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Oct. 9, 2026
Hello, friends and neighbors!
I hope you’re all having a wonderful day. Welcome to the latest Ward 5 newsletter, where we highlight recent community happenings and look ahead to upcoming events, programs, and opportunities to stay connected and involved in our neighborhood.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the city is proud to support this important cause.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to honor survivors, uplift their stories, and strengthen our collective commitment to safety and respect. Domestic violence affects individuals and families in every community, and increasing awareness is essential to recognizing the signs, supporting those impacted, and preventing future harm.
Throughout the month, we encourage everyone to learn about available resources, engage in conversations that challenge stigma, and support efforts that promote healing and empowerment. By working together, we can help build a community where every person has the opportunity to live free from fear and abuse.
Be sure to check out the “Looking Ahead, Come Join Us!” and “Heads Up! Important Opportunities” sections below for more ways to stay informed, involved, and connected in our community.
Wishing you and your families a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable weekend!
Warm regards,
Shondra Summers-Armstrong
Recuperative Care Center Ribbon Cutting
On Tuesday Oct. 6, the Recuperative Care Center (RCC) opened its doors! This ribbon cutting marks the beginning of an important effort to provide much-needed health care services to some of our community’s most vulnerable residents.
The RCC was created for people experiencing homelessness who need a safe, healthy place to recover from an unexpected injury or illness. Those facing both health challenges and homelessness often struggle to maintain continuity of care, making recovery even more difficult. The RCC team is taking action to help bridge that gap because programs like this are critical to our ongoing efforts to end homelessness.
The center will not only support residents as they recover and regain their strength, but will also provide behavioral health and transitional services to help them take the next steps toward stability.
A big shoutout to our city of Las Vegas Public Works and Neighborhood Services teams for collaborating with contractors and state officials to make this important project a reality!
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LVMPD National Night Out
On Tuesday Oct. 6, the Bolden Area Command held its annual National Night Out at Kianga Isoke Palacio Park at Doolittle. LVMPD hosted six gatherings across the Las Vegas valley to strengthen connections between law enforcement and the community.
The evening was filled with entertainment, fun activities, food, and opportunities to connect with the community. I had a great time engaging with attendees and sharing the importance of National Night Out, as well as information about the various programs and resources available through the city of Las Vegas.
Annual Caravan for Mammogram
On Saturday, Oct. 3, we joined event organizer Kimberly Bailey-Thureau, event host Dr. Marguerite Braithwaite, and community supporters and friends for the 10th annual Caravan for Mammogram at the West Las Vegas Library.
The parking lot was filled with participants who decorated their vehicles in pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event featured music, fellowship, and a shared commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer. After decorating their vehicles, participants caravanned down Las Vegas Boulevard to help spread awareness throughout the community.
Thank you to Kimberly Bailey-Thureau and Dr. Braithwaite for your continued advocacy and unwavering commitment to breast cancer awareness and prevention in our community.
Urban Libraries Council (ULC) Annual Leadership Forum
On Oct. 1, I joined the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District at the 2026 Urban Libraries Council (ULC) Annual Leadership Forum, held at the West Las Vegas Library.
This impactful event brought together library leaders from across North America to discuss the vital role libraries play in empowering communities. The afternoon featured meaningful conversations about innovative initiatives, community engagement, and the positive impact of library districts across the country.
In true Las Vegas style, guests enjoyed a dance presentation featuring local dancers coordinated through the West Las Vegas Arts Center, live music throughout the event, and a vocal performance by a local guest artist.
Thank you to Executive Director Kelvin Watson and the entire West Las Vegas Library team for hosting such a wonderful event in Ward 5. We are proud of the important work you do every day to serve and strengthen our community!
LVMA New Museum Gallery Launch
On Sept. 28, the Las Vegas Museum of Art (LVMA) celebrated the groundbreaking of its LVMA: Grand Central Galleries project, scheduled to open in April 2027. This exciting addition to Symphony Park will feature engaging exhibitions and programs while construction continues on the museum’s flagship building, expected to open in 2029.
The event brought together community members eager to see a permanent home for art take shape in the city of Las Vegas. Envisioned by the late Elaine Wynn, LVMA is being developed in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
We are grateful to Mayor Shelley Berkley, Congresswoman Susie Lee, Executive Director Heather Harmon, former Councilman Cedric Creer, LVMA board members, and other community leaders who joined us in celebrating this exciting milestone and welcoming a new cultural destination to Ward 5.
