2013 HMF headliner French Horn Rebellion.

The 4th annual Harvey Milk Festival (HMF) is slated to return to downtown Sarasota for three days of music, film and art in celebration of LGBTQ equality. According to HMF President Shannon Fortner, the event is “going to be a hot time on a hot town.’”

Actually, she never said that. But being the PR guy for the event, I thought she should. In fact, I wanted her to whisper it like Marilyn Monroe on a Youtube video while performing a Ashlee Simpson jig. You know, to hype the festival. But when I made the suggestion, she just looked blankly back at me. I don’t blame her. If you have the pleasure of knowing Fortner, then you understand she’s all business when it comes to equal rights, particularly in the final days leading to the big event.

I remember the first time I met Fortner was while doing press for the Sarasota Film Festival. After hearing her vocals on the MeteorEYES song “Splish Splash” I ran up to her and said, “I love you.” Honestly, that was our first verbal exchange. And she just looked at me. Dumbfounded. Like most people would.

The she said, “Have you heard about the United American Families Act (UAFA)? What about the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)?”

I remember thinking this poor little woman obviously doesn’t know me. At that time I loathed politics. Sure, I dated a few poli-sci majors in college, but I knew better than to actually speak to them. Then Fortner and I became friends and she kept talking about “equality this” and “gay marriage that,” and I finally realized that what she had to say was important. People are being denied equal rights based on their sexual orientation, and that needs to be changed.

Hence, Fortner took her message to the streets, founding HMF along with her best friend Jen O’Connor. Last year, the festival garnered some time in the national spotlight thanks to performances by indie heavyweights such as Breton, CLAPS, and The Pauses, drawing over 5,000 festival-goers. This year, it promises to be even bigger with film, art and nine emerging local and national music acts.

This year’s music headliner is French Horn Rebellion. Receiving critical praise at the 2013 SXSW, French Horn Rebellion has toured with Cut Copy and MGMT. The indie duo, consisting of a pair of brothers greatly influenced by the playful aspects of the French horn and driving synths, is a staple on the Brooklyn indie scene, where the band recently performed a series of sold-out shows at the legendary live-music venue Brooklyn Bowl. The sound is dance-driven with a dash of disco. Think Pet Shop Boys without the British accent. Recently, the band released a hot track with electro-artist Viceroy. Check it out.

The 2013 co-headliners include NYC indie favorite Clementine and The Galaxy. The band just released its first EP and single, “Robot,” which has received heavy airplay on MTV Iggy, a music video channel promoting the best in emerging artists. Frontwoman Julie Hardy recently performed on Saturday Night Live with Ellie Goulding, matching ethereal vocals to create a space-age vibe. Check out the video for “Robot” below.

Sarasota favorite MeteorEYES will also co-headline. Here is a video of the band’s performance at 2012 HMF.

Other bands schedule to appear include Tennessee alt-rockers Jen Rock and The Cry Babies, Good Graeff, Waking Giants, Bard and Mustache, Zulu Wave and Brazos the Rat.

For the full lineup of musical acts, film and art events, visit the official HMF wesbite.

2013 Harvey Milk Festival
May 16-18, 2013

May 16/FILM:
Burns Court Cinema
506 Burns Ct.
Sarasota, FL 34236
9:30 p.m. – I Am Divine screening
Tickets $10. Advance tickets available here.

May 17/ART: MillerBrady Fine Art Gallery
614 Florida Ave.
Sarasota, FL, 34236
7 p.m. – 10 p.m. – “Beyond Bullying’ exhibit
Free.

May 18/MUSIC:
Five Points Park/Intersection of 1st and North Pineapple Ave.
Sarasota, FL
4 p.m. – midnight. Free.
$50 VIP tickets available here.

How does one protest an ordinance if visible protests are no longer allowed?

Update: The section of the panhandling ordinance titled 23-1(d)(2) in regard to political activism has been deleted. City Attorney Bob Fornier states the reason for the deletion (among other things) is because political activism has little  to do with panhandling. There may be a separate ordinance drafted in regard to political activism if necessary. 

If I have this weird new obsession that’s conflicting with my general interest in all things fluffy. I’ve taken an interest in local politics and it’s slowly begun to take over my Facebook page. I’m not happy about it. In fact, I’ve recently had every intention of stopping—but then another local blunder arises in the news and I can’t resist informing people about it.

Take the city’s recent decision to ban panhandling along public roadways. Has anyone taken the time to read through the subsections of the ordinance? Is so, I’m certain there’d be more of an upheaval. For instance, along with addressing the panhandling issue, the ordinance also limits certain basic rights, including the right to public protest.

No worries. It’s not that big of a deal, at least according to City Attorney Bob Fournier. And why should it be? A recent Sarasota Herald Sarasota Herald-Tribune article reveals he doesn’t think the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) will be “happy with anything the city would do.” Perhaps that’s why he feels he can get away with anything.

But really now, what does the ACLU have to be upset about?

Could it be the wording of the subsection below?

Sec 23-1 (d)(2) No pedestrian shall go upon any public roadway to advertise any message, including but not limited to any commercial or business advertisement, political or activist message, or any other message regardless of content when such is directed by the pedestrian toward the occupants of motor vehicle that are on the traveled portion of the public roadway.

The definition of a “public roadway” includes streets, shoulders, medians and other other open ways of travel by vehicle operators.

So basically … in pragmatic terms … if anyone in the Sarasota city limits plans to stage a peaceful protest, they can do it—but only safely away from the road. I guess that also means we can say goodbye to the political activists holding signs for candidates on the shoulder of US-41. I’m certain Katherine Harris will be thrilled after nearly being side-swiped by an angry constituent a few years back. Perhaps she can be the city’s poster girl for the city’s ongoing excuse for the ordinance: “safety.”  Maybe we can get American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson to endorse it. After all, she sang it best: “Because of you … I never stray too far from the sidewalk.”

The word “sidewalk” is key here. The city continues to allow the solicitation of “donations, contributions, employment, business, sales or exchanges of any kind directed toward pedestrians on … sidewalks.”

But isn’t a political sign an ‘exchange’ of information?

No more peaceful protests?

Does that mean I can stand on a ‘roadway’ with a protest sign but only if it’s facing people on the sidewalk and not traffic? Is that right? Is it the same for panhandling? It seems a little confusing and dangerous for a city that wants to keep us safe. But isn’t that the history of the Sarasota City Commission—passing unclear ordinances on the city without fully considering the long-term consequences? This particular ordinance appears to allow a lot of room for people to complain due to its unrealistic nature. Is that how the sound regulations argument began, by passing an ordinance that prohibits music louder than the sound of a flushing toilet?

It’s strange to me how simple and easy it is for the Sarasota City Commission to pass an ordinance, but how many months or years it takes to reverse the same ordinance once it passes. And can someone please explain to me how and why our city commissioners continually approve ordinances that violate basic constitutional rights?

I’d love to go down to Five Points Park to sit and reflect on it, but alas, we no longer have benches. Maybe I can protest that, but would it matter if no one in traffic can see me? Sometimes it seems like the commission’s method is defined by just that—the hope that no one is watching. (Modified May 26th, 2013. 6:10 p.m.).

At the April 15 Sarasota City Commission Meeting, Commissioner Terry Turner moved to place a moratorium on downtown businesses seeking permits to offer entertainment or alcohol sales. According to Tuner, “things are deteriorating very quickly” because there have been a number of businesses have applied for permits to provide an active nightlife in downtown Sarasota. For instance, the The HuB’s vocal ally Jesse Biter has been in the news with plans to open an open-space bar tentatively titled “The HuB PuB” in the vacant Bank of America lot adjacent to the HuB’s headquarters at the intersection of Fruitville and Goodrich. Luckily, Turner’s request was rendered null due to not following due process. Still, he plans to bring the matter to the table again at a ‘special’ city commission meeting slated for 4/23.

