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Cow Cuddling e New erapy

By Trina Machacek

It’s mid-January and calving season is gaining speed in Eureka County. ‘Tis the time of the year when at all hours of the day and night you might see a rancher heading to the barn or pens to “check” on the cows. Help a new momma deliver or keeping the predators at bay.

Soon, in the warmth of springtime sunshine we will be gied with the sights of baby cows, tails cocked up in the air as they run and buck and play in the sun. It’s work for the ranchers, but it is also an amazingly wonderful time of the year for everyone who knows where the calves show up on diﬀerent ranches. It gives you something… Something heartwarming and hopeful when the baby cows show up. It’s good for the soul. But it’s not in anyway, “cow cuddling.”

Congratulations!

Are you stressed about life? Taxes? Work? Family? Or just life in general? Well hold your horses—uh cows. Yes, hold your cows. Now you can head for a cow cuddling farm and cuddle a cow.

It seems this new therapeutic sensation is taking the country by leaps and bounds. Well by pastures and barn stalls. People are paying, yes, paying to get 30 minutes, or more it they need it, to cuddle with a cow. Going rates seem to hover around a dollar to five bucks and more a minute—yes, a minute, to get their hands on a cow. To hug, pet, brush, and lay down and cuddle with a cow.

Cow cuddling is not a new thing, but it seems to be growing in popularity. It gained a lot of motion during the pandemic when people needed and craved some hands-on connection with something warm and, well, cuddly.

e practice began in rural Dutch provinces, where farmers observed the soothing, gentle nature of cows and started oﬀering sessions to visitors as a way to connect with nature. It’s hard to argue with that. While hugging a cow you can’t get much closer to all things natural.

Cow cuddling farms are quick to state they are not a petting zoo. is is not something you take your kids to. (ere are however, cow cuddling farms that are specifically designed for children with special needs.) Overall though, cow cuddling farms are designed for adults to visit and enjoy the so, warm quiet sensation of the feel, warmth and smell while cuddling with a cow.

e cuddlers are oﬀered many things help enjoy during and aer their cuddle sessions. Hand sanitizer and alcohol wipes are readily available as are boot and shoe scrapers—just in case of a mis-step. Cuddlers are also invited to join in chores on the farm. Personally putting hay down for the cows or feeding grain from a pail. Of course the clean-up option is available to give the cuddlers a chance to show the cow how much they are cared for.

e array of cows is as varied as the cuddlers. A very sought aer cow is the mini highland cow. With their so fuzzy hide they cuddle sweetly and the cuddler can run fingers through all that hair. Added to the long [ Continued on page 2 ]

Four Eureka students on the Dean’s List from the University of Montana Western. Good job, Grant Kiechler, Kyra Todd, Hannah Bliss and Emma Auch.

By Trina Machacek

In the family household there are things that are specifically known to be his, hers, the kid’s or the family’s. His chair. Her kitchen. e kid’s swing set. e family dog. en there are things that no one takes ownership of. Nor do these orphaned things really need to be specifically taken under one person’s wing. Enter, the laundry hamper. A non-owner item. Likened to other stand-alone items, the laundry hamper, or hamper for short, is used by the entire household. But. Yes, a hidden but necessary “but.” Who takes note of, who will stand up and take care of a hamper? Well, in my house, apparently, by the looks of it; nobody. Okay, here’s the story. Sad but true.

When you get married, if you are young, there are things that as a couple you will need. My other half, being older than I and living on his own for a while, had several things already. Like his ironing board turned into our ironing board. Sure he picked it up just before it was to be taken to the curb. By a couple of girls that were moving out of the apartment complex he and his buddies were living in while going to school, in Ontario, California. In the 1960’s! Making it about 60 years old. e legs still hold the board up oﬀ the floor. It’s well broken in and I still have and use it to this day.

On the other end of the clothes line of getting from dirty to clean clothes, we didn’t own a clothes hamper. I came from my parent’s house to the marital home so no hamper came with me. He, well I really don’t know what avenue his dirty clothes took waiting to go from dropping to the floor to the washer. So we bought one. At that lovely, had everything store at that time, Sprouse Reitz. Pre box stores, Sprouse Reitz was called “e Five and Dime” in some circles. I am sure if we had ventured to the next biggest town, Reno, to shop, some 242 miles away, the assortment at K-Mart would have been nearly overwhelming! At our local buy “nearly anything” you need store, we came home with a lovely, bright white, plastic, sturdy, keep it in the closet, laundry hamper. For the next 50 years it was just that. Kept in the closet. Filled and emptied, filled and emptied. If it was emptied just once a week that would be—carry the five, times 2. Well at least 2,600 times!

I recently cleaned out my closet, from the floor to the top shelf. My little hamper was set out in the middle of the room. Where I could see it. In all it’s glory. Let me just say here. Do. Not. Judge. Me. At least until you go look at your own hamper!

e little, now “oﬀ white” hamper has truly seen better days. It still does everything a hamper is designed to do. Catches the wet towels I throw at it. Of course six out of 10 times I have to follow the towel into the closet to put it all the way into the hamper. It has good air flow because I hardly ever sniﬀ dirty clothes. Well, until I root around in it as I empty it to wash on Saturdays. Hey now? Oh my goodness, when did mold start to grow in the corners of it’s little fake louvers on the front?! And in the bottom in the corners? No, apparently this is something that I have not taken to the shower and given a good going over. EVER!

It really isn’t all that bad for being 50 years old. I mean if you listen to the fashion talking heads, 50 is the new 30. I suppose I could pass my hamper oﬀ to be a mere 30 years old. at is still quite a long time. Some people retire aer just 20 or 25 years. I’m thinking 50 years of doing the same thing, week aer dirty week is probably enough. If we paid more than $5.99 for this thing in 1976, I’m pretty sure we got our money’s worth out of it. Long story shortened, I found a replacement. A cute round, vinyl lined, canvas bag type with a delightful highland cow munching on grass printed on it. Now I have to take my old friend to the trash. Not sure I can really take it all the way to the throw-away pile. Maybe I’ll re-purpose it as a cat food storage bin. Or maybe a planter. Hey it already has air holes for some delightful strawberry plants!

