The New York Times seems to have a warm spot in its heart for Rochester.

In their coverage of the Kodak bankruptcy, Times writers have been careful to note that we've replaced many of the jobs that we've lost with the decline of Kodak. And Friday's Times carried an op-ed by UR prof Duncan Moore, with the headline "No Rust in Rochester."

It was a positive piece, good for spreading a positive image to the Times' important readership.

Moore cites local universities (including his own) and the proliferation of high-tech firms. But I was particularly glad to see him highlighting the strength of the arts in Rochester.

Rochester continues to be a bona fide arts center, and I'm amazed at how many people dismiss the arts' importance as an economic center. Over the past 10 days or so, I've seen packed houses for Blackfriars' terrific one-woman show, "The Year of Magical Thinking," and Geva's hilarious "Perfect Wedding"; the Jazz Fest sold out four of its five early-announced headliners in a matter of days; the art galleries' First Friday events draw mobs of people; the RPO has seen a big increase in ticket sales, and its charismatic young conductor has people raving about him....

Going after state funding for economic development help is important. But we shouldn't overlook the role the arts play in the local economy - and not just in the direct benefits of artists' paychecks. A strong, diverse arts scene creates the kind of community that attracts strong businesses and attracts young, bright workers and entrepreneurs.