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🏡 Summerlin Expands High-End Housing with Astra’s Multi-Million Dollar Lots
Issue #449 - February 28 2025
John Wu
28 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
🏡 Summerlin Expands High-End Housing with Astra’s Multi-Million Dollar Lots
A new high-end residential community is emerging in Summerlin, as developer Howard Hughes Holdings begins selling custom-home lots in a private, mountainside enclave. Named Astra, the project spans 170 acres in the westernmost part of Summerlin, offering exclusive homesites with breathtaking views of the Las Vegas Valley and surrounding mountains.
The developer has already sold six of these custom lots, totaling 3.8 acres, for a combined $23 million. Each acre sold for an average of $6 million, underscoring the high demand for luxury real estate in this premier Las Vegas community. These sales, which closed in December, mark the beginning of what is expected to be a sought-after neighborhood for ultra-luxury homebuyers.
Exclusive Location and Scenic Views
Astra is located a few miles northwest of the Summerlin Parkway-215 Beltway interchange, nestled at the base of the La Madre Peaks. The elevated terrain provides panoramic views of the entire valley, while the surrounding mountains offer a secluded, picturesque setting.
Summerlin is already home to several elite communities, such as The Ridges and The Summit Club, but Astra is poised to set a new standard for exclusivity. Real estate experts have noted that the views from Astra are among the most impressive in the region, with unobstructed sightlines stretching across the valley.
Development and Sales Strategy
The project has not yet been publicly marketed, and sales have been conducted in phases with a select group of buyers. This approach ensures a tailored experience for prospective homeowners while maintaining the community’s exclusivity. The initial six lots were part of a 44-lot phase, approved by the Las Vegas Planning Commission in October 2024.
Records indicate that the broader development plan includes 81 homesites across 78 acres, designed to accommodate custom-built estates. The Las Vegas City Council recently approved renaming one of the community’s streets from Amaya Canyon Drive to Astra Canyon Drive, aligning with a revised branding strategy for the project.
Summerlin’s Ongoing Growth in Luxury Real Estate
Summerlin, a 22,500-acre master-planned community, remains one of the most desirable residential areas in Southern Nevada. With over 130,000 residents, it continues to attract high-end buyers seeking a combination of privacy, security, and upscale amenities.
Howard Hughes Holdings has played a key role in shaping Summerlin’s landscape, selling land to homebuilders and developing projects such as Downtown Summerlin, a premier shopping and entertainment district. The company's commitment to high-end residential development has positioned Summerlin as one of the most prestigious areas in the Las Vegas Valley.
As demand for luxury homes continues to rise, experts anticipate that Astra’s property values will climb even higher. Given its unique location and exclusivity, the enclave is expected to attract affluent buyers looking for custom-built estates in a secluded yet connected part of the city.
With the early success of Astra’s sales and its limited number of homesites, the project is likely to become one of Summerlin’s most elite residential offerings.
🏒 Golden Knights Nearly Let Big Lead Slip but Hold on for 7-5 Win Over Blackhawks
After a disappointing collapse in the third period against the Los Angeles Kings earlier in the week, the Vegas Golden Knights looked to bounce back in Thursday’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks at T-Mobile Arena.
They got off to an explosive start, scoring five goals in the first period and taking a three-goal lead into the third. But despite the dominant early performance, the Knights nearly let another game slip away, allowing Chicago to pull within one goal in the final frame.
Two-goal performances from Keegan Kolesar and Ivan Barbashev ultimately helped the Knights secure a 7-5 victory, but the game left plenty of concern over defensive lapses and goaltending struggles.
Early Dominance Turns into Late-Game Struggles
Vegas came out firing in the first period, capitalizing on Chicago’s defensive weaknesses. Kolesar got things started just 1:06 into the game, scoring off a turnover. The third line played a major role in the opening frame, with center Brett Howden and left wing Barbashev assisting on defenseman Nic Hague’s goal at 8:57. Barbashev added a power-play goal at 12:17, helping the Knights jump out to a 5-1 lead.
