🎰 Las Vegas Weekend Entertainment Guide

Issue #378 - December 19, 2024

 

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📆 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.

🌤 Summerlin South, Las Vegas Weather Forecast

Las Vegas Gas Prices

 

🎰 Las Vegas Weekend Entertainment Guide

From live music and dance performances to holiday-themed activities, there’s something for everyone in Las Vegas this weekend. Whether you’re into iconic bands, cutting-edge DJs, or festive films, here’s a rundown of top events happening across the city.

Music Highlights

Jennifer Hudson

One of the elite few to achieve EGOT status, Jennifer Hudson is bringing her powerhouse vocals to the Strip with “The Gift of Love: An Intimate Live Experience.” This tour celebrates her first holiday album with performances on Saturday and Sunday at 8 p.m. in the BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau. Tickets start at $65 via Ticketmaster.

Fishbone

Celebrating 45 years of their signature punk-funk fusion, Fishbone takes the stage Sunday at 7 p.m. at Swan Dive, 1301 S. Main St. Catch opening act Strawberry Fuzz, a rising punk group from Los Angeles. Tickets are $25 and available at swandivelv.com.

REO Speedwagon

Legendary rockers REO Speedwagon make their return to Las Vegas for one of their final performances before retiring from touring. They’ll play their classic 1981 album Hi Infidelity in its entirety on Friday and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. at the Venetian Theatre. Tickets start at $41 on Ticketmaster.

Bear Grillz

For EDM enthusiasts, Bear Grillz will bring his heavy bass beats to The Portal at Area15 on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. Known for his high-energy sets, this Colorado native promises a night to remember. Tickets are $27.95 at area15.com.

Dance Performances

Derek Hough: Dance for the Holidays

Derek Hough brings his “Dance for the Holidays” tour to Fontainebleau on Friday at 8 p.m. The show, choreographed by Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo, combines festive spirit with electrifying moves. Tickets are available on resale sites.

Movies and Holiday Entertainment

Christmas at The Beverly Theater

Celebrate Christmas Eve with back-to-back screenings of holiday classics at The Beverly Theater. It’s a Wonderful Life starts at noon, followed by Die Hard at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $11 for the former and $13 for the latter, available at thebeverlytheater.com.

Christmas Movies at The Ice Rink

Enjoy outdoor screenings of holiday favorites at The Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The Polar Express shows on Monday, The Nightmare Before Christmas on Tuesday, and The Santa Clause on Wednesday, all at 7 p.m. Admission is free, with skate rentals available for $20 for locals.

Food and Drinks

National Sangria Day

Celebrate National Sangria Day on Friday with unique cocktails at La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn Las Vegas. Options include the Peachy Keen Sangria and the Blurred Vines Sangria, each priced at $18.

🏈 UNLV Defeats Cal in LA Bowl, Secures First Bowl Win Since 2000

The UNLV Rebels ended their 24-year bowl drought in style on Wednesday, defeating Cal 24-13 in the LA Bowl at SoFi Stadium. The victory capped off an already historic season for the Rebels, who finished with an impressive 11-3 record, marking the best season in program history.

MVP Performances Lead the Way

The win was powered by standout performances on both sides of the ball. Linebacker Jackson Woodard was named Defensive MVP, delivering a commanding effort with 12 tackles, including one for a loss, three quarterback hits, and a pass breakup. On offense, Jacob De Jesus earned Offensive MVP honors, contributing 38 receiving yards and a touchdown, while adding 75 punt return yards, including a crucial 38-yard return in the fourth quarter.

This victory marks the Rebels' first bowl win since defeating Arkansas in the 2000 Las Vegas Bowl, cementing their resurgence as a formidable program.

Overcoming Adversity

The Rebels achieved the milestone victory despite significant challenges, including the absence of key figures. Former head coach Barry Odom left the team a week earlier to take the head coaching position at Purdue, while offensive coordinator Brennan Marion departed shortly before the game, reportedly to become the head coach at Sacramento State.

