Start your Labor Day weekend off early today and check out The Best in the West Rib Cook-Off on Victorian Square in Sparks, Nevada.                 This six day event begins today and runs through Monday. There will be 25 vendors cookin' up ribs with "0" vendors giving out their "secret recipe". Today's attraction will be the Best in the West Rib Eating Contest with top competitive eaters, including Joey Chestnut, the defending champion! The cost is FREE and plenty of food and drink are for sale at booths. Craft vendors are also set up and selling crafts and other must have items. The time to go is today through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to check out the live entertainment each night while enjoying your favorite ribs, corn on the cob and fresh squeez... 08/27/2008

What is Burning Man? Living in Nevada, I am often asked about a famous event  called  "Burning Man". When I tell those who ask that I have never been , their response is always the same, "Why Not? You live to close not to go?" I am not sure why I have never had the desire to attend this annual event, but many of my friends and family have. So I have heard the stories, seen the pictures, read articles in newspapers and magazines. I have even helped out with the costume making.   So just what, where,or who, is Burning Man? Every year, tens of thousands of people gather in the Black Rock Desert celebrate life, freedom, happiness, spirituality, art and so on.  The Black Rock Desert is about a 120 miles North of Reno, Nevada. The towns of Empire and Gerlach serve as guardians to this region.... 08/21/2008

Welcome to Sivlerton Shores! This lovely neighborhood is located in Wingfield Springs, a  master planned community in Sparks, Nevada.   Just off I-80, travel north seven miles on Vista Blvd. until you see the Wingfield Springs Windmill, turn left! You have arrived at Wingfield Springs. Wingfield Springs is one of Sparks Nevada's most popular master planned communities. Development of this community began in the late 1990's and today is comprised of nearly 10,000 homes sitting in over 30 different sub-divisions. Here you will also find a neighborhood elementary school, two championship golf courses, a swimming pool and fitness center, a clubhouse with two restaurants, banquet facilities, walking trails, parks and all the other perks you find living in a master planned community. One spec... 08/19/2008

~The High Desert Hooters of Northern Nevada Walk For A Cure~ ~The Breast Cancer 3-Day~ Who are the High Desert Hooters and What is the Breast Cancer 3-Day?     Eight women from Northern Nevada make up team "High Desert Hooters". Rhonda Clark, Brandi Anderson, Michele Bushnell, Chrissy Haugland, Carla Morris, Kari Sanderfer, Tanya Lenon and Virginia Soderquist will participate in this years Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk in San Francisco, California, September 5 -7, 2008. The women in San Diego during the 2007 walk. These women are dedicated to helping eradicate breast cancer as a life threatening disease. They  formed this group (High Desert Hooters), to help fight this disease by raising money and awareness to help find a cure for breast cancer. For some of these women, this will the the fo... 08/17/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors, This continues to be a popular feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings, and incredible deals.  This is a 25 year old condo/townhome in Sparks East.  This 2-story condo/townhome has 1060 sq. feet of living space, with 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage.  There are a lot of community amenities here: clubhouse, swimming pool, recreation room, and tennis courts. Review the property's features, and then follow the link below to photos and more information.  Check it out, you'll be impressed! Check out my real estate home page for more information on this property! Property Location2506 Sunny Slope DriveSparks, Nevada  89434Listing ID: 184  click for directions   DESCRIPTION Condo/Townhome/Coop Pr... 08/10/2008

~Hot August Nights 2008 Is In Full Throttle This Week~ Check it out!~ Start your Hot August Nights week off with a visit to Victorian Avenue and help Northern Nevada celebrate its 22nd anniversary of this signature event! Victorian Avenue in downtown Sparks is the place to be for the annual Craft Fair where you can buy all of your Hot August Nights attire. You will find poodle skirts, classic car t-shirts, hats, jewelry, and much more to get you and your family ready for the largest car show in the world. This event will last until 9:p.m. Watch the cars cruise by and shop as some of the classic cars crank it up on Victorian Avenue. What is Hot August Nights? Hot August Nights is a celebration of America's love affair with  classic cars and rock & roll. It began in Reno, in 1986 when a g... 08/04/2008

Welcome to Springland Village! Springland Village was built in 1982 and continues to be a very popular Condominium Complex here in Sparks, Nevada.  The units remain competitively priced, many are owner occupied, and the convenient location makes Springland Village a great choice if you are looking to purchase a condominium.  What makes Springland Village so special? Location! Location! Location! Springland Village is located in East Sparks, just 2 miles off Interstate 80, minutes from Victorian Avenue (Victorian Avenue if often referred to as downtown Sparks), 20 minutes from downtown Reno, 20 minutes from the University of Nevada, Reno, and is  centrally located between three Washoe County Schools. Located just off Sparks Boulevard, Springland Village is close to public transportation,... 08/01/2008

