Stories for January 2007

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Wednesday, January 31

Small-town feel makes rural Ely home, sweet home

Ely is a hoot and a holler on Saturday night. Come Sunday morning, its frosted air is so quiet you can hear a crow call to the sunrise. Located approximately 250 miles north of Southern Nevada, Ely attracts snowbirds and bikers, hunters and anglers. There are miners, ranchers and state prison officers, and an increasing number of refugees from Las Vegas and as far away as Hawaii.

Nevada should get tough on teenage smoking

Nevadans recognize cigarette smoking as a problem severe enough to warrant a law prohibiting those under 18 from purchasing tobacco. So it should not be a reach to make it illegal for minors to possess or use tobacco products.

Community briefs

Carson City Senior center to offer computer classes The Carson City Senior Citizens Center will offer two computer classes in February. "Introduction to Computers," a beginner's class, will meet from 9-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays beginning Feb. 12 for four weeks. The fee for this class is $40 per person.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Ismael Segura Hernandez, 36, of Carson City, was arrested at 4:47 a.m. Wednesday on suspicion of felony burglary. Bail was set at $20,000.

Tuesday, January 30

Community briefs

Carson City Youth take part in fast Youth of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community will be going through Carson City neighborhoods Friday and Saturday seeking donations of nonperishable food items as they participate in a 24-hour Food Fast.

Religion Briefs

The public is welcome to discuss "The Quest for Love" at an Eckankar worship service at 10 a.m. Feb. 17. The group meets at the Carson City Community Center, 851 E. William St.

Let's hope for a year free of boom and busts

Nobody knows for sure what the real estate market is likely to do in Carson City this year, but there were comforting words for homeowners in Monday's paper from Assessor Dave Dawley, who said simply, "The worst is over."

Monday, January 29

Briefly

Carson City Dance classes Tuesdays Line-dancing classes are offered from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Nov. 6 at the Carson Mall. Classes are for beginners and intermediate dancers and a partner is not needed. Walk-ins and dancers of all ages are welcome. Cost is $5 per person. Call 750-7513.

Strawberry meth removes any doubt about the scope of Carson City's drug problem

Editor's note: The Carson City Sheriff's Department seized "strawberry meth" during a search of a Como Street apartment on Saturday. It was the first time the pink, flavored meth, designed to be more attractive to young people, was found there.

A well-deserved rest for an MIA and his family

Thursday, SSgt. William E. "Skip" Skivington, Jr., of Las Vegas, was laid to rest with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery, bringing to an end the almost 39-year heartbreaking wait of his family and friends wanting to know what happened on May 12, 1968, in Vietnam.

Super betting

Super Bowl Sunday at the sportsbook often looks like this: Frenzied betting starts in the morning and continues up to the 3:25 p.m. kickoff. Experienced bettors lay down their greenbacks, knowing who is injured and who is favored. Novices scratch their heads over the spreads and propositions, some even over the basics of football.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Matthew Gigantino, 36, an unemployed Dayton resident, was arrested at 4:46 a.m. Monday at Telegraph and Curry streets on suspicion of felony possession of methamphetamine, and misdemeanor contempt of court, possession of marijuana and possession of a hypodermic device. Bail was set at $29,996.

Sunday, January 28

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 50-year-old unemployed Carson City resident was arrested at 5:45 a.m. Sunday at South Edmonds Drive and South Lompa Lane on suspicion of misdemeanor drunken pedestrian. Bail was set at $67.

Saturday, January 27

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Cesar Jose Munoz, 29, of Carson City, was arrested at 7:16 a.m. Saturday in the 1400 block of Como Street on suspicion of felony conspiracy to sale, exchange or transport a controlled substance. Bail was set at $20,000.

Nevada should send strong message against Real ID

If the billions of dollars that taxpayers are being ordered to shell out to create the Real ID driver's license verification system actually protect this country against terrorism, it will have been money well spent.

Sharing a home may be solution to rising costs

INCLINE VILLAGE - With ever-increasing prices for homes in Incline Village and much of the market dependent on second-home buyers, a new trend may take off in the near future.

Champagne flows at the Oscars; art; chocolate

The winner is ... Soroptimist International of Carson City. It's A Night at the Oscars once again, and you can enjoy the awards night with all your friends.

