The Old Blog in the Desert

After being convicted in May, a Pennsylvania man, John Matthew Chapman, has been sentenced to life in prison for the kidnapping and subsequent murder of 33-year-old Jaime Rae Feden, whom he drove to Nevada and killed in the desert of Lincoln County.

The case began on November 14, 2019, when the Bethel Park Police Department in Pennsylvania conducted a welfare check on Feden at the request of a concerned friend. Neighbors reported not having seen the victim for approximately two months, although they had observed Chapman entering and exiting her residence.

During the search of Feden’s residence, police discovered an ID card with Chapman’s name and photo, the victim’s cell phone, multiple zip ties, and a roll of duct tape. The following day, police arrested Chapman.

During his interview with the police, Chapman revealed that in September 2019, he had driven Feden from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, to Las Vegas under the pretense of going on vacation before purchasing a residence there. However, Chapman had premeditated the murder, confessing to driving the victim out to the desert.

Once there, he deceived her by suggesting a bondage photo shoot. He then bound Feden’s hands and feet with plastic zip ties and secured her to a signpost.

Chapman applied duct tape to her mouth and nose, causing her to die from asphyxiation. After committing the murder, Chapman returned to Pennsylvania and continued to impersonate Feden by using her Facebook Messenger account, residence, and money.

After a racial altercation at the Hot August Nights classic car festival in Virginia City on Friday, August 2, the Storey County Sheriff’s Office arrested three people. The incident involving a Black man, Ricky Johnson, and resident Gary Miller has sparked widespread social media outrage and drawn condemnation from local and state officials.

The argument occurred as Johnson was collecting signatures for a ballot measure. When Johnson approached a group of men, including Miller, he asked if they were registered to vote. One of the men said they were, and another added that they were voting for Trump.

Johnson allegedly responded by calling the group “a bunch of racists,” which escalated the situation. Miller then directed Johnson to find the “hanging tree,” down the road.

According to Johnson, Miller, a 74-year-old white man from Minden who owns property in Virginia City, directed a racial slur and a threatening comment referencing a “hanging tree” at him. Johnson began recording the interaction after Miller made the alleged comments, capturing a heated exchange of profanity between both parties.

Janis Miller, 67, reportedly told Johnson to leave her property, and the confrontation moved to C Street. Johnson also claimed she had assaulted him by touching him as she tried to calm him down.

Although the specific “hanging tree” comment and racial slur are not on video, Johnson posted the footage to TikTok on Friday, August 2, igniting public outrage. The Storey County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) launched an investigation, leading to the arrests of Gary Miller, Janis Miller, and their daughter, Tiffany Miller, 45, from Carson Valley.

Gary Miller faces a charge of breach of peace, a gross misdemeanor that includes making threatening comments based on race. Janis Miller faces a misdemeanor battery charge for allegedly pushing Johnson during the altercation, while Tiffany Miller is charged with misdemeanor obstruction or delaying a peace officer.

During an interview with the SCSO, Gary Miller admitted to making the “hanging tree” comment but did not address the alleged racial slur. In a hand-written statement, Miller accused Johnson of trying to “draw a crowd and escalate the situation” and claimed that Johnson later threatened him and his wife with harassing phone calls.

The Hot August Nights (HAN) organizers have banned the Millers from all future events and condemned their behavior. They also stated that they would evaluate the situation to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford praised the arrests, emphasizing the importance of accountability for racist and unlawful actions.

“The public outcry was heard loud and clear, and steps have been taken to hold these individuals accountable for their racist and unlawful actions,” Ford said.

Johnson, working for Texas-based Advanced Micro Targeting Inc., expressed that the experience left him shaken.

The incident prompted a broader investigation by the SCSO for an act of vandalism and several threats against local businesses and residents in connection with the video. Despite the seriousness of the allegations, Gary Miller is not facing hate crime charges as a result of the investigation.

The Millers were booked into the Storey County Detention Center and released on bond. It remains unclear if they have secured legal representation, as each declined a public defender. Each could face a maximum penalty of six months in jail if convicted.

