For generations, agriculture has been the heart of Churchill County, and the festival is a proud reminder of that legacy. From the fields to your table, our community has always worked hard to grow, harvest, and share the best of Nevada. The Agriculture Experience at the Fallon Cantaloupe Festival & Country Fair was created with a simple but important mission: to help people understand where their food comes from and to connect our community with the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals who make that possible.

In a world where many children and adults are several generations removed from the farm, the Agriculture Experience offers hands-on opportunities to learn about the journey from field to table. Through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and conversations with industry experts, visitors can explore topics ranging from crop production and livestock care to water management, pollination, dairy technology, and the future of agriculture in Nevada.

What started as a few youth-oriented learning booths has expanded over the last few years into a growing focus at the festival, thanks to the leadership and organization of Joe Frey, Michelle Gabiola-Rogers, and the Ag Experience committee.

The goal is to spark curiosity and help the next generation not only learn but appreciate the hard work, science, technology, and stewardship that go into producing food. The Ag Experience brings together local producers, organizations, educators, and businesses by highlighting the people and innovations that continue to sustain agriculture today.

Although the exhibit is designed with youth in mind, festival-goers of all ages can connect with nature and learn about the vital role agriculture plays in our daily lives. Included with festival admission, visitors can explore real farm equipment, meet local animals, try interactive ag-tech displays, and discover why agriculture remains one of the most important and dynamic industries in our region and across Nevada.

Popular returning exhibits include Moolisa, the friendly dairy cow learning station, Wool Spinners, and learning to make rope. Also returning this year, but with a new twist, are the Ag Experience Passports, where “Ag Explorers” can collect stamps from each station and turn them in for a prize.

More information and updates can be found on the official Fallon Cantaloupe Festival social media pages and website.

The three-day event, held May 29-31, brought sportsman racers, junior dragsters, motorcycle competitors, and bracket racers to Fallon for two Pacific Division National Open races and two Junior Championship Series events. 

The competition was part of the NHRA's 75th-anniversary season and drew participants seeking valuable divisional points and national recognition.

Activities began Thursday with racer arrivals and a community gathering in downtown Fallon, before racing action got underway on Friday with test-and-tune sessions and qualifying. Competition continued throughout the weekend at the local dragstrip.

Top Gun Dragstrip remains one of Northern Nevada's premier motorsports venues and regularly hosts NHRA-sanctioned events from spring through fall. The National Open weekend is among the track's largest annual events, attracting racers, crews, family members, and spectators to Churchill County.

In addition to the on-track competition, the event provided an economic boost for local businesses as racers and visitors filled hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout the weekend.

The National Open races were followed by regular Top Gun Dragstrip points competition, which continues throughout the summer racing season.

Founded by nurse practitioner Anne Horsley, Tangerine Health was created to help address healthcare access challenges in rural communities by providing timely virtual appointments for medical issues that often do not require an in-person visit.

“We wanted to break down the barriers. It’s too hard,” Horsley said, describing the difficulties many people face when seeking medical care.

Horsley has lived in Ely, Elko, and Reno, giving her firsthand experience with the healthcare challenges often faced by small Nevada communities. She said those experiences inspired the creation of Tangerine Health and its focus on helping patients access care for routine medical concerns more quickly.

“We wanted to make an easier way, and people don't have to wait months for this simple stuff,” Horsley said. “We're trying to help solve those problems — the easy problems that you just can't get taken care of in these rural areas.”

Appointments are conducted through scheduled video visits that can be booked online. Patients can choose from available appointment times and licensed providers, including some evening and weekend availability. The service is available to patients ages 2 through 64 and costs a flat fee of $65 per visit.

Tangerine Health operates on a cash-pay model and does not bill insurance directly, meaning it cannot accept Medicare or Medicaid patients. However, patients may use health savings account cards, and prescriptions can still be filled through their regular pharmacy benefits.

The service focuses on treating low-acuity medical conditions, including rashes, pink eye, urinary tract infections, minor illnesses, allergies, prescription refills, and other routine health concerns. It is not intended to replace emergency care, urgent care facilities, or a primary care provider.

Patient privacy and security are maintained through a HIPAA-compliant electronic medical records system and a secure patient portal. Video appointments, medical records, and communications are stored within the protected portal, and sensitive information is not sent through email.

As healthcare providers across Nevada continue to face staffing shortages and long appointment wait times, Tangerine Health hopes to provide another option for patients seeking care for routine medical concerns. By focusing on convenient, lower-cost virtual visits, the company aims to help fill gaps in healthcare access in rural communities throughout the West.

We’ve had some men down – figuratively speaking not everyone made the transition and we’re three shy on the staff up north but managed to pick up a new team member who is solid gold and fits right into the high-performance machine we’re building. I’ve said over years, “if I had three of her, we’d be cooking with fire,” whenever we find a really good one. 

I don’t know if this is something most people think about – I never gave it a moment’s notice until I was personally employing people – responsible for paychecks and the money that covers them. 

When you spend most of your professional life managing teams and working for various government agencies, from local economic development offices to U.S. Senate staff to a federal government agency like the Small Business Administration or the U.S. Department of Agriculture, you’re peripherally aware of budgetary constraints. Mostly, though, it’s sort of cursory from a loosely responsible viewpoint. 

But when you’re responsible for finding the money and keeping enough of it in the bank account to cover payroll every two weeks, that makes you look at productivity in a whole different light. 

There are employees who roll up their sleeves and jump in, working just as hard and intently as you do, and then there are the ones who take up space or stir up trouble, who generally cause consternation over whether or not they’re pitching in to make money appear or if they’re just in the bathroom lighting dollar bills on fire. 

Speaking of bathrooms – we have two in the new office, one upstairs one down. They aren’t much to write home about, but serviceable. It’s the office, however, that we love! If you haven’t heard, we got to go into the old firehouse on Bridge Street in Winnemucca. After four hundred and thirty-four years in the office on Grass Valley Road, we have shaken loose of the behemoth and, with the graciousness of the City of Winnemucca, which owns the building, moved into the old firehouse. 

And we LOVE it. 

Ever since I was forced by my youngest daughter into watching, on repeat, The Princess Diaries, I’ve wanted to have a house in an old firehouse or an old church. Having an office is obviously the next best thing. Maybe even better. 

We’re still in the process of getting moved in, but as soon as we are I hope you all will stop by to see just how cool it is. 

So, while we unpack and get phones and computers working, and rebuild our team with high-performing magicians capable of all sorts of miracles, we’ll still be right here…

…Keeping you Posted.

Rach

Sheriff Bill Ferguson said safe and responsible riding helps protect both riders and the community while preserving access to public lands.

Registration Requirements

• Under Nevada law, all UTVs and OHVs with engines larger than 70cc must be registered through the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles.
• Out-of-state riders must also have either a valid OHV decal or a street-legal registration from their home state to legally operate in Nevada.
• Where UTVs May Be Operated
• According to the Sheriff’s Office, UTVs may only be driven on general or minor county roads and designated city streets when riders are actively accessing public lands.
• Officials emphasized that UTVs are not permitted for general transportation within city limits, including trips to stores, restaurants, or other businesses.
• The Sheriff’s Office also noted that Nevada law does not allow UTVs to be converted into fully street-legal, plated vehicles.
• Driver and Safety Requirements
• Drivers must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license.
• Helmets are required for both drivers and passengers when operating on roads or trails open to street-legal vehicles. While helmets are not legally required during strictly off-road use, the Sheriff’s Office strongly encourages riders to wear them at all times.
• Officials also reminded riders never to leave a running vehicle unattended.

