Stories for October 2006

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Tuesday, October 31

A teacher's view of the school bond question

As Nov. 7 approaches, I am reminded of what my mother used to say about elections. "I always make up my mind early because by the time the election rolls around, I don't like anybody." And she started voting in 1946.

Monday, October 30

Briefly

Carson City Salvation Army holding Christmas sign-ups The Salvation Army will be holding its annual Christmas sign-ups from 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m. Nov. 9 and 10 at the Salvation Army, 661 Colorado St. Call 887-9120.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Richard Rafael Arreda Nunez, 22 of Carson City, was arrested at 5:08 a.m. Monday in the 700 block of Hot Springs on suspicion of felony possession of methamphetamine, obstructing police and domestic battery. Bail was set at $5,939.

A conservative's view of the election

It's time for a conservative's view of the upcoming election. My advantage over "candidates' nights" and newspapers that interview candidates - and then select one over the other - is that I know most of them personally. As a three-term former legislator, and as your Nevada Appeal legislative commentator for several years I've observed first-hand what they do, and say, in unguarded, unrehearsed situations. Few columnists have that kind of experience.

Personal impressions and endorsements

As a member of the Nevada Appeal reader panel, I had the privilege of meeting thirty of the candidates running for public office this year, and was asked who made an impression on me (you will notice that the paper and I don't agree on some of them). In person, most of them are very nice, and in some races, no matter who we get, we can't go wrong, in spite of all the nasty campaign ads.

Sunday, October 29

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Daniel Ray Helmer, 33, of Carson City, was arrested at 7:20 p.m. Saturday in the 1100 block of Christina Street on suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon. Bail was set at $20,000.

Saturday, October 28

Sheriff's log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 31-year-old woman from Carson City, no occupation listed, was arrested at 7:20 p.m. Friday in the 400 block of Hot Spring Road on suspicion of misdemeanor driving under the influence. Bail was set at $1,050.

Friday, October 27

Halloween holiday has the power to bring the darkness to light

Halloween. My favorite holiday. Or, should I say, my favorite unholy day? When I was a kid, Halloween meant windy, thunderstruck nights of house-to-house candy seeking. Watching black & white monster movies too. The sweetness of the candy now just seems the antithesis to the hardened and sour tricks of life that we are treated to as we shroud ourselves in adulthood.

Sheriff's log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 27-year-old unemployed man from Carson City was arrested at 9:12 p.m. Wednesday in the 800 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of probation violation. Bail was set at $3,000.

The best of Nevada was on display Saturday

It was all there. Everything that makes Nevada unique was on display in Carson City on Saturday for the Nevada Day celebration. The history and tradition were evident all over downtown Carson City, with parade entries including the grand marshal (a locomotive), the rock drilling contest and even the proud multi-generational Nevada families who took it all in.

Offsite Data Depot

Gerd Poppinga & Brian Olson, owners 1175 Fairview Drive, suite I

Some Nevada Day reflections to remind us why we live here

One of the things I like best about Nevada Day is that it always reminds me that I don't live in California. As a great philosopher once said, Thank the Lord for small blessings.

Riding a (very) slow train to somewhere

There are some left wingers who will tell you this country is being run by fascists. I'm here to tell you that isn't true. If fascists ran this country, the trains would run on time. After rolling into Denver on Amtrak nearly eight hours late on the first leg of my recent vacation, I can attest there are no fascists in charge of that system.

Thursday, October 26

Business licenses

CARSON CITY Business licenses issued in Carson City as of Oct. 20:

For many, the treasure was learning about history

It's true that Elona and Peter Lathrop won the Nevada Day Treasure Hunt and the $1,000 prize from Nevada Day Inc. that went with it. But that doesn't mean that the hundreds of other people searching for the medallion didn't win something as well - a deeper understanding of the region's history.

Community calendar

"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. 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.

Listen closely to hear good ideas about water issue

Political candidates have been hesitant to voice support for the proposal to suck water out of White Pine County to feed the growth in Las Vegas, but even in their efforts to avoid offending the north or the south we've heard some good ideas.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 27-year-old unemployed Carson City man was arrested at 9:12 p.m. Wednesday in the 800 block of East Musser Street on suspicion misdemeanor probation violation. Bail was set at $3,000.

Community briefs

Carson City Ride the Halloween Express today Trick-or-Treaters of all ages are invited to ride the first-ever Halloween Express beginning at 6 p.m. tonight at the Nevada State Railroad Museum, 2180 S. Carson St. Trains will depart every 40 minutes. There will also be activities at the depot. Call 687-6953.

