Massage Parlor in Sparks is Having License Revoked Amid Crackdown in Northern Nevada

The City of Sparks says Shanghai Spa on Glendale Avenue is having its business license revoked amid a crackdown on massage parlors where alleged prostitution and suspected human trafficking are taking place.

“On the heels of an investigation by the HEAT team, City Attorney Wes Duncan approved the revocation of a business license of a suspected illegal brothel,” a statement just released to media indicates.

“The investigation spanned from the end of June 2025 to the beginning of September 2025, and uncovered the following findings: First, the location in question, Shanghai Spa located on Glendale Avenue, was advertising sexual services on know prostitution websites. Second, the business phone number associated with the location yielded 237 unique advertisements on several known prostitution websites. Third, there were numerous sexually explicit online reviews associated with that location by sex purchasers who reviewed the sexual services offered at that location. Fourth, HEAT officers conducted surveillance of the location and interviewed numerous purchasers or “Johns” who admitted to paying for sexual services at the location. Based on these findings, there was more than ample evidence to conclude illegal activity was occurring at this location and the City Attorney’s office initiated and approved the revocation of the Shanghai Spa’s business license. As a result of this revocation at Shanghai Spa and the letter from the Sparks City Attorney's Office, the Lotus Massage has also closed its business according to the HEAT team."

“We are seeing a disturbing increase of illegal massage businesses operating throughout the region,” City Attorney Wes Duncan is quoted as saying. “These illicit brothels are havens for illegal activity and suspected human trafficking where women are working and living seven days a week."

This comes less than a week after Wonderful Massage on Hillcrest Drive in Reno was shut down for similar reasons. Earlier this year, in March, another massage parlor 7 Star Massage was evicted from a building on South McCarran Blvd. after an investigation revealed multiple online advertisements depicting illegal prostitution.

Our Town Reno reporting, Oct 7, 2025

Modified More Industrial StoneGate Project Back Before Regional Planning Commission

In what has been a seesaw battle, developers for the StoneGate project in north Reno are going back to the Truckee Meadows Regional Planning Commission later this week October 9th to appeal the denial of their proposed changes to make it less residential and more industrial.

The rejection of the request from Heinz Ranch Land Co., with a promotional screenshot from a video from their website here, took place August 4th with a 5-4 vote in favor of the developer when six votes were needed.

The industrial component could include data centers. Last month, Reno’s City Council voted against appealing the denial despite previously approving the rezoning.

This time though the body only needs a majority vote, with one of Reno’s representatives on the board council member Naomi Duerr probably a swing vote.

Other council members on that board, Brandi Anderson, Devon Reese and Kathleen Taylor, the latter two running for mayor, have all received donations from parties and individuals connected to the project.

Our Town Reno reporting, October 2025

Wyatt North Identified as October 1st Reno Homicide Victim

"Wyatt North, 21, of Reno, died on 10/01/2025," the coroner's office confirmed to Our Town Reno today, after we asked about North and having been told he was the victim in the recent Highlands apartment deadly shooting right by UNR.

"He was positively identified by dental comparison over the weekend. The manner of death was homicide. The cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds of the torso and extremities," Justin Norton wrote.

North's friend Jonathan who sent us these photos wrote: "Rest in Peace, Wyatt North. 

It still doesn’t feel real that you’re gone. Wyatt had the kind of energy that could light up any room. He was the one who could make everyone laugh even on the worst days, and he always showed up for the people he cared about without ever expecting anything in return.

He had such a genuine heart, and it hurts knowing we won’t get to see that big smile or hear his voice again. He deserved so much more time, but his memory and the love he gave will never fade. We’ll carry him with us in everything we do — in the jokes we tell, the late-night talks, and the moments when we need a reminder to keep going.

We love you, Wyatt. You’ll never be forgotten. Rest easy."

There has been no publicly shared information yet on whether a suspect has been arrested even though earlier reports indicated a suspect had been identified.

A gofundme has been started for North's burial expenses which can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/wyatt-north

It says he was tragically shot around 7:30 PM shortly after getting off work. His friends say he worked for UPS.

"Wyatt was a bright light in the lives of so many — someone who cared deeply for others, and always found a way to bring joy to those around him. He was always his silly, goofy self and never went out of his way to cause anyone harm. This loss has left his family and friends heartbroken and struggling to process such an unexpected tragedy," the fundraiser organized by Jake Erks includes.

"As we come together to honor Wyatt North’s memory, we want to help his family with the financial burden of funeral and memorial expenses. Losing someone unexpectedly is never easy, and no family should have to face these costs alone while grieving such a loss."