Required Equipment

When operating on paved roads, UTVs must be equipped with:

• Headlights and taillights visible from at least 500 feet
• Functioning brake lights
• A red rear reflector
• A working muffler and spark arrestor

Drivers are also required to obey all Nevada traffic laws, including posted speed limits.

“Our goal is to ensure that everyone enjoys Mineral County’s beautiful public lands safely and responsibly,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “By following these rules, you protect yourself, your passengers, and your community.”

KVLV’s “K Voice of Lahontan Valley” Trading Post began in 1957, the same year the station first went on the air, making it one of the earliest community-focused radio programs in Northern Nevada. The Trading Post remains a longtime feature on the station’s AM 980 and FM 99.5 broadcasts and continues serving listeners throughout Churchill County and surrounding communities, including Susanville, California.

The Trading Post airs from 9:06 to 10 a.m. Monday through Friday. Community members can call 775-423-KVLV (5858) to sell, buy, give away, or trade items. Callers appear live on the air and are asked to limit listings to three items each day so the station can accommodate as many participants as possible. Local businesses sponsor the program daily.

In addition to the Trading Post, KVLV programming includes local news, school closure alerts, church announcements, interviews with community leaders, and election coverage. The station’s commitment to local programming and community involvement has helped maintain its strong reputation in Fallon and surrounding areas.

The station’s history began when Les and Betty Pearce moved their family from Winnemucca to Fallon in 1957 to launch KVLV. The station originally broadcast at 1230 kHz with 1,000 watts of power, and the transmitter was located about two miles outside of town. In 1962, the station increased power to 5,000 watts and moved to 980 kHz, where it remains today.

Several familiar local names helped shape the station over the years. Ed Pearce, who later worked for KOLO Channel 8, got his start in broadcasting through the family-owned station with the “Teen Time” segment. Betty Pearce hosted “Coffee With Betty,” featuring interviews with local residents and community members.

The station’s first full-time DJ was Jim Slaton, who joined KVLV in 1957 and worked in broadcasting, sales, and electronics alongside Les Pearce. Ted Romero, known on air as the “Bald-Headed Chuck Line Rider,” also became a popular local personality.

Bill Oarr began working at the station while still in high school, riding his bicycle to work before later accepting full-time employment with the Churchill County School District Transportation Department. He continued working weekends at the station until retirement.

Former Nevada Sen. Mike McGinness also served for many years as manager of KVLV and KVLV-FM before retiring. Today, Lynn Pearce serves as managing partner alongside his sister, Dee Pearce McGinness.

KVLV-FM first signed on Nov. 26, 1966, at 99.3 FM. In 2011, the call sign changed to KKTU-FM, and the frequency moved to 99.5 FM. Throughout its history, the station has remained family-owned and community-focused.

With the same family leadership still involved today, the Trading Post continues operating much like a small-town bulletin board, connecting local residents, businesses, services, and events throughout Northern Nevada.

The memorandum of understanding is between Churchill County, the Bureau of Land Management’s Carson City and Winnemucca district offices, and the Bureau of Reclamation’s Lahontan Basin Area Office. The agreement sets out how the agencies and county will coordinate on the Churchill County Checkerboard Resolution Area Implementation Strategy Plan, required under Section 2908 of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2023, the act that approved the Fallon Range Training Complex expansion for Naval Air Station Fallon.

The area primarily affected is northwest of Fallon, generally north of the railroad and extending toward the county line on the north and west. The ownership pattern is part of a broader Nevada land-grant history tied to railroad development, in which alternating sections of land were granted to railroads, while the remaining sections remained under federal ownership. 

The term “checkerboard” refers to the patchwork pattern of land ownership common in parts of the West, which complicates management, access, development, and long-term planning. In Churchill County, the federal law directs the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the county and local landowners and after allowing public comment, to seek consolidation of federal and non-federal land ownership. 

The agreement approved by commissioners does not approve any specific land exchange. Instead, it creates the framework for the county, BLM, and Reclamation to work together as the plan is developed. BLM is designated as the lead federal agency and will retain decision-making authority over matters within its jurisdiction, including the plan's preparation, quality, and content.

Churchill County will participate as a cooperating agency. Under the MOU, the county may provide local information on land ownership, zoning, legal requirements, the county master plan, and other planning policies. The county will also be involved in identifying issues and concerns, reviewing draft documents, and participating in the joint selection process for potential land exchanges and consolidations. 

The Bureau of Reclamation will also participate because some lands and facilities in the affected area fall under Reclamation’s interests, including Newlands Project facilities and floodplain-related information. Reclamation is also responsible for completing its own review under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, while BLM will complete the Section 106 process for lands under its jurisdiction. 

Section 2908 allows the Interior Department to offer appropriate federal land in Churchill County for exchange with private land that is adjacent to federal land, if the exchange would consolidate ownership and improve land management. The agreement was negotiated during the FRTC process as part of a larger economic development strategy to potentially benefit the county in trade for land lost to the expansion of the range boundaries. 

Federal land eligible for exchange must be identified as potentially suitable for disposal in an applicable resource management plan and managed by either BLM or Reclamation. 

The law requires land exchanged under the section to be of equal value. It also allows the Secretary of the Interior to use mass appraisals when the land involved is similar in character and value. However, any land likely to exceed $250 per acre must be excluded from a mass appraisal, and the results of any mass appraisal must be made available to the public. 

The final 2023 NDAA language does not appear to specify the number of acres that may be involved in the Churchill County checkerboard resolution. Earlier versions and public discussions of the lands package referenced approximately 50,000 acres for checkerboard resolution, but that number is not included in the final Section 2908 language. 

The MOU lists no fiscal impact to Churchill County from approval of the agreement. However, the document notes that county participation will depend on available staff time and funding. 

One section of the agreement says the parties will maintain confidentiality during the drafting process until the approved plan is released to the public. It also states that records requests must still be handled under applicable laws, including the federal Freedom of Information Act, the Nevada Public Records Act and the Privacy Act. 

The agreement will remain in effect until the plan is signed and implemented unless it is amended or terminated earlier by one of the parties. Commissioners’ approval moves the county into the formal planning process, but any future land exchanges, public review periods or final parcel decisions would come later.

The college recognized a record 686 graduates approved to receive a combined 851 degrees and Certificates of Achievement.

“Commencement is one of the proudest and most inspiring traditions at Western Nevada College because it celebrates the determination, resilience, and achievements of our students,” said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “The Class of 2026 has reached an extraordinary milestone, and we are especially proud of our Jump Start students who earned college degrees while completing high school. On behalf of the entire college community, congratulations to our graduates and their families. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make throughout Nevada and beyond.”