Perhaps Biter’s reveal to the press was the cherry on top for Turner’s erratic suggestion. But following the lift of the ban on amplified music, which was deemed unconstitutional by the ACLU, Turner has been in quite the tailspin, actively seeking ways to limit the amount of growth in the downtown core. Perhaps that’s why I’ll be cheering rather loudly when he leaves office.

After all, is now the time to limit the possibility of new revenue streams?

Tent city outside of Rosemary Cemetery.

Has anyone seen the tent city being erected in the Rosemary District on the vacant lot behind The Renaissance, near Rosemary Cemetery? What about the surge of panhandlers on every corner in downtown Sarasota? I hate to tell Turner the truth, but growth-limiting tactics are suffocating this city, along with the residents actively seeking employment.

Yes, homelessness in Sarasota is a multi-dimensional problem that involves drug and mental health issues along with some laziness in the mix. But shouldn’t the city be pursuing solutions to combat this issue instead of putting more of a strain on those who are looking for work?

For the last few days I’ve been trying to wrap my head around Turner’s rationale, and all I can conclude is that he is a fearful man clinging to fossilized ideas of what Sarasota was before the 2002 boom of downtown development. Now he’s trying to prevent the next boom beginning to occur with projects such as The Jewel and the possibility of affordable rental units along Ringling Boulevard for young professionals. Perhaps he yearns to return to the 1920s prohibition era, planning to corner the market on speakeasies. After all, he will be out of a job soon, right?

Regardless, City Commissioner Paul Caragiulo, who continues to work on a plan to modify current sound regulations allowing a relaxation of decibel limits and extended weekend hours for outdoor entertainment, calls Turner’s decision a “stupid way to handle the problem.” Caragiulo states he previously voted in favor of the moratorium, along with the city commissioners, due to lack of clarity in regard to what the moratorium could mean for those already in the permitting process. He no longer supports the motion.

Neither do I. It’s just another way to halt progress for the city of Sarasota before Turner steps down from office. If you find yourself nodding your head, plan to come to the next city commission meeting and weigh in on Turner’s moratorium recommendation.

Will you attend?

Special Sarasota City Commission Meeting

City Hall
April 23, 2013
2:00 pm.

Updated 4/19/13 6:00 pm

The greatest thrill of film festivals is you never truly know what awaits you on the screen. A few select committee members determine the program and sometimes that results in a magnificent hidden gem or a cinematic turd. I’ve witnessed both at Sundance and SXSW and recently at the Sarasota Film Festival.

Melvil Poupaud in “Laurence Anyways.”

My favorite SFF film last year was Superclásico. I took a chance, knowing little about the Danish comedy but ended up singing its praises for the last year. I also loved Frank and Robot and V/H/S, both wonderful examples of great characterization and storytelling. As for turds, I detested the documentary Dragonslayer, a hapless skater documentary that won a heap of praise at SXSW because the filmmaker caught footage on his iPhone. I also felt my heart die a few times during I Am a Good Person/I am a Bad Person, which opened with the agonizing “watch and hear me pee in the toilet” technique that was all the rage for indie filmmakers for a hot minute.

Still, I’m glad I took in 11 SFF films last year because even if there’s a doozy along the way, the program is proportionally stellar, competing with Sundance and SXSW for the best representation of emerging talent in film, thanks to Festival Director Tom Hall and Programmer Magida Diouri.

This year, here are my picks:

1. Laurence Anyways (*Top Pick)

Canadian Director Xavier Dolan (I Killed My Mother) returns with his third film about a man who decides to become a transsexual woman, greatly affecting the lives of her family. A film dealing themes of prejudice in the pursuit of happiness and love, The Hollywood Reporter calls it Dolan’s most “emotionally weighty film yet.”

2. The Deflowering of Eva van End

Deemed a tragicomedy, Deflowering depicts the crumbling of a perfect family after presented with actual perfection personified by a German exchange student.

3. Computer Chess

SFF’s 2013 Visionary Award Winner, Computer Chess is a comedic narrative chronicling 1980s computer programmers competing in an electronic chess tournament. The Guardian calls it the “perfect rendering of the era you could ask for.”

4. C.O.G.

Adapted from a David Sedaris essay, C.O.G. is the story of a cocky Ivy League graduate who attempts physical labor on a rural apple farm. Sedaris is the NY Best-Selling author of Me Talk Pretty One Day and Barrel Fever.

5. The Dirties

Grand Jury Narrative Feature Winner at the 2013 Slamdance Film Festival, The Dirties is a realistic depiction of two high school misfits bullied by a group of classmates. The film is gaining a lot of buzz for its brutal honesty and leading performances.

2013 Sarasota Film Festival
April 5 – 14, 2013

Purchase tickets here or at the SFF box office located inside Hollywood 20 theaters.

As a freelance writer I still can’t afford much, but I have learned that attending tastings is a great way to try an assortment of premium whiskeys on the cheap. For the last few years, Sarasota whiskey maven Turner C. Moore has hosted bi-monthly tastings in the Wine Cellar at Michael’s on East, pairing great spirits with delectable bites while offering an education on whiskies from around the world. In the span of two hours, guests can compare tasting notes, learn about production and maturation and take a virtual tour of distilleries.

Plus, who doesn’t like getting a bit tipsy?

“It’s really about education, not intoxication,” Moore reminded me during a media junket before a recent tasting.

But I can’t help it. I’m a lightweight. It’s why I was popular in college. Back then I was a sure thing if the right candidate bought me a drink. Now I’m polished; my palate is more refined. I prefer the Macallan 18 to the 12-year and I’ve recently been hooked on Irish whiskey, reaching for a dram of Bushmills before opting for a beer.

And now is a great time to be a whiskey fan in Sarasota. This April, Moore is organizing the first whiskey festival in Southwest Florida, aptly titled Whiskey Obsession. This inaugural event will be held in the ballroom at Michael’s on East and feature 150 spirits from 70 brands. Fifteen distillers and professional brand ambassadors will be on hand to host classes and talk about their respective whiskies in detail.

The two-night event kicks off with The Panel of Whiskey Experts at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 in Michael’s Wine Cellar, featuring eight industry professionals presenting and discussing their favorite spirits. The main event, The Grand Tasting, will be held on Friday, April 19 in the ballroom, with VIP access at 6:30 p.m. and general admission at 7:30 p.m. Complete schedule and ticket information can be found here .

Some of the many brands served will include Evan Williams, Macallan, Glenfiddich, Ardbeg, Balvenie, Compass Box, Four Roses and Jameson. The official after party will be held at Sarasota’s newest restaurant and downtown hotspot M.A.D.E.

Moore states, “I’m excited to host this educational, connoisseur-level event in Sarasota. Take your friends and take a cab.”

As for me, I aim to take in more whiskey than my share. Perhaps I’ll offer a class of my own: “The Art of Popularity in College.” It should be quite entertaining for such a distinguished crowd.

Whiskey Obsession Festival
April 18 – 19, 2013
Michael’s on East
1212 East Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34239

Purchase tickets here.

In response to the letter, several key members of the local music scene, including Ed Midler  and Claire Franklin (co-founders of Sarasota Music Scene and the Noise Ordinance music compilations) helped spread word to local media outlets, ultimately leading to the question—why is this happening now?

Is it a scare tactic? A way for the city of Sarasota to tighten its belt? Is it necessary?

Sarasota party for one after 10 p.m.

Who can say? Perhaps this is just another belt loop holding up the pants on a body of legislation that is already falling to its knees.

I’m happy the letter was drafted. It’s a tangible example of how the sound regulations directly affect downtown businesses. The issuer of the letter (Neighborhood and Development Services) was doing its job.

I wonder if it’s because eat here has been allowing amplified music on its balcony, enraging the residents at Rivo? Or could it be because The Tavern on Main sometimes places a speaker on its patio for patrons to enjoy? To these business owners, what is your response? Sit back and be helpless? Isn’t that what the opposition wants?