Mini Highland Cow for Cuddling in Texas Photo, Southern Trails.

News Of Crescent Valley

Medical Trip Program

By Trina Machacek

In a recent County Commission meeting the Medical Trip and ride program that oﬀers rides to residents of Cresent Valley and outlying areas in the northern part of Eureka County, was discussed.

e program offers rides for a minimal cost of $5 to Elko or sometimes to Battle Mt. to residents who otherwise have a difficult time getting to and from doctor, to have a procedure or lab visit. e guidelines for the ride are that the person needs to make an appointment with their providers on the monthly announced and scheduled ride day, and if possible, have that appointment early enough in the day that the bus can drop off all the passengers to various doctor or clinics, then be able to get everyone picked back up as to get back to Crescent Valley at a reasonable time in the aernoon.

e vehicle for the service is provided by Eureka County and the driver is qualified and licensed to drive the Senior bus. is program was started over a year ago. Since its inception the program has been used but has fallen oﬀ somewhat. at may be due to the program not being as well known as it could be.

e Star happily has put the dates and times for the Medical Trip bus on the monthly community calendar that is published each week in e Eureka County Star

e paper is available weekly to the seniors at the Fannie Komp through their subscription. It is also available online for free and in print by paid subscription. e dates for the Medial Trips are also put on the monthly calendar that is included in a regular mailing from the center to every senior citizen in the Fannie Komp Senior Center register.

In an eﬀort to be more user friendly, and to possible be seen easier by some seniors, the Medical Trip dates will be noted in larger print on e Star community calendar that is available in print and on the online digital edition that is put out each week. We are hopeful to see if that helps to get the word out and bolster the program, and makes it easier for residents to get to their doctor appointments.

If you need assistance, or know of someone that may need assistance getting to doctor’s appointments from the northern end of Eureka County call the Fannie Komp Senior Center at 775-468-0466 or Director of Senior Services, Linda Gordon at 775-237-5597 to see what they can do to help you make your appointments and get you to the doctor.

Eureka County has an amazing senior population. It is through programs like the Medical Trips, that we as caring communities are ready to help keep them happy and healthy.

[ Continued from page 1 ]

hair, the customer is encouraged to brush the cow too.

But for the serious cuddler, “full sized” cows are where it is at.

To lay next to a 1,200 pound or larger animal has some amazing eﬀects. Advertising this event some farms tell potential cuddlers, ‘Spending time with cows—gentle, calm animals—can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and promote feelings of relaxation and connection.’

Southern Trails cow cuddling experience of Texas reports, “e warmth and slow breathing of cows have a grounding eﬀect, which can help regulate heart rate and foster mindfulness. It’s also known to boost oxytocin levels; the hormone linked to bonding and trust.”

All that is hard to disagree with.

Although Cow Cuddling is now a worldwide phenomenon, you would be hard pressed to talk to a working cowboy and convince him that getting between a momma cow and her calf is anything but a cuddling experience.

Conservatism or Liberalism

By Trina Machacek

As 2026 gets rolling along in earnest, the talk on the street at some point has a good chance to put an interesting question to you as it was to me. I was asked during a phone conversation recently. “Are you conservative or liberal?”

As a newspaper apparently e Eureka County Star is somehow supposed to be on one side or the other. I honestly answered, “I don’t know what the difference is, so how would I know if not only am I personally, but is this newspaper conservative or liberal?” Perhaps because I have been living a pretty non-political life, I didn’t know the difference. Oh, I vote. I have not missed a trip into a voting booth since turning 18 in 1973, (I cast my first vote in 1974.) I am a member of the same party my parents were because I didn’t know there was a difference. It was what was done in my world. I still have no idea what all the ruckus is about in choosing a “side?”

ose two words and ideals actually can come together if you dissect the definition. Both are trying to get the best of life. Both are aimed at having a strong government. Both are aiming to have free speech. So. Is e Eureka County Star a le leaning, or a right leaning publication? As much as I disagree with fence sitting, I am here to say, e Star is neither, and both, le and/or right. I believe to the bottom of my soul, that is the true way a newspaper or any news outlet is supposed to be. Just reporting the stories and events that happen, letting the community as individuals and groups react and to both tackle problems, and enjoy our lives. Am I wrong? I don’t believe I am. But! I am interested in hearing what our readers think we are. And more important, why The Star may be seen as being one way or the other.

In life we need to take stands but do we need to be so unbending that the stands we take break the backs of those around us? e problem seems to come forth in ways of that unbending attitude.

In the upcoming year I challenge us all to be open to listening without condemnation, and speak with a courteous tongue. As much as we ALL want to be heard and have the last word, hopefully we can all put our egos aside. Treating others as we expect to be treated and don’t put as much emphasis on the conservative versus liberalism state of mind as much as the big talking heads do and think we should do too.

Trina has been a freelance writer for over 30 years and loves to hear from readers. She built e Eureka County Star from scratch when her community found themselves without a community newspaper. Email her at trina@theeurekacountystar.com.

Tony Miller-Diamond Valley, owner of Miller Bison with one of his leppe buffalo. Cows are not the only animal that needs cuddling.

Ask A Doc!

With Dr. Ty B. Erickson, M.D. FPMRS

“Ask A Doc” is written by Ty Erikson M.D. FPMRS. Besides his practice in Las Vegas, Ty travels the world helping women with medical needs. He and his family have been Nevadan’s developing mining enterprises. His son also has a farm in Diamond Valley. We are over the moon excited to have him be part of our family. Dr. Ty is straight forward with a smile.

