- SummerSouth Insider
- Posts
- 🎰 From Closures to New Beginnings: The Evolution of Nevada’s Gaming Industry in 2024
🎰 From Closures to New Beginnings: The Evolution of Nevada’s Gaming Industry in 2024
Issue #377 - December 18, 2024
John Wu
18 Dec
Dear SummerSouth Insiders!
🚀Exciting News Ahead & We Need Your Support!🌟
Hello, amazing subscribers! We're gearing up for some thrilling developments and can't wait to share them with you! But here's the thing – we need a little boost from our most valued members: You! 🙌
Here's How You Can Make a Huge Impact:
💌Spread the Word: If you love our daily newsletter, why not share it? Whether it's family, friends, neighbors, or the friendly faces running local businesses – if you think they'll enjoy our content as much as you do, let them know! Your recommendation means the world to us and helps our community grow.
👍 Join Us on Facebook: Ready for more engaging content? Simply visit our Facebook page at SummerSouth Insider and hit that 'Like'
and ‘Follow’ button! It's a click away but makes a massive difference. Plus, you'll be in the loop for exclusive updates and conversations!
Your support is the backbone of our journey. Together, let's build a community where everyone benefits from insightful, daily content. Thank you for being a part of our exciting path forward! 🌈💪
Funeral Advantage Plan
There’s a new low cost final expense insurance plan available for seniors between 50-85. This plan can cover all of your final expenses:
✅burial
✅cremation
✅flowers
✅viewing
✅caskets
✅urns, and so much more.
To learn more, watch here.
Download the Free CheatSheet to learn more.
📆 Weekly Local Events for December 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
🎰 From Closures to New Beginnings: The Evolution of Nevada’s Gaming Industry in 2024
The year 2024 brought a mix of monumental closures, financial highs and lows, regulatory scandals, and ambitious new ventures to Nevada’s ever-evolving casino industry. As the calendar prepares to turn to 2025, the Silver State’s gaming sector remains as dynamic as ever.
Iconic Closures: Farewell to the Tropicana and Mirage
Two of Las Vegas’ most storied casino properties closed their doors in 2024, marking the end of an era on the Strip.
The Tropicana Las Vegas, a Rat Pack-era resort that opened in 1957, officially shut down on April 2. By October 9, its two hotel towers were imploded, clearing the way for a proposed Major League Baseball stadium that will house the relocating Oakland Athletics. The implosion event featured a drone show and fireworks, adding a bittersweet spectacle to the landmark’s farewell. Bally’s Corp., which managed the Tropicana, plans to develop a new casino-hotel alongside the stadium on the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Tropicana Avenue.
The Mirage, a groundbreaking property credited with ushering in the era of megaresorts on the Strip, closed on July 17. The site is undergoing demolition to make way for the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and its iconic guitar-shaped tower. Construction began over the summer, though the new property isn’t expected to open for several years.
Fluctuating Revenues in 2024
Nevada casinos continued to thrive post-pandemic, building on record-breaking years. Gaming revenue reached $15.5 billion in 2023, following $13.4 billion in 2021 and $14.8 billion in 2022.
The Las Vegas Strip remained the nation's top gaming market, contributing more than $8.83 billion in revenue last year. However, 2024 brought signs of volatility. While the state’s overall gaming revenue remained strong, the Strip experienced a decline in year-over-year revenue for three consecutive months starting in July—the first such trend since the pandemic-related closures of 2019.
Las Vegas Solidifies Its Status as a Sports Hub
Sports events played a significant role in the city’s economic success in 2024.
In February, Las Vegas hosted Super Bowl 58 at Allegiant Stadium, an event that local officials hailed as the city’s biggest spectacle yet. February’s gaming revenue reflected this excitement, marking the best February ever and one of the strongest months in the Strip’s history, according to the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
In November, the city welcomed the second Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix, transforming the Strip into a high-speed racetrack. Although the 2024 event did not match the debut year’s success, it attracted international visitors during a typically slower season for tourism.
Scandals and Regulatory Actions
The year also brought a series of legal and regulatory challenges, shining a spotlight on compliance failures and executive misconduct.
The Fall of Scott Sibella
Once a rising star in the casino industry, Scott Sibella faced a series of setbacks. The former president of Resorts World Las Vegas and MGM Grand pleaded guilty in May to failing to file anti-money laundering compliance reports, resulting in probation and a fine. Sibella also lost his gaming license, barring him from re-entering the industry for at least four years.