Our Town Reno reporting, October 6, 2025

Supreme Court Refuses to Take On Reno GPS Tracker Case Bringing it Back to Washoe County

The Supreme Court is declining to hear oral arguments in the GPS tracker case involving Mayor Hillary Schieve, the latest chapter in a convoluted, drawn out legal marathon.

No reason was given in the court order declining to take up the case this morning.

In April, the Nevada Supreme Court ruled the First Amendment does not protect “John Doe” in the case, which was followed by lawyers appealing to the Supreme Court to keep John Doe’s identity secret.

The case stems from secret GPS tracking devices found on Schieve’s and former Washoe County Commissioner Vaughn Hartung’s personal vehicles in 2022, with the two seeking to hold all parties accountable for the violation of their privacy including the hired private investigator.

Washoe County District Court Judge David Hardy has ordered the private investigator David McNeely, whose PI business is called 5 Alpha Industries, to reveal the name of his client in this case. John Doe was apparently trying to uncover alleged misconduct, which did not appear to materialize.

Motions are now expected concerning the Supreme Court’s denial, in what has been a drawn out case with many twists and turns, but no resolution as of yet.

If John Doe’s identity is eventually released, as now appears more likely, a civil case filed by Schieve and Hartung would be able to move forward.

Our Town Reno reporting, October 2025

UndocuPack Internet Presence Goes Missing after Threatening DOJ Letter

The UndocuPack program page is now missing from the UNR website while its Instagram profile page no longer exists after a letter from the US Department of Justice partly called out wording which previously indicated its office offered “assistance with on-campus and community resource referrals, financial aid and academic support, basic needs, mental health, physical well-being and more.”

Metadata from the UndocuPack website still available shows it offered "guidance and resources for undocumented students and mixed-status families." This information is also still available on a donation page on the UNR website.

The letter by the DOJ Civil Rights Division signed by Harmeet Dhillon and Sigal Chattah repeatedly uses the term “illegal aliens” and can be found in screenshot above.

The letter says this matter is being referred to the Department of Education. Part of the letter seems to cite part of a quote from a recent Our Town Reno published report about UndocuPack.

The Nevada Sagebrush has a detailed report about this story it issued earlier today, now being broadcast on at least one other local media channel as well.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 29, 2025

Saint Mary's Is Awarded $510 Million, but UHS Believes Punitive Damages Will be Reduced

Saint Mary’s has been awarded over $510 million in punitive damages after a Washoe County jury ruled against Delaware-based Universal Health Services in what the hospital called a “landmark verdict.”

A statement from the hospital today with this photo indicates UHS and affiliated defendants had been found liable “for fraud, malice, and oppression in a coordinated scheme against Saint Mary’s Health Network during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

It said the jury heard evidence of UHS orchestrating “a scheme beginning in 2019 to cripple the health network by soliciting physicians and senior leaders, stealing trade secrets, and triggering a mass resignation that disrupted patient care and destroyed Saint Mary’s healthcare ecosystem.”

The statement indicated that jurors fonds that UHS and its agents, “including former Saint Mary’s leaders who sabotaged the network from within, engaged in deliberate and unlawful acts to:
• Illegally solicit Saint Mary’s physicians and employees
• Steal confidential trade secrets
• Orchestrate a mass resignation event
• Breach contracts and duties of loyalty to Saint Mary’s
• Disrupt patient care and relationships by diverting patients from Saint Mary’s to UHS entities.”

“This case is about more than one hospital, it is about accountability and integrity in American healthcare and we commend the judicial system for bringing truth to light,” Prem Reddy, M.D., Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Prime Healthcare is quoted as saying. “This verdict is a victory for patients and communities, affirming that accountability and integrity are the foundation of healthcare.”

“For over 117 years, Saint Mary’s has been a trusted institution. Patients and communities should always be at the heart of medicine, and this verdict reinforces that trust and care must never be compromised,” Sunny Bhatia, President of Prime Healthcare was quoted as saying.

Prime Healthcare completed its purchase of Saint Mary’s in July 2012.

According to a UHS statement, the claims stemmed from physicians leaving St. Mary’s Medical Group in Reno, Nevada, to join the Pinnacle Medical Group in 2021.

