At the beginning of the ceremony, Principal Jonathan Reynolds explained the significance of the white Stoles of Gratitude worn by graduates.

Color-coded T-shirts helped the adults keep track of their athletes. First through fifth graders wore orange, red, green, blue and purple shirts, respectively.

Third grade teacher, Laura Duncan coordinated the event. Families, teachers, volunteers, athletes and mild weather combined to make it a meet to remember. To make it even more festive, school let out for the summer the next day. 

The event began on Friday with an ice cream social at Temptations Restaurant. It continued through Sunday with Pershing County DARE breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday, raffle drawings, a poker walk, a cake walk, a sock hop and an awards presentation.

Along with the vehicles on display, the event offered plenty of opportunities for community connections and small-town fun.

First held in 2007, Street Fever remains one of Lovelock’s longest-running annual events. Favorable weather and the shade of Courthouse Park’s mature trees created a relaxed atmosphere for the weekend festivities.

Blondheim will be part of the Mighty Lizards’ inaugural season as the program begins competition in the NJCAA Western circuit.

Gonzalez said the current form does not adequately document how employees meet or exceed expectations. She said she wants the new process to include measurable standards and six-month feedback, giving employees clearer direction and supervisors better documentation. Gonzalez also reported that the county met with representatives of the Dunlieh Group, which develops data centers and the energy systems that power them. She said the discussion included electrical infrastructure, community investment and potential workforce training partnerships with local schools. The project is expected to break ground in December 2027 and take about three years to complete.

Road Superintendent Kevin Machado reported that crews repaired erosion issues near Carpenter and Peterson, bladed several county roads and addressed drainage concerns in Grass Valley by cleaning one culvert and installing another. Commissioners also approved going out to bid, pending district attorney review, for chip sealing 5.2 miles of Coal Canyon Road and one mile of Holstrom Road. The board also approved seeking bids for mag chloride work on county roads in Imlay, Grass Valley and Lovelock, also subject to district attorney approval. Those road items were listed under the Road Department section of the agenda. Machado also told commissioners that once a third landfill employee is hired in July, he would like to schedule that position Monday through Friday while the current employees continue Wednesday through Sunday.

That would allow the landfill to operate seven days a week without additional staffing costs. Commissioners supported the idea and asked that updated hours and high-wind closure rules be clearly posted for the public. Buildings and Grounds Director Bryan Ruddell said his department has been completing fire marshal inspection orders, repairing sprinklers and addressing vandalism, broken glass and littering at the courthouse park. He said Buildings and Grounds is working with law enforcement and IT to use available footage to identify those responsible. Ruddell also reported that the Unionville caretaker has stepped down, which will add mowing and watering duties to his crew until the position is filled.

Commissioners approved salary resolutions for E. Valtierra and D. Hammond in the Buildings and Grounds Department. They also discussed eventually shifting some personnel approvals to the county manager once the appropriate policy changes are in place. Library Director Kameron Mitchell reported that the library’s new seed library is now operating after a joint program with 4-H and UNR Extension. He said the final story hour of the season had more than 150 participants over the full session, and summer reading and family game night programs are ready to begin. The Library Board also officially approved the logo the library has been using.

Fire and ambulance reports included 11 ambulance calls since the prior meeting, two Lovelock fire responses and one rescue response. Lovelock Fire Chief Rich Wagner reported that the department’s rescue truck is back and nearly ready for service. Imlay Fire reported 10 calls, including eight medical calls, one vehicle fire and one brush fire. Commissioners accepted the resignation of Emergency Operations Manager Sean Burke, effective June 15, and approved advertising and hiring for the position. The resignation and hiring authorization were both listed as possible action items on the agenda.

The board also approved Amendment No. 2 to an interlocal contract with the state for medical care of indigent persons under the Medicaid County Match Program. The maximum amount increased from $1,190,017 to $2,026,185.74. Clerk-Treasurer Lacey Donaldson said the county likely has little choice in the matter, noting the increase is tied to rising medical costs. At Derby Field Airport, commissioners approved an 18-year lease extension with the Federal Aviation Administration for navigational aid facilities and weather equipment at the airport. They also approved an agreement with J-U-B for services related to submission of an ALP-FAA grant application.

Commissioners also approved a contract with High Desert Engineering to serve as county surveyor on an as-needed basis for parcel maps, boundary line adjustments, divisions of land into large parcels, reversions of acreage and related work. The county had been looking for a replacement after its current acting county surveyor indicated he would be stepping away. The board approved a $25,000 bid from Fresh Start Painting LLC of Fernley for exterior paint preparation work on the main house at the Marzen House Museum, subject to district attorney approval. Commissioners noted the historic nature of the building and the need to ensure the work meets required preservation standards. The museum paint bid was listed as a possible-action item on the agenda.

For those of you new here, the quick version of this Local, Community News machine goes like this: In January of 2019, with the help of a dear friend who hated being recognized, I started The Fallon Post as an online news source for Fallon, with no intention of ever printing a newspaper. After much peer pressure, we agreed to one Special Section, which was successful enough that we printed one a month until the pandemic hit and the whole world shut down. Luckily, people turned to us for reliable news they could trust in what had become an avalanche of questionable information.

We figured out how to start printing in November of 2020 and added a weekly print edition to our daily online news. In October of 2024, we added the Fernley Reporter to our print editions, and in December that year, The Pershing Post, both online and print. Last summer, we had the chance to acquire RANGE magazine, a national, quarterly magazine focusing on the American West and the ranching and farming industries that sustain rural communities on this side of the Mississippi. And then this spring we were lucky enough to buy the Winnemucca Publishing papers – the weekly Great Basin Sun and the monthly Nevada Rancher magazine.

