Held July 18–19, the camp featured instruction in cheers, dance, stunting and technique, along with team-building activities designed to help athletes develop confidence and trust in one another.

Coach Christina Dickerman said one of the biggest takeaways from the camp was learning to trust new teammates while working on stunts. The cheerleaders are now looking forward to continuing to improve those skills and cheering on Mustang teams this fall.

The squad members who attended were Wilma Knisley (ninth grade), Kylie Rackley (10th grade), Isabelle Anderson (ninth grade) and Kyndel Ruiz (ninth grade).

The American Cheer and Dance Challenge hosts camps and competitions throughout Northern California and Nevada, giving school squads an opportunity to improve their skills while preparing for the fall sports season.

That growing interest was reflected in Museum Director Kelly Thompson’s monthly report to the board. Thompson said the museum welcomed 164 visitors over the past month. Of those, 92 came specifically to tour the museum, while 25 were interested in its reported paranormal activity and 27 asked about Lovelock Cave. Forty-nine visitors said they came after seeing the museum’s new billboards.

Board members credited Robert Kennerson of Arena Outdoor Advertising for the museum’s new billboards.

The Friends of the Marzen House Museum reported that the billboard project has now been fully paid for. The project was funded through a $30,000 contribution from the Pershing County Recreation Board, which paid for two years of billboard advertising, a full-page advertisement in 101 Things to Do in Nevada and a trifold promotional kiosk that will advertise local businesses and attractions at the museum.

The museum also offered several daytime and nighttime ghost tours, bringing in $260. Combined tour payments and donations totaled $1,031 during the reporting period.

“We have been very busy,” Thompson said, adding that she has sometimes conducted three or four tours at once.

The museum is seeking a part-time employee to work approximately 19 hours a week. One application had been received by the time of the meeting. Anyone interested in the position may contact the museum for additional information.

Board Chair Bonnie Skoglie said the position could grow as attendance continues to increase and that the museum hopes to eventually add two full-time employees.

Several exhibit projects are also underway.

Board member Dena Austin, a Paiute cultural advisor, suggested creating a mural featuring Lone Mountain as the backdrop for the museum’s Native American display.

Austin explained that Paiute people traditionally traveled to Lone Mountain at night to escape mosquitoes in the marshlands below. She said the mountain’s traditional Paiute name, Wah-pung haben, means “mosquito bed.”

Members discussed incorporating Lone Mountain, water and tule reeds into the mural. They also hope to borrow vintage Future Farmers of America jackets bearing the Paiute words on the back for display.

Austin also suggested creating a veterans display featuring an older-style plaque with a weathered patina.

Board member Jack Hursh discussed plans to create a handcrafted shadow box honoring Frank Chang. According to museum history, Larry DeLeeuw opened the Frank Chang Memorial Museum in the garage of his Lovelock motel, naming it in honor of Chang. The museum later moved to West Broadway and featured many Chinese artifacts DeLeeuw had recovered from Lovelock’s historic Chinatown, along with artifacts from Chang’s personal collection.

The collection includes fragments of rice bowls, opium pipes, coins, a handcrafted Chinese mannequin and many other artifacts documenting Lovelock’s Chinese history. After the Frank Chang Memorial Museum closed, DeLeeuw offered the Marzen House Museum first choice of the collection.

Hursh’s shadow box, made from antique Eastlake-style dresser drawers recovered from the local landfill, will feature Chang’s photograph, his familiar hat and his military dog tags.

“Yes, I can remember Frank Chang wearing that hat that Jack is framing,” Bonnie Skoglie said.

Chang was born in Lovelock in 1918 and died in 2004 at the age of 86. The shadow box will become part of the museum’s growing collection highlighting Lovelock’s Chinese history and the people who helped preserve it.

Thompson is also working to display a Class A military uniform donated by Pershing County Manager Kristen Gonzalez. Board members said the mannequin may need to be altered to properly fit the uniform before it can go on display.

Thompson said the museum may ask the Pershing County Commission to approve an internet and fiber upgrade. The current wireless signal does not reliably reach several metal buildings or the far side of the grounds, making it difficult to install security cameras throughout the property.

An upgraded fiber connection could allow the museum to use a radio booster and extend security camera coverage across the grounds, although it would increase the museum’s monthly internet expense.

The board’s next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 13. Members will also finalize plans for an Aug. 22 appreciation barbecue honoring museum volunteers and supporters.

For more information about the Marzen House Museum visit their Facebook page.

Library Director Kameron Mitchell said compliance with the law, commonly known as CIPA, would allow the library to use federal grant money for computers, internet-connected equipment and technology programs.

The library already receives federal funding for some programs, Mitchell said, but cannot use that money for technology without a filtering system. Requests for computer classes and technology instruction have increased, and an available grant could provide equipment to record local oral histories and folk stories.

CIPA requires schools and libraries receiving certain federal technology assistance to adopt an internet-safety policy, hold a public meeting and use technology that blocks material considered obscene, child pornography or harmful to minors.

Mitchell said internet filtering is controversial because software may block legitimate research while failing to catch all objectionable material.

Board member Coni Jo Brinkerhoff discussed school filters that prevented her students from accessing news articles for research on subjects such as war, gun laws, abortion, marijuana legalization and same-sex marriage. She said, as a teacher, she was able to overide unnecessary blocks and wondered if the library could do the same.

Mitchell said he would be able to allow access to websites that were unnecessarily blocked. However, the process could create privacy concerns for patrons researching sensitive subjects.

Adults could request that a filter be disabled for legitimate research, but the library would be required to record the person’s age, the date and time and the purpose of the request. A minor would need an adult to make the request.

Mitchell said patrons researching a private medical or personal matter could be placed in the uncomfortable position of explaining their needs to a library employee.

“You’re between a rock and a hard place,” he said.

The filtering requirements would apply to staff computers, public computers and the library’s public Wi-Fi network. Mitchell said personal devices would not be treated as library-owned equipment under guidance he received from the state, although patrons could not openly display inappropriate material where children might see it.

Mitchell presented several software options. DNS Filter would cost $25 per device annually, or about $275 for the library’s current 11 devices. Clean Browsing would cost $150 per year and cover as many as 50 devices.

A third service offered through the nonprofit technology provider TechSoup appeared to cost about $8 annually, but Mitchell said he had not received enough information about what it included.

The board approved spending up to $500 and gave Mitchell the flexibility to choose the program that best meets the library’s needs. One of the services offers a 14-day trial.

The board also approved an updated computer and network-use policy reflecting CIPA requirements.