In its own press release UHS says that under Nevada statutory law it believes the punitive damages are expected to be reduced to a maximum of about $14 million. The company also said recent Nevada Supreme Court precedent could further reduce the punitive damages.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 29, 2025

New Group is Promising to Bring Professional Soccer Back to Reno

A new website called USL Reno Pro Soccer is announcing the group’s plans to bring pro soccer back to northern Nevada “in a stadium that maximizes the fan experience, builds a loyal and passionate following, and creates pride for our region while enhancing economic impact.”

The group is reported to have closed on the former Jones West Ford site at Kietzke Lane to turn it into a sports and entertainment district with a soccer specific stadium.

The USL runs a Division 1 league, the second tier USL Championship and a third tier USL League One, all operating below the top-tier Major League Soccer (MLS). It also features a pre-professional developmental league called USL League Two. 

“As the USL continues to expand in the Western U.S., we’re excited about the potential of bringing professional soccer to northern Nevada,” Justin Papadakis, USL Deputy CEO and Chief Real Estate Officer was quoted as saying. “Reno is one of the fastest-growing mid-size cities in the country with a passionate soccer fan base. Add in a dedicated local ownership group with plans for a soccer-specific stadium in a prime location, and you have the foundation needed to build a successful club and raise Reno’s profile across the region.”

Listed on the USL Reno Pro Soccer club leadership are Todd Davis, an entrepreneur whose dad played with the Rochester Lancers, former tv news anchor Wendy Damonte, lawyer Bob Enzenberger and former US international defender John Doyle.

Reno's previous professional soccer team Reno 1868 FC made its debut in the USL Championship in March 2017 and ceased operations after the 2020 season.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 25, 2025

Local Historian Alicia Barber Now Tasked with Organizing Summit to Revive Lear Theater

The Reno City Council is now asking local historian and writer Alicia Barber to plan a citizen’s summit to gage the next steps for the perpetually in limbo and idle Lear Theater.

This comes after the council received a letter of interest from a local photographer with few financial specifics to revive the historical theater built in the 1930s by the Black architect Paul Revere Williams.

On its own website the City of Reno has a page called Lear Theater, which it started after it took over the historic building from Artown in 2021, which never got it going in its own years of having it under its control.

The building served as the primary worship center for the First Church of Christ, Scientist until 1998.  When the congregation moved to a new church location south of the city in 1998, one of its members, Moya Lear, saw potential in the storied building to serve as a prominent community theater.

Consequently, Lear pledged over $1 million that was matched by the community to support the purchase of the building. 

It was then transferred to the Reno-Sparks Theater Community Coalition, a group that was founded in 1993 by fellow congregation member Edda Morrison. The Coalition then took on the name of Lear Theater Inc. and very briefly operated as a functioning community theater.

Theater operations were short-lived, however, as renovation and construction efforts were never completed.  Then in December 2011, the late former mayor Bob Cashell helped facilitate the transfer of the Lear Theater to Artown.

Now with the city in control, its city council members have been sensitive to criticism from the public for not seeing any reopening and use, besides a pretty fenced off and deteriorating majestic structure by the Truckee River.

The Lear Theater is expected to be discussed at next month’s Historical Resources Commission meeting, after which Barber is expected to schedule a wider community summit.

Finding funds for renovations will remain a big sticking point.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 25th, 2025

How will H1-B Visa Changes Affect the University of Nevada, Reno?

How do you think new H1-B visa rules will affect UNR, hiring and teaching there in the years ahead?

On the university's H1-B information for international scholars page it’s indicated:”The H-1B category is designed for the temporary employment in a "specialty occupation". A specialty occupation is defined as one that requires a "theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge" along with at least a bachelor's degree or its foreign equivalent in the field required for the position.”

 “Some employers, using practices now widely adopted by entire sectors, have abused the H-1B statute and its regulations to artificially suppress wages, resulting in a disadvantageous labor market for American citizens, while at the same time making it more difficult to attract and retain the highest skilled subset of temporary workers, with the largest impact seen in critical science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields,” the White House statement from September 19th indicates.
 
Many hires in academia are international ones, with no existing caps. There are tens of thousands of H-1B visa holders employed by colleges and universities across the country, but the exact number is not publicly available.

As of Sunday, H-1B visa applications will now require a one-time $100,000 payment compared to visa fees which previously typically ranged from $2,000 to $5,000 per application.

Employers now must also have documentation of the payment prior to filing an H-1B petition on behalf of a worker.

This new fee will be applied to all new H-1B applicants, not renewals or current visa holders, and will be implemented in the upcoming lottery cycle.

The fee may have the effect of driving down the flow of foreign students to U.S. graduate programs as well, including at UNR, by negatively affecting their prospects of being hired by a U.S. university or company after their studies are completed.

