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

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

Kelsey Penrose — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 22:07:25 +0000

Event Date:

June 8, 2024 (All day)

by Kelsey Penrose

The Carson City Farmers Market returns to the capital city Saturday, June 8 at its new home in Mills Park. Each year, the market continues to grow, and this year is no exception with 11 new vendors added to the roster.

“As we gear up for this year’s market season, we’re thrilled to showcase an impressive roster of 67 vendors each week, blending returning favorites with fresh faces,” said Market Manager Breana Coons. Among our cherished regulars, we are excited to welcome 11 new vendors, each bringing something unique to our community.”

These include Happy Mushrooms, Isla Kusina, No City Coffee, Park Ranch meats, La Tapatia Ice Cream, Nevada Custom Engraving, the Wayfarer specialty cheeses, Three Horse Flower Farm, Sugar Pie, and more.

“We are also introducing several new local musicians who bring a vibrant layer of entertainment to the market atmosphere,” Coons said.

This will be the second year that the market will be in Mills Park, and Coons said community feedback from the move has been “overwhelmingly positive.”

“Visitors appreciated the spacious pavilion, which provided a refreshing retreat from the sun under its ample shade. Additionally, the scenic walks through the park added a unique charm to their market experience, setting it apart from any other venue in the area," she said.

Parking remains a logistical challenge due to the high turnout, Coons said, but luckily the park offers 250 spots throughout.

“Although this means some visitors might face a brief walk, it's a small concession for the pleasure of spending a day at such a scenic and lively market," she said.

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

“This year's market transcends the ordinary shopping experience; it's a vibrant community hub where you can deeply connect with the origins of your food,” Coons said. “Meet the dedicated artisans who craft each item, the bakers who rise before dawn to ensure the freshest products, and the farmers who toil to bring their freshest produce directly to your table. We invite everyone to explore the diverse offerings that make our market a uniquely enriching place. Join us in celebrating local craftsmanship, fresh produce, and the spirit of community.”

For more information, please visit https://carsonfarmersmarket.com.

Alzheimer's Association offers support group meetings in Carson City

Jeff Munson — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:10:54 +0000

Event Date:

May 8, 2024 (All day)

Do you live in the Carson City or the surrounding area? Do you have a loved one that has Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia? If yes, let us support you through your challenging and new situation! We are here to help you!

The Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California and Northern Nevada have two in-person support groups that provide a place where you can learn, share, and be with others who understand and appreciate your caregiving journey. This group aims to help with providing information, providing hope for living a value centered life, and supporting you as a caregiver.

The group meetings are held:

Meetings are held at the Carson City Cancer Center, Conference Room 1535 Medical Parkway and at the Carson City Senior Center, 911 Beverly Dr.

For further information call the 24/7 Alzheimer’s Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.

Meeting dates and locations

May 8th 1:00pm, at the Carson City Cancer Center

May 22nd 2:30pm, Carson City Senior Center

June 12th 1:00pm at the Carson City Cancer Center

June 26th 2:30pm Carson City Senior Center

July 10th 1:00pm Carson City Cancer Center

July 24th 2:30pm Carson City Senior Center

August 14th 1:00pm, Carson City Cancer Center

August 28th 2:30pm Carson City Senior Center

Lions Club hosts Carson City Kids’ Fishing Day this Saturday at Baily Pond

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 19:35:12 +0000

Carson City Host Lions Club

Carson City Host Lions Club 2024 Kids Fishing Day is a community event held at Baily Pond in Fuji Park. Kids’ Fishing Day will be held on Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This fun event is designed to introduce kids to fishing and conservation. All kids under 12, and their families or adult guardians, are invited to attend for free! Volunteers will be available to answer questions and to help kids in need of assistance with fishing.

We encourage participants to bring their own rod and reel. A limited amount of rods and reels will be available for use by kids under 12 who don't have their own. Rods, reels, bait and tackle will be provided, until supplies run out.
Participants who are 12 and older will need a valid Nevada fishing license. There is a two fish limit per person.

Prizes and concessions will also be available. Come join the Lions for a great day of fishing!

