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Here's how a YMCA program eases Nevada’s childcare struggles for local families

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Here's how a YMCA program eases Nevada’s childcare struggles for local families


LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — In Nevada, 74% of families with children under the age of 6 cannot access affordable childcare. The SkyView YMCA’s Early Learning Village is working to address that issue.

“When you shop around, it gets scary, it gets daunting,” said Ryanne Shea-Brink, a Las Vegas parent who struggled to find childcare.

Shea-Brink eventually found the Early Learning Program at SkyView— which she said brought much-needed relief.

“It’s such a relief because you’re constantly worried about your child’s environment,” Shea-Brink said. “But, when we pick her up and see her happy, you can finally take a breath and say, ‘Okay, this is great.’”

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Shea-Brink said her 4-year-old daughter, Riley, feels at home at the YMCA, largely due to the caring staff.

Every time we walk in—whether it’s through the front door or into her preschool group—the staff is all smiles and hugs. They’re always so happy and excited to show her everything.

Affordability is a key factor for many families and SkyView YMCA offers various financial options.

Erica Stegall, executive director of SkyView YMCA, said nearly half of the families in the program receive financial assistance.

45% of our families actually pay zero, thanks to partnerships with private entities.

“We also fundraise to help subsidize another 55% of our families, keeping childcare costs low so parents can redirect those funds back into their households.”

Shea-Brink said she is grateful for the program.

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“It’s safe, it’s supportive, and it’s a really great community,” she said. “I’m so glad my daughter gets to be a part of it.”





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Early bird discount for the official State Fair of Nevada ends May 1

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Early bird discount for the official State Fair of Nevada ends May 1


RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – Tickets for the return of the official State Fair of Nevada are now available, but only until the end of the month can you get 20% off your ticket price.

After a 16-year hiatus, the official State Fair of Nevada will return to the Nevada State Fairgrounds in Reno June 11-13. Early bird discounts of 20% are available through May 1 online with code EarlySFNV.

Ciara Ressel, public information officer with the Nevada Department of Agriculture, stopped by Morning Break to share what’s in store for the community during these three days of food, entertainment, agriculture and celebration.

The event will highlight Nevada’s history, communities and agricultural roots with a wide range of programming, including:

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  • Nevada Junior Livestock Show and Sale
  • University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s 4-H State Expo
  • Opening Night Ceremony and Concert featuring Caleb Montgomery
  • Next Generation Youth Bull Riding
  • Made in Nevada Farmers’ Market
  • Walking Tour of Nevada
  • Drone show
  • Local vendors, food and art
  • Carnival rides
  • And more highlighting Nevada’s history and heritage!

Click here to learn more. You can also follow the state fair on Instagram and Facebook.

Copyright 2026 KOLO. All rights reserved.





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Nevada first responders receive autism training to improve emergency response

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Nevada first responders receive autism training to improve emergency response


First responders from across Nevada gathered for a free training session on how to better recognize and respond to people on the autism spectrum as part of a broader push following the passage of Senate Bill 380 last year.

The free, day-long session, hosted by the Autism Coalition of Nevada, brought together police, firefighters, and emergency personnel from agencies statewide for what organizers call a “train-the-trainer” model. It equipped attendees with tools they can take back to their departments and share with others.

The training is designed to help first responders identify key behaviors associated with autism, such as delayed responses, lack of eye contact, or repetition, and adjust their approach in high-pressure situations where those behaviors could otherwise be misinterpreted.

“The training is to help them understand what’s in front of them, which is a person on the spectrum, and not somebody that’s being combative or argumentative,” said Michelle Scott-Lewing, president of the Autism Coalition of Nevada.

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Advocates said misunderstandings can happen frequently, sometimes leading to unnecessary arrests, and this type of education is aimed at reducing those outcomes.

Senate Bill 380, signed into law by Governor Joe Lombardo, requires autism-specific training for first responders and adds guidance around how officers should be educated on recognizing and interacting with individuals on the spectrum, marking a significant step toward more consistent awareness across agencies.

The session was led by First Responder Autism Training, a national program that travels the country teaching officers and emergency crews how to recognize autism indicators and respond appropriately, with real-world scenarios that emphasize slowing down and de-escalating.

Henderson police said their officers already receive training on a range of mental health conditions, but this builds on that foundation with a more focused approach.

“For officers to be able to recognize those signs and be able to understand like, hey, this person, even though they’re not talking to me or they’re not doing what I’m saying, that doesn’t mean they’re non-compliant,” Deputy Chief Matthew Murnane with HPD said. “It just means maybe, hey, there’s something else going on there.”

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Organizers said they want to expand the training with an additional session this year in Northern Nevada, aiming to make it more accessible statewide and ensure more first responders have the tools needed to safely handle interactions involving people on the spectrum.



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Northern Nevada Hopes hosts Birdies and Bliss golf tournament fundraiser

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Northern Nevada Hopes hosts Birdies and Bliss golf tournament fundraiser


RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – Birdies and Bliss is a women‑focused golf fundraiser for Northern Nevada Hopes that brings the community together for a day of connection, fun and giving back.

Meredith Tanzer, philanthropy associate, stopped by Morning Break to invite the community to this feel good event that pairs fun golfing with meaningful impact, supporting programs at HOPES that make a real difference for families.

This inaugural tournament takes place Monday, May 4 at Red Hawk and Resort. It marks an exciting beginning and reflects the generosity and strength of the community that supports our mission. Click here to reserve your spot.

Copyright 2026 KOLO. All rights reserved.

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