Wondering what to do for the rest of the month? Here are a couple of suggestions to help fill you summer   with fun and entertainment. Today is Thursday, don't forget about the Sparks Hometowne Farmer's Market. Tonight the recycling program is welcoming donations of used or new clothing from 4 to 9pm on Victorian Square. Remember, there are only two more chances to go to this years market after tonight. Remember to  Park and Ride the Bus to help save time and gas. The bus runs every 15 minutes and picks you up at Reed High School on Baring Blvd in Sparks.   Reno Is Artown  ~ is almost over but there are still plenty of things to see and do. What is Artown? Artown is in its 13th year here in Northern Nevada and is a considered a festival of the arts.   You can enjoy a variety of art, mus... 07/24/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors,          This is an ongoing feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings that have sold!  This was another outstanding deal on a 17 year old traditional home in Suburban Sparks.  At 1,920 square feet with 3-bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, this was a nifty deal.  A single-story home with a 2 car garage and cool yard features, including a swimming pool, this home had plenty to offer.  Of course, the best part of this was the great Rasner-Yacenda price in the "Market that's Not Supposed to be Very Good!"  Check it out, you'll be impressed what this buyer found among my listings!  And remember: I HAVE THE LISTINGS THAT SELL BECAUSE I HAVE GREAT BUYS! Check it out right here! Property Location7200 Pah Rah DriveSpark... 07/23/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors, This continues to be a popular feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings, and incredible deals.  This is a 4 year two story home is in the Sparks East area.  This home has 1,666 sq. feet of living space, with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms.  Situated on a nice residential lot, this home has tons of great modern amenities. Review the property's features, and then follow the link below to photos and more information.  Check it out, you'll be impressed! Check out my real estate home page for more information on this property! Property Location3487 Niblick DriveSparks, Nevada  89431Listing ID: 175  click for directions   DESCRIPTION Single Family Property, Area: Sparks-East, County: Washoe, Approximately 0.03 ... 07/19/2008

A great place to live and family fun year round! The Sparks Marina! Located at 300 Howard Drive, Sparks, Nevada. Included in its 80+ acres is a lake, great for fishing, boating, swimming, scuba diving and sailing, a 2 mile walking trail, a dog park, a fishing pier, 2 beaches, 2 sand volleyball courts, showers, snack bar, 2 playgrounds, and ample benches and picnic tables.  The Sparks Marina RV Park offers hookups, restrooms, showers, a swimming pool and a store. Some say the greatest feature of the Marina is its location. Just 10 minutes from downtown Reno, just off interstate 80 and 4 minutes from downtown Sparks. Others say the best part of the Marina is its 2 mile walking trail. Get there early in the morning and you will notice the beauty of the marina, its quiet and glass like lake... 06/27/2008

Spanish Springs Cal Ripken Baseball The Cal Ripken Major Division Astros are crowned champs! The Astros defeated the Dodgers 11-4 to capture the season ending tournament title. In the double elimination tournament, the Astros were undefeated at 4 -0  outscoring their opponents 64-19. The Astros pitcher, Alec Leighton threw four scoreless innings in the championships game to lead his team to victory. Congratulations to all the boys, and Brandi, our awesome first base girl, and to the coaches who worked so hard to help win this title. I am very proud of my son Alec, who had such a great tournament and season. I am also very proud of my husband Steve for managing this team. I know the kids had a great season. Well done!!       Alec and Steve after winning the championship!                 ... 06/15/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors,          This is a new feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings that have sold!  This was a quaint 16 year old home in Sparks Suburban.  At 1,511 sq. ft., with 3-bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms, this was a cool deal for the buyer.  A traditional home with a three+ car garage and Rv/boat parking it was ideal for a larger family, and with all the extras, the buyers loved it!  The best part of this was the great Rasner-Yacenda price in the "Market that's Not Supposed to be Very Good!"  Check it out, you'll be impressed what this buyer found among my listings!  And remember: I HAVE THE LISTINGS THAT SELL BECAUSE I HAVE GREAT BUYS! Check it out right here! Property Location40 Winterstorm CourtSparks, Nevada  89436... 06/14/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors,      This is a regular feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings that have sold!  This was a single family home that had been turned into a "hobo heaven" over the years.  It came to me basically unlivable and unfixable as a single family home.  However, the land was VERY WELL SITUATED!  So, we sold it as a land only, with a dilapidated 2-story home on the property.  Of course, the best part of this deal was the great Rasner-Yacenda price in the "Market that's Not Supposed to be Very Good!"  Check it out, you'll be impressed what this buyer found among my listings!  And remember: I HAVE THE LISTINGS THAT SELL BECAUSE I HAVE GREAT BUYS! Check it out right here! Property Location2546 D Street 031-293-40Sparks,... 06/06/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors,      This is a new feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings that have sold!  This was a 3 year old home in the popular Spanish Springs South.  At 1,760 sq. ft., with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this place had plenty of great features.  This property was another great property!  The best part of this was the great Rasner-Yacenda price in the "Market that's Not Supposed to be Very Good!"  Check it out, you'll be impressed what this buyer found among my listings!  And remember: I HAVE THE LISTINGS THAT SELL BECAUSE I HAVE GREAT BUYS! Check it out right here! Property Location4025 Antinori DriveSparks, Nevada  89436Listing ID: 141  click for directions   DESCRIPTION     PROPERTY DETAILS •  Single Family Home... 05/30/2008

