Guardian ad litem

CASA of Carson City received an early holiday gift from Casey Neilon, an accounting firm with offices in Reno and Carson City, in the form of a sizeable donation.

CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, provides quality court-appointed advocacy for abused and neglected children in child welfare cases, through a network of community volunteers who work with children to ensure their voices are heard during court proceedings.

Simple pleasures, like nibbling on homemade French fries dipped in killer ranch dressing, are what social workers at the Nevada Division of Child and Family Services Carson City District Office look forward to most in the thick of daily stressors.

If there has ever been a court case involving a hamburger, attorney Mark Beguelin probably knows about it.

The child advocacy lawyer for Washoe Legal Services in Reno defends his cases with the sort of vigor that he relishes great burgers.

Kimberly Okezie has loved stuffed animals since she was a child, beginning with a plush koala bear that she says stayed with her into adulthood until time literally unraveled the stitching on the toy.

Child welfare can feel like a cold place for families in crisis.

Though efforts have been made through the years to improve this perception, child welfare is still a system of laws that, by their very nature, are unfeeling.

Each of our lives is run by a clock. Our days are governed by time.

Most of us never seem to have enough of it in a day to do with what we want, much more everything we need done, either.

Summer heat is in full effect and with thunderstorms threatening the Sierra, wildfires are even more likely. Luckily, you’ll find some ways to entertain the kids without having to head outdoors. Head down for family story time at the Carson City Library with the young ones; older kids will want to check out the weekly Lego Club this afternoon. The Rally Route 50 West automotive scavenger hunt and race comes to an end this evening in McFadden Plaza with an announcement of the winners. Summertime Cruise Nights continue with this week’s meet-up at Johnny Rockets.

School is out in Carson City and the summer wasted no time in getting started with the fun stuff. Head down to Mills Park sometime this weekend to enjoy the Nevada State Fair, Rendezvous and Carnival. Carson Valley Days is an annual tradition for those who live in the Minden/Gardnerville area. Lampe Park will be hopping with live music, activities, and another carnival. You’ve probably noticed the very large tent erected by the Carson Mall. The Ramos Bros. Circus has come to town, and will be offering performances daily for the next 10 days. Read on, this is just the beginning.

Let’s try this again. Last week, the rain was a little too much for the Westside Cruise, so the organizers postponed it until today. The annual Westside Cruise ia a part of Bike Month, and one of the zanier events. Dress you and your bike up and head off to explore the historic district. Happy one year Anniversary to Battle Born Social. The restaurant and lounge will be celebrating with cocktails, appetizers and more; there is a $20 cover for the event, but that money will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Nevada and Carson City Senior Center's Meals on Wheels program.

More than 15 Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) with the First Juvenile District Court in Carson City were sworn in Wednesday during a public ceremony held at the Carson City Courthouse.

UPDATE: WESTSIDE CRUISER RIDE POSTPONED UNTIL THUR 5/31 at 5:30 pm With severe thunderstorm warnings and a flood watch in effect, I feel that it is safer to err on the side of caution. We will hold the ride next week same place and time (BAC 5:30 pm), just one week later (Thur 5/31).
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The 20th Anniversary Senior Celebration will be held today in the Carson Nugget; free for all to attend, you’ll have the chance to visit a variety of booths with information and resources. After yesterday’s freakish hailstorm, we may as well be ready for anything. More thunderstorms might be on the way this afternoon, but I can’t promise they follow any kind of schedule. The first of the season Third Thursday Wine Walk in downtown Gardnerville is this afternoon, and you may want to bring an umbrella as you sip and stroll.

Let’s get a jump on Easter weekend. Head down to McFadden Plaza this afternoon for kids activities, an egg hunt, and a special showing of the classic movie ‘Easter Parade.’ The beautiful weather is just begging to be celebrated, so join up with Muscle Powered for a hike up to Timberline. Bring a camera, the views of the valley will be spectacular. Happy birthday to everyone that was born in March. The Carson Cigar Company holds their monthly Birthday Thursday celebration tonight with live music featuring the Trippin King Snakes. If you’re in Dayton, swing by 1st and 10 Sports Bar tonight.

A little rain can’t ruin today’s parade. The UNR Wolf Pack Men’s Basketball team has made it into the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. Watch the game at your favorite watering hole; you’ll likely find celebratory drink specials. The next phase of Downtown constructions is ramping up. Find out what’s in store for Curry Street at today’s Streetscaping Pre-Construction Public Meeting. Nevada’s Big Give is in full swing. Choose your favorite non-profit and donate what you can; a little can go a long way.

I just don’t have it in me to make an Ides of March pun, but I guess I could take a stab at it. There isn’t really anything to be wary of today, so head out with abandon. Band students from all the Carson City schools, elementary on up, will get together this evening for a grand performance. Band-o-Rama will take place in the ‘big’ gymnasium at Carson High; get there early if you want a good seat. Learn more about the Court Appointed Special Advocates at their informational meeting; more volunteers are always appreciated.

Our library didn’t just get a new coat of paint during the several weeks it was undergoing its ‘refresh.’ It was also creating space for makers. Several programs are in the works that will require the use of the new sewing machines, and you’ll need to get certified before you can participate. Drop in today or on Saturday and you’ll be ready for anything. Carolyn Dolan brings the blues to Living the Good Life, but if you want to take to the stage yourself, look for karaoke at Jimmy G’s Hookah Lounge or the new Bella Vita Bistro in the Carson Mall.

