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

Major Fire Danger: Red Flag Warning issued for Carson City, much of Western Nevada region Friday

Kelsey Penrose — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:43:56 +0000

A red flag warning has been issued by the national weather service for Friday, June 14 for much of western Nevada.

A major weather risk means the combination of gusty winds and low humidity could cause fire to rapidly grow in size and intensity before first responders can contain them, according to the weather service.

The National Weather Service in Reno has upgraded the Fire Weather Watch to a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds and low humidity, which is in effect from 2 PM to 10 PM PDT Friday.

* CHANGES...Fire Weather Watch Upgraded to a Red Flag Warning.

* Affected Area...Fire Weather Zone 420 Northern Sierra Front
including Carson City, Douglas, Storey, Southern Washoe,
Western Lyon and and Far Southern Lassen Counties.

* Winds...Southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph.

* Humidity...As low as 10 to 15 percent.

* Duration...3 to 6 hours.

* Impacts...The combination of gusty winds and low humidity can cause fire to rapidly grow in size and intensity before first responders can contain them.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Avoid outdoor activities that can cause a spark near dry vegetation, such as yard work, target shooting, or campfires. Follow local fire restrictions.

Check https://weather.gov/reno for updates and livingwithfire.info for preparedness tips.

Carson City School Summer Office Hours and Online Registration Updates

Kelsey Penrose — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:08:53 +0000

Carson City School District

The Carson City School District reminds the community that all school offices within the district, with the exception of Carson High School, will be closed from June 17 to August 5. The Carson High School office will be open to help you from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

During this timeframe, parents and families of kindergarten through twelfth-grade students, regardless of their zoned school, are welcome and encouraged to visit Carson High School for assistance with their online registration (OLR) updates or to register new students for the 2024-25 school year. Please note that Spanish-speaking support will be available on Thursdays.

It is important to complete all OLR updates by August 5 to ensure students receive their teacher and class schedules at the August Back-to-School events. The district encourages families to complete OLR updates as soon as possible to avoid any delays.

Following consistent issues at Zephyr Cove Beach, paid parking is now required and parking is limited

Kelsey Penrose — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 15:52:07 +0000

Douglas County Press Release

Douglas County is pleased to announce important updates to parking regulations and options for visitors and residents enjoying Zephyr Cove Beach at Lake Tahoe this summer.

For the first time, "No Parking" signs will line both sides of Highway 50 in each direction from the new stoplight installed by the Nevada Department of Transportation at Warrior Way.

Zephyr Cove Beach has made headlines after repeated issues with beach goers leaving over 6,000 pounds of trash in one day, getting into fights, and more.

Douglas County will have limited paid parking on Warrior Way, Zephyr Cove Park, Zephyr Cove Elementary School, and George Whittell High School (see map). The convenient, safe parking will also allow for additional sanitation facilities. Payments will be accepted using your handheld phone/personal device through a QR code or text message. Douglas County residents will be exempt from any parking charges to use the Warrior Way parking area. License plate readers will be installed to monitor compliance.

Flexible parking rates. (Starting June 15, 2024 through August 31, 2024)

$20 per day-(Weekday Monday through Friday)

$40 weekend- (non-holiday, non-high demand)

$100 holiday and high demand

(flexible rates will be adjusted based on demand in order to reduce capacity and impacts on Zephyr Cove Beach)

Douglas County is committed to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all beachgoers. The new parking regulations and paid parking options aim to reduce beach congestion, improve sanitation, and enhance overall safety. The fees for parking in these new areas will be flexible and on-demand depending on usage. Douglas County is asking beach goers to plan ahead and research parking options prior to visiting the beaches.

This program will involve collaboration between Douglas County and the Douglas County School District, utilizing land owned by both entities. This pilot program will help determine the long-term viability and potential expansion of a Douglas County parking program.

Partnership with HonkMobile USA, Ltd.

Douglas County has entered into a service agreement with HonkMobile USA, Ltd. ("HonkMobile") to manage the paid parking system at Warrior Way in Zephyr Cove. HonkMobile will handle card-based payment transactions through their software, which allows customers to pay via QR Code or text.

Net proceeds from the paid parking program will support the school parents club, booster club, Douglas County School District, and the Douglas County Park System.

Douglas County Beaches are owned by the US Forest Service and operated by third party vendors for more information visit the following independent websites:

Zephyr Cove Beach: http://www.zephyrcove.com/
Round Hill Pines Resort: https://www.roundhillpinesresort.com/
Nevada Beach: https://www.tahoepublicbeaches.org/beaches/nevada-beach/

The paid parking program on Warrior Way only provides parking for Zephyr Cove Beach.

For more information and updates, please visit: https://communityservices.douglascountynv.gov/cms/one.aspx?portalId=1249...

Illegally parked cars will be ticketed and possibly towed. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office will be providing public safety and impaired driving enforcement as required.

For more information on how you can recreate and help take care of our extraordinary natural treasure Lake Tahoe, visit https://takecaretahoe.org/take-action/

Two found dead south of Tahoe following search for missing plane

Kelsey Penrose — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 15:10:23 +0000

Paula Peterson, South Tahoe Now

Two people have been found dead after the plane they were in crashed in Alpine County, south of Lake Tahoe. On June 13 at approximately 1 a.m., deputies from the Alpine County Sheriff's Office were notified of an overdue aircraft that had left Lodi, Calif. on Wednesday afternoon.

The aircraft’s GPS transponder was plotting in the Willow Creek area near Luther Pass. Deputies responded and located a crashed single-engine aircraft adjacent to Willow Creek Road. The aircraft had two individuals on board. Both were pronounced deceased on the scene, according to the sheriff's office.

Alpine County Sheriff’s Deputies are handling the coroner’s investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board, Federal Aviation Administration, and U.S. Forest Service were notified and they responded to handle their respective investigations.

Identification of the two decedents will be withheld at this time until proper notification to the next of kin has been made. This investigation is ongoing and no other information is available at this

Teen in custody following convenience store robbery in Carson City

Kelsey Penrose — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 06:20:06 +0000

A sixteen-year-old Carson City resident is in custody following a gas station robbery Thursday night.

