We’re closing season 2 of “Washoe Life” with a conversation with Mikalee Byerman, author of the book “100 Things to do in Reno Before You Die.” Celebrate the best of Washoe County including tips on local trails and restaurants with this bonus episode. 

When West Hills Hospital closed just over two years ago, the community was left with no other resource for in-patient therapy, psychiatry and rehab for adults. In August, the Washoe County Board of County Commissioners approved the purchase of the shuttered hospital and the county plans to bring it back to life to fit the growing need for behavioral health care in our community.  We are joined by County Manager Eric Brown and Interim Human Services Agency Director Ryan Gustafson to discuss future plans.

After nearly 60 years of air racing in Northern Nevada, this year brings the last National Championship Air Races to the Reno-Stead Airport. The 2023 event will be held Sept. 13-17 and will feature more than 150 planes and pilots, hands-on experiences, displays and thrills in the skies over Washoe County. Listen in on a behind-the-scenes conversation with the Reno Air Races Chief Operating Officer Tony Logoteta, as they take the final flag in Reno. 

Chief Charles Moore has more than 30 years of experience in firefighting and has been with the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District for over a decade. He wants residents to be prepared for wildfires and to evacuate when ordered to do so. “You may have a matter of minutes, not hours.” Learn how to protect yourself and your home in the case of a wildfire in this episode of “Washoe Life.”  

Chris Orr and Dave Santina, hosts of the popular PBS show “Wild Nevada,” share their love for the quirky, colorful side of Nevada beyond the city lights. A fan favorite for more than 20 years, “Wild Nevada” is back with new episodes and new tales from the trails.  

"We are the generation. We are the people we've been waiting for, and so we are the ones who are going to choose what the future looks like." This is Brian Beffort's philosophy that he brings to his new role as Sustainability Manager for Washoe County. From planting pollinator gardens to changing lightbulbs, we can all make small contributions to a healthier, happier, and more economically vibrant future. 

July is Parks and Recreation Month, and Washoe County Trails Coordinator Christina Thayer shares her insight into the vast trail systems in and around Washoe County. Lace up those boots and take a stroll as you learn safety tips, the future for trails in Washoe County, and some of the best views in northern Nevada.  

Kurt Thigpen is an accomplished marketing and advertising expert, respected small-business owner, former school board trustee, and proud gay man hailing from a small town in the Deep South. He has encountered bruising hate for who he is and what he represents, but he shares his story of coming out and facing challenges in order to make it easier for those who follow in his footsteps.  

The Historic Washoe County Courthouse in downtown Reno turned 150 years old this year, and professional historian and author Dr. Alicia Barber describes the building’s history and local lore. From its unlikely location to its storied role in the divorce trade, the stately building is an important character in Washoe County’s history.  

May is Older Americans Month, and we are joined by Kay Bonzer, a volunteer at the Washoe County Senior Center. Kay began volunteering when her husband passed away three years ago, and she discovered purpose, community, and just a fun way to spend her time. Learn about the Senior Center and Senior Services, and help us commemorate Older Americans Month.