Six Nevada Republicans Charged Again in 2020 Fake Elector Scheme

Six Republicans in Nevada have been charged again for submitting a false certificate to Congress that claimed Donald Trump won the state in the 2020 election. State Attorney General Aaron Ford announced the new complaint on Thursday, which charges the defendants with "uttering a forged instrument," a felony.

This case was revived after a previous indictment was dismissed due to venue issues. Ford filed the new charges to prevent the statute of limitations from expiring while appealing the earlier ruling. He emphasized the importance of holding the defendants accountable for their actions, which he described as attempts to undermine democracy.

The defendants include state Republican Party Chair Michael McDonald and several other party officials. McDonald’s attorney criticized the new charges as a political maneuver, while other defendants’ lawyers have not yet commented.

How Trump's Campaign Promises Could Impact Nevada

With six weeks until Inauguration Day, President-elect Donald Trump is set to implement his agenda with a Republican Congress. Key promises to Nevadans include:

Mass Deportation: Trump's plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants could significantly impact Nevada, which has a high share of undocumented workers.

Ending Tax on Tips: Trump aims to eliminate federal taxation on tips, a move that would benefit the hospitality industry in Las Vegas, though it requires congressional approval.

Federal Lands for Housing: Trump plans to open federal lands for housing development, which would need congressional action, as 85% of Nevada's land is federally managed.

Clean Energy Changes: He seeks to repeal parts of the Inflation Reduction Act, which has provided significant funding to Nevada's clean energy sector.

Energy Bill Cuts: Trump promises to halve energy bills by 2026 through increased oil and gas production.

Tariff Increases: His economic policy includes raising tariffs on imports, which could raise prices on goods in Nevada.

These proposals reflect Trump's broader strategy to reshape policies affecting the state.

Nevada Election Officials Identify Nearly 200 Instances of Double Voting from November

The Nevada Secretary of State's Office is investigating 180 attempted double votes from the 2024 general election, according to a report released Friday. These cases often arise from voters forgetting they mailed in a ballot or confusion within households about using a single mail-in ballot.

Nevada's election system prevents double voting by assigning unique identifiers to each voter. So far, two investigations have been closed, and the 182 double-vote cases represent just 0.0001% of the nearly 1.5 million ballots cast.

Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar emphasized the state's commitment to election security, noting investments in cybersecurity and technology. The office has referred eight double-vote cases from the June primary to the Attorney General for prosecution. Additionally, over 9,000 mail-in ballots were not counted due to signature verification issues, but there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in recent elections.

Will Trump's Policies Lead to a Reduction of Nevada's National Monuments?

Avi Kwa Ame, a 500,000-acre site south of Las Vegas sacred to Yuman-speaking tribes, has been protected from development since its designation as a national monument by President Biden last year. This protection, granted under the Antiquities Act, faces uncertainty with the incoming Trump administration, which previously reduced the size of national monuments during its first term.

Activists worry about potential changes to the Antiquities Act and the future of Avi Kwa Ame, especially after Trump's actions on other monuments. However, local support for Avi Kwa Ame's protection remains strong, with advocates confident that community backing will influence any decisions.

U.S. Rep. Dina Titus has pledged to defend the monument against potential reductions, while conservationists emphasize the popularity of national monuments among voters. Despite concerns, activists continue to push for additional protections in Nevada, including proposals for new monuments and the preservation of sacred sites.

Nevada faces defeat against New Mexico

Nevada suffered a heartbreaking 82-81 overtime defeat against New Mexico in a thrilling Mountain West Conference matchup at The Pit in Albuquerque.

The game featured 18 lead changes and 18 ties, highlighting the intense competition between the two teams. Despite strong performances from Kobe Sanders and crucial contributions from Nick Davidson, Nevada fell short as New Mexico secured the win with a last-second basket.

Nevada held a 37-34 advantage at halftime, bolstered by impressive shooting (51.9% from the field) and excellent three-point accuracy (54.5%). Nick Davidson led the scoring for Nevada with 12 points, including four three-pointers.

