Author: Amy Veloz
As a standout athlete in both track and field and cross country, Pahrump Valley High School senior Antonio Veloz is no stranger to early mornings, long runs, and the mental grind of competition. Now, with a commitment to continue his athletic and academic journey at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN), Antonio is taking a moment to reflect on the experiences, people, and perseverance that brought him to this point—and what lies ahead. From a young age, Antonio was immersed in the world of running. Influenced heavily by his father, who ran local 5Ks, and supported by his elementary school’s…
When Pahrump Valley High School senior Hunter Mellinger steps onto the field at St. Norbert College in Wisconsin this fall, it will mark the culmination of a remarkable high school football journey—one that began with curiosity, was fueled by relentless effort, and now propels him toward a promising future in both athletics and academics. Hunter, who has committed to play football for the Green Knights, said the moment he arrived in Wisconsin, he knew it was the right place for him. “Getting to travel with my dad was cool, but it was right when I got off the plane—I just…
Andrew Zurn, a senior at Pahrump Valley High School, has officially committed to continue his baseball journey at Taft College in California. For Andrew, a dedicated athlete with roots in both California and Nevada, this moment represents the culmination of years of hard work, family support, and a deep passion for the game that began before he even stepped into a T-ball uniform. Born in Corona, California, Andrew started learning the fundamentals of baseball before he was even old enough to join an official league. At just five years old, he took the field in T-ball, but his love for…
For 2009 Pahrump Valley High School graduate AJ Veloz, life after high school has been anything but predictable. What began as a path rooted in music and creative expression has since evolved into a meaningful and impactful career in the medical field. Now working as a CT/X-ray technologist in Las Vegas, Veloz has combined his love for science with a deep sense of compassion and drive to improve the lives of others. During his years at PVHS, AJ carved out a unique space for himself in both the arts and school culture. One of his fondest memories was rehearsing in…
The Pahrump Mother’s Corner hosted its 4th Annual Community Baby Shower this past weekend, welcoming nearly 60 families for a celebration centered on community, support, and early childhood resources. Designed to uplift parents and caregivers in all stages of the parenting journey, the event combined essential services with lighthearted fun, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for attendees. Families were invited to connect with a variety of local organizations dedicated to health, education, and family well-being. Resource partners included Prevent Child Abuse Nevada, Readers in Training, Empowered Embrace, Pahrump Pediatrics, Sunrise Foundation, Nevada Health Center, and First 5 Nevada. Each…
On Monday, May 26, 2025, close to 100 community members gathered at Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Clyde E. Newman Jr. Post 10054 in Pahrump to remember, honor, and reflect on the lives lost in service to the United States. The annual Memorial Day ceremony provided a solemn moment of unity and remembrance, led by local veterans and auxiliary leaders, with tributes to the fallen and calls to live with greater purpose in their memory. VFW Post 10054 Commander Mark Sansom opened the ceremony with a salute to the colors and a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, asking attendees…
Pahrump Youth Sports is kicking off the season with a Football and Cheer Camp set for June 6 through June 8 at Simkins Park. Open to children ages 5 to 14, the camp is a great opportunity for young athletes to learn new skills, meet coaches, and get excited for the upcoming season. The camp schedule is as follows: The registration fee is $50 per participant, and all sessions will be held at Simkins Park. The camp is open to all skill levels, whether participants are brand new to the sport or returning for another season. “We’re really excited to…
Summer break can be daunting. There’s internal pressure to soak up the family time and create memories, and external pressure to keep the kids happy and entertained. Don’t get me started on the highlight reel of social media – no one posts their laid-back-at-home days, so it feels like every other family is adventuring constantly. Our culture has shifted to over-the-top everything, from large, blown out birthday parties to jam-packed summer schedules full of fun. To combat the pressure, I am intentionally, loudly declaring we are having a 90’s summer to anyone who will listen. Endless otter pops, movie nights…
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…
After 15 years of dedication to the game she once hesitated to play, Pahrump Valley High School senior Khylarann Park is ready to take her soccer talents to the next level. With her recent commitment to play for Midland University in Nebraska, Khylar is stepping into a new chapter of her life—one that blends ambition, courage, and a deep love for the sport that has shaped her since she was three years old. For Khylar, choosing Midland University wasn’t an overnight decision. She had spent considerable time searching for the right fit—one that would support her goals both academically and…