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

Primary Election Day is Tuesday; how you can cast your ballot in Carson City

Kelsey Penrose — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 23:05:40 +0000

Event Date:

June 11, 2024 (All day)

by Kelsey Penrose

Election Day has arrived for the June 2024 primary elections, which will take place Tuesday, June 11 throughout the Silver State.

Want to know who's running in Carson City? See our previous reporting here.

The June 11 primary is important for a number of reasons, most importantly that if a candidate wins a large percentage of the vote, they will automatically win their seat in local elections.

In person early voting ran from Saturday May 25 through June 7.

Elections Tuesday will run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; as long as voters are in line by 7 p.m., they will be allowed to vote.

Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by June 11 in order to be counted, or they can be dropped off at a ballot drop box at the Carson City Community Center anytime the polls are open.

In addition, mail ballots are accepted at the Clerk-Recorder’s Office located at 885 E. Musser St. inside the Carson City Courthouse Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Unsure if you’re registered to vote? Check your registration status here: https://www.nvsos.gov/votersearch/

In addition, same-day registration is allowed under state law. Information on that process can be found here.

If you have any questions regarding the election, you can contact the Clerk-Recorder’s Office at (775) 887-2260

Douglas Sheriff: Teens arrested for vehicle burglaries, possession of stolen firearms

Jeff Munson — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 22:29:29 +0000

A total of five teens have been arrested for crimes ranging from possession of stolen firearms to allegedly committing a rash of vehicle burglaries in the Gardnerville Ranchos during the early morning hours of Sunday, May 26, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.

A 17-year-old male was arrested at Douglas High School and booked into the Douglas County Juvenile Detention Facility for burglary, grand larceny of a firearm, unlawful sale of a firearm, and being a juvenile is possession of a firearm.

A 15-year-old male was arrested at his home and booked into the Juvenile Detention Facility for burglary and grand larceny of a firearm.

A 14-year-old male was arrested a Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School and booked into the Detention Facility for burglary.

Earlier, Douglas County Sheriff's Office put out the following information.

On Wednesday, June 5, 2024, Douglas County sheriff's deputies and investigators learned that a 17-year-old male Minden resident was actively trying to sell a Springfield Armory semi-automatic pistol to other juveniles.

DCSO Investigators contacted this 17-year-old male and recovered the pistol. It was determined that the 17-year-old male had gotten the Springfield Armory pistol from a 16-year-old male from Gardnerville.

On Friday, June 7, 2024, investigators interviewed the 16-year-old Gardnerville resident who admitted to selling the Springfield Armory pistol to the 17-year-old Minden resident.

The 16-year-old Gardnerville resident also admitted that he along with another 16-year-old male and a 14-year- old male (both from Gardnerville) committing numerous vehicle burglaries in the Gardnerville Ranchos during the early morning hours of Sunday, May 26.

The 16-year-old admitted that the Springfield Armory pistol had been stolen from a vehicle during the rash of burglaries (the theft of this pistol had not even been reported to DCSO). A Ruger pistol had also been stolen from another vehicle during the burglaries.

It was determined that the Ruger pistol had been sold to a 16-year-old male Gardnerville resident who was on juvenile parole for car-jacking.

DCSO Investigators located the 16-year-old parolee at the carnival in Lampe Park during the evening hours of Friday, June 7. The 16-year-old parolee had the loaded Ruger pistol in his pants pocket when he was contacted at the carnival.

The 17-year-old Minden resident was booked into the Douglas County Juvenile Detention Facility for possession of a stolen firearm, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, and being a juvenile in possession of a firearm.

Burglary and firearm related charges are forthcoming for the three juveniles who committed the vehicle burglaries in the Ranchos.

The 16-year-old parolee was booked into the Douglas County Juvenile Detention Facility for parole violation, possession of a stolen firearm, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, and being a juvenile in possession of a firearm.

Chautauqua at Carson City Senior Center highlights Donner Party’s James and Margret Reed

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 20:18:50 +0000

By Carson city Senior Center

On Tuesday June 11 at 1:30 p.m., the Carson City Senior Center presents a Chautauqua performance of James and Margret Reed, hero’s and survivors of the infamous 1846 Donner Party.

The 55 minute program is free and open to everyone. Call David at 760 920 8061 for more info. The Senior Center is located at 911 Beverly Dr. Carson City.

Click flyer above for more information.

Father's Day Powwow, fair at Mills Park and more among family activities in Carson City this week

Kelsey Penrose — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 18:20:11 +0000

Event Date:

Repeats every day until Sun Jun 16 2024 .

June 10, 2024 (All day)

June 11, 2024 (All day)

June 12, 2024 (All day)

June 13, 2024 (All day)

June 14, 2024 (All day)

June 15, 2024 (All day)

June 16, 2024 (All day)

by Kelsey Penrose

Looking for a place to take your little ones this week? Look no further! Here is a list of family-friendly (and fun!) activities and events happening this week around Carson City.

