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.…
Nye County District Attorney Brian Kunzi will host a community meet and greet on Thursday, February 26, offering residents an opportunity to connect with him as he seeks re-election to continue serving the county in his current role. The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at Artesian Cellars, located at 1731 Highway 160 in Pahrump. Community members are invited to attend, meet Kunzi in an informal setting, and learn more about his campaign and vision moving forward. The evening is designed to encourage open conversation between Kunzi and local residents, giving attendees the chance to ask questions,…
As wearable technology continues to advance, the Nye County School District (NCSD) is taking proactive steps to address how emerging devices are used on school campuses. District officials recently issued clarification that AI-enabled eyewear — commonly referred to as “smart glasses” — falls under existing rules governing student cell phone and electronic device use. According to a press release issued February 20, the District confirmed that smart glasses equipped with cameras or recording capabilities are subject to Board Regulation 7363R: Student Use of Cell Phones on School Property. The clarification is intended to ensure consistency as new technologies become more…
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…
A new chapter is set to begin for Pahrump Valley High School baseball this spring, and it comes with a familiar face at the helm. Trojan alumnus Drew Middleton has returned to his roots as the program’s new head coach, bringing with him years of coaching experience, a fresh system, and a deep personal connection to the maroon and gold. For Middleton, the opportunity to lead the program where his own baseball journey began is more than just another coaching job — it’s a full-circle moment. “I played here from 2010 to 2014 and graduated in 2014,” Middleton said. “Being…
Pahrump Valley High School is preparing to make history this spring as the Trojans debut their first-ever Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) sanctioned boys volleyball team. While a boys volleyball club has existed in recent years, the 2026 season marks the first time the program will compete officially at the high school level — a milestone many student-athletes have been working toward for years. Leading the inaugural team is Head Coach Amber Lugo, who also serves as the school’s girls volleyball coach. Although Lugo was not involved during the club years, she has quickly recognized the passion and dedication that…
As the Pahrump Valley High School softball team prepares to take the field for the upcoming season, excitement and optimism are building around a program that Head Coach Brian Hayes believes is taking meaningful steps forward — both in talent and in culture. With an expanded coaching staff, increased player depth, and one of the most competitive schedules the team has faced in recent years, the Lady Trojans enter the season focused on growth, competition, and long-term success. Hayes said much of the momentum begins with the addition of a familiar and highly respected name returning to the program: Coach…
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 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 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…