ISSUE 6 | VOL 1 | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2012 by FLUID Magazine

issue 6 . volume 1 . nov . dec 2012

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CONTENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE ISSUE 6

VOLUME 1

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2012

WHAT U REPPIN WITH TERRY CLAUDIO

MISS SUNSHINE PG 15

PHOTO: PATRICK RUDDY

PG 14

HOLIDAY GEAR GUIDE

ATTENTION! NOT DOLPHINS PG 29

PHOTO: PATRICK RUDDY

PG 19

BOB SOVEN PRODILE

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WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF FLUID

FLUID MAGAZINE CREDITS EDITOR BRYAN FORAND

BRYAN@THEFLUIDMAG.COM

PHOTO EDITOR PATRICK RUDDY

PATRICK@THEFLUIDMAG.COM

ART DIRECTOR JEFF LASTINGER

JEFF@THEFLUIDMAG.COM

EXECUTIVE SALES MARKETING TRAVIS AJAY

TRAVIS@THEFLUIDMAG.COM

JACK OF ALL TRADES TIM TRUELOVE

TIM@THEFLUIDMAG.COM

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS LANCE DRAKE | MYLAN DAVICH | KEVIN “DUCK” MEINBERG

PHOTO ASSISTANT COREY CHARTERS

ADVERTISE/CONTACT 386.679.2399

SALES@THEFLUIDMAG.COM

FLUID Magazine is Central Florida’s premiere publication dedicated to celebrating our culture and lifestyle. From fashion to art, entertainment to events, action sports to culture, FLUID Magazine covers everything our community needs to know through high profile interviews, mind-blowing photography, and in depth editorial coverage. The only publication of its kind in our area, FLUID Magazine focuses on the positive influences that entertainment, action sports, music, art, and fashion has on our community. Unlike any other magazine of its kind in Central Florida, we will reach all target markets through wide distribution channels. Not only will we focus on our local lifestyles, but from our staff’s extensive background as retailers, we know how much business is captured from tourism. Our free full color publication can be found all over Central Florida at colleges, key retailers, high traffic areas, hotels, and area restaurants. Our mission is to showcase the amazing talent, culture, and lifestyles of Central Florida. From our enticing profiles, in depth community coverage, fashion tips, and amazing photography staff, FLUID readers will be positively influenced by our topics covered and trending advertisers. Essentially making FLUID Magazine the most effective marketing tool for brand connectivity with consumers in our area. FLUID MAGAZINE, LLC D.B.A. FLUID MAGAZINE 1 SWAN AVE, NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL 32168 386.679.2399 | THEFLUIDMAG.COM

CENTRAL FLORIDA

11 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF FLUID ERIC GEISELMAN

NOTE FROM THE

PHOTO: JIMMY WILSON

EDITOR Many changes happen this time of year. Everything seems to slow down, the weather gets cool, the water is chilly, and all the northerners come back down to Central Florida. There is even a presidential election about to happen that everyone is all worked up about. We could see a possible change there, but I’m not so sure. The holidays are coming up, and it’s time to remember your loved ones. Check out this issues Holiday Gear Guide for gift ideas and spend as much time as you can with your family and friends this holiday season.

For me, I am going to have one of the most important commitments of my life. I am getting married this November!!! I’ve found the perfect companion and soul mate, who understands me, but still keeps me in line. I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not the easiest person to be in a relationship with. Most surfers aren’t, we tend to be selfish at times. When the waves are good, I can’t even think straight, complete one track mind! It freaks me out when I miss a good swell and I’m not in the best of moods because of it. I know that every time we have a trip somewhere inland or without a coastline, back home is getting the best swell and all the boys rub it in. I am usually all cranky until I realize how much fun it is to break away from my small bubble and experience some culture. The best trip I’ve had in quite a while was going up north for my cousins wedding and getting to spend time with my dad’s family. I didn’t even care on this particular trip that we were getting good, fall surf back home. Nicole (future wife) was having a great getaway and was really loving my family up there. Hanging out with the family was special and we appreciated every moment! I was most impressed with my grandparents. Nanny is an undisclosed age and is the backbone of our family. She remembers all the details and is an angel. Grandpa is a full character, 90 years old, and is still the big dog. He drove us all around the city programming his high tech GPS in the process. The icing on the cake is that the old man still has an unreal swing on the golf course! He is a true stand up guy. The lesson I learned from that trip is that change is good, especially when you are enjoying that time with the ones that you love the most. Thank you to my soon to be wife, for making me realize what really matters in life…. and putting up with me! EDITOR | BRYAN

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FLUID PROFILE

CENTRAL FLORIDA

WHAT U REPPIN? with Terry Claudio

what U reppin? terry claudio

Years Repping? 8.5 years Brands: SPY+, Xcel, Channel Islands Surfboards, Loaded/Orangatang, Vestal, SOL REPUBLIC How many miles do you log each year on the road? 40,000-45,000 What do you spend all your time in? aka: type of vehicle 2005 Toyota Tacoma How did you get your first sales representative job in the surf industry? Well, I was living in California at the time working for Split Clothing as an inside sales rep. The Florida outside sales position was open, so I went for it knowing my family was back there, and the cost of living was cheaper. Then I got it along with Osiris Shoes. I was back in Florida on the road for 2 weeks, and instantly got the exclusive North Florida sales position for SPY+. I dropped Split & Osiris and went full steam ahead with SPY+. The rest is history. You seem like you represent some of the most elite brands out there! How did you pull it off? I’m truly blessed with great brands! I gained some really great connections while working retail, inside sales and outside sales. This, and a combination of hard work and initiative, helped me land some A+ brands. You definitely have to pay your dues in this industry. What are your predictions for the surf industry for 2013? (trends, what’s hot) “Wayfarer” style sunglasses with colored mirror lenses, bright colored wetsuits, shorter, wider surfboards with more volume & colorful rubber tide watches. I see the longboard skate market on the rise and expanding in most areas. Major label surfboard brands are steady and eyewear is good. It’s pretty hard to predict what 2013 will bring, but hopefully once the presidential election is over, a little more light will shine. Everyone claims the economy is hurting, have your brands been hit hard the past few years? I think most companies have felt the pinch of the economy in one way or the other. My brands are still holding strong despite some of the economical hurdles. Worst part of your job? Oh, the driving for sure! Also being away from my family. Any good stories from all those years of being a road warrior? For sure. Just last holiday our SPY+ marketing rep and I were delivering Christmas baskets to some of our dealers. He was dressed as Bad Santa, and I was dressed as an elf in green women’s tights. We were in Downtown