Multiple Days

Stewart Father's Day Powwow returns June 14

The Annual Stewart Father's Day Powwow at the former Stewart Indian Boarding School Campus located at 5500 Snyder Ave in Carson City, returns beginning June 14. There will be over 40 Native American arts and crafts as well as food vendors, competition and social dancing. Festivities begin Friday June 14 at 6:30 p.m. and continue Saturday June 15 beginning at 9 a.m. and again on Sunday, June 16

4-H invites you to Summer Camp in Carson City June 12-14

Carson County 4-H would like to invite you to Summer Camp! Three days of day camp take place in June here in Carson City. Camp dates are June 12, 13, and 14, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Teen Hours in the Digitorium

Come visit the Carson City Library and hang out in a space designed with teens in mind! Monday-Friday 2:30pm-5:30pm. All teens welcome!

STEM Explore Art Summer Camp: June 10 - 12 at Messy Kids Art School

Art Summer Camp June 10-12 for ages 5-11 is themed STEM Explore from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Nevada State Fair at Mills Park June 13-16

Join us for carnival rides, food trucks, and local vendors.

Northern Nevada Exotic Pet Expo June 15 - 16

A family fun event at the Carson City Community Center full of raffles, pets, educational speakers, food, and more.

Monday, June 10

Bilingual Bobcats Storytime at the Library

For kids of all ages; Join us for weekly stories, songs and crafts all designed to help Spanish speakers learn English and English speakers learn Spanish. Participants 9 and younger must be accompanied by a caregiver who is at least 13 years old at all times. No registration is required.

Signing Sea Otters Storytime at the Library

For kids of all ages; Join us for weekly stories, songs and crafts all designed to help children and their caregivers learn American Sign Language. Participants 9 and younger must be accompanied by a caregiver who is at least 13 years old at all times. No registration is required.

Tuesday, June 11

Open Play at Messy Kids Art School

Includes babe area climbing structures for ages 0-2 and gross motor climbing structures for ages 2-8. Dramatic play town, occasional indoor bouncy house and ball pit, open art studio, caregivers internet lounge and coffee bar. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ages 1 and up $10 with siblings half off after first child.

Baby Bookworms Storytime at the Carson City Library

For children ages 0-24 months; join in for weekly stories, songs and structured free play time from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Clear Creek Bowmen hosting Tuesday Night Shoots now through August at Carson City Archery Range, youth 17 and under are free

Clear Creek Bowmen will be hosting Tuesday Night Shoots from now until August at the Carson City Archery Range, located just East of Eagle Valley Golf Course.

Wednesday, June 12

Open Play at Messy Kids Art School

Grown Up and Guppies at the Carson City Aquatic Center

Head over to the Carson City Aquatics Center every Wednesday at 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. for Grown ups and Guppies. Making the water fun for your guppy is the most important step in preparing for swim lessons. This class is designed to acquaint adult and child with play activities and to teach very basic fundamental skills. The course is parent-driven, under the supervision of an instructor. No registration required. Class is limited to 12 adult/child pairs on a first-come first served basis. For ages 6 months to 4 years.

Storytime Wednesdays at the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada

Join in for weekly storytime with an accompanying craft each Wednesday. Recommended for children ages 1 - 6. All included with museum admission.

Art Studio Craft Classes at the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada

Drop-in art studio every Wednesday and Friday from 2 - 4 p.m. Creative art studio projects are included with museum admission. All ages welcome. Additional crafts are available for cost.

Lego Club at the Carson City Library

For elementary school aged children. Build self-led creations through hands-on learning with Lego education materials. No registration is required. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Bedtime Bears Storytime at the Carson City Library

For kids of all ages: Join us every Wednesday night for stories, songs and crafts designed to help kids wind down at the end of the day. From 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday Family night Dine and Dance at Nashville Social Club

Tim Renner DANCE Instructor at Nashville Social Club, Carson City spinning the Country on a Wednesday night and teaching a new line dance along a lead/follow. Family night dine & dance kids under 10 years Free, no cover.

Thursday, June 13

Open Play at Messy Kids Art School

Big Kid Butterflies Storytime at the Carson City Library

For children ages 1 to 5; join for weekly stories, songs and crafts. No registration is required. 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Open STEM Lab Thursdays at the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada

The STEM Classroom is open every Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. for funny educational, weekly activities. All included with museum admission. All ages welcome.

Fingerboarding Club at the Carson City Library

Enjoy doing tricks and having fun with miniature skateboards. A table will be set up with a skatepark for an hour of fnigerboarding. Fingerboards will be provided but feel free to bring your own. Open to patrons 14 and up. No registration required. From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, June 14

Art Studio Craft Classes at the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada

Drop-in art studio every Wednesday and Friday from 2 - 4 p.m. Creative art studio projects are included with museum admission. All ages welcome. Additional crafts are available for cost.

Bowers Mansion Programs on the Porch returns Fridays in May and June

Bowers Mansion Programs on the Porch program begins in May with this year's theme is "Variety Edition." Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy this free series in front of the historic Bowers Mansion. Fridays from 7 to 8 p.m., May 17 through June 21.

BEETLEJUICE! BEETLEJUICE! BEETLEJUICE!

Revisit the cinematic classic, Beetlejuice, Friday, June 14 in Carson City at the Brewery Arts Center prior to the release of the new Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice movie coming out in September. Enjoy complimentary themed cocktails and snacks while dressed in your finest movie attire. The party begins at 7 pm with the doors opening for the movie at 8 pm.

Gardnerville: Movies in the Park

This week the movie in the park is Star Wars, Return of the Jedi. The movie begins at sunset.