This year’s graduating class also marked a milestone for the college’s Jump Start program, with 242 students earning associate degrees before graduating from high school.

“These accomplishments reflect the dedication of our students and the collective support and collaborative efforts of the entire campus community,” said WNC Admissions and Records Director and Registrar Chelsie Hamtak.

The Class of 2026 represents 11 states and is WNC’s 55th graduating class. The Fallon campus saw 87 students graduate, with several students earning multiple degrees or certificates.

WNC Fallon Graduates

Associate of Applied Science - Deaf Studies: Belinda Jean Hooper

Associate of Applied Science - Graphic Design: Kelti Lou Koehler

Associate of Applied Science - Health Science: Shivani J. Bhakta

Associate of Applied Science - Nursing: Daniel Jacob Andersen, Guadalupe De Santiago, Kimduong Duong, Brielle Johnson, Joshua Sanders

Associate of Applied Science - Technology - Welding: Trenton Aldrich, Aidan James Bullock, Jorge Nicholas Garcia, Talon Michael Johnson, Xander Kobberstad, Trevor M. Layton, Alyssa Partridge, Dustin Wade Stritenberger

Associate of Arts: Chase L. Ackerman, Ayden James Anaya, Travis Anderton, Alyssa Renee Ayers, Mikayla June Casey, Aidan Christopher Clark, Dahlila Aysha Creer, Dylan J. Ekins-Faught, Adelyne Flick, Katelyn Emma Glinka, Shelene Renee Gomez-Miller, Kayla D. Greenberg, Abraham Gutierrez, Beatriz L. Hallberg, Joshua Helm, Isabella R. Hockenberry Grimes, Taylor Jean Hyde, Melanie Ibarra, Genesis Jade Johnson, Savahanna Kelley, Mackenzi Jean Kerr, Kelti Lou Koehler, Olivia Merced Kutansky, Trevor M. Layton, Mikala Jane Ledesma, Chrystal Martinez, Natalia Aurora Martinez De La Cruz, Justin O. McArthur, Taylor Iwtswy McEwen, Oaklee Flora McKnight, Rusten Alan McKnight, Aiden Dario Palanivelu, Aevan Eileen Payne, Larissa Eve Peterson, Kassandra Pearl Porretta, Marissa May Rau, Nevaeh Routt, Benton J. Snow, Jenna Catherine Steffens, Kayden Dean White

Associate of Business: Nicolle Cheyenne Cassidy, Aidan Christopher Clark, Austin Mize, AlexZandar Allan Sheldon-Davis, Riggin Trent Robbie Stonebarger

Associate of General Studies: Aidan James Bullock, Jorge Nicholas Garcia, Shelene Renee Gomez-Miller, Earl James Grabowski, Olivia Merced Kutansky, Alyssa Partridge, Ann Pawson

Associate of Science: Alyssa Renee Ayers, Trevor Michael Barrenchea, Matthew Heath Bird, Tabitha Princess Margaret Brockelsby, Mia Casandra Cabatic, Katelynn Faye Cagle, Ruth Anahi Casillas, Kayla Cervantes, Laynee Rae Diaz, Emma Lucille Dowler, Richard Thomas Gomez, Mariel Dannie-Junior Jamela, Allura Jasmine Grace Knight-Zumwalt, Grace Anna Laca, Jeana Lee, Dawson Michael McKnight, Ryder McNabb, Jilliana Morales, Madison Rosemarie Palmer, Kaylee Peters, Catherine Raymond, Christina Kate Robinson, Washington Scott, Leah Sorensen, James Austin Thibodaux, Lea Eden Williams

Bachelor of Applied Science - Organization and Project Management: Jamie Lynne Bennefield

Certificate of Achievement - American Sign Language: Belinda Jean Hooper

Certificate of Achievement - Early Childhood Education: Shelene Renee Gomez-Miller

Certificate of Achievement - Graphic Design: Kelti Lou Koehler

Certificate of Achievement - Welding Technology: Trenton Aldrich, Manuel Richard Barros, Jorge Nicholas Garcia, Talon Michael Johnson, Xander Kobberstad, Alyssa Partridge, Dustin Wade Stritenberger.

“Progress doesn't always come in big moments,” Dalpe said in a message to students and the community. “More often, it's built day by day. We are proud of you. We celebrate what you've accomplished, and we look forward to what comes next. You started here. Now go anywhere. Congratulations, Class of 2026!”

CD2 needs a representative who truly knows Nevada and understands the industries that rural communities depend on — mining, farming, and ranching. It does not need someone who discovered Reno only after an open congressional seat became available.

James Settelmeyer is a fourth-generation Nevadan, a rancher, a former State Senate Republican Leader, and a former director of the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. He has spent his life fighting for rural Nevada, its economy, its water rights, its land, and its conservative values. No one else in this primary is better qualified to defend ranching families, miners, farmers, and small business owners across the 11 counties he would represent.

That matters.

Nevada is not Washington, D.C., and rural Nevada is certainly not Las Vegas.

James has worked on his family’s ranch his entire life, and throughout his public service career, he has also worked alongside Nevada’s second-largest industry, mining. Of the candidates in this primary, he best understands what drives Nevada’s economy. He has direct experience with grazing rights, public and private land management, and the federal laws that miners, ranchers, and other land users must navigate just to obtain permits and stay in operation.

At a time when mining is surging in Nevada and cattle producers are under pressure from historically low prices paid by meatpackers, it is more important than ever to elect someone qualified to succeed retiring Congressman Mark Amodei.

We need a congressman who can step in immediately, not someone who must start from scratch learning what NEPA, FLPMA, ESA, SDWA, CWA, CAA, and TGA mean or how those laws affect all 11 counties in the district. He also has years of experience dealing with the complexities of Western water law and water rights. He has longstanding relationships with the BLM, the Forest Service, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Defense, and many other state and federal agencies that affect the daily lives of Nevadans.

You cannot fake that kind of experience.

After 16 years in the Legislature, Governor Joe Lombardo selected James to lead Nevada’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources because he knew James had the knowledge, integrity, and leadership skills to protect Nevada’s future.

James also has a proven conservative record.

As Senate Republican Leader, he fought Governor Sisolak and legislative Democrats after they pushed through unconstitutional tax increases without the required two-thirds vote. The Nevada Supreme Court agreed. More than $112 million was ultimately returned to Nevada taxpayers.

That is real conservative leadership.

James believes in secure borders, fiscal responsibility, limited government, local control, and protecting the freedoms that built this country. He understands that Washington already spends too much, regulates too much, and interferes too much in the lives of hardworking Americans.

Recently, political attacks have tried to distort James’ legislative record by taking a handful of votes out of context from the more than 5,000 bills considered during his 16 years in office.

One example involves the 2013 driver authorization card bill.

Critics falsely claim James supported “driver’s licenses for illegal immigrants.” That is simply not true.

The legislation was backed by law enforcement to address a growing public safety problem involving uninsured drivers causing accidents across Nevada. Under state law, people could not obtain insurance without legal driving authorization. After the bill passed, the uninsured motorist rate dropped by half. Innocent victims were able to seek justice.

