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View Full Listing  Link to Article Nightlife: Club Owners Bash Nuisance Points System Rochester, NY – The city council in Rochester has voted to place a six month moratorium on the nuisance point system used for nightlife establishments. A debate between bar and nightclub owners with the city government has found the system to be complicated, unclear and ineffective in addressing safety and quality of life challenges. The point system assigns points to establishments for illegal activities such as drug offenses, gambling, and prostitution. Accumulation of points can lead to closing the business. Many business owners allege that police officers are inconsistent in their decisions to fine or issue points to an establishment, and further believe the system disproportionately targets establishments owned and frequented by minorities. The police have responded by stating they treat all owners and patrons the same. Due to current challenges with the system, business owners, city council members and community residents are pushing to create an advisory board to evaluate and oversee the distribution of points in the future. Christine Carrie Fien, Rochester City Newspaper http://www.rochestercitynewspaper.com/ 8/11/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article South Side Bar Owners Try To Keep The Peace Pittsburgh, PA – Bar and restaurant owners in the South Side have joined forces to address nightlife challenges by establishing the South Side Responsible Hospitality Partnership. The organization has pooled together $60,000 thus far to fund additional city police officers and weekend clean-up crews, which will cover not only East Carson Street but also side streets where homeowners have reported disturbances. Business owners plan to engage in community service projects as an additional effort to reduce tension with community residents. The group will also host an annual Responsible Alcohol Management Program to educate bar owners and servers on responsible alcohol service, recognition of fake IDs, and conflict resolution. Business owners have proposed making the hospitality partnership part of the South Side Planning Forum, now composed of representatives of six community groups. Joe Smydo jsmydo@post-gazette.com, Pittsburgh Post Gazette http://www.post-gazette.com 8/1/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Mayor Comes to Pike/Pine to Launch Plan to Overhaul Seattle’s Nightlife Laws Seattle, WA — Mayor Mike McGinn and the Seattle Nightlife Initiative have unveiled an eight-point proposal for creating a "safe and vibrant" nighttime economy in the city. Throughout the summer, City Hall will consider proposals, gather feedback and refine plans to alter state regulations and craft new legislation in Seattle. Among the eight points are nightlife strategies such as flexible liquor service hours, security training requirements, precinct community outreach and re-assessment of the city’s late night transportation options. "The challenge is on us. How do we work together to create the community we want?" McGinn said. "We all have a stake in our city and our neighborhoods." Frances E. Dinger, Capitol Hill Seattle http://capitolhillseattle.com/ 7/14/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article ’08 Law to Train Bouncers Mostly Ignored Polk County, Iowa — A law that mandated training for Polk County bouncers has been mostly ignored and unenforced, reports Kerry Koonce, a spokeswoman for Iowa Workforce Development. Less than 100 people have been trained, even though the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division identified about 1,300 eligible establishments. The law, which requires that at least one bouncer per applicable venue receives training, was passed in 2008. Disconnection between the law and local ordinances has created a loophole to skip the $50, eight-hour training without consequences. Jason Clayworth, The Des Moines Register http://www.desmoinesregister.com 7/7/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Downtown Revitalization Plans Revealed Winnipeg, MB, Canada — The City of Winnipeg’s downtown development agency has proposed major rezoning and district creation to revitalize the downtown. CentreVenture’s proposal would cut the northern section of Portage Avenue into four distinct zones – dUniversity, Retail, Sports and Entertainment and Commercial – each of which will see substantial redevelopment. The city hopes that the new districts will reduce public complaints regarding public intoxication, vagrancy and panhandling that accompany the sale of liquor in the area. CBC/Radio-Canada http://www.cbc.ca 7/7/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Edgewood, Auburn Bars Could Pour Until 3:55 a.m. Under Councilmembers’ Late-night Bar Hours Pilot Program Atlanta, GA — Council members Kwanza Hall and Michael Julian Bond have introduced legislation to start a pilot program that would evaluate the impact of later bar closing hours on businesses, residents and city officials. The proposed program would target two downtown districts and historic streets that boast emerging nightlife, Edgewood and Auburn. The program would permit the serving of alcohol from 9 a.m. until 3:55 a.m Monday through Friday and until 2:55 a.m. on Saturdays, if the venue pays a $2,800 premium. The pilot also carries conditions: venues would be required to hire an off-duty police officer to provide security and could have their special status revoked at any time by the chief of police. “This pilot program will allow us to determine whether current hours of operation could be extended," said Hall, "and how the extension of this privilege should be managed by the city so as to serve the best interest and public safety of citizens and visitors.” Thomas Wheatley, Creative Loafing Atlanta http://clatl.com 7/6/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Which Are The USA’s Best Public Restrooms? Cincinnati, OH — Ten immaculately clean finalists have been chosen in the America’s Best Restroom IX contest. Cintas Corporation created the Best Restroom award in 2002 to honor businesses across America that place high value on hygiene and style in their public restrooms. "We like to think of this contest as a fun, light-hearted way of drawing the public’s attention to the very important issue of restroom hygiene," says Cintas Marketing Manager Rich Bing. "People don’t think about such things until they walk into a poorly kept restroom, and then it matters. After that, the odds are they won’t be back." Previous winners have included restrooms at the University of Notre Dame, The Grand Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi and Kohler Art Center in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. PRNewswire http://www.prnewswire.com 7/1/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article ’Ash Bags’ to Reduce Cigarette Butts Yellowknife, NT, Canada — The Yellowknife Health and Social Services Authority has launched a new campaign to hand out "ash bags" at various locations across the city to reduce cigarette litter. "It’s basically a personal ashtray," said Jo Russell, health promotion coordinator, with the city health authority. "(It’s) giving smokers an option not to litter if there isn’t any ashtrays around." Russell added that Edmonton had a similar idea with personal ashtrays which inspired their campaign. Northern News Services Online http://nnsl.com 6/25/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Study: Cigarette Butts are Leading Cause of Litter in State of Texas Texas — The Texas Department of Transportation has released a new study which claims that cigarette butts are the single largest contributor to highway litter in the state. The study estimates that nearly 400 million cigarette butts were tossed on Texas roadways in 2009, accounting for 43 percent of roadside trash. The study, which was based on sample stretches of Texas roads, also estimates that total roadside trash jumped 33 percent last year, to 1.1 billion pieces of litter. The Lubbock Avalance-Journal http://lubbockonline.com 6/25/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Pittsburgh Council Wants Close Eye on Gang Initiative Pittsburgh, PA — The Pittsburgh City Council has approved $200,000 for the Pittsburgh Initiative to Reduce Crime, a social service program aimed at assisting gang members who want to turn their lives around. The council has also mandated quarterly reports to track the program’s progress. Police spokeswoman Diane Richard described the initiative as a "proactive approach designed to help resolve some of the violent criminal activity that is plaguing our communities." Adam Brandolph, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review http://www.pittsburghlive.com 6/21/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Pleasant-Smelling Public Restrooms – A Tourism Boost Manila, Philippines — The Department of Tourism’s latest successful campaign centered on a very unusual secret weapon: pleasant-smelling bathrooms. In 2004 the Department officially recognized the importance that restroom sanitation holds in the tourism industry by spearheading the first-ever Toilet Recognition of the Year (TROY) Awards. The awards have promoted a culture of sanitation and hygiene among Filipinos, boosting tourism and introducing a fresh, even floral-scented outlook on hospitality. Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation http://www.mb.com.ph 6/19/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article First Lady’s Plan Targets "Food Deserts" According to First Lady Michelle Obama, 17 percent of children in the United States are obese, and many more are overweight and have unhealthy eating habits. She says that the United States is full of “Food Deserts,” rural areas with limited access to vendors that sell healthy food. The Healthy Food Financing Initiative is a $400 million initiative geared towards reducing childhood obesity by encouraging healthy food and lifestyle choices. Specific projects include bringing more healthy food into rural areas via Farmer’s Markets, mobile food vendors and small local grocery stores. The hope is that by targeting local resources, this initiative will also help build community and help combat poverty by providing affordable healthy food for communities and fair direct trade for farmers and merchants. Landon Hall, Orange County Register http://healthyliving.freedomblogging.com/ 6/13/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Sound Check: Recommendations Ready On Downtown Noise Control Elgin, IL – The Downtown Neighborhood Noise Task Force is ready to present to City Council new noise regulations and soundproofing measures. Bars, restaurants and live music venues near residents would be required to stay under 60 decibels at night, equivalent to a normal conversation between two people standing 3-5 feet apart. The committee suggested a grant and loan program to help subsidize the cost of soundproofing businesses and residents. The city would cover 50 percent of sound abatement, up to $5,000. The remainder of the costs could be taken up front as a loan from the city and repaid through an entertainment ticket surcharge to consumers. For downtown residents who still have legitimate noise complaints, the committee suggested a "last resort" option of 50 percent reimbursement, up to $2,500, to soundproof bedroom windows. Residents expressed recognition of the social and economic value of flourishing nighttime businesses, but also sought more peaceful coexistence with commercial properties in the mixed-use area. Mike Danahey mdanahey@stmedianetwork.com, The Courier-News http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/index.html 6/10/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Shh! Hotel Sleep Wardens Listen for Night Noise United Kingdom — Travelodge properties in the U.K. have announced the employment of specially-trained staff members, “Sleep Wardens,” to monitor nighttime noise and issue warnings to guests who are disturbing the peace. If guests continue to make excessive noise after receiving a warning, monitors tell the noisy guests to pack up their belongings and leave the premises. Travelodge, which advertises itself as a “retailer of sleep,” has conducted studies regarding what keeps guests awake at night; in the latest survey of 6,000 adults, money worries, work-related stress and noise showed up as the major causes of sleep deprivation. Although they can’t address the first two sleep-inhibitors, Travelodge’s new initiative aims to monitor “good bedtime etiquette” for guests’ nighttime benefit. Harriet Baskas, MSN http://www.msnbc.msn.com 6/10/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Making Room For a Lowertown Resaissance Downtown Minneapolis is considering expansion of its outdoor dining along Sixth Street to establish Lowertown as a vibrant dining destination. The proposal calls for adding eight feet to the current ten foot wide sidewalk, allowing space for about twenty five more tables on the block’s patios. In turn, Sixth Street would be narrowed from four to three traffic lanes, and sixteen parking meters would be removed. Critics are concerned about the loss of revenue totaling $20,000 annually from the meters, and prefer a plan that would require landlords to pay for their own seasonal patios. Downtown stakeholders have requested more extensive dialogue about a comprehensive downtown sidewalk plan. Gita Sitaramiah gsitaramiah@pioneerpress.com, Pioneer Press Http://www.twincities.com 5/19/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Truckloads of Freaks, Strippers, Art and Noodles Drive NYC’s Lost Horizon Night Market New York, NY — New York is the home of a revolutionary new art event called Lost Horizon Night Market, an ongoing participatory project that spreads entirely by word of mouth. “Proprietors” rent a truck and create interactive art spaces, legality being the only restriction. There are no admission fees, and proprietors are requested to only ask for exchange or participation in return. “For one night, we make an autonomous neighborhood,” said Lost Horizon Night Market co-founder Mark Krawczuk, who enjoys spurring people to act on their creative desires. “I get a kick out of seeing people do stuff. I’ve got 40 people into the game … got people who’ve never done installation art before to do it.” Dan Glass, Wired Magazine http://www.wired.com 5/14/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Street Vendors Often First Line Of Defense: ’If Something Is Amiss, They Know It’ New York, NY - On the evening of March 1st, 2010, a T-shirt vendor in Times Square alerted the police to a suspicious vehicle, which upon further investigation was found to contain a failed bomb. Vendors expressed hope that the foiled bombing attempt would improve relations with police by bringing to light the important role they serve in the community. Spending long hours standing in the same place, they’re familiar with the neighborhoods and often can identify suspicious activities. In fact, vendors often act as the eyes and ears for the police, and have even been known to intervene when witnessing theft or pickpocketing. This event has sparked support for vendors as an asset to the community, rather than a nuisance to be enforced. Samantha Gross, The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com 5/13/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Iowa City Moves Closer To Panhandling Law Iowa City, IA - The Iowa City Council voted in favor of an aggressive panhandling ordinance that limits solicitation to a narrow strip in the center of the downtown pedestrian mall. The vote was the second of three needed for the ordinance to pass into law. The proposed move would keep panhandlers away from business fronts, 20 feet away from ATMs and 10 feet away from mobile vendors to address complaints from shoppers and business owners. However, local nonprofits are concerned about their ability to fundraise if the legislation passes since the new restrictions will also limit the number of people who will be able to canvass downtown for donations. Josh O’Leary, The Muscatine Journal http://muscatinejournal.com 5/11/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Norfolk Streets Safe Despite Extra Hours Norfolk, UK — Five years since the introduction of flexible hours for pubs and clubs, stakeholders such as police, officials and pub experts in Norfolk claim the strategy has been successful. The initiative led Norfolk nightlife to expand to meet the needs of young patrons, while many who previously had to travel to the city for late-night entertainment are now staying in market town venues. EDP finds that people are socializing closer to home and disorder has not risen. This research has coincided with mounting pressure among the new coalition government to review the licensing laws, which sought to bring continental-style café culture to the streets of Britain. Richard Batson, The Eastern Daily Press http://www.edp24.co.uk 5/7/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Mixed Uses And Incomes Makes San Francisco District Bloom San Francisco, CA - San Francisco’s Yerba Buena district, formerly a declining area full of vacant warehouses, has been successfully redeveloped into a vibrant community space where a mixture of families, food vendors, musicians and artist congregate and socialize. The district contains three “Central Blocks” comprising 22 acres of retail, entertainment, and cultural uses, including outdoor performances and cultural festivals. The San Francisco Redevelopment Agency contracts with the KTB company to manage the security, operation and maintenance program for Yerba Buena Gardens. Helen Sause, the project’s current director, contributes the area’s success to the team’s "cooperative atmosphere" since the planning and redevelopment process started in the 1960s. Project for Public Spaces http://www.pps.org 5/6/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Chicago Street Vendors Push to Reform City Laws Chicago, IL- Despite the growing popularity of prepared foods sold by street vendors in Chicago, most are prohibited from obtaining a license to do so. The consequences can include fines up to $200 or arrest. Vendors in Chicago are collaborating with the Asociacion de Vendedores Ambulantes (Street Vendors Association) in order to raise awareness and lobby for a policy change. Street vending is the primary source of income for many marginalized socio-economic groups and is a critical staple of immigrant neighborhoods. Business owners have expressed concerns, however, with quality of life impacts associated with vendors, such as noise, public urination, trash generation as well as attracting rodents. To address these concerns, AVA encourages members to take food sanitation courses and file the appropriate documents to pay taxes. Further, The Street Vendor Project, part of the non-profit Urban Justice Center, has created the Vendy Awards to recognize top-notch food and sanitation practices. Lisa D. Lenoir, Chicago Tribune http://www.chicagotribune.com/ 4/30/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Stance Shifts On Club Oversight San Francisco, CA — Discontent over nightlife-related violence and perceived lack of action taken against problem venues has led Mayor Newsom to call for the Entertainment Commission’s dissolution. The Mayor is garnering support to return nightlife regulatory power back to the police, including the ability to issue and revoke business permits. Meanwhile, the Commission’s strongest advocate, Kevin Ryan, former federal prosecutor, argues that restricting nightlife in the city will negatively impact businesses that attract visitors, and furthermore, that nightlife violence is due to “ ‘inadequate enforcement tools’ available to the Commission. John Cote, San Francisco Chronicle http://www.sfgate.com/ 4/18/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Kabul Nightlife: Thriving In Between Bombs Kabul, Afghanistan — Although the Afghan capital regularly experiences devastating terrorist attacks, nightlife still manages to flourish for the numerous high-salaried expatriates working in the city. Entertainment venues operate clandestinely like American speakeasies — though they are generally protected by 20-foot-tall blast walls and armed Afghan security guards. "It’s like dancing at the edge of a volcano," explains Anne Seidel, a German architect working for the U.N. in Kabul. Astonishingly, the city’s war-zone entrepreneurs provide restaurant diversity greater than Delhi, Karachi or Tehran, cities many times larger than Kabul. Unfortunately, because