Saturday, June 15

Carson City Farmers Market returns June 8 with even more vendors at Mills Park

The market returns from June 8 to September 28 between 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Mills Park.

Chess Club for all ages at the Carson City Library

Stop by and play chess, or learn to play chess, at the Carson City Library every Saturday from 12 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. All skill levels are welcome.

Are your kids interesting in aviation? Young Eagles offers free flights at Carson City Airport

Interested in experiencing the thrill of flight in a single engine aircraft? The Carson City EAA Chapter 403 is hosting another Young Eagles event at the Carson City Airport. This event is free and is open to kids ages 8-17 years of age.

Historic Fourth Ward School Museum hosts 4th annual Educational Kids Fair

The Fourth Annual Educational Kids’ Fair returns to the Historic Fourth Ward School Museum in Virginia City! Join us for an interactive day of exploration, fun crafts and interesting activities provided by local businesses & organizations in our Victorian Era school house museum on the Saturday of Fathers’ Day weekend.

Foodie Favorite: Taste of Downtown Carson City returns for 30th year June 15

More than two dozen restaurants, cafes and food trucks — plus two live bands — will participate in Carson City’s premier summer event, which draws thousands of hungry foodies annually to sample a variety of dishes made fresh by local dining and food establishments.

Caboose Corner, Water Day and Jr. Railroaders at the Railroad Museum

Caboose Corner is making a stop at the Nevada State Railroad Museum, Carson City!
Come aboard for some springtime family fun, including Toy trains tables, Games, Coloring, Water activities, Steam Train rides (Individual Pricing) (Saturday and Sunday), JJs Chuck Wagon Food Truck. Beginning at 10 a.m.

Sunday, June 16

Minden Board Game Group- Carson Branch

Carson City Library in the Digitorium Sundays from noon to 3:30 p.m. All ages welcome, no registration required!

Gardnerville: Kids Day Out at Heritage Park

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Family fun, vendors, food trucks, and more.

Did we miss any? Send any family-friendly event information to kelsey@carsonnow.org, or comment below!

Carson City School Board to discuss civic test results, staff evaluations and more Tuesday

Kelsey Penrose — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 17:55:38 +0000

Event Date:

June 11, 2024 - 6:30pm

by Kelsey Penrose

The next Carson City School Board meeting will take place Tuesday, June 11 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Bob Crowell Board Room of the Community Center locate at 851 E. William St.

Trustees will discuss policy changes, test results, partnerships and more.

— Trustees to hear civics test results.

A senate bill passed in 2017 requires high school students to be able to pass a civics test identical to the civics portion of the naturalization test for immigrants. The presentation will cover the district’s results for the class of 2024.

— Trustees will discuss removing certain policies regarding teacher, staff evaluations.

Staff is recommending trustees remove certain policies regarding teacher and staff evaluations due to another policy adoption. Policy 314, adopted this year, includes the Nevada Educator Performance Framework as the “unified framework of evaluation” for staff.

— The proposed CCSD Community Partner Recognition Program for the 2024-25 school year will be discussed in support of the strategic plan, Empower Carson City 2027 Goal 5: A Community in Full Partnership.

According to the agenda, the district is “very fortunate to have widespread support from individuals and the business community in providing opportunities to our students and schools.” Over the past year, staff has been working to develop a standardized program of recognition for community partners along with new opportunities for partnerships. Staff will present a draft of the program to be implemented beginning in the 2024-25 school year.

— Trustees will review and possibly approve the renewal of an insurance package with Nevada Public Agency Pool for a total program cost not to exceed $952,832.26 among other package costs.

The district has been a member of the pool since 1996. The risk sharing pool provides “broad limits of coverage, risk management programs and grant funding” according to the agenda. The cost of the program has recently increased, and an evaluation of the commercial marketplace was conducted.

The full agenda can be viewed here.

Carson City man admits to making fireworks, booked for having explosive material in home, child and elder neglect

Jeff Munson — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 17:08:30 +0000

A 31-year-old man was arrested Friday for felony possession of explosive device components, two counts child neglect and two counts elder neglect among the alleged offenses, according to a Carson City Sheriff's Office booking report.

Ian Ryan Figueroa was taken into custody at 12:31 p.m. in the 1900 block of Airport Road. He was also booked for suspicion of felony possession of a explosive device in public/private area and gross misdemeanor disregard for safety of person or property.

According to the booking report, Carson City sheriff's deputies were called to a domestic dispute, where the reporting party stated there was a verbal argument and that Figueroa had two pipe bombs.

When deputies and a sergeant arrived the two people, Figueroa and his girlfriend, were separated. There were young children running around crying and visibly upset.

Officers spoke with Figueroa who said he is into making fireworks in his spare time and occasionally buys materials online such as powders and capsule devices. He stated firework making has been a hobby of his but does not have a license for it or any business reason, the report states.

The man told deputies that he and his girlfriend got into an argument because he was drinking. He stated his girlfriend did not like when he drank and as a result a verbal argument began and that's when she called the sheriff's office to respond. He stated he had four shots earlier. He provided a breath test with a result of .174, according to the report.

During the investigation, officers located materials that were in a bathroom toward the back of the residence. Officers observed two large bags with different colored powders within. The bags were in the bathroom with a small backpack in front of the shower.

