Stories for November 2006

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Thursday, November 30

Business licenses

CARSON CITY Business licenses issued in Carson City as of Nov. 22:

A New Year's resolution: Caveat emptor

Christine Williams has a new New Year's resolution: Be more careful about large investments.

Thursday

Graduation ceremony for Leadership Carson City 2007, 5:30 p.m., Nevada State Railroad Museum. Guest speaker is Sen. Mark Amodei. Visit www.carsoncitychamber.com.

Guerrilla tech changes face of modern warfare

A century ago, major world powers were free to invade and occupy foreign lands almost at will. Local residents with primitive weapons were no match for the well-armed invaders. But today, it's hard out there for conquering armies.

Help for the holidays

This December, Julie Dunlap will send out Christmas cards to people she has never met. She will buy presents for people who are nothing more to her than a name on a list.

Still skeptical even though West has leadership in Congress

When the newly elected Congress reconvenes early next month, Western Democrats will be in charge in both the Senate and the House - Nevada's own Harry Reid will take over as Senate majority leader and San Francisco's Nancy Pelosi will become the first female speaker of the House. Nevertheless, I have mixed feelings about this change in congressional leadership.

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Joshua Terry Stevens, 22, a laborer from Carson City, was arrested at 4:20 a.m. Thursday in the 900 block of South Carson Street on suspicion of felony parole violation. No bail was set.

Marathon mission accomplished

Well, that's done. I ran a marathon. It's something I've wanted to do since a friend planted the idea two years ago.

Community briefs

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program can assist Medicare beneficiaries who need help signing up for a drug plan or checking to see if their medications will still be covered, in the plan they are currently enrolled in.

Racism: We have not come as far as we think

The n-word - a word that has become more vulgar than any other profanity. Even the f-word has become mild with age as the n-word has grown in its implosion of despicable stench. High-powered executives, male and female, use the f-word. Frequently too. But the n-word can stop a meteor in descent, and even put it in reverse.

Ag workshop slated for Friday at CVIC Hall

How do agricultural lands benefit communities and their quality of life? What are some forms of compensation to farmers and ranchers - other than money? Is compensation desirable and might it influence agricultural sustainability?

Wednesday, November 29

Archaeological stewardship volunteers accepted

The Nevada Archaeological Site Stewardship Program is accepting volunteer trainees. Trainees learn about the archaeological and historical resources and how to recognize and document vandalism.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Shane Anthony Hamrick, 33, a roofer from Carson City, was arrested at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday in the 1600 block of Brown Street on suspicion of gross-misdemeanor child abuse, misdemeanor possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail was set at $11,864.

Beauty of many shines through in ugliest case

When prosecutor Anne Langer asked 12-year-old David if he had anything to say to the man accused of helping the boy's mother and grandmother starve and hold him and his sister captive, David simply said: "You're ugly." He was right. Everything about this case was ugly.

Family's loss teaches others to become organ donors

It's hard to imagine a more appropriate location for an organ donor family appreciation ceremony than a place called Angel Park.

Gingerbread cookies a treat for the whole family

Gingerbread cookies are a fun holiday treat and a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen by helping with the decorating.

Senior of the week

Name: Norma Nelson City of residence: Carson City

To Reid: Nevadans like their meat, serve it up

The ink on Sen. Harry Reid's promotion to majority leader in U.S. Senate has barely dried and already he is under attack from self-proclaimed fiscal conservatives who say he will likely abuse his new power by diverting millions of federal dollars to Nevada where they will be wasted on unnecessary projects known around the beltway as "pork."

CREW installs officers for second year

Andie Wilson, certified commercial investment member with Coldwell Bankers Commercial Premier Brokers, has been installed as the 2007 president of the Commercial Real Estate Women's Network (CREW) of Northern Nevada.

Leukemia cluster: Don't let emotions top science

Results from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention genetic study of Fallon's leukemia cluster families provide an intriguing addition to the ongoing saga of the town's unfortunate health issue.

Tuesday, November 28

Community briefs

Carson City Downtown merchants join in drawing Participating downtown merchants have begun issuing drawing tickets for a prize from each of their stores. Tickets will be issued until Dec. 15, when each merchant will draw their store winner. All of the tickets will then be combined for the grand prize drawing at 5 p.m. Dec. 16. Participants do not need to be present to win.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 73-year-old engineer from Carson City was arrested at 7:30 p.m. at Saliman and Fire Box roads on Monday on suspicion of misdemeanor hit-and-run and drunken driving. Bail was set at $3,264.