Chicago responded with two quick goals early in the second period, cutting the lead to 5-3, but Kolesar answered with his second goal of the night at 13:38 to restore a three-goal cushion at 6-3.
The Blackhawks, however, refused to go away. Ilya Mikheyev scored at 6:56 of the third period, and Philipp Kurashev found the back of the net at 9:44, suddenly making it a 6-5 game.
The Knights’ defensive issues resurfaced, and goaltender Ilya Samsonov struggled for the second straight game, allowing five goals for the second consecutive start.
With Chicago threatening to complete the comeback, Barbashev added a much-needed insurance goal with 4:15 left, sealing the win for Vegas.
Goaltending Concerns Continue
Samsonov has now allowed 13 goals in his last three starts, raising concerns about his consistency.
The Knights’ defense also struggled, particularly in the third period, allowing Chicago to capitalize on turnovers and missed assignments.
While the win improved Vegas’ record to 35-18-6, coach Bruce Cassidy emphasized the need for tighter defensive play moving forward.
Key Takeaways from the Game
1. Alec Martinez Returns to Vegas
Chicago defenseman Alec Martinez played in his first game back at T-Mobile Arena since signing a one-year, $4 million contract with the Blackhawks in July 2024.
The 37-year-old veteran played a key role in the Golden Knights’ Stanley Cup victory in 2023 after spending four and a half seasons in Vegas.
During the first TV timeout, the Knights honored Martinez with a video tribute, and fans responded with a loud ovation.
2. Tanner Pearson Reaches 700 Career Games
Vegas left wing Tanner Pearson played 8:31 in what was his 700th NHL game.
A former first-round pick in 2012, Pearson has been a consistent presence on the Knights’ fourth line this season, earning his spot after signing a professional tryout deal.
3. Shea Theodore’s Injury Update
Vegas defenseman Shea Theodore suffered a broken wrist while representing Team Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off, according to Dallas Stars defenseman Thomas Harley, who shared the news on SiriusXM Radio.
Theodore is currently undergoing rehab but does not yet have a timetable for his return. He remains week-to-week.
His absence has forced the Knights’ defensive pairings to adjust, with players like Hanifin and Hague stepping into larger roles.
Looking Ahead
While the Knights secured the win, their inconsistent defensive play and goaltending struggles remain areas of concern.
Vegas will look to tighten up defensively as they continue their homestand, with a focus on closing out games more effectively.
With Shea Theodore still sidelined, the team will need stronger performances from their blue line and more consistent goaltending to maintain their push toward the playoffs.
🎰 Golden Entertainment Eyes Growth in 2025 After Transformative Year
Golden Entertainment, the Las Vegas-based gaming and hospitality company, is looking ahead to continued improvement in 2025 after what it described as a transformative year in 2024. The company, which operates eight casinos in Nevada and 72 gaming taverns, reported a 37 percent decline in annual revenue, with $667 million in earnings compared to $1.05 billion in 2023.
During its fourth-quarter earnings call, company executives expressed confidence in future growth, citing a strong tavern business, an optimistic Nevada economy, and a focus on reinvesting in core assets.
Revenue Performance and Key Financial Highlights
Golden Entertainment reported $164.2 million in revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024, a 29 percent decline from the same period in 2023. However, executives pointed to sequential improvement in the company's financial performance compared to earlier quarters, signaling potential for stabilization and growth in 2025.
One of the most significant financial events of the year was the sale of Golden’s distributed gaming operations, which, along with other non-core asset divestitures, generated nearly $600 million in proceeds. The company has redirected focus to its casino and tavern businesses, emphasizing strategic investments and shareholder returns.
Performance of Key Gaming and Hospitality Assets
The Strat Casino-Hotel, one of Golden’s flagship properties, reported a weekend occupancy rate of 95 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024, remaining consistent with the previous year. However, midweek occupancy declined by 6 percent, bringing overall occupancy for the company’s Nevada casino resorts—which include properties in Pahrump and Laughlin—to 75 percent for the quarter.