Most H-1Bs are actually currently issued to individuals already in the United States, as a way to prolong their stay and opportunities.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 23, 2025

Dana Searcy No Longer With County, Two Years after Becoming Division Director for Housing and Homeless Services

Dana Searcy previously listed as the Division Director for Housing and Homeless Services shown here giving a media tour of the Cares Campus in one of our archive photos is reported to be no longer a county employee.

“On September 19, 2025, Dana Searcy resigned from employment with Washoe County,” Bethany Drysdale wrote in an email to Our Town Reno confirming what a source told us in a text message this morning. “Washoe County thanks Ms. Searcy for her service and wishes her well.”

We will try to look further into what caused this departure. There had been commissioner concerns previously expressed about expensive office space she had used in downtown Reno away from the shelter compound.

In September 2023, it had been announced that “in support of Washoe County’s strategic plan priority to serve vulnerable populations, effective September 11, Housing and Homeless Services (HHS) under the continued leadership of Division Director Dana Searcy, will transition from the Office of the County Manager to become a new division within the Human Services Agency (HSA).

In the works for several months, the move is a natural progression to harmonize the delivery of services across our homeless facilities, which include Our Place, the Cares Campus and our Safe Camp. HHS’s move will provide economies of scale for much-needed resources and collaboration opportunities as we pursue our mission to end homelessness and expand affordable housing in our region.”

Two years after that announcement, there was no mention in today's email we received as to who would be replacing Searcy, who was still listing that position on her LinkedIn.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 22, 2025

Bail Raised to $250,000 for Bushidokan Martial Arts Instructor Herb LaGue Facing Lewdness with Child Charge

The bail has been raised from $25,000 to $250,000 for Herbert LaGue who remained in Washoe County detention this morning due to charges of lewdness with a child under 14 and showing a minor harmful images.

The arrest follows intense law enforcement activity earlier this week at the Bushidokan Martial Arts School in Sparks.

According to the Bushidokan website the Bushidokan Federation is a union of jujitsu dojos from around the world practicing the art of DanZan Ryu Zenyo Bujutsu, founded by Herb LaGue.

A parent reached out to Our Town Reno saying they had made a report dating back to June 2024 to the Sparks Police department regarding allegations against LaGue and that they are preparing a civil lawsuit against him.

Meanwhile, the Bushidokan Martial Arts Temple has issued a statement saying that for more than 55 years, “Lague and the Bushidokan Federation and Temple have stood for peace, service and honor.”

It goes on to deny what it calls “the recent false claim,” adding “the accuser is a disgruntled former student.”  

On a Facebook post with that post, the only comment there indicates: “Slander Per Se, Libel Per Se, Defamation of Character, Harassment through Agents violating a standing protection order. That’s what this post is.”

Our Town Reno reporting, September 21, 2025

The UndocuPack Program at UNR Keeps Growing with Empathy Under the Leadership of Janet Najera

Above an image of a collection of sticky notes in the UndocuPack office at the University of Nevada, Reno, left by UndocuPack supporters.

At 29, Janet Najera leads the undocumented student program at UNR, known as UndocuPack, which describes itself as offering “assistance with on-campus and community resource referrals, financial aid and academic support, basic needs, mental health, physical well-being and more.”

Najera works closely with campus individuals from undocumented and mixed-status families, helping them find resources, guidance, and a community on campus.

“As a first-generation student, I wanted to be in a space where I could support others in similar circumstances,” she explained. “It’s not only a professional role, but it speaks to who I am as an individual.”

Najera grew up in a family where education and community were central. Both her parents were once undocumented, and some relatives still face challenges to remain in the United States. Her grandmother emphasized the value of learning and supporting others, lessons Najera brings to her work.

“Being first-generation is something I had to navigate, learning how to apply for college and how to attend college,” she said. “But it also comes with successes. Being first-generation is really beautiful.”

Najera earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at UNR and is pursuing a PhD. She started as a social services coordinator and has spent five years growing the program.

The program began in 2015 through student advocacy. It has grown from a small effort to one with a recognized logo and several student interns. “We started with one intern, and last year we had about seven,” she said. “More student participation lets us create more services and provide stronger support.”

Najera connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and career opportunities that don’t require a Social Security number. She also works with them before they enroll at UNR.

“I’ve worked with students starting in high school who have now graduated,” she said. “We guide them through the entire journey in higher education.”