Adding to the adversity, star wide receiver Ricky White III, the Mountain West Special Teams Player of the Year, opted to sit out the game to preserve his NFL prospects. In his absence, freshman players and backups stepped up to deliver a complete team performance.

Game Highlights

Big Plays and Key Contributions

The game featured electrifying moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

  • Caden Chittenden, a freshman kicker, nailed a 48-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter to seal the win for UNLV.

  • Hajj-Malik Williams, a sixth-year senior quarterback, threw two touchdown passes, including a spectacular 49-yard pass to freshman wide receiver Kayden McGee, marking McGee’s first collegiate touchdown.

  • Marshall Nichols, the Rebels’ punter, executed a perfect fake punt, throwing a 52-yard pass to defensive back Cameron Oliver, setting up a touchdown by De Jesus.

Defensive Dominance

The Rebels’ defense shone throughout the game, particularly in the second half, where they held Cal scoreless. A critical moment came when Jett Elad recovered a fumble late in the third quarter, setting up a 23-yard touchdown run by Kylin James, extending UNLV’s lead to 21-13.

Cal, dealing with injuries to its quarterbacks, struggled offensively. Third-string quarterback CJ Harris was forced out of the game in the fourth quarter, leaving true freshman EJ Caminong to finish the game under duress.

A Season for the Record Books

UNLV’s LA Bowl victory caps a remarkable season of milestones.

  • The team achieved its first back-to-back bowl game appearances in school history.

  • Quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams finished the season with 19 touchdown passes, the most for a UNLV player since Caleb Herring in 2013.

  • The Rebels’ defense showcased its growth, shutting out Cal in the second half and forcing key turnovers.

The team’s ability to overcome midseason coaching changes, player absences, and early-game struggles highlights their resilience and underscores the depth of talent in the program.

Looking Ahead

As the Rebels celebrate their first bowl win in over two decades, the program’s future looks bright. With a young core of talent and a proven ability to adapt to challenges, UNLV is positioned to build on this historic season. The focus now shifts to finding a new head coach and continuing to develop the next generation of players who can sustain the program’s newfound success.

😋 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.

  Trump Rejects Spending Plan, U.S. Government Faces Imminent Shutdown

President-elect Donald Trump abruptly rejected a bipartisan plan on Wednesday designed to avert a government shutdown, instructing House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republican lawmakers to renegotiate just days before federal funding expires. The move threw Congress into turmoil as lawmakers scramble to finalize funding before Friday’s deadline.

The rejected package would have extended funding for federal programs through March 2025, provided $100.4 billion in disaster aid for states hit by recent hurricanes, and included $10 billion for farmers. However, Trump demanded a new proposal that combined government funding with an immediate increase to the debt ceiling—a historically contentious issue, especially among Republicans.

Partisan Divisions Deepen

The bipartisan plan had been a carefully negotiated measure to keep the government operating while addressing pressing needs such as disaster recovery and infrastructure repairs. However, hard-right conservatives had already expressed dissatisfaction with the proposal, citing increased spending and provisions like pay raises for lawmakers.

Trump’s rejection, backed by Vice President-elect JD Vance and amplified by his ally Elon Musk, derailed the bill’s fragile support. Musk, who heads Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, called the spending plan "outrageous" and threatened political repercussions for lawmakers supporting it.

The collapse of the deal left Johnson meeting late into the night with GOP colleagues, trying to find a way forward. Vance joined the discussions with his son in tow, signaling the urgency of the negotiations.

Stakes of the Shutdown

Without a resolution, the federal government faces a partial shutdown that would disrupt numerous services, from military operations to health and welfare programs. The rejected package would have also funded repairs to Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed after a cargo ship collision, and transferred the RFK Stadium site to the District of Columbia for potential redevelopment.

