Lifestyle | David Morris Group

Veteran Programs in Reno

Reno has been home to an eclectic and close-knit community for many years, and we’re proud to have so many connections to the military. With so many veterans in the area, the city has some great programs to keep our service members connected. The veteran programs in Reno include:

Fit But Not Forgotten

The City of Reno hosts weekly community-based fitness classes in the facility weight room. This program covers equipment, fitness level assessment, strength development techniques, fitness goal discussion, endurance and flexibility. Upon completion of four classes, participants will be eligible for a free all-inclusive one-year facility membership. For more information on the Fit But Not Forgotten program, click here.

Military Sports Camp

The City of Reno will host 15 disabled veterans and injured service members with their spouse/
guest for a multi-day event taking place from September 14-18. There is no cost to military servicemen or women and their guest. Registration preferences will be given to Nevada Service Members and residents. For more information on Military Sports Camp, click here.

Military to the Mountains

22 injured veterans are trained for nine weeks at the Evelyn Mount Northeast Community Center and Double Diamond Athletic Club, preparing them for a week of skiing at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows in California each year. The veterans are instructed by Achieve Tahoe adaptive ski program. For more information about the previous year’s program, click here.

Project HERO City of Reno

This national nonprofit organization is dedicated to helping veterans and first responders affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Project HERO (Healing Exercise Rehabilitation Opportunity) provides training and supports cycling programs at military hospitals, Army Transition Units, Marine Wounded Warrior Units and Veterans Affairs locations to help healing heroes. For more information on Project HERO’s impact, click here.

These veteran programs are in addition to the generous number of athletic, social, and recreational programs and activities offered by the City of Reno. For more information on what we love about calling Reno home, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Kayaking in Northern Nevada

There’s nothing better than spending the summer months out on the water. Reno’s location makes water sports easy as there’s no shortage of places to go to hit the water in Northern Nevada. Check out some of the best places to go kayaking in the area.

Kayaking Destinations:

Truckee River Whitewater Park – Located in downtown Reno, this whitewater park has 11 drop pools and tons of features that draw in experienced kayakers every year. It’s even the destination for the Reno River Festival.
Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park – Sand Harbor has secluded beaches and eye-catching rock formations that give you some really amazing views while kayaking. They also offer some great places to rest if you get tired or are in need of a picnicking spot.
Zephyr Cove – As a popular Tahoe beach spot, Zephyr is a great place to go kayaking if you also plan to meet up with friends and family for a sunny beach day.
Kings Beach – With various launch areas, Kings Beach is a pretty easy trek to make with all of your gear. It’s also a great place to go if you’re new to kayaking or only have a limited time to be on the water.
D.L Bliss State Park – This is where you’ll get to experience the bright blue and turquoise water that is so often pictured in Lake Tahoe. The water is also pretty calm, so it’s an easy place to paddle along, but it gives you access to choppier water if you’re an experienced kayaker looking to paddle out to the south shore and check out Emerald Bay.

If you’d like to experience even more of Lake Tahoe this summer, be sure to check out the Lake Tahoe Water Trail. There are over 72 miles to explore and so many fun experiences to be had. Remember to be safe on the water, and always check the Lake Tahoe marine forecast, so you know what the conditions are like before hitting the water.

There’s a lot to do to keep your calendars full this spring and summer. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or just want something fun to do out on the water, kayaking is a great option. For more information on what Northern Nevada has to offer, recommendations on places to check out, or inside knowledge of the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Relocation Guide: Annual Events Happening in Reno, Sparks, and Tahoe

April 12, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events, Reno Events and Activities, Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

The Reno area has always been a hot spot for tourists. With tons of activities, beautiful weather, and a close proximity to Tahoe, it’s no wonder people looking for a fun vacation head to Northern Nevada. In fact, the annual events happening in Reno, Sparks, and Tahoe draw in people from all over the world. Some of the most notable events include:

January

New Year’s Fireworks, Dining, and Celebrations

February

Superbowl Viewings and Parties
Valentine’s Day Dining and Celebrations

March

Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry
Leprechaun Race
St. Patrick’s Day Dining and Celebrations