While Nevada's defense created turnovers and capitalized on fast-break opportunities, New Mexico's effectiveness at the free-throw line (73.7%) kept the game close.

The second half was tightly contested, with New Mexico narrowly outscoring Nevada 36-33. Both teams exchanged leads frequently, but Nevada struggled with their shooting (30.8% from the field and 25% from three-point range). Despite these challenges, Nevada remained competitive thanks to solid free-throw shooting (75%). New Mexico took advantage of second-chance points, giving them a slight edge as they headed into overtime.

Overtime saw intense back-and-forth action, with Kobe Sanders and Daniel Foster delivering crucial baskets. Nevada held a late lead, but a turnover in the final seconds allowed New Mexico's Nelly Joseph to score the game-winning shot, resulting in a devastating loss for Nevada.

Nevada excelled in bench scoring, outpacing New Mexico 17-13, with Justin McBride contributing an important 11 points. However, New Mexico out-rebounded Nevada, grabbing 35 total rebounds compared to Nevada's 32.

Kobe Sanders was the game's leading scorer with 21 points, along with 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Nevada managed to take better care of the ball, committing only 10 turnovers compared to New Mexico's 15.

Nevada will next travel to face Fresno State on January 11, 2025, at the Save Mart Center. This report was contributed by Nevada Athletics.

When is Nevada's population expected to hit 4 million?

Nevada experienced significant population growth during the 1990s, leading to a transformation of its cities and economy. The Silver State reached a major milestone in 1987 when its population surpassed 1 million. By 2001, it had doubled to 2 million, according to U.S. Census data. In 2018, Nevada's population exceeded 3 million, although the growth rate had begun to slow.

Clark County was the primary contributor to this growth, accounting for 73% of the increase, while Washoe County followed with 12%. The remaining growth was distributed among the other 15 counties. As of 2023, Nevada's population was approximately 3.24 million, as reported by the state.

So, when is Nevada expected to reach a population of 4 million? Projections indicate that the state will hit 3.94 million by 2043, just short of the 4 million mark. Since 2018, Nevada's population has been growing at an average rate of about 48,000 people per year, according to an analysis of Census data by RGJ. If this trend continues, the Silver State could reach the 4 million milestone by the mid-2040s.

However, recent growth has been slower compared to previous decades. From 1987 to 2018, Nevada added an average of around 62,000 people annually, resulting in a population increase of 2 million. Between 2023 and 2043, the state anticipates a total population increase of 702,500, with approximately 69,300 of those new residents expected in Washoe County.

It's important to note that population projections are subject to uncertainties, including housing availability, which may restrict growth in certain areas. Additionally, changing migration patterns and potential global or economic disruptions could also impact future population trends.

Federal funds are being allocated to Nevada for water infrastructure improvements

Nevada is set to receive millions in federal funding for water infrastructure improvements to combat ongoing drought conditions, as announced by the White House on Tuesday. U.S. Rep. Dina Titus highlighted the package as a significant benefit for the state.

The recently passed Water Resources Development Act allocates $49 million for projects in Pahrump, Laughlin, and Nye and Storey counties. This includes $10 million for water wellfields and pipelines in Nye County, and $4 million for water and wastewater improvements in Pahrump. Storey County will receive $10 million for wastewater infrastructure.

Additionally, the legislation provides $20 million annually for the Las Vegas Wash, the primary drainage channel for the valley, increasing its funding ceiling from $40 million to $60 million. Southern Nevada is recognized for its extensive indoor water recycling efforts, with 99% of indoor water from the Southern Nevada Water Authority being recycled.

Rep. Susie Lee emphasized the importance of securing water infrastructure investments for Laughlin and the Las Vegas Wash as a priority. The package also includes a reauthorization of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, which focuses on public works and infrastructure.