Health inspections

Carson City Health Department's food-service inspections and the date of inspection (all scores are on a 100-point scale, with points deducted depending on the severity of violations):

Entire community must join fight against meth

Mayor Marv Teixeira has declared Thursday as Carson City's recognition of National Methamphetamine Awareness Day. In his proclamation, Teixeira wrote: "Solving the methamphetamine epidemic, and breaking the cycle of addiction in general, requires strong support for community awareness, but as critical is education and prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, enforcement and changes in public policy. This special day provides another opportunity to further raise community awareness and support for prevention, treatment and enforcement."

Want to help? Check out Kids in Transition

It's not just Santa Claus whose job satisfaction comes from seeing children's eyes light up with excitement. Jeannette Famoso-Ardinger coordinates the Carson City School District's Kids in Transition program and is the district's homeless advocate. When kids come to her Clothes Closet office in search of new or used clothing, she is gratified to see what a colorful top or new pair of boots can do to boost the esteem and spirits of parent and child.

Monday, November 27

Girth control: something to be thankful for, or not

Did you enjoy stuffing your Thanksgiving turkey? We hope so, because right about now, you're probably regretting where you stuffed it. Our ancestors would have been thankful. They spent their brief lives scrounging to fend off starvation. But once our species developed the technology to feed itself, our taste for fat and our talent for storing it turned against us. We fumbled with elixirs, corsets and quack diets. Science made diets more effective, but we still hate them.

Reno eyes raising hotel room rates

RENO - Reno's hotel rooms are a bargain hunter's delight - and the travel industry's dismay.

Community briefs

Carson City Flu clinic Thursday There will be a flu clinic hosted by Carson Tahoe Regional Healthcare from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday at the Carson Mall. All clinics are open to the public, and no appointments are necessary. Flu shots are recommended for those with chronic illnesses and those over 55 years of age. Call 445-5595.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 40-year-old painter from Carson City was arrested at 5:20 p.m. Sunday in the 1900 block of North Fall Street on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic battery and failure to appear. Bail was set at $3,419.

Santa, song: many reasons for the season all weekend long

Tis the season ... lots of good things to go to starting this week. Carson High will be putting on "The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus," by L. Frank Baum (of "Wizard of Oz" fame), at the Brewery Arts Center Friday through Dec. 10. Call 883-1976 for details. St.

Sunday, November 26

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • David Naef, 51, a laborer from Carson City, was arrested at 10:21 p.m. Saturday in the 600 block of Hot Springs Road on suspicion of felony sex offender failing to register change of address. Bail was set at $5,000.

Saturday, November 25

Sheriff's log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Sebastian Ortiz, 31, a machine operator from Carson City, was arrested at 3:20 p.m. Friday in the 4900 block of Goni Road on suspicion of felony child abuse. Bail was set at $40,000.

Friday, November 24

Briefly

Carson City Roberts House to hold teas There will be a tea to benefit the Roberts House Museum at noon Dec. 3 for $18. Space is limited and early registration is requested by four days prior to the tea. Call 887-8865.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 32-year-old laborer from Carson City was arrested at 9:14 a.m. Thursday in the 200 block of Hot Springs Road on suspicion of misdemeanor driving on a suspended license, driving without insurance and driving without registration. Bail was set at $1,831. Also arrested was a 50-year-old laborer on suspicion of misdemeanor contempt of court, possession of drug paraphernalia and marijuana. Bail was set at $2,364.

Bring cheer with a batch of holiday cookies

Sometimes selecting which holiday cookies to bake can be more trouble than the actual baking.

New takes on the history of Vietnam War

History is written by the victors. It is with this notion that I am trying to understand the statements of President George W. Bush during his recent visit to Vietnam, in the shadow of the ongoing war in Iraq.

Domestic violence: protective orders don't mean safety

Two hotel rooms covered in blood. It is a sad testament that people commit violence against their intimate partners far too often.

Community briefs

Carson City Flu clinic Thursday Carson Tahoe Regional Healthcare will host a flu clinic 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday at the Carson Mall. All clinics are open to the public, and no appointments are necessary. Flu shots are recommended for those with chronic illnesses and those over 55. For information, call 445-5595.

Latin America: how far left?

Anti-American journalists and politicians in the U.S. and Latin America have hailed the Nov. 5 presidential election victory of old Sandinista leader Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua as a great victory against "Yankee imperialism" in the hemisphere. But was it really? Let's take a closer look.