Board members discussed protecting information provided by patrons who request that filters be lifted. County Manager Kristin Gonzalez said the county has confidentiality agreements for employees in departments that handle sensitive information and could work with the library on an agreement suited to its needs.

In other business, Mitchell reported that 67 children participated in the library’s six summer-reading programs. He said last summer’s attendance of more than 90 children was unusually high and this year’s participation was closer to normal.

Chairperson Ariana Gonzalez said her children loved the summer reading programs.

The library’s Smash Bros. video-game tournament attracted six participants, while a recent Magic: The Gathering session drew 12.

Five children participated in the latest Dungeons & Dragons campaign, 22 people attended game night and 11 attended two book-bedazzling sessions.

Mitchell said summer programming has drawn 150 participants so far, including 124 children and 26 adults.

The library is also preparing to receive approximately 1,000 donated books from the prison as it updates its libraries. Mitchell said books that are not suitable for the library’s collection will be accepted on behalf of the Friends of the Library and placed in the book sale.

Mitchell also contacted swimming pool director Marti Nolan about having the library assist with or take over preparation of the community summer-activities booklet next year.

The booklet was not produced this summer because organizations did not submit information in time and Nolan was dealing with emergencies at the swimming pool.

The next regular Library Board meeting is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 10 a.m.

The girls found a shady spot beneath the trees and divided the work among themselves. Some stood near the street waving to passing motorists, while others poured lemonade, accepted payments and made change. A steady stream of customers kept the stand busy throughout the afternoon, giving the girls a chance to practice communication, responsibility and customer service.

The girls were also excited to see the finished results of the colorful tie-dye T-shirts they created during the troop’s annual summer tie-dye activity, with each shirt featuring its own unique pattern.

Co-leader Trina Pritchard said the tradition began years before Girl Scout Troop 242 was formed, when she and her husband Zach started a small monthly craft group for their daughter and her friends. As the girls grew older, the craft group evolved into Troop 242, opening its activities to more girls in the community.

Pritchard said the troop has received strong support from local businesses and volunteers, including the Lovelock Fire Department, which hosted hands-on demonstrations, and Sarah Hannonen, who donated flowers for a Valentine’s Day arrangement class.

She said the troop emphasizes creativity, kindness, confidence and personal responsibility, adding that watching even the shyest girls gain confidence has been one of the most rewarding parts of leading the troop.

Families interested in learning more about Troop 242 are encouraged to contact the troop through its Facebook page. Troop 242 currently has openings for two Brownie Girl Scouts in the third or fourth grade.

From tie-dye projects to lemonade stands, the girls continue to learn by working together while building friendships and developing practical skills that extend beyond scouting activities.

Representatives of Zanskar Energy hosted a community open house Thursday evening at the Pershing County Community Center, where about two dozen residents gathered to learn about the proposed Colado geothermal project and ask questions about water use, permitting, jobs and the company’s long-term plans.

Ryan McGraw, Zanskar’s chief development officer, told attendees the company is still in the exploratory stage and must first confirm that the underground geothermal resource is large enough to support a power plant.

“We’re confident there is a geothermal system here,” McGraw said. “We need to go explore and discover where the actual heart of this resource is.”

The project area is northeast of Lovelock, across Interstate 80 from the U.S. Silica plant and north of the Lovelock Correctional Center.

Zanskar has acquired approximately 3,500 acres of Bureau of Land Management geothermal leases and is working with private landowners on about 1,000 additional acres.

The company acquired the federal leases from Ormat Technologies earlier this year after Ormat completed exploratory work in the area.

Angela Isaacs, Zanskar’s senior exploration geologist, said the company has already completed shallow temperature testing and geophysical surveys to identify underground fractures where naturally heated water may be circulating. The next step is drilling two exploratory wells expected to reach depths of 4,000 to 7,000 feet. The initial drilling campaign is expected to last about 45 days.

The plant would bring naturally heated, salty water (brine) from deep underground to the surface. Its heat would warm a separate fluid that powers a turbine to generate electricity, while the geothermal water would be returned to the same underground reservoir to be reheated naturally and reused.

If the exploratory wells are successful, Zanskar would return to drill larger production wells and conduct a commercial flow test lasting up to 90 days before deciding whether to pursue construction.

Water use generated the most discussion during the question-and-answer session, with one resident expressing concern about irrigation supplies for local farmers.

McGraw said exploratory drilling could require approximately 60 acre-feet of water over a period of 30 to 60 days. The company is considering purchasing construction water from Lovelock Meadows Water District or temporarily leasing existing water rights. Once drilling reaches the geothermal reservoir, he said, geothermal brine could be used for the remainder of the drilling process.

Wesley Adams, Zanskar’s director of land and permitting, said any changes in water use would require approval from the Nevada Division of Water Resources. He added that an operating geothermal plant would use very little fresh water beyond normal maintenance needs.

Company representatives also emphasized that geothermal wells are lined with steel casing and cement through freshwater aquifers and are regulated by multiple state and federal agencies. Monitoring wells would also be installed to ensure geothermal fluids remain isolated from groundwater.

Residents also asked about jobs. McGraw said exploration work would create relatively few local positions, but construction could employ as many as 200 workers, including electricians, welders and other skilled trades, with the company intending to hire locally whenever possible.

Once the plant is operating, employment would be much smaller. McGraw said Zanskar’s 15-megawatt Lightning Dock geothermal plant in New Mexico employs eight full-time workers. He estimated the Lovelock-area project could ultimately produce around 75 megawatts if exploration confirms expectations, although he stressed that figure remains preliminary.

Even at that size, he said, the facility would have a relatively small footprint. A 15-megawatt plant occupies about 4.5 acres, while a 100-megawatt facility would require roughly 10 acres.

Although some residents have associated the project with data centers, Zanskar is not proposing to build a data center in Pershing County. The company develops geothermal energy projects that sell electricity to utilities and other large power purchasers including data centers.

According to Zanskar, its customers and partners include utilities such as NV Energy, community power agencies and other organizations seeking around-the-clock carbon-free electricity.

If exploration proves successful, Zanskar plans to return for additional public meetings before submitting county permit applications. The permitting process would include detailed engineering plans, emergency response planning and additional opportunities for public comment.

McGraw said the company hopes to begin construction around 2028 and have the plant operating by 2030. However, permitting, equipment availability and transmission connection approvals could push that timeline back by a year or two.

“Our goal is to be that long-term owner as well,” McGraw said. “We want to be here for decades to come.”

Registration begins at 9 a.m., with play to follow. Organizers said the event is not a sanctioned tournament, and whether singles, doubles or both will be played will depends on the number of participants.

The club hopes to raise $1,000 for the MacDougall family. According to organizers, Deana Davidson has already donated $100 toward the fundraiser.