Make sound not war.

Was anyone downtown on Saturday night after the letter was issued? It was eerily quiet, more so than usual. I kept looking for Ms. “I Don’t Think So” Pam Daniel (Editorial Director of Sarasota Magazine) and all the shiny, happy downtown people she writes about, but they were nowhere to be found. I actually had friends questioning if businesses were actually permitted to be open after 10 p.m. anymore. I couldn’t find a sign of life anywhere on the streets except a few patrons on the lounge chairs at Café Epicure and the bar stools at Smoking Joe’s. There was no music or activity … anywhere.

Panhandling is the new Sarasota cool.

In response to total boredom, my friends and I devised a plan that seems popular these days in Sarasota. We decided to panhandle on the corner of 41 and Gulfstream.

“Bitch, get off my corner! I work Fruitville, I work Palm, I work all the way up to Main!”

I had an ulterior motive, drafting a cardboard sign directing people where to purchase my first novel. For everyone else it was the only place to find a sign of life—waving down cars on the median.

So Sarasota doesn’t want to provide nightlife to its citizens? Fine. We’ll entertain ourselves, beginning with the city hall meeting slated for Tuesday, Feb. 19. Word has it that a number of musicians and music enthusiasts will be in attendance to voice their continued concerns about an outdated ordinance that doesn’t belong anywhere in a thriving city. With the Wal-Mart debacle also on the table, it promises to be quite a fireworks show for a city so stringent on sound. But seriously, I can write a thousand articles about sound and hear a thousand people applaud, but nothing will change until there is a change in the law.

Will you attend? If not, you can join me with cardboard next Saturday night on 41 and Gulfstream. I hear these days it’s the most happening fad in Sarasota—a city so progressive.

Sarasota City Hall Meeting
Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013
6:00 p.m.

Public input is welcome.

Reasons on Lemon.

As my friends know, I have a sick obsession with shoes that has kept me bankrupt as a writer because I’ve begun to have them shipped to me from all parts of the world. Lately, I’m a Vans purist but I also have a healthy dose of PUMA, Medium, and Diesel shoes that I like to wear—if and only if I have proof they can’t be found anywhere in the tri-state area. Except for Miami, which has too many superficial people (like me) to compete with this irrational line of thinking.

Lately I prefer bright-colored shoes in various shades of red, because they mix well with the multiple shades of green found throughout the Sunshine State. I enjoy changing the laces and complementing the look with loud, patterned socks, preferably Unsimply Stitched. In sum, it all adds up to OCD-tendencies and a lot of money.

Still, to me, money isn’t an object when you find a really good pair of shoes. The perfect pair can forge a lasting friendship. I have a pair of brushed brown leather Vans from American Rag in LA that have lasted me over 10 years. That’s why I was so excited to hear that Reasons transitioned from St. Armands Circle to the heart of downtown. It’s nice to have a downtown shoe store stocking footwear that’s in it for the long haul, perfectly suited for the lifestyle of Southwest Florida: casual elegance.

Purchasing Reasons in 1986, CEO George Morris states the store emphasizes luxury shoes where comfort and fit are paramount. Catering to men and women alike, the respected shoe-seller offers stylish footwear that can be worn for hours without a person getting sore feet. Morris personally selects shoe designers by attending trade shows in New York, Italy and Las Vegas. He also visits designer factories to oversee how the shoes are made.

Reasons prides itself on its experienced staff possessing an average tenure of 20 years of fitting shoes.

“We’re the kind of store where a woman will come in and buy all of her shoes and accessories for the entire season,” Morris states. Reasons’ designer accessories cannot be found elsewhere in Sarasota. Morris states the average Reasons shopper ranges from the 30s to senior, but that most can find a shoe or accessory in the store to enjoy for a very long time.

This Week In Sarasota took a moment to pick out our favorite store selections. Check below to see what we found.

MeteorEYES live!

I don’t know exactly why, but I never miss an election, including the silly ones about hospital board members I really don’t care about. I blame it on the “I Voted” sticker. It lures me in, making me feel like a carefree kid in a world where grown-ups have forgotten the importance of stickers after elementary school. Wasn’t that the best part of taking tests—the promise of a scratch-and-sniff sticker next to the ‘E’ for excellent? Isn’t that what a local election truly is—a grown-up test for the city? Well, if you agree, then be prepared to do your homework, because there is a big question attached to the ticket on the upcoming city commission election, and that is the question of sound.

Do you want a vibrant downtown? What is your definition of “vibrant?” Live entertainment after 8 p.m.? 10 p.m.? Everyone appears to agree that sound is a key ingredient to a prosperous downtown, but not everybody likes the idea of change, including the Editorial Director of Sarasota Magazine, whose recent answer to a city on the verge of growth was a gurgling, insipid diatribe equating wrinkles to wisdom titled “I Don’t Think So.”

In the piece, Pam Daniel states she’s losing her patience with “another generation making the same old statements.” She urges recent graduates to move to the big city for higher-paying jobs, showing no regard for technology or a city that prides itself on emerging artists. Yet what she doesn’t understand (but should) is the members of this “generation” represent the future of Sarasota. And to keep them, many residents are calling upon the city to provide downtown entertainment after 8 p.m. It’s a small request—on which I’m certain people of all generations would agree.

That’s why City Commissioner Paul Caragiulo is preparing a “sound” proposal for the city, which he hopes will meet the needs of everyone. The plan includes the possibility of establishing downtown “zones” where exceptions—including a small increase in decibel level limits and extended hours of live entertainment—would be permissible outside of the current regulations. Caragiulo hopes to present the plan to fellow (and newly-elected) city commissioners later this year to determine if downtown Sarasota is ready to embrace a new stance on sound.

Villanova Junction live!

But for now, the question is: Where do you stand, and how should that affect your vote? On March 12 there are two at-large seats for grab, meaning any eligible voter within the city limits can vote. To help get everybody out there, This Week In Sarasota has gathered the “sound opinions”—pro, against, and somewhere in between—of the six commissioner-elects.

Suzanne Atwell

“I support Commissioner Caragiulo’s efforts to bring forth a sound regulations compromise. I think it’s time to bring the issue to the forefront, meeting the needs of a growing downtown, young and old, residents, merchants and retirees. I think entertainment and enjoyment of an urban and increasingly cosmopolitan core should be a priority if we are to draw a more diverse population who want to live, work and play here. The city needs a defined and predictable framework with regard to entertainment.”

Susan Chapman

“I think the [sound] proposal is unfinished. I see it as more of a technological issue. I know there is acoustic technology that can be used. I don’t think that’s been explored. I would like to know more about acoustical engineering solutions before we start talking about entertainment zones. Sound is complicated and one thing we learned in my neighborhood is that sound is about vibration. None of that has been discussed. I think that without talking about the science behind it we might be missing an opportunity. It might be a good business opportunity for someone.”

Richard Dorfman

“I don’t really like the term ‘entertainment zones.’ In order to create a district, you have to define it by borders and give it a name. I’m in favor of extending the hours on certain nights. I think the music we have at Mattison’s is a wonderful asset to downtown. I don’t find it to be overly loud. Downtown needs vibrancy and music brings vibrancy. To make music difficult to enjoy—I don’t agree with it. I don’t think what’s being asked is very onerous—it’s a very small ask. I would rather keep people downtown than have them driving all over the county to find the same sort of thing.”

Linda E. Holland

“I’m familiar with the discussions. There was a place called Lemon Coast; it was really cool. It was an open-air venue. Actually, Lemon Coast, to their credit, put in some buffers. I thought it was good to see them help the situation as best as they could. We want a vibrant downtown, with a mix of young and old. I certainly believe that we need to make an effort that works for everybody, transforming downtown into a lively place where everyone wants to be, while respecting those residing there. I support the dialogue that furthers the discussion to a reasonable compromise. I’m glad to hear that it’s moving forward, because we need it, along with talks about other city issues.”

