|
Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.
Nov. 5, 2026
Season’s Greetings!
Welcome to the latest Ward 5 newsletter! I hope you’re enjoying the season and finding time to connect with family, friends and neighbors. Inside, you’ll find recent community highlights, upcoming events and opportunities to stay involved in our neighborhood.
The holiday season is a wonderful time to reflect on what matters most and find meaningful ways to give back. I remain committed to supporting and uplifting Ward 5, and I encourage you to spread a little kindness and holiday cheer. Here are a few ways you and your loved ones can make a difference:
- Give a gift: Participate in The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program to help provide holiday gifts for families in need.
- Volunteer: Help prepare or serve meals through organizations such as Catholic Charities or the Las Vegas Rescue Mission.
- Give back: Donate nonperishable food and essential supplies to The Just One Project or a local food pantry.
- Shop local: Support neighborhood businesses by purchasing holiday gifts, treats and services close to home.
These are just a few ways to make a difference this holiday season. Remember, no act of kindness is too small and every effort helps make our community stronger.
Be sure to explore the “Looking Ahead, Come Join Us!” and “Heads Up!
Important Opportunities” sections below for upcoming events, helpful resources, and more ways to stay connected with Ward 5.
Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, joyful and meaningful holiday season!
Warm regards,
Shondra Summers-Armstrong
Halloween Safe Night
This year’s Halloween Safe Night Oct. 31 was a tremendous success! When the city and county come together, amazing things happen.
The Doolittle campus and Kianga Isoke Palacio Park were filled with families enjoying a fun, safe and memorable evening. From performances by talented children and beautiful vehicles from local car clubs to jump houses, games, treats and activities, there was something for everyone. We were also grateful to have Bolden Area Command and first responders from across the community join us in support.
A special thank you to Commissioner William McCurdy for being such a great partner and to all our community partners whose support helped make this event possible.
Most importantly, Halloween Safe Night brought neighbors together and created a welcoming space for families to connect and celebrate.
If you missed it this year, we hope to see you next year!
World Dance Festival At Mabel Hoggard Elementary
Thursday, Oct. 29, Mabel Hoggard Math and Science Magnet School held its annual World Dance Festival on the school playground. Families and students showed up in full force to support participants from each grade level as they performed traditional folk dances from around the world.
It was a lovely morning to witness this lively demonstration of diverse world cultures through dance, music and costume.
Kudos to the Mabel Hoggard staff for organizing such an amazing event and creating a meaningful opportunity for students and families to celebrate cultural diversity.
A Seat At Our Table Doula Workforce Event
Wednesday, Oct. 28, I had the pleasure of joining Jollina Walker and the Nevada Doula Learning and Action Collaborative (DLAC) for their doula workforce initiative event, “A Seat At Our Table.”
DLAC is working to expand access to doula care through Medicaid, giving expectant mothers the opportunity to explore a variety of care options throughout pregnancy.
The collaborative is also fostering conversations and partnerships among doulas, state agencies, community organizations, health plans and policymakers to strengthen the doula workforce and improve access to care.
I was honored to be part of this important conversation and learn more about the meaningful work being done to improve the lives of families in the Las Vegas community.
SNRHA Carrying The Torch Graduation
Wednesday, Oct. 28, I had the pleasure of joining the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority for its 2026 “Carrying the Torch” graduation, celebrating participants in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program.
The FSS Program is a voluntary, five-year, work-based initiative that helps residents achieve economic independence and reduce their reliance on public assistance. Through hard work, commitment and support, participants have achieved meaningful personal goals, including financial stability, career advancement and readiness for home ownership.
Congratulations to all the graduates on reaching this important milestone and taking meaningful steps toward a brighter future for themselves and their families.
A special thank you to Executive Director Louis Jordan and his amazing staff, especially the dedicated case managers who provide guidance, encouragement and support throughout this journey. Programs like FSS make a lasting difference in the lives of families and strengthen our community.
Inaugural 2026 Nevada Workforce Summit
Tuesday, Oct. 27, I attended the inaugural 2026 Nevada Workforce Summit at Durango Casino, organized by the Office of Workforce Innovation.
I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with my colleagues, Mayor Pro Tem Olivia Diaz, Councilman Brian Knudsen, and city of Las Vegas Director of Youth Development and Social Initiatives, Dr. Tammy Malich, to discuss workforce training and the incredible initiatives happening throughout the city of Las Vegas, particularly at the Westside Education and Training Center (WETC).
Our conversation highlighted how strategic partnerships between local government and the Nevada System of Higher Education are expanding educational and workforce opportunities through College of Southern Nevada campuses, including WETC, and the future Eastside and Medical District Education and Training centers.
A special thank you to Marchelle Sneed for organizing this inaugural summit and inviting me to share the amazing workforce initiatives taking place in our city. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success!
Elder's Day Celebration
Saturday, Oct. 24, I had the pleasure of attending the Elder's Day Celebration at the West Las Vegas Theatre. Each year, this special celebration honors the elders who have helped shape our neighborhood and continue to share their wisdom, leadership, and guidance with future generations.
