Top Reno Area Local News Stories
Source: MedleyStory
Seasonal drying conditions, increasing daytime temperatures and a number of human-caused fires have prompted the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Carson City District Office and the Nevada Division of Forestry’s Sierra Forest Fire Protection District to announce the implementation of fire restrictions on Tuesday, May 29, 2012, at 12:01 a.m., and lasting until further notice.
Vegetation in western Nevada and eastern California is significantly dryer for this time of year. Below average moisture this past winter and spring and warmer than average temperatures has led to the increased rate of drying the vegetation. Trees and other forest vegetation at higher elevations are quickly drying out. Grass and brush is significantly dry for this time of the year at lower elevations. The public is encouraged to safely enjoy the public lands, bearing in mind that human-caused fires annually threaten human life, private property and public land resources every summer.
Off-highway motor vehicle enthusiasts are advised that hot exhaust systems can ignite dry grasses.
The potential for another devastating fire during the summer is very real. Report fires to the Sierra Front Interagency Dispatch Center, Minden, Nevada, (775) 883-5995, or dial 911.
Fire Restrictions Prohibit:
1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire (using wood, charcoal or any other material), campfire, or stove fire except a portable stove using gas or pressurized liquid fuel, outside of a developed fee campground or picnic area (except by permit).
2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or at a developed campground or picnic area.
3. Welding, or operating an acetylene torch with open flames, except by permit.
4. Using or causing to be used, any explosive, except by permit.
5. Possession or use of fireworks (always prohibited), or any other incendiary device.
6. Use of tracer rounds, steel-core ammunition or any type of exploding targets including Binary Explosive Targets while recreational shooting.
7. Open burning (e.g. weeds, brush and yard debris).
In addition, the Nevada Division of Forestry restrictions within the Sierra Fire Protection District prohibit operating vehicles off of existing hard surface gravel roads or dirt roads in wildland areas, and operating vehicles or equipment traveling on or using wildland areas without at least an axe, shovel and one gallon of water. The BLM and the Forest Service recommend avoiding cross-country travel whenever possible to prevent grass from igniting from hot exhaust systems. All agencies recommend that individuals carry cell phones while in the wildlands or national forests to report wild fires.
Affected Areas:
BLM -all public land areas, roads and trails located within and administered by the BLM-Nevada Carson City District Office, with the exception of Bureau of Land Management lands West of Highway 395 outside of developed recreation sites with the exception of Sand Mountain Recreation Area, and the portion of the Walker Lake Recreation Area within 100 yards of Walker Lake, or between Walker Lake and U.S. Highway 95 where camp fires are permitted.
FOREST SERVICE – There are no restrictions at this time in this area.
NDF – all areas, roads and trails within the boundaries of the Sierra Forest Fire Protection District in Carson City and Storey County. This order also applies to the following state parks: Washoe Lake, the Carson River Ranches portion of Fort Churchill, Berlin-Ichythosaur and Dayton in western Nevada.
Citizens are reminded that the charcoal grills cannot be used during fire restrictions. Charcoal burns longer and hotter than wood and may appear to be cold; however, embers can linger for hours. Winds can spread the embers from charcoal and campfires into vegetation, igniting a wildfire. Propane or white gas stoves, however, are acceptable for use during fire restrictions.
As fire season continues the BLM and NDF will be aggressively citing those who do not comply with the posted restrictions and those who use or possess fireworks. Violation of these prohibitions is subject to punishment by a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment for not more than six months or both, as Class B misdemeanors under federal law (agency statutes vary). Persons may also be responsible for resource damage, suppression costs and any injuries that occur if they are found liable for causing a wildfire.
For more information or clarification on the restrictions, please contact the BLM-Carson City District Office at 775-885-6000, or the Nevada Division of Forestry at 775-849-2500.
Published: Mon, 28 May 2012 11:07:42 -0700
RENO -- The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) presented its prestigious “Making a Difference” National Volunteer Awards at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on May 24 to four individuals, three couples, one group, and one BLM employee for outstanding volunteer service or volunteer leadership on BLM-managed lands.
Pat Bruce, a volunteer with the BLM Winnemucca District Black Rock Field Office was the recipient of an individual award.
Bruce is the field project coordinator for the Friends of Nevada Wilderness. He has devoted six years to coordinating volunteer projects within the 10 wilderness areas and four wilderness study areas in the Black Rock, which encompass about one million acres of BLM lands. Taking long hikes into remote areas, he digitized all routes, ways, and boundary features for use with Geographic Information Systems. This information is critical to the accurate inventory of current conditions on the ground. Bruce is an active volunteer supervisor for non-wilderness projects. He and his volunteers participated in dozens of restoration, protection, and education projects to benefit BLM’s Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area.
