With 2019 now at a close and all of the final reports in for the period all the way through the New Year Eve celebrations, it’s time for a summary look back for everyone to see.

To begin with, after 25 years of providing valued criminal justice data nationwide, the Uniform Crime Reporting platform has hit the end of its reporting criteria life.

Taking its place is our new national platform, National Incident Based Reporting Systems. New to us for 2020, we are shifting the methodologies and collections of crime and criminal information, and will be challenged to make comparisons of our past to the future data collections. That being accepted, it is appropriate to look at our last 25 years with great success.

In 1994, Carson City recorded its first crime occurrence rate of 2,210 Index Crimes (major crime) that first year; in 2019 we witnessed the lowest rate of 830 for the year, a 62 percent decrease. In recent terms, 2019 witnessed a 9 percent drop from calendar year 2018 and a 19 percent drop as compared to calendar year 2017. (Scroll through and click on stats to enlarge.)

For the families who live, work and entertain here, the community wide crime rate in 1994 was recorded at 50.85 major crimes per 1,000 residents for the entire year; in 2018 we saw that rate drop to 17.13 to the population (lowest point recorded in 25 years).

With a 9 percent drop in the 2019 Index Crime rate, we should anticipate that the final Crime Rate percentage for 2019 will likely drop below 16 in the statewide analysis, as expected. For comparison purposes, we look to the rates for our region, all inclusive of Carson City and all the counties that touch our borders. Again, it appears that we will continue to run 3 to 4 points below the inclusive regional average, as well as far below the statewide average. That’s all great news for our community, and directly reflective of the efforts of everyone in this agency, volunteers included.

This past year was equally successful when breaking down groups of crime, commonly categorized as Crimes Against Persons and Crimes Against Property. Both categories fell this year together.

Crimes against persons dropped by 5 percent and most significantly, the community suffered no criminal homicides. Under the group of crimes against property, the drop was more significant with a 10 percent decrease from 2018.

When looking deeper into the property crime arena, we also see that property stolen was valued at almost $1.3 million dollars, which was down 11 percent from 2018 and down 3 percent from 2017. All of this data suggests positive “result oriented” activity. Our indicators were capped off this year with another successful Clearance Rate factor estimated to be approximately 35 percent, a significant comparison to statewide data reflecting normal averages loom in the area of 15-20.

From an internal perspective of the department, this all bodes very well for divisional support to one another in completing our mission, to provide professional public safety services and build mutual trust and respect within our community.

I believe this statement is truly reflective of the sincere efforts given by everyone each and every day. As I’ve said in the past, without comprehensive, concerted, and overlapping efforts by everyone, we could not have achieved the successes that we’ve witnessed. I thank everyone in this department, as well as our community-wide supporters for a great year.

2019 going into 2020 is bringing some shifts of perspectives that have long been a charge of this administration. We have achieved fully staffed “program” responsibilities including our K-9 program, School Resource Officers program, Traffic Enforcement Unit, proactive Specialized Enforcement (at community, region and federal levels), and substantially broken ground to putting forward the strongest Behavioral Health Unit and mental health response in the region.

Capping this, the Carson City Sheriff’s Office still ranks low as compared regionally and statewide to officers per 1,000 residents; doing more with less. This is significant advantage to the residents and businesses in our community that demand transparency and efficiency in governing and the use of tax dollars. Again, kudos to everyone for the hard work, as your efforts allow community leaders to solve other problems as well.

The Executive Administration will be working diligently this year with significant efforts to reduce the likelihood of deaths in the community (including suicides and traffic accidents), diverting persons from Emergency Rooms and Jails whose needs remain elsewhere, acquiring the tools and trainings necessary to keep up with changing criminal and social considerations, and attacking crime at the lowest levels in order to prevent the more serious offenses from taking place.

With the many changes that took place or were initiated in 2019, we must work together intently to see to it that these programs, platforms, and activities continue to compliment one-another. Together, 2020 promises to be another great year of success for health, safety and welfare in the community driven by a department that serves as a cornerstone of cooperation with everyone, internally to one-another and external as well. Over the years, no challenge has proven to be insurmountable for the exemplary professional employees of the Sheriff’s Office, and I thank you all for your energy to accomplish amazing successes.

A weather system moving into the region will bring strong gusty winds, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a High Wind Warning from 10 p.m. Monday through 1 p.m. Tuesday for the greater Reno, Carson City, Carson Valley, and Dayton areas as well as the Mono County region.

Southwest winds 25-35 mph with gusts to 50-65 mph are expected. Gusts over 70 mph possible along wind prone areas of US 395, according to the weather service. Mountain ridges could see gusts over 100 mph. Damaging winds could blow down trees, fences, and power lines. Power outages are possible. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Severe turbulence and delays are also likely for air travel.

