Some acoustic guitars, a couple of drums, a dash of disappointment in society and a sprinkle of hope for the future were served up in a Gainesville park Wednesday. About 80 people showed up for the Respect Yer Mama Bicycle Tour and punk show in Northeast Park on Wednesday afternoon. The show was organized by Jon DeCarmine around the arrival of four activists, Shannon Murray, Art Friedrich, Cylee Heart and Evan Greer, who biked over 1,200 miles throughout Florida in the past month.
The cyclists discussed community organizing and global warming, explaining that impoverished people are in a position to take immediate action because they are more likely to use public transportation and bicycles.
A handful of local bands, including Gainesville Liberation Orchestra and Dirty Fist, strummed acoustic guitars, beat on drums and plucked the mandolin alongside the bicyclists. Sitting among scattered pine trees, the audience watched artists who performed from a park table. "Traveling by bicycle gives us a chance to really connect with people," Greer said.
By biking with no support vehicle to carry gear, the cyclists hope to raise awareness about global warming.
The group will go to Tallahassee next, which will be the last stop on their tour.
Jon DeCarmine, who has organized two similar shows, talked while watching Rio de la Muerta, a local, solo acoustic act.
"I guess when I became a parent, I realized that most punk events are in smoky bars and are booze soaked," DeCarmine said, as he played with his 2-year-old-son, Rainer.
He wanted to create shows that he could take his son to, which would allow him to still be active in Gainesville's punk community, he said.