I have a new baby and find myself sometimes afraid. e biggest fear I have is SIDS. Is it true that it is better to put my baby down to sleep on her back instead of her tummy? Are there other precautions I need to take? anks for any help to get me over this.

SIDS stands for sudden infant death syndrome and has also been called crib death. It is an unexplained tragic event that usually occurs in the first year of life. Most of the time it occurs when a baby is asleep. e baby is usually less than a year old and seems to be healthy. It is of course devastating to a mother, and I have had many patients who truly worry oen about this because it seems there is nothing they can do. e cause of SIDS is unknown. However, it may be related to problems with an infant’s brain that controls its breathing and waking up from sleeping. But we can’t diagnose anything at this time.

Researchers have found some things that might put babies at higher risk. Premature born babies have a higher risk. ere is some evidence of increase risks aer a baby has a respiratory infection. Secondhand smoke is a risk factor. e most important action you can do is to place your baby on the back to sleep, not on the side or stomach. Insist that anyone caring for the baby ALWAYS places the baby on its back for naps. Once a baby can turn over both ways that is no longer needed. Pediatricians suggest having the crib in your room for the first six months separate from your bed and do not have the baby sleep with you in the same bed (that increases the risk). Overheating or being too warm is also a risk; so you don’t need to make a mummy with the little one. e Mayo clinic has this advice about the crib. “Keep the crib as bare as possible. Use a firm, flat mattress. Make sure the mattress does not sit at an angle higher than 10 degrees. Avoid placing your baby on thick, fluffy padding, such as lambskin or a thick quilt. Don’t leave pillows, fluffy toys or stuffed animals in the crib. ey can cause problems with breathing if your baby’s face presses against them.” Also, do not use baby monitors or devices claiming to reduce the risk of SIDS. Nothing sold on the market prevents SIDS. ey just give a false sense of security and

sometimes people become complacent about the other things I have mentioned. Sucking on a pacifier during napping or at bedtime may help reduce the risk. Make sure the pacifier does not have a strap or cord. ere are some people on the internet who claim that routine infant vaccinations increase the risk of SIDS. is is simply not true.

Just love your baby all the time. We never know when the Lord chooses to take them home. So every precious moment with a baby, a child or even with your adult family members – love them NOW.

I enjoy your answers to all the questions. I am learning a few new things, so thank you. I haven’t seen a dentist for more years than I can count. I am terrified of the pain, and the cost. I have no insurance. But I want to be able to laugh out loud and smile. Is the dentist as painful as I remember from in my past? And how do I get over that I am embarrassed about a dentist even seeing how bad my teeth are.

is is such an important question. People are afraid of the dentist. I wish I had a valium to take when I go. Just hearing that drill….arrgh! But dental care is critical. For example, President Washington did not have wooden teeth, but he had four different dentures and on the day of his inauguration as president at that time he only had one tooth le. Dental care in the past was essentially –when a tooth got infected and caused too much pain, just pull it out. e problem is the change in mouth and bone shape. Deep infections in the jaw and even death from brain infections caused the dental field to grow. Before the invention of injectable anesthetics in 1904 dentists were avoided as much as possible. Over the past one hundred and twenty years there have been incredible advances in care. Now they are preserving teeth roots, placing very effective implants to preserve bone structure and can do this without pain. Let me say that again WITHOUT PAIN! I do surgery on women all the time. I wouldn’t have a medical practice without the availability of anesthesia. Same with the dentist. In fact, usually we are off to see the dentist because of how bad our teeth and jaw hurt with a cavity or especially with an infection.

Dental costs are variable depending on what is needed. But overall, the cost of taking care of things now, even if you needed all your teeth extracted is less expensive and safer than continuing to wait. I have terrible teeth also. I was a “tetracycline baby”. My mom inadvertently took that antibiotic when she was pregnant with me and my teeth have suﬀered ever since. is past year I have had a root canal, two crowns and a dental implant. I won’t even talk about my experience in Iceland having my wisdom teeth removed in 1977. Sincerely, I encourage you all to seek dental care.

Please send in your questions to Ask A Doc! Send questions to: trina@theeurekacountystar.com

Johnny’s Tech Corner Who is Watching You? A 5-Minute Privacy Checkup

By Johnny Fitzgerald

I know some of you may be thinking: “I have nothing to hide, so why should I care?” But data privacy isn’t just about hiding secrets; it is about keeping the keys to your digital house secure.

We are all guilty of it, especially me. We download a new app, maybe a game, a weather tracker, or a flashlight tool, and a box pops up asking for permission. We barely read it. We just tap “Allow” so we can get to the app. But in doing so, we oen give strangers access to our location, our photos, and even our microphones.

In honor of the holiday, let’s take five minutes to run a quick “Privacy Checkup” on your smartphone. You might be shocked at who is watching.

the “FLaShLight” teSt: CheCK YoUr LoCatioN

Does your solitaire game really need to know that you are sitting in your living room here in Eureka? Does your flashlight app need to track your drive to Elko? Probably not. Many free apps make money by tracking your location and selling that data to advertisers.

on iphone: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.

on android: Go to Settings > Location > App Location Permissions.

Scroll through the list. You will see every app that has access to your GPS. If you see an app that has no business knowing where you are (like a calculator or a simple game), switch it to “Never” or “Ask Every Time.”

the eaveSdropperS: miC aNd Camera

It is a common fear that our phones are listening to

us. While the tech giants deny recording our conversations for ads, many apps do have permission to access your microphone, oen because we gave it to them years ago and forgot. on iphone: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.

on android: Go to Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager > Microphone.

Look at the list. If a social media app has access, that makes sense (for recording videos). But if a wallpaper app or a puzzle game has access to your microphone, turn it oﬀ immediately.

the “Zombie” LogiNS: CLeaN Up SoCiaL media

Over the years, we have all used the “Log in with Facebook” or “Log in with Google” buttons to quickly sign up for new websites. It saves time, but it creates a permanent link between that website and your personal

profile. Even if you haven’t visited that website in five years, they might still have access to your data. on Facebook: Go to Settings > Apps and Websites. You will likely see a list of “zombie” apps you used once in 2018. Click Remove on anything you don’t recognize. on google: Go to your Google Account > Security > Your connections to third-party apps. Delete the connections you no longer use.