Family-friendly events around Carson City this week

Kelsey Penrose — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 17:46:23 +0000

Event Date:

Repeats every day until Sun May 05 2024 .

April 30, 2024 (All day)

May 1, 2024 (All day)

May 2, 2024 (All day)

May 3, 2024 (All day)

May 4, 2024 (All day)

May 5, 2024 (All day)

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 the capital city.

Tuesday, April 30

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.

Wednesday, May 1

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 wild 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.

Thursday, May 2

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, May 3

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.

Family Fun Friday Taco Competition at Fuji Park
Head down to Fuji Park from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday for a Family Fun Friday Taco Competition. The competition is between food trucks. There will be opportunity for “People’s Choice”. Those who purchase tacos from the trucks will be able to vote for their favorites.

Children's theater production of Disney's 'Finding Nemo, Jr.' begins Friday in Carson City

Dive into an ocean of adventure with Wild Horse Children's Theater as we embark on a journey under the sea in the upcoming production of Disney's "Finding Nemo, Jr." at the Brewery Arts Center Performance Hall in Carson City.

Saturday, May 4

Get outside and play day: Star Wars Edition at the Carson City Library

Join us the first Saturday of every month for National "Get Outside and Play Day". We will have fun lawn games for patrons to enjoy out in the Library garden from 10am-4pm, weather permitting. Open to kids of all ages. No registration required. This month is a special May the 4th Star Wars themed day!

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.

Mario Kart tournament at the Carson City Library

The WNC games club is hosting a Mario Kart tournament from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Come join us for casual competition and fun!

Cinco de Mayo Dance Performances at Brewery Arts Center
At 7 p.m., head down to the Brewery Arts Center for Ballet Folkloric Internacional de Reno and Danza Azteca.

Children's theater production of Disney's 'Finding Nemo, Jr.' begins Friday in Carson City

Lions Club hosts Carson City Kids’ Fishing Day this Saturday at Baily Pond

Carson City Host Lions Club 2024 Kids Fishing Day is a community event held at Baily Pond in Fuji Park. Kids’ Fishing Day will be held on Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This fun event is designed to introduce kids to fishing and conservation. All kids under 12, and their families or adult guardians, are invited to attend for free! Volunteers will be available to answer questions and to help kids in need of assistance with fishing.

Sunday, May 5

Cinco de Mayo at Brewery Arts Center
From 1 to 5 p.m., the Brewery Arts Center will be hosting a Cinco de Mayo celebration with food, art, vendors, music and more. Then at 5 p.m., stick around for the second performance of Ballet Folkloric Internacional de Reno and Danza Azteca.

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

Douglas Sheriff's Office seeks suspects connected to stolen vehicle

Jeff Munson — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 17:06:30 +0000

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in identifying a man and woman associated to a vehicle stolen out of Reno last month.

On Sunday, March 10, 2024, an unidentified male and female suspect allegedly sold a stolen white 2021 Toyota 4Runner to a resident of Douglas County, according to the sheriff's office. The Toyota was stolen out of Reno on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

The female suspect has a distinct tattoo on the right side of her forehead which reads “mike.” If you have information related to this case or can identify the suspects, contact Douglas County Dispatch at (775) 782-5126 or Investigator Grant at (775) 781-1227. Reference DCSO case number 24SO06494.

Student Farmer's Market returns to Carson City's Fuji Park

Jeff Munson — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 15:35:44 +0000

Event Date:

May 15, 2024 - 10:00am

By Harmony DeYoung

Green Our Planet will host the second annual Northern Nevada Giant Student Farmers Market on Wednesday, May 15 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Fuji Park on The Park Grass in Carson City. The Northern Nevada Giant Student Farmers Market will feature approximately 10 schools throughout the northern part of the Silver State.

Green Our Planet's Giant Student Farmers Market will feature arts, crafts, and produce grown by schools in the Douglas County School District, Washoe County School District, Carson City School District, and Lyon County School District. Students from each district will apply their financial literacy and business management skills they acquired through Green Our Planet’s programming as they sell their produce and handmade crafts at the market.