27th Annual U-CAN Historically Black Colleges & Universities Recruitment Fair
On Sept. 26, I stopped by the Doolittle Community Center for the United College Action Network (U-CAN) 27th Annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Recruitment Fair.
Representatives from HBCUs connected with young adults eager to pursue their college dreams. Attendees had the opportunity to explore degree programs, receive application fee waivers, and learn about scholarship opportunities for which they may qualify.
I loved seeing so many young men and women take advantage of these valuable opportunities as they took important steps toward their educational goals.
The collaboration between the United College Action Network (U-CAN) and the Office of Commissioner William McCurdy helped make this event a success.
Congratulations to all the students who received scholarships and those who took the next step toward attending their dream universities!
Step Up For Kids & Healthy Kids Festival
On Sept. 26, the Nevada Institute for Children’s Research and Policy partnered with the University of Nevada, Reno Extension to host the 19th Annual Step Up for Kids & Healthy Kids Festival.
This vibrant event featured a variety of community vendors and resources for local families. The UNLV School of Dental Medicine provided dental screenings, EmployNV Youth Hub shared information about job opportunities for teens, and the Obodo Collective distributed fresh produce. The Ward 5 office joined in the celebration by providing jump ropes and toothbrushes, along with hygiene kits donated by Project DOT, a teen-led nonprofit organization.
The event also featured a mock election to select the Clark County Youth Mayor. I had the pleasure of meeting all the candidates and their families, hearing their plans for their potential terms in office, and offering advice as they prepared their campaigns.
It was a wonderful event that demonstrated how making healthy choices can be fun and engaging while connecting children and families with valuable community resources.
Olive Crest Champions of Children Gala
On Sept. 26, I had the pleasure of attending Olive Crest’s Champions of Children Gala. It was a truly special evening in support of this locally based organization, whose mission is to prevent child abuse by strengthening, equipping, and restoring children and families in crisis, ensuring every child has a safe, loving home and the opportunity to thrive.
The evening featured inspiring remarks and a call to action from former City of Las Vegas Mayor and philanthropist Jan Jones Blackhurst, firsthand insights from a current foster parent, and a moving fireside conversation with a local student whose life has been positively impacted by Olive Crest’s work.
I was truly touched by the inspiring work of this incredible nonprofit and its commitment to helping children and families overcome challenges. Olive Crest is making a meaningful difference and changing lives every day.
Dreamsickle Sickle Cell Walk
On Sept. 26, I attended the 9th Annual Las Vegas Sickle Cell Walk, hosted by the Dreamsickle Kids Foundation, Inc., at the Lorenzi Park Oasis Pavilion.
The Dreamsickle Kids Foundation works diligently to raise awareness and provide support and encouragement to individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. This annual walk brings together families, supporters, community partners, advocates, healthcare professionals and resource providers for a morning of education, connection and community.
Sickle cell disease, including sickle cell anemia, affects approximately 100,000 people in the United States and millions more worldwide. Events like this walk play an important role in raising awareness, encouraging support for research and connecting families with valuable resources.
A heartfelt thank-you to Georgene Glass, executive director of the Dreamsickle Kids Foundation, Inc., for her dedication to this important work and her continued partnership in supporting our community.
Fire Station 1 Push In Ceremony
On Sept. 25, I joined Fire Chief Fernando Gray and the dedicated team at Las Vegas Fire & Rescue for the Fire Station 1 push-in ceremony. Members of the Ward 5 community were also invited to take part in this special tradition as we pushed the newest fire engine into its new home.
The push-in ceremony dates back to the 1800s, when fire engines were horse-drawn. After responding to a call, firefighters had to manually push the equipment back into the station because the horses could not back the apparatus into the bay.
The newest addition, Engine 1, will play a vital role in serving the southern portion of Ward 5, including the busy Fremont Street corridor. Its addition strengthens the department’s ability to provide fire protection and emergency response services to residents, businesses, and visitors in the area.
I am grateful to our Las Vegas Fire & Rescue team for their unwavering commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of Ward 5 residents and the entire city of Las Vegas.
Click on the button below to watch the latest Ward 5 "Access City Council" show!
Fire Station 43 Push In Ceremony
Join me and the Las Vegas Fire and Rescue team this Saturday, October 10th, as we welcome the community to the Fire Station 43 push-in ceremony. This community gathering will be to welcome the newest Fire Engine into Station 43.