One bag contained white powder that was tabled "Potassium Perchlorate" and the second bag contained a grey powder labeled "Indian Blackhead Aluminum Powder." On the floor next to the bags in the open was three completed possible explosives that were cylindrical and had a green string protruding from the top, the report states.

Deputies informed all parties not to enter the residence until it was certain there wasn't a threat at the time. Officers then learned there were two elderly persons inside the house who had health issues and could not walk to exit the home, the report states. Two young children, who were upset and crying, were outside of the house with another family member, the report states.

Deputies contacted Douglas County Bomb squad for further information on the devices and powder. Deputies were advised "Potassium Perchlorate" is a precursor powder used in the making of fireworks and other highly flammable material.

Douglas officers advised when combined with other substances the powders can create extreme reactions and be highly reactive. The bomb squad advised the devices and powders separately are safe but not to combine any of them as a reaction could occur. They stated to keep the powders and devices in a safe location and away from other material. Deputies seized the powder and devices and booked them into evidence, the report states.

After all parties were interviewed and the materials were taken care of, officers returned to the suspect in front of the residence. It was apparent the powders and materials were not in a safe environment or location and the elderly people and the young children were in an unsafe situation, with the elderly and children unable to exit the residence safely, the report states.

Figueroa was arrested for the alleged crimes of possession of explosive device components/incendiary device, possession of explosive device in a public/private area, two counts felony child abuse / neglect, 2 gross misdemeanor counts elder abuse / neglect. Bail: $40,000.

In other arrests:
— A 38-year-old Carson City woman was arrested Sunday for suspicion of misdemeanor domestic battery.

According to the booking report, officers investigating the incident learned that a husband and wife were in an argument, that she had been drinking, that the husband took her marijuana vape and threw it on the roof of their home and that she hit him on his head 3 or 4 times.

The man left and took his child to a neighbor's home to avoid further issues. He stated these arguments have been an ongoing issue, the report states.

Officers spoke with the woman and could smell a strong odor of alcohol coming from her breath. She stated she had been drinking earlier that night. She said the argument started between the two because he had gone to a neighbor's home and returned home drunk.

She said he grabbed her marijuana vape pen and started teasing that he had it. She said she walked away and when she returned to the kitchen, she asked him where the pen was. She said he said he had thrown it on the roof. The woman stated that made her angry and she admitted to pushing the man first, according to the report.

She stated the man pushed her back and that she slapped him on the left side of his face with her right hand. She also admitted to hitting him on the top of his head. She stated there have been several prior domestic disputes and they have been planning on getting a divorce, according to the report.

Officers did not observe any marks on the woman or her husband, the report states. Based on the woman's statements, officers determined she was the primary aggressor and she was arrested for alleged domestic battery. Bail: $3,197.

— A 32-year-old woman, Isela Tovar Flores, was arrested Sunday, 8:21 a.m. for suspicion of felony possession to sell schedule I/II drugs, and possession of a controlled substance.

During the investigation, officers located the following: A small clear bag containing suspected methamphetamine, 3 smaller empty clear zip log baggies, 3 handwritten notes with names of people who owe the woman and who she owes. There were different names and amounts of money written. Bail: $5,000.

— A 35-year-old Carson City man, Jerome Isaac Gutierrez, was arrested for a felony fugitive from justice warrant out of Tulare County Superior Court, driving an unregistered vehicle on the road way and no proof of insurance. Bail: $50,000.

— All information for the crime log (unless otherwise noted) comes from the arrest reports supplied by the Carson City Sheriff's Office, and is considered by law to be public information. All subjects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The policy of Carson Now is to name anyone who is arrested for a felony offense.

Carson City median home price $543,975 in May, up nearly 10 percent

Jeff Munson — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 16:10:53 +0000

Sierra Nevada Realtors

Sierra Nevada Realtors on Monday released its May 2024 report on existing home sales in Washoe, Storey, Lyon, Douglas, and Churchill counties, along with Carson City.

This report includes the median sales price and number of home sales in the region. SNR obtains its information from the Northern Nevada Regional Multiple Listing Service.

May housing market highlights include:

The median sales price for a single-family home has increased since last month in Washoe and Lyon County, as well as Carson City, but decreased in Churchill, Storey, and Douglas Counties.

The housing market currently has 9.7 percent more active inventory available across all six regions compared to last month.

There have been 632 closed sales across all six regions combined, which is 8.6 percent more than the month prior

“Understanding the dynamics of our local housing market is crucial for buyers and sellers,” said SNR president Robert Bartshe. “With the summer months beginning and the market heating up, it's important to consult with a local realtor. This will ensure you are equipped with the expertise and resources to guide you through the complexities of the market, providing you with invaluable insights and support.”

For more market insights, click here.

For 2024, it’s important to know that members of the Sierra Nevada Realtors can help buyers and sellers learn what programs might be right for them.

More information, divided by county, is provided below. Sales numbers in Carson City, Washoe, Storey, Douglas, and Churchill counties are for existing “stick-built, single-family dwellings” only and do not include condominiums, townhomes, manufactured, modular or newly constructed homes unless otherwise stated. Sales numbers for Lyon County include existing “stick-built, single-family dwellings” only and do not include condominiums or townhomes, however, it does include manufactured homes.