“It’s exciting to see how the students who have participated in our outdoor garden and hydroponics programs are able to become leaders,” said Ciara Byrne, CEO of Green Our Planet. “Holding this event in our state’s capital is important to show how these students are positively impacted by our programming. Working together with the teachers and schools, we are ensuring a brighter and greener future for the new generation.”

Launched in 2013, Green Our Planet has become the largest school garden program in the United States working in over 1000+ schools and impacting over 371,400 students nationwide in 42 states and growing. All the proceeds made from the farmers market will return to the schools to further fund the schools’ garden and hydroponics programs. The student-run farmers market gives students the opportunity to become ‘Farmpreneurs’ by empowering them with the opportunity to sell their produce and crafts.

Green Our Planet will host this event with support from First Independent Bank, My Ride to Work, Tesla, Intero Real Estate Services, Hone Company and Rotary Club of Minden.

Fuji Park on The Park Grass, is located at 601 Old Creek Rd., Carson City.

For more information on the Green Our Planet’s Giant Student Farmers Market, please visit greenourplanet.org.

Miller Counseling in Carson City offers grief counseling for youth beginning May 1

Jeff Munson — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:02:29 +0000

Event Date:

May 1, 2024 - 7:00pm

By Eddie Miller

Miller Counseling and Wellness Center began partnering with Douglas Center for Hope and Healing to offer grief support groups for adults in Carson City in 2024. There has been an amazing turnout, and the group appears to be filling a much-needed void in services to our community.

The owner of Miller Counseling, Eddie Miller, and volunteers Lindsey Stoleberl and Adriana Contreras have been leading the adult groups. The groups offer a safe place for people to come together to heal and support one another in their time of grief.

The goal was to add grief support groups for adolescents aged 12-17 years old within a year. However, shortly after the first article was placed in Carson Now, Ryan Felix, a juvenile probation officer, and his wife Sarah Felix offered to become part of the volunteer team. Ryan and Sarah stated “We both have a passion for people to live in healing and freedom and are honored to be able to come alongside those who are grieving.”

With the help of our gracious volunteers, Miller Counseling is excited to announce that our doors will be open to the community for the adolescents grief group, ages 12-17, starting Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

Both the adult group and adolescent group will be held every Wednesday from 7-8 PM at 104 W Telegraph Street in Carson City. All support groups are free to the community. Feel free to call Eddie Miller at 775-434-7200 with any questions.

Our future goal is to add grief support for children 4 to 11 years old by 2025 so the entire family will be able to participate in the healing process together. The Douglas Center for Hope and Healing has been offering grief support for children ages 4-18 years old and adults for the past 10 years and is located at 1528 Highway 395, Ste 235 Gardnerville. Phone: 775-450-0329.

Mother’s Day Tea Party happening in Carson City this Saturday

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 13:42:17 +0000

By 443 Foundation

Ready to celebrate Mother’s Day a little early? Join in on the fun at the Mother’s Day Tea Party happening this weekend, May 4th at 4pm! Enjoy delectable teas, an assortment of foods, a wonderful raffle, and games. Tickets are $25 and may be pre-purchased at the Carson City Alano Club. Tickets may also be purchased at the event, though quantities may be limited. Event will be held at 1201 N Saliman Road. So put on your tea hats and join us on May 4th at 4pm.

Tuesday movie night at A to Zen in Carson City features Academy Award winning 'Ordinary People'

Jeff Munson — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 03:20:09 +0000

Event Date:

April 30, 2024 - 7:00pm

Enjoy a movie classic on the big screen Tuesday, April 30 at A to Zen in Carson City. The featured movie is the Academy Award winning "Ordinary People," starring Mary Tyler Moore, Donald Sutherland, Timothy Hutton and Judd Hirsch.

The movie is directed by Robert Redford. It was the 1981 Academy Award winner for Best Picture, Best Supporting actor Timothy Hutton and Best Director.

A to Zen will show the movie at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 and includes a soda and snack. A to Zen is located at 1803 North Carson Street, Carson City. Follow them on Facebook here.

