Good morning, Sparks.

RGJ readers narrowed local grocery options to Costco vs. WinCo in a bracket-style vote that runs until Tuesday, Feb.

17 (11:59 p.m.). Voters can cast their ballot to choose Northern Nevada's favorite store.

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, Firehouse Subs Safety Foundation presented Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue with a $39,000 check to replace old equipment such as structural firefighting boots.

Trader Joe’s is restocking large canvas tote bags in Reno-Sparks after a surge in demand sold out available supplies.

One store expects shipments by Feb. 14 and others report restocks soon.

City officials are calling on local artists to submit work for display — their pieces will be featured in the city hall gallery space, inviting community talent to shine.

Students from Debbie Smith CTE Academy sold Valentine’s Day bouquets yesterday to raise money for their school & mark their seventh annual fundraiser.

The event on Feb. 11 supported efforts to boost educational programs.

Students planning to attend Western Nevada College this fall 2026, spring 2027, or summer 2027 can now apply for financial aid with a streamlined FAFSA process that takes about 30 minutes to complete; officials say help is available by calling the Financial Aid Office (775-445-3264) if needed.

Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue reported 134 wildland fire calls and 286 acres burned in 2025 plus a major drop from over 7,000 acres in 2024.

Officials urge Sparks residents to begin mitigation before summer as dry conditions may increase wildfire risk.

Truckee Meadows Water Authority presented its water resource plan on Feb.

11, stating that the community will have enough water for the next 20 years (ensuring long-term supply).

Washoe County Sheriff's Mounted Horse Unit received essential equipment and care from a donation by Lithia Hyundai of Reno, benefiting horses Max + Goliath and their deputies.

The donation supports the unit's outreach, crowd management, and search operations.

The Washoe Tribe made the largest land return purchase in the Sierra Nevada region on Feb.

11, marking the third largest in California. The acquisition is expected to shape the tribe’s future plans — a step toward reclaiming ancestral lands.

Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue received a $39,120 grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation + they will replace aging structural boots for firefighters in unincorporated Washoe County to improve emergency response.