Good morning, Sparks.

A community fundraiser was launched to help Riley Frazier, a 25-year-old BLM assistant captain injured with burns while fighting the Conner Fire on June 20; his wife Risa and a teammate set up a GoFundMe to ease financial strains during his recovery + the effort supports his return after missing the rest of the fire season.

Teens and young adults aged 16 to 21 can now register for the Youth Automotive Challenge, a team competition that will award over $10,000 in scholarships and prizes at Hot August Nights in Reno-Sparks on Aug.

9. Teams of up to four members may work on any car project while judges will assess design and creativity — registration is free until July 1.

The Reno Rodeo Legacy Committee under the Nevada Western Heritage Center Alliance said the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center will begin a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2026 to replace grandstands 3, 4, and 5 with about 2,100 extra seats (33 new boxes and 20 luxury boxes) along with upgraded restrooms, concessions, elevators, and storage. Future phases will expand the facility with an exhibit hall, completed grandstands, and a second indoor arena as funding is pursued from public and private sources.

A Bankrate study shows that Nevada homeowners spend an average of $19,115 per year—about $4,300 less than the western average and lower than costs in California, Washington and Colorado.

Although home prices in Reno and Las Vegas have risen, Nevada may still offer a more affordable path to homeownership.

The Sparks Fire Department—battling severe budget cuts and a 9% workforce reduction—will increase brownouts at Fire Station #2 near McCarran and Baring boulevards, and it will keep crews in town instead of sending them out-of-state for wildland fire assignments.

The department experienced a 24-hour brownout on June 26 that left 12 emergency calls to be handled by other stations.

Earlier this week, the Sparks City Council unanimously approved new ordinance language banning overnight camping within 1,000 feet of Sparks Marina, Victorian Square, all city parks and city-owned parking structures—this rule will take effect Monday and violators will receive a warning before facing citations or arrest. Over the past six months, Sparks Police handled more than 800 calls from individuals experiencing homelessness, and officials say the change will better connect them with local shelters and services.

Open House

7:30-9:30 p.m. — 957 Ruddy Ct, Sparks — Free entry — Explore a charming Sparks gem full of warmth and opportunity.

Playa Art Preview Fundraiser

6-10 p.m. — The Generator Community Maker Space — $60 admission — Experience captivating art projects and engaging artist talks before they venture to the desert.