Home Education Conference happening Saturday at Carson's Shepherd of the Sierra Lutheran

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 23:13:21 +0000

Submitted to Carson Now

Hello Northern Nevada Friends! Are you considering homeschooling? Please join us Saturday, May 4 at Shepherd of the Sierra Lutheran Church on 395 in Carson City as we gather to be inspired, uplifted, and gain the courage to homeschool. This conference is for anyone interested, whether you are a seasoned homeschooler or a newbie.

Our amazing outline of speakers for this year will include the following topics:

- The Well-Educated Heart, Philosophies of Educating the Heart Before the Mind

- Charlotte Mason in the Home

- Teaching Language Arts Through Literature

- The Beauty of Narration

- Teaching the Neurodivergence Child

- Making Math fun for all Ages

- The WHY of Each School Subject and Turning That into Your HOW

- Intro to Different Homeschool Philosophies

- Guidance with Highschoolers and Transcripts for the Next Steps

- Gaining a Peace of Mind Through Goal Setting for Your Family

Tickets: $50. Register ASAP, Lunch will be provided from Bella Vita with each ticket purchased. We look forward to being encouraged on our journeys! Purchase tickets here: www.ltinevada.org/hec2024

MAY 4th, 2024

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Sierra Lutheran Church on 395 in Carson City

Put on by Light, Truth, and Intelligence Common Wealth, (LTI).

See the flyer below.

Northern Nevada Home Education Conference by Carson Now on Scribd

Carson City Community Garden celebrates Earth Day with spring preparation workday

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:56:51 +0000

By Jessica Gardner

On Saturday, April 20, Carson City Community Gardeners and the UNR Extension Master Gardeners came together to get the Community Garden ready for the growing season. For two hours they removed weeds, spread mulch and prepped their garden beds for the season.

A huge thank you to all that came out and made this such a successful event. For more info on upcoming garden events go here.

Carson Middle School culinary students compete in cooking competition

Jeff Munson — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:21:51 +0000

Carson City School District

In collaboration with Chartwells, the Carson City School District foodservice partner, Culinary Arts students from Ms. Tammy Borreman’s class at Carson Middle School competed in a “Discovery Kitchen Cook Off.” Similar to a mini version of the Food Network’s Iron Chef, the timed cooking competition featured teams of three students who prepared succulent dishes for a judging panel.

The meals were assembled with specific themed ingredients and required the competitors to prepare a chicken, a starch and a veggie. Whose cuisine reigned supreme? The boneless buffalo wings with sides of potatoes, celery, carrots and from-scratch ranch dressing. The winning dish was prepared by eighth graders Alexa Ortiz, Lindzy Plascencia-Flores and Zuleyma Ruiz-Villasenor.

Members of the winning team were awarded spatulas and gift cards to the RESCO Restaurant Equipment and Supply Co.

Other cook off finalists include Yaslin Castaneda-Rodriguez, Nevaeh Ellis and Jimena Lara who prepared a breaded fried chicken with alfredo linguini and steamed broccoli. Additionally, Anthony Milner, Amelia Papez and Charlie Richetta prepared a garlic chicken with alfredo and spinach salad.

The judges included Athena Peters, executive chef with Chartwells at the Carson City School District; Sharon Larson, district chef with Chartwells at Lyon County School District; Akiko Miyagi, director of Nutrition Services at Lyon County School District and Ryan Canaday, news anchor with KTVN, Ch. 2.

Shoe Tree Brewing in Carson City, Minden win award at 2024 World Beer Cup

Jeff Munson — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 19:37:04 +0000

Shoe Tree Brewing, with locations in Carson City and Minden, was recently awarded a Silver Award in the 2024 World Beer Cup, the most prestigious beer competition in the world.

The World Beer Cup award ceremony was April 24, 2024 at The Venetian in Las Vegas where awards were given in 110 beer-style categories.

Shoe Tree Brewing Co. was awarded a Silver Award in the American Style Brown Ale beer category for its Lahontan Brown a dark brown beer with notes of caramel, chocolate and balanced with hops.