Friday, January 26

Community briefs

Carson City Roberts House to hold teas through May The Roberts House Museum, 1207 N. Carson St., will be holding teas on Saturday, and one Sunday in February, March, April and May for fundraising. For dates, prices of teas and reservations, call Paula Cannon at 887-8865.

Sheriffs' log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded: • A window was shot out of a local business in the 1900 block of South Roop Street at 1:11 p.m. Thursday. • A report of a fight between several juveniles and adults in the 2800 block of Highway 50 East at 4:01 p.m. Thursday.

If you can't stop illegal immigration, then legalize it

There is nothing quite like a flowing river. Given enough water and slope for it to drain, it is unstoppable. As much as humans have tried, we can never fully defeat a river. At best, we can direct its flow in a direction that is mutually beneficial. At worst, our attempts at control can be swept downstream like driftwood.

Anger and power in politics should not mix

Over the past several years the background to many of my writings has been about power and anger and the political influence that these two behaviors have on our lives here in Carson City and anywhere angry political behavior occurs.

Business Briefs

The Better Business Bureau is warning the public of Web sites impersonating legitimate lenders to steal money from customers. Victims in the U.S. and Canada report losing money, sometimes more than $1,000 each. The Web sites promise loans to anyone, regardless of the person's previous credit history.

Road report

Construction on Carson City streets for the week beginning Jan. 27: • Due to the construction of the new Sheriff's Administration Building, Harbin Avenue is closed to traffic between Musser and Second streets. This closure will remain in effect through September.

Ah ... to live like a billionaire with a mere $2 million

It's so hard being a millionaire when you have to look over the fence and see how the billionaire next door is living.

Business happenings

Annual Directions 2007, 7 a.m., Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Cost is $85 per person, or $125 for the Economic Forum and VIP Luncheon. For information or to RSVP, call 337-3044 or visit www.edawn.org.

Feds continue Internet gambling crackdown

I was pleased to report several months ago that the federal government had finally decided to crack down on unregulated Internet gambling Web sites based in Central America and the Caribbean, where law enforcement is virtually non-existent. I applauded when the Justice Department charged seven officers and employees of a Costa Rica-based sports betting Web site with racketeering, and mail and wire fraud.

Three ideas for Carson schools: a syllabus; merit pay; parental choice

In April 2005, I wrote an Appeal article on Carson High's failure to teach most of its students pre-Civil War American history, a practice I had verified with a teacher, students and a school board member who had discussed it with administrators.

Business licenses

CARSON CITY Business licenses issued in Carson City as of Jan. 19:

Business calendar

Annual Directions 2007, 7 a.m., Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Cost is $85 per person, or $125 for the Economic Forum and VIP Luncheon. For information or to RSVP, call 337-3044 or visit www.edawn.org.

Thursday, January 25

Could this be a new low for Internet crime?

Ever since I wrote about a local woman's experience with Internet phishing, I've been paying closer attention to my own e-mail. And, as much as I detest these people, I've become impressed with how good they are at their game.

Community briefs

Carson City Donate blood for chance to win a plasma TV Blood donors who donate during the month of January will be able to enter United Blood Services' Super Bowl raffle for a chance to win a 42 inch plasma screen television, to be awarded in time to watch the Super Bowl in style.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Christopher Vigneau, 22 , a construction worker from Gardnerville, was arrested at 2:53 a.m. Thursday in the 500 block of North Stewart Street on suspicion of felony probation violation. No bail was set.

Stock markets end year in strong position

Smith Barney's U.S. Investment Policy Committee, a group of the firm's senior investment strategists meets weekly to review developments in the U.S. capital markets.

Senior briefs

The Douglas County Senior Center will be conducting their eighth annual Senior Health Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, in the Shannon Ballroom of the Carson Valley Inn, located at 1627 Highway 395 in Minden. This fair is designed to provide seniors and the community an expanded awareness of health care providers and services in the community.

Backers of large-hangar proposal shouldn't have caught airport neighbors by surprise

The thought of owning a home near a "jet park" sounds about as appealing as living on swampland in Florida. That's why it's understandable that residents in northeast Carson are leery of the proposed project to build a large hangar, even if the reality of the proposal turns out to be far less intrusive than the name suggests. Their concerns are about noise, safety and property values.