Saturday, Oct. 10
9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Fire Station 43
6420 Smoke Ranch Road
Patriot Park Clean Up
The Ward 5 team and Get Outdoors Nevada invite you to the Patriot Park Cleanup from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. Join us as we work together to clean up the park and make it fun and healthy for families to enjoy.
Scan the QR code on the screen to sign up!
Saturday, Oct. 10
9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Patriot Park
4050 Thom Blvd.
35th Annual Disability Awareness Day
This Friday, October 10th, the Southern Nevada Center for Independent Living is will hold their 35th Annual Disability Awareness Day!
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza at Lorenzi Park. The goal of this festival each year is to share resources for those living with disabilities and encourage attendees to learn about independent living.
Saturday, Oct. 10
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza at Lorenzi Park
720 Twin Lakes Drive
Exposure Day at the Westside Education and Training Center
Explore thriving career training opportunities during Exposure Day at the Westside Education and Training Center. If you are interested in a career in healthcare, manufacturing, or in another booming trade, check out the courses offered at this College of Southern Nevada Campus.
Join in on this fun learning opportunity on Tuesday, October 13th, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Come find your dream career!
Tuesday, Oct. 13
12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
CSN Westside Education and Training Center
1099 C St.
Spark! Youth Poetry Writing & Recitation Competition
The Spark! Youth Poetry Competition will take place Oct. 17 at the 2026 Las Vegas Book Festival Festival. High school students residing in Clark County, Nevada, are invited to present three original poems for competitive judging.
Nevada Humanities invites high school students in grades 9-12, residing in Clark County, Nevada, to write and present original poems as part of the annual Spark! Youth Poetry Competition. The competition will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Poetry Pavilion at the Las Vegas Book Festival. Students will be asked to present three original poems that will be judged by a panel made up of poets, authors, educators and other community members. The top three highest-scoring students will be awarded first, second and third place. Cash awards for winning poems will include first place $300, second place $200 and third place $100. The awards ceremony will immediately follow the poetry readings.
The deadline for registering to participate in the Spark! Youth Poetry Competition is Monday, Oct. 12, 2026. Discover more and register to participate at nevadahumanities.org/Spark. For answers to specific questions contact, Bobbie Ann Howell, program manager for Nevada Humanities, at bahowell@nevadahumanities.org or 702-800-4670.
City Of Las Vegas 2027
African American Trailblazer Service Awards Nominations Now Open
Nominations Will Close At 5 P.M. Oct. 16
The 13th Annual African American Trailblazer Service Awards presentation is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 28, 2027, 9-11:30 a.m. in Las Vegas City Hall Council Chambers at 495 S. Main St., as part of Black History Month celebrations.
Nominations open today for the 2027 African American Trailblazer Service Awards. The awards will honor residents of the Las Vegas valley who have made outstanding civic accomplish-ments and significant contributions to the Las Vegas community in the following categories:
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Business and Economic Advancement Award – This award recognizes local business professionals who have displayed entrepreneurial character, high standards, innovative professional practice, and a committed support of their local community.
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Community Activism and Politics Award – This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated, through his or her achievements, the ability to advocate, organize and engage citizens, and inform public policy on issues that improve the quality of life for the community.
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Educator Award – This award honors those who, as a teacher, instructor or school administrator, have demonstrated excellence in mentoring, guiding and preparing students to achieve their full potential.
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Tyrone Thompson Emerging Leader Award – This award celebrates an up-and-coming individual who demonstrates a commitment to leadership and substantial potential for innovation, creativity, vision and positive influence.
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Spiritual Community Award – This award will be presented to a spiritual leader who has transcended organizational boundaries to promote spiritual and religious growth, partnership and engagement through inspired action and visionary leadership.
An individual may not nominate himself or herself. Nominations can be submitted at www.lasvegasnevada.gov/trailblazeraward. An individual may only nominate one person. Nomination forms must be completed in full; a biography will not be accepted in lieu of completing the electronic form.
Nominations will close at 5 p.m. Oct. 16, 2026.
African American Men's Health Summit
Join the Doolittle Active Adult Center and several local health providers for the African American Men’s Health Summit!
This free event is open to the public ages 18 and older and is an opportunity to learn more about wellness, preventive health care and resources that can support a healthier life.
Come connect with health professionals, ask questions, and take a proactive step toward your health and well-being. We hope to see you there!