Wednesday, October 25

Drug dealers should be diverted to jail

We doubt that even the staunchest supporters of Question 7, which would legalize small amounts of marijuana in Nevada, would support letting a drug dealer off scot-free. But that just might happen in Storey County to a man charged with possessing 30 pounds of pot.

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Bonnie Pautot, 58, a clerk from Carson City, was arrested at 4:49 p.m., Tuesday in the 1000 block of S. Carson Street on a warrant charging felony uttering a forged instrument. Her bail was set at $5,000

Community briefs

The Nevada Arts Council, in partnership with the Nevada Department of Education and the Nevada Alliance for Arts Education, is currently accepting registration from schools wishing to participate in the second year of Poetry Out Loud, a national poetry recitation contest for high school students. Ten of Nevada's 17 school districts participated last year. Teachers are provided with free multimedia curriculum materials. For information, visit www.poetryoutloud.org.

If you thought Gibbons-Titus battle couldn't get any nastier, guess again

If you like your politics neat and well-mannered, it's time to take up yoga and learn to meditate, get in touch with your inner Phil Donahue and enroll in a basket-weaving course. In other words, it's time to stop watching the campaign for governor.

Tuesday, October 24

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Victoria M. Patterson, 40 of Reno, was arrested at 9:36 p.m. Monday in the 1900 block of Boeing Way on suspicion of felony possession of methamphetamine, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a hypodermic needle and a felony warrant charging failure to appear. No bail was set.

Briefly

Carson City Street closures for Nevada Day Parade Carson Street (Highway 395) will be closed at 8 a.m. Saturday from Winnie Lane on the north to Fairview Drive on the south for the Nevada Day Parade. William Street (Highway 50) will be closed from Roop to Curry streets.

Ensign the best choice for Senate

A vote for John Ensign may not necessarily be a vote for change, but it is the best vote for Nevadans. His opponent, Jack Carter, brings a lot of important issues to the table, along with an overall criticism of the Bush administration. But that's not enough to gain an edge over Ensign, who has a deeper understanding of what Nevada needs and works well with Harry Reid on issues, including opposition to Yucca Mountain.

Monday, October 23

Thoughts on all sorts of election topics

Congressman Jim Gibbons made the headlines last week by having a woman in Las Vegas make accusations about him accosting her, then dropping them. Regardless of what happened, the question begs to be asked, "Why were you escorting a drunk woman to her CAR?" Seems somebody should have called a cab.

Burger stop goes Greek; India Curry meets Bollywood

Carla Martino doesn't want Carson City to think of her restaurant as just another burger joint.

A Halloween story

I started first grade at the little red schoolhouse on Cass Street in Greenville, Mich., on Oct. 31, 1949. My parents and I had arrived in the United States on Oct. 9, and for the first month we lived with our sponsors, Mr. and Mrs. Rasmussen. They were of "Danish extraction," as were most of the people in Greenville. This was somehow very reassuring to my parents, for Denmark was at least geographically close to Latvia, and this gave them reason to hope that life in a small Danish-American town might approximate life they had known before the war in Latvia.

Sheriffs' Log

The following Nevada State Prison inmates were booked into the Carson City Jail at 3 a.m. Monday on outstanding warrants related to crimes allegedly committed while in custody: • Tommy D. Bridges, 36, on a warrant charging felony escape. Bridges allegedly walked away from Stewart Conservation Camp in Carson City on March 2 and was found hiding in his mother's Silver Springs home six days later. He is currently serving time for possession of stolen property and burglary out of Lyon County.

Great Basin Credit Union offices hold free Halloween Safety Day

Great Basin Federal Credit Union's in Reno and Sparks will be holding a Halloween Safety Day all day at their three locations Monday. This event will include free safety kits and treat bags, edible goodies and free children's games from 3 - 6 p.m. Volunteers from the Reno and Sparks Police Departments will be supplying families with free Child ID kits. Costumes are encouraged and admission is free. Call 333-4228.

Thank you, Army Pfc. Brandon Williams

Most of the mourners who showed up for Army Pfc. Brandon Williams' funeral on Saturday had never met the Douglas High School graduate. It didn't matter. Nor did anyone's opinion on the war matter.

Sunday, October 22

Sheriffs' log

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

Saturday, October 21

Voters guide to the ballot initiatives

It's up to Nevada voters to decide a total of 10 constitutional and statutory issues - ranging from legalization of small amounts of marijuana to making it harder for governments to condemn private property. Six of the questions were put on the ballot by initiative petitions; the remaining four by the Legislature.

