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News from 2024


Reno-Sparks heat mapping project seeks volunteers

Reno, Nev. (July 2, 2024) – Scientists from the Desert Research Institute (DRI) and the University of Nevada, Reno are recruiting volunteers for a one-day campaign to map extreme heat across Washoe County. On July 27th, community volunteers will collect thousands of temperature and humidity measurements during three one-hour periods from early morning through evening. Sensors will be distributed at a central meeting location, which volunteers will attach to their vehicles before driving along predetermined routes. Volunteers can serve as drivers or navigators.


EPIC opens registration for Fall Semester 2024 with diverse course offerings

Registration for EPIC (Educational Programs Inspiring the Community) Fall Semester 2024 courses has officially opened, featuring a diverse lineup of classes aimed at engaging and educating community members of all ages. The fall semester includes a mix of returning favorites and new options, such as courses designed for tweens and teens aged 12–17, and new accelerated training certificates like Microsoft Office Specialist.


Gov. Lombardo sets record with 75 vetoes including key rent control bill

Governor Joe Lombardo has set a new record for vetoes in a single legislative session, rejecting 75 of the 611 bills sent to his desk. Among these was Senate Bill 275 (SB275), which proposed rent control measures for manufactured home parks.


Construction job growth seen across majority of U.S. metro areas from May '23 to May '24

Construction employment increased in 225, or 63 percent, of 358 metro areas between May 2023 and May 2024, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new government employment data. Association officials noted that employment levels in some parts of the country have been impacted by changing demand for construction and ongoing labor shortages.


NDOT announces directional closures on I-15 for "Pave-A-Thon

The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) is urging drivers to plan for full directional closures of Interstate 15 (I-15) and associated ramps over two consecutive weekends in July and August 2024 as part of the "Pave-A-Thon" effort. These closures are necessary for a pavement rehabilitation project between Warm Springs and Flamingo roads.


Construction spending drops slightly despite increase since last year

Construction spending declined by 0.1 percent between April and May to a seasonally adjusted rate of $2.139 trillion, amid declines in demand for a range of nonresidential and residential construction projects. However, construction spending levels are up 6.4 percent compared to May 2023, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America released today of new federal data. Association officials noted that public construction demand was up 0.5 percent for the month, helping offset declines in other types of activity.


CSN hosts second annual AWS Cloud Computing Bootcamp

The College of Southern Nevada hosted its second annual AWS Cloud Computing Bootcamp from June 24-28 at the North Las Vegas campus. The weeklong intensive training, led by CSN’s Computing and Information Technology faculty, attracted 23 students from diverse IT disciplines including computer science, network administration, cybersecurity, and cloud systems administration.


Nevada introduces new tracking tool for harmful algal blooms

The Nevada Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Task Force has introduced a new tracking tool and provided safety tips for water recreation as temperatures rise and residents seek relief in the state's lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. The Task Force emphasizes the importance of staying informed about HABs to safely enjoy Nevada's waterbodies.


International firms invest in Nevada during Select USA Summit

International companies announce investment in Nevada


Nevada settles with Abra over unlicensed cryptocurrency operations

The Nevada Financial Institutions Division has joined 24 other state financial regulatory agencies in taking collective action against Plutus Financial, Inc., Abra Trading, LLC, Plutus Financial Holdings, Inc., and Plutus Lending, LLC (collectively known as "Abra"), along with CEO and largest equity owner William "Bill" Barhydt. The actions stem from allegations that the company operated a cryptocurrency business without the necessary state licensing.


Reach for the Stars Gala aims to support future workforce

The Reach for the Stars Gala, scheduled for June 27, 2024, offers an evening where elegance meets the promise of tomorrow. The event features custom cocktails, entertainment, and dining with décor that bridges past and future eras.


Nevada Dream Tag raffle tickets available until June 30

There are only a few days left for sports enthusiasts to purchase tickets for the Nevada Dream Tag raffle. Tickets will be available until 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 30.


Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs return to Western Nevada College

The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs, scheduled for July 20-21, will commence and conclude at Western Nevada College's John L. Harvey Field. The event, known for its tagline "A Glimpse of Heaven ... A Taste of Hell," offers ultradistance runners a challenging course.


College of Southern Nevada’s mentorship program spotlighted in NWRA waterSpot Summer 2024

The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) has been featured in the latest NWRA waterSpot Summer 2024 newsletter for its efforts to inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields. The article highlights CSN's engagement with students through hands-on research activities, both in the field and laboratory settings, which aim to foster significant discoveries.


Attorney General Ford comments on Supreme Court's domestic abusers firearm ban decision

Carson City, NV — Today, Attorney General Aaron Ford issued a statement following the Supreme Court’s decision in United States v. Rahimi.


Nevada Division of Insurance town hall meeting in Incline Village to address wildfires and insurance

Wildfire frequency has increased over the last decade, leading to higher costs for insuring homes in the western United States. To address this issue, the Nevada Division of Insurance will hold a Town Hall meeting in Incline Village to discuss how wildfires impact homeowners and condominium insurance.


Nevada inflation outpaces national average rates

Inflation rates in the Western Region, which includes Nevada, saw an increase of 0.1% in May of 2024, with a 3.3% increase over the past twelve months.


Attorneys general defend DEI initiatives against recent criticisms

Carson City, NV — Attorney General Aaron Ford announced today his participation in a coalition of 19 attorneys general, led by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, to issue a letter defending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The letter addresses the American Bar Association (ABA), Fortune 100 company CEOs, and other leaders to counter what they describe as baseless attacks on DEI efforts.


National Pollinator Week highlights importance of preserving Nevada's ecosystems

Nevada is home to thousands of native pollinator species, including highly efficient native bees whose fuzzy bodies excel at gathering and transferring pollen. The state also hosts over 600 butterfly and moth species. These range from generalists to specialists like the yucca moth, which uniquely pollinates Joshua trees and other yucca species vital to the Mojave Desert ecosystem. Protecting these pollinators and their habitats is essential for maintaining Nevada’s diverse and healthy ecosystems.