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

Don’t put your children on deer: Carson City Supervisors hear update from Urban Wildlife Subcommittee

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 19:03:31 +0000

by Kelsey Penrose

On Thursday, Supervisors heard an update from Rob Boehmer, chair of the Carson City Advisory Board to Manage Wildlife, who presented on the annual urban wildlife report.

The advisory board created the Urban Wildlife Subcommittee in 2018 which focuses on education, provides data to the board on Urban Wildlife interactions and issues, and provides resources to the community, and more.

The board works closely with community partners such as the Nevada Department of Wildlife and Carson City Parks, Recreation and Open Space.

According to Boehmer, in 2023 the vast amount of calls came from western Nevada.

Despite the fact that most of Nevada’s wildlife lives in the Eastern portion of the state, most of the calls are coming from the west for a few reasons: one, because there are more densely populated areas and, therefore, more callers, and two, because individuals living in rural areas typically handle wildlife themselves, whether that be in a proper or improper way.

The western region also has black bears, which were the number one species called about, with 582 calls specifically in relation to the sierra’s bear species.

The second most-called-about species were coyotes, followed by songbirds and mule deer.

“The urban mule deer population in the region is very unique,” said Zac Campbell who serves as the western region outdoor education coordinator for NDOW. “We treat every phone call as education; we don’t respond to every single [call], but every phone call we try to educate people on how to live with wildlife.“

One call they receive quite often is in regards to baby animals and Campbell said they try their best to educate callers on the fact that they should never handle baby animals.

Mayor Lori Bagwell asked what’s one thing they would recommend to the community at large when it comes to education.

“Every call is unique, but I’d say: we live in an area that has wildlife,” Campbell said. “That’s not going to change, and we have to find a way to coexist with the wildlife, and not intervene in their daily lives.”

The advice NDOW offers most often, according to Campbell, is: Do not feed wildlife. Often, well-meaning residents or visitors will think that deer populations especially need to be fed, and will offer oats or wild bird seed in their yards.

“We help people to understand it’s illegal to feed wildlife,” Boehmer added. “It’s our responsibility as residents to make sure our garbage is taken care of — on the west side you can often follow the trail of trash cans right to the bear.”

Boehmer said the mule deer population in Carson City is unlike any other population in the region.

“It’s manifested because the habitat we have here is deal for them,” Boehmer said. “Deer in Carson City were born and raised here, they don't know how to go into the hill sand eat bitter brush; they know peaches and apples and rosehips are a delicacy they can eat. People feeding them interrupts their digestive system.”

Boehmer said that Sheriff Ken Furlong will agree that many of the deer are more well behaved than human citizens, often using the crosswalk and sidewalks to walk around in the downtown area.

Many calls also have to do with what people perceive as abandoned fawns, but Boehmer said almost 100% of the time, the baby deer have not been abandoned and citizens are advised to leave the babies alone or they might end up in an altercation with the does nearby.

Boehmer also mentioned the King of Carson, who passed away in 2020, https://carsonnow.org/story/09/08/2020/king-carson-carson-citys-beloved-... has left behind genetic offspring, and there are two or three deer that Boehmer believes will grow to be as big as the king when they reach maturity.

The importance behind wildlife education isn’t only the safety of animals, Boehmer said, but the safety of people as well.

In one case recently, Boehmer said a visitor to the capitol was stopped in the nick of time from entering into a very dangerous situation.

“We had to have a come-to-Jesus-talk with a visitor at the capital who was trying to put their child on the back of a doe to take a picture,” Boehmer said. “We were fortunate that one of the members of our county advisory board, Kirk Stewart, was there and helped educate and scared them a little I think, which was good.”

Going forward, Boehmer said they would like to see a formal adoption of an Urban Wildlife Awareness and Education week or month dedicated to outdoor education programs via NDOW’s Conservation and Education Wildlife Division; coordination with Carson City Parks, Recreation and Open Space’s interpretive learning programs; and coordination with Nevada State Parks Adventure programs.

Nevada Humane Society, Carson City’s Pet of the Week: Mr. Bojangles

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 16:02:01 +0000

Nevada Humane Society

Meet Mr. Bojangles! This charming canine has been with us since mid-May, and let's just say he's brought a whole lot of love and sunshine with him.

He can get a little excited around other dogs, so he prefers those with a calmer demeanor to match his energy.

