I love Fresno. Sure, there have been times I’ve wished we had a major league sports venue or attracted better concerts, but it’s still a great place to live (and sports and concerts have improved a lot in the 8 years I’ve been here).
The other day, Mike Osegueda wrote a great article for the Fresno Bee, offering a few suggestions on what Fresnans can do to enjoy all that Fresno has to offer in 2010. I agree with his suggestions, and I’ve picked a few that I’d like to focus on the next year:
- Pick an iconic Fresno place you’ve never been — the old Security Bank building, Forestiere Underground Gardens, Warnors Center for the Performing Arts, Kearney Park, etc. — and go. I’ve been meaning to go to the Underground Gardens and Kearney Park for years.
- Learn to love downtown. Sure, it’s a work in progress, but there’s plenty of stuff worth a trip: Yoshi Now, Broadway Studios, Joe’s Steakhouse, Arte Américas, Downtown Community Art Center, Tokyo Garden and, of course, The Grizzlies. I like downtown a lot, but I really only visit for Grizzlies games. I’d like to try more dining in the area.
- Appreciate local art. Go to ArtHop (first and third Thursdays of each month), and if you see something you like, buy it. We go to Art Hop often. I’d like to take the next step and support artists (and decorate our house).
- Go to the Rogue Festival, one of the Fresno’s true jewels for the creative arts. It runs March 4-13 this year. I’ve never been.
- When you hear someone diss Fresno, defend your city. Pat yourself on the back when you’re done. Honestly, it’s easy to just nod and agree. I’d like to stand up for all that Fresno has to offer!