According to Sheriff Ken Furlong, the robbery occurred at an ExtraMile convenience store and involved a knife.

This is not the first robbery the juvenile has allegedly committed. Because of their age, their name will not be released to the public.

More information will be released when available.

There is no danger to the public at this time.

Carson City author Michael K. Falciani wins inaugural ACES High Award for literature

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 22:27:27 +0000

By Stephen H. Provost

We have a winner! Dragon Crown Books is pleased to announce that Carson City author Michael K. Falciani is the winner of the inaugural ACES High Award for outstanding contribution to The ACES Anthology 2023.

Dragon Crown Books publisher and author Stephen H. Provost presented the award to Falciani on June 13 in front of the Nevada Capitol Building.

Michael K. Falciani is the pen name of local elementary school teacher Kinkade DeJoseph. Already an award-winning author, his novel The Raven and the Crow: The Gray Throne was named Best Fantasy Novel at the 2023 Imaginarium Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. A second novel, The Dwarves of Rahm: Omens of War, was named Best Steampunk Novel at the same event.

Falciani’s contribution to the ACES Anthology was a fantasy short story titled “Shadow’s Edge.” He was one of 25 authors who contributed short stories or poetry to the anthology, which was open to authors from across Northern Nevada and published by Carson City-based Dragon Crown Books. Only short stories contained in the volume were eligible for the award.

“Shadow’s Edge” was selected by a panel of five judges, and the voting was extremely close. In fact, each of the five judges selected a different first-place story. Entries were judged on a points system, with 3 points being awarded for first place, 2 for second, and 1 for third. Entries included stories from a variety of genres, including fantasy, horror, science fiction, romance, mystery, and literary works.

Other stories receiving first-place votes were “Slipping Through the Devil’s Gate” by L.F. Falconer, “The Escape” by Kelli Heitstumen-Tomko, “Of Camels and Faeries” by Angela Laverghetta, and “Ice Cream on Tuesday” by Laura Magee. Falciani received 6 points, L.F. Falconer received 5, and Ken Sutherland (whose story “Swoop” received one second- and two third-place votes) received 4. In all, 10 different authors received at least one vote.

Stephen H. Provost, publisher of the collection, and Sharon Marie Provost, chief operating officer of Dragon Crown Books, were ineligible for the award and together accounted for one of the five judging submissions. Stephen H. Provost is the author of more than 50 books and an editor with more than 30 years of experience at daily newspapers. Sharon Marie Provost is the author of Shadow’s Gate and co-author of Christmas Nightmare’s Eve and All Hallows’ Nightmare’s Eve.

The other four judges were:

• Reno novelist and Emmy Award-winning retired anchorman Bill Brown, whose books include The Alien, The Gate, Lightning, and Blood Mountain.
• Language expert and author C.S. Perryess from the Central California coast, whose Wordmonger blog may be found at perryess.com.
• Veteran horror author Stephen Mark Rainey of Virginia, former publisher of Deathrealm Magazine and the author of numerous books, including Blue Devil Island, Fugue Devil: Resurgence, and several entries in the Elizabeth Massey’s Ameri-Scares series.
• Northern Nevada author Jacci Turner, who runs the Northern Nevada Writers group and whose works include Tangled People and The Tree Singer. She is the author of 12 books for middle-grade/young adult readers and two for adults.

Dragon Crown Books plans to publish a second ACES Anthology in 2024, with submissions due by September 30. The anthology is open to Northern Nevada authors only, writing in any genre. For details or to submit a story, please email Sharon Marie Provost at sharon.dragoncrown@gmail.com. For more books by these and other Northern Nevada authors, visit acesofnorthernnevada.com and follow ACES on Facebook.

Douglas County School board selects new superintendent for third time

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 20:48:43 +0000

by Kelsey Penrose

The Douglas County School Board selected Angelo “Frankie” Alvarado, a Ukiah, Calif. district administrator, as their next superintendent.

This is the third selection for a superintendent, the first of which was John Ramirez Jr., also of California, who had a history of DUI, sexual harassment, hit and run, mismanagement of district funds, and more.

The second was currently serving interim superintendent Jeanne Dwyer, who was offered the position in a breach of open meeting law. When it was brought back, the board majority changed its mind and walked back the offer.

Alvarado currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for the Ukiah Unified School District, which he has held for one year. Prior to this he served for four years as a Middle School Principal, Director of HR, and Elementary School Principal for the Mammoth Unified School District; an Assistant Principal within the Ontario Montclair School District for two years; and a Coordinator of Special Education with the Sequoia Union High School District for 11 months.

The choice was a contentious one, having been selected over Dwyer, and Douglas High graduate / Silver Stage High School Principal Patrick Peters, who has been in the position for 19 years. In total, he has worked in education in Nevada for thirty years, all within the Lyon County School District.

The third finalist, Louise Simson, withdrew her application after she received a job offer at another district.

The previous Superintendent Keith Lewis resigned November 2023, after a failed attempt to fire him, due to continued issues with the board.

Trustee Yvonne Wagstaff continued to advocate for the hiring of Dwyer, stating she is the “best option” and has been doing a “heck of a great job.”

Wagstaff also said she believes the board needs to hire someone who actually has superintendent experience especially considering the “climate of the school board and the divisiveness” that continues to be an issue between the board's majority and minority trustees.

Peters has often been vocal in his issues with the board during public comment, but the board minority of Wagstaff, Carey Kangas and Linda Gilkerson were in support of him given his long tenure in Nevada education.

Wagstaff pointed out that in comparison, Alvarado had moved across a number of California school districts to climb the ranks which she believes does not show commitment.

A number of public commenters were also in support of Peters, citing his long work in education and his volunteerism within the community.

Trustees David Burns, Katherine Dickerson, Susan Jansen and Doug Englekirk however said they wanted to bring in a “fresh face” that did not have previous ties to the district.

The public commenters in favor of Alvarado echoed this sentiment, stating he would be a neutral party among the divided board.

