Good morning, Sparks.

Cosmos in the Desert, the second annual festival, will be held at Lahontan State Recreation Area on Friday and Saturday, Aug.

14-15 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Families can join telescope-assisted stargazing, constellation talks and interactive art (including a Dutch oven demo); admission is free aside from park fees.

The regional career fair is set for Aug.

24 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Job seekers can meet nearly 100 employers, explore over 3,000 openings, and get guidance from EmployNV.

Panera Bread hosted a backpack drive on Aug.

6 to give kids free school supplies for the new school year (helping local families get ready for classes). The event supported students with essential items.

Washoe County School District opened the new Vaughn Middle School today, replacing the 70-year-old building and providing updated facilities for students + teachers.

Natchez Elementary on the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation has improved student attendance and test scores by using new teaching methods that focus on reading, math + meeting emotional needs.

The school now offers daily Paiute language lessons that connect students with their heritage.

Northern Nevada Public Health reported a second cyclosporiasis case in Washoe County in 2026 — a woman in her 70s likely contracted the illness while traveling.

Officials continue to advise those with symptoms to seek medical care.

Northern Nevada Public Health reported Washoe County’s second case of cyclosporiasis—a woman in her 70s likely contracted the illness while traveling.

Health officials noted both cases this year are travel-related and advise residents to seek medical care if symptoms develop.

Home Is Possible Nevada explains down payment assistance programs for first-time homebuyers, outlining eligibility, income limits, and specialized options for local buyers.

The comprehensive guide helps Sparks residents plan ahead + secure their new home.

Shinedown & Coheed and Cambria Concert

8-11 p.m. — Nugget Casino Resort — Tickets may sell out fast — Experience the powerhouse live performance of Shinedown with their signature arena-sized hooks.