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Downtown Summerlin Launching First Outdoor Roller-Skating Rink This Spring
Issue #421 - January 31 2025
John Wu
31 Jan
Dear SummerSouth Insiders!
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📆 Weekly Local Events for January 2025
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
Downtown Summerlin Launching First Outdoor Roller-Skating Rink This Spring
Downtown Summerlin is kicking off a new outdoor experience for locals and visitors with the opening of its first-ever roller-skating rink. The "retro-inspired" Roller Rink will take over The Lawn, the same location where the popular holiday ice-skating rink, The Rock Rink, operates each winter. The rink will be open from Friday, February 14, through Monday, May 5, offering a fun, nostalgic activity to help Las Vegans welcome the warmer spring weather.
The Roller Rink will feature a variety of entertainment options to complement the skating experience. Skaters can enjoy an “old-school” photo booth where they can capture memories, and concessions with snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase. The setup is designed to channel the charm and excitement of classic roller rinks while offering a modern twist for a new generation of skaters.
The idea for the rink comes after the success of Downtown Summerlin’s ice-skating rink during the winter holiday season. Organizers saw the potential for repurposing the space into a spring attraction, making the Roller Rink a natural fit.
Tickets for the rink are priced at $20 per person, which includes a 75-minute skating session and a skate rental. The rink will be open Wednesday through Friday from 4 to 10 p.m., and on weekends, it will extend its hours from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The rink will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
For those looking to celebrate special occasions, reservations for private events and group gatherings will be available through Summerlin’s official website at a later date. The Roller Rink is expected to draw families, friends, and skating enthusiasts of all ages who are eager to enjoy a unique outdoor activity this spring.
With its mix of entertainment, refreshments, and a nostalgic throwback to the days of roller discos, the Roller Rink is set to become a springtime destination in Las Vegas, adding another reason to visit the ever-evolving Downtown Summerlin area.
🏒 Blue Jackets Edge Golden Knights in 2-1 Overtime Thriller
The Vegas Golden Knights fell short in overtime on Thursday night as the Columbus Blue Jackets secured a 2-1 victory at T-Mobile Arena. Despite an impressive effort from goaltender Ilya Samsonov, who made key saves early in overtime, Columbus capitalized on a third rebound chance to seal the win just 52 seconds into the extra period.
Samsonov denied a breakaway shot by Kent Johnson, who had stolen the puck from Alex Pietrangelo in the Columbus defensive zone. Samsonov also stopped the initial rebound attempt by Zach Werenski, but Cole Sillinger picked up the loose puck and scored the game-winner, leaving Samsonov with little chance to recover.
Missed Opportunities in Regulation
Both teams had chances to break the deadlock in regulation, with the Knights coming close late in the third period. Defenseman Shea Theodore made a slick move at the blue line and fired a shot that beat Columbus goaltender Elvis Merzlikins but struck the crossbar with just over two minutes remaining.
The game had been tied 1-1 since the first period, with each team scoring in contrasting ways. Vegas opened the scoring after Tomas Hertl retrieved a deflected pass and launched a shot past Merzlikins. Columbus responded when a loose puck in front of the net led to a scramble, resulting in Adam Fantilli knocking it in to even the score.
The Knights thought they had taken the lead at the end of the second period during another chaotic sequence near the net. Jack Eichel charged deep into the zone and collided with Merzlikins while attempting to score. The loose puck was tapped into the open net by Ivan Barbashev, but officials disallowed the goal due to interference, a decision that drew outrage from the home crowd. The Knights, however, did not put up much protest from the bench.
Key Takeaways from the Game
1. Hertl’s Hot Streak
Tomas Hertl continued his impressive scoring run, extending his point streak to 11 consecutive games. This streak is the second-longest in franchise history, trailing only Jack Eichel’s 12-game stretch last season. Hertl now has nine goals and six assists during this run, including eight goals in his last eight games. While Hertl downplayed the significance of the streak, he acknowledged that he’s focused on maintaining his strong play to help the team.
2. Overtime Struggles Continue
Overtime has been a tough spot for the Golden Knights, as they have now lost three of their past four home games after regulation. The struggles began with a shootout loss to the St. Louis Blues, followed by an overtime defeat to the Dallas Stars after surrendering a two-goal lead. Thursday’s loss added another missed opportunity to secure a critical extra point in a tightly contested playoff race.
3. Road Trip Ahead
Thursday’s game was the last at home for the Knights until February 22, when they return to host the Vancouver Canucks. The team heads to New York on Friday to begin a three-game road trip, starting with the Rangers on Sunday. They will then face the Bruins in Boston on February 8 before the league takes a break for the 4 Nations Face Off tournament.
Injured forwards William Karlsson and Cole Schwindt will not join the team on the road, as both remain sidelined with lower-body injuries. The coaching staff hopes that the road trip will help the Knights regain their identity and return to form after the break.
With six players set to compete in the 4 Nations tournament, the team plans to use the downtime to rest and recharge before making a push for the top spot in the division. Coach Bruce Cassidy emphasized the importance of staying focused, using the trip to solidify their game plan, and being ready to hit the ground running after the break.