The Interview

Jansen’s first question was regarding a proposed policy keeping trans students out of school sports referencing a current case in the 9th circuit court originating from Arizona.

Alvarado said that because the case has not gone through the 9th circuit courts yet, he would advise against attempting to initiate any policy that would incur even more legal fees. “If we can wait and see, make decisions that are grounded in law, that would be the most beneficial pathway for the district.”

Englekirk asked what Alvarado’s opinion was on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) appearing to be in conflict with a “meritocracy.”

Alvarado said they are two different ideologies and he would first need a “listen and learn” to figure out what the board’s philosophy and directions are. “These are two different things, so I don’t necessarily think you could say they are in conflict.” He said, however, it’s always important to have staff that represents the demographics of the district’s students.

Kangas asked what Alvarado thought was the most significant challenge facing the school district and if he had a plan to address it.

Alvarado said the biggest challenge is staff shortages. “We need to have highly qualified teachers and highly qualified staff to serve kids. So we need to have a strong plan to track, hire and retain employees on all sides of the house. We need to find out what the root causes are — if we see a lot of people leaving, we need to do exit surveys to figure out why they don’t want to be here in Douglas County, then putting in systems and structures that address the systemic issues.”

Alvarado said they also need to address chronic absenteeism and they need to figure out how to get students in seats or enroll them in an online program so they have access to education. Alvarado said there needs to be a system in place at every school site to make sure that every school absence results in a phone call home, and if students miss more than ten days, then a meeting needs to happen with the student and parents.

Alvarado said looking at the data shows that bullying issues are high, which could be a root cause of absenteeism.

He said finally, a major issue is declining enrollment and with declining enrollment comes tightening staff. “I’d have to work with the board on that for what their overarching plan for the future is, and looking at birth rates to develop a birth rate formula to determine how many kids are going to be coming into the district. Then you can plan appropriately for 5-7 years ahead.”

He said they also need to look into development, and what kind of housing is being built, and if those developments are attracting families with school-aged children.

Kangas also asked if Alvarado would agree to knowingly break the law or discriminate against anyone in the district if asked to by the board.

"No," Alvarado said. "I think that's the easiest question I'll get tonight. I believe in upholding people's rights, and treating them with dignity."

Dickerson asked if it was his job to put forth the will of the board, or the public “and others.”

Alvarado said he takes direction from the board: “The board determines what we’re going to work on, and the superintendent determines how we’re going to do that. And I do that by leading and managing a cabinet level team.”

Alvarado said he would expect the board to “consider, listen and learn from the voices within the district” and put forth what the constituents want, which would then be shared with the superintendent.

Dickerson asked if the majority of the board puts forth something that Alvarado doesn’t agree with, would he still “put forth the will of the board.”

“I don’t carry a personal agenda with me,” Alvarado said.

Wagstaff asked what makes him believe he is qualified to become the next superintendent since he doesn’t have superintendent experience, and given the “current climate of the school district.”

Alvarado said he has been working towards this position since he was in high school. He said all of his changes in districts have been strategic so he could rise through the ranks to become a superintendent. He said he has achieved great gains in academic achievement and reducing behavioral issues at all of the districts he’s worked for. He went through all of the experience he had throughout his districts and the achievements he made.

Gilkerson asked what his leadership style is, and asked for an example of when it failed and when it was successful.
 Alvarado said he is “not a top-down leader,” and believes in making shared decisions, even if it takes longer. He said an example of a failure is not making progress within a specific time frame due to the length of time it takes to make decisions communally.

“It’s not necessarily a bad thing, however, I believe in participatory management and I’m a servant leader. I’m here to serve staff and to provide support.”

He said he also wants to provide surveys because "every voice in Douglas County matters," especially with the issues the district is facing with its division.

Alvarado’s full interview can be viewed here.

Alvarado will return before the board during its July 9 meeting with a contract.

Music, Chautauqua and Local Author at Dangberg Historic Park June 20

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 19:28:52 +0000

By Kim Harris - Events Manager

A concert by The Sierra Sweethearts, a Chautauqua of Laura D. Fair, and local author Gregory Crouch are featured as part of the Dangberg Summer Festival in June.

On Thursday, June 20, from 6:30 – 8:00 pm, The Sierra Sweethearts will play a blend of bluegrass music spiced with humor.

Thursday evening concert ticket prices are $20 for 17 years and older. Youth 16 years and younger are free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased at the event. Members of Friends of Dangberg Home Ranch will receive discount pricing and should contact the park for more information. The gate opens at 5:30 pm.

On Friday, June 21, from 10:00-11:00 am, Kim Harris will portray Laura D. Fair who was the owner of Virginia City’s Tahoe House and a convicted murderess.

Four times married, twice widowed, and twice divorced all by the age of 33, Laura D. Fair was the first woman in California sentenced to hang for the murder of her lover, Alexander Parker Crittenden in November of 1870. Arriving in Virginia City, Nevada Territory in 1863, Fair ran the newly built Tahoe House as an upscale boarding house where she met successful San Francisco attorney A. P. Crittenden. Her seven-year affair with Crittenden, and emotional ups and downs led to his murder, for which she was eventually acquitted.

Kim Harris is an accomplished Chautauquan with over 15 years’ experience, having presented local and national historical characters, from California to Bronxville, NY. She is the owner of Western History ALIVE! where she presents the lives of many famous and infamous historical figures.

All Friday morning Chautauquas are free for all to attend.

On Saturday, June 22, from 10:00-11:00 am, The Bonanza King author Gregory Crouch, will discuss Comstock mining legend John Mackay, who got his start in the United States as a destitute Irish immigrant brought to New York City in 1840, when he was 9 years old. Mackay grew up in the notorious Five Points slum, came of age amid the violent mayhem of the California Gold Rush, and rose to the full power of his manhood in the dangerous mines of the Comstock Lode beneath Virginia City, Nevada.

The extraordinary wealth John Mackay extracted from the Comstock Lode drove wild stock market frenzies in San Francisco, and launched his wife, Mary-Louise Mackay, on a meteoric social career among the finest European aristocrats. When John Mackay died in 1902, he was the fifth richest American.