Your personal data is valuable, which is why companies want it. is Data Privacy Day, take a few minutes to lock your digital doors. It’s the easiest way to ensure that only you are in control of your private life.

Johnny is an insuﬀerable Gen-Xer who escaped Southern California before the next Big One sinks it into the Pacific. He now calls Eureka home and refuses to leave. He can be reached for questions, comments, and ideas at JohnnyFEureka@gmail.com

“Self-contained” by Allen Vaughan Across

Downturn

6. Pull an all-nighter 10. Wise men 14. Edmonton skater 15. Maui dance 16. Van Gogh subject 17. Jamaican resort locale

19. Bargain-hunter’s quest

20. Bambi’s aunt

21. Circuit breaker

22. Gibberish

24. Of sound mind

25. Nota ___ 26. Not taut 28. House payment 32. Santiago’s country

33. Scorch

34. Couple’s pronoun 35. Fit as a fiddle 36. Circumspect

37. Junket

38. OT figure

39. Come to earth

40. Genoa’s country

41. Comeback

43. Angler’s basket

44. Interpret

45. SpaceX CEO Musk

46. Profession

49. Big name in cosmetics

50. The “self” contained in each of the long answers

53. Shake ___ : get moving

54. Groupings

57. Chianti, e.g.

58. ___ Bator, Mongolia

59. Bucolic

60. Harrow rival 61. Pup or oxygen follower 62. Madrid month

A portion

Pride member 3. Radius’

Chicken ___ king

Sheriff Taylor’s TV town

Riyadh native

Respiratory organ

“Amazing Grace” ending

Sticky stuff

Little worker

Western US capital

Room’s counterpart

Tint

Fragrant shrub

Villain

Surrounding glows

Question intensely

Catch sight of

Blacken

Fragment of pottery

as day

Hematite or magnetite, e.g.

Happening

Spelunker’s venue

Came to earth

Attorney General Janet

___ impasse: deadlocked

Dublin’s home

Equipment

Scandinavian capital

The “A” in IPA

Head for the hills

Eureka has a varied and long history. e snippets we oﬀer here are drawn from the Eureka Sentinels of our past. Enjoy!

FROM OUR PAST 25 Years Ago

January 25, 2001

Heap Leach Operations Workshops Planned e Mining Life-Cycle center at the University of Nevada Reno will co-host four workshops, beginning Jan 26, 2001 to assess environmental issues related to the closure of heap leach operations at mine sites. e heap leach closure workshop series for mining company personnel, mineral industry regulators, consulting engineers, and land-use polity oﬃcials and the general public opens with a 12:30-5:30 p.m. session at the Holiday Inn in Reno, 1000 E. sixth street.

e featured speaker is Scott Tyler, director of the university’s hydraulic sciences program. Gold and silver mining operations use cyanide to dissolve the mental from ores through leaching. Low-grade ores are excavated and stacked on a heap. Once the gold and sliver have been removed, the heaps are closed and the land is reclaimed. e process of closing the heaps includes a number of potential steps, such as rinsing to remove remaining chemicals, reshaping landscape, placing covers and vegetation on the site to limit infiltration, and treating fluids that remain…

“Heap leach closure is one of the most critical issues facing the mining industry in Nevada today,” said Dirk van Zyl director of the Mining Life-cycle center and a mining engineering professor for the Mackay school of mines.

“ese half-day sessions will help stakeholders in the industry evaluate issues pertinent to each topic and facilitate interaction and information exchange.”

50 Years Ago

January 31, 1976

Farmers Keep Wary Eye on the Weather

Farmers and ranchers can be plagued by rising cost for bailing wire and farm equipment. ey can be pushed by governmental regulations. Profits can wing away when markets fall. But when mother nature gets obstinate other problems may pale. Right now, throughout Nevada, farmers and ranchers are keeping a wary eye on mother nature. Recently, county cooperative extension agents around the state were solicited as to their views about the weather, or lack of it. ey were asked about rancher and farmer concerns that might have been expressed to them or what they perceived as general feelings in their areas.

“It’s worse than last year,” said Bill Belden, county agent for Nye and Esmeralda counties. “ere’s just not much snow anywhere. e cattle are doing very good since it’ a mild winter, but ranchers are very concerned about the coming summer.”

He said he recently traveled from Tonopah up over Cloverdale into upper Reese river valley and was really surprised at the lack of snow especially in the high country. e cause for concern is that almost nowhere in the state are snowpacks in the mountains at or near normal for this time of year. It looks like in some placed they’re on their way to setting record lows.

100 Years Ago

January 30, 1926

Fire Totally Destroys Ely Troy Laundry

Roy Musgrove, owner and conducting the Troy Power Laundry at easy Ely, which was totally destroyed by fire at 3 o’clock Wednesday morning was in Eureka yesterday on a business visit. Mr. Musgrove called at the Sentinel oﬃce and during his visit stated that he planned to at once reconstruct the plant and hoped to have it in operation again within the next 60 days.

