Melody Lane Park Neighborhood Watch

Status: An Illusion of Grandeur

2008-06-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

Still around and occasionally in the neighborhood to visit friends. Thanks for the support.

Cable Shable: Mesh Tech is NOW!

2007-08-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

The above image is from SkyPilot, one of several companies selling hardware for the system discussed here.

Multipoint Distribution Service (MDS) is the radio broadcast between individual nodes, which, as seen above, can be of many types. Emergency services (fire, rescue, police) and governmental inter-office communications (eg. Reno Direct) are two public service types this is designed to service via wireless technology. With the political will to do so, this area can implement such a system in a matter of weeks. It is also low-cost; when, for example, compared to cost involved in recent radio communications systems linking Reno and Sparks emergency services. As a residual benefit of going to this type of system, citizens in both the immediate (city) and surrounding (rural) areas can receive low-or-no-cost High Speed Internet (HSI).

Cities like Philadelphia, London, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Portland, and many others worldwide are installing and maintaining this type system. It benefits from low cost installation and maintenence (cost of ownership). Security of the network is assured through industry standard encryption and log-on protocols.

Cameras placed on light fixtures are remotely powered (solar/battery) connected via wireless (WiFi) into a surveillance and montoring mesh, creating a more safe and secure environment. In London, the grid has added two-way switched voice audio capacity to warn, instruct citizens of possible hazards, and to correct misbehavior. High crime areas can be monitored on a permanent or temporary basis.

Cost of individual nodes are within the reach of most American homeowners. Every user node installs an antenna on their roof; that connects to a (wired or wireless) modem, which connects to their home PC or Mac desktop, notebook, or PDA/phone. Antennas are omni-directional, so no technical orientation is needed. A person with just rudimentary knowledge can install a home unit in about an hour. Total hardware cost is around $250 if done DIY. (A local company currently charges $399 for Basic service installation, with $50 per month charge for HSI alone). Not every home needs to have a node; as the range of each can be up to 10 miles, depending on several variant elements (like weather, power, interference, etc).

Will it take public initiative to move local, county, state and federal governments to build in this type of system? Or will the expensive and incompetent disconnect continue? If you want to know more, email me or make a comment here.

Something to Think About: Part 943d

2007-08-01T13:50:00.001-07:00

Are you tired of Sierra Pacific not being able to do their job for what they are paid? It is time for this to actually be. On every home in Northern Nevada.

Not My Last Post

2007-05-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

Some time has passed since I have either posted here or had a Neighborhood Watch meeting. I have plausible excuses for both. I have moved. However, I continue to occasionally use the park to run my dog, so still feel some attachment to your neighborhood.

Here and now I am asking for someone else to take the helm. The Watch has been effective in cutting incidents of vandalism, graffiti, and property crime. It continues with the posting of Watch signs at strategic locations. Actual patrol of the entire Northtown area has become a police priority, although cruisers are still seldom seen in the Neighborhood without there have been an incident calling them.

I will continue to use the park, visit friends in the neighborhood, and keep an eye on this blog. It is such a small thing. However, I am now such a distance away, it will be inconvenient to continue to lead...the Watch Captain really ought to be a resident. So, if you are that person, contact me and I will gladly introduce you to the insides and out of this enterprise. If nobody comes forward, it will be such a shameful thing; it may lead to return to past behaviors.

Daylight Savings

2007-03-06T13:56:00.000-08:00

Remember to check and change your batteries in smoke detectors and CO2 detectors this weekend.

Goose Poop Taking Over Melody Lane Park!

2007-02-02T13:41:00.000-08:00

Anyone taking a walk in Melody Lane Park, even on the sidewalks , best watch carefully least they step in goose poop. Anyone with children is warned to have their children be very carefull and avoid contact with the dire droppings.
Though there are, to my knowledge, no reported incidents where the goose waste have been attributed to a health risk, the sheer volumn left from these large and noisy birds is reason enough, to this writer, to set dogs on them. This may be a radical solution, but the dogs will enjoy the chase and the birds most likly will escape unharmed.
Another alternative is to call the Parks and Rec people and complain. Running one of those motorized vacuum carts (you see used in parking lots) will eridacate the problem post haste. One wonders if this expense has been added into this years budget.
It seems to me that the cretters know that they are protected against hunting while they are within city limits. They tend to flock in ever-increasing numbers; the cause of there being a hunting season in the first place. It is time that Fish and Game calrify the in-city hunting situation and allow hunters to cull the flock and put a damper on the out-of-hand poop situation. Perhaps slingshots?
What can a person do?

City of Reno Emergency Information

2007-01-11T14:13:00.000-08:00

The City of Reno has created an Emergency Information web page where all pertinent information relating to weather, fire, flood or other disaster information will be found. In case of an ongoing emergency, information will be on the City of Reno home page. You may want to Bookmark both.

NAB Meeting Recap

2007-01-09T12:28:00.000-08:00

The January meeting of the Northeast Neighborhood Advisory Board (NAB) was sparcely attended and proceeded through the agenda quickly.

Officers were elected to the board. Reports from the Reno Police Department revealed that most major crime in the neighborhood is not occuring at a rate lower than last year (assuming 2006 v. 2005 rates). Police are asking that you request contact with them when making nuisance calls in complaint about activity in the neighborhood.

The University is quiet due to classes not resuming until January 22nd.

The Social Host Ordinance, which allows police intervention when loud parties disrupt neighbors, is moving through the process of becoming law. There will be an open forum discussion July 10th at 5:30 PM at the McKinley Arts and Culture Center, 925 Riverside Drive. Any questions should be directed to Kevin Quint 324-7557. Attend if you can as this new law will directly affect the neighborhood.

