these transactions at the Dec. 10-11 owners’ meetings in Dallas.
The buyers are:
Egon Durban, co-CEO of Silver Lake and chairman of Endeavor’s board.
Michael Meldman, founder of Discovery Land Company.
Both are prominent businessmen who see NFL franchise ownership as a lucrative investment. However, there’s speculation that their involvement could extend beyond financial interests. Time will tell how this partnership evolves.
What Role Will Running Back Dylan Laube Play?
Question from Naylor (@nayloraider): Should we expect running back Dylan Laube to have a big role?
Bonsignore: Laube has the opportunity to take on a significant role, but his performance will dictate his playing time. If he proves productive early in the game against Denver, his responsibilities could expand.
What’s Tom Brady’s Role as a Minority Owner?
Question from Go Raiders (@GoRaiders19): Has Tom Brady done anything besides being introduced as a minority owner?
Bonsignore: Thus far, Brady has primarily served as a sounding board for Mark Davis. There’s been no indication of an official role within the organization at this time.
Will Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham Take Over as Head Coach?
Question from Raymond Ramirez (@StatsisBackk): Any chance defensive coordinator Patrick Graham will be promoted to interim head coach this season?
Bonsignore: No. The team seems committed to Pierce for the remainder of the season.
Could the Raiders Pursue QB Daniel Jones?
Question from pinkflounder99 (@pinkflounder99): Would the Raiders consider signing Daniel Jones, who was just released by the Giants?
Bonsignore: Highly doubtful. The Raiders are unlikely to pursue Jones, given their long-term focus on developing a quarterback through the draft.
Final Thoughts
The Raiders’ 2-8 record has raised serious questions about their future, but Sunday’s game offers a chance to start turning things around. While the fans are already looking ahead to the offseason, the team’s immediate focus remains on breaking the losing streak and evaluating talent for the road ahead.
📺 How to Watch the Vegas Golden Knights: 2024-25 TV and Streaming Guide
As the Vegas Golden Knights head into their 2024-25 NHL season, fans may be wondering where and how to watch their favorite team in action. With 70 games airing locally and 12 on national television, the Golden Knights will be available to viewers across various platforms. Additionally, all games will be available on the radio via KKGK (98.9 FM, 1340 AM). Here’s a comprehensive guide to help fans stay up to date with where to catch the Knights this season:
Local Broadcasts: Vegas 34 and KnightTime+
For the second consecutive year, the Golden Knights’ local TV partner is Scripps Sports. This means that 70 of the 82 regular-season games will be broadcast locally on Vegas 34, which can be accessed with an antenna on channel 34.1. This channel is also available on Cox and DirecTV, though Dish Network no longer carries it.
Additionally, all local games will be available on the team’s streaming service, KnightTime+, which offers a convenient option for fans who prefer to watch games on their mobile devices or smart TVs. A season pass for KnightTime+ costs $69.99 and is available on various platforms including iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, and Vizio devices.
National TV Coverage
The Golden Knights will appear on national television 12 times this season, spread across ESPN, TNT, ABC, and streaming platforms like ESPN+ and Hulu. Here’s a breakdown of those national broadcasts:
ESPN — 4 Games
ESPN, one of the NHL’s national TV partners, will air four Knights games this season.
Fans can watch ESPN on Cox (30), DirecTV (206), and Dish (140). It is also available on streaming services such as YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu, and fuboTV.
TNT — 5 Games
TNT will air five Knights games, including the season opener against the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday.
TNT is available on Cox (18), DirecTV (245), and Dish (138). In addition to the live broadcast, TNT games will be available on Max, a streaming service that offers a free sports add-on for a limited time. Three of the games will also have alternate broadcasts on truTV.
Out-of-market fans can watch the March 16 game in Detroit on TNT, but Southern Nevada fans will have to tune into Vegas 34 or KnightTime+.
ESPN+ and Hulu — 2 Games
The Knights’ games against the Edmonton Oilers on Dec. 3 and the Dallas Stars on Jan. 28 will only be available on ESPN+ and Hulu.
ESPN+ subscriptions start at $10.99 per month, while Hulu plans start at $7.99 per month. Both services are available on smart TVs, computers, gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation, and other streaming devices.
ABC — 2 Games
ABC will air two Golden Knights games: Feb. 8 at Boston and March 22 against Detroit. Both games will also be available on ESPN+.
How to Listen: Radio Broadcasts
Fans can also listen to every Golden Knights game on the radio via KKGK (98.9 FM, 1340 AM), with play-by-play from Jason Horowitz and analysis from Lincoln Kennedy.
Summary: Your Go-To Guide
70 local games on Vegas 34 and KnightTime+
4 games on ESPN
5 games on TNT (plus truTV for alternate broadcasts and Max streaming)
2 games on ESPN+ and Hulu
2 games on ABC (also available on ESPN+)
Radio: All games available on KKGK (98.9 FM, 1340 AM)
With a mix of over-the-air, cable, streaming, and radio options, Golden Knights fans will have plenty of ways to follow the action throughout the 2024-25 season.
Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix
Las Vegas Schedule
Race Schedule On Thursday, Nov 21
Formula 1® Practice 1 - 6:30 pm until 7:30 pm PST
Ferrari Challenge Support Race Series - Practice Starting at 8:05 pm PST
Formula 1®Practice 2 - From 10:00 pm until 11:00 pm PST
Ferrari Challenge Support Race Series - Qualifying Starting at 11:30 pm PST
Race Schedule On Friday, Nov 22
Formula 1® Practice 1 - 6:30 pm until 7:30 pm PST
Ferrari Challenge Support Race Series Race 1 - Starting at 8:10 pm PST
Formula 1® Qualifying - From 10:00 pm until 11:00 pm PST
Race Schedule On Saturday, Nov 23
Ferrari Challenge Support Race Series Race 2 - Starting at 6:20 pm PST
Formula 1® Race 2 - Starting at 10:00 pm PST
Las Vegas Strip Circuit™
Spanning 3.8 miles in length, with 17 high-speed turns and two DRS zones, the Las Vegas Strip Circuit™ boasts adrenaline pumping racing set to the backdrop of Las Vegas’ glamour at night. Drivers will reach jaw-dropping speeds topping 215 mph as they jockey for position and race past iconic landmarks, hotels, and casinos and down the legendary Las Vegas Strip.
For General Information - Visit the website.
Entertainment - Visit the F1 website for more information.
Purchase your ticket here.
🎰 IGT Reports Cyberattack Affecting Internal IT Systems
International Game Technology PLC (IGT), a global leader in slot machine and gaming equipment manufacturing, has disclosed a cyberattack on its internal IT systems, according to a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing.
The London-based company, with a significant operational presence in Las Vegas, discovered the breach on Sunday, November 17, 2024. Although specific details of the attack remain unclear, IGT stated it has implemented measures to investigate and mitigate the intrusion.
No Impact on Customer or Player Systems
In its filing and subsequent statements, IGT assured stakeholders that customer and player-facing systems, including lottery and gaming platforms, have not been affected by the incident.
“Out of an abundance of caution, IGT has temporarily suspended specific processes and services,” the company noted, adding that alternatives have been implemented in line with business continuity plans to minimize disruptions.
The company emphasized its commitment to maintaining uninterrupted service for its customers and is working to bring impacted systems back online.
Steps Taken
Following the detection of the unauthorized access, IGT:
Activated its cybersecurity incident response plan.
Launched an investigation with external advisors to assess and remediate the breach.
Proactively took certain systems offline to protect them from further compromise.
Continued communication with customers and stakeholders, ensuring operations can proceed through alternative processes.
It is yet to be determined whether the incident will have a material financial impact.
Industry-Wide Concerns
IGT joins the growing list of major gaming companies targeted by cyberattacks in recent years:
In August 2023, Caesars Entertainment Inc. was attacked, reportedly paying a ransom to regain control of its systems.
In September 2023, MGM Resorts International experienced a breach that cost the company an estimated $100 million in losses, mostly recovered through insurance.
Unlike those incidents, IGT has not revealed whether the attack involved a ransom demand or other forms of extortion. Federal law enforcement involvement in the investigation remains unconfirmed.
Timing Amid Corporate Transition
The attack comes during a pivotal period for IGT, as the company is undergoing a major restructuring:
Its gaming and digital business is set to be acquired by Apollo Global Management Inc. for $6.3 billion in a deal expected to close in late 2025.
The new company will retain the IGT name and relocate its headquarters to Las Vegas.
A Growing Threat
As the gaming industry increasingly relies on technology, cyberattacks pose an ever-growing risk to both operations and player trust. Experts emphasize the importance of robust cybersecurity measures, particularly in an industry handling sensitive customer and financial data.
🎭 Area15 Announces Restructuring Amid Layoffs and Leadership Changes
Area15, a popular Las Vegas entertainment complex, is undergoing a significant organizational restructuring, leading to layoffs and the departure of its Chief Operating Officer Dan Pelson, the company confirmed Friday.
The restructuring aims to adapt to shifting market conditions and sharpen the company’s focus on its most in-demand attractions as it prepares for substantial expansion.
Layoffs and Leadership Transition
The company has not disclosed the number of employees affected by the layoffs, and as of Friday, no official notice had been filed with the state regarding the workforce reduction.
Pelson, who has been with the company since its inception in 2019, is stepping down due to personal reasons related to his New York-based family. The company has begun the search for a Las Vegas-based replacement for the COO role.
“The company is focusing on its development in Las Vegas for the foreseeable future,” Pelson said in a statement. “While I have grown to love the city and the people of Las Vegas, my family is in New York. A 100% focus on Las Vegas requires more of my time there, and unfortunately, that isn’t good for me, my family, or the company.”
Pelson plans to assist in the leadership transition.
Strategic Focus on Growth
Area15’s restructuring is part of a broader strategy to enhance its core strengths and align with future growth plans.
“With next year’s launch of the expanded Area15 District and the upcoming opening of multiple brand-new attractions, this decision supports Area15’s vision and core strengths,” a company spokesperson said.
The adjustments are designed to position the complex for success as it prepares to unveil new projects and attract a larger audience.
Expansion Plans
Area15’s expansion is ambitious, adding over 35 acres to its footprint. The development will include:
A hotel and housing units.
Universal Destinations and Experiences’ Horror Unleashed, a themed attraction set to open in 2025.
The additional offerings are expected to solidify Area15’s position as a leading destination for immersive entertainment in Las Vegas.
Industry Context
The changes at Area15 reflect broader trends in the entertainment and hospitality industry, where companies are adjusting to fluctuating demand and consumer preferences in a post-pandemic landscape.
As Area15 continues to grow, it faces the challenge of balancing its innovative offerings with operational efficiency, all while meeting the expectations of both local and international visitors.
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: November 15, 2024
Courtesy of The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
📌 🏠 Summerlin South - October 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.
📌 ✅ We Want To Spotlight Your Business!
Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Summerlin South area residents in an upcoming issue of SummerSouth Insider?
We ❤️ Local Businesses!
We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "SummerSouth Insider" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Summerlin South together!
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✅Own a local Business? Apply to be featured.
