Carson City Nevada News - Carson Now - Your one stop for Carson City news

Nevada law enforcement target impaired drivers through July 4 holiday and into the month

Jeff Munson — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 22:55:42 +0000

By Kim Yoko Smith

The Nevada State Police Highway Patrol Division and other law enforcement agencies participating in Joining Forces will combine resources, which began Monday and will continue through July 20, 2024, to apprehend impaired drivers.

Each year people across Nevada are killed or injured because someone made the decision to drive impaired. One of the top contributing factors of fatal crashes is impairment.

Impaired driving doesn’t mean just alcohol; it is anything that affects your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Being a responsible driver is simple: if you are impaired, do not drive. Avoid the chance of making a poor decision that could lead to unnecessary tragedy — plan ahead for a designated driver or public transportation.

This Joining Forces campaign reflects the unwavering mission of the Nevada State Police — Highway Patrol and the dedication of Nevada State troopers to keep the public safe by finding, investigating, and apprehending persons driving while impaired on Nevada’s highways.

The Nevada State Police - Highway Patrol is committed to bringing the number of fatalities on Nevada's roadways to zero by increasing public awareness and education about the dangers of driving impaired.

More information about safe driving and Zero Fatalities Nevada is available Online at www.ZeroFatalitiesNV.com.

The Nevada Department of Public Safety’s- Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) provides funding for law enforcement agencies to participate in Joining Forces to reduce traffic deaths and injuries on Nevada roadways. Visit www.zerofatalitiesnv.com for more information.

Capital City Arts Initiative’s Fresh Outlook 2024 featured at Carson City's 'The Brick' building

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 22:49:10 +0000

by Sharon Rosse

Creativity and talent abound from Western Nevada College’s art students in the Capital City Arts Initiative’s "Fresh Outlook 2024" exhibition.

The free exhibit is open to the public daily through August 15, 2024 in the Community Development Building (the Brick), 108 E Proctor Street, Carson City. The Brick is open to the public, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. The exhibition video tour will be online soon at ccainv.org.

"Fresh Outlook 2024" features 46 art works by 19 students from Western Nevada College’s Carson City campus. They used a wide variety of art media including ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, and printmaking.

Participating students include: Matthew Beam, Samantha Castillas, Damian Contreras, Sandi Helliwell, Jessica Mendoza Jaramillo, Karyn Knecht, Kenneth Larson, Lucinda Lundin, Pedro Madera, Gracie Magney, Noel Mesa, Shelbie Nail, Susan Paigen, Marisa Saenz, JoVon Sotak, Toby Sparrow, Ellie Vaughan, Gina Vecchio, and Madeline Wilson.

Motivation and creative inspiration for the students came from their instructors: Teri Barnes, Jackie Pias Carlin, Professor Jayna Conkey, Professor Rachel Stiff, and Matt Theilen.

Sharon Rosse, CCAI Executive Director, said “CCAI is so pleased to present these strong art works to the community. We value our partnership with WNC faculty and students to present this excellent exhibition. Fresh Outlook 2024 demonstrates the depth and diversity of the artists’ creativity.”

This show is another in CCAI’s ongoing series of student exhibitions in the Brick.

The Capital City Arts Initiative is an artist-centered nonprofit organization committed to community engagement in contemporary visual arts through exhibitions, arts education programs, illustrated talks, artist residencies, and online activities.

The Initiative is funded by the John Ben Snow Memorial Trust, Nevada Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities, John and Grace Nauman Foundation, Nevada Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, Kaplan Family Charitable Fund, Southwest Gas Corporation Foundation, Steele & Associates LLC, and CCAI sponsors and members.

For additional information, please visit CCAI’s website at www.ccainv.org.

Silver State strong: Nevada Highway Patrol celebrates 75th anniversary

Jeff Munson — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 21:47:54 +0000

By Kim Yoko Smith

The Nevada Highway Patrol recognized its 75th anniversary on Monday, July 1, commemorating a legacy of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Nevada’s roadways.

Established in 1949, the NHP has grown from its humble beginnings to become a cornerstone of public safety, entrusted with the responsibility of protecting over 5,400 miles of Nevada roads.

Colonel Patrick J. Conmay stated, "Our 75th Anniversary is not just a celebration of our storied past but a testament to our enduring commitment to excellence. The men and women of the Nevada Highway Patrol have consistently demonstrated remarkable courage, vigilance, and dedication, often under the most challenging conditions."
The Nevada Highway Patrol's legacy is built on its core values: Consistency, Accountability, Respect, and Empathy (CARE). Over the decades, NHP has adapted to the changing demands of traffic safety, embracing technological advancements and innovative strategies to improve roadway safety for all Nevadans and visitors.

