Clouds Don't Dampen Spring Fling's Spirit

Despite gloomy skies Saturday, the performers at the Venice Spring Fling were able to excite the crowd of about 200 people.

From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Windward Plaza Park, musicians and poets performed and visual artists lined the bike and skate paths selling their sculpture, photography and paintings.

Handling emcee duties on the ocean stage was The Ukulady, who introduced acts and sang her own witty ditties. Around midday, Los Marijuanos rapped a string of songs focusing on marijuana. Though technical difficulties occurred, the performers and crowd demonstrated patience. Next up was local band Hi-Stereo, which hosted a CD release Happy Hour at after the gig.

A self-described "groupie" of Hi-Stereo who lives in Venice said the event was great because "it supports local musicians."

Others weren't so thrilled with the loud noise. Tim Rudnick, who has lived in Venice for more than 40 years, lodged a complaint with the Venice Beach Substation Police and asked that the volume of the acts be lowered. The event producers complied.

Many of the people in the crowd just happened to be in Venice on Saturday and stumbled on the Spring Fling, which is a spinoff of the Venice Beach Music Fest.

The LAPD confirmed that there were no major incidents during the event, just a few tickets issued for open containers.