Author: Amy Veloz
The Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS) cross country program is hitting the ground running this fall—both literally and figuratively—as the Trojans gear up for what promises to be one of their most competitive seasons yet. Under the guidance of Head Coach Erik Odegard and Assistant Coach Tahlia Sherlock, the team enters the 2025 season with a strong mix of veteran leadership, promising underclassmen, and renewed motivation on both the boys’ and girls’ sides. “We’ve got a lot of returners this year and a solid group of newcomers that are already putting in the work,” said Coach Odegard. “On the boys’…
A new wave of musical talent is headed to Pahrump this fall as Rumbling Rhythms, a live music festival and awards showcase, makes its debut the first weekend of October. Organized by Anthony Greco, the event aims to spotlight local musicians, celebrate creativity, and bring the community together for a weekend filled with performances, vendors, and fan-voted awards. Set to run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day, the festival is open to solo artists and bands of all sizes, ages 14 and up. Those under 18 must have parental permission to participate. Each act will be given a…
The Pahrump Valley High School football program kicked off its 2025 season with a full house, full plates, and full hearts at the annual Spaghetti Dinner and Dessert Auction—raising an incredible $19,620 to support the team. The Spaghetti Dinner and Dessert Auction was first launched in 2012 by then Head Coach Joe Clayton and his wife Holly Clayton as a way to build community spirit while raising essential funds for the football program. Aside from a pause in 2016 due to a family emergency and again in 2020 because of COVID restrictions, the event has remained a beloved tradition. In…
As the new school year kicks off across Nye County, district officials are rolling out a new resource designed to strengthen the bridge between schools and families. The Nye County School District (NCSD) has officially launched its Parent Digital Toolkit, a user-friendly website packed with tools to simplify communication and give parents easier access to vital school information. Available at www.nye.k12.nv.us/page/parent-toolkit, the toolkit brings together multiple platforms in one centralized hub. It includes direct links to: One of the most significant updates is the district-wide adoption of eduRooms, a powerful two-way communication platform that enables parents to message teachers directly…
Charleston Peak Winery, the newly reimagined destination at 3810 Winery Rd. in Pahrump, is making its mark on Southern Nevada’s wine scene with a bold approach to winemaking and hospitality. Formerly known as Pahrump Valley Winery, the nearly nine-acre estate has quietly transformed under new ownership and reopened with fresh energy, a renowned winemaker, and a thoughtfully curated guest experience that blends high-desert elegance with small-batch craftsmanship. At the heart of the transformation is winemaker Steven Bowen, whose experience with acclaimed Napa Valley producers Jessup Cellars and Handwritten Wines brings a refined yet adventurous approach to Nevada viticulture. Working alongside…
Students across the Nye County School District returned to class on Wednesday, August 6, marking the official start of the 2025–2026 school year. From returning elementary schoolers to high school seniors, the first day was filled with excitement and familiar routines. Kindergarten students will join the rest of the district on Monday, August 11, when their classes officially begin. In Pahrump, the first day of school was made even more memorable at Pahrump Valley High School, where members of the Nye County Sheriff’s Office, including officers from the SWAT team, were parked near the entrance to the school’s parking lot…
Since launching her business in 2022, Selina Lugtu has been steadily building a name for herself through her unique creations that blend artistic expression, spirituality, and an appreciation for natural beauty. Her business, Selina’s Crystal Boutique, brings together two powerful forces—vibrant dot mandala artwork and the metaphysical energy of crystals—into one thoughtful, healing space. What started as a creative outlet has blossomed into a multifaceted artistic and spiritual venture. Selina’s dot artwork is the heart of her boutique and something that truly sets her apart. Each piece she creates is done using a technique known as mandala dot art, inspired…
Dear Readers, One year ago, on August 1, 2024, we launched Pahrump Valley Community News with a simple but powerful mission: to tell the stories that matter most to our community. Today, as we celebrate our first anniversary online, I want to take a moment to thank you—our readers, supporters, and advertisers—for helping us grow into something truly special. Since that first story went live, we’ve published more than 750 stories (and counting!), covering everything from student spotlights and high school sports to small business features, community events, local government, and so much more. Over the past year, we’ve reached…
Sixteen-year-old Danny Sanchez is fighting for his life after a tragic accident left him in critical condition with severe burns. Now, his family and friends are asking the public for prayers, support—and a helping hand. Danny had lived in Pahrump for seven years before moving to Las Vegas with his family last year. Though they now reside in Las Vegas, the town still feels like home. His mother, Mariyah Saasta, continues to work in Pahrump, and his younger brother Caleb attends school there. “I still consider us locals,” Mariyah said. “This is where my kids grew up. Danny always talks…
As the new school year gets underway at Pahrump Valley High School, students and staff alike are welcoming a new face to the administrative team. Kristin Baker has officially stepped into her role as Assistant Principal, bringing with her nearly two decades of experience in public education and a deep passion for helping both students and educators thrive. Although she’s only been in the position for a week, Baker’s enthusiasm for the PVHS community is already clear. With years of experience behind her—primarily as a secondary science teacher—she brings with her a clear mission. “This school year will mark my…