Author: Amy Veloz
For Avery Moore, soccer has always been more than just a game—it’s been a lifelong pursuit of excellence, a way to challenge herself, and ultimately, the sport that shaped her path to the University of Nevada, Reno. Now completing her first year as a collegiate athlete, Avery has gained not only experience but also a deeper appreciation for the journey that brought her to the field in navy and silver. Avery began playing soccer when she was just four years old, getting her start with AYSO in her hometown of Pahrump. As she grew, so did her commitment. She joined…
The Pahrump Valley High School Class of 2025 officially marked the end of their high school journey with a joyful and heartfelt commencement ceremony on Friday, May 30, 2025. Held on the school’s football field at 7 p.m., the evening brought together families, friends, faculty, and students to honor the accomplishments of this year’s graduates. Principal Desiree Veloz opened the ceremony by welcoming the crowd before the procession of students made their way to their seats. Student Body President Angelina Valdez and Senior Class President Abigail Alberto Amador served as the emcees for the night, guiding the audience through each…
The Miss Pahrump Pageant has long been a cherished tradition in the heart of Pahrump, and behind the scenes is a devoted group of women who have helped preserve its legacy while continuing to shape it for future generations. At the center of the pageant’s leadership are board members Judy Maughan, Cindy Colucci, Terri Wulfenstein, and Janet Errett—each of whom plays a vital role in ensuring the event remains a celebration of community, poise, and personal growth. The pageant began in 1976, the vision of Ray Wulfenstein, then president of the Chamber of Commerce and father of board members Cindy…
Pahrump Valley High School is inviting student-athletes and their families to attend a Sports Physical and Registration Fair on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the PVHS Main Gym. The event is designed to help streamline the athletic clearance process ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. Students will have the opportunity to complete their required sports physicals on-site, with Dr. Taylor and staff offering the service for just $20 cash. This is a convenient and affordable way for athletes to meet their health clearance requirements for participation in school sports. In addition to physicals, the…
For Jesse Araujo, being named Salutatorian of the Pahrump Valley High School Class of 2025 was less about chasing a title and more about maximizing opportunity. A focused student with a quiet presence, Jesse earned not only his high school diploma this spring, but also his Associate of Arts degree—graduating with 60 college credits already under his belt. Jesse transferred to PVHS as a sophomore after attending Community Christian Academy through his freshman year. At the private school, the curriculum followed a more rigid track. But once he arrived at PVHS, Jesse and his family immediately saw the value in…
Wolfe Beckley’s path to becoming the Valedictorian of the Pahrump Valley High School Class of 2025 wasn’t defined by a strategic climb to the top of a GPA leaderboard. Instead, it was driven by a deep-rooted intellectual curiosity and a love for mathematics that shaped his academic pursuits. “If my goal specifically was valedictorian, I probably wouldn’t have done what I’d done,” Wolfe said with characteristic humility. “I took a lot of college classes, including ones that didn’t count for high school credit, because I was chasing an associate’s degree in pre-engineering.” Rather than take the path of least resistance,…
As a standout athlete in both track and field and cross country, Pahrump Valley High School senior Antonio Veloz is no stranger to early mornings, long runs, and the mental grind of competition. Now, with a commitment to continue his athletic and academic journey at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN), Antonio is taking a moment to reflect on the experiences, people, and perseverance that brought him to this point—and what lies ahead. From a young age, Antonio was immersed in the world of running. Influenced heavily by his father, who ran local 5Ks, and supported by his elementary school’s…
For 2009 Pahrump Valley High School graduate AJ Veloz, life after high school has been anything but predictable. What began as a path rooted in music and creative expression has since evolved into a meaningful and impactful career in the medical field. Now working as a CT/X-ray technologist in Las Vegas, Veloz has combined his love for science with a deep sense of compassion and drive to improve the lives of others. During his years at PVHS, AJ carved out a unique space for himself in both the arts and school culture. One of his fondest memories was rehearsing in…
The gymnasium at Pahrump Valley High School was filled with pride and applause on the evening of Wednesday, May 28, as families, educators, and students gathered for the Senior Awards Night to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. The evening kicked off with the pledge of Allegiance by senior Abigail Alberto Amador, followed by opening remarks from Principal Mrs. Desiree Veloz. Her message set a tone of recognition and encouragement, reflecting on the achievements of the graduating class. Mrs. Veloz then passed the microphone to Assistant Principal Mr. Jason Odegard, who introduced the presentation of athletic scholarships. Bryan…
After 15 years of dedication to the game she once hesitated to play, Pahrump Valley High School senior Khylarann Park is ready to take her soccer talents to the next level. With her recent commitment to play for Midland University in Nebraska, Khylar is stepping into a new chapter of her life—one that blends ambition, courage, and a deep love for the sport that has shaped her since she was three years old. For Khylar, choosing Midland University wasn’t an overnight decision. She had spent considerable time searching for the right fit—one that would support her goals both academically and…