The weather service advises that now is the time to secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, holiday decorations, and trash cans before winds increase that could blow these items away. The best thing to do is prepare ahead of time by making sure you have extra food and water on hand, flashlights with spare batteries and, or candles in the event of a power outage.

A brief period of light snow showers is possible early Tuesday morning which could result in a few slick spots for the commute.

Meanwhile, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 4 p.m. Monday to 4 a.m. Tuesday for Surprise Valley, Lassen, Eastern Plumas, Eastern Sierra counties, far northern Washoe County, and 7 p.m. Monday to 10 a.m. Tuesday for the Greater Lake Tahoe area.

Travel could be difficult as snow will accumulate to Sierra valley floors. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, with locally higher totals expected west of US 395 in northeastern California. For the Greater Lake Tahoe area, 4 to 6 inches of snowfall is possible, with 8 to 12 inches likely along passes. Check the latest road conditions with Caltrans and NDOT at NVRoads.com or call 511.

Let's get on the Trump Train and join us on Thursday, Jan. 23 for the General Monthly Meeting. Hear from Bob Potts, Deputy Director of the Governors Office of Economic Development. Free for the public to attend. 6:30 p.m. registration and networking, 7 p.m. start time at the Carson City Fandango.

It is the role of the Governors Office of Economic Development (GOED) to stimulate business expansion and retention; encourage entrepreneurial enterprise, attract new business and facilitate community development.

Topics to be covered by Mr. Potts will range from :

GOED has been meeting with elected officials and community leaders to define the future growth of the Northern Sierra, Northeastern, Central and Southern regions.

What is the vision for this state? What awaits your families as the state plan come to reality? Can you influence the plan? How can you ensure that your community is ready? Are you prepared?

Casino Fandango is located at 3800 S Carson St, Carson City.

On this week's installment of Carson Now's Five Questions series, we speak with Ronni Hannaman, Executive Director of the Carson City Chamber of Commerce about her position with the chamber, advice for business owners, and more.

1) How long have you been working for the chamber? What is the purpose of the chamber?

I became the Executive Director in February 2006 and have lived and worked here since late 1998. The Carson City Chamber is a private non-profit 501 c 6 organization dedicated to keeping Carson’s business community thriving.

2) What do you think of as Carson City's greatest strength?

Carson City has many strengths. As the capital of the state, it is here that Nevada’s history was made long before many other cities were established; therefore, I would say the history is a major strength and one of the top reasons so many visitors find their way here. We have a steady employment base because we are the seat of state government and that provides many good paying jobs.

We are nicely positioned as a central point: 25 minutes from Reno and the airport, 20 minutes from Lake Tahoe, 20 minutes from Minden, Gardnerville, Genoa, 25 minutes from historic Virginia City and we now have the shopping and a wonderful hospital that attracts people from across this region to work or play here. And, because we are small — 144 square miles — we are a community in the truest sense and are able to get to know our neighbors and participate in the many events that are planned throughout the year without having to drive miles and miles.

3) Is there something in particular you hope to see happen for Carson City during this upcoming year?

It is exciting to see more of the city being reimagined. South Carson Street is the fiscal engine that drives Carson City and should be upgraded to reflect the importance of this corridor on the City’s bottom line. With all the new homes and apartments now being built in this area, this will become a very desirable area for those Millennials we all think so important to the future of our city.

I would like to see a much stronger tourism effort that would bring visitors here year ‘round. When there is a strong tourism effort, the economy grows and provides more quality of life for locals because new shops, dining establishment, and more open. To this thought, I would like to add that it is my sincere hope that the Nevada State Prison opens this summer to add to the attractions we can promote. This would add to our wonderful museums and could become a major venue for concerts and so much more.

4) What do you think is the biggest challenge the City is facing currently?

Lack of “affordable” housing for the workforce we so rely upon outside of government. But, that is not just Carson City’s issue, it’s a nationwide and worldwide issue. I think homelessness could become more of an issue than it is today. “Affordable” is hard to define. What is affordable for one is not for another. Private enterprise drives prices.

The decaying roads in our neighborhoods is an issue of major concern. It has been shown at the polls that voters do not wish to pay additional taxes to repair roads, so this makes it difficult since there are separate funding sources for road repair only.

5) Do you have any advice for new business owners?

It is always a pleasure to hear of new businesses opening in our city. New business growth show the city is growing and prosperous. The most important advice to any new business is to get out into the community and make yourself known. Advertise. Join the Chamber. Be a part of the community. Attend the many functions that are mostly free. This is a community where a handshake and looking one in the eye is still important. Know your customers and their wants and react.

Check back each week for our Five Questions series, where you will get to know your community members here in our great capital city!

Local Scout Preston Emborsky, 15, Senior Patrol Leader of Troop 341, unveiled his 4th Karma Box at St. Peters Episcopal Church in Carson City on Sunday as part of his Eagle project. A Karma box is something you can put toiletries and non perishable food items in for the needy. Anyone can donate to it and anyone can take from it.

Writer, humorist and environmentalist Michael Branch will discuss his works this Tuesday, Jan. 14 at the Nevada State Library and Archives in Carson City as part of its Brown Bag luncheon series. Branch is the author of several published books, one of which is the Pulitzer-Prize nominated John Muir’s Last Journey: South to the Amazon and East to Africa.

The meeting is from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Nevada State Library and Archives, 100 North Stewart Street in Carson City. The public is invited.

Branch has four recent books: Raising Wild: Dispatches from a Home in the Wilderness, Rants from the Hill: On Packrats, Bobcats, Wildfires, Curmudgeons, a Drunken Mary Kay Lady, and Other Encounters with the Wild in the High Desert and The Best Read Naturalist: Nature Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson and How to Cuss in Western.

Mike has published more than 250 essays, articles, and reviews, and has given more than 400 invited lectures, readings, and workshops. His creative nonfiction includes pieces that have received Honorable Mention for the Pushcart Prize and been recognized as Notable Essays in The Best American Essays (three times), The Best Creative Nonfiction, The Best American Science and Nature Writing, and The Best American Non-required Reading (a humor anthology). His essays have appeared in magazines including Utne Reader, Orion, Outside, Ecotone, Slate, Terrain.org, National Parks, Hawk and Handsaw, Places, Red Rock Review, and Whole Terrain, and have been included in numerous books, including Let There Be Night: Testimony on Behalf of the Dark (Univ. Nevada Press), Trash Animals: The Cultural Perceptions, Biology, and Ecology of Animals in Conflict with Humans (Univ. Minnesota Press), Companions in Wonder: Children and Adults Exploring Nature Together (MIT Press), Wonder and Other Survival Skills (Orion Readers book series), and Best Creative Nonfiction of the South, Volume I: Virginia (Texas Review Press).

Mike’s essay series Rants from the Hill offers a comic view of life and parenting in the spectacular but rugged and remote environment of the high desert. The series consists of sixty-nine 2,000-word essays that were published monthly between July, 2010 and April, 2016 in High Country News online at http://www.hcn.org/. The Rants received more than 100,000 page views, have been widely reprinted, and have been taught in creative writing and/or environmental literature courses at colleges and universities around the country. Many of these short essays have also been professionally produced as podcasts that are available for free on iTunes.

Mike, who is Professor of Literature and Environment and University Foundation Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, is co-founder and past president of the Association for the Study of Literature and Environment (ASLE), served for 16 years as the Book Review Editor of ISLE: Interdisciplinary Studies in Literature and Environment, and is a co-founder and series co-editor of the University of Virginia Press book series Under the Sign of Nature: Explorations in Ecocriticism.

He is the recipient of Ellen Meloy Desert Writers Award, the Nevada Writers Hall of Fame Silver Pen Award, the Western Literature Association Frederick Manfred Award for Creative Writing, the Willa Pilla Award for Humor Writing, and his books have been finalists for the Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Award, the Association for the Study of Literature and Environment Creative Book Award, and the Mountain West Center Evans-Handcart Award.

When not writing, Branch enjoys activist and stewardship work, native plant gardening, bucking stovewood, playing blues harmonica, sipping sour mash, cursing at baseball on the radio, and walking at least 1,000 miles each year in the hills and canyons surrounding his high desert home.

CARSON CITY — The Carson Ranger District on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is pleased to announce the return of the popular Forest Ranger-led snowshoe walks. The walks start on Saturday, Jan. 25, and will be offered every Saturday through March 28.

“Ranger-led snowshoe walks are a fun way to explore National Forest System Lands, while learning about the natural, cultural, and geologic history of the Lake Tahoe area,” said Cody Nicholes, Off-Highway Vehicle Manager for the Carson Ranger District.

The walk begins at 10 a.m., last three hours, and cover approximately two miles of moderately strenuous terrain. It is an off-trail exploration through the meadow and forest and offers grand views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The walk may be cancelled in the event of bad weather or dangerous road conditions such as when chains are required.

The guided snowshoe walks take place in Tahoe Meadows, one-mile southwest of the summit of Nevada State Route 431 (Mt. Rose Highway). Join the USDA Forest Service Ranger at the west end of Tahoe Meadows, on the south side of the road (Look for a white Forest Service truck).

There is no cost for the tour. Participants will need to bring their own snowshoes. “Weather can be unpredictable at Tahoe Meadows,” cautioned Nicholes, “so it is extremely important to wear appropriate outdoor clothing.” This would include layering light and warm clothing, gloves, hats, scarves and waterproof boots. Also bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a lunch and plenty of water.

Preregistration is required by Wednesday of the trek week. Larger groups are encouraged to call ahead to ensure adequate staffing. For more information, to sign up, or for weather related cancellation updates, call 775-722-3985 or email oldertrails@yahoo.com.