Muslims are not supposed to drink alcohol and most venues offer illegal alcohol, most armed Afghan guards won’t allow the patrons’ Afghan compatriots to come inside. Tim McGirk, Time http://www.time.com/time/ 4/13/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article A Whirlwind Tour Through Vermont World of Noise Pollution Burlington, VT — Noise pollution is a contentious issue for stakeholders in cities and suburbs across the nation, especially those in mixed-use districts or areas experiencing redevelopment; the specific definition of noise pollution and how much is acceptable has so far escaped consensus. Movements to settle this debate are gaining momentum, and leaders have emerged like Vermont author Garret Keizer, whose new book titled "The Unwanted Sound of Everything We Want: A Book About Noise" will be released on May 4. Les Blomberg, on the other hand, is the director of the Noise Pollution Clearinghouse in Montpelier. Originally trained as a physicist, Blomberg directs a national noise-related database and has become an authority on noise. Mounting public debates on noise issues have been pitting economic vitality against neighborhood quality of life, especially in areas where economic growth is dependent on air traffic, such as South Burlington. Blomberg and Keizer, among others, are attempting to frame solutions to noise pollution debates before they further split stakeholders. Tim Johnson, The Burlington Free Press http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/ 4/11/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Code To Combat Alcohol Related Crime Launched South Kesteven, UK — District stakeholders have voiced their support for the Community Safety Partnership’s new code of practice, which was recently adopted to prevent alcohol related violent crime and disorder. The code defines how the partnership of key agencies including the District Council, the Lincolnshire County Council and the Lincolnshire Police will work together to effectively manage the night-time economy in South Lincolnshire. The code aims specifically to support the prevention of crime and disorder at night by improving public safety. Stakeholders involved hope the codes of practice will assist even the most experienced night-time operator to reduce crime and disorder, encourage greater safety for their staff and customers and make for a safer community. South Kesteven District Council http://www.southkesteven.gov.uk 3/31/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article More Liquor Stores Mean More Violence San Diego, CA — According to a new study of crime statistics and listings of liquor licenses in Cincinnati, the more bars and liquor stores in an area, the more violence there will be. The researchers, from Indiana University, claim that convenience stores and carry-out sites that sold alcohol were the most strongly associated with assaults, but that bars and restaurants that serve alcohol are also correlated with violence. The researchers did not have data about whether the crimes were alcohol-related, so the study is one of correlation rather than causation. They did, however, attempt to account for other factors that could skew the correlation. Clara Moskowitz, Live Science http://www.livescience.com 2/21/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article ’Best Bar None Better than Licensing Act’ UK — Lord Rupert Redesdale, chairman of Best Bar None (BBN), claims that the program has been more successful in reducing violence, encouraging partnership and promoting the late-night economy than the Licensing Act. He says that the BBN scheme in Durham has led to a 52% drop in crime and a 28% increase in trade at some venues. The program accredits pubs and clubs for the strategies they adopt to be responsible, including search policies and age-check procedures. “Politicians have an urge to introduce regulation on the drink industry but we have an opportunity to (address issues) through Best Bar None and it is cheap,” said Redesdale. “I’m trying to tell Government that we don’t need regulation." Ewan Turney, Morning Advisor http://www.morningadvertiser.co.uk 2/7/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article District Looking at Hospitality Zone Columbia, MO — The Special Business District of Columbia is considering a comprehensive plan for revitalizing downtown by re-envisioning it as a hospitality zone. The district would focus on increasing safety and vibrancy through greater cooperation among stakeholders to maximize the economic and social benefits of a nighttime economy. The first phase of the plan includes instituting special event street closures, taxi stands, more trash and recycling receptacles, mandatory alcohol training for venue employees and a patron responsibility campaign aimed at students. The idea was formed after several city stakeholders attended a conference hosted by the Responsible Hospitality Institute. Justin Willett, The Columbia Tribune http://www.columbiatribune.com 1/13/2010

View Full Listing  Link to Article Mercury News Investigation: San Jose Police Often Use Force in Resisting-arrest Cases San Jose, CA — The San Jose Mercury News is investigating allegations that city police officers have been using excessive force in resisting-arrest cases. Hundreds of times a year, reports the newspaper, trivial interactions between San Jose police and residents have escalated into violence. The Mercury News has reviewed 206 court cases in recent months, finding that the most serious charge levied against the defendant was a violation of California Penal Code section 148 — the misdemeanor crime of resisting arrest or delaying or obstructing a police officer. Of those, 70 percent of the cases involved the use of force by officers. This review itself was instigated by an April disclosure that the San Jose police department charges far more people with resisting arrest per capita than any other major California city, and that Latinos are disproportionately targeted. Police chief Rob Davis has defended the department and says his officers are trained to show restraint; he cautioned that comparisons with other cities can be misleading. Sean Webby, PuppetGov.com http://blog.puppetgov.com 11/20/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article City of Light Promotes Paris By Night Paris, France — Attracting nightlife and nightlife patrons has never been difficult for the cultural and business center of France. However, the Paris town hall has launched a major campaign to promote nightlife, including a first-ever website and a free guide. In the face of increasingly competitive nightlife in Western Europe, Paris is seeking to feature around 300 venues on its website in both English and French. Meanwhile, nightlife advocates argue that stricter noise regulations and anti-smoking restrictions have harmed night life in the city, yet these issues have yet to be addressed. Associated Press http://www.ap.org/ 11/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article $10 Million Nightlife Complex to Create Some 100 Jobs Nassau, the Bahamas — Club Luna will soon be the latest newcomer to the mega-nightclub scene in the Bahamas, and it’s bringing 100 nightlife jobs with it. Megan Sweeting of Solé Marketing said that the mixed-use facility has been designed to host large parties and concerts. She said the complex will cater to the young professional demographic, while focusing on native Bahamians who want to enjoy their own culture in a safe environment. Safety, she added, has been the most significant element in designing the club. Chester Robards crobards@tribunemedia.net, The Tribune http://www.tribune242.com 11/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Disorder Plagues Nightlife Zone Milwaukee, WI — Surveillance cameras on La Fuente Mexican restaurant in downtown Milwaukee became the focus of a meeting to confront growing disorder on S. 5th street during closing time. The twelve minute video shows about 40 crimes being committed and laws being broken, including a carjacking, multiple fights in the street and stopped cars blocking traffic. Complaints about S. 5th street, most often regarding loud music, noise and fights, have escalated so greatly that Ald. James Witkowiak claims "there’s real concern for the future of S. 5th St. from National Ave. to Florida... if your business is responsible for attracting that kind of lawlessness, your license will be dealt with." Longtime Walker’s Point resident Frank Gonzales said that the bars, restaurants and residents must work collectively to solve the problem. "Thirty years ago we had gangs and drug activity, but we worked together," he said. "We were afraid, but we did it." He added that similar cooperative approaches will be necessary to solve current issues. Georgia Pabst, The Journal Sentinel http://www.jsonline.com 11/8/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Nightlife Task Force Seeks Safer Downtown Wilmington Wilmington, NC — A taxi stand to help patrons return home safely and quickly after closing time has been created on Princess Street; it is the first step toward solving perceived nightlife issues in the city. Officials, who commend this initiative as an important first step, say it will take a community approach to make downtown safer at night. The taxi stand was one component of a proposal by the nightlife task force, which has formed a list of best practices for bar owners to adopt, among other recommendations. Allison Harnden, vice president of the Responsible Hospitality Institute, said city officials should consider implementing a 24-hour nighttime economy. “A lot of cities are geared toward the 9-to-5 crowd without thinking about what goes on after dark,” said Harnden. Shannan Bowen Shannan.Bowen@StarNewsOnline.com, StarNews Online http://www.starnewsonline.com 11/7/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Numbers Define Dress Code Furor Kansas City, MO — The Power and Light District has received another discrimination complaint, but this time the Kansas City’s Human Relations Department has publicized data from a "lightning rod" study conducted of the dress code enforcement in the District. According to the data, test groups of whites and minorities were sent to the entertainment district, all dressed in like fashion; all whites were admitted while 46 percent of minorities were rejected. The district’s developer, the Cordish Company, would not directly respond to the allegations. Dan Verbeck, KCUR News http://www.publicbroadcasting.net 11/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article City OKs Plan to Study Downtown Arena, Entertainment District Las Vegas, NV — The City Council has voted unanimously to enter into an exclusive agreement with the Cordish Company of Baltimore to study the prospects of building an arena, a casino/hotel and an entertainment district on a 20-acre piece of land that houses the current city hall. The sports arena could conceivably lure an NBA or an NHL team to locate in Las Vegas. The exclusive negotiation agreement gives the Cordish Company two years to study the feasibility of the proposed building projects. Mayor Oscar Goodman stated that many people who relocate to Las Vegas start identifying more with the community thanks to the nationally ranked UNLV Rebels basketball team; building an arena and an entertainment district would extend that sense of community, he said. Dave Toplikar, The Las Vegas Sun http://www.lasvegassun.com 11/4/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Night Life in San Francisco Under the Microscope San Francisco, CA — The San Francisco Board of Supervisors committee hearing on expanding the powers of the Entertainment Commission nearly devolved into finger pointing between the noisy (late-night patrons, venue owners and younger residents) and the quiet (resident groups). Next week, the full board will vote on a package of bills to grant the Commission authority to issue more late-late night (2:00-6:00 a.m.) operating permits as well as new authority to temporarily suspend nightclub operation. The give-and-take arrangement has taken criticism from citizen groups, who claim the Commission is fraught with conflicts of interest; hospitality stakeholders disagree, claiming that an empowered body of their peers could better manage nightlife issues than the police department. Gerry Shih, New York Times http://bayarea.blogs.nytimes.com 10/28/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Seattle Nightlife Group Files Complaint About City Attorney Carr Seattle, WA — The Seattle Nightlife and Music Association has officially filed an elections complaint against City Attorney Tom Carr, claiming that a recent crackdown occurred for political reasons. The Association reported that an assistant city attorney met with bar and club owners on October 6, threatening club owners, who held fundraisers for Pete Holmes, Carr’s political opponent. Bar and club owners have also blamed Carr for "Operation Sobering Thought", a sting in 2007 that targeted bar workers for letting in underage and armed patrons. Carr’s campaign alleges that the Associations attacks are political themselves and the crackdowns occurred in the context of violent incidents. Chris Grygiel, Seattle PI http://blog.seattlepi.com 10/27/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Juárez: Gated Bar District is Safest Place to Socialize Juárez, Mexico — Despite widespread crime and violence in the capital of the Mexican state of Chihuahua, bar and restaurant patrons can still relax and socialize in an entertainment zone on the city’s east side. A gated block of Tomas Fernandez Boulevard boasting 12 bars and restaurants, La Cantera district is patrolled by the police Investigative Unit and private security guards. Many of the city’s bars and restaurants have closed due to rising violence and the bad economic crisis; however, thousands of people visit La Cantera every weekend. Aileen Flores, El Paso Times http://www.elpasotimes.com 9/27/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article SF Floats Plan for SOMA LGBT Heritage District San Francisco, CA — San Francisco’s South of Market neighborhood, popularly known as SOMA, has been a predominantly LGBTQ area since the ’60s. Recently, the city has discussed a plan to designate parts of SOMA as an official LGBTQ social heritage district, developed by the city-convened Western SOMA Citizens Planning Task Force and several planning department staffers. Goals include preservation of the area’s historical and cultural heritage and to promote those values into the future. Preliminary plans for the heritage district can be found online at http://www.sfgov.org/westernsoma. Mathew Bajko m.bajko@ebar.com, Bay Area Reporter http://www.ebar.com 9/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Beijing to Get Tougher on Drunk Driving Beijing, China — Beijing traffic authorities have announced their intent to increase road inspections around Oct.1, the start of the National Day holiday season. To fight the expected surge of drunk-driving, they have announced plans for regular middle of the day and night-time inspections, as well as a greater number of spot checks at irregular times. This news come after Chinese police launched a two-month nationwide crackdown on DUIs following a series of shocking cases in which drunk drivers killed pedestrians. China View News http://news.xinhuanet.com 9/23/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Foursquare Turns Nightlife Into a Social-media MMOG Denver, CO — Going live in 21 cities across the nation, a new service called Foursquare aims to marry social media and nightlife. Declaring itself to be "50 percent friend-finder, 30 percent social city guide, 20 percent nightlife game,” patrons utilize mobile browsers or texting to log their exploits, connect with friends and earn achievements. Most impressively, social-media news site Mashable reports that Foursquare is demonstrating explosive growth and has already tapped into a lucrative advertising niche. Cory Casciato, Westword.com http://blogs.westword.com/ 9/21/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Upscale Bar Proposed For L.A.’s Skid Row May No Longer Be On Tap Los Angeles, CA — Community grumbles and zoning difficulty made lead a developer to back down from his plan to open a bar at the former site of Craby Joe’s on downtown’s South Main Street. Craby Joe’s bar was known as a dive for cheap, bottom-shelf liquor and peeling faux-wood. Joe’s closed two years ago after it was made famous by author Charles Bukowski and infamous by former Los Angeles City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo. The new developer, Charles Lew, envisioned an upscale, architecturally elegant bar to reflect the revitalized downtown district. However, at a recent zoning hearing Lew learned that the company would have to resubmit its application, a process that he said could take roughly four to six months; additionally, the United Coalition East Prevention Project has opposed opening the bar from the outset. Ari Bloomekatz, LA Times http://www.latimes.com 8/26/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Bartender Angelo Cammarata Retires: Mixologists Have Nothing On This Guy Pittsburgh, PA — The longest-serving bartender in the world is set to retire after 77 years in the trade. Angelo Cammarata of Pittsburgh elected to sell his family business, partly due to health complications suffered by one of his sons, who had managed Cammarata’s Cafe. In 2007, the Guinness Book of World Records recognized Cammarata as the longest-serving bartender. Cammarata does not drink beer, or even the cocktails he mixes; he only imbibes Jim Beam and coke. Jen Garbee, LA Weekly http://blogs.laweekly.com/ 8/21/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Now You Can Line Dance on 17th Street McAllen, TX — National recession has left new bars scrambling to attract regular patrons, but Texas Rodeo in McAllen’s Downtown Entertainment District should have no such problems. The country music crowd is expected to swarm the large nightlife venue, which will boast a 40-foot long full liquor main bar, a second bar near the door for beer and tequila, an area reserved for beer bins, cheap drinks and of course, bottle service. The bar will open Wednesday through Sunday, reserving one night a week for Tejano music and the rest for country tunes. Zack Quaintance, The Monitor http://www.themonitor.com 8/4/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article DUMBO Rezoning Passed Amid Mixed Reviews New York, NY — Though controversy over the Coney Island District rezoning continues to rage, the city council has quietly and nearly unanimously passed the DUMBO Improvement District rezoning plan. Containing about 12 blocks along Jay Street and Bridge Street, two separated areas have been converted to a single mixed-use district with contextual zoning, which allows for both manufacturing and residential buildings — and hopefully affordable housing under the Inclusionary Housing program. Council Member David Yassky released the following statement after the approval: “The DUMBO rezoning has been a long time coming and will help create both residential and commercial development so this great neighborhood can fully realize its potential.” Sarah Tobol, Brooklyn Daily Eagle http://www.brooklyneagle.com/ 8/3/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Pubs Aren’t Dying - They Are Evolving United Kingdom — Widespread public concern over the apparent decrease of pubs in Britain has been prevalent since the release of data by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) claiming that 52 pubs are closing in the UK per week. However, this figure is ultimately misleading given the data from Alcohol, Entertainment and Late Night Refreshment Licensing, the most complete government research on licensing ever conducted. As it turns out, premises with licenses to sell alcohol increase 80 per week in Britain. Further research confirms that pubs aren’t dying — they’re evolving into more versatile, casual and food-centric nightlife venues. Chief Executive Jon Collins, a former political lobbyist who once ran The Bar Entertainment & Dance Association, confirms that there has been "segment migration", with increased "casual dining" and fewer bars that do not sell any food. Mark Easton, BBC News http://www.bbc.co.uk 7/31/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Council Approves Deal to Upgrade Coney Island New York, NY — City Council has approved the Bloomberg administration’s plan to revitalize the seafront entertainment zone of Coney Island. Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg wants to establish a 27-acre mixed-use district between Surf Avenue and the Boardwalk, with 9.4 acres devoted exclusively to ‘freak shows’, arcades and rides. New zoning would allow high-rise hotels on Surf Avenue and 4,500 apartments. Additionally, the administration has finalized a deal with Joseph J. Sitt, a key developer in the district. Charles Vagli, The New York Times http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com 7/29/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Green Bay Bar Owners Agree To New Rules Green Bay, WI — All but three downtown bar owners have signed the “The Downtown Entertainment District Alliance," a document that outlines 14 pages of guidelines for nightlife proprietors to follow. City leaders had called for a strict moratorium to limit the number of bars downtown, but after months of closed meetings, bar owners seem to have made significant progress on the mitigation of nightlife problems. “Hopefully we can save some new operators, and existing operators, some of the mistakes that a lot of bar owners have made in the past,” said Troy Streckenbach, owner of Stir-Ups. WFRV-TV CBS Channel 5 http://www.wfrv.com 7/28/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Storm Brews Over 18% Beer United Kingdom — Controversy over the latest Tokyo brew from BrewDog, the Scottish brewery based in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, has led to a discussion of whether stronger or weaker drinks lead to intoxication-related problems. BrewDog’s James Watt claims that their "hardcore beers are loaded with flavour, bite and body, so you drink less of them. Industrially-brewed lagers are so bland and tasteless that you’re seduced into drinking a lot of them. The beers we make at BrewDog, including Tokyo, provide a cure to binge beer-drinking." Meanwhile, Jack Law, chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: "they’re completely deluded if they think an 18.2 per cent beer will solve Scotland’s alcohol problems." BrewDog originally stirred controversy when it launched its original 12 percent Tokyo beer last year. Lucinda Cameron, The Sun http://www.thesun.co.uk 7/28/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Night-time Business ‘Needs a Lobbyist’ Plymouth, MA — City publican Tom Macpherson has voiced the need for Plymouth’s thriving nighttime economy to find not just a manager, but a lobbyist. Proposing that such a position be publicly funded and work closely with several city agencies and institutions, he stressed the importance of representing the interests of restaurants, takeaways, hotels, taxis and buses. As the keynote speaker at a licensing symposium, Macpherson iterated that Plymouth nightlife needs "an evening and night-time economy representative, a liaison officer who can lobby and understand the issues that can affect the whole evening and night-time economy." Macpherson also added: "I don’t believe the executive of this city understands the role of the night-time economy." The Plymouth Herald http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk 7/20/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Save Washington Avenue Houston, TX — With a reputation for fleeting marketing slogans and spontaneous entertainment districts that tend to wither under city antagonism, Houston is experiencing another chance to create a lasting, vibrant hospitality zone. Washington Avenue was described in the New York Times as one of Houston’s "most popular nightspots... [with] a growing collection of stylish restaurants and bars." Police, transportation and commercial authorities will have to work together to ensure vibrancy and safety in this rising district. Orlando Sanchez, Houston Chronicle http://www.chron.com 7/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Laptop City Hall: Competing Ideas About Alcohol Downtown Madison, WI — At a recent Alcohol License Review Committee meeting in downtown Madison, discussion centered around a proposed 900 person restaurant and entertainment establishment in the city’s alcohol license density plan area. Countless questions arose, including whether the ALRC should bring in more competition to a struggling core of businesses (especially if it would push the better venue owners out), if the establishment would be able to sell more food than alcohol and what the effect of more alcohol sales in the district would be. "I can no longer as an alder for the north side accept the fact that we have police going into the downtown area that we cannot even handle right now," said Ald. Michael Schumacher. "I’m very tired of us thinking of this great downtown when I know people who won’t even go downtown after 11 o’clock." Despite all concerns, the venue still seems like the type of place the ALRC would want downtown, especially if it provided weekend entertainment for nearby university dorm residents. The venue’s future remains entirely uncertain. Kristin Czubkowski, The Capital Times http://www.madison.com 7/17/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article A Closer Look at the Festival-Permit Law Kansas City, MO — Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has signed into law House Bill 132, which (among other things) allows Kansas City "festival districts" to obtain outdoor liquor permits for special events. Before the bill, only entertainment districts could obtain such permits and the definition of what constitutes an "entertainment district" was so narrow that the notorious Power & Light District was the only applicable district. The permits will contain several restrictions, but the very existence of such allows for more new events in the city and greatly increased vibrancy opportunities. Owen Morris, The Kansas City Pitch http://blogs.pitch.com 7/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Nightlife Goes Green Brooklyn, NY — Pioneering nightlife innovation to draw larger crowds is a simple formula for Peter Shapiro: offer 16 lanes of bowling, big name concerts, video on 16 large high-definition TVs, a menu created by the Blue Ribbon restaurants and most importantly, go green. His new venue, Brooklyn Bowl, was built according to the strict standards of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program; thus, the club is extremely efficient in its use of water and energy and is built extensively from recycled materials. “We hope customers will seek to patronize and support a venue that has made a real commitment to operate in a sustainable manner," Shapiro said, "which will make it a smart business decision." Ben Sisario, Mercury News http://www.mercurynews.com 7/3/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Students Bring New Dimension to Stourbridge Nightlife Stourbridge, West Midlands, UK — Inter College Events (ICE), an attempt to achieve a new level of nightlife for underage locals, has stormed onto social networking sites where users can get information and submit feedback for themed parties. ICE is the brainchild of Robert Shropshire, Matthew Hale and Matthew Perry, who host themed parties in top venues for people aged 15 to 21. They say this age group suffers from a lack of nightlife; their parties have already drawn attendance of up to 500 people. Stourbridge News http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/ 7/1/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Time For Council to Relax Open Container Laws Downtown Macon, GA — The Macon City Council’s Public Safety Committee has decided to allow open containers downtown during next month’s Bragg Jam, according to Charles Richardson on the Macon Telegraph’s editorial page. He claims this decision "opens the door" to a more vibrant, liberal downtown district. Organizers of the Bragg Jam sought permission to allow people to carry alcoholic beverages as long as they used a designated cup and wear a wristband. Richardson sees the move as an opportunity to reengage regional debates over permanent open-container laws. Charles Richardson, The Macon Telegraph http://www.macon.com 7/1/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Nightlife Dress Code Seen As Discriminatory Kansas City, MO – It is common practice for nightclubs to enforce dress codes, but some say the Power and Light District discriminates against young African-Americans and Latinos. The district-wide dress code bans sleeveless shirts on men, excessively baggy or sagging clothing, work boots and sports attire, where alcohol is served. The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas and western Missouri has fielded numerous complaints from patrons alleging that the rules are not applied equally for all. The Cordish Company, developer and owner of the district, states that more than 20,000 people visit the district each weekend and argues that it hosts the most diverse crowd in the city. Sylvia Maria Gross, National Public Radio http://www.npr.org/ 6/25/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Bar Encourages Verbal Abuse Cullera, Spain — In the wake of global economic hardship, the Casa Pocho in Cullera has conceived of a fresh new way to draw patrons. The establishment encourages clients to insult its staff and offers free drinks for especially original or hilarious verbal abuse. Polish-born bar owner Bernard Mariusz recognized the need for such an outlet during widespread economic recession, adding that "this way they won’t let it out on their family." Reuters http://www.stuff.co.nz 6/19/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Not Everyone Loves Ellensburg’s Late Night Scene Ellensburg, WA — At night, Ellensburg’s thriving retail community becomes a vibrant center of nightlife, characterized by huge revenue yet increasingly worrisome public disorder. Under the food service/drinking places fund created in 2008, nightlife has contributed $354,000 in sales tax revenue to the local economy; however, some residents are vocal about fighting disorder impacts, such as vomit on the sidewalks, littered cigarette butts, public urination, noise violations and vandalism. Venue owners state that hospitality stakeholders have already taken proactive initiative, and that ten years ago, these problems were much more prevalent. In any case, the city is currently working to mitigate disorder issues and facilitate cooperation between stakeholders. Chelsea Krotzer, Daily Record News http://www.kvnews.com 6/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Rethinking Downtown Victoria, British Columbia, Canada — Attempting to balance vibrancy and safety in Victoria, Mayor Dean Fortin has announced plans to revitalize downtown and create a more sociable environment for residents and visitors. Addressing homelessness and late-night public disorder remain top priorities; a new police task force was recently unveiled to combat the latter. Other efforts by development officers and community associations include a push for more housing density in the downtown district to boost the overall local economy. “Everyone wants something that is active and interesting that really showcases the region,” said Fortin. “We want a downtown that is open, inviting and inclusive of all." Kerrie-Ann Schoenit, VICNEWS.com http://www.bclocalnews.com 6/5/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Toronto’s Entertainment District BIA Invites ’Nightlife Experts’ from New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco to Responsible Hospitality Institute Conference Toronto, Ontario, Canada — Seeking to transform the nighttime economy while managing safety, the Toronto Entertainment District Business Improvement Area (BIA) will host the Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI) Conference on Nightlife and the conference’s contingent of nightlife experts from cities across the country. Along with successful strategies from other cities, the BIA will continue to focus on stakeholder collaboration within Toronto and will host representatives from the Police Service, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (Liquor Enforcement Branch) and the city council, among others. "Toronto continues to be recognized around the world as one of the safest, most diverse places to live," said Toronto Mayor David Miller. "I am confident that with leaders like the Entertainment District BIA and its collaborative approach to managing nightlife, Toronto will maintain its international reputation as a progressive, world-class city with an incredible quality of life." Canadian Business http://www.canadianbusiness.com 6/4/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Anoka Council OKs Higher Fee for Late-closing Bars Anoka, MN — Seeking to fund late night police overtime while not driving hospitality venues out of business, the Anoka City Council increased the fee for bars wishing to stay open until 2 a.m. — but only to a maximum of $500, not the proposed $5000. Anoka’s bars already pay a basic liquor license fee of about $5,000 each, which covers much of the cost of extra police patrols that totaled $37,000 last year for the entertainment district. Only two bars this past year have paid the $300 fee to stay open past 1 a.m. Jim Adams jadams@startribune.com, The Star Tribune http://www.startribune.com 6/2/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Santa Rosa’s Bar Owners Target Troublemakers Santa Rosa, CA — Confronted by increasing pressure to prevent public disorder, local bar owners in Santa Rosa plan to cooperate on finding common solutions. "I think it’s in everyone’s best interests,” said Gianni Messmer, owner of the local Round Robin. "All the bars are competing against each other, but we’re all trying to do the same thing, and that’s make money." Messmer has contemplated some kind of alliance for months; ideally, nightlife businesses will jointly adopt rules governing behavior in their establishments, he says. Meanwhile, the Santa Rosa Main Street Association is working separately with the Responsible Hospitality Institute to stimulate the city’s night-time economy by organizing all 57 businesses with alcohol licenses. The pressure from police, according to Santa Rosa Police Sgt. Rich Celli, comes from an increase in violent assaults over the past six months, including several "significant assaults" behind a row of bars and restaurants on Fourth Street. Mary Callahan mary.callahan@pressdemocrat.com, The Press Democrat http://www.pressdemocrat.com 5/31/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Bar Tax Aims to Fund Programs Edmonton, Alberta, Canada — To fund a new local hospitality association’s $250,000 annual tab, the City of Edmonton has recommended a license surcharge of $280. The association would deal with industry issues such as security, responsible drinking and safety programs, transportation, industry perception and advocacy. Bars and hotels have voiced unhappiness with the extra surcharge; "To have something that’s going to be mandatory citywide, that everybody has to participate in, when by and large they’re not involved ... just to me seems unfair," said Dave Kaiser, president of the Alberta Hotel and Lodging Association. The association is part of the mandate of Responsible Hospitality Edmonton, an association of hospitality, community and regulatory stakeholders formed to help manage the city’s hospitality zones. Gordon Kent, The Edmonton Journal http://www.edmontonjournal.com 5/29/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Extended Liquor Sales Proposed Once More Aurora, IL — Business owner Dan Hites and the Aurora Downtown group have collaborated on a new development plan, soon to be presented to the City Council, to revitalize Aurora’s nighttime economy through an entertainment district. The proposal, which involves designating the district’s boundaries and extending liquor licenses to 4 a.m., was conceived a decade earlier but wilted under community opposition. Other aspects of the plan include establishing a cultural arts center downtown and providing rebates on taxes for the first five new entertainment establishments in the district. Andre Salles asalles@scn1.com, The Fox Valley Villages Sun http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com 5/27/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Delray Beach Showcases ’Nighttime Economy’ in Regional Forum Delray Beach, FL — Delray’s vibrant nightlife and thriving nighttime economy make it a perfect case study for "The Nighttime Economy," a regional forum hosted by the Responsible Hospitality Institute. The forum focused on sharing innovating strategies to tackle urban challenges among cities and stakeholders, within the context of the greater nighttime economy. "Delray is in the forefront in that it recognized the value of an active evening lifestyle and it revitalized its downtown district with a nighttime economy - restaurants, bars," said Jim Peters, president of RHI. "If a city wants to be competitive, especially in a down economy, then having a nighttime economy is going to distinguish one city from the next." Maria Herrera, South Florida Sun Sentinel http://www.sun-sentinel.com 5/27/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Front-line Hospitality Indianapolis, IN — On his first day of work, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Safety Patrolman Mark Campbell demonstrated the community aspect of enforcement. With an audience of 300,000 NASCAR and Indy 500 fans eager to watch the race, Campbell’s customer service and conflict resolution skills are put to the test to seat crowds and mitigate complaints. "Years ago, we probably were looked at as a policing agency," said Campbell, "but we’re really more in the hospitality department. We want everyone to have a good time, but we want it to be a safe time, too." Tim Ethridge ethridget@courierpress.com, Evansville Courier & Press http://www.courierpress.com 5/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article How Will It Change Nightlife? Bars and Clubs Could Assume New Personas After N.C.’s Smoking Ban Takes Effect Winston-Salem, NC — As of January 2, 2010, smoking will be banned in all North Carolina restaurants and bars, a distinct break with the state’s long and lucrative ties to the tobacco industry. Opponents of the ban claim it’s elitist, because the only two establishments exempted are cigar bars, which must get a certain amount of their revenue from the sale of cigars, and country clubs. State Representative Hugh Holliman, D-Davidson, said that he and other supporters had to include the exemptions in order to get the bill passed. "I would have preferred to make everybody non-smoking," Holliman said. "In the legislature, you have to compromise." North Carolina is the first major tobacco-producing state to pass such a restrictive ban on smoking; Virginia allows smoking in separately vented rooms of bars and restaurants. Laura Giovanelli, The Winston-Salem Journal http://www2.journalnow.com 5/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Web Site Sparks Creative Ideas for City’s Vacant Lots Baltimore, MD — In an innovative attempt to seek community input and generate fresh ideas for urban development, the City of Baltimore has launched a new website to spark conversation about unused urban space. Baltimore’s Office of Promotion & The Arts put up the Baltimore Infill Survey, a Flickr page inundated with ideas from artists, architects and others who have creative ideas about how to make the space useful, productive and green. "The idea for this has been percolating for years," said Gary Kachadourian, Visual Arts Coordinator for the Promotion & The Arts office. "If you live in Baltimore, or drive through, you might think, ‘What should we be doing,’ or ‘What interesting things could happen?’ This is a way to look at this as a positive instead of a negative." Meredith Cohn, The Baltimore Sun http://www.baltimoresun.com 5/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Recession Turns Malls Into Ghost Towns Charlotte, NC — Shopping malls, iconic American suburban retail and hospitality complexes that hail from the 1950s, are struggling heavily in the recession. Alleged "dead malls", debilitated by anemic sales and rising vacancy rates may top 100 by the end of the year. "Any mall that’s sitting on life support is probably going to get its plug pulled" as the economy falls, said Michael Glimcher, chairman and CEO of Glimcher Realty Trust, which owns 23 U.S. properties, including Eastland Mall in Charlotte. Kris Hudson, The Wall Street Journal http://online.wsj.com 5/22/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Downtown Nightlife Boom Ignites a Gold Rush San Antonio, TX — South San Antonio is experiencing a revival in its nighttime economy, and at the heart are a series of new nightlife venues on 17th Street. Young patrons now seek out nightlife, hospitality and live music in the new thriving nightspots. "The city had two problems," said Albert Gonzalez, owner of one of the new venues. "These old cantinas and prostitutes on the south side and nightclubs near neighborhoods on the north side." A group called Heart of the City has been attempting to fix both problems by igniting a downtown revival in South Antonio, moving nightlife south to decrease community dissatisfaction and increase vibrancy in the district. Zach Quaintance zquaintance@themonitor.com, The Monitor http://www.themonitor.com 5/21/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Dayton Wins $1 Million State Cleanup Grant to Develop Entertainment District Dayton, OH — Dayton has been awarded a $1,004,430 Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund grant for environmental cleanup activities at the site of the Monument Avenue Gateway project. According to the state Development Department, the city plans to raze the site and prepare it for future redevelopment opportunities within the proposed Ballpark District Riverfront Development, which would become a new mixed-use urban entertainment district. William Hershey, Dayton Daily News http://www.daytondailynews.com 5/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Taxpayers Could End Up Footing Arena Payments Glendale, AZ — Bold visions to transform farm fields into a sports and entertainment district in Glendale took a shock last month as the resident hockey franchise filed for bankruptcy. The city, which surprised the Valley by constructing the arena to spark upscale development and transform its image into an entertainment and sports heavyweight, may have to appropriate taxpayer funds to meet arena debt. Mayor Elaine Scruggs and City Manager Ed Beasley declined specific comment because the Coyotes’ bankruptcy case is still in court. Carrie Watters, The Arizona Republic http://www.azcentral.com 5/17/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Reborn Lincoln Theatre Ready to Rise Columbus, OH — The 80-year-old Lincoln Theater has undergone a $13.5 million transformation from an urban eyesore into a vibrant venue in the city’s King-Lincoln hospitality zone. Columbus Mayor Mike Coleman started pushing for redevelopment in 2002 as part of a comprehensive plan to revitalize the district. The Lincoln Theater, which opened in 1928 as the Ogden Theatre and Ballroom, will serve as a performance venue, the home for several dance companies, and the base for the Jazz Arts Group. Brian Ball, Business First of Columbus http://columbus.bizjournals.com 5/15/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Struggling Restaurants Tap Into Md. Night Life Maryland — Several restaurants in Prince George and Montgomery counties have turned to unorthodox practices to thrive in the economic downturn: they have enacted cover charges to enter their establishments and added live bands, karaoke nights and pool tables. "In this economy, people are trying to be creative," said Kathie Durbin, chief of licensure, regulation and education for the Montgomery County Department of Liquor Control. The restaurants will be completely in line with regulation as long as they serve food, Durbin said, adding that the Board will perform routine checks to ensure that restaurants take in no more than half their revenue from alcohol sales. Some residents are asking for more oversight, claiming that a handful of restaurants have essentially turned themselves into nightclubs. “We have to find a better way of managing them,” said Phil Lee, president of the Kettering Civic Federation. The Liquor Control Board plans to hold public hearings in the coming weeks to discuss the operations of several restaurants that operate in similar ways as bars. Ovetta Wiggins, The Washington Post http://www.washingtonpost.com 5/15/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Restaurateurs Fear Alcohol, Guns Would Be a Lethal Tennessee Mix Memphis, TN — New legislation is poised to pass through the Tennessee state legislature allowing people with handgun-carry permits to bring firearms into restaurants — as long as they do not drink. Local hospitality leaders, such as Danny Sumrall, a Tennessee Hospitality and Lodging Board member and the former president of the Memphis Restaurant Association, worry about the potentially fatal combination of guns and booze. "I guess we have to wait for someone to shoot someone before legislators change their minds," Small said. Ryan Poe, Knox News http://www.knoxnews.com 5/14/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Taxis Help You Tour Downtown Nightlife Toledo, OH — Over 60 taxis are expected to converge on downtown Toledo for "Taxis Gone Wild," part of the city’s new bid to restore interest in the hospitality zone. The event, which starts at 7 p.m., is expected to raise awareness about local taxi options, according to Megan Stockburger, tourism development manager for Destination Toledo Inc. The taxis will shuttle residents between more than 15 participating locations offering appetizer and drink specials. The Blade http://toledoblade.com 5/14/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Downtown Beat to Embrace Locals Calgary, Alberta, Canada — Community policing measures will soon take effect in Calgary, commencing with the deployment of 62 constables for downtown foot patrol. “(The downtown will see) a safer entertainment district, highly visible presence of officers downtown that people can connect with and officers working face to face with the community,” said Police Chief Rick Hanson. Two priorities of the new policing plan, other than developing relationships with business owners and residents, are higher visibility and ’reassurance policing’ to prevent crime, said Hanson. Amy Gregson, Metro Calgary http://www.metronews.ca/calgary 5/14/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Parliamentary Committee: Live Music Policing ’Authoritarian’ London, UK — The United Kingdom Culture, Media and Sport Committee recommends abolishing the controversial policing system for live music events (established in the 2003 Licensing Act) and has urged the government to exempt small venues from license requirements for live music. The committee found the process of applying for said licenses to be costly and time-consuming, and concluded that small venues were deterred from applying. One key sentence of the report stated that "in the Committee’s view, music should not automatically be treated as a disruptive activity, which will inevitably lead to nuisance and disorder." Andre Paine, Billboard http://www.billboard.biz 5/13/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article A Green Legacy Buffalo, NY — The Buffalo Green Hospitality Initiative, formed in 2007 by Buffalo’s hospitality organizations, seeks to promote green travel experiences in Western New York and to develop and maintain environmentally responsible practices throughout the region. Members will plant 56 trees in downtown Buffalo and along Delaware Avenue as part of a state-of-the-art tree planting program. Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown vowed to "offset the negative carbon footprint" from the Solar 2009 National Conference in Buffalo. Doug Sitler, Buffalo Rising http://www.buffalorising.com 5/13/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Biological Markers Used to Detect Drug Use in Club Settings - Clubs Vary Widely in Drug User Prevalence at Entrance and Exit A new study by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation entitled, “Biological Markers of Drug Use in the Club Setting,” has found that few individuals initiate drugs use in clubs for electronic music dance events (EMDEs), among other findings. After discovering that EMDEs attract drug users, and that individuals are usually using drugs before entering the club, the researchers found that the percentage of drug users who were intoxicated nearly doubled during club stay. Another key finding of the study was that personal characteristics do not identify drug users, suggesting that environmental strategies should be taken to ensure club safety. The next step for the research team is to work directly with owners, managers, and staff to determine if environment strategies can be implemented. The Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation http://www.pire.org 5/11/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Merchants, City Encouraging Downtown Nightlife Lufkin, TX — Nightlife revitalization starts with dining and entertainment; Lufkin’s First Street is no different, and local merchants and city officials have initiated a newly concentrated effort to kick-start their hospitality zone. One element is the newly launched "Friday Night Live" series by the First Street Arts Center, which has become a gathering spot for young professionals, musicians and artists. Additionally, stakeholder collaboration has increased in the form of the Downtown Merchant’s Committee (DMC), a monthly meeting of store owners that come together to work on projects. "You could literally start at First Street Arts Center at 6 pm and hop down the street from place to place hearing live music, eating and drinking until midnight," said Tracy Pinkerton, vice president of the DMC. Steven Alford jalford@coxnews.com, The Lufkin Daily News http://www.lufkindailynews.com 5/10/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article On the Town in Milwaukee: How Diverse is Your Nightlife? Milwaukee, WI — In a city where nightlife is often segregated, for whatever reason, by race, age or socioeconomic status, McBob’s Bar and Grill in Washington Heights serves a crowd as diverse as one can find in the city. Although there exist other anomalies, like Hi-Hat, Eastsider, Good Life, Zen Den and Decibel, McBob’s serves as a beacon of diverse and vibrant nightlife in Milwaukee. Maureen Post maureen@staff.onmilwaukee.com, Milwaukee’s Daily Magazine http://onmilwaukee.com 5/9/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article ’Edgartown’ Could be $35 million Entertainment District at Fort Pierce’s Fisherman’s Wharf Fort Pierce, FL — A massive development plan been proposed in Fort Pierce to revitalize the city’s nighttime economy: a $35 million transformation of the Fisherman’s Wharf area into an entertainment district called Edgarton, conceptually similar to The Landing in Jacksonville and Ybor City in Tampa. Harold “Buzz” Smyth, former mayoral candidate and owner of Mother Tucker’s Sand Bar & Grill, supports the proposal, which would require cooperation from the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency and nearby property owners. Edgartown would include a 120-room flagship hotel, condominiums, restaurants, shops, nightclubs, a specialty grocery store and a historic village, and would boast the ability to host outdoor concerts and fishing tournaments; it would also generate roughly 2,700 jobs, according to Smyth. Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency Director Jon Ward expressed skepticism about whether this project will in fact be developed, however. Alexi Howk, The Treasure Coast Palm http://www.tcpalm.com 5/8/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Supporting the City That Never Sleeps New York City, NY — Known for fighting City Hall to protect nightlife business owners and club-goers for over a decade, the New York Nightlife Association (NYNA) has formed a sub-committee to collaborate with City Hall to generate jobs, tax revenues and tourism. This bold partnership, dubbed the Nightlife Preservation Community (NPC) seeks to promote and manage nightlife for the purpose of keeping New York City vibrant and prosperous. Attempting to form a marketing partnership on par with Las Vegas, the NPC will seek to rebrand "The Big Apple" as "The City That Never Sleeps." To support an urban grass-roots campaign, the NPC will create a website and initiate a cooperative effort with the police department and community groups to distribute information about political, safety and hospitality issues. Steve Lewis, The BlackBook http://www.blackbookmag.com 5/8/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Aberdeen Turns Down Requests for Rezoning Aberdeen, North Carolina — The Aberdeen Board of Commissioners has voted to deny a rezoning request for land near the busy 15-501 concurrency. Developer Pinetrace LLC had asked the town to rezone five properties as a mixed-use district, but Board members were concerned that the developers would construct apartment complexes on the property. "There’s nothing wrong with apartments, it’s just that we have enough already in Aberdeen," said Mayor Betsy Mofield. Planning Director Kathy Liles also cited serious traffic concerns as a reason for denial. Laura Eddy, The Pilot http://www.thepilot.com 5/7/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Downtown Entertainment District Proposed Toledo, OH — A new development proposal to City Council seeks to boost bar and restaurant businesses around Toledo’s new arena by creating a nine-block entertainment district downtown. Planners hope that the district will improve the business climate around the arena, which is still under construction, by sparking investment in currently vacant commercial space. Under the proposal, ten new liquor permits will be granted in the district. Rob Wiercinski rwiercinski@wtol.com, WTOL Channel 11 News http://www.wtol.com 5/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Gentlemen’s Clubs Receive OK for Liquor Dothan, AL — The City Council has approved liquor licenses for two gentlemen’s clubs in the city; one was approved without discussion, but the other stirred controversy over its central downtown location. Downtown business owners are concerned that the gentlemen’s club may deter people from visiting other nearby businesses. “We have invested considerable time and money,” local business owner Janet Everett told commissioners, adding that she and other recently relocated entrepreneurs are trying to revitalize downtown as a family-oriented location. Mayor Pat Thomas said that he understands her concerns, but that "the only thing before us is a liquor license. We can’t say what it can be or can’t be.” Debbie Ingram dingram@dothaneagle.com, The Dothan Eagle http://www.dothaneagle.com 5/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article ‘London Dirtiest City - But Nightlife Tops’ London, United Kingdom — A new poll has named London the dirtiest city in Europe for the second year running, yet it was also voted the city with the best nightlife. The poll, carried out by the company TripAdvisor and taken by thousands of travelers, also concluded that London is perceived as the most expensive city on the continent, having the most tourist traps and the worst-dressed locals. On the flip side, London was found to have the best free attractions and public parks. Sky News http://news.sky.com/ 5/4/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Entertainment Tax On Hold Roanoake Rapids, NC — City leaders have asked state representatives to delay North Carolina’s new entertainment tax bill until the new owners of the Carolina Crossroads outdoor amphitheater can get their business off the ground. The bill would allow the city to levy an entertainment tax on every admission ticket sold, with a maximum $3 tax on tickets that are at least $5 when more than 5,000 tickets are available. Mayor Drewery Beale has stated that the bill should be put on hold until Atlantic One Entertainment LLC can generate substantial business at their new venue. Lance Martin, The Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald http://www.rrdailyherald.com 5/4/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Council to Consider Rezone for West Colfax Avenue Lakewood, CO — The City Council is considering an ordinance to rezone properties along West Colfax Avenue, in an effort to encourage the development of a mixed-use hospitality zone. The district will allow a diverse mix of commercial and residential uses and will encourage pedestrian-friendly building design. "The purpose is to create a sense of vibrancy on Colfax Avenue," said Lakewood Mayor Bob Murphy. "We understand that changes are going to occur with light rail coming ... what we are doing is putting all the tools in place to make sure we are ready when those changes and that investment comes... you can’t have that vibrant, active street if you don’t have people living and working there." Erin Freese, YourHub.com http://denver.yourhub.com 5/4/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Bouncers To Help Police In Fight Against Nightlife Violence Geelong, Victoria, Australia — Nightclub crowd controllers in Geelong plan to work more closely with the police department to reduce violence and threats to crowd controllers, as well as to streamline the process of follow-up investigations. Police officers may now receive packages of evidence from crowd controllers, such as testimonies and closed-circuit television footage, according to acting Sergeant David Campbell. Additionally, the city’s new Tick of Approval accreditation process for nightclubs includes a new code of conduct for crowd controllers to sign, placing them on a public register requiring them to wear green fluorescent shirts. "It’s a definite advantage, the relationship between clubs and police here, and the high profile police have walking the streets," said Cory Stein, a veteran crowd controller in Geelong. Danny Lannen, The Geelong Advertiser http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au 4/29/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Young Drinkers Keep Clubs In Business Toronto, Ontario, Canada — In the midst of global recession and economic crisis, Toronto’s bar and club businesses seem to be thriving as well as ever. Nick Di Donato, president of the Liberty Entertainment Group, attributes this in part to the younger clientele at most nightclubs, who are just starting their careers and have not been as affected by the recession. He and other nightlife veterans in the city have also remarked upon the recession-proof characteristics of liquor sales: "I’ve gone through a couple of recessions and I’ve always found it doesn’t have a real impact on the bar, nightclub or casual bar scene," Di Donato said. Raju Mudhar, The Star http://www.thestar.com 4/28/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Power & Light District Wins Award from Urban Land Institute Kansas City, MO — The Kansas City Power & Light District, a seven-block entertainment district, has received the Award for Excellence from the Urban Land Institute, an international organization dedicated to promoting excellence in development. The Power & Light District, developed and owned by the Cordish Company, is one of 10 North American projects honored this year. Despite the fact that much space remains to be leased and the district has not met financial expectations, Marilee A. Utter, the chairwoman of the institute’s jury, said that jurors who visited the district considered it a strong model for cities wanting to revitalize declining downtowns. Kevin Collison, The Kansas City Star http://www.kansascity.com 4/27/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article City Block Downtown Bar Complex Closes Louisville, KY — City Block, a downtown entertainment venue that featured four bars under one roof, has closed after 18 years of operation. The owners have cited competition with 4th Street Live, the entertainment district developed by the Cordish Company, as their main reason for folding the business. The district is located two blocks away and has received millions in government subsidies and tax breaks. "We don’t think the city’s favoritism of Cordish is the whole problem," said Ward Plauche, one of City Block’s owners. "The economy is bad and that’s a direct problem. The smoking ban is a direct problem. But we would have survived if we didn’t have to fight the … monster down there." Dan Klepal dklepal@courier-journal.com, The Courier-Journal http://www.courier-journal.com 4/25/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Bogotá Proposes 24-hour Nightlife Bogotá, Colombia — Bars and clubs in certain parts of Bogotá may soon boast 24-hour operation. The proposal comes from Clara Lopez, the Secretary of the Mayor’s Office who previously led efforts to regulate venues that illegally stayed open past the city’s 3am mandated closing time. "It’s one thing to allow all 49,500 businesses to stay open 24 hours and it’s another to have 10 or 15 places with a special license," Lopez said. Her proposal will have to be taken to congress and enacted into law in order for the