April

May

Northern Nevada Celtic Celebration
Mother’s Day Brunch and Activities
Moms on the Run
Spring Fever Revival
Chili on the Comstock and Craft Brew Tour
Memorial Day Celebration of Heroes Cruise
Summer Graduation Ceremonies

June

July

4th of July Parades, Fireworks, and Celebrations
Artown
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival

August

September

October

November

Veteran’s Day Cruise Parade

December

Lighted Christmas Parade
Santa Pub Crawl
39 North Pole Village Holiday Lights Festival
Hidden Valley Parade of Lights
Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Winter Graduation Ceremonies

There’s always something happening in the Reno area, and these annual events draw in local residents as well as tourists from other cities. Be prepared for a little extra traffic and some street closures during popular events like Street Vibrations and Hot August Nights. It’s good to know what to expect when moving to a mid-sized city with attractions that draw visitors in year-round.

If you have questions about living in a tourist city or you want to know more about what to expect when relocating to the Reno-Sparks area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Spring Landscaping – What Grows Well in the Reno Area

April 2, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

If you’re hoping to add some color or personality to your landscaping, choose plants that grow well in the Reno area. The climate, soil, and water can pose problems for plant life in the area, with temperature extremes, low humidity, clay-heavy soils, and lots of wind inhibiting plant growth. Your spring landscaping can include the trees, shrubs, perennials, and vines from the list below that have proven to grow well in Nevada.

Trees:

Apple
Apricot
Arizona Cypress
Ash
Asian pear
Atlas Cedar
Austrian Pine
Bosnian Pine
Bristlecone Pine
Crabapple Blue
Cherries
Gingko
Golden Rain
Hawthorne
Honeylocust
Incense Cedar
Jeffrey Pine
Limber Pine
Maple
Nectarine
Oak
Peach
Pear
Persian Ironwood
Plum
Ponderosa Pine
Redbud
Serviceberry
Scotch Pine
Swiss Stone Pine
Wichita Blue Juniper
White Fir
Zelkova

Shrubs:

Amur Maple
Barberry
Buffaloberry
Butterfly Bush
Caryopteris
Chokeberry
Cistena Plum
Cotoneaster
Diervilla
Juniper
Kinnikinnick
Lilac
Mock Orange
Mugo Pine
Ninebark
Potentilla
Quince
Rose of Sharon
Rose
Serviceberry
Siberian Peashrub
Smokebush
Snowberry
Spiraea
Sumac
Yucca

Perennials:

Agastache
Baptisia
Bee Balm
Blanket Flower
California Fuchsia
Catmint
Centranthus
Coneflower
Coreopsis
Daylily
Dianthus
Fern Bush
Flax
Ice Plant
Iris
Lavender
Lupine
Mexican Primrose
Penstemon
Peony
Red Hot Poker
Red Valerian
Red Yucca
Russian Sage
Salvia
Sedum
Sneezeweed
Snow in Summer
Spirea
Thyme
Veronica
Yarrow

Vines:

Honeysuckle
Silver Lace
Trumpet Vine
Wisteria

Be sure to research the best times to plant, where your plants will thrive in your yard, and what type of soil you have. You can always talk to the local experts at the Moana Nursery for advice on the plants that will work best in your yard.

Plants have the added benefit of adding extra curb appeal to your home. If you’re curious about Reno landscaping, how to improve your home, or the Northern Nevada real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Slice, Slice, Baby: Where to Enjoy Good Pizza in Reno

March 18, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

Alright, stop, collaborate and listen; we’re here to tell you about the local pizza spots that’ll be your new addiction! Now that we’ve brought you back to the 90s and made you a little nostalgic, let’s take a look at where to enjoy good pizza in Reno.

Noble Pie Parlor

With three locations, one in Downtown, another in Midtown, and the last at the Summit, it’s likely that you’ve passed Noble Pie several times. If you haven’t found the time to stop in, put it on your list! They use local ingredients and make it all in-house, including their ranch dressing.

Pizzava

Have you ever found yourself reaching for the phone to order pizza at 10 AM? The breakfast pizza at Pizzava proves that pizza can be breakfast food, and a delicious one! The menu is massive, and after your first order, you’ll be back to try everything on the menu.

