Stories for June 2007

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Saturday, June 30

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Michael Leverenz, 58, unemployed, from Carson City, was arrested 5:26 p.m. Friday in the 900 block of North Roop Street on suspicion of felony possession of prescription drugs without a prescription and misdemeanor drunken pedestrian. Bail was set at $2,699.

Community briefs

Carson City Comma to show Langson's works Comma Coffee and zArtist.com present the work of photographer Don Langson at The Backseat Gallery inside Comma Coffee. Langson is a Carson City resident who has traveled the world and will be showing 50 years of work.

Friday, June 29

Sheriffs' Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded Thursday: • Noise complaint on North Deer Run Road at 12:53 a.m. • Accident on Arrowhead Drive at 3:39 a.m.

If you love the forest, you have to kill trees

As I look at images from South Lake Tahoe of smoldering ashes that used to be homes of people I know, I think back a few years to the words a fire captain friend of mine said to me. "It's not if we have a catastrophic wildfire in the Tahoe Basin, but when." "When" happened last week, and "when" will happen again.

Angora: A fire that brought out the best and worst in humanity

It happened. And how it happened. With an indiscriminate rage against all who are innocent of its cause, the Angora fire of South Lake Tahoe was raised from hell to selfishly wrap its mighty arms around structures both manmade and nature-spawned.

Tahoe not alone in its potential for huge fires

Yes, it could happen here. We're not talking only about wildfires. We're talking about the kind of fires that can wipe out entire neighborhoods within minutes. We're talking about an inferno like the Angora fire taking out hundreds of homes in the Virginia City Highlands, or reducing Clear Creek Canyon and all the homes there to ashes.

Briefly

Carson City Painters sought for help with Lady Godiva's costume Mark your calendars for Sunday. The historical statue at the corner of Emerson and Arrowhead drives in North Carson City will be getting a new coat of paint.

Miscarriages of justice at the hands of attorneys and judges

After more than 10 years as an English/Spanish interpreter in Northern Nevada courtrooms, I have a healthy respect for the American system of justice. Nevertheless, my faith in that system is occasionally shaken by stupid, incompetent and/or vindictive attorneys and judges.

Thursday, June 28

Carson man to be ordained as Lutheran pastor

Longtime Carson City resident Alan Hilton will be ordained at 4 p.m. Sunday at Bethlehem Lutheran Church as a Lutheran pastor. A native of South Dakota and lifelong Lutheran, Hilton has been a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church for the past 42 years.

Heater recalled due to cord defect

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of Lasko Ceramic Heaters manufactured by Lasko Products Inc., of West Chester, Pa.

Sheriffs' Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded Wednesday: • Coroner calls on Snyder Avenue and Medical Parkway. • Noise complaint on South Roop Street at 12:48 a.m.

Teaching children the financial facts of life

By default, parents are usually the primary source of a financial education. However, many young people may receive allowances - or even sizable inheritances - without a sound base of knowledge in saving, budgeting, investing and financial planning. To help the children in your life develop a responsible attitude about money, I believe it might help to consider these points:

Fire brings wrong kind of publicity for Tahoe tourism

Lake Tahoe tourism officials have longed for the national and international attention they've experienced since the Angora fire broke out June 24. Reports featuring the resort destination have been published or broadcast as far away as Italy, Canada and even Australia.

Defensible space ... is it time to get tough?

Stories on defensible space have been common in this and other newspapers this year as agencies and municipalities work to encourage homeowners to get on board. Creating those barriers between homes and fire fuels have shown their worth time after time.

Angora fire: An event we'll never forget

Many of us will never forget the moment we heard about the Angora fire. In that sense it's like the terrorist attacks of 9-11-01, or the Space Shuttle disaster, or the significant personal events in our lives.

Congregation, pastor celebrate 20 years of service together

Not only has the Rev. Marvin H. Dennis been a pastor at Good Shepherd Wesleyan Church for the past 20 years - he has been in the ministry for 41 years. On Sunday, the congregation of GSWC will honor and celebrate with Dennis as he marks his 20th anniversary with the church at a special 10:30 a.m. service, and a dessert social at 6:30 p.m.

July 4 fireworks to go on despite Angora fire

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE - Tourism officials got their biggest endorsement Wednesday for visitors to frequent South Lake Tahoe for its busiest July 4 holiday, despite the 3,100-acre Angora fire.

Wednesday, June 27

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 24-year-old laborer from Carson City was arrested at 1:04 a.m. Wednesday in the 500 block of South Roop Street on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic battery, obstructing police and being a drunken pedestrian. Bail was set at $3,946.