Friday, October 20

My thoughts on Nevada's gubernatorial candidates

I blame Gov. Kenny Guinn. Why? What's to blame? As governor of Nevada, he has set the bar level of familiarity and unrestrained accessibility so high that our country's best pole-vaulters can only hope to hit their chins on it on their best day. Stone-cold purists may say that accessibility is overrated-that it has little to do with being a good governor. Hey! You purists out there! Are you sure about that? I'm not.

Thursday, October 19

Final NorthernNVision meeting today

The Northern Nevada Development Authority and the Western Nevada Development District will have a final meeting of the NorthernNVision planning initiative from 9 to 11 a.m. today at the Genoa Lakes Golf Club.

Real estate trusts still a good investment

Every day, I start the morn off by looking at trends and what continues to surprise me is the dominance of real estate investment trusts in the equities market for yet another year.

Appeal endorses Heller, Titus and Krolicki

2nd Congressional district Dean Heller is our choice, but it should be known that the vote was not unanimous. Here's why: There is a concern that he will be status quo in Washington and fall short of representing the independent thought Nevadans are known for. Was it really an accomplishment that George Bush came to Nevada to campaign for Heller, or was it a sign that Heller's campaign is not doing as well as expected, and that he will be beholden to the Bush agenda if he's elected? There's a reason Republicans are having a tough go of it in this election - because many conservatives are questioning the Bush administration's policies on Iraq and other issues.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 47-year-old construction worker from Carson City was arrested at 5:19 p.m. Wednesday on Tiger Drive on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic battery. Bail was set at $3,132. • Anthony Cousins, 23, a special events coordinator from Carson city, was arrested on a felony fugitive from justice warrant. Bail was set at $10,000.

Community briefs

Carson City Carson City Symphony to open 23rd season The Carson City Symphony will be holding a concert to open its 23rd season at 4 p.m. tonight at the Carson City Community Center. Tickets are $12 general admission, and $10 for seniors, students, and Symphony Association members. Children under 16 years of age are free. For information, call 883-4154.

Wal-Mart rolls out $4 prescription drugs

Carson City Wal-Mart shoppers can buy $4 generic prescription drugs along with their discounted merchandise and groceries after the big box retailer rolled out the new low price Thursday in 14 states, including Nevada.

Wednesday, October 18

Laughlin Six allow Hells Angels to lay scratch out of court relatively unscathed

The Laughlin Six stood in U.S. District Judge James Mahan's courtroom last week and took one for the team - their team being the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club. With their guilty and no-contest pleas, six of the 11 defendants accused of racketeering offenses once again illustrated the power of America's most notorious motorcycle outfit. Courtroom observers then watched as the ATF's wide-ranging racketeering case against 42 Hells Angels members vaporized like a cloud of Harley exhaust.

Ghost walking to haunt the region this weekend

The annual Ghost Walk, a 90-minute walk along the historic Kit Carson Trail, will be taking place Friday through Sunday this weekend. Tours are available at 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Friday in Gardnerville; from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday in Carson City, with departures every 30 minutes; and from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Sunday in Genoa. From 6:30-8 p.m. Saturday the historic Genoa Cemetery will be featured. Tickets are $15 for the Carson City walk; all other walks are $5. To reserve tickets, call 1 (800) NEVADA-1.

Nevada Appeal endorsements for city races

About these endorsements: The Nevada Appeal has long endorsed candidates on our Opinion page prior to elections. The endorsements are arrived at after personal meetings with the candidates, followed by discussion and votes by the Appeal Editorial Board. We've included endorsements only in races where the candidates have met with the editorial board and members of our reader panel.

There's been a parade of candidates at the Nevada Appeal

When Sen. John Ensign walks into the Nevada Appeal offices on Monday, he will be the 30th candidate to have visited us in just over a two-week span. Each of them talked and answered questions for about an hour from members of our internal editorial board and our reader panel. They talked about their backgrounds, about their proposals and about their opponents.

Dress codes get a second look as younger people enter work force

NEW YORK - Colleen Harris doesn't fit the stereotype of the buttoned-up librarian.

Gold's Gym coming to Indian Hills

Fresh from opening new fitness centers in Sparks and Reno, the company developing Gold's Gym in Northern Nevada has its sights on northern Douglas County.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Jeffrey Scott Brio, 40, a construction worker from Carson City, was arrested at 11:27 p.m. Tuesday at Roop Street and College Parkway on a 2005 Lyon County felony warrant charging unlawful use of a controlled substance. Bail was set at $2,500.