JJ.’s Pie Company

As a staple of the community since 1983, it wouldn’t be a list of great pizza spots without mentioning J.J.’s. The pizza is outstanding and so are their subs. The J.J.’s Special and The Baja are favorites on the menu.

Smiling with Hope Pizza

If you’re looking for New York-style pizza with a good cause, check out Smiling with Hope. They hire workers with disabilities to help them earn money and gather life skills. They were the #1 rated pizzeria in the USA on Yelp, and they will officially be reopening on April 13, so be sure to check them out.

The Pizza Collective

Do you call yourself THE pizza lover in the family? If yes, you’ll find yourself amongst like-minded people at the Pizza Collective. Their handmade sourdough crust takes their recipes to the next level, and their unique flavor combinations are something that you can only get here.

Other Noteworthy Pizza Places to Try:

If you’re in need of more tips, like dip your pizza crust in honey (thank us later), or you’re in need of some insight into the current fast-moving real estate market, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.

Can You Name the Celebrities with Ties to Reno and Northern Nevada?

March 8, 2021/in Lifestyle /by Shauna Morris

The spring season often marks when celebrities are nominated for awards and when some of the most viewed award shows are broadcasted around the world. Before you tune in to root for your favorite artists, actors, and performances, we’re wondering, can you name the celebrities with ties to Reno and Northern Nevada?

Adam Cates – Cates is a director, choreographer, playwright, and best-selling author who has worked on Tony-winning shows on Broadway.
Ben Erway – Erway was a popular actor in the 40s and 50s with roles on The Twilight Zone and The Bishop’s Wife.
Bryce Johnson – The acting reel of Johnson features many guest appearances in a variety of popular T.V. series, but he is most known for his role in Popular.
Chase Ellison – This actor got his start in acting at a young age by appearing on Malcolm in the Middle and 7th Heaven. He also went on to star in Mysterious Skin, Tooth Fairy, and The Boy Who Cried Werewolf.
Curtis Hanson – After getting some small films under his belt, Hanson then went on to direct well-known films like The River Wild, L.A. Confidential, and 8 Mile.
Dawn Wells – Wells is known for playing the beloved character of Mary Ann on Gilligan’s Island.
Gabriel Damon – From being the voice of Littlefoot in The Land Before Time to rolls on Star Trek: The Next Generation and ER, Damon has a great history in the industry.
Jaylen Barron – Barron began her acting career with guest spots on popular Disney shows like Shake It Up and Good Luck Charlie. She also appeared in a few episodes of Shameless before landing her big role in Free Reign.
Jena Malone – Born in Sparks, Malone has had a successful acting career. Some of her most well-known works include Stepmom and The Hunger Games series.
Kristoffer Polaha – This actor and producer was born in Reno and is known for Jurassic World: Dominion, Wonder Woman 1984, and Where Hope Grows.
Mädchen Amick – Amick is known for her roles in Twin Peaks and Riverdale.
Ron Thomas – Thomas is known for his acting in Cobra Kai and The Karate Kid.

Actors, artists, athletes — there’s no shortage of talented people with ties to Reno and Northern Nevada. This list barely scratches the surface of the celebrities who have a connection with the Biggest Little City. If you have more fun facts about Reno, or you want to chat about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.

How to Spend Your Time At Home in Reno and Sparks

March 4, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

As a full year passes since our day-to-day lives were completely flipped upside down, it’s important to find new ways to spend the extra time at home. Whether you’re bored or looking for resources to keep you and your loved ones occupied, check out how to spend your time at home in Reno and Sparks.