This funding is part of the Biden administration's broader initiative to address environmental challenges. The Department of the Interior announced over $41 million for 21 projects aimed at enhancing water resources and supporting drought-stricken communities. Among these, the Southern Nevada Water Authority will receive nearly $2 million for projects aimed at restoring riparian zones and wetlands in the region.

Estuary Secures $340 Million Financing for Escape Solar Project in Nevada

Estuary Power has successfully finalized a $340 million financing package for its Escape solar and storage project located in Lincoln County, Nevada. This initiative aims to deliver reliable energy to four major customers in the state through long-term agreements, including 115MW of solar and 400MWh of battery energy storage for MGM Resorts International, 25MW for Overton Power District, 25MW for Caesars Entertainment, and 20MW for Wynn Las Vegas.

The financing for the Escape project features a tax equity commitment from Morgan Stanley Renewables, along with a tax equity bridge loan from First Citizens Bank & Trust Company, Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale (Nord/LB), and the National Bank of Canada. Additionally, a long-term construction-to-term facility has been provided by Denham Capital on behalf of its clients.

Currently under construction, the Escape project is set to commence operations in 2025. Estuary Power CEO Jill Daniel expressed pride in the team's efforts, stating, "I am incredibly proud of the Estuary Power team for developing the Escape project with quality and integrity and on an astonishing timeline. We greatly appreciate the trust that our customers have placed in us to meet their sustainability goals." The project will feature 185MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity alongside 400MWh of battery energy storage capacity, aiming to supply renewable energy to the iconic Las Vegas Strip and Overton Power District.

The solar array is being constructed by Bechtel Infrastructure and Power Corporation, while Dashiell is handling the substation and certain transmission upgrades. Tesla is supplying and installing the battery energy storage system (BESS), and JinkoSolar is providing TOPCon photovoltaic modules.

Notably, Escape is the first utility-scale solar project to be developed in Lincoln County, Nevada, and it is expected to generate $80 million in tax revenue for the county throughout its operational life. The project will interconnect with Lincoln County Power District's Mesa substation and transmit power over the systems of both Lincoln County Power District and Overton Power District.

Estuary received legal advice on the transaction from CRC-IB, Norton Rose Fulbright, and Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, while Morgan Stanley was advised by Willkie Farr & Gallagher, and the lender group received counsel from Mayer Brown.

Early snowpack levels in Nevada show a promising start

Snowpacks in Nevada are off to a promising start, but the potential for another fruitful winter and strong water year will be determined in the coming months. Hydrologists emphasize that it's too early to know if this winter's snowpack will ensure a good water year for 2025, but initial signs are encouraging.

Currently, snowpack levels in Nevada and the Eastern Sierra are above normal at 124% of the median, compared to just 56% at the same time last year. Northern Nevada is particularly promising, with the Eastern Sierra Walker Basin at 109% and Eastern Nevada at 164% of the median.

However, warmer temperatures have led to below-normal snowpack in valley floors and lower elevations. The Upper Colorado River Basin, a key water source for Lake Mead, is at 95% of the median.

In contrast, southern Nevada is facing ongoing drought, with mountains like the Spring Mountains accumulating little snow and recording only 72% of the median precipitation since October. While most of Las Vegas's water comes from the Upper Colorado River Basin, the Spring Mountains are crucial for groundwater.

If snowpack levels continue to rise, Nevada could see a third consecutive good water year after strong snowpacks in 2023 and 2024. Reservoirs have seen improved storage, with Lake Tahoe at 64% capacity and Lake Mead at 33%.

Precipitation in December was about normal at 108%, contributing to a seasonal accumulation of 105% of the median. Soil moisture is at 37% saturation, which aids spring runoff.

Despite these positive indicators, about 50% of Nevada is experiencing moderate to extreme drought. Hydrologists believe that the current snowpack and precipitation levels increase the chances of near-normal spring and summer streamflow, but this will depend on developments over the next three months.