Anti-Money Laundering Crackdowns
Federal and state regulators imposed significant penalties on Nevada casinos for anti-money laundering violations.
MGM Resorts and The Cosmopolitan paid $7.45 million in fines related to allowing known illegal bookmakers to gamble at their properties.
Wynn Las Vegas forfeited over $130 million to settle allegations of using unlicensed money transmitters to conduct financial transactions.
Resorts World Las Vegas faced regulatory scrutiny for hosting individuals with ties to illegal gambling activities, including a casino host accused of profiting directly from her husband's illicit betting.
Major Deals and Ambitious Projects
Apollo’s Industry Shake-Up
New York-based Apollo Global Management announced a surprising $6.3 billion acquisition of International Game Technology (IGT) and Everi Holdings. Already operating The Venetian and Palazzo, Apollo’s latest move cements its position as a dominant force in gaming technology and operations.
LVXP: A Bold Vision for the North Strip
The long-vacant Wet ’n Wild site is set to transform with LVXP, a groundbreaking development that promises the city’s tallest building and an NBA-ready arena. The project, featuring a 752-foot tower with 2,605 units and an 18,000-seat arena, received Clark County approval and plans to break ground in 2025.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Nevada’s casino industry remains a dynamic blend of nostalgia, innovation, and controversy. From bidding farewell to iconic landmarks to welcoming ambitious new projects, 2024 added another chapter to the state’s storied gaming history. As new challenges and opportunities emerge, the Silver State’s gaming sector shows no signs of slowing down.
🏀 Milwaukee Bucks Claim 2024 NBA Cup Title, Giannis Named MVP
The Milwaukee Bucks secured the 2024 NBA Cup on Tuesday night with a commanding 97-81 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder at T-Mobile Arena. Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered an outstanding performance, earning NBA Cup MVP honors with a triple-double of 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists.
This latest accomplishment adds to Antetokounmpo’s impressive career achievements, including two league MVPs, an NBA championship, and a Finals MVP.
Subdued Celebration
After the victory, the Bucks opted for a more low-key celebration in the locker room, leaving the champagne boxes provided by the NBA untouched. Players spent time enjoying music and sipping drinks at their lockers, reflecting on the achievement rather than engaging in a traditional postgame celebration.
The team’s decision to keep the celebration subdued stemmed from past experiences. Some members of the organization, including assistant coach Darvin Ham and forward Taurean Prince, were part of the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2023 NBA Cup win, which was followed by a slump in performance. With this in mind, the Bucks remained focused on maintaining their momentum as the season continues.
Dominant Defensive Performance
Milwaukee’s defense played a key role in the victory, holding Oklahoma City to a season-low 81 points, including just 31 in the second half. The Bucks achieved team season bests in points allowed (81), field goal percentage allowed (33.7%), and 3-point percentage allowed (15.6%), showcasing a level of focus and execution that has defined their recent success.
The team’s defensive prowess has become a statement of their growth, particularly after a rough start to the season.
A Season of Resurgence
The Bucks began the season with a disappointing 2-8 record, but their performance since then has been a testament to their resilience. Over the past 15 games, Milwaukee has posted the best record in the NBA at 12-3, excluding the NBA Cup games, which do not count toward official standings.
Head coach Doc Rivers described the win as a reminder of the team’s ability to compete with the league’s top contenders. Damian Lillard, who added 23 points in the final, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the team’s transformation since the early season struggles.
Eyes on the Future
Despite the excitement of winning the NBA Cup, the Bucks remain focused on the road ahead. The team quickly shifted its attention to the upcoming game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, a strong Eastern Conference rival. Antetokounmpo encouraged his teammates to maintain their current level of play, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead.
The victory marked a significant milestone for Milwaukee, but the team is intent on using it as a springboard for continued success in the regular season and beyond.
Key Highlights from the NBA Cup Final
MVP Performance: Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded a triple-double with 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Defensive Mastery: Milwaukee held Oklahoma City to season lows in scoring and shooting percentages.
Team Effort: Contributions from Damian Lillard and a disciplined defensive unit underscored the Bucks’ collective focus.
Resilience: After a poor start to the season, the Bucks have emerged as a top contender.
😋 Where to Dine in Las Vegas During the Holiday Season
Las Vegas offers an array of dining options for Christmas Day and the surrounding season, ranging from festive specials to exclusive multi-course menus. Whether you’re looking for traditional holiday meals or unique culinary experiences, these restaurants on and off the Strip have something to suit every taste.
