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Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at 3:54 PM

Fernley Estates resident relives childhood farm days with ATV ride

Fernley Estates resident relives childhood farm days with ATV ride
Stacy Tomassetti, center, with Fernley Estates staff members Tris Martin and Rochelle MacLean. Photo by Robert Perea

Tomassetti’s dream involved reconnecting with the kind of farm life she grew up around. She fondly recalled a pony named Lightning, who had a fluffy mane that stood straight up instead of lying flat, and riding in farm vehicles through the dirt and fields.

“We had to do it because we were baling hay and stuff like that,” she said. “I’d rather do that than anything else.”

About 20 of the community’s 67 residents, including some in memory care, took at least one ride. When a visitor remarked on the joy on one resident’s face after a loop, Tomassetti said she was happy the other residents were having fun.

The event was made possible by the company’s leadership team, volunteer drivers David and Alex Russell, and powersports dealership Ridezilla, which donated the RZR for the occasion.

“We’re blessed that we can play a major part in doing this,” MacLean said.

She said the Ageless Dreams program is rooted in the organization’s mission, values and principles, which she called its MVPs: caring people performing acts of kindness and ensuring residents are respected, served and cared for.

After her last ride, Tomassetti sat in the shade and talked about her life, her pony and how beautiful the desert is while a few of her neighbors took one last loop.

When MacLean asked whether she wanted to go on one more ride or was ready for lunch, Tomassetti shook her visitor’s hand and stood up to head inside. Her dream had been fulfilled, and now a hamburger was waiting for her.


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Comment author: PFB Comment text: Why can't you guys find competent contractors.. For a large municipal facility like the indoor-outdoor Fernley Swimming Pool located at 300 Cottonwood Lane, a complete ground-up commercial build or major structural renovation typically spans 6 to 12 months or longer when factoring in large-scale engineering, public municipal permitting, specialized commercial HVAC/roofing, and health department inspections. The current renovation has been- The Fernley Swimming Pool has been closed for approximately six to seven months since late February 2026 for a major roof replacement and facility renovation. Now you sat October. Soooo 8 months for a new roof. The picture shows no other renovations. Comment publication date: 9/17/26, 7:14 PM Comment source: Electrical problem delays Fernley pool opening Comment author: P Comment text: Relative of the Mayor is to over see this site. Anyone who knows Fernley KNOWS this is more of the who you are related to and know business in this town. VOTE THEM ALL OUT AND THE CALIFORNIA TRANSPLANTS. Comment publication date: 9/16/26, 10:31 PM Comment source: Lift Station Failure Released Untreated Sewage Comment author: Christopher Walsh Comment text: Could you look into the strong recurring smell around Fernley? It smells like sewage and it can be bad enough that people don’t want to be outside or open their windows. It would be helpful to get an investigative journalist help the Fernley residents get a clear answer from the City, NDEP, and any involved facilities. I was really disappointed that the smell was not disclosed by my realtor when I moved here. I enjoy Fernley and am seeing the improvements that are being made. With Appreciation Comment publication date: 9/12/26, 2:49 PM Comment source: Sewage spill near City of Fernley Municipal Well 9 Comment author: Alicia Euresti Comment text: We are all so blessed to have Pastor Matt and Mrs. Regina in this town. They have become a major part of pur family and our children adore them. Thank you both for all you do for qll of us. We love you!!!! Comment publication date: 9/6/26, 9:24 PM Comment source: Fascinating Fernley: Meet Your Neighbors at Living Faith Food Pantry Comment author: R Conley Comment text: Is the deputy receiving any additional training or reinforcing prior training? Comment publication date: 9/5/26, 10:08 AM Comment source: Inmate escapes from Fernley substation Comment author: Kayla Allen Comment text: Suzie was a wonderful woman. I was pleased to call her my "godmother" as she helped me to become a better version of myself. I think about her a lot. Comment publication date: 7/10/26, 8:31 PM Comment source: Susanne Lynn Foster