Shoe Tree Brewing is a 7-bbl brewpub, located in Carson City that prides itself on brewing both classic and inventive beers.

“It’s our mission to bring world class beer to Carson City and an award at the World Beer Cup shows we are on the right track” said Jeff Young, Brewmaster/Owner at STBC.

Often referred to as “The Olympics of Beer,” the World Beer Cup recognizes international brewing excellence. This year’s winners were selected by an international panel of 280 beer judges from 37 countries; 9,300 total entries from 2,060 breweries and 50 total countries were evaluated.

The Brewers Association developed the World Beer Cup Competition in 1996 to celebrate the art and science of brewing. For additional information, visit the World Beer Cup website.

See the Shoe Tree Brewing website here. Shoe Tree Brewing is located at 496 Old Hot Springs Rd in Carson City and 1758 U.S. Hwy 395 N Suite A, Minden.

WNC announces graduation ceremonies May 20 in Carson City, May 23 in Fallon

Jeff Munson — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 18:09:26 +0000

Event Date:

May 20, 2024 - 10:00am

Western Nevada College is presenting traditional commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2024 on May 20 in Carson City and May 23 in Fallon.

"This is the most exciting day for me as we celebrate our graduates! I am pleased we can offer ceremonies in Carson City and Fallon," said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. "Our graduates have worked hard to reach this point and they and their families have made sacrifices in order to reach this milestone. I am so pleased to say 'CONGRATS' to each of them!"

As it has been for many graduation ceremonies in the past, Marv Teixeira Pavilion at Mills Park is the venue for the Carson City ceremony on Monday, May 20, starting at 10 a.m. The ceremony will be streamed live on YouTube. The video can be found at wnc.edu/live.

The Fallon ceremony is moving to a new venue — the Venturacci Gym, 321 Venturacci Lane — on Thursday, May 23, at 9 a.m.

For each ceremony, Captain Shane Tanner of the Naval Air Station Fallon will deliver the commencement address. Tanner is a graduate of Texas A&M University and took over direction of the Naval Air Station Fallon in 2022.
President Dr. Dalpe will deliver opening remarks and Associated Students of Western Nevada President Suzanna Stankute will provide the welcoming message to students.

For more information about graduation at WNC, go to wnc.edu/admissions/graduation.

Long-awaited Nevada DMV modernization likely delayed, may cost $300M more

admin — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 17:55:57 +0000

Eric Neugeboren, The Nevada Independent

One month after Nevada DMV officials said that the long-awaited project to upgrade the agency’s antiquated computer systems was on track and within budget, the agency now says the plan will likely take three more fiscal years and cost $300 million more than originally anticipated.

In March, agency officials told lawmakers that the project to revamp its online presence (including a new appointment system and platform to submit vehicle titles electronically) was “on track and within the approved budget.” This latest iteration of the modernization project began in 2021, and was expected to cost $125 million and be completed by September 2026.

But earlier this month, agency officials told legislators on the Interim Finance Committee (IFC) that the project cost had likely ballooned to around $425 million and would not be completed until fiscal year 2029 — a three-year delay. DMV officials said the change was because they recently determined that their IT staff was not equipped to implement some of the changes on top of their existing jobs, requiring the agency to shift those responsibilities to an outside contractor in a move that would cost more money and take more time.

The DMV declined an interview request, but provided written answers to The Nevada Independent’s questions through a spokesperson. The agency noted that the modernization project is 20 percent complete, and that it has not officially requested additional funding from state lawmakers and has only informed legislators of an early projection of future funding requests.

Members of the IFC, a group of lawmakers that meets when the Legislature is not in session to make various funding decisions, said they were confused and frustrated by the sudden change.

“To find out that we are not only one fiscal year behind but three fiscal years behind the timeline that we were originally looking at and again that we are not in our approved budget … it definitely comes as a surprise,” Assemblyman Howard Watts (D-Las Vegas) said at the IFC meeting.