Meanwhile, Johnson may have broken a previous agreement with the Houston District Attorney’s office. Johnson allegedly faced charges related to an incident with a 14-year-old child and was barred from using online apps or social media. His use of TikTok may have violated this agreement.

A crash occurred in Fernley, resulting in the death of a 29-year-old man in a rollover on US-50A near Inglewood Drive just before 4:30 p.m. on July 22.

The Nevada State Police said a silver 2018 Hyundai Tucson with two occupants was traveling westbound when it veered off the roadway and entered the right dirt shoulder. The vehicle’s left front struck a light pole, causing it to overturn multiple times.

The driver, identified as Sergion Aquino-Almanza from Fernley, was ejected from the vehicle, and authorities indicated he was not wearing a seatbelt. He was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.

A juvenile passenger in the Hyundai sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

It began with a conversation with three missionaries who often visited the house in the Spring and summer of 2013, where we discussed things not taught in general bible studies of the temple, church, or stake. During our last visit, we discussed the Apocrypha and how the Book of Ezra could serve as a template for today’s government and political policies.

They never returned, and I often wonder why.

The Book of Ezra is a historical account that focuses on the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Set during the rule of the Persian Empire, it records two main periods: the first return of Jews led by Zerubbabel (538-515 BC) and the second return led by Ezra (458 BC).

The Book of Ezra is a part of the Apocrypha consisting of books in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, but not in the Jewish or Protestant canon, while a part of Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions. Another reason for its exclusion is the uncertainty surrounding its authorship and date.

Its authorship is uncertain and considered written under a false name. The lack of clear authorship and later date of composition contributed to its exclusion from the Jewish and Protestant canons.

The theological content of Ezra also played a role in its exclusion. The book contains apocalyptic visions and themes that differ from the more historical and prophetic books included in the canonical Bible, focusing on eschatology or the study of the end times, while the Messiah’s coming was less aligned with the theological focus of the canonical texts.

Additionally, the historical context reflects the socio-political environment of the late 1st century CE, including the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE. The context differs from the earlier periods covered by the canonical books, making it less relevant to the established canon.

These factors resulted in Ezra’s inclusion in the Apocrypha rather than the canonical Bible. Despite this, it helps us understand Jewish and early Christian apocalyptic literature, providing insights into the religious and cultural milieu of its time.

Today, the Book of Ezra, with its themes of restoration, repentance, and faithfulness to God, provides a historical account of the return of the Jews from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Scholars analyze its narrative structure, theological themes, and historical context to gain insights into the post-exilic period of Jewish history.

In Christian communities, the Book of Ezra is sometimes used in sermons and Bible studies to draw parallels between the historical events it describes and contemporary experiences of spiritual and communal rebuilding. Additionally, it is used in interfaith dialogues and comparative religious studies to explore common themes and differences between Jewish, Christian, and other religious traditions.

Ezra, a priest and scribe, was deeply committed to the Law of Moses. He played a crucial role in the spiritual revival of the Jewish people, emphasizing the importance of following God’s laws and renewing the covenant with God.

The first part details the efforts to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem despite opposition from surrounding peoples. The period highlights the challenges and perseverance of the Jewish community in restoring their place of worship.

The second part focuses on Ezra’s leadership in promoting religious reforms. He addressed issues such as intermarriage with foreign peoples, seen as a threat to the purity of the Jewish faith and community.

One of the notable features of the book is Ezra’s heartfelt prayer of confession and repentance on behalf of the people, found in Ezra 9:5-15.

“[9] Though we are slaves, our God has not forsaken us in our bondage. He has shown us kindness in the sight of the kings of Persia: He has granted us new life to rebuild the house of our God and repair its ruins, and he has given us a wall of protection in Judah and Jerusalem.

[10] But now, our God, what can we say after this? For we have forsaken the commands [11] you gave through your servants the prophets when you said: ‘The land you are entering to possess is a land polluted by the corruption of its peoples. By their detestable practices, they have filled it with their impurity from one end to the other. [12] Therefore, do not give your daughters in marriage to their sons or take their daughters for your sons. Do not seek a treaty of friendship with them at any time, that you may be strong and eat the good things of the land and leave it to your children as an everlasting inheritance.’ [13] “What has happened to us is a result of our evil deeds and our great guilt, and yet, our God, you have punished us less than our sins deserved and have given us a remnant like this. [14] Shall we then break your commands again and intermarry with the peoples who commit such detestable practices? Would you not be angry enough with us to destroy us, leaving us no remnant or survivor? [15] Lord, the God of Israel, you are righteous! We are left this day as a remnant. Here we are before you in our guilt, though because of it not one of us can stand in your presence.”

