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.  

Melissa Shaffer’s 21-year-old son, Hayden, brings light, joy, and humor to her life. His diagnosis of Down Syndrome came as a surprise when he was a baby, but she soon learned to lean on her support system and cherish the joy of life. Melissa and Hayden share with us their lives and stories to commemorate World Down Syndrome Day.  

“DEIB” is not just a buzz phrase in HR circles, but also is a strategic approach to fostering work environments where people are appreciated, and all viewpoints are welcomed.  Diaz Dixon, local diversity expert and consultant, shares his insight on those tough conversations around discrimination, equality, and first impressions. 

Valentine’s Day is a day of love or just a really great excuse to go out for dinner, and we are joined this month by two local foodies who give us the scoop on their favorite restaurants. Be sure to follow BLC Bites & Bevs, and Hungry in Reno for the latest and greatest on Washoe County’s culinary scene.  

One of the inevitable things of life in northern Nevada is those dreaded snow berms. Community Services Department Roads Maintenance Worker Pete Lange shares his perspective from the driver’s seat of a snowplow, and explains why those berms sometimes just can’t be avoided and how to share the road to keep everyone safe in a snowstorm. 

A New Year and new season of “Washoe Life” is here, and we’re joined by the National Weather Service’s Meteorologist Chris Smallcomb. Chris describes the weather pattern we’re in now and how this fits into northern Nevada’s climate patterns. Spoiler alert: flood and drought cycles are more normal than you (or we) realize.

Ted Moore, host of “Paranormal NV,” returns for a bonus episode to talk about his favorite haunts in Washoe County. This special Halloween episode is the season finale of the first season of Washoe Life.  

Teresa Aquila has served Washoe County as a sworn deputy for 45 years and continues to work for the Sheriff’s Office. She’s a mechanic, author, radio host, lifelong volunteer for numerous community programs and she is chair of her neighborhood Citizen Advisory Board. Prepare to be inspired to step up and serve as Theresa shares what motivates her to give back to her community.