As the Knights aim to rebound from recent setbacks, they will look to use their upcoming games to establish momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Conspiracy theories, controversial foreign relations, and combative exchanges took center stage on a chaotic day in Washington as three of President Donald Trump’s most polarizing Cabinet nominees—Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, and Kash Patel—underwent Senate confirmation hearings on Thursday. The proceedings showcased deep political divisions and the challenges facing the new administration as it seeks to secure approval for key positions amid fierce opposition.
The hearings were part of a turbulent Day 10 of the new White House and unfolded as Trump made headlines for blaming a tragic plane-and-helicopter crash near Washington’s Reagan National Airport on diversity hiring practices. Meanwhile, his administration faced backlash for a short-lived freeze on federal funding, a decision that sparked public outrage before it was quickly reversed.
With the Senate split 53-47 in favor of Republicans, each nominee had to navigate a politically charged environment where any GOP defections could block their confirmation.
Tulsi Gabbard Faces Tough Questions, Makes Progress Toward Confirmation
Tulsi Gabbard, nominated for Director of National Intelligence, entered her confirmation hearing under intense scrutiny. Her past foreign engagements, including a controversial meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in 2017, raised concerns about her loyalty and judgment. Gabbard’s opponents argued that her history of engaging with authoritarian leaders could compromise her ability to lead the intelligence community effectively.
Despite the skepticism, Gabbard worked to reassure lawmakers of her commitment to U.S. interests. She faced allegations that she had ties to foreign entities or could be a “foreign asset,” claims stemming from her past statements about U.S. military involvement abroad. However, Republican committee members rallied to her defense, highlighting extensive FBI background checks that found no evidence of misconduct.
Democrats remained wary, questioning whether she could rebuild the trust needed to navigate sensitive intelligence matters at home and abroad. Virginia Senator Mark Warner, a leading Democrat on the committee, expressed doubts about her ability to foster critical alliances with U.S. intelligence partners. Gabbard’s rebuttals focused on her military background as a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve and her experience handling complex international matters.
One of the most significant moments came when Senator Susan Collins of Maine, a potentially pivotal Republican, asked about Gabbard’s stance on whistleblower Edward Snowden, who fled to Russia after leaking classified intelligence. Gabbard, who has previously referred to Snowden as a whistleblower, clarified that she would not advocate for any action regarding his case, attempting to distance herself from more controversial opinions.
Her nomination received a significant boost when former Senator Richard Burr, an influential Republican voice on intelligence, endorsed her, potentially swaying undecided senators.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Faces Backlash Over Anti-Vaccine Stance and Past Statements
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, faced a grilling on his second day of hearings before the Senate Health Committee. Known for his long-standing opposition to vaccines, Kennedy had to confront questions about whether his views could undermine public health initiatives if confirmed.
Democratic senators voiced concerns about Kennedy’s history of promoting vaccine skepticism, which many believe has contributed to public distrust in immunization programs. They questioned whether he could effectively lead an agency responsible for guiding the nation through health crises. His critics argued that his past statements undermined scientific consensus and could harm efforts to combat diseases and promote public health.
Kennedy also faced scrutiny over his remarks on various conspiracy theories, including those related to the Sept. 11 attacks. His tendency to question official narratives raised doubts about his ability to adhere to evidence-based policies as secretary. When asked about the potential banning of the abortion drug mifepristone, Kennedy indicated that such a decision would fall under Trump’s authority, and he would carry out the president’s policy.
Despite the heated opposition, Kennedy found support from Republican senators, particularly those who appreciated his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. Senator Tommy Tuberville praised him for engaging younger audiences and sparking interest in alternative perspectives on health and science.
Kennedy’s nomination remains contentious, with his critics warning that his leadership could pose risks to national health policy, while his supporters argue that his unconventional approach may help bring fresh ideas to the department.
Kash Patel Clashes With Senators Over His Role in Trump’s Agenda
Kash Patel, nominated to lead the FBI, delivered one of the most combative performances of the day during his Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. His controversial history, including promoting false claims of voter fraud and creating an “enemies list” of Trump critics, fueled confrontations with Democratic senators.
Patel defended his past statements as being taken out of context, insisting that his comments had been misrepresented by the media and political opponents. However, several senators pushed back, citing his public remarks about election fraud and the January 6 Capitol attack. Patel has remained a staunch supporter of Trump’s efforts to challenge the 2020 election results, and his ties to the former president have made his nomination particularly divisive.
One tense moment came when Congressman Adam Schiff confronted Patel about his role in producing a version of the national anthem featuring Trump and January 6 defendants, which was used as a fundraiser. Schiff urged Patel to acknowledge the U.S. Capitol Police officers in the room and reflect on the violence they endured during the riot. Patel responded by rejecting any association with violence against law enforcement and stating that he opposed the commutation of sentences for those who attacked police officers.
