The schedule for the four-day, 16-game, NBA Development League Showcase, which features all 16 teams competing between Jan. 9-12, is released. The eighth annual event, hosted this season by the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority, will take place at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nev., home of the NBA D-League’s Reno Bighorns. NBA TV will air 12 Showcase games — eight of them live (see full schedule attached).

Action tips off Monday, Jan. 9, when forward Antoine Walker and the Idaho Stampede takes on Erie BayHawks and recently acquired guard Donald Sloan at 10 a.m. PT, and features three more contests that day, with games scheduled to tip off at 12:45 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. The schedules for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday also include four games each, and follow the same tip off times as Monday’s slate.

The NBA D-League Showcase welcomes general managers, player personnel staff, and scouts from each of the 30 NBA teams who will be in attendance to evaluate the league’s talent. Conceived prior to the 2004-05 season, the NBA D-League Showcase provides an opportunity for NBA D-League players and coaches to perform in front of NBA general managers, player personnel executives and scouts over four consecutive days at one location. The 2012 event will feature each NBA D-League team competing in two games each over four days.

* One of these two games will be shown on NBA TV on Jan. 10 (11.a.m. ET)
+ One of these two games will be shown on NBA TV on Jan. 11 (11.a.m. ET)
# One of these two games will be shown on NBA TV on Jan. 12 (11 a.m. ET)
^ One of these two games will be shown on NBA TV on Jan. 13 (1 p.m. ET)

Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster sales locations, by phone  at 800-745-3000, or the website www.ticketmaster.com/event/17004758DD0B5EAF, Silver Legacy Box Office and the Reno Events Center Box Office.

For more information please visit: http://www.nba.com/dleague

Our team of Convention Superstars are thrilled to be at the National Indian Education Association 42nd Annual Convention and Tradeshow in Albuquerque!

Stop by booth 409 to spin our wheel for a chance to win a FREE trip to Reno! Plus, we are giving away pine nuts and fresh sage hand-picked from the hills surrounding Reno. Post pictures or comments on our Facebook page for additional entries!

Join the conversation to stay in the know, view pictures from this year’s convention and WIN!

Facebook – Reno Tahoe USA

Twitter – @RenoTahoe #NIEA

Flip through this online gallery for information and breathtaking images of our native tribes.

Would you like to get up close and personal so you could have a conversation with your favorite author, artist or editor … and at the same time get some fresh air and stretch your legs a bit? Well that’s what Stroll With the Stars is all about.

Every morning at 9 a.m. we’ll take a nice stroll … and we stress, stroll. This is not a heart-pounding aerobic exercise, or a military forced march; it’s a nice morning stroll. This has been described by some of the participants as a “Strolling Kaffeeklatsch” (but unlike a Kaffeeklatsch you won’t need to stand in line to sign up, and there’s no limit to how many can attend).

Strollers at Anticipation

We’ll have some of your favorite convention guests strolling along. Ever wish you could get some one-on-one time? Maybe ask Cory Doctorow where he gets his ideas, or ask John Picacio about technique, or ask Ellen Datlow or Lou Anders how they make their selections? They, and many other “Stars” have come out to Stroll with us: John Joseph Adams, Lou Anders, Peter Atwood, David Brin, Lauren Beukes, Paul Cornell, Ellen Datlow, Cory Doctorow, Scott Edelman, Felix Gilman, Joe & Gay Haldeman, Mary Robinette Kowal, Jay Lake, Farah Mendlesohn, Larry Niven, John Picacio, Lawrence M. Schoen, Stephen H. Segal, Ann VanderMeer, Kaaron Warren and Frank Wu have all strolled along with us.

Strollers at Denvention

Strolling in Reno

We’ll meet each morning at 9 a.m. in Walgreen’s parking lot; returning each morning to the Convention Center before before 10 a.m. (Walgreen’s is on Virginia Street, between the Peppermill and the Atlantis, closer to the Atlantis).

