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- ❎ Nevada Moves Toward a Coal-Free Future with Approval of $573M Natural Gas Units
❎ Nevada Moves Toward a Coal-Free Future with Approval of $573M Natural Gas Units
Issue #380 - December 21, 2024
John Wu
21 Dec
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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.
⛽ Las Vegas Gas Prices
❎ Nevada Moves Toward a Coal-Free Future with Approval of $573M Natural Gas Units
The Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) has approved NV Energy's comprehensive Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to meet the state’s growing energy demand, paving the way for significant investments in renewable and traditional energy sources.
Key Features of the Plan:
Renewable Energy Expansion: The plan includes 1,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power and 1,000 MW of battery storage across Nevada. Approved solar and battery projects include Dry Lake East and Boulder Solar III in Southern Nevada and Libra Solar in Northern Nevada. These projects will operate under Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), allowing developers to build and maintain the facilities while NV Energy purchases the power at fixed rates.
Natural Gas Transition: The plan incorporates $573.3 million for approximately 400 MW of natural gas peaking units, replacing the coal-powered plant at North Valmy. This shift will make Nevada coal-free by 2025. The natural gas units are designed to operate during peak demand and are expected to transition to hydrogen fuel in the future.
NV Energy President and CEO Doug Cannon emphasized that these investments would support Nevada’s economic growth and job creation while maintaining energy costs below the national average.
Environmental Concerns:
Despite the plan's focus on renewables, environmental groups criticized the inclusion of natural gas peaking units, citing concerns about cost, dependency on fossil fuels, and environmental impacts. Organizations such as the Nevada Conservation League, Sierra Club, and Western Resource Advocates argued that these units contribute to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.
Chispa Nevada expressed disappointment, labeling the natural gas units as "costly and polluting." They emphasized the need for clean energy options, especially for communities disproportionately affected by environmental issues. Western Resource Advocates further criticized the state's IRP process, arguing it promotes reliance on fossil fuels rather than innovative, sustainable solutions.
Financial Implications:
Ratepayers will bear the cost of constructing the natural gas units, akin to a mortgage, with payments spread over the plant’s operational lifespan. The first plant is expected to be operational by the end of 2026, with rate changes anticipated thereafter.
Conclusion:
While the approval of NV Energy's IRP marks a significant step toward a cleaner energy future, the inclusion of natural gas units highlights ongoing tensions between meeting immediate energy demands and addressing long-term environmental goals. The transition underscores Nevada's broader challenge of balancing sustainability with reliability in its energy strategy.
🏒 Chandler Stephenson Set for Emotional Return to T-Mobile Arena
Chandler Stephenson is set to make his first visit to T-Mobile Arena as a member of the Seattle Kraken on Saturday, marking an emotional return to face the Golden Knights. The 30-year-old forward signed a seven-year, $43.75 million contract with Seattle during the offseason after spending four-and-a-half successful seasons with the Golden Knights.
A Key Player in Golden Knights’ History
Stephenson played 327 games for the Knights, amassing 237 points and earning an All-Star nod during the 2021-22 season. He was a crucial piece of the team’s Stanley Cup victory in 2023, evolving from a fourth-line winger with the Washington Capitals to a top-line center in Vegas.
Fans and teammates alike are expected to give Stephenson a warm reception, recognizing his contributions to the franchise. Knights center Jack Eichel noted that Stephenson's return deserves a celebration of his impact on the team’s success.
Challenges with the Kraken
The Kraken, currently on a three-game losing streak, head into the matchup looking to rebound. They suffered a 3-1 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday and faced travel delays en route to Las Vegas, preventing Stephenson from being available for comment.
Despite the team’s struggles, Stephenson has been a standout performer for Seattle, recording eight points in his last 10 games. Kraken general manager Ron Francis highlighted Stephenson’s versatility and reliability, praising his contributions in all situations, from five-on-five play to power plays and penalty kills.
Familiar Territory for Stephenson
Stephenson has already faced the Golden Knights this season, helping the Kraken secure a 4-3 overtime victory in Seattle on November 8. However, this will be his first game back at T-Mobile Arena since leaving the team.
The last time Stephenson played as a visiting player in Las Vegas was in December 2018 with the Washington Capitals, before he was traded to the Golden Knights a year later.
A Growing Tradition of Tributes
Stephenson will likely be honored with a tribute video during his return, as has been the case for other former Golden Knights players this season, including William Carrier, Michael Amadio, and Logan Thompson.
For the fans, Stephenson will be remembered as a pivotal player who transitioned from a role player in Washington’s 2018 Stanley Cup win to a star who helped bring the championship to Vegas.
Knights Continue Their Strong Play
The Golden Knights, fresh off a 3-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks, have won six of their last seven games and are looking to maintain momentum against their Pacific Division rivals.
While the game will be an opportunity to reunite with their former teammate, the Knights are focused on securing a win as they continue their strong start to the season.
“Stephenson meant a lot to this team,” Eichel said, reflecting on his former teammate’s impact. “But once the puck drops, it’s all about the game.”
😋 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.
