Wire Magazine Issue #21, 2012: Pistol Pete and teamm8 Heat Up Your Summer by Wire Media Group

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ISSUE #21 | 05/24/12

E X C E P T I O N A L . B E C A U S E W E ’ R E M A D E T H I S W A Y. h a n d -h a rv ested, h a n dcr a f ted a n d e s t a t e b o t t l e d si n c e 1 8 7 0 .

H e r r a d u r a® T e q u i l a. N e v e r c o m p r o m i se.

EDITOR IN CHIEF’S NOTE HOT FASHIONS, FINE DINING AND MORE... want to start this week’s note by thanking our readers and friends for all the great feedback I received regarding last week’s Wire Magazine cover story entitled “Living With HIV: Not a Death Sentence, A Life Sentence.” As I mentioned in last week’s note, the “Living With HIV” issue of Wire Magazine was my attempt to reach out to so many people who may not be aware of the dangers they are often encountering, and the risks they are really taking with their physical, mental, and financial well being when dealing with the crude realities of HIV. I am glad that so many people read the cover story, and I hope that it will truly make a difference in people’s lives by motivating everyone to be safe and to seek out the best treatment possible if they are living with HIV. For this week’s issue we decided to switch gears and bring you some hot summer swimwear and underwear fashion. The summer has arrived and so has the heat. So, many of us may be looking to get our hands on the latest fashions in swimwear and underwear to show our bods in style throughout the summer. Wire Magazine caught up with Pistol Pete’s designer Peter Diaz and his partner Sami Tarrab, as well as teamm8’s designer Michal Nicolas to bring you the dish about their latest collections. Check out the cover story on page 10 to learn more about what’s behind each brand, the inspiration for their latest collections, and enjoy the pics of some very hot models showcasing Pistol Pete’s swimwear and teamm8’s underwear. This week I had the opportunity to dine in style at the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel in Miami. I love this hotel brand and have great memories of the time I lived at the Four Seasons in Toronto, when I was a business strategy consultant for the Bank of Montreal. Their restaurant Acqua was outstanding. So when I heard that the new Four Seasons Miami hotel – just one block away from my apartment – also had a restaurant called Acqua I dined there to remind me of the fabulous life I had living at the Toronto Four Seasons. Acqua has been replaced with Edge, Steak & Bar and the food is delicious. I loved the 24 oz Bone-in Tomahawk – that was a real steak! Plus the restaurant was surprisingly reasonable. Most of us know that Memorial Day will get crazy in Miami Beach this weekend and hope that the Beach will be safe, and that the revelers who come to visit will not bring us a repeat of the past bad behaviors that make so many residents flee the City each year during this weekend. Discotekka, in downtown Miami, will be celebrating Memorial Day weekend in style with their annual white wear party called Blanc, so come out to Disco and enjoy your weekend away from the mayhem of Miami Beach’s Memorial Day weekend craziness. Happy Memorial Day weekend. Remember to celebrate and honor all the great patriots who paid the ultimate price for defending our freedoms and our American way of life. I salute all the wonderful, brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Thank you for your service to our country! Cheers, Rafa Publisher & Editor in Chief rafa@wireweekly.com (soon to be rafa@wiremag.com) 4 | wire magazine | issue #21, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

Rafa Carvajal Publisher/Editor in Chief Associate Publisher Jesse Spencer Editor James Cubby Associate Editor Antwyone Ingram Design & Production Director Jose Gonzalez Columnists Alfredo Barrios Alyn Darnay Dane Steele Green Ken Hunt Dr. Gregg A Pizzi Michael Sasser Kevin Wynn Writers Neil Andrew Frias Staff Photographer Henry Perez Official Photography Studio Image1stmiami.com Photographers Javi Giovanni Frank Leon Luis Santiago Dale Stine Local Advertising advertising@wireweekly.com National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media | 212-242-6863 Editorial Submissions editorial@wireweekly.com Contact Information Tel: 305.520.WIRE | Fax: 786.272.0123 Email: info@wireweekly.com 1541 Brickell Avenue, #2004, Miami, FL 33129 Wire Magazine is published, produced, and owned by Wire Media Group L.L.C. All Rights Reserved Distributed in Miami, The Beaches, and Fort Lauderdale Cover Photo Courtesy of Pistol Pete

Friday Night Fun @ TWIST

photos by Henry Perez, Wire Magazine No night out in South Beach would be complete without TWIST, and Friday nights are some of the best. Guests of all kinds couldn’t wait to get some late night fun with great beats, multiple bars, and sexy dancers while celebrating Peter Morales’ birthday in style. “Never A Cover… Always A Groove.”

DINING

BY RAFA CARVAJAL

TWO THINGS I LOVE MOST here are two things I absolutely love. A great steak and staying at the Four Seasons Hotel. Tuesday night I had the opportunity to dine in style at Edge, Steak & Bar in the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel Miami. I love this hotel brand and have great memories of the time I lived at the Four Seasons in Toronto (when I was a business strategy consultant for the Bank of Montreal), where I enjoyed repeated dining at their Acqua restaurant. The Four Seasons is well-renowned for providing the absolute best for their discerning clientele around the world. Edge, Steak & Bar is the crown jewel of the multi-million dollar renovation of the Four Seasons Hotel Miami. It offers diners a non-traditional, affordable menu of high-quality, mouth-watering cuts of meat (many in smaller portions than usually expected in a steakhouse), indigenous seafood and locally-sourced fruits and vegetables in a beautiful, inviting indoor-outdoor space. Executive Chef Aaron Brooks and Restaurant Chef James King will delight you with their creations in a Four Seasons restaurant designed by AvroKo, the James Beard award-winning design firm well-known worldwide for fabulous projects from New York to Las Vegas to Hong Kong. I personally loved the 24 oz Bone-in Tomahawk – that was a real steak! It was prepared to perfection medium, and it reminded me of why I have always expected the best at the Four Seasons. All their meats feature signature homemade rubs and are seared on an infrared grill at 1800 degrees. Before my Tomahawk I started my dining experience with a sampling of Edge’s tartares that included four outstanding corvina, beef, scallop and ahi tuna tartares for only $18. My compliments to the chefs because this was truly a home run. I will definitely return to Edge just to eat this dish. It was a scrumptious, large appetizer – great, yummy value for the price!