If you don’t know Stu Segal, just look for the man with the STROLL! t-shirt and bullhorn. And a reminder to all you folks who live at sea level, on the East Coast, the West Coast, or where ever – Reno is 4,500 feet ABOVE sea level. This means your body reacts differently, and sweats differently, and you need to keep yourself well-hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids.

Strolling with the Stars also has its own Facebook page. If you’re on Facebook yourself, you can use this page to see who’s planning to join the Stroll or let your friends know you plan to be there yourself.

We’re delighted by the great line-up of guests who will be strolling with us in Reno – GoH’s, Special Guests, Hugo Winners, Nebula Winners, Authors, Artists and Editors:

WEDNESDAY 9 a.m.

PRACTICE LAP – No special guests, just me, strolling around to get the lay of the land. If anyone wants to join me I’ll be at the meeting spot at 9 a.m.

THURSDAY 9 a.m.

Guest of Honor – Boris Vallejo
Special Guest – Bill Willingham
Julie Bell
Lauren Beukes
Ellen Datlow
Cory Doctorow
Dr. Lawrence M. Schoen

FRIDAY 9 a.m.

Special Guest – Bill Willingham
Scott Edelman
Joe Haldeman
Gay Haldeman
Beth Meacham
Toni Weisskopf

SATURDAY 9 a.m.

Special Guest – Bill Willingham
Lou Anders
Paul Cornell
Lev Grossman
James Patrick Kelly
Farah Mendlesohn
John Picacio

SUNDAY 9 a.m.

Kate Baker
Tanglwyst de Holloway
Deanna Hoak
Mary Robinette Kowal
Dr. Lawrence M. Schoen
Stephen H. Segal
Sheila Williams
Connie Willis

For more information on the 69th World Science Fiction Convention visit http://www.renovationsf.org.

Reno Tahoe takes pride in being a stress-free destination. We like to use the ten minute rule – you can get anywhere in Reno within ten minutes.  Making sure you can navigate our town quickly and easily is one of our top priorities, and we use that same dedication with getting you here.

You love numbers, we love giving them.

• Named 2^nd most efficient airport in North America by the Air Transport Research Society
• Average fare is 12.6% less than the national average
• Out of the top 100 commercial airports in the United States, 79 had a higher average airfare than Reno-Tahoe International, according to the Bureau of Transportation.

• Every day at RTIA:
  • Approximately 10,500 Passengers arrive/depart
  • Approximately 15,300 Commercial Airline seats arrive/depart 
  • Approximately 140 Commercial Airline arrivals/departures take place at RTIA
  • Approximately 310,000 pounds of Cargo arrive/depart

• There are currently:
  • 140 daily flights to and from RTIA
  • 17 non-stop destinations
  • 32 same plane one-stop destinations

How do they do it?

Reno Tahoe International’s efficiency is due to the structure of its revenue streams. With 70 percent of revenues derived from non-airline sources, this financial set-up keeps our landing fees low, and your wallets full. Reno Tahoe International is less dependent upon airlines for revenue during these challenging times for the airline industry than other leading airports.

What’s new?

The Reno-Tahoe International Airport just completed a 22-month construction program that has resulted in a faster and more efficient travel experience in the ticket lobby. Blending the latest high-tech security screening with a new baggage check-in system, an entirely new ticket lobby will connect all of the airport’s airline ticket counters to the new system. With our efficient short lines, you’ll take off on cloud nine.

When they are not in meetings, The Reno, Sparks and Lake Tahoe communities have plenty to do for convention delegates. Following are some highlights of some of the great attractions in our community:

National Automobile Museum

More than 200 antique, vintage, classic and special interest vehicles in authentic street scenes; roam in a fun setting and enjoy four-wheeled icons, like the 1953 Corvette convertible once owned by John Wayne.

Nevada State Historical Society

Nevada’s oldest museum – artifacts here describe Nevada’s native people, first explorers, the discovery of silver and gold and the emergence of ranching and gaming industries.