Eureka is without a public laundry, and since the establishment of the Fallon-Ely stage line through Eureka, the Troy Laundry has built up quite a trade and was serving a number of people in this section. e following is taken from the account of the fire published in Wednesday’s Ely Times:

e Troy Power Laundry at East Ely was totally destroyed by fire that started in the north end of the plant at about three o’clock this morning. e loss total and noting remains of the splendidly equipped laundry but portions of the charred brick walls of the main building and the towering smokestack. Within the burned area lie the ruins of the machinery, nearly all of which was recently new and of most modern make and design. Roy Mujsgrove, owner and proprietor of the laundry, places his loss at $50,000, with an insurance of $10,000. Notwithstanding this handicap, Mr. Musgrove is already making plans for rebuilding and will have a new plant in operation just as quickly as the buildings can be erected and the necessary machinery procured and installed…e fire had a tremendous start and was first noticed by David Scoffe, night watchman for the Nevada Northern Railway at easy Ely. According to report the night operator at the telephone office was slow in answering the call, and evidently misunderstanding the nature of the summons, told Scoffe that she knew nothing of any fire. Aer further effort central finally realized that it was an alarm of fire instead of inquiry as to a fire, that was needed, and the alarm was turned in.

Editor’s Note: To be continued…to read the rest of the story, come back next week.

Crossword Sponsored by Eureka Tourism and Recreation Board Eureka Food Bank Friday, February 6

Eureka County Commissioners News&Notes

Market Prices and Notes Sponsored by your Commissioners: Rich McKay, Marty Plaskett and Mike Schoenwald

How Local Schools Shape Eureka County

Submitted by Kayla Scott Owner-CEO of MarketSharePR—the PR firm of the Eureka County Commissioners

Big changes in local education oen arrive quietly. A leadership honor. A retirement announcement. A new investment taking shape just beyond the classroom. Together, they signal where a community is headed and how it prepares for what comes next.

Earlier this month, Eureka County School District Superintendent Tate Else was named Superintendent of the Year by the Nevada Association of School Boards. e award was announced in early January and formally presented at the NASB Conference in Reno following the organization’s December 2025 meeting.

Eureka produces some important products that are delivered world wide. Here we will endeavor to report up-to-date market prices for Eureka County produced products. Let us know how we are doing or if we need to adjust our list. These are spot prices as of our Friday Deadlines.

Prices: January 23, 2026

Alfalfa Tested Big Bales $185 - $215 per ton

Alfalfa Tested Sm Bales $225 - $300 per ton

- $21.00 per bale

e recognition places Eureka County in a statewide spotlight for thoughtful, steady leadership. e honor reflects Else’s collaborative approach and his work with state education leaders during a period of transition, including coordination with Nevada’s new State Education Service Center.

Else leads the Eureka County School District, which serves about 325 students across three schools countywide. In a rural district, that scale matters. Decisions made at the district level are felt quickly and personally and are reflected in outcomes, including a 96.6 percent graduation rate built on consistent instruction, close student support, and strong relationships between educators and families.

Schools in Eureka County serve students from early elementary years through high school graduation while also acting as community hubs, employing local residents, hosting events, and helping shape whether young families see a future here. As the district prepares for the retirement of longtime Eureka Elementary principal Lisa Hutchison, it is a moment to thank her for years of leadership and recognize a legacy that will continue to guide the district.

Looking ahead, education investment in Eureka County is also expanding earlier in a child’s life. e planned Eureka Early Learning Center, developed in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows, will provide the community’s first licensed childcare facility. Designed to serve children from six weeks to five years old, the center will oﬀer year-round care, support working families, and provide aer-school programming for older youth.

Reliable, licensed childcare supports early learning, keeps parents in the workforce, and strengthens the local economy, especially in rural communities where access can determine whether families stay and employers can grow. By filling that gap, the Eureka Early Learning Center complements local schools and reinforces education as a journey from infancy through graduation, showing how leadership choices shape more than academics and influence the county’s long-term future.

Residents play a role in that future. School board agendas, minutes, and meeting information are available on the Eureka County School District website at eureka.k12.nv.us. Attending meetings, following district updates, and participating in leadership transitions help keep schools connected to the community they serve.

Recognition like Superintendent of the Year is not just an individual milestone. It reflects a district moving with purpose and a community willing to invest early, stay engaged, and plan ahead. As Eureka County looks forward, these education changes remind us that steady leadership, thoughtful transitions, and strong foundations help shape the county’s future, one learner at a time.

News from Secretary of State

e State of Nevada voters

Submitted Information

To keep up with being transparent and keeping voters informed, diﬀerent organizations and outlets received the following information as a press release. We spotted it on Facebook and since not everyone is a Facebook watcher, your Star decided you might be interested in the following information your Secretary of State has gathered.

e Eureka County Star, with the mid-term elections coming up in 2026, will endeavor to pass along as much information that is presented to us concerning the upcoming election.

2026 eLeCtioN Year oFF to a New Start Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar announces an increase in active registered voters in December 2025

CARSON CITY, NV – Nevada Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar reports an increase of 11,092 active

NV 20 26

registered voters during the month of December 2025 as compared to November 2025. e total number of active registered voters in Nevada is 2,116,453, an increase of (0.53%).

Nonpartisan active registered voters increased by 11,938 (1.54%). Republican Party active registered voters statewide decreased by 962 (-0.16%). Democratic Party active registered voters statewide increased by 64 (0.01%). Independent American Party active registered voters increased by 39 (0.04%), and Libertarian Party of Nevada active registered voters increased by 7 (0.05%). Active registered voters from a compilation of “other” minor political parties increased by 6 (0.02%).

of the 2,116,453 active registered voters in Nevada:

• 787,853 are Nonpartisan (37.23%);

• 596,164 are Republicans (28.17%);

• 593,029 are Democrats (28.02%);

• 90,291 are members of the Independent American Party (4.27%);

• 15,002 are members of the Libertarian Party of Nevada (0.71%); and

• 34,114 are members of other minor political parties (1.61%).

e latest voter registration breakdown can be found under the Elections tab at www.NVSOS.gov.

mind twister!

is little twister was spotted on Facebook. To test your math skills, and see that you can still do math, follow these steps:

Fist put the seven numbers of your phone number in place of the 123-4567 (do not include your area code).

en follow the line of the math. You will be amazed at and recognize what the answer is. :O}

Eureka Meetings, Courts and Arrest Recaps January 15 –20, 2026

Editor’s note from Trina Machacek, Publisher-Editor of e Eureka County Star

Dear Residents and Readers,

It is our intent to bring you local government information in a timely manner. We obtain local news as it comes to us from local individuals and our staﬀ. If you take anything away from this note, as you read our reports of meetings and gatherings, remember this. When reading the recaps we publish: “Two people can hear the same things at a meeting or gathering and come away with two very diﬀerent points of view. Just ask your family what you heard and what was said at your last family gathering. YIKERS! I am trying to report as best I can in our little community. If you ever feel the need to say something, have questions about things in e Star, please contact me about the content of our lovely and much-loved newspaper. I welcome your notes to: trina@theeurekacountystar.com.”