Just as important, more than 900 criminal illegal immigrants were identified and taken into custody after appearing at DMV offices to apply for driving authorization cards.

That is the full story.

But the biggest issue in this race may be representation.

James Settelmeyer is rooted in rural Nevada; his opponent is not. His main opponent originally launched a congressional campaign in Las Vegas before switching to Northern Nevada as soon as this seat opened.

Federal law allows someone to run in a district where they do not live, but voters have every right to ask a simple question: Who actually knows Northern Nevada?

If James loses, every member of Nevada’s congressional delegation will live in Southern Nevada, not in one of the 11 counties in Congressional District 2.

Who will speak for ranchers?

Who will fight for mining?

Who will defend Nevada water rights?

Who will understand the challenges facing rural communities?

Northern Nevada deserves its own voice in Congress. And for the first time in a long, long time, we deserve to have a rancher in that seat.

James Settelmeyer has spent his life earning the trust of Nevada families, farmers, ranchers, miners, and small business owners. He is a proven conservative, a proven leader, and, above all, a real Nevadan.

Northern Nevada needs James Settelmeyer in Congress.

Tim Arnold is a retired Chief Operating Officer of Integra Resources and a former President of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration. Liz Arnold is a mining and resources industries advocate and consultant, providing community outreach services to mining companies. She is a member of the Women's Mining Coalition.

One of the most proud and enduring commencement traditions at UNLV is for the president to recognize a select group of outstanding graduates who encapsulate the absolute heights of achievement that all Rebels are truly capable of. 

UNLV grad student Kelli Kelly embodies the phrase, “Put your money where your mouth is” daily through her work. She is a non-profit leader, small-business advisor, and researcher who has raised millions of dollars in Nevada’s fight against rural and tribal food insecurity and has spent countless hours studying or advocating for related policies and laws.

Kelli maintained a near-perfect GPA while pursuing her master’s in urban leadership, with an eye on food systems policy, governance, emergency preparedness, and real-world problem-solving. 

She contributed to statewide food insecurity research for the Guinn Center, co-authored a forthcoming white paper on state-level food systems policy, and helped educate the public via media interviews on related topics.

Kelli juggled coursework with multiple day jobs. As executive director of the Fallon Food Hub, she secured $1.25 million in funding to prevent farm closures; significantly ramped up growers’ connections with businesses and consumers looking to buy fresh food; and distributed 105,000 pounds of food to 3,500 households, including tribal communities. She also dedicated countless hours to supporting local entrepreneurs as a Nevada Small Business Development Center advisor, helping launch 40 new ventures.

Her leadership extends to system-level change as well. Kelli led the development of the Nevada Assembly Bill 352, which was unanimously adopted and expanded sales limits for cottage food operations.

And she’s not done. Kelli continues to serve in multiple governance and advisory roles across Nevada’s food and economic development ecosystem and is currently developing a regional toolkit to support municipal planning in Southern Nevada. 

Kelly joins five of her classmates in this honor, including a physician-scientist striving to make eye conditions a thing of the past; a first-generation immigrant dedicated to serving vulnerable populations;  a geoscientist seeking solutions to water scarcity; a student-athlete with a penchant for gaming mathematics; a small-business advocate combating food insecurity; and a researcher spearheading a variety of initiatives to help children and seniors. This spring’s six honorees have shown not only book smarts but also street smarts as they help improve their communities and their education.

The fair’s revival marks the first state‑sponsored event of its kind since 2010, and organizers say they hope the return will reconnect Nevadans with the history, youth programs, and community spirit that once defined the annual gathering. “We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Nevada State Fairgrounds as we celebrate the Silver State,” said J.J. Goicoechea, director of the Nevada Department of Agriculture.

Opening day on June 11 includes general admission of $12 for children and $15 for adults, which covers access to the evening concert featuring Caleb Montgomery. Admission drops to $7 for children and $10 for adults on June 12–13, giving families a more affordable way to explore the fairgrounds throughout the weekend. Select events, including the youth bull riding competition, require additional tickets, while all‑inclusive wristbands are available for visitors who want full access to the weekend’s activities.

The fair’s schedule reflects Nevada’s agricultural roots and its growing youth involvement in livestock and hands‑on learning. Events include the Nevada Junior Livestock Show and Sale, the University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s 4‑H State Expo, Next Generation Youth Bull Riding, and the Governor’s Livestock Sale of Champions. A Made in Nevada farmers’ market, a walking tour of Nevada, a drone show, carnival rides, and local food and art vendors round out the lineup, offering a mix of tradition and new attractions.

For many young exhibitors, the fair represents months of preparation. “Youth exhibitors spend months raising animals, developing projects, and building new skills,” Goicoechea said. “This event puts their hard work front and center, giving students the opportunity to share it with the community on a larger scale.”

Organizers say the fair’s return is designed to highlight not only Nevada’s past but also the next generation shaping its agricultural future. With livestock shows, youth competitions, and educational exhibits woven throughout the weekend, the fair aims to reconnect families with the state’s heritage while offering a space for young Nevadans to showcase their dedication and talent.

More information, including sponsorship and vendor opportunities, is available at statefair.nv.gov. Questions can be directed to statefair@agri.nv.gov or 775‑353‑3601.

STATE FAIR AT A GLANCE

Dates: June 11–13, 2026

Location: Nevada State Fairgrounds

Admission:

• June 11: $12 children, $15 adults (includes Caleb Montgomery concert)
• June 12–13: $7 children, $10 adults
• Additional tickets required for select events
• All‑inclusive weekend wristbands available

Featured Events:

• Nevada Junior Livestock Show and Sale
• UNR Extension 4‑H State Expo
• Next Generation Youth Bull Riding
• Governor’s Livestock Sale of Champions
• Made in Nevada farmers’ market
• Walking tour of Nevada
• Drone show
• Local food and art vendors
• Carnival rides and exhibits

More Information: statefair.nv.gov statefair@agri.nv.gov 775‑353‑3601

Family, community members, fellow officers, and state leaders filled the service in overwhelming numbers, a powerful reflection of the impact Hickox had both in uniform and beyond it.

Sheriff Lee Orozco, Churchill County’s previous undersheriff and newly appointed after Hickox’s passing, spoke at the podium.

“Today we gather to honor a man who was more than a sheriff,” Orozco said. “He was a partner, a leader, a mentor, and above all, a friend.”

Hickox’s law enforcement career began in 1998, when he joined the Churchill County Sheriff’s Office as a detention deputy. Over the next nearly three decades, he rose through the ranks, serving as a patrol deputy, investigator, sergeant, and captain, and was ultimately elected sheriff in 2019.

Those who worked alongside him described a man committed not just to doing the job, but to doing it right. Orozco added, “He didn’t just want to do the job, he wanted to do it the right way,” recalling Hickox’s steady demeanor, integrity, and authenticity.

Throughout his career, Hickox took on numerous roles beyond his core duties, including serving as a Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) officer, defensive tactics instructor, and crisis intervention trainer. He also served as president of the Nevada Sheriffs and Chiefs Association, helping foster collaboration and professionalism across agencies.

While his professional accomplishments were significant, speakers emphasized that Hickox’s connection to the community was just as meaningful.