School bond a good investment in our future

The Carson City School District is asking voters to approve a $25 million bond issue in November's election. There's a reason very few critics of the bond have emerged - it's a measure that makes sense. The bulk of the proposed bond would go to building an addition to Carson Middle School, which was built in 1954 as the high school, with a capacity of about 600 students.

Tuesday, October 17

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Efren Madera Castillo, 18, a cook from Carson City, was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor minor consuming, minor in possession of alcohol, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and gross misdemeanor carrying a concealed weapon.

Community briefs

Carson City Scrapbooking store offers its supplies to make vets cards County Purr Farm Scrapbooking will be holding a free handmade card event from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at their store, 3220 Highway 50 E. in the Longs Shopping Center.

A working democracy requires change, communicators

One of the hallmarks of American democracy is its ability to manage power better than other forms of government. Competent power management recognizes that the concentration of power in one institution over an extended period of time is an omen of disaster. Three of the five members of the Carson City Board of Supervisors have served for many years. While this is not all bad, there is a majority block on the board that votes rather consistently together, not always for the good of the community. Thus, the current board now represents an ominous power block that will become even stronger should changes not be made.

More than Silver City rooting for community center

As frustrating as it is for residents of tiny Silver City to battle giant Lloyds of London, there is something inspiring about the fight, even for those who will never step foot in the town's new community center when it is ultimately built. In one respect, it's a David versus Goliath story, and in another, it's an affirmation that community spirit is still strong in rural Nevada.

Monday, October 16

Pumpkin outside the pie

In New Hampshire, pumpkins are the law.

Community briefs

Healthsmart TV will present information on prostate health on cable channel 10 Tuesdays throughout October. The show can be seen at 8:30 p.m. on channel 10 Tuesdays in Carson City and Dayton; and 8 p.m. Tuesdays and 8 a.m. Thursdays in the Carson Valley. For information, call 560-0588.

Toys for Tots will benefit from two fun fundraisers

There's a fun event going on this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Empire Ranch Golf course. It's a benefit for Toys for Tots, and 100 percent of the proceeds will go to them ... 100 percent. What is it, you ask? A "putting tournament" for all ages, kids to grandparents. All you need is $10 per team (two people), a putter, and a desire to help start off the Toys for Tots season. It's a nine-hole, two-person, alternate-shot forum, with lots of prizes and fun. Nils Sharpe, the gentleman who put this together, says "Grandma (or Pa) can show up with her 5-year-old granddaughter and compete with the best of them." Call 885-2100 for additional details or to sign up, give up three hours of your time, and have a ball (bad pun intended).

Sunday, October 15

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Bailey Wilson, 19, of Carson City, was arrested at 5:51 a.m. Sunday in the 90 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of felony unlawful use of an ATM card and uttering a forged instrument. Bail was set at $5,000. • A 58-year-old state worker from Carson City was arrested at 1:44 p.m. Saturday in the 3400 block of Kathleen Drive on suspicion of misdemeanor driving under the influence, second offense. Bail was set at $2,632.

Saturday, October 14

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • An 18-year-old sales representative from Carson City was arrested at 2:22 a.m. Saturday at Northgate Lane and College Parkway on suspicion of misdemeanor minor consuming alcohol, contempt of court and violation of bail conditions. Bail was set at $3,500 cash.

Friday, October 13

Reid's financial disclosure sloppiness disturbing

The best case for Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., is that he was sloppy about financial disclosure rules in accounting for a real estate deal on which he made a $700,000 profit. The more unattractive case is that the senator's inaccurate description of the investment was an effort to disguise his partnership with a Las Vegas lawyer who's never been charged with wrongdoing but whose name has surfaced in federal investigations involving organized crime, casinos and political bribery since the 1980s. As of now, the evidence points toward sloppiness; Reid's friendship with Jay Brown isn't exactly a secret in the state. But either way, an Associated Press report about Reid's dealings doesn't cast the senator in an attractive light. Neither does his response to the AP story, which indicates a casual disregard for the importance of accurate reporting of lawmakers' financial affairs.

Marijuana legalization a good thing? We're not buying it

The proponents of Question 7, marijuana legalization, would like you to believe it's a black and white issue. And it is if you believe the following: • Pot is not harmful. • Legalizing it would not lead to any more pot smokers than we have now.

Thursday, October 12

Bill Dolan will be missed but never forgotten

Bill Dolan has missed his first day of work at the Appeal. The mood was somber here when news arrived Thursday that Bill had died. He was a friend to many. Even those who did not know Bill personally knew of him and his contributions to this newspaper and community. Bill began writing "Past Pages" in 1947. A story in 2005 reported that he never missed a day of work, and he continued to faithfully meet deadlines long after his peers had retired.