Note, these numbers reflect the statistics from June 5, 2024 and are most accurate due to the portal numbers not locking. For the most updated statistics, please contact SNR.

Carson City

In May 2024, Carson City had 46 sales of existing single-family homes, a 9.8% decrease from the previous month and a 9.8% increase from last year.

The median sales price for an existing single-family residence was $543,975, an increase of 9.9% from the previous month and an increase of 14% from the previous year.

The existing condominium/townhome median sales price in May 2024 was $305,000, a decrease of 28.1% from last month and a decrease of 3.2% from last year.

Lyon County (Includes manufactured and single-family residences)

In May 2024, Lyon County had 116 sales of existing single-family homes and manufactured properties, an increase of 28.9% from the previous month and a decrease of 1.7% from last year.

The median sales price for existing manufactured and single-family residences was $399,9950, an increase of 5.1% from last month and an increase of 9.9% from the previous year.

Douglas County

In May 2024, Douglas County had 45 sales of existing single-family homes, a decrease of 26.2% from the previous month and a decrease of 29.7% from last year.

The median sales price for an existing single-family residence was $615,000, a decrease of 7% from the previous month and an increase of 16.6% from last year.

Churchill County

In May 2024, Churchill County had 24 sales of existing single-family homes, an increase of 4.3% from the previous month and a decrease of 22.6% from last year. %5
The median sales price for an existing single-family residence was $351,000, a decrease of 8.8% from the previous month and down 2.5% from last year.

Storey County

In May 2024, Storey County had 5 sales of existing single-family homes, up 25% from the previous month and from last year.

The median sales price for an existing single-family residence was $555,000, a decrease of 6.7% from the previous month and a decrease of 10.2% from last year.

Washoe County (Excluding Incline Village)

In May 2024, Washoe County, excluding the area of Incline Village, saw 562 new listings and 418 closed sales.
The median sales price for an existing single-family residence in Washoe County was $587,000, a decrease of 3.9% from the previous month and an increase of 5.8% from last year.

The median sales price of an existing condominium/townhome in Washoe County in May 2024 was $363,000, down 0.8% from last month and 5.6% up from last year.

Sierra Nevada Realtors is a Realtor association serving six northern Nevada counties including Carson City, Churchill, Douglas, Lyon, and Washoe counties. The unified Sierra Nevada Realtor is a leading voice on the residential housing market in northern Nevada and nationally, representing more than 3,700 members.

Carson City Rotary speaker Tammy Westergard to discuss career mapping to find employment

Jeff Munson — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 15:00:21 +0000

Event Date:

June 11, 2024 - 12:00pm

By Denise Clodjeaux

Tammy Westergard, with the Nevada Governor’s Office for Economic Development, will be the speaker at the next Rotary Club of Carson City meeting.

Westergard, who serves as Senior Workforce Librarian-in-Residence, will discuss the state’s Individual Career Mapping (ICM) process. The meeting takes place Tuesday, June 11, at noon in the Brewery Arts Center’s Grand Ballroom, 449 West King Street, Carson City.

The public is invited to attend. ICM helps job seekers identify transferable skills and abilities that can help them find new employment opportunities.

The program has significant benefits in the rural communities by offering residents training and employment opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math.

Anyone interested in attending the meeting should email carsoncitynvrotary@gmail.com

Pine Nuts: Jury law and AI

Jeff Munson — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 13:40:23 +0000

By McAvoy Layne

There is nothing more pleasing to mine ear than the music of children at play, and yet that gladdening music is scarce today, as mortgages and rents push potential parents away from our mountain redoubt. Why not let AI take over the humdrum jobs, and free folks to create art, make music, author books, make babies, because at bottom that’s what we all want to do.

And why stop at eliminating humdrum jobs when AI could just as easily run legislatures, allowing our public servants to repair to the groggery to talk about their campaigns for reelection, and what a guttersnipe their opponent is, without the offensive intrusion of governing.

And while we’re at it, let’s replace the 12-person jury with AI to decide a case in minutes rather than days or weeks. As Mark Twain opined away back in 1862, “When the peremptory challenges were all exhausted, a jury of twelve men was impaneled — a jury who swore they had neither heard, read, talked about, nor expressed an opinion concerning a murder which the Indians in the sagebrush, the very cattle in the corrals, and the stones in the streets were cognizant of!”

Unless they have crawled out from under a rock, think how difficult it is today to find 12 jurors who have not already made up their minds on a case before peremptory challenges. And too, AI would not have to worry about being doxed following the verdict, as we live in an age when application of justice is oftentimes met with retaliation of injustice.

For someone who has lived much of the past 40 years in the 19th century, I am more than a little apprehensive of AI. I would rather ask a librarian than ask AI, and I will most likely go to my grave carrying this archaic preference.

Mark Twain had the ability to characterize social inadequacies such as our American justice system in one sentence.

"I have but one definite purpose in view: that is, to make enough money to insure me a fair trial, and then to go and kill Colonel Evans."

Or take this little Twain snipe from Nevada: “Our ranches here are very scattered, as scattered perhaps as lawyers in heaven.”

Much as I fear AI, I do admire the art, as illustrated above by Twain scholar Barb Schmidt.

