Las Vegas Honors News Anchor Denise Valdez
Mayor Shelley Berkley declared October 20, 2026, as a day to celebrate the longtime television anchor.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Civic
Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley surprised Channel 8 anchor Denise Valdez with an official proclamation declaring October 20, 2026, as Denise Valdez Day. The honor comes as the veteran journalist prepares to retire from her position at the station.
Why it matters
The recognition acknowledges the significant career impact of Valdez as she concludes her tenure at Channel 8. This official city gesture highlights her two decades of contribution to local television news in the region.
Valdez has earned 5 Emmy awards throughout her career, including two accolades specifically for best anchor in the Pacific Southwest Region.
The players
Shelley Berkley
Shelley Berkley is the Mayor of Las Vegas who oversees municipal proclamations and city operations.
Denise Valdez
Denise Valdez is a veteran television anchor who has worked at Channel 8 since 2006.
Clark County Commissioners
The Clark County Commissioners are the elected officials responsible for the governance of Clark County.
The details
Mayor Berkley made a surprise appearance at the 8 News Now studio during a 6 p.m. newscast to deliver the honor. This celebration follows a similar proclamation issued by the Clark County Commissioners in September 2026.
Timeline
2006: Denise Valdez began working at Channel 8.
September 2026: Clark County Commissioners issued a proclamation for Denise Valdez Day.
October 20, 2026: The City of Las Vegas officially recognized Denise Valdez Day.
October 22, 2026: Denise Valdez is scheduled to anchor her final newscast.
Industry Dynamics
The city's action follows the 2026 Clark County Commissioners proclamation for Denise Valdez Day, extending a regional pattern of recognition for the anchor. This coordinated municipal and county support reflects a shift in how long-tenured local broadcasters are honored upon retirement.
Viewers can watch the final broadcast of Denise Valdez on Channel 8 on October 22, 2026. This date marks the end of her twenty-year career on the local station.
The takeaway
Honoring local journalists acknowledges their role in the fabric of the community. Residents who have followed her career can tune in for her final sign-off later this week.
What happens next
Denise Valdez is scheduled to anchor her final newscast on October 22, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local government actions in the Las Vegas Civic section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KLAS.