From youth programs and nonprofit organizations to local events, he was a constant presence in Churchill County.

“You would find him at a football game, a wrestling match, a baseball game, a Cantaloupe Festival, a Christmas tree lighting, really any community event—Richard was there,” longtime friend Shawn Mitchell shared during the eulogy.

That presence, many noted, was not for recognition, but because he genuinely cared.

Governor Joe Lombardo, who Orozco introduced as “a close friend of Sheriff Hickox,” spoke at the service and described Hickox as representing “the very best of Nevada law enforcement,” adding that his commitment to the community went far beyond the badge.

“This work is not just a job, it is often a calling,” Lombardo said. “Richard lived that calling every day.”

At the heart of Hickox’s life was his family—his wife, Barbara “Barb” Hickox, their daughters Sierra and Shelby, and his grandchildren.

Speakers shared stories that painted a picture of a man who balanced the demands of law enforcement with a deep dedication to those he loved. Whether attending games, teaching life lessons, or spending time outdoors, Hickox was described as fully present with his family.

Governor Lombardo addressed Hickox’s daughters: “Sierra and Shelby, your dad was clearly so proud of you. And in talking with your family, I was struck by how much he gave you, not just in words but in time.”

Orozco shared similar insights for his family: “He loved his daughters. He was proud of his family, and even prouder as a grandfather.”

Mitchell echoed that sentiment, recalling simple but meaningful moments—family fishing trips, shared traditions, and the quiet consistency of a man who never complained when sharing his time.

Hickox’s faith was also a recurring theme throughout the service, described not as something he spoke about lightly, but something he lived daily.

Even in his battle with cancer, those closest to him said he remained steadfast.

“He fought a good fight …” Mitchell said, recollecting a talk he was fortunate to have with Hickox before his passing. “He made clear over and over that he was right with the Lord.”

That strength left a lasting impression on those who witnessed his final days and the way he faced them—with clarity, peace, and purpose.

The service concluded with a traditional law enforcement final call, marking the end of Hickox’s watch.

“After 28 years of dedicated and tireless service … he has answered his last call,” the dispatcher announced. “His watch on this earth has ended, but his legacy will continue in every life he touched and in every deputy who puts on the badge.”

Orozco added that he intends to have Hickox’s badge number, 177, retire with him and never be reissued — a tribute to his service and the mark he left on the department.

For many in attendance, the sheer size of the crowd spoke volumes. One deputy noted that at least 12 law enforcement agencies had officers present, along with a large number of community attendees.

“This is a testament to me of how much he loved this community,” Mitchell said, “and how much this community loves him.”

As Churchill County moves forward, Richard Hickox — not only the sheriff of Churchill County, but the husband, the father, the grandfather, the uncle, the son, the brother, the sharer of faith, and the friend — will be missed.

However, while there will be grieving for this great man, his family, friends, and the community will carry on in the light of gratitude for what he left us: a legacy of service, humility, faith, and dedication that will remain firmly in place behind him.

Wakefield met with educators, students, administrators, and school board members during the tour and said the conversations revealed both ongoing challenges and “bright spots” where strong leadership and effective interventions are improving student outcomes. He emphasized that the Nevada Department of Education will continue focusing on five strategic priorities: Strong Foundations, Empowering Pathways, Equipped Educators and Leaders, Informed and Connected Families, and Aligned Systems.

“Every day, students in our state should be building knowledge of the world, engaging with grade-level content and instruction, solving complex problems, and making progress toward their postsecondary goals,” Wakefield said. “Every action we take as a state will be relentlessly focused on making this vision true for our students.”

As part of the department’s leadership updates, Dr. Torrey Palmer began her role as Deputy Superintendent for Academics and Student Achievement on March 30. Palmer, a former Washoe County School District teacher, co-founded the nationally recognized Core Task Project focused on literacy standards and previously worked with The New Teacher Project (TNTP) on curriculum and instructional strategy efforts nationwide. Most recently, she served as assistant principal at Mater Academy of Northern Nevada. Palmer earned her doctorate from the University of Nevada, Reno, and previously competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics and World Rowing Championships.

In recognition of the Month of the Military Child, the department named 36 new schools as 2026 Nevada Purple Star Schools, honoring campuses that demonstrate strong support for military-connected students and families. “Purple Star Schools set the standard for ensuring these students experience consistency, strong relationships, and access to high-quality learning no matter where they are stationed,” Wakefield said.

Governor Joe Lombardo and Wakefield also visited Arturo Cambeiro Elementary School to celebrate Nevada Reading Week, reading to classrooms and highlighting the importance of early literacy. “When it comes to educating the next generation of Nevadans, we cannot overlook the importance of reading,” Lombardo said. “Nevada Reading Week gives us the opportunity to inspire our students and celebrate the educators dedicated to nurturing a lifelong love of reading.”

The department also announced up to $247,860 in funding to support a joint school-improvement pilot between the Clark County School District and the Clark County Education Association, made possible by Senate Bill 460. Launching in the 2026–27 school year at Desert Pines and Western high schools, along with their feeder schools, the pilot will focus on pre-K, early literacy, middle school math, and college and career readiness. The initiative aims to boost student success through added learning time, tutoring, and teacher support, and could expand to additional schools across the state.

A room full of journalists. A shooter. A manifesto. 

A country built on the tenet that we should be able to say what we want and the government won’t chop off our heads or burn us at the stake. 

That’s what used to happen in many of the places we came from. Some of the world’s greatest art, paintings, stories, and poetry exist because you couldn’t come out and say what you believed without ending up dead. You had to figure out how to make these important statements in a way that kept you safe and that you could defend – but you could get the message across, nonetheless. Embedded meaning inside acceptable subjects. 

Take the Last Supper by Leonardo – Christ at the center of everything, groups of three echoing the Trinity, and a basic, grounded human style unlike prior religious art that included glowing halos and exaggerated divinity. The master artist of the Renaissance presents deep truths in an innocent, earthy way, avoiding personal harm. 

Of course, we also have Orwell’s “Animal Farm” and “1984” in their bombastic way, warning us of the dangers of communism and government surveillance. Slightly less subtle but equally impactful are songs by Billie Holiday and Bob Dylan, who, in their prime, made statements that pushed their social commentary into the mainstream. 

If we can say what we want in this country, why then do people feel the need or utter desperation to go around shooting people – Donald Trump, Charlie Kirk, JFK, Abe Lincoln. This isn’t new and not likely to stop because we’ve evolved somehow into better-behaving humans. 

I have no answers, but it behooves us to remember the First Amendment doesn’t protect us from “yelling fire in a crowded theater,” or saying something dumb on social media that damages the credibility of the company that writes our paycheck or inspires the big guy at the bar to punch us in the face. Not protected speech, none of it. 

“My right to free speech” ends at jail, or being fired, or a blackened eye when we seek to hide behind the First Amendment. Poor decision-making is not protected by the Constitution. 

So, while we noodle the vagaries of human nature, we’ll always be right here…

…Keeping you Posted.

