"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.  

Longtime Nevada newsman Richard Moreno shares tall tales, hoaxes, and practical jokes from the Old West in his latest book, “Frontier Fake News.” From Mark Twain to Dan DeQuille, Nevada has had more than its share of jokesters and clever conmen, and Moreno is the expert in Nevada history and trivia.  

Washoe County has a new horticulturist/arborist, Luke Sorenson, and for this bonus episode on Arbor Day, he shares tips on what grows here in Washoe County, what our growing climate is like, and his favorite places to enjoy the beauty of Washoe County’s flora.  

Lavender McKillip is a funny, witty, insightful teen whose life was extended by the donation of a liver. While we celebrate National Donate Life Month, Lavender’s mom, Theresa, shares the gratitude she feels every day toward the family who lost their child and saved hers.  

Regional Medical Examiner and Coroner Dr. Laura Knight gives us a peek into her day as a Medical Examiner, and describes the gift of life that can come out of the tragedy of death. Then Monica Myles with the Nevada Donor Network shares how easy it is to register as an organ donor, and the importance of doing so. This is a life-saving episode you don’t want to miss.  

It was only eight short years ago that women were allowed to serve in combat positions in the military. 1st Lt. Courtney McKimmey is only the second woman to serve in her Cavalry position at the Nevada Army National Guard and shares her insight on equality in the service and in life. We’ve come a long way, baby, but it’s taken a long time to get here.