Reno (‘re-ˌno) has, according to the 2000 census, a population of 180,480, it is located on the Truckee River and sports the slogan “The Biggest Little City in the World.”  As any travel guide will explain, tourism has been Reno’s major industry since gambling was legalized in 1931.  Due to the liberal matrimonial laws in Nevada, Reno historically had a reputation for “quickie” marriages and divorces.  Near the Toiyabe National Forest, Lake Tahoe, Pyramid Lake and other recreational areas and state parks, Reno was previously known as Lakes Crossing, but the city name was changed to Reno when the Central Pacific Railroad arrived in 1868 and a town was born. 

It is now 2009.  Image is in the eye of the beholder and that beholder is sometimes someone unfamiliar with the many facets of Reno life, especially its rich arts and cultural activities as embodied most notably by Artown. Although not a Nevada native, I have lived in Reno for almost 20 years.  In that time, I have become very sensitive to image and perception as they pertain to the city I call home.  Perhaps one of the most dramatic mis-depictions of Reno was exemplified in an uncomplimentary comment made online in an MSN article entitled “2007 Undressed!”  Referring to an outfit worn by a popular young actress at the MTV Movie Awards, the author wrote: 

“One day, years from now (ok, a few months from now), when [she] is swinging by her ankles from an unhygienic pole in a Reno, Nev., gentlemen’s club and wondering where it all went horribly, horribly wrong, she should pull out this photo from the MTV Movie Awards.” 

People may forget that the Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate is from Nevada.  Or perhaps people forget that the Reno/Tahoe area is one of the most popular regions in the country for hiking, skiing, kayaking and other outdoor activities.  Most disconcerting, however, is to read something derogatory about Reno, knowing full well that the author is obviously unaware that Reno is a cultural center, with well evolved artistic events.  Like Artown.   

Now in its 14^th year, Artown brings the outer reaches of the imagination to the center of attention in a calendar noted by the National Endowment for the Arts as “one of the most comprehensive festival offerings in the country.”  Each July, and now, throughout the year, Artown joins with distinguished artists for a celebration of cultural diversity and artistic innovation.  The celebration allows audiences and participants to experience the best and latest in visual and performing arts; more than 300 events, showcasing local, national and international talent.  Artown’s mission is to strengthen Reno’s arts industry, enhance Reno’s civic identity and national image and create a climate for the cultural and economic rebirth of the region.  Past performers at Artown have included Mikhail Baryshnikov, Pink Martini, American Ballet Theater, Mandy Patinkin, Wynton Marsalis, Hubbard Street Dance Company, Ailey II Dance Troupe and the Harlem Gospel Choir, to name just a few.  From classic to edgy, Artown and its partners continue to bring the arts to those willing to explore the wonders Reno can offer. 

Artown has helped give Reno a new reputation; that of a town with a vibrant, artistic and cultural community.  So, image is indeed, in the eye of the beholder.  Reno is Artown and I am proud to be a part of it.

Dear Supporters of Artown:

The Governor’s Office has recommended a 50% reduction for the Nevada Arts Council (NAC) budget for each year of the FY10-11 biennium. A cut this deep signals serious consequences to all NAC grants, including those received by Artown and many of the artists and arts organizations who produce for Artown.

This is a call to action. Artown supporters and your friends are asked to attend the first legislative hearing on the NAC budget this Thursday morning, February 5, from 9 – 11 a.m. at the Nevada State Legislature (Room 4100) in Carson City. This will be a joint meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance and the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means. This is a very real threat to our state’s cultural infrastructure and your legislators need to hear from you. Quite simply, we need to pack the room next Thursday with Artown supporters and, indeed, all arts advocates. Your physical presence is vital, whether you speak or not. Should you decide to speak or submit a statement for the record, please bring 30 copies of your written comments or notes to provide to the secretary. These spoken/written comments should be concise (60 -90 seconds or so) and address the value of public investment in the arts, as well as how the Nevada Arts Council staff, programs and staff has benefited Artown and the quality of life in Reno.

Remember the recent student demonstrations on behalf of higher education? Legislators saw and heard their message; it is now time to deliver the same message on behalf of the arts.

We urge you to carpool. You may park in the structure on the west side of Stewart Street, one block east of Carson Street between Musser and Fifth Street. Questions? Call Tim Jones, chair of the NAC Board, at 775-233-2789.

If you are unable to attend we urge you to call these legislators and support the Nevada Arts Council. Here’s a list of Committee members from northern Nevada:

Senate Finance – Bernice Mathews, Reno, co-chair – 775-684-1433

Assembly Ways and Means – Sheila Leslie, Reno, co-chair – 775-684-8845 AND Debbie Smith, Sparks – 775-684-8841