Finally, as is our custom, we shall leave the last word to our mutual friend, Mark Twain.

“What we need now, is not laws against crime, but a law against insanity. That is where the true evil lies. We have an insanity plea that would have saved Cain ... Do you know why Cain has been branded as a murderer so heartily and unanimously in this country? Because he was neither a Republican nor a Democrat. No, the way it is now, the asylums can hold the sane people, but if we tried to shut-up the insane, we should run out of building materials.”

— For more than 35 years, in over 4,000 performances, columnist and Chautauquan McAvoy Layne has been dedicated to preserving the wit and wisdom of “The Wild Humorist of the Pacific Slope,” Mark Twain. As Layne puts it: “It’s like being a Monday through Friday preacher, whose sermon, though not reverently pious, is fervently American."

Go here for the spoken word version of this and other columns.

Northern Nevada backyards and gardens: What about peonies?

Jeff Munson — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 00:05:07 +0000

By JoAnne Skelly

What about peonies?” my friend Kristen asked me recently. She wanted to purchase some for her daughter’s new home. I love peonies, their look and fragrance. I tried to grow them years ago, but failed, probably because of their need for rich, fertile soil. They didn’t grow even with get six hours to eight hours of sun per day.

I read Carson City’s Greenhouse Garden Center & Gift Shop fact sheet on growing peonies here. Find a spot that meets the sun and soil requirements, including a 6.5 pH. Then, dig a hole 18 inches deep and wide.

Loosen the soil and mix in organic matter. The experts at Greenhouse Garden Center recommend adding ¼ cup of a 5-10-5 fertilizer to half of the soil and putting it in the bottom of the hole. This will keep the fertilizer a safe distance away from the crowns of the plants. Overfertilized plants will not bloom well.

Backfill with the remaining soil until the crown of the peony is just two inches below the surface. Tamp the soil down and water immediately after planting to further settle the soil around the roots. Keep the soil slightly moist throughout the summer to ensure prolific flowers the following year.

Greenhouse Garden Center reports that the first year after planting may not yield much in the way of growth or flowers. In fact, some growers don’t allow a plant to bloom its first year. If it does, be sure to cut the flower as soon as it fades and don’t allow it to go to seed.

You should have twice as many flowers the second year and even more the third. Always cut blooms immediately after flowering. Some varieties take a few years to bloom. Peonies bloom best from four to 10 years old and may live 20 years or more.

Peonies might fail to bloom if plants are young or planted too deeply. Or clumps may be old and need dividing. Competition with nearby trees and shrubs or growing in too much shade reduces flower numbers. Too much nitrogen encourages green leafy growth at the expense of blooms. Buds may be killed by late freezes or weather may be too hot. Soil may be too dry.

Unfortunately, ground squirrels like peony buds according to another friend, Cheryl. She told me her peonies were just getting ready to bloom, when she discovered that ground squirrels had cut off all the buds. They didn’t even eat them, just chopped them off. What a waste.

— JoAnne Skelly is Associate Professor & Extension Educator, Emerita, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension. She can be reached at skellyj@unr.edu.

Carson City Fire Department knock down fire at landfill

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 22:38:24 +0000

UPDATE 4:50PM: The fire at the landfill has been extinguished, according to Carson City Fire Department Battalion Chief Jon Pedrini.
The fire was around 100 foot by 40 foot and knocked down by firefighters and work crews at the scene. There were no threats to structures or wildland.
***
Carson City Fire Department responded Sunday afternoon to a fire coming from the area of the landfill off of Highway 50 East and Flint Drive.

At around 3:30 p.m. Carson City dispatch received 911 calls regarding smoke seen coming from the landfill. Personnel on scene report there is a fire, approximately 40 feet by 40 feet.

Carson City fire crews are arriving and water tenders have been called to the scene.

There have been multiple fires at the landfill over the years, sometimes happening several times a year. Personnel have stated that the main cause of fires at the landfill are from improperly disposed batteries.

Local neon artists make brilliant donation to KNVC Carson City community radio

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 22:22:02 +0000

KNVC

The Color of Neon, a Reno business specializing in developing artistic neon light displays, has come to Carson City community radio KNVC and created our logo in neon.

Ken Hines, the owner of Color of Neon who has been working in neon for 42 years, created our new KNVC neon sign and donated this work to our radio station. Mr. Hines has had a 35 year business and personal relationship with our General Manager, Steve Funk, dating back to Steve’s days in radio in San Francisco.

The new sign will hang in our foyer at the KNVC studios just inside the front door so all visitors will see the bright lights of our logo as they enter the building. Color of Neon has served Reno for many years and, for 15 years, have been the artists behind the neon for the Burning Man statue that is destroyed every year at the end of the world-renowned event.

“There is a lot of work that goes into creating and fabricating the neon for the Burning Man statue. It is tough to see so much hard work and creativity go up in flames each year, but that is the nature of the event,” said Ken Hines, owner of Color of Neon.

"You cannot imagine how surprised we were when this was proposed to us. The final work of art in our foyer is a beautiful example of the creative use of neon that is part of our region's unique history," said KNVC General Manager, Steve Funk, "My friends, Ken Hines and Dennis McKinnon and the team at Color of Neon, have gifted us with a piece that reflects the color and brightness our all-volunteer team brings to the airwaves every day at 95.1 FM. We're extremely grateful. Listen to us on-air or online for your invite to an upcoming community event where we'll have it on display."

