Signs of a healthier downtown emerging

"If there's a lesson in streetwatching it is that people do like basics - and as environments go, a street that is open to the sky and filled with people and life is a splendid place to be," observes the great advocate for American cities, William H. Whyte.

During the last two years, it's been a real effort in planting the basic seeds of cleanup, beauty and activity for downtown Carson City. As downtown continues to blossom into a "splendid place to be," Whyte's observations seem to be affirmed.

The growth is spreading. Tonight marks the debut of the Brewery Arts Center's first of a new series called Third Thursdays. On their West King Street campus, BAC's courtyard, Artisan's Cafe, Black Box Theater, Grand Ballroom, Gallery and studios will teem with things to do; plus regularly scheduled Thursday classes and exhibitions will be active throughout the facility and open for observation.

Art, food and beverages will be available for purchase and the monthly gathering is open to everyone.

At this week's Fridays @ 3rd, The Jackals will rock Third Street and take us two-thirds of the way through what's been a very successful and lively series.

Not only have the events been successful, but they've also been safe.

"We have not had a single significant public safety incident connected to these events," said Sheriff Kenny Furlong. "Great planning and detailed execution is the basic key to success for lots of things and these downtown Curry Street activities are well done. They are helping to set a new standard for successful events in Carson City."

With just three more Fridays @ 3rd, it's nice to know part two of the summer concerts start to crank up. Two extra special events include Adele's "Concert Under the Stars" featuring the Rowan Brothers and David Gans on Sept. 3.

The gig is crafted in partnership with several north town/downtown businesses raising seed money for an amazing greenhouse project - connected to the Flower Power basket program - that will take root in Carson City sometime in the coming year. For more information visit www.carsoncity

culturalcommission.org.

On Sept. 12, "Rockin' the Square" at Telegraph Square returns with Mumbo Gumbo taking stage.

One last thing, sweet and worth sharing: Two downtown flower basket sponsors are godparents.

"Two are home to robin mommas waiting on four eggs each," says Ralph Marrone, the lead "Flower Power" basket waterer.

I wanted to know exactly what specific baskets were providing the happy homes, but Ralph declined to say in the interest of privacy for the families.

See you tonight at the Brewery or this weekend on Curry Street.

• Tammy Westergard is deputy manager of the Carson City Office of Business Development. Send questions or feedback to twestergard@ci.carson-city.nv.us.