Signature Tartares Photo Courtesy of Edge

Tomahawk Steak Photo by Andrea Fazzari

Part of the reason the food was so good is because chefs Brooks and King use seasonal ingredients sourced by top local producers, plus fresh ingredients grown in the restaurant’s garden, ‘Edge Row,’ such as peppers, spices and herbs, including habanero, jalapeño, cayenne and rosemary, used in their stocks and rubs. If you dine at Edge you can also request to take home a complimentary ‘cutting Edge’ rub or hot sauce. Visit www.edgerestaurantmiami.com to see the rest of their delicious menu and check out such delights as a gorgeous seafood mixto for two ($45); La Belle Farms pan-seared duck with sweet figs and roasted yams ($26); the signature Edge burger, available in 6oz. ($16) or 8 oz. ($19), made with Creekstone Farms beef, Vermont cheddar and house-made pickles; plus so much more! Edge’s culinary team has also created Edge, Steak & Bar’s Best of Miami Sunday Brunch, which embraces Miami’s wildly-popular food trucks movement with creatively

Terrace Nightime Photo by Mark Roskams

Edge, Steak & Bar Specialty Dinner Night Series: Beer and Whiskey BBQ. Tuesday, May 29 at 7:00 p.m. An interactive BBQ dining experience with craft beers by Cigar City Beers and High West Whiskeys. $79 per person, exclusive of tax & gratuity. Reservations required. Visit www.wiremag.co/edgebbqmay29 to view the menu.

Edge Calamari Photo by Mark Roskams

Skirt Steak Photo by Mark Roskams

designed food stations. You will enjoy a delicious buffet with all the classics, while interacting with chefs serving brunch delights via simulated food truck-style stations. The Viva La Mexico taco “truck” station dishes up braised short rib and chilaquiles served with chicken and green tomatillo and queso sauce. A Cuban food “truck” station offers crispy roast suckling pig served on Cuban bread with mojo onions, house pickles and lemon aioli. Brunch also features a Build-Your-Own Bloody Mary bar, unlimited mojitos and mimosas. Edge, Steak & Bar, also offers you an expansive outdoor oasis with a gorgeous patio overlooking the hotel’s two-acre pool area with sweeping vistas of downtown Miami and glittering Biscayne Bay. This fully landscaped terrace – protected from the elements by a trellised canopy – includes relaxing fire pits, shimmering candles and lush greenery.

COVER STORY: PISTOL PETE UNVEILS NEW SEXY CUTS FOR THE SUMMER The summer has arrived and so has the heat. It is time to get your hands on the latest fashions in swimwear and underwear to show your bod in style this summer. This week Wire Magazine caught up with Pistol Pete’s designer Peter Diaz and his partner Sami Tarrab, as well as teamm8’s designer Michal Nicolas to bring you the dish about their latest collections.

by Antwyone Ingram and Rafa Carvajal Photos Courtesy of Pistol Pete

eter Diaz, Pistol Pete’s designer, has always had a passion for fashion. In 1997, he with his partner, Sami Tarrab, launched Pistol Pete Menswear. Pistol Pete has grown to be a worldwide leader in fashion forward sportswear, athletic wear, swimwear, and underwear for men. Check out what they had to say about their brand and their new swimwear collection. The name of the brand has a very playful, yet masculine feel. What was the inspiration behind the creation of Pistol Pete? What was the idea behind naming the brand Pistol Pete? Peter graduated from Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising where he learned every aspect of clothing manufacturing: design, pattern making, grading, sewing, marketing, etc. He always felt that men’s fashion was not exciting or detailed enough. While in school, he would create one-of-a-kind outfits for himself to wear. Everywhere he went, people would stop and ask him where he bought his clothes. Many people began paying him to design clothing for them. Peter could create incredible designs for his employers very fast….thus he earned the nickname Pistol Pete. In 1997, he and I launched Pistol Pete Menswear. Peter’s first sales appointment was with a very large and well-known international men’s catalog company. Upon seeing Pistol Pete’s first collection of shirts, the catalog company purchased the entire collection. The catalog company also asked Peter to create men’s swimwear for them, which he did, and they loved it.

COVER STORY: PISTOL PETE UNVEILS NEW SEXY CUTS FOR THE SUMMER What particular aspirations & expectations surrounded Pistol Pete upon its birth, and do you feel those expectations were met? We always strive for the brand to become internationally recognized for being both masculine and fashion forward. Today, Pistol Pete is sold in fine boutiques all over the world. Every brand reflects a certain type of man. Describe the particular type of man that was in mind when creating Pistol Pete. The man who dresses to reflect his own style and personality. There are so many underwear and swimwear companies popping up, whether very personal boutiques or large-scale national and international brands. How do you feel Pistol Pete stands out from the rest? Pistol Pete achieves its unique styling by consistently resourcing and utilizing a wide array of fabrications and processes. Each season we take what we have learned from the previous collection and improve upon our designs and product. Describe Pistol Pete in less than 5 words, what is the epitome of Pistol Pete? Infusing individuality into men’s fashion. What suggestions, as a designer and as a successful brand, can you make to those struggling to stay relevant in the swimwear/underwear industry? Know who you are and keep your vision in focus. At the same time, know when you need to step out of your comfort zone to evolve. Listen to your customer and keep the brand fresh. Pistol Pete definitely stands out for it’s innovative designs; most notably its sexy cuts and bold design elements such as side buckles, ties, and waist belts. Where did you find the inspiration for such creative styles, and what inspired you to create the latest collection? Pistol Pete’s signature style is the belted swimsuit. We have always been incredibly fond of vintage looks from the ‘30s, ‘40s, and ‘50s and we wanted to bring that clean sophistication from those eras into each collection. Pistol Pete never falls short of sexy surprises and swimwear/underwear that is definitely risqué. Do you have any surprises for your large following in the near future? Pistol Pete has a sexy alter ego as well. We love offering men the option to be sporty, to be classic, or sometimes to be a bit naughty. Stay tuned…Pistol Pete will be unveiling some new sexy designs from its box of tricks. You also have quite a selection of sexy athletic wear. Can we expect to see more athletic wear in the near future or is your focus primarily on underwear and swimwear? Definitely! Our athletic wear will continue to offer sport minded fabrics with a great deal of comfort, without sacrificing style. You can purchase Pistol Pete at Creative Male, 222 NE 25th St, Suite106, Miami.