Wednesday, January 24

Distant Vegas road stretches from Strip pioneer's legacy

Herb McDonald would have laughed about the dedication of a street in his honor located so far from his beloved Las Vegas Boulevard. After all, that spot in the valley's far northwest nether reaches was nothing but cactus and cattle skulls back when he started touting Las Vegas.

Community briefs

Carson City Roberts House to hold teas through May The Roberts House Museum, 1207 N. Carson St., will be holding teas on Saturday and one Sunday in the months of February, March, April and May for fundraising. For dates, prices of teas and reservations, call Paula Cannon at 887-8865.

Public rec center won't compete with businesses

In regards to a letter by Mr. Winchell, owner of Eagle Fitness Center, printed in the Sunday Nevada Appeal, it is not the city's intent through the development of our proposed indoor recreation center to directly compete with local private-sector fitness clubs.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 23-year-old unemployed Carson City man was arrested at 11 a.m. Tuesday in the 800 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of failure to comply. Bail was set at $1,000.

Tuesday, January 23

Community briefs

Carson City Baby Signs program at Children's Museum Wild Horse Children's Theater and the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada present a Baby Signs Parent Workshop at 10 a.m. today.

Gov. Gibbons delivers a solid performance

We give Gov. Jim Gibbons high marks on his first State of the State address. Sure, it may not have lived up to the billing that he created by hinting at exciting new ways of running the state. And much of his speech was extolling programs that are actually already in place. Too, oftentimes he was short on specifics, and the state still has major budget hurdles, including highway funding and health care, that require solutions.

Sheriffs' Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded: • Accident at East Fifth and Saliman streets at 7:06 a.m. • Vehicle-burglary report in the 700 block of North Pratt Street at 8:19 a.m.

Monday, January 22

Community calendar

Today Pam Brekas presents abstracts at City Cafe Bakery, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily at the City Cafe Bakery, 701 S. Carson St. Gardnerville artist, Pam Brekas, shows 12 of her abstract mixed/media paintings. Call 265-7888. Settings Limits for the 6 to 12 month old, 10 a.m., Ron Wood Family Resource Center, 212 E. Winnie Lane Free workshop for parents with babies birth to 12 months. RSVP at 884-2269.

St. Peter's to host one-day workshop

A one-day experimental workshop "Touching the Divine," featuring Dr. Wayne Muller will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. March 17 at the Plaza Hotel Conference Center. In addition to the workshop, Muller will give an introductory lecture from 7-8:30 p.m. Friday at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, at the corner of Division and West Telegraph streets. There is no charge for the Friday lecture.

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 student from Carson City was arrested Sunday at 4:55 p.m. in the 1500 block of Rand Avenue on suspicion of domestic battery. Bail was set at $3,132.

Tales indicates a case of frozen brains

Who said we're at the top of the food chain? The following two tales from a local service station make us wonder. In the first story, a lady came in on a day that was in the single digits outside and wanted her car washed. The attendant explained to her it was freezing outside and they didn't open the car wash when it was that cold because everything would freeze.

Community briefs

Carson City Library Board meets Thursday The Carson City Library Board meets 5:30 p.m. Thursday in the Sierra Room of the Community Center, 851 E. William St.

Traffic light proves people still have a say

With a figurative flip of the switch, the people of Douglas County proved that the government can still be petitioned. The Nevada Department of Transportation activated the traffic signal at Highway 395 and Stephanie Way last week, nearly two weeks ahead of the contractor's schedule and a full eternity earlier than state officials once said it would happen.

Even if you're not an Al Gore fan, watch his message on global warming

I like Al Gore. In fact, I voted for Al Gore. But keep reading anyway. This isn't about Al Gore. It isn't about right or left, conservative or liberal. It is about our planet's future and the power we have to change it - for better or worse. Last month, I watched the DVD "An Inconvenient Truth," Gore's documentary about global warming. I watched for a number of reasons. I watched it because, as a card-carrying tree-hugger, it was good for me. I watched it because of the three standing ovations it received at the Sundance Film Festival. I watched it because I'd heard it was the third-highest-grossing documentary film in U.S. history. And like I said, I like Al Gore.

Sunday, January 21

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 54-year-old truck driver from Carson City was arrested at 12:32 a.m. Sunday in the 1700 block of North Carson Street on suspicion of misdemeanor drunken driving and failure to maintain a single travel lane. Bail was set at $1,246.