At the ceremony, BLM Director Bob Abbey expressed his appreciation for the volunteers’ work in helping the BLM fulfill its multiple-use mission.
“Our volunteers give us confidence in a bright tomorrow and are an inspiration to us all,” said Abbey. “We are sincerely grateful for their efforts, and I encourage everyone here to follow our honorees’ shining example of community service."
In fiscal year 2011, more than 30,000 volunteers contributed over 1.2 million hours of their time in assisting the BLM. That’s equivalent to the work of more than 690 full-time employees.
The “Making a Difference Award” is an annual award presented by the BLM that recognizes its most exceptional volunteers, whose efforts include trail repair, visitor services, habitat restoration, and many other duties.
Published: Mon, 28 May 2012 10:47:27 -0700
The commercials on TV are calling us to purchase, cars, furniture, clothing, appliances, electronics or a myriad of other things to “Celebrate Memorial Day” with their huge blowout sales! Our Parks and Recreation programs are declaring summer has arrived by opening our pools and encouraging us to come join in the fun and laughter this Memorial Day weekend. It saddens me and breaks my heart to see that most of America has taken advantage of this 3 day weekend as a reason to party, shop and celebrate for self-fulfillment. As a country we have lost our focus and the reason why we take time to stop and respectfully, solemnly and reverently remember those who gave up their last breath and hope of a future, so that we could enjoy each and every day. We have failed our children by not educating them as to the real meaning of Memorial Day.
As I child I remember getting together with family for picnics or bar-b-ques. We looked forward to camping trips or trips to the lake. There were a few trips I remember to the cemetery but it was to place flowers on deceased relative’s graves who had never served in the military. I thought Memorial Day was to remember loved ones who had died. I wasn’t taught and therefore I missed the opportunity to teach my children that Memorial Day is to remember those who paid the ultimate price. Freedom comes with a price, freedom’s not free .
It really was my son Marc Alan Lee who taught me about Memorial Day . The way he lived his life and the value he placed on others’ lives, caused him to sacrifice his life defending his teammates and our freedoms. Marc was the first Navy SEAL killed in Iraq 8-2-06. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13
The orders from Gen. John A. Logan declare “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit. “
General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery on the first Observance of Memorial day and then 5,000 patriots decorated the graves of 20,000 soldiers buried in the cemetery. I am so proud of the boy scouts who every year place flags on my son’s grave and every headstone at Fort Rosecrans. I know that many others throughout the nation will be doing the same at National Cemeteries all over our country, thank you!
Waterloo, NY was declared by President Johnson as the official birthplace of Memorial Day. He recognized that this was a city who understood the real meaning of Memorial Day. They knew that Memorial Day was to honor America’s mighty warriors who sacrificed their lives in combat defending our freedoms. Businesses closed, community wide events were planned to honor our brave warriors who were killed in action and residents gathered and decorated the graves of our heroes. How sad that there are businesses in America who take advantage of this holiday and choose to increase their profits instead of sacrificing a little by closing to remember the sacrifice of our fallen war heroes.
I speak for all of the Gold Star families who have lost a loved one in combat, that every day for us is Memorial Day. With pride and pain we remember them; we remember their smile, their voice, their smell, their touch, their laughter, their character, their dedication and their sacrifice. As a nation we ask that on Memorial Day, one day out of the year that as a Nation we corporately come together to honor our fallen heroes who died in combat. That’s not asking too much for the blessings and freedoms that you enjoy every day.
I’ve read many articles about Memorial Day and heard quotes from speeches from well-meaning people, even from our leaders in the military, who seem to not completely understand that Memorial Day is the Day we remember those heroes, who while serving in the military, died in combat. We have Armed Forces Day and Veterans Day to remember our Vets. Personally not a day goes by that I don’t remember our Vets, not matter when they served, or the branch of service they were in. I’ve dedicated my life to honoring, thanking and supporting our military and especially the families of the fallen, but on May 28th, Memorial Day join with me as we “Remember” not “Celebrate” those who gave their all for you and I.