Disney trying to deliver a basket to Curl Surf Shop. First, picture 2 dudes dressed up as Santa and an elf walking through Disney, second picture us getting escorted out by security…Pretty funny sight! What is the best sales meeting you’ve ever been on? Mexico by a landslide! 2 days of meetings and 2 days of solid 6-8 ft surf at uncrowded point breaks! Favorite surf shops in Central Florida to visit? All of them (as long as they place an order)! What is the best advice another rep has given you? Remain loyal to the brands you represent. Build an empire in your territory, and never put all of your eggs in one basket! Any shout outs? My wife Renee & groms, JPro, my sub-rep Matt Wolff, all the dealers and people that have supported me in my career and Bryan and the Fluid mag crew for putting out a rad Central Florida mag!

PHOTO: KEM MCNAIR

PHOTO: PATRICK RUDDY

with

THEFLUIDMAG.COM 14

MISS SUNSHINE

Gloria

PHOTO: PATRICK RUDDY

Where do you live? Orlando, FL Originally from? Boston, MA. I’m a city girl! Occupation? I’m a bartender at the sickest club in Orlando, The Attic! I party for a living with a really fun staff! Turn ons? My turn ons are masculine guys, the type that roll out of bed & go be the boss. Guys that are committed to being fit & healthy. I need someone with a sense of humor who’s down for the best time always! Turn offs? My turn offs are hair gel & poor hygeine. What is your priority on the first date? Making sure he’s a gentleman :) Got a boyfriend? I do have a boyfriend & he rocks my world! Perfect date?The perfect date would have to be something different outside of a dinner and a movie. I can’t sit still through a movie! Beach, River, or Asphalt? Beach! Best Beach in Florida? Miami Do you have any bad habits? I’m half Irish, there’s quite the boozer in me! Who is your favorite female celebrity? I have a long list of girl crushes but my favorite would have to be, Australian model, Ellie Gonsalves. I admire her fitness lifestyle and I think she is incredibly beautiful! Love an accent! Favorite spot to have a good night out? A good night out to me is dinner & wine on the lake or some football with my boyfriend at Tilted Kilt! For a wild night, The Attic, Orlando!!! Favorite sports team? Miami Dolphins! Worst pickup line? “Do you know who I am?” Do you surf, wakeboard, or skateboard? I can wakeboard and skateboard. I haven’t tried surfing yet but I’ve been dying to get some lessons! I hear it’s a great work out! What’s the girliest band that you like? I don’t listen to a lot of bands but as far as girliest, I am a die hard Britney Spears fan from her prime super hotness days!

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Big Beat * Electricvisual.com

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FLUID GEAR GUIDE

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FLUID GEAR GUIDE

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FLUID GEAR GUIDE

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CENTRAL FLORIDA

ATTENTION NOT DOLPHINS!

PHOTO: CHRIS WILSON

BY BEAVER WITH CAPTAIN JACK DRISKELL

“Shark bite capital” of the world! How does this affect the way we use the ocean here as surfers, swimmers, paddlers or recreational beach goers? Is it real or just sensationalist reporting by the media? I think the statistics will show we do get more bites per capita than anywhere else, but is it really that dangerous? Probably not. But I, myself, was a shark bite victim, so how do I deal with these facts? I have been surfing for forty five years and have been bitten once in all that time. The law of averages seems to be on my side. I should have forty five more years of shark bite free surfing. But the real fact is: the only way to never have a shark encounter is to stay on the beach. That is not an option for me or probably not for most of you. Another fact: the sharks are not waiting just off the beach for human breakfast, lunch or dinner. If they were, none of us could go in the ocean safely. Thousands of us swim and surf in the ocean off Volusia’s beaches daily and we don’t get eaten. So there it is…..it’s safe, most of the time. I know firsthand when the mullet run through the surf in the fall, sharks feed on these schools of fish. Lesson, don’t surf when the mullet are here. And what about surfing or swimming alone as opposed to being in a group or crowd? Well like an antelope in a herd, the individual has a better chance the lion won’t get him but one of his herd mates instead... the lions are hunting food where most of the shark bites here are not predatory but mistaken identity. I don’t know if being in a group is safer or not, depends on where you are. Obviously surfing New Smyrna or Ponce Inlet for safety in numbers may not be wise.

If the sharks are so plentiful and we have so few bites and no fatalities, maybe we coexist and they are not that interested in us. I think this may be the case. But let’s ask Captain Jack Driskell, a thirty seven year veteran of the Volusia County Beach Patrol, so we are armed with more knowledge.

DO YOU KNOW THIS IS THE “SHARK BITE” CAPITAL OF THE WORLD? Absolutely. In 1996 we had a large volume of shark bites mostly surfers in New Smyrna Beach and Ponce Inlet, 22 or 23 that season. None of these were severe and most of the surfers we treated wanted to know when they could go back surfing. That was the peak year. Since then the numbers have been in the teens, and this year it has dropped significantly. DOES THIS AFFECT THE WAY YOU GO IN THE OCEAN IN ANY WAY? I would have to say I think about it. But if there were jellyfish in the water, that would also be a concern of anyone using the ocean. If there are mullet, bluefish, or lots of pelicans diving in an area you should consider this before swimming, surfing, etc.