Kelvin Lumpkin

“I want to see a vibrant downtown, and doing so, we need to take a look at the sound regulations. Downtown is starting to attract retailers but we also want to attract young people as well. My way would be finding a middle ground where none of those groups is adversely affected. All of us want a vibrant place to go out at night. I want Sarasota to be a place that draws locals back after college.”

Pete Theisen

“If you just have to draw the issue so flatly as ‘for or against,’ then I am against.

“I see from the comments to your article that current law is 65db. I believe that was adopted based on what some people find annoying after 10 p.m. While higher levels up to 95db will not cause ear damage, we have to remember that people are sleeping in the condos, or rather trying to sleep, so I say stay with 65db, and enforce the hell out of it—huge fines, jail or even prison for repeat offenders. The condo owners have hundreds of thousands invested in their homes, and they live there. The band leaders, maybe $20K if they have a really deluxe set-up, and they live somewhere else. If they have to have a show after 10 p.m., they can dial down to 65db to comply with existing laws and pass out earphones, which confine the louder music only to those who want to hear it loud. The bouncers and police will have to shut down the screaming, yelling, whistling and hollering. Someone who won’t shut up can spend the night in the drunk tank, pay a big fine in the morning and get a misdemeanor record. End of problem. Since the musicians themselves are nearly always deaf from all the self-exposure, or, I don’t know, for some reason incapable of turning the dial down, some will not be able to comply and thus will have to ‘lose their licenses’ after a ticket or two. They might need earphone monitors to play under 65db.

“It isn’t the equipment. I have a couple of amps and some instruments and a decibel meter. I know the dials will go down to 65db or below—I have turned my own dials that low; I can still hear the instruments. If I were hearing impaired I would get an earphone monitor. I also listen to other people’s live music myself in clubs quite often. I have no trouble going home at 10 p.m. If the clubs need more performing time, let them put on a lunch or even a breakfast show. There may be an untapped market for daytime live music.”

The Sarasota City Commission Election

March 12, 2013. Please vote.

Michael Murphy/One105

Please note: TWIS has received word that ‘Dark Forest’ has been cancelled. Stayed tuned for updates on other concert events right here at TWIS.

I have to hand it to Michael Murphy, the crafty operations director of the newly-formed creative collaborative One105. The gracious young man never gives up. He’s always looming in the indie backdrop, trying to discover new, inventive ways to put Sarasota on the musical map. He began by forming The Closet, a community organization that stages moderate to awesome dirt and glitter shows in venues such as The Shamrock, Art Center Sarasota and The Tavern on Main. Adding One105 to his resume, he’s partnered with visual and artistic director John Revisky to create an event space and art gallery on Tallevast Road that, according to a recent press release, is poised to be the “cultural tastemaker” for the Gulf Coast. Apparently, he’s trying to compete with the downtown Wal-Mart, but who can hate him for it? Nobody wants that cement pile of shit in town, but music … music we love.

The first in a concert series One105 plans to deliver is a three-band show titled “Dark Forest,” which will artistically transform the venue to match the event’s theme. I can’t help but imagine lots of pine needles and werewolves in fedoras, but maybe that’s because I’ve seen too many shows at The Cock & Bull. My only hope is the artistry will be better than the cotton balls in the trees at the Ringling Underground series. Who knows, maybe John Lichtenstein will shave off his mustache and sprinkle it around like pixie dust, capturing it on porn-quality video. (Fun, picking on SRQ artists, isn’t it?)

Expect performances by:

The Send Offs — a surf rock/shoegaze trio that includes Ben Thurmond, Matt Murphy and Adam Obando. The band is best known for its danceable yet drum-heavy vibe, while remaining introspective and statuesque enough to be considered shoegaze. Still, Mr. Thurmond – fans are waiting for you to spice things up with a Britney Spears jig. Purchase their debut LP here.

Brazos The Rat — a loop-driven guitar and drum duo consisting of leadman Brian Yoder and Michael Murphy. Live highlights include the wonderfully erratic Yoder resurrecting the manic parts of Modest Mouse while splicing in his own left-of-center philosophy. The most tempting parts arrive when Yoder abusively squeaks and then croons as if positioning himself for a Baker Act.

Florida Night Heat — a psych-stoner rock grime trio from Tampa. Think Wayne’s World with sludge.

One105 presents ‘Dark Forest’
Friday, Feb. 1, 2013
Doors @ 9 p.m., show at 10 p.m.
$5 cover, 21+

500 Tallevast Rd., STE 105
Sarasota, FL 34234

Cassolette live!

On Dec. 19, Sarasota City Commissioner Paul Caragiulo began the latest public forum on “sound” with a very important question. What is the expectation of Sarasota going to be in 30 years? A progressive livable city? A cultural arts destination? A beach town? A retirement community?

All the above?

The answer is at the core of the city’s current sound debate.

Caragiulo called the forum to obtain public input on proposed “entertainment zones” in the downtown core, which would have different sound standards than those citywide. He utilized the opportunity to weigh opinions from city residents ranging from business owners to musicians to condo residents. Tensions arose, but most agreed—no matter what the stance—everyone wants a vibrant downtown.

The disagreement stems from what constitutes “vibrant.” For some it consists of restaurants and yogurt shops. For others—live music and bars. The truth is, preference doesn’t matter. The most important component of a “vibrant” setting is people. After dark, that is what downtown is lacking.

That’s why the topic of “sound” keeps coming up. There is a segment of people—including artists, musicians, business owners, and downtown residents—who do not feel recognized. The city wants to appeal to the creative class and entrepreneurs seeking life in an urban setting but then shuts off the lights at 10 p.m. Those affected are merely asking for light entertainment within reasonable hours.

TWIS Contributor Anthony Paull takes the microphone at the sound regulations forum. Photo courtesy of Dylan Cox/Sarasota Music Scene.

Caragiulo’s proposal makes sense. It is not a complete overhaul of the sound regulations but a policy creating a small exception to certain “zones” in the downtown core to create a “vibrant” climate for people seeking live music on weekends. In all, the “zones” would allow higher decibel levels on select days for extended hours (most likely ‘til midnight) like the standards for Mattison’s City Grille. There is also talk regarding whether “zones” should extend to help revitalize the Rosemary Court community. The proper regulation and enforcement of noise complaints is also on the table.

Still, Caragiulo’s plan needs tweaking, so we’re asking TWIS readers for suggestions.

1. Opponents of the plan don’t like the term “entertainment zones.” Do you have a better idea for a name?
2. What specific downtown areas/streets you would like to see zoned?
3. Do you feel that noise complaints should be anonymous or public record?
4. Do you feel noise complaints should be measured at the property line of the complaint or at the source of the sound?

Feel free to respond in the comment section. We’ll be sure to pass along your ideas. And remember, Sarasota is a growing city. With that, we will experience growing pains. Let’s not make this an “us vs. them” issue. Every resident has a right to an opinion, and with hope, we’ll come to a solution that appeals to everyone.

Fancy Rat

Since the last “Sound Regulations” public meeting many Sarasota residents have wondered if the city is going to act on the concerns and comments of the citizens who participated. Moderated by City Commissioner Paul Caragiulo, the meeting—held to address existing sound legislation problems—had an overwhelming response, uniting over 60 Sarasota city residents interested in change.

During the meeting many suggestions were made. These included:

1) Measuring the sound complaint at the source of the complaint rather than the source of the sound.

2) Raising the decibel level limit.

3) Creating downtown “entertainment zones,” where exceptions could be made to the present regulations.

4)   Allowing a two-hour extension to present regulations on weekends.

Equines live!

Since the meeting, Caragiulo has worked behind-the-scenes with the Downtown Sarasota Alliance (DSA) and the Downtown Sarasota Condo Association (DSCA) to devise a comprehensive plan with changes regarding “sound” that will appeal to everyone.

