As another year of local news comes to a close, a look back at the most-read stories of 2025 reveals what mattered most to readers across Pershing County: jobs, fuel, schools, sports, public accountability, and the long-term future of a rural community navigating big change.
Mining and the local economy topped the list early in the year. In April, readers closely followed news from the Florida Canyon Mine, just outside Imlay, after new owner Integra Resources reported a strong first year of operation. In just the final two months of 2024, Integra produced nearly 11,000 ounces of gold—worth about $30 million—and posted a $9.5 million profit for the quarter. The story resonated locally, highlighting mining’s continued role in Pershing County’s economy and the potential for long-term jobs, investment, and responsible land stewardship as Integra plans future projects in Nevada and Idaho.
Energy security emerged as another major concern. A widely read state-level story focused on Governor Joe Lombardo’s push to protect Nevada’s fuel supply as major California refineries prepare to shut down. With Nevada dependent on California pipelines for most gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, rural communities are particularly vulnerable to shortages and price spikes. The announcement of a Fuel Resiliency Subcommittee, long urged by State Senator Robin Titus, drew strong interest from readers who understand what it means to live “at the end of the pipe.”
Closer to home, education coverage consistently drew high traffic. Honor rolls, student-of-the-month features, and stories highlighting academic achievement were among the most-read. Deeper reporting on the “Portrait of a Learner” initiative, launched by Pershing County Middle School Principal Shea Murphy, also drew attention. The community-driven effort aims to define what graduates should know and be able to do—not just academically, but as citizens, workers, and neighbors. Parents, educators, business owners, and tribal representatives all weighed in, signaling broad interest in shaping the future of local schools.
High school sports once again proved a community rallying point. Coverage of the Pershing County Mustangs dominated fall readership, beginning with their return to Eastern Oregon University’s football camp—where they went undefeated in the Mountie Bowl—and peaking during an unforgettable playoff run. The Mustangs’ dramatic semifinal win over Lincoln County and their trip to the Class 2A State Championship at Allegiant Stadium drew some of the year’s highest engagement, a reminder that in Pershing County, Friday night lights still bring the community together.
Government accountability and legal developments also captured attention. Readers followed the appointment of Bryce Shields and the interim appointment of Jack Bullock to the district attorney’s office. But the most closely watched legal story involved Steve Kromer and the collapsed Uprise Fiber broadband project. Criminal charges filed by the Nevada Attorney General, missing public funds, and conflicting claims about the Lovelock fiber project drew sustained readership. The case resonated far beyond Pershing County, raising broader questions about how state and federal infrastructure dollars are managed in rural America.
Housing and affordability rounded out the year’s top coverage. A July county commission meeting approving a bond cap transfer to support Nevada Rural Housing Authority programs drew strong interest, particularly as families across rural Nevada face rising housing costs. Readers closely followed programs that have already helped dozens of rural families buy homes and access rental assistance.
Taken together, the year’s most-read stories tell a clear story: Pershing County readers care deeply about economic stability, local control, public transparency, strong schools, and their kids. They want reporting that explains complex issues plainly, celebrates success honestly, and asks tough questions when public trust is on the line.
In short, 2025 proved that local news still matters—especially when it stays rooted right here at home.
Comment
Comments