DO YOU THINK OR WORRY ABOUT SHARKS WHEN YOU’RE IN THE OCEAN? I try not to think about the visibility of the water and number of incidents treated lately, but the lure of the ocean and the surf will probably not keep me out of the water.

WHEN LIFEGUARDS SWIM DRILL YOU HAVE A SAFETY ON A SURFBOARD. HAVE ANY LIFEGUARDS BEEN BITTEN OR HAVE THEY STOPPED DRILL BECAUSE OF SHARKS? There have been incidents where the safety saw a dorsal fin and a guard has felt a mysterious bump and it very well could have been a shark or

PHOTO: KERR

FLUID YIKES!

other large fish. In this County no guards have been bitten during drill. ARE THERE MORE SHARKS NOW OR MORE PEOPLE USING THE OCEAN? A lot of fishermen will tell you less sharks now. They now limit fishermen to one shark per day. This also depends on the food source of the predators. More fish, like mullet in the water, will increase the amount of sharks. An outgoing tide in the inlet, which brings more food fish toward the New Smyrna Beach side of the inlet, combined with poor visibility due to increased surf conditions in the fall makes more bites occur. The conditions present at given times, such as size of mullet run and surf conditions, all determine the amount of shark encounters in a season. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN BITTEN OR CHASED OUT OF THE WATER BY A SHARK? I’ve never been bitten or chased out physically by a shark but have seen a shark and chose to give them the water. WOULD YOU QUIT

SURFING OR SWIMMING IN THE OCEAN IF YOU THOUGHT YOU’D BE BITTEN BY A SHARK SOMEDAY? Being a lifeguard and water man for so many years, absolutely not. The attraction and spiritual experience for me in the ocean will always keep me in the water unless the ocean dried up.

As an after note to my interview with Captain Driskell, two bathers were bitten by sharks near the south jetty in New Smyrna. A surfer was also bitten in Melbourne. This was during the Labor Day weekend with increased crowds at the beach. There were more contributing factors that Driskell told me about, “If you have an outgoing tide at Ponce

Inlet, a holiday weekend, nice waves and a low tide with great beach access, turbulent water making visibility poor, and surfers have already reported shark sightings at the inlet in New Smyrna Beach, all the elements are indicating there could be shark encounters other than bait fish.” Just as the weekend started, a small mullet run also began. Now all the elements were in place. Since I don’t like surfing in crowds, I didn’t go to Ponce Inlet or New Smyrna Beach. I also chose to surf on my SUP and limit my time in the water. I still saw two sharks from my vantage point atop the paddle board but was able to avoid them and not have a personal encounter. I’d like to think I used my knowledge and experience to avoid danger. I did, but was also lucky just like the many thousands of people in the ocean Labor Day weekend that didn’t get bitten. And those unlucky few that were, it will probably never happen again. To all you beach lovers and water people out there, don’t stop going in the ocean. It’s not a pool so there is some risk, just be smart, and don’t watch “Soul Surfer” or any “Jaws” movies before you hit the beach. Aloha, Beaver

THEFLUIDMAG.COM 30

“I love it here! Die-hard Orlando Magic fan since day one.”

PHOTO: HANSEL REID

CENTRAL FLORIDA

FLUID PROFILE BOB SOVEN

BOB SOVEN

PHOTO: JOEY MEDDOCK

THIS MONTH WE FEATURE A FLORIDIAN THAT MAKES ALL OF US IN THE SUNSHINE STATE PROUD. BOB SOVEN, by the ripe age of 15 had five national wakeboard titles and six world titles locked down! Not a bad resume from a kid from Central Florida. A few years later when Bob hit the Junior Wakeboard Tour, he had a bad accident that sidelined him for a while, but that didn’t stop his momentum.

Back from his injury Soven won all 5 stops on the Pro Circuit. He was the first Jr. Pro to ever sweep the tour! On the tour Soven is known for his outrageous personality and quirky behavior. People from around the world noticed and MTV decided to seize the moment. Soven and his brother Phil are currently starring in their own reality series, “Wake Brothers” on MTV. Lets get to know Bob in this interview and see if he plans to not only dominate the wakeboard world, but the world as we know it.

THEFLUIDMAG.COM 32

PHOTO: HANSEL REID

PHOTO: COLLIN HARRINGTON

CENTRAL FLORIDA

“Kevin Costner, Dances with Wolves is a classic.”

FLUID PROFILE BOB SOVEN

TELL US WHAT YOU’VE BEEN UP TO LATELY? Just got home from Germany. We started at Nico’s Cash for Tricks contest and ended at Octoberfest! It was a wild time. SOUNDS LIKE YOUR LIFE HAS BEEN PRETTY CRAZY LATELY. IS IT HARD TO JUGGLE PRO WAKEBOARDING AND YOUR TV SHOW? It all falls in the same ball park, but I could definitely use a couple more hours in the day to fit it all in. It’s better to be busy than bored. EVERY EPISODE I’VE SEEN OF WAKE BROTHERS IS CLASSIC! HOW DID YOU GET THAT GIG? Pink Sneakers Productions came to us and wanted to put a sizzle reel together. We did that about two years ago, the show was put on the back burner at MTV for a while, until they finally gave us the green light. HOW MUCH HAS YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE THE SHOW AIRED? I TAKE MORE PHOTOS IN PUBLIC, BUT I COULD OF DONE THAT PRETENDING TO BE SHAUN WHITE. SO BESIDES THE “GINGERSNAP” YELLS AND PHOTOS DURING LUNCH, MY LIFE HAS REMAINED UNCHANGED. YOU AND YOUR BROTHER PHIL SEEM TO HAVE A GOOD RELATIONSHIP. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE IT? BEST FRIENDS OR DO YOU GUYS CONSTANTLY PISS EACH OTHER OFF? Actually, filming the show is probably the most time we have spent together for a period of time. And I can tell you, it was too much time together. BEING A CENTRAL FLORIDA MAGAZINE, WE LOVE THAT YOU GREW UP HERE. TELL US ABOUT GROWING UP IN GOOD OLE CENTRAL FLORIDA? I love it here! Die-hard Orlando Magic fan since day one, I think we can rebuild with the young team we have now that Dwight is gone. If you fellow Orlando Magic fans are thinking

