Author: Amy Veloz

Forty-two excited students from Rosemary Clarke Middle School recently returned from an unforgettable adventure at the Catalina Island Marine Institute (CIMI), where hands-on science and outdoor exploration came together for an immersive educational experience. Now in its 8th year, the trip is organized by 8th grade science teacher Mr. Ben Veloz and remains one of the school’s most anticipated annual traditions. Over the course of five days, participating 7th and 8th graders were immersed in a variety of marine biology and island ecology programs led by knowledgeable instructors—each holding degrees in marine biology or ecology. From sunup to sundown, students…

In a world where etiquette and traditional manners sometimes feel like a lost art, the Nye Cotillion program stands as a beacon of social grace and polished interactions for the youth of Pahrump. Led by Sharon Crisp, Kaye LaPointe and Tina Trenner, the Nye Cotillion is run through a nonprofit initiative (Common Goal Fund) designed to teach fourth-grade students essential life skills, from social etiquette to ballroom dancing, in a fun and engaging environment. Now in its third year under their direction, and in cooperation with the J.G. Johnson administration (formerly Debbie Carle and now Sylvia DeMasi), the program has…

Alli Murphy, a name well recognized in Pahrump, has built a career in real estate while keeping strong ties to the town where she grew up. A 2017 graduate of Pahrump Valley High School, Alli’s journey after high school was anything but conventional. During her time at PVHS, Alli was heavily involved in student council, a role that helped shape her leadership skills and prepare her for her future career in real estate. She loved the energy of planning events, creating advertisements, and working with others to bring ideas to life. Student council wasn’t just an extracurricular activity for her;…

Stephanie Avena has always been passionate about helping the community, but with the formation of her nonprofit, Something Positive Inc., she has taken her efforts to an entirely new level. As the president of the organization, Stephanie is joined by her vice president and treasurer, Harry Means, and her sister, Heidi Rosen, who serves as the secretary. The nonprofit is driven by a strong sense of community, a mission to help children, and a broader commitment to assisting various groups in need throughout the area. The idea for Something Positive Inc. had been on Stephanie Avena’s heart for years. While…

Located next to Mom’s Diner at 1240 State St Ste 108 and 109, Natural Vibes is more than just a health and wellness store—it’s the embodiment of one woman’s journey from chronic illness to full-body healing. For owner Crystal Atwood, a mother of three and certified Integrative Health Coach, this space is the physical manifestation of a mission rooted deeply in personal experience, compassion, and a passion for natural healing. Crystal’s story begins with years of suffering—starting from childhood when symptoms like mild allergies evolved into full-blown chronic conditions. By the time she reached adulthood, she was battling daily migraines,…

In an unforgettable and deeply moving presentation at Pahrump Valley High School on Friday, March 21, 96-year-old Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser sat before a silent crowd of students and faculty to share a story that has haunted him—and the world—for nearly a century. Accompanied by his granddaughter Robyn Weber, and representing the ZACHOR Holocaust Remembrance Foundation, Lesser gave voice to the six million silenced souls and brought the horrors of the Holocaust to life in vivid, painful detail – not from the pages of a textbook, but from lived experience – offering a sobering glimpse into one of history’s darkest…

Desert View Hospital has proudly named Pahrump resident Teresa Hern, MSN, RN, as its new Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), effective March 24, 2025. Hern, a seasoned healthcare professional with over three decades of experience, is now leading the hospital’s nursing team with a focus on patient-centered care, teamwork, and community connection. Hern’s journey in healthcare began in 1992 when she became a certified nursing assistant in Florida. From those early days, she steadily built a career rooted in compassion, leadership, and dedication to quality care. Over the years, she served in several key roles within the Valley Health System in…

For Dane Clayton, high school has been a time of growth, grit, and memorable traditions. Among his favorite memories are the team Christmas practices—moments when the holiday spirit brought his teammates together through gift exchanges and shared celebration. “The whole team does a gift exchange and enjoys the holiday together,” Dane recalled. “It’s something I’ll never forget.” A dedicated student-athlete, Dane has spent his high school years on the football field and wrestling mat. Those experiences, he says, helped shape him into the person he is today. “Football and wrestling gave me a really tough and strong mentality,” he said.…

Pahrump Youth Sports is gearing up for an exciting Fall 2025 season and is now accepting registrations for two of its most popular programs—tackle football and cheerleading. This season, students in grades 2 through 7 can sign up for tackle football, with a registration fee of $130 plus uniform costs. Cheerleading is available for youth ages 6 to 14 at a registration cost of $70, also with additional uniform expenses. Families interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to attend one of the upcoming in-person registration events. These will be held at the Bob Ruud Community Center, located at 150…

In an electrifying showdown at home on Wednesday, March 26, the Pahrump Valley High School Trojans softball team delivered a dramatic 10-9 walk-off win against the Sports Leadership and Management (SLAM) Bulls. Powered by clutch hitting, gritty pitching, and unrelenting determination, the Trojans overcame early defensive struggles to secure a memorable victory that left fans on their feet. Kayla Glenn started in the circle for Pahrump, facing immediate pressure. SLAM managed an early lead after an overthrown ball to first and a line drive to right that scored a runner. But right fielder Ryleigh Denton made a heads-up throw to…