The company’s Arizona Charlie’s brand, which operates two hotel-casino properties in Las Vegas, generated $38.7 million in revenue in the fourth quarter, reflecting a 1 percent year-over-year increase. However, annual revenue for Arizona Charlie’s declined to $151 million, down from $157.4 million in 2023.
Golden’s gaming tavern business, which includes PT’s, Sierra Gold, and Lucky’s locations, experienced modest revenue growth, generating $109.7 million in 2024, compared to $109.2 million in 2023.
Economic Outlook and Growth Potential
Despite challenges in 2024, Golden Entertainment executives highlighted positive economic trends in Nevada as a reason for long-term optimism. The Las Vegas casino and tourism market showed weakness in October and November but rebounded in December and January, presenting opportunities for growth in 2025.
Nevada remains one of the fastest-growing states in the country, experiencing rising population, employment, and discretionary income levels. These trends are expected to drive demand for gaming, hospitality, and entertainment in the years ahead.
Golden Entertainment plans to capitalize on these trends by investing in existing properties, expanding its gaming tavern portfolio, and exploring strategic growth opportunities. Company executives also reaffirmed their commitment to shareholder returns, signaling confidence in financial stability and future performance.
As 2025 unfolds, Golden Entertainment’s refocused business strategy, strong brand presence, and favorable market conditions are expected to support a return to growth in the coming months.
President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order on Friday that will officially designate English as the national language of the United States. This move marks a significant shift in federal language policy, allowing government agencies and federally funded organizations to decide whether to continue providing documents and services in languages other than English.
The executive order overturns a mandate issued by former President Bill Clinton, which required government entities and federally funded organizations to offer language assistance to non-English speakers. The White House argues that this change will promote national unity, improve government efficiency, and encourage civic engagement.
Impact on Government Services and Language Assistance
Currently, many federal agencies and publicly funded institutions provide multilingual services to accommodate the millions of non-English speakers in the country. Under Trump's new order, these agencies will no longer be obligated to offer translations or language assistance, though they may choose to continue such services at their discretion.
Supporters of the measure argue that establishing English as the official language will encourage immigrants to learn and use English, helping them better integrate into American society. Critics, however, warn that reducing access to language assistance could create barriers for millions of residents, particularly when dealing with essential services like healthcare, legal matters, and education.
Historical Context and State-Level Laws
Although the United States has never had an official language at the federal level, more than 30 states have passed laws designating English as their official language, according to U.S. English, a group advocating for the policy. The debate over language use in the U.S. has been ongoing for decades, with many arguing that the country’s identity is rooted in English, while others point to its long history of multilingualism.
The issue has been particularly contentious in states with large Spanish-speaking populations, such as Texas, California, and Florida. In Texas, for example, a 2011 incident in which a state senator demanded an immigrant rights activist speak English at a legislative hearing reignited debates over language rights.
For many older Mexican-American Texans, the controversy is personal, as they recall being punished for speaking Spanish in school during the 1950s. Texas, once a part of Mexico and the Spanish Empire, has deep historical ties to the Spanish language, making the issue especially complex.
Trump’s Stance on English in America
Trump has repeatedly expressed concerns about the challenges posed by immigrants who do not speak English. During his presidency and campaign, he has argued that linguistic diversity in the U.S. can create divisions, making communication and governance more difficult.
In a 2015 presidential debate, he criticized former Florida Governor Jeb Bush for speaking Spanish on the campaign trail, stating: "This is a country where we speak English, not Spanish."
Additionally, Trump has claimed that some languages spoken by immigrants are so uncommon that the U.S. lacks instructors who can teach them, describing the situation as a “very horrible thing.”
What Happens Next?
While the order is expected to take effect immediately, its long-term impact will depend on how federal agencies and states implement the changes. Some state and local governments may continue providing language assistance, while others may phase out non-English services entirely.