Collaboration is a big part of the program. Najera works with Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada, Northern Nevada Legal Aid, the Northern Nevada Food Bank, and on-campus offices like financial aid and the multicultural center. “We’ve built a strong community, and the outside community has really incorporated itself into the program to help us,” she explained.

Najera says she wants to keep expanding the program to make sure all students know they have a place on campus. “It’s important for students to know they can attend higher education,” she said. “Misconceptions in the community can limit what they believe is possible. Our goal is to grow the program and provide more support to our students and our community.”

Her family has been a constant support. “My mom only got her education up to sixth grade, so for her to know I was serving in higher education was a big thing,” she said. “My parents have been my biggest supporters.”

Najera’s experience as a first-generation student helps her connect with students personally. While she isn’t undocumented, she makes sure students know, “I’m there as a support and that I’ll listen no matter what,” she said.

She encourages students and families to reach out. “It’s crucial for people to know we’re here to help our community and our students,” she concluded. “There’s a space and support for them here. They can always reach out, and we’ll help them navigate whatever they need.”

Reporting by James Perez shared with Our Town Reno

Another Musical Chairs Chapter Looms for Lear Theater

After multiple failed promises and efforts over the past two decades to revive and put the historical Lear Theater to full time use, including by current city council members, agenda C4 next Wednesday is a “Staff Report (For Possible Action): Presentation, discussion, and direction to staff on the potential disposition, lease, or other direction for the Lear Theater/First Church of Christ, Scientist located at 501 Riverside Drive, Reno, Nevada in response to a Letter of Interest received by Gina Hasler; together with matters which pertain to or are necessarily connected therewith. [City Manager’s Office]”

Hasler is the owner and photographer for GMH Photography as well as the founder of the local Studio Fourteen.

“In February 2025, Council gave direction to staff to sell underutilized properties and directed the Lear Theater/First Church of Christ, Scientist to remain in the City’s inventory at the time due to lack of budgeted funds needed for repairs and/or development,” the staff report with more details for the agenda item indicates.

“Multiple parties have since expressed interest in renovation, development, purchase, or management of the Lear. A letter of interest has been received from Gina Hasler. Staff is seeking direction from Council on next steps for the Lear Theater/First Church of Christ, Scientist. The City of Reno Management Policy covering the Disposition of City-Owned Real Property (eff. 06-25-19), Section IX. C. requires Council to determine if and how the property should be disposed.”

On its own website the City of Reno has a page called Lear Theater, which it started after it took over the historic building from Artown in 2021.

There it still has this information: "The City of Reno is excited to begin exploring the future of the Lear Theater (First Church of Christ, Scientist) at 501 Riverside Drive. You may remember that during the 1990s and early 2000s, various local nonprofits worked toward adapting this building into a performing arts theater. Though this work was never completed, this beloved and iconic landmark building in the heart of Reno on the river walk is special to many in the Truckee Meadows and especially to the arts community. The City of Reno finalized the purchase of the building in 2023 and will be conducting some improvements to stabilize the building and protect it from deterioration while more information is gathered about the building’s current condition. “

A letter from August from Hasler indicates “our intent is to restore this iconic building, ensuring its historical integrity is maintained while transforming it into a vibrant hub for the arts that honors its past and inspires its future. Central to our vision is a deep commitment to preserving the theatre's history, including continuing to honor the Lear family through the retention of its name and celebrating the groundbreaking contributions of Paul Revere Williams.”

The plan outlined in the letter with this visual involves securing donor money, grants, smaller community funding through events and loans.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 19, 2025

Man at Home with Over 100 Cats Faces Court Hearing Next Month, While House is Reported Condemned

Arthur Vanderhoef is facing “misdemeanor criminal citations for: Fail to provide air, food, shelter or water to impounded or confined animal; Fail to keep animal in sanitary conditions; Endanger an animal; and Exceed number of dogs/cats allowed on premise without proper permit. The first hearing is set for October 14th at 10:30 a.m.,” Washoe County District Attorney’s Office PIO Kendall Holcomb wrote to us this morning, after we asked for an update on the 101 cats found during a welfare check at a home in northwest Reno following long standing complaints from neighbors.

The property on Bowie Road which has been under foreclosure is reported to have been condemned as well.

Information on Homes.com indicates Vanderhoef had been the owner there for nearly 25 years, and that the three bedroom, 1216 square foot house, has an estimated worth of more than $440,000.

On LinkedIn, a page with the Arthur Vanderhoef name from Reno has him listing himself as a street sweeper.