Born and raised in Lovelock, MacDougall earned a mining engineering degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2010 and spent more than 16 years working in Nevada’s mining industry. He is survived by his wife, Ermelinda; daughters Scarlett, 9, and Zoey, 7; his parents, Steve and Mij MacDougall; and his sister, Courtney MacDougall.

The tournament will also highlight several recent improvements to McDougal Field’s horseshoe facility. Club members completed much of the work themselves, while the Pershing County Recreation Board funded the improvements and added money to the tournament purse.

Recent upgrades include two additional water hydrants, water lines for future tree planting, an upgraded shade roof, four additional horseshoe pits and two new 70-foot sections of fencing.

David Skoglie said several members of the Silver Mountain Sidewinders knew MacDougall personally and wanted to hold the fundraiser as a way to support his family during a difficult time.

Loehner brings experience in emergency medical services, disaster planning and public safety, having served as a flight paramedic, registered nurse, EMS planning officer, clinical education manager and, most recently, chief executive officer of a helicopter air ambulance organization. He has also completed extensive Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Incident Command System training and has coordinated emergency resources during large-scale events and complex incidents.

As emergency manager, Loehner will oversee the county's all-hazards emergency management program, coordinating emergency planning and preparedness efforts before disasters occur while helping direct response and recovery efforts when they do. He will maintain the county's Emergency Operations Plan, coordinate with local, state and federal agencies, oversee the Emergency Operations Center during major incidents, lead the Local Emergency Planning Committee and administer emergency management grants and training programs.

The position works closely with first responders, county departments, schools, hospitals and community organizations to help ensure agencies are prepared to respond quickly and effectively when emergencies arise.

County officials welcomed Loehner to the team, saying they look forward to the experience and leadership he brings to Pershing County.

We are building this plane as we learn to fly it.

This past month has been lesson after excruciating lesson, and when I use the word “humbly,” I do so with great weight.

While talking with The Intern the other day, trying to solve yet another self-inflicted situation and reaching a level of intense discouragement, I received a profound life lesson for which I am deeply grateful.

Riggin is our intern, and we’ve had the pleasure of his company, his help, his sense of humor, and the opportunity to cheer for his many life successes over the past two years. We are better for having known him. We’ve also tried to give him a real job title several times, but the joy on his face when he introduces himself at meetings and events as “The Intern” is simply one of life’s great pleasures.

We were trying to solve a computer problem, and I was apologizing for slowing his progress on a task because of my lack of technical ability and generally causing the situation we were trying to fix.

He said to me, “Listen, you’re running a successful newspaper conglomerate and have a lot going on.”

To which I snorted coffee out my nose and said, “This is hardly a success.”

That young man, in all the naïveté of youth and optimism, just shrugged and said, “It’s the long game, Rachel.”

Indeed. Some days longer than others.

So while we enjoy these last couple of weeks with The Intern as he readies to leave the nest and head off to college, we’ll always be right here, hoping one day he’ll come back to us as our corporate lawyer, and of course we’ll be...

...Keeping you Posted.

Rachel

Board members also continued discussing a possible split from the region’s economic development partnership with Humboldt County.

County Manager Kristen Gonzalez announced that Zanskar will hold a public town hall meeting July 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Pershing County Community Center to discuss a proposed geothermal project near the prison. She encouraged residents to attend and ask questions.

PCEDA member Connie Gottschalk said the county plans to post information about future project meetings on its website and is developing an economic development section that will include project updates and links to company websites.

“If you want to engage with the companies trying to come to Pershing County, we’re going to post them on the county website as soon as we learn about them,” she said. “Keep checking the calendar for updates.”

Gonzalez also updated the board on Rose Acre Farms, which plans to build a pullet operation in Pershing County. She said construction could begin soon.

“They’re going to raise the chickens, and as soon as the chickens get to a certain age, they’ll transfer them to another site in Humboldt County,” Gonzalez said.

Chairman Ted Bendure commented on the project’s size.

“It would be four buildings, 100,000 chicks per building, transitioning every four months, so you’re looking at 1.2 million per year,” he said.

Blue Moon Metals is considering an ore-processing facility near Imlay that would process ore mined elsewhere on the West Coast. Gonzalez said the project remains in its early stages while the company studies environmental impacts and works to obtain water rights.

Gottschalk noted that county officials review proposed water use through the Central Nevada Water Authority and the Humboldt River Water Authority. She serves on both committees.

Gonzalez said Alterg, a geothermal energy company, is exploring a project on Bureau of Land Management property in Dixie Valley but remains in the earliest stages of evaluation.

Solidus Resources, meanwhile, is moving forward with its mining project after obtaining water rights and ordering equipment.

The Sustainable Power Group solar project near Grass Valley remains on hold, although Gonzalez emphasized it has not been canceled. She also said county officials have recently learned of one or two additional solar developers expressing interest in Pershing County.

The board also continued discussing whether Pershing County and the City of Lovelock should withdraw from the 95-80 Regional Development Authority and establish their own regional development authority.

County Manager Kristen Gonzalez explained that Nevada law requires each county to participate in a regional development authority with at least one other local government. Pershing County currently partners with Humboldt County, the City of Lovelock and the City of Winnemucca through the 95-80 Regional Development Authority.

Gonzalez said she believes the current arrangement has not been equitable and that Pershing County has not received regional development funding since the third quarter of last year. She said county officials are researching whether creating a regional development authority consisting of Pershing County and the City of Lovelock would better serve the community.

Asked how Humboldt County responded to those concerns, PCEDA member Connie Gottschalk said the counties simply disagreed.

“We weren’t going to convince them of our position of feeling like we weren’t getting the resources we needed, and they weren’t going to convince us that we were,” Gottschalk said. “Sometimes it’s best just to get out of a dysfunctional relationship.”

No action was taken. Gonzalez said county officials will continue researching the issue before bringing a recommendation to the board.

The board also heard an update from Chris Brandon of the Western Nevada Development District (WNDD), who outlined the organization’s recently completed Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.

Brandon said the regional plan identifies infrastructure, workforce, quality of life and local government capacity as its top priorities. She said rural communities continue to face challenges related to housing, medical services and workforce shortages, while inflation has made it more difficult for local governments to complete projects with existing funding.

Brandon also encouraged local leaders to continue efforts to expand Boys & Girls Club services in Lovelock. She said the organization is preparing to bring in a new chief executive officer and offered to meet with local supporters to discuss future opportunities. She suggested that a Boys & Girls Club could eventually help operate an expanded or replacement community center serving both youth and the broader community, with potential funding from private foundations rather than federal sources.

