JUdge Bishop has been a part of the community for 15 years

Community involvement is vital to the well-being of a community. In order to have a vibrant, healthy community where you want to raise a family, supporting community organizations and events is vital. Fire and Ice; the Elks' Crab Crack; Shrove Tuesday at St. Bart's; the Outdoor Enthusiasts Walks/Runs; Sacred Heart's St. Patrick's Day Corned Beef Dinner; Wish Week; Children's Art Festival; the Fair and Horse Races; and more are all regular activities for the Bishops. 

Judge Bishop and his family value education and emphasizes sharing knowledge. They regularly participate in schools functions. Judge Bishop frequently also provides education in the law and other subjects. He especially enjoys to sharing his love of the stars and astronomy in programs for schools and community groups.  

Prior to becoming Justice of the Peace, Judge Bishop managed a small private law office. His wife currently runs a small business employing several people cleaning buildings in the community. Judge Bishop is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and has experienced the challenges faced by businesses.

Everyone in town knows Judge Bishop is a fan of LEGO. He has been displaying builds at the fair and large layouts at Halloween events for many years. For four years, he has been the driving force behind the Bristlecone Bricks and Train Show, which brings LEGO builders and model train displays from across the west to Ely.

Judge Bishop is an active member of the Ely Lions Club. He has repeatedly served in various officer positions, including multiple terms as president. He is instrumental in many of the Lions Club activities, including the Renaissance Faire and Pumpkin Festival, pancake breakfasts and more.

Judge Bishop and his family regularly volunteer at the Nevada Northern Railway. Whether the Star Train, the Christmas Train, the 1920s Train or pumping the handcar, they enjoy working at the railroad. In 2021, Judge Bishop and his son were honored as volunteers of the year.

Judge Bishop brought the Kids' Court program to rural Nevada. This program invites grade school students to learn about the courts and law, by putting on a mock trial in the Courthouse. Hundreds of kids have participated in Kids Court and, with Judge Bishop's help the program has been adopted in other rural counties. Costumes and props all add to the learning experience.

Theater teaches self confidence, strengthens mental health and improves memory and language skills. The Bishops are active supporters of community theater. Acting, directing painting, casting, lighting and coaching actors are all activities they have undertaken. Judge Bishop has also written scripts for multiple productions. They also enjoy attending high school productions. 

Judge Bishop enjoys history and the middle ages. In 2021, Erin suggested trying to bring Renaissance Faire entertainment to White Pine County. They partnered with the Ely Lions to create the Ely Renaissance Faire & Pumpkin Festival, which has become an annual event.

Judge Bishop and Erin have taught LEGO art at the Children's Art Festival, since 2019. The Art Festival partners with the School District to present a free summer event, which allows children to participate in artistic endeavors.

Trails and the outdoors are such an asset to the White Pine community and, though he won't be running any marathon's in the near future, Judge Bishop and his family enjoy being regular participants in the activities of the Ely Outdoor Enthusiasts.