by Tom McClimon
April 10, 2006

Miami Mayor Manuel Diaz, Chair of the Tourism, Arts, Parks, Entertainment and Sports Committee, has called for a special meeting in New Orleans May 3 – 5 to help that city and the Gulf Coast region restore their arts and culture programs.

“By holding this special meeting of the Committee, we are not only showing our support for these cities but also will be discussing how our own communities can assist in helping these Gulf Coast cities restore their arts and culture programs,” said Diaz.

Issues on the agenda will include establishing cultural districts, public arts programs, and community festivals. The Director of Louisiana’s Music Export Office will discuss ways mayors can link up with New Orleans musicians and artists to bring their talents to their communities. Other program items will include the use of urban design tools to help revitalize communities, successful travel and tourism programs, and establishing community trees programs. The meeting will also include a tour of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (the local high school where Wynton Marsalis and Harry Connick, Jr. got their start); Musicians’ Village, a housing project for musicians who lost their homes to Hurricane Katrina; and a behind-the'scenes tour of Harrahs and their new cultural and entertainment district.

Further information about the meeting can be obtained by contacting Tom McClimon on the Conference of Mayors staff at 202-861-6729.