Thursday, November 23

A lot of Nevadans are thinking about the troops

Yes, it's starting to feel like Christmas. There's snow in the mountains, traffic jams in mall parking lots and galaxies of Christmas lights in Carson City's neighborhoods. It's nothing like Baghdad or the rest of Iraq, where thousands of U.S. military members will spend the holidays.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Michael Jerrod Jacobsen, 20, of Carson City, was arrested at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the 900 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of felony commercial burglary. Bail was set at $25,000.

Wednesday, November 22

Stuff 9 golf courses in your golfer's stocking this holiday season

It's the timeless holiday quandary - what do you get the golfer who has it all? How about what he or she really wants ... to actually play golf! It's easy this year with the "Ticket to Paradise," a pass to play all the Divine 9 golf courses in the Carson City/Carson Valley.

A church ... in the old Wal-Mart?

Every so often I receive a request from a reader to update the situation with Max Baer Jr.'s building, a former Wal-Mart, in South Carson City.

Window of tax-free opportunity for '06 and '07

On Aug. 17, President Bush signed into law the Pension Protection Act of 2006 ("PPA 2006").

Business licenses

NNDA annual Christmas Holiday Party Mixer, 5:30-8 p.m., Brewery Arts Center, Carson City. Sponsored by the NNDA, the Carson City Chamber of Commerce, Carson City CVB, the Brewery Arts Center and the Nevada Appeal. RSVP to 882-1565. Visit www.nnda.org.

Thanksgiving meals end quickly, but memories linger

Thanksgiving - the day when the mom of the household (or other) exhaustively prepares all week for a sprawling, steaming dinner that takes most ravenous family members and friends only five minutes to eat. Well, better make it 10 minutes to allow for time lapses in passing around the bowls.

This Thanksgiving, remember what's important

Welcome to the busiest travel day of the year. As we rushed around preparing to travel, buying groceries, preparing for the big Thanksgiving day, let's hope we stopped for a moment and remembered what is really important.

Pahrump a target of scorn, but its stance reflects real Nevada

Just when Southern Nevada's army of illegal immigrants thought it was safe to come out of the shadows and go back to work after being demonized for six months during Campaign '06, the Pahrump Town Board narrowly votes to send unrepentant Spanish-speakers a message.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 19-year-old laborer from Carson City was arrested at 10:12 a.m. Wednesday in the 900 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of misdemeanor drunken driving. Bail was set at $1,132.

Community briefs

Carson City United Blood Services to give certificates for blood Blood donors who donate blood during November to the United Blood Services, 256 E. Winnie Lane in Carson City, will be entered into drawings to win gift certificates to Bully's Sports Bar, David Walley's Hot Springs Resort and Applebee's. Donate now until Dec. 22 and enter to win a drawing for an iPod Shuffle, courtesy of Best Buy. Walk-ins are welcome. For information or to schedule an appointment, call 887-9111 or visit www.bloodhero.com.

Tuesday, November 21

Sheriffs' Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded: • Battery report at Carson High School at 8:16 a.m. • A checkbook and rings were reported stolen at 12:23 p.m. Friday from a home in the 2200 block of Bordeaux Street.

Community briefs

The Nevada Department of Transportation has launched a new 511 travel information system offering instant free road information by phone and Internet. 511 is toll-free and is available 24 hours a day. The system posts weather, construction, traffic and road incident reports to 511 and www.nevadadot.com.

Foster, adoptive parents deserve the recognition

If all parents loved and cared for their children, society's problems could probably be fixed in a generation. But as child-welfare workers learn over and over, that's not the case. Drug use and other dysfunctions are commonplace behaviors that are frequently carried into the next generation. It's a major reason why Nevada and many other states are constantly building new jail cells.

Lingering questions after the school board election

I'm not the smartest guy around. Perhaps that's why I have difficulty understanding why a community would turn out two highly qualified school board members and replace them with a candidate who ran on the proposition that government is responsible for the nutritional health of students and a vocal school system critic and conservative activist with an apparent grudge against the school district, who received 56.87 percent of the vote.

Monday, November 20

Count what you are thankful for, then chow down

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. And while you're giving thanks and eating dinner, be sure you remember our men and women in uniform, overseas and on the home front, including our policemen, firemen, emergency-services workers and those who have to work that day.

'Food for Families' offers donation options

Raley's nonprofit organization Food for Families will be offering customers an easy way to donate to needy families this holiday season. Shoppers may purchase a bag filled with nutritious groceries, worth $20, for $10 at their local Raley's, 100 percent of all donations go directly to the community to feed the hungry.