As I write this, the snow has not yet begun to fall. I cannot predict whether we’ll see one inch or seven inches on the valley floor over the next few days, but wet roads make for a more dangerous journey. Please stay safe out there. Muscle Powered has already cancelled today's planned hike in Washoe Valley. If you do venture out this evening, head downtown. You’ll find karaoke at Jimmy G’s Cigar Bar, the Roska Collective in the Sage Lounge at Battle Born Social, and all you can eat wings at the Fox Brewpub.

I really can’t keep up with the changing weather reports around here. I think we are expecting snow, so you’ll want to be ready for anything. Our County Clerk’s office is holding an open house to show off the new voting machines we’ll be using for this year’s elections.

The weekend is almost here, bringing with it early Halloween parties, the Advocates to End Domestic Violence ‘Light up the Dark’ Run/walk, and even more fun at the Nevada Railroad Museum. For now, you may as well enjoy the day we’ve been given.

And just like that, it’s almost the weekend. Karaoke at Jimmy G’s Cigar Bar takes over their patio- a perfect place to enjoy a cocktail and sing a little song. Enjoy live music, a good drink and yummy food at Living the Good Life. Show off your chrome at the Silver Dollar Cruise Night – this week you meet up at the Courtyard by Marriot next to the Casino Fandango. If you love your chopper, then Bike Night at Battle Born Harley Davidson is your best bet to get the party started.

THURSDAY:

Today has quite a bit going for it, hard to believe that it’s a Wednesday. Learn more about the Craft Brew industry in Nevada and how to support its growth at the ‘Free My Beer Festival’ at Fox Brewpub. Fritch Elementary School is the beneficiary of tonight’s ‘McTeacher’ Night fundraiser at the South Carson McDonalds; both drive-thru and dine-in orders count. It’s Red vs. Blue in the Morse Burley Gym at Carson High School. The traditional basketball game between Democrat and Republican legislators also raises money for local seniors.

Did you ever want to help children in foster care? To be a voice for a child who cannot speak up on their own? What about just helping children in your community, letting them know that they are wanted and that there is a person (YOU!) who listens to them and advocates for their best interests?

CASA OF Carson City will begin new training for CASA volunteers Thursday, April 13, 6 to 9 p.m. at the CASA office in the Family Court Complex, 1539 E. Fifth St in Carson City. To access the office, drive to the back of the parking lot where a large CASA sign will be on the door.

Monday strikes again, but hopefully it won’t be too painful. If you’re off work early, grab some friends and hit up Red’s Old 395 for Martini Monday. Sing Manic Monday at the Fox Brewpub’s weekly karaoke night with J and M Productions. Find something new for your child’s bookcase at the Minden Library Children’s Book Swap; it’s a great way to keep them challenged. Local theater group, the Proscenium Players, welcomes you to check out their monthly meeting. They are always looking for new talent, whether it’s on stage or behind the scenes.

MONDAY:

You are invited to the CASA of Carson City Information Hour, Monday, April 10TH at 5:30 pm. We are located in the Family Court Complex at 1539 E. 5th Street. Drive straight in to the back of the parking lot and you will see our big CASA sign on the door.

Wednesday has arrived and the rain lingers, so you may as well grab an umbrella and go do something fun. Get a bite to eat at Buffalo Wild Wings where officers and athletes are teaming up for the Special Olympics Tip-a-Cop fundraiser. Take your cowboy boots over to the Eleventh Frame Bar in Carson Lanes for some country line and partner dancing. The Shipleys take the stage at Living the Good Life for this week’s Jazz Jam. Show off your smarts at Westside Pour House: Geeks Who Drink trivia starts at 7p.m.

WEDNESDAY:

75 years ago, the USS Nevada was one of the battleships trapped when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. She was the only battleship to get underway during the attack, and according to Naval historian Kermit (Kit) H. Bonner the ship was "the only bright spot in an otherwise dismal and depressing morning" for the United States. Today we remember those lost in that attack, and remember the history behind the battleship that is our battle born namesake. A special exhibit of USS Nevada artifacts, and a lecture on her history are free for all at the State Museum at 1 p.m.

You are invited to the CASA of Carson City Information Hour, December 7th at 5:30 pm. We are located in the Family Court complex at 1539 E. 5th Street. Drive straight in to the back of the parking lot and you will see our big CASA sign on the door.

The autumn CASA Of CARSON CITY Volunteer training begins Thursday, October 6th - 6-9pm at the CASA of Carson City office, 1539 E. 5th Street.

CASA volunteers are appointed by the court to serve as guardian ad litem for a case of abused or neglected children in a child welfare court case. Being a CASA volunteer requires patience, caring, research, writing, speaking and follow-through. A background check, references, application, interview and 30 hours of training are required. CASA volunteers make a difference for very vulnerable children.

You are invited to the CASA of Carson City Information Hour, September 20th at 5:30 pm. We are located in the Family Court complex at 1539 E. 5th Street. Drive straight in to the back of the parking lot and you will see our big CASA sign on the door.

You will be able to ask your questions about who CASA Volunteers are and the important service they provide for our community's children in an easy informal gathering. ALL of your questions will be answered. No pressure or obligation, just information.

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