David Love reported that a commerative celebration of the July 4, 1910 Johnsom/Jefferies heavyweight fight is being planned for that date in 2010. This event was a major historical marker in the development of early Reno.

Else, the NAB covered a few other minor items and adjourned.

BURGLARS MAY ‘SHOP’ THE EMPTY BOXES AT YOUR HOUSE

2006-12-20T12:11:00.000-08:00

Burglars looking for potential targets after Christmas may shop the empty boxes at your house, says Sgt. John Tarter of the Reno Police Department.
"The boxes from higher priced Christmas gifts such as computers, computer game systems, televisions and similar items that are left by the curb provide burglars with information that can help them target your home," says Tarter who works in the burglary section of the Reno Police Department’s Detective Division.
"The best thing people can do to avoid providing burglars with ready information about gifts received is to break down boxes and put them out for recycling the morning that recycles are scheduled to be picked up," Tarter says.
Other critical prevention measures to help keep homes secure from burglars, he points out, include:
• Installing exterior doors that are solid core or steel rather than hollow-core.
• Making sure door installations do not have gaps around the door frames that can provide leverage for removing a door from its frame.
• Avoiding the use of decorative door installations that include glass sidelight panels that can be broken for easy access to interior locks.
• Installing heavy-duty deadbolt locks with a one-inch throw bolt and heavy-duty four-screw strike plate with three-inch screws penetrating into a wooden door frame on all exterior doors as well as doors leading from your garage into your home.
• Keeping doors leading into the home from the garage locked at all times.
• Securing sliding glass doors, that otherwise can be lifted off their tracks, with vertical security bolts, solid wood rods on the inside tracks, or similar locking devices.
• Securing pet doors that may not allow adult burglars entry, but can be used by smaller children to enter your home and give burglars or others access.
• Making sure to close the garage door completely when pulling your vehicle out of the garage. If using an automatic garage door opener, wait until the garage door is closed and secured before leaving.

"Keeping an eye on the neighborhood and your neighbor’s home is also an important deterrent," says Tarter. "Residents should report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 334-COPS, or 9-1-1 when a crime is in progress." The existence of a Neighborhood Watch organization can also help reduce neighborhood crime, according to Tarter. "The Reno Police Department will assist neighborhoods in organizing a local Neighborhood Watch program which is one of the most successful and least costly crime prevention programs available to Reno residents and can easily be organized," Tarter says. "An effective Neighborhood Watch program needs about 50-75 percent participation of the neighborhood attending two or more meetings a year to learn about crime trends, how to identify and report suspicious activity, and how to safeguard property," he points out.

The foregoing is a Press Release from the Reno Police Department through Reno Direct.

Local Sex Offender Update

2006-12-15T11:15:00.000-08:00

Reno Direct carries the following update from agencies involed:

The first issue concerns Mr. Floyd Fields (male 63 years old). Fields has recently been assessed as a Tier Three Sex Offender by the State of Nevada Sex Offender Registry . Mr. Fields notified the Reno Police Department that he is currently residing in the 100 block of Park St. in the City of Reno . Presently, Mr. Fields is unemployed. Mr. Fields is IN compliance with all local sex offender laws, and IS NOT wanted by law enforcement. He is not being supervised by Nevada Parole and Probation.

The second issue concerns Mr. Koropin Ladore (male 44 years old). Ladore has been assessed as a Tier Three Sex Offender by the State of Nevada Sex Offender Registry . Ladore has notified the Sparks Police Department that he currently resides in the 2300 block of Roundhouse Rd. in the City of Sparks . Presently, Mr. Ladore is unemployed. Mr. Ladore is IN compliance with all sex offender laws, and IS NOT wanted by law enforcement. He IS CURRENTLY being supervised by Nevada Parole and Probation. For information regarding Ladore’s parole status, contact the Department of Public Safety Division of Parole and Probation.

Be aware of your children's activity at all times. Be suspicious to overly friendly adults. Do not harass the men cited above.

Update: No News is Sometimes Good News?

2006-11-03T12:18:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since I have had report of major or minor crimes in the neighborhood. This is either a good sign that things are calming down or folks think I have abandoned this project. I have not. BUT...
I attended last month's monthly NAB meeting to find more board members and participants with presentations than concerned citizens. Of note was the allocation of funds available to the Neighborhood Watch and parks in the area. Meeting minutes will be available soon via Reno Direct.

Reno Direct does not include a link URL when they send email notifications and news releases. There have been a couple of things I may have wanted to make reference to (here), but, without the link back to the source, I am but another rumor mill. I try to be factual, but would prefer to reference authority directly than to get it wrong. Navigating the Reno Direct web site is fairly straightforward but, using the dial up I am cirrenly stuck with, it is too time consuming. I hope you understand and subscribe on your own. It is a very good source of local information. Find it here.

Somebody called me with request for a window sticker. I said I would deliver one personally or send one in the mail. I promptly lost their information! So, if you are that person, or someone with request for a window sticker or street sign, please call and leave your information again. I apologise for my oversight and the long time getting the stickers out to Watch members.

Graffiti eridication on the bridge at Clearacre and 395 has been attended to by some very shortsighted workers. Yes, there has been paintout, but other stuff was left undone. Isn't the idea to catch this stuff and eridate it ASAP so the vandalism is pointless to the vandals?

I think Melody Lane Park needs a trash recepticle at the southeast corner, along with another doggie litter bag dispenser there. I will bring this up next meeting, or call Parks and Recreation, to see if this can happen; providing there are no objections.