Augustine's daughter waits for justice, no matter how long it takes

Until recently, Dallas Augustine's only first-hand experience with a criminal trial was limited to a high school field trip to the courthouse. That's changed now. As she's watched the murder case against Chaz Higgs methodically unfold from her seat near the back of a Reno courtroom, Augustine has received a painful legal education. She has forced herself to take in almost every minute of the trial of the man she believes is her mother's killer.

Responsibility lies with each of us to stay safe

Gazing across Lake Tahoe, the ravages of the Angora fire are shrouded in smoke, but one thing is perfectly clear. All of us must be prepared for wildfires.

Making French cuisine simple

In the region of France where I grew up, the meals we ate changed according to the season; it was a natural occurrence. In winter, we devoured hearty stews, deeply red wine-flavored boeuf bourguignon or a creamy veal stew like blanquette de veau.

Tuesday, June 26

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 22-year-old Stagecoach woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence early Tuesday. She was stopped at Highway 50 and Roop after exiting the parking lot of a nearby bar at 4:10 a.m. Bail was set at $1,000.

Community briefs

Angora fire help ComputerCorps offers free help to fire evacuees, victims ComputerCorps is offering free help for the victims, evacuees and emergency response personnel of the Angora fire.

Business licenses

Business licenses issued in Carson City as of June 22:

Need a new perspective? Try on a new coat of paint

We take color for granted every day. Green grass, blue sky, white clouds, pink sunset. The color of our clothing, our cars, and even our hair are part of who we are and how we relate to the world around us. These profound musings arise from the fact that I am in the process of transforming a dark dated house into a light colorful one.

Monday, June 25

Community briefs

Carson City Funeral home hosts open house today Autumn Funerals & Cremations will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. today at 1575 N. Lompa Lane.

The catastrophic fire everyone feared has arrived

This is the fire we had been warned about. Not on a remote part of the desert or far off in the wilderness, but right in the thickly populated forest around Lake Tahoe. There may come great changes from this catastrophe on such things as how forests are managed and how homeowners must protect their property. But for now, it is the people we must be concerned about.

Sheriffs' Log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded Sunday: • Misdemeanor arrest of a male after a traffic stop on Highway 50 East in Mound House at 12:08 a.m. • Detention of a juvenile male in Fernley 1:10 a.m.

Parole Board

The following individuals will appear before the Parole Board in July: Carson City • Justin R. Box, sentenced Jan. 2, 2007, for possession forged check.

Events and humor aplenty to complete the month of June

Almost every Tuesday evening, the Gold Hill Hotel (847-0111) sponsors a wonderful buffet and lecture. Tonight's offering is by Lochie Paige about "The Donner Party." The question begs to be asked, "What's for dinner?" And, if that's not bad enough, don't say something you shouldn't and "put your foot in your mouth," nor should you "offer to lend someone a hand." After all, you might be misunderstood and become the "butt" of other jokes. (yes, we know we're on an elevator straight down).

Sunday, June 24

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 Carson City resident was arrested at 10:22 p.m. Sunday in the 800 block of East Musser Street on suspicion of misdemeanor contempt of court. Bail was set at $515 cash.

Saturday, June 23

The start of a brand new day for Carson City

If the regional branding effort earlier this year made anything clear, it's that Carson City has a bit of an identity crisis. Lots of people have no idea where we are or what we're about, which is why the overall regional brand chosen in that effort doesn't even mention our city.

Community awards: Citizen of the year

The Community Awards recognize the people who make our communities special. The Nevada Appeal solicited nominations for the awards during May, and a panel of readers chose three finalists and the winner in each of the 12 categories.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Daniel Eugene Morse, 30, unemployed of Carson City, was arrested at 6:28 p.m. Friday at the Carson City Jail on suspicion of gross misdemeanor damage to jail property. Bail was set at $2,500.

Friday, June 22

Business briefs

Chartered in October 2006 with $10 million in capital, Carson River Community Bank recently achieved a milestone of $20 million in total assets.

Spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God

The Apostle Peter wrote his first epistle to "God's elect, strangers in the world." He informs his readers that they are "a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." Every Christian is a priest ( I Peter 2: 5,9; Revelation 1:6).

Governor is upholding his promise of no new taxes

Throughout the legislative session I consistently stated that I would not support new or increased taxes without the support of the people. Through the ballot process, Nevadans have an opportunity to voice their concerns or support for tax increases. I believe this is the prudent course of action that allows taxpayers to make the decision directly by ballot if they choose.

Community briefs

Carson City Auditions aheadfor 'High School Musical' Wild Horse Children's Theater announces auditions for Disney's "High School Musical" for actors ages 8-16. Auditions for leads and chorus will be held Tuesday and Wednesday beginning at 5 p.m. in the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada, 813 N. Carson St.