Dozens of cats from the property have already been adopted out, with others still waiting for a family.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 19, 2025

Reno Artist Tries To Find Second Life for Rejected Homelessness Focussed Art Piece

“I just finished a 4x8 ft mural for the RTIA that’s been rejected by all involved,” artist Mallory Kate Mishler wrote to us today about the Biggest Little Housing Crisis Mural photographed here.

Mishler was hoping that after spending time painting the mural during a live artist event at the recently concluded Reno Tahoe International Art Show at the Reno Sparks Convention Center, and spending personal money on the materials, the art work would be displayed at the airport, or elsewhere with a partner organization with high visibility, as part of the deal. Instead, it was unceremoniously dropped off at Mishler's garage this week.

“This piece is about Reno’s housing crisis and more importantly, its invisible homeless population. Confrontation of Reno’s preferred image and the dialogue of what is ‘appropriate’ are also involved. The unhoused and overlooked, the ones who don’t make it into the tourist brochures but live under the arch’s shadow every day deserve much more and this is an opportunity,” she wrote.

In emails forwarded to us, Briana Dolan from the RTIA this week wrote to the artist: “I appreciate you sharing your thoughts on the experience. And while everyone respects and appreciates authenticity, we did have a specific prompt to work with in regards the display at the airport. I’ve been in communication with our contact there, Annie Turner, and as we were concerned about, the final artwork does not fit within the assigned parameters for this exhibition.”

According to the application text which was sent for the murals, it was indicated “Designs are at the discretion of the artist, with the placement at the airport in mind. If subject matter is deemed inappropriate, the mural will not be included in the airport display. Selected muralists will be featured in RTIA promotion and well [sic] as direct promotion by the elected charity before and during the event.”

In a follow up Instagram audio call, Mishler indicated print outs or sticker iterations displayed at local mutual aid events could be a possibility to make sure more people see versions of this important work.

In a press kit she included an expanded artist statement which indicated eloquently:

“I don’t make art for decoration.

I make it because survival, memory, and truth demand it. My work shifts across themes—cityscapes, archetypes, ghosts, neon, portraits—but the through-line is always the same: I refuse to look away from what others erase.

Sometimes that means painting the grit of Reno’s streets.

Sometimes it means diving into personal archetypes and myth.

Sometimes it means painting a free portrait of a friend so their loved ones can mourn their loss.

Other times it’s satire, humor, or intensity that cuts against polite culture.

My practice is about exposing the fractures in what’s called “normal” and insisting that art should provoke, connect, and demand presence. This mural is one expression of that larger practice: rooted in the same urgency, carried by the same refusal to smooth things over.”

Our Town Reno reporting, September 18, 2025

The Northern Nevada Literacy Council: Assisting Immigrants on their Path to Citizenship

This past Saturday, eight students arrived at the Northern Nevada Literacy Council’s (NNLC) facility off Wedekind Road in north Reno to participate in a free adult education program offered by the organization—English as a Second Language (ESL) and U.S. Civics.

In their classroom, they answered basic questions about American history, read short excerpts of their textbooks to practice English, and listened to their instructor speak on the causes of World War I; however, getting better at English is not their only goal.

For student Mary Orozco, an immigrant from Mexico who has lived in the United States since 1989, and for other immigrant classmates like her, the class is a step towards obtaining American citizenship. 

“We take it because we wanna be . . . citizens the soon as possible,” said Orozco from the front steps of the NNLC building during a brief break outside the classroom. “We are so happy [to] come to [the] U.S.A. because there’s more opportunities [for] us,” she added.

Eduardo Garcia, the NNLC’s academic director, says that his organization has offered citizenship-related instruction for immigrants since its beginning over four decades ago.

Their four hour ESL and U.S. Civics classes are held on Saturdays throughout thirteen-week sessions. These help immigrants prepare for their next step in the naturalization process following the completion of their mandatory residencies and their citizenship application.

“We assist them with preparing and bettering their English language skills, specifically when it comes to that process when they go in and sit for their interview,” said Garcia. “We teach them history, civics, what it is to be an American, and kind of just get them prepared for that.”

During their interviews, he says “they’ll be asked a random set of ten questions. There’s also a reading portion to it and a writing portion to that interview. If at any point they don’t pass one of those sections, the interview ends; and then this person has to apply all over again.”

Aside from the challenge of learning English and preparing for their interviews in class, the NNLC’s immigrant students can face other hardships too, such as finding transportation, childcare, or even time to enable them to attend classes, Garcia explained.