COVER STORY: POWER IN THE BRIEF

By Scott Marshall Photos Courtesy of TEAMM8

ydney designer Michal Nicolas is the creative mastermind behind the men’s sportswear label teamm8. Launched four years ago, teamm8’s philosophy is inspired by Aussie sporting values of team spirit, determination, strength and masculinity for everyday champions. It’s available locally in retail shops and online at www.LaJock.com. If Nicolas looks familiar to you, it may be because before launching his fashion empire, he was a popular club performer known for his heartfelt ballads and infectious dance beats. His debut single, a cover of Billie Ray Martin’s “Your Loving Arms,” was remixed by DJ Wayne G and enjoyed global dancefloor success. While developing the album, Nicolas paid the bills working for retail clothing labels. It was on a showroom floor that his life’s dream changed from creating music to starting his own fashion label. Most guys refer to the brand as team-8, but the correct pronunciation is team-mate, correct? A lot of people get confused but the name is in fact pronounced team-mate, as in a member of a team. Also ‘mate’ in Australia is used to describe a male buddy or a friend. Our name embodies everything about the brand: Australia, the sporting values, the masculinity and the unity. Is it true you started teamm8 from your living room? Yes! In the beginning, I operated and managed every facet single-handedly. I had a website and two styles of underwear, that’s it. How did you grow so quickly? I was lucky to gain an international market almost instantly. Then, over the next few years, I introduced more underwear styles and then a basic swimwear line. When the swimwear line proved successful, I introduced a test athletic wear line. That’s when teamm8 began shaping into the lifestyle sportswear brand it is today.

COVER STORY: POWER IN THE BRIEF

What is teamm8 doing to distinguish itself from the rest of the athletic wear collections on the market today? We’re unleashing fashion forward and stylish athletic wear that takes guys from the gym to a lunch date or to just hanging around all day. Are teamm8’s underwear rises lower than most briefs? We do keep a low rise to all our briefs, but not ridiculously low. Comfort is our number one design rule and if the rise is too low then the brief is just not comfortable to wear all day. What kind of man is teamm8 catering to? The savvy, style conscious guy who has an interest in body image and fashion but is not obsessed by it. He just wants to feel and look good in his own skin. I always say, “at teamm8, you are the star player and we are your support team.” How would you describe the 2012 summer collection? Definitely our best yet. It’s bold, it’s wearable and it’s versatile … we’re all very excited about it. The new underwear line is super sexy. We’ve gotten a little darker this season. We certainly noticed that. While most designers went for brighter summer colors, you chose darker, sinister shades. I love to play with color. I spend a lot of time trying combinations that feel and look fresh and exciting. For this season, I wanted colors that conveyed an even mix of strength and masculine vulnerability. The campaign images reflect that. The shoot features ex-French Foreign Legion recruit, Matt. We shot in a dingy dilapidated basement and asked the 27 year-old to channel his days in the Legion to show us the power and strength he holds within. Is ‘Power’ the theme of your summer line? Yes, power is something all men want. What advantages does a smaller company like teamm8 have over the bigger brands? How is teamm8 using the advantages to its power? Smaller boutique companies like teamm8 enjoy the luxury of dancing to the beat of their own drum. Decisions are made and acted upon quickly. We’re not dragged down by big corporate influences and strategies. We also take big risks. teamm8 was founded on a huge risk. I believe you achieve nothing without playing life that way, and that’s exactly how we approach everything here at teamm8. You work hard, you enjoy the benefits. Visit LaJock.com to purchase teamm8.

Michal Nicolas The creative mastermind behind the men’s sportswear label teamm8

FLIX

BY KEVIN WYNN

WIRED ON THE ARTS

BY JAMES CUBBY

MAKE ME LAUGH, DAMMIT!

MAY 24 – 30

TURN

ME ON, DAMMIT! Directed by: Jannicke Systad Jacobsen Cast: Aran Bell Helene Bergsholm Malin Bjørhovde Henriette Steenstrup Beate Støfring Matias Myren Lars Nordtveit Listau urn Me On, Dammit!, a new Norwegian film, starts in John Waters territory, with Alma, a young girl (fifteen going on sixteen) writhing on the floor of her mother’s kitchen, one hand holding the phone, the other down her panties, jerking off to the voice of Stig, her long-distance lover on a phone sex line. O.K.! This is not gonna be another dull night at the multiplex! This is gonna be a very wild ride! But then Mom comes home, Alma hangs up the phone, and Turn Me On, Dammit!, without so much as a screech of the tires, does a big 180, leaving the sleazily comic world of Waters for the chilly, heavily wooded hinterlands of Skoddeheimen, a rural Norwegian town with nothing to offer its young folk but letters. There Alma (Helene Bergsholm), a pretty blonde girl, dreams gauzy sexy dreams about Artur (Matias Myren), a classmate who plays guitar with the local youth choir. She also entertains earthier thoughts about some of the other locals. When Alma tells her friends about an incident with Artur that’s sexual but well short of sex, she’s shunned, branded a pervert by even her own mother. Many of Dammit’s reviews glow with an insistent nurturing warmth. A number of critics champion this obscure little movie for its concern with female sexuality and for telling its story – its vanishingly tiny story – from a girl’s point of view. In a movie market where male sexuality, and men’s viewpoints, dominate – American Reunion, anyone? – Dammit! is a breath of fresh air, a blow for honesty and women’s rights, a modest revolution. And not only that – it’s fun-fun-funny! Well...not quite. Dammit! is realistic and restrained. It has a dry sense of humor and views its characters with sympathetic but clear-eyed humanism. Funny it’s not. The film delivers a few chuckles and a titter here and there, but its clear-eyed Nordic humanism, so level-headed, so reasonable, keeps it from taking off, from cutting loose, from owning its own absurdity. It’s well-acted, it’s gently and acutely observant, it’s beautifully photographed. It’s also less than compelling, borderline dull, and its ending is just too tidy to believe. It’s the kind of film John Waters would make. If he were Norwegian. And in a coma. 14 | wire magazine | issue #21, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

Memorial Day Weekend marks the of- The Lion King, runs at the Arsht Center ficial start of the summer season so get thru June 10. ready for a great Miami summer. Actors’ Playhouse presents Becky’s New Car, a comedy about the perils CONCERTS of middle age, at the Miracle Theatre Dranoff International Two Piano Foun- thru June 3. dation presents Piano Slam Vol. 4, a showcase of talented pianists, at the DANCE Arsht Center on May 24 at 7:30 p.m. Ayikodans, Haiti’s premier dance enThe Chirino Sisters, daughters of salsa semble, performs a world premiere sensation, Willy Chirino, return to the piece on May 25 & 26 at the Arsht Magic City Amphitheatre on May 26. Center. The Best of the Best Concert, featuring a variety of talent including Mavado, DJ Khaled, Ghost, Ace Hood, Shaggy, Marcia Griffiths, Admiral Bailey, John Holt, Frankie Paul, Khago, Wayne Marshall, Serani, and Demarco, plays at the Klipsch Amphitheater on May 27. www.bestofthebestconcert.com Legendary singer Kenny Loggins comes to Hard Rock Live on May 27 at 7 p.m. Florida Classical Ballet presents its Spring Unique Gala featuring dance stars from the San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet, English National Ballet, and La La La Human Steps Company on May 26 & 27 at the Gusman Center. Miami Dance Festival continues thru May with performances at venues throughout Miami and Miami Beach. Visit www.momentumdance.com for schedule.