With some fancy footwork, the Winnemucca crew stepped up to the task, and we immediately split the Great Basin Sun back into the historical community papers – bringing back the Battle Mountain Bugle, the Humboldt Sun, and turning the Pershing Post into the Lovelock Review Miner as local editions of the GBS.

And now here we are – in great need of streamlined processes, organized efficiencies, and four uninterrupted hours of sleep. So, while we assess our resources, make talent adjustments, expand coverage, and pull it all together, we’ll still be right here… Keeping you posted. Rach

Oscar gets along well with other dogs, cats, and even farm animals. The only exception is bunnies, which he prefers not to have around. He is housebroken, highly treat-motivated, and eager to please, making him a great candidate for a family looking for a loyal companion.

Those who have spent time with Oscar describe him as incredibly sweet and affectionate. Whether he is following you around the house, joining you for outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing by your side, Oscar is happiest when he is with his people.

Oscar is currently staying at the Lovelock Animal Shelter in Pershing County and is searching for a forever home. If you think Oscar might be the perfect addition to your family, reach out to the Lovelock Animal Shelter. Transportation can also be arranged to help Oscar get wherever he needs to go to find the home he deserves.

The library’s 2026 Summer Reading Program, “Unearth a Story,” is open to second- through fifth-graders and will be held Mondays from 1 to 2 p.m. beginning June 15 and running through July 20. Programs include painted rocks, fizzy dino eggs, dino dioramas, dino bone excavation, paper pulp painting and steppingstone mosaics.

Registration for the Summer Reading Program began May 4, and space is limited to 20 participants per session.

The library also is offering several programs for teens, including a Dungeons & Dragons program held the second Wednesday of each month. Sessions are scheduled for June 10, July 8 and Aug. 12, beginning at 3 p.m. Dice and character sheets will be provided.

For gamers, the library will host its second annual Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament on Saturday, June 27. The tournament for ages 10 to 17 will be held from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by an adult tournament for ages 18 and older from 11 a.m. to noon. Registration is required.

A second annual High Score Battle also will challenge players to compete for the highest Tetris score in Pershing County. The competition begins June 8 and runs through Aug. 21.

Family Game Nights will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on June 12 and 26, July 10 and 24, and Aug. 14 and 28. Games will include Catan, Hues and Cues, Azul, Telestrations, Wheel of Fortune, murder mysteries, Pandemic and more.

Magic: The Gathering programs are also planned throughout the summer. Teen sessions will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. June 16, July 21 and Aug. 18. Adult sessions will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15.

In July, the library will host a Book Bedazzling B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Book) party for ages 13 and older. Participants are invited to bring a favorite paperback to decorate, with the library providing the supplies. Sessions will be held July 16 and 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Groups are limited to 12 people each, and advance registration is requested. Those who register ahead of time may also have a book stand 3D printed for $1 to display their finished book.

Other summer activities include free movies on Fridays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., 3D printer demonstrations Wednesday through Saturday, a bookmark design contest beginning Aug. 1, and story hour with Ms. Mandy for ages 3 to 5 on Aug. 25 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. The library also will host a story hour with Ms. Blanca for all ages Aug. 28 from 10 to 11 a.m.

The library is located at 1125 Central Ave. in Lovelock. Regular hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The library is closed Sundays and holidays.

For more information or to register for programs, call 775-273-2216, email library@pershingcountynv.gov or visit the library’s Facebook page at facebook.com/PershingCoLibrary.

The summer programs were funded in part by Friends of the Pershing County Library and a federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the Nevada State Library and Archives.

The Humboldt County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously May 18 to move forward with a public hearing on a proposed ordinance temporarily halting approval and permitting of data center facilities in unincorporated portions of the county. The move comes amid growing regional concern over how rapidly expanding technology infrastructure could affect water supplies and utilities across Northern Nevada.

Commissioners said the county’s current land-use regulations, many of which date back to a 2012 master plan, were written before modern hyperscale data centers became a major development issue.

“The data center issue has become a very hot issue,” Commission Chairman Ron Cerri said during the meeting. “We don’t have any ordinances on the books right now that allow or disallow and our land use plans go way back to when there were no data centers.”

According to county staff, Humboldt County has already seen interest from companies exploring possible projects because of the region’s available land, energy access and fiber infrastructure. Board documents note that data centers can create “unique and substantial demands” on water, electrical systems and public infrastructure.

Those concerns drew a packed crowd of residents to the commission meeting, with most public commenters supporting the temporary pause and urging county leaders to proceed cautiously.

Water quickly became the dominant issue.

Several residents warned that Northern Nevada’s drought conditions and already-stressed groundwater systems may not be able to support facilities that can require millions of gallons of water per day for cooling.

“We are in a desert,” former commissioner Tom Hoss told the board. “Every one of our basins up here is already allotted.”

Others tied the issue directly to the larger Humboldt River Basin and the Humboldt Sink, arguing that water impacts in one county can eventually affect neighboring communities and downstream users throughout the Great Basin.

Manny Becerra, a Reno Planning Commissioner who said he co-founded the Truckee Meadows Data Center Policy Consortium, told Humboldt officials that regional cooperation will be important as Northern Nevada deals with increasing development pressure.

Becerra praised the county for slowing the process down before adopting regulations.