"This is unbelievable": Southern Nevada firefighters fight wildfires in California

In a remarkable display of solidarity and bravery, firefighters from Southern Nevada have traveled to California to assist in combating the devastating wildfires that have been raging across the state. As flames consume vast stretches of land, threatening homes and wildlife, these dedicated firefighters have stepped up to lend their expertise and support.

The wildfires, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, have prompted emergency declarations in several regions of California. Firefighters are faced with challenging terrain and rapidly changing weather, making their efforts even more critical. The Southern Nevada crew, equipped with specialized training and firefighting techniques, is working tirelessly alongside local teams to contain the fires and protect communities.

One firefighter expressed disbelief at the scale of the destruction, stating, "This is unbelievable. The intensity of the flames and the speed at which they spread is something we don’t often see." Their commitment to service and the safety of others is evident as they navigate hazardous conditions, battling not just the fire but also the emotional toll it takes on those affected.

The collaboration between Southern Nevada and California firefighters highlights the importance of mutual aid during times of crisis. As the situation unfolds, these brave individuals continue to work around the clock, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Their efforts are a testament to the strength of community and the shared goal of safeguarding lives and property from the relentless threat of wildfires.

As the battle continues, the support from neighboring states serves as a reminder of the collective effort needed to confront such natural disasters. The hope remains that with their combined resources and expertise, the firefighters will bring the wildfires under control and help restore a sense of normalcy to the affected areas.

At last, there's some positive news regarding college expenses. Tuition has decreased considerably at numerous institutions

The cost of college has been on the rise, right? Not necessarily. Recent research shows that students are actually paying significantly less to attend public universities compared to a decade ago. Additionally, tuition hikes at private colleges have finally begun to slow down after years of substantial increases.

Data from the nonprofit College Board reveals that the average tuition for an in-state public university this year is $11,610, which represents a 4% decrease when adjusted for inflation since ten years ago. However, the most notable savings are seen in the average amount students pay after receiving grants and financial aid, which has dropped by 40% over the decade, from $4,140 to $2,480 annually.

This reduction in costs has led to decreased borrowing among students. Currently, just under half of those attending in-state public universities are graduating with debt, down from 59% a decade ago, according to College Board statistics. For those who do take out loans, the average balance has decreased by 17%, now standing at $27,100.

On the other hand, while tuition at private colleges continues to rise, the pace has slowed significantly. Over the past decade, it has increased by 4% when adjusted for inflation, averaging $43,350. This marks a stark contrast to the previous two decades, during which tuition surged by 68%.

As costs decline, many Americans are questioning the value of a college degree. Surveys indicate growing skepticism about the return on investment of higher education, and the percentage of high school graduates enrolling in college has dropped to levels not seen in decades, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Nonetheless, research still shows that obtaining a degree is worthwhile in the long run. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn a median of $2.8 million over their careers, which is 75% more than those with only a high school diploma, according to findings from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce.

The COVID-19 pandemic has played a significant role in these cost reductions, according to Jennifer Ma, an executive research scientist at the College Board and lead author of the study. “During COVID, many institutions—both public and private—froze their tuition rates,” Ma explained. As states and the federal government responded to the pandemic, they increased funding for higher education, enabling colleges to lower their costs. However, some of this funding has since run out, including a substantial amount of federal pandemic aid that was largely exhausted by the end of 2022.

Cost was a key factor in Kai Mattinson's choice to attend Northern Arizona University. While the public university would have cost her around $39,000 per year, discounts and scholarships reduced her expenses to between $15,000 and $20,000. “I initially wanted to go to the University of Arizona, but when I considered the tuition and overall costs, Northern Arizona University became the best option,” said the 22-year-old senior from Nevada, who is majoring in physical education and working as a long-term substitute teacher at a local elementary school.

Many institutions are actively working to control cost increases. For instance, Purdue University in Indiana has maintained its in-state tuition at $9,992 for the past 13 years. Mark Becker, president of the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, expressed satisfaction with the new data.