THEATRE

COMEDY

Stage Door Theatre presents All Night Strut, a musical celebration of the ‘30s and ‘40s, at the Byron Carlyle Theatre thru June 10.

5th Annual Memorial Weekend Comedy Festival, featuring comics like Tommy Davidson, Faizon Love, Michael Blackson, John Witherspoon, A.G. White, and Leslie Jones, returns to the James L. Knight Center on May 27.

Time Stands Still, hailed as one of the best new plays on Broadway, plays at the GableStage at the Biltmore thru June 3.

EVENT

Miami Metropolitan International FashSpring Awakening, winner of ten 2007 ion Week, a three-day fashion event, Tony Awards including Best Musical, debuts many international designers in their first shows in the U.S. at the plays at Area Stage thru June 3. LMNT Contemporary Art Space. www. Disney’s long running Broadway hit, mmifw.com Visit www.wiredonthearts.com to view the contact information for all our Wired on the Arts venues.

Submissions for Wired on the Arts should be sent to: cubby@wireweekly.com

HYPE Friday’s 2nd Year Anniversary @ MOVA

photos by Henry Perez, Wire Magazine

222 NE 25th Street. Suite 106. Miami 33137. Enter on NE 2nd Avenue 305 573 3080 Mon-Fri 12-8 Sat 11-8 Sun 12-6

Edison Farrow celebrated HYPE Friday’s 2nd Year Anniversary in style at MOVA with outrageous performances and antics by Pussila and sounds by DJ Bryan Zero. Congrats to Edison from your friends at Wire Magazine. We had a great time on Friday!

We Love Brazilians @ Discotekka

photos by Henry Perez, Wire Magazine Discotekka packs the house every weekend for one hell of a Saturday night party! The hottest party downtown brought the heat this Saturday with “We Love Brazilians,” and the hypnotic beats of Brazilian DJ Djjust Oliver, shows by TP Lords and Gina DiAngelo. Hosted by Vegas Dion and Athena Dion.

NIGHTLIFE FEATURE

WHITE PARTY AT DISCOTEKKA Photo by image1stmiami.com

Everyone knows that Memorial Day Weekend in Miami Beach can get pretty crazy. So if you are looking for a great excuse to party on the mainland, look no further than Discotekka’s “Blanc” this Saturday. Wire Magazine caught up with Vegas Dion to bring you the scoop. Vegas, what can partygoers expect for your White Party event, are there any surprises in store? There are always surprises when you come to Discotekka. We have a few additions to our entertainment and decor that will make our venue look different and exciting. We have giveaways and free drinks throughout the night.

Discotekka is never short on great performances, who can we expect to see “turning it” on the stage Memorial Day weekend? We have the pleasure of having one of South Florida’s most beautiful and loved entertainers Poizon Ivy, who will be celebrating her birthday. You can expect to be in awe with her fabulous White Production, along with our regulars Gina Di Angelo and Athena Dion. Discotekka is famous for its impeccable roster of DJs and house music, who will be spinning for your all-white event and what type of house should Discotekka fans anticipate? If you love house music then you love Discotekka. We are lucky to have DJ ESCAPE on the turntables this Saturday. Voted one of the TOP 10 Gay DJs of America. It is an incredible experience to let your mind and body escape out of reality to the sound of DJ ESCAPE.

by Antwyone Ingram

The crowd at Discotekka is going to be noticeably bigger than usual for your all-white event, as it is Memorial Day Weekend. What measures are being taken to ensure a smooth operation for such a momentous event? Doors will be open at 10:30 p.m. and we will have two entrances and more staff to assure the speed of the admission process as well as the VIP and bar procedures. We are very excited about it and expect no issues or delays. Will the venue layout for Memorial Day Weekend differ from that of a regular weekend at Discotekka, or can partygoers expect a few changes and access to additional rooms? We will focus just in the Discotekka room and make sure that our patrons get the full effect of our White Party event. You need a crowd to create a great vibe, the more the merrier! In addition to your upcoming all-white event, what other exclusive themed parties can those who frequent Discotekka expect for the remainder of the summer (or will we just have to wait and see what is in store)? Well, we like the anticipation but we will be celebrating our 5th Year anniversary in June and it promises to be a night to remember. There are also some rumors about a Superhero event and another WaterWorks. Stay tuned with Wire Magazine for details! What apparel suggestions can you make for the upcoming white event, is it more formal and reminiscent of a grandiose ballroom party, or is it “anything-goes?” The beauty of Discotekka is that you encounter every week a variety mixture of people with different backgrounds, likes and styles. The best way to have fun is when you are comfortable! Some like to be grandiose, some more chic, others more formal and many very casual. We want it all and we love it all. Every year I encourage the same thought...We don’t care what you wear as long as it’s WHITE! Happy White Party and Cheers!

DJ ESCAPE’S WHITE-HOT GETAWAY By DJ FR8-O

Just because Miami doesn’t have changing seasons like everywhere else in the world doesn’t mean we can’t join in on the fun when temperatures start to rise. It’s time to pull out those stark white jeans again and celebrate the official start of summer at Discotekka’s annual White Wear Party. Circuit DJ/Producer Escape will be kicking off the season with his white hot beats and making you sweat like a trick on a Saturday night. While getting ready for the event, Escape took a hot minute to check in with me about his latest productions, summer plans and why he thinks Discotekka will be the sexiest place on the planet this weekend. How did you get hooked up with Discotekka’s “Blanc” party? I have been playing Discotekka regularly all year. Dan V. and Vegas Dion always create a fun theme when I am there. What kind of surprises will you have up your white sleeve for us this weekend? You can expect to hear all your favorite songs. I do a lot of special edits and remixing on the fly live. I will also be doing a tribute to Donna Summer. ll ick Mitche Photo by: D J Escape D Courtesy of

Are you working on any new productions these days? I just produced a new track with Inaya Day called “Make Some Noise.” I am also

remixing Frankie’s new single “Alright” and Rebecca Ferguson’s new single “Nothing’s Real But Love.” Do you have any big plans for the summer? Lots of traveling. I have gigs just about every weekend in Boston, Baltimore, Minneapolis, Washington DC, Atlanta, Louisville, Charlotte and of course here in Miami at Discotekka. What’s your summer anthem going to be? I love Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used To know” and of course J-LO, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Flo Rida, Nicki Minaj and Madonna’s songs will be big on my dance floor. Between all the cities you’ve played in, what does Miami have that none of the others do? Miami is very special to me. I got my start on the Beach playing at Liquid then Pump, Level, Salvation, and Score. I am very happy to have Discotekka as my Miami home. Downtown Miami has a 24-hour liquor license which not many places have. There are always great shows and themes at Discotekka and I love playing for the younger crowd, getting reactions from songs they know and love and educating them with older records from the past that they embrace. I love you Miami and I look forward to seeing you all on my dance floor at Discotekka! My new CD Global Groove Dance 5 is available now on iTunes. Check it out!

SHOPPING BAG

ON THE GO TRAVEL: IRELAND

ECO-FRIENDLY SUMMER ACCESSORIES THE BAMBOO BOTTLE

THE LUCK OF

THE IRISH BY DANE STEELE GREEN es, the pot of gold ain’t shabby, but when the end of the rainbow lands at Dublin Pride, it may be the leprechauns that you end up chasing. It’s time to rock the shamrock!

Who knew? After London and Paris, the Irish capital is the most popular tourist stop in Europe, and Dublin Pride does its damnedest to push the city to the very top of the podium…and to make a convincing techno remix of Enya. While pre- and postpride shindigs make Dublin Pride almost a month-long bonanza, Ireland’s premier gay event officially runs from June 22 to July 1. Like the prides before it, this year’s Dublin Pride carries a theme. For 2012, “Show Your True Colors” is gearing up to ensure that every shade of the gay spectrum splits right down the middle the city that gave us Oscar Wilde.

The Bamboo Bottle Company has created a stylish and eco-friendly water bottle that not only benefits the environment, but also decreases health risks associated with drinking from and re-using plastic bottles. Re-using plastic bottles not only runs the risks of ingesting a number of germs due to the difficulty of cleaning such small spouts, they also expose your body to harmful chemicals within the plastic if re-used frequently. The Bamboo Bottle has a glass interior that is taste free, chemical free, and nearly indestructible. The interior glass insulates making your beverage temperature resistant. Made from recycled glass and harvested bamboo, this eco-friendly bottle is the best alternative for those flimsy and unhealthy plastic bottles. $20. www.bamboobottleco.com

GOODWOOD ACCESSORIES GoodWoodNYC has become increasingly popular over the last couple of years due to its stylish and all natural creations being flaunted by a large number of celebrities and tastemakers. These wooden accessories combine art and fashion and can be purchased “as is” or custom designed which are then completely hand painted and incorporate crystal and wood inlays. The current collection boasts a myriad of different styles available in bracelets, necklaces, earrings, pendants, and even iPhone cases. Prices range from $10 - $70. www.goodwoodnyc.com

RECYCLED TIRE BELT BY ECOIST Ecoist has created a belt that will not only be a great addition to your summer look, but is also eco-friendly, as it was created completely by recycled materials. The product is constructed from durable, water resistant upcycled bicycle inner tubes and is available in a number of lengths for any waist size. Unlike other leather belts that wear and stretch over time, this rubber belt is extremely durable and will not elongate over time. The belt is priced at $42. www.ecoist.com

So when in Dublin for all the o’partying, the first thing you have to know is that the city has no gay ghetto per se, but that “Gay Dublin” rests predominately in the central part of the city east of Phoenix Park in a sweep spanning both sides of the River Liffey. The biggest gay bar and best booty-call bet is Dragon, a massive two-floor space on South Great Georges Street on the southern banks of the river, and not far away from Dublin’s oldest gay establishment, The George, which is to Ireland what the Stonewall is to the USA. Despite being the oldest gay bar in Dublin, The George pulls in a surprisingly young crowd – raow! – and Friday’s Mischief Party is not to be missed. Across the river to the north is Pantibar (no cover!), with drag shows Thursday and Friday. For those a looking for something a little more demure (OK, I’m stretching that word a little) the Front Lounge provides an oh-so-chic alternative. But whether it’s Dragon or drag or somewhere in between, consider all four your hunting ground to see if the red hair and freckles go all the way down. Dublin Pride’s grand blowout is, of course, the Pride Parade on June 30. The biggest parade in the country after that of St. Patrick’s Day – and let’s face it, he’s a tough act to follow when you’re in Ireland – snakes through Dublin starting at the Garden of Remembrance north of the Liffey and moves south across the river to the final destination/party at Merrion Square, recently refurbished to have a capacity of up to 15,000. And because June 30 falls on a Saturday, get ready for non-stop booze-fueled partying right through the weekend. As if the Irish needed an excuse for booze or partying… For more information, go to www.dublinpride.ie. Steele Luxury Travel will bring you closer to the land of the Shamrock and can be reached at 646.688.2274. www. SteeleTravel.com 18 | wire magazine | issue #21, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

WEWOOD TIME PIECES Wood accessories are definitely in this summer as more designers are designing chic, yet eco-friendly accessories to complement the rest of your summer ensemble (or lack of). WeWOOD brings you all natural watches that are absent of toxic and artificial materials and made from 100% natural wood. Purchasing one of WeWOOD’s watches goes towards a good cause, as each watch sold is one tree planted. WeWOOD partners with American Forests, which is the nation’s oldest non-profit conservation organization that plants and cares for trees in our environment. Woods range from Maple to Black Wood and are priced at $120 each. www.we-wood.us

LOOKING GOOD

BY KEN HUNT

BUDDY UP

TOP TRAX

BY DJ FR8-O

DONNA SUMMER’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

o matter what your reason is for having a workout partner – for motivation, advice, or socialization – it can definitely add some interest to your regular fitness routine. Having a workout buddy has a variety of advantages. The choice of who you should share this time with depends on a few different factors. Be sure to consider these factors, as it is important. If you don’t choose your workout buddy smartly, you could find your gym visits suffering as your buddy will become more of a distraction than anything else. Here are some key points to keep in mind. The spotter If you are someone who is constantly pushing the envelope, trying to go for your one-rep max or just simply progressively ensuring you are overloading your muscles with each session (which you should be doing to progress), a spotter is essential. The mentor The next type of workout buddy that can offer a number of benefits is the “mentor.” If you are new to weight lifting and are looking for something to really ramp up your motivational levels, this is the partner for you. If you’re on the side looking for a mentor, keep in mind that not everyone will be looking for this type of workout buddy relationship. Some guys really prefer to workout with someone who is on par with their current fitness level, as they personally find this more motivating to them since they can push each other, pound for pound. Others find that this type of setup works great because, for them, passing on their knowledge and serving as an “idol” encourages them to be all that they can be. The socializer Next, there is the complete other side of the workout buddy scale, applying to those who workout more for the social aspects. When you choose your workout buddy it’s absolutely critical that you choose someone who also thinks this way – you don’t want to distract a more serious gym-goer. The worst type of workoutbuddy relationship to get into is where one of you really wants to get in an intense workout while the other would rather spend more time hanging around, conversing with the odd set thrown in-between conversations. The professional Finally, the last type of workout buddy that you might want to consider is an actual personal trainer. If you’re new to weight lifting or are looking to take your fitness to new levels, this could be the best choice for you. Not only will you receive similar benefits that you would receive from a mentor (motivational and learning), but it’s also pretty much a guarantee that this person is putting their full effort into ensuring you improve at the gym – if they aren’t, they’ll lose their job. When you look for a personal trainer as a workout buddy, first consider their certification. Check and make sure it’s backed by a respectable organization -- you don’t want to be dishing out good money to someone who doesn’t really have a good grasp of exercise physiology and workout principles. Even better is if you can also find someone who has some type of nutritional training as well, because your workouts are really only half the equation, regardless of what your goal might be. Then the second thing to think about when hiring a trainer for a partner is their availability. Depending on your needs, if you want to have them with you for each session you’re at the gym, you need to ensure they have enough room to accommodate you. So, whether your goal is to get cut, bulk up by adding pounds of new muscle to your frame or increase your speed and power, consider which workout training partner is going to be your best option. Ken Hunt is an AFI-certified trainer and fitness expert who owns New York and Miami’s Steel Gym. Steel Gym has been named the No. 1 gym in New York two years in a row by the American Fitness Institute. In Miami, Steel Gym is located at 5556 NE 4th Ct. 305.751.7591. www.SteelGym.com 19 | wire magazine | issue #21, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

(1948 – 2012) ot many recording artists of our generation can sing about a cake melting in the rain and turn it into a #1 dance hit. Donna Summer did it flawlessly in 1978 followed by a string of other hits that collectively crowned her the Queen of Disco. Just like you, I grew up listening to her uplifting anthems and can still remember the feeling of freedom and joy I would get from dancing and singing along to them at home as a kid, in my first car and eventually in the clubs. Donna’s dance music debut came in 1975 when she co-wrote her first hit “Love To Love You Baby” with Pete Bellotte. The track was inspired by a brand new sound that was spreading across the U.S. called “Disco” and the pair thought they’d give it a shot. It was intended for another artist, but after some convincing from producer Giorgo Moroder, Summer agreed to sing it herself. Casablanca Records picked up the track which peaked at #2 on Billboard’s Hot 100. Once the 17-minute extended version of the song hit the clubs, a disco diva was born and a new era in American dance music began. Summer reunited with Moroder and Bellotte in 1977 to produce her second top ten hit “I Feel Love”- a track they say marked the beginning of electronic dance music. Summer reigned supreme on the disco scene and continued to pack the dance floors with tracks like “MacArthur Park,” “On The Radio,” “Bad Girls,” “Hot Stuff” and her first Grammy winner “Last Dance.” Four more Grammys would soon follow before the decade was up. But unlike most disco artists, Donna’s career didn’t end there. In 1980 she ditched Casablanca for Geffen Records and began her musical makeover, fusing dance tracks with elements of rock to create an edgier sound. Her experimenting paid off when her 11th studio album, She Works Hard For The Money, was released three years later, spawning yet another string of anthems like the title track and the reggae-inspired “Unconditional Love.” As yet another decade came to a close; Summer switched gears again, hiring the British production team of Stock Aitken Waterman (Kylie Minogue, Dead or Alive, Bananarama and Rick Astley) to give her sound a ‘90s upgrade. The result: Another Place and Time, her 14th studio album which gave us “I Don’t Wanna Get Hurt,” “Love’s About To Change” and the International smash “This Time I Know It’s For Real.” As the new millennium approached, the gay club scene that kept her career alive for so long evolved and so did Donna. Once again she demanded the dance floor’s attention with “Carry On,” “Melody of Love” and “I Will Go With You (Con Te Partiro).” Throughout her career, Donna Summer released 17 albums, headlined 12 tours and collected 14 #1 hits; some as recently as 2010 (“To Paris With Love”). She seemed unstoppable until May 17th when she shared her last dance with life in her Florida home. The disco diva’s melodies span nearly four decades and although this will be the summer of Summer, that truly is a recipe we may never have again. If you’re a recording artist, musician or producer and would like your work featured on TOP TRAX, hit me up at Alfredo@wireweekly.com.

THIS WEEK THURSDAY, MAY 24 EROS LOUNGE: Presenting Latin Fuego Thursday nights! Get ready for an outrageous night hosted by Teresita La Caliente with shows starting at 11 p.m. Free parking and $6 Cuba Libres all night long. 8201 Biscayne Blvd. QUEEN LOUNGE: Edison Farrow hosts RETRO RIOT tonight at Queen Lounge! Don’t hesitate to get glammed up for the POPular 7 featuring DJ Grind album release party with giveaways for the first 100 guests. DJ Troy Landon will be spinning the best tracks mixing up the decades with music from the ‘70s, ‘80s, & ‘90s. The party starts at 10 p.m. 841 Washington Ave.

Sunday T Dance @ Palace

photos by Henry Perez, Wire Magazine

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 to 9 p.m., followed by Vanity Girl. Vanity Girl Thursdays gives you gorgeous girls, great music by DJ Zehno, $4 Miller Lites, $6 Finlandia cocktails, and a free Miller Lite when you buy the shot of the week. 1625 Michigan Ave.

Palace’s divas packed a punch this past Sunday during Brunchic with their fabulous shows, then DJ Cindel’s sexy beats kept the party going as a full house enjoyed the best Sunday T Dance in town. Don’t miss the hottest spot on the ocean, with the sexiest people in town every Sunday on Ocean Drive, where “Every Queen Needs a Palace.”

PALACE: Palace hosts Stiletto Nights with fierce drag shows by host Missy Meiyakie and special diva cast members. Show starts at 6 p.m. Enjoy weekly drink specials all night. 1200 Ocean Drive. SCORE: Enjoy cocktails out on the patio and watch the famous Lincoln Road traffic pass by. Later in the evening Score hosts Pop Fever Thursday night party kicking off the holiday weekend with fab beats by DJ Daisy D & AJ Reddy, paired with an incredible crowd of delicious partygoers. Take advantage of $6 Long Islands all night. No cover! 727 Lincoln Road. TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous night at TWIST with seven different bars, DJ Sushiman, stiff drinks, and beautiful dancers. And if you’re looking for some hot papis, DJ Adora will be hosting Sabroso in Bar 5! Don’t miss the 2-4-1 Special on everything till 2 a.m. “Never a cover... Always a groove.” 1057 Washington Ave. FRIDAY, MAY 25 SIZZLE: ‘The ‘The Phrophecy’ Phrophecy’ at at Club Club Mekka Mekka is is SIZZLE: the the first first official official party party for for SIZZLE SIZZLE Miami, Miami, sure sure to to heat heat things things up up for for aa sizzling sizzling hot hot weekend weekend full full of of beautiful beautiful men men and and momentous momentous parties. parties. Anticpate amazing décor décorand andthethe of Anticpate amazing bestbest of hiphip-hop, R&B, Reggae, House, and Carribean hop, R&B, Reggae, House, and Carribean in in Mekka’s5 5spacious spaciousrooms. rooms. Doors Doors open at Mekka’s at 10:30 10:30 p.m. p.m. Check Check out out www.sizzleevents.com www.sizzleevents.com for for the the complete complete line-up! line-up! 950 950 NE NE 2nd 2nd Ave. Ave.

MOVA: Join Edison Farrow for HYPE Fridays at MOVA, “where the men go out in South Beach on Friday nights!” Delectable beats by DJ Bryan Zero, and hosted by the zany Pusilla. $7 Finlandia vodka drinks all night with a $125 Finlandia bottle special. 1625 Michigan Ave. PALACE: Tonight is Drag Madness with fierce shows by some of South Beach’s most spec-

tacular drag performers! Get ready for the biggest show on South Beach at 6 p.m. SCORE: Tonight Penny Back Boyz host one of the hottest parties in South Beach, Filthy Gorgeous Fridays, with tantalizing sounds by International DJ Willy G. Doors open at 10 p.m. TWIST: Enjoy a fabulous night at TWIST. Get in for the free Happy Hour BBQ at 6 p.m. Tonight get in the house for some delicious beats by DJ Scott Mann and a crowd that’s sure to please. Enjoy seven different bars, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers, and, of course, the only place where there’s “Never a cover... Always a groove.” SATURDAY, MAY 26 DISCOTEKKA: Milancita.com Milancita.com and andDiscotekka Discotekka DISCOTEKKA: present “Blanc,” “Blanc,” an an all-white all-white wear wear affair affair and and present birthday celebration celebration for for the the lovely lovely Poizon Poizon birthday Ivy. Top Top off off your your Memorial Memorial Day Day Weekend Weekend at at Ivy. Discotekka with with sounds sounds by by DJ DJ Escape, Escape, aa sparsparDiscotekka kling white white production production by by Poizon Poizon Ivy Ivy && Gina Gina kling Di Angelo, Angelo, and and hosted hosted by by Athena Athena Dion. Dion. Doors Doors Di open at at 11 11 p.m. p.m. 950 950 NE NE 2nd 2nd Ave. Ave. open MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 to 9 p.m., followed by FLASH Saturdays with the hottest music videos and visual entertainment by VJ Chris Racine till 3 a.m. with $9 Grey Goose cocktails all night. EROS LOUNGE: Eros Lounge Miami proudly presents the Matinee New York Pride Kick Off Party with sexy go-go dancers and sounds by DJ Charlie Rojas. Enjoy live percussion by The RV Project Mix. Sponsored by Voli and Or-G. PALACE: Join Palace as they celebrate Poizon Ivy’s birthday! Enjoy sounds by DJ Hans at 4 p.m. with $10 Zignum margaritas all day long and $4 Poizon Ivy shots from 8-9 p.m. SCORE: Don’t miss Score’s BIGGER Saturdays party tonight – bringing you the sounds of international DJ/Producer George Figares and birthday celebration for recording artist Mandara. Expect the hottest men and most hypnotic beats that will keep your feet moving at Saturday’s largest gay dance party on the beach. Receive a free vodka drink with paid admission all night long. Hosted by Alex Prieto. $7 cover. TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 with Tommy and the locals from 1 to 9 p.m. on everything. Come tonight for MUSCLE BOY Saturdays and enjoy a full house of hot men and some incredible beats by DJ Mika. “Never a cover...Always a groove.” SUNDAY, MAY 27 ANGLERS: If you are looking to nurse that hangover with some unlimited mimosas and Bloody Marys, look no further than 660 at the Anglers. Enjoy great food and delicious libations in one of the most beautiful boutique resorts Miami Beach has to offer. 660 Washington Ave.

MOVA: MOVA hosts the most scandalous party in South Beach, Out-n-Ugly Sundays with DJ Latrice. Beginning at 9 p.m. with drag shows 11 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. Enjoy $4 Miller Lites, $5 Herradura Shots, and $6 Finlandia. No cover. THE MANOR: Gary Santis Events presents the 14th annual White Party at The Manor. Enjoy sounds by the notorious DJ Manny Lehman, and DJ Daisy D in the show room & hip hop room. Spectacular shows scheduled by the legendary Kitty Meow, Sasha Lords, Erika Norell, TP Lords, and Daisy D. Join your host Channel 7 news anchor Craig Stevens with a special concert at 9 p.m. by Prince Poppycock from American’s Got Talent. 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors. PALACE: South Beach’s most legendary drag brunch will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with two seatings: one at 11:30 a.m. and another at 2 p.m. Enjoy over-the-top performances by Noel Leon paired with a delectable menu. Afterwards, check out the sexiest Sunday T-Dance in SoBe with local DJs working the turntables. When the T-Dance ends, the BAR CRAWL begins, take the party to MOVA to finish off the Sunday fun. SCORE: Stop by and test your vocals with Karaoke tonight! Doors open at 9 p.m. Still happening upstairs, HIP SUNDAYS, in association with Club Boi 2.0, brings the best hiphop, house, and R&B beats by DJs Gavin T & Diaz from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. TWIST: Get in for 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 to 9 p.m. & the free BBQ at 6 p.m. Afterwards, see one of the most scandalous shows you’ll ever witness with Pussila’s amateur strip contest. Upstairs DJ Paulie will be working it out on the main dance floor. At TWIST: “Never a cover...Always a groove.” MONDAY, MAY 28 KILL YOUR IDOL: Dustin Reffca presents GLITTER BOX MONDAYS - South Beach’s hottest Monday night party with manic beats by DJ Smeejay & DJ FR8-0 performing live. Don’t miss out on $1 PBR Beer, $2 Jello Shots, & $3 Jack Shots all night long! 222 Espanola Way. MOVA: Get ready to be a star at MOVA’s weekly SHOUT karaoke party with VJ AJ Reddy. Test your vocals and enjoy half priced drinks all night long and $5 glasses of wine. PALACE: RuPaul’s Drag Race may be over, but the drama continues! Get ready for Palace Drag Race taking over Mondays at Palace hosted by the audacious Miss Meyakie LePaige with spectacular appearances by RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 contestant, Latrice Royale! Enjoy an Absolut open bar from 7-8 p.m. Divas in drag receive $4 Absolut cocktails all night long! SCORE: Swing by for one of the best happy hours in Miami Beach where all drinks are 1/2 price, followed by Video Freak where you can request your favorite music videos and enjoy $5 vodka cocktails, $7 martinis and $3 beers. No cover.

TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks ‘till 9 p.m. Then it’s Arrasando hosted by Marco Perez & Nicholas Torres with beats by house diva Justice Divine. Join Nathan in the Frolic Lounge for signature mix of Pop and Top 20 & DJ Bryan Zero’s fab beats on the main dance floor. TUESDAY, MAY 29 MOVA: It’s a SINsational Tuesday night at MOVA’s weekly Service Industry Night. Enjoy $50 bottles of Finlandia Vodka, $100 bottles of Grey Goose, and $7 premium well drinks while DJ AJ Reddy works the turntables. PALACE: Stop in for Palace’s 2-4-1 Absolut flavored cocktails till 4 p.m. Better than ever before on Ocean Drive and 12th Street, try it for lunch or a late afternoon snack, or just hang out at the bar with the locals. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Palace is sure to have it! SCORE: It’s Planeta Macho tonight, the hottest Latin Party in Miami Beach, featuring Latin beats by award winner DJ George Ferrero. Watch amazing shows by Miami’s best female impersonators. Check out the dancers on the 2nd level hosted by Teresita La Caliente. Don’t miss this party - it’s South Florida’s Best Latin Party! TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 to 9 p.m. on everything. Tonight TWIST presents Keeping It Real Fun With Daisy D. Get ready for ridiculous beats and $5 Jumbo Blue Long Island Iced Teas all night long. “Never a cover… Always a groove.” WEDNESDAY, MAY 30 EROS LOUNGE: Feeling talented? Every Wednesday starting at 8 p.m. is Eros Idol Karaoke. Happy Hour is from 4 to 9 p.m. with $5 Long Island Iced Tea all night long. MOVA: Stop by for MOVA’s weekly College Night Wednesdays, hosted by the Penny Back Boyz. DJ Daisy D will be working the turntables, while you enjoy $5 Finlandia cocktails or grab five Miller Lites for only $15 all night long. PALACE: Tonight Palace presents Elite Nights. Sit back and enjoy live music and hilarious comedy presented by the one and only Noel Leon. Sip on complimentary drinks from 8 to 9 p.m. and get through hump day with a night to remember, show starts at 8 p.m. SCORE: Come and spend a pleasant evening on one of Score’s outdoor couches as they host Martini Madness Night. A half-price Happy Hour runs till 9 p.m. TWIST: Sean Brady hosts the Sean Brady Show. Karaoke and tons of entertainment all night long. After getting your jam on, head over to the main dance floor to get fresh with TP Lords and DJ Felix. 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 to 9 p.m. on everything. “Never a cover... Always a groove.”

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DAILY GRIND: POLITICS

by Michael W. Sasser

POLITICS TRUMPS TRUTH IN MARTIN KILLING hile many local eyes are turned to the burgeoning political chaos on Miami Beach – which looks strangely similar to hogs rearranging themselves around a trough – much of the rest of the country remains solely interested in what’s happening in Florida because of the ongoing drama that is the Trayvon Martin case. And just as few have the intestinal fortitude to call the Miami Beach mess what it is (“typical”), even fewer who recognize the way systems of law and governance work are willing to offer honest conjecture on the tragic Martin case. Martin, of course, is the black teen shot to death by George Zimmerman in a conflict about which most details remain fleeting. At this point the only thing that seems certain is that there was some sort of confrontation between Martin and “neighborhood watch” enthusiast Zimmerman that resulted in minor injuries to the older man and the death of the teen. It’s hard to know much more about the case than that. In an effort to inflame racial strife and advance its own agenda, the media has openly embraced exploitation and even doctoring evidence in order to support the pre-arranged narrative of the evil oppressor Wire_HP_horiz_She_HP_horiz 5/19/12 victim. 12:37 PM 1 actual fact isn’t readily availmurdering the completely innocent Just Page because able doesn’t mean that there aren’t certainties to be found in regard to the case. And

that brings me to the first of a couple of the honest evaluations of the situation presented here that many other media types don’t want to admit. One is that you and I are never going to know what happened that tragic night. We can all agree that it’s a horrible tragedy for a young person to lose his life in such a horrible and unnecessary manner. But what really happened, who is really to blame, and how could the situation have been avoided? Those things we will never know. The reason, of course, is politics. Politics entered this case as soon as the story broke. The media is obsessed with race and the narrative for which it structures news is one of victims and perpetrators. It immediately characterized this story through its race lens and simplified with the narrative hook it prefers – the white man oppressing the minority. The fact that Zimmerman is Hispanic doesn’t really matter. The media had its story and it was going to run with it, regardless of what the reality was – which is how media works for the most part. As a result, the truth of this case won’t ever come out because in addition to the coloring of information by the media - the politicization has touched everyone associated with the case, however peripherally. We will never know what really happened on the night in question. Another unspoken truth is that the Second Degree Murder charge against Zimmerman is political. Not in terms of him being entirely innocent of wrong-doing, but in terms of the statutory requirement to prove the charge, it’s a loser. The case is proceeding for political reason, so the state can blame the courts for its inability to properly handle the case – i.e. get a serious conviction against a man who was found guilty by the media the day after the tragedy. Martin’s killing was a tragedy compounded by the absence of the entire true story and the unlikelihood of an honest dialogue about it.