abandoning the team due to the Dwightmare, don’t. We have a youthful squad and an exciting sub .500 year ahead of us. And I go to Wekiva Springs all the time to do some underwater spelunking. HOW DID YOU GET INTO WAKEBOARDING AND WHO WAS YOUR FIRST SPONSOR? My mom use to show-ski so I was pretty much born on the water. Liquid force was my first sponsor, and still going strong with LF family today. WHO DID YOU LOOK UP TO GROWING UP? Kevin Costner, Dances with Wolves is a classic. WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING IF YOU WEREN’T A PRO WAKEBOARDER? Be in school to become a doctor, so maybe, this whole “wakeboarding” thing is not the best idea. Haha, I love it and wouldn’t want to be doing anything else. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL WAKE SHOP? Performance Ski and Surf! WHAT IS THE BEST TRIP YOU’VE EVER BEEN ON? Body Glove brought us to Fiji to surf/wake/snorkel and hang out for a week. By far the best trip of my life. WHAT DO YOU SEE YOURSELF DOING 10 YEARS FROM NOW? That’s half of my current life away……Hopefully, the exact same thing I’m doing right now. YOU HAVE TONS OF DIE-HARD FANS OUT THERE AND GIRLS THAT ARE MADLY IN LOVE WITH YOU, WHERE CAN THEY KEEP TABS ON YOU OR GET MORE INFORMATION ON YOU? All my sponsors are constantly putting up new edits/articles/event dates of not only what I’m doing but the rest of their wake team. For my personal outlets, Twitter.com/therealbobsoven or Instagram @bobsoven, holla at yo! THEFLUIDMAG.COM 34

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Embroidery Screen Printing Get The Look You Want! –– We We offer offer in-house in-house embroidery embroidery services with no minimums. Screen Printing Minimum is just 12 pieces. We have thousands of designs, fonts, and images for you to choose from or bring in your custom logo or art and we will turn it into stitches or screen printing, whichever you prefer. In stock ball caps with your logo on the front and a one line embroidery on the back just $15. Great for gifts or promoting your own team or business.

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CENTRAL FLORIDA

GROM STOP WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Chicken Joe of the movie Surfs Up. YOUR DREAM TRIP TAKES YOU WHERE AND WITH WHOM? Restaurants, Fiji with a few pals. YOUR DREAM GIRL? Not sure yet. YOU DO LIKE GIRLS, RIGHT? Ya haha, what type a question is that?!? WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 5 YEARS? Chillin on a boat in Indo. WHO’S YOUR SHAPER?

in Cali a few months back, not sure if it was caught on camera

FAVORITE BOOK? Who reads books? WHERE DO YOU GO TO SCHOOL? Florida Virtual, it sucks. WHO’S YOUR COLLEGE TEAM? Gator bait. WHO’S GONNA WIN THE WT TITLE? John John Florence for sure. WHO’S GONNA WIN THE SUPER BOWL? I have no clue. Football is too confusing. IF YOU OWNED A RESTAURANT, WHAT WOULD YOU MAKE? Um... food. GOLF OR TENNIS?

or who witnessed it.

PHOTO: PATRICK RUDDY

Bernie Crouch, best shaper ever. FAVORITE NON SURF MOVIE? Blazing Saddles. BEST PLACE IN TOWN FOR BREAKFAST? Sunglow Pier is the best. What surfer wouldn’t want to mind surf while eating pancakes? WHAT’S YOUR INSTAGRAM NAME? cobiegittner IF YOU HAD TO COMPARE YOUR SURFING TO ANYONE, WHO WOULD IT BE? Occy mixed with Yadin Nicole. BIG AIRS OR DEEP PITS? Deep spitting pits all the way! BEST AIR YOU EVER STUCK AND WHERE CAN WE SEE IT? Um probably a backside full rotation I did surfing OC pier

Fish??? haha

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37 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

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PHOTOS: TRUELOVE

FLUID PROFILE

UPRISING SURFBOARDS Designed for fun & fast times on the high seas since 1989!

Pete bought his first surfboard at a huge outdoor flea market for $5.00 dollars. It was an old single fin with more than a few dings. His father taught him how to work with resin and fiberglass (Pete’s Dad restored a 1958 Corvette and did all the body work and paint himself.) From that point on Pete fixed all of his friend’s boards. In 1989, Pete graduated high school and bought a blank from Escape Surfboards (the only advice they gave him was to put wax in the resin, which he had no idea what that meant.) Pete went to town on the side of his parent’s house. He freehanded the outline, laminated it with brown boat resin (no sanding coat), and used about 70 sheets of sandpaper to finish it. The board looked horrible but rode well. Everything Pete has learned has been through trial and error, because during this time period it was extremely hard to get any information on how to build boards (no videos or internet.) Mike, from Bird Products, gave Pete a lot of pointers but left it up to him to figure it out on his own. Since then he’s met and worked with many great east coast board builders. Skip, from US Blanks, still gives him advice, which he greatly appreciates. Pete has never stopped learning or trying new shapes/designs because once you become a master shaper, it seems you get stuck making the same boards over and over again, which seemed too boring for him. Pete enjoys making boards and yes, it helps to pay the bills, but most of all, he enjoys people smiling while riding an Uprising. Every Uprising Surfboard is hand shaped, airbrushed, laminated, sanded and finished by Pete in Dirtona beach, Florida. He can make custom boards that are designed for his customers height, weight and ability. Pete takes great care and pride making sure your Uprising is the absolute best board for you. His main focus is to make sure you have a good time in the water riding the waves. Stop by Salty Dog

Board Shop and pick up an Uprising out of the rack today or place a custom order so you can get the best Uprising board for you. Pete would like to thank his family, friends and those who ride Uprising for their support.