Saturday, January 20

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Glenn Hughes Wiseman, 57, an unemployed Carson City resident, was arrested at 11:47 p.m. Friday in the 4200 block of Furgeson Ranch Road on suspicion of a felony warrant for narcotics, misdemeanor disturbing the peace and two warrants for failure to appear. Bail was set at $50,000.

Friday, January 19

Community briefs

Douglas County 'Turn Nevada Blue' dinner coming up The Douglas County Democratic Central Committee's third annual "Turn Nevada Blue" dinner is Saturday at the Carson Valley Inn, Minden.

Investing to help achieve long-run goals

By William Creekbaum For most investors, funding a secure retirement is a primary financial consideration. For many investors, pay for their children's tuition costs comes a close second. Reaching these objectives, however, requires careful planning and an acute awareness of the many obstacles investors face - such as inflation, market uncertainty and the difficulty of making long-run financial projections.

Letters to the editor

Speeders are killing horses, endangering residents In over 30 years, no wild mustangs have ever been killed on Deer Run Road. Yet within eight short months, two of our treasured mustangs from our small herd have been killed by speeders, another one tonight.

Ignoring the labels and slogans of Reality Politics

n the first heady days of the new Congress, there have been numerous stories about San Francisco liberal Nancy Pelosi, the new Speaker of the House.

Corruption in Congress may be too entrenched for reform

When San Francisco Democrat Nancy Pelosi was sworn in as the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives early this month, she deplored the Republicans' alleged "culture of corruption" and promised real ethics reform. So how's she doing so far? Let's take a closer look.

The top 10 ways to ensure you won't be at the Inauguration Ball

Ho-hum. The Nevada Appeal's editors and I did not receive personal invitations to the Governor's Inaugural Ball, scheduled for Jan. 30 in Reno. I know that friends of mine did, you know, local business leaders and such. So, I know that personal invitations have been mailed out. But not to me. Not to my editors. Oh boy ... all dressed up, and nowhere to groan. Guess I'll just have to return my party apparel to the rental shop.

Community calendar

State of the State address by Gov. Jim Gibbons 6 p.m. Monday at the Nevada Assembly Chambers, state Legislature Building. Televised live on Channels 2, 4, 5, 8 and 21 as well as Carson Access Television in Northern Nevada. On the Net, www.leg.state.nv.us.

State of the state address full of suspense

The buzz may not compare to the opening of a Harry Potter film, but there are lots of people eagerly awaiting the words of Gov. Jim Gibbons in his State of the State Address on Monday. Usually, these things are dull and predictable. This one might have been, too, if Gibbons hadn't announced his intentions to make some major changes to the state budget. Even seasoned lawmakers will be paying rapt attention when he pulls the curtains aside on his plans.

Kindergarten no answer to failing education grades

If you're the kind of person who falls for those Nigerian "confidential business proposals" from Prince Alyusi Islassis of Lagos, you just might be gullible enough to buy into this full-day kindergarten scam being perpetuated by Nevada's education bureaucracy and the leadership of the Nevada Democratic party.

Thursday, January 18

Democrats doin' the antiwar shuffle for 2008

A month ago, the contest between Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination was shaping up as a battle of the "firsts." Would Democrats rally 'round Clinton because she would be the first female president? Or Obama because he would be the first African American in the White House? This week, the faceoff between the two senators - not the party's only would-be nominees but certainly the most talked about - shifted from identity politics to Iraqi politics. That's not necessarily an improvement

Anti-drug message can be heard in the strangest places

There's a convincing school of thought that the meth problem in our community can't be solved from the interior of a police car. In other words, if the "no-tolerance" policy advocated by the local meth coalition is going to be heard, it's going to have to be shouted from all over our community.

We work hard for the mandates

By Becky Bosshart When the federal minimum wage ratchets up to $7.25, which it will following legislation recently passed by the House, Cheryl Blomstrom believes entry-level jobs could vanish from the local market.

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Cesar Armando "Flaco" Alvarado, 28, a baby sitter from Carson City, was arrested at 10:01 a.m. Wednesday in the 400 block of Boulder Drive on two warrants charging suspicion of felony failure to appear and failure to appear on a traffic citation. No bail was set.