special licenses to be granted. Colombia Reports http://colombiareports.com 4/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Minor League Ballpark, Mixed-use Complex Planned Near Trinity River in Dallas Dallas, TX — A real estate and sports group have announced plans to build a $500 million mixed-use project on a 60-acre development site they have recently acquired on the banks of the Trinity River. The project will be a mixed-use entertainment district with a minor league baseball park, and is set to open to the public by next year. The new owners also envision a water park and hotel, 2,500 apartments, retail, restaurants and a pedestrian bridge to connect the project to the nearby rail station. They plan to use private funding, though financing for most of the development has yet to be arranged. Steve Brown stevebrown@dallasnews.com, The Dallas Morning News http://www.dallasnews.com 4/23/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Adult Playdates Growing In Popularity An alternative ‘nightlife’ scene featuring cocktails and board games is growing in popularity among adult professionals ages 25 to 55. PlayDate, a monthly social event held in twenty cities including Houston, Los Angeles, Seattle, Philadelphia, and Chicago, offers a laid-back environment where adults can connect over childhood board games, where the music isn’t too loud and the lights aren’t too dim. PlayDate creates an atmosphere particularly inviting for women because it is "not confrontational and there is very little to lose," said University of Pennsylvania sociology professor David Grazian, who studies urban nightlife. CBS 6 http://www.wtvr.com/ 4/23/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article UNLV Study: Smoking Ban Hasn’t Hurt Bar Business Clark County, NV — Researchers at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus have found that Clark County’s smoking ban has had no discernible effect on bar business. The law, adopted by voters in November of 2006, bans smoking in restaurants, child care operations and bars that serve food, though not casinos. MSNBC http://www.msnbc.msn.com 4/22/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article 2009 Nightclub Fire Sprinklers Requirements Seattle, WA — The 2007 Washington State Legislature has changed the legal definition of nightclubs that require retroactive installation of fire sprinklers, and extended the deadline for compliance to December 1, 2009. The wording broadens the sprinkler requirement to apply to nightclubs, restaurants, taverns and bars in which "the aggregate area of concentrated use space that is specifically designated and primarily used for dancing or viewing performers exceeds three hundred fifty square feet." The City of Seattle http://www.seattle.gov 4/21/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article City Hall Mulls Over Liquor Law Changes St. Joseph, MO — The City Council has proposed an ordinance to restrict the sale of alcohol by caterers within 300 feet of residential areas, exempting businesses in the Downtown Entertainment District. Local caterers like Nathan Karr worry about the effect on liquor sales. Additionally, Karr runs a wine booth at a local summer event, and has interpreted the ordinance as permitting the sale of beer, but disallowing the wine he wants to sell. Sam Barber, the city director of customer service, said that city staff will review the ordinance and ensure that it applies fairly to all businesses. Clinton Thomas, St. Joe News http://www.stjoenews.net 4/21/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Norfolk Nightsafe Enlists Help From Registered Door Supervisors Norfolk, England — Norfolk Nightsafe, a multi-agency partnership seeking to enhance nighttime economies across England, has received extra momentum with the launch of a program to enlist help from Door Supervisors registered with the Security Industry Authority. Norfolk boasts about 400 Door Supervisors, according to Nightsafe Co-ordinator, Chief Inspector Gavin Tempest. "In the last five years Door Supervisors have become vital to the partnership approach to public safety," said Tempest. "The police and staff inside venues now work together to prevent flare ups where innocent people are likely to get hurt... this is the ‘Nightsafe’ philosophy." Nightsafe is a national program of approaches for creating safe late-night entertainment. SecurityPark.net http://www.securitypark.co.uk 4/20/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Plan to Allow Bars to Serve Until 4 a.m. Strikes Nerve Lansing, MI — Michigan’s House Democrats plan to introduce a bill in May that will allow the sale of special licensing permits, allowing bars to serve alcohol until 4 am. Some state officials predict an extra $4.6 million in revenue if the bill passes; Governor Jennifer Granholm pushed for extended hours in her proposed 2009-10 budget, which was unveiled earlier this year. "This is an opportunity for communities to enhance entertainment district options by providing late-night bars and providing businesses an opportunity to increase profits through expanded hours, said Granholm spokeswoman Megan Brown. However, opposition is already rising. "Not in Lansing. Not on my watch," said Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero. "Sounds like desperation economic development, desperation tactics." Christine Rook clrook@lsj.com, The Lansing State Journal http://www.lansingstatejournal.com 4/19/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Buses for Late-night Partiers Eyed Edmonton, AB, Canada — Responsible Hospitality Edmonton, an organization that seeks safer hospitality zones in the city, reported that two bus loops have been proposed to carry home drunken revelers after a night of partying in order to reduce public disorder. The loops, which would be serviced by Edmonton Transit buses, may soon see a 10-week trial. Late-night transportation "is one of our biggest issues," said Cindy Davies, spokesman for RHE. Alyssa Noel, The Edmonton Sun http://www.edmontonsun.com 4/17/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article New Restaurants, Bars Energize Flint, MI Flint, MI — A new hospitality venue in Flint is sparking a bona-fide revival in the nighttime economy. Blackstone’s Bar & Grill restaurant is bringing increased foot and automobile traffic to the area, where business owners are hopeful that patronage will continue to increase. "We want downtown Flint to be, like, “Let’s park our car and go to six different spots,” said Rondey Ott, a local nightclub owner. "Hopefully they come there to get their good food and drinks, and then they come over here to dance and have a good time afterwards." Matt Franklin, ABC TV 12 http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/index 4/17/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Austin Police Chief, Downtown Business Owners Support Camera System Austin, TX — Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo, supported by the city council, is looking to add high-tech patrols to downtown Austin in the form of surveillance cameras. Chief Acevedo recently talked with business owners in the Downtown Austin Alliance about the city’s plan to add a system of cameras that will monitor high crime spots; most business owners, so far, support the endeavor, though some have mixed feelings. Downtown Austin is one of the safest areas in the city, according to police, though aggravated assaults have gone up 35 percent this year, none of which have been caught on camera. The first of the cameras are expected by late 2010, and the city is asking Congress for an additional $800,000 to cover the expenses. Jesica Vess, KVUE TV http://www.kvue.com 4/16/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Dress Code Rules For Power & Light District Pass Unanimously Kansas City, MO — Following weeks of debate and civil outcry, the City Council finally agreed on a set of dress code rules for businesses in the new Power & Light entertainment zone. The council ruled unanimously on the ordinance, which was less stringent than originally proposed. Specifically, it states that businesses in taxpayer-subsidized developments are not allowed to utilize dress codes to arbitrarily deny potential patrons. The ordinance also rescinded the ban on certain types of clothing, such as large necklaces worn by males, which were previously prohibited by the Power & Light District developer, the Cordish Company. Additionally, the Council decreed that establishments can prohibit saggy clothing, but that dress codes must be enforced uniformly and without discrimination. Lynn Horsley, The Kansas City Star http://www.kansascity.com 4/15/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Hosemann Picks the Best of Legislature Mississippi — Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann congratulated Mississippi’s legislative efforts to increase the state’s hospitality to businesses. One measure in particular allows communities to create an entertainment district via a majority vote in the governing board. It would not apply to casinos and the like, but would allow accelerated depreciation deduction on income tax for businesses that open an entertainment venue. Hoseman lauded other legislation with similar purposes, including easier corporation filings and stronger trademark laws. Michael Newsom mmnewsom@sunherald.com, The Sun Herald http://www.sunherald.com 4/15/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Some Ellensburg Residents Complain About Nightlife Ellensburg, WA — At a recent special session of the city council, Downtown Association Executive Director Timothy Bishop told council members that residents are experiencing severe nightlife issues, including vandalism, noise, public urination and explicit sexual behavior on their back doorsteps. The council is currently working to draft good neighbor contracts for business owners. The Seatle Post-Intelligencer http://www.seattlepi.com 4/15/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Liquor License Bill Stirs Controversy Pocatello, ID — Controversy over a senate bill regarding liquor licenses is heating up hospitality debates in Idaho. The bill, Senate Bill 1148, caps the number of bars in Idaho while strengthening laws against underage drinking, and was expected to have the support of bar owners and anti-drinking groups; however, opponents claim that the bill is misdirected and too lenient in certain areas. For example, Mothers Against Drunk Driving opposes the bill, claiming it loosens laws for serving drinks to people who are visibly intoxicated and does little or nothing to stiffen the penalties for establishments who serve alcohol to minors. The bill would also transfer the authority to issue a liquor license from the state to local governments, based on the idea that local governments understand the needs of the local community best. Proponents include Pocatello Mayor Roger Chase, who says that the bill "balances out for the guys that already have liquor licenses but in the end it does help out with economic growth in the community." Bill Kotowski bkotowski@kpvi.com, KPVI NEWS 6 http://www.kpvi.com 4/14/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Distillery District Gains Internet Popularity as Developer Looks for Infrastructure Funding Lexington, KY — The Lexington Distillery District is the most popular national project vying for government stimulus funding, according to users on StimulusWatch.org. Created by independent developers to let citizens vote on proposed stimulus project proposals, StimulusWatch allows users to choose "yes" or "no" on each proposal and records a net positive or negative score for each. As of Monday, April 13, the vote ratio for the $15 million public improvements proposed for Lexington’s Distillery District was 1,140, the highest of all the stimulus projects nationwide. The plans include revitalization of blighted properties near downtown along Manchester as a mixed-use arts and entertainment district. Susan Baniak, Smiley Pete Publishing http://www.bizlex.com 4/14/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Boulder City Council Considers Sweeping Changes To Liquor rules Boulder, CO — Elected officials in Boulder are considering a drastic upgrade to the city’s alcohol regulations to prevent alcohol abuse in the city. The Council plans to hold a study session in follow up to a resolution passed after the alcohol-poisoning death of a University of Colorado student five years ago. The resolution promised a review of zoning codes, licensing policies and enforcement practices. As part of their follow-up, the Council is considering many courses of action, including more speakers at liquor board hearings and restoring a rule that would ban liquor licenses within 500 feet of the CU campus. "Few people know how serious Boulder’s alcohol problems are," said Lisa Spalding, who serves on the city’s Beverages Licensing Authority. "The city spent over $3.3 million to address alcohol issues in 2008." Ryan Morgan, The Colorado Daily http://www.coloradodaily.com 4/11/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Renaissance Rock Island Announce District Hospitality Venues Working Together Rock Island, IL - Downtown hospitality venues are collaborating on a long-overdue joint promotion, according to a Renaissance Rock Island press release. Eight venues are working together for the Spring Pub Crawl, to be held downtown on Friday, April 24 from 7 to 11 p.m. The Pub Crawl is one piece of a larger nighttime economy revitalization plan, and is a direct result of the city’s Responsible Hospitality Plan and related discussions. Quad-Cities Online http://www.qconline.com 4/10/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Portland Mayor: Memorial Coliseum Must Go Portland, OR — Portland Mayor Sam Adams announced that in order to redevelop the Rose Quarter into a thriving hospitality zone and regional attraction, the Memorial Coliseum must be torn down and a baseball stadium built in its place. In response to criticism about the plan’s sustainability, Adams said that the new district would be built according to today’s standards for sustainability, possibly making the Rose Quarter into the "most sustainable entertainment district in the United States." Adams spoke alongside the Cordish Company, which hopes to co-develop a hospitality zone called “Live!” — a district concept that the Cordish Company has used in other cities. The “Live! District” would be a regional destination with retail and restaurants to attract visitors to the Rose Quarter not only during Blazers and Beavers games, but throughout the day and night. Sam Bennett sam.bennett@djcoregon.com, The Daily Journal of Commerce http://www.djcoregon.com 4/9/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Council OKs Downtown Tax-free Zone Baton Rouge, LA — The Metro Council approved a proposal to remove sales taxes on original artworks sold in part of the downtown arts and entertainment district with a final vote of 10 to 2. Some council members were wary of the proposal, saying that it could give an unfair advantage to artists based in certain districts. However, according to Downtown Development Director Davis Rhorer, any district can apply to become a state cultural district and receive the exemption. Gaye Hamilton, the coordinator of the state cultural district program, said 39 cultural districts have been designated since the program’s inception last year. Scott Dyer sdyer@theadvocate.com, The Advocate http://www.2theadvocate.com 4/9/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article New Accrington Nightclub to Revive Town’s Nightlife Accrington, Lancashire, UK — In an effort to revitalize their nighttime economy, especially the traditional Sunday nightlife, Accrington has welcomed the new Level One Nightclub and its strict dress code. Seeking to attract an upscale clientele, the club denies anyone wearing branded clothing, boasts the capacity for 250 people and has a state-of-the-art LED flashing dance floor. A number of other bars have agreed to open late on Sundays during a six-week trial to see if they can bring the public back into town. Nafeesa Shan n.shan@lancashire.newsquest.co.uk, The Lancashire Telegraph http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk 4/9/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Wilton Manors Hopes To Curb Nighttime Jaywalking Wilton Manors, FL — Seeking to prevent nighttime crashes involving pedestrians in the Wilton Manors entertainment district, local police are commencing an enforcement and awareness operation. According to police spokesman Seargant Chuck Howard, police will pass out pamphlets to local businesses and enforce jaywalking with citations; the city also installed electronic signals at both ends of Wilton Drive. ’’We addressed the traffic problem itself,’’ Howard said. "In addition to that, we had the speed limit lowered and now we’re addressing the problem from a pedestrian standpoint.’’ The operation comes after four pedestrians were injured and one killed on Wilton Drive within the past year. David Smiley dsmiley@MiamiHerald.com, The Miami Herald http://www.miamiherald.com 4/7/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Middleton’s Adult-zone Plan Rattles West Peabody Middleton, MA — West Peabody residents are organizing in opposition to a set of plans that would create adult-entertainment districts in the town, which has never had an adult business. The plans — one of which details a district just over the town line in Middleton, another which plans one behind the Candlelite Motor Inn on the other end of town — will both be discussed at the next Planning Board meeting. But according to Christine Lindberg, a Middleton selectman and Planning Board member, if Middleton were to designate an adult entertainment district, the rest of the town would be officially off-limits to all other adult businesses. "We’re not trying to attract adult entertainment in Middleton," Lindberg said. "We’re trying to protect [Middleton] as so many of the 351 Massachusetts cities and towns have done." Mike Stucka, The Gloucester Daily Times http://www.gloucestertimes.com 4/7/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Sonoma State University Alumni Offer An Online Resource To Local Nightlife Sonoma, CA — Local entrepreneurs have successfully married the social networking revolution with hospitality via Barspace.tv, a new website geared toward college students and their nightlife escapades. Designed by two Sonoma State University alumni who graduated last spring, it offers instant live camera access to the most popular clubs and bars in Petaluma, Cotati and Santa Rosa, a calendar of events, menus, vouchers for discounts on admission and drinks, and a text message system that can update users on activity at a selected venue. The site also offers the ability to send messages between patrons, striking similar to social network powerhouses MySpace and Facebook. Janee Wafer, The Sonoma State Star http://media.www.sonomastatestar.com 4/7/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article MySpace to Let Users Rate Local Businesses Online social-networking giant MySpace has partnered with Citysearch on its new site, MySpace Local, to allow members to review local dining and nightlife businesses, such as bars and restaurants. MySpace is seeking to capitalize on the popularity of peer reviews and the vast pool of available users in order to expand into a portal for in-person social activity. Associated Press, The Akron Beacon Journal http://www.ohio.com 4/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article The End of the Line Toronto, ON — City Council member Denzil Minnan-Wong has declared his intention to cut late-night bus service because the vehicles are empty; meanwhile, those who rely on late-night Toronto Transit Commission buses claim it is a vital, popular service heavily utilized by students, workers and club patrons. Minnan-Wong proposed an end to the service during the city’s budget debate, a move he says would save the city $21-million; the move was defeated, but Minnan-Wong says he will keep pushing. Local cook Gerrit Kolijn said the plan to scale back service is an insult to bus riders, often the poorest workers in the city. "They’re bending to the will of the upper class. They don’t care about the people who clean Toronto and who feed Toronto and who help keep the city moving," he said. Dave McGinn, The Globe and Mail http://www.theglobeandmail.com 4/4/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Consortium Offers Unique Nightlife Experience Shreveport, LA — The Consortium Venue, a north Shreveport entertainment locale with upscale