“Companies are showing up,” he said. “The county has no specific code for this land use … and the responsible move is to pause then swiftly steady and set sensible standards before approvals land on real ground for this consequential land use.”

He noted that the City of Reno recently spent roughly 16 months grappling with similar issues after major data center proposals arrived there.

Commissioner Ken Tipton said Humboldt County officials began paying closer attention after hearing concerns from other counties and statewide discussions surrounding data center growth.

“Northern Nevada as a whole is No. 3 in the nation as far as where data centers are looking at, No. 5 in the world,” Tipton said.

Public commenters also raised concerns about rising electricity demand, industrial noise, tax incentives and conversion of agricultural land.

David Peterson, a retiree who said he lives on a fixed income, questioned whether local residents would ultimately benefit from the projects long term.

“These data centers, they don't employ anybody once the building's built,” Peterson said. “It's an autonomous structure.”

While modern data centers can generate significant construction activity, operational staffing is often relatively small compared to traditional industrial facilities, with many relying heavily on automation and remote monitoring systems.

Other residents worried about changes to the rural landscape, particularly if large-scale solar infrastructure accompanies future projects.

Tori Apperson, who said she previously followed similar debates in neighboring Pershing County, also warned about noise associated with industrial cooling systems.

“If you ever stood a mile away from one and still be able to hear it, nobody will be sleeping through this stuff,” she said. “It's horrible.”

Much of the discussion focused not only on whether data centers should come to rural Nevada, but how counties can regulate them without exposing taxpayers to lawsuits.

Chief Deputy District Attorney Wendy Maddox explained that counties cannot simply prohibit lawful land uses outright without risking legal challenges tied to property rights.

“This is a temporary moratorium,” Maddox said. “We can't just right now ban data centers because it is a taking.”

Instead, she said the moratorium allows the county time to gather scientific data, study impacts and establish legally defensible standards governing issues such as water use, power demand, agricultural compatibility and neighborhood impacts.

County employee Michelle Cook, speaking as a private citizen, urged commissioners to require developers to fund independent engineering and hydrology reviews rather than placing those costs on taxpayers.

“If we let staff draft these rules without independent, scientifically verifiable data, we are handing developers a roadmap to overturn our laws,” Cook said.

Not everyone supported the moratorium.

Eduardo Martinez, speaking on behalf of Paradise Valley Development Group, argued that an indefinite pause could cost Northern Nevada economic opportunities tied to the rapidly expanding technology sector.

Martinez said the proposed project would rely on closed-loop cooling systems designed to reduce water consumption and would operate independently from NV Energy’s electrical grid.

He urged county leaders to adopt clear standards and timelines rather than pursuing a permanent ban.

“Humboldt County can protect its resources” while still evaluating responsible economic development, Martinez said.

Commissioners stressed repeatedly that the proposed moratorium is intended to slow the process down long enough to ensure future regulations are legally defensible and based on solid research.

“We need to tap the brakes on this so that we can do our research,” Cerri said.

The proposed ordinance would remain in effect until Humboldt County updates its master plan or adopts new zoning regulations specifically addressing data center development. County officials estimated the broader master plan update process could take roughly 18 months.

Library Director Kameron Mitchell said the logo has been used informally for some time, but the board wanted to formally approve it before using it on future merchandise and promotional materials. Mitchell also explained the research he conducted on font licensing and copyright permissions for the design.

The board approved the logo unanimously.

Beyond the logo discussion, Mitchell highlighted several recent activities and programs taking place at the library.

Among them was a joint Story Hour event with the UNR Extension Office and 4-H program. Children participating in the event created “seed bombs,” small balls of dirt and seeds designed for planting.

The library also recently hosted a seed swap in partnership with the UNR Extension Office, where community members donated and exchanged seeds for home gardens. Mitchell said the library plans to continue the event next year, possibly earlier in the spring.

Story Hour, coordinated by library staff member Mandy Springer, remains one of the library’s most popular programs. Mitchell reported that more than 150 participants attended Story Hour programs this past year, about 50 percent more than the previous year. Board members responded enthusiastically to the report.

Mitchell also updated the board on coursework he is completing through a library science program. He said he hopes to complete the program in approximately one year.

Mitchell is preparing succession-planning documents requested by Pershing County Manager Kristen Gonzalez. He said the documents are intended to help departments continue operating smoothly should staffing changes occur unexpectedly. He noted that succession planning was also a major topic at a recent library directors summit in Incline Village, which he attended earlier this month.

Other upcoming projects include tile work near the library entrance and converting a part-time position to a full-time role later this year to support programming and daily operations.

Most summer programming supplies have arrived, Mitchell said, and a summer activity calendar is currently available on the library’s Facebook page. The calendar will also be included in the community summer booklet being prepared by Marti Nolan. It will be available free of charge at the library and at locations throughout Lovelock.

As the library approaches its 100th anniversary in 2030, historical records offer a glimpse into its beginnings. A June 20, 1930, article in the Lovelock Review-Miner announced the opening of Pershing County’s first public library in a downstairs room of the Pershing County Courthouse. Organized by the Lovelock Lions Club, the library opened with 240 books available free of charge to local readers.

The library’s first librarian was Crofton Uniacke, a prominent figure in early Pershing County history. Uniacke served in the Nevada Assembly and introduced the 1919 legislation that incorporated Lovelock as a city and created Pershing County. He later served as the county’s first juvenile officer and helped oversee Lovelock’s first public library.

The 1930 newspaper article encouraged residents to “make the best possible use of the books which have been assembled.” Nearly 100 years later, library patrons are still doing just that.