Assemblywoman Daniele Monroe-Moreno (D-North Las Vegas) said the March testimony provided by the agency was “drastically different” than what it said in April, and “the state does not have an endless bucket of money to put into failed projects.”

“It’s kind of hard to … talk to our constituents and say, ‘Well, we’re not going to be able to maybe fund a social service need that a senior may have or a foster child might have or homeless [person might have] because we’re putting money into this,’” she said at the IFC meeting.

An earlier effort to revamp the DMV’s computer systems (which are run by antiquated technologies including PowerBuilder and COBOL) began in 2015, when legislators approved a $1 “technology fee” assessed on all customer transactions to help fund a five-year system modernization project.

A 2018 state audit found that the contractor was months behind schedule, providing inadequate staffing levels and missing deadlines for project documentation. Despite spending close to $30 million, the state terminated the contract in early 2018.

The modernization effort eventually restarted in October 2021, and the DMV and an outside contractor began completing deliverables six months later with the hopes of completing the project within four years.

Then-DMV Director Julie Butler told lawmakers last year that the plan to complete the project in four years was “aggressive,” and that this kind of project usually takes eight years instead of four, but that she “knew there was no way this body would stand for us dragging this on for eight years.”

Asked by Watts in a March 2023 legislative budget meeting if the agency could get the project completed within that timeframe if it was provided with the “necessary resources, and not bogged down with additional tasks,” Butler said it could.

Legislators in 2023 ultimately approved allocating $73 million in state transportation funds to the DMV to continue with the modernization effort over the next two years.

At this month’s IFC meeting, DMV Director Tonya Laney (Butler retired in March) argued that the project is not behind schedule, just at the upper end of the estimated completion time.

“The original estimate of the eight years is the new estimate,” Laney said.

DMV officials said at the IFC meeting that they realized after testifying at the March meeting that the their IT staff could not complete everything asked of them, which is why their March testimony indicated the project was on track and within budget.

“(We) were banking on having our IT staff learn, build, and develop this new system while they kept our old system running,” read the DMV’s response to The Indy’s questions. “This wasn’t feasible with the workloads that our IT professionals are carrying right now.”

Butler told legislators last year that the DMV selected a contractor with expertise in migrating from legacy computer systems to upgraded systems to ease the agency IT staff’s workload, saying it “would be too difficult to learn the new system and attempt a data migration simultaneously.”

An official from a third-party group monitoring the project’s progress also said the revised contract through fiscal year 2029 will not include deadlines for the contractor to complete certain tasks, but said that the project management team is independently tracking the progress. Legislators said they were concerned with that arrangement.

“There is nothing to assure us in any way that this extra, almost $300 million, will get this job completed by 2029 because there’s nothing to tie your contractor’s hands to make sure that it’s done,” Monroe-Moreno said.

Rollout changes

There were signs months ago that the project wouldn't meet the ambitious deadline the former DMV director vowed to meet.

In November, the group monitoring the project’s progress reported that the project's completion may need to be pushed back multiple years and that the baseline budget “has very little room for any additional rework, changes, or errors” in part because of changes in the rollout plan.

The DMV originally anticipated rolling out new features to the public every six to eight weeks, but employees had discovered that it would take longer to build out some of the system’s new components, Laney said at the April IFC meeting. As a result, the project is still rolling some parts out incrementally but at a slower pace.

The project is also planning to roll out major components together under a “Unified Release,” rather than releasing everything incrementally, which the external report said would allow the DMV to manage and test technology before it is implemented.

The agency has rolled out some features to the public, including a tool that allows people to take written driver’s license tests from home and a new appointment system.

— This story is used with permission of The Nevada Independent. Go here for updates to this and other Nevada Independent stories.

Carson City Sheriff's Office deputies make arrests for warrants, drug possession

Jeff Munson — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 17:51:13 +0000

Carson City Sheriff's Office reports three arrests from Friday until early Monday.

— A 32-year-old Carson City man was arrested Friday for two misdemeanor warrants alleging violation of a suspended sentence and a misdemeanor warrant for petit larceny. Bail: $2,000 cash.