Join with me as I lead the charge to reclaim Memorial Day. Attend Parades and community events to remember our fallen heroes. Take a carload of friends and family to a National Cemetery and decorate the graves and remember the sacrifice of a hero and their family. Thank the family members of those you know who lost a loved one in combat. Take a Gold Star family to lunch, coffee, dinner and ask them about their hero. Do something to let them know you have not forgotten the sacrifice and understand the high price that has been paid for our freedoms. Read a story of a fallen hero, watch a memorial video, then pass it on to those whose lives you have influence on. If you’re a business, close on May 28th to honor and remember our fallen or donate the proceeds from the day to a charity who tells the stories of our fallen or who takes care of the families of the fallen. Our fallen heroes gave their very last breath defending you and they have earned the respect due them on Memorial Day.
Remembering their Sacrifice!
Published: Mon, 28 May 2012 10:19:47 -0700
RENO -- A weekend altercation between two man escalated and led to one of them ending up in the hospital as a result of a stab wound.
On Sunday, the Reno Police Department was called to the area of 550 University Terrace, Whitaker Park, on the report of a stabbing that just occurred.
The victim, a fifty-six year old Reno resident, had been in an argument with the suspect over a money debt. During the altercation, the suspect, 45-year-old Ernest McNeal, produced a knife and the victim sustained a non-life threatening stab wound to his torso. He was transported to the Renown Medical Center where he has been listed in stable condition.
Mcneal, was located a short time later in downtown Reno and arrested without incident. He was charged with Battery with a Deadly Weapon The Reno Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect(s). Anyone having information relating to this crime or the suspect(s) should contact the Reno Police Department at 334-2115, Secret Witness at 322-4900, www.secretwitness.com, or text the tip to 847411 (TIP 411) keyword - SWPublished: Mon, 28 May 2012 10:06:39 -0700
RENO -- A teen boy is in police custody after he allegedly burglarized a home and attacked the home owner while trying to escape.
On Sunday, the Reno Police Department was called to a home at 3550 Scottsdale Rd., on the report of a residential burglary in progress. The victim resident returned home and found the suspect, a seventeen-year-old Reno resident, burglarizing her home. The suspect battered the victim and fled from the residence on foot. Before he could escape, the suspect was detained by a family member with the assistance of neighbors. The investigation indicates that the juvenile suspect may have had accomplices. As such, the Reno Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect(s). Reno Police asks residents to help deter criminals by remembering to lock and secure their homes when they are away. Anyone having information relating to this crime or the suspect(s) should contact the Reno Police Department at 334-2115, Secret Witness at 322-4900, www.secretwitness.com, or text the tip to 847411 (TIP 411) keyword - SW.Published: Mon, 28 May 2012 10:01:12 -0700
Northern Nevada Red Cross volunteers have been working overtime helping the residents of several single family home fires.
Reno volunteers responded and supported families involved in residential fires where eight people and several pets were displaced. The families required assistance with provisional food, shelter, clothing and emotional support to help cope with the loss.
Reno volunteers also manned the evacuation center for the Topaz Ranch Estates wildfire on May 22 where several structures were destroyed.
Similarly, Winnemucca volunteers supported two residential fires in their community. On Mothers day a family of four was displaced when their home caught fire. But the family was provided immediate food, shelter and replacement clothing until other resources become available. Additionally, another resident lost two pets when his mobile home caught fire, volunteers were able to provide him with assistance as well.
Red Cross case workers will follow up with all of the residents to determine if any additional assistance or resources will be required.
The Red Cross works in cooperation with the fire department to provide immediate and follow-up support to anyone affected by fire. The American Red Cross is a non-profit organization and none of this would have been possible without the generous support from the Northern Nevada community. This is another example of how donation dollars that have been made to this chapter benefit its community.