Wednesday, January 17

Watch for massacre when ethics reforms dream hits Legislature

Watch for the massacre when dream of ethics reforms hits Legislature Like an armchair quarterback channel-surfing for the mismatch of the week, I am tempted to tell Craig Walton he's dreaming. Detroit Lions-go-to-the-Super-Bowl dreaming. O.J.-Simpson-makes-an-NFL-comeback dreaming.

Community briefs

Carson City Share what you know: become a mentor There will be a mentor orientation training from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday. To be a mentor, you don't need any special skills - just an ability to listen and to offer friendship, guidance, and encouragement to a young person. Contact the Mentor Center of Western Nevada, a program of the Boys and Girls Club, at the Western Nevada Community College at 445-3346.

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 warehouse worker from Minden was arrested at 5:03 a.m. Wednesday in the 800 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of violation of a suspended sentence. Bail was set at $3,000.

Tuesday, January 16

Preview for presidential hopefuls coming to Carson

It's exciting news that the nation's attention will be on Carson City next year when the Democratic presidential hopefuls arrive here for a forum. With them and ahead of them will come the legions of TV crews taking the temperature of small-town America. You know the type ... they mill around in coffee shops asking local folk in flannel shirts what's on their minds.

Environmental problems indicate strained relationship with natural world

When last I wrote, I, as a third-grader, had read in the local newspaper that Adlai Stevenson had predicted (in 1952) that we would eventually be drinking bottled water because we were polluting our lakes and rivers. This news seemed more life threatening to me than even Communism, which until then I had thought was the greatest danger the world faced. What good was it to be free or rich, as America was, if we ran out of clean water?

Community briefs

Carson City Human resources group meeting Thursday Sierra Nevada Human Resources Association meets 7:30 a.m. Thursday at the Casino Fandango, 2800 S. Carson St. in the buffet conference room.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Daniel Morse, a 30-year-old laborer from Carson City, already in custody on a theft charges, was additionally booked in jail on a charge of felony damage to jail property.

A time of respite for the retreat in the hills

VIRGINIA CITY - Visitors at St. Mary's Art Center can enjoy wireless Internet and the historic ambiance of the 132-year-old building. But then they'll freeze in the winter and burn up in the summer.

Business briefs

The Nevada State Contractors Board adjucated cases involving three contractors at its Jan. 10 meeting.

Spending more than time in the capital city

When legislators are in town, revenue rolls in for local business.

Monday, January 15

Whipple showed leadership in chancellor's resignation

I wrote a commentary in the Nevada Appeal back on Oct. 18 in which I said, "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 (or person) over an extended period of time is an omen of disaster."

A 'Hot Dog' snub, other happenings in Carson City

"So quick we are forgotten ..." Carolyn was an extra in the movie "Hot Dog, The Movie," and she saw that they are holding a 25th anniversary party for the filming of that "cult classic" at Lake Tahoe on Saturday. Alas, she was not invited to the celebration (M noticed that for $15 "anyone" could go, but, a snub's a snub), and is currently pouting over the omission. The fact that her "scenes" were cut doesn't seem to matter. Oh, well. Maybe they'll come out with a DVD soon and include the "deleted scenes," then they'll realize what they missed. Right.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Ronald Michael Roper, 31, of Virginia City, was arrested at 3:30 p.m. Sunday on F Street in Virginia City along with Sara Janene Combs, 24. Both were charged with two counts of fraud and two counts of writing checks on a closed checking account. They allegedly wrote checks in Carson City for a motor home, two all-terrain vehicles and a trailer. Each is being held on $20,000 bail.

Hikes this weekend slated for senior center and Sierra Club

There will be hikes of El Dorado Canyon in the Dayton area Saturday for the Carson City Senior Citizens Center and Sunday for the Sierra Club. Membership of either organization is not required to participate in either of these 12-mile round trip hikes. They are open to hikers who are experienced and conditioned. Elevation gain will be under 1,000 feet and the pace will be fast. No dogs allowed. To sign up, call 530-2935 at least two days prior to the hike.

Briefcase

Mufflers For You Manager: Jim Scott

Sunday, January 14

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Michael Connors Jr., 27, of Carson City, was arrested at 5:21 p.m. Saturday in the 700 block of Roop and William streets on suspicion of felony fugitive from justice. No bail was set.