Caragiulo says the key to the plan will be “governing the characteristics of the sound” along with the levels. There are also proposals in the plan to create downtown entertainment zones with increased decibel levels and extended hours, allowing amplified music. Caragiulo states the issue remains regarding “how to measure, how to enforce, and how to appeal” noise concerns. Caragiulo would also like to see the city do away with anonymous sound complaints.

Caragiulo plans to moderate another City Hall meeting to discuss the components of the DSA/DSCA-approved modifications. Sarasota citizens are welcome to attend in order to have personal input.

Villanova Junction

Caragiulo hopes that by the end of the meeting he will have a solid plan to take to the commission for a vote. All that is needed is YOU. Numbers are important. Without support for change, the discussion will come to an end. If you plan to attend please maintain a positive, calm demeanor and respect the opinions of Sarasota residents that may differ from your own. This is not an “us vs. them” issue. There are many downtown Sarasota condo residents who support the initiative to allow more room for live entertainment within the city limits.

Please join the City Hall discussion. This is the change many have been seeking. Be a part of Sarasota history.

“We will be the change when your open your eyes” – MeteorEYES

Sound Regulations Meeting
December 19, 2012
6:00 p.m.
City Hall – 1565 First St.
Sarasota, FL 34234

The Spandex Party is a celebration of dance, music and innovative fashion that, for most, includes rocking out somewhat intoxicated while wearing whatever does/doesn’t fit. That includes fitness gear to feathers to faux leather. Last year, I tore up a vintage Garth Brooks shirt (Fresh Horses tour, thank you), coupling it with tight jeans and pink man panties, and voilà—the night was mine.

In Sarasota, everyone in the ‘scene’ has a Spandex story much like everyone has a tequila story: embarrassing yet entertaining enough to boast about. There are reports of people losing things—eyeglasses, shame, bits, pieces of themselves—and gaining a night that most can hope to remember. Was it last year that I witnessed an argument between a werewolf and a vampire and thought I had somehow stumbled onto the set of the latest Twilight film? At some point I recall tumbling over a wooden chair placed on the dance floor (why was it there?) and having a bruise on my thigh the next day. I blamed it on trying to get the “story.” Two years ago I witnessed a bearish man singing electro in a singlet while some dirt-sexy boy whispered “this is an adventure” in my ear. Wait. Did that happen? Perhaps it was some John Lichtenstein art/photo project manipulating my perception.

Spandex Party people!

Nevertheless, this year promises to be a repeat offender, with musical performances by Tosspot, Sons of Hippies, DJ David Warren and headliner, MeteorEYES. The event doubles as a fundraiser for the 2013 Harvey Milk Festival.

Dare to be there.

The Spandex Party/December 7th, 2013

Irish Pub on Main
1359 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
$5.00 cover.

- Stop-motion video of last year’s Spandex Party by Scott Braun, John Lichtenstein and McFadden Creative.

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, filmmaker and author. His debut novel, Outtakes of a Walking Mistake, was an NPR finalist for Best YA Novel Ever.

“I love to work with Indian faces because they contain such strong emotion. It’s hard to resist being pulled into the history behind each piece,” Olson states. “And what better to go with Indians than cowboys.” Olson’s signature technique is to stack layers of hand-cut stencils, creating an image through shades of color.

Earning a loyal local following with celebrated pieces at The Clothesline Gallery and Harvey Milk Festival, Olson recently expanded his artistic endeavors, creating a fashion line  of pop-art tees for men and women alike. Patterns include images of Marilyn Monroe, puckered lips and karate-chopping leopards. Local celebrities and fashion plates like Dylonn Cole (d. cole hair design) have been spotted sporting the line, causing a surge in sales and local media interest. Olson plans to have new shirt designs available at the show to match the Indian theme. Original paintings and 8 x 10 prints ($10) will also be for sale.

“Ride ‘em Indian,” an exhibit by Clay Olson
Nov. 16, 2012, 6 – 10 p.m.
The Gallery at 252 S. Links Avenue
Light drinks served.

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, filmmaker and author. His debut novel Outtakes of a Walking Mistake was an NPR finalist for Best Teen Novel Ever.

TEETH

Forming in 2008, British electropunk mash-up TEETH is a synth-heavy dance trio that creates notable tunes soothing in spirit but exploding with spunky beats. With the humble beginnings of making music on a laptop and an electronic drum kit, the edgy trio recently drew acclaim in underground circles with the release of its debut LP Whatever, landing fans at Pitchfork and singles (“Flowers” and “See Spaces”) on heavy rotation in online radio. Building a global following by playing warehouses and nightclubs, TEETH drives naysayers to the dance floor with untried sets mixing arcade bites and distorted fuzz with the riot-grrrl vocals of Veronica So. Music bloggers draw similarities with TEETH and art house DIY bands such as Born Gold. Media outlet Dazed and Confused called TEETH “artier than Crystal Castles and more epic than Battles.” Fittingly so, Teeth’s low-budget art house video Care Bear blends punk and vintage fashion, obscuring gender roles to allow equal opportunity in the arena of dress-up. Dance fans seeking to grind their teeth on hooky digital beats may rest assured: TEETH provides catchy dance music not just sweet, but filling.

Lead singer Veronica So took a few minutes to speak with This Week in Sarasota.

 
TWIS: As evidenced by your videos, you seem to be a British fan of all things random. What are your thoughts on The Spice Girls reunion?

Veronica So: (laughs) Right! They got together for the Olympics. I was in the sixth grade when The Spice Girls were cool. I used to go to an all-Chinese private school. I remember someone telling me that the Spice Girls were evil and I shouldn’t listen to that “devil music.” So I always considered them a guilty pleasure. I remember acting out songs with friends. I was always Sporty Spice. So if the band is back, that’s great, but I try not to get my hopes up about these things.

TWIS: Tell us about the beginnings of TEETH.

Veronica: It kind of started off as a joke. I basically met laptop Simon in a coatroom in a gay bar called The Ghetto. It’s a really famous fashion haven. We started making experimental music in a basement. We put out a message on MySpace for a drummer. Drummer Simon got in touch. We were just three really oddly-matched people getting together to make music every weekend.

TWIS: Tell us a little about the sound. There’s an arcade-like quality to many of the tunes. Does gaming have an influence on the band?

Veronica: I am really into making music that sounds like a video game soundtrack. I would like my music to be in video games. Simon used to sample a lot of sounds from the 8-bit era. It shows in the songs.

TWIS: The band has a growing reputation for playing left-of-center venues. What’s the most random gig you’ve played?

Veronica: We went on a short West Coast tour and stopped by this valley called Wolf Creek and visited a fairy commune. The fairies live in the forest and make art. We had a concert in the summer barn surrounded by all these hermit fairy people. It was awesome.

TWIS: Is there a difference between British and American crowds?

Veronica: In America, the crowd is more willing to come up after the show and talk to you. In England, people are more hesitant unless they don’t like the music.

TWIS: The LP Whatever seems to lean more toward the dance floor than the mosh pits. Was that that plan during the recording?

Veronica: Yes. We like to create a subversive edge to pop music. I don’t think any of us are very punk. We are all big dorks and nerds who happen to be really rough around the edges. I think the punk thing has to do with the live show. Some crowds have massive moshing capabilities.

TWIS: There’s word of early 2013 sophomore release. What can we expect?

Veronica: It’s going to be more dance-driven. We are going to try to make it more catchy and polished. We are collaborating with Kerry from Tamion 12 Inch. That band has been a huge inspiration on us. All in all, we just hope to make people dance.

Listen: “Flowers” by TEETH

Go: Ringling Underground at the Ringling Museum
TEETH with The Send Offs and BWEDGE
Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012
8 – 11 p.m.
Free for students with I.D., $10.oo for adults

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, author and filmmaker. His debut novel, Outtakes of a Walking Mistake, was an NPR finalist for Best YA Novel Ever.

Not a Planet live!

