Haley Scott Mr. S
Eng. 101-1020
31 July 2012
The Biggest Little City in the World (Sunset Magazine) Reno, Nevada is a state known for its great nightlife and full access to a pleasing outdoor experience. Even though Reno is referred to as the "Biggest Little City in the World,” it has a lot to offer to its residents. Reno is within minutes of Lake Tahoe and the high desert valley of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Reno has an estimated population of two hundred and twenty seven thousand and five hundred and eleven people and has a diverse ethnicity. Reno’s climate is ever changing year-round. It is one of the few states that actually have the full four seasons. Summer and winter are the two most prominent seasons, where spring and fall vary in length. Nevada in Spanish means “snow covered.” Statistics say the area gets about twenty inches of snow and ten inches of rain yearly. Overnight temperatures in the winter can fall below freezing, but summer temperatures can exceed over ninety five degrees.
Winter sports can include going to over eighteen world-class alpine and cross-country ski resorts, snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating. Squaw Valley is a venue that has recently given us a new selection of activities to enjoy on the mountain. Summer activities contain choosing from fifty championship golf courses, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, backpacking, boating, kayaking, camping, etc. Reno offers many lakes for us to enjoy a summer relaxation. Lake Tahoe is its own different unique destination. It also has the reputation of being one of the most beautiful places in the world. People come from all over to experience Tahoe’s beauty and friendly environment.
Reno is famous for its casinos and being the birthplace of the gambling corporation. There are many casinos here that each has a different atmosphere to best fit. Each one offers a variety of casual restaurants, buffets, shows, and great customer service depending on your liking. John Ascuaga's Nugget is one of the largest and most popular casinos. It contains most of Reno’s special events by focusing on locals. On Labor Day weekend, we host the country’s favorite free rib festival. Competitors come from all over the country arrive to compete for the title of “Best Ribs in the West.” This event draws over five hundred thousand people’s attendance and is a big revenue source to our area.
In addition, our area hosts several annual functions and events. The Reno Rodeo is a local favorite. It brings cowboys from all over the country to participate for monetary prizes. Hot August Nights is geared to the car enthusiasts both young and old that are passionate about hot rods and car racing. Street Vibrations is a motorcycle rally that focuses on motorcycle clubs and amateurs alike. The Reno Air Races started more than forty seven years ago and is still going strong. Its features include six racing classes, a display of static aircraft, and several military and civil flight demonstrations. Finally, another spectacular event is the Reno Balloon Races. It is held at Rancho San Rafael Park and attracts balloon enthusiasts from all around the country. The locals brave