No success in tracking down Appeal letter writer

During my years as a journalist and editor, I've often witnessed people submitting false information to be printed in the newspaper. Among them were fake engagement and birth notices submitted as jokes and, once, a false obituary submitted by a person spurned by a woman he had been courting. Like that obit, most of those items are caught before they make it into print, but people can always find ways to get around the precautions newspapers are able to put in place.

Briefly

Carson City Republican Women to meet at Nugget The Carson City Republican Women will be holding its monthly luncheon meeting at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Carson City Nugget. Cost is $17 per person. Guest speaker will be Steve Martin, state controller. Call 882-7960.

A patriotic weekend in Klamath Falls

I was in Klamath Falls, Ore., a couple of weekends ago to celebrate the 40th anniversary of my old fighter squadron. It was a weekend filled with bittersweet nostalgia, strong emotions and pure, unadulterated patriotism. I loved every minute of it. It all started about 100 years ago (or so it seems) when I completed the Air Force ROTC - Reserve Officer Training Corps - program at the University of Washington in Seattle, and received a second lieutenant's commission upon graduation. A few months later I was in navigation school at Harlingen Air Force Base on the Texas - Mexico border. That was an educational experience for a Seattle boy, as was my next assignment to radar intercept school at James Connally AFB in Waco, Texas.

Sheriff's Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded: • A commercial van was reported stolen from a parking lot in the 2300 block of South Carson Street sometime between Tuesday night and 10:11 a.m. Wednesday morning. The owner reported he found the van in Lyon County at 4:11 p.m. and he was advised to call the Lyon County Sheriff's Department.

Community briefs

Carson City Disorder group for adolescents starting Starting Monday, the Community Counseling Center has established a co-occurring disorder group for adolescents that will meet from 2:30-5 p.m. Referrals will be accepted from any agency. Signed releases from parents are required. This group will meet at 205 S. Pratt Ave. Fees are set on a sliding scale. Call 882-3945.

Business briefs

Jason Geddes, manager of government affairs for the Economic Development Authority (EDAWN), was recognized with the Golden Pinecone Award for environmental leadership at the recent Nevada EcoNet 2006 Golden Pinecone Awards.

Guy Farmer's gives his election endorsements

Although I'm not a big fan of media election endorsements, I'll join the fray one more time and offer a few personal endorsements - which definitely do NOT represent the considered wisdom of the Appeal's Editorial Board - for the Nov. 7 General Election. I think this is an important (aren't they all?) election because it will determine which party controls Congress. President Bush and his Republican allies are in Big Trouble on a number of "hot-button" issues, including congressional ethics, Iraq and illegal immigration, and my guess is that the GOP will narrowly retain control of the Senate while losing the House to the Democrats. Get ready for Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. With that brief preamble, here are my personal endorsements, for what they're worth, if anything:

Wednesday, October 11

Sheriffs' Log

The following are some of the 161 calls to which deputies responded Tuesday: • Fight report in the 500 block of North Carson Street at 12:27 a.m. • Commercial burglary report in the 1700 block of Forrest Way at 8:01 a.m.

Disaster averted, thanks to quick responses

While no one wants to become complacent about the potential for wildfires, it looks like Northern Nevada residents can breathe a collective sigh of relief. For the most part, our area got off light on a season that had the potential to be disastrous. The timber and grasslands were tinder dry, and some area fire managers were predicting it was not a matter of if, but when, we would see another devastating fire.

Plight of some seniors reveals tales of social insecurity

This is not the way Gladys Stancato says she planned to spend her golden years. There was a time she worked in the mortgage department of a bank. She was a real estate broker. She even owned her own beauty school. She had five children, took some college courses, survived a divorce. She had what she considers a lot of money. But it didn't last.

Community briefs

Carson City Blood Services to raffle portable DVD player In appreciation of those who donate blood this month, there will be a drawing of a portable DVD player at United Blood Services, 256 E. Winnie Lane. Every donor will also be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift certificate for Michael's at the Inn, golf for two at Dayton Valley Golf Club, or a spa day for two courtesy of David Walley's Hot Springs Resort. UBS is open until 7 p.m. each Wednesday, and pizza is served to those who donate between 4-7 p.m. For information, or to make an appointment, call 887-9111. Walk-ins are welcome.