decor, open dance floor, dining options and regular live music has become wildly popular with adults seeking a comprehensive, music-centric alternative to the hip hop club scene. It’s the latest of many places outside downtown Shreveport that offer dining and live music, which has experienced a veritable renaissance in the city as of late. Club owner Monica Hall said she named the place "Consortium" to indicate the theme of the place: "it means individuals, groups, companies and organizations coming together to participate in a common activity," Hall said. Donecia Pea doneciapea@gannett.com, The Shreveport Times http://www.shreveporttimes.com/ 4/3/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Wellington Police District Crime Statistics Wellington, New Zealand — The Wellington Police District has released area crime statistics for the previous calendar year. According to the statistics, there was a 9.1 percent rise in recorded crime in 2008 overall. Wellington Police District Commander Pieri Munro stated that "ensuring the greater Wellington region is a safe and enjoyable place to live, work and visit continues to be a high priority" for the department. He added that the "rise in total crime was disappointing in many respects as the five Areas worked hard to use Intelligence to help catch offenders, prevent and detect crime." On the positive side, he noted that police were making some progress on their goal to reduce alcohol-related violence. Scoop Independent News http://www.scoop.co.nz 4/1/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Youth Rights Group Aims to Overturn West Palm Beach’s Downtown Curfew West Palm Beach, FL — The South Florida chapter of the National Youth Rights Association, a youth advocacy group, is seeking to overturn West Palm Beach’s downtown curfew. They have tapped Boca Raton activist and lawyer Barry Silver to fight the curfew ordinance, which was enacted about 20 months ago to keep minors under adult surveillance or at home late at night. Silver claims that the ordinance is unconstitutionally vague and deprives youths of civil rights. Before going to trial, he says he will attempt to persuade the city council to rescind the ordinance. Tony Doris tony_doris@pbpost.com, Palm Beach Post http://www.palmbeachpost.com 3/31/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Kansas City Power & Light District: Dress Code Discrimination Kansas City, MO — The dress code at Kansas City’s Power & Light District (KCP & L District) has come under fire by the American Civil Liberties Union for allegedly denying urban residents access to Kansas City’s new $85 million entertainment zone. The Cordish Company — the corporate owner and developer of the downtown district — employs a dress code that bans long, white t-shirts and other fashion staples of the urban look, including excessively baggy clothing, shorts that fall below the top of the calf, shirts that hang below pant pockets, exposed necklaces on men, towels and Timberland boot, etc. City Council plans to discuss the Planning and Zoning Committee’s recommendations to curb the code. The controversy has also raised questions about the value of the KCP & L District to the local economic growth of the city, since a significant number of businesses are national chains. Debbie Coleman, The Kansas City Tribune http://www.kctribune.com 3/27/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Eleven’s Uphill Struggle To Extend Hours West Hollywood, CA — The nightclub “Eleven” has catalyzed development of a new policy and set of procedures for handling extended hours requests in West Hollywood. In addition to requesting a later mandatory closing, the club also seeks to open earlier, at 8am instead of 11am, to serve breakfast. Eleven’s unique request has been delayed by 60 days so that the club can install noise mitigation measures to address noise complaints and code compliance citations. WeHoNew.com http://wehonews.com/ 3/23/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Nightlife, Noise at Odds in Old Town Temecula Temecula, CA — New dining and entertainment development in Old Town Temecula, CA has prompted City Council members to investigate how to appropriately update the city’s noise ordinance. Tens of millions of public and private dollars have recently been invested in Old Town as the city seeks to revitalize its historic district with mixed uses from restaurants, offices and affordably priced apartments. Assistant City Manager Bob Johnson said that city staff will examine San Diego’s Gaslamp District as they attempt to balance residential life and nighttime activity. "We want residents there," said Johnson. "We want entertainment there. And we’re going to learn from what other communities do." Jeff Horseman, The Press-Enterprise http://www.pe.com/ 3/17/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Best Bar None Extends to Hotels Best Bar None, the awards scheme that recognizes safe and well run pubs, bars and clubs, has now introduced a hotel category in some areas of the country to recognize the importance of hotels in the licensed retail sector. BBN chairman Lord Redesdale commented, "Hotels obviously play a vital role in the night time economy so it is fitting that they should be included in such a crucial initiative as Best Bar None." Emma Eversham, Big Hospitality http://www.bighospitality.co.uk 3/13/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Movie Theaters for Grownups As the economic recession has deepened and American nightlife continues to evolve, movie theaters seeking to attract larger adult audiences and raise profits are offering gourmet food and alcoholic drinks — often delivered straight to your seat. It is estimated that 300 multiplexes in the country now offer high-end amenities, such as mixed drinks, food service of all kinds, recliner seats, tables and anything else that can transform the movie-going experience into a luxurious, complete experience. While specialty theaters are certainly not new, their growing popularity could mean greater revenues for the movie exhibitor industry, because unlike ticket prices, other revenues do not have to be shared with studios. Some are still skeptical, however, like Telluride Film Festival co-director Gary Meyer: "These kinds of theaters are very expensive to put together," he says. "You’re eliminating the under 21 audience." Charles Koppelman, MSN http://cityguides.msn.com 3/10/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Chicago’s Pedestrian Mall Solution: Traffic Chicago, IL — For nearly 20 years, Chicago’s State Street, a historic downtown shopping district, was stagnant, isolated and rampant with public disorder until a 1996 decision by the city council to rip up the pedestrian mall and connect it with the rest of the city. Traffic was eliminated from the area in 1979; American cities built more than 200 pedestrian malls in the 1960s and 1970s when they were losing shoppers to proliferating suburban malls and attempting to gain business with tranquil, traffic-free shopping zones. More than ten years after the city council’s decision, State Street is home to a downtown renaissance, and the decision to draw traffic and redesign the district is expected to serve as a model to cities all over the country. Michael Levenson mlevenson@globe.com, The Boston Globe http://www.boston.com 3/9/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article College Men Not Looking for a "Girl Gone Wild" Though college women may be drinking more and more heavily to impress male collegiates on campuses across the country, a new study suggests that men are not reacting as women expect. A survey of 3,616 college students at two universities found that an overwhelming majority of women overestimated the number of drinks a typical man would like his female friends, dates or girlfriends to drink at any event. The results were published by the American Psychological Association in the March issue of Psychology of Addictive Behaviors. The study’s lead author, Joseph LaBrie, PhD said that the research "suggests women believe men find excessive drinking sexually attractive and appealing, but it appears this is a giant misperception.” Health News Digest http://www.healthnewsdigest.com 3/9/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article A New Strategy to Attack a Decades-old Nightlife Problem in Providence For decades, nightlife in Providence has had a consistent — yet growing — problem: after the state-mandated 2 a.m. closing time, thousands of revelers from Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts pour back into the street and cause public disorder. After trying many different law enforcement techniques, civic, hospitality, legislative and law enforcement leaders are coming to embrace the idea of a soft closing time. Bars and nightclubs currently must close at 1 a.m. unless they have a license allowing them to close at 2 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and the Sunday before a legal holiday. The proposed soft closing time would change state law to extend that closing time to 3 a.m. — but no alcoholic drinks would be served the last hour, and bar and nightclub owners will be encouraged to turn on lights and lower music to help patrons mellow out. Civic leaders want to introduce legislation in the current session of the state General Assembly, and Sen. Maryellen Goodwin, D-Providence, is expected to be the sponsor. Gregory Smith, The Providence Journal http://www.projo.com 3/8/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Nightclub Appeals For Longer Hours St. Edmundsbury, UK — A nightclub operator, St. Edmundsbury Leisure Ltd., is appealing a decision by the St. Edmundsbury Borough Council to deny its application for longer hours at its club, Déjà Vu. The application was for the continued use of the ground floor as a bar, with a variation of the opening hours from 2 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Andrew Barney, director of the company, said that they have been working with residents and the environmental health officer to solve problems of disturbance and public disorder in the area. A result from the Planning Inspectorate is expected around mid-May 2009. news@buryfreepress.co.uk, Bury Free Press http://www.buryfreepress.co.uk 3/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article A Map of the (Drinking) World Courtesy of Sloshspot.com, a nightlife and entertainment online community, Economix features a map of of legal drinking ages around the world. The geographic visual is accompanied by links to research regarding the effect of legal drinking ages on mortality and various socio-political trends. Catherine Rampell, The New York Times http://www.nytimes.com 3/6/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Best Bar None to Include Off-trade The UK’s Best Bar None (BBN) award scheme, designed to recognize responsible retailer, will be extended to include off-trade categories. Lord Redesdale, the BBN chairman, said that “It is a logical step forward... they operate under the same Licensing Act as the on-trade and often encounter the same problems of alcohol-related disorder." Matt Eley matte@thepublican.com, The Publican http://www.thepublican.com 3/2/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Looking on the Bright Side of Life is in the Genes, Claim Scientists Essex, UK — University of Essex psychology researchers have found that variations of a mood altering gene may influence a person’s disposition. The gene, involved in the transportation of the well-being chemical serotonin, could influence whether or not a person has an optimistic or pessimistic view of life. They also believe the findings could help develop new treatments for anxiety and depression. Richard Alleyne, The Telegraph http://www.telegraph.co.uk 2/25/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Fears of Assault Hurts Sydney Economy Sydney, Australia — Criminology expert and University of Western Sydney professor Stephen Tomsen has warned his countrymen that fear of violence and anti-social behavior are limiting Sydney’s nightlife and damaging its economy. Though he said that there is "no solid evidence for a new increased level of violence or real general danger" at night in Sydney, he warns that "fear and unpleasant social encounters" keep many Sydney residents at home at night. "There’s no reason why the night-time economy has to be limited to those who focus on drinking large amounts of alcohol,’’ he said, before going on to encourage a large-scale effort to promote diverse nightlife activities and encourage residents to feel safe in their greater community at night. News Limited http://www.news.com.au 2/25/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Scranton Mayor Chris Doherty Touts Future Scranton, PA — Mayor Chris Doherty summarized seven years of his administration during his seventh annual State of the City speech at the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the progress of his vision of revitalizing the city’s economy, downtown, nightlife and parks. He will be sure to highlight this vision as he campaigns for a third term as mayor this spring. “I said I wanted to commit to the downtown because your communities are defined by your downtown," Doherty said. "Are they active? Are they vibrant? Are there people on the street? Are there people out at nighttime?” The mayor is expected to face former City Councilman Gary DiBileo in the Democratic mayoral primary May 19, 2009. Borys Krawczeniuk, The Times-Tribune http://www.thetimes-tribune.com 2/25/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article S.J. Council Votes on Policing Downtown Entertainment District San Jose, CA — The San Jose City Council has pressed forward with a number of proposals designed to quickly revitalize the city’s downtown district. As part of the plan to have clubs contribute to entertainment policing, owners, community leaders and police will soon begin crafting a "kinder, gentler policing approach" to help patrons feel more welcome after hours. Club owners celebrated the vote, saying that the new police approach was something they had long demanded. The fee, which will be based on club occupancy limits, will help make up policing costs in the district; downtown clubs generate about $183,000 annually in taxes, but policing patrons costs about $824,000. Dennis Theriault, Mercury News http://www.mercurynews.com 2/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Social Networking Sites ’Changing Children’s Brains’ According to a prominent neuroscientist, social networking websites are changing children’s brains — making them more self-centered and impatient. Baroness Greenfield, director of the Royal Institution, warns that internet-obsessed children were losing the ability to concentrate and demand instant gratification. Greenfield adds that online conversations are replacing the face-to-face interactions that are key to developing a child’s sociability. However, scientists are divided about the consequences of the digital revolution; a study published last year showed that internet use could improve brain function and decision-making efficiency at the expense of empathy and abstract thought. Matthew Moore, The Telegraph http://www.telegraph.co.uk 2/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article News Flash: You Can Buy Happiness In the midst of the current economic crisis, many Americans have been reevaluating their long-term spending habits. It is thus timely that Ryan Howell, an assistant professor of psychology at San Francisco State University has released his study on the economics of happiness, finding that people — once their basic needs have been met — derive more enjoyment per dollar from experiences than possessions. Rather than buying big screen TVs, Howell found that people get more happiness from activities that return dividends on their investments, also known as memories. These findings suggest that people turn to community parks, entertainment venues and tourism for their splurges — for the social aspects as well as the personal — rather than short-term material possessions. Judith Timson, The Globe and Mail http://www.theglobeandmail.com 2/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Community Policing Downtown San Jose, CA — Members of the San Jose Restaurant & Entertainment Association have presented a plan to the San Jose City Council for “community policing” in the downtown entertainment district. The plan is a response to the city’s attempts to impose up to $80,000 in fees on a number of nightclubs in downtown San Jose. It is a new version of the “shared employment” model in which police officers are compensated directly by club owners. A link to the Powerpoint presentation of the policing proposal is contained at the end of the article. San Jose Inside http://www.sanjoseinside.com/ 2/24/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Providence Nightclub Owners Form Association Providence, RI - The Providence nightlife revival saw great progress Monday when owners of bars and nightclubs announced the formation of the Providence Nightlife Association, as reported in the Providence Journal’s blog. Nightclub entrepreneur Alex Tomasso, the association president, said the association seeks collaboration with civic leaders, residents, the police and other stakeholders to find ways that will allow all parties to flourish in the city. Gregory Smith gsmith@projo.com, The Providence Journal http://www.projo.com/ 2/23/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Latex Could Silence Noisy Neighbors Cheap and effective soundproofing materials promise a higher quality of life for urban and suburban residents worldwide. Zhiyu Yang at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in Kowloon says his team could make that promise a reality with latex and plastic buttons. By stacking five membranes of such material, each weighted and tuned to a different frequency, Yang claims that his team can create a soundproof panel that works in the range from 70 to 550 hertz. Colin Barras, The New Scientist http://www.newscientist.com 2/22/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article City Nightlife Takes On The Law Glasgow, UK — Conflict between nightlife businesses and law enforcement is leading to resurgent attempts to form partnerships in Glasgow, where 100,000 revelers per night are causing problems to public order. A Mori poll in 2005 showed that 58% of Glaswegians felt unsafe in the city center at night, and the rapes, assaults and occasional murders overshadow the hype surrounding the leisure sector, which has helped promote Glasgow as one of the UK’s most vibrant metropolitan areas. Recently, the city’s leading licensees have been complaining that the working relationship between them and the police has been disregarded and replaced by an attitude of belligerence. Gordon Macdiarmid, the former head of the Glasgow licensing board, says he is unsurprised by an apparent breakdown in relations, claiming an "illiberal" wind has been blowing. All that is certain is that relations must be improved soon, for the good of the booming nightlife in Glasgow and the citizens in the immediate area. Gerry Braiden gerry.braiden@theherald.co.uk, The Herald http://www.theherald.co.uk 2/20/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Police Scolded For Hess Drinking Comments Hess Village, Ontario, CAN - Councillor Terry Whitehead admonished police Chief Brian Mullan for allowing the force to present to council their criticism of the growth of drinking establishments in Hess Village. In their presentation, police advised councillors that the entertainment district has reached its saturation point in licensed seating and that they are having trouble finding officers to work extra shifts to patrol Hess Village. Meanwhile, Councillor Bernie Morelli - chair of the police board - defended these comments, calling them "the right thing to do. All the police did was come in and give you a snapshot of what’s going on." Daniel Nolan, The Spec http://www.thespec.com 2/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article A Plan For Policing Downtown San Jose, CA - John Conway, a founding member of the San Jose Restaurant and Entertainment Association, has proposed and presented a new policing model for San Jose’s downtown Entertainment Zone to the Mayor and City Council. The new model relies on Community Policing Roving Patrols (CPRP) consisting of six officers and one sergeant each to patrol on foot Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in distinct geographic hospitality areas. He proposes that any officers assigned to any CPRP teams should complete