I was honored to present certificates of recognition to each honoree or their family, in appreciation of their remarkable contributions and unwavering commitment to our community.
Congratulations to this year’s honorees:
- Samuel “Sam” Lawrence Smith
- Sister Dorothy Muhammad
- Gwen Walker
- Shirley B.J. Garner
- Mario Berlanga
- Anna Bailey
We also remember and celebrate those whose legacy continues to touch countless lives. Thank you to all our elders for your wisdom, leadership and dedication to inspiring future generations.
A special thank you to Marcia Robinson and the entire West Las Vegas Art Center team for making this celebration possible. Special thanks to Sacred Film and Photography for capturing these beautiful memories!
Souls To The Polls
Saturday, Oct. 24, I made my way to Kianga Isoke Palacio Park at the Doolittle Complex to attend the annual "Souls to the Polls" community event hosted by Faith in Action Nevada and Masterpiece Barber School.
The event brought together residents for a day of food, entertainment, music, vendors, and family-friendly activities, all centered around celebrating civic participation and community engagement.
The atmosphere was energetic and welcoming, with neighbors of all ages coming together to connect and take part in the voting process. It was inspiring to see so many community members engaged and exercising their civic responsibility.
Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and community partners who helped make this event a success and encouraged residents to stay involved in their community.
Children's Memorial Park Cleanup
Saturday, Oct. 24, the Ward 5 team partnered with Get Outdoors Nevada for a fun-filled day of community service at Children’s Memorial Park! Volunteers came together to plant 20 new trees, pick up litter, clean park equipment and give the park a fresh fall makeover.
A huge thank you to everyone who volunteered their time to help make our park cleaner, greener and more welcoming. The new trees will provide much-needed shade and help reduce the effects of urban heat in Ward 5.
We were also excited to welcome back the city of Las Vegas Parks and Recreation Urban Forestry team, who guided volunteers through the proper techniques for planting each tree.
Did you know? The city of Las Vegas offers a free tree program for eligible residents in designated areas! Check out the link below to see if your property qualifies and learn how you can add more shade and greenery to your yard.
Click on the button below to watch the latest Ward 5 "Access City Council" show!
Veterans Day Celebration
Join in on the celebration at the Doolittle Active Adult Center for Veterans Day! Come out as we honor those who served our country through a special recognition ceremony and luncheon. Veterans will be provided a free lunch; guests lunches are $12.
General admission seating is first-come, first-served. Space is limited, so call to confirm your spot. For more information, call 702-229-6125.
Thursday, Nov. 12
11 - 12:30 p.m.
Doolittle Active Adult Center
1930 N. J St.
Fire Station 3 Pancake Breakfast
Councilwoman Summers-Armstrong and the International Association of Firefighters Local Union 1285 invite you to join them for the Fire House Pancake Breakfast at Fire Station 3! Join your friendly neighborhood firefighters as they prepare a delicious breakfast just for you Saturday, Nov. 14, from 8 to 11 a.m. The Fire Station 3 open house will feature a tour of the fire station, home safety demonstrations and the opportunity for you to sign up to have a smoke detector installed in your home.
Saturday, Nov. 14
8-11 a.m.
Las Vegas Fire Station 3
2645 W. Washington Ave.
Terry Steele's Here and Now… The Legacy Of Luther Vandross
This concert stars Terry Steele, the two-time Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter who brilliantly brings to life the classic performances of the late, great soul singer Luther Vandross. You’ll hear hits like “Here And Now,” “Never Too Much,” “A House Is Not A Home” and many more!
The show also features special tributes to Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin! A professional songwriter, Terry Steele has written hits for such megastars as Whitney Houston, Dionne Warwick, Starship, Patti Labelle, Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross.
General admission tickets are priced at $15 and on sale now. Doors will open for seating at 6:15 p.m.; the concert begins at 7 p.m. For more information, call 702-229-4800.
Saturday, Nov. 14
7-8:30 p.m.
West Las Vegas Theatre
951 W. Lake Mead Blvd.
Reimagining The West Las Vegas Arts Center
Join us as we come together to explore the future of the West Las Vegas Arts Center campus. This gathering will be an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about the cultural significance of the existing facilities and share ideas, perspectives, and aspirations for how an updated and expanded campus can continue to serve the community.
Together, we will celebrate the history and cultural importance of the campus while envisioning how its spaces, programs and facilities can support the community's current and future needs.
Registration is encouraged but not required. Scan the QR code on the screen to RSVP. We look forward to seeing you there!
Tuesday, Nov. 17
5-7 p.m.
West Las Vegas Theatre
951 W. Lake Mead Blvd.
Habrá servicios de traducción disponibles.
Municipal Pool Seeks Lifeguards!
Apply Now!
The Municipal Pool, located at 431 E. Bonanza Road, is looking for lifeguards. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. Adults of all ages are invited to apply!
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 fun-filled 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).
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.
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
 |
|
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. |
 |
|
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. |
 |
|
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.
|
 |
|
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.
|
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.
 |
|
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
|
|