Rach

The annual conference, hosted by Travel Nevada from April 21-23, brought together tourism and community leaders from across the state. Fallon’s delegation included representatives from the Fallon Chamber, city leadership, and local tourism officials, reflecting one of the strongest community showings at the event.

Visit Fallon’s award recognized the city’s consistent leadership in presentations, panels, and regional planning efforts. Director of Tourism and Special Events Jane Moon and City Councilwoman Kelly Frost also spoke during the conference’s final day, representing Fallon before a statewide audience and reinforcing the city’s role in shaping tourism discussions.

Director of Tourism and Special Events Jane Moon noted that Fallon’s growing tourism efforts “would not be possible without the leadership of Mayor Ken Tedford, whose support for local tourism includes a commitment to helping it grow beyond the city and county.”

Agritourism was a major topic throughout the event. Fallon was represented directly on the panel “Agritourism: The What and the Why,” where two of the four speakers were local residents. Blane Merkley of the Nevada Department of Agriculture and Kelli Kelly of the Nevada Small Business Development Center outlined how agritourism connects agricultural production with visitor experiences. The session focused on reducing marketing barriers so producers can concentrate on their operations while still benefiting from tourism.

Conference data underscored the importance of rural destinations. Roughly 40 percent of outdoor recreation’s economic impact occurs in rural counties, even though those areas make up only a small share of Nevada’s population. For Fallon, the findings align with ongoing efforts to attract visitors through agriculture, outdoor recreation, and community events.

Travel Nevada officials encouraged rural communities to actively promote their assets to ensure they are included in statewide marketing campaigns. That message carries immediate relevance for Fallon as signature events such as the Cantaloupe Festival continue to anchor local tourism. The festival was nominated for Best Event within the Pony Express Territory, signaling growing statewide visibility.

Fallon Chamber representatives, including Executive Director Lucy Carnahan, board members Ava Case and Shania Brown, and Ambassador Jo Petteruti, participated in the Rural Roundup bus and familiarization tour ahead of the conference. The tour included stops at Rye Patch State Recreation Area, Winnemucca’s downtown murals, and the Battle Mountain Cookhouse Museum. Board member Merlene Ward joined the group in Elko.

Experience levels among Fallon attendees ranged from first-time participants to long-time conference veterans. The mix reflected both continuity and new engagement within the community’s tourism leadership.

Across the three-day event, the message to rural communities was consistent. Those that embrace their distinct culture, landscape, and people are the ones gaining momentum in Nevada’s tourism economy. Fallon’s reputation for leading that effort was evident throughout the conference and affirmed by its statewide recognition.

The Nevada Forum describes itself as “a new way for people across the state to be heard, find common ground, and turn shared priorities into legislative action.” Built on the idea that Nevadans agree on more than they often realize, the bipartisan effort responds to a growing concern that national politics and media narratives are overshadowing local conversations. 

The Forum was created to address the issue that many important state-level decisions are often made without enough direct input from residents, even though many “common sense” solutions could be reached if people had a clearer path to collaborate. The Forum’s model provides a solution by gathering public input, identifying consensus, and translating it into policy direction.

Participation in the Nevada Forum is designed to be simple and accessible. The process begins by asking users to pick an issue that matters most to them. From there, users are guided to discussions where others are weighing in on related topics. Users may then log in to participate, comment, and engage in discussions about topics they care about. The platform also allows users to explore multiple issues and contribute input across all categories. The final day to participate in these discussions is May 1, 2026.

These conversations are only phase one of the Nevada Forum’s process. After input is collected, phase two, issue voting, will give participants six votes to choose the issues that matter the most to them. Phase three moves into issue reporting, followed by phase four, which centers on deeper discussions. The final phase, issue recommendations, includes a civic assembly process where selected participants help refine proposals. This approach is designed to turn broad input into clear, actionable priorities.

The Nevada Forum is led by a bipartisan team that includes Democrat Chris Miller and Republican Greg Bailor, serving as co-chairs. The broader state team includes Republicans, Democrats, and independents, reflecting an effort to ensure a wide range of perspectives. 

The project itself was launched by actor and entrepreneur Andrew Shue, who also co-founded the nonprofit DoSomething. The broader goal of this forum is to develop a practical agenda supported by more than 70% of participants. The process is expected to end in a civic assembly of 50 to 100 Nevadans, selected to reflect the state’s political and demographic makeup, who will work alongside lawmakers to propose legislation for the 2027 legislative session.

For those interested in participating, visit nvforum.org 

Board members said the policy focuses strictly on water use, not on whether data centers are good or bad. CNRWA Executive Director Jeff Fontaine said it is often unclear how much total water these facilities use, including cooling systems, energy use, and manufacturing.

Laurel Saito, Nevada water strategy director for the Nature Conservancy, suggested adding language requiring identification of water sources. Norman Frey raised concerns about unclear sourcing and possible effects on downstream users, warning that companies could buy up water rights.

Commissioner Mancebo moved to approve the policy, adding the requirement to identify water sources, and the board unanimously approved it. Members also supported sending it to counties as a template for local implementation.

Newly appointed Nevada State Engineer Joe Cacioppo provided an update on the Division of Water Resources. Cacioppo began his role March 30 after previously working as a principal civil engineer at Resource Concepts Inc. and serving on the Carson City School Board.

He said the division faces staffing shortages and a long backlog of water rights applications. The department has about 15 vacancies and more than 2,000 pending applications, which can take months to more than a year to process.

Cacioppo said his priorities include “responsible communication… more transparency and just overall efficiency.”

Legislative issues also came up, with members outlining topics likely to surface in the next session. Fontaine said the CNRWA legislative working group is focusing on issues that can realistically move forward, including finding a funding source for water rights retirement programs that currently have no funding.

He also raised concerns about potential tax impacts tied to those programs. Fontaine said there may be interest in bringing back legislation related to non‑consumptive water use, which would require permits for uses such as geothermal systems or lithium projects, even if water is returned to the source.

The board also discussed several active working groups, including the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Natural Resources, the Nevada Water Law Working Group and a governor’s office group focused on improving efficiency and reducing application backlogs. Data centers were again mentioned as a growing concern due to the demand for both water and energy.

The board addressed monitoring, management and mitigation plans, known as 3M plans, which are used to track and respond to water impacts from projects. These plans are often required by federal agencies during environmental reviews and may also be required by the State Engineer for certain water applications.

Fontaine said 3M plans are meant to address unknown impacts but should not be used to approve projects when conflicts with existing water rights are already known. Under Nevada law, projects cannot be approved if they conflict with existing water rights, even if a mitigation plan is in place.

Members also noted that 3M plans can place a burden on existing water users and often lack clear standards.

The board approved its fiscal year 2026–2027 budget, which stays mostly the same as last year. Adjustments include increases for legal services and government affairs work as members prepare for the next legislative session.

Additional updates included a report on recent water rights applications filed with the state. The board also received an update on an appeal tied to a proposed pipeline project in Utah that would move water across basins.

Members discussed how pumping and transfers related to the project could affect groundwater levels in Nevada basins, specifically areas in White Pine County.

The board also discussed a possible shift to a flat‑fee contract for administrative services, which will be considered at a future meeting.

The next CNRWA meeting is scheduled for July 24.