Friendly and sweet by nature, Mr. Bojangles thrives on affection, warm snuggles and places to explore.

Here's what Mr. Bojangles has to say:

“Hey there! I'm Mr. Bojangles, but you can call me Bo. I'm a simple dog with a heart full of love and a tail that never stops wagging! I adore being brushed—it's like a spa day for me. And what could be better than a good long walk? It’s my favorite way to explore the world and meet new friends, both human and canine. I have a particular fondness for those who have a laid-back vibe, just like me. When I'm not out and about, you'll find me soaking up the sun or cuddled up next to my people. There’s nothing quite like a good sunbath or a cozy snuggle, don't you agree? If you're looking for a loyal and loving companion who will fill your life with joy and lots of love, then I'm the perfect fit. Come meet me and let's see if we’re a match!”

Mr. Bojangles is residing at our Carson City campus located at 549 Airport Road in Carson City. We’re open Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Come meet him today!

Lightning-caused ‘King Fire’ burning in North Tahoe, First Creek area

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:57:28 +0000

North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District

UPDATE 11 a.m.: Our Slide Mountain Hand Crew, in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service - Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) and air support, is actively working to contain the fire.
The tree struck by lightning has been felled, and the crew is cutting line around the fire perimeter. Upon further assessment, the fire is now estimated to cover 100’ x 20’.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue suppression efforts!

***

Incline Village, NV – The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is responding to a lightning-caused fire in the First Creek area. The fire was reported at approximately 10 p.m. on September 18th and is estimated to cover an area of 100’ x 100’.

In collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service - Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and NLTFPD’s Slide Mountain Hand Crew, air resources have been deployed to assist in fire suppression efforts.

Currently, there is no threat to the subdivisions in First Creek, Second Creek, or Crystal Bay, NV. To monitor current activity, please visit ALERT Wildfire. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

WNC geology professor determines Lake Tahoe is third-oldest freshwater lake in the world

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:04:40 +0000

Western Nevada College release

Before considerable scientific research by Western Nevada College Professor of Geosciences Dr. Winnie Kortemeier, it was understood that Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, was created during the Pleistocene era, also known as the Ice Age, roughly 10,000 to 2.6 million years ago.

Through her radiometric dating of rocks and examining the basalt that has interacted with the water of Lake Tahoe, Dr. Kortemeier has determined that the lake is 2.3 million years old.

As a result, Dr. Kortemeier has concluded that Lake Tahoe is North America’s oldest freshwater, permanent lake — and the third oldest in the world.

“Fortunately, basaltic lava flows interacted with the lake water and lake sediments when the lava erupted millions of years ago. We were then able to radiometrically date the basalt to determine the age of Lake Tahoe,” Dr. Kortemeier said. “After looking at the data from other ancient lakes, I was surprised to find that it’s the third-oldest lake in the world.”

Dr. Kortemeier will present her findings at the Geological Society of America’s annual meeting on Sept. 23 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif.

“I'm sure Dr. Kortemeier's discovery about Lake Tahoe makes us all feel a little bit younger. Seriously, we are extremely proud of Dr. Kortemeier and her research,” said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “She's a great role model for our students and brings a variety of real-world experiences to them in the classroom.”

A summary of her findings can be viewed at https://gsa.confex.com/gsa/2024AM/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/405032.

Dr. Kortemeier has been conducting research at Lake Tahoe since 2005 and received her doctorate degree in Geology from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2012. In her doctorate program at UNR, she focused on the Pleistocene volcanism and shifting shorelines at Lake Tahoe.

“I love Lake Tahoe and its spectacular geology. I take students up there every semester on field trips, and I do like sharing what I know about it,” she said.

The Tahoe Basin and Lake Tahoe formed from active faults that created the Carson Range and Sierra Nevada. The oldest lakes in the world — Lake Baikal, Siberia (5-10.3 million years old) and Lake Tanganyika, East Africa (8-10 million years old) — were also created by extensional fault-block basins, establishing them as permanent lakes.

“These really old lakes have active faults, so they don’t fill up with sediment,” Dr. Kortemeier said.

After a one-year sabbatical that allowed her to wrap up the research project on Lake Tahoe, Dr. Kortemeier learned how much she missed teaching.

“I’d like to teach forever. I missed all of the interaction that I have with staff and students,” said Dr. Kortemeier, who began her 35th year teaching at WNC in August. “Typically, sabbaticals show people how appealing retirement might be, but it showed me the opposite.”