Tuesday, October 10

A visit to a memorial to the human spirit

In August, my husband Ron and I, with two of our granddaughters, drove home to Carson City from Southern California. During the long, empty stretch through Owens Valley, the girls passed time by naming relatives. Megan, with 13-year-old insight, pronounced Great Grandpa Tom, my stepfather, as their only living great grandfather. When I spotted a sign that we must have passed dozens of times in the last few years, I asked Ron to stop at the National Historic Site. As we stepped out of the car, heat hit us like a blast-furnace. A dust devil swirled close enough for us to taste dirt, and crows raised a fuss somewhere nearby.

Monday, October 9

There are plenty of reasons to register to vote

T]here are a lot of big decisions awaiting voters on Nov. 7, but taking part begins now. The mail registration deadline has passed, but you can still register until Oct. 17 at the Clerk-Recorder Office, inside the Carson City District Courthouse, 885 E. Musser St. Don't forget to take your proof of identity and residence. There are a lot of reasons to take part this year.

No increase recommended in Nevada unemployment taxes

A state panel recommended Monday that the average tax rate employers are charged to fund Nevada's unemployment insurance program remain at 1.38 percent of an employee's wages in 2007.

Public employee retirement benefits shouldn't burden taxpayers

One of the important duties of a governor is to make tough decisions designed to protect the long-term financial stability of a state, and to determine how to provide necessary services to constituents in need of assistance without unduly burdening taxpayers. As governor, I have been committed to the health and well-being of Nevada. Throughout my administration, we have instituted or expanded several health-related programs that have greatly benefited the people of our state, including Senior Rx, Nevada Check Up and mental-health care, in addition to privatizing the workers' compensation insurance program. Health care has absolutely been one of the pillars of my administration.

Downtown has its dark spots, but light is coming

To many shoppers, downtown Carson City is a reminder of the past, and not just because of the stately historic buildings.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Luis Caudillo-Hernandez, 19, a construction worker from Carson City, was arrested at 12:01 a.m. Monday in the 700 block of Hot Springs Road on suspicion of gross misdemeanor taking a motor vehicle without owner's consent, misdemeanor drunken driving, minor consuming, driving without a license and hit and run. Bail was set at $4,343.

Contents of federal lands bill focus of meeting

Carson City is writing its federal lands bill and plans several meetings with residents panels to share information about the plan. More than three dozen sites are being considered for inclusion in the bill, in which parcels around the city controlled by various levels of government will be proposed for new management.

Readers' solutions for the Iraq war

Last week, we asked how YOU would solve the crisis in Iraq and the Middle East. We received a letter from Roger Maillard saying we should use a statement from the Vietnam war: "Just declare victory and bring our troops home." Then again, he remembered the "Mission Accomplished" banner, and says, "Maybe next war."

Sunday, October 8

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Stephen Dixon Garrett, 20, of Carson City, was arrested at 1:26 p.m. Saturday in the 400 block of West Winnie Lane on suspicion of felony lewdness with a child under 14 and misdemeanor minor consuming alcohol. Bail was set at $75,237.

Saturday, October 7

Columns by Kirk Caraway

Kirk Caraway is editor of NevadaPolitics.com and serves as Internet editor for the Nevada Appeal. He writes a weekly political column that runs in six newspapers in Nevada, California and Colorado. He also writes a blog on national issues at http://kirkcaraway.com. His recent columns are listed below.

Time for Lyon commissioners to set aside egos

Lyon County has grown dramatically in the past decade, but some of its commissioners continue to govern as if they were presiding over an Old West town. Residents deserve better, and it's time for those commissioners to put aside their egos and get on with the people's business. The conflict began when commissioners Phyllis Hunewill and Bob Milz asked for County Manager Donna Kristaponis' resignation in September. When she refused, they began termination proceedings.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Carlos Aranda, 22, of South Lake Tahoe, Calif., was arrested at 3:03 p.m. Friday at Colorado and Birch streets on suspicion of felony possession of stolen property and misdemeanor no valid driver's license. Bail was set at $25,632.

Friday, October 6

How many school shootings will it take before lessons are learned?

What makes killing so easy? What makes killing innocent people any easier? From what level of hell's fiery depths must such hatred emerge to murder someone? The killing of Darren Mack's estranged wife by his alleged murderous hand made me wonder. Now the reported slaying of Nevada state Controller Kathy Augustine by her 42-year-old husband, Chaz Higgs, made me think even more. This week's unspeakably fatal shootings of little Amish schoolgirls in their classroom in Nickel Mines, Pa., made my stomach spoil, and dreadfully reminded me that hell rules our ungodly world.