As we reflect on this significant milestone, we take pride in our rich history and the many achievements of our dedicated members. Their heroic efforts have not only saved lives but have also strengthened the fabric of our communities. This anniversary is an opportunity to honor their unwavering commitment and to look forward to the continued evolution of our service.

Department of Public Safety Director, George Togliatti, expressed his pride in the NHP’s accomplishments, saying, "The Nevada Highway Patrol has been an exemplary model of courage, vigilance, and integrity. Their commitment to safeguarding our state’s roadways has made Nevada a safer place for all. I am honored to celebrate this milestone with them and look forward to their continued success."

The Nevada Highway Patrol invites all residents and visitors to join in celebrating this significant milestone and to support the ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security across the state.

Ashtanga Yoga featured at the Carson City Senior Center

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 21:07:42 +0000

By The Carson City Senior Center

Improve flexibility, build physical strength, and increase energy with Ashtanga Yoga taught by Ruth Chan, on Tuesdays from 11:30 to 12:30Pm. The weekly class is $5.00 per class or $40 for 10 classes and will be in the Nevada Room at the Carson City Senior Center, 911 Beverly Drive. RSVP’s for the event are not necessary – just show up. Call the Senior Center for more information (775) 883-0703.

Dance party and potluck Saturday at the Carson City Senior Center

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 20:55:40 +0000

By The Carson City Senior Center

Dance the night away with live music with Don and Nadine on Saturday, July 6 from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is $10 per person and guests are asked to bring a dish to share. Dances are held the 1st Saturday of each month and is open to all ages. The dance is at the Carson City Senior Center, 911 Beverly Drive, in the Sagebrush Dining Room. RSVPs for the event are not necessary. Call the Senior Center for more information (775) 883-0703.

Terri Snyder's remarkable journey: A farewell to 40 years of fitness instruction at Carson City Community Center

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 20:24:06 +0000

Submitted to Carson Now

Terri Snyder, a dedicated fitness instructor, has decided to hang up her sports shoes after nearly four decades of teaching at the Carson City Community Center. Her legacy is one of unwavering commitment, resilience and a passion for health and wellness.

For 40 years, Terri led fitness classes — eight times a week — regardless of the challenges that came her way. Snowstorms, pandemics, and even fires couldn't deter her. She was the embodiment of punctuality, arriving promptly for her 5:30 am sessions and midday classes. Her students admired her consistency and dedication.

Terri's class was a vibrant tapestry of ages and professions. From energetic 20-somethings to sprightly octogenarians, everyone found a place in the Carson City Community Center.

Doctors, lawyers, engineers, judges, nurses, teachers, and even politicians sweated side by side, united by their shared goal of fitness. Terri's class wasn't just about exercise; it was a community — a family that supported and encouraged one another.

Terri bid farewell June 27, her final class, with the echoes of her instructions resonating one last time, and her legacy living on through the friendships forged within those walls. After the workout, friends, family, fellow instructors and Terri's Carson City regulars met at Mills Park, a fitting tribute to a remarkable instructor who inspired generations.

Her over 50 students are looking for a new instructor to carry the torch and continue the legacy.

Carson City School Board OKs purchase of CHS Tech Center building from WNC for $100

Kelsey Penrose — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 19:40:27 +0000

by Kelsey Penrose

Western Nevada College’s Tech Center, which has been on Carson High School property since it was built in 2000, will finally be transferred to the high school.

The college recently requested a transfer in ownership of the Jim Randolph High Tech Center to the school district, which the Carson City School District Board of Trustees approved of during their June 2024 meeting.

The building was first constructed in February 2000 on the CHS campus, which has since been used for classes for both the high school and the college outside of school hours. The construction was paid for by the Nevada Legislature in 1997. At the time, it was a way to provide computer and other technology access to students, as well as host evening and night courses for the college.

It has been some time, however, since the tech center has been regularly used to host night courses according to Carson City Superintendent Andrew Feuling. With online courses readily available, night courses are not as necessary as they were in the 90s.

“We’ve gotten to a point where WNC doesn’t seem to need to have that physical presence during the nighttime hours,” Feuling said.

The college and district determined it would better suit both organizations to turn the building over entirely to the district.

The purchase and transfer cost from the district will be $100.