Meeting showed Carson cares enough to solve gang problems

About 200 Carson City residents took an important first step Friday night in destroying a blight on the city. But the community meeting was just a step in a journey of miles to get rid of gangs in Carson City. And the difficult part is yet to come.

Holiday events calendar

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Bidding open for the Festival of Trees fundraiser at the Nevada State Library and Archives, 200 N. Stewart St. 7:30 p.m. "Carols and Lullabies" performance by Bella Voce Women's Chorus, Brewery Arts Center Performance Hall, 511 W. King St. $15 general admission, $12 for BAC members, seniors and students.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Paul Tressler, 36, a tile setter from Carson City, was arrested at 10:14 a.m. Monday on suspicion of felony burglary. Bail was set at $2,500.

Sunday, November 19

Sheriffs' log

Sheriffs' blotter Carson City The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court:

Saturday, November 18

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Hugo Diaz-Rodriguez, 24, of Carson City, was arrested at 12:18 p.m. Friday at College Parkway and Northgate Lane on suspicion of felony trafficking a controlled substance and misdemeanor driving under the influence of drugs and no valid driver's license. Bail was set at $21,319.

Friday, November 17

New inductees of National Honor Society at CHS 2006

Adams, Jessica Adams, Markus Alvarez, Emilce Barbie, Joshua

Community calendar

Viva la Revolucion!: Money of the Mexican Revolution from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily at the Nevada State Museum, 600 N. Carson St. A bilingual exhibit from the American Numismatic Association. Regular admission fees apply. Call 687-4810, ext. 237.

Community briefs

Carson City BLM starts selling tree permits The Bureau of Land Management will be selling Christmas tree-cutting permits through Dec. 22. Permits are available for $10 each in designated cutting areas.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 28-year-old student from Auburn, Va., was arrested at 5:09 a.m. in the 500 block of North Carson Street on suspicion of misdemeanor drunken driving. Bail was set at $1,132.

How to get out of Iraq

Although President Bush continues to talk tough on Iraq - while dropping that silly "stay the course" mantra - it's now obvious that he's seeking a face-saving exit strategy that will bring U.S. troops home from that badly fractured, war-torn country sooner rather than later.

Gov. Kenny Guinn is a tough act to follow, but here's some advice

The fuse of this year's governor's race has finally reached its burning end. But in reverse motion, the explosion that happened was precursory to the fuse being lit. The threatening sparks that sped to the end of that fuse were found not in the final tallies, but in a powder keg blast of words leading up to Election Day. Sordid. Squalid. Ugly. Ugly is the predominant word of choice used by many to describe the governor's race. But isn't the word politics a euphemism for ugliness? I always thought so.

People on the public payroll should be banned from Legislature

This is my semiannual essay on "tax-takers" vs. "taxpayers." I do this prior to every legislative session because during the two-year interim we always get a new crop of refugees who don't know one from the other, and perhaps a few high school and college graduates who, during the past two years, may have matured enough to learn the difference.

ID law will cost much, but buy little

Nevadans may soon be paying the price for the federal government's lack of common sense and respect for states. The state is tallying the cost for implementing the Real ID Act, which will require every Nevadan with a drivers license to show up in person at DMV offices and prove who they are with identity documents, including a birth certificate and Social Security number.

Federal act makes access to retirement plan easier

The Pension Protection Act of 2006 (PPA 2006) brought with it many opportunities that could impact your retirement and long-term wealth planning. Beginning in 2007, this legislation makes effective important changes that may allow you easier access to spousal, non-spousal and your own retirement plans.

Business briefcase

Toads Bar Bruce Sellars, co-owner 306 E. William St.

Thursday, November 16

Make a gift this year instead of buying one

Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and soon everyone should just about be finished with all the leftovers.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 45-year-old transient carpet installer was arrested at 10:26 a.m. Wednesday in the 3200 block of Market Street on a misdemeanor warrant. His bail was set at $500.

Taking a simple approach to running

I was struggling through a half-marathon in Susanville, Calif., in October, running along an old railroad grade covered with sharp gravel and stones, when I saw something remarkable. In the horde of rhythmically bouncing white shoes, one person was running in bare feet. It snapped me out of my trance and gave me something to ponder for the next several miles.

Wednesday, November 15

Business calendar

Confined-Space Awareness Training, 8 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m., Western Nevada Community College. Cost is $80 per person. Call 445-4427 to register.

A tale from the trailer park

A month ago, Rory Bloom was discontent and stuck in a financial trap that has caught many low-income workers: home equity loss in a trailer park.