Adding to the stakes, Trump’s insistence on raising the debt ceiling—a measure typically requiring months of negotiation—compounds the challenge. The debt limit, set to expire in 2025, is a politically sensitive issue that has historically led to heated debates.

The last debt ceiling agreement, reached by former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden, cut spending in exchange for increased borrowing capacity. That deal was met with resistance from GOP hardliners and ultimately contributed to McCarthy’s ouster.

Political Fallout

Democrats and moderate Republicans criticized Trump’s interference, accusing him of jeopardizing the nation’s stability for political leverage. Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized the harm a shutdown would cause to everyday Americans, blaming House Republicans for breaking their agreement.

Senators on both sides of the aisle expressed frustration, with some questioning whether this approach would become the norm under GOP leadership. Republican Senator Josh Hawley criticized Johnson’s inability to unify the party, while Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin highlighted the outsized influence of billionaires like Musk in shaping legislation.

Key Provisions in the Rejected Bill

The bipartisan package included:

  • Disaster Aid: $100.4 billion for states recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

  • Farmer Assistance: $10 billion in economic aid for agricultural communities.

  • Infrastructure Repairs: Funding to rebuild Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge.

  • RFK Stadium Land Transfer: A potential redevelopment site for the Washington Commanders.

  • Pay Raises for Lawmakers: A proposed 3.8% adjustment, increasing congressional salaries to $180,600 in 2025.

These measures, while critical to various constituencies, failed to satisfy fiscal conservatives or Trump’s demand for a debt ceiling resolution.

What’s Next

With just 48 hours before the shutdown deadline, Johnson and House Republicans face an uphill battle to draft a new plan that can satisfy both Trump’s demands and Congress’s funding needs. Trump’s insistence on resolving the debt ceiling now complicates the timeline and risks further legislative gridlock.

The standoff highlights the challenges Republicans may face in governing next year as they assume full control of Congress and the White House. For now, federal workers, disaster-stricken communities, and millions of Americans await clarity on whether the government will remain open as the holidays approach.

👩‍🏭 Amazon Workers Strike Amid Holiday Rush, Demanding Better Conditions

Workers at seven Amazon facilities initiated a strike on Thursday, aiming to disrupt operations during the final days of the Christmas shopping season. This labor action, organized by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, is intended to pressure the online retail giant into addressing worker grievances over wages and conditions.

The strike comes after the union accused Amazon of refusing to engage in contract negotiations, ignoring a December 15 deadline set by the Teamsters. The union is seeking higher wages, better working conditions, and formal recognition by Amazon.

Scope of the Strike

The Teamsters represent nearly 10,000 Amazon workers across 10 facilities, which accounts for roughly 1% of the company’s hourly workforce. Strikes are currently taking place at sites in New York City, Atlanta, San Francisco, Skokie, Illinois, and Southern California. Picket lines are also being set up at hundreds of Amazon Fulfillment Centers nationwide, with the potential for additional facilities to join the strike in the coming days.

The union describes this as the largest strike against Amazon in U.S. history. However, the company has downplayed the impact, asserting that the work stoppage will not significantly disrupt holiday deliveries.

Union Demands and Escalation

The Teamsters’ goal is to compel Amazon to recognize the union and negotiate a contract that guarantees improved wages and safer working conditions. Union officials have stated that the strike could expand beyond the initial seven sites if their demands are not met.

The affected workers include drivers and warehouse staff, many of whom play a crucial role in fulfilling Amazon’s same-day and expedited delivery services.

Amazon's Response

Amazon has taken a firm stance against the union, refusing to recognize its legitimacy. The company has also filed objections with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), arguing that many of the striking workers are not direct employees but are instead employed by third-party delivery service partners.

Amazon representatives contend that the Teamsters have misrepresented their influence, claiming that the union does not legitimately represent thousands of Amazon employees as it has suggested.

Additionally, Amazon has accused the Teamsters of using illegal tactics to coerce workers into joining the union. The company alleges that union organizers have intimidated and threatened employees, actions that are now the subject of multiple unfair labor practice charges filed against the union.

Holiday Operations and Customer Impact

Despite the strike, Amazon has assured customers that holiday deliveries will not be delayed. The company stated that its extensive logistics network and partnerships with third-party delivery services provide sufficient capacity to manage the holiday rush.

This reassurance is particularly critical during the peak shopping season, as delays could significantly impact Amazon’s reputation and customer satisfaction.

A Broader Labor Movement

The strike reflects ongoing tensions between labor unions and large corporations, particularly in the tech and retail sectors. The action by Amazon workers comes amid a broader wave of unionization efforts across the country, as employees push back against what they perceive as exploitative practices in the pursuit of corporate profits.

While Amazon continues to resist unionization, the Teamsters see this strike as a critical step in a longer campaign to secure better conditions for workers and challenge the company’s labor practices.

What’s Next

As the strike unfolds, both sides appear entrenched in their positions. The Teamsters aim to escalate pressure through expanded work stoppages and public demonstrations, while Amazon remains committed to maintaining its operations and opposing unionization efforts.

The outcome of this labor dispute could have lasting implications for Amazon’s labor relations and broader efforts to unionize the tech and logistics industries.

🎰 How Casino Rewards Programs Drive Loyalty and Engagement

Since their introduction in the early 1980s, casino loyalty programs have revolutionized the gaming industry, transforming how patrons interact with casinos and enhancing their overall experience. These programs offer a range of benefits, from free hotel stays and complimentary meals to exclusive entertainment access, aiming to keep guests returning for more.

The Role of Loyalty Programs in Customer Retention

Loyalty programs have proven to be a cornerstone of customer retention strategies across industries like retail, dining, and hospitality. In the casino sector, their value is no different. Research consistently highlights their effectiveness in fostering brand loyalty, boosting customer engagement, and driving repeat business.

A 2021 study published in the Journal of Business Research analyzed decades of data on loyalty programs and found they function as integrated systems of personalized marketing, offering rewards that enhance perceived value and strengthen the relationship between businesses and their customers. These programs serve as critical tools for identifying, rewarding, and retaining profitable patrons.

In the competitive landscape of Las Vegas casinos, loyalty programs are particularly crucial. By encouraging guests to enroll, casinos secure valuable customer data that can be used for targeted marketing and strategic decision-making.

How Casino Loyalty Programs Work

Enrollment in casino rewards programs is typically free and can be done in person or online. Upon signing up, participants receive a membership card linked to their account.

The premise is straightforward: the more a guest spends at the casino—whether gambling, dining, or using other amenities—the more points or credits they earn. These points can then be redeemed for a variety of perks, such as free play, discounted hotel stays, and complimentary services.

Tier Levels and Benefits

Most loyalty programs are structured around tier levels (e.g., Silver, Gold, Platinum), which players advance through based on their activity. Higher tiers unlock more exclusive benefits, including:

  • Room upgrades

  • Priority check-in and valet services

  • Discounts on dining, entertainment, and spa services

  • Invitations to exclusive events

The ultimate reward for many members is free play, allowing them to convert their points into additional gambling opportunities. Higher spending and extended play sessions generally lead to greater free play offers.

Advantages for Casinos

Loyalty programs are mutually beneficial. While players enjoy tangible rewards, casinos gain valuable insights into customer behavior. Every swipe of a rewards card—whether at a slot machine or hotel check-in—provides data that operators can use to refine marketing strategies, improve customer experiences, and optimize revenue streams.

This data-driven approach enables casinos to tailor promotions and offers to individual patrons, ensuring they remain engaged and loyal.

Diverse Loyalty Programs in Las Vegas

Las Vegas casinos offer a wide range of loyalty programs, each tailored to their unique brand and clientele. Here’s a snapshot of some popular options:

  • Caesars Rewards: Available at properties like Caesars Palace, Flamingo, and Paris.

