What is there to do in Carson city for adults and teens that does not require alcohol or gambling, or having to drive to Reno to get the kids doing something active? I am a mom of three: a pre teen, teen, and a six year old. There is not much for them to do locally. The things that I do seem to find are for kids five or under, and I can assure you, my teens are not even the slightest bit interested. With that being said, what is there to actually do locally for those families with kids? We need more than just costly events that sometimes are not even worth going to.
I am asking that Carson City host a rolling skate night at the Carson City Community Center. This can be an evening for kids and families with a following time slot for adults only. Not only would this be local it would also save money for families and those not wanting to make a drive outside of the city.
It helps to keep our kids engaged in our community as well as adults. This also gives our kids a safe place locally to hang out with their friends and socialize.
Now let’s take the pickleball court at Mills Park. The old unused tennis court was constructed into the new pickleball court and it was made possible by two local residents pairing with the Carson City Parks and Recreation who got many citizens to sign a petition for this new addition to the town.
The court was just sitting there unused — what a better way to repurpose and utilize a spot that is already there, so there is no need to start a whole new construction site, which I know can cost a lot more.
Gardnerville offers a once a month skate night once a month. It is very cool they have this but I am not making that drive. I know those of us who reside in Carson should not have to drive 30 to 45 minutes for activities.
We can utilize the Carson City Community center which already offers roller derby as a site for this event, so I don’t see it being such a big deal or hassle to add skate night with some local vendors. This will also support our local food and sweet shops by putting money into our town and for them to get out and advertise as well. Hence why staying local is necessary — it helps all around.
I feel it is hard enough for kids to make friends at school considering there is a huge divide with cliques. Not having an outlet where kids can go outside of school can make it harder.
Juvenile arrests reached a high in 2023 and there is a mental health crisis in Nevada; Carson Tahoe Health even suggested meaningful structured opportunities for connection through “Carson Tahoe Vehicles of Change.” While this is great, I do not see many children wanting to attend this for fun.
Although the one thing I am asking for, even if it is once a month or every weekend, may not make a huge difference, I know it can be a step into making a change in our local community.
We as adults and parents need to advocate for our youth. A petition for this with many signatures will get attention. This is just one of many things that Carson can benefit from.
Thalia Medina, local resident and parent in Carson City, NV
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