Raising awareness of Sarasota’s sound regulations has been quite an experience. Initially, I hadn’t expected to receive such an outpour of emotion, whether positive or negative. But in the last five months, I’ve been called everything from a muckraker to a phony to a progressive to a snotty kid. I’ve navigated aggressive phone calls, outcries from business owners and verbal threats.

Whereas I thought most downtown merchants would support change, I learned many are afraid to publicly admit it. There is a tumultuous history regarding “sound” in Sarasota. In the past, business owners and various alliances have lost time and money attempting to change policies, leading many to believe the cause is fruitless. Still I persist; though Sarasota is a great city, I feel it could be better — more prosperous for those seeking nightlife and employment within its limits.

With that, I believe Sarasota’s sound regulations have thwarted the city’s ability to grow. It’s not the only reason for a sagging downtown district but a major contributor.

Right now, I don’t “love” downtown. I’m not afraid to say it. There’s limited retail shopping and nightlife, and restaurants are the only significant draw. But good luck finding something to eat after 10 p.m. (Isn’t that when most people go to dinner?)

British electro-dubstep act Breton performed live at Harvey Milk Festival.

Now bear with me while I use one prime example to demonstrate just how bad things are.

We have a downtown Starbucks that closes at 9:00 p.m on weekends.

Let me repeat that.

Sarasota’s DOWNTOWN Starbucks closes at 9:00 p.m.

On weekends.

Where does that happen?

Even the Midtown branch is open ‘til 1 a.m.

Now, some people might not like Starbucks or even drink coffee, but there is an issue when a national chain with a huge following doesn’t feel it’s profitable to remain open after 9:00 p.m. in a downtown district. But who could blame Starbucks? There’s no foot traffic.

The Equines live!

When I phoned downtown Starbucks about it, I received a series of phone hand-offs, leading to one employee with a comment. “There’s not enough business after 9:00 p.m. to stay open.” She hung up on me when she found out I work for This Week in Sarasota. Corporate has yet to return my call.

In the meantime, City Commissioner Paul Caragiulo has agreed to a public meeting this Wednesday, Oct. 17, to discuss the sound regulations, along with what we can do to improve current policies. (Please refer to my recent article for some examples.) Attendance at the meeting will indicate to Caragiulo and the Sarasota City Commission whether there is support for change. If there isn’t enough support, the issue will die.

Caragiulo took a few moments to speak with TWIS.

TWIS: In 2000, a state appeals court ruled that the Sarasota Noise Ordinance prohibiting amplified sound during certain hours violated the First Amendment. How has Sarasota been able to maintain the ordinance without modifications since the ruling?

Caragiulo: With the influx of a significant residential component in the downtown area, it’s curbed the opportunity for a conversation to occur. It’s been too easy not to talk about it.

TWIS: Then let’s talk about the rules. No amplified sound exceeding 65 dBA is permitted outside of a completely enclosed building between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. On Thursday through Sunday we gain an extra hour, the rule beginning at 11 p.m. How do you think this has affected downtown businesses?

Caragiulo: 65 dBA is basically ambient sound. We’re probably violating the rule right now. It’s hard to say how it’s affected downtown businesses. However, I don’t think it’s allowed the possibility for a progressive urban environment for such a sophisticated place. We’re an attractive venue, but we’re still a little austere on our urban side. In the ’90s, downtown had a bohemian vibe. On a Monday night in the summer you could go to five or six places. Now, everyone’s hall pass expires at 9:30 or 10 p.m. I think that a more vibrant is a safer environment. There are more eyes on the street. The perception is the plug gets pulled at 10 p.m. I’d argue in an urban environment that’s not a desirable thing.

TWIS: Do you know of any businesses that have gone under primarily due to the noise issues?

Caragiulo: Lemon Coast was directly affected. There were a lot of complaints from Dolphin Towers. I don’t know if that’s the sole reason for the business shutting down, but it was pretty significant.

TWIS: How is it that a complaint from one person can stop 300 people from having a good time?

Caragiulo: There is minority control. It takes very few people to affect policy in Sarasota. There weren’t enough people coming to the meetings to fight the regulations.  

TWIS: A major criticism of the noise regulations is that when a sound complaint is made, the sound is measured at the property line of the sound source instead of the property line at which the complaint is being registered. Could this simple change to the regulations give downtown bars and nightclubs a better chance at offering live music downtown?

Caragiulo: It’s the most significant component of the ordinance. How loud is too loud? I don’t know. I think it’s smart to look at other places that have sound regulations that work.

TWIS: In a recent city commission meeting, you stated that the noise regulations (surrounding downtown core) were not working, halting progress within the city limits. What makes you say that?

Caragiulo: I feel that the policy had not allowed the downtown to flourish in a way that I would like to see. I want to see a buzzing, vibrant environment. That’s why we’re having this conversation.

Sound Regulations Meeting
City Hall Annex Building/First Floor

October 17, 6 p.m.

1565 1st Street
, Sarasota, FL 34236 

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, author, and filmmaker. His debut novel, Outtakes of a Walking Mistake, is available now.

Oberhofer

On Oberhofer‘s infectious debut album Time Capsules II, singer and songwriter Brad Oberhofer takes his lyrics straight from the journal of a lovesick boy. Again and again he pines for the girl he doesn’t have time to take out. Oh, the perks of being a rock star.

On “I Could Go,” he perfectly plays the conflicted artist, whistling for the attention of the girl of his dreams before accusing her of running around. On “Haus,” he wants to build another girl a home, later confessing he’s been “hiding” and “lying.” His voice mimics a bruised Billy Joel, all “whoa, oh, oh.” His wounds are self-inflicted, but who doesn’t like a brooding masochist? It sells. So much that Matt and Kim welcomed Oberhofer to open on its recent tour.

With that type of calling card, Oberhofer (a recording project turned full-fledged band taking its leader’s last name) hope to remember 2012 as the year the Brooklyn-based band finally breaks. With a seal of approval from Stereogum and a recent live appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman, the band continues its fast track to fame, racking up fans with honest music that bangs as much as it bleeds.

Brad Oberhofer took a few minutes to speak with This Week in Sarasota.

TWIS: Ok. Let’s start this off on a high note. Who broke your heart and where can we go to thank that person?

Oberhofer: (laughs) I have to say that a lot of times people contribute songs to some other person. But a lot of it is just the result of internal feelings. I think it was my own personal fault for going through a period of sadness.

TWIS: Yeah, there’s a terrific amount of melancholy surrounding the bouncy beats in the songs. When penning songs, do you purposefully balance angst with exhilaration?

Oberhofer: Usually what happens isn’t on purpose. When writing songs, I just come up with the melodies on walks or when sitting at the piano. I write one part, then another. The songs are often spontaneous.

TWIS: You’ve recently toured with Sleigh Bells. How did that audience welcome your sound?

Oberhofer: Extremely well. The crowds were really enthusiastic. It was one of the best receptions we’ve ever had.

TWIS: Tell us about the Oberhofer fans. What about the music captures them?

Oberhofer: I think it’s honest. That’s the main thing.

TWIS: Time Capsules II is essentially an indie dance record, featuring musical elements from numerous decades. There’s signs of ’80s new wave, Billy Joel and ’90s nerd-rock. Was that planned?

Oberhofer: When recording I only planned for the album to involve friends and orchestral arrangements and to make it very pretty. That’s it. To explain what the songs are about, any verbal explanation would be inaccurate. “Haus,” though, that was written at college. I was daydreaming about a person, and I was jumping up and down on my bed in a dorm room, singing about it. Sometimes people can help you experience feelings you haven’t experienced before. It finds its way into the lyrics.

TWIS: Tell us a little about the New York indie music scene and how you set yourself apart from the slew of upcoming acts. 

Oberhofer: I don’t try to separate myself really. I think that when you make honest music it separates the artist. I think that all people are different and approach life in different ways. That’s what makes the music unique.