Published: Fri, 25 May 2012 10:32:58 -0700
RENO -- The erratic year-to-year swings in precipitation totals in the Reno-Tahoe area conjures up the word “drought” every couple of years, and this year is no exception. The Nevada State Climate Office at the University of Nevada, Reno, in conjunction with the Nevada Drought Response Committee, just announced a Stage 1 drought (moderate) for six counties and a Stage 2 drought (severe) for 11 counties. Reno, Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada are no strangers to drought, the most famous being the Medieval megadrought lasting from 800 to 1250 A.D. when annual precipitation was less than 60 percent of normal. The Reno-Tahoe region is now about 65 percent of annual normal precipitation for the year, which doesn’t seem like much, but imagine if this were the “norm” each and every year for the next 200 years. Research by scientists at the University of Nevada, Reno and their partners at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego indicates that there are other instances of such long-lasting, severe droughts in the western United States throughout history. Their recent paper, a culmination of a comprehensive high-tech assessment of Fallen Leaf Lake – a small moraine-bound lake at the south end of the Lake Tahoe Basin – reports that stands of pre-Medieval trees in the lake suggest the region experienced severe drought at least every 650 to 1,150 years during the mid- and late-Holocene period. “Using an arsenal of cutting edge sonar tools, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and a manned submersible, we’ve obtained potentially the most accurate record thus far on the instances of 200-year-long droughts in the Sierra,” Graham Kent, director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory said. “The record from Fallen Leaf Lake confirms what was expected and is likely the most accurate record, in terms of precipitation, than obtained previously from a variety of methods throughout the Sierra.” Kent is part of the University of Nevada, Reno and Scripps research team that traced the megadroughts and dry spells of the region using tree-ring analysis, shoreline records and sediment deposition in Fallen Leaf Lake. Using side-scan and multibeam sonar technology developed to map underwater earthquake fault lines such as the West Tahoe fault beneath Fallen Leaf Lake, the team also imaged standing trees up to 130 feet beneath the lake surface as well as submerged ancient shoreline structure and development. The trees matured while the lake level was 130 to 200 feet below its modern elevation and were not deposited by a landslide as was suspected. The team, led by John Kleppe, University of Nevada, Reno engineering professor emeritus, published a paper on this research and is presenting its findings in seminars and workshops. “The lake is like a ‘canary in a coal mine’ for the Sierra, telling the story of precipitation very clearly,” Kent said. “Fallen Leaf Lake elevations change rapidly due to its unique ratio between catchment basin and lake surface of about 8 to 1. With analysis of the standing trees submerged in the lake, sediment cores and our sonar scanning of ancient shorelines, we can more accurately and easily trace the precipitation history of the region.” Water balance calculations and analysis of tree-ring samples undertaken by Kleppe, Kent and Scripps scientists Danny Brothers and Neal Driscoll, along with Professor Franco Biondi of the University’s College of Science, suggest annual precipitation was less than 60 percent of normal from the late 10th century to the early 13th century. Their research was documented in a scientific paper, Duration and severity of Medieval drought in the Lake Tahoe Basin, published in the Quaternary Science Reviews in November 2011. Tree-ring records and submerged paleoshoreline geomorphology suggest a Medieval low-lake level of Fallen Leaf Lake lasted more than 220 years. More than 80 trees were found lying on the lake floor at various elevations above the paleoshoreline. “Although the ancient cycle of megadroughts seems to occur every 650 to 1150 years and the last one was 750 years ago, it is uncertain when the next megadrought will occur. With climate change upon us, it will be interesting to see how carbon dioxide loading in the atmosphere will affect this cycle,” Kent said. Professor Paula Noble, in the University’s College of Science’s Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering, is expanding this research to include the fine-scale study of climate change through out the Holocene (about 12,000 years) using recently collected 40-foot-long sediment cores in Fallen Leaf Lake.
Published: Fri, 25 May 2012 10:20:07 -0700
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Carson City District would like to remind the community to be aware of the increased chance of wildfire due to extreme dry conditions and warmer temperatures.
“The current conditions for this time of the year are dryer than what we have seen in the last 20 years, said Ken Smihula, Fire Management Officer. “The public needs to be aware of the dry conditions and the very high risk of wildfire. We encourage everyone using public lands to be careful in regards to human-caused fires and take appropriate steps to prevent them.”
The following precautions should be taken:
· Do not shoot any tracer bullets or incendiary ammunition.
· Shoot only at cardboard or paper targets, manufactured metallic targets or manufactured
thrown-type clay targets.
To date, there have been six human caused fires and 26,891 acres burned on public lands within the Carson City BLM District.
Published: Fri, 25 May 2012 10:10:51 -0700
RENO -- The Washoe County School District may actually be saving millions from not purchasing new text books.
Teacher for special assignments, Aaron Grossman says, “I suspect it strikes people as ironic but because we haven’t had the opportunity to purchase new materials we’ve actually saved ourselves.”
There’s an unexpected lesson to be learned from the school district’s 2 million dollar cut for new school books, it’s been delayed for three years now. It might actually be a smart move.
Grossman says, “Most of the materials that have been published over the last 2 to 3 years are not currently aligned to the common core state standards.”
About a year and a half ago the district switched from the Nevada state standard to this new common core state standard.
“We’ve described them as 6 shifts one of these big differences is we should see a 50/50 blend that is a 50/50 blend of literature and nonfiction text in the classroom.”