Still, the NNLC attracts hundreds of applicants to its ESL program, though it currently faces a capacity issue and typically only hosts around fifteen to twenty students per ESL and U.S. Civics class. To accommodate more students in the future, the organization is seeking to acquire larger classrooms by relocating to the Reno Town Mall.

Another issue facing the NNLC is its funding. The organization, which normally receives significant funding from the Department of Education via the state of Nevada, was affected by the Trump administration’s decision to freeze the distribution of $6.8 million through that department in July. Though some money was released for distribution later the same month, the NNLC’s funding stream has not yet returned to normal.

“We haven’t really seen what they told us we would be getting just yet,” reported Garcia. “It’s supposed to be coming.”

In the meantime, Garcia said his organization is relying on donations from the community to help support its classes and instructors.

One such instructor, Jeramy Ager (in top photo), just recently started teaching ESL and U.S. Civics classes.

In these classes, according to Ager, the responsibility is heavy. “I do everything from the lesson planning to where are we gonna go, what part of the book, and, you know, to getting up and monitoring students, checking their work and stuff,” he said. “It’s a lot, but we—we make it work, you know. It’s worth it.”

To help alleviate instructor workloads, the NNLC offers volunteer opportunities for the community—accepting volunteer teaching assistants and others willing to act the part of immigration officers in interview simulations to give students more practice before their real-life interviews commence.

Naturalization interviews are held nationwide at United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) locations, and the local USCIS field office is in South Reno on Sandhill Road. The USCIS also offers immigrants more resources for interview preparation and the N-400 citizenship application form on their website.

Reporting by Ariel Van Cleve shared with Our Town Reno

Devon Reese Throws Hat in Reno Mayoral Ring, Hinting He Could Serve Up to 15 Years on Council

Devon Reese, who we reported had previously written Reno Mayor on the position description for his latest contributions report, has released a new video and statement announcing his candidacy for the mayoral position in the 2026 cycle, pitting him against another pro-developer council member Kathleen Taylor, with to the right a candidate he’s beaten before in an at-large citywide race, businessman Eddie Lorton, and to the left former state Lieutenant Governor Kate Marshall, all already declared.

“Our river is precious. We need to protect it, make sure we can enjoy it, and that it continues to grow into an attraction and driver of housing, jobs and small businesses. There is no reason to have a Waste Management station on the river, and many reasons not to - this is an example of a local problem I can solve that serves a bigger vision for a better future for Reno, and why I’m running for mayor,” Reese wrote as part of his press release.

Reese is known for talking down different media outlets including ours, as well as occasional acrimonious back and forths with other council members at city hall or with community members on social media.

He’s been on city council since February 2019 since being appointed as an at-large replacement initially and indicates at the bottom of his release, “if elected, Reese would be eligible to serve two full terms as mayor, having served one full term on the city council.” If elected twice, according to this scenario he maps out, that would mean he would be on council 15 years.

The Nevada Constitution, Article 15, Section 3(2) says:

“No person may be elected to any state office or local governing body who has served in that office, or at the expiration of his current term if he is so serving will have served, 12 years or more, unless the permissible number of terms or duration of service is otherwise specified in this Constitution.”

“It is undisputed that, under this provision, an individual may not serve in the same state office or position on a local governing body for more than 12 years,” a judicial decision issued in 2014 in Lorton v. Jones spelled out, a case that prevented then-Reno councilwoman Jessica Sferrazza, termed out after 12 years on the council, from running for mayor, clearing the way for Mayor Hillary Schieve, who is now termed out herself.

Current office holders have used partial terms they’ve gotten as a way to go beyond the 12-year limit.

To have that scenario, Reese would have to win the top seat in 2026, which remains to be seen.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 18, 2025

Former REMSA Employee Scrubs Social Media After Charlie Kirk Statement, While REMSA Health Disables Comments on Its Own Post

A former Reno-based frontline emergency dispatcher for REMSA Health has taken down her LinkedIn, while a REMSA Health post responding to anger from local Charlie Kirk supporters has disabled comments.

"REMSA Health's core values of compassion and integrity guide the work of our providers every day. Our promise to the communities we serve is to help people feel healthier and cared for," the REMSA Health Instagram has as a screenshot with no comments allowed.  

"We are aware of a recent social media post by one of our employees on their personal page. The post did not reflect our organization's mission and principles. The person is no longer a part of the REMSA Health organization,” the screenshot indicates.