Please visit www.fs.usda.gov/htnf or participate in the conversation at https://twitter.com/HumboldtToiyabe and https://www.facebook.com/HumboldtToiyabeNF/

The Carson City Sheriff’s Office is celebrating and honoring the life and career of retired K-9 Deputy Ary. Ary led a distinguishable career in the K-9 Unit, joining the Unit in 2009 and retiring in 2016.

Ary served the community alongside Deputy Jimmy Surratt for seven years. While in service, Ary enjoyed visiting the schools, engaging the community by performing demonstrations, offering protection while conducting searches, and most of all serving the citizens of Carson City.

Retired K-9 Deputy Ary recently passed away, peacefully, in the loving arms of family. Ary has lived a remarkable life and was an invaluable asset to the Carson City Sheriff’s Office.

The following is a short conversation between a mother and her high school son.

"Mom, does character matter so much in a high school volleyball coach?"

"Of course it does, Honey, why would you ask?"

"Well, Coach seems to have some…some mess-ups."

"Like what, Honey?"

"Well, for one, when I opened up my science book before practice today, Coach took it, held it up and announced to the team, 'It's fake.' Then he handed it back to me and laughed."

"He did that?"

"Yes, and that's not all."

"There's more?"

"Well, if you want to know, Mom, Coach is married."

"Yes, I know he's married. What has that got to do with anything?"

"Well then, why does he drive off with Snuffy's mom whenever Snuffy spends the weekend with his dad?"

"He does that?"

"Yeah, and you know that bake sale we sponsored for the team last week?"

"Yes, the bake sale was a big success."

"Well, Johnny's mother told Johnny that Coach took some money they raised from that bake sale and bought himself a brand new pair of Nike LeBrons."

"Johnny's mother said that?"

"Yup, and that's not all."

"What more could there possibly be?"

"You know that volleyball school Coach started last year?"

"Yes, a successful venture I've been told, Volleyball U."

"Well, Volleyball U has folded, and Coach has to pay a humongous fine for fraud."

"Oh my, your father's not going to like to hear that."

"Why can't we get rid of Coach, Mom, and why does Dad even care about Coach, anyways?"

"Coach wins games, Honey. Your dad and his friends bet on those games, and Coach has been making some easy money for your father. Coach could do just about anything objectionable I suppose, and your father and his friends would never ask him to leave."

"Mom, what would happen, if like somebody like Coach ever became President of the United States?"

"That could never happen, Honey. But if it ever did happen, that would be cause for alarm, alarm for the fate of the Republic. But now here's the important question, what would you like for dinner?"

— For more than 30 years, in over 4,000 performances, columnist and Chautauquan McAvoy Layne has been dedicated to preserving the wit and wisdom of “The Wild Humorist of the Pacific Slope,” Mark Twain. As Layne puts it: “It’s like being a Monday through Friday preacher, whose sermon, though not reverently pious, is fervently American.”

The Carson City Board of Supervisors will host their next meeting on Thursday, Jan. 16 beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the Sierra Room of the Community Center, located at 851 E. William Street.

On the docket for discussion items include a report on deaths occurring at the Carson City Jail, a discussion about restricting religious use at the Brewery Arts Center, presentations of length of service awards, and more.

— During the 2019 Legislative Session, Assembly Bill (AB) 301 was enacted, requiring the Sheriff to submit a biannual report containing data similar to the information required to be submitted to the federal Death in Custody Reporting Act of 2013. This federal mandate requires the reporting of deaths of prisoners in the jail immediately preceding six months, and the circumstances that surround those deaths.

AB 301 also requires the Board, at least twice a year, to include an item on the agenda to discuss conditions of the jail, the number of deaths of prisoners in the jail, and the known circumstances surrounding any such deaths during the immediately preceding six months.

According to the report, two inmates died while in custody at the Carson City Jail during 2019.

The first was a 60-year-old man charged with violation of a domestic violence TPO, who died of natural causes listed as “acute renal failure and dehydration in the setting of the probable benzodiazepine withdrawal.” During a routine cell check, the inmate was discovered in medical distress. EMS responded and attempted lifesaving measures, but the man was declared deceased.

The second was a 51-year-old man charged with trafficking of controlled substances among other drug charges, who appeared to have committed suicide by hanging. During a routine check of the cell, the man was discovered. EMS responded and attempted lifesaving measures, but the man was declared deceased.

— A discussion and possible action will be held regarding a proposed “Covenant of Use” for the Brewery Arts Center, requiring that any explicitly religious activity be prohibited.

For more information on this subject, see the previous story here.

— Diane Baker, Department Business Manager will be recognized as the Employee-of-the-Quarter for her outstanding efforts in helping the City achieve the strategic goals adopted by the Board.

In addition, the Board will present the monthly Length of Service certificates to employees who have completed 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of service.