Oberhofer/Matt and Kim
October 17 at The Ritz
1503 East 7^th Avenue
Ybor City, FL 33605

For tickets, click here.

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, filmmaker, and author. His debut novel, Outtakes of a Walking Mistake, was an NPR Finalist for Best Teen Novel Ever.   

The Equines live!

They say the squeaky wheel gets the grease, and perhaps they’re right. After attending my second City Commission meeting and requesting a modification to Sarasota’s current noise regulations, City Commissioner Paul Caragiulo has agreed to schedule a special meeting on the matter.

Caragiulo is aware of the issues with current provisions regarding noise and plans to work with city residents to consider amendments, specifically in the downtown core.

For those who frequently visit downtown Sarasota, there has been a noticeable change in the summer months. Amplified music has been heard filtering into the streets from such popular nightspots as eat here and Floribbean Restaurant and Lounge. It’s been a pleasant change for a city often known to slow down when the temperature rises. However, with winter approaching, there is still cause for alarm.

You see, winter brings snowbirds, including many downtown condo residents, historically resulting in a surge of noise complaints. Due to restrictions regarding amplified music (or a continuous source of sound), police are forced to ask businesses to turn music down or off, resulting in the loss of entertainment and profit.

For those familiar with Sarasota noise regulations, the problem appears to stem in Sec. 20-5, which addresses maximum sound levels. When it pertains to noise issues, Sarasota relies on a decibel or sound meter system to determine whether a complaint is legitimate. In subsection (b)(2) the ordinance states:

1. Between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., no person shall make, cause, or allow or permit the operation of any continuous source of sound in such a manner as to create, when measured at or beyond the real property line from which the sound emanates, a sound level that exceeds seventy-five (75) dBA, eighty (80) dBC or has a ten (10) dB or greater difference between the dBA and dBC sound levels.
2.  Between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., the following morning, no person shall make, cause, or allow or permit the operation of any continuous source of sound in such a manner as to create, when measured at or beyond the real property line from which the sound emanates, a sound level that exceeds seventy-five (75) dBA, seventy-five (75) dBC or has a ten (10) dB or greater difference between the dBA and dBC sound levels.

Not a Planet at Art Center Sarasota.

For those unfamiliar with decibel levels, a 75 dBA can be compared to the sound of a ringing telephone, a hairdryer, an electric shaver or a flushing toilet. Therefore, with current legislation, one can call in a noise complaint about a neighbor using the restroom too much.

However, this can rectified in several ways:

1) Alter the dBA and dBC guidelines, making them more conducive for downtown core businesses on weekends and holidays.

2) Measure the sound level from the property line of the complaint, rather than the property line from which the sound emanates.

3) In the downtown core, extend weekend and holiday hours (perhaps until midnight) permitting amplified music or another continuous sound source.

4) Consider utilizing St. Petersburg’s method of relying on feet rather than a decibel system. (For example, the sound cannot be great enough for it to be audible for a person standing 1,000 ft. away.)

These are some suggestions that I plan to bring to the planning meeting scheduled in October. Hopefully, other citizens, including musicians and business owners, will bring ideas and questions as well. Together, we can alter Sarasota’s history, transforming the downtown core to a vibrant gathering space for those seeking music, dining, shopping and nightlife.   

Noise Regulations Meeting

City Hall Annex Building/First Floor
October 17, 6 p.m.
1565 1^st Street
Sarasota, FL 34236

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, filmmaker, and author. His debut novel Outtakes of a Walking Mistake was an NPR finalist for Best Teen Novel Ever. 

Ha Ha Tonka performing in Sarasota.

Truth be told, I’ve never been a political person. I find red tape needlessly tedious so I stick with film, music, fashion or dating. My focus is on relationships and the mediums in which people communicate through words, film or song. My political stance only tends to rear its prickly head when someone attempts to silence these forms of artistic expression.

I consider myself fortunate. Being a journalist for This Week in Sarasota has allowed me to mix journalism with activism, and I believe that’s what makes social media so appealing. Back in the day, I’d only be able to deliver simple facts, remaining stiff and objective. But what good does that serve? It’s informative, yes. But how does it promote change? Consider it. How many articles have traditional media outlets written about the noise ordinance in the last few years?

David Warren Curran of MeteorEYES playing drums downtown.

True, we have a hot-button topic and a great new annual festival aptly titled Noise Ordinance, but what else?

A better question might be, when is the last time you walked along Main Street on a weekend after 9 p.m. and thought, How sad? With few exceptions, there’s barely a lick of music on the street. The only live entertainment stems from Mattison’s City Grille, and how many people (not wearing palm-tree button-ups) relate to that sound?

I swear — sometimes living in Sarasota makes me feel like a character in Oliver, feeding off entertainment scraps, hungry for a main course. That’s why I attended the Aug. 20 Sarasota City Commission meeting (along with Fabulous Independent Film Festival Founder Magida Diouri) to ask the Commission to assist me in developing an exception to the noise regulations.

My letter read:

I am a Sarasota city resident and voter. I am also a journalist for This Week in Sarasota. I am here today to call upon the Sarasota City Commission to take a leadership role in creating an exception for the Sarasota downtown core regarding the current noise regulations. I feel the current rules limit growth for downtown merchants, and I would like to see a change regarding the use of amplified sound within the downtown core on specific days and times without the need of a special permit. I enjoy the idea of First Friday, with music and pedestrians alive in the streets. My question to the Commission is why can’t that be every Friday? As a city resident, I enjoy having dinner downtown and taking in live entertainment, and I believe such an exception will allow businesses to flourish during weekend hours without being shut down by isolated noise complaints. I am taking this action now, as Sarasota winter residents will soon return, potentially initiating noise complaints. I have grown tired of living in a city run by condo associations, and I’m asking the commission to consider helping me in devising an exception that will allow city residents to enjoy the benefits of a downtown alive after dark.

The response of the City Commission: “Let’s refer the matter to the Downtown Sarasota Alliance.”

Huh?

The Equines live.

It seems my request was misunderstood. I called upon a member of the City Commission to take a leadership role. I never mentioned nor had the intention of being passed off to the Downtown Sarasota Alliance, which is headed by John Harshman, the man who brought us the “Special Events” Meeting on June 6, 2012.

I asked to be involved as a Sarasota city resident working in conjunction with the Commission.

Isn’t that enough? Or do I need to own a condo or business in the downtown core to have a say on the matter? (Sorry, I can’t afford a downtown condo. I’m just one of those poor young artists you state you want to remain in town.) Who knows? Perhaps the Commission doesn’t feel there are enough Sarasota city residents behind me seeking an exception that isn’t based solely on the discretion of downtown condo and business owners.

I'm kinda punk rock but only Ciera (Cassolette) knows.

I wonder, is downtown nightlife and live entertainment important to you? Will you take time out of your work day to attend the next City Commission meeting and voice your opinion?

History says no.

I believe that’s why the Commission continues to rely on the Downtown Sarasota Alliance. There isn’t enough of an outcry for every voice to be heard. (FYI: Why does the issue of an elected mayor keeping coming up? Because Sarasota is praying for someone in local government who is brave enough to take a stand alone!)

Still, I remain an optimist. I believe in change. As citizens, the city is ours. That’s what I hear.

I just don’t know if the voices are numerous enough for the Commission to listen. If I’m wrong, feel free to read my letter (or your own) at the next meeting.

We’ll see.

Next Sarasota City Commission Meeting:

September 4
2:30 pm
City Hall
1565 1st Street
Sarasota, FL 34236

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, filmmaker and author. His first novel Outtakes of a Walking Mistake was an NPR finalist for Best Teen Novel Ever. 

INDIE-licious' host Ed Midler

When I was a rebellious tween I had a sick obsession with requesting dark obscure songs on local radio. It made me feel ‘edgy’ and ‘understood’. I knew such grim tunes would never hit the airwaves but I got a contact high thinking I could convince Top 40 stations to play PiL, Belly, Kate Bush, Siouxie and The Banshees or The Cure. For some reason, disc jockeys fed my addiction, stating they’d play my picks. Still, I’d wait for hours, never to hear a single angst-ridden note, often going to bed feeling blue.