Chasing a dream - my legal journey to American citizenship

Carrying two suitcases, a solid education and the desire to build my personal dream, I left Mumbai (Bombay), India, in August 1990. Never before had I ventured outside India. With no family or friends outside the Indian continent, I took a big risk by traveling to the United States to continue my education.

Sheriffs' log

The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded Thursday: • Three subjects ran from deputies in the 2800 block of Silver Sage Drive at 12:01 a.m. One person was arrested 15 minutes later.

Thursday, June 21

Rotarians send money, muscle to Gulfport, Miss.

Financially speaking, the project won't rank highly among the good deeds of the Carson City Rotary Club. The Carson Tahoe Cancer Center wins that distinction hands down, for which the club is donating $200,000.

Changes coming to Carson's neighbor to the south

Someone traveling into Douglas County from Carson City in 1987 would have a hard time envisioning the rolling desert hills as anything resembling the county's economic future. But last week, it was time to accept that the land on the county line could funnel money into the county for decades to come.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Benjamin Joseph Moresi, 23, a laborer from Carson City, was arrested at 6:34 p.m. Wednesday in the 3100 block of Bunch Way on a Douglas County warrant charging suspicion of two counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Bail was set at $10,000.

Business briefs

There will be a groundbreaking ceremony for Jet Ranch at the Carson City Airport at 11 a.m. Wednesday. A reception will follow in Hangar Nine.

Snow cones and kids' songs

Speed bumps buck Luis Leon's snow cone truck as he drives down the main street of Safari Mobile Homes.

Shedding pounds, without losing the taste

What an honor it is to be asked by one of Carson City's favorite food authorities, the renowned Linda Marrone, to contribute to this space on the topic of "healthy eating."

Religion briefs

Norm Milz will be ordained and installed at 4 p.m. Sunday as pastor of Shepherd of the Sierra Lutheran Church, 3680 Highway 395. He has served as vicar there for the past year.

Parole Board

The Parole Board took the following regular parole actions during April: Robert W. Alexander, Lyon County, parole denied to discharge Sandra J. Blair, Lyon County, parole denied to discharge

Wednesday, June 20

Poll numbers show Gibbons climbing out of credibility hole

Although it's often attributed to him, evidence suggests Mark Twain didn't say, "The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated." That's the bad news.

Tuesday, June 19

Anti-meth law makes a statement

Though some are calling an anti-meth bill signed by the governor last week more symbolic than potentially effective, state legislators deserve praise for addressing the scourge of Nevada with bi-partisan legislation. Assembly Bill 148, which was signed by Gov. Gibbons last week, limits the sales of some cold and allergy medicines used in the manufacture of methamphetamine to pharmacies and removes them from convenience store shelves. Consumers will have to sign their names to a log and show ID when purchasing medications that contain pseudoephedrine. The bill also allows for criminal penalties against anyone selling lithium and sodium metals used in making meth, according to Associated Press reports.

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 21-year-old warehouse worker was arrested at 10:23 a.m. Monday in the 1600 block of Airport Road on suspicion of misdemeanor threats. He allegedly threatened to "shoot everyone," after being fired from his job. His bail was set at $10,000.

Pray before getting behind the wheel, Vatican says

VATICAN CITY - The Vatican on Tuesday issued a "Ten Commandments" for motorists to keep them on the road to salvation, warning drivers against the sins of road rage, abuse of alcohol or even simple rudeness. The unusual document from the Vatican's office for migrants and itinerant people also warned that automobiles can be "an occasion of sin" - particularly when used to make a dangerous passing maneuver or when used by prostitutes and their clients.

Business licenses

Carson City Business licenses issued in Carson City as of June 12:

A new definition for a special breed of fathers

Now that Father's Day is over and fathers have received their due, let's hear it for stepfathers - those special men who embrace children not their own, biologically speaking, and everything that comes along with them. The dictionary defines "stepfather" as "the husband of one's mother by a subsequent marriage." If ever a definition misses the mark, it's that one.

Community briefs

Carson City Airport Authority meets tonight The Carson City Airport Authority will meet at 6 p.m. in the Sierra Room of the Carson City Community Center, 851 E. William St.

Free Bluegrass, Gospel concert and jam session

Fountainhead Foursquare Church will host a free Bluegrass Music Concert and Gospel Music Jam Session and Sing along from 6-8 p.m. June 30 at the church, 3690 Highway 395.

Vacation Bible Schools

St. Paul's Lutheran Family will hold Vacation Bible School from 6-8 p.m. June 25-29 at the church, 1201 N. Saliman Road. To register, call the church office at 882-3020.

