Author: Amy Veloz
The Miss Pahrump Pageant has long been a cherished tradition in the heart of Pahrump, and behind the scenes is a devoted group of women who have helped preserve its legacy while continuing to shape it for future generations. At the center of the pageant’s leadership are board members Judy Maughan, Cindy Colucci, Terri Wulfenstein, and Janet Errett—each of whom plays a vital role in ensuring the event remains a celebration of community, poise, and personal growth. The pageant began in 1976, the vision of Ray Wulfenstein, then president of the Chamber of Commerce and father of board members Cindy…
Catalena (Cat) Sandoval’s first year playing collegiate softball at Feather River College in Quincy, California, was not the season she initially envisioned—but it became one filled with growth, self-discovery, and unexpected strength. From managing the transition from high school multi-sport athlete to a focused collegiate softball player, to navigating an injury that sidelined her for much of the season, Sandoval has embraced every challenge with grace and resilience. Cat, who began playing softball at the age of three or four, grew up surrounded by the game. Her older brother and sister played sports, and she remembers watching her sister on…
For Avery Moore, soccer has always been more than just a game—it’s been a lifelong pursuit of excellence, a way to challenge herself, and ultimately, the sport that shaped her path to the University of Nevada, Reno. Now completing her first year as a collegiate athlete, Avery has gained not only experience but also a deeper appreciation for the journey that brought her to the field in navy and silver. Avery began playing soccer when she was just four years old, getting her start with AYSO in her hometown of Pahrump. As she grew, so did her commitment. She joined…
Wolfe Beckley’s path to becoming the Valedictorian of the Pahrump Valley High School Class of 2025 wasn’t defined by a strategic climb to the top of a GPA leaderboard. Instead, it was driven by a deep-rooted intellectual curiosity and a love for mathematics that shaped his academic pursuits. “If my goal specifically was valedictorian, I probably wouldn’t have done what I’d done,” Wolfe said with characteristic humility. “I took a lot of college classes, including ones that didn’t count for high school credit, because I was chasing an associate’s degree in pre-engineering.” Rather than take the path of least resistance,…
For Jesse Araujo, being named Salutatorian of the Pahrump Valley High School Class of 2025 was less about chasing a title and more about maximizing opportunity. A focused student with a quiet presence, Jesse earned not only his high school diploma this spring, but also his Associate of Arts degree—graduating with 60 college credits already under his belt. Jesse transferred to PVHS as a sophomore after attending Community Christian Academy through his freshman year. At the private school, the curriculum followed a more rigid track. But once he arrived at PVHS, Jesse and his family immediately saw the value in…
Pahrump Valley High School is inviting student-athletes and their families to attend a Sports Physical and Registration Fair on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the PVHS Main Gym. The event is designed to help streamline the athletic clearance process ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. Students will have the opportunity to complete their required sports physicals on-site, with Dr. Taylor and staff offering the service for just $20 cash. This is a convenient and affordable way for athletes to meet their health clearance requirements for participation in school sports. In addition to physicals, the…
Families with high school-aged girls interested in golf are invited to a special “Meet the Coach” event on Thursday, June 13, at 1 p.m. at the Mountain Falls Clubhouse. The event offers a chance to meet the new coaching staff for the Pahrump Valley High School girls golf team and learn more about the upcoming season. The team is entering the season this fall with new leadership—Sierra McKillips has been named head coach, and Danielle Altiero will serve as assistant coach. Both are eager to welcome students of all skill levels, whether they are experienced golfers or have never held…
The Pahrump Valley High School Class of 2025 officially marked the end of their high school journey with a joyful and heartfelt commencement ceremony on Friday, May 30, 2025. Held on the school’s football field at 7 p.m., the evening brought together families, friends, faculty, and students to honor the accomplishments of this year’s graduates. Principal Desiree Veloz opened the ceremony by welcoming the crowd before the procession of students made their way to their seats. Student Body President Angelina Valdez and Senior Class President Abigail Alberto Amador served as the emcees for the night, guiding the audience through each…
Nestled amongst the mom and pop shops located at Calvada and Pahrump Valley Blvd, and surrounded by serene desert mountains, Black Cow Coffee House has quickly become more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee—it’s become a community hub, a welcoming stage for local talent, and the realization of a long-held dream for co-owners Dennis Clay and Quinton Jeffrey. While some customers may mistake the stylish shop for a franchise, Dennis is quick to clarify: “We’re not a franchise—we’re mom and pop. Or rather, pop and pop,” he says with a smile. “I created the whole brand…
The gymnasium at Pahrump Valley High School was filled with pride and applause on the evening of Wednesday, May 28, as families, educators, and students gathered for the Senior Awards Night to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. The evening kicked off with the pledge of Allegiance by senior Abigail Alberto Amador, followed by opening remarks from Principal Mrs. Desiree Veloz. Her message set a tone of recognition and encouragement, reflecting on the achievements of the graduating class. Mrs. Veloz then passed the microphone to Assistant Principal Mr. Jason Odegard, who introduced the presentation of athletic scholarships. Bryan…