Hands ON! at Home – The Nevada Museum of Art is inviting everyone to get crafty using basic art supplies and materials found around the house. It’s a great way to look at the world and objects around you in a new light.
Virtual Guided Hikes – Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation offers a virtual hiking experience through some of the most popular parks and trails in the area. They also have park guides to give you some great information on each of the hiking areas.
Digital Library Services – The Washoe County Library offers library cardholders with ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, research, language learning, software tutorials, reading suggestions, and more. You’re sure to find something that you love from the digital library.
Virtual Rec Center – The City of Reno has put together a list of helpful resources on all of the ways you can stay productive at home. The virtual rec center includes everything from Tai Chi and fitness classes to songwriting classes and quilting tips for beginners. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s something that will pique your interest.
Learn with Smithsonian – The Smithsonian is offering a variety of activities and games, as well as opportunities to meet the residents of the zoo, explore Smithsonian Augmented Reality on Instagram, join the Smithsonian Learning Lab, and explore some of the Smithsonian’s most treasured objects.
Walt Disney Imagineering – Take a virtual tour of Walt Disney Imagineering, and then be sure to check out Imagineering in a Box – a one-of-a-kind online learning experience from Disney Imagineers!

Your spring can include checking out what’s blooming around town and enjoying some outdoor dining, but there are also some great ways to spend your time indoors. This list is just the jumping-off point for how to spend your time at home in Reno and Sparks. If you have other ideas on how to make the most of your time indoors or you want to chat about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.

Home Organizing Tips

February 12, 2021/in Lifestyle /by Shauna Morris

Soon your social media will be filled with spring cleaning reminders, and it’ll be back to the tidying craze that swept the world after Marie Kondo’s Netflix show was released. We’ve gathered some of our favorite home organizing tips to help you clean away any clutter or mess that you’ve been avoiding.

Drawer Organizers – Messy drawers can have a negative impact on your productivity and can easily accumulate junk you no longer need. Spend some time going through your drawers and invest in some organizers or dividers that will help you keep things separated, and always put things back in the drawer they belong.
Practice the One In, One Out Rule – In order to keep your home from accumulating things you don’t need, use, or wear, make a rule that if you purchase something, it has to replace something else you own. If your kids want to buy a new toy, they have to donate a toy that they no longer play with.
Use Every Inch of Your Cabinets – Your cabinet doors have storage potential. Add small bins to bathroom cabinet doors, and they can be used to store makeup, hair accessories, styling tools, etc. It helps keep everything organized and off of your bathroom counter. You can even do the same thing in your kitchen and use the doors to store spices.
Maximize Fridge and Freezer Space – Boxes can be clunky and take up precious space in your fridge and freezer. Invest in some bins that allow you to store food, stay organized, and help you keep inventory of what your family has and what they need from the grocery store.
Add Floating Shelves to Your Bathroom – The bathroom has limited space, tons of necessities to store, and can cause frustration for many. If you have room, add skinny floating shelves to one side of your bathroom wall that doesn’t take up too much space, but allows you to store things like towels, toilet paper, etc. If you don’t have room for a wall of skinny shelves, install small floating shelves near the bathroom mirror. Those shelves can store your makeup brushes, face washes, lotions, etc. The more you can keep off your bathroom counter, the more organized you’ll feel!
Hang a Towel Bar Near Your Sink or Stove – Towel bars can be the perfect storage solution for the kitchen. With hanging organizers that can be hooked onto the bar and store your most-used spices, as well as S hooks that can be used to hang cooking utensils, measuring cups, or mugs, it’ll keep everything you need at your fingertips.

There are tons of ways to organize your home and utilize every inch of your space. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the clutter in your home, try tackling one area at a time and ask yourself if your current storage techniques are functional or if they could be improved upon.

If you find yourself in need of a home with more square footage or a layout that better fits your home and lifestyle, contact the David Morris Group. We’re here to make sure you have a house you’re happy to come home to. Whether you’re in need of buying or selling advice, we’re always available at (775) 828-3292.

13 of the Best Local Businesses in Reno

February 9, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

In honor of the Reno Loves Local movement and the call to write love letters about your favorite small businesses, we’re sharing some of the best local businesses in Reno that share a special place in our hearts.