Early snowpack in Nevada shows a promising start

Snowpacks in Nevada are off to a promising start, but the potential for a generous winter and a strong water year will depend on the next three months. Hydrologists note that while it’s early to predict the impact on 2025’s water supply, current snowpack levels are encouraging.

The snowpack in Nevada and the Eastern Sierra is above normal at 124% of the median, compared to 56% last year. Northern Nevada shows particularly strong early snowpack, with Eastern Nevada at 164% of the median. However, warmer temperatures have resulted in below-normal snowpack in valley floors and lower elevations.

In the Upper Colorado River Basin, which supplies water to Lake Mead, snow water levels are reassuring at 95% of the median. Unfortunately, southern Nevada continues to experience drought, with the Spring Mountains seeing minimal snowpack and only 72% of the median precipitation since October.

If snowpack levels continue to improve, Nevada could see a third consecutive good water year after above-median snowpacks in 2023 and 2024. Reservoirs are recovering, with carryover storage above median levels, but ongoing drought conditions affect about 50% of the state.

Overall, promising snowpack and precipitation suggest a greater chance of normal streamflow in spring and summer, but outcomes will depend on weather patterns in the coming months.

Federal Government Approves Nevada's Public Option Health Insurance Plans

Public option health insurance plans, which will be offered at lower costs than those available through the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange, are set to be available to Nevadans seeking coverage in 2026, as announced by Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro on Monday.

The federal government has approved Nevada's waiver to implement public option health plans with premiums at least 15% lower than those from the state exchange over the next five years. “Beginning next year, Nevada’s new public option plans will enhance affordability in the individual health insurance market, bring significant federal healthcare investments to the state, and increase the number of insured Nevadans,” Cannizzaro stated in a press release. She sponsored legislation in 2021 that allowed the state to pursue this federal waiver.

With this approval, Nevada becomes the third state to offer a public option, following Washington and Colorado. Enrollment due to the public option is expected to increase by 600 in 2026, with further increases projected for subsequent years: 1,800 in 2027 and 2028, 1,900 in 2029, and 2,000 in 2030, according to the state’s waiver application.

The approval will enable Nevada to recover an estimated $300 million to $500 million in federal funds that will be used to lower premiums and enhance healthcare quality in the state. The waiver is not expected to increase the federal deficit, as it anticipates lower individual market premiums and a net decrease in federal spending on premium tax credits.

The public option plans, referred to as Battle Born State Plans (BBSPs), will be available to individuals purchasing their own insurance and must be accessible through Nevada Health Link by January 1, 2026. Although the state has rebranded the program to avoid the term "public option," the plans will meet the law's required premium reduction targets as originally intended.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, the BBSPs will mirror other health plans sold on Nevada Health Link, maintaining the same benefits and cost-sharing requirements while adhering to premium reduction targets. The state projects average net premium rates in the individual market will be lower with the waiver, with reductions expected over the next five years.

Projected net federal savings include $31 million in 2026 and $322 million over the five-year period, attributed to premium reductions for BBSPs and a reinsurance program. These savings will be allocated to implement the plan.

The public option aims to control healthcare costs by lowering premiums in the insurance marketplace and generating federal savings on premium tax credits. A market stabilization program will support the insurance markets involved in the plan, including a reinsurance program for individual market carriers. Additionally, the state plans to provide quality incentive payments to insurers offering BBSPs who meet specific quality metrics, and potentially incentives for healthcare professionals willing to work in underserved areas.

Governor Joe Lombardo did not respond to inquiries about the allocation of federal funding for market stabilization efforts. He previously criticized the public option during his campaign and called for its repeal in his 2023 State of the State Address.

Despite differing views on the public option, Lademann, a spokesman for Cannizzaro, noted that the administration's decision to use some federal funds for reinsurance could help lower costs in the individual market by assisting insurers with high-cost claims, ultimately benefiting consumers.

