Troublesome news on Ped Mall drum circle... Just got back from Ped Mall from one of my late night briefing sessions. On Tuesday nights, I can usually count on my drum circle companeros to keep me awake and inspired while drafting my brief (my briefs are a little punchier, and rhythmic when the circle is really rocking). I noticed they stopped quite a bit earlier than usual, but didnt think much of it ... maybe just the summer doldrums on the ped mall. After I returned home, I received word that a tenant from 201 Place was complaining about the drum circles, and didnt like the noise. He called the cops and wanted it shut down early. Folks the value of drum circles is self evident, and requires no elucidation. This is just wrong. You all know why. Our town is becoming more corporate, more bland, more beholden to the few rather than respecting everyones right to enjoy public space. Last year, the homeless were the victims of an attempt to harass them off the ped mall. (Have you noticed that no chairs or tables have been placed in their previous location due to the homeless problem?). Now we have new attempts to shut down the drum circle. The Ped Mall is a public space for everyone subject only to ordinances to allow access for all. The drummers have assiduously followed the quiet by 10 rule for 20 years, and the officer was the one that brought that up. We now have private tenants trying to control the drum circle in the Ped Mall in a space that does not belong to them. Drum circle now, whats next? I dont like conflict. No one does, but we need to speak out and act when these vibrant threads of Iowa City culture become unraveled. Maybe it would be a good idea to sit in on the next drum circle Tuesday night and see what happens (play a little louder friends...). (I am going to bed... have to get up tomorrow at 6 for an all expense paid trip to West Union tomorrow)
Posted on: Wed, 09 Jul 2014 04:56:23 +0000