There still is time to register for Kortemeier's Geology 105 National Parks class, which starts Oct. 7. Learn more about the geology of U.S. national parks, including Great Basin National Park in Nevada. The class meets on Wednesdays from 1 to 3:45 p.m. Online and in-person options are available. For more information, phone 775-445-3267.

Registration for Carson Valley’s First-Ever 5k Trail Run Is Open

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 14:18:17 +0000

By Carson Valley Trails Association

Carson Valley Trails Association (CVTA) is excited to be hosting the valley’s first-ever 5k trail run and 2k family fun run on Saturday, October 19th.

Designed to be fun for beginners and more advanced runners alike, this event gives everyone a chance to experience a trail run in a friendly, non-competitive environment.

The event will take place on the Jame Lee Loops trails built by CVTA in Indian Hills just south of Carson City. Starting at James Lee Park, the 5K trail run winds through the scenic hills behind the park with outstanding views of Carson Valley as you make your way back to the park.

The loop route technically amounts to 3.5mi (slightly longer than 5K) due to the limits of using existing trails and includes a mild 177 feet of elevation gain.

A free 2k Family Fun Run will also be part of the event. This is a great way to introduce young ones to trail running and simply enjoy Carson Valley’s typically sun-filled but milder fall weather. Off-road strollers and dogs on leashes are welcome, just be sure to register for free ahead of time.

Children under age 12 can enjoy the 5K or 2k at no charge. Plus, they can receive a finisher’s medal for completing either course.

CVTA would like to thank the event’s sponsors (Carson Valley Visitors Authority, Minden Lawyers, TeamNevadaDreamHome.com, Willoughby Enterprises) and the Indian Hills General Improvement District for making this event possible.

EVENT DETAILS:

- REGISTRATION: www.tinyurl.com/mt3k236s (runsignup.com)

- DATE: Saturday, October 19

- TIME: 5K (8:30 start time); 2K (9:30 start time)

- LOCATION: James Lee Trailhead (next to the baseball field), James Lee Memorial Park, 3394 James Lee Park Rd, Carson City, NV 89705

NOTE: Racers will be hand-timed (no chips) and there will not be prizes.

The Carson Valley Trails Association is a nonprofit organization working with partners to provide access to public lands through a recreational trail system for present and future generations to enjoy. More information about the organization is available online: www.carsonvalleytrails.org and https://www.facebook.com/CarsonValleyTrails/

Carson City writer Robert Drews featured guest at Sept. 27 Browsers Bookstore author event

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:22:21 +0000

By Friends of the Carson City Library

Meet inspirational author Robert Drews at Browsers Corner Book Store’s next author event. He will share excerpts from his novel “Look for Something Good”, an inspiring tale about the journey through life’s transitions and crossroads for two mature men who find friendship and guidance about their places in the world.

Robert Drews is a local author who spent many years working at news desks around the U.S. until finally settling in Carson City. When he’s not writing, Robert tutors writing students at Western Nevada College.

Join Robert Drews at Browsers Corner Book Store on September 27 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The bookstore is located at 711 E. Washington Street in Carson City, directly across the street from the library parking lot. For more information contact bookstoremanager2022@gmail.com.

Carson City road funding educational presentation happening Sept. 30

Jeff Munson — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 00:11:11 +0000

Chris Martinovich, Transportation Manager

Carson City Public Works and the Transportation Division will provide an educational presentation and summary related to the recently completed Preserve Carson City Roads report and the status of measures related to funding for local roads in Carson City.

The presentation is Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, from 5:30 p.m.to 7 p.m. at the Carson City Community Center, Robert Crowell Board Room, located at 851 E. William Street in Carson City.

The public is invited to attend this presentation, which will include a moderated question-and-answer session about funding measures being presented to voters in Carson City. The presentation will include details about the funding measures approved by the Board of Supervisors for placement on the November 2024 election ballot. It will also include information related to project selection and implementation as well as a summary of the next steps pending the results of the November 2024 election.

Carson City values your feedback about funding options for the preservation and repair of your streets and roads and strongly encourages attendance.

Questions? Visit preservecarsoncityroads.com for the latest project information. Contact Chris Martinovich at CMartinovich@carson.org or (775) 283-7367.

Chase International Foundation awards $12,500 to local non-profits

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 22:27:37 +0000

By Lee Weber Koch

Chase International Foundation recently awarded $12,500 to Northern Nevada and California non-profit agencies as part of their ‘Four Pillars of Giving’ grant program.

The bi-annual grant recipients include the Ian Casey Foundation, Reno Judo Club, Food Bank of Northern Nevada, For Kids Foundation, Rescued Hearts Ranch, Sierra Kids Foundation, Sierra Lutheran High School and Supporting Our Survivors.

The money was raised during Chase International Foundation’s “Charitable Cheers — A Night at the Museum” gala. Over 100 people attended the fundraiser at the Nevada State Museum in Carson City, Nevada, where a silent auction, live music, gourmet food and wine, and character actors collectively made it an ideal evening to support those in the community who need it most.

John and Ronda Montgomery, Trinkie Watson, Greg and Lori McIntosh, Linda Wanamaker and Clyde’s Coffee Roasting Company were key sponsors who helped raise over $20,000.

“Through our Foundation’s Four Pillars of Giving program, we raise funds to support our community’s basic human needs for shelter, food, safety, and wellbeing, said Shari Chase, President of the Foundation. “With support from donations to and through our Foundation, we come together to make a positive difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.”

Sierra Lutheran High School will use its $500 grant to help fund the SLHS Boys’ Basketball Program, which is required to fundraise to operate competitively. Lisa Ballard sponsored this grant request to support this essential sports program which develops excellence in character and athleticism and prepares boys’ minds and bodies for success today and in the future as adult members of their community. The Christian-based high school offers a comprehensive curriculum and a wide variety of extra-curricular activities that are mutually focused on preparing students academically, socially and spiritually for their lives.

Rescued Hearts Ranch will fund scholarships with the $2,000 grant they received from the Chase International Foundation. This grant was sponsored by Jessi Bartlett, who was instrumental in submitting it to support a five-week course that emphasizes comprehending and applying empathy in everyday experiences, fostering self-respect, and respecting others. Founded in 2021, the Ranch empowers youth in Douglas County through hands-on experiences with community care-farming, which promotes mental and physical health by combining the care of animals and the natural world with the care of people.

The Ian Casey Foundation received $2,000 and was sponsored by Kristina Mattson. The Foundation is committed to helping youth in need around the Lake Tahoe and Truckee areas. From existing need-based programs to scholarship funds and local athletics, its mission is to positively impact youth. The grant helped fund the 6th Annual Ian Casey Golf Classic & Dinner on August 3, 2024, which brought together supporters, sponsors, friends and family for a day of celebration and fundraising.

For Kids Foundation will use its $2,000 grant to fund its “High Five For Northern Nevada Children” event. Brittany Wescott sponsored this request as part of Chase International’s Wellbeing Pillar. For Kids Foundation is a safety net for children who fall through the cracks. They provide funding for the unmet needs of Northern Nevada children from birth to age 21 when no other resource is available. The program aims to provide gap funding for urgently needed medical, dental, psychological, well-being, and educational products and services, allowing at-risk children the opportunity to thrive.

Food Bank of Northern Nevada received $1,000 and was sponsored by Michelle Sturge. What began in 1983 as a small food pantry powered by passionate volunteers has grown into northern Nevada’s leading hunger relief organization.

Today, the Food Bank provides food for families in need through more than 155 partner agencies across northern Nevada and the eastern slope of the Sierra in California. The Chase Foundation Grant will purchase a significant amount of canned tuna for the Food Bank’s 14th Annual Run on Tuna Drive in September.

Reno Judo Club was awarded a grant of $1,000 and was sponsored by Ilene Manville. The Reno Judo Club has a strong moral culture that can enrich children’s lives by developing confidence, respect, humility, and discipline. The monies will support the development and expansion of their program and directly fund scholarships for children who cannot afford the training programs. By expanding their program into more schools and clubs, they can get more children involved in the sport and provide them with a safe and healthy activity.

Sierra Kids Foundation was awarded a $2,000 grant that Cindy Ranne sponsored as part of the Chase International Foundation’s Wellbeing Pillar. Sierra Kids Foundation provides support and access to care for underprivileged children between the ages of 0-17 with developmental disabilities, most commonly autism spectrum disorder, which will enable social and educational success in the future, regardless of the family’s income or lack of insurance coverage. The grant will provide financial assistance to eligible families to help pay for all or a portion of the cost of an Applied Behavior Analysis therapy program.