Monday, June 18

A driver gets just desserts, and life is good

THERE IS A GOD! Maizie was driving south on Roop St. and had stopped behind about four cars at the red light at the E. Williams St. intersection. In the left turn lane were three cars and a motorcycle. When the light turned green, the second car in the left turn lane decided the first car wasn't turning fast enough and cut into the right hand lane then swerved back across the "slow" car and turned left onto Highway 50 E. Lo and behold, the "motorcycle" turned on his red and blue flashing lights, and went after the idiot in the blue car, thus proving there IS a God. YES, YES, YES!!! • • •

Why not be a better person, as of now?

I was about to pull out of my driveway with my 4-year-old granddaughter when I heard a little voice from the back seat. "Papa, you forgot to buckle me in." I got out of the car grumbling and fastened her into the car seat.

Community Service Awards: Public Servant

Editor's note: The Community Awards recognizes the people who make our communities special. The Nevada Appeal solicited nominations for the awards during May and a panel of readers chose three finalists and the winner in each of the 12 categories. The Appeal will run short stories on those finalists from now until the awards banquet at the Carson Nugget, which will be 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. June 26. At the banquet, first lady Dawn Gibbons and Appeal Publisher John DiMambro will present the awards to the winner in each of the categories. For information about the banquet, or to purchase tickets, call 882-2111.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Jorge Louis Lizarraga, 20, of Carson City, was arrested in the 800 block of Musser Street on suspicion of gross misdemeanor damage to jail property. He allegedly carved the name of a street gang into a cell wall. Bail was set at $2,500.

'Who has the hammer?'

Earlier this year, I happened to be leading the opening prayer for the State Assembly. On the last day of the week, I brought my soon-to-be 5-year-old granddaughter. The Sergeant-at-Arms got a special chair just for her so she could sit up front with me and look out over the whole chamber.

Gov. Gibbons shows inconsistency on tax rhetoric

On the surface, it seems like Gov. Gibbons was consistent with his stance on not raising taxes by vetoing a bill that would have allowed the county commissions in Churchill and Lyon counties to build a joint juvenile detention center. That bill wouldn't have raised taxes, but would have allowed the counties to do so to build the badly needed 24-bed center. They needed the Legislature's approval because it would have been above the property tax cap approved in 2005. Gibbons suggested in his veto remarks that they need to find a solution other than raising taxes, and pledged support in finding it. Officials are still waiting for those solutions.

Sunday, June 17

Community briefs

Carson City Online graduate courses for teachers The Nevada Post Secondary Education Committee has approved online 18-credit graduate program and three-credit graduate courses designed specifically for Nevada's teachers.

Community Service Awards:

Editor's note: The Community Awards recognizes the people who make our communities special. The Nevada Appeal solicited nominations for the awards during May and a panel of readers chose three finalists and the winner in each of the 12 categories. The Appeal will run short stories on those finalists from now until the awards banquet at the Carson Nugget, which will be 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. June 26. At the banquet, first lady Dawn Gibbons and Appeal Publisher John DiMambro will present the awards to the winner in each of the categories. For information about the banquet, or to purchase tickets, call 882-2111.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Orion Tovar, 35, a construction worker from Carson City was arrested at 1:05 a.m. Sunday at William and Carson streets on suspicion of felony counterfeiting and obtaining money under false pretenses. Bail was set at $20,000. Also arrested was Amy Lofton on suspicion of felony counterfeiting, obtaining money, possession of a controlled substance and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. Her bail was set at $21,132.

Saturday, June 16

Briefly

Carson City Proscenium Players holding auditions for 'Blithe Spirit' Proscenium Players' first show of the 2007-08 season, "Blithe Spirit" by Noel Coward, will hold auditions 7 p.m. Monday in the Donald W. Reynolds Theatre at the Brewery Arts Center, 449 W King St.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Julia Ann Soukup-French, 45, disabled, of Carson City, was arrested at 11:52 a.m. Saturday in the 1400 block of East William Street on suspicion of felony forgery and burglary. French was arrested while attempting to make forged checks at Kinko's. Bail was set at $25,000.

Friday, June 15

Briefly

Carson City Shabby & Chic Flea Market today at WNCC's north parking lot Make plans now to attend Western Nevada Community College's fourth Shabby & Chic Flea Market and Craft Fair from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. today in the WNCC north parking lot and Dini Student Center.

A reminder this Father's Day: The little things are what matters

To most children, dads are fundamentally flawless. They are smarter than any teacher and stronger than any weightlifter. They are fearless and always know the right thing to do. But sometimes, in doing what they think is right, dads take a wrong turn. They don't mean it. They just take a wrong exit on life's highway while trying to find a map in the glove compartment.