— A discussion and possible action regarding the Reuse Master Plan contract with Manhard Consulting will be discussed, for a total contract amount of $131,200 to be funded from the Wastewater Professional Services Account and a reimbursement of $50,000 from the Carson Water Subconservancy District to the City.

According to the agenda, Carson City’s Water Resource Recovery Facility treats approximately 5 million gallons of sanitary sewage each day. This treated effluent is then utilized for irrigation at 3 local golf courses and the State of Nevada Prison Farm; during the winter, Brunswick Reservoir is utilized for storage. Reuse Master Planning was last performed in 2006, and over the last 14 years, treatment processes have changed. This compiled with a substantial drought and recession with subsequent water-usage reductions, new-found growth, and State of Nevada effluent reuse code changes have all added to the need to provide new opportunities and restrictions, prompting the development of a Reuse Master Plan update.

— Several committee chairs are up for appointment, including one chair of the Cultural Commission, which will be a three-year term; two chairs of the Carson City Open Space Advisory Committee which would expire in Jan. 2024; and one chair of the Carson City Redevelopment Authority Citizens Committee, for a term expiring in Jan. 2023.

— Beginning at 5:30 p.m., a discussion and possible action regarding a Tentative Subdivision Map known as Andersen Ranch will be discussed, which would create 203 single family lots on 48.2 acres.

To read the agenda in its entirety click here. https://www.carson.org/government/meeting-information/agendas/board-of-s...

Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. It's a disease of the brain that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Join the Alzheimer's Association of Northern Nevada for a free presentation Jan. 28 in Gardnerville to learn about the impact of Alzheimer's, the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia, Alzheimer's disease stages and risk factors, and current research and treatments available to address some symptoms.

When: 3-4 p.m. Tuesday, January 28

Where: The Chateau at Gardnerville, 1565 Virginia Ranch Road, Gardnerville, Nev

Cost: Free

For more information, call 1-800-272-3900.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe are set to release 22 bighorn sheep Monday to the Lake Range on the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation in a historic project between NDOW and the Tribe to reintroduce the species to the mountains surrounding Pyramid Lake where they once thrived.

Bighorn sheep are native to the Lake Range, two-thirds of which is on the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation.

The sheep were captured Monday in Lander County and are in the process of being transferred via vehicles to Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation in Washoe County.

"As the agency that manages wildlife it is really great to re-establish this population. Not only is it a big deal for NDOW but for Nevadans and Native Tribes across the West," said NDOW Spokeswoman Ashley Sanchez.

Explorer John C. Freemont wrote in his journal on Jan. 11, 1843 during his travels through the Lake Range that he and his party “saw herds of mountain sheep”. While the native fish of Pyramid Lake were historically the primary food source for Paiute people (Numu) other large game species were harvested including bighorn sheep (Koepa).

“It is an extremely important reintroduction both from a wildlife standpoint, as well as a cultural standpoint for many Native American Tribes across the west,” said Larry Johnson, a long-time bighorn sheep conservationist. “This has been a large priority of mine for decades. Luckily, the stars finally aligned and there has been a memorandum of understanding developed between the Tribe and the Nevada Department of Wildlife to not only allow this to occur, but hopefully for future wildlife projects.”

For years, Johnson has been heavily involved with NDOW in bighorn sheep restoration efforts. In June of 2018, PLPT Tribal Council approved to have their staff collaborate with NDOW in the development of a bighorn sheep restoration plan. Through close collaboration between the NDOW, the Tribe and Johnson, planning and coordination for the bighorn restoration efforts were conducted for more than a year.

“This is a win-win quite frankly, for everybody involved. This is the result of a lot of efforts put in by the Pyramid Lake Natural Resources Department, the Nevada Department of Wildlife, and of course funding from multiple sources,” Johnson said.

Funding came from multiple sources, including a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grant, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited and the Nevada Wildlife Record Book Foundation.

NDOW has captured and translocated over 4,000 bighorn sheep within Nevada and throughout western U.S. and Canada, helping to restore Nevada’s and other state’s bighorn sheep herds.

"Nevada’s population was as low as 2,000 to 3,000 animals in the early 1960s, but now sits at more than 12,000 because of projects like the one we are doing today," said Sanchez.

Stellar violin soloist Elizabeth Pitcairn joins TOCCATA, the Tahoe Symphony Orchestra and Chorus for the 10th year, performing one of the finest and most popular gems in the concerto repertoire. Ms. Pitcairn plays Mendelssohn's beloved "Violin Concerto" on the legendary 1720 "Red Mendelssohn" Stradivarius.

And the orchestra and chorus celebrate their 15th anniversary, under the direction of founding Artistic Director and Conductor James Rawie, with one of the greatest monuments in Western music: Bach's "B Minor Mass."

Performances include Minden on Jan. 31 and Carson City on Feb. 4.

Violinist Elizabeth Pitcairn has a well-deserved reputation as one of America’s most beloved soloists. Since her New York debut at Lincoln Center in 2000, she has performed at Carnegie Hall, Walt Disney Concert Hall, all over Europe, and in China and Hong Kong. She plays the legendary “Red Mendelssohn” Stradivarius of 1720 (which inspired the Academy award-winning film, “The Red Violin”). Read her full biography at www.toccatatahoe.org.

You will immediately recognize the main melodies of Mendelssohn’s “Violin Concerto” – it’s that popular! But let yourself be swept away by the turbulent passion of the opening movement, the languid beauty of the slow movement, and the giddy, high-spirited energy of the finale.

Bach’s “B Minor Mass” is the monumental summary of his life’s (prodigious!) work, an all-embracing hymn of belief. With a huge variety of musical styles (but always Bach’s brilliant fugues), you’ll hear choruses in up to six parts, plus arias that might include coloratura fireworks!

WHERE and WHEN:
Friday, Jan. 31, 7:00 p.m., Minden – CVIC Hall, 1606 Esmeralda Ave.
Tuesday, Feb. 4, 7:00 p.m., Carson City – Shepherd-Sierra Lutheran Church, 3680 Hwy 395
Friday, Feb. 7, 7:00 p.m., Incline Village -- The Chateau, 955 Fairway Blvd.
Sunday, Feb. 9, 3:30 p.m., South Lake Tahoe – St. Theresa Catholic Church, 1041 Lyons Ave.

For additional information, please call 775-298-6989; e-mail ToccataTahoe@gmail.com; or visit us at www.ToccataTahoe.org or https://www.facebook.com/toccatatahoe/.

Concerts are made possible in part by the Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation and the Nevada Arts Council.

A man who was arrested last week driving a stolen pickup used in a rash of business thefts between Carson City and Reno was booked Monday for allegedly stealing $2,000 from a local casino in December, a Carson City Sheriff's Office detective said.

Joseph Jordan Desjardin, 37, was arrested Monday, Jan. 6 in the 2300 block of Airport Road after he was found driving a stolen pickup, faces multiple felony charges, including the Dec. 17 theft of approximately $2,000 from a cashier's cage at Gold Dust West in Carson City. Go here for the original story.

He is charged as the suspect in commercial burglary and grand larceny in the casino incident, according to the detective. Desjardin currently remains as an inmate at Carson City Jail. He is being held without bail awaiting a hearing, said CCSO Detective Sam Hatley.

Desjardin also faces charges of multiple thefts including including a grand larceny at CAL-Ranch in Carson City where a $2,500 Honda snowblower was stolen, commercial burglaries at Best Tires on Highway 50 and Airport Road, where cash and electronic items were stolen, plus stolen tool boxes that were taken from Home Depot stores in Reno. Also as part of the investigation, a large tool box that Desjardin is accused of stealing was recovered after it was sold to a Coleville, Calif. resident via social media.

PAL meets every Tuesday night at Partnership Carson City, 1925 N Carson St at 6 p.m. to provide continuing education and support, at no charge, for parents, spouses and those trying to save a family member from addiction to alcohol or drugs. By attending our meetings, you will learn proven ways to help your loved one find recovery from addiction. You will also give and receive support from others who are facing the same challenges you are. Everyone over 18 is welcome to attend. No need to register, just show up at a meeting. For more information contact Lisa Kirby at lisajanenekirby@gmail.com

The second week of January has blown in quite fiercely, with a High Wind Warning to last through 1 p.m. Tuesday. Activities around the capital city include the 2020 Winter Reading Challenge at the library, a brown bag luncheon featuring famed environmental writer Michael Branch at the Nevada State Library and Archives, the weekly gathering of the Carson City Toastmasters at Max Casino, a meeting of the Carson City School Board, live cool jazz at Living the Good Life and more.

Do you have an event or happening you'd like people to know about? Tell us about it by clicking here, filling out the details and we'll tell Carson City area readers about your event or happening. Not seeing your event you wish to promote? You can also submit the relevant information, also known as the "5Ws and How” to editor@carsonow.org. We will update this calendar as submissions are made.