Graffiti Followup

2006-09-19T16:52:00.000-07:00

Received this email:
We're sorry the following problem was found during review of your submitted report T06000272:
Tim,
I will forward the information to the Graffiti Task Force. I will tell you that NDOT will not let our team paint out the graffiti on State property. This graffiti has been discussed with NDOT and the Graffiti Task Force. I will forward your information to them as well. Thank you for making your report online. If you have any further questions you can call me at 328-3301. Trudy
Thank you, Online Officer, Washoe County Sheriff's Office
The tagging under the Wedekind Bridge has been painted out. The Shell Station has painted out their tagging. It seems that some co-ordination devise is together and working, even though the policy remains off-kilter to the public good. Explanation would be appreciated.
Thanks for the good work anyway.

Fire! Three fires set on night of September 16th

2006-09-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

A neighbor on Epic emailed today:
I am not sure how to post this but I thought you would be interested to know... that several fires were started between the hours of one and four a.m. this morning behind our homes on Epic Avenue. The fire department responded to all three and I am told that an investigator was sent out this morning.
We are thanking God for a young man named Louis who saw the first fire from the houses below and woke people up and fought with hoses until the fire department came and another man in a cadilac who awoke neighbors in the second fire! And for the fact that the fire department was already on site when they saw the third one flare up shortly after four a.m.

And...in a second email...
One of my neighbors further up the hill mentioned that when the fire fighters responded to the fire behind his property (the second one) they were immediately suspicious since they had just been at ours a few hours earlier. When the saw the third, he said the firefighters said there would be an investigation immediately. This morning he reported seeing an investigator on site.

On My Return: Same Old Blight Again

2006-09-15T14:34:00.000-07:00

Some vandal or vandals (Shyboy and Looney) tagged the Shell station at Clear Acre and McCarran last weekend. It was done early in the morning according to the clerk contacted. On an intersection as busy, 24/7, as that, it seems more like those who saw it happen did nothing than nobody saw it occure.
Both the 395 bridges (at Clear Acre and at Wedekind Road) have been tagged, as well as many street sign and lighting posts in the area. Some traffic signs have been obliterated. Formal complaint was made over the Internet, but three days later, the vandalism remains uncovered. It may be the same old SNAFU over territory at work here, or the Sheriff's Squad may just be busy on other locations. Whatever, this is not acceptable.

RPD made a news release on the 13th that added some ammunition to the war against these vandals. It gives notice that a $250 administrative fine, added with the cost of full restitution, will be levied against any vandal found guilty in a court of law. It allocates half of this money to be placed in a reward account. Of these funds, rewards of from $250 to $1000 will be given to anyone that calls in with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of an offender. This will be administrated through Secret Witness .
The Press Release has been posted around the neighborhood, usually covering exsisting tags. The notices have all but completely disappeared overnight. This reflects the attitude of those whom may be perpetuators. These are identity symbols, reflective of misdirected egos. Posting hopefully will give second thought to more vandalism. Now the perps have to contend with the monetary ambitions of their peers.
A few business owners, at and around the Clear Acre and McCarran intersection, have received personal visits to make them aware of the recent changes. Several have stated that they would post it in their windows. Next action will be to contact the Principal at Hug High School with it. Included will be a few chosen words intend on "pressure being placed" on those who blight the neighborhood.
Use of street video may be necessary. Several business managers have stated that they would be willing to host and power such facilities. This may be something to discuss at the next NAB meeting.

(The September NAB meeting on last Monday was not attended by this writer. While I had received notice, I failed to attend. I am still in recovery from recent personal events. My alology to all involved. I will endevor to post the meeting minutes when available through Reno Direct.)

Cops and Kids Fair, August 18th

2006-08-17T16:52:00.000-07:00

The annual Cops and Kids Fair is tomorrow, Friday, August 18th! It will be at Traynor Middle School and Pool, 1700 Carville Drive, Reno, from 10 AM to 3 PM. Many varied elements of the Reno Police Department will be partaking through displays and demonstrations. Emphasis is on building bridges between police and youth in the community.
It is funded in part by your Neighborhood Advisory Board. Food will be served at no cost! So, if nothing else, go get yourself and kids a Free Lunch!
Carville Drive runs east off Sutro, 5 blocks south of Oddie. Be certain to lock your car and not have any valuable cargo in plain sight.

August 16th: Update

2006-08-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

More on the Get To Know Your Neighbors event can be found here.

Still looking for volunteers for our event on the 26th; especially those with BBQ stuff (grilles, coolers, etc).

Two teenagers were caught in the Kietske/Plumb area tagging their neighborhood. They face gross misdomenor charges.
I have made a report on new tagging under the bridge at 395 and Wedekind. Mention is made because the bridge paint itself is less than 10 days old! It was done in the afternoon, about the time kids get out of school. Keep an eye out for similar behavior and report it!

Know Your Neighbors Day: August 26th

2006-08-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

Richard Flyer of the Conscious Community Campaign is having a Get To Know Your Neighbors Day as part of his campaign on August 26th. It is a grassroots attempt to bridge communication gaps between neighbors. Click on the link and read a full article from the Reno News and Review. It covers most of the bases.

Getting an event together in two weeks is streaching the limits of the possible, but it can be done. I need some volunteers to organize, promote and provide.

A simple event is forseen; with a couple of lit BBQs, lots of ice in a big cooler or other container, some baloons and a big sign. The notion is "bring your own BBQ fixin's picinic" under the pagota in the park. I will look into if the facilities can be reserved, or if its "squatter's rights."

Contact me or add your Comments.

I just invested in a new answering machine so leave a message after the quick beep if you call. I will return your call as soon as possible.

July 25: Update and Review

2006-07-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

Our second meeting, on July 20th, was attended by about 35 to 40 neighbors. The Meadowview Clubhouse proved an ideal meeting place (although the lack of air conditioning makes the golf course clubhouse more appealing during this hot weather). Thanks to Mr. Tom Wood for making it available (gratis), and to all those attending for their interest and effort in overcoming the heat.