Saturday, January 13

Friday, January 12

Community Briefs

Carson City BAC kicks off membership drive with raffle The Brewery Arts Center has kicked off its membership drive, which runs through Feb. 19. New members and those renewing or upgrading memberships will receive a chance to win the center's only Season Pass for Two, which offers two admissions to all BAC-sponsored events.

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 45-year-old Carson City man was arrested at 1:20 a.m. Thursday in the 3400 block of Airport Road on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic battery. Bail was set at $3,132.

Bush and Iraq: Déjà vu, or a game of chicken?

Reading through President Bush's speech on escalating the war in Iraq, I was struck by how little had changed from his previous pronouncements. This "surge" of 21,500 troops is not much different than previous surges in troop numbers. The "clear and hold" strategy is the same as they tried before. The benchmarks for the Iraqi government to meet are the same benchmarks they have failed to meet in the past.

Is "No Child Left Behind" passing the test five years later?

When President Bush signed the bipartisan No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act five years ago last Monday, he promised it would put U.S. schools "on a new path of reform and a new path of (academic) results." In evaluating NCLB's five-year record, the respected Christian Science Monitor reports that "critics and admirers of the bill tend to agree about the reform part, but say they're still waiting for the results."

Community Calendar

Auditions for "Lend Me A Tenor", 7 p.m., Brewery Arts Center Ballroom, 449 W. King St. Five women and four men between the ages of 20 and 60 are needed. Auditions are cold readings; scripts available for checkout for $10 deposit at the BAC office. Call 887-0438. Tuesday

Making romance at home

Today's recipe is one that I've developed for lovers on Valentine's Day. Getting into a restaurant for that intimate dinner is almost impossible. Certainly it is one of the busiest days in a restaurant's schedule.

Documentary missed out on the shock value of meth victims

By John DiMambro Can you hear that? It's my applause for Carson City's most recent installment in its dogged battle against methamphetamine use and addiction - a TV special titled, "Crystal Darkness," which aired Jan. 9. My applause is mainly for Carson City's aggressive support of coalitions against this deadly drug - the kind of support that continues to give our city a seat in front of the class of so many other cities.

Thursday, January 11

Business calendar

AGC Construction Outlook, 7-9 a.m., NAM Training Center/AGC Building, 5400 Mill St., Reno. Cost is $20 for AGC members and $30 for nonmembers. Visit www.nevadaagc.org or call 329-6116.

Financial advice for 20-somethings' future

By Carol Perry It is the first month of the New Year so many people of all ages will make a resolution to become more financially fit. Time frames, objectives and risk tolerance can change a lot in a person's life, so I thought we would start the new year with a series of articles that will address financial issues for different stages throughout your adult life.

Booklet relates the joy of mentoring (and need for more)

The word "mentor" is intimidating, if you think about it. It suggests a person who has things figured out and, there wouldn't be many of us who'd put ourselves in that category. As soon as you start feeling all self-satisfied, start looking over your shoulder for the freight train of reality.

The last way forward out of the morass of Iraq

President Bush's latest plan for Iraq has the feel of an overdue high school book report. It looks nice, reads well and is persuasive in parts. If only he had handed it in on time.

Letters to the editor

New Bush policy more of the same President Bush is intent upon an escalation of violence in Iraq. He refers to it as a "surge" of troops to secure Baghdad.

Community briefs

Carson City Senior center to hold 'Brrrr Ball' Saturday There will be a senior dance from 7-10 p.m. Saturday at the Carson City Senior Citizens Center. The "Brrrr Ball" costs $6. There will be refreshments and a no-host wine bar, and free dance lessons from Thane Cornell from 6- 7 p.m. For information, call 883-0703.

Sheriff's Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded: • Vehicle burglary report in the 2200 block of East Long Street at 6:11 a.m. • Accident at West Fifth and Division streets at 8:16 a.m.

Business Licenses

CARSON CITY Business licenses issued in Carson City as of Jan. 5:

Wednesday, January 10

Gibbons vs. Guinn spat aside, one Gaming appointee is superior

Gov. Jim Gibbons was sworn in three times last week, and the swearing hasn't stopped since. Like one of those reality TV show contestants forced to perform a crazy stunt while strapped to a bungee cord, Gibbons has taken a press pummeling as he tries to untie the knots created by departing Gov. Kenny Guinn. Guinn's November appointment of his chief of staff, Keith Munro, to the Gaming Control Board picked Gibbons' pocket and generated ample embarrassment.