Supporting Our Survivors (SOS) will apply their $2,000 grant to help provide essential resources, such as shelter, counseling, and legal assistance, to those who need it most. Trevor Phillips sponsored this grant as it reflects the Foundation’s Safety Pillar. SOS’s mission is to assist law enforcement in the rescue of victims of human trafficking and to allocate funds for services and programs that benefit survivors. They believe that every person deserves to live free from abuse, exploitation, and slavery, and they are committed to making that a reality.

Rotary Club Senior Spotlight: Carson High's Neva Mellow is epitome of excellence, leadership

Jeff Munson — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 22:04:02 +0000

By Nicki Hendee, CHS Counselor

The Carson High School class of 2025 is impressive and yet Neva Mellow stands out with her array of accomplishments. She has become a model of academic excellence and leadership, embodying the spirit of commitment and service.

Neva Mellow's academic journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Balancing an intense schedule, she has excelled in 10 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including AP Art History, AP Spanish, AP Calculus and AP Chemistry, among others. Her pursuit of academic rigor reflects her commitment to mastering a diverse range of subjects, a testament to her intellectual curiosity and dedication to lifelong learning.

Neva’s leadership extends beyond the classroom into the Nevada Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (NJROTC). As the Battalion Commander for the 2024-2025 school year, Neva has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, guiding her peers through a challenging and rewarding program.

Her previous roles as the Academic Team Commander from 2022 to 2024, along with her participation in the varsity air rifle team, female orienteering team and armed regulation and exhibition team, showcase her versatility and dedication to both academics and extracurricular excellence. She has earned Northwest Area 13 Leadership Academy Graduate Award, Non-Commissioned Officers Association Award, Cadet of the Year Award, 1st Place Naval Surface Warfare National Essay Contest Winner and additional awards.

Neva’s influence at Carson High School is further evidenced by dedication to service through several clubs on campus. She is involved in Blue Crew, Interact Club, Honor Society and Skills USA. In her role as a Blue Crew Commissioner from 2022 to 2025, she has been instrumental in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for incoming freshmen and new students.

Her efforts have significantly contributed to fostering a sense of belonging and community within the school. Currently serving as the Vice President of the Carson High School Interact Club, Neva continues to exemplify leadership and service.

Her role in the National Honor Society, where she has been an active member for three years, underscores her commitment to academic excellence and community service. Additionally, her involvement as a chapter officer in the CHS Skills USA program from 2022 to 2024 highlights her dedication to both personal growth and helping others succeed.

Neva’s dedication to service extends to her long-standing involvement with the Girl Scouts. Over the past decade, she has earned both the Silver and Bronze Awards, recognizing her exceptional contributions and leadership. As the Sierra Nevada National Delegate in 2023, Neva represented her region with distinction, demonstrating her ability to lead and inspire on a broader scale.

As Neva Mellow approaches the end of her high school career, her accomplishments paint a picture of a student who has not only excelled academically but has also made significant contributions to her community. Her leadership, dedication and service reflect a bright future ahead, with endless possibilities for her continued impact in whichever path she chooses to pursue.

Neva Mellow's story is a reminder of the remarkable achievements that can be accomplished with passion, dedication and a commitment to making a difference. Carson High School is fortunate to have such an exemplary student, and Neva's legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of leaders and scholars.

All students named as a weekly Senior Spotlight are featured at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Carson City. The Rotary Club of Carson City is a vibrant and dedicated group of professionals and community leaders committed to making a positive impact. The club welcomes individuals who are passionate about service and enjoy opportunities for personal and professional growth, networking and fellowship.

Reception for local authors Thursday at Carson City Community Center

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 20:52:12 +0000

By Monica Marcinko

If you like reading, supporting local authors, and getting a jump start on your Christmas list, then you need to attend this author event of the year!

Come get up close and personal with the local authors who write the amazing stories you love. Enjoy a wide range of genres. Bring the kids. There is something for everyone.

Hear the back story on why they wrote the book and listen to sample readings. Get your books signed, take pictures with the author, enter to win fabulous door prizes, enjoy refreshments, and so much more!

FREE ADMISSION.

The event is Thursday, Sept. 19 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the lobby of the Bob Boldrick Theatre (Community Center)
851 E William St, Carson City.

For more information email Monica at elflinetosanta@gmail.com.