What promised to be one of the first events of the sort in Reno, Fuego Latin Cultural Fest was suddenly cancelled by J Resort, KOLO 8 TV reported Thursday.
Rafael Pineda, the event organizer and owner of the Oak Room and Lounge in Sparks, told KOLO 8 that J Resort sent him an email canceling the event 46 hours before it was due to take place on Saturday, Aug. 19 at the Glow Plaza. According to Pineda, J Resort raised concerns about “community safety” and “gang-affiliation.”
When asked for comment, Pineda told Noticiero Móvil that he’s now being represented by a lawyer from Sgro and Roger and “will not be able to provide any info to the media about my case until further notice.”
Pineda denied to KOLO 8 earlier any gang affiliation or involvement, adding that his record was clear and that “he wants to see proof of what he’s being accused of.”
We reached out to J resort for comment. We did not receive an official statement before publication.
Noticiero Movil also attempted to reach out to Reno Police Department to confirm whether they had communicated with J Resort about any law enforcement concerns associated with the event. We are awaiting their reply.
Pineda, a 29-year-old veteran of both the Nevada and North Carolina National Guard turned entrepreneur, had worked for seven months to bring a festival that showcased more Latino countries and cultures apart from Mexico. Now he’s out an investment of nearly $200,000, according to KOLO 8.
One of Reno’s young Hip Hop artists, Young Arima, shared his disappointment about the news via message to Noticiero Movil. During this 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop, the festival would have featured veteran acts like Fulanito, a New York-based Dominican American group that fuses Hip Hop and merengue, and Reno’s own Natalia Chacón, who’s been helping to promote the event on social media.
“It’s such an unfortunate cancellation,” said Arima. “It’s sad and just not right in any way.”
In addition to the live musical performances, the Fuego Latin Cultural Festival was expected to offer attendees food trucks, opportunities to buy goods, folkloric and social dance classes and a classic car show.
Reported by Claudia Cruz and Melanie Mendez
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. It will be updated when more details surface.