Author: Amy Veloz

Chad Goins’ journey from Pahrump Valley High School graduate to successful business owner is one of hard work, personal growth, and an unwavering connection to his roots. Graduating in 1997, Chad fondly recalls his high school years as formative ones, where sports played a pivotal role. While he acknowledges he wasn’t the strongest in academics, it was on the basketball court and golf course where he truly thrived. His senior year on the basketball team, though ending with a tough first-round loss at the state tournament in Northern Nevada, left a lasting impact. “We gave it our all, and the…

Mother-daughter duo Alice Cummings and Abbie Rivera have cultivated something special at Desert Lotus Salon, a sanctuary of beauty and self-care in Pahrump. For Alice, the salon business runs deep—both of her grandmothers were hairdressers, immersing her in the world of beauty from an early age. With roots in the industry and a passion for creating something of her own, Alice opened her first salon near Big 5 in town, operating solo until a pivotal moment led her to expand. Abbie shared the same dream, and ventured to hair school to continue the family tradition. When Abbie went to Alice…

The Pahrump Valley High School Trojans kept their playoff hopes alive and gained confidence in their game with two recent wins, defeating Boulder City on Thursday, October 17, and sweeping Western High School on Tuesday, October 22, during Senior Night. With these victories, the Trojans head into their final regular-season game against Losee on Thursday, October 24, awaiting the results that will determine their postseason fate. Against Boulder City, the Trojans fought hard for a 3-1 win, with set scores of 25-18, 15-25, 25-15, and 25-20. Senior Bryn Mazlo anchored the defense with 20 digs, while Sophomore Xeane Kamanu recorded…

Law enforcement officers and athletes came together for a meaningful cause during the Nye County Law Enforcement Torch Run, raising over $10,000 for Special Olympics Nevada. The event took place on Saturday, October 19, beginning at the Saddle West Hotel and culminating at the Nye County Sheriff’s Office, covering a 2.5-mile route with participants proudly carrying the “Flame of Hope.” Allyce Pierson, Senior Director of Development and Community Engagement for Special Olympics Nevada, explained that the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is a program where law enforcement officers donate their time to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics. “Everything…

The Southern Nye County Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Nevada (NFB) hosted its second annual White Cane Day event, celebrating independence for the blind and visually impaired. Susan Moore, a board member of both the state affiliate and the local chapter, shared the significance of the event and the efforts behind it. “White Cane Day is all about celebrating our independence,” said Moore. “The National Federation of the Blind was formed in 1940 with a mission to help people live the lives they want, not the ones others think they should.” The Southern Nye County chapter…

The Pahrump Valley High School girls’ soccer program capped off a memorable regular season on Wednesday, October 23, with both the JV and varsity teams securing wins against Mater East. Senior night festivities added to the celebration as the teams honored their seniors and prepared for the upcoming regional playoffs. The JV team ended their season in spectacular fashion, securing a 6-0 shutout victory. Rosie Miller led the team with a hat trick, while Justess Maxwell, Keira Grauel, and Cindal Monahan added to the scoreboard, with Monhan converting a penalty kick from 25 yards out. Head Coach Amy Carlson commended…

The PVHS Trojans put up a fierce fight on Thursday, October 10, 2024, but ultimately fell to the Moapa Valley Pirates, 49-35, in a thrilling back-and-forth matchup. Moapa Valley struck first, scoring with 7:45 left in the first quarter to take an early 7-0 lead. However, the Trojans quickly responded when quarterback Kayne Horibe connected with Ben De Santiago and with a 35-yard run, scored the Trojans’ first touchdown of the night. Aaron Rily’s successful extra point tied the game at 7-7 with just over four minutes left in the quarter. The Pirates reclaimed the lead following a long kick…

The Remote Area Medical (RAM) clinic returned to Pahrump on October 5 and 6, 2024, providing critical medical, dental, and vision care to those in need. In its ninth year, the event served 373 individuals, marking another successful year for the community-focused event. “Feedback’s been great, as it is every year,” shared Ryan Muccio, a member of the RAM Community Host Group. “A lot of people got the help they needed, especially in dental. Medical was really busy this year, so we got a lot of great feedback there.” One of the most inspiring stories to emerge this year was…

On October 15, 2024, Susan Davila, CEO of Desert View Hospital, was honored with the prestigious Andre “Butch” Harper Act of Kindness Award, recognizing her contributions to the community and unwavering commitment to healthcare. Davila was celebrated for her efforts to maintain a healthy community and the hospital’s ongoing support for local nonprofits, reflecting the spirit of kindness embodied by the award. The award is named after Andre “Butch” Harper, known affectionately as “Patches,” who was regarded as the unofficial ambassador of Pahrump. Harper was known for bringing comfort to those affected by tragedy, offering patches bearing Pahrump’s name to…

Pahrump Valley High School celebrated academic excellence and leadership during the National Honor Society (NHS) induction ceremony, held on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher were invited to apply for membership, with many sophomores, juniors, and seniors meeting the rigorous academic standard. The ceremony was led by NHS advisors Rachel Hill and Mackenzie Nettles, alongside current NHS officers. Mrs. Hill opened the event by sharing the history of the National Honor Society and the organization’s impact on students and communities across the nation. After her introduction, the program was turned over to the student…