Fatal accidents in Nevada increase by nearly 6% in 2024, according to a report

Data released by Nevada State Police indicates a rise in fatal accidents across the state, with over 400 people killed on Nevada roads in 2024. This troubling trend is affecting many families in the valley, as more individuals mourn the loss of loved ones due to traffic fatalities. Beronica Ramos recently lost her baby brother in a DUI crash last summer.

“My brother was returning from a vacation in Utah, doing everything right, and unfortunately, because Andino chose to drink and drive that day at two in the afternoon, he collided head-on with them. Now my brother and his girlfriend are gone,” Ramos told 8 News Now.

Martin Andino, 37, received a 35-year prison sentence on ten different charges, including reckless driving and driving under the influence resulting in death, according to court records. Nevada State Police have acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, as their annual statistics reveal that impairment and speeding are the leading contributing factors to accidents statewide. Fatalities have increased by nearly 6%.

The total number of lives lost on Nevada roadways in 2024 has been a significant concern for authorities.

Andino was driving the wrong way near Boulder City when he caused the deaths of both Ramos’ brother, Antonio Aguilera, and his girlfriend.

“Through initiatives like ‘Joining Forces,’ we are doing everything possible to increase visibility and issue speeding citations,” stated Major Kevin Honea of Nevada State Police. In Clark County, pedestrian fatalities rose by nearly 15%, while motorcyclist deaths increased by 22%.

“As a rider myself, I ensure I am seen, and riding requires the utmost attention. It’s important to stay out of blind spots and reduce your speed,” Major Honea emphasized.

Wildfires may impact the housing market in Nevada, according to an expert from UNLV

People are increasingly relocating to wildland-urban interface areas, where urban development intersects with wild vegetation like forests, according to an expert from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. These regions are also well-known for their susceptibility to wildfires.

Nicholas Irwin, an associate professor of economics at the university, noted that this type of land use is the fastest-growing in the West, contributing to nearly a doubling of housing units since 1990. He explained that while wildfires can temporarily hinder development, they do not completely halt it.

"As people begin to rebuild, concerns about wildfire risk will fade into the background," Irwin stated. He added that this is partially supported by science, as areas like the Pacific Palisades are unlikely to experience another fire for some time after the initial one, due to the depleted fuel load.

Irwin and his research team found that when a fire occurs in an area, there is typically a pause in development for about five years. He argued that while insurance companies generally assess risks related to various natural disasters effectively, wildfires are often overlooked. He believes the nation is still in the early stages of accurately modeling wildfire risk and hopes to see improvements in this area.

Irwin pointed out that in any given year, approximately 70 to 80 percent of new residents in Southern Nevada come from Southern California. He suggested that recent wildfires may drive even more people to move and establish new roots elsewhere.

"Las Vegas is quite close, and I anticipate many individuals relocating here, at least temporarily, which will place significant pressure on our rental market," Irwin projected. "Some may even move here for a few years while they go through the rebuilding process. This situation goes beyond just losing homes; it also involves job losses and children changing schools, prompting many to seek a fresh start."

Irwin emphasized that he and his colleagues will continue to monitor the data. He also noted that research indicates the median individual moving from out of state is about 15 percent wealthier than in-state Nevada residents, giving them a competitive edge in the housing market.

Flu and respiratory illnesses are experiencing elevated levels of activity in Southern Nevada

If you're feeling unwell this flu season, doctors recommend wearing a mask when you leave home, as COVID-19, flu, and RSV cases are increasing, according to the Southern Nevada Health District. Flu hospitalizations, in particular, have surged sharply. Last flu season around this time, there were 294 flu-related hospitalizations, but that number has risen nearly 50% to 438 this year.

Dr. Marc Kahn, Dean of the UNLV Kerkorian School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of being prepared during this time. "As temperatures drop, people tend to gather indoors, which facilitates the spread of respiratory viruses like influenza," he noted. Dr. Kahn also pointed out that while the flu virus changes every year, the prevention strategies remain consistent. "We are definitely seeing some vaccination fatigue," he acknowledged, "but I urge people to get vaccinated. You don’t want to catch the flu, nor do you want to spread it to others."