If the district bought books now they would be investing in essentially “outdated books”. Instead, Open Educational Resources partners are making new materials available for our students.
Grossman says, “It may be the case that in 2 or 3 years when we have the budget for materials there will be so much stuff that’s available for free that we can begin to supplement and target specific populations and kids who might be struggling.”
Since 46 other states have also adopted this common core, resources are more readily available to the district.
“When we were in Nevada just working on Nevada state standards there were very few opportunities to trade with a place like California, Arizona, or New Mexico.”
The teachers in classrooms have already started shifting instructions and rewriting the materials to get everything aligned with this new standard.
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 23:13:59 -0700
RENO -- Nevada’s Drought Response Committee has announced all Nevada counties as being on either drought alert or drought watch with 11 counties classified by the U.S. Drought Monitor as under severe drought and six counties under moderate drought.
The committee is organizing and activating three regional task forces to address the drought impacts in local and regional areas to begin gathering information about local plans, needs, vulnerabilities and available resources.
The Drought Response Committee, made up of representatives Nevada State Climate Office of the University of Nevada, Reno, Division of Emergency Management and Division of Water Resources, identified the following counties as currently being in Drought Alert (Stage 2): Churchill, Clark, Elko, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Lyon, Pershing, Storey, Washoe and White Pine. The following counties were identified as being in Drought Watch (Stage 1): Carson, Douglas, Esmeralda, Lincoln, Mineral and Nye.
The Northwestern Nevada Drought Task Force will address drought-related issues in Carson, Churchill, Douglas, Lyon, Mineral, Storey, and Washoe counties. The Central Eastern Nevada Drought Task Force will address issues in Elko, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Pershing, and White Pine counties. The Southern Nevada Task Force will address isues in Clark, Esmeralda, Lincoln, and Nye counties.
“Activating the regional task forces will help us to monitor conditions in each county as we move into the dry summer season,” Kate Berry, associate professor in the Department of Geography and acting Nevada State Climatologist at the University of Nevada, Reno, said. “There are many variables, differing in each region, which must be considered.”
The drought task forces will gather data to assess actual and projected impacts on the state's economy, urban, agriculture, fish and wildlife or other resources in the areas impacted by the drought. Factors under consideration include meteorological, hydrological, agricultural and socioeconomic conditions.
The task forces will report regularly to the Drought Response Committee with details concerning the drought extent, magnitude and impacts and provide information about drought mitigation measures being taken by public agencies or private individuals or organizations.
The drought notification process is outlined in the newly revised Nevada State Drought Response Plan.
“The plan clarifies and updates the approach to interagency coordination in responding to drought in the state,” said Berry, who spearheaded the initiative to update the drought response plan, which had not been revised since 2003. “Following Nevada's dry winter, the plan offers a fresh approach to analyzing and responding to these dry conditions across the state."
Under the new response plan, the highest level of drought is Stage 3, Emergency Drought Stage. In this stage, the Drought Response Committee determines whether a critical situation exists or when it becomes obvious that existing state resources and strategies are insufficient to deal with the growing problems and needs. The committee then makes a recommendation to the governor for official drought declaration. The Emergency Drought declaration may be a trigger point for federal resources and activation of the state’s Emergency Operations Center.
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 14:32:34 -0700
Some special local area kids were out showing what they can do on Wednesday during the Special Olympics.
“They deserve a day to have fun and go out and play,” Hayden Bluhm at the Lyon County Special Olympic games on Wednesday.
400 of northern Nevada’s special athletes showed up from 42 different northern Nevada schools “I like mostly just having the kids have fun; they’re getting a new friend and playing all the games that they want” said leadership student, Dario Ceresola.
It was a chance to highlight their skills and determination, while at the same time a rare opportunity for student leaders to interact with special needs kids.
“They’re really fun, they’re just like you. They’re just a little different, there’s nothing wrong with them.”
It’s a lesson that couldn’t be taught inside the classroom. They were able to see firsthand how challenges are overcome. Organizer Julie Shoemakers said it’s all about helping strangers in need, “one person can make a difference is what I try to teach all of my leadership kids.”
16 year old Alex Hill is here helping his sister Paige along who suffers from motor, vision, and hearing problems. “It takes a lot of physical strength first of all a lot of dedication and a lot of care” he said.
He said he loves helping her do things at home; they’re involved in T ball, soccer and 4H.