The next Pershing County Library Board meeting is scheduled for July 25 at 10 a.m.

Applicants must live in Pershing County and be qualified electors of Pershing County. The position is an elected office, and the appointment will run through Dec. 31, 2026.

Letters of interest should be submitted to the Pershing County Clerk, P.O. Box 820, 398 Main St., Lovelock, NV 89419. Letters must be received no later than 5 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2026.

For more information, contact the Pershing County Clerk’s Office at 775-273-2208.

It’s high time we update the “How I Built a Rural Newspaper Empire” journal with a report on the joining in of the Winnemucca Publishing papers into the Fallon Media Co. papers.

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 and one downstairs. They aren’t much to write home about, but they’re serviceable. It’s the office, however, that we love! If you haven’t heard, we got to move 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

The pair recently began transforming a power box in front of Nanny Joe’s into a piece of public art celebrating Lovelock’s history, landmarks and community identity. Although the project may resemble some of the public art soon to appear around town, Padgett emphasized that it is not connected to the upcoming Music and Murals event.

“I have been wanting to do this power box for years and finally got the courage to ask the correct people to be able to do it,” Padgett said.

After receiving permission from NV Energy, which owns the box, and confirming with City Hall that no permits were required, Padgett purchased the materials herself and began work on the project.

The side facing the street features a rearing Mustang set against a colorful sky and mountain backdrop. The other sides incorporate additional Lovelock-themed images, including the Lovelock Cave, Lovers Locks and the Pershing County Courthouse.

“The Mustang is for the school spirit of our Mustangs,” Padgett said. “The Indian and the horse with the Lovelock Cave in the background is just that. I am also doing the Lovers Locks because everything is ‘Lock Your Love in Lovelock.’ The side my daughter is doing will feature a close-up of the courthouse, with all those amazing flowers she is adding around it. I just wanted to do kind of everything Lovelock on the box tastefully.”

Padgett said art has always been part of her life.

“I have always been artistic, grew up with it, took high school and college classes, and my sister is also a mural artist, so it kind of runs in the family, I guess,” she said.

While the project is separate from Music and Murals, it comes as Lovelock prepares to participate in the regional arts event for the first time. The event, which brings artists, musicians and community members together in towns along the Interstate 80 corridor, is scheduled for June 18–21. Public activities, including live music and mural painting, will take place June 19 and 20, with an invitation-only opening on June 18 and a wrap-up planned for June 21.

For Padgett and Beahm, however, the project is simply a labor of love and an opportunity to add a personal artistic touch to downtown Lovelock while highlighting some of the community’s most recognizable symbols.

LaReina continues to be an active part of MYT and is known for bringing a great attitude to the team. Organizers said she has shown a willingness to help make a difference in the community while continuing to grow as both a leader and a teammate.

MYT leaders said they are proud of LaReina’s hard work and the example she sets for others. “Keep shining, LaReina,” the group shared in announcing the honor.

MYT recognizes members each month for their leadership, growth and commitment to making a positive impact.

Pool director Marti Nolan said the guards received their instruction in Lovelock. They spent mornings in class at the firehouse and afternoons at the pool practicing their skills. Since its opening, the pool has employed over 400 lifeguards. For many, it was their first job.

The pool has also hosted over 4,000 swim team members in competitive races. Chelsea Montes will coach the Lovelock swim team this summer.

Evenson, a longtime Nevada attorney, is seeking the office after his primary opponent, Stephen Girardot, dropped out of the race and endorsed him. Evenson said he is grateful for the support he has received so far and is looking ahead to the general election.

“I think it’s important that the people in Lovelock have a district attorney that is committed to the community,” Evenson said. “I think that I am ready to change my own practice and lifestyle, and I think those two things have created an opportunity that works for me and hopefully works out for the voters of Pershing County.”

Evenson said he has spent years building a private legal practice based almost entirely on referrals and trust.

“I don’t even have a website, and I get new clients every day,” he said. “Those referrals and the trust that is placed in me by people throughout Nevada is amazing. But I have done it for a very long time, and I’m ready to make a change and excited for the opportunity to be district attorney.”

The Pershing County district attorney’s office handles both criminal prosecution and civil legal work for local government. Evenson said he understands the job is not limited to the courtroom. The office also advises county officials on issues such as zoning and planning, human resources, utilities, water and other matters that come before county government.

“You hope that in a town and a county the size of Lovelock that the civil work is not overwhelming,” Evenson said. “There are obviously going to be zoning and planning issues. There’s going to be human resource issues. There’s going to be issues with utilities and issues with water and these things that come across the desk.”

He said he believes the work can be managed with the right structure and staff.

“Hopefully, by having a quality deputy district attorney in the office, I will be able to balance and do all the work that needs to get done,” he said. “I don’t see anything there that I haven’t worked with or that makes me scared.”

Evenson said one of the major issues facing Pershing County is economic development, particularly how the county prepares for growth while protecting the rural quality of life residents value.

“Economic development is always an issue,” he said. “Making sure that the zoning and planning codes are ready for that. Making sure that whatever vision the county commissioners and the City Council have for what they want the communities to look like is properly implemented under the zoning and planning regulations we have.”

He said the county should be thoughtful about what kind of growth fits Lovelock and Pershing County.

“I think it’s to make sure that we preserve our rural quality of life and the amazing benefits that we have from living in Lovelock versus being stagnant and not growing,” Evenson said. “Also, what that growth means and what that looks like.”