While trustees approved the transfer unanimously, the proposal will need to go before the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Rejects in September for final approval.

Classic Americana Celebration returns to Genoa July 4 with pet parade, bluegrass, barbecue

Kelsey Penrose — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 17:31:57 +0000

Event Date:

July 4, 2024 (All day)

by Kelsey Penrose

The annual Fourth of July Americana Celebration will be happening in Genoa again this year, bringing a classic tradition to Mormon State Park.

Each year, attendees beat the heat beneath the shade trees at the park while listening to live music, watching the kids play and more.

You can begin setting up your picnic location at 8 a.m.

The fun begins with the annual Children’s and Pet Parade at 10:30 a.m., followed by face painting from 11a.m. to 1 p.m., and chicken dinners served up from the Genoa Fire Department beginning at 11 a.m.

The front porch band plays at 11:30 a.m., followed by Moxy Ruckus at 1:15 p.m. Finally, the Carson City Symphony will play at 3:45 p.m.

The celebration continues through 5:15 p.m.

There will also be old time children’s games throughout the day, including water games so be sure to bring a towel for the kiddos. A bluegrass and old time music jamming area will be rocking, so be sure to bring an instrument or two to join in!

Go here for more information.

Forest Service urges responsible recreation at Lake Tahoe over July 4 holiday

Jeff Munson — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 14:25:32 +0000

U.S. Forest Service

The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is gearing up for our most popular holiday weekend, the Fourth of July. Tahoe is a cherished place, welcoming to all responsible recreationists of diverse backgrounds, and it is essential that Tahoe visitors and residents alike take care of this spectacular place to protect Tahoe’s environment and improve the Tahoe experience for all.

The LTBMU is aligned with and taking action to implement the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan in collaboration with over 20 regional organizations. The award-winning plan, developed with the participation of over 3,000 residents, visitors, and businesses, establishes a shared vision for the region’s outdoor recreation and tourism, and encourages everyone to help take care of Tahoe’s cherished communities and environment.

“The ability for our diverse population to enjoy public lands is one of the nation’s greatest legacies, and something we all take pride in as we celebrate Independence Day while caring for Tahoe,” said Public Services Staff Officer, Daniel Cressy.

The LTBMU is sharing the following helpful information and links to encourage positive behavior that helps protect and preserve this special place.

Alcohol Prohibition
To promote public safety, the annual alcohol prohibition will be in effect at Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove Resort (including the area known as Zephyr Shoals) on July 4, 2024, and at Chamber’s Landing Beach from July 3-7. The Alcohol Prohibition Forest Order and maps will be posted on the forest orders webpage as soon as they are available. To ensure compliance, these areas will be patrolled by law enforcement personnel from the Forest Service, state and local law enforcement, and private security staff.

Campfires, Charcoal, Fireworks and Fire Restrictions
Wildfire prevention is everyone’s responsibility! Everyone should do their part to prevent human-caused wildfires by informing themselves about fire restrictions or fire-related activities. If you see something, say something by reporting illegal fire activity to 911 immediately. Learn how to Get Prepared, Get Informed and Get Involved at Tahoe Living with Fire.

National forest lands in the basin are under year-round fire restrictions. These fire restrictions permit wood and charcoal fires in open, designated campgrounds with permanently installed metal campfire rings and/or barbeque grills. Unless restricted, portable stoves with on/off valves are allowed in other areas with a valid permit.

All personal use fireworks are illegal in the Tahoe Basin because they pose a significant wildfire danger to local communities and forests. Be kind to our forests by leaving personal use fireworks at home and attending one of the professional displays over Lake Tahoe instead.

Camping, Beaches, Picnic Areas, and Parking
Campsites should be reserved before traveling to Lake Tahoe. View a list of campgrounds in the basin and keep in mind, camping at Lake Tahoe is only permitted in these designated areas. Dispersed or “car camping” is not permitted.

Visitors should arrive early to parking areas at beaches, picnic areas and trailheads as they fill up quickly. Due to back-to-back wet winters, Lake Tahoe is approaching its maximum limit. Beachgoers can expect Lake Tahoe beaches to be smaller and narrower than some years due to high-water levels. Beaches with vegetation or rocky shoreline may be inaccessible. Have a “Plan B” in mind in case parking areas are full and use this opportunity to explore locations.

Consider public transportation such as Lake Link (South Shore) and TART Connect (North Shore) as holiday traffic causes extremely crowded roads and parking areas. Walk, carpool, or bicycle to avoid limited parking in crowded recreation areas and traffic delays after the firework displays.