Don't let film's anti-meth message disappear

The only real criticism we've heard about Tuesday night's broadcast of "Crystal Darkness: Meth's deadly assault on Nevada's Youth" is that it was not long enough.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Megan Marshall, 34, a homemaker from Carson City, was arrested at 5:28 p.m. Tuesday at Fairview and Edmonds drives on suspicion of misdemeanor second-offense drunken driving, gross-misdemeanor child endangerment, failure to use a child restraint, driving with a license suspended for DUI and following too closely. Bail was set at $6,513.

Tuesday, January 9

God's home run is hit just for you

By Rev. Al Tilstra Shawn Butler was dying of cancer at age 7. His frail body was sinking into a coma. Cancer had infiltrated 90 percent of his brain. On Aug. 9, 1982, Shawn's father agreed with the physicians that if he stopped breathing, they would not try to revive him.

It's 2007, and time to give Yucca Mountain a brake

For 30 years, the federal government has been forcing a nuclear waste repository on the state of Nevada. Nevada has pushed back against Congress, a succession of presidents and secretaries of energy, and the nuclear-power brokers.

Sheriffs' log

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

After thedefault

In an auction that lasted less than 10 minutes on the steps of the Carson City Courthouse, Judy and Ray Barrett's last tie to Carson City was swept away from them.

Get 10 free trees in the month of January

Each person who joins the National Arbor Day Foundation this month will receive 10 free flowering trees as part of the foundation's Trees for America campaign. Each new member will receive two white flowering dogwoods, two flowering crabapples, two Washington hawthorns, two American rosebuds, and two goldenrain trees.

Brits got it wrong in Iraq; we are, too

Recently, I wrote in this space about how history teaches us cruel lessons, that if unlearned will only be repeated. It appears we are about again to ignore history and seek a way out of the quagmire that is Iraq with a "surge" of 21,500 troops to stem the insurgency in Baghdad. This is in addition to the 135,000 (give or take 10,000, depending on the day of the week) U.S. troops already there.

A college by any other name may be sweeter

Does it matter whether you're a graduate of Western Nevada Community College or from Western Nevada College? In terms of what you've learned, of course not. It won't make a difference at all.

Monday, January 8

Carson provingits compassion and love again

Here is a follow-up about Danielle Conway: she got out of the hospital, but is back in and not feeling or doing too well at the moment. Her insurance ran out on Jan. 1, so an account has been set up with the Greater Nevada Credit Union, 911 E. Second St., Carson City, NV 89701 (886-1483). The account for Danielle, to help with her expenses and her family, is No. 868378. Believe us, any assistance would be very much appreciated. Several wonderful people have come to the aid of her mother, Norma, with donations of "catastrophic leave" in the last two weeks, and for that they are very grateful. As in any family illness, this has taken a toll, both physically and emotionally. Again, the people of Carson City have shown their compassion and love. Thank you so much.

Meth problem worth all the attention it receives

It's possible that nobody you know uses meth, but that doesn't mean the drug isn't affecting your life. As law enforcement officers have learned over and over, the highly addictive drug is at the root of much of the crime that occurs in Northern Nevada. Our state leads the nation in the percentage of people who have used the drug in their lifetimes. And meth is such an addictive drug that frequently all it takes is one hit to ruin a life.

Community briefs

Carson City Diaper Dash runs through Jan. 26 Through Jan. 26, KYCC Christian radio station, 88.1 FM, "Your Christian Companion," launches its fifth annual Pregnancy Center Baby Shower. From 3-6 p.m. Jan. 26 KYCC will host a "Diaper Dash" contest in which the station sends radio personalities in pregnancy centers or businesses to collect diapers, baby items or donations for supporting this ministry for life.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Juan Gonzalez, 29, a mechanic from Carson City, was arrested at 1:38 a.m. Sunday in the 3200 block of Highway 50 East on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $2,500.

Sunday, January 7

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Jorge Camacho, 22, a landscaper from Carson City, was arrested at 10:52 p.m. Saturday in the 20 block of College Parkway on suspicion of felony home invasion. Bail was set at $10,000. Also arrested was a 25-year-old metal fabricator from Carson City on suspicion of misdemeanor disorderly conduct and open container. Bail was set at $819.