Nevada Museum of Art

This is Northern Nevada’s center for the visual arts and the centerpiece of the Truckee River Arts District. The Nevada Museum of Art showcases diverse creations on four levels. Exhibits include regional artists and national shows such as “Andy Warhol’s Dream America.” Additionally, groups can use this beautiful backdrop to host opening receptions, small dinner parties or meetings.

National Bowling Stadium

Known as the “Taj Mahal of Tenpins,” the National Bowling Stadium features 80 lanes, a 10,000 GSF concourse and professional staff.  This amazing facility has hosted social events up to 2,000 guests including dinner, music and an evening of fun.

Reno Events Center

This facility is used for everything from tradeshows to rodeos and acts as Reno’s premier concert venue.  Enjoy performances from popular artists such as Kelly Clarkson, Reba McEntire, Journey and Rob Thomas.

Reno Livestock Event Center

Take in one of the featured equine and rodeo events or consider hosting one of your own. Many groups have used the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center for special events. We have Destination Management Companies who will help to arrange a rodeo just for you!

Shopping

The new Legends at Sparks Marina opened in August and has become a favorite of visitors. This beautifully landscaped project showcases water features, fireplaces and statues of the area’s legends.  Additionally, you will find the 248,000 GSF Scheels All Sports Store, Saks Off 5th, Nike Outlet and much more.  The Summit Sierra Mall is a beautiful lifestyles mall with featuring Dillard’s, Orvis and 70 other stores.  The Summit has redefined the art of high-end shopping.  Looking for something a little more eclectic or boutique shopping? Enjoy the Riverwalk in downtown Reno where unique shops can be found; a few steps farther and you will be on California Avenue featuring a fun mix of stores from the Kaliforia Jean Bar to Planet Blue.  These are just a few of the fun locations our guests will enjoy if shopping is what they are looking for!

Dining

In the Reno area you will find the chain restaurants you are familiar with PF Chang’s, Outback Steakhouse and Red Lobster. However, look a little closer and you will find some fun, unique and offbeat dining opportunities.  Enjoy something from the menu at the Stonehouse Cafe. El Adobe, features fantastic margaritas and traditional Mexican fare in a fun atmosphere. Francis’ Asian Bistro includes sushi and Asian Fusion meals. Dine outside for a spectacular view of Reno. The list could go on and on there are one-of-a-kind restaurants in all local casino properties and many more hidden gems around Reno.  During your convention we provide attendees with a dining guide and maps to help them easily find the tasty delights in and around the Reno area.

I am ready to help you with proposals from any of our quality properties. Please call or e-mail to discuss your RFP to tmctee@rscva.com or (775) 827-7798.

Meeting in Reno-Tahoe has gotten a lot easier with the addition of the new Sky Bridge connection the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa with the Reno-Sparks Convention Center.

The 1,000-room property boasts Reno’s only concierge hotel tower and has recently undergone a meeting space transformation as well as a room renovation.

The Atlantis added meeting space bringing the total to 47,000 GSF and in January 2009 and unveiled the fully enclosed Sky Bridge connecting to the 565,000 GSF Reno-Sparks Convention Center. The high-tech Executive Boardroom has quickly become a jewel of the new meeting space and when paired with the 14,261 GSF Ballroom and flexible breakout space it is the perfect size for meetings from 10-500 people. When paired with the Reno-Sparks Convention Center the possibilities are endless.

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa highlights:

• 1,000 Deluxe Rooms
• 10 award-winning restaurants
• Complimentary self/valet parking
• Complimentary airport shuttle (less than 3 miles from the airport)
• Close proximity to a plethora of dining and shopping opportunities
• 3 miles to the Truckee River Arts District
• Featuring the new Spa at Atlantis … you have to see it to believe it, and then experience it!

The Atlantis has been very successful with small- to mid-size corporate and association business. Customers have been overjoyed with the new additions and amenities calling them a welcome addition to Reno.

I look forward to working with you to get proposals from our quality properties. Please call or e-mail to discuss your RFP to tmctee@rscva.com or (775) 827-7798.

(This is the fourth in an occasional series profiling Reno-Tahoe properties’ meeting and convention amenities)

- Tanna McTee, RSCVA National Sales Manager