Submitted Articles

Arrest Recaps For the dates of January 15, 2026 – January 20, 2026, there were no arrests reported.

Justice Court News

Thursday, January 15, 2026, the Eureka County Justice Court, Justice of the Peace Dorothy Rowley presiding, conducted an initial appearance and bail hearing in the matter of State of Nevada v. Dale Austin Hair in Case Number 26 CR 00004 7D for suspicion of being a convicted person and failing to register, possessing a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, driving on a suspended license, and reckless driving. Present via Zoom was Defendant Hair with his defense counsel Jane Eberhardy, Esq., Eureka County Public Defender, appearing in person. Present in person on behalf of the State of Nevada was Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County Deputy District Attorney.

The Court conferred with the parties about a date for a preliminary hearing, then set the preliminary hearing to begin Monday, January 26, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. (later modified to 1:30 p.m.)

The Court then consulted counsel regarding bail or other pretrial conditions for Mr. Hair. The Court heard from the parties then determined imposition of bail and certain conditions of release are necessary to ensure the safety of the community. The Court imposed a $200,000 bail and if Mr. Hair bails out he must abide by the conditions outlined in open court.

Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the Eureka County Justice Court, Justice of the Peace Dorothy Rowley presiding, conducted a status hearing in the matter of State of Nevada v. Dale Austin Hair in Case Number 26 CR 00004 7D.

Present via Zoom was Defendant Hair’s defense counsel Jane Eberhardy, Esq., Eureka County Public Defender, appearing in person. Present in person on behalf of the State of Nevada was Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County Deputy District Attorney. Defendant Hair was not required to appear.

The Court allowed counsel to address the Court about why a criminal complaint had not been filed by the State yet, after the long holiday weekend. After allowing the parties to speak, the Court found good cause as to why the complaint had not been filed and ordered the State to file the complaint no later than Thursday, January 22, 2026.

District Court News

Friday, January 16, 2026, the District Court, the Honorable Steve Dobrescu presiding, conducted a sentencing hearing in the matter of the State of Nevada vs. Thomas William Smith, Case Number CR 2510-262.

Present in person was Defendant Smith with his counsel Jane Eberhardy, Esq., Eureka County Public Defender, and Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County Deputy District Attorney representing the State of Nevada. A representative of Parole and Probation was also available via Zoom.

After hearing from all the parties, for the one count of possession of methamphetamine, a category E felony in violation of NRS 453.336, the Court, with consent of Defendant Smith, ordered diversion under the NRS 176.211 program. Further proceedings were suspended and Defendant Smith was placed on probation for a period not to exceed 18 months with the usual terms and conditions.

Friday, January 16, 2026, the District Court, the Honorable Steve Dobrescu presiding, conducted a probation violation hearing on the non-technical violation report prepared September 23, 2025 and filed with the Court January 6, 2026, in the matter of the State of Nevada vs. Thomas William Smith, Case Number CR 2411-217.

Present in person was the Defendant with his counsel Jane Eberhardy, Esq., Eureka County Public Defender, and Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County Deputy District Attorney representing the State of Nevada. A representative of Parole and Probation was also available via Zoom.

The Court canvassed Defendant Smith on the allegations contained in the violation report and Defendant admitted and provided a factual basis for the allegations. The Court found Defendant violated his probation. The Court revoked Defendant Smith’s probation, then reinstated probation. The Court also ordered additional special conditions. A future status hearing was set for February 20, 2026.

Friday, January 16, 2026 the District Court, Honorable District Judge Steve Dobrescu presiding, conducted a status hearing in the matter of the State of Nevada vs. Jason Thomas Alexander, Case Number CR 2501-225.

Present in person was Mr. Alexander, with his attorney Steve E. Evenson, Esq., Evenson Law Office appearing via Zoom. Appearing on behalf of the State of Nevada was Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County

Deputy District Attorney. A representative of Parole and Probation was also available via Zoom.

The Court reviewed Defendant’s progress on supervision for one count of aggravated stalking, a category B felony in violation of NRS 200.575, and encouraged Defendant Alexander to continue improving. The Court ordered no further status hearings were necessary unless requested by Parole and Probation.

Friday, January 16, 2026, the District Court, Honorable District Judge Steve Dobrescu presiding, conducted a status hearing in the matter of the State of Nevada vs. Brandon Jay Benioh, Case Number CR 2503-232.

Present via Zoom was Mr. Benioh with his attorney Steve E. Evenson, Esq., Evenson Law Office also appearing via Zoom. Appearing on behalf of the State of Nevada was Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County Deputy District Attorney. A representative of Parole and Probation was also available via Zoom.

The Court reviewed Defendant’s progress on probation for assault on an officer, a gross misdemeanor in violation of NRS 200.471 and NRS 193.140, and battery on an officer, a gross misdemeanor in violation of NRS 200.481(2)(d) and NRS 193.140, and encouraged Defendant Benioh to maintain his positive progress. The Court ordered no further status hearings were necessary unless requested by Parole and Probation.

Friday, January 16, 2026, the District Court, Honorable Steve Dobrescu presiding, conducted a status hearing in the matter of The State of Nevada v. Aitor Yosu Eskandon, Case Number CR 2407-188.

