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⚖️ Laken Riley Act Sparks Concerns Over Due Process and Immigration Enforcement
Issue #438 - February 17 2025
John Wu
17 Feb
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📆 Weekly Local Events for February 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
⚖️ Laken Riley Act Sparks Concerns Over Due Process and Immigration Enforcement
Concerns about immigration enforcement in Nevada have intensified following the enactment of the Laken Riley Act, which expands the ability of federal authorities to detain and deport undocumented immigrants arrested on suspicion of property-related crimes such as burglary, theft, larceny, and shoplifting.
The law, which received bipartisan support from Nevada’s congressional delegation, has raised due process concerns, as it allows federal authorities to detain individuals before they are convicted in court. Immigrant advocates argue that this shifts the legal standard, treating undocumented individuals differently from U.S. citizens accused of similar offenses.
How the Law Affects Nevada
The Laken Riley Act places responsibility on federal immigration officials to detain individuals covered under the law, rather than local law enforcement. However, local agencies already have partnerships with federal authorities that allow for information sharing regarding undocumented individuals in custody.
Despite this, Clark County officials and law enforcement agencies have not clarified exactly how the law will be enforced in Southern Nevada.
Case Behind the Law: The Murder of Laken Riley
The law is named after Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student in Georgia who was murdered on February 22, 2024, while jogging at the University of Georgia. The perpetrator, Jose Ibarra, was a Venezuelan national who had illegally entered the U.S. in 2022 and had prior arrests in New York and Georgia before committing the crime.
Ibarra’s criminal record included a warrant for theft at the time of Riley’s murder, yet he had previously been released without Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intervention.
In response, Rep. Mark Amodei (R-NV) and Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV) defended their support for the Laken Riley Act, stating that undocumented immigrants who break U.S. laws should be deported.
Las Vegas Metro Police Adjusts Immigration Policy
Following the law’s enactment, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) modified its immigration-related procedures to comply with the new requirements.
Metro has long collaborated with ICE by notifying the agency when undocumented individuals are arrested for violent crimes, DUI, or domestic violence. Now, the department’s revised policy expands that notification process to include individuals accused of burglary, theft, larceny, petit larceny, or assault on a police officer.
Between January 1 and February 9, 2025, Metro reported 682 arrests for property-related crimes.
While property crime rates have dropped by 20% compared to 2024, it remains unclear how many of those arrested were undocumented.
Metro has stated that officers will not proactively enforce immigration laws but will continue coordinating with ICE when undocumented individuals are taken into custody.
Other Local Law Enforcement Policies
Henderson Police: Their longstanding policy already requires ICE notification whenever an undocumented individual is booked at the Henderson Detention Center (HDC), regardless of the crime.
HDC’s ICE Contract: The facility has an agreement allowing the federal government to detain up to 300 immigrants at the jail.
North Las Vegas Police: The department has not publicly commented on its policy.
Legal and Advocacy Concerns
Immigration advocates and legal experts argue that the Laken Riley Act creates new legal risks for undocumented individuals, including:
Detainment without conviction: Some fear that undocumented individuals could be deported based on mere accusations rather than convictions.
Potential misuse: Domestic violence victims falsely accused by a partner could unfairly face deportation under the law.
Excessive costs: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) estimates that implementing the law could cost $27 billion in its first year, a figure critics say is unsustainable.
ACLU attorney Sadmira Ramic raised concerns that the law undermines due process, stating that in many cases, individuals could be held without bail and deported before proving their innocence.
Future of the Law in Nevada
While Nevada’s congressional delegation supported the law, some lawmakers acknowledged concerns about enforcement.
Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV) emphasized the need to balance enforcement with due process and indicated that future legislation could address concerns raised by immigrant communities.
Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) reiterated her commitment to protecting law-abiding immigrants while ensuring those who commit crimes are held accountable.
Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) stated that the law aims to improve public safety, while also emphasizing the importance of fairness in its application.
Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) called for a broader approach to immigration reform, rather than piecemeal laws that do not address long-term solutions.
Uncertain Road Ahead
As Nevada law enforcement adapts to the Laken Riley Act, questions remain about its long-term impact. The law’s effectiveness—and potential unintended consequences—will become clearer in the coming months, as federal and local agencies navigate implementation and enforcement challenges.
With immigration policy remaining a contentious issue, the debate over how best to balance security, justice, and due process is far from over.
🏒 Vegas Stands by Hill as No. 1 Goalie Despite Thompson’s Success
It has been eight months since the Vegas Golden Knights made a bold decision in net, trading goaltender Logan Thompson to the Washington Capitals for a pair of third-round draft picks on June 29, 2024. The move officially cemented Adin Hill as the Knights' undisputed No. 1 goaltender, ending what had once been a successful tandem.
Now, as the NHL season progresses, both goalies have taken different paths—Thompson thriving in Washington and Hill working to regain the consistency that made him a Stanley Cup champion.
Thompson’s Success in Washington
Thompson has emerged as a star for the Capitals, posting an impressive 24-2-5 record with a .921 save percentage and a 2.23 goals-against average (GAA). His performance has been a key factor in Washington’s rise to the top of the Eastern Conference standings, proving he was more than ready for a full-time starting role.
The Capitals rewarded Thompson with a six-year, $35.1 million contract extension on January 27, locking him in as their franchise goaltender.
For the Golden Knights, there is no denying that Thompson has performed at an elite level. But the reality remains—Vegas had to make a choice, and they chose to stick with the goaltender who led them to their first Stanley Cup.
Hill’s Journey as the No. 1 Goalie
While Thompson has been one of the league’s best goaltenders this season, Adin Hill’s year has been more up and down. His 20-10-4 record with a .900 save percentage and 2.64 GAA reflects some struggles, but also some strong performances, particularly in recent weeks.
Hill has had inconsistent stretches, including a rough January, where both he and the Knights’ defense had difficulties keeping pucks out of the net. Coach Bruce Cassidy didn’t shy away from addressing the issue, emphasizing the need for better goaltending if the team wants to win consistently.
Signs of Improvement
Before the NHL paused for the 4 Nations Face-Off, Hill showed signs of turning a corner:
January 26: Stopped 32 of 33 shots in a 4-1 victory over the defending champion Florida Panthers.
Final game before the break: Allowed only one goal on 15 shots in a win against New Jersey.
Between those wins: Surrendered four goals in losses to Dallas and the New York Rangers, showing that inconsistency is still an issue.
Despite the ups and downs, there’s no doubt why Vegas put its trust in Hill. His 2023 Stanley Cup playoff run was one of the most dominant goaltending performances in NHL history, and the team believes he can reach that level again.
Stability and Health Matter
One major positive for Hill this season is his durability. Injuries plagued him throughout his career, including last season, but this year, he has remained healthy. With 34 starts so far, he is just one game away from matching his career high.
With continued health and defensive improvements in front of him, Hill has a chance to regain the elite form that made him a championship goaltender.
Contract Future: Will Hill Get an Extension?
Given his role as the Knights’ No. 1 goalie and the value of reliable goaltending in the NHL, Hill is in position to earn a lucrative contract extension. His performance for the rest of the season will play a major role in determining his next deal, but if he continues to improve, an extension seems likely.
Representing Canada at 4 Nations Face-Off
Hill was selected for Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off, a testament to his status as one of the league’s top goaltenders. Although he has served as Jordan Binnington’s backup, he remains ready to step in if needed.
Ahead of the tournament, Hill expressed his excitement about representing Canada, calling it a dream come true. The experience of being around hockey greats like Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon will only help him grow as a player.
No Regrets for Vegas
Looking back at the Thompson trade, there’s no reason for the Golden Knights to have any regrets. Thompson requested a trade for an opportunity to be a full-time starter, and Vegas granted his wish. Now, he is thriving in Washington—but the Knights still have the goalie who won them a Stanley Cup.