After a quick review of the events and issues active since our previous meeting, discussion was open to the floor. The main concerns are: graffiti, getting action out of authorities, speeding through the neighborhood, threat of sexual predators, threat of fire, burglary of homes and cars, prowlers and loitering individuals, abandoned or unkempt property, code violations (including parking large trailers or motorhomes on the street for extended periods of time), impact on the neighborhood of the 395 construction, and getting a regular police patrol presence. (But not in that or any given order of importance.)

There was extended discussion about getting things done. The primary tool for moving the various authority is the telephone. When several citizens call to complain about a condition or issue, then things move. Call and complain. Many of the phone numbers you need are in the left column of this web site. All Watch members are welcome to post a concern on this blog. If you need help, call me and I will walk you through the process of posting.

So far as police patrol, Councilman Dwight Dortch has written to Reno Police Chief Michael Poehlman with your concerns and desire for more patrol. Neighbors have reported a few black-and-white patrol cars in the neighborhood, and motorcycle patrol increasing along Clearacre Boulevard.
As the location of the neighborhood borders the City of Sparks, and a recent incident on Cityview Terrace has shown necessary, a joint effort between departments to police our growing neighborhood must be initiated. This may become even a greater issue when the latest phase of development, extending Cityview Terrace to nearly intersect with El Rancho Drive, is completed. We need clear definition of responsibility and assurance, from all police departments involved, that there will not be confusion or misunderstanding that will delay response when needed.
And Fire Departments need to be familiarized and trained to effective find and cover our complex neighborhood street design locations.

A strong emphasis was made in attending Neighborhood Advisory Board (NAB) meetings. These meetings are the opportunity a person has to voice concerns regarding developments and issues in the neighborhood. Attending shows both concern and attention, raises awareness of and status of issues directly affecting lifestyle and property values, and allows opportunity to meet and get to know everyone involved. For informational value alone, these NAB metings are worth you time investment.

Other issues, discussed in a lively exchange between attending neighbors, are either being pursued toward some definitive action, or referred to the authority involved. The street signs are up (your Comments encouraged) and the window decal campaign is coming along; a list was made and decals will be delivered when received. Please post your window decal in as public a location as is available to you.

The thunder and lightning of July 21st knocked out the wireless router we use here at home. I managed to save my PC by having just shut down. When we did replace it, we had trouble configuring; thus it has been 5 days of frustration, finally overcome and here we are again.

July 18 Report: It is HOT!

2006-07-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

The weather has become an issue. Read here about how to deal with it.

A Case of Disappearing Blight

2006-07-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

As you see here (click on photo to enlarge), the graffiti on the Clear Acre/395 Bridge has been painted out!
The color used is the color that will be, and it "is as graffiti-resistant as they could find." Thanks must go to several individuals; Councilman Dwight Dortch, his CommunityLiaison Michael Chaump, several Watch families and area residents who called and complained; not to mention those that showed up at NAB meetings to let it be known this type of vandalism will not be tolerated.
Most of all, thanks go to Ms. Brenda Lee of RTC, who actually got the work done by taking trouble enough to see this blight eradicated. Although she may not have had the spray gun in hand, she made it happen. She even called back to say that some new tagging has hit the area behind the stores in University Village, but that they will attend to it at their earliest convienience. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Now is the time for all to double efforts to catch these vandals, see them prosecuted and jailed if necessary. Carry a camera of some kind and take pictures of any tagging you see. Call the police if it is going on; call the Garffiti Hot Line if it appears in your areas. Both numbers are in the left column.

July Meeting Set

2006-07-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

Our July meeting has been set for 6:30 PM on Thursday, July 20th at the Meadow View Club House, corner of Scottsdale and Starks. It should last one to two hours. We hope to have window decals for all that would announce our Neighborhood Watch is active and watching! There will be a flyer handed out over the weekend announcing this meeting and inviting all to come. Please Comment if you have a subject you would like to have discussed at this meeting. Hope to see you there!

NAB Meeting Review

2006-07-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

As the full minutes of the Neighborhood Advisory Board will be published when available on Reno Direct, only highlights not ordinarily contained in those minutes will be mentioned here.

NAB Ward 4 chairman Bill Donalson has been ordered to serve in Iraq for the next 18 months. We all wish the best to him and his family. Thank you for your service, Bill.

The board has voted to contribute funding to the Cops and Kids Picnic scheduled for August 11th at Trainor. Officer Craig Pittman is in charge of the arrangements. He can be reached at the RPD Community Affairs office 321-8318. He is also beginning to organize a neighborhood CERT program, to provide emergency services when needed. Volunteers are needed and requested to contact him for details.

Several candidates for various offices were present and gave short talks regarding their qualifications, political intent for the Ward, and insights to how government works. Present were Patrick Flannigan, Brett Kandt, Steve Kelley, and Tom Koziol.

Presentation was made regarding the Clearacre Townhomes proposed project. The primary objection regarded traffic flow. The CityView proposed project was discussed at some length, with several citizens voicing opposition and several submitting opposition without comment. No representative from CityView developer NPEG was present, although a four page handout was available. Primary opposition regarded egress, crime, soil, and fire considerations.

RPD reported crime in the Ward is going down, with June crime statistics and a map of the Ward handed out showing where crimes occurred (shown above and here). Efforts like Neighborhood Watch and reporting all susicious activity and crimes were encouraged to help continue this trend downward.

UNR Police reported a graffiti arrest; 2 females and one male, all adults, tagging University property. This arrest was due to a citizen tip and points up the importance of reporting this type of criminal activity.