Saturday, January 6

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Diane Marie Welch, 48, merchandiser, from Carson City, was arrested at 9:23 p.m. Friday in the 3300 block of Highway 50 East on suspicion of felony grand larceny. Bail was set at $25,000.

Friday, January 5

Thursday, January 4

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Dennis Woodson Adams, 47, a disabled Carson City man, was arrested at 1:52 a.m. Airport Road and Nye Lane on Thursday on suspicion of felony drunken driving, misdemeanor tampering with a motor vehicle and destruction of property. He allegedly slashed someone's tires then rammed the vehicle with his own car. Bail was set at $26,764.

Community briefs

Each person who joins the National Arbor Day Foundation during January will receive 10 free flowering trees as part of the foundation's Trees for America campaign. Each new member will receive two white flowering dogwoods, two flowering crabapples, two Washington hawthorns, two American rosebuds, and two goldenraintrees.

Divided government: a mixed blessing for stocks

Democratic victories in the 2006 mid-term elections have given the party control of the House and Senate, ending a period of sole Republican rule that began in 2003.

Briefcase

Doc John's Restorations John Hoy, owner

Old Dayton hotel to have a new life

The Fox Hotel is going back to its roots.

Wednesday, January 3

Transforming a quiet old-town street

DAYTON - Joe France and Bonnie Stryker chose to open their bar and Victorian restaurant 10 years ago in this historic town because they found an affordable location on a quiet, Old West-style street.

Gibbons might take some cues from plain old Kenny

With the swearing in of Jim Gibbons, Gov. Kenny C. Guinn returns to private life. After eight years, Nevada's nice-guy governor goes back to being plain old Kenny.

State ownership may make rec center a harder sell

How's this for a controversial editorial topic: Carson City should spend $8 million on a recreation center that it would not own. It sounds ludicrous on the surface, but that's the scenario that emerged Tuesday night after city leaders revealed that the only way the state would consider funding its half of the proposed $16 million project is if it owned the building. And that means the site would have to be closer to Western Nevada Community College campus facilities

Community briefs

Carson City Scrapbooking class at senior center There will be a class on preserving photos into albums at 10 a.m. today in the Jobs Peak Room of the Carson City Senior Citizens Center. Cost is $5.

Sheriffs' Log

e following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Gary Fay Marcyes, 65, an unemployed transient, was arrested at 9:53 p.m. Tuesday in the 1100 block of Roop Street on suspicion of misdemeanor trespassing. He was allegedly sleeping inside the post office and refused to leave. Bail was set at $237.

Tuesday, January 2

Community briefs

Carson City River Advisory Committee meeting canceled The Carson River Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for today has been canceled.

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 heating and air conditioning technician from Carson City was arrested at 4:05 p.m. Monday in the 1900 block of North Fall Street on suspicion of misdemeanor violation of bail conditions. Bail was set at $3,000.

River rec trail a natural fit for Carson's future

Quick, look out your window ... what do you see? If you're in or near Carson City, it's probably some of the most gorgeous scenery in the West. Here's the irony, however: Most of the plans to attract more tourism to the area have little to do directly with our natural wonders.

Pistol-packin' teachers ... imagine the possibilities

The theory is that insane people don't go on shooting sprees around people who have weapons. - Sen. Bob Beers, R-Clark County

Monday, January 1

Not-so-close encounter with Ford's son Jack

Today we say farewell to President Gerald Ford and extend our sympathies to his family and the nation. Maizie remembers the day in 1980 she was in the Reno airport, saw Gov. Bob List, and dashed over to say hello. Some men with hearing aids got awfully upset, as the governor said over and over, "It's all right, it's all right."

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 65-year-old Dayton man was arrested at 10:45 p.m. Sunday at Highway 50 and Flint Drive on suspicion of misdemeanor speeding, misdemeanor failure to maintain single travel lane, misdemeanor obstructing and gross misdemeanor battery on a peace officer. Bail was set at $3,071

Ford: A role model for new office holders

We congratulate all of the candidates sworn into office on Monday and wish them good luck in doing what's best for their constituents and in tackling the many difficult issues and challenges before them.