This prayer reflects his deep concern for the spiritual well-being of the Jewish community.

Ezra’s writings provide a vital link in the historical and spiritual narrative of the Jewish people, emphasizing themes of restoration, obedience, and faithfulness to God. Similarly, the modern era of the U.S. government has faced its own set of challenges and periods of renewal.

Many scholars and interpretations suggest that Ezra’s vision of the eagle was a symbolic representation of the Roman Empire. In this context, the twelve wings represent the twelve Caesars or significant rulers of Rome, while the three heads symbolize the final phases of the empire’s leadership.

The middle head, which is larger and more dominant, could represent a particularly powerful or influential emperor.  The interpretation aligns with the historical context in which the Book of Ezra was written, around the end of the 1st century CE, when the Roman Empire was at its height but also facing internal and external challenges.

The parallels between ancient Rome and the United States have been a subject of much discussion and analysis. While these comparisons can be insightful, they highlight some problematic aspects for both societies.

The Roman Empire was maintained through military conquest and control, leading to overextension and vulnerability. Similarly, the U.S. has a substantial global military presence that has led to overreach and a strain on resources.

Economic inequality was a significant issue in ancient Rome, contributing to social unrest and political instability. The U.S. faces similar challenges today, with growing income inequality and economic disparities that can lead to social tensions and political polarization.

Rome experienced periods of political corruption, power struggles, and instability, particularly during the Republic’s decline and the rise of the Empire. The U.S. is fraught with political corruption and partisanship, undermining trust in government and democratic institutions.

Some historians argue that Rome declined partly due to a perceived cultural and moral decay, where traditional values eroded. Modern American society is witnessing the same, [10] “And I beheld, and, lo, the voice went not out of her heads, but from the midst of her body.”

Rome and the early United States relied heavily on slavery, which had profound social and economic impacts. While abolished in the U.S., its legacy continues to affect American society, contributing to ongoing racial tensions.

These parallels serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the potential pitfalls of power, expansion, and internal division. They highlight the importance of addressing economic disparities, maintaining political integrity, and fostering social cohesion to avoid the challenges that contributed to Rome’s decline.

The image serves as a profound metaphor for the rise and fall of power throughout history, including our modern era.

The sea is the picture of the chaotic origins of power, suggesting that great authorities often emerge from periods of instability and disorder, showcasing the inherent challenges and complexities of rising to and maintaining that power.

The twelve feathers on the eagle represent U.S. Presidents, each symbolizing a phase of American leadership. The depiction of the feathers resting and watching while reserving the heads for later stages underscores the strategic nature of maintaining control and stability. It aligns with the historical experiences of each president, whose leadership periods have shaped and influenced American governance.

Herbert Hoover’s presidency (1929-1933) is the first feather. His term marked the beginning of the Great Depression, a severe economic hardship and social unrest. His presidency represents the initial stage of the eagle’s reign, emerging from a time of instability and setting the stage for significant policy changes.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s presidency (1933-1945) is represented by the longest feather, reflecting his extended term in office. Roosevelt’s New Deal policies and World War II leadership reshaped American society and its role in global affairs.

His lengthy tenure represents a period of profound influence and change, addressing his era’s economic and geopolitical challenges. It also marked the point where Congress provided a term limit for the office of the Presidency, “[17] There shall none after thee attain unto thy time, neither unto the half thereof.”

John F. Kennedy’s presidency (1961-1963) is a medium-sized feather. His brief but impactful time in office included significant events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and the establishment of the Peace Corps. Kennedy’s presidency represents a hopeful and transformative phase, although it was cut short by his assassination.

