Sarah -

As we approach the end of another incredible year, I’ve been reflecting on my travel around our great state. A few weeks ago, I completed all 10 of Travel Nevada's Iconic Nevada Road Trips (watch the recap video here)! These journeys took me across the Silver State, from the snow-capped Ruby Mountains to the breathtaking deserts of Death Valley. Along the way, I’ve been amazed by how stunning, unique, and vast our great state truly is. Each mile traveled has reminded me of Nevada’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and the resilience of the communities that call it home.

Exploring Nevada isn’t just about the scenery—it’s also about connecting with the people who make our state special. I encourage you to hit the road in 2025 and explore all that Nevada has to offer and, along the way, stop by small businesses. Whether it’s grabbing a meal at a family-owned café or picking up a handmade souvenir, these entrepreneurs are the heart of Nevada’s economy. Every stop is a chance to support your neighbors and discover something new about our state!

As we head into the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, let’s take a moment to cherish the friends and family who make our lives brighter. I hope your holidays are filled with warmth, laughter, and gratitude.

Thank you for being part of what makes Nevada extraordinary, and I wish you all the best in the season ahead.

PS - If you know of someone who would like to receive this newsletter, please forward it to them using this link.

NDOT Seeks Public Input on High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes in Southern Nevada

NDOT is asking commuters across Southern Nevada for feedback on “the effectiveness and usage” of high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes in a new, five-minute survey. The survey asks drivers — particularly those who commute on Interstate 15 and Interstate 11 — about travel patterns, peak hour usage and other suggestions for improvements.

Lieutenant Governor Anthony was influential in getting HOV lane enforcement times reduced from 24/7 to the current limited hours. He told the Review-Journal in July that he is still working to remove HOV lanes from Las Vegas freeways.

Learn More:

NDOT wants to hear from you | Las Vegas Review Journal

GOED Releases 2024 Knowledge Fund Annual Report

The Knowledge Fund in the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) was created to promote the research, development, and ultimately commercialization of products by Nevada’s research universities and institutions.

The fund encourages innovation by turning scientific research into market opportunities at Nevada’s three research institutions – University of Nevada-Reno, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, and the Desert Research Institute – in areas that GOED has targeted for economic growth.

GOED recently released the 2024 Knowledge Fund Annual Report which highlights the economic impact and success stories of some of their projects. 

Are you a small business owner or supporter of Nevada’s entrepreneurial spirit? Help Lieutenant Governor Anthony secure a permanent home for his Office of Small Business Advocacy (OSBA)!

OSBA has been a vital resource, helping local businesses overcome obstacles and cut through the red tape that often slows down their success. However, for OSBA to continue making a meaningful impact, it needs your support!

During the 2025 Legislative Session, OSBA is hoping to make a permanent home in Nevada’s state government, and your voice can help make this a reality.

If you believe in the power of small businesses to drive our economy, add your name to the growing list of supporters advocating for OSBA. Together, let’s ensure that Nevada’s entrepreneurial community has the resources it needs to succeed.

Celebrate the spirit of the holidays on themed trains featuring Christmas lights, Santa Claus, and the magic of “The Polar Express.” 

Climb aboard in Carson City, Virginia City, Boulder City, and Ely for wintry excursions full of cheer and excitement.

Learn more

Celebrate Nevada’s rich American Indian heritage and tradition at one of the largest powwows in the Silver State. Everyone is invited to the Pahrump Social Powwow for three days full of dancing, music, food, and crafts. Hundreds of dancers, musicians, storytellers, and artisans converge in Pahrump to share and celebrate American Indian culture with locals and visitors alike.

Learn more

Drink and be merry with 20,000 holiday revelers for one of the wildest—and definitely most spirited—events in the Biggest Little City. As the largest gathering for Santas in the country, admission gets you an official Santa Crawl cup, along with discounted drinks and free cover to the best bars, clubs, and breweries in all corners of downtown Reno.

Learn more

The University of Nevada, Reno has launched an innovative urban indoor farming project aimed at promoting food security and sustainable agriculture in southern Nevada. The project focuses on increasing crop yield, improving nutritional value, and making agriculture more resource-efficient by minimizing water use and reducing environmental impact.

The team at the North Las Vegas Learning Center also provides free training and demonstration in indoor farming techniques!

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