Northern Nevada briefly Feb. 14

Carson's annual Cops and Kids Dinner set

The Carson City Sheriff's Department, in partnership with The Boys & Girls Clubs and The Mentor Center, are hosting the 5th annual Cops and Kids Spaghetti Dinner from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday at the Casino Fandango.

"This is a great event, a favorite for many in our community," said Ruth Gordon. "It came to be five years ago following a study by Columbia University about the importance of the family dinner table and how it impacts a youths behavior risks."

The group transferred that idea into the relationship between youth and authority figures, meaning law enforcement and civic leaders. The youth from The Mentor Center and the Boys & Girls Clubs have often had negative family experiences with the law - and vice-versa, Gordon said. Together they developed conversation starters that are placed on each table as a way to engage the youth and adults in positive discussion.

There will be approximately 100 kids and 20-plus representatives from the Sheriff's Office sitting together. Additional guests this year include Mayor Bob Crowell and the newest member of Carson's K-9 force.

The dinner is supported by Casino Fandango, Greater Nevada Credit Union, the sheriff's office, the Boys & Girls Clubs and The Mentor Center.

For more information, call Ruth Gordon at 445-3346 or Paul Young at 240-1132, or go to the Web site, www.

mentor.wnc.edu or by e-mail to rgordon@wnc.edu.

Eagles & Ag event in Carson Valley

Tours still are available for Carson Valley's annual Eagles & Agriculture event Feb. 19-21. Spaces are open for the Ranch and Eagle tour, Friday's opening reception, a two-day photo workshop and the raft/kayak trip.

The Ranch and Eagle tour is Saturday, giving the opportunities to observe ranch operations and observe birds of prey from vantage points not available to the general public. Tour cost of $60 includes lunch and motor coach transportation with experts on Carson Valley history and wildlife.

Eagles & Agriculture 2010 kicks off with a reception Feb. 19, with wildlife presenters, hors d'oeuvres, and no-host bar.

A two-day wildlife photography workshop led by Steve Ting of Steve Ting Photography includes instruction Saturday and nature photo shoot at an area ranch Sunday. Cost is $60 and limited to 20 participants.

Observe eagles, hawks and falcons on a raft/canoe trip Feb. 21 on the Carson River guided by Great Basin Sports. Cost is $75.

Make event reservations at the Carson Valley Arts Council, 775-782-8207.

Swing dance lessons start Wednesday

High Sierra Swing Dance Club and the Brewery Arts Center present a six-week series of dance lessons, Wednesdays starting Feb. 17 at the BAC Grand Ballroom, 449 W. King St., Carson City.

West Coast swing for beginners is 6-7:30 p.m.; Argentine tango is 7:30-9 p.m. No partner is necessary. Cost is $51.50 for one class or $91.50 for both, with a $5 discount for BAC members. Go to www.

breweryarts.org or call 883-1976.

Valentine's Day event today at Brewery Arts

Love is in the air at the Brewery Arts Center, 449 W. King St. The Artisan Cafe will host a Valentine's Day event from 3-6 p.m. today. Admission is free.

The reception features the work of local artists and jewelry makers.

Local musical favorites Martin & Vargas will entertain guests with their unique "Nuevo Flamenco" music. Guests may also enjoy a tasty dessert bar provided by the Artisan Cafe.