Hill has shown he can reach an elite level, and if he finds consistency down the stretch, the Golden Knights are more than capable of making another deep playoff run.
Vegas made its choice. Now, it’s up to Adin Hill to prove once again that they made the right one.
In a sudden reversal, the Trump administration has rescinded the firings of hundreds of federal employees working on the nation’s nuclear weapons programs, following sharp criticism from experts, lawmakers, and national security officials.
The mass layoffs, which took place late Thursday, targeted up to 350 employees at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)—the division responsible for maintaining and modernizing the United States’ nuclear arsenal. Some workers lost access to their emails before even being informed of their termination, and many arrived at their offices Friday morning only to find themselves locked out.
This move was part of a broader Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, led by Elon Musk, which aimed to streamline the federal workforce. In total, about 2,000 employees across the Department of Energy (DOE) were let go. However, the abrupt dismissals—particularly at high-security nuclear sites—have sparked concerns about national security risks and long-term damage to nuclear oversight.
Backlash Forces Trump Administration to Reverse Course
By Friday night, Teresa Robbins, the acting director of NNSA, issued a formal memo rescinding the termination orders for all but 28 employees. The letter, obtained by the Associated Press, informed reinstated workers that their firings were reversed, effective immediately.
The DOE initially downplayed the scale of the layoffs, claiming that fewer than 50 NNSA employees were let go and that those affected were primarily in administrative and clerical roles. However, three U.S. officials with direct knowledge of the firings contradicted this statement, confirming that the cuts affected high-level personnel, including experts working on nuclear warhead maintenance and modernization.
One of the hardest-hit facilities was the Pantex Plant near Amarillo, Texas, where 30% of the workforce was laid off. Pantex is responsible for reassembling and refurbishing nuclear warheads—one of the most sensitive jobs in the U.S. nuclear weapons enterprise. Employees at Pantex hold some of the highest security clearances in the country, and their sudden dismissal raised serious concerns about potential vulnerabilities.
Lawmakers and National Security Experts Warn of Dangerous Consequences
The mass firings drew immediate criticism from Democratic lawmakers and national security experts who warned that such deep cuts could jeopardize U.S. security.
Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) called the layoffs "callous and dangerous."
Daryl Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association, accused DOGE officials of acting without understanding the critical role of the Energy Department in nuclear security.
Edwin Lyman, director of nuclear power safety at the Union of Concerned Scientists, warned that the cuts could disrupt U.S. national security operations and send a signal of weakness to adversaries.
One NNSA senior staff member, Rob Plonski, posted a stark warning on LinkedIn, calling the move reckless and urging officials to reconsider their commitment to nuclear security.
The Broader Impact on U.S. Nuclear Security
The NNSA plays a critical role in maintaining the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear arsenal. In addition to Pantex, the firings impacted workers at:
Savannah River National Laboratory (South Carolina) – responsible for radioactive waste management and environmental monitoring.
Hanford Nuclear Site (Washington) – home to 177 high-level nuclear waste storage tanks, a legacy of the Manhattan Project and Cold War-era weapons production.
Oak Ridge Reservation (Tennessee) – a Superfund contamination site where early nuclear weapons research was conducted.
While some of the Energy Department employees affected worked in areas like energy efficiency and climate change—issues not prioritized by the Trump administration—many others oversaw nuclear waste containment and non-proliferation efforts. The layoffs undermined ongoing projects to secure radioactive materials and prevent contamination in nearby communities.
The Future of U.S. Nuclear Modernization
The NNSA is currently overseeing a $750 billion nuclear weapons modernization effort, which includes:
New intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs)
Next-generation stealth bombers
Upgraded submarine-launched warheads
This initiative has required a massive hiring effort in recent years. In 2023, 60% of NNSA’s workforce had been there for five years or less, meaning institutional knowledge is already fragile. Losing hundreds of experienced workers in one sweep could severely impact critical defense programs.
Reinstated Employees Remain Uncertain
Despite the reversal, the damage may already be done. Many of the reinstated employees have expressed hesitation about returning to work, given the instability and uncertainty surrounding their positions. Some are weighing retirement or private-sector opportunities, fearing they could be targeted again in future cuts.
International Implications
Beyond domestic concerns, these cuts have raised alarms among U.S. allies and adversaries alike. With Trump also pushing for denuclearization talks with Russia and China, there is growing uncertainty about America’s commitment to maintaining its nuclear deterrence.
What Comes Next?
The reversal of the layoffs is a temporary relief for most of the affected workers, but the situation remains fluid.
Will the Trump administration attempt another round of layoffs?
How will Congress respond to future cost-cutting measures targeting national security?
What impact will this have on U.S. nuclear modernization efforts?
For now, the nuclear security workforce remains in flux, and the broader implications of these actions will unfold in the coming months.
🏎️ Las Vegas Grand Prix May See Lower Ticket Prices as F1 Reviews Costs
Formula One is reviewing ticket pricing strategies for the upcoming 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix, following feedback from fans, resort partners, and stakeholders. The discussion comes as part of an effort to make the event more accessible to a wider audience after complaints about high ticket costs in its first two years.
Talks Underway for Pricing Adjustments
During MGM Resorts International’s year-end earnings call, CEO Bill Hornbuckle confirmed that Formula One is reevaluating its pricing model for the Las Vegas race, scheduled for November 20-22, 2025. He emphasized the importance of setting a strong foundation early to ensure continued growth and success for the event.
Las Vegas Grand Prix spokesperson Lori Nelson-Kraft also confirmed that discussions about pricing adjustments are ongoing as planning for this year’s race continues. Clark County Commissioner Tick Segerblom expressed hope that any changes would result in lower ticket prices, although he was not aware of the specific discussions.
One of the biggest complaints from both locals and visitors has been the high cost of tickets, which has priced many fans out of attending the event. Formula One took a small step toward affordability last year, increasing general admission ticket availability by 7,000 seats for the 2024 race. However, the sport is now considering further adjustments to make the experience more inclusive.
Hotel Prices Drop After Initial Surge
MGM Resorts saw a significant drop in room rates between the first and second editions of the Las Vegas Grand Prix:
2023 Race Weekend: Average room rate of $800 per night
2024 Race Weekend: Average room rate fell to $400 per night
Despite this 50% decrease, the event still generated higher-than-usual rates for a weekend that is historically one of the slowest for tourism in Las Vegas. According to Hornbuckle, the $400 average was still twice the rate of a typical weekend without an F1 event.
Changes to Ticket Packages and Race Timing
MGM Resorts adjusted its approach to ticket packages for the 2024 race, focusing primarily on its Bellagio Fountain Club, a premium hospitality venue built over the Fountains of Bellagio. Last year, prices for this experience exceeded $10,000 per ticket.
The 2025 race will also feature an earlier start time. In its first two years, the race began at 10 p.m., often stretching past midnight—a concern for both fans and businesses. This year, the race will begin two hours earlier at 8 p.m., giving attendees more time to explore Las Vegas nightlife after the event.
Las Vegas Grand Prix’s Future Beyond 2025
Formula One’s current three-year contract with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) expires after the 2025 race. The original short-term agreement was signed to gauge the success of the event before committing to a longer deal.
Hornbuckle expressed confidence that the race will remain in Las Vegas, though negotiations will be necessary to secure its long-term future. LVCVA CEO Steve Hill has stated that the organization wants to finalize an extended contract before the 2025 race weekend.
What’s Next?
As discussions continue, fans can expect more details on ticket pricing adjustments in the coming months. With Formula One, resort partners, and local officials working together, the goal is to balance affordability while maintaining the event’s high-end appeal.
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 - January 2025
*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.