He said some types of development may not be the right fit, while others are more aligned with the community’s future.

“Is it data centers? Probably not. Is it salmon farms? Probably not,” he said. “Is it housing and manufacturing and ranching and farming? Those things all sound better.”

The question, Evenson said, is how local government helps make appropriate growth possible.

“What’s the mechanics of getting those things to happen?” he said. “And how can I, as district attorney, help those along?”

Evenson said he appreciates the support that has already been communicated to him by residents and hopes to earn that support through both the primary and general election cycles.

“I appreciate the overwhelming support that has been communicated to me so far by so many people,” he said. “I am hopeful that I have their support through the primary and the general.”

With his primary opponent no longer actively seeking the office and having endorsed him, Evenson said he is now focused on the next stage of the campaign.

“I am thankful that Mr. Gerardo, in essence, dropped out of the race and endorsed me,” Evenson said. “My primary opponent endorsed me, and I am looking forward to a robust general election cycle.”

Evenson will face the newly hired DA, Derrick Penney, who was hired to fill the position left vacant when former DA Bryce Sheilds was appointed to the 11th Judicial District Court position.

Applicants must live in Pershing County and be qualified electors of Pershing County. The position is an elected office, and the appointment will run through Dec. 31, 2026.

Letters of interest should be submitted to the Pershing County Clerk, P.O. Box 820, 398 Main St., Lovelock, NV 89419. Letters must be received no later than 5 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2026.

For more information, contact the Pershing County Clerk’s Office at 775-273-2208.

According to a notice issued by the Bureau of Water Pollution Control, the state is proposing to issue Permit NV0020311 for a five-year period for the Lovelock Wastewater Treatment Facility, located about a half-mile south of the city limits in Pershing County.

The facility serves approximately 2,200 residents within Lovelock city limits. Officials said the plant handles domestic wastewater only and does not receive industrial connections.

The treatment facility includes two sequencing batch reactors, a chlorine contact tank used to disinfect treated wastewater before discharge into the Lovelock Drain, an aerobic digester for sludge treatment and a lined biosolids polishing pond.

Written comments or objections regarding the proposed permit must be submitted or postmarked by 5 p.m. June 5 to the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection Bureau of Water Pollution Control in Carson City.

Crim, the incumbent commissioner, is seeking another term on the board. Cerini and Gallagher are challenging for the seat. All three candidates are longtime Pershing County residents with backgrounds in education, public service and community involvement.

Gallagher opened by describing his family’s roots in Lovelock, where he came as a child in the early 1970s and later graduated from high school. After earning degrees in chemical engineering and biological engineering, he worked in mining in Montana before returning to Lovelock around 2000. He later moved into education, working as a teacher and then principal at the adult high school at Lovelock Correctional Center before retiring in 2023. Gallagher also noted prior public service experience as a city councilman and mayor in a small Montana town similar to Lovelock. He said he has reached a point in life where he wants to serve again “at a greater level.”

Cerini said he grew up in Pershing County, raised four children and has been married for nearly 30 years. After graduating from Eastern Oregon, he returned to Lovelock and later earned his teaching credential while working weekends toward that goal. He taught and coached in the Pershing County School District for more than 20 years. Cerini said he is not claiming to be the most qualified candidate, but said he is willing to learn, be transparent and represent the county without “fence riding.”

Crim told the audience he moved to Lovelock in 1984, graduated from Pershing County High School and raised three children who also graduated from local schools. He said he lives in Pershing County by choice and believes the commission has done good work, though more remains to be done. Crim said he has the heart, ambition and time to continue serving. During his current term, he said, he has represented the county on boards including NACO, POOL/PACT and the Navy expansion committee, and has supported raises for law enforcement and general staff, as well as the Solidus mining project in Spring Valley.

The first issue raised during the forum came from a lighter exchange about the sound system at the Pershing County Community Center, but the discussion quickly turned serious. Audience members and candidates acknowledged that the facility’s technology and capacity have become concerns, especially during major community events. One audience member said the building has struggled to handle large gatherings and pointed to past events that could not be held there because of size limitations.

Gallagher said he uses the community center regularly and is aware of the capacity issue. He suggested the county look at temporary solutions, such as tent structures for larger events, while also considering whether a larger facility may be needed in the future. Crim agreed that ideas have been discussed, but said they need community support and someone willing to push them forward.

When asked about the biggest challenge facing Pershing County, Cerini pointed to public safety and drugs. He said many residents have told him they no longer feel safe, and he believes the county has a serious drug problem that must be addressed. Cerini acknowledged he does not yet know all the ways a commissioner can influence those issues, but said the county has some responsibility through its law enforcement structure.

Crim identified housing as one of the county’s biggest challenges. He said Pershing County has workers who come into the county for jobs but live elsewhere because there is not enough housing available locally. That means wages earned in Pershing County are often spent in other communities. Crim said he does not know the full answer to the housing issue, but said the county needs more housing options if it wants people to live, work and spend money locally.

Gallagher also named housing as a concern, along with infrastructure and basic services. He said the county needs good water, sewer and public services in order to attract residents and support quality of life. He suggested the county may be able to look at development fees or other tools that could make housing development easier. Gallagher also said Pershing County’s schools are a strength and could help attract families, especially if the community continues supporting education and workforce development.

Recreation and public facilities also came up during the forum. An audience member asked about the lack of open recreational spaces, including basketball courts and restroom facilities at the strip park. Crim said some facilities are available through the city and county, but also said public facilities must be respected and maintained. Gallagher suggested restroom facilities at the far end of the strip park near the freeway interchange could improve service for visitors and make maintenance and security easier. Cerini said taxpayers help fund public institutions and said there should be broader discussion about making facilities more available for children and families.

