Author: Amy Veloz

Sierra (Fitzgibbons) McKillips, a 2011 graduate of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), is someone who has taken life’s unpredictable paths and turned them into opportunities for growth and connection. Known for her vibrant personality and a knack for bringing people together, Sierra has transformed her experiences—from navigating the highs of being a state champion golfer to rethinking her career aspirations—into a fulfilling role as a licensed school social worker. Sierra recalls her time at PVHS as formative and full of fond memories. Though she describes middle school as “survival of the fittest,” high school was a much more positive experience.…

Kathie McKenna, Executive Director of No to Abuse-Nevada Outreach Training Organization—often shortened to NOTO—has dedicated herself to leading an organization that serves as a lifeline for those in crisis. Overseeing a broad range of services that include advocacy for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, as well as providing critical resources for families and individuals in need, McKenna’s work touches every corner of Nye and Esmeralda counties. Under her leadership, NOTO continues to evolve, addressing the community’s complex and diverse needs while staying true to its mission of fostering safety, stability, and long-term well-being. Founded in 1995,…

Saitta Trudeau has been a cornerstone of the Pahrump community for over two decades, embodying the values of resilience, growth, and dedication to customer satisfaction. Its managing partner, Don Trudeau, has played a vital role in steering the dealership through challenging times while building a reputation for service and commitment. The dealership’s roots trace back to 2000 when Rick Peet first opened its doors. Rick, a Chrysler dealer from Las Cruces, New Mexico, had taken advantage of an opportunity provided by Chrysler’s Project 2000 initiative. This initiative aimed to consolidate Chrysler and Jeep dealerships under one roof. Rick’s ingenuity and…

Mackayla Turley, a dedicated mother of three, saw a need in Pahrump when she moved to the town with a two-year-old and a four-month-old. “There’s not much to do in Pahrump for little kids,” she said. Struggling to find friends who shared her values and schedules, Mackayla decided to take matters into her own hands. With the collapse of a previous moms’ group, she stepped up to create Pahrump Mother’s Corner, a vibrant community designed to help moms connect, support one another, and thrive. Today, she serves as the administrator and founder, leading the group with the help of her…

The Pahrump Valley High School wrestling team displayed determination and resilience at the Sierra Nevada Classic, held in Reno on December 27-28. Competing against some of the toughest athletes in the region, both the varsity and girls’ teams represented their school with pride, gaining valuable experience in the process. A standout performance came from Oscar Bosket, who excelled in the 190-pound weight class. With an impressive 5-2 record, Bosket secured a 4th place finish, demonstrating his skill, grit, and focus in a highly competitive bracket. Several other wrestlers also had notable showings. Randy Murray (190), Ben De Santiago (138), Paul…

The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ basketball team showcased determination and grit during their participation in the Mesquite Madness tournament from December 26 to 28, 2024. Despite facing tough competition, the Trojans delivered moments of brilliance that highlighted their growth and potential. The tournament began on December 26 with a tight game against Virgin Valley JV. Pahrump battled hard in a back-and-forth contest, with Alejandro Lozano setting the tone early with a three-pointer, giving the Trojans a 3-2 lead. Joshua Slusher’s buzzer-beater tied the game 5-5 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter saw Lozano continuing to…

Daniel Clasen, a 2015 graduate of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), has traveled a remarkable path from student-athlete to an influential math teacher and soccer coach. Now residing in Anthem, Arizona, Daniel is making a difference at Boulder Creek High School, where he combines his passion for education with his love for athletics. His journey reflects the power of community, perseverance, and a commitment to personal growth. During his time at PVHS, Daniel was deeply immersed in athletics, where he built lifelong memories with friends both on and off the field. Sports were more than just a pastime—they defined his…

The Pahrump Valley High School wrestling teams demonstrated grit, determination, and potential during two challenging tournaments held over Christmas break. Both the junior varsity boys and girls showcased their skills, earning podium finishes and gaining valuable experience on the mats. Trojans Excel at Basic High School Tournament On December 21, the JV boys’ wrestling team competed in an individual tournament hosted by Basic High School. Facing fierce competition across various weight classes, the Trojans proved their mettle with standout performances and promising results. Cameron Scherer (132 lbs) led the charge with a strong 3-1 record, earning 2nd place in his…

Junior golf is making a vibrant comeback in Pahrump, thanks to the efforts of David Wilson and Tori Peers. Together, they are revamping the Pahrump Valley Junior Golf Program, focusing on providing opportunities for young golfers aged 5 to 18 to learn, practice, and compete in the sport. Their passion for golf and commitment to nurturing the next generation of players are creating a promising foundation for the program’s future. Tori, an avid golfer since the age of five, grew up participating in the program herself. She played in high school, went on to play at Cal State Bakersfield and…

The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ basketball team closed out the Mesquite Madness tournament with standout performances and their first official tournament win, demonstrating growth and potential for the remainder of the season. On December 28, the Trojans faced Pinecrest Academy Cadence and delivered an inspired performance. With improved shooting and a strong start, Pahrump scored 18 points in the first quarter, led by Alejandro Lozano with six points, Lucas Gavenda with six points, and contributions from Aydon Veloz, Keir Sheppard, and Josh Slusher. By halftime, the Trojans held a 24-15 lead, thanks to Lozano’s two three-point baskets in the…