In addition to The Bonanza King, Gregory Crouch is also the author of the true-life World War II flying adventure China’s Wings and the mountaineering memoir Enduring Patagonia. Crouch has published stories in The Atlantic, National Geographic, Smithsonian, Time, the Wall Street Journal, and a host of other national and regional media.

This event is free for all to attend.

Please bring your own seating and no pets allowed – certified service animals only. Guests are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy as no food or beverages will be sold at these events. All events are held outdoors. For more information on these events, or on visiting Dangberg Historic Park, please visit https://www.Dangberg.org/

Carson City Friday Family Fun Days returns to Mills Park June 21

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 18:41:49 +0000

Event Date:

Repeats every week until Fri Aug 09 2024 .

June 21, 2024 - 5:00pm

June 28, 2024 - 5:00pm

July 5, 2024 - 5:00pm

July 12, 2024 - 5:00pm

July 19, 2024 - 5:00pm

July 26, 2024 - 5:00pm

August 2, 2024 - 5:00pm

August 9, 2024 - 5:00pm

by Kelsey Penrose

Carson City Friday Family Fun Days is kicking off the 2024 summer season at Mills Park Friday, June 21.

Each Friday, event goers can find either live music or a community movie in the park along with a selection of food trucks. Kids actives include giant Jenga, giant 4-across, giant velcro kick darts, cornhole, bean bag skee ball, chicken fingers, and a selfie spot.

The fun begins each Friday night at 5 p.m. and will continue through 9 p.m.

The schedule is as follows:

June 21: Music, Carson Street Ragtime Band

June 28: Music, Mile High Jazz Band

July 5: Movie, Black Panther

July 18: Movie, Angels in the Outfield

July 26: Movie, Finding Nemo

August 2: Music, Live Remote KNVC Radio Station

August 9: Music, Mike Schermer

Keep up to date with Friday Family Fun Days by following them on Facebook.

Tonight: A Night in Genoa Benefit Concert a free, all ages event

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 18:16:03 +0000

Join us for the 4th Annual A Night in Genoa Benefit Concert

Grab your blankets and your low-backed chairs and join us for the 4th annual A Night in Genoa Benefit Concert! It will be a night of great music, great food, and great fun all in support of a great cause! The event will be held at the Genoa Town Park on Saturday, July 13, 2024 kicking off at 6pm.

This is a FREE all-ages event!

A Night in Genoa is a community fundraiser held annually at the Genoa Town Park. Bring a blanket and low backed chairs for an evening of live music by Greg Austin beginning at 7pm.

This year, we're thrilled to feature a variety of food trucks offering delicious dinner options for purchase beginning at 6pm. Treat yourself to a diverse selection of cuisines conveniently available right at the event. A no-host bar will also be available with all bar sales going towards the CVH Foundation.

This year’s event is sponsored by Nevada Home Finder Koerner Group, EXP Realty, Guild Mortgage RUSH TEAM, and Carson Valley Health.

We are excited to announce that this year's beneficiary is the Carson Valley Health Foundation. We invite you to join us in this meaningful endeavor and help us make a real difference in the health of the Carson Valley. This event is not just about raising funds, but about rallying together in support of the community we call home!

Nevada Humane Society, Carson City’s Pet of the Week: Tony

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 16:57:18 +0000

Nevada Humane Society

Our Pet of the Week is Tony.Tony is a ten-year-old taking on the world as a blind pup. This senior sweetheart is a great leash walker as he bravely explores new places using his other senses. He’s become quite the fan favorite in Reno and Carson City. This survivor hasn’t let his hurdles overwhelm his sweet personality. His tail is always wagging!

Here is what Tony has to say: “Hi there, I'm Tony, a senior sweetheart who's learned to navigate my world with the help of my walker friends. I absolutely relish all the attention I get from people—it really makes my day! While I'm not a fan of surprises, I absolutely LOVE treats. Before I can join a new family, I need to meet any resident dogs to make sure we'll get along. As for cats, well, I'm still a bit of a mystery in that department. Despite being a blind pup, I'm full of love and ready to share it with a wonderful new family.”

Tony’s been spending some time out of the shelter in a foster home, so give them a call to set up a meeting with him. They can be reached at 775-887-2171 and are located at 549 Airport Road in Carson City. We’re open 11:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily.

Flushing to occur today, Thursday in E. Robinson, Carson High area, causing possible water discoloration

Kelsey Penrose — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 14:35:05 +0000

Carson City Public Works

E. ROBINSON / CARSON HIGH SCHOOL AREA: Carson City Public Works will be performing water main flushing on Thursday, June 13, 2024, in the vicinity of Carson High School at East Robinson.

There is potential for periods of discolored water that is expected to clear within a few hours; it is not harmful. Please avoid washing light colored laundry if your water is discolored.

For any questions or concerns please call 775-887-2355 or visit carson.org/wateralert for more information.

Status map will be updated Thursday morning.

Max Casino in Carson City to host 2024 July 4 hot dog eating competition

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 13:50:06 +0000

Press release

Join in for a day of fun, competition, and great food as Max Casino in Carson City hosts its 2nd annual hot dog eating contest.

Ten contestants will go bun-to-bun to see who can eat ten (10) hot dogs plus bun the fastest in 10 minutes.

The winner will walk away with the Max Casino “Top Dog” Championship trophy and $1,000 cash. Plus, second place will also walk away with $500 cash.

Prospective competitive eaters must be a Max Reward Member (it’s free to sign up) to participate in the Max Casino Hot Dog Eating Championship.

Max Reward members can redeem drawing entries each day starting Monday, July 1 through Thursday, July 4, 2024. Reward members collect entries based on tier status each day, MVP - 3, Star – 2, and Max- 1.

Contestants will be drawn to win a seat at the table, on Thursday, July 4 at 5:30 p.m. Hot Dog Championship begins at 6 pm on the main stage. Previous Dog Champion and 2nd place defend their titles.

Date: July 4th, 6pm
Prizes:
1st Place: $1,000 cash
2nd Place: $500 cash

Visit Max Casino or Maxcasinocc.com for complete rules and details.