At most developed recreation sites, parking is only permitted in designated parking spaces inside parking lots, not along the roadway. Vehicles should avoid blocking gates, road access or narrow lanes which could delay emergency response vehicles. Where parking on the side of the road is allowed, avoid parking on vegetation because it causes damage to the environment and can spark a wildfire.

To cover increased security and facility maintenance costs of the holiday, day-use parking fees on July 4 will be $40 at Baldwin, Nevada, and Pope beaches, and $20 at Meeks Bay Resort and Campground. The increased fee at Zephyr Cove Resort will be $40 (each day) July 1-4.

Give a Hoot, Don't Pollute
If trash and debris are left behind on beaches after festivities, they can be harmful and even fatal to area wildlife. It’s also a human health hazard and degrades the clarity of Lake Tahoe. This year, bring a few trash bags along in case trash cans and dumpsters are full or unavailable and never leave trash outside of or on top of receptacles. Let’s work together to ensure Lake Tahoe beaches remain pristine and litter-free!

The League to Save Lake Tahoe will hold their 11th Annual Keep Tahoe Red, White and Blue Beach Clean-Up on Thursday, July 5, from 8-11:30 a.m. Anyone interested in volunteering should visit their website for more information.

Bears
Tahoe is bear country. Never approach bears or cubs and remember it’s illegal to feed any wild animal. Feeding wildlife encourages them to enter human occupied areas to seek out human food and garbage which disturbs their natural feeding habits. Always remove food, garbage and scented items from vehicles and be sure to keep vehicle doors locked and vehicle windows closed. When camping, keep all food and toiletries locked within provided bear boxes. Bear canisters are required for overnight visits to Desolation Wilderness and are highly recommended in all backcountry areas. Learn more about keeping Tahoe bears wild at Tahoe Bears.org and BearWise.org.

Cold Water
Tahoe’s snowpack is melting, and rivers, creeks and streams are flowing high, swift, and cold! Exposure to snowmelt water can be life-threatening. Never swim alone, always wear approved life jackets, keep a close eye on children and pets, and avoid strong currents. Wearing a life jacket even if you’re a strong swimmer significantly increases your chance of survival.

Backcountry Safety
Backcountry enthusiasts should always tell someone where they are going, when they expect to return and then stick to the plan. Always check the weather before heading into the backcountry. Sturdy footwear, proper clothing and gear are essential, and an old-fashioned paper map and compass can come in handy on snow- or ice-covered trails. Always travel with a buddy, never alone and keep in mind mobile devices may not work in remote areas. Develop an emergency plan in case you cannot call for help.

Weather
Weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Summers are usually warm in the afternoon and cool at night. Afternoon thunderstorms are typical in the summer, and snow is possible during any month of the year. Be prepared for changeable weather and bring clothing that will keep you warm and dry.

Visit the LTBMU website and follow us on Facebook and X for the latest updates and information.

The LTBMU wishes everyone a safe and responsible Independence Day!

Settlement reached in Lake Tahoe workforce housing litigation

Jeff Munson — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 14:17:39 +0000

Press release

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and Mountain Area Preservation reached a settlement agreement this week over a lawsuit brought by MAP against affordable housing policies approved by the TRPA Governing Board in December 2023. The litigation sought to block new land use policies in the highly protected Lake Tahoe Region that combined incentives for water quality, transportation, and workforce housing improvements, according to TRPA.

“We look forward to engaging Mountain Area Preservation in a more productive dialogue along with the full range of stakeholders,” TRPA Executive Director Julie Regan said. “We must keep the Tahoe Basin moving forward to address an affordable housing crisis that is impacting Lake Tahoe’s environment and marginalizing members of our community who deserve to live and work here. Resort communities everywhere are facing similar challenges, but we have proven over the years that environmental protection and community revitalization can go hand-in-hand.”

“We are satisfied that the settlement supports the Governing Board’s decision and shows that TRPA’s high environmental standards can be maintained while advancing more affordable and workforce housing projects,” said TRPA General Counsel John Marshall. “Across the nation, we are seeing important environmental laws being leveraged to block equitable housing policies. Fortunately, the MAP litigation was short-lived and the agency is able to apply its time and resources to the important work of modernizing land-use policies.”

TRPA has kicked off a new phase of housing policy work and seeks additional perspectives on the working group. According to the settlement agreement, MAP will be invited to join other organizations on the Tahoe Living Working Group that TRPA formed in 2020 to advise on housing policies.

