The Fourth Estate: Local Media's Role in Reporting on Nevada Politics
A community forum on how local journalists serve, inform, and engage Nevadans.
In an era of rapid information and shifting public trust, local journalism remains a vital part of a healthy democracy and of our community.
Sierra Nevada Forums invites you to a thoughtful, nonpartisan conversation featuring respected journalists from Northern Nevada’s own print, radio, and television newsrooms.
These are the reporters who sit in our legislative hearings, attend our town halls, and speak directly with our neighbors. Together, they will explore the evolving role of the press as the Fourth Estate. This key pillar of democracy is tasked with providing accurate information, promoting transparency, and helping citizens understand how policy decisions affect their lives.
The evening will include a look back at Nevada’s recent legislative session, a discussion of journalistic ethics and fact-checking practices, and an honest examination of the challenges local media face. Topics will include building public trust, ensuring freedom of expression, and adapting to a rapidly changing landscape.
Whether you closely follow state politics or simply want to better understand how news is gathered and shared right here in Northern Nevada, this forum offers a respectful and community-focused space to listen, learn, and engage.
Why This Matters to You
When we talk about “the media,” we are not referring to a faraway institution. We are talking about the journalists who live and work right here in our region.
They report on our local school boards, attend city council meetings, cover legislative sessions, and help us make sense of the policies that shape our everyday lives. They are part of our communities, and their work directly impacts how we understand the issues facing Northern Nevada.
This forum is for anyone who:
No matter your political perspective, if you care about truth, accountability, and respectful conversation, this is a discussion you will want to be part of.
RSVP Encouraged:
Registration is not required, but it helps us plan for materials and seating.
Let us know you're coming:
Sierra Nevada Forums invites you to a thoughtful, nonpartisan conversation featuring respected journalists from Northern Nevada’s own print, radio, and television newsrooms.
These are the reporters who sit in our legislative hearings, attend our town halls, and speak directly with our neighbors. Together, they will explore the evolving role of the press as the Fourth Estate. This key pillar of democracy is tasked with providing accurate information, promoting transparency, and helping citizens understand how policy decisions affect their lives.
The evening will include a look back at Nevada’s recent legislative session, a discussion of journalistic ethics and fact-checking practices, and an honest examination of the challenges local media face. Topics will include building public trust, ensuring freedom of expression, and adapting to a rapidly changing landscape.
Whether you closely follow state politics or simply want to better understand how news is gathered and shared right here in Northern Nevada, this forum offers a respectful and community-focused space to listen, learn, and engage.
Why This Matters to You
When we talk about “the media,” we are not referring to a faraway institution. We are talking about the journalists who live and work right here in our region.
They report on our local school boards, attend city council meetings, cover legislative sessions, and help us make sense of the policies that shape our everyday lives. They are part of our communities, and their work directly impacts how we understand the issues facing Northern Nevada.
This forum is for anyone who:
- Wants to hear how local journalists approach covering politics and public policy
- Values transparency, accuracy, and civil dialogue
- Is curious about how trust is built between the media and the public
- Believes that strong communities are built on shared facts and informed decision-making
No matter your political perspective, if you care about truth, accountability, and respectful conversation, this is a discussion you will want to be part of.
RSVP Encouraged:
Registration is not required, but it helps us plan for materials and seating.
Let us know you're coming:
| Event Details Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM (Doors open at 5:30 PM) Location: Brewery Arts Center Performance Hall Address: 511 W King St, Carson City, NV 89703 Admission: Free and open to the public Hosted by: Sierra Nevada Forums Media Sponsors: KUNR Public Radio and The Nevada Appeal |
Meet Our Speakers
Lucia Starbuck
KUNR
Moderator
Lucia Starbuck is an award-winning political journalist covering state government for KUNR Public Radio, Northern Nevada’s NPR affiliate. She hosts the monthly show Purple Politics Nevada and is known for making complex policies accessible and relevant to voters. Lucia has previously moderated Sierra Nevada Forums on legislative and congressional topics.
KUNR
Moderator
Lucia Starbuck is an award-winning political journalist covering state government for KUNR Public Radio, Northern Nevada’s NPR affiliate. She hosts the monthly show Purple Politics Nevada and is known for making complex policies accessible and relevant to voters. Lucia has previously moderated Sierra Nevada Forums on legislative and congressional topics.
Adam Trumble
Nevada Appeal
Panelist
Adam Trumble is the publisher and owner of the Nevada Appeal, Carson City's long-standing local newspaper. With deep roots in community journalism, he leads coverage that keeps residents informed about local government, policy decisions, and public affairs.
Nevada Appeal
Panelist
Adam Trumble is the publisher and owner of the Nevada Appeal, Carson City's long-standing local newspaper. With deep roots in community journalism, he leads coverage that keeps residents informed about local government, policy decisions, and public affairs.
Arianna Bennett
KTVN 2 News
Panelist
Arianna Bennett is a veteran anchor and reporter with KTVN 2 News in Reno. Her in-depth coverage and approachable reporting style have made her a trusted voice for Northern Nevada viewers, particularly in coverage of government and community issues.
KTVN 2 News
Panelist
Arianna Bennett is a veteran anchor and reporter with KTVN 2 News in Reno. Her in-depth coverage and approachable reporting style have made her a trusted voice for Northern Nevada viewers, particularly in coverage of government and community issues.
Tabitha Mueller
The Nevada Independent
Panelist
Tabitha Mueller is the Capital Bureau Chief for The Nevada Independent, where she leads political and legislative reporting. Her work has received numerous awards for excellence and impact, including Journalist of Merit from the Nevada Press Association. Tabitha focuses on the human stories behind policy and accountability.
Paul Boger
KNPR
Panelist
Paul Boger is KNPR's Northern Nevada reporter and producer. He has reported extensively on state politics, elections, and policy, and now oversees statewide news coverage focused on providing context and clarity to listeners across Nevada.
KNPR
Panelist
Paul Boger is KNPR's Northern Nevada reporter and producer. He has reported extensively on state politics, elections, and policy, and now oversees statewide news coverage focused on providing context and clarity to listeners across Nevada.
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