This opened discussion of the graffiti issue. Issues discussed regarded punishment (maximum for this gross misdemeanors: up to a year in jail), with Councilman Dwight Dortch adding that he is supporting a state legislative effort raising mandatory sentencing for juveniles to a loss of driver licenses until age 18 and for adults loss for 2 calendar years.
Questions about the uneven painting over effort (due to territorial conflicts), specifically the Clear Acre/395 bridge, have not been resolved. Calling NDOT to complain remains the citizen's best resolution at this time.
Over 80% of the taggers caught are adults. Suggestion was made that the media be prompted to stress the criminal aspect and consequence, while making the common citizen's effort a primary emphasis of their reporting.
One suggestion was to designate some favorite tagging locations as possible "community pride" mural sites; specifically the Wedekind Road/395 bridge becoming a tribute to local Proctor Hug High School sports achievements. General approval of the idea was expressed. There was report that some NAB funds may be available for such an effort.

Interest in the Melody Lane Park Neighborhood Watch by board members was expressed. Efforts to expedite the posting of signs and handout of window decals were endorsed. An effort made to map and order them was shown and Councilman Dortch expressed that an effort to get the street signs up this month will be made. Our next meeting, tenatively scheduled for July 21st, may have the window decals in hand for Watch neighbors.

There will be no August NAB meeting. In September, election for a new Chair will be discussed.

Latest City View images

2006-07-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

These are images of the CityView proposal handed out at last night's Neighborhood Advisory Board meeting. Click on them to see an enlarged view or click here to be taken to even larger versions.

Next action will be before the Planning Commission. No date for that hearing has been set at this writing.

Signs and Decals

2006-07-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

Michael Chaump has emailed that the Neighborhood Watch sign and decal money has already been allocated. We need to set a number on how many signs and decals will be needed. The Neighborhood Advisory Board will decide on that figure at the next regular meeting. Signs up by August is do-able!
I figure ten signs and 50 decals ought to cover our needs for this time. This will cover the main intersections, the park, and give all Watch participants a decal or two, depending on their need. Your Comment is requested.

Update: July 1, 2006

2006-07-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

The Agenda for the next Neighborhood Advisory Board Meeting can be found here. It is in PDF form which you will need Adobe Reader to open. Get it here if you need it (be aware this will also give you two other app options from Adobe).
Note that the funding for our Neighborhood Watch signs and decals is not included in this Agenda. I have emailed Michael Chaump to correct this oversight and hope for a reply before the meeting.

Tip From RPD: An Ounce of Prevention

2006-06-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

STEPS TO HELP PREVENT YOUR VEHICLE FROM BEING BURGLARIZED
A burglary of your vehicle can lead to a burglary of your home, and that can lead to theft of your identity, warns the Reno Police Department. A common sense approach and the following simple vehicle security tips are the best methods to prevent vehicle burglaries that can also lead to other crimes.

Always lock the doors and close the windows of your vehicle; even when you are away from the vehicle for only a short period of time.

Always make sure keys are not left in the vehicle.

Remove compact disc player covers or stereo mounts and placing them out of sight (in the trunk preferrably) when the vehicle is unattended.

Park vehicles in an attended parking lot when possible.

Try making sure vehicles are parked in garages or on driveways or near apartments so the vehicle can be periodically viewed.

Park in well-lit areas at night, taking advantage of exterior lighting and any installed motion detecting lights. Consider inexpensive close circuit surveilance.

Make sure that vehicle keys DO NOT have tags with personal identification; such as name and address labels that can be useful to burglars if lost or stolen. Use a phone number only.

Install a car burglar alarm.

Use of secondary locking devices to prevent vehicle theft.

Always take garage door openers out of the vehicle when it is not occupied to prevent burglars from later using them to gain access to your garage and home.
Personal papers and mail should be removed from vehicles to prevent burglars from using the information in targeting homes for burglary or in identity theft.

Black out the address on vehicle registrations, photocopying the registration, and maintaining only the copy, not the original in the vehicle.

Potential losses from vehicle burglaries can be minimized by taking simple steps such as keeping all valuable, packages, store purchases and other items out of plain sight. Place them in the trunk, or at least cover them, when your vehicle is not occupied.
Take all items, including the garage door opener, out of the vehicle when parked at home. Items most commonly stolen from vehicles that should always be removed when the vehicle is unoccupied include: purses, wallets (even when placed out of sight under seats), day planners, briefcases, cash, gym bags, jewelry, cell phones and chargers, keys, mail, garage door openers, tools, stereos and faceplates, compact discs and CD cases.
To obtain a copy of the Reno Police Department’s brochure on preventing vehicle burglaries, call the Reno Police Department’s Crime Prevention voice message at (775) 334-2178.
Another method to help prevent vehicle burglaries and other neighborhood crime activity is to organize and be active in a Neighborhood Watch program.

Report any suspicious activity to the Police Department immediately. Call 9-1-1 or 334-2677.

Neighborhood Advisory Board Meeting: In Review

2006-06-13T06:24:00.000-07:00

Above is an image taken off a very large Planning map of the CityView proposal. Click to enlarge. Most homeowners that came to the meeting did not know the details represented in this map. It is difficult to measure this image on scale to the property due to its dimentions, but does represent closely the proposed use of the land and design of the homes.

The meeting showed clear homeowner opposition to the current proposal. Those who spoke addressed issues of egress, fire safety, rise in crime, traffic congestion and safety, and distrust of the plan in general. The NAB does not endorse nor condemn ANY project proposal; rather it advises the City on the feelings of the neighborhood.

Fred Turnier of NPEG (the developer) will be giving mail notification of any proposed changes, and had an invitation handout to a presentation at Somerset County Club, 2019 Championship Trail, Reno 89523 about the City View project. It will be June 26th from 5:30 to 6:30. RSVP Kathleen Maloney 323-1450. He also was to make another presentation at The Clubhouse (on Scottsdale) for neighbors for whom this would be a more convenient location. He will be sending mail notification of when this will take place.

