New committee sought for downtown chimes

Electronic chimes in the state Paul Laxalt Building brought a nostalgic spirit to Carson City during the holiday season, residents agreed.

The recently formed chimes steering committee has now coordinated the schedule of the chimes for the rest of the winter.

In addition to chiming the hour from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, an "old favorite" musical selection will play at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays.

On weekends, Westminster chimes accompany the hourly bell toll from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with music at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

The $11,000 chimes first played during Nevada Day to the tune of "Home Means Nevada." Carson Residents Bill and Dottie Kelley worked for four weeks raising funds to give a voice to the clock in the Laxalt Building.

Clock repairman Bill Hartman and Lee Carter donated their time to install the chimes and continue to do maintenance on the clock and chimes.

The new chimes steering committee, called the Carson City Carillon Committee, will meet quarterly to orchestrate the chime schedule.

Steering committee members are Chairman Nancy Dunn, representing the Nevada Commission on Tourism, Vice Chairman Bill Hartman, chime installer, Secretary Dottie Kelley, Treasurer Dorothy Dolan and Publicity Officer Bill Kelley. Mike Meizel from State Building and Grounds, Kari Jones from the Carson City Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Mainstreet Committee and Robin Williamson of the Carson City Redevelopment Authority.