Present in person was Mr. Eskandon but his counsel Shain Manuele, Esq., was not present. Appearing on behalf of the State of Nevada was Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County Deputy District Attorney. A representative of Parole and Probation was also available via Zoom.

The Court reviewed Defendant’s progress on probation for assault on a peace officer, a gross misdemeanor in violation of NRS 200.471(2)(c), and encouraged Defendant Eskandon to continue to work through the program at House of Legacy. The Court set a follow up status hearing for Friday, February 20, 2026.

Friday, January 16, 2026, the District Court, the Honorable Steve Dobrescu presiding, conducted a status hearing in the matter of the State of Nevada vs. Rocky Marlene Miller, Case Number CR 2410-213.

Present in person was Defendant Miller’s counsel Jane Eberhardy, Esq., Eureka County Public Defender. Appearing on behalf of the State of Nevada was Holli Else, Esq., Eureka County Deputy District Attorney. A representative of Parole and Probation was also available via Zoom. Defendant Miller did not appear.

The Court reviewed Defendant’s progress on probation for unlawful taking of a vehicle in violation of NRS 205.2715. The Court ordered Ms. Miller to appear at the next hearing in person, via Zoom, or via telephone.

Eureka County Commission News from the January 20, 2026 Meeting

The Board of Eureka County Commissioners met at the Courthouse, 10 South Main Street in Eureka, Nevada beginning at 9:30 am on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 to attend to the business of local county government. Connected via audiovisual connection to the meeting was the meeting room in Crescent Valley.

Present for the meeting were Clerk Recorder Kathy Bowling, Deputy County Clerk Recorder Katelyn Ziemann, Chair Rich McKay, Vice Chair Marty Plaskett, Commissioner Mike Schoenwald, and District Attorney Theodore Beutel, Esq. Also present in Eureka at the meeting were various County department heads, local elected officials, and other County employees. Members of the public were also in attendance to observe and provide comments from time to time.

The agenda was approved with no changes. The Board called for public comments and received no public comments from Crescent Valley or Eureka.

The Board approved the Commission minutes from the January 6, 2026 meeting.

Kim Todd, Eureka County Comptroller, presented bills to the Board for approval and payment. Expenditures in the total amount of $2,778,818.21 were approved by the Board, with accounts payable adding up to $2,174,025.40 and payroll totaling $604,792.81. Questions were posed by the Board about Allison McKenzie water litigation fees, Atlas Towing invoices, and TV District expenses, and the Board approved one invoice that was over 6 months old. The Board reviewed the fund balance report. Teri Gage from Eide Bailly, LLP presented two reports to the Board. The Board reviewed the report on the Eureka County Television District’s Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Audit. The Board approved accepting the Eureka County Television District’s Fiscal Year 20242025 Audit and Comprehensive Annual Financial Report as presented. This audit was accepted by the Eureka County Television Board on December 5, 2025, and submitted to the Department of Taxation.

The Board then reviewed the report on Eureka County’s Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Audit. The Board approved accepting Eureka County’s Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Audit and Comprehensive Annual Financial Report as presented. Eureka County was issued an extension due to the Single Audit requirements delay by the Federal Government. Ms. Gage answered questions from the Board.

The Board approved a donation of $1,000.00 to the William Bee Ririe Employee Recognition Team for a raffle prize fundraiser for high school graduates if it also includes Eureka County graduates planning to attend school to pursue careers in the medical field. Donations must be received no later than January 31, 2026.

The Board scheduled another public hearing to approve a properly formatted draft ordinance containing recommended changes to the County Room Tax ordinance, specifically Title 4 Licenses, Permits, Fees and Taxes, Chapter 50, .010 Definitions, G. at the Board of County Commissioners meeting to occur February 3, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

Linda Gordon, Senior Center Program Director, provided a report on activities at the Eureka Senior Center and the Fannie Komp Senior Center, and publicly thanked the Pan Mine for their donation.

J.J. Hendrickson from UNR Cooperative Extension presented the Eureka County Annual Extension Report with a PowerPoint presentation. Next up was Laura Shivers presenting on behalf of the Crescent Valley Town Advisory Board. The Commissioners approved an increase in financial compensation for members of the Crescent Valley Town Advisory Board, from $50 a meeting to $100 a meeting, beginning fiscal year 2026-2027.

Robin Blanco requested a donation of $1,000.00 for purchase of supplies and prizes for a Community Easter Egg Hunt. The Board approved the request.

Next up was Chief Information Officer Misty Rowley. The Board approved the addition of 12 Ironclad Power User software licenses at a rate of $600 per user, per year, for a total of 32 licenses in the existing three-year term (January 20, 2026 through September 1, 2028). The Board authorized the CIO to add or remove licenses as necessary and to execute the order form outside the meeting. Brenna Rogne, Eureka County Facilities/Events Manager presented a report on activities and events at County-managed facilities. Ms. Rogne answered questions from the Board.

Treasurer/Public Guardian/Public Administrator Pernecia Johnson presented the

in relation to the water rights dedication process. The Board reviewed and certified the Nevada Division of Water Resources Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget with the assessment to be collected by Eureka County on behalf of the Division for necessary expenses related to supervision over the distribution of water of the Humboldt River as decreed.

The Board then heard from Jake Tibbitts, Natural Resource Manager. Mr. Tibbitts provided an update regarding current and emerging natural resource topics and issues affecting Eureka County. The Board approved amending the scope of work of contract with Dale C. Bugenig, Consulting Hydrogeologist, LLC, to include hydrogeologic consulting services to evaluate effects of groundwater pumping for mining in Diamond Valley in an amount not to exceed $68,000.00. The Board approved the 2025 Certification of Expenditure of Funds for Title III funds received through the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act. The Board approved a response to the BLM Record of Decision and Approved Greater Sage Grouse Resource Management Plan Amendment.