The second major issue discussed was graffiti. The obstacle to eradication of this blight has to do with where it occurs. For example, the US395 overpass bridge at Clear Acre Blvd is on NDOT property. NDOT was insisting that they are waiting until the finish of the entire project before they paint, and thereby overpaint the graffiti. . Since the issue with the overpass has been raised, the City and NDOT have come to an agreement that the City will do the paint cover up and charge back time and materials for the work. It was said that a letter of authorization is at hand and waiting signature by NDOT before the City does the work. Councilman Dwight Dortch said he would be looking into expediting this. He stressed that the City of Reno is doing all it can to stop this vandalism where it has authority to do so.

Because of this agreement, it seems best to allow a reasonable amount of time for this to occur before having the Paint Over Event now being planned. A Neighborhood Watch homeowner has come forward with intent to paint out the tagging on the bridge, one way or another. We suggested we have an Event, and get the local media to cover it for maximum effect. Materials cost was calculated for the overpass paintover using good paint. The intent was to wait until after the June NAB and Neighborhood Watch meetings, to organize and find possible funds to cover costs. As of this post, that remains in effect. Your Comments are welcome on any aspect of this situation.

Michael Chaump is putting our Neighborhood Watch signage on the NAB Agenda for July. We hope to get our signs up during August. Individual window stickers will be available as soon as possible, probably hand delivered. Your suggestions are still being considered for inclusion in creation of a map of best locations for maximum effect. Thanks for your Comments.

Neighborhood Advisory Board Meeting

2006-06-05T19:30:00.000-07:00

MONDAY, June 12th, 6:00 PM,
at the Washoe County Senior Center, 9th St and Sutro.

(AGENDA) ITEM:A. LDC06-00424 (Cityview) - This is a request for: (1) a tentative map for creation of a 47 unit single-family attached development; and (2) special use permits for: (a) private streets; (b) hillside development; and (c) cuts of 20 feet or greater in depth and fills ten feet or greater in height. The development proposes access from a private street which intersects with Melody Lane ±145 feet to the west of the intersection of Melody Lane and Kingsview Court. The ±10.1 acre site is located south of Ridgecrest Drive and north of Scottsdale Road in the SF6 (Single Family - 6,000 square foot minimum) zone. PLANNER: Chad Wilkinson, Associate Planner APN NUMBERS: 026-630-03 thru 026-630-14
(A "single-family attached" development is called a "row house" in other areas.)

Check the map.
They intend to cut the egress road to this 47 unit housing project at the right of the enclosed area between Scottsdale and Ridgecrest. There are several issues; including traffic, parking, dust, hillside grade, design of the egress, water runoff, and environmental impacts involved.
Please Comment and/or show up for this very important meeting.

On The Watch: Parents Take Heed

2006-06-03T02:02:00.000-07:00

This is an experiment.
Rather than fill our blog with images that are questionable for younger surfers, I have created a presentation and posted it on the Grouper web site.
It shows the photos avail of known resident sex offenders in the 89512 zip code. If you would like to review this presentation, click here. (Have some patience as it is nearly 4Mb stream.)
The persons shown are not to be harassed.
Taking 'due diligence' is strongly recommended.

Neighborhood Map: Melody Lane Park area

2006-05-29T19:17:00.000-07:00

ref: http://maps.cityofreno.net// Click to enlarge.

On The Watch: Long Weekend Coming

2006-05-26T00:42:00.000-07:00

The Telephone Tree is coming along. I hoped to get it out by the long weekend ahead. No way. Too much work. There needs to be enough Key Members appointed (or volunteered) to make it work effectively. We will need at least five Key Members. We also need a couple of trial runs to see that everyone gets The Word. I am on this because it is the singular most means to transistion into being an effective community unit.

A call from Michael Chaump revealed that there is a covenant on getting any city money from the North Valleys Neighborhood Advisory Board: a non-profit status with the IRS (501c3). He did say that he has been able to circumvent that qualification in the past. So, folks, decals and street signs are on the way! It will take some time, but the process is underway. I hope to have both by next meeting. Meanwhile, there are things to be done.

I need your Comments on ideal street sign locations. Please be very specific; there is government involved. We may have them installed for no charge if we play our cards right.

Any ideas? Comment! Please! (Directions are to the left.)

Thanks

2006-05-24T16:23:00.000-07:00

Tim,
I wanted to thank you for setting this up.

All,
I also wanted to thank all the other neighbors that showed up. I believe if we band together we can greatly reduce the amount of crime in our neighborhood. My wife and I are looking forward to meeting with all the concerned neighbors again in the near future.

My wife "Angie" and I "Tom" would like to get a list of all the problem address and vehicle plate numbers together and get them either posted or somehow passed out to all the concerned parties. You're Thoughts

Regards
Never accept ordinary
Thomas & Angie Devine

At The Meeting: Good Turnout, Interesting Discussion

2006-05-23T23:25:00.000-07:00

ATTENDANCE: About 35 people.

GENERAL OUTLINE:
Everyone who attended came with a curiosity and intent to do something to improve the neighborhood. There were a great variety of folks (and kids, too). Shortly after starting, it became evident that the time we had would be short to the need to cover a great deal of territory.
Cindy DelBianco from City of Reno Code Enforcement went over some things that were pertinent to the general well-being of the neighborhood; so-called "lawn cars", trailer parking on street, renters and landlords rights, and the like.
Officer Mike Stewart of the RPD gave a presentation that led to a lively discussion of issues and presentation of ideas toward making the neighborhood better.