“We are pleased to have reached a settlement that paves the way for more inclusive and equitable housing policies in the Lake Tahoe Basin,” TRPA Board Chair and Placer County Supervisor Cindy Gustafson said. “Moving these critical policy updates forward will help us support our region’s local workforce. The agreement underscores our commitment to addressing the housing needs of our community while preserving the natural beauty and environmental integrity of Lake Tahoe.”

Under the direction of the TRPA Governing Board, in 2020 the agency set out three phases of affordable and workforce housing policy work. The first phase approved in July 2021 encouraged more accessory dwelling units for local workers and made it easier to convert small motels to residential uses.

The Phase 2 amendments approved last December made it possible for property owners building deed-restricted affordable and workforce housing to apply for building incentives that result in appropriately designed multi-family or mixed-use buildings in certain areas, as long as they improve walkability and include water quality improvements. With the signing of the settlement agreement, those policies can move forward as originally proposed with no cloud of legal challenge, according to TRPA.

The TRPA Governing Board approved technical clarifications to the December policy updates and new policies requiring affordable housing as part of mixed-use projects at its meeting Wednesday, June 26.

Mountain Area Preservation submitted the following news release Tuesday.

Truckee, Calif. – Today, the nonprofit conservation and workforce housing organization MAP (Mountain Area Preservation) announced it has come to a legal settlement agreement with the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) over litigation it filed in February. The settlement ensures affordability protections for new “bonus unit” housing developments and enhanced water quality protection related to such developments. It also gives MAP a seat at the table as the next round of TRPA housing code updates are developed in the coming years.

“MAP appreciates TRPA’s willingness to make immediate improvements to the Phase 2 housing codes,” said Alexis Ollar, executive director of MAP. “We look forward to what we hope is the beginning of a productive working relationship that will ensure future development protects our sensitive environment while meeting the needs of area residents, workers, and businesses.”

The settlement agreement provides that MAP will dismiss its lawsuit following TRPA’s approval of amendments to the Phase 2 housing codes the agency adopted in December. Just last week, on June 26, the TRPA Governing Board adopted the code amendments specified in the settlement. The first amendment reinstates the requirement that 50% of the units allowed under the updated bonus unit criteria be reserved exclusively for affordable housing. The other amendment strengthens stormwater collection and treatment requirements.

The Phase 2 codes modified the development standards in specified areas for certain types of deed-restricted housing construction within TRPA’s bonus unit designation. MAP filed suit because it was concerned about the impacts these changes would have on the environment and public safety in Lake Tahoe, and because the changes eliminated the requirement that a portion of the units be for “affordable” rather than higher-income (“moderate” and “achievable”) housing. Last week’s vote addressed the heart of those concerns.

TRPA’s Housing Initiative includes three phases. The previously approved Phase 1 provided for Accessory Dwelling Units, increased residential densities as part of hotel/motel redevelopment, and aligning the Bonus Unit Boundary. The Phase 2 amendments were the subject of MAP’s lawsuit and the current settlement. TRPA is currently initiating Phase 3 to consider additional policies related to equitable and sustainable housing and improving climate resilience.

“In addition to these immediate wins, MAP is pleased to announce we will now have an opportunity to include a member of our staff on TRPA’s working group, which will be developing the parameters for Phase 3,” added Ollar. “We’re also glad to note that TRPA has committed to preparing an Environmental Impact Statement that relies on current conditions as the baseline of its analysis as part of its next round of updates to its housing codes.” MAP hopes and anticipates that it will be able to work with TRPA to develop environmentally sound and equitable housing policies in Phase 3, although the settlement does not preclude MAP from challenging future TRPA actions.

As part of the settlement, TRPA agreed, in Phase 3, to consider policy options to improve workforce housing in the area that do not require new housing construction, such as short-term rental caps or bans, incentives for homeowners to lease their houses to locals, down-payment assistance, and other innovative programs. TRPA also agreed to evaluate an income cap for future deed-restricted achievable housing units, as well as potential impacts on scenic resources and public safety for new development.

Both MAP and TRPA have agreed that there is a real need to provide more lower-income and workforce housing options in the Lake Tahoe Basin while also preserving its unique environmental attributes.

“This is an exciting step for MAP as we expand our advocacy for environmentally sound housing development that meets the needs of all Tahoe residents, particularly the workers who keep our economy humming,” added MAP’s board president, Dan Haas. “The work is far from done – and we’re ready to do what it takes to secure a safe, equitable, and healthy future for everyone who calls this basin home.”