This season, seven individuals have died from the flu in Southern Nevada. Additionally, Dr. Kahn mentioned that while the current strain of COVID-19 is less severe than in previous years, it can still pose risks for those with lung issues or weakened immune systems. RSV primarily affects young children and older adults.

There are certain severe symptoms that are important to recognize. "Signs such as difficulty breathing, inability to speak in full sentences, and a very high fever are concerning," Dr. Kahn explained. "Fortunately, these symptoms are rare for most people with respiratory infections." If you are feeling ill, he advises staying hydrated and ensuring you get enough rest.

Health experts worldwide are also monitoring HPMV, a respiratory illness spreading in China, although cases in the southwestern U.S. remain low.

Nevada secures victory in the Silver State Series matchup against UNLV

Nevada Swimming & Diving celebrated a triumphant farewell for its seven seniors during their final meet at Lombardi Pool on Friday, defeating UNLV with a score of 140-101.

With this victory, Nevada improved to 5-0 in dual meets this season and positioned itself favorably to secure three important points in the swimming and diving competition of the Silver State Series, presented by America First Credit Union. A strong performance at the Mountain West Championships from February 19-22 would ensure those three points for the Wolf Pack.

Seniors Anslee Dickerson, Lucia Gabino, Noelle Harvey, Riley Parker, Abby Parks, Yasmin Perry, and Caitlin Smith were honored in a pre-meet ceremony.

The meet was marked by sophomore Scarlett Ferris breaking a 24-year-old school record in the 50 Free, finishing with a time of 22.65, just edging out Jia Lin Sun's previous record of 22.66 set in 2000.

Overall, Nevada won nine out of the 13 events, including both relay races. Ferris and Enkhkhuslen Batbayar each secured three victories—Ferris won the 100 back and was part of the 200 medley relay, in addition to her 50 free win, while Batbayar triumphed in the 200 and 500 frees, and anchored the 400 free relay to a comeback victory.

Diver Bailey Heydra swept both the 1-meter and 3-meter springboard events, while Evie Floate contributed to both winning relay teams. Heydra continued her impressive season with scores of 306.00 on the 1-meter and 352.88 on the 3-meter.

The Wolf Pack started the meet strong, winning four consecutive events and five of the first six to establish control. The 200 medley relay team of Ferris, Sara Mihalic, Perry, and Floate kicked off the scoring, while Harvey secured crucial points by out-touching UNLV's "B" relay by 0.27 seconds for third place. Keira-Lee Allott followed with a time of 10:08.51 in the 1,000 free, finishing ahead of three Rebel swimmers.

Batbayar continued the momentum with a winning time of 1:47.55 in the 200 free, followed by Ferris's record-breaking swim in the 50 free. Parks also performed well, finishing right behind Ferris at 23.10, helping Nevada to an early lead of 65-46.

UNLV managed to narrow the gap with wins in the 200 IM, 100 fly, and 100 free, but Ferris quickly restored Nevada's dominance with a nearly three-second victory in the 100 back, clocking in at 52.50, well ahead of the runner-up. Molly Von Seggern (56.03) and Parker (57.26) also contributed with third and fourth-place finishes, respectively.

Batbayar followed with a 3.34-second victory in the 500 free, finishing in 4:57.42, alongside Allott's second-place finish. In the 100 breast, Dickerson earned crucial points with her second-fastest career time of 1:03.91. The meet concluded with the Wolf Pack sealing their dual win in the 400 free relay, where Batbayar's impressive anchor leg caught up to UNLV's Bridget Sullivan in the final 20 yards, sending the crowd home excited.

