Author: Amy Veloz
Michael “Brent” Kaucky laughs when asked how to pronounce his last name. Though spelled Kaucky, he explains that phonetically it sounds like “corky,” a fact that surprises most people and fuels the ongoing joke he’s carried for decades. “I’ve been looking for the R for 42 years now and haven’t found it yet,” he says. His full name, Michael Kaucky, will appear on the ballot this spring as he seeks re-election to the Valley Electric Board of Directors, but to the community he has always simply been Brent—a name tied to years of friendships, family life, business ownership, and deep…
Inside a blue metal building on East Mickey Street, tucked just off Pahrump Valley Boulevard, something special is happening on the mats several nights a week. At Mix It Up Academy, Brazilian jiu-jitsu is taught as both a discipline and a journey—one defined not by shortcuts or hype, but by consistency, humility, and hard-earned progress. At the center of that journey are owner and head instructor Robert Wilson, his wife Kimberly Wilson, and their son, 18-year-old competitor Zackery James Wilson, whose breakout year in 2025 put both the athlete and the academy firmly on the competitive map. Robert Wilson’s relationship…
The Pahrump Valley High School wrestling program delivered a strong showing Tuesday, January 6, as the JV and girls teams hosted CIVICA Academy in Pahrump. With CIVICA limited in several weight classes, the night featured a mix of scored JV bouts and exhibition matches against Trojan varsity wrestlers, allowing Pahrump Valley to maximize mat time while continuing to develop depth across the program. The Trojans turned in dominant performances throughout the lineup, earning a 72–0 team victory. The 106-pound weight class resulted in a double forfeit, as neither Pahrump Valley nor CIVICA had a wrestler entered. Competition officially began at…
As Noah Flores looks back on his high school years, it’s clear that his journey has been shaped by dedication, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for both people and experiences. From early morning practices to academic milestones that set him apart, Noah’s time in high school reflects a balance of discipline, passion, and personal growth. Some of Noah’s most meaningful memories come from his involvement in cross country and track—sports he has participated in throughout his entire high school career. Through these programs, he had the opportunity to travel to new places, experience competition beyond his hometown, and share those…
The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ basketball team faced a demanding Friday at the Holiday Classic, playing two physical, fast-paced games that featured momentum swings, sustained defensive pressure, and late-game intensity against strong opponents. In the first game of the day against Doral Academy Red Rock, the Trojans were locked in early, holding a narrow edge in the opening minutes before Red Rock Doral surged late in the first quarter to take a 22–16 lead. Lucas Gavenda helped steady Pahrump Valley with a free throw in the closing seconds of the period, keeping the deficit manageable. The Trojans gained traction…
The Pahrump Valley High School girls’ varsity basketball team delivered a complete road performance Wednesday night, January 7, pulling away early and maintaining control throughout an 51–8 win over the Cristo Rey Royals. Pahrump Valley set the pace from the opening tip. The Trojans won possession and immediately settled into their offense, finding Ella Odegard cutting down the lane for the game’s first basket. On the next trip, Odegard worked to the left block and banked in another shot, giving Pahrump a quick 4–0 lead. Applying full-court pressure from the outset, the Trojans forced turnovers and capitalized on second chances.…
The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ varsity basketball team faced a tough road challenge on Monday, January 5, traveling to Sunrise Mountain High School to take on the Miners in a non-conference matchup designed to prepare the Trojans for league play. Playing against the physical, fast-paced style of the Sunrise Mountain High School Miners, Pahrump Valley was tested early by full-court pressure and aggressive rebounding. Despite falling behind in the opening minutes, the Trojans continued to compete, showing composure against the press and finding scoring opportunities through ball movement and transition. Keir Sheppard provided early energy with a strong finish…
The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ basketball team put together a strong, well-paced performance on the road Wednesday night, January 7, rolling past Cristo Rey behind active defense, quick ball movement, and steady scoring throughout the lineup. Pahrump Valley controlled the opening moments right from the tip. Aydon Veloz and Lucas Gavenda went to work on the glass early, with Gavenda drawing a foul on a putback attempt and converting both free throws to open the scoring. The Trojans immediately settled into a full-court press that set the tone for the rest of the night. Gavenda followed with a strong…
The past year was a time of uncomfortable growth for me. I’m a people pleaser by nature, and it was the first time I’ve had to come to grips with not pleasing everyone while trying my hardest to. A few friendships ended, a few new ones began, and my priorities dramatically shifted. I’m proud to look back and see that I stuck to my values the entire year – choosing my kids’ well-being over everything and focusing on our little family above all else. Most of the lessons I learned the hard way are a bit gruff – but they’ll…
LET THE PEOPLE OF PAHRUMP VOTE “YES” or “NO” TO THE QUESTION !!!!!The question I am proposing for the BALLOT is whether or not the Town of Pahrump should have an “Elected” Town Board beginning in January 2027 as a result of the November 2026 election. If we are successful in getting the required number of signatures, then it will all be worthwhile. Five members of the Pahrump Community went to the Nye County Clerk’s Office because they were willing to stand up for the nearly 47,000 residents of Pahrump. So, we hope that the 47,000 residents will stand WITH…