Carson City Sheriff's K9 Ivo crossed the rainbow bridge

Jeff Munson — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 01:15:53 +0000

CCSO Sgt. Darin Riggin

The Carson City Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit would like you all to join us in celebrating the life and experiences of K9 Ivo, who passed just a few days ago.

K9 Ivo was a primary member of our K9 unit and has been with us since 2014. He was first assigned to Sergeant Brian Humphrey, where he began his career as a Special Enforcement Team (SET) member. Sergeant Humphrey was promoted shortly thereafter, and Ivo was paired with his forever partner, Detective Brett Bindley. The two would become inseparable.

A master of all trades, K9 Ivo was certified in the detection of narcotics, tracking, and suspect apprehension. Together, Detective Bindley and K9 Ivo would dedicate six years fulfilling needs in Patrol, Special Enforcement, and SWAT. Seen below, he even braved a shift in our Dispatch Call Center! During his tenure, Ivo accounted for more than a thousand field deployments, resulting in a multitude of arrests and the seizure of drugs that would otherwise have been free to wreak havoc in our community.

When not at work, K9 Ivo was part of the family. He went home every day to be with his humans, where he spent his time relaxing with dad, protecting the family, and playing with his favorite little girl. Ivo retired in 2020 and got to spend the last four years with his family full-time.

In life, Ivo embodied everything the Sheriff’s Office and its K9 Unit should be. He was a hard-working public servant, an ambassador to the Carson City community, and a loving companion at home. We’re grateful to have enjoyed him for as long as we have, and we thank you for sharing in his memory.

For additional information regarding CCSO K9, or if you’d like to know how you can donate to the K9 unit, please contact Sgt. Riggin 775-283-7889 driggin@carson.org or visit the Sheriff’s Office main building, 911 East Musser Street during regular business hours.

NDOT-led study recognized for efforts to reduce animal-vehicle crashes, keep wildlife connected

Jeff Munson — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 00:05:06 +0000

NDOT news release

A pool-funded study led by the Nevada Department of Transportation recently received a Federal Highway Administration Environmental Excellence Award.

The Wildlife Vehicle Collision Reduction and Habitat Connectivity transportation study, formed with the goal of reducing the risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions and improving habitat connectivity, has received an FHWA 2024 Environmental Excellence Award. The award recognizes outstanding federally-funded transportation projects and programs that go above and beyond to achieve nation-leading environmental excellence.

Completed in 2022, the NDOT-led study presents an authoritative review of the most effective measures to reduce conflict between wildlife and roads, improve motorist safety, and offer safer crossings for wildlife. The study produced 20 reports, including manuals for how to:

— Protect motorists from wildlife-vehicle collisions,
— Restore wildlife connectivity across transportation corridors,
— Prioritize locations and actions to minimize wildlife-vehicle conflict, and
— Institutionalize and incorporate wildlife concerns into transportation processes.

“This effort has been monumental and unprecedented for this field of study,” said Nova Simpson, NDOT’s wildlife crossings program manager. “We are excited and happy for all of the partners, research teams and individuals that have been involved.”

Reducing animal-vehicle collisions is a focus for NDOT, with the department having installed 24 large animal over- and underpasses and modified an additional 13 structures to improve large animal movement. NDOT has also installed 42 tortoise crossings, and erected more than 500 miles of wildlife fencing in Nevada. Each year, more than 500 animal-vehicle crashes are reported in the state, but it’s estimated that only 10 percent of such crashes are reported.

Nationally, as many as two million collisions occur with large mammals in the U.S. leading to approximately 200 human deaths every year and $10 billion in costs to taxpayers.

It’s against this backdrop that study results have been presented to national and state audiences, used by states to apply for funding from the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program, and utilized by nonprofits and legislators to support state wildlife mitigation legislation.

Go here to view the study and its findings, under the heading “Transportation Pooled Fund TPF-5(358).

Historian Mark McLaughlin returns Saturday to Dangberg Historic Park

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 22:10:05 +0000

By Events Manager Kim Harris

On Saturday, June 15, at 10 a.m., historian and author Mark McLaughlin will return to Dangberg Historic Park to speak on Charles F. McGlashan who was an American writer, historian, journalist, educator, lawyer, amateur entomologist and astronomer.

He was also a Republican who took an active role in Sinophobic movements in Truckee, Calif., in the 1880s. McGlashan Point overlooking Donner Lake is named after him.

In McLaughlin’s opinion, no one did more for the Truckee community and beyond, than Charles F. McGlashan, but his leadership in the 19th century anti-Chinese movement threatens his legacy today.

Mark McLaughlin was educated as an historian and cultural geographer at the University of Nevada, Reno, and has lived at Lake Tahoe since 1978. McLaughlin is an award-winning, nationally published author, professional speaker, and photographer with seven books and more than nine hundred articles in print. He is also a frequent guest and contributor on radio programs, documentaries, and regional and national television including The History Channel and The Weather Channel.

This event is free for all to attend.

Nevada Guard to host Flag Day, Army birthday ceremonies Friday at capitol in Carson City

Jeff Munson — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 21:59:06 +0000

Event Date:

June 14, 2024 - 10:00am

The Nevada National Guard will host its 26th annual Flag Day Ceremony and the U.S. Army’s 249th Birthday celebration at 10 a.m. this Friday, June 14, at the Veterans Memorial on the Capitol Grounds, 101 N. Carson St. in Carson City.

The event is free and open to the public and will include a historical flag presentation by the Nevada Air Guard. This year’s ceremony will feature a speech by Division of Emergency Management Chief David Fogerson and the Army birthday address will be delivered by Brig. Gen. D. Rodger Waters.

The U.S. Flag flown at Fort Ruby in the 1860s will be on display and Army birthday cake will be served to all attendees, compliments of the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization. Citizens are also welcome to bring their unserviceable U.S. Flags for future proper disposal.

