Good morning, Sparks.

Attorney General Aaron Ford charged Uprise Fiber owner Stephen Kromer with 31 felony theft counts related to a failed fiber optics project meant to bring high-speed internet to Lovelock and Pershing County that lost over $7 million while Kromer is held in Washoe County Jail with $8 million bail — federal agents and NDOT are already investigating as USDA cancels its $27 million funding, leaving the communities without service.

The University of Nevada, Reno held the College of Business commencement ceremony on May 16th—graduates marked the milestone with their achievements.

Today, the City of Sparks partners with Moana Nursery to offer 300 free Moana Grown trees to residents through the TreeMendous Sparks program.

Residents may enter the giveaway from May 15 through June 5 and winners will receive an email with a code to pick up their tree at 3397 Pyramid Way during the scheduled pickup windows—starting June 15.

The Washoe County Human Services Agency reopened the Washoe County Senior Center on May 16 with many visual upgrades and new health services for seniors.

The center now offers improved spaces—better lighting and easier access—for those who visit.

Northern Nevada Public Health confirmed a case of hantavirus in a Washoe County woman in her nineties who was hospitalized after testing positive, and officials suspect she was exposed to rodent droppings during home carpentry work.

Health experts say hantavirus is carried by deer mice and advise residents to use a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) and wear protective gear when cleaning areas that may be contaminated.

Northern Nevada Public Health reported Washoe County recorded its first hantavirus death since 2023+ on May 16.

Fishin’ in the Dark Painting Party

1-4 p.m. — Engine 8 Urban Winery — $39.00 — Enjoy a creative afternoon of painting in a lively winery atmosphere.