The Board took a short break then began budget reviews for the upcoming new fiscal year with 10 different departments in the County. No action was taken regarding the presentations made by the department heads; the Commissioners consider this initial review to get a sense of what each department’s plans are for the upcoming fiscal year.

First up was the Juvenile Probation Department, presented by Steve Zimmerman, Juvenile Probation Officer. There were no requests for additional money.

Next up was the Justice Court, presented by Dorothy Rowley, Justice of the Peace. There were no requests for additional money other than a request for capital outlay for a vehicle for the supervision officer.

Ambulance and EMS, presented by Nikki Cooley, EMS Director, was up next. Ms. Cooley requested additional funding for several line items.

Linda Gordon, Senior Center Director, presented her budget requests next. Ms. Gordon answered questions from the Board. Ms. Gordon asked for an increase in one line item - Eureka Center Service & Supplies.

Pernecia Johnson, Eureka County Treasurer / Public Guardian was next. Ms. Johnson did not request additional money in the Treasurer and Public Guardian budgets.

Kathy Bowling, Clerk Recorder, presented her budget next. Ms. Bowling presented the budget for the Clerk Recorder, Recorder Technology Fund, Elections, and District Court. Within those four budgets, Ms. Bowling asked for additional funding.

Next up was Michael Mears, Assessor, who presented the budget for the Assessor and Assessor Technology Fund. Mr. Mears requested additional money for a couple of his line items. Jake Tibbitts, Natural Resource Director, did not ask for any modifications to the Natural Resource, NRAC, Game Board and Natural Resource Multi-Use Fund budgets. The Diamond Valley Weed and Diamond Valley Rodent budgets had several line item increases.

Cristina Lopez, Human Resource Director presented her budget next. Ms. Lopez answered questions from the Board. Ms. Lopez requested additional money in several line items, as well as a new line item titled “Employee Recognition”. Ms. Lopez encouraged all departments to create an Employee Recognition line item. Kim Todd, Comptroller, presented the Comptroller budget and the annual audit budget. There were only two increases to the Comptroller budget and that was for data software contracts and postage. There was one increase in the annual audit budget and that was for the independent auditors. The Board reviewed correspondence. Public comments were called for and there was one comment from Lisa Wolf in Crescent Valley asking about who donated money to the senior centers. Ms. Wolf made suggestions about allowing public comment during agenda items like Mesquite does. There were no comments in Eureka. The Board meeting for January 20, 2026 then adjourned.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Eureka County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on February 3, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. (during a regularly scheduled Board meeting) in the Eureka County Commission Chambers in the County Courthouse at 10 South Main Street, Eureka, Nevada.

The reason for said hearing is to invite public comments and consider making changes to the County Room Tax Ordinance, specifically Title 4 Licenses, Permits, Fees and Taxes, Chapter 50, .010 Definitions, G. Information on the proposed changes can be acquired from the Office of the County Clerk, by emailing ClerkRecorder@eurekacountynv.gov or by calling 775-237-5263.

Board of Eureka County Commissioners /s/ Rich McKay, Chairman Published in The Eureka County Star January 22, and 29, 2026.

EUREKA COUNTY QUARTERLY REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE REPORT PERIOD END: 12/31/25

NOTICE OF JUDICIAL, STATEWIDE AND MULTICOUNTY DISTRICT OFFICES TO BE FILLED

• United States House of Representative (2-year term) – District 2 & 4

• Governor (4-year term)

• Lieutenant Governor (4-year term)

• Secretary of State (4-year term)

• State Treasurer (4-year term)

• State Controller (4-year term)

• Attorney General (4-year term)

• District Court Judge (6-year term) First Judicial District Court – Multi County Department 1 & 2

• Fifth Judicial District Court – Multi County Department 1 & 2

• Seventh Judicial District Court – Multi County ▪ Department 1 & 2

• Eleventh Judicial District Court – Multi County ▪ Department 1

• State Senate (4-year term) Multi County District 14, 16 & 17

• State Assembly (2-year term) Multi-County District 32, 33, 36, 38, 39 & 40

• Justice of the Supreme Court (6-year term) ▪ Seat B & D

EUREKA COUNTY OFFICES

• Assessor (4-year term) Filing Fee $100

• Clerk Recorder (4-year term) Filing Fee $100

• Treasurer (4-year term) Filing Fee $100

• Sheriff (4-year term) Filing Fee $100

• District Attorney (4-year

The original and any duplicate or copy of each receipt, bill, invoice, check, warrant, voucher or other similar document that supports a transaction, the amount of which is included in this quarterly report of total receipts/expenditures/expenses/ payroll, is a public record that is available for inspection and copying by any person pursuant to the provisions of NRS 239. These records are available at: Eureka County Treasurer's Office, 10 South Main Steet, Eureka, NV 89316. Eureka County Comptroller's Office, 701 South Main Street, Eureka, NV 89316. For more information, please contact the Eureka County Comptroller's Office at (775) 237-6128 or visit the County's website at https://www.eurekacountynv.gov. Published in The Eureka County Star January 29, 2026

February 2026 Events Calendar

Share your community events

Send with events in the subject line to: trina@theeurekacountystar.com

Send Us Your Birthday!

Send in a birthday for us to add to our community calendar. We would love to share your special day!

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A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO WILLIAM BEE RIRIE FOR SPONSORING OUR CALENDAR!

CV MEDICAL TRIPS

Wed., Feb. 18 Tues., Feb. 24

Eureka Library

Mon. 10-4, Tue 10-4, Wed. 12-6, Thurs. 2-8, Fri. 12-6 Adult Craft Program: Thursdays 4-8 p.m. Sewing machines are available for use. Story time Mondays at 2 p.m.

Crescent Valley Library

Thurs. 2:30-7, Fri. 10-2:30 Story time Fridays 10:30

Carlin Library

Tues 9-12,12:30-3:30, Wed-Thurs 1-4, 4:30-7:30, Fri & Sat 11-2, 2:30-5