Author: Amy Veloz

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…

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…

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 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 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]…

A new community program launching next month aims to bring creativity, connection and meaningful social engagement to local adults experiencing memory loss, while also offering support to caregivers and families. NYESPACE is introducing Opening Minds through Art (OMA), a six-week dementia-friendly art program designed to foster dignity, confidence and personal connection through guided creative expression. The program marks the first time this type of specialized dementia-friendly arts programming has been offered locally, creating an accessible opportunity for older adults in the Pahrump community to engage socially in a calm, supportive environment. Opening Minds through Art focuses not on artistic ability,…

By David Morris, MDCardiologistSouthwest Medical, part of Optum As a physician, I often hear a variation on this: “I’m just a night owl. That is how I’ve always been.” For some people, staying up late feels natural. But emerging research suggests that our body clocks may have real consequences for heart health.[1] A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that night owls, particularly women, who stay up late, have poorer overall cardiac health.[2] Researchers noted that night owls were associated with a 79% higher prevalence of poorer heart health than intermediate sleep types.[3] Heart disease is…

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…