His mother said she was glad they came. “He can set a good example to others to show them that kids might do things differently but they have just as much fun as everyone else and it’s fun to do it with them.”
The champions really lived up to their motto, “kids helping kids grow through new adventures and friendships.”
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 13:46:37 -0700
SPARKS -- Tomorrow, Friday, May 25th, “Take 25” will be held at the Legends at Sparks Marina between 11 AM and 3 PM.
Our nation has observed May 25th as National Missing Children’s Day since it was first proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1983.
Take 25 is a program of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Its purpose is to heighten awareness of children’s personal safety issues. With a focus on prevention, the campaign encourages parents, guardians and other role models to spend time talking to kids to teach them ways to be safer.
The Sparks Police Department will be running their Child ID program at this event, where parents can have their children fingerprinted and photographed for their records. (Parents, you must accompany your children if you wish to participate in Child ID)
SPD will also have their Mounted Unit on hand, as well as a SWAT display.
For additional information, contact Officer Alex Mendoza at 353-2299.
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 10:21:57 -0700
CARSON CITY -- The services provided by the prison inmates in the training of wild horses is paying off, as reflected by the amount raised during the the saddle-trained horse adoption event.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Nevada Department of Agriculture and the Nevada Department of Corrections on Saturday, May 19, hosted the second of three annual saddle-trained horse adoption events at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC) in Carson City.
Twelve wild horses, gathered from herd management areas within administered public lands in Nevada and California were saddle-trained for four months by inmate-trainers in the NNCC program, and offered during a spirited competitive bid adoption. Successful bidders from the crowd of over 150 people paid a total of $13,375 for the animals.
All twelve offered horses were adopted after starting bids of $150. The event’s top bid of $2,350 went for a five-year old brown gelding named “Three Socks.” The average bidding price for each horse was $1,130.00.
The successful bidders officially adopted their new horse and they must show diligent care of each animal for a year before they can apply to BLM to receive a title of ownership. Since 1973, the BLM has placed more than 220,000 horses and burros into private ownership through the adoption program.
The next saddle-trained horse adoption and competitive auction event will be the Wild Horse and Burro Expo at the Reno Livestock Event Center held in Reno on Saturday, August 18, 2012.
Fo more information about these special adoption events visit the BLM website.
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 10:06:36 -0700
RENO -- The RTC invites the public to attend a public meeting on today, to discuss and provide input for proposed safety improvements to Plumas Street.
The improvements being considered include a three lane configuration (travel lanes in each direction and a center turn lane) which is expected to slow traffic, improve safety, reduce crashes; improve sight distances at driveways and intersections, add parking and bike lanes. Additionally, provide ADA and pedestrian space where sidewalks do not exist or are inadequate and improved bus stop location and amenities.
A traffic study conducted by UNR and a Road Safety Audit conducted through the Nevada Department of Transportation identified excessive speeds, pedestrian and ADA deficiencies, and serious safety issues for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists. The number of accidents in the corridor exceeds NDOT’s criteria for a high crash corridor.
This project is expected to reduce crashes by 30 percent, improving safety, access and connectivity for all modes of transportation.
The meeting will be held at Anderson Elementary School located at 1055 Berrum Lane, Reno, from 6 pm to 7:30 pm. A presentation about the project will begin at 6:30 pm.
Prior to and following the presentation, RTC staff will be available to discuss the improvements with the public and listen to their ideas and suggestions for the corridor.
All users of the corridor are encouraged to attend and provide their input.
For more information about the project, contact Scott Gibson, RTC Project Manager at sgibson@rtcwashoe.com or (775) 335-1874.
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 09:59:31 -0700
New legislation introduced in both houses of the U.S. Congress this month takes aim at an employer’s right to ask employees for their social networking passwords.
The bills, sponsored by Democratic lawmakers, would make it illegal for an employer to require prospective or current employees to supply the employer with the passwords to their Facebook, Twitter and other social media accounts. Both bills describe such practices as an invasion of privacy. The Senate version, called the Password Protection Act, goes even further, extending protection to smart phones, private e-mail accounts and all information contained on an employee’s personal computer.
“This is a very good step toward safeguarding the privacy of U.S. employees,” says attorney Martin Sweet of legal information website THELAW.TV. “Employers should not have the right to pry into every facet of their workers’ lives.”
Although it does not appear to be a widespread issue, some employers do require prospective and current employees to give up their social media passwords. Government agencies appear to engage in the practice more often than private employers. The city of Bozeman, Montana made news in 2009 when news reports indicated the city was asking job applicants to reveal which social networking sites they used as well as their user names and passwords for those sites.