Brandon also offered to share information about how Yerington revived its Chamber of Commerce after the organization became inactive. Gonzalez said Pershing County has discussed restarting its own chamber but has not yet identified someone willing to lead the effort.

Gonzalez thanked everyone who stayed for the entire meeting and invited the public to attend future meetings.

The next PCEDA meeting is scheduled for Aug. 11.

The informal event will be held Thursday, July 23, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Pershing County Community Center, 820 Sixth St. in Lovelock. A brief presentation is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., but attendees are welcome to drop in at any time during the event.

According to Zanskar, the open house is designed to give community members a chance to learn about geothermal exploration in the area, ask questions, meet members of the project team and provide feedback. The event is open to the public.

During the July 15 Pershing County Commission meeting, members of the Grass Valley Advisory Board updated commissioners on groundwater monitoring, transportation concerns and plans for the community's annual Chili Cook-Off.

Volunteer Dennis Workman reported that water levels at most of the valley's monitoring wells remain stable or only slightly lower than previous readings. The most significant decline was recorded at a monitoring site off Youngberg Road in central Grass Valley, where recent rains may be affecting groundwater conditions. One monitoring site has also been removed after the property owner sold the land and moved out of state.

The advisory board is also exploring maintenance work on the well at the Grass Valley Community Center. Members asked the county to obtain a cost estimate for cleaning the older well and checking its condition to ensure it remains a reliable resource for the community.

Road conditions were another topic of discussion.

Board members expressed concern about deteriorating conditions on Youngberg Road between Herschel and Van Diest roads, saying deep ruts and potholes have become severe enough that Grass Valley firefighters sometimes must take a longer route through Muddy Road to reach emergencies. Commissioners said they would ask the county road department to inspect the area and determine what repairs may be needed.

Looking ahead, organizers are preparing for the annual Grass Valley Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, Oct. 3.

Chili teams will begin setting up between 8 and 9 a.m., with public judging expected around noon. The event is open to competitors from both Pershing and Humboldt counties, and organizers are inviting local businesses to set up booths to showcase their products and services.

The Grass Valley Fire Department plans to attend with its new tanker, while organizers are once again hoping to revive the friendly "Hoses vs. Handcuffs" competition by encouraging the Pershing County Sheriff's Office to field a chili team. Last year's event also featured a classic car club, and organizers hope those vehicles will return this year.

To help attract more visitors, the advisory board plans to advertise the event in the Humboldt Sun and continue reaching out to residents in neighboring communities.

Board members also reminded residents that the monthly senior food distribution sponsored by the Food Bank of Northern Nevada will take place later this month at the Grass Valley Community Center, providing fresh fruits and vegetables to eligible seniors.

The updates reflected the advisory board's ongoing efforts to improve quality of life in Grass Valley while supporting community events that bring together residents from across Pershing and Humboldt counties.

During last week’s Pershing County Commission meeting, Marzen House Museum representative Bonnie Skoglie reported that new billboard advertising and tourism promotions have led to a noticeable increase in visitors, guided tours and inquiries about the museum.

“We’re trying to start filtering all the people that are attending or coming to the museum to go downtown to some of our other businesses,” Skoglie told commissioners.

The campaign was funded through a $30,000 Recreation Board grant that paid for three billboards, a full-page advertisement in 101 Things to Do in Nevada magazine and a new visitor kiosk that will highlight local businesses and attractions.

Since the billboards were installed, Skoglie said the museum has hosted 22 guided tours, three daytime ghost tours and fielded numerous phone calls from travelers seeking more information about the museum and the community. She said the increased interest demonstrates that marketing can encourage travelers on Interstate 80 to stop and explore Lovelock rather than simply passing through.

The museum hopes to build on that momentum.

Commissioners approved allowing any remaining grant funds from the museum’s electrical improvement project to be used on several additional projects once the electrical work is complete. Those include construction of a three-sided equipment shed, continued restoration of the former brothel building and finishing exterior work on the railroad house exhibit.

The commission also approved registering and insuring the museum’s restored 1926 delivery truck so it can participate in local and regional parades once the title work is completed. Skoglie said the truck will serve as another way to promote both the Marzen House Museum and Pershing County at community events throughout northern Nevada.

Another project in the works is a visitor information kiosk that will feature advertisements and information about local businesses. The goal is to encourage museum visitors to spend additional time in Lovelock by shopping, dining and visiting other attractions after touring the museum.

As visitation grows, however, so does the need for help.

Skoglie told commissioners that the museum is looking for additional volunteers and hopes to fill a part-time position to help accommodate the growing number of guided tours. She described one recent day when six visitors arrived at the same time, stretching the museum’s volunteer staff.

“We’re looking for more volunteers,” she said, noting that increased tourism also means increased demand for people to greet visitors and share the community’s history.

The museum has become one of Pershing County’s signature attractions, preserving the area’s mining, railroad and ranching history while introducing visitors to stories that helped shape Lovelock and the surrounding region.

For Skoglie, the early success of the marketing campaign is encouraging.

Instead of simply bringing more people through the museum’s doors, the broader goal is to help visitors discover everything Pershing County has to offer, creating economic benefits that extend well beyond the museum itself.

While the issue is being resolved, online property tax payments have been temporarily disabled.

County staff said they are actively working on a solution and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Officials ask property owners for their patience while the issue is corrected and encourage residents to watch for future announcements regarding when online payments will be restored.

For additional information, contact the Pershing County Treasurer’s Office.

Volunteers are needed in several areas, including event security, children’s activities and event setup. Organizers say the annual celebration depends on volunteers who help create a safe and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike.

The greatest need is for daytime security volunteers, with four people needed each day of the event. Security shifts run from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and from 6 a.m. until the close of the event on Sunday. The position is paid $100 per shift, and volunteers will be provided either a security vest or shirt. Meals during each shift will also be provided by local food vendor VegasValli Taqueria.

Additional volunteers are needed to help with the Kids Zone, where two volunteers are needed each day from noon to 3 p.m. to coordinate the popular Go Fishing game, assist with activities and help distribute prizes.

Organizers are also seeking two volunteers for the Preschool Fun Games on Saturday, Aug. 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers will help set up activity areas before the games begin and assist with cleanup afterward.

Before the festivities start, five volunteers are needed on Thursday, July 30, beginning at 7 a.m. at Courthouse Park to help move supplies, set up the stage, prepare the park and assist Frontier Days organizers. Because the work involves lifting and transporting equipment, volunteers should have reliable transportation and be able to perform physical tasks.

All volunteers will attend an orientation meeting on Saturday, July 25, at 3:30 p.m. at the Lovelock Café. Organizers said volunteers will receive additional instructions during interviews and at the orientation meeting.

Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to contact Misty at 775-442-1158 as soon as possible to complete an application and schedule an interview.

Organizers say every volunteer plays an important role in making Frontier Days one of Pershing County’s favorite summer traditions, and they encourage residents to get involved in helping make this year’s celebration a success.

During its July 15 meeting, the Pershing County Commission approved the creation of a tourism committee charged with developing ideas to attract more visitors to the county, support local businesses and capitalize on existing community assets. The effort comes as county officials continue to pursue a variety of economic development opportunities, from geothermal energy to agriculture and other private investment.

County Manager Kristen Gonzalez said the committee will focus on identifying events and attractions that encourage travelers to spend more time in Pershing County rather than simply passing through on Interstate 80.

“We’re going to create a committee where we can talk about different events that we can have,” Gonzalez told commissioners. “I would love to see an air show here eventually, but we’re not there yet. That’s the whole point of this committee, coming up with ideas with what we want to see.”

The committee will serve as a brainstorming group, developing recommendations to bring before the Pershing County Economic Development Authority and county commissioners.

Commission Chairman Joe Crim suggested Derby Field Airport could play an important role in future tourism efforts, noting that aviation visitors already recognize the community as a convenient stop.

“We’re trying to get people coming in,” Neil Gallagher said later in the meeting during his airport report. He said fuel sales have nearly doubled after the county lowered fuel prices, attracting more pilots who appreciate the airport’s accessibility. Some have even asked about courtesy cars or rental vehicles so they can stay overnight and explore the community.

The tourism initiative comes as several other economic development projects remain at various stages of planning.

Gonzalez updated commissioners on the proposed Dunlieh Group data center and energy campus, saying the county plans to assemble a fact-finding committee to gather information from multiple perspectives before making recommendations. She also reported that Zanskar Geothermal will host a public town hall meeting July 23 to answer community questions about its project, while another geothermal company, AlterG, has expressed interest in developing a project in Dixie Valley on Bureau of Land Management property.

She also said two solar companies have contacted the county about potential projects, although one previously discussed solar development in Grass Valley has been placed on hold.

Meanwhile, the Collett chicken farm project continues moving forward, with chicks expected to be raised in Grass Valley before being processed in neighboring Humboldt County.

While many of those projects remain in the planning stages, county leaders said tourism offers an opportunity to build on resources Pershing County already has.

That idea was reinforced later in the meeting when Marzen House Museum representative Bonnie Skoglie shared early results from the museum’s recent tourism marketing campaign.

Using grant funding, the museum installed three billboards, purchased advertising in 101 Things to Do in Nevadamagazine and is preparing a visitor kiosk highlighting local businesses. Skoglie reported the museum has already hosted 22 guided tours since the billboards were installed, along with three daytime ghost tours and numerous calls from prospective visitors seeking additional information.

“We’re trying to start filtering all the people that are attending or coming to the museum to go downtown to some of our other businesses,” Skoglie told commissioners.

The museum is also restoring a 1926 delivery truck that commissioners approved for registration and eventual participation in local and regional parades, another effort intended to promote both the museum and the community.

Together, the reports illustrated a broader strategy emerging in Pershing County. While officials continue pursuing large-scale industrial and energy projects, they are also looking at tourism as another way to strengthen the local economy by encouraging travelers to stop, stay longer and spend money with local businesses.

The new tourism committee is expected to begin meeting in the coming months and will present ideas and recommendations to county leaders as projects develop.

Mayor Rodney Wilcox read a letter from the Lovelock Animal Shelter outlining current conditions and the challenges staff face in placing dogs.

According to the letter, the shelter has 16 indoor kennels and five outdoor kennels, but is currently caring for 23 dogs.

Staff said they continue working with rescue organizations and partner shelters to place animals, but many of those facilities are also at or beyond capacity, limiting transfer opportunities.

The letter states that shelters throughout the region have experienced a significant increase in the number of dogs surrendered, contributing to overcrowding and making it more difficult to find permanent placements.

Despite those challenges, the shelter remains committed to operating as a no-kill facility. They consider euthanasia only in cases involving severe, untreatable medical conditions or when significant behavioral issues pose a safety risk to people or other animals.

According to the letter, dogs may remain at the shelter anywhere from a few weeks to over a year.

The shelter’s longest-term resident is Sadie, a Staffordshire mix, who has been there since March 2025. Another longtime resident, Thunder, a Dutch Shepherd mix, has been at the shelter since August 2025.

While the shelter does occasionally house cats, staff said they are eventually transferred to the SPCA, a no-kill shelter in Reno.

Their message to the community was simple: If you’re considering adopting a dog, please give one of the shelter’s dogs a chance.

After the meeting, shelter staff shared a message for residents considering adding a pet to their family.

“The staff at Lovelock Animal Shelter would like to ask its community to give our animals a chance if they’re looking to adopt instead of going to a breeder. We have some amazing animals with really great personalities. We just want them to have the best chance at a loving home, a loving family and a second opportunity at life.”

The Lovelock Animal Shelter is located at 700 S. Meridian Road in Lovelock. They can be reached at (775) 273-7297. Contact the shelter directly for more information.

The council approved a new two-year collective bargaining agreement with the Lovelock Police Officers Association. The contract provides a 15% wage increase effective July 1, 2026, followed by a 6% increase in the second year.

The agreement also establishes a longevity pay schedule providing officers with 2% annual step increases for up to 10 years of service, for a maximum longevity increase of 20%. Other changes expand specialty-duty pay, update uniform allowance provisions and provide holiday pay based on the actual number of hours worked.

During the discussion, Mayor Rodney Wilcox acknowledged the city’s pay still trails that of the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office but said the agreement represents another step toward improving recruitment and retention.

Questions about a nuisance notice issued for property at 615 and 655 Cornell Ave. owned by Pershing County Public Administrator Jeff Kearns generated one of the evening’s longest discussions.

Kearns explained that, as part of his duties, he is legally required to take custody of and store property belonging to estates until probate cases are completed, a process that can sometimes take years.

He said the county does not provide storage space or funding for estate assets, leaving him to store vehicles, equipment and other property from probate cases on his personal property.

Council members discussed possible solutions, including whether the county could provide secure storage space for estate property, while Kearns said he would continue cleaning up the site where possible. County Manager Kristin Gonzalez said she would contact Kearns to gather more information and work toward a solution.

The council approved transferring the city’s unused private activity bond allocation to Nevada Rural Housing, a routine annual action that helps fund affordable housing programs throughout rural Nevada.