Random thoughts on real estate in 2025

As we welcome another new year, we find ourselves reflecting on the past while contemplating the future. One notable observation is the scarcity of new laws taking effect as we transition into the new year. While many changes typically occur in even years when the Nevada Legislature convenes, it’s still worth mentioning. A significant policy shift took place in August 2024, which had a considerable impact on the real estate sector: the Buyer Compensation Agreement policy. Buyers are now required to sign an agreement regarding agent compensation before they can view any homes or properties. Although this policy has been in effect for a few months, it still feels somewhat awkward for various reasons.

Overall, the industry hasn’t undergone drastic changes, but this new step adds to the home-buying process. Election years, particularly presidential ones, often lead to a market slowdown, and this year was no exception. With the election now behind us, there seems to be a renewed enthusiasm in the real estate market, with buyers and sellers actively exploring their options. There appears to be a positive momentum that could lead to favorable outcomes ahead.

Demand has remained steady; however, affordability has been a challenge due to the high cost of living and rising interest rates. Fortunately, gas prices have dropped significantly since the election, which should help lower grocery and other product prices, making home buying more attainable.

The Nevada Legislature will be convening soon, so it’s essential to stay informed about the developments. There are new representatives who may not always share the perspectives of Nevadans, so it’s important to engage with your political representatives regarding any issues that concern you.

We’ve already heard of some early bills that could impact real estate, and it’s crucial to monitor them to ensure they are addressed appropriately or defeated. Keep in mind that not only real estate legislation affects your property investments and enjoyment, but other local policies do as well.

Local politics have seen some shifts due to term limits and election outcomes. We hope that the newcomers will approach their roles with integrity and common sense. As property owners, it’s vital for you to know that potential buyers are interested in the stability of local government. They often ask numerous questions and compare our area to where they are relocating from, which can influence their decision to move here. As our rural environment gradually becomes more urbanized, let’s remember that Northern Nevada is predominantly characterized by a rural lifestyle and mindset.

Missing Pilot’s Aircraft Discovered in Rural Nevada; Pilot’s Location Still Unknown

Crews located a plane belonging to a pilot who has been missing since January 2 on Sunday in rural Nye County, officials reported.

Michael Martin’s aircraft was found near Mount Jefferson, approximately four hours from the Las Vegas Strip, according to Scott Lewis, the director of emergency management for Nye County. The mountain is located about 50 miles from Tonopah.

Martin disappeared after taking off from North Las Vegas Airport. Rescue teams have been searching for him and the plane since January 5.

As of Sunday, authorities had no updates regarding Martin’s whereabouts or condition. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Nye County Sheriff’s Office at 775-751-7000.

Silver State Hope Fund emphasizes the importance of abortion access in Nevada

The Silver State Hope Fund held its "Inaugurate This" event on Thursday night to highlight initiatives aimed at enhancing abortion access in Nevada. Founded in 2014, this local non-profit has helped nearly 5,000 clients obtain safe and legal abortion services.

The organization stressed that this fundraiser is particularly timely, as Nevada acts as a refuge for those coming from nearby states where such medical services are no longer accessible.

Nevada Department of Agriculture's food program

A vital program aimed at supporting families with children enrolled in daycare has been successfully renewed, ensuring continued access to nutritious food for those in need. This initiative, which plays a crucial role in promoting food security and healthy eating habits among young children, will provide essential resources to families, helping to alleviate the financial burden of food costs.

The renewed program is expected to benefit numerous families across the community, allowing parents to focus on their work and childcare without the added stress of food insecurity. With an emphasis on providing healthy meals, the program not only supports the immediate nutritional needs of children but also fosters long-term health and well-being.

Local officials and community leaders have praised the renewal of this program, recognizing its importance in promoting child development and supporting working families. By ensuring that children receive the proper nutrition they need during their formative years, the program contributes to a brighter future for the next generation.

As the program gets back underway, families can look forward to a continued commitment to their health and well-being, reinforcing the community's dedication to supporting its youngest members. This renewal is a significant step forward in the fight against food insecurity and demonstrates a collective effort to create a healthier, more supportive environment for all families.