Liberty Hill Estates, Sparks, Nevada     Welcome to Liberty Hill Estates!   This popular Sparks, Nevada neighborhood was developed in the early 2000,s by Centex Homes. Liberty Hill Estates is a small community of homes located high above East Sparks, Nevada.         This is a picture taken from the deck of one of the homes in Liberty Hill Estates. This is a picture of the Sparks Marina Park.           What makes Liberty Hill Estates so popular? The majority of homes overlook the breathtaking beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.                        The close proximity to schools and parks. The convenience of close shopping and dining. The quick, easy access to Interstate 80 and the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. The design of the homes themselves.   Housing:       Liberty Hill Es... 05/19/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors, This continues to be a popular feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings, and incredible deals.  This is 36 year-old Condo/townhome in Sparks.  The unit is 1,107 sq. foot, with two bedrooms and 1 1/2 baths.  There's a swimming pool, community recreation activities and great landscaping to round out this great deal.  Review the property's features, and then follow the link below to photos and more information.  Check it out, you'll be impressed! Check out my real estate home page for more information on this property! Property Location2150 Oppio StreetSparks, Nevada  89431Listing ID: 164  click for directions   DESCRIPTION Condo/Townhome/Coop Property, Area: Sparks, County: Washoe, Approximately 0.01 acre(s)... 05/12/2008

Hi Northern Nevada Neighbors, This continues to be a popular feature of my Active Rain Localism blog -- a place for local folks to read about my listings, and incredible deals.  This is 17 year-old property in Sparks Suburban.  The single-story 1,920 sq. foot home has a great bedroom and bathroom arrangement with a special guest bedroom, and game room.  This home also has a swimming pool and many more extras!  Review the lot's features, and then follow the link below to photos and more information.  Check it out, you'll be impressed! Check out my real estate home page for more information on this property! Property Location7200 Pah Rah DriveSparks, Nevada  89436Listing ID: 151  click for directions   DESCRIPTION Single Family Property, Area: Sparks-Suburban, County: Washoe, Approximatel... 05/10/2008

Arts in Bloom   Sparks, Nevada. If you are looking for something to do this Mother's Day don't miss out on the sixth annual Arts in Bloom festival at the Sparks Marina Park. The event benefits the Northern Nevada Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. You can enjoy artwork, food, and entertainment. You will also be able to participate in a special celebrity painted plate auction featuring well-known figures. All proceeds will go to the Komen fo rthe Cure Foundation of Northern Nevada. This event is free and open to the public. The Sparks Marina Park is located at 300 Howard Drive. Art sales, food vendors and music begin at 10:00AM.   MOMS ON THE RUN Another big local event happening this Mother's Day, May 11, 2008 is the eighth annual MOMS ON THE RUN  event sponsered by Pinocchio... 05/05/2008

Spanish Springs Cal Ripken Baseball Cal Ripken Baseball in Spanish Springs in fast approaching the end of another great season. We are in our fifth week of play. I say we because my son, Alec, plays for the Astro major team. This year, nearly 600 children signed up to play ball. Boys and girls from ages 4 to 13 can play in this league. This season there are 14 T-Ball teams, 12 rookie teams, 11 minor teams and 7 major teams. Currently, the City of Sparks and the league are building new fields for the kids to play on. According to the league president, Jeff Mckusker, the fields should be finished in July 2008. They will be located on Eagle Canyon Parkway. A great location in Spanish Springs. The kids and thier parents won't have to travel far to play and have a great time.If you would lik... 05/01/2008