TID Systems – They handle IT and security systems and were wonderful to work with. We recently had a client that needed help isolating and solving a problem, and their professionalism and attention to detail surpassed our expectations. A huge thank you to TID Systems.
Lá Mint – With classic Vietnamese dishes, Lá Mint is bringing flavorful food to Reno. The menu has everything from pho to seafood to vegetarian options.
India Kabab & Curry – Try the traditional and contemporary vegan and non-vegan dishes from both North and South India.
Nom Eats – All of the foods you love and grew up eating have been veganized at Nom Eats. Vegan street food may be your new weekly craving.
Office Boss – They are the local go-to resource for packing, shipping, printing, and business service needs. Their customer service is amazing, and they have the absolute best gifts.
Salty-Savory-Sweet: The Spice & Tea Shoppe – If you’re looking for the finest, highest quality ingredients available from all corners of the globe, look no further!
Big Horn Olive Oil Company – These specialty oils and vinegars will have you itching to cook up something delicious at home. They will take your favorite recipes up a notch or five.
Dorinda’s Chocolates – Indulge in award-winning chocolates that are all-natural and hand-made. They even have rolled ice cream for you to enjoy!
Micano Home and Garden – If you’re in need of some unique home decor that is locally sourced, made in-house, or a regional furniture piece, Micano is where you need to go. They even do custom orders, so if you don’t see what you’re looking for, be sure to ask if they can make it for you.
Perenn Bakery – If you haven’t had the cinnamon rolls at Perenn Bakery, you haven’t lived. They even offer bake-at-home croissants and croissant cinnamon rolls!
The Niche – This boutique offers exclusive clothing, one-of-a-kind home accessories, and cutting edge gifts. Be sure to keep checking out their new inventory.
The Nest – It may be a small vintage store, but my oh my, the heart of the owner and the vision for the business is mighty! You’re sure to find some great forgotten treasures here.
The Basement – The Basement showcases what Reno is all about — a collaboration between entrepreneurs, bringing creative retail and food options to residents. The vendors include Beautiful Bearded Man, Escape, Global Coffee, Micah Blank Jewelry, NØRDIK, and Seven Troughs Distilling Company.

Remember to do what you can to support small businesses, whether that’s buying from them, recommending them to friends and family, or sharing a review. If you have any local businesses you’re fond of, be sure to tell us about them, and if you ever have questions about buying or selling a home, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.

How to Spend Your Valentine’s Day in Reno

February 5, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with your family, friends, or significant other, there are tons of ways to make it a special occasion. We’ve consulted Cupid to come up with a list of how to spend your Valentine’s Day in Reno.

Valentine’s Day with Family

Valentine’s Day Creativity Kits – Arts for All released creativity kits that feature three projects for kids to do. They can be used as Valentine’s Day gifts or something that they simply keep for themselves. All art supplies are included in the kit, and they will even have access to videos that help walk your child through the activity.

Valentine’s Day with Significant Other

Valentine’s Day Dining at The Atlantis – Atlantis’ Valentine’s Steak and Seafood Spectacular includes prime rib, bone-in ham with brandy apricot glaze, a salad station, and a Mongolian BBQ grill and pho noodles where guests choose their own ingredients.

Wild River Grille Valentine’s Day Dinner – Wild River Grille is offering a dine-in 5-course prix fixe menu and a takeout 3-course prix fixe menu Valentine’s Day Dinner. Each dinner comes with a complimentary red rose and a glass of champagne.

Valentine’s Day Dining at The Row – The Roxy and La Strada are both offering special dine-in Valentine’s Day dinner menus. The Roxy is offering a choice between sea bass and beef wellington for the entree, as well as a few starters and desserts. La Strada’s Valentine’s Day menu features a baby spinach salad, artichoke ravioli, veal tenderloin “Oscar,” and black truffle chocolate gelato.

Valentine’s Day with Friends

Galentine’s Day Jewelry Making Party – In this virtual workshop, you’ll design your own jewelry using a variety of beads and charms. Each participant can make two necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.

Take a Virtual Mixology Class – Make the most of your Valentine’s Day with friends by taking a virtual mixology class to learn how to create your very own delicious cocktails.

Take a Yoga Class – Take a little time for yourself and spend the day relaxing with friends. There are a variety of yoga classes available on Valentine’s Day. The Studio, Yoga Pod, and The Temple are all great places to check out.

There are some great ways to make Valentine’s Day in Reno special. Have a great holiday, and make sure you let your loved ones know how important they are to you. Be sure to share how you spent your Valentine’s Day weekend with us on social media by tagging @davidmorrisgroup, and if you have questions about the real estate market, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.