ISSUE: Personal Risk
REMARKS: There was some nervousness about being involved with our Neighborhood Watch. One can reason why...personal risk. It takes a certain kind of person to confront crime...they are called the police. We are to be the eyes and ears of the authority; little more. It is not our intent to put anyone at risk. We simply want to form a coherent body of citizens whose intent is to improve the neighborhood lifestyle through positive and effective actions.
When action makes it necessary, we may alert each other through a Telephone Tree. It will be redundant so that it is certain everyone involved (or whom may become involved) are reached immediately.

ISSUE: Police Response
REMARKS: 911 operators prioritize calls 1, 2 or 3. Typically, vandals making graffiti and the like rate a 1. A domestic battery (where the perpetrator has left the premises) gets a 2. All other reports, more serious, are rated as 3.
Because of the physical restraints and the on-going demands involved at any given time, there is often delay in response to incidents rated 1 or 2. It was said that ongoing crimes involving a weapon (knife or gun) extract nearly immediate response.

ISSUE: Strangers
REMARKS: A woman reported that a man came to her door saying he was a vacuum salesman. He asked entry to demonstrate his machine. She refused and threatened to call police. The man disappeared. Any person selling anything door-to-door in Reno must display a valid Vendor’s Permit. All others are suspect. Do not let anyone in your home without previous confirmations. Report all suspect persons to 911...if it looks to you like something is just wrong, it probably is.

ISSUE: Vandalism
REMARKS: Several assertations were made that much of the rampant vandalism is being done by occupants of rental housing and/or halfway houses. It was said that when the vandals are caught the court system lets them off. Officer Stewart cautioned that any action we take, such as confronting parents (or other persons in charge of juveniles), should be done reasonably, and as a possible precursor to other group action.

ISSUE: Graffiti
REMARKS: The new bridge across Clear Acre is already an eyesore due to being tagged with graffiti. The park does not have one area not written on (and over) by vandals. So rampant is this activity, the RPD has dedicated an officer to manage the problem. For now, they are covering it with new paint (that probably will not match exactly). Several homes and vehicles have been tagged. This activity has to stop. It is NOT art, it is crime. Report it to 911 if you see it happening..
If you are tagged, the RPD Graffiti Hotline 334-2099 will do what they can to eradicate the problem. We can remain vigilant and report incidents, especially as they happen.

ISSUE: Auto Burglary
REMARKS: There were over 10 reports of cars being broken into and items stolen WITHIN THE LAST 60 DAYS. Some break-ins were not reported because the victims did not believe doing so was worth the effort. Almost all were at night or early evening.
Officer Stewart said that having objects visible to potential criminals is a factor. He suggested that everyone take everything of value out of sight in their vehicles. Out of sight, out of mind.

ISSUE: Drug Dealing
REMARKS: Several incidents of visible drug deals were reported. Generally, police response will be too late to be effective. Better to contact Secret Witness 322-4900 and hope for effective rejoinder. It was revealed that Secret Witness reports often go to several departments at the police headquarters. Often a situation is known by detectives and a new report may spur earlier action.

ISSUE: Unkempt Houses and Property
REMARKS: More than beings unsightly, these properties attract criminal activity through giving the false notion that people do not care how the neighborhood appears. Suggestion is to identify such locations, and then move to either get the owner to properly maintain their property or get permission to do the work with volunteer labor.

ISSUE: Illegal Parking and other Code Violations
REMARKS: A person may have two unregistered vehicles on their property. You may not park a vehicle on your lawn. It was reported that a large trailer is parked at a corner that obstructs the clear view for motorists. Hopefully, violations will be reported to Code Violations 334-2099 Reno Direct.

ISSUE: Trash
REMARKS: Motorists have been seen throwing litter out of their vehicles as they move through the neighborhood. Identification of the vehicle involved may lead to the person or persons responsible. It is thought that sending a letter to the registered owner may curtail this practice. Please note the licence plate number of any violators.

ISSUE: Lighting
REMARKS: The north border of the park is unlit. This can present a problem during the winter months when it gets dark early. There are streetlights reported as being out. Few homes have motion detector lighting. All add to an envioronment for crime.
Organizing to improve this situation is seen as critical. Parks and Recreation needs to be contacted and influenced to improve the park situation.

ISSUE: Illicit Sexual Behavior
REMARKS: Parking at the curve up the hill from the park where Melody Lane becomes Epic Avenue is often a choice for illicit sexual behavior. Used condoms, broken liquor (and beer) bottles and other trash have been discarded there. Without a regular patrol, this behavior will only continue until homes are built or a visual barrier constructed to block the admittedly spectacular view. Better lighting was mentioned.

ISSUE: Speeding
REMARKS: The posted speed limit is 25 MPH. There are individuals who ignore it and place life and property at risk by doing so. Identification of and confrontation with these individuals was discussed without resolve as to exactly how to do this effectively.
There cannot be speed bumps installed at intervals along Scottsdale Road due to its designation as a dedicated emergency vehicle route. Painting those lines on Scottsdale (parallel to parking space along the entire street) is said to having had the psychological effect of slowing traffic.

As the meeting moved on, neighbors broke into groups and exchanged information.
Group information was solicited in a manner able to ensure personal privacy.
A general query revealed no represented objection to recording vehicle traffic at the entries to the area.
Mention was made of the function of the Neighborhood Advisory Boards and city Community Services 321-8318. These are to be utilized to develop the Neighborhood Watch, especially the Treasury. This is to be investigated and reported on at the next meeting. That meeting was penciled-in for June 19, 2006.
Adjournment was at 7:50, with the building empty by 8 P.M.

Graffiti: Acceptable Behavior? NOT!