Saturday, Oct. 24
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Doolittle Active Adult Center
1930 N. J St.
SeniorWeen Halloween Costume Party
Grab your best costume and join us for the SeniorWeen Halloween Costume Party at the Doolittle Active Adult Center!
Show off your creativity for a chance to win first, second or third place in the costume contest. Participants must be 50 years or older and have a city of Las Vegas senior membership.
Costumes, prizes and plenty of Halloween fun await! 🎃👻
Get your $12 tickets while they last!
Thursday, Oct. 29
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Doolittle Active Adult Center
1930 N. J St.
2026 Halloween Safe Night Out
Clark County Commissioner William McCurdy and I have partnered again for this year’s Halloween Safe Night at the Doolittle Community Center. This event will be on Saturday, October 31st from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to promote a safe and fun environment for kids to enjoy Halloween night.
The Ward 5 team needs your help with collecting candy for all the mummies, vampires, and even zombies. If you would like to donate, please reach out to my office by calling 702-229-5443.
It’s going to be a spooktacular night!
Saturday, Oct. 31
5 - 8:30 p.m.
Doolittle Active Adult Center
1930 N. J St.
City Reopens Utility Tax/Sewer 2025 Rebate Program
Low-Income Residents Ages 60+ May Make Appointments
Now At Several City Of Las Vegas Centers To Apply
The Utility Tax Rebate Program offered for years by the city of Las Vegas to low-income seniors who reside within the city limits now has higher income limits to qualify. Those who did not qualify before may qualify now under the newly adjusted income limits. New applications may be filed with the city through Oct. 30, 2026, for rebates of franchise taxes and sewer fees paid in 2025. Application forms are not available online; applicants must apply at one of the centers listed below. Residents can call the center they wish to attend for an appointment.
Seniors age 60 and older who qualify may receive a rebate on the franchise tax they paid for local utilities throughout the 2025 year. These utility bills include NV Energy electric power, Century Link or Cox Communications telephone bills and Southwest Gas natural gas charges. The bills must be in the name of the person filing for the rebate. Applicants must make an income of less than 150% of the federal poverty level, which is $23,475 for an individual or $31,725 for a household of two. See the chart for other household sizes.
Applicants must bring copies of all their 2025 local NV Energy, Southwest Gas and CenturyLink/Cox Communications telephone bills, photo identification, proof of income, proof of bill payment and other supporting documentation to fill out an application. Identification and bills must match physical address.
Low-income homeowners ages 60+ who qualify also may apply for a partial rebate of the annual sewer bill on their primary residence located within the city of Las Vegas; bring copies of your bill(s) and proof of payment for the 2025 sewer charges. For more information, call the individual center below you wish to attend. (See fliers below.)
Free Pickleball Classes
Come out and show your skills at the free pickleball classes hosted by the Inspiring Children Foundation at the Plaza Hotel and Casino. All ages are welcome; bring your families and friends to these funfilled events every Sunday from noon to 1 p.m.
Sundays
12 - 1 p.m.
Plaza Hotel and Casino
1 N. Main St.
Becker Technology Center
At Becker Technology Center, youth explore robotics, coding, digital media, fitness and more through programs that build confidence, creativity and career-ready skills.
Whether students are interested in engineering, podcasting, esports or strength training, Becker offers opportunities to learn in a fun and engaging environment.
Kidcaster Lab at Becker Tech
Become an on-air reporter and producer while covering city of Las Vegas youth sports. Join an introductory media production program, where youth learn the basics of podcasting, broadcasting and voice recording. Participants practice scriptwriting, audio editing and speaking clearly on camera or microphone.
Ages: 11–17
Schedule: Wednesdays & Saturdays
Fee: $95
Homeschool STEAM Program
Hands-on learning through robotics, coding, engineering and digital media.
Ages: Middle & High School Students
Schedule: Mondays & Wednesdays
Fee: $45/month
Free Kids Fishing License
Get outdoors with a free fishing license from the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). NDOW is offering youth combination (fishing and hunting) licenses to those 12-17 years old at no cost to them.
This is a great opportunity to get kids outdoors and enjoying Nevada’s waterways!
If you are interested, scan the QR code on the flyer or click the link here.
Visions Park Now Accepting Applications!
Are you or someone you know blind or visually impaired and looking for a home designed with your needs in mind?
The new Visions Park community is Nevada’s first apartment complex designed specifically for people who are blind or visually impaired, offering accessible features and supportive services to help residents live independently and comfortably.
