Letters

Planned obsolescence

Welcome to this week’s Reno News & Review.

Good news: Charter called to tell me they were doubling my internet speed for free. The other side of that equation is that my wireless router quit working the same day as the upgrade. Coincidence? I think not. I had a Netgear N900, which is a pretty good router, and I only bought it 13 months or so ago. I probably spent $120.

I got excited. New technology? Pshaw. I was in the mood for an upgrade, so assuming the worst, I went to Best Buy and purchased a Netgear Nighthawk for $187. But when I got home, I decided to try one last time to figure out what was wrong with the old one, so I called Netgear technical assistance.

They had a horrible interface to get to the humans. I was frustrated and yelling into the phone because the computer couldn’t understand the voice prompt. Then the heavily accented “technician” made me register it, giving personal information they had no reason to know. That irritated me. Then we started the hoop jumping. “Hold in the reset button for 60 seconds, when I tell you to, unplug it.” Fine. When it restarted, the lights were all in the right place, and it was working. “Now unplug it.” When I restarted it, the lights were all in the wrong place, and it ceased to function exactly as before.

“There is nothing wrong with your hardware, but unfortunately, you’re past warranty and 276 days past technical assistance. You need a firmware update. You can buy an extended warranty, otherwise I can’t help you install it, and since it’s SVFTP, you probably won’t be able to do it yourself.”

I thanked him and said it’s probably too technical for me, then pushed the reset button for 60 seconds, replugged the power cord, downloaded the update, and installed it through the GUI. It took maybe 45 seconds.

Netgear could push firmware updates, but then who’d need the $187 upgrade? Who’d buy the extended warranty? I’ll take great joy returning the new Nighthawk. And I’ll probably randomly smile at my ancient N900 until the day I replace it with a new D-Link. —D. Brian Burghart brianb@newsreview.com

Public service

As a lifelong member of the Republican Party, having worked over 40 years as a volunteer poll worker, and a cohort of the Silent Generation, it was disturbing to see how the dismal voter turnout at the polls was addressed by the media and the electorate at large.

While manning one of two tables for the assistance of our voters who cast their ballots at the library, I couldn’t help but notice that, of the 250-plus ballots that were cast by voters from five precincts, there were at least two dozen voters who were turned away ostensibly for showing up at the wrong precinct.

The nearer it got to closing time, the greater the display of anxiety, disappointment and hostility among these unfortunate procrastinators. I

I’m confident that if this anomaly was extrapolated throughout the entire county, it would provide some clarity to the overly hyped claim that this election had the worst turnout since World War II. A more nuanced finding might have even suggested that the “invisible hand” had been instrumental in suppressing voter rights.

While the intent of early voting is to make it more convenient for voters by removing the assigned precinct prerequisite, there is a commensurate lack of due diligence in the subsequent public notices regarding precinct prerequisites on election day.

It would be naïve to think there was no deliberate effort to minimize the prospects of a smaller turnout if the element of human procrastination were somehow obfuscated. With all the rhetoric about voter suppression sans reliable authentication, one would think the media would have monitors utilizing the observer tables provided—such was not the case.

From my perspective, I shall remain a registered Republican, if for no other reasons than to decode the party agendas, skewer its algorithms and neuter those factions which harbor fascist proclivities.

Sadly, my party has taken the wrong path of fear and suppression. While some may call us RINOs, we should start thinking of ourselves as part of the fifth column of the Fourth Estate.

The voters want to vote! Where is the will to make that an easy and seamless pursuit? Robert W. Mulvana Reno

Drones at night

Re “Invest your privacy in drones” (Liberty Belle, July 18, 2013):

This column contains information that is limited to what can be released at this time. I’m writing this short letter because of my concern about drone operations in Lemmon Valley.

These drones are launched from this dead Air Force base. They are top-secret drones. They launch several thousand rounds every night. These drones are nothing like I’ve ever seen before. Most of them are based on alien technology.

These drones can do amazing things that I’ve never seen before. I have seen many drones on TV, but I’ve never seen anything like these. I noticed these drones three months ago in California. Everybody seems to think they’re stars.

Because of my certain type of vision, I can see certain things other people can’t see because I worked in the industrial field, and my eyes were damaged from welding.

Now I’ve noticed these drones being operated by the surveillance operations. I’ve noticed them from Nevada to California to Roseville to Sacramento, all over, everywhere I go, I see the same ones, and when I return to Lemmon Valley. I did not realize they were manufactured here.

They take off every night at 6:30, and they return to base at 5:30 every morning. These ships can maneuver in any direction at any time, motionlessly and soundlessly, the whole ship is covered in lights. They operate in threes, and they cover a grid around Reno and all of the cities.

I do not know if this is Defense Grid or security grid, or what it is. I just know it is a great concern, because I have watched these things operate now for over five months. I have personally watched these things do what no aircraft should be able to do.

They can change their directions and shapes, and they can also make people believe that they are regular aircraft when they’re not.

My question is, what are they really doing? Are they using the people as guinea pigs? Are they using us as potential targets? What is their purpose? Why are they watching individuals so closely?

Some of us have been targeted by these drones, no matter where we go or what we do there. name withheld Reno

Two quick things

First: Has anyone noticed how KTVN Channel 2 has morphed its commercials over the last year? It started last year with their two anchors telling us in commercials how “Fair and Balanced” their news reporting was.

When I sent them an email at the time asking if they were not so subtly telling us they were a mini FOX News Channel, the reply I got was that they had one word different from the FOX News slogan.

And then, this week, I see their new commercial showing their reporting of past street crime here in Reno/Sparks with the new slogan of “Looking Out For Your Safety.”

Really?

A rather blatant attempt to use fear and their supposed assistance in keeping us safe as a reason for us to watch is what it sounds like to me. And this in the Reno/Sparks area where there really is very little crime, and no neighborhoods where you should feel afraid. None.

Crime is an aberration in our area, not a way of life. I still watch KTVN because I feel they have the best weather reporting in our area, but if they are aiming to model themselves along the FOX News model, I am gravely disappointed.

Second: Your food reviewer needs to hit some food trucks. Specifically, the hot dog vendors.

There are some incredible hot dogs available on the streets of our area. From the Chicago Dog wagon that parks in Midtown to the truck that irregularly parks in the Fantasy Girls parking lot to my own favorite, Amy’s Hot Dogs. Amy’s is on Oddie every Friday and Saturday evening, and run by a husband and wife with all the style and grace you could ask for.

Having grown up around the Doggie Diners in the Bay Area, I must say that Amy’s Mexican Style Hot Dogs are as good as any I’ve ever tasted. I’ve never experienced anything but cordiality from everyone as I stand and wait my turn.

They deserve all of our support for their hard work, excellent service and awesome dogs. Rich Birdsong Sparks

The dream

Aside from his mortality, the greatest American prophet, the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., was similar to Jesus Christ.

It has been said the only true activist is one willing to die for what they believe.

Jesus died so we can escape eternal judgment. King died so we can escape unfair judgment because of the color of our skin. Milo Reese Reno

Correction

Re “American Flatlined” (Feature story, Jan. 15):

Two photo credits in the photo essay “American Flatlined” were incorrect. The cover image and the photo labeled “Fashion shoot” on page 13 were shot by Sparks photographer Steve Erickson.

We apologize for our error and for any confusion our error might have caused.