Here's what's happening Tuesday:

— Carson City Library's 2020 Winter Reading Challenge now underway. As we get a start on 2020, many have made it a New Year's resolution to read more books. Carson City Library has made it easier for those hoping to get a solid footing on their pledges and is offering prizes to boot as part of its 2020 Winter Reading Challenge. Not only are readers encouraged to take in tremendous books and peruse the daily news, but they can earn raffle tickets to win prizes. Now through Saturday, Jan. 18, Winter Reading Challenge participants are encouraged to read a total of 14 hours, with extra raffle tickets earned for each hour of above-and-beyond reading. To participate, register online at https://carsoncitylibrary.beanstack.org, this will also be where you log all reading (or listening) for you and your family. For assistance, email creativelearning@carsoncitylibrary.org or visit the Carson City Library's Information Desk during open hours. Prizes are also earned for registration and completion, and participants track all their reading time in a simple app. Raffle winners will be chosen via online drawing and awarded by age group: 0-5, 6-11, 12-17 and 18-plus. The more hours read, the more tickets earned. All time tracking and ticket collection is done via an online app.
Share your progress on social media using #WinterRead2020
Patrons who took part in Carson City Library's Summer Learning Challenge will not need to make a new account to sign up. The Carson City Library's Winter Reading Challenge is just one of many similar programs held across the country, sponsored by Penguin Random House (PRH). Last year PRH winter reading programs enrolled 65,323 readers nationwide, who logged more than 150,000 books and 225,000 hours of reading.

— Photo Finished 2020: Student Art Exhibition at the Brick. Daily through March 26. The Capital City Arts Initiative announces its exhibition, Photo Finished 2020, at the Community Development Building (the Brick), 108 E Proctor Street, Carson City. Nine students from Carson High School’s Advanced Photography program have work in the exhibit. CCAI will host a reception for the artists on Wednesday, Jan. 22, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The free exhibition is available to the public now through March 26, 2020, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. The Carson High students include Jackie Garza, Ansley Griffin, Karla Herrera, Meagan Kiesow, Kayee Konze, Kailee Luschar, Vanessa Martinez, Haley Trost, and Valerie Wamsley. The artists are all students in Kara Ferrin’s Advanced Photography class. Mrs. Ferrin said, “The work is the students’ ‘capstone project,’ a culmination of all four years of photographic work.” For this exhibition, she asked students to create a cohesive body of images around a central theme of their own choice.

— Capital City Arts Initiative Presents: Saludos Amigos. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Capital City Arts Initiative presents its exhibition, "Saludos Amigos", by artist Justin Favela at the CCAI Courthouse Gallery. The exhibition will be in the gallery from now through January 29, 2020. The Courthouse is located at 885 E Musser Street, Carson City. The reception and the exhibition are free and the public is cordially invited. The gallery is open Monday through Friday. In this installation, Favela will collage imagery from famous animated films that depict Latin American culture. Using his signature "piñata style" Favela will make large scale murals with tissue paper and glue that will break down images from films like “The Three Caballeros”, “The Emperor's New Groove” and “Coco.” These films celebrate Latin American culture but through the investigation of the imagery, Favela will highlight the exoticism and Hollywood fantasy that falsely represents an entire culture. Favela, a Las Vegas native, makes work in a piñata style exploring his identity as a Latino from Las Vegas with Mexican and Guatemalan parents. He makes his work with traditional craft materials like tissue paper and cardboard, making anything from sculptures to large scale paper installations.

— Nevada Artists Association New Year's Show. NAA presents it's New Year's Show with 124 entries by member artists. Additionally, water colorist, Melanie Walters and potter, Nancy Brownrigg are our Featured Artists and have their exhibits on the back wall of the Gallery. These shows run through Feb. 14. The Gallery is located at 449 W. King Street and is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday, except Monday. Visit http://www.nevadaartists.org to see the 2020 schedule of shows and to learn more about becoming a member.

— Nevada State Library lunch series Tuesday features Pulitzer-nominated environmental writer Michael Branch. Noon. Writer, humorist and environmentalist Michael Branch will discuss his works this Tuesday, Jan. 14 at the Nevada State Library and Archives in Carson City as part of its Brown Bag luncheon series. Branch is the author of several published books, one of which is the Pulitzer-Prize nominated John Muir’s Last Journey: South to the Amazon and East to Africa. The meeting is from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Nevada State Library and Archives, 100 North Stewart Street in Carson City. The public is invited.

— The Carson City Toastmasters meet Tuesdays. Noon at the Black Bear Diner, Max Casino in the Atrium in the back, to the right after entering Black Bear. Max Casino is located at 900 S Carson St Carson City. Membership Restriction: None; the club is open to all interested parties.

— Pole Fitness at Yaple's Dance Studio. 5 p.m. Pole is not what you think. It's for those looking for a fresh, challenging way to be fit. You will be fit unlike anything else. We work with everyone from the serious athlete ready to compete, to the casual student that is looking for a fun new activity to stay in shape. We offer 3 classes a week and class is just $10 to drop in to check it out! Want a monthly price to come to everything?! We have that too! Tuesdays at 5 p.m., Wednesdays at 6 p.m., Fridays at 6 p.m. Check out site out for more info, www.lecirquevagabond.com. Give us a call, send a text to (775) 527-3733. 315 N Carson St., Carson City.

— Parents of Addicted Loved Ones hold meetings Tuesday evenings. 6 p.m. PAL provides education and support, at no cost, for family members (over 18) trying to save a son, daughter or family member from addiction to alcohol or drugs. By attending our meetings on Tuesdays, 6 p.m. at Partnership Carson City office at 1925 N Carson City St., you will give and receive support from others who are facing the same challenges you are.

