Local briefs

Western Nevada College has hired a veteran state budget office analyst as its new budget director.

Jim Manning has worked for the past 15 years with the State of Nevada Department of Administration. College officials said his experience with the state's budget system will be a valuable addition to the college.

He will oversee all aspects of budgeting and ensure that the college's financial resources and operations are used to support the college mission and in compliance with all state rules.

Manning's experience includes working as budget analyst to the Nevada Department of Prisons, senior accountant for the Nevada Department of Human Resources, and as an auditor for the Nevada Department of Taxation and the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles.

Planned Parenthood training voters for caucuses

Planned Parenthood Mar Monte is hosting a Live Action Camp Saturday to recruit up to 1,000 Nevadans to participate in the presidential caucus process.

Attendees will experience both a Democratic mock caucus and a Republican straw poll to familiarize themselves with both party processes. Then participants will get training in grassroots techniques such as phone banking, canvassing and pledge gatherings.

The camp will be held at 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at 605 Washington St., in Reno.

Those attending will also hear presentations about women's health care issues and how to submit supportive planks to each party platform during the January caucuses.

To attend the free Planned Parenthood event, RSVP at www.ppmarmonte.org or email renopa@ppmarmonte.org. Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing and to bring a cell phone.

Smyth joins Blind Center board of directors

James Smyth, a partner with the Kummer Kaempfer law firm, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Blind Center of Nevada.

The appointment comes after more than 18 months of volunteer services to the nonprofit organization.

He will help the nonprofit expand public awareness, community involvement and employment opportunities for its clients.

The firm has provided complimentary legal advice to the Blind Center of Nevada for several years.