❎ Biden Signs Funding Bill to Avert Shutdown Amid Political Turmoil
President Joe Biden signed a temporary funding bill into law on Saturday, narrowly avoiding a federal government shutdown just hours before the deadline. The legislation provides government funding through March 14, along with $100 billion in disaster relief and $10 billion in agricultural assistance.
The bill represents a compromise after days of intense negotiations in Congress. While it prevents a shutdown, it does not address the federal debt ceiling, which had been a key demand from President-elect Donald Trump.
A Narrow Escape from Shutdown
The funding package passed the House with a 366-34 vote and cleared the Senate 85-11 just past midnight. This swift action brought an end to days of uncertainty, with the White House halting shutdown preparations shortly after the vote.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., played a pivotal role in shepherding the bill through Congress. However, his leadership has faced scrutiny after multiple failed attempts to satisfy both conservative hardliners and Trump’s last-minute demands.
Trump’s Debt Ceiling Push
Trump’s insistence on including a debt ceiling suspension in the funding package added to the legislative turmoil. The debt limit, currently set to expire on Jan. 1, 2025, remains a contentious issue. While Congress has mechanisms to delay a potential default until mid-2025, Trump sought to address the matter before his inauguration to avoid negotiations during his administration.
Johnson ultimately had to exclude the debt ceiling provision to secure bipartisan support, frustrating fiscal conservatives within his party but ensuring the government stayed operational.
Challenges for GOP Leadership
The funding bill’s passage underscores the complexities of Republican leadership as they prepare to control the White House, Senate, and House in the new year. Despite their majority, GOP leaders have had to rely on Democratic votes to pass key legislation, exposing divisions within the party.
House Republicans face growing dissatisfaction among their ranks, with some members questioning Johnson’s leadership. The upcoming vote for Speaker of the House on Jan. 3, 2025, will be a critical test for Johnson, who holds a razor-thin majority.
A Temporary Solution with Long-Term Consequences
The bill avoids immediate chaos but leaves unresolved issues, particularly the debt ceiling. GOP leaders have indicated they will tackle the debt limit alongside tax and border security measures in 2025, with plans for significant spending cuts over the next decade.
The compromise package, stripped of many of its original provisions, highlights the challenges of governing in a divided Congress. Bipartisan measures with widespread support, including pay raises for lawmakers and other initiatives, now face an uncertain future.
Trump’s Influence and Limitations
Trump’s involvement in the negotiations showcases his influence over Congress, but also the constraints of his approach. Despite his demands, lawmakers moved forward without addressing the debt ceiling, focusing instead on immediate funding needs.
As Trump prepares to assume office, his ability to work with a narrowly divided Congress will be tested, especially as he pushes for sweeping policy changes.
The federal debt, which stands at $36 trillion, looms large over future negotiations. With inflation driving up borrowing costs, the debate over fiscal responsibility is set to dominate political discourse in the coming months.
For now, the government remains funded, but the path forward is fraught with challenges. Both parties will need to navigate these complexities as they grapple with pressing economic and legislative priorities in the new year.
💹 Fed Cuts Rates for Third Time in 2024, But Mortgage Rates Surge
The Federal Reserve implemented its third interest rate cut of 2024 on Wednesday, lowering its benchmark rate by 0.25 percentage points. Despite this move, mortgage rates saw an unexpected rise, reflecting broader market volatility.
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage climbed to 6.72% for the week ending December 19, up from 6.60% the previous week, according to Freddie Mac data. On an intraday level, it spiked to 7.13% on the day of the Fed's announcement, increasing further to 7.14% on Thursday, as reported by Mortgage News Daily.
This rate increase occurred even as the Federal Reserve has reduced the federal funds rate by a full percentage point this year. While earlier cuts brought temporary declines in borrowing costs, rates have generally been trending upward since late September.
Disconnect Between Fed Rate Cuts and Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates are more closely tied to Treasury yields than to the Fed’s benchmark rate. As a result, changes in the federal funds rate have a limited and often indirect impact on mortgage borrowing costs. This disconnect became evident as mortgage rates rose following November’s bond market response to Donald Trump’s election victory.
Additionally, the Fed’s signaling of fewer rate cuts in 2025 contributed to market uncertainty. The central bank’s "dot plot," which reflects policymakers’ expectations, projects the federal funds rate to decline to a range of 3.75% to 4% by the end of 2025. This is a more modest reduction than the full percentage-point decline initially projected in September.
Bond Market Reaction
The bond market reacted sharply to the Fed’s revised outlook, with concerns heightened by anticipated inflationary pressures from proposed policies such as tariffs, immigration reforms, and tax cuts. These developments contributed to volatility in Treasury yields, which directly influence mortgage rates.
Mortgage Rate Trends
Mortgage rates often adjust in anticipation of future Fed actions. For example, rates declined earlier this year ahead of the first rate cut in September. However, the upward trajectory of rates since late fall suggests the bond market’s expectations have shifted, aligning less with the Fed’s easing efforts and more with broader economic uncertainties.
While the Federal Reserve's adjustments aim to stabilize economic conditions, the rise in mortgage rates underscores the complex interplay between monetary policy and market reactions, leaving borrowers to navigate higher borrowing costs despite a year of rate cuts.
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.
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