Carson City Rotary Club scholarships enhance workforce education, opportunities for WNC students

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 20:04:05 +0000

Western Nevada College

For more than 85 years, the Rotary Club of Carson City has made a difference in the community. Living by the motto of “Service over Self,” these philanthropic community volunteers have been helping others in a variety of ways, providing a meal for the homeless, tutoring children, maintaining parks, assisting the high school marching band and much more.

That generosity and selflessness has also touched Western Nevada College students over the years. The club’s latest higher education contribution is the creation of $12,000 Workforce, Career and Technical Education scholarships.

“The Rotary Club of Carson City wanted to start a scholarship program with WNC to help fill the gap in workforce education. Moving the workforce, especially the local workforce, up the ladder in their education which in turn will give them better and more employment opportunities,” said RCCC President Garrett Lepire.

That foresight and benevolence aren’t lost on WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe.

"The Rotary Club of Carson City has long made a difference at WNC and its generosity with our students has helped them become successful contributors to the region's workforce," President Dalpe said. "We are very fortunate to have community-minded organizations such as the Rotary Club supporting WNC and our students."
Christopher Guerro, one of three recipients of this new scholarship funded through WNC Foundation, says that the generous gift by the Rotary Club will provide more than financial support for his education.

“The Rotary Club Scholarship serves as more than just a financial lifeline; it's a vote of confidence that propels me toward my academic goals,” Guerro said. “Beyond textbooks and tuition, it opens doors to experiences that shape a well-rounded education, fostering skills and perspectives that extend far beyond the classroom.”

Ideally, Lepire says college scholarships help groom the next wave of community-minded volunteers.

“We want our recipients to embody the spirit of Rotary which is ‘Service Above Self,’” he said. “Students that are taking the time to improve their skill sets to give themselves better opportunities in life will eventually find themselves in a position to give back and keep repeating the cycle of helping one another.”

WNC Foundation Executive Director Niki Gladys said the Rotary Club realizes the importance of developing more skilled individuals to meet an evolving workforce.

“The establishment of this scholarship by the Rotary Club of Carson City reflects their commitment to shaping a workforce that is not only skilled and knowledgeable but also poised to contribute significantly to the continued success and development of our community,” Gladys said. “The members of this club recognize the growing importance in developing the workforce in Northern Nevada to meet the demands of a dynamic job market. The club desires to support the development of a skilled workforce that aligns with the evolving needs of industries within the region.”

To learn more about the Rotary Club, visit https://carsonrotary.org.

In the photo: Western Nevada College Child Development Center Director Anna Lisa Acosta-Rogers (right) gave a presentation about the CDC to the Carson City Rotary Club in 2023. Seated next to Anna Lisa is WNC Chief Financial Officer Coral Lopez.

Plumas Bank hires new Reno business development officer Kara Harris

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 19:48:40 +0000

Press release

Plumas Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plumas Bancorp, announces a new addition to its team; Kara Harris joined the Reno branch as Plumas Bank’s Vice President and Business Development Officer. In this role, Harris is responsible for spearheading strategy to enhance business growth, foster client relationships, and expand Plumas Bank’s market presence in northern Nevada and the Sierra region.

Harris brings over 20 years of experience building and maintaining client relationships, with impressive work in the hospitality, economic development, and banking industries. She is especially passionate about workforce development and engaging the Reno community as well as surrounding rural communities.

“Joining the Plumas team was an easy decision for me,” said Harris. “To be part of a company that is so committed to client relationships and growing successful businesses is a priority for me. It is meaningful to be part of a local organization that is willing to problem-solve for clients and treat each relationship as equally important.”

Harris is a fourth-generation Nevadan and enjoys serving her community. She serves on the boards of Nevada Women’s Fund; NevadaWorks; and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northern Nevada. Harris is also board chair for the Washoe County Honorary Deputy Sheriff's Association. Harris has an extensive background in volunteerism, participating in Girls On the Run for six years, among other organizations.

“Kara's expertise in relationship management and her proven track record of driving growth make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Jack Prescott, Senior Vice President and Commercial Lending Manager at Plumas Bank. “Her strategic mindset and ability to build strong client relationships will be an asset to our clients. We are thrilled to welcome Kara and look forward to her innovative contributions.”

Harris graduated from Reed High School and the University of Nevada, Reno. Outside of work, Harris and her husband, Ben, love to spend time with their five children, garden in their backyard alongside their eight chickens, and attend their children’s sporting events.

Carson City emergency crews called to vehicle fire at Lompa and Dori; rollover on I-580 and Eastlake

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 19:08:28 +0000

Carson City Fire Department and sheriff's deputies were called Sunday at around noon to a vehicle fire in the area of Dori Way and Lompa Lane.

According to first responders on scene, the pickup was fully involved with flames when firefighters arrived at around 12:02 p.m. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Motorists can expect delays.

Elsewhere, Nevada State Police, Carson City Fire Department sheriff's deputies were called Sunday to a vehicle rollover in the area of I-580 and Eastlake Boulevard.

The call came into dispatch at around 11:54 a.m. reporting a single vehicle rollover. Injuries are unknown at this time. Motorists can expect delays.

