Good morning, Reno.

The Salvation Army is facing a red kettle bell ringer shortage in Nevada — a problem that may affect donation drives in local branches across the state, including in Reno.

Catholic Charities in Reno is distributing Holiday Spirit Baskets on a first come, first serve basis to assist families this holiday season, with baskets available at local centers (no registration required).

WCSD has eliminated the staggered start for kindergartners (they used to begin a week after other students) in accordance with a new Nevada Department of Education rule.

Reno, Sparks, and Gerlach students will start on Aug. 10 while those in Incline Village begin on Aug. 17, and parents are urged to register online.

UNR is investing $7 million to upgrade Manzanita Lake and its adjacent bowl by adding accessible walking paths, benches, a patio, and a student event plaza — a nod to the historic landmark dedicated in 1911.

The project will finish fall 2026 and plans to reintroduce swans.

The Nevada Department of Agriculture now accepts applications for its state meat and poultry inspection program that lets local facilities process and sell meat under safety guidelines.

Virtual office hours are scheduled on Wed, Jan. 7, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. PST + interested applicants should submit all required documentation promptly.

The Reno Fire Department is urging residents (and business owners) to join Community Connect to share essential detail for emergency response; the free tool uses bank-level encryption to protect personal data.

Reno-Tahoe International Airport advises travelers of a few upcoming peak travel days that could lead to longer wait times and heavier traffic.

Officials recommend planning ahead and checking for updates.

On Thursday, Governor Lombardo announced Nevada increased safety measures to protect the Jewish community by boosting police presence around synagogues, community centers, and schools in response to recent global antisemitic attacks.

Nutcracker Ballet

1-2:30 p.m. — Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts — $33 to $72 — Experience the beloved holiday classic brought to life by A.V.A. Ballet Theatre and the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra.

Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to The Beatles

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Celebrity Showroom — Ticketed event — Experience The Beatles' iconic music illuminated by candlelight in a stunning atmosphere.

Rattlesnake Mountain Challenge

5 PM – 5 AM — Huffaker Hills Trailhead — $40 for 5k, $35 for Virtual 5k — Tackle the trails of Rattlesnake Mountain for a great cause and enjoy a fun-filled race experience.

Santa's Top Talent Showcase

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Grand Theater — Free entry — Enjoy a festive talent showdown featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a panel of whimsical judges.

Dave & Buster's Early New Year's Eve Celebration

9 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Reno — $15 for General Admission — Celebrate 2026 with dinner, games, and a midnight champagne toast.

Candlelight: 90s Hip-Hop on Strings

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Celebrity Showroom — Tickets required — Experience the magic of 90s Hip-Hop reimagined through strings in a stunning candlelit setting.

Anniversary Party with New Wave Crave

7-10 p.m. — Reno Public Market — Free admission — Celebrate three years of Reno Public Market with an energetic show from New Wave Crave.

Construction CPM Conference 2026

Jan 18-21 — Grand Sierra Resort and Casino — Cost varies — Attend sessions focused on CPM, project management theory, and software demonstrations by leading industry professionals.