Despite the confrontations, Patel retained support from key Republicans who viewed him as loyal to Trump’s law-and-order platform. His nomination, however, faces significant hurdles, with Democrats and some moderate Republicans questioning whether his partisan background could compromise the FBI’s independence.
Russ Vought Advances Despite Budget Controversy
In a related development, Russ Vought, Trump’s nominee for budget director, cleared a key hurdle when the Senate Budget Committee advanced his nomination despite a boycott by Democratic members. Vought, a central figure in Trump’s budget planning and the architect of Project 2025, faced criticism for his role in freezing federal program funding earlier in the week—a move that sparked panic before it was reversed.
Advocacy groups warned that Vought’s approach to budgeting could lead to cuts in essential services, while Republicans argued that his fiscal discipline was necessary to rein in government spending. His confirmation now heads to the full Senate, where a narrow Republican majority could secure his appointment.
Takeaways from the Hearings:
Tulsi Gabbard made notable progress by addressing loyalty concerns and earning endorsements from key Republicans, though skepticism remains among Democrats.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced harsh criticism over his anti-vaccine views, but his support from Republican senators indicates a path forward for confirmation.
Kash Patel defended his controversial past but faced opposition over his role in Trump’s post-election efforts, making his confirmation uncertain.
Russ Vought advanced despite controversy over his budget freeze, with Republicans pushing forward on their broader fiscal agenda.
With the Senate closely divided, the fate of Trump’s nominees remains uncertain, and the outcome will largely depend on whether the president can keep Republican senators unified behind his picks.
🎸 Hard Rock’s 700-Foot Guitar Tower to Redefine Las Vegas Skyline by 2027
Las Vegas is preparing to welcome a new towering icon that could redefine its skyline—the 700-foot guitar-shaped tower set to rise on the former site of The Mirage’s famous erupting volcano. Frank Cassella, senior vice president of finance for HR Las Vegas LLC, expressed optimism about the project’s impact, predicting that the striking design will attract global attention similar to the draw of the now-demolished volcano.
Cassella made his comments on Thursday during a Nevada Gaming Commission meeting held in Boulder City, where he was granted key executive licensing approval. As the lead financial officer overseeing the project, Cassella provided updates on the ongoing transition and transformation of The Mirage into Hard Rock Las Vegas.
Demolition and Progress Underway
Demolition of parts of the Mirage property has been underway for several months, including the removal of the iconic volcano that once dazzled visitors with nightly fire-and-water displays. Cassella highlighted that construction activity is now in full swing. “If you drive by, you can see that most of the front drive is the construction zone,” Cassella said, emphasizing the visible progress on the site.
Workers have already started erecting pylons that will support the massive guitar tower, which is designed to be over 700 feet tall and will house 650 luxury suites. The tower’s design is inspired by the signature Hard Rock brand, featuring a sleek, guitar-like shape that will likely become a recognizable feature on the Las Vegas Strip.
A Comprehensive Overhaul
The new Hard Rock Las Vegas isn’t just about the guitar tower—it will be a complete redesign of the former Mirage property. Cassella outlined the extensive scope of the renovation, which will include:
A full redesign of the existing 3,000-room Mirage Tower to bring it in line with Hard Rock’s modern, upscale brand
A revamped casino floor to deliver a fresh experience for gamblers and entertainment seekers
A complete makeover of the existing pool area, along with the addition of a new pool designed specifically for guests staying in the guitar tower
This comprehensive transformation marks one of the most ambitious redevelopment projects on the Las Vegas Strip in recent years. The Hard Rock brand, known for its music-themed décor and world-class entertainment offerings, is aiming to make a bold statement as it competes with some of the Strip’s most iconic resorts.
A New Era for the Mirage Site
The Mirage officially closed its doors on July 17, 2024, marking the end of an era for the beloved property, which had been a staple of the Strip since its opening in 1989. The property was sold by MGM Resorts International to Hard Rock International in a $1.075 billion deal finalized in December 2022.
The decision to replace the famed volcano with the guitar-shaped tower initially sparked mixed reactions among Las Vegas locals and tourists, with some lamenting the loss of an iconic attraction. However, Hard Rock executives, including Cassella, are confident that the new design will honor the legacy of the site while creating a new landmark that draws tourists for decades to come.
Opening Timeline and Expectations
The Hard Rock Las Vegas is expected to open its doors in 2027, giving the project several years to fully transform the site and complete construction on the new tower. Once finished, the resort will offer a mix of luxury accommodations, dining, gaming, and live entertainment, catering to a wide range of visitors.
As the pylons for the tower rise, anticipation is building. Cassella’s remarks suggest that Hard Rock International is betting big on the new design becoming a key attraction for the Strip. Whether or not it rivals the legacy of the Mirage volcano, the Hard Rock’s guitar tower is already poised to become a defining feature of the evolving Las Vegas skyline.
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 South - December 2024
*Median Sold Price By Bedroom Count
This is the middle price for which all homes in the area were sold based on the number of bedrooms. Half of all the homes sold were below this price, and half were above.
Visit here to see the entire report.
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Until next time, John Wu.