Robert Laxalt's memory honored

Robert Laxalt dedicated his life to literature, writing 17 books, receiving three Pulitzer Prize nominations, and founding the University of Nevada Press.

Nearly three years after his death, his legacy continues with a seminar to inspire young writers.

"If there's a bigger cultural icon in the state of Nevada, I don't know who it is," said Warren Lerude, a friend and fellow writer. "We're not only honoring Bob's memory, but also trying to help young writers."

After Laxalt's death in March 2001, Lerude, a professor of journalism at the University of Nevada, Reno, and a group of friends founded the Robert Laxalt Distinguished Writer's Program.

They raised $50,000 for an endowment to sponsor writing seminars, which will vary from year to year, at the university for students and community members.

The inaugural Robert Laxalt Distinguished Writer's Program will feature National Geographic writer and photographer William Albert Allard at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the Lawlor Events Center.

Allard worked with Laxalt on the 1990 book, "A Time We Knew," featuring a collection of his photographs of the Basque country in France and Spain with text by Laxalt.

"For the inauguration, we decided to go for the very best, and we did," Lerude explained. "He agreed to the honor, and we're absolutely thrilled. He tells his stories globally through the lens of his cameras and the poise of his writing."

Allard will present a slide show highlighting his recent work in Paris and India as well as photographs and excerpts from his book, "Portraits of America."

The program is open to the public and free.

"It's our gift to the public from the Reynolds School of Journalism," Lerude said.

Reservations can be made by calling 784-6531 before Tuesday.

Contact Teri Vance at tvance@nevadaappeal.com or at 881-1272.