Power, not party, is to blame for Congress' ills

This has been a banner 12 months for the Republican denizens of Capitol Hill, one they are likely not to forget. Nor are the voters. You have one GOP congressman, Randy "Duke" Cunningham, already in jail for taking bribes; and another one, Rep. Bob Ney, who will be joining him soon; and former Majority Leader Tom DeLay, who is facing dueling state and federal investigations.

Iraq: Two versions of the same report

We know a national election is coming up soon because both major parties are leaking classified documents as fast as they can in order to destroy their political opponents. It isn't a pretty picture, and, in my opinion, the leakers should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 42-year-old Carson City man was arrested at 2:44 a.m. Friday in the 2700 block of Menlo Drive on suspicion of misdemeanor violation of a restraining order. Bail was set at $3,132.

Thursday, October 5

Horror to the house flipper; praise to the patient

Nothing can illustrate the area housing market better than the tale of a newlywed couple with dreams of equity.

Community Briefs

Carson City Contents of federal lands bill focus of meeting Carson City is writing its federal lands bill and plans several meetings with residents and citizens panels to share information about the plan.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Gregg Adam Dolgin, 44, of Wellington, was arrested at 1:35 p.m. Wednesday in the 900 block of Musser Street on suspicion of felony uttering a forged instrument. Bail was set at $5,000.

Words from a soldier home on leave

During World War II, it was common for community newspapers to run articles on troops home on leave or those heading off to war. I wish that were still the case, but we seldom hear from families or the military about Iraq war homecomings or departures. We know troops are getting off planes nearly every day in Reno, fresh from Iraq. Occasionally, we see them in restaurants and stores wearing their fatigues, but mostly they go around unnoticed.

City off to a good start in tourism assessment

Roger Brooks saw a beautiful city when he visited Carson City this week. Unfortunately, some of that beauty exists for now only in his imagination. Brooks, a tourism consultant, spent three days in the city gathering first impressions much like tourists and passers-by do every day. He saw historic buildings, fantastic restaurants and incredible scenery.

Road report

• Fairview Drive will be closed between Roop Street and South Carson Street for maintenance and restriping from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. today. • 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. Traffic controls will be in effect through Monday.

Wednesday, October 4

Oct. 16 income tax deadline, reminds IRS

The Internal Revenue Service reminds the public that the deadline for filing tax year 2005 individual income tax returns is Oct. 16.

Hike to Machado Postpiles planned

There will be a hike to the Machado Postpiles Saturday for the Carson City Senior Center and Sunday for the Sierra Club. The hike is five miles round trip with an elevation gain of 800 feet and steep rock scrambling. No dogs are allowed on this hike. For information, call 530-2935 at least two days before the hike.

Judge candidate 'victim' of own stupidity, period

That is the question amid revelations that District Court Judge Wayne Pederson was the victim of extortion this summer after having sex in his Reno hotel room with a known drug user while attending courses at the National Judicial College. We use the term "victim" loosely only because that is the official tagline given to Pederson in the incident reports filed by Reno police dispatched to investigate the judge's claim that his lover, Irene Bailey, stole his wallet while he was showering and used it to pay off a drug debt.

Affordable housing vanishes as society goes to the dogs

They say it's a dog's life, but canines have it much better than some people. Ritzy pet resorts are increasing in popularity among those who can afford to pamper their pooches. Cacophonous kennels and barren dog runs resembling the county lockup are being replaced by comfy quarters and lush lawns. There are even swimming pools at the best mutt Marriots. Who can yap about accommodations that include heated floors, air-conditioning, music and television, hiking and swimming, and even pedicures and stories at bedtime, according to a recent article in the Business section of The New York Times? With overnight stays reaching to $100 and beyond, it's lifestyles of the bitch and famous.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 20-year-old man from South Lake Tahoe was arrested at 5:33 a.m. Wednesday at Koontz Lane and Edmonds Drive on suspicion of misdemeanor drunken driving, careless driving, driving without a license, open container of alcohol in vehicle and minor consuming. Bail was set at $1,990.

Tuesday, October 3

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Robert Eugene Hogan, 24, a laborer from Carson City, was arrested at 9:45 a.m. Monday on Sean Drive on suspicion of felony possession of stolen property. His bail was set at $25,000. Also arrested was a 19-year-old unemployed transient on misdemeanor suspicion of violation of a suspended sentence and obstructing police, with bail set at $1,407. India Rogers, 19, of Carson City, was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia and a warrant charging felony larceny. Her bail was set at $11,132.