Richard Nixon’s presidency (1969-1974), represented by another medium-sized feather, was marked by significant achievements and controversies. His administration saw the end of the Vietnam War and major domestic policy shifts. It was also marred by the Watergate scandal, reflecting a time of complex political dynamics and significant challenges.

Jimmy Carter’s presidency (1977-1981) is symbolized by a smaller feather, focusing on humanitarian issues and facing challenges such as the Iran Hostage Crisis. His term, characterized by efforts to address economic and global issues, represents a minimal but notable influence.

Ronald Reagan’s presidency (1981-1989) is represented by a prominent feather, reflecting his transformative impact on American politics and economics. Reagan’s conservative policies, tax reforms, and role in ending the Cold War marked a significant shift in U.S. policy and global influence.

George H.W. Bush’s presidency (1989-1993) is another small feather, marked by the end of the Cold War and the Gulf War. His term, a period of significant geopolitical changes and domestic challenges, fits the portrayal of shorter periods of leadership.

Bill Clinton’s presidency (1993-2001) was a small feather, characterized by economic prosperity and significant domestic policy achievements. The administration faced various controversies but is known for economic growth and welfare reform.

George W. Bush’s presidency (2001-2009) is a medium-sized feather, reflecting the impact of his leadership during the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent War on Terror. His terms included significant global and domestic challenges.

Barack Obama’s presidency (2009-2017) is a prominent feather, marked by significant legislative achievements such as the Affordable Care Act and a focus on social and economic reforms. His term was a period of considerable change and progress.

Donald Trump’s presidency (2017-2021) is a smaller feather, characterized by divisive policies and significant controversies. His term, marked by a populist approach and dramatic shifts, reflects a period of notable influence.

Joe Biden’s current presidency (2021-present) is represented by a smaller feather, focusing on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, economic recovery, social justice issues, and his declining mental capacity “[21] For some of them were set up, but ruled not.”

The eight smaller feathers in the vision symbolize periods of shorter or less stable governance, highlighting moments of upheaval within the broader narrative of the eagle’s rule. These feathers represent transitional phases and significant changes affecting the stability and effectiveness of leadership.

The three remaining feathers represent the final stages of leadership before a significant change or end. The vision describes these feathers as trying to rule but being cut short, indicating brief and possibly tumultuous periods of leadership. In the context of U.S. Presidents, these feathers could symbolize leaders whose terms came with significant challenges, controversies, or abrupt ends.

The first remaining feather tries to rule, but its rule is cut short. It could represent a president whose term is short due to unforeseen circumstances, such as resignation, impeachment, or other crises.

The second remaining feather has a rule that is even shorter than the first, symbolizing a leader who faces challenges or opposition that lead to an even more abrupt end to their term. The third feather also attempts to rule but is quickly overtaken by the three heads of the eagle, indicating a power struggle.

In the broader interpretation, these feathers highlight the instability and rapid changes in leadership that can occur during times of significant upheaval. They serve as a reminder of the fragility of power and the potential for sudden shifts in governance.

Then, there are the three heads of the eagle. They are particularly significant, representing different aspects of power and leadership.

The three heads of the eagle symbolize three distinct phases or forms of leadership that will emerge in the final stages of the eagle’s reign. These heads are reserved for the last, indicating that they will play a crucial role in the culmination of the eagle’s power.

The middle head is bigger than the other two, suggesting it holds greater authority or influence. It awakens and allies with the other two heads, ultimately gaining control over the eagle, and can be interpreted as a dominant leadership that consolidates power, overshadowing the others.

Meanwhile, once awakened, the middle head dominates with oppression, indicating a period of intense and possibly tyrannical rule. The head holds greater power over the world and signifies a climax in reign, marked by significant control and influence, “[35] And I beheld, and, lo, the head upon the right side devoured it that was upon the left side.”

In a modern context, the three-headed eagle could represent the emergence of leaders or regimes that rise to prominence during upheaval or transition. Each head symbolizes a different approach or phase of leadership, with the middle head representing the most dominant and influential period.

The concept of the three-headed eagle can also be related to various political movements and ideologies, particularly those that involve significant shifts in power and governance. It can symbolize the phases of U.S. foreign policy during and after the Cold War.