Grilling down Yucatan way

Here we are at the beginning of summer, and that means it's the season for grilling. Due in part, perhaps, to our primal need to gather the tribe around an open flame, backyard barbecues with their cinder-fried burgers and "kiss the cook" aprons are an American tradition.

Who's the best choice for vice president

One of the things that Republicans and Democrats can agree on is that Dick Cheney is the most powerful vice president in history. And because of the precedent he has set, it also means that extra attention should be paid to who will be filling Cheney's spot come January 2009.

Defending Dan and his condemnation of dumbing down news

The last time I wrote about veteran TV journalist Dan Rather, I trashed him for inventing the news when he anchored a pseudo-documentary based on forged documents about President Bush's service (or lack of same) in the Texas Air National Guard. But now, I want to defend Rather against unjust and unfair attacks from TV news executives and commentators branding him as "sexist," and worse.

Good fathers do wonders for families, communities

Being a father, or mother for that matter, is not an easy job. In fact, most parents admit to making plenty of mistakes early on, and just when they get good, the kids are grown and gone. And that spells out a solution to one of our most troublesome problems not only in Carson City, but nationwide - we have a desperate need for solid role models who can give children a sense of belonging. There are 24 million children in the United States growing up in homes without fathers. Hundreds of them are in Carson City. And, because of the prisons in and around Carson City, many children have parents who are incarcerated.

Thursday, June 14

Vacation Bible School

First Presbyterian Church will hold "Son Safari," vacation Bible school June 18-22 in the Family Life Center of the church, 300 block of West Musser Street. Children ages 4-5 attend from 6-7:30 p.m.; children in grades 1 through 6 attend from 6-8:30 p.m.

Sports hoodlums are finally getting their just desserts

Roger Goodell, who replaced Paul Tagliabue as commissioner of the National Football League last summer, is off to a fast (and most welcome) start by enforcing a new code of conduct designed to punish players who act like hoodlums and break the law. Such a policy was long overdue in professional sports and Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig should emulate Goodell by cracking down on the use of illegal, performance-enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball.

Alternative energy - the next big thing

It's good to see Sen. Harry Reid taking the lead on a more rational and enlightened national energy policy that will not only be good for the environment but also will reduce this country's dependence on foreign oil. Reid is going about this much-needed transformation the right way - by offering entrepreneurs strong tax incentives to develop alternative sources of energy, including wind, solar and geothermal, all of which are available in vast quantities in Nevada but as yet are sorely underutilized.

Two diseases, two runners, two victories

One of them was diagnosed with diabetes, the other with prostate cancer. They knew they were at the beginning of frightening journeys. So they decided to run.

Carson-area Church Directory

Directory of Carson City area church services Appeal staff APOSTOLIC CHURCH OF CARSON CITY

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • David Ricky Galbaldon, 46, a sales manager from Fontana, Calif., on a warrant for suspicion of felony passing a check without sufficient funds. Bail was set at $5,000.

Wednesday, June 13

Grants are welcome news in the battle against gangs

The next time you see fresh gang graffiti in Carson City you can at least be assured that help is on the way. The news of grants to fight the rising gang problem in Carson City is fantastic news that comes at a crucial time. In some cities, the gang problem is so ingrained that people have long ago given up hope of defeating it. People have stopped caring.

Casino customer's threat 'to blow this place down' sounds serious

It was a late Saturday night in May at the Mandalay Bay, and the casino floor was the usual carnival of gambling and boozy voices. The large man of Middle Eastern descent took a seat next to the buxom woman in the low-cut blouse. Between deals, he made sexual suggestions.

Tuesday, June 12

Community briefs

The Carson City Library Foundation is seeking crafters to participate in Oktoberfest to be held Oct. 7 at the Pony Express Pavilion. For information, call Judie, 883-2834, or the Carson City Library.

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • David Fausto, 35, a maintenance worker from Carson City, was arrested 2:45 p.m. Monday on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic battery and false imprisonment. Bail was set at $23,132.

The quandary in our counting house

Go ahead, Congress. Raise our taxes. You too, Gov. Gibbons. You know you're only delaying the inevitable. Build more prisons.

An opportunity for cooperation

The bill coming due for Douglas County over bus service provided by Jump Around Carson illustrates once again the importance of working together. At issue is JAC's service across the county line to the stores near Topsy Lane. It's a great service for shoppers - including Carson City residents who choose to patronize those stores, and for people living in Douglas County who have jobs in Carson City.

