Giving a Damn About Yerington: The Story of Jim Sanford

Yerington NV – October 17, 2026

Rotary Club of Yerington – Who We Are: Jim Sanford

Article submitted by Rotary Club of Yerington

For more than seven decades, Jim Sanford has been a familiar face, trusted voice, and dedicated advocate for the Yerington community. A longtime journalist, editor, and publisher of the Mason Valley News, Jim has devoted much of his life to telling the stories of Mason Valley, preserving its history, and supporting the people who call it home.

Jim’s newspaper career began at just eight years old, working in his family’s newspaper business. After graduating from the University of Nevada, Reno, he returned to the Mason Valley News, eventually becoming its editor and publisher. His contributions to Nevada journalism earned him recognition in the Nevada Newspaper Hall of Fame.

A proud member of the Rotary Club of Yerington since 1975, Jim has spent more than 50 years demonstrating Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self. Among his many contributions was serving as project treasurer for the development of Bridge Street Park, one of the club’s most significant community improvement projects.

Jim is also affectionately known as the “Voice of Yerington” for his decades of announcing local sporting events, particularly at Yerington High School. In April 2026, Walker River Little League honored his remarkable community legacy by inviting him to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at its opening ceremonies.

When asked why he joined Rotary, Jim summed up his motivation simply: “I saw a chance to give back to the community I love and fulfill the desire to give a damn about Yerington.”

That commitment continues to define Jim Sanford’s legacy. Through journalism, Rotary, athletics, and countless acts of community service, Jim has helped make Yerington a better place for generations of residents.

Jim’s story is especially meaningful because his dedication to Yerington extends well beyond any single profession or organization. His decades of service reflect a lifelong belief that a strong community is built by people willing to invest their time, talents, and energy in making a difference.

For Jim Sanford, giving back to Yerington isn’t simply something he does — it’s part of who he is.