During the Cold War, the U.S. adopted an internationalist approach, engaging in global alliances and conflicts to counter Soviet influence. Post-Cold War, the U.S. continued its role in world affairs but faced new challenges and shifting dynamics.

In recent years, populist movements have gained traction in various parts of the world, including the U.S. The three-headed eagle can represent the different facets of populism: economic populism, which focuses on addressing economic inequalities; cultural populism, which emphasizes national identity and traditional values; and political populism, which seeks to challenge the established political elite.

The three-headed eagle can also symbolize the tension between authoritarian and democratic governance. One head might represent authoritarian regimes that consolidate power and suppress dissent, while another represents democratic movements that advocate for political freedoms and human rights.

It could also reflect the ongoing struggle between globalization and nationalism. Globalization promotes interconnectedness and economic integration, while nationalism emphasizes sovereignty and cultural identity.

The conclusion of the vision features a roaring lion, symbolizing a force or divine intervention challenging the existing authority of the eagle. It represents a potential reckoning or shift in power, aligning with the theme of divine justice where higher principles ultimately prevail, “[37] And I beheld, and lo, as it were a roaring lion chased out of the wood: and I saw that he sent out a man’s voice unto the eagle, and said,

The emergence of the lion suggests a forthcoming transformation, supported by the verse, “[40] And the fourth came, and overcame all the beasts that were past, and had power over the world with great fearfulness.”

By examining Ezra’s vision through contemporary events and historical developments, I think it is easy to see the ongoing dynamics of evil influences and control in our world. It is not the pretty picture I had hoped for, as I live closer to the end of my days than the start, but I do know that God’s got this.

The Democratic luncheon on Monday, July 29, featured Kristin Luis, District Judge in Department Two of the First Judicial District of Nevada, covering Carson City and Storey County, as the guest speaker.

Governor Joe Lombardo appointed Luis following the retirement of Judge James E. Wilson. She was sworn in on Tuesday, January 9, and is running for election to a full six-year term.

Born and raised in Reno, Luis attended UNR on a diving scholarship, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Economics. She later earned her law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law.

Her career has spanned various roles, including private practice, where she handled criminal defense, prosecution, civil representation, and specialty courts. She clerked for Judge Mills Lane and served as Assistant District Attorney in Carson City, heading the criminal division where she prosecuted high-profile cases involving sexual assault and murder.

She was appointed by Judges James T. Russell and James E. Wilson as Juvenile Special Master, making decisions in delinquency cases and cases involving child abuse or neglect.

In January 2019, Luis was sworn in as a Justice of the Peace in Carson City, managing misdemeanor criminal cases, bail hearings, preliminary hearings, and small claims civil actions. She also oversaw the Mental Health Court, aiming to rehabilitate offenders with mental health issues through treatment and accountability.

Luis lives in Carson City with her husband and two daughters.

Jim Hindle, the Storey County clerk, is among six Republicans indicted in Nevada for allegedly submitting a false certificate to Congress that declared Donald Trump the winner of the 2020 presidential election in Nevada.

Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford has now appealed to the Nevada Supreme Court to uphold these indictments. Similar criminal cases have also been brought in Michigan, Georgia, and Arizona.

Clark County District Court Judge Mary Kay Holthus recently issued a written order affirming her ruling that Las Vegas was the wrong venue for the case, leading to the dismissal of charges. In response, Ford’s office confirmed that they had formally filed an appeal shortly after the judge’s written order, expressing confidence in their case and intent to hold the individuals accountable for their actions.

The other indicted individuals include state GOP chairman Michael McDonald, Clark County GOP chairman Jesse Law, national party committee member Jim DeGraffenreid, national and Douglas County committee member Shawn Meehan, and Eileen Rice, a party member from the Lake Tahoe area. They were indicted by a grand jury in Las Vegas last December, just before the three-year statute of limitations expired, each facing charges of offering a false instrument for filing and uttering a forged instrument, felonies carrying penalties of up to four or five years in prison.

The defense argued that Ford improperly brought the case before a grand jury in Democratic-leaning Las Vegas rather than Northern Nevada, where the alleged crimes took place. Meanwhile, AG’s office contends that no single county encompassed the entirety of these crimes.