— Empty Bowls, Open Studio. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Create an empty bowl to donate to charity, instruction will be offered to create and paint a bowl or create something on our own during open studio session. Open studio time at Ogres-Holm Pottery is free of charge and open to the public. 1215 South Carson Street.

— Swing Dance lessons at Yaple's Ballroom. 6 p.m. Looking for a date night idea? Want a night out with the friends! Grab the family and Swing on by Yaple's Ballroom! Come to our Swing Dancing Class. It is the best! It's great physical activity, great music, an easy going style that can help you connect with a partner easily. This is also a great style if you don't have a partner. When you come to class, single guys and gals rotate so that they get a chance to try the swing moves with a partner. If you bring a partner to class, you have the choice to rotate or stick with your partner! Every Tuesday at 6 pm and cost is just $10 to drop in! Classes are held at Yaple's Ballroom Dance Studio, 315 N Carson St. For more info call or text 775-400-2952. See YBallroomDance.com.

— Mile High Jazz Band with vocalist Jakki Ford this Tuesday at Carson City's Living the Good Life. 7 p.m. Swing into the New Year with the Mile High Jazz Band on Tuesday, Jan. 14, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Living the Good Life Bistro, 1480 N. Carson Street in Carson City. Admission is free, donations welcome. The program, Cool Jazz in January, presents favorite big-band jazz tunes and feature the vocal stylings of Jakki Ford. Some tunes planned for this program are Ja-Da; Swing, Swing, Swing; Sweet Georgia Brown; and Chattanooga Choo-Choo. Mile High Jazz Band events are supported in part by a grant from the Nevada Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. For information about Cool Jazz in January and the Mile High Jazz Band, call 775-883-4154, or see the website MileHighJazz.com.

— Carson City School Board to discuss funding, trustees, and more during first 2020 meeting. 7 p.m. The first Carson City School Board Meeting of 2020 will take place Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 7 p.m. in the Sierra Room of the Community Center, located at 851 E. William Street. On the docket for discussion includes an election of officers of the Board of Trustees, including Board President, Vice President, and Clerk for the ensuing year, discussion on funding, and more. During the Superintendent’s Report, Shawndale Ross of Bordewich Bray Elementary School will be recognized as a Distinguished Student. In addition, Student Support Services Director Dr. Christine Lenox will be introduced. Following an election of officers for the Board, a discussion regarding the designation of a day, place and time for regular meetings of the Board of Trustees for the ensuing year.

— Country Two Step & Country Waltz at Yaple's Ballroom. 7 p.m. Four Tuesdays of Country! Learn the basics and build upon these. Both styles are traveling dances counterclockwise around the dance floor and good to know together if you go out country dancing. Classes are $35 per person. Yaple's Ballroom Dance Studio is at 315 N Carson St. For more info call or text 775-400-2952.

Elizabeth Warren said Monday that fellow Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders told her he didn’t think a woman could win the White House when they met privately in 2018.

Carson City Fire Department and sheriff's deputies were called Monday evening to a single vehicle rollover in the area of southbound I-580 near the Fairview overpass.

The crash was reported at around 8:30 p.m. One person suffered from back and neck pain and was taken to the hospital. Two light poles were knocked down in the incident.

Traffic on southbound I-580 is being diverted. Motorists can expect delays.

The cause is under investigation.

Elizabeth Warren said Monday that fellow Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders told her he didn’t think a woman could win the White House when they met privately in 2018.

CARSON CITY — A new year signals new adventures, and travelers can plan a one-of-a-kind experience with the 2020 Nevada Visitor’s Guide. The guide’s new Quick Fix section answers the need for insider info on quirky roadside stops, local music venues, only-in-Nevada products and more.

The state’s historical and cultural treasures, natural wonders and wide-open spaces are presented with beautiful photography and to-the-point information.

Pick up the free, 124-page guide at visitors’ centers, airports and hotels throughout the state, or order it online at TravelNevada.com/travel-guides.

“Nevada is a free-spirited place where travelers can discover new adventures around every bend in the road,” Brenda Nebesky, acting director of the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, said. “The annual travel guide inspires travelers with stunning photography, relevant information and an easy-to-navigate design.”

The 2020 guide also includes itineraries for 10 themed road trips throughout Nevada and new ideas for visiting Las Vegas and Reno, as well as listings of events, recreation areas and other travel planning resources.

The Nevada Division of Tourism (TravelNevada) is part of the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. It is responsible for promoting and marketing Nevada as a travel destination to domestic and international travelers. Operating within a performance-based budget structure, TravelNevada is funded solely by a percentage of lodging tax paid by overnight guests throughout the state. For more, visit TravelNevada.biz.