The U.S. Army is two years older than the U.S. Flag. A resolution of the Continental Congress authorized 10 companies of riflemen on June 14, 1775, to establish the U.S. Army. Two years later, the Continental Congress passed the first Flag Act and adopted the stars-and-stripes design as our nation’s flag. In 1949, President Harry Truman signed an act of Congress designating June 14 at National Flag Day.

Later, the Carson City Community Emergency Response Team, in conjunction with the Carson City Fire Department will conduct a formal U.S. flag retirement ceremony on Flag Day, Friday, June 14, at 3:30 p.m. at CCFD Station 52, located at 2400 College Parkway.

At the formal U.S. flag retirement ceremony, dignitaries, veterans, and other guests, will witness the ceremonial burning of a U.S. flag in honor of our country and what our flag stands for.

Guests can park at the Carson City Airport located at 2600 College Parkway. A JAC shuttle will be available to transport guests to and from the ceremony. Limited handicapped parking is available next to Station 52.

The United States Flag Code establishes advisory rules for display and care of the flag of the United States. Included in these rules is guidance regarding the proper disposal of U.S. flags which are unfit for display. The preferred method for disposal (known as retirement) is burning.

Near record 442 students make Western Nevada College spring dean’s list

Jeff Munson — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 21:00:33 +0000

Western Nevada College

Students at Western Nevada College performed exceptionally well in the classroom during the Spring 2024 semester.

In fact, 442 students have earned academic recognition for making the Dean’s List. The total number of academic achievers is only exceeded by the 487 students on the Fall 2023 Dean’s List and the 461 students on the Fall 2022 Dean’s List.

"I am so proud of the successes of our students and thank the faculty and staff for their work supporting them. Congratulations!" WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe said.

To earn the distinction and honor of making WNC’s Dean’s List, students must complete at least 12 units during the semester and accumulate a grade point average of 3.50 or higher.

Honorees are from 23 Nevada cities and four states.

Boulder City
Eva Kauffman

Carson City
Taelyn Ailes, Misty Allen, Mallory Argust, Jessica Artz, Jared Ashton, Melenny Avalos Diaz, Nicolas Baggio, Darius Banko, Kristina Benbrooks, Enrique Berben, Susie Berger, Christian Bernal Ruiz, Brandon Bernal Ruiz, Noa Blann, Lluvia Bonilla Montes, Joshua Bowen, Michael Brito, Kalip Brown, Davyn Cabral, Soren Cadwell, Jose Calderon, Hannon Callahan, Samantha Casillas, Angel Castro-Polvorosa, Jacob Chenoweth, Monica Chiazza, Yazmin Conchas, Damian Contreras, Jennifer Croley, Naomi Dickens, Talia Diez, Halie Dones, Karina Rosario Duenas, Michelle Escobar, Lahaina Cyrille Estomin, Sarah Flynt, Jacob Frazer, James Giant, Shannon Gillham, Aubrey Glazner, Jessica Gonzalez, Will Gosen, Carlos Gurrola, Savanah Guzman, Anakin Guzzetta, Jonathan Hall, Jacob Hanson, Lexi Harris, Jeffrey Heaton, Kylie Heckman, Eduardo Hernandez Meza, Lyndsay Hernandez, Benjamin Hirt, Ibis Hood, Isaac Hope-Almazan, Leonardo Ibarra, Emily Jaeger, Giselle Jimenez, Riley Kolsch, Brandon Larkin, MacKenzie Leazer, Elle Liebendorfer, Diana Lobato, Ethan Lopez, Pedroantonio Madera, Emilee Mallory, Evelyn Manzano, Cristina Martinez, Monica Mascareno Roque, James Mason, Paul Mcdermott, Izabella McNeely, McKenzie Merrell, Noel Mesa, Charles Miles, Natalya Miller, Edgar Morales, Franco Morales, Leif Morway, Omar Munoz, Elza Nashelskiy, Chloe Nelson, Lucas O'Brien, Elena Oliva, Dylan Olson, Abraham Ortega, Elias Palumbo, Madelyn Peachay, Emily Pierce, Grace Plummer, Kaitlynn Plummer, Aaron Ramirez, Adrian Ramirez, Aiden Ravenway, Kate Read, Avery Redmon, Wade Ricketts, Jorge Robles, Sequoia Rohr, Ariel Salas, Emily Sanchez, Gabriella Sarabia, Alyssa Saragosa, Luisa Segura-Cruz, Jordan Sieben, Andi Simmons, Olivia Singleton, Brandon Smolyansky, Emma Stagliano, Jonathan Summers, Nolani Thomann, Jailey Tijerina, Leo Triglia, Ellie Vaughan, Yvonne Vestal, Daniel Villa Garcia, Seth Wallace, William Webster, Catalina Wilson, Alan Zamora, Diego Zamora Rodriguez

Dayton
Muskan Atrafi, Diana Banuelos Ibarra, Cam Beckwith, Teilhard Benkovich, Jaelei Bowles, Karissa Chavez-Shoemaker, Colton Clark, Cheyenne Clayson, Sadi Denning, Erica Diaz, Aspen Evans, Rhys Evans, Brynn Fowler, Ryan Freitas, Jacob Geril, Marbella Gomez, Sarah Gorcey, Grace Grahmann, Macen Harker, Sebastian Holsinger, Lillian Howell, Kendall Kennedy, Daniel Kosanovich, Kenneth Larsen, Katalina McAtee, Ruby Meeden, Noah Montero, Kiley Paterson, Tenaya Reyes, Robert Samsoe, Thomas Shumway, Kelly Solorzano, Suzanna Stankute, Delaney Stanton, Ashley Vestal, Trent Whitney, Kiera Windsor, Whitney Winward, Raquel Workman