Our Mission To publish great newspapers that are successful and enduring. To create a quality work environment that encourages people to grow professionally while respecting personal welfare. To have a positive impact on our communities and make them better places to live. Editor/Publisher D. Brian Burghart News Editor Dennis Myers Arts Editor Brad Bynum Special Projects Editor Georgia Fisher Calendar Editor Kelley Lang Contributors Amy Alkon, Woody Barlettani, Bob Grimm, Ashley Hennefer, Sheila Leslie, Eric Marks, Dave Preston, Jessica Santina, Todd South, Brendan Trainor, Bruce Van Dyke, Allison Young Creative Director Priscilla Garcia Art Director Hayley Doshay Junior Art Director Brian Breneman Production Coordinator Skyler Smith Design Melissa Bernard, Brad Coates, Kyle Shine Advertising Consultants Joseph “Joey” Davis, Gina Odegard, Bev Savage, Jessica Wilson Senior Classified Advertising Consultant Olla Ubay Operations Coordinator Nanette Harker Distribution Director Greg Erwin Distribution Manager Anthony Clarke Distribution Drivers Sandra Chhina, Steve Finlayson, Debbi Frenzi, Vicky Jewell, Angela Littlefield, Joe Medeiros, Ron Neill, Christian Shearer, Marty Troye, Warren Tucker, Gary White, Joseph White, Margaret Underwood General Manager/Publisher John D. Murphy President/CEO Jeff vonKaenel Chief Operations Officer Deborah Redmond Human Resource Manager Tanja Poley Business Manager Grant Rosenquist Business Nicole Jackson, Kortnee Angel Sweetdeals Coordinator Courtney deShields Nuts & Bolts Ninja Christina Wukmir Lead Technology Synthesist Jonathan Schultz Senior Support Tech Joe Kakacek Developer John Bisignano System Support Specialist Kalinn Jenkins 405 Marsh Ave., Third Floor Reno, NV 89509 Phone (775) 324-4440 Fax (775) 324-4572 Classified Fax (916) 498-7940 Mail Classifieds to classifieds@newsreview.com Web site www.newsreview.com Printed by Paradise Post The RN&R is printed using recycled newsprint whenever available. Editorial Policies Opinions expressed in the RN&R are those of the authors and not of Chico Community Publishing, Inc. Contact the editor for permission to reprint articles, cartoons or other portions of the paper. The RN&R is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All letters received become the property of the publisher. We reserve the right to print letters in condensed form. Cover and feature story design: Brian Breneman Cover photo: Christopher Vega

Itʼ s happening in !

ACTIVITIES

ADULT SOFTBALL Head to the ballpark this spring and take part in the City of Sparks Spring Adult Softball program! Leagues are available for men and women age 18 and older. There are opportunities for beginners on up to tournament players and seniors. The comprehensive program is one of the largest per capita softball programs in the country offering the following leagues: Men’s 1-night per week (10 games), cost: $575; Women’s (10 games), cost: $575; Coed (10 games), cost: $575; Senior Softball 50+, 60+, 65+, 70+, 75+ and Women’s 50+, cost: $400. April through June at Golden Eagle Regional Park and Shadow Mountain sports complexes. Register by 2/21 at the Alf Sorensen Community Center, 1400 Baring Blvd., Mon-Thu, 7AM-7PM. and Noon-6PM on Sat. Info: (775) 353-2385 or email sportsinfo@cityofsparks. us NEVADA SMALL FARM CONFERENCE The Nevada Small Farm Conference is a premier gathering of regional farmers, ranchers, businesses, students, federal and state agriculture agencies, food policy advocates and many others involved in high desert agriculture. Workshops and sessions will address a wide variety of topics relevant to the needs of regional farmers and a diverse range of those connected to Nevada agriculture. $105 before 12/31. Additional fees for pre-conference workshop and Friday night mixer. Price increases after 12/31. Th, 1/22, 10AM-4PM, F, 1/23, 9AM-4:30PM and Sa, 1/24, 9AM-1PM. All ages welcome. Info: Ann Louhela, (775)423-7565 x2260 or ann. louhela@wnc.edu. JA Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave.(775) 3563300 CROCHET CONNECTION Learn to crochet or share tips with other crochet enthusiasts. Th, 4-5:45PM, free. Spanish Springs Library, 7100A Pyramid Lake Highway. (775) 424-1800 FOUR SEASONS BOOK CLUB The book club meets the fi rst Saturday of each month. Call to fi nd out each month’s book title. First Sa of every month, 1-2PM, free. Sparks Library, 1125 12th St. (775) 352-3200 CONVERSATION CAFE The drop-in conversation program meets on the fi rst Saturday of each month, 2-4PM, free. Sparks Library, 1125 12th St. (775) 352-3200 CLICKETS KNITTING GROUP This class is for knitters of all ages and levels. Yarn and needles are available. First and Third Su of every month, 1:30-3PM, free. Spanish Springs Library, 7100A Pyramid Lake Highway, Spanish Springs (775) 424-1800 BIKINI BULL RIDING DJ and Bikini Bull Riding Competition. Su, 5 & 9PM through 12/28, no cover. John Ascuaga’s Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300