Community briefs

The Arbor Day Foundation will be giving away 10 free "autumn classics" trees this month as part of its Trees for America campaign. The trees come from sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum, red oak, silver maple, white dogwood, Washington hawthorn and red maple varieties. The trees are shipped postpaid at the right time for planting during Nov. 1 and Dec. 10 with instructions. The trees are guaranteed to grow or will be replaced. To receive the trees, send a $10 membership contribution to AUTUMN CLASSIC TREES, National Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE, 68410 by Oct. 31, or join at www.arborday.org.

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):

Secular, religious defining forces

I was reading something a friend e-mailed me about defining forces. The force this article was talking about was the men and women of our military - the second-most defining force in the world today. They are setting people free from tyranny, torture, brutality, sickness and giving them restored lives with peace. My nephew was with the 82nd Airborne as a paratrooper/medic. He and those who are there now fight to free the people.

Radiance Spa & Salon

Nancy Morris and Joan Alvarado, owners 201 Highway 50 E., Suite 6

Pimp your ride in Carson City

At Unique Auto Sales, customers will be able to buy their used car and get their candy, too.

Unity Church slates spiritual workshops

Fall is a great time to study and reflect on your life with six separate Sunday afternoon workshops from Oct. 15-Nov. 12. The workshops are taught by the Rev. Larry Schneider at 1 p.m. in the Unity Church of Today office, 1662 Highway 395, Minden. Cost is a love offering.

Clinton's 'Roadless Rule' screeches to a halt

Environmentalists claimed victory after a federal judge's ruling last week that the Bush administration's repeal of President Clinton's "Roadless Rule" had itself violated federal law. But even though the Bush administration lost the case, the ultimate losers are the taxpayers, who see decisions about public lands entangled in endless litigation. This ball's many bounces are hard to track, but let's try.

Sibling bonds among the strongest and most complex

One of my supervisors used to say, "Of course your siblings know how to push your buttons better than anyone. They are the people who installed them." It's true; no one can drive you crazier than your sister or brother. On the other hand, no one else has seen all your "warts" and loves you anyway. As my husband and I prepare to adopt our second daughter, I realize that my daughter will soon be a sister. This has made me think about my relationship with my sisters and how my parents helped us to also be good friends.

Monday, October 2

Halloween eats: devilish drinks, boo! brews, eyes

A night of rampant tricking and treating calls for boo!-inspired brews to wash down all that sugary booty.

Friday the 13th - a day the Lord made

There are superstitions about Friday and superstitions about the number 13 - which together seem to create the fear of Friday the 13th. Be that as it may, the Rev. Pat Propster of Calvary Chapel in Carson City, says most Christians today are so firm in their beliefs, they are not superstitious. "(Friday the 13th) becomes more of a humoristic portion of their life," Propster said. "I don't think they even really let it affect them.

Sunday, October 1

NDOW accepting conservation award nominations

The Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners is seeking nominations for the 2006 Wayne E. Kirch Nevada Wildlife Conservation Award. The award is given annually to those who have demonstrated significant results towards conservation, management or enhancement of wildlife. Individuals, nonprofit organizations, outdoor sports clubs or businesses can be nominated.

State to recoup millions that should not have been lost in the first place

It's hard to decide whether we should be happy that the state is taking steps to recover millions of dollars it was losing out on either through mistakes or fraud, or whether we should be angry it was happening in the first place. In recent days, auditors have said the state is losing millions in uncollected insurance premium taxes. Auditors sampled just 57 of the 1,700 insurance companies and found errors - in the companies' favor, of course - totaling about $17 million for 2000-04. The total would likely be much higher if all the companies were audited.

Any bets on how much the border fence is really gonna cost?

National News Notes: It was reported in the national news this week that the Senate approved spending to build 700 miles of fencing between this country and Mexico, and that it will cost between $2 billion and $9 billion to build. Our bet is, if Halliburton is given the contract, prepare to pay at least $9 billion and probably more. Any takers? Then Congressman Foley of Florida quits because he e-mailed male senate pages "inappropriately." Yeah, right. And how will "those who knew" weasel out of this one? Just proves what our mothers said: don't put anything in writing you don't want seen or heard in public. Still good advice.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Michael Anthony Swerdling, 18, a retail worker from Carson City, was arrested at 5:23 p.m. Sunday in the 1100 block of Tamarisk Street on suspicion of misdemeanor assault with a deadly weapon and misdemeanor petty larceny. Swerdling allegedly stole two packages of boxers from Mervyn's and when he was stopped by an employee outside, he allegedly pulled a knife and fled. Bail was set at $20,320.