Elko
Gary Walker

Fallon
Serenity Achurra, Michelle Adams, Eve Amaral-Marshall, Hailey Arends, Leah Bake, Emily Bird, Makenna Blunt, David Byers, Gracie Cosman, Samuel Davis, Ava Ekins-Faught, Sebastian Escartin, Brittney Griggs, Joshua Gusewelle, Alexis Haggard, Camryn Hook, Zach Hopkins, Reece Hutchings, Kennadee Irving, Natalie Jaques, Brielle Johnson, Megan Johnson, Isabella Kauffman, Alec Lecker, Ron Lee, Luis Lopez Pinuelas, Dru MacKay, Chrystal Martinez, Donovan May, Hunter McNabb, Haley Moore, Marissa Rau, Drake Reid, Mason Rolfe, Corbin Rollano, Bruce Runnels, Gabriel Schumann, Rebecca Smith, Braden Sorensen, Kylan Sorensen, Anna Springfield, Mason Storm, Alexander Treuel, Brisa Ugalde, Kiley Wallace, Dallin West

Fernley
Carly Abrahamson, Selena Albarran, Kaitlyn Bailey, Zachary Budner, Ashley Dillon, JC Fiesta, Isabel Garibaldi-Suarez, Katelyn Griffith, Ashley Hendry, Jesse James, Daniel Lauinger, Joshua Luis, Keagen Mckinney, An Nguyen, Thanh Nguyen, Josephine Ortega, Etelvina Rojas, Phillip Rosas, Robert Swain, Arth Acer Valdez, Aubrey Vaughn, Clint Vaughn, William Weitzel, Sierra Williams, Emma Woolsey

Gardnerville
John Baughman, Russell Bingaman, Kayla Burkett, Matthew Campbell, Kelley Carrison, Samantha Clark, Vincent Cole, Alex Contreras, Ty Crockett, Moises De la Torre, Maximum Dillwith, Mariana Escobedo Gonzalez, Dylan Evans, Johnathan Gonzales, Osvaldo Gonzalez, Danielle Gula, Cadence Gurule, Nick Gutierrez, Haley Kruger, Brandi Lindsay, Louie Martinez, Angela Mitchell, Colby Morian, Amy Neff, Roland Norris, Rayne O'Kert, Ethan Pacak, Elena Phillips, Danica Pinto, Sierra Pulver, Emily Rea, Tyler Reinhardt, Katheryn Rivera, Amy Rivinius, Michael Robinson, Hannah Schaeffer, Brittney Schell, Caroline Schofield, Tobylee Sparrow, Dave Stegg, Calvin Stevenson, Cooper Turnage, Cristian Valenzuela González, Faith Wilson

Hawthorne
Mckynzy Broadhead

Henderson
Analisa Bates, Garrett Chanice, Malia DeSouza, Faith Drowanowski, Jennifer Lopez Lopez, Addison Lyon, Brooke McDaniel, Cyth Narayan, Alexa Sprout-Gilbreath, Christiana Williams

Las Vegas
Kaylen Abao, Cody Adams, Crystal Angulo, Michael Araica, Edgar Arellano, Dianisel Ayala, Jesus Bobadilla, Miguel Bolanos, Michaela Bornales, Neveah Cobb, Aiyannah Craddock, Manuel Cruz, Triston De La Torre-Carroll, Evelyn De Leon Valdivia, Ellery Diaz, Brian Feleski, Jaquelyn Flores Chomo , Kirsten Frost, Andrea Galvan Diaz, Andrew Garcia, Ashley Garcia-Prado, Kamyla Gastelum Sevilla, Melanie Gonzalez, Daniel Granillo, Victor Granillo, Johann Leon-Gonzalez, Vania Mendez Rodriguez, Kevin Meneses Reyes, Dulce Munoz, Armani Paniagua, Roxana Paz Medina, Charles Potter, Rhyanna Prata, Georgiana Radu, Mia Ramos Saenz, Alexia Raygoza, Melissa Rodriguez, Ricardo Rodriguez, Juan Rosales, Erika Segovia, Kayden Segovia, Angela Tejeda Oropeza, Brookelynn Thomas, Danny Trahan, Ella Ungs, Logan Werner, Haley West, Naomi Wiggins

Minden
Alex Reyes, Richard Bell, Kenzie Bohnet, Kaytlin Calhoun, Kylie Compton, Pedro Davalos, Grant Gomes, Susan Guevara, Ava Kerley, Chelsea Kronenberg, Jersie Leedom, Ariel Lester, Erin Lewis, Samantha Lindsay, Riley McHenry, Hannah Pledger, Joel Potter, Hailey Wagstaff

Mound House
Gisela Gonzalez Uribe, Roberto Juarez Razo, Connor McChesney

North Las Vegas
Devan Arnson, Beyonce Felix, Alyssa Lincoln, Dermmell Reed, Kylian Van Wynendaele, Cameron Westbay, Robert Woods

Reno
Adam Brown, Brett Buck, Sarah Clauson, Casey Colley, Kory Davis, Dakota Farrar, Ava Farrell, Austin Feise, Hartley-Love Ferguson, Brandy Gavenda, Carlos Gayosso Aparicio, Jake Hardy, Pahler Hoid, Kimberly Jansen, Emma Joslin, Ryan Korson, Jeremy Laine, John Rees, Michael Rees, Ryan Romero, Jack Roof, Elena Ruebusch, Jordan Sequeira, Rachael Smith, Erin St. Andry, Sebastian Stormo, Savannagh Venables, Tara Vestal, Darryl Vincent, Jade Woffinden

Silver City
Allison Rasmussen

Silver Springs
Julia Davis-Valdez, Jessica Mendoza Jaramillo, Colt Shackley, Raven Smith, Mikayla Swoverland, Kayla Volkov

Sparks
Jazzriel Addams, Grace Ammerman, Jesse Butterfield, Alexia Estrella Velazquez, Alexander Jacinto, Ryan Rasch, Sione Taukiuvea

Stagecoach
Kassandra Canales, Tru Lundeen, Elizabeth Mendiola, Angelena Sampson

Stateline
Brooklyn Laremore, Justin Noble, Sonnet Van Doren

Virginia City
Alexander Clough, Sophia Lopez-Linde, Angela Rounds

Washoe Valley
Katie Bagula

Wellington
Cole Balda, Bryndis Mortensen, Wyatt Wulfing, Nicole Zaprzalka

Yerington
Isabelle Bodenstein, Makenna Coombs, Noelle Karrick, Beck Merrill, Anette Penaloza, Korina Ramirez Burgos, Viola Soukup, Sophia Stanton, Matthew Stuart, Rachel Thomas, Lily Trunk, Yosselin Vazquez

Phoenix, Ariz.
Valerie Leuchtmann

San Tan Valley, Ariz.
Simone Weston

Coleville, Calif.
Samantha Saint

South Lake Tahoe, Calif.
Jose Burgueno, Alba Morales, Brock Cox

College Station, Texas
Chloe Nickels

BLM urges Western Nevada residents to take wildfire precautions

Jeff Munson — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 19:51:23 +0000

Bureau of Land Management

The Bureau of Land Management is advising residents living within the Carson City District, which encompasses 5.3 million acres of federal public lands in 11 counties in western Nevada and eastern California, to be aware of wildfire prevention. In addition, prepare their homes and property for the advent of wildfire season.