THEFLUIDMAG.COM 38

ASP WORLD TOUR JUDGE, DYLAN FEINDT (A.K.A “BLACKIE”) How have you been buddy? Seems like I never see you and you’re my next door neighbor!

Brother, life has been a crazy roller coaster! Yeah, howdy neighbor! We do own homes two houses away from one another, but between your big moves with the mag and my travel schedule, time gets away from ya. How has your year been so far?

It Sucked! Hahaha, Nah just kidding! I started the year with 3 months in Australia, back that up with Fiji, Tahiti and Hawaii, with a few other amazing places thrown in the mix. I really can’t say I’ve had a bad year, huh? You know we’re friends, but I hate how you always rub in how rad your life is!

So I guess I should start this answer out with, “Wow my life kicks ass!!” Hehehe...Now I know people would call me crazy to say I don’t have

39 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

a rad life, so I won’t. Although I will say it’s not all perfect waves and amazing locations. We do go to places that are less than perfect and dealing with being away from home, (family, friends, and girlfriend) it just brings you back down to reality. Like this isn’t a dream and don’t pinch me cause I’ll hit your ass right back!! Everyone probably thinks it was easy for you, but it sounds like you really had to put the time in to get where you are now?

Like any job, there are trials and tribulations to get you where you are. When I stopped surfing contests where I did well, but obviously not well enough, I was approached by Mike Martin who at the time was ASP North America Tour Manager. He had noticed I wasn’t entering events anymore and just basically said we would love some new guys to give it a go at judging. So I started at lower level ASP Junior Pro events. Where the Head Judge Jeff Klugel, who was the North American International Judge and still is and also ASP North America Head Judge, took me under his wing and from there is where I learned the ropes the right way. He is a hell of a Judge and is certainly not going to make things easy on you. He knew if I was going to make it I had to be taught the right way no matter how hard he made it, he knew it was only to my benefit. I have to give him a huge shout out to have gone out of his way to make me a top level judge!

PHOTO: LETCHWORTH

In this feature we take a look at the life of ASP World Tour Judge, Dylan Feindt. From exotic tour stops to the crazy schedule of traveling the world, we will get the truth on The Dream Tour lifestyle. Dylan has been one of my best friends my entire life. I know everything about him. He’s always been super blessed and good things seem to fall right into his lap. I mean when your buddy travels the world, surfing the best waves in the world, and gets paid for it, it pisses you off! Growing up Dylan had life really good. His parents are two of the coolest, most welcoming people you’ve ever met! He grew up with, brothers, Andy and Chris that are competitive animals and all around great guys. His family made Dylan who he is; a great person, friend, family member, and someone who made his dreams a reality.

FLUID PROFILE

“

When you’re judging the Big Leagues the best advice for any judge is to Sit down, Shut the hell up, Watch the water, and Write your score!! Any judge at our level will tell you that will work in your favor! The tour has changed their criteria so much over the past decade, what will the judges be looking for in the future?

Who knows where the tour and the criteria will go in the future, I think that depends on the surfers! I believe we are in a great spot right now with the current criteria. No matter if you’re doing massive power turns or huge airs, you will be rewarded accordingly, and yes, every turn and air is critiqued to the highest level. These guys are the best in the world and are judged that way! The Proof is in the Pudding, if you ask any surfer on tour right now they will say the judging has been really good, fair and consistent!! Is there a certain session that stands out in your mind from all your travels?

I’ve had some amazing sessions on so many unbelievable waves but a couple of my own sessions out at Teahupoo really stand out!! When you’re scared just to be out there and know the consequences, end up in the right spot at the right time, getting the barrels of your life, and it just so happens a few of the Big Boys (No Name Dropping) are double arms in the air claiming your barrels, telling you that was a sick wave, as you poop your pants while being spit into the channel, those were some sessions I surfed that really stood out!

”

What’s the Best Advice another judge has given you about traveling the world?

Geez, this is a heavy question. There are so many people that have inspired me in the sport of surfing. First and for most my Dad and Mom, for supporting me to follow my dream and understanding how rare and incredible a job that I live and love is!! All of the judges that I’ve learned so much from over the years. There are so many but to name a few who have believed in me and given me the opportunities are guys like Dave Shipley, Jeff Klugel, Pritamo Ahrent, Luli Periera, and of course Rich Porta!! I hear all your rock star stories, tell some of the Fluid readers about how lucky you have it. Give us some red carpet stories.

Some of the red carpet stories just can’t be said in your Mag or you will hate me for the job I have. Although I feel so fortunate to have been in the channel for the “Code Red” Tahiti swell that Teahupoo produced last year. Just to be in the channel witnessing the waves and the power not to mention the Hellmen who were towing!! I have

so much respect for the guys that who literally were risking their lives that day. Also, don’t hate me but being in the channel for the Cloudbreak Swell of the Year and to have witnessed the biggest most perfect waves that could be paddled. In my mind those guys are heroes in our sport, waves came through that evening which most people would have not even wanted a piece of. The guys pushing the limits paddling with 10’ plus surfboards, life vest, and oxygen packs are the true waterman and to understand what they’re putting themselves into for their surfing careers are just remarkable!! What are your essential items that are packed for each journey?

Surfboards, Wetsuits, and Boardies!! Does anything else really matter? Do you hate all the airlines yet? I know as much as you travel you have some horror stories.