Legal challenges to the executive order are also likely, as civil rights organizations and immigrant advocacy groups argue that restricting language access could violate equal protection laws or hinder access to essential services.
With immigration and cultural identity remaining hot-button issues in American politics, the debate over language policy in the U.S. is far from over.
🛌 Downtown Las Vegas Resort Fees: What Visitors Need to Know
Downtown Las Vegas has long been a hotspot for budget-conscious travelers looking to stretch their entertainment dollars. With its classic Vegas charm, lower table limits, and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the glitzy Las Vegas Strip, the area offers an affordable alternative for gambling and entertainment.
However, one expense that nearly all Las Vegas hotels share—whether on the Strip or downtown—is the resort fee. These nightly charges are added to room rates and cover a variety of amenities, which can include:
Wi-Fi access
Fitness center use
Pool access
Bottled water in the room
Airline boarding pass printing
Local and toll-free calls
For some travelers, resort fees can be a frustrating expense, as they are often mandatory and can significantly increase the final cost of a hotel stay.
Which Downtown Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
Out of the dozen casino-hotels on or near Fremont Street, only two do not charge resort fees:
Four Queens Hotel & Casino
Hotel Apache at Binion’s Gambling Hall
These hotels remain popular choices among visitors seeking a more transparent pricing model without unexpected add-ons.
All other downtown casino-hotels have resort fees, which vary depending on the property.
How to Avoid or Reduce Resort Fees
While resort fees are standard at most Las Vegas hotels, there are a few ways visitors can potentially waive or reduce them:
High-Value Players – Many casinos will waive resort fees for loyalty club members with a mid-to-high tier status or for big spenders in the casino.
Special Promotions – Some hotels offer discounted or waived resort fees through special promotions, package deals, or direct bookings through their websites.
Just Ask – Occasionally, guests have successfully removed resort fees from their bills by simply asking at checkout. A polite request at the front desk may result in a discount or removal.
Use Rewards Programs – Certain credit cards and travel loyalty programs may offer statement credits for resort fees, effectively refunding the cost.
Stay at No-Fee Hotels – Booking a room at Four Queens or Hotel Apache eliminates resort fees entirely.
Are Resort Fees Legal?
While some travelers mistakenly believe that resort fees are now banned, that is not the case.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires hotels to clearly disclose resort fees upfront as part of their advertised pricing. The recently implemented FTC regulations do not prohibit resort fees but ensure transparency so that guests see the full cost before booking.
Most downtown casino-hotels have already been complying with this practice, displaying resort fees alongside room rates on their websites and booking platforms.
Current Downtown Las Vegas Resort Fees
The following resort fees are per night and based on recent online booking data from each hotel:
Downtown Las Vegas Casino Hotels & Resort Fees:
California Hotel & Casino – $32.99 plus tax ($4.29)
Circa Resort & Casino – $50
The D Casino Hotel – $39.95
Downtown Grand – $39 plus tax ($5.07)
El Cortez Hotel & Casino – $26 plus tax ($3.38)
Fremont Hotel & Casino – $33.99 plus tax ($4.42)
Golden Gate Hotel & Casino – $39.95
Golden Nugget – $46 plus tax ($5.98)
Main Street Station – $32.99 plus tax ($4.29)
Plaza Hotel & Casino – $39.55
What This Means for Travelers
For those visiting downtown Las Vegas, resort fees remain a key factor when selecting accommodations. While downtown rates are typically lower than those on the Las Vegas Strip, resort fees can quickly add up and impact the overall value of a stay.
Travelers looking to avoid hidden costs should consider staying at no-fee properties, joining casino loyalty programs, or asking about fee waivers during booking or check-in.
With Las Vegas' ongoing push for pricing transparency, more visitors can plan their trips with full awareness of all associated costs—ensuring a smarter, budget-friendly experience in Sin City.
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.
📌 ✅ We Want To Spotlight Your Business!
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We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "SummerSouth Insider" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Summerlin South together!
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Until next time, John Wu.