Backed by the Blind Center of Nevada, Visions Park is more than a traditional apartment community with accessible features. It is the only community in Nevada built from the ground up with the needs and independence of people who are blind or have low vision in mind. From the architecture and layout to the lighting, flooring, supportive services and location, every detail was thoughtfully designed with accessibility and independence at the forefront.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about Visions Park and how to apply, click the link below.
Safekey Registration Now Open!
If you have children in grades K-5, consider enrolling them in the city of Las Vegas Safekey program. Registration is open and you can register your child by going online to www.lasvegasnevada.gov/safekey.
If you have further questions, please reach out to the Safekey office at 702-229-5437 (KIDS).
Accepting Historic Westside Legacy Park Nominations
The city of Las Vegas is accepting nominations for Historic Westside Legacy Park honorees through Oct. 1, 2026. If you know someone who has made a lasting impact on the Historic Westside community, consider nominating them for next year's induction.
Learn more about the nomination process here and submit your nomination using the button below.
Fremont Street Experience Curfew Guidelines
Downtown Las Vegas is preparing for a busy season filled with events, nightlife and increased foot traffic. To help keep the community safe and maintain a welcoming atmosphere, the city of Las Vegas is reminding residents and visitors about curfew regulations currently in place for minors — especially in the Fremont Street area.
Click the blue button below to learn more about the curfew regulations for minors unaccompanied by a parent or guardian.
Make A Difference With AmeriCorps!
Do you want to make a difference in your community while earning a living stipend and education award?
The city of Las Vegas AmeriCorps State and National Program is recruiting individuals who are passionate about education, youth development, workforce initiatives and community engagement. Volunteers serve in schools and community programs across Las Vegas while earning a living stipend, an education award upon successful completion of service, and career-building experience.
Fill out the interest form today and turn your passion into purpose while earning up to a $24,962 stipend and a $7,395 education award. See details at www.Lasvegasnevada.gov/AmeriCorps.
Vial Of Life Program
Are you prepared for a medical emergency? If not, the Vial Of Life Program can help!
See flyer below for details!
Brownfield Site Assessment Program
The Brownfield Assessment Program helps property owners better understand environmental challenges on underused or vacant properties to help prepare for possible redevelopment. Addressing these challenges can unlock a property’s value and create opportunities for new development, economic growth and stronger communities. Complete a Brownfield Site Nomination here. Learn more here: https://www.lasvegasnevada.gov/Residents/Grants.
Free Tree Giveaway
Homeowners living in the following listed zip codes may qualify for a free tree or trees through the city of Las Vegas, along with irrigation in the front yard of your home!
To learn more and apply, scan the QR code below or click the link to learn more.
English: www.lasvegasnevada.gov/trees
Spanish: www.lasvegasnevada.gov/arbol
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Findhelp.org has a ton of resources, spanning from food to housing and work assistance, all near you! Just enter your zip code in the search bar to get connected with local resources, complete with addresses, contact information and next steps to get you the help you need. |
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More Than Just Groceries.
A systems approach to fighting food insecurity. They increase access to food, resources and services through the Food For All & Community Connect Programs. |
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Three Square
Families across Southern Nevada are experiencing food insecurity, many for the first time. In response to the growing need, Three Square Food Bank is expanding emergency relief efforts to ensure no neighbor goes hungry.
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The After Market
The After Market is a local grocery store in northeast Las Vegas providing food access in a food desert. As the only grocery store within a six-mile radius of the area, The After Market not only serves the general community, but also provides a food pantry for those in need, eliminating stigma and bringing forth inclusion.
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Local Food Pantries
The Ward 5 team has compiled a list of local food pantries to support residents experiencing food insecurity due to the temporary suspension of SNAP benefit payments. We encourage you to call ahead to confirm operating hours, eligibility requirements and the accuracy of each listing.
Food Banks In Your Area
Clark County Social Services Food Pantry
Southern Nevada Food Banks
Other Local Food Banks
We want you to stay informed on what is happening and what's forthcoming in your community! Use the link buttons below to look for events and view upcoming Planning Commission and City Council meeting agendas.
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Contact the Ward 5 Team: Julius Lightfoot, Nora Lares or Aura Ortiz.
Phone: 702-229-5443
E-mail: Ward5@LasVegasNevada.gov
Follow us on social media!
www.lasvegasnevada.gov/Ward5
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