“We are seeing above normal grass growth resulting from above-normal precipitation this last winter and spring,” said Carson City District Fire Management Officer Jonathan Palma. “Because of this and recent temperatures 10-15 degrees higher than normal, the risk for wildfire is escalating quickly.”

“Wildfires in western Nevada can move very fast in dry grass and preparedness is everything,” said Palma.

The following precautions should always be taken to prevent wildfires:

— Never leave a campfire unattended. Extinguish all campfires completely and stir ashes to make sure no hot coals remain and always make sure they are dead out.

— Dispose of cigarettes in proper containers away from any flammable material.

— If off-road vehicle use is allowed, internal combustion equipment should have a spark arrester.

— Avoid driving though dry vegetation or parking your vehicle in high grass or dry vegetation.

— Never use stoves, lanterns or heaters inside a tent.

— Store flammable liquid containers in a safe place.

— Do not shoot tracer bullets or incendiary ammunition.

— Do not shoot in areas of dry fuels especially in times of extreme conditions such as Red Flag Warnings. Shoot only at cardboard or paper targets or manufactured thrown-type clay targets.

— Remember, shots fired across open desert can travel more than a mile and can cause a wildfire.

— At the first sign of a wildfire, contact Sierra Front Interagency Dispatch Center at 775-883-5995 or call 911.

In collaboration with local wildfire cooperators, the Carson City BLM District will monitor fuels conditions and the potential need for fire restrictions as the season progresses.

More information can be found at: Great Basin Coordination Center’s website at here. A defensible space guide is posted on the www.nevadafireinfo.org website.

Learn more about what you can do to be prepared this wildfire season here and here.

Three executive leaders at Greater Nevada Credit Union appointed new roles

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 19:48:30 +0000

By KPS3

Greater Nevada Credit Union (GNCU) announces three executive leaders were appointed to new positions, including Jen Treadway, who has been named chief people officer; Shaz Wiltowsky, who will now serve as vice president of people resources; and Christy White, who has been named vice president of engagement.

“Jen, Shaz and Christy have made an impressive impact at GNCU and bolstered vital growth for our people resources division,” said Danny DeLaRosa, GNCU president and CEO. “I look forward to seeing their leadership further enhance our employees’ career journeys, our culture and the organization’s community engagement initiatives.”

Treadway joined GNCU in January 2023 as senior vice president of people and culture and was tasked with elevating the organization’s people and culture strategy. In just over one year, she drove the development and implementation of several impactful initiatives to cultivate an exceptional employee experience designed to engage them throughout their careers.

With her guidance, GNCU launched a leadership development program, enhanced training and growth resources and established a continuous listening strategy to collect and address employee feedback effectively. Treadway brings more than two decades of experience in human resources to her new role. She will now oversee community impact, people and human resources divisions.

Treadway holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno and a master’s degree in industrial organizational psychology from San Jose State University. She is actively involved in the Alzheimer's Association and volunteers as a mentor for youth and women through several community organizations.

Wiltowsky joined GNCU in December 2019 as a human resources manager. She quickly demonstrated her skills and passion for cultivating the organization’s employee culture and was promoted to director of people resources in December 2022.

With nearly 15 years of experience in human resources and people operations, her expertise and acumen span various areas, including employment law and compliance, talent acquisition, performance management, employee relations, compensation, payroll and benefits administration.

In her new position, Wiltowsky will continue to nurture GNCU’s culture and employee experience and oversee people resources, talent acquisition and safety. She earned a bachelor's degree in general studies and an executive master’s in business administration from the University of Nevada, Reno. She volunteers her time with the Reno Rodeo Association.

After starting her career at GNCU in 2005, White served in several roles within the people resources division, fueled by her passion for helping team members pursue meaningful careers and supporting her community. For nearly two decades, she has made a meaningful impact for GNCU’s employees, members and communities, demonstrating commitment to fostering a rewarding work environment.

Most recently, she led the talent support and people engagement teams and spearheaded employee recognition initiatives. As she steps into her new role, she will be responsible for generating further engagement with GNCU employees and community partners. She will oversee the people engagement, community impact and internal communications teams.

White holds a bachelor’s degree in human resources management and services from the University of Reno, Nevada, a master's degree in management from the University of Phoenix and certification from the Society for Human Resources Management. She is actively involved in the northern Nevada community and has donated her time to several events including Carson Middle School Mock Interviews, Food Bank of Northern Nevada, Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful cleanup days and various events for Special Olympics.

GNCU prides itself as an environment where people can grow in their careers. Those interested in learning more about career opportunities at GNCU are encouraged to visit gncu.org/careers .

About Greater Nevada Credit Union
Greater Nevada Credit Union (GNCU) is headquartered in Carson City, Nevada and has been helping Nevadans with their financial needs for the past 75 years. The credit union serves more than 88,000 consumers and small businesses and has $1.76 billion in assets. GNCU’s subsidiaries include Greater Nevada Mortgage, Greater Commercial Lending and Greater Nevada Insurance. GNCU is a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and has been consistently recognized as a Best Financial Institution in many of its service areas and as a top employer by the Reno/Tahoe Best Places to Work Awards. GNCU is also the title sponsor of Greater Nevada Field in Reno. For more information, call (800) 421-6674 or gncu.org