This follows a flood of angry comments from Charlie Kirk supporters across Facebook targeting REMSA Health and the former employee who wrote on her personal social media:

"Unpopular opinion: I hope that the death of Charles Kirk has drastically altered the whole familys [sic] life (even extended) existence SO much that they no longer believe the things he was teaching them. 

I do not feel bad; he himself stated this is just what happens. 

I'd also like to point out that several indigenous & minority families have watched their parents being slaughtered & y'all attempt to demonize the murdered person sooooo, 

... I dunno maybe Charles Kirk asked for it. You will speak into existence your reality. I guess he succeeded?"

One commenter on our previous Facebook post about this pointed to a website called “Expose Charlie’s Murderers” which had as a threat “Is an employee or a student of yours supporting political violence online? Look them up on this website.  Send information on anyone celebrating Charlie’s death.”  The affiliated Twitter/X now points to a website called the Charlie Kirk Data Foundation with modified about language, indicating: “This is not a doxxing website. We lawfully collect publicly-available data to analyze the prominence of support for political violence in the interest of public education. We do not publish data which identifies individuals.”

Those who disagreed with Kirk’s stance have issued their own statements such as on our Reddit query which offers more anonymity through user handles. Comments there ranged from blasting REMSA Health for poor pay and staffing to tracking how attempts at cancel culture are evolving.

On our previous Instagram post about this one commenter wrote referring to the former REMSA Health employee: “She should sue, she absolutely has the right to have a political stance on his death just the way he had shit takes about human rights.”

The phenomenon is not unique to Reno, nor is divided commentary about it, as this is happening nationwide. 

A recent headline from the Daily Beast indicates “‘Nazi Karens’ Go Full Cancel Culture on Charlie Kirk Critics”

The piece begins with this line: “Keyboard warriors have reacted to this week’s assassination of self-anointed champion of “free speech” Charlie Kirk by launching an online campaign to get anyone who criticizes him fired from their jobs.”

Others on local social media indicated they had heard some of their employed friends had been called in for meetings today to discuss their own recent online commentary.  

Our Town Reno reporting, September 15, 2025

Jake Klass, In The Thick of a First Season in Local Wildland Firefighting

Stationed in northern Nevada, Jake Klass has been thrown straight into a chaotic first fire season, where rough terrain and temperamental weather keep his days unpredictable.

“My first big fire was the Lick Fire, which [became] the Swift Fire,” he recalls, the rotor of the helicopter still thumping in his memories.

“I remember some crazy flames, and it was very, very hot. WIth how big the flames were, we couldn’t even do anything. Helicopters were called in for backup to drop water,” he says.

Becoming a wildland firefighter was natural for Klass. He grew up surrounded by family in the same field. Combined with a love of hiking and the outdoors, his future mapped itself out.

“I thought it’d be a good idea to get paid to do what I love,” he said, but the job isn’t quite like the hobbies he’s used to, and he’s still knee deep in the adjustment period.

An average day at his station is tiring, but it’s the fourteen day assignments that drain him the most, he says. The weight he carries, roughly 60 pounds strapped to his back, takes a toll.

“You definitely feel it in your neck, your back, your legs, and even your feet,” he said. “I think people understand it’s a dangerous job, but if you’re not physically fit enough for what the job demands, you become a hazard.”

On top of the physical pressure, there’s the mental factor of being away from friends and family, knowing the risk of injury or even the possibility of never returning home. It’s the adrenaline that keeps him pushing. “For me, I love it. You have to stay alert and give it your full attention because anything could happen. I love being in the action. I’m kind of an adrenaline junky,” Klass admits.

While content with his current position on an engine, he looks forward to eventually taking the job even further. Whether it is propelling himself from a helicopter or flying one himself, he plans to stay in the thick of it.

“It’s a cool job, it kicks your ass for sure, but you make really good friends,” he said. “I found a family in the guys that I see every day.”

Reporting by Lexi Soileau shared with Our Town Reno

ADUs are Now a Go for Reno

Reno council members unanimously advanced an accessory dwelling unit ordinance today, as part of agenda item D1, seven years after a Mayor Hillary Schieve led council rejected a similar proposal, despite renewed public comment in opposition.

These so-called “granny flats” will have to be shorter than the primary structure, on lots larger than 5,000 feet and include at least one parking space. Any existing neighborhood plans prohibiting ADUs will continue to prevail.

There were discussions for possible historical area carve out exceptions and having ADUs be rented for a minimum of 28 days, but these suggested changes were abandoned.

The ordinance must be approved a second time, probably later this fall, to get final approval.

Our Town Reno reporting, September 10, 2025