In time, I learned radio stations weren’t going to play the music I liked. Therefore I staged an uprising, making up fake bands just to get a rise out of any DJ brave enough to answer the phone. 

“Hey, can you play ‘Ga Ga Goo Goo’ by The Dirty Diapers?” I’d ask.

“Yeah man! We’ll get that on!”

“Awesome! Can you also play ‘You Suck’ by I Despise You?” 

“Sure thing dude.”

I believe this is when being a smart-ass became a passion of mine. In essence, I blame Top 40 radio for the demise of my innocence. However, I also credit it with forcing me to dig deeper, finding alternative ways to discover music that falls left of center. 

Musician GRIMES

Today, I feel lucky to find such tunes on local radio (WSLR 96.5 FM) under the guise INDIE-Licious. Host Ed Midler, the local wiz-kid behind Sarasota Music Scene, has recently taken over the show, spinning indie tunes old and new, catchy and kitschy. What’s great about the playlist is Midler encourages listeners to weigh in on what they’d like to hear. It’s not rare for him to change the selections based on call-ins and INDIE-Licious Facebook requests. Last week, I asked Midler to play ‘Neptune’ by Lemonade, and 15 minutes later it was beaming over the radio as I cleaned off the dinner table. It was the musical interaction I’d always sought after as a youth.

Past INDIE-Licious playlists include songs by indie favorites like Grimes, Girl in a Coma, Phantogram, and Xiu Xiu. Local bands like Cats in The Basement, Completely From Mountains, and Fancy Rat have also been featured.

Sarasota's Fancy Rat/Image Gabriel Hernandez

What I find fascinating is how the show plays like a soundtrack to Midler’s eternal quest to find a new sound or artist on the cusp of something great. He doesn’t play favorites, inviting everyone from dubstep to chillwave to folk to neo-psychedelic artists along for the ride. With INDIE-Licious, Midler creates an intimate FM experience in an age when communication is becoming less and less personal. Plus, Midler always manages to resurrect an underrated killer ‘flashback’ tune: something that will have 80s and 90s music fans yearning for MTV’s 120 Minutes or digging up old vinyls for a second listen. In sum, yes, Midler’s show is great fun and his music knowledge is impressive. Still, I plan to give him a run for his money during the next segment.

“Hey Eddie! Can you play ‘Eat Shit!’ by The Butt-Munchers?”

The problem is I think he’d find a way to do it. 

Listen:

INDIE-Licious

Hosted By Ed Midler

96.5 WSLR

Alternating Tuesdays 9-11pm.

Lemonade ‘Neptune’

Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, author and filmmaker. His debut novel Outtakes of a Walking Mistake was recently selected as an NPR Best YA Ever Finalist.

This Week in Sarasota's own Kirsten Sponseller in "The Cover."

I have a love/hate relationship with LGBT films. Overall, I enjoy films with gay themes but find most of them ‘color-by-numbers’ or slutty without substance. Weekly, I surf Netflix, desperate for a great gay release, only to suffer through 90 minutes of bad acting or yet another film consisting of a gay man who can’t deal with the fact he’s (trigger gag reflex) gay.

Luckily, a tremendous amount of great foreign films (I Killed My Mother, Plan B and Weekend) and a few U.S. releases (Save Me, Codependent Lesbian Space Alien Seeks Same) have reignited my belief that LGBT filmmaking is alive and well. The program for the 2nd Annual Fabulous Independent Film Festival (FIFF) solidifies that belief. Having screened several films, I can honestly say that festival director Magida Diouri has selected a great lineup, both innovative and fun. As lead programmer of the 2012 Sarasota Film Festival, Diouri already holds a respected track record for discovering “what’s next” in film, and founding FIFF has only added to her reputation. Partnering with The Harvey Milk Festival, Diouri hopes the festival will continue to grow, offering locals a cinematic alternative: the chance to view features that the major houses may never run. For those less adventurous, have no fear, Diouri’s been doing it for ages. Little known fact: Diouri’s father owns an independent movie theater in Belgium, where Diouri began assisting with reels soon after she could stand.

Here’s a quick review of three of the six films you can expect to see at the festival.

The Wise Kids

Tyler Ross, Allison Torem and Molly Kunz in "The Wise Kids."

Following the small-town lives of three teens in a Southern Baptist youth group, The Wise Kids (directed and written by Stephen Cone) illustrates the struggles and triumphs of becoming an adult in the eyes of God while learning life doesn’t always follow a straight path. Who will the group look up to when the pastor and select churchgoers don’t live up to the teachings in the scriptures? How does one hose down a case of unholy hormones? Cone places a spin on the familiar story by creating likable characters that may not always engage in likable behavior. With several standout performances including Allison Torem portraying the awkwardly devout Laura, Wise Kids is equally pleasant as painful to watch, slowly igniting its spiritual bonfire by counteracting heart-wrenching moments with ones that can warm the iciest soul.      

Sassy Pants (Opening Night Film)

Haley Joel Osment in "Sassy Pants."

Bethany Pruitt is the valedictorian of her senior class, but home-schooled, she is also the only member of her senior class. Thus begins the charmingly bumpy tale of a teen girl struggling to break free from the grip of a paranoid mother who was recently abandoned by her husband for a younger flamboyant cowboy (The Sixth Sense’s Haley Joel Osment). Absurd or not, writer/director Coley Sohn sacrifices campiness in her feature debut by towing the line between playful (Sixteen Candles) and peculiar (Welcome To The Dollhouse), ultimately creating a tale to which anyone can relate. Following Bethany (Sarasota native Ashley Rickards) as she flees her mother’s home to live with her gay father, the film finds humor in rich dialogue and well-timed comedic performances by seasoned actors Osment and the ever-amusing Anna Gunn (Breaking Bad). Moviegoers preferring substance to silliness will enjoy the blooming romance between Bethany and the boy-next-door, revealing a side of teen innocence rarely captured on the silver screen as of late.

Love or Whatever (Closing Night Film)

Joel Rush as Pete and Tyler Poelle as Corey in "Love or Whatever."

Therapist Corey (Tyler Poelle) leads a charmed life, complete with a sexy boyfriend and an outlandish sister (Jennifer Elise Cox), until his boyfriend, claiming to be bisexual, leaves him for a woman that’s also a client. Following the gushy footprints of most romantic comedies, Love or Whatever manages to stir a few good laughs by realistically chronicling the awkwardness of a break-up and the madness that often follows. When Corey meets pizza boy Pete he is left to decide whether to start love anew or return to his ex. Fans of half-clothed muscle men with adequate acting skills will stand and applaud this touching effort, while those with more refined film palates will need to look elsewhere for something outside of the box. But then again, what other movie has the guts to ask, “Have you ever been taken from behind by a mountain lion?”

The 2nd Annual Fabulous Independent Festival

August 18-19^th, 2012 Burns Court Cinemas
506 Burns Lane, Sarasota Fl. 34236

Advance tickets are available here. Tickets also available the day of show (upon availability).

2012 Schedule

August 17
10:00 p.m. – Celebration Pre-Party @ Throb Nightclub/$5.00 donation

August 18
3:00 p.m. – United in Anger: A History of ACT UP
5:15 p.m. – North Sea Texas
7:00 p.m. – Opening Night Film: Sassy Pants w/short The Cover
9:15 p.m. – Opening Night Party at eat here

August 19
3:00 p.m. – The Wise Kids
5:15 p.m. – Cloudburst
7:00 p.m. – Closing Night Film: Love or Whatever
9:00 p.m. – Closing Night Reception at Caragiulos

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, author and filmmaker. His debut novel Outtakes of a Walking Mistake has recently been selected as an NPR finalist for Best Teen Novel Ever.