The public is invited to attend and pay their respects to Hickox, who served the community for 28 years. A livestream will be available for those unable to attend at https://www.youtube.com/live/qwc9z4E8OMY.

Law enforcement agencies from across the state are expected to attend. Several agencies have arranged to assist with coverage in Churchill County, allowing local deputies to participate in the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Richard Hickox Memorial Scholarship Fund at Churchill County Federal Credit Union. Donations should be directed to the attention of Barb or Sierra Hickox.

The appointment was made during a special meeting after hearing from Chief Deputy District Attorney Lane Mills, who explained the process under Nevada law.

“We’re here this morning due to the untimely death of Sheriff Hickox,” Mills told the board. “It falls to this board … to fill that vacancy pursuant to statute.”

Mills explained that the appointment fills the position through the remainder of the term, which runs until the first Monday in January 2027. Because the primary filing period has already passed, a separate window will open in late June for candidates to file for the general election.

“There is a provision for a candidacy filing period,” Mills said. “Because we’re already past the time for a primary, that period will run later on … there’ll be an opportunity for people to file to get onto the general election.”

Commissioners chose to make the appointment during the meeting rather than delay the process.

Commissioner Matt Hyde said the decision was about continuing the leadership voters had already supported.

“Sheriff Hickox was elected as sheriff. He appointed a right-hand man, his undersheriff, and that is an extension of what the people wanted in this community,” said Hyde. “They trusted Richard to appoint his undersheriff.”

The board unanimously approved the motion to appoint Orozco, who was sworn in shortly after the vote.

Following the oath of office, Orozco briefly addressed the room, reflecting on his longtime working relationship with Hickox.

“I was here when he started. I was partners with him in investigations. Then he was my boss and partner in the administration,” Orozco said. “He will be missed, but he’s not forgotten. We’ll carry on what he started.”

Under Nevada law, the appointed sheriff will serve until the next general election, when voters will elect a candidate to the office. The upcoming special filing period will allow interested candidates to enter that race despite the standard filing deadlines having passed earlier this year.

The meeting concluded with commissioners noting the importance of keeping the sheriff’s office steady during the transition.

 “We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Nevada State Fairgrounds as we celebrate the Silver State,” said J.J. Goicoechea, Director of the Nevada Department of Agriculture.

General admission is $12 for children and $15 for adults on opening day, June 11, and includes access to the opening night concert, featuring Caleb Montgomery. Admission for June 12–13 is $7 for children and $10 for adults. Additional tickets are required for select events, including the youth bull riding competition. All-inclusive wristbands covering the full weekend and special events are also available.

This three-day event will highlight Nevada’s history, community, and agricultural roots through a variety of featured events, including the Nevada Junior Livestock Show and Sale, the University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s 4-H State Expo, Next Generation Youth Bull Riding, a Made in Nevada farmers’ market, a walking tour of Nevada, a drone show, local vendors offering food and art, and carnival rides, along with additional exhibits and activities centered on Nevada's heritage. 

“This marks the return of a celebration for communities across Nevada,” Goicoechea said. “We are creating an experience that honors tradition while giving families, businesses and visitors something to look forward to each year to come.”

For many in attendance, the message was clear—as Nevada looks toward future growth, maintaining and strengthening its mining industry remains essential.

Mining has long been a cornerstone of the state’s economy, and speakers emphasized its continued importance not only locally but also globally. Nevada plays a critical role in mineral production, supplying materials that are increasingly vital to industries ranging from manufacturing to renewable energy.

“We’re the leading producers of gold in the United States,” said Garrett Wake, the Deputy Administrator at the Nevada Division of Minerals. Wake added that Nevada is also a notable producer of silver, copper, and lithium.

Leaders stressed that the success of mining, alongside other industries, depends heavily on infrastructure. That includes transportation networks, regional connectivity, and, increasingly, the role of rural airports.

During the summit, Corey Jenkins, the secretary of the Nevada Aviation Association and airport manager for the Carson City Airport, highlighted how Nevada’s network of more than 50 public-use airports can serve as powerful economic tools, particularly in rural communities. While often viewed as limited to passenger travel or private aviation, these airports are increasingly being used to attract and support business development.

“Many people see their local airport as a playground for rich people,” Jenkins said, “but it’s also, more importantly, this business tool. And this business tool should be the primary focus of what aviation is and what it can be to the community.”

In Carson City, for example, an airport-adjacent industrial park has helped draw manufacturing companies that rely on fast, flexible transportation. Businesses operating in specialized industries, including aerospace and advanced manufacturing, often depend on aviation access to move personnel, equipment, and products efficiently.

That model, Jenkins said, could be replicated in other parts of the state.

“Y’all are the industry, y’all are the sponsors, and y’all are the beneficiaries of your communities having these airports.”

The connection between infrastructure and economic development extends beyond aviation, and for many northern Nevada residents, the most immediate concern isn’t in the air, but on the ground.

Traffic congestion in and around the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center and USA Parkway has become a growing challenge as development in Storey County continues to expand. During the summit, the Regional Transportation Commission executive director, Bill Thomas, outlined ongoing and future efforts to address those pressures.

He noted that responsibility for roadway development is shared among local, regional, and state entities, requiring coordination across multiple jurisdictions. Planned improvements include continued expansion of roadway capacity, traffic flow enhancements, and long-term planning to accommodate increasing industrial and commuter demand.

The goal, Thomas said, is for the Nevada Department of Transportation to keep pace with growth while maintaining safe and reliable access to one of the region’s most important economic hubs.

“NDOT concluded the wisest thing to do was to invest in widening Interstate 80 from four to six lanes,” Thomas said. “You can imagine, those of you who’ve driven through that canyon, it’s a real challenge. You have a river, you have a railroad track, and you have mountains. It is supposed to start next year, 2027, and they’re planning for it to be done in 2031.”

Reliable transportation routes, access to industrial land, and coordination between local governments all play a role in determining whether a project succeeds.

Summit discussions also pointed to the importance of long-term planning, including the role of federal funding in making many of these projects possible.

A’Keia Sanders, Director of the Governor's Office of Federal Assistance, spoke about ongoing efforts to identify grant opportunities and help local communities navigate the application process, noting that securing funding often requires coordination across multiple agencies and long-term planning.

Sanders said those efforts are critical in helping rural communities compete for limited resources while addressing infrastructure and economic development needs.

“There are resources at the state,” Sanders stated. “Our office is completely free. We work very closely with WNDD. Whatever money we can bring into the state of Nevada is really important.”

Through its regional economic development strategy, the Western Nevada Development District works with state and local government entities to identify both strengths and challenges across the region.

As Nevada continues to attract new industries, many at the summit emphasized that growth should not come at the expense of existing economic drivers.

Instead, the focus remains on building upon what is already working and ensuring that mining, infrastructure, and emerging industries continue to grow together.

Next week: A closer look at data center development and what it means for communities across northern Nevada.

Cacioppo outlined his main priorities as improving communication, transparency, and efficiency. He emphasized the importance of balancing Nevada’s limited water resources among competing uses. “We’re trying to make sure we’re communicating better, being more transparent, and working through applications as efficiently as possible,” Cacioppo said.