2006-05-20T16:47:00.000-07:00

This brand new bridge, Hwy 395 over Clear Acre, is tagged with the foolishness that continues unabated. The county has work crews covering it up when it is reported. Would it not be better to stop it by catching the violators as it is happening?
This illegal behavior remains rampant in this area. It is not acceptable. It is a crime against the community. Please report it when you see it happening. (This is a great new use for cell phones!)
Also:
You can make minor crime reports in Reno on the internet: http://www.cityofreno.com/res/police/crimereporting/ Read this page carefully! Some other RPD phone numbers are to the left.

On The Watch: Walking the Neighborhood

2006-05-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

I am distributing flyers on our meeting (Monday, May 22nd at Wildcreek Golf Course Clubhouse @ 6:30).

After walking the neighborhood, I am thinking that it might be more effective to limit The Watch to a few streets. Perhaps making two or three Watches to cover the whole Melody Lane Park area is more effective than one big one. I am well into my third hundredth flier copy and still have whole areas to cover. I need input on how big an area a Watch might cover effectively. I expect this will be discussed at the meeting. Also...

While walking, I noticed several garage doors open, with nobody around. This is an invitation to theives.
There are homes being sold (and obviously not occupied), observe cars parked at those residences may be suspect. I saw two cars parked at Scottsdale Rd. and Starks Way. I made note of one licence plate: 171 SFD (NV). Anybody know whose black car this was?

As there are only three access street intersections to the entire neighborhood, one wonders if electronic recording of all vehicle comings and goings might be an effective tool. I wonder if some of the "drug money" (the police already have) might be used to build and operate a demonstration program to record licence plates of vehicles in the area. This can be a relatively simple wireless system. It looks like the construction going in at the end of Cityview Terrace will create another access to the area, making a total of four.

I observed joggers on this mid-afternoon of a very warm day. Are they just getting exersize, or looking for criminal opportunity? This is a ticklish area, where rights to privacy may be invaded with posting pictures taken of such activity. It is a difficult call. Without a constant police presence in the area, there is no check on such activity in the neighborhood. We need a regular patrol!

Thanks!

2006-05-17T06:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks, Tim for organizing this.
We look forward to working with you.
-The Needham Family

On The Watch: Our Organizing Meeting

2006-05-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Sue Dorsey of Wildwood Golf Course has granted us use of a meeting room for our initial get-together. It will be, as planned, on Monday, May 22nd at 6:30 P.M. It will last about an hour and a half. The address is 3500 Sullivan Lane (north of McCarran).

I am waiting confirmation from Officer Riglesberger (RPD) on his end. I expect no problems as we have discussed everything but confirmation of the actual location.

I will be making up a flyier this week and handing them out in the neighborhood. I expect to have 350 copies made and delivered by this weekend. Hopefully, we can realize an attendence that will demonstrate the neighborhood's committment to stopping crime. Please join us. RSVP, please, if you can make it.

On The Watch: Moving Right Along

2006-05-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

Officer Fred Riglesberger (RPD) called this morning and outlined the process involved in creation of our Neighborhood Watch.

There will be a meeting called when everybody interested will see a videotape and meet with an officer that patrols our area. Details regarding signs and further proactive steps available will be discussed. A question and answer period will follow. We tenatively penciled in the evening of May 22nd, around 6 or 7 P.M., as a target date. Location will probably be at the Sun Valley Community Center, or possibly at a private home nearer by, if one becomes available. A Watch Commander will be designated. (For now, I have assumed those duties, at least until The Watch is operational.)

Many neighborhoods start a Watch only to have interest wane as time goes by. Key to long term success is maintaining interest and an active core group. My thoughts are that this blog may contribute greatly to maintaining interest. Other Watch groups have monthly or quarterly meetings to exchange information and coordinate efforts. The Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) has funds that have been used to promote and sponsor "block party" Safety Fairs in the past. Follow up on that aspect can be expected shortly. For now, I will investigate and pass on details as they are realized.

On The Watch: Progress!

2006-05-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

Mr. Michael Chaump (see previous post) called this morning. He was very helpful in both answering questions and directing me to the correct office in the Reno Police Department (RPD). He also will be informing me via email of Neighborhood Advisory Council meetings. These are held to update and inform citizens with concerns regarding the Ward and specific neighborhood issues.

Officers Fred Riglesberger and Joe Burfield (RPD Community Affairs 334-2540) are the link between the RPD and the neighbors in this area. Mr. Chaump will be emailing Officer Burfield regarding creation of our Neighborhood Watch. Hopefully, he will be getting back to me in the next few days with specifics and some other organizational help.

I have received several calls since handing out only 15 Fliers. Everyone who has called has expressed concern regarding the safety aspect these criminal acts represent. It is time to get the authorities involved and your neighbors involved. Once it becomes known that the neighborhood is "on the job," and is backed up with swift police presence, this situation will fade into a bad memory.

As is seen necessary, I will continue to inform via email. My apology for any spelling errors.

First Post: Welcome!

2006-05-07T15:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome and Hello!

My thinking is that the situation will be best served within the web log (blog) arena. I will have a direct link to this blog on my home page at http://www.thinkith.com at my earliest possible moment. Meanhile, communication will be by either email or telephone. My telephone situation is that I only have a "land line" at home and no answering machine. Thus, best to contact me by email. As things develop, I may be changing this limited condition to one more felxible.

Previously, I have been posting to another blog service. I feel Blogger is easiest to administrate and most flexible. Posting pictures is fairly simple and will be a great tool in identifcation of suspect persons/vehicles, and building a cronology of events. Note that police will be informed of any suspicious activity which is reported via any communicaton. For now, I will act as administrator to this blog; reviewing comments now and later member posts.

Please join this blog as a member if you live in the nighborhood. There are no set area borders at this time, but my intent is to limit The Watch to a manageable size. Your insight regarding this limit will be appreciated. To join, follow directions given at http://www.blogger.com or you can add a comment to that effect and I will take care of it. My email: