Sandoval signs order to begin planning for state’s birthday

CARSON CITY -- Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval has signed an executive order to begin planning for the state's 150th birthday bash in 2014.

The order signed Wednesday appoints Las Vegas Review-Journal Publisher Bob Brown and Northern Nevada consultant Neena Laxalt as co-chairman of the planning committee. Laxalt is the daughter of Paul Laxalt, a former Nevada governor and U.S. senator.

Sandoval also will appoint five other members.

The committee will recommend a timeline of events and activities, and apply for grants and sponsorships to help fund the celebration.

The executive order calls for the committee to submit a final report to the governor a year from now so it can be presented to the 2013 Legislature.

Nevada became a state on Oct. 31, 1864.