Author: Amy Veloz

Southwest Medical Hospice, along with Optum Care Palliative Care, has received a prestigious five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the highest rating awarded to health care providers, recognizing exceptional performance in hospice and supportive care services. The rating is based on results from the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) Hospice Survey, which gathers feedback directly from family members or close friends of patients who have received hospice care. The survey evaluates the quality of care and support provided to both patients and their loved ones during some of life’s most challenging moments.…

The Pahrump Valley High School girls’ varsity basketball team saw its postseason run come to an end Friday, February 13, falling to the Virgin Valley Bulldogs in the Region Semifinals at home in Pahrump. The matchup came just two days after the Lady Trojans secured an emotional quarterfinal victory over Moapa Valley, advancing with momentum and determination into the semifinal round. Despite the final score, the game marked the conclusion of a season defined by development, resilience and steady progress for a young Trojan squad that showed significant growth throughout the year. Virgin Valley struck first early in the opening…

For Kayla Ball, success was never handed to her—it was built through perseverance, long hours, and an unshakable determination to overcome circumstances that could easily have altered the course of her life. A 2012 graduate who finished high school with honors—and a year early—Kayla’s story is one of resilience shaped by adversity, personal accountability and an unwavering commitment to building a better future. During high school, Kayla described herself as involved in a little bit of everything. She participated in volleyball, basketball and softball, using sports, though not really her thing, primarily as a way to stay active and engaged…

The Pahrump Valley High School wrestling team closed out its season with an impressive showing at the NIAA 3A State Wrestling Championships, held February 13–14, 2026 in Winnemucca, highlighted by an individual state champion, multiple podium finishes and a sixth-place overall team finish that underscored the continued strength of the Trojan program. Against a field filled with the state’s top talent, the Trojans battled through two intense days of competition, proving they belonged among Nevada’s best. Head Coach Antonio Sandoval, completing his first season leading the program, praised both the team’s performance at state and the collective effort shown throughout…

Community members will have an opportunity to meet local candidate Matt Sadler and learn more about his campaign during the upcoming Retake Commission 5 Fundraising Reception, scheduled for Friday, February 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Steelbound on Highway 160. Hosted by the Committee to Elect Matt Sadler, the event is designed to give residents a chance to connect directly with Sadler while supporting his campaign for Nye County Commission District 5. The venue, located at 1101 NV-160 in Pahrump and formerly known as Pourhouse, will serve as the gathering place for supporters and community members throughout the evening.…

The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ basketball team capped off a memorable postseason run Friday, February 13, taking on the Meadows Mustangs in the 3A Region Semifinals in Pahrump. The matchup marked the Trojans’ second playoff game of the week and came on the heels of a milestone moment for the program — a quarterfinal victory over Green Valley Christian on February 10 that secured the school’s first playoff win in 19 years. With renewed confidence and momentum, the Trojans entered the semifinal determined to continue their playoff push against a strong Meadows squad. Although the game was played on…

As the spring sports season approaches, excitement is building around the Pahrump Valley High School track and field program, where Head Coach Dan Nagle believes a strong returning core, experienced leadership, and program stability have positioned the Trojans for a promising year ahead. Coming off a successful 2025 season that saw approximately 20 athletes qualify for the state meet, the Trojans return the overwhelming majority of that experience to the track this spring. According to Nagle, nearly all of last year’s state qualifiers are back, giving the team both depth and confidence as competition begins. “We took around 20 kids…

As the spring sports season gets underway, the Pahrump Valley High School boys golf team is preparing for what longtime Head Coach Bob Hopkins believes could be a very promising year. With strong returning talent, new additions to the roster, and a schedule that brings several major events closer to home, the Trojans enter the season with both experience and optimism on their side. One of the biggest changes this year comes on the coaching staff. After approximately 25 years assisting alongside Hopkins, longtime coach Steve Nygaard has stepped back from his regular role. While Nygaard will no longer serve…

By Ori DeVera, DO Southwest Medical, part of Optum The start of daylight saving time on March 8 and turning our clocks an hour ahead for another six months, also marks an influx of news coverage on the pros and cons of continuing to observe the practice. Some studies have shown that changing the clocks twice a year can be detrimental to the body’s circadian rhythm and overall health and safety.[1] During the spring transition from standard time to daylight saving time, some research has also shown an increase in missed medical appointments, emergency room visits and return visits to the hospital.[2]…

Community members will have an opportunity to share a meal while supporting an important local cause later this month, as a Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser benefiting seniors and adults with disabilities in Pahrump is scheduled for Saturday, March 28. The community-centered event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at Moose Lodge 808, located at 824 Second Street, and aims to raise funds that directly support programs and services for some of the area’s most vulnerable residents. Hosted as both a fundraiser and a gathering opportunity, the evening is designed to bring neighbors together while helping ensure continued assistance for…