a training program focused on entertainment zone hospitality, as recommended by the City’s consultant, the Responsible Hospitality Institute. He notes that Chicago and San Diego currently implement similar training procedures. Conway’s proposal also addresses equitable financial contributions by downtown businesses to reduce costs and other changes in hospitality policing strategies. John Conway, San Jose Inside http://www.sanjoseinside.com 2/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Council Debates Adding Fees On Downtown Bars For Police Lafayette, LA - The Lafayette City-Parish Council met late into the night Feb. 17 to continue an ongoing discussion about charging a fee to bar owners to support more police in the entertainment district. Many council members had mixed feelings about the fee, with many supporting a fee but disagreeing how to divide the burden between bars and city government. Business owners have been receptive to the idea, but agreement on specifics has been very slow. Finally, Council members also acknowledged that increasing crowds in the entertainment district are partly due to city efforts to revitalize the area. Richard Burgess rburgess@theadvocate.com, The Advocate http://www.2theadvocate.com/ 2/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article License to Swill Seattle, WA — Due to a rising demand for beer, wine, and spirits licenses in the state, the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB) might be forced to turn away applicants, starting in four or five years. Washington’s state-imposed license cap is a sobering image of the nightlife industry, but the WSLCB has come up with a plan that could free up cap space by changing the way bars are licensed in the state. The proposal, which would create a new license specifically for clubs and give the state oversight authority that has historically belonged to the city, is still being revised in the state house and senate and should be voted on by March 11. The greatest effect of the bill is its provision to take away Seattle officials’ regulatory power over clubs. Jonah Spangenthal-Lee jonah@thestranger.com, The Stanger http://www.thestranger.com 2/18/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article There Goes The Neighborhood? Battle Brews Over Proposed Zoning Change For Bars In Mixed-use Residential Areas Salt Lake City, UT - Bob McCarthy sees his bar as a splash of Manhattan in Salt Lake City, a place where Capitol Hill and Avenues sophisticates could soon sip wine and martinis after work. Some of his neighbors see the bar as a danger to the children who live nearby. It’s a relationship shaken, stirred and on the rocks, as Salt Lake leaders hear residents and bar owners weigh in on a zoning change that would allow private clubs on a case-by-case basis in mixed-use areas. Aaron Falk afalk@desnews.com, Deseret Morning News http://www.desnews.com 2/17/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Thugs Face Total Ban from City Pubs Plymouth, UK - A plan proven successful in retail businesses in Plymouth is being extended to nightlife businesses to keep out troublemakers. A banned person who tries to enter such premises could find themselves served with an Anti-social Behaviour Order (Asbo). The scheme, backed by the police and thought to be the first of its kind in Britain, will be run as an extension of the Home Office-approved Plymouth Against Retail Crime (Parc) initiative, which has been operating successfully in the city since 2001. Called Parc Night, it will be in place by the end of February 2009. All 106 businesses already in Pubwatch and Clubwatch schemes have been invited to join. The Herald http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk 2/13/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Servers to Get Tips About the Tipsy San Marcos, CA — Bartenders, servers and clerks in San Marcos may soon be required to undergo training on spotting fake IDs and recognizing the signs of intoxication — to cut off further alcohol intake. The city, which calls this legislation a “responsible beverage sales and service” ordinance, aims to prevent problems involving alcohol from evolving in their growing city. California State University San Marcos has about 9,000 students but expects an enrollment of 25,000 in the future. If the ordinance — which may be voted on in the spring — is adopted, employees at existing businesses would have 180 days to comply. New hires would have 90 days to complete the training. Linda Lou, The San Diego Union-Tribune http://www.signonsandiego.com 2/7/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Public Health Must Take Precedence North Carolina — As state policymakers prepare to debate legislation that would set a smoking ban on all workplaces, familiar battle lines will be drawn in the state. Proponents, who say that public health takes precedence, are arguing that smoke-free policies demonstrably lower smoking rates, in addition to decreasing secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke accounts for more than 1 million annual illnesses in children, and has been identified by U.S. Surgeon General Richard H. Carmona as one of the causes of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) — the leading cause of death in healthy infants. Other benefits include lower cost of private insurance and savings to taxpayers. Finally, there is the class element: more than 76 percent of white-collar workers are protected by smoke-free workplace policies, compared with fewer than 60 percent of blue-collar and service-industry workers. Ronny Bell, The Winston-Salem Journal http://www2.journalnow.com 1/31/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article New Role Will Tackle Night Crime Wales, UK — Steve Williams, a former bar and club manager, has been appointed "night time economy coordinator" to tackle issues including crime, drunkenness, begging and litter in downtown Swansea at night. Williams plans to set up a night ambassador scheme and ban troublemakers from more than 50 downtown venues. The new position, which has been endorsed by the Swansea city police, is one of many in other parts of the UK; they have helped to reduce crime and public disorder, and improve relations with nightlife business managers. Chief Inspector Ray Bignell of the South Wales Police said the new role will "have a positive impact on feelings of safety in the city center." BBC News http://news.bbc.co.uk/ 1/20/2009

View Full Listing  Link to Article Purple Flags For Binge Drinking-Free Towns London, UK — Britain has unveiled a new project to reward town centres that feature a variety of venues and little public disorder. Independent assessors will visit hospitality zones between the hours of 6pm and 5am on a Friday or Saturday night; the most important factor in qualifying for a purple flag will be a variety of pubs, restaurants, cafés and entertainment venues such as theatres, rather than an exclusive focus on drinking establishments. "If we can create an economy that is sufficiently diverse that families can come back, then we will to some extent remove the need for policing because they become self-policing," said Philip Kolvin, chairman of the Civic Trust, the organization that will launch the project. "Everyone we have spoken to about the scheme has been hugely enthusiastic." David Barrett, The Telegraph http://www.telegraph.co.uk 12/20/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Ups And Down(town)s For over 10 years Beth Kosley led revitalization efforts for the Colorado Springs Downtown Partnership. Under her leadership, the BID expanded from 2 blocks to more than 30 blocks, and established an Arts on the Streets program and a stylish downtown shuttle. Although she left in October 2008, Kosley’s legacy remains in the recent creation of a quasi-governmental entity called the Downtown Development Authority, intended to accelerate growth. The Authority will subsidize downtown development and place greater emphasis on both residential development and expansion of arts and cultural attractions. J. Stanley stanley@csindy.com, Colorado Springs Independent http://www.csindy.com/gyrobase 12/18/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Broken Windows Two Harvard professors make a compelling case for the institution of community policing in America, the most popular strategy of the current police reform movement. James Q. Wilson and George L Kelling, authors of Fixing Broken Windows criticize the current professional model and defend community policing, principally the return to beat-policing, via the ’broken windows’ argument. Their argument, in simplest terms, is that abandoned property or small-scale vandalism, when left unfixed, invites public disorder in the area, lowers public perception of safety and morale and eventually leaves a community vulnerable to violent crime. Their model of policing is predicated on community relations, strict preservation of public order and prevention of small-scale crime. James and George Kelling Wilson, Manhattan Institute http://www.manhattan-institute.org/ 12/16/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Store Owner: I Won’t Participate In Recession Monterey, CA — A Monterey businessman has decided to disregard the economic recession and buy back his old art supply and framing stores. John Wiseman, who will save the jobs of 17 employees who have worked with him as long as 17 years, was fully retired when he heard that Searle Framing would close its doors. “I know the government officially says we’re in a recession. I’ve just chosen not to participate,” said Wiseman. “We could’ve retired and gone back to Texas, but frankly, this presents a much bigger challenge. I may be older than I was a few years ago, but I’m still young enough to revive it." NBC http://www.ksbw.com 12/2/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Caffeine Myths and Facts Common myths about caffeine were examined and in some cases, debunked, by Web MD Medical Reference. Misperceptions tackled include caffeine’s addictive qualities, its likeliness to cause insomnia, dehydrating effects, harm to children, and whether or not it facilitates sobriety. WebMD Reference http://www.webmd.com/ 11/30/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Flip-flops Hotfoot It Across National Press Torbay, UK – Law enforcement plans to provide flip-flops to drunken revelers on their way home have been publicized in international headlines. Though often depicted whimsically, police plans are very serious, contends Torbay Partnerships Inspector Adrian Leisk. “What appears to have been missed is the emphasis on educating community members about the need to consume alcohol in a responsible manner.” The organization Safer Communities Torbay secured £30,000 of funding from the Home Office, £200 of which will be used to buy flip-flops with alcohol safety advice printed on them. To further combat serious safety issues in the Bay, a new community nighttime economy team will also be established and the safety bus, which is parked on Vaughn Parade, will also get a revamp. Herald Express http://www.thisissouthdevon.co.uk/ 11/29/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Police Clamp Down In Clarendon, Jamaica Clarendon, Jamaica - Recent illegal activities during entertainment events have led Clarendon police to impose strict regulations on club and entertainment events during the upcoming Christmas Season. Clarendon police advise promoters to apply early for events, which will allow them to have sufficient time to inspect the premises for safety risks. Radio Jamaica http://www.radiojamaica.com/ 11/28/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article "Bulgarian Mafia Controls Madrid’s Nightlife" Madrid, Spain – The Bulgarian mafia controls the security business of Madrid’s discotheques, contends an article published in the Spanish newspaper ABC. The article, which cited an anonymous police source, adds that the Gang of Ivo is one of the most dangerous criminal organizations in Madrid, that Ivo is notorious in the Madrid underworld and that he personally hires the security of the discotheques. It reported that the Bulgarian Mafia forces Madrid club owners to hire their people as security guards – and that sales of illegal drugs frequently occur in those clubs. Sofia News Agency, Emportal http://www.emportal.co.yu/en/ 11/26/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article As Nightlife Booms, Rats Are Having a Party, Too New York City – East Side residents have something new to fear late at night: a rodent population that threatens to take over the entire district. Concerned residents who attended a Lower East Side Community Rodent Forum demanded swift action by city officials. City Council members who sponsored the forum attributed the rodent challenges to the large number of bars and restaurants who put out their garbage at night. Director of pest-control services for the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene urged property owners, tenants, businesses and government to develop a coordinated response to effectively address the issue. Lesley Sussman, The Villager http://www.thevillager.com 11/26/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Across France, Cafe Owners Are Suffering Due to the global financial crisis, café businesses in France are declining, with an average of two closing everyday. The poor economic climate has led many to lose consumer confidence and thus cut down on spending. The overall change in café culture has also contributed to the slowdown affecting café businesses. Youths no longer have the habit of spending leisure time at the café and the coffee-at-the counter feel doesn’t hold the appeal it once had. Cafe owners also attribute the decline to the extension of the smoking ban to bars, cafes and restaurants, as well as increased police presence around late-night establishments. Steven Erlanger, The New York Times, 11/23/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Booze Bust: San Jose City Council Addresses High Arrest Rate San Jose, CA - Community groups and activists allege that San Jose police are enforcing the public intoxication law too aggressively, which they claim is clogging up the court system. Critics also allege that arrests for public drunkenness are being targeted at Latinos, who made up 57% of arrests last year despite comprising only 32% of the city’s population. SJPD denies these charges, and considers the arrests a legitimate way to manage public safety. Councilman Liccardo, representing the downtown district, where 36% of the arrests have occurred, has expressed his support of re-opening the city’s sobering center as an alternative to prosecution, and further, urges that proof of intoxication be required for arrest. Eric C. Rich, MSNBC http://www.msnbc.msn.com/ 11/20/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article San Jose Downtown Association Prez Wants Police Board San Jose, CA – An op-ed presents the controversial (and not officially endorsed) call by the president of the San Jose Downtown Association (SJDA) for a ‘police advisory commission’. This commission would provide citizen oversight of police activities, which has been historically opposed by the SJPD, by serving as a body between the police and City Council so that a City Council meeting isn’t necessary every time issues are raised by the community. SJDA president Art Bernstein cites the need for a shift “from enforcement to management,” as illustrated by the police department’s aggressive stance towards permit compliance, code enforcement and the closing down of select downtown bars and clubs. Metroactive http://www.metroactive.com/ 11/19/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Beverage Ads Not Fueling Enough Word of Mouth New York, NY - A recent study done by a word-of-mouth research and consulting firm found that the beverage category (both alcoholic and non) is falling short when it comes to word of mouth as a branding tool. Nearly half of all word of mouth branding involves a reference to media or advertising. The study concludes that beverage advertisements tend to be more image-related, which are usually less "talk-worthy," since this type of message needs to have a clear product benefit. Natalie Zmuda nzmuda@adage.com, Advertising Age http://adage.com 11/18/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Night Time Economy Project Ceredigion, UK – To tackle night time economy challenges in Aberystwyth, the Ceredigions’s Community Safety Partnership funded a collaborative event to bring together the County Council, Police, Town Council, the University of Wales, local licensees and youth forum to discuss trends and develop solutions. With an underlying recognition of the importance of nightlife to the local economy and the desire to maintain its vibrancy and sustainability, these gathered stakeholders discussed noise, littering, vandalism, fears about safety, drunkenness and antisocial behaviour. Barbara Prichard abernte@ceredigion.gov.uk, Cyngor Sir Ceredigion County Council http://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=4295&splashpage=false 11/9/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Panel: Bar Owner Discriminated Based on Age Newport, RI – The state Human Rights Commission has declared that former bar owner Daniel Puerini must run a prominent ad saying that his business violated the state’s age-discrimination laws after denying entry to a 19-year-old in 2005. Puerini, who wasn’t fined, had a personal policy of declining entrance to those under 21, which the Commission found to be prohibited under state law. The Rhode Island Hotels and Public Places Act, prohibits discrimination against anyone over 18 at “a place of public accommodation,” which includes “taverns,” “restaurants,” “saloons,” and “barrooms.” Richard Salit, The Providence Journal http://www.projo.com 11/2/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Phoenix Cuts Early-Morning, Late-Night Bus Runs Phoenix, AZ – The Phoenix City Council voted unanimously to eliminate bus service between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. on Oct. 28, 2008. In addition, Saturday schedules will be reduced by 24% to mirror Sunday’s. Transit advocates heavily protested the move, saying that the cuts will disproportionately affect the poor and disabled, as well as further damage the city’s economy. Further reductions to bus service will be made in July as Phoenix attempts to close a $250 million deficit. The city hopes to restore bus routes when the economy improves. Casey Newton, The Arizona Republic http://www.azcentral.com 10/29/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Abo’s Neighbors Say They’re Dropping Late-night Fight Boulder, CO – Late night pizza at Abo’s is no longer in the middle of a Boulder Planning Board dispute, as the local who made the appeal has dropped his case. Under current law, businesses can stay open until 11 p.m. but can seek waivers from the city to stay open later; Abo’s is open until 2:30 a.m. William Marine, the appellant, said that he and members of the University Hill Neighborhood Association, who supported the appeal, still think that businesses need a universal closing time – and community discussion about appropriate closing hours. He asserts that putting a popular restaurant in the middle of that discussion, like Abo’s, doesn’t make sense, however. Ryan Morgan, Daily Camera http://www.dailycamera.com 10/28/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Teen Club Is Bounced From Downtown The license for a downtown hall that hosted Club Bounce, promoted as the "D.C. Area’s Hottest 18 & Under Teen Night Club" was recently suspended. The Club Bounce program has been staged at various venues in the Washington area since 2007, with the central aim of providing a safe place for youth to hang out at night. No incidents were reported within the downtown venue, however, numerous complaints were issued from residents and businesses about underage curfew violations, unruly behavior, and a nearby shooting incident. Although Police District Commander Camperin commented that most of the youth activity was innocent ‘cruising’, the extra police patrols necessary to monitor activity from the 300 to 500 loitering youth were a drain to the city’s resources. Clarence Williams and Robert E. Pierre, Washington Post http://www.washingtonpost.com/ 10/25/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Nightlife Entrepreneurs Want Restrictions Ended Kathmandu, Nepal – Local nightlife entrepreneurs called on the government to end restrictions Oct. 25, 2008, claiming that the 11 o’clock mandatory closing time was threatening