Early Holiday Specials
Aroma Latina American Cocina (2877 N. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson)
This Latin American eatery is offering seasonal specials from Dec. 4 to 21 (excluding Mondays), showcasing dishes inspired by various countries:
Guatemalan Enchiladas ($16): Tostadas topped with wagyu picadillo, pickled vegetables, egg, and cotija.
Christmas Tamales ($21): Stuffed with chicken or pork, achiote, and olives.
Pan Con Pierna ($20): A roasted kurobuta pork leg sandwich with house dressing and fries.
Molletes ($12): Bread pudding-stuffed rolls with cinnamon mousse and crème anglaise.
Lunch: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; Dinner: 5–9 p.m.; Brunch (Sunday): 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Reservations: 702-547-0474.
Off the Strip Dining
Arizona Charlie’s Boulder/Decatur – Sourdough Café
Offers a three-course holiday dinner featuring grilled salmon, Brussels sprouts, wild rice, and peppermint cheesecake pop for $24.99. Available Dec. 24–25 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Azzura Cucina Italiana (322 S. Water St., Henderson)
Enjoy a Feast of the Seven Fishes for $100, featuring dishes like lobster ravioli, scallop risotto, and Chilean sea bass. Dec. 24 seatings at 4, 6, and 8 p.m.
Basilico Ristorante Italiano (6111 S. Buffalo Drive, Evora)
Showcases a six-course menu ($95) featuring lobster bucatini, ricotta ravioli, and oxtail. Available Dec. 18–21 (4–9 p.m.) and Dec. 22 (4–8 p.m.).
Green Valley Ranch
Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca: Prime rib with sides ($55) and lobster linguine ($38). Dec. 24: 4–10 p.m.; Dec. 25: 1–9 p.m.
Hank’s Fine Steaks & Martinis: Specials like prime filet mignon tournedos Rossini ($95) and colossal tiger prawns ($39). Dec. 25: 1–9 p.m.
Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas (4510 Paradise Road)
On Dec. 25, enjoy hearty German fare such as beef goulash soup ($9.50), roasted duck ($35), and cinnamon bread pudding ($14).
Dining on the Strip
Caesars Palace
Bacchanal Buffet: Offers brunch ($89.99) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner ($99.99) from 3 to 10 p.m. Dec. 24–25.
Restaurant Guy Savoy: An eight-course gourmet meal featuring foie gras terrine and Japanese A5 wagyu for $485.
Paris Las Vegas
The Bedford by Martha Stewart: A four-course meal with choices like roast turkey or prime rib, for $119.99. Available Dec. 24–25, 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m.
Eiffel Tower Restaurant: A three-course menu including beef tenderloin and peppermint soufflé ($155). Dec. 25: 5–10 p.m.
The Venetian
Buddy V’s Ristorante: A three-course Italian menu featuring braised short ribs and a milk-and-cookies platter for $75. Dec. 25: 2–10 p.m.
Sugarcane: Offers specials like pan-seared barramundi with squash purée ($45) and 20-ounce steak au poivre ($74). Dec. 24–25, starting at 10 a.m.
Wynn Las Vegas
Safta 1964: Red snapper in court bouillon ($95) and spice-rubbed lamb chops ($90) from 5:30–10 p.m. Dec. 25.
Other Highlights
JW Marriott: Hawthorn Grill’s three-course menu features striped bass or filet mignon for $85.
Treasure Island – Phil’s Steakhouse: Specials like beef Wellington and candy cane beet salad for $50, Dec. 24–25, 5–10 p.m.
Las Vegas’ restaurants offer an array of festive dining options to suit any preference this holiday season, from classic Christmas fare to international delicacies. Be sure to make reservations to secure your spot at these popular venues.
🎆 Your Guide to New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas: Fireworks and Festivities
The Las Vegas Valley is gearing up to close out 2024 with its signature mix of grand celebrations, live entertainment, and spectacular fireworks displays. From the Strip to downtown and beyond, here's an overview of New Year’s Eve festivities happening across the city.
Fireworks Displays
America’s Party 2025: Fireworks launch at midnight from rooftops at nine Strip resorts, including Aria, Caesars Palace, MGM Grand, and Fontainebleau.
Plaza Hotel & Casino: Downtown Las Vegas will feature a midnight fireworks display.
Lake Las Vegas: Fireworks will light up the sky at 9 p.m. for an East Coast countdown.
Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: Guests can enjoy a drive-through holiday light show with a 9 p.m. fireworks display.
Concerts and Entertainment Highlights
Imagine Dragons at The Venetian (9:30 p.m.).
