Reno's mayor and other officials have decided to shut down Hot August Nights early on it's last day, canceling the final night of cruising in downtown Reno. Seems that the reason is to curtail possible gang activity. I don't know what information they may have on which to base this decision, but I think it's pretty lame to end a long-standing Reno tradition because some punks "might" show up and cause trouble. The thousands of people who come to town to party and enjoy the whole Hot August Nights scene (many from a long way off, like Canada) deserve the city's thanks, not to be sent packing because we fear "trouble." Reno has lots of street events that the city seems able to regulate, so what's different this time?

Over in Sparks, there is a similar last day cruise, scheduled to continue as usual. Since gangsters can read the paper too, they may just move the rumble over there. "Yo! Reno is closing early, so let's move the mayhem to Sparks."

All this overreacting to perceived threats is really galling. Reno taxpayers are spending jillions on revitalizing downtown so it is an enjoyable place to for fun events and to just hang out enjoying the river, arts district, restaurants, and shops. Now the powers that be want to "protect" us by keeping us away? I say, get the cops out there, take care of lawbreakers in a swift and efficient manner, and let the rest of us enjoy what we are paying for. Cruise on!

Labels: Hot August Nights, Nevada, NV, Reno, Sparks