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👮♂️ Las Vegas Metro Police Introduce New Initiatives at State of the Department Address
Issue #448 - February 27 2025
John Wu
27 Feb
Dear SummerSouth Insiders!
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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
👮♂️ Las Vegas Metro Police Introduce New Initiatives at State of the Department Address
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) unveiled several major initiatives at its State of the Department address on Tuesday morning, highlighting new patrol vehicles, updated training programs, and expanded officer wellness efforts.
Among the key announcements were the introduction of Tesla Cybertrucks for patrol and SWAT use, a new "Core 4" training model aimed at reducing officer-involved shootings, and the launch of a Wellness Bureau to support mental health resources for officers. Sheriff Kevin McMahill and Undersheriff Andrew Walsh outlined these developments, emphasizing Metro's commitment to public safety, officer well-being, and innovative policing strategies in 2025.
Crime Trends: Homicides and Auto Thefts Decline
Sheriff Kevin McMahill opened the address, hosted at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, by sharing positive crime statistics from 2024. He reported that homicides and motor vehicle thefts in Metro’s jurisdiction declined by over 20% compared to the previous year.
He credited the decline to collaboration between law enforcement agencies across Southern Nevada, highlighting the importance of data-driven policing and community partnerships.
However, the department acknowledged that traffic-related fatalities remain a major concern, despite increased enforcement efforts.
Traffic Safety: Crashes and Fatalities Remain High
Undersheriff Andrew Walsh provided an overview of Metro’s traffic enforcement efforts, revealing that 160 people died in traffic-related incidents in 2024.
Despite issuing 120,000 citations—an increase of 40,000 from the previous year—fatalities have not seen a significant reduction.
Walsh reaffirmed Metro’s commitment to enhancing road safety, stressing that law enforcement alone cannot solve the issue and that public awareness and responsible driving are critical.
New Training Initiative Aims to Reduce Officer-Involved Shootings
Walsh also addressed the increase in officer-involved shootings, reporting that Metro officers fired their weapons 17 times in 2024—nearly double the number from the previous year.
To reduce these incidents, Metro is launching the "Core 4" training model, which emphasizes:
De-escalation techniques
Information sharing
Resource allocation
Proficiency in tactical decision-making
The new approach expands reality-based training for patrol officers, increasing their exposure to scenario-based exercises from twice per year to 12 times annually. This hands-on training aims to improve officers' decision-making skills in high-pressure situations, reducing the likelihood of deadly encounters.
Metro to Deploy 10 Tesla Cybertrucks for Patrol and SWAT
One of the most eye-catching announcements was Metro’s plan to introduce 10 Tesla Cybertrucks into its patrol and SWAT fleet. The trucks, donated by an anonymous benefactor, will be the largest fleet of Tesla police trucks in the country.
McMahill highlighted the Cybertruck’s durability, including its bullet-resistant exterior, as a key factor in Metro’s decision to deploy them.
He clarified that the purchase of the Cybertrucks would not impact Metro’s general budget, ensuring that taxpayer dollars were not used for the acquisition.
Expanding Technology: Drones to Assist in Law Enforcement
Another technological advancement Metro is rolling out is the expanded use of drones to assist officers in tracking suspects and gathering real-time intelligence.
During the presentation, Walsh showcased a Metro drone in action, flying it over the stage with red and blue flashing lights while live footage was displayed on the screen behind him.
Metro plans to pre-position drones across multiple locations in the Las Vegas Valley to provide faster response times and enhance public safety.
New Wellness Bureau Supports Officers’ Mental Health
Recognizing the mental health challenges officers face, Metro launched a Wellness Bureau two months ago to provide comprehensive support for law enforcement personnel.
The newly opened wellness center is staffed with:
Licensed clinicians
Peer support team members
Chaplains
Metro reported that the center has already seen approximately 425 visits per month, demonstrating a strong demand for mental health resources.
All services at the center are free, accessible, and confidential, ensuring officers feel comfortable seeking help.
New Area Command and Substation Coming to Las Vegas
Sheriff McMahill announced on social media that Metro would soon open a new area command and substation to serve growing communities:
Hollywood Area Command: Serving the east side of the Las Vegas Valley
Skye Canyon Substation: Located at Grand Teton Drive and Hualapai Way in northwest Las Vegas
Metro’s jurisdiction is divided into multiple area commands, each with a dedicated station that provides local law enforcement services. The new facilities aim to improve response times and community engagement in these expanding neighborhoods.
A New Era for Policing in Las Vegas
The State of the Department address highlighted Metro’s ongoing commitment to innovation, safety, and officer well-being.
From Cybertrucks and drones to new training models and mental health initiatives, Metro is taking bold steps to adapt to the evolving challenges of law enforcement in Las Vegas.
With crime rates showing positive trends, the department’s 2025 initiatives aim to build on these successes while addressing ongoing concerns like traffic fatalities and officer-involved shootings.
As Metro moves forward, the emphasis remains on public safety, transparency, and community trust, ensuring that Las Vegas law enforcement continues to lead the way in modern policing practices.
🏈 Raiders Exploring Trade for Rams Quarterback Matthew Stafford
The Las Vegas Raiders have emerged as a possible destination for veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, as the Los Angeles Rams have granted him permission to explore trade opportunities with other teams. Stafford, who led the Rams to victory in Super Bowl 56, is under contract for two more seasons but is seeking a contract extension due to the limited guaranteed money remaining on his deal.
The Rams are hesitant to meet Stafford’s extension demands and have allowed him to gauge his market value, hoping other teams will view his contract situation similarly. However, given the scarcity of elite quarterbacks available this offseason, Stafford could attract significant interest from teams looking for an experienced and high-caliber passer.
One of those teams is the Raiders, who are actively seeking a franchise quarterback to lead the team into the future. Minority owner Tom Brady has reportedly been in contact with Stafford’s representatives to discuss the possibility of him joining Las Vegas, according to multiple NFL sources.
Why the Raiders Are Interested in Stafford
The Raiders' quarterback situation remains one of the team’s biggest concerns heading into the 2025 NFL season. After struggling with Jimmy Garoppolo and Aidan O’Connell last season, the franchise is determined to secure a proven leader who can elevate the team’s offensive production.
Stafford, despite being 37 years old, remains one of the most talented quarterbacks in the league. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to make big-time throws and lead his team in high-pressure situations. His playoff success, including his Super Bowl win with the Rams, makes him an attractive option for a Raiders team looking for stability at the position.
With an offensive-minded head coach in Pete Carroll, a strong receiving corps featuring Davante Adams, and an improving offensive line, Las Vegas could provide Stafford with a favorable situation.
However, acquiring Stafford won’t be easy. The Raiders must clear three hurdles to land him:
Convince Stafford to waive his no-trade clause and agree to join Las Vegas.
Negotiate a new contract that could be worth around $50 million per year.
Reach a trade agreement with the Rams, who won’t let Stafford go cheaply given his recent performance and leadership.
Raiders Exploring All QB Options
While Stafford is a top target, the Raiders are keeping all options open when it comes to securing a long-term quarterback solution.
Other potential options include:
Sam Darnold – A pending free agent who had a strong season with the Minnesota Vikings.
Aaron Rodgers – Expected to be released by the New York Jets, the four-time MVP could be an intriguing, albeit short-term, option.
NFL Draft Prospects – If Las Vegas finds a promising quarterback in the draft, they could use their sixth overall pick to select a future franchise leader. Cam Ward (Miami) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) are among the names that could be available.
General manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll have emphasized that the Raiders will explore every avenue in their search for a quarterback.
Carroll, who helped develop Russell Wilson into a Super Bowl-winning quarterback with Seattle, stressed the importance of building a complete team around the position.
What’s Next for the Raiders?
With NFL free agency and the NFL Draft approaching, the Raiders must make a crucial decision on how to address their quarterback situation. If they decide Stafford is the best option, they will need to act quickly to finalize contract talks and negotiate a trade with the Rams.
The Rams ultimately control Stafford’s future, but with multiple teams in need of a quarterback, the Raiders may face stiff competition. However, with Brady’s influence, Carroll’s coaching experience, and the team’s determination to upgrade the position, Las Vegas remains a serious contender to land Stafford or another top-tier quarterback this offseason.
😋 Starbucks to Remove Several Drinks from Its Menu as Part of Streamlining Effort
Starbucks is making significant changes to its menu, with several beverages set to be discontinued starting Tuesday, March 4. The company announced that the move is part of an effort to simplify its offerings, reduce wait times, and improve consistency across its stores.
The menu changes will result in the removal of several Frappuccino flavors, the Royal English Breakfast Latte, and the White Hot Chocolate, among others. Starbucks explained that these drinks were less frequently ordered, more complex to prepare, or too similar to other existing beverages.
By reducing the number of menu items, the company aims to focus on popular drinks while introducing new and seasonal offerings. Recent additions include the Cortado, launched last month, and the upcoming Iced Cherry Chai, set to debut this spring.
Why Starbucks Is Making These Changes
The menu reduction aligns with Starbucks’ broader restructuring efforts, which include the layoff of 1,100 corporate employees globally.
Since taking over as CEO in August, Brian Niccol has emphasized the need for greater efficiency within the company. Starbucks stated that the decision to streamline the menu will help:
Reduce wait times for customers
Ensure better consistency in drink preparation
Make room for future menu innovations
While removing certain drinks, Starbucks is committed to introducing new beverages and seasonal specials to maintain variety for its customers.
Drinks Being Removed from the Menu on March 4
The following 13 beverages will no longer be available at Starbucks locations:
Iced Matcha Lemonade
Espresso Frappuccino
Caffè Vanilla Frappuccino
Java Chip Frappuccino
White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino
Chai Crème Frappuccino
Caramel Ribbon Crunch Crème Frappuccino
Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino
Chocolate Cookie Crumble Crème Frappuccino
White Chocolate Crème Frappuccino
White Hot Chocolate
Royal English Breakfast Latte
Honey Almondmilk Flat White
More Changes Coming to the Starbucks Menu
These removals mark just the first phase of Starbucks’ menu overhaul. The company has indicated that more beverages and food items will be phased out throughout 2025, with a goal of reducing the overall U.S. menu by 30% by the end of the fiscal year.
Despite these changes, Starbucks remains focused on innovation, ensuring that customers have access to new flavors and seasonal beverages throughout the year. While some fans may be disappointed by the removal of their favorite drinks, the company believes this shift will create a more efficient and enjoyable experience for customers and employees alike.
The Trump administration has directed federal agencies to develop plans for eliminating employee positions, setting the stage for a potential massive restructuring of the American government. According to a newly released White House memo, agencies must submit detailed workforce reduction plans by March 13, outlining which positions will be cut and permanently removed.
This initiative marks the latest step in President Donald Trump’s effort to shrink the federal workforce, which he has criticized as overstaffed and inefficient. Thousands of probationary employees have already been dismissed, and the administration is now shifting its focus toward career officials who have civil service protection.
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued the directive, emphasizing that the goal is to reduce government inefficiencies, lower costs, and eliminate unnecessary positions.
A Push for Large-Scale Layoffs
The memo, authored by Russell Vought, Director of OMB, and Charles Ezell, acting Director of OPM, states that the federal government is too expensive, inefficient, and deeply in debt. They argue that its current structure fails to deliver results for the American people and requires fundamental changes.
To implement these workforce reductions, agencies must conduct a Reduction in Force (RIF) process. Unlike standard layoffs, which allow agencies to rehire workers for the same roles later, a RIF permanently eliminates the positions, preventing future rehiring for those jobs.
The result could be a historic downsizing of federal government operations, potentially reshaping how agencies function and deliver services to the public.
Executive Order and Musk’s Role in Restructuring
The Trump administration’s workforce reduction strategy was outlined in an executive order signed by President Trump alongside Elon Musk, who has taken on an advisory role in government efficiency.
The order mandates that agency leaders must “promptly undertake preparations to initiate large-scale reductions in force”, signaling an aggressive push toward eliminating federal jobs.
Musk has been a vocal advocate for government downsizing, and under his advisory role within the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), he has been working closely with Trump to streamline federal operations.
Federal Agencies Begin Workforce Reductions
Some government agencies have already begun implementing layoffs and job eliminations ahead of the March 13 deadline.
The General Services Administration (GSA), responsible for federal real estate and property management, informed employees that a Reduction in Force process is underway. The agency assured affected workers that they would be treated with dignity and fairness but acknowledged the difficult nature of the cuts.
Similar moves are expected across multiple agencies, as department heads evaluate which positions to phase out permanently in accordance with the White House’s directive.
Cabinet Meeting to Discuss Further Government Restructuring
As part of the administration’s broader push for government efficiency, Trump is set to hold his first full Cabinet meeting of his second term, where workforce reductions will be a major topic.
Musk, who leads DOGE, will be present at the meeting, offering guidance on how agencies should implement reductions and improve operational efficiency.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that all Cabinet secretaries are expected to follow DOGE’s recommendations and provide updates on how their agencies are executing Trump’s campaign promises.
What’s Next?
The federal workforce faces a period of significant uncertainty, with many employees concerned about the scope and impact of the impending cuts.
With the March 13 deadline approaching, agencies must finalize their plans for position eliminations, and more layoffs are expected to follow in the coming weeks.
The move represents one of the most aggressive attempts to shrink the federal government in modern history, aligning with Trump’s long-standing promise to reduce bureaucracy, cut spending, and overhaul government operations.
As agencies prepare their reduction plans, many questions remain about the future of public services, program funding, and the broader impact on federal employees across the country.
✈ Harry Reid International Airport Sees Steady Passenger Traffic in January
Passenger traffic at Harry Reid International Airport remained largely unchanged in January 2025 compared to the same month last year, according to a report released Wednesday by the Clark County Department of Aviation.
The Las Vegas airport handled 4.36 million passengers in January, a 0.3% increase from 4.35 million in January 2024.
Domestic vs. International Travel Trends
While domestic travel saw a 1.1% decline, with 4 million passengers, international travel surged by 16.8%, totaling 333,154 arrivals. The increase in international traffic was supported by the addition of three new carriers that were not serving the airport last year:
Porter Airlines (Canada)
Norse Atlantic
Aer Lingus
Top Domestic Airlines
The airport’s leading domestic carriers experienced mixed results in January.
Southwest Airlines, the airport’s top airline, saw a 5.6% decrease, serving 1.6 million passengers.
Spirit Airlines reported an even sharper drop of 18.2%, with 469,442 passengers.
Delta Air Lines saw a modest 0.6% increase, reaching 423,920 passengers.
United Airlines experienced a significant 12.4% rise, transporting 360,521 passengers.
American Airlines grew by 6.8%, carrying 356,176 passengers.
Top International Airlines
On the international side, Air Canada overtook WestJet as the leading international carrier.
Air Canada transported 54,859 passengers from multiple Canadian cities.
WestJet closely followed with 53,483 passengers.
Mexican discount airline Volaris handled 36,520 travelers.
British Airways was the top overseas carrier, flying 21,640 passengers, more than double the number transported by Virgin Atlantic (10,671 passengers).
New Passenger Tracking Data
For the first time, the Department of Aviation included detailed statistics on boarding and connection trends.
2.15 million passengers boarded outbound flights from Las Vegas.
2.21 million passengers arrived on inbound flights.
3.9 million passengers were either originating from or departing Las Vegas.
459,275 passengers used Las Vegas as a connecting hub to reach other destinations.
Additionally, of the 4.36 million total passengers recorded in January:
4.2 million were revenue passengers (paying customers).
107,446 were non-revenue airline passengers (such as employees flying for work).
38,262 were non-revenue airport passengers.
Steady Growth Despite Market Shifts
While domestic airline performance varied, international growth and the addition of new carriers helped keep Harry Reid International Airport’s overall traffic steady in January. With new airline services and expanded routes, the airport is expected to continue adapting to shifting travel trends throughout 2025.
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.