Beth Dunning, director of community development for Nevada Rural Housing, updated the council on the proposed Tule Meadows affordable housing development planned for the corner of Franklin Avenue and Eighth Street. The 22-unit project has been resubmitted for state low-income housing tax credit funding, with award announcements expected in August.

If funding is approved, construction could begin as early as next spring. Dunning said Nevada Rural Housing has begun discussions with the Food Bank of Northern Nevada regarding space within the project and plans to discuss relocating the city’s recycling center if the development moves forward.

Earlier in the meeting, Tony Stacey, who oversees the Big Meadows Recycling Center, told the council the facility is expected to close after July 30 for at least two weeks and possibly three.

Council members also introduced a proposed ordinance that would establish clearer regulations governing long-term occupancy of recreational vehicles within city limits. The proposal will return at a future meeting for a public hearing and possible action.

The council unanimously forgave nearly $2,000 in delinquent sewer charges after determining the balance had been incurred by a previous occupant rather than the resident seeking to establish utility service. The action allows the resident to establish utility service after paying the required deposit.

County Manager Kristin Gonzalez also updated the council on several economic development projects discussed at the Pershing County Economic Development Authority meeting the previous evening.

She said PCEDA plans to form a committee to research the Dunlieh project from multiple perspectives and is developing an email address where residents can submit questions and concerns if they are uncomfortable speaking during public meetings.

During departmental reports, city officials announced Lovelock has been awarded a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant for sewer system improvements. They also reported submitting a letter of interest for a $300,000 grant to renovate Strip Park.

Potential improvements include new playground equipment, landscaping, irrigation, restroom upgrades and other park improvements if the grant is awarded.

Wilcox reported that the city’s new pickleball courts have been completed. He also said discussions with the Nevada Department of Transportation focused on beautifying Interstate 80 off-ramps, improving pedestrian crossings and exploring public art opportunities at Lovelock’s entrances.

The council also approved a temporary liquor license and waived the fee for the Pershing General Hospital Foundation’s annual Basque Dinner and Auction, scheduled for Aug. 8 at the Pershing County Community Center.

The Lovelock City Council meets at City Hall on the first and third Wednesday of each month. The next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 5 at 5:30 p.m.

Founded in 2025, Troop 242 includes eight Daisy and Brownie Girl Scouts from kindergarten through third grade.

Co-leader Trina Pritchard said the annual tie-dye event grew out of a monthly craft group she organized and ran with her husband, Zach, for several years.

When Troop 242 was formed, the monthly craft group transitioned into the Girl Scout troop, and the annual tie-dye activity remained one of its favorite summer traditions.

“It represented a way to expand our monthly craft group and for my child to make new friends,” Pritchard said.

Co-leader Bobbie Roybal said the troop focuses on helping girls develop confidence, leadership skills and lifelong friendships.

“I wanted to raise a generation of strong girls that know how important they are, that can be proud to be women,” Roybal said. “A sisterhood of girls that will always support each other and be kind.”

Roybal also has a personal connection to Troop 242. Her mother, Susan Wright, led Troop 242 when Roybal was a Girl Scout, making the current troop a continuation of a family tradition.

Although the girls carefully folded, twisted and dyed their shirts Sunday, they won’t see the finished designs until Monday after the dye has had time to set.

“I like all tie-dyes, so I’m sure they’re amazing,” Roybal said. “They’re all different, and no matter what you do, they always turn out amazing.”

She added that the project is about much more than making colorful T-shirts. Activities like tie-dye encourage creativity, individuality, self-expression and the ability to follow directions.

Throughout the year, the troop participates in hands-on learning activities. Each girl also hosts a monthly dinner where troop members learn basic cooking skills together.

The girls enjoy trips to the movies, the swimming pool and ceramics classes in Reno. One of the highlights of the year is the annual August campout, featuring water games, pools, a barbecue, s’mores and an outdoor movie.

Community service is another important part of the program. The troop regularly participates in cleanups and other service projects throughout the year. Its next public event will be a lemonade sale at Lovelock City Park beginning at 1 p.m. July 25.

Families interested in learning more about Troop 242 are encouraged to contact the troop through its Facebook page. Troop 242 currently has openings for two Brownie Girl Scouts in the third or fourth grade.

Among the girls participating Sunday was Evie, who said the best part of being a Girl Scout is “helping people and having good friends.”

She filled her shirt with rainbow-inspired colors.

“Red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple,” she said. “I picked those colors because I love the rainbow.”

When asked to name her favorite Girl Scout activity, Evie couldn’t choose just one.

“I love everything,” she said, listing friendship bracelets, tie-dye, movies, the annual campout and s’mores among her favorites.

Looking ahead, she’s especially excited for an upcoming tea party the troop earned by reading books throughout the summer.

That is something CJ Hadley harped on last year as she was teaching me how to do all the RANGE magazine tasks. “Think about who was going to touch this piece of paper or file or story next and what are they going to be faced with when they get ahold of it. Do everything you can to make what he has to do easier.”

Wouldn’t it be cool if everyone had just an inkling of that way of looking at the world in all our regular, everyday tasks. Think grocery carts, gas pump hoses, shirts on the rack at TJ Maxx. People. How about we think about leaving people better off for the next person who happens by them.

I suppose in my note taking the thinking was something along the lines of, “If we all did that, wouldn’t it be so much nicer as we move through the world?”

We certainly don’t want to be the guy who makes it more difficult for whoever comes after us to get what he needs to do done.

When we’re newspapering this is actually pretty easy, it just requires a little forethought and planning. Teaching everyone to think this way sometimes takes a minute. Everyone comes with a different version of training, that’s for sure.

When I was little, Joe Dahl was very specific about how we behaved and made our way through life. I remember him at different levels of my growing up giving some version of the lessons around paying attention. “You need to be watching all the time. When you’re around horses, you need to be watching and always be a half a step ahead of the horse, prepared for any sort of behavior. When you work for someone always be looking to see what needs to done, always be anticipating what the boss may need.”

This advice has stood the test of time, but not everyone has had the same lessons. And now as I inherit those people in my office, it’s sometimes tricky to make the lessons stick and become more about who we are as a team rather than just something we do. But some of our crew has got it DOWN. They were raised by similar people. Their ability to see what’s going on and see what needs to happen next is almost instinctual.

And what a joy that makes the day. I love not having to worry someone won’t understand or get it done right. I love working with people you don’t have to explain things to, they just get it. We have some of those and it makes all we’re doing just a thrill.

So while we coach up our new kids and get the ol’ veterans to demonstrate, while we write instruction manuals and schedule tasks and all the things it takes to get these newspapers out the door, we’ll always be right here...

...Keeping you Posted.