Carson City Sheriff's Office seeks identity of suspects in attempted burglary

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 18:15:13 +0000

Carson City Sheriff's Office Investigations have released a video of an attempted residential burglary that happened June 2. Detectives seek the identity of the suspects.

The video below and the photos above shows two men attempting to break into a residence in the 2500 block of Century Drive.

Anyone with information, please contact the Carson City Sheriff’s Office, Investigation Division, Detective Sam Hatley (775) 283-7852, Dispatch (775) 887-2007 or Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. Refer to Case No. Case 24-3368.

Annual Pops Party concert happening today at Governor's Mansion in Carson City

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 16:31:03 +0000

Event Date:

June 9, 2024 - 6:00pm

By Elinor Bugli

The Carson City Symphony's annual Pops Party concert is today, Sunday, June 9, 2024, 6 p.m. at the Governor's Mansion back lawn, 606 Mountain Street, Carson City. The grounds will be open to the public at 5 p.m. Admission is free.

The Carson City Symphony, directed by David Bugli and assistant director Brian Fox, will be joined on the program by the Carson Chamber Singers directed by Gary Schwartz and guest singer Cherie Shipley.

Music Director Bugli said, "The Pops Party Concerts are a tradition going back to 1984. We bring popular favorites and fresh material to each edition." The program includes tunes from Broadway shows, marches, a Glenn Miller Medley arranged for orchestra and chorus, and more.

Seating is on the lawn. The audience is invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs. Parking is on the street. No firearms are allowed on the premises. In case of rain, the concert will be moved to an indoor location.

This free concert is funded in part by grants from the Nevada Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, the Carson City Cultural Commission, and by private donations. For more information, call the Symphony at 775-883-4154 or check the web site CCSymphony.com.

Late spring sunset over Carson City

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 16:12:00 +0000

Photography by Edward Howell

Beautiful color over Carson City from a late spring sunset taken Wednesday, June 5.

Carson City area road report for week of June 10-16

Jeff Munson — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 14:50:36 +0000

Here is the Carson City area road report for the week of June 10-16, 2024. Closures are expected at the following locations due to road and utility work:

— 2nd Street between Carson Street and Curry Street will be closed to westbound traffic from April 8, 2024 to June 30, 2025 for construction.

Lane restrictions are expected at the following locations due to road/utility work:

— 5th Street between Hells Bells Road and Marsh Road will be closed to westbound traffic from Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. Eastbound traffic will have flagger control from Tuesday through Tuesday, 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.

— Curry Street between Adams Street and Park Street will be reduced to a single lane from June 3, 2024, to June 21, 2024, from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

— King Street between Carville Circle and Albany Avenue will have reduced lanes on Monday, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

— Musser Street between Plaza Street and Stewart Street will have reduced lanes from Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 4:30 pm.

— Robinson Street between Valley Street and Roop Street will have reduced lanes from Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 4:30 pm.

— William Street between Roop Street and Saliman Road will have shoulder work on the eastbound side of the street. There will be narrow lanes near Seely Loop from Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. Use caution. The bike path will be closed and trucks will be entering and exiting the roadway from Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.

— Winnie Lane between Mountain Street and Carson Street will have shoulder work on the south side of Winnie Lane from Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. No street parking on both the North and south side of Winnie Lane due to lane shifts.

Elsewhere, beginning Monday, June 10, drivers will see extensive lane reductions as the Nevada Department of Transportation launches major construction as part of a continuing highway improvement project to reconstruct U.S. 395 through downtown Gardnerville.

Since last fall, drivers have seen single lane closures and lane shifts on small sections of U.S. 395 between First Street and Waterloo Lane for preliminary highway drainage, sidewalk and curb and gutter improvements. The majority of lane closures were short in length, with moderate travel delays.

Beginning June 10, more extensive lane reductions will take place as crews launch major highway reconstruction. Just under two miles of U.S. 395 between Waterloo Lane and First Street in Gardnerville will be completely reconstructed and repaved.

Drivers should anticipate the following construction on sections of U.S. 395 between Waterloo Lane and First Street spring through September 2024.

Sections of U.S. 395 between Waterloo Lane and First Street in Gardnerville will be reduced to one lane in each direction during major construction.

Drivers should anticipate shifting traffic control and 24/7 travel delays through the work zone as semi-permanent barriers are placed in work areas for driver and worker safety.

At least one lane in each direction and one access to each business will remain available during construction.

Access will be maintained, but may include metal plates over driveways. NDOT encourages the community to support local businesses during construction. Alternate routes are advised for those traveling through without a planned destination in the work zone.

Left-hand turns and travel across intersections will periodically be prohibited as intersections are reconstructed and new road surface placed.

Expect reduced speeds through the work zone and provide extra time to reach destinations.

Capitol City Gun Club host Sub-Gauge Clays and Father's Day Fun Shoot

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 13:22:12 +0000

By Jay Smith

On Saturday, June 15, 2024, Capitol City Gun Club in Carson City, NV will host a Sporting Clays Sub-Gauge Shoot from 9:00am to 4:30pm. On Sunday, June 16th, the Club will host a Father’s Day Fun Shoot with discounted target fees all day. The Club features Trap, Skeet, 5-Stand and Sporting Clays. Everyone is invited to come!