Airlines, yeah that’s the part of our job that can be the worst. I somehow just cruise. I’m such a people watcher, and the amount of beautiful women that are in and around airports is extraordinary! Also the more you travel the more miles you get, you gain status to get into the airport lounges with free everything, So it’s all how you look at it. Like I was able to bring my girlfriend to Tahiti, which is a ridiculous amount for a ticket, but the miles I’ve earned, the ticket was next to

CENTRAL FLORIDA

continued...

nothing! We had an AMAZING time!!!! Do you miss home being on the road so much?

Of course I miss home, I have an amazing girlfriend that puts up with my lifestyle and I’m missing time with my family and birthdays! Not to mention weddings, speaking of I have to apologize for having to miss your wedding, Bryan, due to being in Hawaii. When you’re back in Florida relaxing, what is your daily routine?

You said it, relaxing with my beautiful girlfriend, Jess. Surfing my beloved inlet, fishing and golfing. Life at home is great! Being raised in New Smyrna Beach, what do you love about central FL?

My Home Town NSB! It’s such a small, tight knit community, and every local surfer knows one another and has respect for each other. I couldn’t ask for a better home town, a better family and better friends! When I can drive down the street and know almost everyone who I drive by, it’s something special. NBK. If you don’t know, you better ask somebody! Any final words or shout outs?

Did I mention I’ve been able to get the best barrels of my life while being paid to do it?! Live the Life You Love, Love the Life You Live! Big shout outs to my NBK crew and the ODB crew are the guys who paved the way for the guys doing big things in and out of surfing. I love my friends, family and girlfriend! I Love My Job!!!

41 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

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TACO SHACK The Taco Shack has been going strong now for 2 1/2 years, but the concept, idea and recipes had been brewing in Michael & Emily Colon’s head for well over 8 years. The Colon motto is, “it’s all about family, we are simple people who are super blessed to be living our dreams!” Without Mike’s two right hand men, Ryan Howard and Daniel Weaver, the speed, quality and consistency of their food wouldn’t be possible. The recipes which they’ve brought to New Smyrna, resemble much of Mike’s mother and grandmother, from the Arroz con gandules, to the seasonings in the red beans and the spices rubbed onto the slow roasted pork mimic some of the family dinners served when he was young. Mike say, “in the morning when we walk into the kitchen, the aromas lingering from the night prior remind us of Abuela’s kitchen.” They’ve designed the menu to have both puerto rican and mexican dishes, much of New Smyrna may have experienced a plate of grub at the shack, which they may remember from a surf trip to Puerto Rico or Costa Rica. At the Taco Shack they wanted to offer value, they have four children and know that eating out can get expensive, so they priced all our dishes under $7. Taco Shack even offer nightly specials such as $1 tacos on Thursdays and kids eat free on Wednesdays. The menu has grown in two years, after a trip to Puerto Rico, they added Mofongo, Tripleta sandwich and yucca. Their famous tacos are the #1 seller, with five meat choices to choose from, and if you make it a meal with rice, beans and a drink, you’ll still fall under $7. The Taco Shack crew wouldn’t be where they are today without the support of their family, Emily’s mom and dad help out in the front a few days a week, as well as her sister, our niece and daughter even fill in the gaps with a few shifts a week. One of the main life lessons that they value is to teach their kids is good work ethic, and they sure are learning it growing up at The Taco Shack!! Mike and Emily always put their children and marriage first, it’s a tough business that requires many hours a week, but they wouldn’t want to take this journey without one another. They’ve made a decision to help out in the community, and try to be involved in many charity events involving children, they sponsor many of the local high school sports, and the dance team. Mike and Emily try to help out as much as possible, it’s a great feeling to give back. The Colon family left us with a final quote that sums up how grateful they. “Our life is The Taco Shack, but it’s a good life. We are blessed beyond measure. Who would of thought that our little shack would have come this far :)” Hours Tuesday-Friday 11-9, Saturday 11-8 • www.thetacoshack.net • 642 N. Dixie Frwy, NSB (386) 428-9882

45 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

MERK’S

FLUID EATS

Merk’s Bar and Grill is New Smyrna Beach’s number one sports bar where everybody hangs out. Merk’s is known for its wide selection of beers from around the world, their famous wings and burgers and much more. We at Fluid Magazine love FOOTBALL SEASON, and Merk’s is the spot to be!!!! They know how to accommodate everyone! Everywhere you look there are HD flatscreens playing all the big games. Fans come and represent their team in herds, with cheers and high fives all around. If your team is having a bad day or you’re losing your football pool, they have you covered. Take your mind off the game and have fun at the pool tables, darts, pinball, and video games. Besides having the perfect gameday atmosphere, they have a wide-ranging menu with an award winning kitchen. Our favorites are the quesadillas, ahi tuna, eggrolls, their famous wings & burgers. They really have something for everyone! Merk’s is a special spot and unlike any other establishment. If you need a great lunch option, Merk’s has you covered with the perfect portions at great prices! In my case I like to come for dinner, watch the game, and enjoy Merk’s nightlife. Fluid Magazine votes Merk’s Bar and Grill as the number #1 Sports Bar in New Smyrna Beach. 193 North Causeway New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169 (386) 427-1177