Bruno Mars at Park MGM’s Dolby Live (8 p.m.).
Janet Jackson at Resorts World Theatre (8:30 p.m.).
Creed at Caesars Palace’s Colosseum (9 p.m.).
Lil Wayne at Drai’s Nightclub at The Cromwell.
The Chainsmokers at Wynn’s XS Nightclub.
Steve Aoki at Omnia Nightclub, Caesars Palace.
New Year’s Eve Parties
Area15 Masquerade Party: Features themed ballrooms, music, cocktails, and VIP packages.
Marquee Nightclub at The Cosmopolitan: Alesso headlines the evening, with tickets starting at $20.
Brooklyn Bridge Bash at New York-New York: Includes live music, craft cocktails, and a fireworks view.
The Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay: Offers open bar access and premium packages.
VooDoo Lounge at Rio: Hosts a rooftop party with panoramic views and an open bar.
Tao Nightclub at The Venetian: O.T. Genasis takes center stage for the evening’s festivities.
Family-Friendly Options
The Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan: A viewing party featuring a DJ, open bar, and ice skating for all ages.
Topgolf Las Vegas: Offers unlimited gameplay, food, and drinks for a group-friendly celebration.
Downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street Experience: The “Time of Your Life” celebration includes performances by Flo Rida, Bow Wow, and more.
Dining and Exclusive Experiences
Rouge Room at Red Rock Resort: Includes an open bar and live entertainment.
Cheri Rooftop at Paris Las Vegas: Offers breathtaking views of the Strip along with cocktails and music.
Eight Cigar Lounge at Resorts World: Combines gourmet bites, crafted cocktails, and fireworks views.
Las Vegas promises an unforgettable night for every kind of reveler, with more details and events expected to be announced as the date approaches.
❎ House GOP Targets Liz Cheney, Shifts Blame Away from Trump in Jan. 6 Report
As their investigation into the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack concludes, House Republicans have shifted blame away from former President Donald Trump, instead recommending legal action against former GOP Rep. Liz Cheney. Their findings, released in a 128-page interim report on Tuesday, reflect Trump’s ongoing efforts to target perceived enemies, including Cheney and other members of the House select committee that investigated the Capitol riot.
Report Overview
The report, authored by House Administration Committee Chairman Barry Loudermilk, revisits the events of January 6 but downplays Trump’s role in inciting the attack. Instead, it focuses heavily on security lapses at the Capitol and criticizes the work of the House January 6 committee, which Cheney served as vice chair.
The report accuses Cheney of alleged misconduct, including what it describes as witness tampering related to her interactions with Cassidy Hutchinson, a former White House aide who provided key testimony about Trump’s actions during the riot. The report suggests that Cheney violated federal laws and calls for the FBI to investigate her conduct.
Additionally, the report claims former committee Chairman Bennie Thompson mishandled files and transcripts, accusing him of breaking House rules.
Cheney's Role and Fallout
Cheney, once a rising star in the Republican Party, became a central figure in the investigation into the Capitol attack. Her decision to vote for Trump’s impeachment after January 6 and her leadership role on the select committee drew sharp criticism from within her party. These actions ultimately led to her removal from GOP leadership and her loss in Wyoming’s 2022 primary election to a Trump-backed challenger.
The report singles out Cheney’s meetings with Hutchinson, who testified about Trump’s behavior during the riot. Hutchinson had initially hesitated to cooperate with the committee but later provided crucial testimony after changing legal representation. Cheney’s efforts to support Hutchinson during this period are labeled as “witness tampering” in the report.
Cheney has defended the work of the January 6 committee, emphasizing its evidence-based approach and holding Trump accountable for his actions.
Trump’s Influence and Future Plans
The report aligns with Trump’s ongoing narrative to deflect blame for the Capitol attack and target his critics. Trump has repeatedly vowed to prosecute members of Congress, including Cheney and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who were involved in investigating the events of January 6.
Trump, now preparing to return to the White House, has pledged to pardon individuals convicted for their roles in the Capitol attack. He has also proposed staffing his administration with loyalists, including Kash Patel as FBI director, further emphasizing his focus on retribution.
January 6 and the Fallout
The Capitol attack led to over 1,500 prosecutions, including convictions of leaders of groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys. Trump himself was indicted on four charges related to the incident, including conspiracy to overturn the election, though special counsel Jack Smith dropped the case against Trump in adherence to Justice Department guidelines that sitting presidents cannot be prosecuted.