Rach

By the turn of the 20th century, Lovelock had become an important stop along the Central Pacific Railroad, connecting northern Nevada communities with passengers, supplies and commerce. Its location also established the town as a service center for nearby ranches and mining camps.

While many of Nevada's early mining communities eventually faded away, Lovelock continued to grow. Generations of residents built homes, businesses and community institutions, allowing the town to develop well beyond its railroad-era beginnings.

The area's history extends much further back than the development shown in the photograph. Lovelock Cave, one of Nevada's most significant archaeological sites, has yielded thousands of artifacts that have helped researchers better understand the Indigenous peoples who lived in the region long before European settlement.

Today, Lovelock remains the seat of Pershing County and a community shaped by its railroad, ranching, mining and Indigenous heritage.

The historic photograph is courtesy of the University of Nevada, Reno Special Collections and was shared by Nevada Ghost Towns and Historic Sites.

Residents may once again pay city sewer and garbage bills through the online payment portal available on the city's website at cityoflovelock.com. City officials thanked residents for their patience while the system was unavailable.

Payments and account questions may also be handled in person at Lovelock City Hall, 400 14th St. The City Clerk's Office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be reached at 775-273-2356.

Head coach Mike Brooks said summer camps have long been an important part of the program's preseason schedule, giving players valuable opportunities to develop their skills and gain live repetitions before official practices begin.

Brooks said assembling the team during the summer has become increasingly challenging as student-athletes balance jobs, family commitments, other sports and summer activities.

"With the kids being pulled in so many directions, spring and summer practices can be challenging," Brooks said.

When the team's traditional summer camp opportunities were unavailable this year, the Mustangs adapted by inviting two other schools to Lovelock for a series of scrimmages and practice sessions.

The teams completed five live scrimmage periods, along with situational drills and seven-on-seven competition. Brooks said the format gave coaches an opportunity to evaluate players while allowing the team to compete against unfamiliar opponents.

"It was excellent for us," he said.

Brooks thanked the visiting schools for making the trip and helping the Mustangs prepare for the upcoming season. He also expressed appreciation to school staff members for opening the facilities and assisting with the event.

The five-day conference, held July 12 to 16 at the Gaylord Palms, brings together youth teams, coalition members and prevention specialists for training focused on reducing substance misuse and strengthening communities.

After arriving safely in Orlando, with both the team and its luggage accounted for, the local students began a packed schedule of workshops, presentations and leadership activities.

During the first day, team members heard from prevention specialists and attended sessions designed to give young people practical tools they can use at home. The students studied the “7 C’s of Prevention” and learned community-mapping techniques that can help identify local strengths, needs, resources and areas where additional prevention work may be needed.

The training is intended to help young leaders better understand the factors that influence substance use and develop community-based approaches to prevention.

Between sessions, the Mustang Youth Team also had time to explore, share plenty of laughs and build stronger relationships with one another. Organizers said the team-building experiences are an important part of helping students grow into confident leaders who can work together effectively after they return home.

The national institute gives the students an opportunity to exchange ideas with other youth groups, hear how prevention programs are working in communities around the country and bring new strategies back to their own schools and neighborhoods.

The conference’s 2026 theme is “Powered by Purpose.” This year’s event is also supporting Fentanyl Free America, a national initiative centered on protection, prevention and support.

With the first day complete, the Mustang Youth Team was looking forward to several more days of training, new experiences and opportunities to proudly represent the community on a national stage.

The court was initially constructed last year using Recreation Board funds. According to information provided about the project, the board hired a local contractor without a formal contract or inspection process. A Recreation Board member was later hired to apply the rubberized playing surface, despite having no previous experience with that type of installation.

The finished surface was uneven and wavy, creating concerns about player safety and leaving the court effectively unusable.

Mayor Wilcox later took the lead in finding a company that specializes in pickleball court construction and surfacing. The Recreation Board ultimately paid to have the work completed a second time.

Although the repairs required additional public funds, officials said the experience provided an important lesson about using written contracts, qualified contractors and proper inspections for publicly funded projects.

The reconstructed court is now complete and has a smooth, professional playing surface. After a difficult start, the community now has a safe and attractive pickleball court.

Kromer waived a formal reading of the indictment during his arraignment in U.S. District Court in Las Vegas. His federal trial is currently scheduled for Sept. 14 before U.S. District Judge Richard F. Boulware II. Prosecutors and defense attorneys were ordered to file a joint report by July 30 stating whether they are prepared to proceed to trial, unless a plea agreement or other stipulation is filed before then.

The case involves a proposed $36 million fiber-optic network funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ReConnect Program. Uprise applied for the grant in 2022, proposing to construct the network for people living and working in the Lovelock area.

The USDA awarded Uprise a $27 million grant in June 2023. Under the agreement, Uprise was required to contribute another $9 million and place that money in a restricted account that could only be used for approved project expenses.

Federal prosecutors allege Kromer transferred approximately $7.8 million from that account into his personal bank account through 32 wire transfers made between May and November 2024.

The indictment further alleges that false accounting entries were created to make the withdrawals appear to be legitimate project expenses and that the information was later submitted to the USDA.

Authorities also allege Kromer moved more than $6.2 million into accounts at several cryptocurrency exchanges and converted the money into cryptocurrency.

The federal indictment includes one count of theft of government property, four counts of federal program theft, five counts of money laundering, five counts involving monetary transactions in property derived from criminal activity and one count of using a false document.

The Lovelock broadband network was promoted as a major infrastructure investment for an underserved rural area. The project has not been completed.

Kromer also faces a separate state criminal case involving 31 theft charges. That trial is currently scheduled for June 2027.

An indictment contains allegations, not findings of guilt. Kromer is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This morning as I worked in the dark early morning, vaguely aware of the world slowly glowing to life, that smell of rain and sagebrush flowed through the open windows, soothing my soul with peace. How is a smell so peaceful?

It couldn’t be helped, the front porch was calling as the sky glowed rosy gold and I stepped out into the cool morning surrounded with the essence of the desert, clean and sharp and strong, almost tinged with a vague turpentine from the greasewood. Walking over to feed the goats, I noticed the tamaracks had bloomed when I wasn’t looking. Their puffy, silvery branches full of flowers and pollen, adding to the serenity.

The goats were so excited for breakfast in their damp, curly new coats. They were sheared recently and have grown out long enough that their new curls were affected by the humidity, springing into beautiful silky loops like mine does at the ocean. Black, red, and a pretty soft white, they were so pretty I couldn’t help but imagine what sweaters would look like made from each one of them.

What a blessing to have this distraction in the midst of what has been an incredibly difficult little stretch of growing pains with the papers and magazines and, and, and...