Budget limits were another major theme. When asked how the county can meet community demands with a limited tax base, Gallagher said county leaders need to balance current needs with long-term planning. He pointed to property tax revenue increases tied to mining and other development but cautioned that the county should not assume those revenues will last forever. He said some additional revenue should be directed toward building replacement, equipment replacement and future needs.

Crim said the county’s tax base must grow if Pershing County is going to meet more of its needs. He said that growth can come through new businesses and new revenue sources, including mining. He described the Solidus project as a potential “win-win” because it could create jobs and increase the property tax base.

Cerini said the county needs steady growth, but he urged caution about what kinds of projects are welcomed. He specifically raised concerns about data centers, saying they could affect water and power resources and may not fit the community’s values or needs. He said he would be careful before making decisions that affect the entire county.

The candidates were also asked about their own community service. Cerini cited years of volunteer work with youth football, Little League baseball and other activities involving children. Crim said he has been a 4-H leader for more than 40 years and has volunteered with youth programs. Gallagher also pointed to past involvement in youth sports, including baseball, soccer and wrestling when his children were younger, and said he is glad to see local 4-H remain active.

Economic development closed out much of the discussion. Crim said growth should be controlled and manageable. He said Pershing County does not need to become Fernley or attract an employer with hundreds of workers before it has the housing and infrastructure to support that level of growth. Instead, he said he would like to see more small businesses, mom-and-pop operations and eventually small manufacturing employers with perhaps 20 to 30 workers.

Gallagher said Lovelock has natural constraints that limit growth, and that simply attracting more businesses does not guarantee more people will live in the community. He said the county should focus close to home on improving living conditions so growth can happen naturally. As the community grows, he said, additional services such as HVAC, electrical and automotive businesses may become more viable.

Cerini said many residents value Lovelock’s small-town way of life and do not want growth that overwhelms the community. He said the county is rooted in agriculture and must protect its water and power resources.

Crim ended with a call for unity, saying Pershing County residents should think of themselves as a family.

“You don’t have to like your family members,” Crim said. “You don’t have to get along with them. But we need to be a family.”

The video recording of the county commission portion of the evening can be viewed on YouTube at: Pershing Commission candidates at Lions Club candidates night

The primary election is June 9.

The event gave residents a chance to connect with health care providers and community organizations, gather information about local services and take part in activities throughout the day. Vitalant was also on site for those interested in signing up to donate blood.

Medevac 1 and QRV 419 attended the fair and thanked the tribe for the invitation, saying they appreciated the opportunity to be part of the community event and share information about their work. Pershing General Hospital also participated, calling the day a success and thanking the Lovelock Paiute Tribe for hosting.

Organizers said the event brought together a strong mix of vendors, resources and community support, with many already looking forward to next year’s health fair.

According to information released by the health district, officials are especially interested in hearing from people who do not currently have health insurance, as well as individuals who have insurance but still have trouble paying for doctor visits or medications.

Participants will be asked to take part in a phone conversation lasting about 30 minutes to discuss their experiences and opinions related to health care access in the area.

Those interested can call or text 775-237-8415 to schedule a time. Residents may also complete a short survey at forms.gle/rzcUhvVDXZJ3qnTd9.

Participants must provide feedback before June 19 and may receive a $25 gift card.

The coolest thing, though, is the Rabbitat.

I saw this amazing setup on some social media channel and decided to try it out so I could get the bunnies out of their individual cages in the bunny shed. It’s sort of embarrassing that I provide air conditioning and heat to the shed for the fancy bunny climate control, and I keep thinking there has got to be a better way.

Turns out, there is!

I got some cool fencing and put it up, one fence on the left of the shed and one on the right.

Then, I got the big black-and-yellow totes from my favorite hardware store and dug two holes in the ground on each side of the shed, two totes in the ground for the boy side and two in the ground for the girls.

Before I put them in the ground, I cut a big 6-inch hole toward the bottom of one side of the tub, ran a duct from the hole, and buried it so one end stuck out of the ground and the other dumped the rabbit into the bin buried in the ground.

That took a bit of fancy footwork and borrowing a really cool saw from a friend, but once that was all in place I put hay in the bottom of one of the tubs, dumped in a rabbit and put the lid on and before too long, up he popped, out the end of the duct buried in the ground.

It worked!

And they appear to love it. Last night I went out to lock the chickens up and all four boy bunnies were down in the burrows. This morning when I opened the chicken shed all four boys were out grooming themselves and hopping around.

Today the girl side is getting done and tonight I’ll move the girls into their side and see if they’re as smart as the boys and able to figure out the duct outlet.

I’m thrilled that they don’t have to live in cages anymore and excited to see if they’re able to regulate their temperature using the burrows.

So while we innovate the fiber operation and have all this fun with tools, we’ll still be right here…

…Keeping you posted.

Rach

Watch all the candidates introduce themselves and take questions from the audience on our youtube channel at: @FallonMediaCo.

During public comment, Michelle Hammond-Allen of Solidus Resources congratulated youth who participated in the livestock sale and gave updates on mining activity, including equipment mobilization and plans to open a local office in Lovelock. Elias Hendrix and Ty Harweger from Rose Acre Farms also introduced plans for a proposed pullet housing operation in Grass Valley and discussed the company’s history and interest in expanding into Nevada.