to put the entire sector – and thousands of workers – out of business. Since Sep. 3, the government has enforced restrictions on nighttime businesses under the direction of Home Minister Bam Dev Gautam. Gautam claims that dance restaurants, discos and pubs are breeding grounds for crime and have promoted negative aspects of Western culture, including "naked dances." Nightlife promoters have expressed their willingness to aid in regulation; they drafted a strict code of conduct as part of their appeal to the government. eKantipur http://www.kantipuronline.com 10/25/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article New Zealand: Central City Bars To Change To One-Way Door At 3am Christchurch, New Zealand has updated its ‘one-way door’ policy to prevent bar hopping and thereby reduce alcohol-related crime and violence. On November 3, 2008, all bars will prohibit re-entry at 3am (previously 4am) so that patrons leaving venues after this time will not be able to re-enter any bar in the central city. Statistics supporting the update to the ‘one-way door’ policy indicate that offenses will be reduced by 20% at 3am, the peak time for crime and violence, versus only 11% at the current 4am time. Christchurch City Council, Scoop Independent News http://www.scoop.co.nz/ 10/20/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Is It ‘Game Over’ For Hong Kong’s Nightlife? Unheeded by the worldwide financial crisis’ spread to Asia, nightlife in Hong Kong continues to flourish. Local club owners report that people seem to spend more money on nightlife during a downturn, perhaps as a form of escape. However, the city’s nightlife has historically fluctuated in intensity, as demonstrated during the Asian financial crisis of 1997 and S.A.R.S. outbreak of 2003. As promotional budgets for major establishments are cut, nightclubs are expected to rely on smaller, more exclusive events to bring in higher-end customers. Hong Kong Hustle http://www.hongkonghustle.com/ 10/20/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article ‘Good Nightlife’ Almost Twice as Influential as ‘Student Funding Availability’ in University Choice A UK survey of 2,000 16-24 year olds found that ‘good nightlife and entertainment’ is almost two times more likely to influence university choice than ‘access to student funding and grants’. The top three university choice reasons were ‘course content’, ‘academic reputation’ and ‘location’. Entertainment was rated the fourth-highest determining factor, with 76% of respondents indicating that it was a significant factor in choosing a university. Personalized Education Now http://blog.personalisededucationnow.org.uk/ 10/19/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Walk To Create Awareness Of Downtown Nightlife Restaurants, pubs and coffeehouses in Holland, MI have organized a “Groove Walk” event to promote awareness of Holland’s downtown nightlife scene. For $10, patrons can gain access to 11 participating venues, many of which will be featuring live music as well as drink and appetizer specials. Free transportation will be provided by the GrooveExpress, a shuttle service making nonstop loops to all locations throughout the evening. The event aims to reframe downtown as a destination for 20- and 30-somethings and a center for live music. Ashley Teffer, Holland Sentinel http://www.hollandsentinel.com/ 10/17/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article “No Refusal" Policy Could Curb Halloween Drinking In preparation for Halloween weekend, Austin’s Police Chief is considering a new program to tackle drunk driving. The city’s “no refusal” plan would allow officers to obtain a blood test for any DWI suspect who refuses a breathalyzer test. There were mixed reviews regarding the proposal - some believe it’s an invasion of privacy, while others feel that it will motivate people to designate an unimpaired driver. MSNBC and KXAN-TV http://www.msnbc.com 10/16/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Ifs, Ands, And Butts In 2005 a study of Massachusetts shores conducted by the Ocean Conservancy found that cigarettes accounted for 37% of coastal litter. The Journal of Tobacco Control states that smokers toss at least 4.5 trillion cigarette butts on the ground worldwide. Many smokers view this second nature habit to be insignificant in comparison to other issues. In Vineyard Haven, MA throwing lit cigarettes from a car is subject to hefty fines and possible imprisonment. Winthrop Roosevelt, New York Times http://www.nytimes.com 10/16/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Decision ’08: Vote Now For Citysearch’s ’Best Of Nightlife’ Campaign The online travel resource, CitySearch.com, opened polls across the nation to identify the best nightlife cities for an award series voted on by Citysearch users. From October 10 - November 6, 2008 users are encouraged to cast their votes for the best bars and clubs in their city. Nicole Myden Nicole.Myden@citysearch.com, Market Watch http://www.marketwatch.com 10/13/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Edinburgh City Scheme Slashes Crime In Nightclubs In Edinburgh, London, bar and club owners have been utilizing the ‘Unight’ safety system to communicate about troublemakers. The system allows businesses to share CCTV images of individuals banned from one venue, which results in an automatic ban for all, essentially stopping anti-social customers from moving to other venues in the city center. The Unight system is credited for an overall reduction in criminal activity in the area by 21%. In the past 12 months it has been in operation, members have handed out 140 bans – an average of almost three per week. Nick Eardley nick.eardley@journal-online.co.uk, The Journal http://www.journal-online.co.uk 10/13/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Is Miami The Best Place For Singles? A Forbes.com article ranked Miami, FL within the top best cities for nightlife, culture and coolness, and the 13th best place for singles. Diana Graulich, Miami Springs Examiner http://www.examiner.com 10/10/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Extra Public Transport Put On To Help Curb Late Night Violence In Melbourne, Australia, the recent increase in late-night violence served as the catalyst for a safety summit hosted by the Melbourne City Council. Attendees included police, politicians, liquor licensing representatives, youth groups and business groups. The group brainstormed a list of initiatives to help curb violence. These include the following: increase the number of buses and locations of taxi’s, improve security and lighting around transport hubs, establish a Monday morning group to review the weekend’s outcomes and increase the numbers and visibility of police. The summit also decided that a special task force should be created and the planning of future entertainment precincts should be reviewed. Matt Johnston, Herald Sun http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun 10/3/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article DIY Scene: Big Government Wants To Intrude On Small Venues In a Baltimore, MD blog, a concerned citizen presents concerns about City Council’s proposed live-entertainment licensing bill, which would replace the current zoning-based system used for granting venues the right to put on live entertainment. According to the blogger, the bill may lead to over-policing venues ‘at an unacceptable level’ and further, the proposed 9-month renewal period may cause businesses that depend on live entertainment to go out of business. Ed Schrader ed@whamcity.com, Baltimore’s Daily Conversation http://bthesite.com 9/30/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Downtown Resident Tired Of Bar Noise Recent redevelopment in downtown Gainesville, FL has sparked complaints between residents and nightclub owners. A newly built condo building was built adjacent to a popular bar and live music venue, resulting in complaints by new residents about the impact on their quality of life. The City Commissioner’s response has been to remind residents that the district is a mix of both residential and commercial interests, and further, that "those who choose to live in any of our hospitality districts…have a reasonable expectation that there will be noise associated with such business.” Cindy Swirko swirkoc@gvillesun.com, The Gainesville Sun http://www.gainesville.com/ 9/28/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article NEPAL Maoist Government Closing All Night Clubs Nepal’s new Home Affairs minister has ordered all nightlife establishments to close at 11 p.m. as a way to cut down on criminal activity. Hundreds of nightclubs, discos, bars, restaurants and casinos could be forced to shut down permanently, putting up to 8,000 jobs at risk. The Nightlife Business Organization chairman expressed concern about the negative economic impact on the country’s nightlife industry, workforce and foreign tourism. Employers and workers involved in the nighttime economy have declared a strike in protest to this restriction. Kalpit Parajuli, Asia News http://www.asianews.it 9/25/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article DUI Fatalities Down Nationwide – Remain High In Wisconsin The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released new figures showing a significant decline in the number of drunk driving-related fatalities occurring nationally and in 32 individual states. However, the number of alcohol related fatalities among motorcyclists is climbing in half of the states. Figures also show that Wisconsin continues to rate among the worst for drunk driving. A NHTSA advertising campaign is aiming to reach high risk demographic groups through more web-based outreach and teaming up with alternative media partners. The ads can be seen on message banners on well-known social media sites, internet TV programs, mobile devices and event PC-based video games. Lisa Loring, The Daily Kenoshan http://dailykenoshan.com/index.php 9/22/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Responsible Tourism The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) will be hosting their 44th annual convention in order to promote responsible tourism among hotels and restaurants. The aim is to encourage and promote environmentally sound practices within the tourism industry. This convention will set the tone by being their first ‘carbon neutral convention’. Deccan Herald http://www.deccanherald.com 9/22/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Man Attempts Nightclub Abductions In Austin, Texas, two separate incidents occurred where an attacker attempted to grab women from their cars as they left a rodeo nightclub and headed towards a parking garage across the street. Both women were able to fight off their attacker. Police believe the suspect targeted the area because the club was hosting a Ladies Night, which could be expected to draw a large concentration of women to the area. MSNBC and KXAN-TV (local news) http://www.msnbc.com 9/21/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article America Can’t Afford Consequences Of Lowered Drinking Age A guest columnist for Purdue University’s student newspaper asserts that the recent debate among university chancellors and presidents about lowering the drinking age to 18 is propelled by the desire to remove liability from educational institutions for on-campus, alcohol-related accidents and fatalities. Diane Johns asserts that current penalties for underage binge drinking, such as paying fines and speaking with a drug/alcohol counselor, fall short of educating youth on the serious consequences of intoxication. She suggests toughening up the consequences for underage persons who get caught through jail time, suspension of their driver’s licenses and mandatory community service. Diane Johns, The Exponent-Purdue’s Student Newspaper http://www.purdueexponent.com 9/19/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Night Life Offers Fun, Alcohol Free Programs At the University of North Dakota (UND) a program was designed to get students out of their dorms and apartments and into a fun, social environment. The goals of the UND Night Life program are “to provide fun and exciting activities on campus for students during peak social hours on Friday and Saturday nights to get them out of their resident halls and interact with peers,” said the head of the program. The activities range from movie nights, scrapbooking, and dodgeball tournaments to Guitar Hero competitions. UND Night Life provides alcohol-free entertainment to students who are either too young or not interested in drinking, with an average turn out of 200 students each night. The success of the program’s initial trial run led the University to secure funding for the entire academic year in 2007-2008. Terran Chambers, Dakota Student http://www.dakotastudent.com 9/19/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Good Old Days Goes High Tech With Identification A Bloomsburg, PA bar and grill recently installed the ID verification system software, "Clubscan," which is made by Card Scanning Solutions. Clubscan uses an optical scanning device which enables them to verify driver’s licenses from all 50 states, passports and military ID’s. It can also determine if the ID is expired and shows customer status (VIP, general admission or banned). When an ID is scanned the customer’s age is clearly displayed and alert messages are generated if they are under 18 or under 21. Along with the Clubscan system the bar also installed a fingerprint check-in/check-out system, called, "Smokescreen," which is made by IDscan Biometrics. This system can ID departing/returning customers based on their fingerprint and can authorize a time limit for the customer to return without being charged again. Eric Bower, Bloom U Today http://bloomutoday.com 9/11/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article The Best Cities For Singles Forbes.com teamed up with Harris Interactive to survey America’s cities to rank the best places for singles and the coolest cities. Atlanta, GA was ranked the #1 “Best place for singles,” while New York City, NY was #1 on the “Coolest cities” list. The rankings were targeted to young, ambitious singles under the age of 35 that can live and work wherever they want due to the techno-mobility of this generation. Michael Noer, Forbes http://www.forbes.com 9/4/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Crime’s Down In East Lansing In East Lansing, MI a drop in serious crimes (e.g. murder, rape, aggravated assault) has been reported over the course of a decade, representing a 41% decline. Police Chief Tom Wibert attributed the downward trend to the work of groups like the Community Relations Coalition, a city/student university initiative that brings together residents and students residing in neighborhoods close to campus; and the Responsible Hospitality Council which consists of restaurant and bar owners working with the Police Department to combat underage drinking. The university has also raised admission standards and the university’s Olin Heath Center has been working to educate student on risky behaviors. The health center reports that 81% of students now designate a driver if drinking is part of their activities. Lansing State Journal http://www.lansingstatejournal.com 8/18/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Keep Downtown Nightlife Safe...But Don’t Squeeze The Life Out Of The Place Downtown Greensboro, NC is seeking creative solutions to manage the large nighttime bar crowds that overwhelm police and security. The article proposes a few possible solutions, including an ordinance that limits the hours of sidewalk dining, creation of wider sidewalks, holding club owners more accountable for security and additional police presence. The author, a center-city resident, asserts that city leaders should address safety issues without squeezing the life out of the downtown district. Allen Johnson, News & Record http://news-record.com 8/17/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Smokers Take Last Drag Before Alfresco Ban Perth, Australia joins the growing number of cities throughout the world placing restrictions on smoking, with similar responses by those who believe it will diminish sociability. Most businesses support the ban in theory but many feel apprehensive about policing smokers. Fremantle City Council environmental health and building services co-coordinator Matthew Piggott said he understood the concerns but the ban was not to alienate people, just to ask them not to smoke in dining areas. Lindsay McPhee, The West Australian http://www.thewest.com.au/ 8/15/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Trading Places: The Demographic Inversion Of The American Cty A “demographic inversion” is taking place across the nation, where the white middle classes are displacing minorities, immigrants and the lower classes in urban city centers. Due in part to downtowns’ transition from manufacturing hubs into centers for cultural vitality and professional services, this revitalization is attracting singles, couples and empty nesters to mixed-use urban environments. Alan Ehrenhalt, The New Republic http://www.tnr.com/ 8/13/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article UK Police to Get Electronic Tags UK — Electronic tags that can pinpoint officer locations to within a few feet will be installed in the radio headsets of all 31,000 Metropolitan Police officers. The Automated Personal Location System, also known as Copnav, will be provided by private contractor Telent and cost taxpayers £250 million. Glen Smyth, chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation, outlined both sides of the controversy by saying: "This could be very good for officers’ safety, but it could also involve an element of Big Brother.’ The Metro http://www.metro.co.uk/ 4/10/2008

View Full Listing  Link to Article Plymouth Backs Night-time Economy Manager Plan Plymouth, Devon, UK — The City Council has announced that they will support the appointment of a night-time economy manager for the city but that they refuse to finance the position. The Stakeholders in Hospitality Licensed Retail (Stakeholders HLR) group, which has sought the appointment of an evening and night-time economy (ENTE) manager, welcomed the council’s support and stated it is aware of the financial constraints as the country wrestles with national debt. Stakeholders HLR chairman Tom Macpherson said the post could now be created under a proposed Business Improvement District (BID) for the waterfront. "The HLR sector recognizes the position of finances with the local authority and hopes to work in partnership to implement a Barbican, Hoe and Waterfront place manager," said McPherson. "This will hopefully lead to an independent company representing all businesses, not dissimilar to the City Centre Company and the success it has shown in five years in operation." The Herald http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk/

View Full Listing  Link to Article Sonic Towns In a MSN City Guides special feature, a veteran writer showcases seven American cities ranging from southern hip hop in “Hotlanta” to psychedelic folk music in Vermont. These seven cities are the stomping grounds for American music in the making and home to the communities that help it thrive. Amanda Petrusich, MSN City Guides http://www.cityguides.msn.com

View Full Listing  Link to Article Dogs, Cats Allowed in Outdoor Dining Areas North Carolina’s Public Health Commission has approved an amendment that will go into effect on July 1st allowing pets in outdoor dining areas. Under the new rule, animals will be allowed in outdoor dining areas as long as they do not pass through any indoor areas of the food service establishment and provided that they do not physically come in contact with employees or any items that may come in contact with food. Items include utensils, dishes, tableware, linens, or paper products. NBC-17 http://www.mync.com

View Full Listing  Link to Article Hospitality Zones Could Come to Columbia Columbia, South Carolina — Hospitality zones may come to Columbia, reports KOMU TV, if the Special Business District Board passes a proposal to revitalize its downtown district. "It’s focused on business, it’s focused on getting customers down here, and it’s focused on everybody having a fun and safe time," said Carrie Gartner, the Director of the district. Included in the proposal are recommendations for more taxi stands, more recycling and trash receptacles and the ability to close streets in the same manner as during yearly festivals. KOMU TV http://www.komu.com/