Religion Briefs

Richard Green, who is from South Africa and has been preaching for 50 years, will be at Calvary Baptist Church in Dayton at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. At 6 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday, pot-faith dinners will be served and the public is invited to share dinner each night and to speak with Richard Green in a more relaxed atmosphere. A message will be presented to all who come immediately following dinner.

Monday, June 11

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Octavio Rivera-Munoz, 23, a construction worker from Carson City, was arrested Monday at 1:02 a.m. in the 600 block of Hot Springs Road on suspicion of felony third-offense drunken driving involving an accident, misdemeanor destruction of property and driving on a license revoked for DUI. Bail was set at $21,764.

Gratitude for Joshua Rodgers and other heroes

To give up one's life in the service of one's country is laudable, but not what any family or friend wants to hear about. Unfortunately, CWO Joshua Rodgers, a Douglas High School graduate, was killed in Afghanistan last week, leaving behind a grieving family and a host of friends. Take a moment to imagine their pain, then say a prayer for those who put themselves in mortal peril. Thank all the families who stay at home in constant fear that their loved ones won't survive. They are fighting the battles, too. And to Warrant Officer Rodgers' family, our heartfelt sympathy and thanks.

Law should not be based on gender

In profiling two cases of manufacturing child pornography that have recently passed through the Nevada courts, it might be supposed they were an apple-to-apple comparison. I'll let you decide. One case has a man convicted of secretly taking pictures of his daughter, using a Web cam and specialized software, and then editing them for sexual content. It was not reported if the pictures were publicly broadcast. In another, a woman school teacher coerced a girl to pose for an upskirt photograph using a web cam. She then published the picture on the Web, and e-mailed it to herself.

Delay on redevelopment funds makes sense

The Board of Supervisors made a smart decision in postponing a decision on whether to provide Dick Campagni with an additional $500,000 in redevelopment funds to build his new auto dealership. There are just too many questions that must be answered before making such a decision, including what the city has to gain from such an investment.

Apple makes Safari Web browser available to Windows users

SAN FRANCISCO - Apple Inc. launched a version of its Safari Web browser for Windows-based PCs on Monday, adding yet another tentacle to its multi-pronged encroachment of Microsoft Corp.'s turf.

Today

"Jazz and Poetry" with special guest vocalist Jakki Ford 8-10 p.m. at Comma Coffee, 312 S. Carson St. Admission is $5 general, $4 for members of the Mile High Jazz Band Association, and free for age 18 and under. Swing dance instruction from 6-7:30 p.m. is $5 extra. Call 883-4154, or visit the Web site www.MileHighJazz.com.

Seaweed isn't just for sushi

Most Americans know seaweed as two things - a wrapper on a California roll and a slimy obstacle en route to an ocean dip.

Sunday, June 10

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Robert Allen Gottschaulk, 31, of Reno, was arrested at 6:54 a.m. Sunday on Highway 395 near Lakeview Hill on suspicion of gross misdemeanor driving under the influence second offense and misdemeanor failure to maintain a single travel lane. Bail was set at $2,607.

Saturday, June 9

Friday, June 8

A message from the publisher on late newspaper deliveries

I wish I could say that our recent press mishaps were all equipment problems. I also wish I could say that they were all due to power surges. I wish, I wish, I wish ... It is true that the past few weeks have not been gold star achievements for the Nevada Appeal newspaper deliveries. Very true. The range of the problems has been from power surges (that cause sudden stops in the press that wraps the paper in tangled bunches that need to be detached and realigned) to machine malfunctions, to carriers saying, "Forget it..." because of all of the above.

Governor recounts first legislative successes

I took office with pledges to improve our schools, make our neighborhoods safer and provide new sources of funding for building highways - while keeping the tax burdens on our citizens and our businesses low. The promise was mine, but it required the hard work of 63 members of the Senate and Assembly representing every Nevada resident. They did their jobs, and Nevada will become a better state because of our collective efforts.

It's time to turn up the heat in fight against arsonists

They are starting early. It's no surprise. The immeasurable power of their intolerable heat competing with their overpowering autumn leaf-colored light that seems to fiercely snarl at the wavering shrouds of black and gray that are as ominous as fire-cast shadows in Hell itself. I am referring to forest fires.

2007 Legislature lets in more sunshine on state and local governments

As the sun rose on the morning after adjournment, it was clear the 2007 Legislature's actions will help shed more light on Nevada's state and local governments.

Briefly

Thermador Ceramic Cooktops are being recalled because the cooking unit can activate by itself while it is turned off creating a fire hazard. Residents with the recalled units should disconnect the cooktop at the circuit breaker when not in use and never leave anything on the cooktop when it is unattended

Sierra Nevada golf courses pool efforts in joint promotional venture

RENO - There were a few skeptics when tourism officials and business leaders first approached dozens of golf courses along the Sierra Nevada's eastern front about pooling their resources to help promote the area as a golfing destination.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Carl Carter, 48, an unemployed transient, was arrested at 11 a.m. Thursday on a Texas warrant for suspicion of being a felony fugitive from parole. No bail was set.

Seeing today through prism of World War II

Like a lot of people my age, I grew up watching movies about World War II. I can't tell you how many times I've seen "Sands of Iwo Jima," "Patton," "Midway," or any of dozens of big films about the war. I still watch them today, thanks to their continuous reruns on satellite television.

Thursday, June 7

Nevada a candidate for death with dignity act

The release of Dr. Jack Kevorkian from prison on charges of murder, stemming from assisting in the death of a terminally ill patient nine years ago, is bound to spark a renewed debate about physician-assisted suicide in this country. It is a debate that needs to happen, if nothing else, for the sake of the thousands of Americans suffering from the pain, suffering and helplessness of terminal diseases.

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):

Past Pages

120 YEARS AGO Mingled with the productive Sagebrush lands of Nevada are large patches of alkali which most people look upon as absolutely worthless for any purpose. This is a great mistake. They can be reclaimed by mixing sand and manure with them or by treating them with about five tons of gypsum to the acre. Near American Flat can be found inexhaustible quantities of gypsum which anyone can have by taking it out.

A Florida mother sends her sympathies for Nevada's losses

She called from Reno after hearing that Barack Obama would be in Carson City. Patricia Flanagan wanted to make sure we asked the presidential candidate what he would do to protect our troops. The implication of her words didn't strike me at first, so I asked why that question was so important to her.

The award for hypocrite of the year goes to ...

Ihereby nominate Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards for my first annual Political Hypocrite of the Year Award. He earned it fair and square. Edwards, a former one-term senator from South Carolina and John Kerry's running mate in 2004, presents himself as an idealistic defender of the "have nots" and a champion of the underdog as he campaigns on a divisive rich vs. poor platform. So just how poor is the author of a book titled "Ending Poverty in America?" Well, consider the following:

Briefly

Carson City Items sought for Really Big Yard Sale The Children's Museum of Northern Nevada is hosting its annual Really Big Yard Sale from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. June 23. Donations of items for the sale are welcome at the museum, 813 N. Carson St., any time between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. between now and June 22. No clothing or large appliances.

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Tyler Scott Norman, 19, a laborer from Dayton, was arrested at 5:42 p.m. Wednesday in the 800 block of East Musser Street on a warrant for suspicion of felony principal to burglary. Bail was set at $25,000.

Greater Reno-Tahoe hosts 2009 economic development conference

Greater Reno-Tahoe will host more than 1,500 of the leading economic development officials from around the world at the International Economic Development Council Conference Oct. 4-7, 2009. Reno is the smallest city to host the conference, joining major metros including New York City, Chicago and Atlanta.

New sponsors lineup set for Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival

The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival is more than just plays on the beach at Sand Harbor State Park.

Power bills will remain almost unchanged

Sierra Pacific Power Co.'s monthly electric bills will increase 7 cents for the average customer this coming year.

Wednesday, June 6

Comic book storeopen in Carson City

A store filled with villains, lasers and claws can be like "Cheers" for the right people.

After keeping his promise, governor can declare a victory for his Nevada

If they were officially drinking champagne in the Governor's Mansion these days, it would be time to pop a cork. Despite what was at times a jaw-dropping lack of coordination inside his own administration, Gov. Jim Gibbons survived his first legislative session and can declare a victory for his Nevada. A toast by Team Gibbons is in order even if it's with ginger ale.

Time to analyze what legislators have left behind

There are suddenly a lot of empty motel rooms in Carson City now that the Legislature has wrapped up its work. As Nevadans, we thank those legislators for their dedication - none of them were getting rich by serving as elected officials, after all. And serving as public officials often puts a strain on family and professional life.

Sheriff's log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Justin Allen Richardson, 32, unemployed from Carson City, was arrested in the 3300 block of North Carson Street at 5:08 p.m.

Tuesday, June 5

Community briefs

Carson City Biologist giving more than just blood today Carl Lackey, wildlife biologist with the Nevada Department of Wildlife, will answer questions on Nevada's bear population and the black bear, in general from 2-7 p.m. today at United Blood Services. Stryker and Rooster, Lackey's Karelian bear dogs will accompany him and there will be a display on the Western Nevada black bear.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Tyler S. Matheson, 23, a manager from South Lake Tahoe, was arrested 2:52 a.m. Tuesday in the 900 block of South Carson Street on three warrants for allegedly failing to appear in on drug charges. Bail was set at $10,000.

Yucca Mountain not dead after all?

Sen. Harry Reid has said with confidence that the plan to make Yucca Mountain the nation's nuclear waste repository is dead, a proclamation that put the anxieties of many Nevadans at ease. Yet New Mexico Sen. Pete Domenici, ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Idaho Sen. Larry Craig have introduced legislation that would fast track the licensing of Yucca Mountain. Domenici has tied the completion of the project as necessary to combat climate change, saying nuclear energy is a clean source of energy.

Monday, June 4

Community briefs

Carson City Families sought to house exchange students International exchange high school students are coming to study in the Carson City area during the 2007-08 school year. The students will integrate themselves into a Carson City family with the goal of experiencing American culture as an American high school student. In turn, they will provide insight into their own culture.

Impressions of Obama; getting ready for an event-filled weekend

The 63rd anniversary of D-Day is tomorrow. It was the day the beaches of Normandy became awash with the blood of our young men and the beginning of the end for the Nazis. The Americans landed on Omaha and Utah beaches, while the English and Canadians went in at Juno, Sword and Gold.

Parole BoardTo appear in June

The following individuals will appear before the Parole Board in June: Carson City • Rodney J. Carasella, sentenced Jan. 8, 2007, for battery causing substantial harm.

Eating locally in Northern Nevada - is it possible?

"We wanted to live in a place that could feed us," writes Barbara Kingsolver in her new book, "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle." In 2005, after more than 20 years in Tucson, Ariz., Kingsolver and her family pulled up stakes and moved to southern Appalachia, where they settled on a hill farm determined not to eat anything grown more than 10 miles from their new home. The book is about the family's year of eating locally.

Sheriffs' Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: The following are some of the calls to which deputies responded Sunday:

Legislators pass the test on education solutions

One of the most highly contested battles in the Legislature was supposed to be over what plan would be chosen to boost Nevada's schools out of the bottom of nationwide education rankings. Would it be the expensive all-day kindergarten plan favored by the Democrats, which they say has been proven in other states? Or would it be Gov. Gibbons' plan to put more power in the hands of individual schools?

One year ago ...

Headlines from a year ago: Dozens kept in garage as police search for sniper A Reno woman picking up paperwork from the Mills B. Lane Justice Center on Monday was among dozens of people detained in the courthouse's adjacent parking garage while authorities searched for a suspected sniper who critically wounded a Reno judge as he stood near a third-floor window.

Graduation ceremonies

WHAT: Pioneer High School WHEN: 6 p.m. todayWHERE: Carson City Community Center

Sunday, June 3

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 landscaper from Carson City was arrested Sunday at 2:38 a.m. at the intersection of East Robinson Street and Harbin Avenue on suspicion of misdemeanor probation violation. Bail was set at $3,000.

Saturday, June 2

Sheriffs' log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • Michael Dent, a 19-year-old construction worker from Carson City, was arrested at 3:52 p.m. Friday at the intersection of Airport Road and Butti Lane on suspicion of gross misdemeanor indecent exposure, misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor, misdemeanor consuming/possession of alcohol as a minor and misdemeanor probation violation. Bail was set at $6,869.

Friday, June 1

Sheriff's Log

The following people were booked into the Carson City Jail. All suspects are innocent until proved guilty in court: • A 32-year-old fencer from Carson City was arrested at 4 p.m. Thursday at Williams and Roop streets on suspicion of misdemeanor driving with a suspended registration, driving on a revoked license, driving without insurance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail was set at $2,728.

Despite all the retail talk, manufacturing remains our backbone

I recently heard (from people who should know) that some manufacturers do not want other manufacturers to locate in our area. Because of competition? Nope! Because they don't want other manufacturers to further fragment the area's work force. Hey, now that's about as smart as a dead fox. I am also told that some of those same manufacturers will not support organizations charged with the objective to lure manufacturers to the area.

There are no guarantees during fire season

When you live in a tinderbox, it's reassuring to see truckloads of wildland firefighters regularly driving through town. And it's impressive to see the aircraft respond so quickly to fires like they did this week on the Mound House blaze. Then, when you consider the sheep and goats eating the fire fuels above Carson City, we ought to be feeling pretty good about making it through this fire season unscathed.

CEO president serves Big Business masters

You have to hand it to President George W. Bush. Just when you think he couldn't sink any lower, he finds a way. You would think Mr. 28 Percent would be trying to find ways to boost his popularity and political power out of the pit where it now resides. But with his new immigration reform bill, he seems intent on driving away the few people who have so far blissfully ignored the disaster his administration has become.