THEFLUIDMAG.COM 46

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Call Us (386)673.2641

30 South Atlantic Ave. Ormond Beach, Florida 32172 (Behind CVS) www.lulusoceansidegrill.com

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Celebrity SportS ArtiSt Kevin-John Kevin-John came across our radar at our Fluid Golf Benefit for Josh Tucker. He volunteered to come to the event, create an amazing image of Kelly Slater, and auction it off with all the proceeds going to the Tucker Family. Kevin-John instantly gained our respect and we were so appreciative to have an artist of his talent involved with one of our events. With a client list that boasts more than 350 of the top athletes and teams of our time including Curtis Granderson, Joe Haden, Hines Ward, Terrell Owens, Joey Votto, Smokin’ Joe Frazier and the Roberto Clemente Family, Celebrity Sports Artist Kevin-John is the one that todays athletes and their teams look to when they desire the highest quality action portraiture. Kevin-John’s art has been showcased at major sports events throughout the country as well as on ESPN, ABC, NBC, Spike TV, Versus, the Golf Channel, at Super Bowl, Walt Disney World Resort and the PGA Tour. He is also the official artist for Leaf Trading Cards and Beckett Media / Beckett Sports Publications, Fresh Brewed Tees, Two Affix Marketing, and PLB Sports. Celebrating his Silver Anniversary as a professional artist in 2012, Kevin-John has shown a deep dedication to countless charitable concerns as his art has helped to raise more than a half million dollars for deserving causes over the past 25 years. See it all at kevin-john.com / follow on twitter @KJ_CelebArtist how did you beCome the Celebrity SportS ArtiSt? It was all a slow evolution. I took the approach with my talent that it was no different than “celebrities” who make a living as rock stars, authors, actors, chefs or athletes. We all have special talents and abilities that not everyone does. Those people earn incredible livings and achieve fame due to their natural abilities, why not me? I wanted to break the mold as to what it means to be an artist. One does not have to live poor, destitute and under the influence to be an artist. However, it does take an extreme amount of work and dedication. Sports art is my chosen subject matter due to my strength in being able to capture the human form and the fact that I love sports. There was also a need to provide action portraiture exclusively for teams and athletes, so I filled that need. The celebrity tag, I guess, comes from the fact that people all over the country have taken to my art. I value my fans so much. I am always too happy to respond to an autograph request, help with a charity fundraiser, or just taking time to talk with them. I am so blessed that people approve of my art and want to hang it in their homes. whAt iS the moSt unique reACtion thAt you hAve gotten from your worK? I have to say that would be from Smokin’ Joe Frazier. Here is a guy that has had his image portrayed by hundreds of artists for many many years. He was particularly disappointed with the way that LeRoy Neiman would paint him during those classic bouts with Ali. After he saw the first portrait that I created for him, he signed a boxing glove for me, inscribing it with “Kevin-John, you are the best artist.” We then sat together as he accounted a fight with Ali as depicted in my art. Priceless. whAt or who inSpireS you? I am continuously inspired by other people who make a living in a non-traditional sense. Entrepreneurs, athletes, actors, musicians. I try to pattern my career and brand by doing the things that have made them successful. A friend that I went to high school with is Pat Monahan, the singer for the Grammy Award winning band Train. I am inspired time and time again with Pat’s dedication and drive. I can remember sitting in class as he wrote music and I sketched, both of us dreaming of a day when we would “make it” with our respective art forms. whiCh ArtiSt hAS influenCed you? I must say that I continue to be influenced by Walt Disney and his story. He was a mere artist who saw his larger potential and built an incredible company with it. Everything that he did was unconventional, he took huge risks again and again. where wAS your firSt exhibition? I was 17 years old, a senior in high school. My art was featured on local public television in my hometown, Erie, Pennsylvania. I was commissioned by a local gallery to create pen and ink lithographs featuring Erie historical sites. Those lithographs were first seen then, by the entire viewing audience of that tv station. Kind of like YouTube, 20 years before YouTube. how do you deCide the next Art imAge you will CreAte? All of the art that I create is by commission, so it is decided by my clients. Sometimes it is a 1/1 original, other times it is for a product or to be reproduced as lithographs. whAt do you love About CentrAl fl? I gotta say the weather and the endless list of things to do. I do not miss the cold and snow of the northeast at all. I recently moved to Cocoa Beach from Pennsylvania. Every day I wake up and can look across the street at the ocean, it truly is magical. I don’t think that will ever get old. tell uS About A life ChAnging event? I have to say the day that my agent called and told me that ESPN wanted to show me creating my sports art during major events and interviews. That was like gasoline on a fire. All of a sudden millions of people around the country would see me creating art. My brand now had gained national attention. whAt’S next for you? Well, 2012 has been an amazing year. Not only was it my 25th Anniversary as a professional artist, but my team and I accomplished some landmark projects. I became the official artist for Beckett Magazine, Leaf Trading Cards, as well as partnering with companies who produce premium pro athlete related products to become their go to guy for action portraiture. 2013 will be the “Year of the Fan.” Sports fans throughout the country will be able to get their hands on Kevin-John art featuring their favorite players by attending game day promotions with their favorite teams. These promotions are the answer to the tired old bobble-head promotion that hit the wall about 5 years ago.

49 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

(386) 767-1212 1786 Dunlawton Ave, Port Orange, FL 32127 Mon- Sat 8-6, Sun 9-5

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New Smyrna Golf Club 1000 Wayne Avenue New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168

Pro Shop 386.424.2190 | Starter 386 424.2192 Restaurant 386.428.0330 Golf Course Designed By: Donald Ross | 1948

FLUID CONGRATULATES

Ride ing! Upris

HEATHER “MIMI” MUNROE learned to surf by trying out a family friend’s 10 ft. board. She was hooked immediately and gave up playing tennis and sailing to focus on surfing. Everyone knew she was a natural talent, and the proof was she won the first contest she ever entered in the Florida State Championships in 1965 at the tender age of 13. Munro continued her competitive success by dominating the women’s divisions of East Coast surfing in the early to mid 1960s. Mimi is not only a great competitive surfer, but she is great for our sport! She has taught thousand of adults and children ocean knowledge, surfing etiquette, and the skills to ride waves at her Surf School based in Ormond Beach. We at Fluid Magazine are proud to announce that this year Mimi became the first female inductee to the Surfing Legends of the East Coast Surfing Championships hall of fame!! Congratulations Mimi!!

uprisingsurfboards.com | uprisingsurfboards@yahoo.com

Mimi was raised in Ormond Beach, and

Handshaped Since 1989

(954) 609-7855

Wed Ladies Night | 2 for 1 house wine hot sake all night | Karokee 7-? Sake Sunday | 2 for 1 Hot Sake 386.402.8855