“Not only does this practice violate a job applicant’s rights, it also forces the applicant to violate the rules of the social networking sites,” explains Sweet.
Most social media sites have rules that forbid users to share their log-in information with anyone. Facebook’s Statement of Rights and Responsibilities clearly prohibits users from sharing their passwords or jeopardizing the security of their accounts in any way.
While proponents of the proposed legislation agree that employees should have the legal right to their social media privacy, there appears to be a disagreement over whether students should be extended those rights. The Password Protection Act would not protect college, high school and elementary school students, but similar social media privacy legislation introduced last month by Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY) would protect students. The American Civil Liberties Union is on record as saying students need to be included in the legislation.
“Young people are obviously avid users of social networking sites, but there is always a dilemma in deciding whether students – particularly minors – should be afforded the same privacy rights as adults,” adds Sweet.
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 09:44:05 -0700
RENO -- The Reno Police Department, in conjunction with numerous other local agencies, arrested one suspect in the recent rash of commercial burglaries which have occurred in both Reno and Sparks.
This past Tuesday, at around 3 a.m., numerous agencies were conducting surveillance in the area of north Reno, and during that time Reno Dispatch was advised of a business alarm at the AT&T store, 10190 N McCarran Blvd. Officers responded and located the suspect walking from the area, and eventually getting into a vehicle. The suspect was stopped, and officers later located items which linked him to more than one previous commercial burglary. Officers also located evidence that linked him to the burglary at the AT&T store.
24-year-old Prince Monaco was arrested and charged with 3 counts of Commercial Burglary and 3 counts of Larceny. He was given a Cash Only bail of $110,000.
The investigation is currently ongoing, and more charges are expected.
The Reno Police Department found the following items and are asking the community to contact the Property Crimes Division of the Reno Police Department if you recognize any of them:
1)Lap top computers
2)Plastic Tip Jar "tips" on the lid
3)"Innova" Diagnostic Tool ABS/SRS
4)"Swann" Surveillance Camera
5)"FinePix" Digital Camera Mod# S9100
6)Two cash drawers
7)One metal drop safe
8)"Wells Fargo" bank bag
9)"Honeywell" Key safe
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 09:35:39 -0700
In a city with over 14% of its citizens unemployed, only a government employee union would have the stones to demand a raise!
In a pre-cursor of the kind of financial crisis that could easily spread to other Nevada cities if they’re not careful, North Las Vegas is scrambling to fill a $33.3 million budget hole…no small chunk of change. And unlike how they do it in Washington, this problem can’t be kicked down the road. The State of Nevada requires each of its municipalities to balance their budgets. Period.
Balanced budgets are good. Fiscal responsibility is good. Ensuring tax dollars are spent responsibly is good. So what’s happening in North Las Vegas is a taxpayer's worst nightmare.
A decade ago, North Las Vegas was booming. Mother Hubbard’s Tax Cupboard was flush with dough from new construction, new homes, new businesses, new people moving in and plenty of new revenue from all manner of taxes and fees.
As such, starting around 2007, deals were cut with government employee unions that guaranteed annual raises and very generous benefits packages. Health insurance and retirement accounts were all covered; an employee would not have to spend a penny.
A program was even created for union members to trade in unused holidays or days off for cash!
Today, it is a starkly different story. The Nevada economy has tanked. Housing prices are in the toilet. New jobs are as rare as a Rembrandt. And people are scared.
The city has already made some very tough budget-cutting decisions and implemented some very significant changes in how the job of providing government services gets done. But, it's not enough.
Over eight out of ten dollars spent by the city goes to salaries and benefits for government employees. Which makes it virtually impossible to balance the budget when shrinking tax revenues have to go to mandatory, automatic pay raises - something few private sector employees could ever even dream of!
The City of North Las Vegas has been working for months to strike a deal with the city's intransigent government employee unions. Unbelievably, in the face of this fiscal emergency, police, fire and the Teamsters unions are demanding that the citizens of North Las Vegas thicken the lining of their already sweet-as-candy salary and benefits packages.
This madness has to stop.
North Las Vegas is a perfect example of what happens when Big Labor bullies municipalities into big promises they can’t keep. There needs to be comparative fairness between private and public sector wages; meaning it’s time for public employee pay and benefit cuts, not just a pay freeze.
And if these pampered princes of public service perks and pay don’t like it, they’re welcome to try their luck in the private sector!