PERFORMANCE AND MUSIC

ALICE IN WONDERLAND Tahoe Players and Reno Jazz Syndicate proudly present Alice In Wonderland - an original musical adaptation you will not want to miss. Live, creative music, local talent and tons of fun! Sat, 1/24, 2PM & 8PM. JA Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 TOM DRINNON Th, 1/22, 8PM, F, 1/23, 8PM and Sa, 1/24, 8PM, no cover. JA Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 MICHAEL BECK BAND Th, 1/22, 8PM, F, 1/23, 8PM and Sa, 1/24, 8PM, no cover. JA Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 DANWISE AND FRIENDS A free monthly comedy show featuring local talent. The event is BYOB and limited beer will be provided free. Third Th of every month, 8PM, starting 1/15. Free. The Generator, Inc., 1240 Icehouse Ave. LIVE MUSIC Sa, 9PM and Su, 3PM, no cover. CBQ, 1330 Scheels Dr. (775) 359-1109 LINE DANCING LESSONS Line dancing lessons from the Gilley’s Girls from 6PM-8PM. Enjoy DJ Trey from 6PM-mid. W, 6PM through 12/31. No cover. JA Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 DJ RAZZ Come dance the night away to DJ RAZZ! You can even karaoke if you like. Ladies Night every Friday night. Drink Specials all night. F, 9PM. Paddy & Irene’s Irish Pub, 906-A Victorian Ave. (775) 358-5484 LOCALS NIGHT Locals Night, DJ. M, 5PM through 12/29, no cover. John Ascuaga’s Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 CLASSIC ROCK NIGHT Classic rock night with DJ. Tu, 5PM through 12/30, no cover. John Ascuaga’s Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 LADIES NIGHT & TOUGHEST COWBOY Ladies Night w/live music and Toughest Cowboy Competition. DJ breaks until midnight. W, 7 & 9PM through 12/31, no cover. John Ascuaga’s Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 ACOUSTIC WONDERLAND This is a singer-songwriter showcase. Come down to Paddy’s and bring your acoustic instruments. Sign-ups are at 7:30PM and music begins at 8PM. Drink Specials all night! Th, 8PM, no cover. Paddy & Irene’s Irish Pub, 906-A Victorian Ave. (775) 358-5484 LIVE MUSIC & LATE NIGHT DJ Live music with late-night DJ. F, 5PM-2AM & 7-11PM through 12/26, no cover. John Ascuaga’s Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300 LIVE MUSIC & LATE NIGHT DJ Live music with late-night DJ. Sa, 5PM-2AM & 7PM-midnight through 12/27, no cover. John Ascuaga’s Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave. (775) 356-3300

KARAOKE

KARAOKE WITH BOBBY DEE Tu, 8PM, no cover. Morelli’s G Street Saloon, 2285 G St. (775) 355-8281 KARAOKE Th-Sa, 9PM, no cover. Bottom’s Up Saloon, 1923 Prater Way (775) 359-3677