CENTRAL FLORIDA

ORLANDO

The Plaza “Live” on Bumby Ave is Orlando’s premier live concert venue, that also showcases a wide variety of cultural events. Since re-vamping Orlando’s first two screen movie theater in the early 90s, The Plaza has developed a strong grass roots following by booking many low profile shows/events. Of course, that’s not to say this local gem doesn’t bring in larger shows of higher caliber also. Recent changes, like removable seating in the main hall, have made it all possible and more comfortable for the larger crowds. In other words, there’s definitely enough room to dance your pants off at the Plaza’s next headliner show. Which, by the way, is going down sooner than you’re probably thinking. On November 15th, The Plaza theater opens their doors to famous surfer turned singer/songwriter/guitarist, Donovan Frankenrieter. Since releasing his first solo album in 2002, produced by long time friend Jack Johnson, Frankenrieter has released 10 more albums!!! Come enjoy a set full of Donovan’s songs from his latest masterpiece, “Start Livin”, and what he calls “the most fun I’ve ever had in the studio.” All that fun has surely carried over to his latest tour for the album, and the Fluid crew will all be there on November 15th to get in on the action. So start livin a little and join us for another gnarly show at the Plaza Live Orlando!!

425 N. BUMBY AVE • ORLANDO, FL 32803 PLAZALIVEORLANDO.COM

57 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

FLUID MUSIC

Legend Of The Seagullmen

Where are you guys from? Originally we are from Cocoa Beach, FL but we’ve moved to Hollywood Beach, CA off of the Sunset Strip near downtown Hollywood. More booze, bigger boobs and giant party boats, Hollywood style. The Mayor loves us and the after parties are off the friggin’ charts. How did you all come together? We were given an ancient ledger and key by Crusty the Sea Captain, who brought us to the temple of the Seagull God King. Where we were granted the power of the Seagullmen, who have been sworn to protect the universe from the dreaded Manowar Man for over four hundred thousand years. What type of music do you make? Massive, full-on Nautical Rock! or Naut-rock Who or what have been the biggest influences to your music? Mastodon, Blue Oyster Cult and The High Voltages from Cocoa Beach!

badder and over the top! However, you never know when we might just have to show up to fight one of Manowar Man’s giant henchmen from the sea. Okay we know you are all working on something big, give us a little clue of what to expect? Full on Hollywood! We are working on an album produced and recorded by Jimmy Hayward (Director of Jonah Hex) with special guest Brent Hinds from Mastodon and other rock star friends we’ve met hanging out in Hollywood Beach and The Admiral’s mansion. We’ll follow it up with a massive national nautical tour and, yes you guessed it, The Legend Of The Seagullmen TV series, comic books and action figures. Sounds like fun things! Thanks for interview and we will spread the word about all the cool/weird things you guys are doing!

Best night out ever as a group? Any night at The Admirals mansion or on The Admirals yacht where he parks his helicopter. It makes the Playboy mansion seem like Little House on the Prairie.

The Flock

Tell us something you love about Central Florida. Bar hopping in Cocoa Beach drinking ice cold cans of Busch at the Beach Shack and shots of whisky at Casablanca. Oh, and Heather, Donna, Crystal, Brandy and Veronica, shit yeah Veronica and Brandy together.

Guitar - The Admiral

When can we see you back in Cocoa Beach? We are already planning another Seagull Fest next year around this time. Always bigger,

Lead Vocals and Guitar - The White Seagull Bass - The Grey Gull Drums - The Laughing Gull Keyboards - Crusty the Sea Captain THEFLUIDMAG.COM 58

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Open Daily 11 AM, noon on Sunday Serving Lunch & Dinner MasterCardTM

www.charliehorserestaurant.com

TAK AVAI E-OUT LABL E

810 S. Atlantic Ave., Ormond Beach • 672-4347

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PHOTO: PATRICK RUDDY

lindsay perry profile . red bull nightriders

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1. HOMETOWN HERO GORKIN WINS BIG AT THE OBX PRO!! 2. SMILE:) TRUELOVE IS TAKING YOUR PIC. THANKS LULU’S OCEANSIDE GRILL! GREAT EVENT!! 3. RZ CLOTHING ARTIST AUGGIE HAS TAKEN OUR FLUID EVENTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL. 4. THE NEW THREAT JAMMING AT FRANK’S FRONT ROW. FOX CLOTHING PUT ON A SIKKKK EVENT! 5. THE GROMS CAME OUT TO THE THE INLET HARBOR/FLUID EVENT. THESE KIDS ARE WELL MANNERED BUT ALWAYS AMPING. 6. SHAKAS ALL AROUND FROM THE BIG DOGS! 7. INLET HARBOR EVENT ATTRACTED ONLY ATTRACTIVE PEOPLE! DRINK UP AND GET READY TO PEOPLE WATCH. 61 THEFLUIDMAG.COM

8. ASP BIG WIG DYLAN AND THE LOVELY MISS JESS. 9. FOOD PROFILES ARE AWESOME, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT’S TACO SHACK TIME! 10. GEO AND AMY #LIVINITUP @THEFLUIDMAG! (FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @THEFLUIDMAG) 11. IF YOU WANT TO MEET SOME COOL CHICKS, HEAD TO THE TILTED KILT UCF LOCATION. 12. CORY HAS THE BEST JOB HERE AT FLUID MAGAZINE. EVERYONE KNOWS HE’S DAMN GOOD AT HIS JOB TOO!! 13. WE LOVE FLYING THE FRIENDLY SKIES. THANKS TO RIPTIDES FOR HOSTING A GREAT HALLOWEEN PARTY! 14.. GOOD LOOKING COUPLE, BUT THEIR GRANDMA IS UGLY! 15. HI THERE PRETTY KITTY!

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