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Chuck Muth is president of CitizenOutreach.com and founder of CampaignDoctor.com. He blogs at MuthsTruths.com
Published: Thu, 24 May 2012 09:28:49 -0700
RENO -- Local churchgoers should be on the lookout as police have seen a series of vehicles being broken into while parked at church, and later the suspect is burglarizing the homes of the same victim.
Since early last month, the Reno Police Department has had at least three separate vehicle burglaries occur at St Alberts Church, 1255 St Alberts Dr, on Sunday mornings between the hours of 0930 and 11:30.
The Suspect(s) appear to break into the vehicles while the victims are in church, remove items from the vehicle, and take note of the address on the vehicle registration forms. The suspect(s) then immediately drive to the victims home where they force entry, and remove items from the home.
RPD urge for public awareness if you attend church in this area. The public is asked to remember to always remove valuable items from your vehicle whenever it is left unattended, even for a brief period of time. If you are the victim of a vehicle burglary, use caution when going home, and understand your home could also be victimized.
The suspect is believed to be a White Male, between 40-50 years old, standing 5'7-5'10 feet tall and weighin 180-200 lbs. He is believed to have brown hair, balding on the top with a large bushy mustache. He was seen wearing large framed prescription glasses, with a chain attached for hanging around the neck.
The suspect's vehicle is described as a 1990-1996 Chevy P/U, long bed, single cab, blue with silver stripe down the middle. Large black lumber rack.
The Reno Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect(s). Anyone having information relating to this crime or the suspect(s) should contact the Reno Police Department at 334-2115, Secret Witness at 322-4900, www.secretwitness.com, or text the tip to 847411 (TIP 411) keyword - SW
Published: Wed, 23 May 2012 15:15:10 -0700
RENO -- A local McDonald's was robbed at gun-point and police are on the lookout for the alleged criminal.
On Tuesday at around 10:30 p.m., a male suspect, armed with a handgun, entered McDonald's, at 1160 Kietzke Lane, Reno. The suspect robbed the store employees of an undisclosed amount of cash while a second suspect remained outside the business, acting as a lookout.
The suspects fled in an unknown direction. No customers were in the business at the time of the robbery.
Suspect #1 is described as a white or Hispanic male, late 20's, 5'8 - 6'0, medium build, last seen wearing a black ball cap, gray over black t-shirt, dark jeans and armed with a dark colored handgun. Suspect #2 is described as a white or Hispanic male, 5'8-'5'10, last seen wearing a white t-shirt and dark shorts.
The Reno Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect(s). Anyone having information relating to this crime or the suspect(s) should contact the Reno Police Department at 334-2115, Secret Witness at 322-4900, www.secretwitness.com, or text the tip to 847411 (TIP 411) keyword - SW
Published: Wed, 23 May 2012 14:56:04 -0700
RENO -- Two men and a woman have been arrested and another suspect is on the loose wanted for allegedly robbing two men at gun-point.
On Monday at around 2:40 a.m. two men were walking in the 4000 block of Baker Ln. in south Reno, when they were approached by a white Honda occupied by four men. The men exited the vehicle, produced a handgun, and demanded the men’s wallets. One victim fled and was chased by two of the suspects. The other victim gave the remaining two suspects his wallet. The victim’s money was removed from the wallet and all four men fled in the vehicle.
Approximately fifteen minutes later, Reno police Officer Ira Coffey located a white Honda occupied by four men traveling north on Holcomb Ave. near Pueblo St. When Officer Coffey initiated a traffic stop, one of the men fled from the vehicle. The other three men were detained.
The investigation culminated in the recovery of the firearm, which was located in the vehicle, and the victim’s money, which was in the possession of one of the defendants.
Evidence from a robbery reported on Friday, May 18, 2012 by another pedestrian in the South Meadows area of Reno was also located in the vehicle. The investigation into that robbery is ongoing.
21-year-old Floyd Vorice II, 21-year-old William Tripp and 20-year-old Elisha Kelly were arrested and charged with Robbery with the Use of a Deadly Weapon and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery
The fourth suspect was described as a white male 20-25 years of age, 5’5”–5’8” tall, and 160-180 pounds last seen wearing a blue T-shirt with logo on the front and blue jeans.
Anyone having information relating to this crime or the suspect(s) should contact the Reno Police Department at 334-2115, Secret Witness at 322-4900, www.secretwitness.com, or text the tip to 847411 (TIP 411) keyword - SW
Published: Wed, 23 May 2012 14:50:55 -0700
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