As of now, it remains unclear whether oral arguments are scheduled before the Nevada Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the fate of the so-called fake electors hangs in the balance.

Nevada election officials confirmed on Friday, July 26, that Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s campaign has enough signatures to appear on the Nevada ballot in November.

Last month, state and national Democrats filed a lawsuit challenging Kennedy Jr.’s standing on the Nevada ballot as an independent, citing his affiliations with political parties in other states. The verified signatures were part of a petition that Kennedy Jr.’s campaign submitted after Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar’s office clarified guidance that would likely nullify his original petition due to the absence of a listed running mate.

The campaign filed a lawsuit against Aguilar’s office regarding the state requirement that independent candidates must name their running mate before they start gathering signatures. The campaign said it received approval from Aguilar’s office in January to collect the required signatures without listing a vice-presidential selection.

Aguilar’s office stated that Kennedy’s campaign received the Nevada guidelines “well in advance of the deadline to submit signatures.”

In late March, Kennedy Jr. chose California lawyer and philanthropist Nicole Shanahan as his running mate.

State and county election officials verified over 22,000 signatures on the new petition, significantly surpassing the requirement of just over 10,000. Critics argued it was more than a coincidence that Nevada allowed Kennedy on the ballot after President Joe Biden withdrew from the 2024 presidential race.

Developers looking to capitalize on the rush for renewable energy across Nevada. Conservationists rally around those same untouched parcels, often home to desert tortoise, bi-state sage grouse, and other threatened species.

The developers and conservationists repeatedly butt heads on the same issue: where should clean energy infrastructure be built?

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates a land area equivalent to 0.5 percent of the country is needed to develop the resources to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. A 2023 report by the Nature Conservancy found that under current wind and solar development practices, generating that much power would require an area larger than Texas — roughly seven percent of the U.S. land mass.

With more than 170 active applications for renewable energy projects in Nevada, prospective developers continue looking to greenfields — untouched land they can start fresh on, building supersized projects as they see fit — to meet those needs. However, according to the Nature Conservancy and other environmental groups such as the Nevada Wildlife Federation and the Wilderness Society, developers should instead be looking to brownfields — previously disturbed areas such as old mines, landfills, and former industrial sites, often with electric lines and other infrastructure already in place.

According to the Nature Conservancy, nearly 400,000 acres in Nevada are already damaged through development and extraction and are suitable for renewable energy development. These sites are of adequate size and close to transmission lines and substations.

“There are so many opportunities if we open our minds to building in our developed spaces,” said Jaina Moan, external affairs director for the Nevada arm of the Nature Conservancy. “There’s a whole world of rethinking how we use our spaces that can be really valid contributors to our energy planning.”

Potential sites identified by the Nature Conservancy range from the defunct Anaconda Copper Mine in Yerington to the closed Sunrise Landfill outside Las Vegas. Moan says the focus is on advancing policy changes to incentivize and prioritize development and getting developers and utilities on board.

The sites are often incompatible with the competing goals of deploying clean energy quickly, affordably, and efficiently and “are unlikely to represent a substantial share of future solar generation,” according to the American Clean Power Association.

There are concerns about liability for cleanup costs. Required environmental assessments and agency oversight can add time and work.

Remediation is often needed.

“The perception is it’s easier to develop on a greenfield,” said Kerry Rohrmeir, Nevada climate and energy strategy program director for the Nature Conservancy and former business management developer at a Nevada-based geothermal company. “But if you consider legal actions and litigation, then development on a greenfield is no longer a way to develop energy quickly.”

Redevelopment of brownfields in urban areas has been happening for decades. Working with the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, Henderson redeveloped a former gravel mine with groundwater and surface water contamination into Cornerstone Park, complete with sports courts, picnic areas, and walking trails.

In 2000, Las Vegas purchased Symphony Park, a former Union Pacific Railroad fueling and maintenance yard once contaminated by petroleum, solvents, and metals, to convert it into a mixed-use development. Last year, the Environmental Protection Agency awarded Nevada $4.5 million to expedite the assessment and cleanup of brownfields, including $2 million for work at Symphony Park.