Wiccan controversy stimulates healthy debate

By most accounts, the public appears to be sympathetic with the widows of two combat veterans who are trying to convince the government to allow Wiccan symbols on their husbands' military headstones. We join those who believe Roberta Stewart of Fernley is correct in her belief that the Wiccan faith is as deserving of federal recognition as any other faith. Indeed, religious freedom is the principle that gave birth to this nation more than 200 years ago.

Letters to the editor

Nice to know there are honest people around I would like to express a big thank you to the person who was so honest to turn in my purse that I left in the cart in the parking lot at the Wal-Mart shopping center at Topsy Lane on Friday, Nov. 11. It's great to know there are wonderful honest people out there. Thanks again, you saved my life and made my day.

Gibbons can count on shadow governor or political kung fu master

Every traveler needs a trusty guide when maps are insufficient and the going gets treacherous. Even an experienced climber would be foolish to begin a high-altitude ascent without a sure-footed Sherpa. As Gov.-elect Jim Gibbons laces his boots and prepares for the journey of his political life, I have wondered who will act as his guide. Some experienced political observers say Gibbons is so bullheaded that teaming up to bridge legislative crevasses isn't in his nature.

Community calendar

Today Viva la Revolucion!: Money of the Mexican Revolution, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Nevada State Museum, 600 N. Carson St. A bilingual exhibit from the American Numismatic Association. Regular admission fees apply. Call 687-4810 ext. 237.

Community briefs

Raley's nonprofit organization Food for Families will be offering customers an easy way to donate to needy families in their communities this holiday season. Shoppers may purchase a bag filled with nutritious groceries, worth $20, for $10 at their local Raley's, Bel Air, Nob Hill or Food Source stores. Bags are then donated to local food banks. Customers can also donate year-round by making a cash donation at checkstands. Raley's absorbs all administrative costs of the program, with 100 percent of all donations going directly to the communities to feed the hungry.

Tuesday, November 14

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Noreen Fish, 42, of Carson City, was arrested at 12:49 p.m. Monday in the 1400 block of East William Street on suspicion of felony embezzlement. She allegedly stole $1,200 and $325 worth of hydrocodone from her job during a 52-week period. Her bail was set at $15,000.

Business briefs

PRO-DEX, Inc. has announced financial results for the first quarter ending Sept. 30, 2006.

'Living Gift Market' opens Sunday at Tahoe church

In order to make holiday giving more spiritual and less commercial, Hope Lutheran Church of the Sierra, along with Lake Tahoe Community Presbyterian Church, will present a Living Gift Market through Heifer International from 9 to 10 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. Nov. 19.

Ordinance a sign city is getting tough on crime

The city's plan to hold homeowners and landlords responsible for lawlessness at their properties is not only a good idea, it's a message from city leaders that there will be no tolerance for crime.

Community calendar

Today Viva la Revolucion!: Money of the Mexican Revolution, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Nevada State Museum, 600 N. Carson St. A bilingual exhibit from the American Numismatic Association. Regular admission fees apply. Call 687-4810, ext. 237.

Community briefs

The Nevada Division of Forestry is requesting applications for the 2006 Wildland Urban Interface grant program's State Fire Assistance grants.

Monday, November 13

In all things

By Rev. Chuck Nichter Gratitude is what always spoils life when it is left out. A thankful spirit enables one to praise God even when circumstances are difficult.

Gang problem complex but far from hopeless

The recent murder of a young man at the hands of gang members has brought to light the gang problem in our town. People are discussing how our city might deal with this growing problem. Others are struggling to understand why people join gangs in the first place and why a city like Carson City would even have gangs.

Road Conditions

For winter road conditions: Call 1 (877) 687-6237

Community calendar

Viva la Revolucion!: Money of the Mexican Revolution, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Nevada State Museum, 600 N. Carson St. A bilingual exhibit from the American Numismatic Association. Call 687-4810 ext. 237. Make Your Own Baby Food, 10 a.m., Ron Wood Family Resource Center, 212 E. Winnie Lane. Free workshop. For information and to RSVP, call 884-2269.

Community Briefs

Carson City RPEN to meet today The Carson City Chapter of Retired Public Employees of Nevada will hold its next meeting at 2 p.m. today at the Carson City Senior Citizens Center. Vince Pirozzi will speak on the EMT Program and the ambulance service. All retired public employees are welcome. Call 883-6334.

Sheriff's log

The following are some of the 15 calls to which deputies responded on Sunday: • A report that a German shepherd at a residence on South D Street charged and tore the pants of a passerby at 10:20 a.m. Sunday. No injuries were reported.

Thank you Dr. William King

Carson City suffered another great loss last week with the news that Dr. William King had died from cancer. Unfortunately, he's only one of several people we've lost this year who helped make Carson City what it is. Among them was his friend Dr. Henry Stewart, who died on July 1.

Let's hope they really can work together in Washington D.C.

Well, the votes are in, the ballots counted, and we're just like the rest of you ... happy about some things, unhappy about others. So what else is new? Now, it's time for the Democrats to show what they can do. Let's hope the president and the majority leader-elect will come through on their promises of "working together." Maybe, if the current administration had done that BEFORE the election, they wouldn't have lost the House AND the Senate. Only time will tell.

Sunday, November 12

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Michael Menke, 25, a transient, was arrested at 6 p.m. Saturday in the 3600 block of Market Street on suspicion of felony burglary. Bail was set at $25,000.

Saturday, November 11

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 22-year-old machinist from Carson City was arrested at 7:40 p.m. Friday in the 3600 block of Centennial Parkway on suspicion of misdemeanor contempt of court. Bail was set at $1,000 cash.

Friday, November 10

There is more to honoring vets than saying thanks

It is appropriate that Veterans Day comes shortly after Election Day, because politicians we send to Washington, D.C., need to understand there is more to honoring those who have served our country than giving speeches and saying thanks.

Community briefs

Applications are now being accepted for the Miss Teen Nevada International 2007, the official preliminary for the Miss Teen International Pageant set for July 23-28 at the North Shore Performing Arts Center in Chicago.

A Democratic landslide, but not in Nevada

Last Tuesday's mid-term election may have been a Democratic landslide elsewhere in the country, but not here in Nevada. Nevertheless, President Bush and his Republican allies have only themselves to blame for their devastating losses on Tuesday.

The best case against Yucca Mt. is in the Constitution, not science

There are some illuminating parallels between the proposed high level nuclear waste depository at Yucca mountain and global warming. As compared to global warming, Yucca Mountain is much closer to home in mind, time and geography and, thus, perhaps, easier to follow. Both issues rely heavily upon computer modeling, or scientific voodoo, resulting in the abuse of science to promote interests beyond global warming or the safe storage of nuclear waste. Because even the most cautious layman may not be able to tell the difference between good and bad science, there is power in both. Those who act upon incompetent science without verification almost deserve what they get. The State of Nevada is no exception.

This is not your father's Republican Party

It's the day after the election, and I have a massive hangover. It's not because of alcohol, but an overindulgence in politics, which it seems I have been swimming in forever.

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 23-year-old administrative assistant from Carson City was arrested at 11:26 a.m. Thursday in the 900 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of misdemeanor failure to appear .

Thursday, November 9

A gift for the governor and a ray of hope in a financial struggle

This week, Helen Szerbiak went to the governor's office to drop off a gift for Kenny Guinn she'd been working on for years. When she left about a half hour later, she was carrying two presents from him, and what she hopes will be a third worth thousands of dollars and a little peace of mind.

Business calendar

BAWN 2007 Industry Forecast, 5 p.m., Piñon Plaza Hotel Casino. The November general membership meeting of BAWN will feature key industry leaders speaking on various topics. Cost is $35 per person for the meal. Call 882-4353.

Preparing the Thanksgiving feast

As all of you who follow my column throughout the years know, Thanksgiving is a big deal around the Abowd house. My wife, Karen, and I spend all day, as most Americans do, getting ready for this great feast.

Business licenses

CARSON CITY Business licenses issued in Carson City as of Nov. 9:

It was time for Donald Rumsfeld to go

Better late than never. More than two years after Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld offered to resign in the aftermath of the Abu Ghraib prison scandal, President Bush finally agreed to let Rumsfeld go, to make room for a "fresh perspective." It's an easy gesture at this point - the political equivalent of bringing down the pinata once it's been battered beyond recognition.

Wednesday, November 8

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 22-year-old unemployed Carson City man was arrested at 1:53 p.m. Wednesday in the 1800 block of Rand Street on suspicion failure to appear on a traffic citation. Bail was set at $899.

Community calendar

From Subdivision to Perididdle, 8 a.m.-5 a.m., Western Nevada Community College Gallery, 2201 West College Parkway. Features work by Craig Whitehill. Call 445-3000. Ceramics exhibition, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Western Nevada Community College Main Gallery, 2201 West College Parkway. Works by WNCC instructors Jill Brugler, Grant Kremers and Jo Robinson. Call 445-3000.

Community Briefs

Heartburn can be an early symptom of Gastric Reflux Disease. This month's HealthSmart TV series features Dr. Steven D. Taylor, gastroenterologist, and host Dr. Colleen Lyons. HealthSmart TV is produced by Pro*Star Productions. View on cable Channel 10 in Carson City and Dayton at 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. In Reno and Washoe Valley, it is on Channel 16 at 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

Gibbons' armor survives several big political bullets, tough opponent

By John L. Smith You've heard of the "Teflon Don." Meet the "Kevlar candidate." His name is Jim Gibbons, and he's your next governor, and somewhere just beneath his conservative suit is a suit of pockmarked body armor.

Here's to the 'losers' of Election 2006

On Wednesday, when it seemed to be all about the winners of Tuesday's elections, we were reminded of the losers. We applaud them.

Plan now to retire later

On election night, I watched a special on PBS, "Can you afford to retire?"

Tuesday, November 7

Feeling crowded around here? It is!

By Ben Long One statistic jumped out of the morning paper and jolted my brain. The news was that America's population had hit 300 million sometime during the third week of October.

Community briefs

There will be a 12-mile hike to El Dorado Canyon near Dayton on Saturday for the Carson City Senior Citizen's Center, and Sunday for the Sierra Club. Participants in the hike will be faced with an elevation gain of under 1,000 feet during the route.

Monday, November 6

Baptist church to offer Thanksgiving meal

In an effort to reach out and bring together the community, members of Stewart Community Baptist Church will break bread with those in need. The church will hold its annual free, community Thanksgiving meal at 1 p.m. Thursday. The meal consists of turkey, potatoes, vegetables and salads, stuffing, ham, yams, mashed potatoes w/gravy, rolls, side dishes, cranberry sauce and desserts, including pies and cakes.

'A home we can afford'

They can't afford a home, but by taking in a roommate, Tansey and Xavier Anderson can afford a $1,240 luxury apartment in North Carson City.

Treats for a hot weekend breakfast with the family

It's November and I thought it would be a good idea to write an article that warms the soul. There's something about a hot weekend breakfast with family that is special to us as winter runs its course. What could be better than a pan of piping-hot cinnamon rolls?Here's a few varieties! Enjoy!

Candidates can learn from these state workers

They aren't running for public office, but if they were we'd seriously consider giving them our votes. All Robert Drake did was save the state about $17 million with a smart idea on how to replace a water main. And Mark Theriault and Michon Dimit saw better, cheaper and more efficient ways to do their jobs and saved taxpayers thousands more.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Dustin North, 24, a construction worker from Carson City, was arrested at 1:15 p.m. Saturday at Edmonds Drive and Gordon Street on suspicion of felony trafficking methamphetamine, prisoner in possession of a controlled substance, attempting to destroy evidence, possession of methamphetamine, misdemeanor speeding, driving without a valid license and violation of bail conditions. Bail was set at $24,129.

If you don't vote, don't complain

By Carol Tate and Maizie Harris Jesse VOTE TODAY, if you haven't already. Today is election day and the direction of our country is at stake. If you don't vote, don't complain. If you want to "stay the course," vote Republican. If you didn't sign on for "Iraqi freedom," and still think we should be fighting al Qaeda and Osama bin Laden, vote Democrat. Either way, VOTE!

Community calendar

Today "Nevada Now I", 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Nevada State Library and Archives, 100 N. Stewart St. Features Nevada photographers and video artists. Call 684-3313.

Community briefs

AAA of Nevada will be providing free alternative fuel information at local offices throughout the month of November in recognition of Hybrid Awareness Month. Offices will also have tips for drivers of hybrid vehicles on how to get the most fuel efficiency out of their cars. For information, visit www.aaa.com/greenlight.

Sunday, November 5

Sheriffs' log

The following are some of the 127 calls to which deputies responded: • A report of a battery in the 1300 block of East Newlands Drive in Fernley at 12:30 a.m. Saturday.

Saturday, November 4

Where is the outrage over war profiteering?

"Snakes-in-the-grass." That's what my father called opportunists who lay in wait to benefit from chaos and misfortune. There's a nest of them in Washington, D.C.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 36-year-old homeless machinest was arrested at 6:17 p.m. Friday in the 3200 block of Market Street on suspicion of misdemeanor failure to appear. Bail was set at $252 cash.

Friday, November 3

Services to expand at Carson City Business Bank branch once sale closes

Business Bank of Nevada's sale to a California corporation for $161 million will not affect the majority of employees, a City National Bank executive said Friday.

Ten things you can do to change the world this week

Election time comes around every two years, and with it comes the inevitable flood of negative ads. Those ads work, in part, by making some of you so disgusted with the entire process that you stay home instead of casting your votes. That leaves the process wide open to the hardcore partisans, the base as they are called, to swing the elections their way. The extremes win, and the middle gets the shaft.

Road report

Construction on Carson City streets for the week beginning Nov. 6 • Cleanup work continues on the southeast sewer extension, phase 7 project, which will affect Valley View Drive from Edmonds Drive to Conte Drive, Conte Drive from Valley View Drive to Clearview Drive, Clearview Drive from Edmonds Drive to Conte Drive, and Conte Drive from Bennett Avenue to Hudson Drive. Some traffic controls may be in effect.

Just another dirty election campaign

Did Congressman Jim Gibbons, the Republican candidate for governor, really make a pass at a Las Vegas cocktail waitress? No one really knows (except for Gibbons and his accuser), but that didn't stop the five-term congressman's political opponents from accusing him of sexual assault a few days before Tuesday's general election.

Pot critics should have a chance to speak

A Clark County judge made the right call last week when he ruled that elected officials and police officers should be able to give their views on a statewide ballot initiative that would decriminalize marijuana. The judge said those officials have a right and a duty to publicly discuss political matters like Question 7, which would legalize marijuana possession by adults.

Business briefs

Citizens for Affordable Homes Inc. is looking to fill several vacant positions on its board of directors before the end of the year.

Thursday, November 2

Briefly

Carson City PBS FRONTLINE special to focus on retirement The PBS FRONTLINE special "Can You Afford to Retire?" will be televised at 10 p.m. Tuesday on Channel 5

Business calendar

"Six Things To Consider About Your Estate Plan" video to be shown, 12:30 p.m., 1079 S. Carson St. Free broadcast hosted by Edward Jones representative Joe Lushina. To reserve, call 841-6767.

Business licenses

CARSON CITY Business licenses issued in Carson City as of Oct. 26:

Grand Sierra Resort to auction off furniture Saturday

Furniture that once filled the hotel rooms of the Reno Hilton will be auctioned off by the Grand Sierra Resort starting at 10 a.m. Saturday.

AT&T expands availability of high-speed Internet access

AT&T Inc. has announced the expansion of AT&T Yahoo! High Speed Internet service to residents and businesses in the Carson City and Dayton areas. There are four different tiers of service plans available and subscribers can also subscribe to the AT&T WiFi network.

Sheriffs' Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded Wednesday: • Coroner call in the 200 block of Koontz Lane at 5:53 a.m. • Coroner call in the 200 block of Koontz Lane at 6:50 a.m.

Cancer Center is no ordinary building

When I left the Carson Tahoe Cancer Center on Wednesday, I wasn't thinking about all the high-tech equipment, nor about the church-like architecture of the building. I was thinking about the people who made all this come true. I'd just been listening to a few of them and it occurred to me that, in every room we entered, the conversations were not about cancer cells and linear accelerators. They were about the frightened people who would enter that building and how this place would help them cope with the trauma of a cancer diagnosis.

Community calendar

Ceramics exhibition, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Western Nevada Community College Main Gallery, 2201 West College Parkway. Ceramics art exhibition by WNCC instructors Jill Brugler, Grant Kremers and Jo Robinson featuring clay sculptures and functional pottery. Call 445-3000.

Community briefs

Carson City Call Monday for yard debris pick up The Carson City Street Operations Division will be out to pick up garden and yard debris beginning Nov. 13.

Home Treasures to celebrate third anniversary

Home Treasures Boutique gift store will be celebrating their third anniversary through Sunday.

Wednesday, November 1

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Michael Davidson, 44, a transient construction worker, was arrested at 9:33 p.m. Tuesday in the 1400 block of Rand Avenue on suspicion of felony failure to appear after admission to bail, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a hypodermic needle. Bail was set at $26,632.

Community briefs

Carson City CASA, church to hold pasta feast CASA, First Presbyterian Church Mission Committee, and Grandma Hattie's Restaurant will be holding the fourth annual CASA Pasta Feast starting at 6 p.m. Friday at the church, located at the corner of Nevada and Musser streets. There will be a silent auction, raffles and entertainment.

Voters need all the tools they can get

Campaign finance reports are an important tool for Nevada voters, but they're not nearly as useful as they should be. Each candidate must file three reports, which detail how much money they have, who contributed and how much they've spent. The reports lay bare a candidate's connections and may reveal who they'll be beholding to if elected.