— A 37-year-old Carson City man was arrested early Monday for a misdemeanor warrant issued out of Virginia City. Bail: $560 cash.

— A 53-year-old woman, Johanna Lee Nebeker, was arrested Saturday for suspicion of possession of a controlled substance and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail: $2,500.

— 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.

May in Nevada designated Historic Preservation and Archaeological Awareness Month

Jeff Munson — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:31:07 +0000

By Jenny Jackson, DCNR

CARSON CITY — Since the early 1980s, May has held special significance in Nevada as a month dedicated to honoring and celebrating the state's rich history through historic preservation and archaeology.

Nevada's history is as diverse as its landscape, spanning from the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the vast expanse of the Great Basin. Throughout the state, historic sites, landmarks and archaeological treasures tell the story of the people and events that have shaped Nevada's past.

During Historic Preservation and Archaeological Awareness Month, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to explore and appreciate the wealth of historical resources that Nevada has to offer. From guided tours of historic sites, to interactive exhibits showcasing archaeological discoveries, there are countless opportunities to engage with the state's history and learn more about its cultural heritage.

In addition to celebrating Nevada's rich history, Historic Preservation and Archaeological Awareness Month also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting our shared heritage for future generations. By recognizing the value of historic preservation and archaeology, we can ensure that Nevada's history continues to be celebrated and cherished for years to come.

“This month is a time to reflect on the importance of preserving Nevada’s unique heritage,” said Rebecca Palmer, Administrator of the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office. “Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to learn from and appreciate Nevada’s rich cultural legacy.”

Join us this May as we come together to celebrate Nevada’s historic natural and cultural resources by preserving our past and inspiring future generations to appreciate the unique history of our great state.

For more information about the State Historic Preservation Office, visit https://shpo.nv.gov.

Carson City hosts Wildfire Education and Preparedness Workshop this Tuesday

Jeff Munson — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:55:06 +0000

Event Date:

April 30, 2024 - 5:30pm

Carson City Fire Department and multiple agencies will host Tuesday the 2nd annual wildfire education and preparedness workshop for the community Tuesday, April 30.

Local residents are encouraged to register for the free workshop, designed to help prepare for the possibility of wildfires in the area during 2024. The workshop will be held in the Ormsby Room of the Carson City Sheriff's Office from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Register at carson.org/wildfire.

The event is in partnership with the UNR, Reno Extension, Living with Fire program; Carson City Sheriff’s Office, 911 and Emergency Management; the National Weather Service and the Carson City Fire Department.

Doors open at 5:15 p.m. with presentations beginning at 5:30 p.m. Attendance is free.

Concerns or questions? Contact the Carson City Fire Department at (775) 887-2210.

'Look for Something Good' by Carson City author Robert Drews available locally and online

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:00:54 +0000

"Look for Something Good," a novel written by Carson City author Robert Drews, is available locally and online.

The book tells the stories of two men who hit the reset button. When J.J. Werth is laid off by his company he finds himself at a crossroad. Likewise does his friend Father Thomas, a former Marine and unlikely priest wrestling with a ghost of the past.

Separately, J.J. and Father Thomas set out for the unknown to seek their place in the world and wind up finding very much more.

The book is available at Carson City Senior Center gift shop is located at 911 Beverly Dr. “Look for Something Good” is also available at The Purple Avocado Gift Shop, 904 N Curry St, in Carson City, at Sundance Books and Music, 121 California Ave., Reno, and in Kindle and paperback at amazon.com and paperback at barnesandnoble.com and bookshop.org.

PPI Presents: Fools by Neil Simon

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:03:54 +0000

Proscenium Players Inc. presents Fools by Neil Simon, winner of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Get tickets:
https://breweryarts.org/event/20240519-fools/

$27 General Admission - Includes $2 processing fee. No assigned seating. Check in at Will Call when you arrive. No printed ticket needed.

$22 Senior/Student - Includes $2 processing fee. No assigned seating. Check in at Will Call when you arrive. No printed ticket needed.

Brewery Arts Center, East Building, The Maizie Theater
449 W King St
Carson City, NV