Representatives from A&H Insurance presented the county’s proposed 2026-27 health insurance renewal, which includes a 4% increase for medical coverage after negotiations lowered the original proposed increase from nearly 10%. Dental and vision rates will remain unchanged.

During the discussion, insurance representative Tracy Neely also encouraged the county to begin exploring partially self-funded insurance options, noting that Pershing County had paid approximately $2.1 million in premiums over two years while Anthem paid out about $1.5 million in claims. Commissioners expressed interest in learning more about potential long-term savings through self-funding models.

During the Derby Field Airport update, Neil Gallagher reported airport traffic remains about 40% lower than last year, though fuel sales have stayed steady. Additional discussion centered around future development opportunities around the airport and statewide efforts to transition aviation fuel from leaded to unleaded gasoline while coordinating airport projects to reduce costs.

IT Director Amanda Burrows discussed server replacements, internet upgrades, and the county’s transition to Verizon desk phones. She also reported a recent cybersecurity threat that required a full wipe and reset of an infected computer after a virus bypassed protection.

County Manager Kristen Gonzalez updated commissioners on delayed city council agreement negotiations, economic development discussions involving geothermal energy and a potential data center proposal, and new Pool/Pact risk management initiatives, including AI policies.

Auditor/Recorder Melanie Hamilton announced the FY26-27 tentative budget hearing will be held May 20 at 1 p.m. and received approval to remove outdated software and equipment from county inventory. Hamilton also provided an update on the Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund, noting County Manager Kristen Gonzalez’s salary is currently being paid through the fund on a monthly basis.

Library Director Kameron Mitchell discussed upcoming summer programming, including reading programs, gaming events, craft activities, and new community partnerships such as the seed library project with the Extension Office. He also reminded residents that the library offers Nevada State Park passes that can be checked out for free day-use access to parks statewide.

Because District Attorney Derrick Penney was absent, Code Enforcement Officer Frances Machado provided an update on countywide enforcement activity, reporting 116 open cases and discussing proposed software intended to improve field reporting and organization. Commissioners later approved adding the software to the FY27 IT budget at a cost of $3,750.

Commissioners also approved a $19,273.76 bid from Cummins for a new generator at Toulon Peak. During discussion, commissioners talked about plans to replace additional generators and whether bulk purchases could help reduce costs.

Coach Ben Halverson said the team left regionals proud of several performances, including a school-record run by the girls 4x100 relay team, but also believing it was capable of more.

“State validated that as our kids came out and really put on a show,” Halverson said. Co-coach Chelsea Montes added that all 13 Pershing County athletes who qualified for state returned home with medals.

Leading the way was sophomore Anthony Gibson, who captured the state title in the 110-meter high hurdles with a personal-best time of 16.76 seconds.

Gibson also anchored Pershing County’s state championship 4x200 relay team alongside Ashton Jimenez, Quentin McKinney and Aaron Zelaya. The Mustangs won the event in 1:34.29.

“After the disappointment of regionals for Anthony, he was just super locked in this week, and it showed,” Halverson said.

Jimenez added another chapter to an already accomplished career. He placed seventh in pole vault at 10 feet and has now earned state medals in all four relay events during his high school years.

Senior Laura Gomez earned a silver medal in the girls hurdles with a time of 50.26. Jaxson Happy also exceeded expectations by finishing third in the boys hurdles to earn a bronze medal.

Halverson credited both the athletes and hurdles coach Emilio Gomez for the group’s growth.

“Two years ago, we had one ‘sometimes hurdler,’ now it’s a point of strength in our program,” Halverson said.

Laura Gomez also earned a silver medal in pole vault, clearing 8 feet, 3 inches to become the first Mustang since Tad Milich in 2017 to medal at state in the event.

Gomez led all Pershing County athletes with 16 team points, while Gibson and senior Chealse Woodard each added 12.5.

Woodard added another historic moment for the Mustangs by winning the girls long jump with a school-record leap of 16 feet, 4.5 inches. She became the first female state champion for Pershing County since Presley Burrows in 2021.

Woodard also anchored both the girls 4x100 and 4x200 relay teams alongside Ali Montes, Bella Zelaya and Khloe Montes. Both relay teams finished fourth to earn state medals, while the 4x100 relay team broke its own school record with a time of 52.84 seconds.

Senior Josiah Hunt closed out his Mustang career with another strong state performance. Hunt qualified in both the 100 and 200-meter races and finished third in the 200 with a time of 23.70 in the final race of his high school career.

Halverson called Hunt “the class of our sprinters” over the past four years and said he consistently represented the program well in both relay and individual events.

Halverson and Montes also credited several volunteer assistants and former athletes who helped throughout the season, including hurdles coach Emilio Gomez, pole vault coach Karl Fredricks, Luis Sanchez, Alivia Grinder, Jim Jurad, Marquis McKinney, Mike Brooks and Axel Gonzales.

Montes said the additional coaching support helped strengthen several event groups throughout the season and contributed to the team’s success. 

The Mustangs closed the year with state titles, school records and a collection of medals that added up to one of the program’s strongest state meet performances in recent years.

The Webb Varnum Mineral and Fossil Room features more than 400 mineral and fossil specimens Varnum gathered during decades of exploration across Nevada and the Southwest.

“The collection spans from when I was a teenager or before,” Varnum said.

Tonopah Mining Park once displayed the exhibit before shifting its focus to Nye County minerals. About nine years ago, after the collection had spent several years in storage, Varnum donated it to the Marzen House Museum.

Museum officials have since moved the exhibit into a building that will become part of Marzenville, the museum’s developing historic village project.

Varnum’s family history in Nevada stretches back generations. He said his family lived in the Winnemucca area as early as 1844. By 1850, his great-great-grandfather had settled in Fitting, a historic mining settlement near the Seven Troughs Range in present-day Pershing County. Varnum said his ancestor later served as county commissioner in Unionville when it was the Humboldt County seat.

“That was our only trip into politics ever, and I assume he was put up to it because back in those times, there weren’t that many people here,” Varnum said.

He also recalled stories about his grandmother nearly losing her life during the devastating Seven Troughs flood of 1911.

Varnum grew up in Sparks and graduated from Sparks High School before attending the Mackay School of Mines. He later spent much of his career as an economic geologist mapping abandoned mines and identifying mineral deposits for mining companies. His work took him underground into mines throughout Nevada, California, Arizona and Baja California.

Now 80 years old, Varnum has been a member of the Reno Gem and Mineral Society for nearly 50 years. He said many members hope to visit the museum because the collection was never displayed in Reno.

“Thank you for the time, the effort and your history,” board member Frankie Graham told Varnum during the meeting.

“It’s been a traveling exhibit from Tonopah to storage to the Marzen House,” Varnum said. “I think this is the perfect home for the collection.”

The Marzen House Museum, located at 25 Marzen Lane in Lovelock, opens Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, though donations help support museum programs. Tours last about an hour, and the museum may arrange after-hours tours upon request.

Hill, who has lived in Pershing County her entire life, has spent much of her career working directly with the public. She worked for Wells Fargo Bank for 35 years, including 30 years as a branch manager, where she says she developed strong leadership, customer service, and problem-solving skills while managing staff and working under deadlines.

More recently, Hill spent four years working in the Pershing County Assessor’s Office, gaining hands-on experience with deeds, personal property, and real property assessments. During that time, she earned both her personal property and general appraisal license, as well as her real property license, making her dual licensed. She currently works in the District Attorney’s Office, where she says she continues to strengthen her understanding of legal processes and county operations.

Hill says her experience has taught her the importance of following the law carefully, maintaining consistency in assessments, and ensuring residents are treated fairly and respectfully. She also notes that clear communication and transparency are essential to maintaining public trust.

If elected, Hill says her priorities would include investing in staff training and continuing education, maintaining strong customer service, and improving communication between county departments such as Planning and Building, Code Enforcement, the Recorder’s Office, the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office, and the District Attorney’s Office.

Hill says she hopes to bring a thoughtful, fact-based approach to the Assessor’s Office while continuing to serve the community she has called home her entire life.

For the past six years, Renfroe has worked in the Pershing County Clerk-Treasurer’s Office, where she says she gained firsthand experience in how county government functions behind the scenes. Through that work, she developed an understanding of the importance of accuracy, communication, and cooperation between county departments, particularly when it comes to records, taxation, and public trust.

Renfroe believes taxpayers deserve clear explanations and accessible information regarding property assessments and county processes. She says one of her goals would be to make the Assessor’s Office more transparent and approachable so residents feel informed rather than overwhelmed when dealing with property-related questions or concerns.

She also points to collaboration between county offices, particularly the Clerk-Treasurer’s and Assessor’s offices, as an important priority, saying efficient communication between departments ultimately leads to better service for the public.

As part of her preparation for the position, Renfroe says she is investing her own time and resources into completing the training and certification required for the office, with the goal of being fully certified before taking office.

If elected, Renfroe says she plans to focus on fair and consistent assessments, stronger communication with taxpayers, and responsible growth that supports county services while helping reduce pressure on homeowners and small businesses.

Above all, Renfroe says she wants residents to know they will have a county official who will listen, communicate openly, and serve with integrity every day.

Gallagher, who is running for Pershing County Commission Seat C, says many of his values were shaped early in life while working for family businesses in Lovelock owned by his mother, Peggy Rose. From washing dishes to cooking and cleaning, he says those early experiences taught him the importance of hard work, financial responsibility, and understanding the value of a dollar.

Professionally, Gallagher brings a background in mining and engineering to the race. Holding degrees in chemical engineering and metallurgy, he worked as a metallurgist in both Montana and Nevada mining operations. He says that experience gave him firsthand knowledge of the mining industry and the teamwork required to keep large operations functioning successfully, experience he believes is valuable given the importance of mining to Pershing County’s economy.

Gallagher also points to his six years serving as a mayor and councilman in Whitehall, Montana, where he gained experience in rural government and budgeting. He says those years reinforced his belief that local government must operate with both long-term vision and financial frugality.

Later, Gallagher worked as a science teacher and principal at Coal Canyon High School, where he coordinated with both the Department of Corrections and the Pershing County School District. He says those roles strengthened his ability to work with budgets, navigate challenges, and collaborate with multiple agencies.

Beyond his professional background, Gallagher says he believes in hands-on involvement within the community. He notes that he helped dig sewer lines during Montana winters while serving as mayor, renovated local properties into rental housing in Lovelock, and has organized the Community Clean-up event for the past three years.

If elected, Gallagher says his priorities would include improving county infrastructure such as roads, utilities, communications, recreation facilities, and public services. He believes infrastructure investments not only improve quality of life but also support long-term economic development and encourage people to live and work locally.

Gallagher also says he hopes to work with residents throughout Pershing County to help develop long-term community goals and visions for the future, while maintaining a strong focus on responsible budgeting and financial planning.