  • MGM Rewards: Offered at iconic venues such as Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, and The Cosmopolitan.

  • Wynn Rewards: Exclusive to Wynn and Encore.

  • Venetian Rewards: For guests at The Venetian and Palazzo.

  • Boyd Rewards: Covers properties including The Orleans, Sam’s Town, and Aliante.

  • Station Casinos’ Boarding Pass: Available at properties like Red Rock Resort and Green Valley Ranch.

  • Genting Rewards: Used at Resorts World.

These programs vary in structure, but all aim to deliver value to guests while building long-term customer relationships.

The Future of Loyalty Programs

As technology advances, casino loyalty programs are likely to become even more personalized and data-driven. Mobile apps, AI-powered analytics, and seamless integration across properties will further enhance the customer experience. In the ever-evolving world of Las Vegas casinos, loyalty programs remain a key factor in staying competitive and meeting the expectations of a discerning clientele.

💹 Fed Cuts Interest Rates Again but Signals Slower Reductions Ahead

The Federal Reserve reduced its key interest rate by a quarter-point on Wednesday, marking the third rate cut of the year, but indicated a slower pace of cuts in 2025 due to persistent inflation concerns. The central bank’s policymakers now project just two rate cuts in 2025, down from the four cuts estimated in September, suggesting borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards may remain elevated longer than anticipated.

This cautious stance caused turmoil on Wall Street, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping over 1,100 points (2.5%) and the Nasdaq falling 3.5%, reflecting investor concerns over slower economic expansion tied to high interest rates.

Interest Rates Approach Neutral Levels

The Fed’s latest rate cut brought its benchmark rate to 4.3%, inching closer to what policymakers consider a “neutral” level—neither stimulating nor restraining the economy. Officials are being deliberate as they navigate reducing rates while inflation remains above their 2% target.

The decision to cut rates was contentious, with four officials opposing the move. This division underscores growing concerns within the Fed about whether additional rate reductions are appropriate, given current economic conditions.

Inflation and Economic Growth Complicate Rate Decisions

Despite significant progress in reducing inflation from its peak of 7.2% in June 2022, the core inflation rate (excluding volatile food and energy prices) remains at 2.8%, persistently above the Fed’s 2% target. At the same time, robust economic growth suggests higher rates have not significantly slowed the economy, prompting some Fed officials to advocate for maintaining elevated borrowing costs to prevent overheating.

The labor market has cooled, with the unemployment rate rising to 4.2%, up nearly a full percentage point over two years. While still historically low, this increase influenced the Fed’s decision to make a larger half-point rate cut in September. Balancing the need to control inflation without stalling job growth remains a central challenge.

Challenges Ahead: Trump’s Policies and Economic Uncertainty

President-elect Donald Trump’s policy proposals are adding layers of uncertainty to the Fed’s outlook. Planned tax cuts and deregulation could stimulate economic growth, while potential tariffs and mass deportations risk driving inflation higher. Fed officials are closely monitoring these possibilities as they assess their potential impact on inflation and the broader economy.

The Fed’s economic projections highlight a nuanced path forward. Overall inflation is expected to rise slightly from 2.3% to 2.5% by the end of 2025, far below its 2022 peak but still challenging for policymakers aiming to lower rates further.

Balancing Inflation Control and Economic Stability

The Fed remains committed to achieving a “soft landing” for the economy, aiming to reduce inflation without triggering a recession. Policymakers believe meaningful progress toward their 2% inflation target is achievable within the next two years but acknowledge that caution is necessary as the rate cuts approach neutral levels.

While the Fed envisions modest rate reductions in 2025, its approach underscores the difficulty of balancing economic growth, inflation control, and employment stability in a highly uncertain environment.

Summerlin South, NV Demographics

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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.

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Until next time, John Wu.