The Republican report revisits familiar arguments about security failures on January 6, including delays in deploying the National Guard. It criticizes then-Speaker Pelosi’s leadership and the committee’s investigation rather than addressing Trump’s direct involvement.
Democratic Response
Democrats have rejected the report’s findings, emphasizing Trump’s responsibility for the events of January 6. Thompson described the report’s allegations as baseless and an attempt to rewrite history. He reiterated that the Capitol attack was the result of Trump’s actions, regardless of Republican efforts to shift blame.
Looking Ahead
The release of the report comes as Congress prepares to confirm the results of the 2024 election, a process that echoes the events of four years ago. Unlike 2020, Democrats have expressed confidence in the integrity of the election results, setting the stage for a tense political climate as Trump’s return to power looms.
Key Takeaways
House Republicans released a report blaming Liz Cheney for alleged misconduct during the January 6 investigation, calling for her prosecution.
The findings downplay Trump’s role in the Capitol attack, focusing instead on security failures and criticisms of the January 6 committee.
Trump continues to push for retribution against those who investigated him and has pledged to pardon January 6 rioters.
Democrats reject the report as an attempt to shift blame away from Trump, emphasizing his responsibility for the riot.
🗺 Russia Detains Suspect in General Kirillov Assassination, Links Attack to Ukraine
Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced Wednesday that it has detained a suspect in connection with the assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, who was killed in a bomb attack outside his Moscow apartment building.
The FSB identified the suspect as a 1995-born Uzbek citizen, alleging he was recruited by Ukrainian intelligence services to carry out the attack. The agency claimed the suspect confessed to being promised $100,000 and permission to relocate to a European Union country in exchange for assassinating Kirillov.
Details of the Attack
Lt. Gen. Kirillov, head of Russia’s nuclear, biological, and chemical protection forces, was killed Tuesday when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter exploded as he exited his residence. The attack also claimed the life of his assistant.
The FSB’s statement detailed how the suspect allegedly traveled to Moscow under instructions from Ukrainian special services. Upon arrival, he retrieved a homemade explosive device, planted it on the electric scooter, and positioned it at the entrance to Kirillov’s apartment building.
To ensure the operation’s success, the suspect reportedly rented a car and installed a camera to livestream the building entrance to handlers based in Dnipro, Ukraine. The bomb was remotely detonated after Kirillov was seen leaving the building.
Ukraine’s Involvement Alleged
Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has claimed responsibility for the attack, with officials calling Kirillov a legitimate target due to his alleged role in directing the use of banned chemical weapons in Ukraine. On Monday, just a day before the assassination, the SBU opened a criminal investigation against Kirillov, accusing him of overseeing the deployment of chemical munitions more than 4,800 times against Ukrainian forces since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Kirillov’s Role and Legacy
Kirillov, 54, was one of the highest-ranking officials in the Russian military. As chief of the nuclear, biological, and chemical protection forces since 2017, he frequently accused Ukraine of employing toxic agents and planning attacks involving radioactive substances—claims rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies as baseless propaganda.
Sanctioned by countries including the United Kingdom and Canada, Kirillov was a controversial figure due to his vocal support of Moscow’s military operations in Ukraine. His death marks one of the most high-profile assassinations of a Russian military figure during the conflict.
FSB Investigation and Implications
The FSB has labeled the killing an act of terrorism, and Russia’s top investigative agency is pursuing the case vigorously. Officials have vowed to hold Ukraine accountable for the assassination, intensifying already heightened tensions between the two countries.
The suspect now faces a potential life sentence if convicted. Russian authorities have released images showing shattered windows and scorched walls at the site of the bombing.
Escalation in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Kirillov’s assassination is the latest in a series of high-profile killings that Moscow attributes to Ukrainian operatives. The attack underscores the growing reach of Ukraine’s intelligence capabilities amid the ongoing war.
Russia has consistently denied allegations of using chemical weapons in Ukraine, instead accusing Kyiv of deploying toxic agents—a claim dismissed by Western nations as part of Moscow’s disinformation campaign.
This development further complicates an already volatile conflict, with Russia pledging retribution while Ukraine remains steadfast in targeting figures it considers complicit in war crimes.
🎰 Delano Officially Rebranded as W Las Vegas Amid MGM-Marriott Partnership
The hotel previously known as the Delano will officially be rebranded as the W Las Vegas on Wednesday. MGM Resorts International, which operates the non-gaming property, has confirmed that the booking and reservation system transition will be finalized this week. The building’s exterior signage has already been updated to reflect its new name.