He also outlined efforts to improve how the division operates, including  digitizing records and modernizing outdated systems. The division is developing an application tracking system that will first be used internally, then made available to the public, so applicants and stakeholders can use it as a tool to follow the status of requests Additional efforts include strengthening staff training and mentorship to build experience, as well as reviewing applications earlier to identify complex cases and reduce delays. He noted that focusing on “ready for action” applications will help move simpler cases through the system more quickly.

Cacioppo provided an update on challenges within the department, including staffing shortages and a significant backlog of applications. The office has 115 employees when fully staffed, and there are currently 15 vacant positions. He said the division has also seen a drop in overall experience levels, noting that in the past many staff had years of experience, while newer employees are still building that same level of expertise. Cacioppo added that he is working to bring in additional support to strengthen the department, including bringing in previous state engineer Jason King. 

Additionally, the division is processing roughly 1,000 applications each year, while also managing a backlog of over 2,000 pending applications. Of those, roughly half are considered complex cases involving protests or legal challenges. Cacioppo said about 30% of applications are completed within six months, another 30% within a year, while others can take one to two years or longer to resolve.

Board members also provided input following Cacioppo’s update. Jeff Fontaine pointed to gaps early in the application process, while Norman Frey suggested extending timelines for applicants. Brian Gale noted the high number of extension requests, and Commissioner Perez said clearer communication and a public tracking system would help applicants and local governments better understand project status.

Cacioppo said he is still settling into the role and looks forward to addressing the challenges ahead. “Getting the opportunity to come to work for the Division of Water Resources was quite an honor,” he said.

Sarah Levy, who organized the protest, said Trotter’s recent decision to release a woman arrested on March 26, charged with 29 felony counts of alleged promotion and distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) without bail, was the breaking point, noting, “It has become a pattern, and so this was sort of the final straw.” She explained that she thought the protest “would give people an outlet or tool to practice their constitutional right and to send a message.”

Levy also said that “remaining silent would just be approving of his behaviors.” She added, “I consider that anybody who is being charged with a sexual crime against a child that in and of itself is a threat,” later noting that “children are the most vulnerable.”

Protesters attending the demonstration were asked what they hoped to achieve and what they hoped that the spectators, courts, and county could learn and take away from the protest.

Protester Tonya Freeman, who was also a 2022 candidate for County Commission, said, “To get Trotter out of office or get him aligned with what the law actually says. We need to protect children from predators, so he needs to stop this.”

Another resident, Mr. Parrish, stated, “Children are our most precious commodity, and for judges to allow them to be harmed in any way and then not punish the people that did it, there’s something not quite right about that.”

Eric Weber, another Fallon resident, said, “I’m just hoping that we can convince Judge Trotter to stop releasing people without bail that are repeat offenders. Especially with child predators.” He added, “If enough people come out here, they're going to learn that this is not something the community is going to let slide.”

Longtime Fallon resident Leonore Proctor said, “We can’t really change what the judge is doing, because of the Valdez-Jimenez v. Eighth Judicial District Court case in 2020, but the judges have discretion and he could have made his decision, and if he really doesn’t think he can, then we have to change that law. If anything, we want people to know what the law is and that it has to be fixed.” Proctor added, “They will notice that people care, and that we are watching them.”

Brandon and Michelle Cox explained that they believe Trotter has the right to hold these predators. They asked, “Why doesn’t he think they are a threat to the community? And why is he letting them go?” Michelle added, “I hope they learn that we are not okay with it.”

Matthew Winterhawk, who is running for governor in the upcoming election, came from Las Vegas for the protest. During the event, he took turns at the megaphone, encouraging passersby to protect Nevada’s children from predators.

He said that public protest is a form of civic engagement, saying “lawfare activism is a great part of it.” He noted that rural demonstrations carry particular weight, saying, “When your rurals are doing this, there's [something] vastly wrong and needs to be looked at from a leadership angle.”

When asked how he heard about the event, he said he was frequently in Fallon. “You call, you get me,” he added, “If a town calls and asks for me, I show up.” He added, “I run a grassroots campaign,” he said, noting that he was the only person running his campaign and that he focuses on direct accessibility across Nevada’s 17 counties.

As a side note, after being asked what he would say to someone who wants to run as a young governor, Winterhawk encouraged civic education and participation, urging younger generations to “learn your history, learn your paperwork, and know your rights.”

The demonstration lasted nearly three hours, with some protesters still at the megaphone at 5 p.m.

See last week’s article, “The Great Debate: Public Safety vs. Rules on Bail and OR Releases,” for Judge Trotter’s response to growing concerns about no-bail releases.

The Nevada Seismology Lab (NSL) at the University of Nevada, Reno, also reported the preliminary magnitude 5.5, with other sources indicating a magnitude of 5.7. Early magnitudes are automated estimates, and they often shift as more seismic stations report in and analysts refine the calculations

Initial reports suggest the quake was widely felt near the epicenter, though no significant damage is expected. Minor impacts, such as items falling from shelves or isolated glass breakage, may have occurred.

Communities closest to the reported epicenter, including Silver Springs, Fallon, and Fernley, likely experienced light shaking. Farther out, weaker movement may have been noticed in Sparks, Spanish Springs, Sun Valley, and Reno.

Updates are expected as monitoring agencies refine their assessments and gather additional reports from the region.

NSL reported multiple earthquakes ranging in magnitude from 2.8 to 5.4, less than 21 miles from Fallon on April 13, all within a 15-minute period, including:        

• 2.8m at 6:48 p.m., 1.2 miles southwest (SW) of Fallon
• 2.6m at 6:50 p.m., 17.7 miles SW of Fallon
• 2.1m at 6:48 p.m., 19.4 miles SW of Fallon
• 2.8m at 6:44 p.m., 17.8 miles SW of Fallon
• 2.5 at 6:42 p.m., 21.9 miles SSE of Fernley
• 2.6 at 6:39 p.m., 19.6 miles SW of Fallon
• 3.1 at 6:39 p.m., 21 miles SW of Fallon
• 3.2m at 6:36 p.m., 18 miles SW of Fallon
• 3.0 m at 6:35 p.m., 16.5 miles SW of Fallon
• 3.0m at 6:35 p.m., 19.7 miles SW of Fallon
• 3.7m at 6:34 p.m., 20.2 miles SW of Fallon
• 3.2 at 6:34 p.m., 14 miles SW of Fallon
• 2.9m at 6:33 p.m., 18.9 miles SW of Fallon
• 3.6m at 6:32 p.m., 67.7 miles SW of Fallon
• 5.5m at 6:29 p.m., 15.7 miles SW of Fallon

SNL reported an additional 26 earthquakes in the area by 7:53 p.m., SW, WSE, and northeast of Yerington, with information changing in real time.

Earthquake Tack indicated as many as 25 quakes occurred in the Fallon, Fernley, Lovelock, Silver Springs, and surrounding areas in the 24 hours preceding the larger 5.5m earthquake.

Farther out, weaker movement may have been noticed in Carson City, Sparks, Spanish Springs, Sun Valley, and Reno.