Lately I’ve begun to wonder why in the world I have all these animals when I need to be focused on business. Between the rabbits in their new fancy pens and the chickens who won’t quit hatching new babies and the goats and the emus, honestly what have I done. I used to be able to do chores in about seven minutes, now it's easily 20 or more depending on what kind of dilly dallying I do and who looks like they may want some attention.

One of my friends said once that women have pets because we need something to need us. My hair bristled at that silliness when I heard it and my very nature resisted what I thought was a stupid notion.

This morning that thought came back to me as I wandered around the Boyer Bunny Ranch in awe of nature, of all the pretty plants and the pretty animals and the shockingly beautiful smell that made everything so much more, enhanced and enchanted. It struck me that I have pets because they’re beautiful and they bring me great joy and they bring me back from this crazy, tumultuous business we’re building to basics. To the things that are real and I love them.

So while we work our fingers to the bone and enjoy all the little pieces of life along the way, we’ll always be right here...

...Keeping you Posted.

Rach

For five to seven months, and often longer for breeding animals, the youth selected, raised, fed and groomed market or breeding animals. Their work produced quality meat animals and animals that met breed standards, often at a level superior to commercial operations.

Members were also required to maintain a record book and give an educational presentation about their species, helping them gain career-ready skills.

This year’s show had a “party animal” theme, and members hoped local buyers and supporters felt like they were part of the celebration and enjoyed the day.

The contributions from supporters will make a lasting difference in the growth of these young people. The projects gave them experiences they will carry into adulthood, including a basic understanding of food production. Many members will use the money earned from their projects to start a business or help pay for future education.

Show results are as follows:

Rate of Gain

The rate-of-gain contest is determined by which animal gained weight at the highest rate between weigh-in day and show day.

Winners were Annie Uhart, lambs; George Malay, beef; Lily Reynolds, swine; and Kooper Hoots, goats.

Chicken Awards

The overall chicken award went to Rogelio Lopez, with Michael George winning overall reserve.

Elaine De Los Reyes was the top senior showman. Audrina Lopez was the top intermediate showman, with Alex De Los Reyes placing second.

Audrina Lopez was named overall champion chicken showman, and Elaine De Los Reyes was the reserve overall chicken showman.

Michael George was the peewee champion.

Goat Awards

Luke Morgan exhibited the grand champion market goat and homegrown champion. Monte Hoots exhibited the reserve champion market goat.

Averie Paredes exhibited the champion market breeding goat. Luke Morgan exhibited the champion dairy breeding goat, with Monte Hoots winning reserve champion dairy goat.

In showmanship, Averie Paredes was the senior winner. Luke Morgan won the intermediate division, with Kooper Hoots placing second. Monte Hoots was the junior showmanship winner.

Averie Paredes was named overall champion goat showman, and Luke Morgan was the overall reserve champion. Addison Paredes was the top peewee showman.

Sheep Awards

Annie Uhart exhibited the grand champion market lamb and homegrown champion lamb. Izzah Foley exhibited the reserve champion market lamb.

Averie Paredes exhibited both the grand champion and reserve champion breeding lambs.

In senior sheep showmanship, Averie Paredes placed first, followed by Annie Uhart. Addison Billingsley won the intermediate division, with Bellah Foley placing second.

Averie Paredes was named overall champion sheep showman, and Annie Uhart was the reserve champion. Addison Paredes was the top peewee showman.

Swine Awards

Odessa Malay exhibited the grand champion market swine, and Kynslie Malay exhibited the reserve champion.

Taylor Shields exhibited the champion breeding swine, and Madison Shields exhibited the reserve champion breeding swine.

In senior showmanship, Hadlie Malay placed first and Lily Reynolds placed second. Paisley Portman won the intermediate division, with Hank Malay placing second. Tinsley Harvey won the junior division, followed by Taylor Shields.

Lily Reynolds was named overall champion swine showman, and Hank Malay was the reserve champion. Addison Paredes was the top peewee showman.

Rabbit Awards

Ava Shields exhibited the grand champion market rabbit, while Taylor Shields exhibited the reserve champion.

Audrina Lopez was the homegrown market rabbit winner and the reserve intermediate showman.

Taylor Shields was the top junior showman, followed by Ava Shields in second place.

Madison Shields won both the intermediate and overall showmanship awards. Taylor Shields was named overall reserve showman.

Beef Awards

Ian Paredes exhibited the grand champion market steer. George Malay exhibited the reserve champion market steer and the best homegrown steer.

George Malay exhibited the champion breeding animal, while Hadlie Malay exhibited the reserve champion breeding heifer.

Averie Paredes was the top senior beef showman, followed by Hadlie Malay in second place. George Malay won the intermediate division, with Ian Paredes placing second. Odessa Malay was the junior champion showman.

George Malay was named overall champion beef showman, and Averie Paredes was the reserve champion.

Best-Dressed Costume Award

The best-dressed costume award ended in a three-way tie between Addison Paredes, Tinsley Harvey and Parker Schmith.

Old-Timers Award

Mark Paredes was the male showmanship winner, and Mackenzie Hodges was the female showmanship winner.

Round Robin Showmanship

Averie Paredes was named the champion round robin showman.

The round robin competition includes the top two senior showmen from each species, beef, sheep, goats and swine. Competitors are given the opportunity to demonstrate their skills by showing animals from all four species.

July 15 at 8:30 a.m. 

Lovelock City Council  

July 15 at 5:30 p.m. 

Gonzalez said she is excited about the upcoming county employee picnic. She said companies have donated raffle items and that the women organizing the event “are very motivated and excited.” She looks forward to seeing what they plan and how county employees will celebrate together.

Regarding economic development, Gonzalez is continuing to look into the 95 Area and plans to send her findings to the district attorney and the city attorney for review before bringing the matter to the commission or City Council. She also had a meeting scheduled for July 2 at 9 a.m. with Alterra Resources about a possible new geothermal project. Alterra will hold a town hall meeting July 23 at 5 p.m. at the community center.

Gonzalez also asked the commission to approve accepting a Charter of Freedom America 250 gift for Pershing County. The national program offers counties free engraved stainless-steel replicas of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the Civil Rights Amendment. She said the only cost would be constructing the display. The pieces will arrive in crates, giving the county time to decide where and how to display them.

Gonzalez announced that the county tax roll was completed June 26 and praised the Music and Murals event as “a huge success.”

“The murals that the artists completed are just beautiful,” she said, describing the event as “a facelift that I think Lovelock needed.” She thanked everyone who helped.

Gonzalez said the county has been advertising the XXX position since early June and has not received any applications. She plans to expand the advertising effort until qualified candidates apply.