This change is part of a long-term licensing agreement established in 2023 between MGM Resorts and Marriott International. As part of this partnership, the W Las Vegas joins the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, which now includes 12 Las Vegas properties.
Key Features of the W Las Vegas
The 41-story hotel tower offers 1,117 suites and features two restaurants, a spa, a beach club, and the Skyfall Lounge, located on the top floor. The property is situated within the Mandalay Bay resort campus, adding another upscale option to the area’s hospitality offerings.
Originally opened in 2003 as THEhotel, the property was later renamed The Delano less than a decade after its debut. MGM and Marriott have hinted at potential renovations for the hotel, though no formal plans have been announced.
Broader Gaming and Hospitality Industry Updates
Senate Hearings on Legalized Sports Gambling
A U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, titled “America’s High-Stakes Bet on Legalized Sports Gambling,” is set to take place on Capitol Hill. The session will feature discussions on the SAFE Bet Act, a bipartisan proposal aimed at addressing public health concerns linked to the widespread legalization of sports betting.
Since the 2018 Supreme Court decision striking down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), sports gambling has expanded significantly, with 38 states and Washington, D.C., now offering legalized single-game betting. This industry generated more than $11 billion in revenue last year, primarily through mobile platforms.
Potential for Increased Mergers in 2025
Wall Street analysts predict that Federal Reserve interest rate cuts could pave the way for more mergers and acquisitions among gaming operators in 2025. A report from Truist Securities suggests that improving market conditions and a favorable Federal Trade Commission environment could encourage consolidation within the gaming sector.
While 2024 saw substantial M&A activity in gaming technology, analysts believe the trend could extend to gaming operators. Valuation expectations and pricing negotiations will play a critical role in determining the scale of future deals.
🏡 Southern Nevada Home Prices Surge 50% Since Pandemic, Market Stabilizing
The Southern Nevada real estate market has experienced dramatic changes over the past five years, with home prices skyrocketing approximately 50% since the onset of the pandemic in 2020. According to historical data from Las Vegas Realtors, the median price of a single-family home has increased by $162,541, highlighting the region’s dynamic housing trends.
Rising Home Prices: A Closer Look
In December 2019, the median price of a home in Southern Nevada was $312,990. By October 2024, that figure had risen to $475,531, reflecting a 5.9% increase from the same time in 2023, when the median price was $449,000. While prices remain below the all-time high of $482,000 set in May 2022, the steady upward trajectory indicates a resilient market.
The trend in Southern Nevada mirrors broader national growth. Across the U.S., the average sale price of a home rose from $384,600 in the fourth quarter of 2019 to $501,100 by the end of the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $116,500 in just four years, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
Mortgage Rates and Market Challenges
While home prices have climbed, so have mortgage rates, making it increasingly expensive for buyers to enter the market. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is now at 6.7%, levels not seen since August 2007, just before the Great Recession. This increase in borrowing costs has added pressure on both buyers and sellers.
Southern Nevada’s real estate market has also faced challenges in recent years. 2023 marked the region’s worst year for home sales since the Great Recession, and while 2024 is on track to outperform last year, sales remain sluggish.
Market Stabilization Amid Policy Uncertainty
Despite fluctuations, the Las Vegas housing market is showing signs of entering a more balanced phase. Zillow’s latest analysis suggests the market is moving into “neutral territory,” where neither buyers nor sellers hold a clear advantage. This marks a stark shift from the pandemic-driven roller coaster that saw frenzied buying and sharp price hikes.
Kara Ng, a senior economist at Zillow, indicated that this newfound balance might offer relief to the market. However, with home prices still rising and approaching record highs, challenges persist for prospective buyers.
The broader real estate community remains divided on how the incoming Trump administration will influence housing. The president-elect has pledged to expand the housing supply nationwide but has yet to detail specific policies. Analysts are watching closely to see how his plans will address housing affordability and supply-demand imbalances.
Future Outlook for Southern Nevada Real Estate
As 2024 progresses, Southern Nevada's housing market may continue to stabilize. The current balance between buyers and sellers could mitigate extreme price swings, but higher mortgage rates and ongoing demand may keep affordability concerns at the forefront.
The region’s real estate market, described by some as having been on a “wild ride” since the pandemic, now appears to be transitioning into a more predictable phase. While uncertainties remain, particularly regarding federal housing policies, Southern Nevada’s market could be poised for more sustainable growth in the years ahead.
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: December 13, 2024
Courtesy of The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
📌 🏠 Summerlin South - November 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!
👇Select an option below:
✅Own a local Business? Apply to be featured.