The redevelopment of larger, more rural brownfields has not caught on in the same way, despite the Nature Conservancy report identifying roughly 400,000 acres of brownfields across Nevada suitable for redevelopment.

In Lincoln County, the Nature Conservancy is working with other groups and local officials to explore the possibility of developing two megawatts of solar energy at the former Caselton Mine and Mill. If the project comes to fruition, it will join the handful of successfully redeveloped brownfields to produce renewable energy in the state, such as the 14-megawatt solar field on 140 acres at Nellis Air Force Base.

In June, Arevia Power and NV Energy entered a power purchase agreement to build the state’s largest solar energy and battery storage facility. The 700-megawatt Libra Project will have a 700 MW battery storage system spread across more than 5,100 acres in Lyon and Mineral counties, and the proposed Samantha Solar Project outside Ely would generate up to 600 MW of power from 2,900 acres.

The Nature Conservancy acknowledges that brownfields cannot account for all renewable energy needs to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the internationally agreed-upon date by which emissions need to reach net-zero worldwide to halt ongoing climate damage.

In 2019, Nevada lawmakers passed a bill directing the state to try to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to near zero by 2050.

“Brownfield sites aren’t that big, but they can really serve as good community projects,” Moan said. “Even though these aren’t huge economies of scale, they can fit into our energy mix.”

She lauded NV Energy’s recent conversion of a portion of the former coal-powered Reid Gardner Power Station to a battery storage facility that can store as much as 220 MW of power. Earlier this year, Nevada Gold Mines received $95 million in federal funding to develop solar and battery storage systems at three of its active mine sites in Elko, Humboldt, and Eureka counties.

The projects are the first combination of utility-scale solar and mining in the state, said Amanda Hilton, president of the Nevada Mining Association.

The state’s environmental protection division has made renewable energy development on brownfields a priority for more than a decade, Jenny Jackson, state public information officer, said in an email. In 2013, the state partnered with the Rural Desert Southwest Brownfields Coalition to develop a database of brownfield sites with potential for redevelopment, in part to assist with new transmission line planning and siting of renewable energy projects.

But earlier this year, when the Bureau of Land Management released a draft of its updated plan guiding solar development across multiple Western states including Nevada — where the federal government owns huge swaths of land — the agency prioritized potential placement of solar projects along proposed and current transmission line corridors rather than siting them on previously disturbed lands.

In 2018, the Nature Conservancy and the Nevada Mining Association proposed and helped pass a state regulatory change to make solar arrays an option for cleaning up old mine sites, a move Moan describes as “successful.”

“We think the regulatory change helped socialize the concept and pique interest,” Moan said. “Now, we would like to work with lawmakers to incentivize and prioritize alternative energy development on old mine lands and brownfield sites and for these sites to be included as part of energy, electrification, and transmission plans in Nevada counties, tribal nations, and across the state.”

However, Moan said, getting lawmakers and permitting agencies to think about ways to use brownfields is needed to spur policy changes that incentivize and prioritize their development.

A fatal crash in Fernley closed both directions of US50 Alt at Mile Marker 10 on Wednesday, July 24.

According to the Nevada State Police (NSP), preliminary information indicates that the crash involved four vehicles—three cars and a semi-truck. The incident occurred when one vehicle attempted to pass the semi-truck unsafely, leading to a collision. One person was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two days prior, on Monday, July 22, another fatal crash on westbound US50 Alt., resulted in the closure of all lanes near Inglewood Drive in Fernley. Details on this crash, including the identities of the dead, have not been released by the NSP.

The NSP continues to investigate both incidents.

Abacus Mining & Exploration Corporation plans to raise $400,000 through 20,000,000 units at two cents per unit.

Each unit is one common share of the company and one-half of one non-transferable common share purchase warrant. Each warrant will be exercisable to purchase one common share at five cents per share for three years from the closing date of the offering.

Proceeds from the offering will go towards exploration, general working capital, and a payment of $80,000 related to the Nev-Lorraine property. Recently, Abacus acquired the Willow copper-molybdenum property and holds a lease on the adjacent Nev-Lorraine copper-molybdenum property near Yerington.

The financing is subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange.