Steve Minotti The Love 9ART DMAC - WeMerge Magazine

FREE TAKE 2 

ISSUE #6 l FALL 2009 WEMERGETALENT.COM 

9 ART 

gallerIes 

See more on pg. 7 

The Love 

of MusIc 

Find out more on pg. 12 

DMAC 

It can happen 

Steve 

Minotti 

DoIng what he loves 

KEEPING THE ART 

In MartIal arts 

Read more on pg. 19 

Album Review 

The 7th Direction Pg. 22 

Local Arts & Entertainment Magazine 

The Re-Definition of South Florida Hip-Hop - Read about him on pg. 6

Support the scene or there will be no scene to support 

WeMerge Magazine - www.WeMergeTalent.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

SpONSOREd By 

Pg. 2 - Letter from the Editor 

Pg. 3 - Loren Squier 

Pg. 4 & 5 - Kazilla (Cover Story) 

Pg. 6 - Cynic, Nicole Esposito 

Pg. 7 - 9 Art Galleries 

Pg. 8 - DJ Hurricane/Remix Hunter 

Pg. 9 - Kitchen 305 WeMerge Event 

Pg. 10 - Ackerman, Vilonna 

Pg. 12 - The Love of Music 

Pg. 13 - Anastasia Clark 

Pg. 14 - Nathan Delinois 

Pg. 16-17 - Who’s Next Gallery 

Pg. 18 - DMAC - Digital Media Arts College 

Pg. 19 - Barrett Hapkido 

Pg. 20 - WeMerge Book Review 

Pg. 22 - 7D Album Review 

Pg. 24 - Vionette Photography 

Pg. 26 - Steve Minotti - Loving what he does 

Pg. 28 - Teens Merge 

Pg. 29 - South Florida Camera Club 

Pg. 30 thru 31 - Supporters 

Pg. 32 - WeMerge UPDATE: Power Couples 

Pg. 33 - Supporters 

Pg. 34 - Graffiti Page - ALL FROM MIAMI 

MySpace.com/WeMerge 

Celebrity WeMerge Supporters 

Our street team is always 

attending events to get our 

magazine in the hands of 

compelling celebrities. pictured 

here are Sid Haig (Left), who 

played “Captain Spalding” in 

the Rob Zombie horror film, 

“The devil’s Rejects” and Steven 

Bauer (Right), who played 

“Manny Ribera” in “Scarface.” To 

see hundreds more pictures of 

people holding WeMerge, go to 

MySpace.com/WeMerge. 

WeMerge Magazine 

President 

Creative Director 

Dwayne Adams 

Marketing 

Vice President 

Chief Editor 

Renda Writer 

info@wemergetalent.com editor@wemergetalent.com 

Alex Vidal 

Research 

Michele Barenfeld 

Contributing Writers: Carol Ann Conover, Rachel Galvin, 

Jennifer Harper, Ashley Lombardo, Steve Rullman, 

& Julia George (You could be part of the team also) 

College promotions: Andrew Ackerman, Nick Christos 

Cover Art: Kazilla Productions 

Contributing photographer: Jacqueline Falcone 

proofreader: Alex Vidal 

Copyright©2009-10 WeMerge Talent, Inc. All rights reserved to 

WeMerge Talent, Inc. All content included in this magazine: text, 

graphics, logos, icons, & images, are the property of WeMerge Talent, 

Inc. and/or its content suppliers (writers, photographers, illustrators, 

and others) and protected by US and international copyright laws. 

Wemerge Talent Magazine contains the opinions and experiences 

of other people and the publishers do not necessarily approve, agree 

with, and/or condone those opinions or actions. WeMerge Talent, 

Inc. cannot be held responsible for these opinions or actions. We 

provide a community service to our readers. All collaboration or 

verification of event postings are the responsibility of the reader prior 

to relying on such information for any action that may be taken on 

their behalf or on the behalf of others. For all legal issues call a lawyer. 

Special Thanks to Michele for her patience, encouragement & 

passion for the success of the magazine. Lou, Bob, Joey, Carlos, 

and George for helping with production. MR for all her support & 

knowledge. Nicci “Bean” Loren for helping with imagination. All 

the haters for giving us motivation. Nicole for her support. And 

last but not least, the Bonus Red Dot for always being a bonus. 

I want to personally thank everyone who has been involved 

in our movement. Everyone who supports Renda Writer, 

the hardest working Poet in South Florida and all the artists 

who strive so hard to be the best at what they do. It’s hard to 

do what you love when people try to hold you down. Look 

past what they try to do. Most of it is hot air anyways. Keep 

your path & your focus and these Cats won’t even bother 

you. Not a scratch. Yell out, “get off our coat tails Cat.” 

- Dwayne Adams 

WEMERGE ADVERTISING 

If you would like to advertise with us 

please send us an e-mail or give us 

a call. We will be happy to send one 

of our reps out to meet with you. 

Editor@WeMergeTalent.com 

(310) 404-4184 or (561) 305-2070 

www.WeMergeTalent.com 

Promote your business, website, art, 

or music to 15,000 readers in 

Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach. 

WeMerge Magazine - www.WeMergeTalent.com Support the scene or there will be no scene to support 

1

What is passion? It’s what makes 

Loren Squier continually 

create new works of art while 

also working two jobs and going to school. 

It’s what drives DJ Hurricane to teach 

classes at the Scratch DJ Academy while 

also DJing at most of the tri-county area’s 

hottest dance clubs... and also moderating 

his brand new website, RemixHunter.com. 

It’s passion that has fueled Steve Minotti’s successful 30-year 

career as a working musician, and it’s passion that drove local 

conscious hip-hop group The 7D to drop their debut album after 

several years of working on it between life struggles. It’s passion 

that inspired Talina Adamo to create a documentary about music 

and it’s what keeps Steve Rullman of TheHoneyComb.com always 

out there scouting new bands to promote and book for shows. It’s 

what inspired Nicole Esposito to start modeling after several years 

of stylist experience, and it’s what has made Cynic into one of the 

most sought after rap artists and event hosts in the area. It’s also 

what inspires Phil Barrett to teach and carry on the tradition and 

culture of Hapkido. It’s also what landed talented artists like Justin 

Vilona, Andrew Ackerman, and Nathan Delinois on the pages 

of our magazine, and it’s definitely what made Kazilla worthy of 

being our cover story. 

These artists, and everyone represented in this issue all have 

that one thing in common - passion. No matter what genre of art, 

music, or culture they belong to, what unifies everyone here is the 

passion they have for what they do. 

It’s also passion that fuels our creative director, Dwayne Adams, 

myself, and all of our talented freelance writers that contributed to 

this issue and previous issues. 

Without saying “passion” too many more times, I’d like to say that 

I hope this magazine awakens the passion in you, to do whatever it 

is you want to do... whatever it is you’re... passionate about. 

Oh yeah, and one thing that I am personally very passionate 

about is reaching a goal that I have had since 2007, and that is to 

perform my original poem, “Half Hearted,” on The Ellen Degeneres 

Show. If you would like to help me reach my goal, please go to 

www.RendaWriter.com and sign my online petition. 

“Support the scene, or there will be no scene to support.” 

Peace, 

Renda Writer 

Chief Editor 

Editor@WeMergeTalent.com 

2 

Letter from 

the Editor 


We Can’t Change the World, 

but We Can Change Our Ways 

Loren 

Paintings and Prints For Sale 


Squierwww.LorenSquier.com 

Available for commissioned paintings and design work 

WeMerge Magazine - www.WeMergeTalent.com Support the scene or there will be no scene to support 3

Cassie “Kazilla” Williams 

We would be hard pressed to find a local artist 

more deserving of our cover than Cassie “Kazilla” 

Williams. She has a tremendous amount of heart and a 

remarkable balance of left and right brain talents. She 

supports and plays an important role in the local arts 

community, and she has a bright future ahead of her, 

complete with several projects and opportunities that 

are sure to make her a household name real soon. 

Heart 

Simply put - her art is good… because she’s a good 

hearted person. She has that vibe that people have 

who have lived in many places and have experienced 

life – every inch of it. People like that tend to be good 

hearted – as well as open minded, non-judgmental, 

and down-to-earth. Cassie’s own life of becoming one 

of these well-rounded travelers started at a young age. 

She went to Australia and New Zealand when she was 

13, and attended 16 different high schools in various 

states, including Ohio, Kansas, Colorado, and New 

Mexico, which is the state she calls home, referencing 

4 


that it is known as “the land of enchantment,” and the 

place where her heart will always be, no matter where 

she lives or travels to. She muses, “it’s an amazing 

spiritual, intellectually fed, liberal place full of artists 

and creative types.” 

She emphasizes her heartfelt involvement with her 

art by saying, “I’ve been truly blessed in my life. I’ve 

worked so hard. I have so much in my mind and my 

heart that I just want to give away. That’s one of the 

reasons why I do live art… so that people can feel like 

they are a part of it. That’s why the heart is my logo. 

Cause my heart is my art, and my art is my heart.” 

Right Brain Brain 

The right brain is most closely associated with the 

realm of creativity. Kazilla’s well developed right brain 

allows her to create art that she describes as having 

“indie flair” and being, “expressionistic, with hints of 

surrealism.” While the left brain controls linear thoughts 

and logical and analytical thinking, the right brain sees 

the big picture, understands spatial relationships, and 

thrives when dealing with complexity and creative 

ambiguity, which is evident in Kazilla’s 

work. The artwork of hers that we’ve 

included here will stimulate the right 

Kazilla.biz 

Facebook.com/Kazilla 

by Renda Writer 

brains of readers everywhere and serve as proof that 

Cassie Williams will never let go of her creative side. 

Left Brain Left Brain 

The left brain version of Kazilla is Kazilla Productions, 

which she describes as a “multiversal creation 

company” and then comments, “I like the way that 

sounds. I just made that up – ‘multiversal creation 

company.’ I do it all… professional photography, lyrics, 

beat production, illustrations, graphics, web design, 

film, motion graphics, fashion design.” 

In a recent conversation she said, “My roommate 

moved out, but I don’t think I’m going to get a new one. 

I’m just going to use the other bedroom as a studio 

cause business is booming right now, and I don’t need 

that extra help with the rent.” For an artist to be able 

to make a statement like that in today’s economy is 

truly impressive. Her business background came from 

helping her parents with their home automation and 

design company while growing up. She says, “By the 

time I was 17, I was already working as a marketing 

consultant.” With that kind of a left brain business sense 

steering her vehicle of creativity, Kazilla might not ever 

need a roommate. She’ll actually end up needing a 

bigger house and a bigger studio pretty soon. 


She Gets It She Gets It 

One thing that really stands out about Kazilla is the 

fact that she gets it, the proverbial ‘it’ being the idea that all 

artists should bond together. She understands the value 

of community, which is why she is so supportive of 

other local artists and so passionate about the collective 

success of the local arts community. It’s also why she’s 

always been so supportive of WeMerge Magazine. After 

we put one of her pieces of art in our 4th issue’s “Who’s 

Next Gallery” she began promoting the magazine 

to her vast network of artists and friends, which then 

earned her a full page feature in our 5th issue, an issue 

she began promoting to the point where she almost 

seemed like one of our distributors. She is exactly what 

our magazine looks for, an artist who sees the two-way 

street that is mutual promotion. With plans to curate her 

fist show at The American Legion in the Miami Modern 

District during Art Basel this year, as well as shows 

with WST Worldwide (WSTworldwide.com) Kazilla is 

about to ascend to a whole new level of collaboration – 

and success. 

Good luck Kazilla. We wish you the best. From All Your Friends at WeMerge 

The Future for Kazilla 

The Future For Kazilla 

“I have a bunch of projects lined up. The first thing I’m 

working on is my art autobiography. I’m also working 

on a photography book and a series of art books. The 

photography book I have is rural New Mexico, so I plan 

on having the art foundation of Santa Fe fund me and 

publish the book. And then, I have short film. I have a 

product line… and an animation I’m collaborating on 

with friends… plus a comic book… coloring books. 

I’m also doing a book called ‘Art Beats’ that will come 

with a CD that will have wallpapers for your computer, 

and 6 or 7 music tracks that I’ve produced.” 

In addition to all of Kazilla’s entrepreneurial projects 

and free spirited endeavors, she somehow found the 

time - as well as the loans, grants, and scholarships - get 

an education at The Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale, 

where she will be graduating from in December, with 

a Bachelors of Science degree in Illustration. She’ll 

eventually go back for her Masters of Fine Art, which 

the school will pay for once she switches from part time 

to full time at her job at the school bookstore. 

Kazilla’s future also includes a trip to New York 

City, where she will be meeting with several gallery 

curators, applying for an internship with MTV’s design 

studios, and meeting with some alumni from the 

Society of Illustrators. She will even be meeting with 

Yuko Shimizu, the creator of Hello Kitty. 

Update 

Updates Already? 

The night before going to print on this issue, 

Kazilla calls us with late breaking news... She 

was just invited to be a part of the prestigious 

“Hollywood Zombies Art Exhibition” in December in 

Hollywood, CA. More info at KaydenCreations.com. 


5 

5

Why is he the re-definition of South Florida 

hip-hop? Cynic breaks it down like 

this: “For literally 10 years, I’ve moved 

my way up from the bottom to the top. My first 

show was opening for Pitbull. Then I took a 3-year 

hiatus and came back and just started taking every 

opportunity that came my way. With everything I 

do, I always try to be different, to be original. I redefine 

Florida hip-hop with every verse I spit. I feel 

like I’m one of the hardest working MC’s in South 

Florida…hands down.” He says that while sitting 

at a table with a big stack of flyers from past shows 

he’s done, with the likes of big names like N.E.R.D., 

Pitbull, Mister Cheeks (Lost Boyz), Canibus, 

Dead Prez, Murs, and a ton of others. Never one to 

sit back and be content, Cynic is always hustlin’… 

always taking on new projects. He just wrote the 

lyrics (track produced by Hazardis Soundz) for the 

intro song for a show that will soon air on national 

Photography by AlexanderPutnik.com 

6 Support the scene or there will be no scene to support 

The Re-Definition of 

South Florida 

Hip-Hop 

MySpace.com/Only1Cynic 

Facebook.com/Only1Cynic 

Twitter.com/Only1Cynic 

television called, “Livin La Vida Miami,” hosted by 

Stella Vidal and Stuart Dansby. 

Cynic says, “I’ve contributed a lot to helping 

create and enhance the hip-hop scene here in South 

Florida. I, along with other local movers and shakers 

such as Lex One and the people over at Contagious 

Musiq, have always played a key role in making 

sure that South Florida hip-hop is known for more 

than just the “Dirty South” style. We have literally 

“re-defined” the perception of what is hip-hop 

down here.” 

Re-defining your chosen genre definitely 

pays off, especially once you’ve worked at it long 

enough, like Cynic has. After 10 years in the game, 

Cynic is now on the brink of stepping into the 

majors, but will always continue to support the 

local scene. Check out his music online, or go see 

a live show and see how he landed himself on the 

pages of our magazine. 

Nicole Esposito is a professional stylist with 8 years of 

experience. Her expertise lies in cutting and styling both 

men and women, including several local and international 

bands: Mission Veo, Last Laugh, The Sounds, Foxy Shazam. 

Nicole is available for freelance styling for photo 

shoots and live events and also holds a full time position 

at Resta Delray. Recently making the decision to work on 

the other side of the lens, Nicole also introduces herself 

to our readers as an emerging model looking to build her 

portfolio. Photographers are encouraged to contact her via 

ModelMayhem.com/NicoleEsposito or 

coleyboleyalious@yahoo.com. 

Resta Delray 

660 Linton Blvd. Suite 109 

Delray Beach 33444 

561.266.2611 

Recreation - Style - Art 


Bands You 

Should Know: 

By steve rullman - thehoneycomb.com 

SURFER BLOOD 

“HERE ARE THE yOUNG MEN” 

You must be this tall to ride. The first 

time I caught a Surfer Blood set was 

late 2007 at Respectable Street in 

West palm Beach. Back then they called 

themselves TV Club. I recall warm, dirty 

textures, brilliant melodies and clever 

arrangements. The band was extremely 

sloppy, the room’s sound wasn’t perfect... 

but there was something special 

happening; something very, very raw 

yet extremely comforting. I remember 

thinking, “THIS is true Indie Rock! This 

is what it is supposed to sound like!” 

Finally someone local was capturing the 

essence of that oft misused moniker. 

Their songs carried traces of The 

Pixies, bits of Joy Division, drippings of 

The Jesus & Mary Chain; the loose jangle 

of Small Factory, Versus, or Galaxie 500 

and a tiny androgynous dose of 80’s 

glam. I knew they were a band I would 

need to keep an eye on, a band that had 

real promise... a band I’d want to book 

as often as possible. They reminded me 

also of the now-defunct Secret French 

Kissing Society… well-crafted tunes 

with mysterious lyrics, sweet/obnoxious 

guitars and unique vocals. 

This stuff is stupid catchy and I 

find myself singing their songs all 

day long. Several months ago I wrote 

in PUREHONEY… “Last night I was 

converted. I’m a true believer. I’ve always 

thought Surfer Blood had something 

special to offer us but last night... well... 

WOW! They’ve come a long way and are 

officially my new favorite local band to 

watch. Their upcoming disc Astro Coast 

is awesome and their live performances 

are electric. They bring the sound and 

I’m extremely impressed.” Astro Coast is a 

kaleidoscopic rollercoaster of sound that 

you can’t wait to ride again and again. 

Anyway, these four fresh-faced punks 

recently received significant praise from 

both pitchfork and Spin… and on Sept. 

4th they signed with Brooklyn-based 

Kanine Records. (Grizzly Bear, Mommy 

and Daddy, Chairlift, Mixel Pixel). They’ve 

got their ticket to ride and so do you. 

Congratulations gentlemen! 

MySpace.com/SurferBlood 

PS: Look up XOXO from Orlando. They 

are AWESOME! 

SHOW OF THE yEAR ALERT: Vivian 

Girls Oct. 21 at PROPAGANDA with 

Hooray for Goodbye and Pretty Please! 

9RESTA DELRAY 

660 Linton Blvd., St. 109 

Delray Beach - 33444 

(561) 266-2611 

* Full Service 

Hair Salon 

& 

Art Gallery 

THE BEAUTY COTTAGE 

777 E. Atlantic Blvd. 

Delray Beach - 33483 

(954) 588-3640 

TheBeautyCottageDelray.com 

* Artist reception, third 

Friday of the month 

6pm-10pm 

WEBBER GALLERY 

709 Lucerne Ave. 

Lake Worth - 33460 

(561) 585-0003 

WebberGallery.net 

* In downtown 

Lake Worth 

ART AND CULTURE 

CENTER OF HOLLYWOOD 

1650 Harrison St. 

Hollywood - 33020 

(954) 921-3274 

ArtAndCultureCenter.org 

* Art school in adjacent 

building 

18 RABBIT GALLERY 

18 NW 1st Ave. 

Fort Lauderdale - 33301 

(954) 990-4315 

18RabbitGallery.com 

* Ft. Lauderdale’s premier 

contemporary art gallery 

Mural by 

MSGcartel.com 

ANSU GALLERY 

2028 Harrison St. 

Hollywood - 33020 

(954) 454-5632 

AnsuGallery.com 

* Currently exhibiting 

Estefania Lopez 

CULTURE KINGS 

4300 NE 2nd Ave. 

Miami - 33137 

(305) 573-2399 

CultureKings.com 

* Urban apparel store 

and art gallery 

STUDIO 19 FINE ART 

933 NE 19th Ave. 

Ft. Lauderdale - 33304 

(954) 764-0055 

Studio19FineArt.com 

* Venetian glass, 

sculptures, etc. 

WeMerge Magazine - www.WeMergeTalent.com Support the scene or or there will be be no no scene to to support 7 

G ALLE 

A 

R R 

IES 

T 

BAKEHOUSE 

ART COMPLEX 

561 NW 32nd St. 

Miami - 33127 

(305) 576-2828 

BACFL.org 

* Non-profit art center, low 

rent studios for artists 

Support your local art scene 

and visit one of these local 

galleries. Make sure to 

tell them that 

WeMerge 

sent you.

8 




10 


Andrew Ackerman is a passionate painter whose 

star is burning bright on the South Florida art 

circuit. While completing his painting degree at 

FAU, Ackerman has garnered high praise for his 

exhibitions at FAU in Boca Raton, The DeBilzan 

Gallery and Kevro’s Art Bar in Delray Beach 

and, most recently, an exhibition with The Miami 

Stuckist painting group, at Grace Café & Gallery 

in Dania Beach. Ackerman’s work is emotionally 

charged, playful and mysterious. He asserts, “My 

canvas is the mirror for which I convey my deepest 

moods and emotions. Recently, I have discovered 

calligraphy and graffiti art having a profound impact on my art approach. Growing up in 

Brooklyn and absorbing the Miami art scene have also helped me bring more ideals of urban 

art into my work. These elements continually lead me down new paths of creative thought. 

My large abstracts deal with visceral, organic and playful qualities 

of my life. While, my psychological self portraits are more direct 

and call upon my viewers to stare right into my “painted eyes” and 

see something deeper.” Andrew presents his artwork online at 

AndrewsArtWorld.com. His new website showcases his many 

exhibitions and dynamic artworks. So, take a moment and journey 

into Ackerman’s art world. You might be pleasantly surprised that 

you too, can relate to a piece, and if you do, feel free to leave your 

creative input, which Ackerman kindly welcomes. 


Evolving &Expanding 

By Renda Writer .............. 

Whether we are consciously aware of it or 

not, many of us have a sort of inner need 

to be a part of something… something 

important. For local emerging artists, the perfect 

opportunity is here to become a part of the rapid 

evolution and expansion of a gallery that has for the 

last five years exhibited several renowned “blue chip” 

and mid-career artists. 

Previous and current artists that have exhibited at 

Grace Café & Gallery include Purvis Young, Ferdie 

Pacheco, Kyunam Han, and Laurence Gartel, four 

well known names in the international art world, 

names that collectively yield about a thousand pages 

of results if you were to Google them. The 7,000 

square foot, 2-story art gallery 

in the famed Antique District 

in Dania Beach has featured 

Haitian, European, American, 

South American, and Asian 

The gallery is now looking to 

supplement its reputation for 

attracting established artists 

by bringing in more emerging 

artists who can be a part of the 

plan for the evolution of the gallery as a bridge to 

connect different generations of art. 

Gallery owner, Clare Vickery, puts it like this: “When I 

started here I appealed to a lot of older people because 

I was in the antique district, but I also 

want to appeal to people in their 20’s, 

the ones looking to go out and get some 

intellectual stimulation… I am looking 

also for crafters and musicians that want 

to be a part of the 5 th Annual Folk Art 

& Antique Festival we are sponsoring 

January 30-31 st , 2010. I saw the page 

about the Stitch Rock event in the last 

issue of WeMerge, and I’m looking to 

get more involved with crafters and 

people in that culture. I’m also looking 

to expand my second floor dining area 

and maybe incorporate an 

improv dinner, some one-act 

plays… events with poetry 

and music, combined with 

evening dining. We’ve also 

recently really expanded our 

dance schedule, including 

tap, tango, & other dances 

in our upstairs studio. I’m 

putting out a ‘call to artists’ 

and those that want to become more involved with all 

that is going on at the gallery.” 

The evolution and the integration of art 

generations at Grace Cafe & Gallery has already 

begun, with a recent 30-day exhibit by The Miami 

Stuckists, a group of progressive 20-somethings, on 

the wall just opposite the exhibit for Purvis Young, a 

67-year old folk artist who was given the key to the 

city for putting Overtown, Miami on the map. Grace 

will continue to evolve along this path and it invites 

you to participate. 

GraceCafeAndGalleries.com 

MySpace.com/GraceCafeAndGallery 

49 N. Federal Hwy 

Dania Beach, 33004 

(954) 816-3324 


11

THE 

LOVE 

OF 

MUSIC 

12 

August 16 at Ft. Lauderdale’s Cinema Paradiso was all about the 

love of music. Talented singer and filmmaker Talina Adamo brought people 

together to see her new movie. 

Adamo, who also celebrated her 28th birthday this night, has been involved 

with music since the age of 9. In 2006, she became involved in film, attending 

the Palm Beach Film School. After working on many other people’s videos, she 

decided to do her own movie, “The Love of Music.” With a VH-1 sensibility, this 

documentary focuses on interviews with various bands, interspersing serious 

commentary with humorous content. “I want to inspire artists to not give up on 

their dreams, anything is possible,” she said. 

One performer for the evening’s event was fellow birthday girl, Michaela 

Page. This 14-year-old singer already has hit the charts in the UK and performed 

all over South Florida. Her goal? She says, “To get my music out there and to 

bring joy to other people.” 

When cool cat Marc Solomon and 

his band, “The Collaboration” took the 

stage with R&B hipster Jay Smoove, 

the house really began to rock. Smoove 

brought high energy groove and confetti, 

serenading Adamo, who later had mini 

b-day cupcakes for everyone, along with 

other eats, on the patio. Solomon’s newest 

tune “Love, Love” lured singer Stephanie 

Smerkers and others to the stage. 

Nanda, winner of Adamo’s online 

talent competition, also performed. 

Marc Solomon, Talina Adamo, & Jay Smoove 

Michaela Page, Talina Adamo & Rachel Galvin 

l BlackOnyxProductions.com 

l ReverbNation.com/ 

TalinaAdamo 

l BlackOnyxTv.com/WordPress 

l MySpace.com/ 

BlackOnyxProductions 

l Twitter.com/BlackOnyxTV 

l MySpace.com/ 

JaySmooveMusic 

l CrazyBabyRecords.com 

l ImSolomon.com 

By Rachel Galvin 

Her prize? A free recording session 

with Crazy Baby Records. The groove was 

so hip, the party later moved to the patio 

for an impromptu acoustic jam session. 

“Tonight was a collaboration of brilliant 

artists. It was great to see the love people 

feel for art and how the community 

comes together,” summed up Solomon. 

The love of music brings people 

together. 

Jay Smoove singing Happy Birthday to Talina Adamo 



* Funding for this event is provided in part 

by the Broward County Board of County 

Commissioners as recommended by the 

Broward Cultural Council. 

* Special thanks to WeMerge Magazine 

and DRW Magazine for special advertising 

rates and to all the libraries and their staff, 

who are hosting these poetry readings. 

*Dates and times subject to change. 

Please contact each library to verify date 

and time. 

3 WEEKLY OPEN MICS 

hosted by Renda Writer 

Open Mic Tuesdays @ Kevro’s Art Bar 

166 SE 2nd Ave - Delray Beach 33444 

FREE AdMISSION - 1 Drink Minimum 

Every Tuesday since 9/11/07 

Open Mic Wednesdays @ Stage 84 

9118 W State Road 84 - Davie 33324 

FREE AdMISSION 

Broward’s Newest Open Mic 

Open Mic Fridays @ Mega Bite Cyber Cafe 

1910 Hollywood Blvd - Hollywood 33020 

FREE AdMISSION 

Try the “Bubble Tea” 

Wanted: Aspiring Poets, Poets, & Poetry Lovers! 

You are invited to attend 

*All equipment is provided. You just bring your instruments, talent, and 

friends.The list is first come, first serve. A great way to practice, get stage 

time, promote your shows, start a band, make new friends, collaborate, 

spend the evening, and have fun. 

All 3 Open Mics - Open to All...... 

poets, singers, comedians, rappers, bands, acoustic, magicians, jazz, blues, 

bluegrass, country, vocalists, crooners, emo, ska, punk, funk, neo-soul, 

R&B, slam poets, prop comedians, impressionists, jugglers, surf rock, folk, 

storytellers, dancers, solo acts, duos, trios, quartets, garage bands, reggae, 

dub, beat boxers, pianists, banjo players, saxophonists, doo wop, and YOU! 

MySpace.com/RendaThepoet - RendaWriter@yahoo.com 

“Broward County Poet-In-Residence, 

Anastasia Clark’s Poetry Reading Series” 

Featuring Tips on Getting Published, Poetry News, and Poetry Readings / Discussions 

All events are FREE! 

Anastasia Clark is a poet and the author of four full-length poetry books: 

“Vagabond Pond,” “Skeletons and Other Complaints,” “Bloodsongs,” and “Grieving with Poetry” 

Visit www.AnastasiaClark.com for details Call 954-536-8311 or Email goldenrush59@aol.com 

SERIES SCHEDULE: 

Miramar Library 10/5/09, 6-7:30pm Opening Reception 

Dania Beach Paul Demaio Library 10/12/09, 6-7pm Guest of Teen Poetry Cafe 

Helen Hoffman Plantation Library 10/22/09, 7:30-8:30pm Halloween/Eerie/Spooky Poems 

Carver Ranches Library 10/28/09, 6-7pm Halloween/Eerie/Spooky Poems 

Riverland Branch Library 10/29/09, 6-7pm Halloween/Eerie/Spooky Poems 

Miramar Library 12/14/09, 5:30-6:30pm Featured Poet, Holiday Poems 

Open Mic – 6:30pm-7:30pm 

Hallandale Beach Library 1/9/10, 11:00am-Noon Poetry & Coffee Event 

Tamarac Library 2/11/10, 1:30-2:30pm Valentine’s Day, Romance 

Main Library 4/13/10, 6-7:30pm Featured Poet 

Southwest Regional Library 4/17/10, 2-3:30pm Seniors 

Weston Library 4/28/10, 6:30-7:30pm National Poetry Month 

Sign Up Starts 

@ 7:30pm 

Open Mic Starts 

@ 8:00pm 


ThE Who’s NExT GaLLEry WiNNEr 

Nathan Delinois 

14 


We have never had as large of a response to our “Who’s 

Next Gallery” as we did after the release of our last 

issue. The overwhelming feedback was mostly in 

favor of featuring the work of Nathan delinois in our next issue. 

So here he is... Nathan delinois, an ambitious, talented, 

and experienced artist who believes that, “Art is the texture of 

life.” Active on both the Ft. Lauderdale and Miami art scenes, 

Nathan is by no means a shy, reclusive artist with no people 

skills. Instead, Nathan can be found at most of the popular 

art events, mingling with the crowd, networking, and getting 

noticed. He’s the kind of guy that you would introduce to a 

visiting out-of-towner who might ask, “Who are the big artists 

around here? Who can you introduce me to.” 

www.MySpace.com/Artkitexturalfoudation 

Facebook: Nate Dee 


Raising the Integrity 

Level of the Stage” 

30 YeARS of Live MuSic AT BoSTon’S on THe BeAcH by Renda Writer 

Not everything in South Florida comes and goes. 

Some things actually stick around. Case in point 

is Boston’s on the Beach, a live music venue and 

friendly watering hole now celebrating its 30th year 

of business in downtown delray Beach, literally just a 

few hundred feet from the Atlantic Ocean. Aside from 

the happy hour specials, full menu, warm atmosphere, 

and the obvious benefits of its location, what has no 

doubt kept the place in business for so long is its long 

standing tradition of always bringing in the finest local 

and national musical talent. 

“We don’t brag much about what we do. We just 

do it. We’re successful as kind of a ‘non-venue venue,’ as 

a bar and restaurant that brings in fine musicianship, 

both national and local,” said Mark pissari, the bar’s 

entertainment coordinator. 

“Raising the integrity level of the stage” is a phrase 

that Pissari mentions repeatedly throughout 

the interview, always speaking passionately and 

barely stopping to breathe when mentioning 

all the big names that have played at Boston’s, 

names like: legendary Jamaican reggae veteran 

GlenWashington, 2009 Blues Music Awards Harpist 

of the year Billy Gibson, hometown hero of crossover 

country Amber Leigh, 12-year saxophonist for James 

Brown, Jeff Watkins, Grateful Dead tribute band, 

Crazy Fingers, reggae star Mikey Spice, Bob Dylan 

collaborator Brian Stoltz, and even WeMerge cover 

story band Ghost of Gloria, from our last issue. As 

that somewhat condensed list of some of music’s 

top names suggests, Boston’s on the Beach is serious 

about its entertainment. Their varied schedule 

includes all 7 nights and has every genre from blues 

and rock to reggae and country on its custom built 

professional stage, complete with a theatre quality 

sound and lighting system. They also have another 

stage out back, by their “Back Bay Tiki Bar” and 

adjoining hotel. 

Chatting over a beer at one of the venue’s three 

bars, Mark Pissari goes on to talk about how the place 

will celebrate their 30-year anniversary in full swing 

during the week of October 19-25th, when their 

normal entertainment schedule will be turned up 

a few notches with some special guest performers, 

surprises, and all sorts of specials. Also, on October 

21st they will have the release party for their special 

30-year anniversary commemorative live 30-song 

double disc, “One More and I’m Outta Here.” The 

free live CD set will be available with the purchase 

of a 30th anniversary commemorative T-shirt, and 

all proceeds will benefit delray Citizens for delray 

Beach police. 

“We have everything from tots and toddlers, to 

20-somethings and 30-somethings, and on down to 

our original customers, people in their 50s who have 

been coming since we first opened, 30 years ago,” 

says Pissari as we are closing out our conversation. 

The quote lingers in my head as I walk to my car, and 

I begin to appreciate how Boston’s on the Beach can 

be thought of as being somewhat like a beachside 

version of a big reputable local live music venue - but 

without the cover charge and with an atmosphere 

that is welcoming for the whole family. 

Not everything in South Florida comes and goes, 

not places with integrity. 


BRITTANy SMITH - www.MySpace.com/BritterArt 

16 


CHRISTINE KERRIK - www.ChristineKerrik.com 

JOSE CALdERON - www.MySpace.com/Ronan7 

Lisa parrott - www.ComaGirl.com 

ThE 


Who’s NExT GaLLEry 

ALEX BOdNAR - MySpace.com/AlexBodnar 

“The job of the artist is always 

to deepen the mystery.” 

- Francis Bacon 

KyLE WILLIS - www.Opeyuvadown.Wordpress.com 

We are constantly receiving submissions and scouting for new artists 

to be featured in our magazine. Here, in the “Who’s Next Gallery,” we 

provide you with some samples from artists we are considering for the 

next issue. This is not a contest, and we are not tallying votes, but we would like 

for you to review the artists in this gallery and thier online portfolios, and e-mail 

us to let us know who you think should be next. Editor@wemergetalent.com 

Suzana de paola - www.Suzanadepaola.com 

Nora Morales - Check Her Out on FaceBook 


18 

WeMerge Magazine has always taken pride in 

introducing its readers to the talented artists of 

all genres that live here in South Florida. Our 

hope is that reading about them will inspire 

people to follow their own artistic ambitions 

and pursue the dream that is a rewarding 

career in the arts. But inspiration is not always 

enough; it needs to be supplemented with 

education, and if you are looking to become a 

digital artist, then Digital Media Arts College 

in Boca Raton is a great place to get the 

education that will help guide your inspiration 

in the right direction. The satisfaction of the 

current students, the accomplishments of the 


school’s alumni, and the credentials of the 

staff at DMAC all combine to make it a great 

place to get the education that will turn your 

talents into employable skills and turn your 

hobby into a career that revolves around your 

passion. DMAC offers BFA in Graphic Design, 

Advertising Design, Computer Animation and 

MFA in Graphic Design and Visual Effects. They 

also offer Professional Certification Programs 

as well as individual illustration courses. 

WeMerge recommends attending one of their 

open house events in order to get a real behind 

the scenes look at the making of a digital artist. 

It can happen at DMAC. by Renda Writer 

dMAC.edu youTube.com/dMACedu 

iT can happen 

I think it’s amazing that I can 

create an entire short film 

from scratch. I’ve learned more 

in the two years I’ve spent 

here than any two years of my 

life. I’ve learned everything 

I wanted to know about the 

computer animation field of 

study, including the various 

specializations, and I am now 

able to perfect my craft. I’ll 

always remember the friends 

I’ve made, how everyone is 

willing to help, and how DMAC 

made my childhood dream of 

being an animator come true. 

Lindsey Holcomb 

Silsbee, TX 

Most importantly, DMAC 

gave me the skills and mind 

set to find work after college. 

The third week out in 

California I had an interview 

with a (company) named 

Mighty Oak Entertainment 

(Whacked Out Sports, Video 

Zonkers). I interviewed and 

showed work I created while 

at DMAC. Two hours later, 

they offered me a position 

and cancelled the other 

interviews they had set up 

for the day… they made me 

head of animation. 

Michael Angrisani, Graduate 

- Los Angeles, CA 


Barrett Hapkido, a leader in martial arts in South 

Florida for over 13 years. The Hapkido motto, 

“Strength through each other,” remains as true as 

ever in this family-run operation which introduces 

adults and children alike to an often overlooked form 

of martial arts. 

According to owner and Hapkido 

Master phil Barrett, Hapkido is not 

a way of fighting. “It is reactive and 

live and teaches the student to 

recognize opportunity 

versus merely 

rhythmically 

following 

pre-set 

patterns of motion as are often seen in other forms of 

martial arts.” The literal meaning of Hapkido, a Korean 

term, is “The Way of Coordinated Power” “Hapkido 

teaches personal development and self-defense and 

uses technique rather than force.” Barrett, in his 30 th 

year of teaching, believes in guiding students to earn 

rank rather than just selling them a mainstream and 

commercialized martial arts program that tends to 

strip martial arts of its intended dignity and rites of 

passage. 

Hapkido is the martial art of choice for training 

personel of the U.S. Air force, police officers and 

Diplomatic Security guards. Barrett is proud to have 

the honor of teaching Hapkido to many of our civil 

servants. Even the body guards of the peaceful Dali 

Lama have used Hapkido. 

The Barrett family shows their dedication to 

the art by pulling together and delivering 

a fast-moving, action packed sequence 

of freestyle tumbles (which are as much 

an exercise as a training technique) and 

grappling with close observation and 

instruction. Daughter Kimber, 22, works closely 

with the youth who respond to her peaceful 

instruction with determination and respect. 

Ten-year-old Tavish has a resounding kick 

By carol Ann conover 

for a young 

lady and 

started with 

Barrett Hapkido in 

an after-school program but found that she loved it 

so much, “I wanted to practice all the time. “ Barrett’s 

son Blake, 19, is a dynamic force whose kicks and 

agility will leave you spellbound and though he only 

weighs in at 150 lbs, is an excellent and challenging 

sparring/grappling partner for adults twice his age 

and size. He also delights children with his character 

performances, dressing as Spider Man. So if you 

need a superhero give Barrett Hapkido a call. 

Dawn Barrett, mother and wife to the Barrett 

Hapkido team rounds out the art by teaching the 

Hatha Yoga classes they also offer. Phil Barrett, a selfdescribed 

“unruly child” was forcibly introduced to 

martial arts and for 40 years now he credits Hapkido 

for giving him discipline and confidence and this is 

the crux of his teaching. Barrett Hapkido requires no 

contracts and offers lessons at a fair price where the 

emphasis is on the quality of training. 

Spend one evening in their 

dojo and you will see how 

Hapkido can change your life. 


19

Book Review 

By Renda Writer 

Walking from Memory By D. Tori Morgenstein - 2010 Ghost Post Publishing 

If you were to frequent the Dania Beach Pier or an old beat up dive bar in 

Hollywood right off I-95 called “Stratford’s” you’d have 

something in common with Cane, the main character 

in the book “Walking from Memory,” by d. Tori 

Morgenstein. But beyond that, you really don’t want to 

have much else in common with him. You wouldn’t want 

to live the life that he has lived… and that is exactly the 

point of this book. It was written in an effort to wake 

people up, to open their eyes wider to the severity of the 

problem that is domestic violence in America. The book 

gives brave readers a very raw, uncensored, sometimes 

bloody, and always poetic glimpse into the life of a man 

who at one point in the story says, “I just think that pain 

is the only real thing a person can feel.” 

Using pain as a way to gauge reality is fittingly 

appropriate, because the painful history of abuse 

that the main character has, starting at age 4, makes 

this story feel way more real than the book’s “fiction” 

classification would allow you to believe. As a jaded, 

restless, and emotionally scarred 20-something, Cane 

struggles to survive each new day of his perceived 

meaningless existence and passes time with a “misery 

loves company” group of friends and lovers. He breaks 

from narration periodically to share some of his worst 

Has brought you the 

following books 

“Funky Gorilla Fist” 

- A novella by Anthony pepe 

reviewed in the 1st issue of WeMerge 

“…that defines the light.” 

- A collection of poetry by Anthony 

pepe & d. Tori Morgenstein, 

to be reviewed in the 7th issue of 

WeMerge 

Both books available 

now for purchase: 

www.thatdefinesthelight.com 

www.myspace.com/funkygorillafist 

www.myspace.com/warriorpoets 

www.myspace.com/warriorpoetsaloud 

childhood memories with the reader, memories that explain why Cane is the type 

of person to say, “Self destruct buttons are made to be 

pushed. Mine is worn down to the nub.” One particular 

flashback has Cane recalling, “Looking at his face now, 

through my memory, I recognize him; he is father. 

But if it’s all the same to you, for now I would prefer to 

continue, when referring to him… I’d rather continue 

speaking of him in the pronoun form. I’d like hold on to 

the disassociation for as long as I can.” 

Luckily, Cane’s story isn’t solely a telling of blunt truths 

and graphic accounts of horrific violations of innocence, 

for there is actually enough humor, poetry, witty 

dialogue, and geographical relevancy in this book to 

remind the reader that as troubled and tortured as he is, 

Cane is a very likable protagonist. It makes the book into 

as much of an enjoyable read as it is a poignant expose 

of what life is like in the darker places. Watching him 

fumble with the broken pieces of his life and try to deal 

with the irrevocable damage done unto him by those 

who were supposed to love him and show him how to 

love, the reader is pulled in easily and tempted to not put 

the book down until the last page has been turned. 

“Walking from Memory” will be released by Ghost 

post publishing in early 2010. 

Two very compelling looks at the 

tragic epidemic that is domestic violence. 

Raw, uncensored, and unapologetic - real. 

www.ghostpostpublishing.com 



Warnutz the Loser is an 

unkown MC straight out 

of the slums of Miami... 

bringing hip-hop as its neva 

been brought before. Take 

a listen, and you just might 

get hooked. 


The 

7D 

Songs in a Language Once Spoken 

When The 7D recorded their latest CD, 

“Songs in a Language Once Spoken,” 

they obviously had something else 

in mind beyond just rapping over some beats 

to sound cool, get paid, and get famous. Paying 

attention to almost any random lyric on the 19track 

independent release calls attention to the 

fact that MCs Chopp devize and pilot Rai are 

really trying to wake up, educate, and inspire 

their listeners. Their music takes fans in another 

direction, the 7th Direction, which is where the 

conscious people travel on a path toward self 

mastery and personal betterment, while having 

fun and vibing with the sounds of real hip-hop 

music, provided by The Architect’s production 

and the turntable skills of dJ Immortal. 

“Sounds of Struggle“ speaks directly to the 

hearts of those out there that are struggling to 

make something of their lives and inspires them to 

hang on, hold their heads up, and just stay focused. 

“Another Way” carries a similar message, speaking 

to those not happy with where they are in life and 

encouraging them to make the choices that will 

lead them to where they need to go. “Transform” is 

the record’s sleeper hit, a track that has the vibe of 

a well produced “conscious party track,” something 

almost like “Hip-Hop” by Dead Prez. The verses by 

Chopp Devize, Pilot Rai, and special guest Vibe One 

combine with DJ Immortal’s infectious scratches & 

cuts to create a track that can literally “transform” 

22 


a stressed or worried normal working person into 

a carefree dance machine basking in the moment 

and the music. 

Aside from the collective power of the group, 

The 7D’s individual members are each worthy of 

the spotlight, like when Pilot Rai opens his heart 

up on “She’s Somewhere Tonight,” which shows 

just how up and down it can be inside the head 

of an artist dealing with a break up. “For the 

Music” illustrates how important music is in the 

lives of the members of The 7D, reminding us of 

how important it is in our own lives too. Chopp 

Devize says it best when he tries to imagine a life 

without it, “…no music, I’m a featherless wing, 

spiraling endlessly without a destiny, but that will 

never be, cause it’s embedded in me…” “Attitude” 

is another stand out track. The intensity of the 

production and the energy behind the delivery 

make it the perfect soundtrack for physical 

training. It’s what it sounds like when talented 

artists vent, and it makes you wanna pump 

some weight, run a few miles, and then go take 

on the world. A review of this must-listen CD 

would not be complete without mentioning the 

genius behind “Resurrection,” which is definitely 

a song written in a language once spoken. It’s the 

language spoken back when hip-hop promoted 

life, positivity, and personal strength. Go grab 

the CD, and listen to a forgotten language. You’ll 

remember it all over again. 

Art and the 

Aquarian Age 

By Julia George 

As we evolve into more enlightened 

human beings all areas of life are affected. 

Especially within creative expression, the 

energy shift in the arts arena is emerging as a 

growing awareness of the positive exchange 

between the human effect of an artist’s 

creation, and the ability to convey a spiritual 

message becomes a primary intention. It is a 

sign of the time, the Aquarian Age; an energy 

and push from the Universe encouraging 

us to relate and heal through one another, 

at a soul level, supported by music, fine art, 

dance, poetry, etc... 

Art is for the soul, from the soul. When 

we are attracted to a piece of art, it is 

because it evokes a feeling in us, as 

intensely as the creation of it. Art is a 

personal phenomenon and as a result, a 

relationship is developed between the 

artist’s expression and the recipient’s soul. 

Since “no man is an island,” our perceptions 

based on our life experiences drive our 

creations (as well as our destructions) and 

impressions, impacting us all collectively. 

What we choose to create and the message 

we convey, consciously or subconsciously, 

makes an imprint on the world at large 

even if it remains unseen by others. 

Art is a healing expression and a catalyst 

to higher consciousness. Emotionally 

motivated; identifying our feelings is the 

only way we can wholly navigate through 

our lives to reach higher consciousness. Our 

emotional awareness propels us to access 

our most creative reservoir within and 

collaborate with others interested in the 

highest good. This is our responsibility as 

Human Beings… this is the Aquarian Age. 

For more information, contact Julia George 

of Aquarian Age: aquarianagegallery@ 

bellsouth.net 561.750.9292 

WeMerge Magazine - - www.WeMergeTalent.com

Portrait Artist 

on Premises 

See his porftolio 

opeyuvadown. 

wordpress.com 

Give Us a 

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10 


When he finally had a 

minute to sit down and talk 

with me amidst the busyness 

that was Tattoolapalooza 

2009 at the 

Miami Beach 

Convention 

Center, my 

opening 

question 

for the 

organizer of 

the event was, 

“What was your overall goal in 

putting this event together?” 

Mickey Steinberg’s answer was, “To try and let 

people see that tattooing is art, not just something 

that bikers and gang members put on their bodies.” 

A simple enough goal that was more than reached 

over the course of this 3-day event with 180 exhibitor 

booths and flocks of people that traveled from far 

and near to be immersed in tattoo culture. Obviously 

a family man at heart (his own son and mother were 

both there), Mickey kept the kids in mind when he 

included a “Kiddy Corner” at the event, complete with 

a few bounce houses, rides, and a temporary tattoo 

artist. He seemed proud of his achievement in putting 

together such a large scale event, but at the same time 

was humble and balanced, telling me that he is already 

making plans for next year’s convention, as well as the 

24 


upcoming Tattoolapalooza 

in San diego. Although our time together was brief, I 

did get to also ask him about his personal highlight of 

the convention, to which he replied, “The best thing is 

just hearing people say that they’re having fun.” 

Then, as quickly as I pulled him aside, he was pulled 

away again from our impromptu interview area on the 

staircase to tend to some business. So I walked back into 

the convention too, where I heard a voice on the sound 

system saying how people could visit a certain booth 

to see an attempt at a world record being submitted to 

Guinness Book in progress. At this booth that someone 

was being tattooed with a black and grey rose, being 

worked on by 14 different tattoo artists, the highest 

number of artists to ever work together on one tattoo. 

The voice was that of “Marcus,” the runner up for the 

2008 season of Last Comic Standing. He was walking 

around the convention with a cordless mic, cracking 

jokes and chatting with ‘palooza patrons. The star power 

present at the convention wasn’t just limited to the host 

though; horror movie icon Sid Haig (Captain Spalding 

from “The Devil’s Rejects”) was also in the building, 

signing autographs and posing for pictures. But the 

real stars were the 14 featured artists that Mickey had 

flown in from all over the country to exhibit, tattoo, and 

conduct seminars. I had a chance to meet one of those 

featured artists, Nikko Hurtado, just moments after he 

wrapped up conducting a seminar upstairs. The smiley 

Californian seemed happy to be a part of the whole 

event and had an aura that reminded me that everyone 

there was having a genuinely good time. 

I made my way to the back, by the main stage, and 

The Art of the Convention 

that’s where I saw an ice sculptor using a chainsaw to 

create a 6-foot motorcycle. The roar of the chainsaw, 

the steady buzz of tattoo guns, and the sounds of 

excitement were all in the air, and on the main stage 

was a shirtless midget with a painted face named Toad. 

He was letting people use a staple gun to staple dollar 

bills to his chest. These are the kinds of things that make 

a convention into a “palooza,” and why this event was 

so much more than just a bunch of booths with artists 

sitting behind portfolios of their work. 

The Zoological Wildlife Foundation was even 

there… with an alligator, a tiger, some snakes, an owl, 

and a bunch of scorpions. Walking by the animal area 

made me realize that Mickey knew all along how to put 

together a tattoo convention that would be about more 

than just the tattoos, and would have enough extras to 

pull in interest from people not typically immersed in 

the culture of the tattoo scene. Like he had said earlier, 

he wanted people to see that “tattooing is art,” and he 

did a great job of finding creative ways to introduce 

people to the artistic side of the culture. Affirmation 

of this came as I walked past a booth from The Art 

Institute of Fort Lauderdale and saw several paintings 

that looked like they could all one day be turned into 

tattoos. For the next few hours, I meandered through 

the aisles, grabbing business cards from all the booths, 

noticing that each one had a different zip code on it, 

proof that art brings people together from all over. 

For info on next year’s convention, visit 

www.Tattoolapalooza.com. 

Live, Love, & be Free 

Event Photography, Portraits, Comp Cards, 

Product Placements, etc. - Prints Available 

Exhibiting 10/14-11/23 @ Fletcher Art & Culture Center in Hollywood 

Vionettephotography.com 



Steve Minotti 

Simply Loving What He Does 

When a magazine that publishes 

behind a mission of promoting 

local art and music comes across 

someone like Steve Minotti it is happily 

reminded of the natural overlap between 

the scenes associated with both local art and 

local music. As a musician with over 30 years 

of experience performing right here in South 

Florida, Steve Minotti is a real musician’s 

musician… a live performer, singer/songwriter, 

and entertainer who does it all for the love of 

the music and is always up for an impromptu 

collaboration. He plays just as many open mics 

as he does paid gigs, and can usually be found 

on the bill for most fundraisers and charity 

events. He is a mainstay at such yearly events 

as the Everglades Awareness Benefit and the 

Medicinal Marijuana Benefit in Miami and 

played for 8 years at the legendary Elwood’s 

Dixie BBQ in Delray Beach. 

Aside from music, Steve’s other love is art, 

which is why his latest CD is titled, “The Gallery,” 

which features a collage of artwork from 12 

local artists on its cover. Steve explains his 

CD by saying, “The concept of the gallery 

was designed because I had fallen in love 

26 


with an artist… and I was trying to convey my 

appreciation for her art, and I see the creative 

side of people... and that inspires me to write 

music that is really painting a picture, versus 

just being nonsensical babble…basically – 

which a lot of music is today… I think. When 

I started writing it, the concept of the gallery 

came about because the gallery is really the 

heart, where we store all the pictures of our 

lives – in our hearts. It’s that thing that a lot 

of people aren’t always willing to just open up 

and display for everybody.” 

But Minotti has no problem using his music 

to open up his heart for everybody, which is 

why he is so well liked, and why he is one of 

the most consistently booked solo singer/ 

songwriters in the area. It might also be why he 

was able to independently sell 1,800 copies of 

his CD. Steve also fronts a band, aptly named, 

“Luminotti,” which contains members of “The 

Secret Police,” paul Voute, Chris Korzen, and 

Mark Brovich. His next project will be the 

release of his 2nd official CD, “The Love You 

Give” in early 2010, which is named after a song 

that Minotti proudly covers, a heart-warming 

song written by fellow local musician and 

friend, Crawford Redgate. 

When this 30-year veteran of the local music 

scene was asked for one word to describe 

himself, Steve Minotti replied, “simple.” Sounds 

like a pretty reassuring recipe for success and 

happiness. Keep it simple, appreciate the arts, 

and love what you do. That’s what Steve does. 

by Renda Writer 

SteveMinotti.com 

MySpace.com/SteveMinotti 


The Coolest, The Hippest By Renda Writer 

Whether you realize it or not, South Florida is actually home to some 

very cool and hip coffee shops. But there is one in particular that stands 

out from the rest. It just might be the coolest… maybe the hippest. 

Undergrounds Coffeehaus is the kind of place that you really have to 

go check out at least once. The adorable little coffee shop is also part 

art gallery, vintage book store, and hang out spot for coffee drinkers, 

art lovers, and free Wi-Fi seekers alike. The owner, Aileen Liptak, puts a 

great deal of effort into making sure her place always has a full schedule 

of events, including art shows, themed movie nights, and their widely 

successful “Stitch-n-Bitch” event that invites people to come out to 

crochet, knit, cross stitch, and bead their own hand crafted trinkets. 

Stop in on Johnny depp Night or when they’re showing the whole first 

season of the hit HBO series, “True Blood,” or check out their website 

and find a night that tickles your fancy. 


27

Teens 

merge 

by Ashley Lombardo u Teen Correspondent 

Hanna 

By Ashley Lombardo 

Recognized as Hanna, 

Aubriana Fumagali has her eyes 

on her dreams. She hasn’t taken 

a pseudonym for nothing; her 

solo project is known as Hanna 

for a reason bigger than auditory 

sensation. She calls herself Hanna 

as a tribute to the little mountain 

town in Utah where she spent 

her summer two years ago. While hiking, participating in numerous outdoor 

activities, and taking in the beauty of nature, Aubriana wrote the majority 

of her upcoming EP, appropriately named “Conquering Coyote Gulch,” which 

is an area of desert and canyons located in Hanna that she “conquered” by 

trekking over 60 miles. The EP includes songs such as Wasted Breath, Out at 

Sea, George Senior, and Stay Quiet. Stay Quiet is her recent favorite not only 

because it’s new, but also because it’s a crowd pleaser… fun for her to play 

and great for everyone to enjoy. The song that is most important to her is 

George Senior, which is written about her grandfather, the patriarch of the 

American firework industry who died five years ago. Her and her family relive 

his memory through it’s performance, which is the reason for the emotional 

significance of the song. Aubriana began playing piano at age two, and now 

at age sixteen, she composes all her own music. When asked to perform at her 

grandfather’s funeral, she realized that she would take her singing seriously. 

She is learning the German harmonica and is planning on soon incorporating 

it into her music, and she aspires to one day be a master of the cello. Her music 

is written for all ages, from her eleven year old sister to her performances at the 

senior citizen open house. She’s currently targeting teens, in hopes that they’ll 

be able to relate to what she has to say. Aubriana’s songs are inspired by and 

written about life; all it’s wonders and struggles that everyone experiences. 

She’s prompted by her appreciation of everything she’s been given in her 

life, along with her mother’s never-ending support. Through her music, she’s 

telling her story. When Aubriana’s feeling creative, she also writes about 

situations and stories that come straight from her mind. She usually writes 

her lyrics during class on anything and everything, but she also has a journal 

she brings along in her travels that she couldn’t live without. When asked 

to classify herself into a genre category, Aubriana finds it difficult. For now, 

she claims to be indie/pop, but her music is always changing. Her lyrics are 

beautifully written and full of soul, which compliment her light upbeat tunes 

with vigor. She is often compared to a young, new-age Vanessa Carlton. She 

involves herself in this industry, with it’s ups and down, because it’s an outlet 

for expressing her emotions. She hopes to bring her music all over the world, 

believing that this is her destiny. She feels that if it’s what she’s meant to do, 

she will end up doing it because she is an avid supporter of fate. She plans 

to attend FAU for commercial music on the creative track and let it take her 

where it may. Aubriana’s favorite studio to play at is Solid Sound, along with 

warehouse shows in Boca Raton, and private performances. She is continually 

booking shows in new venues and expanding her horizons. She is thankful 

for meeting her three biggest fans, Kendal, Kali and Katie, who truly love the 

music as much as Aubriana does. She now sells t-shirts, stickers, and buttons at 

her local performances, and her EP, “Conquering Coyote Gulch,” is also available 

for purchase. She can be contacted on MySpace.com/hannafl, or emailed at 

projecthanna@yahoo.com. 

28 


Tattoo: Where Art & Body Unite 

by Jennifer Harper 

I never imagined that when I agreed to interview Fort Lauderdale tattoo shop 

owner, Stevie Moon, and staff artist, Josh Kreeps, that I would be so enlightened 

about the tattoo industry. What I had expected to be a typical hour-long interview, 

turned into a three hour gab fest. Not only are Stevie Moon and Josh Kreeps 

absolutely amazing tattooists, they really are two very cool people. 

The exponential increase in reality TV shows, including the popular TLC show, 

“LA Ink,” which originated here in Miami, has brought an immense amount of 

popularity and attention to the tattoo industry. What was once considered to be 

more of an underground community within the art world has now been catapulted 

into the mainstream as a profession of glamour and prestige, which has the younger 

generation vying for apprenticeships. Just keep in mind that Kat Von d., doesn’t 

really whip up a flawlessly finished drawing in the five-minute time interval that the 

show seems to portray… this stuff takes hours, days, and even weeks to complete. 

Stevie Moon, originally from DC, got his first glimpse of the tattoo biz at the 

impressionable age of 17. It wasn’t until after nearly completing a pre-med 

program, however, that he decided to put down the periodic table to pursue his 

love of art with his mentor and namesake, Juli Moon. A legend in the tattoo scene, 

Moon took Stevie under her finely inked wing and taught him the ways of the 

wand. Her single-needle tattoo method used to create her stunning portrayals of 

delicate angels, intricate pattern work and oriental themes are admired and studied 

by tattoo artists all over the world. “She still blows up my concrete skirt,” Stevie says 

with a look of pure adulation. He goes on to mention an impressive resume of 

other talented artists he’s worked with including Jef Whitehead, who has worked 

with the exceedingly successful Ed Hardy… one of the few tattoo artists who has 

managed to market his work into a pop culture apparel empire. 

Throughout the 90’s, Stevie became immersed in the world of tattooing, 

spending nearly every waking moment creating and experimenting with different 

genres and techniques. Today, his work showcases a large palette of tasty flavors 

which are a gently stirred concoction of over 20 years behind the iron gun. Stevie 

puts it best by saying, “I’m not monogamous with any style. I want to sleep with all 

of them from the Japanese styles to the hard-core full color portraits. I want to know 

everything, like Freddy Mercury, ‘I want it all and I want it now.’” Well stated, Stevie… 

only you could get away with saying that and sounding completely appropriate. 

Fellow ink slinger, Josh Kreeps, walked into Stevie’s shop one day about a year 

ago, showed his work, and hasn’t found the exit door since. In similar fashion, Josh 

got his start after a friend saw his sketch book and offered him a job at his shop. He 

spent the next 4 or so years learning everything he could. Josh doesn’t conform to 

any particular style, like Stevie, he has taken what he’s learned and blended it into 

his own recipe for success. This all-around, easy going guy, has spent the last five 

years translating his art onto living beings in a way that complements - not distracts, 

from the beauty of the human form. He may not be a 25 year veteran, yet his skill 

and attention to detail are comparable to that of a seasoned master. His advice to 

the newcomer: “Keep creating, in every form and style and expect to pay your dues. 

Many apprentices spend their first year doing mostly cleaning and prep work. You 

have to really love art to get anywhere in this business.” This is quite interesting 

advice from someone who began wielding the tattoo gun after only about one 

month of apprentice work. 

By the end of my visit with Stevie and Josh, I was beginning to feel like a part 

of the family - cracking jokes with Josh and poking fun at Stevie’s attire: a beat up 

tank top and pair of Joe boxer full-length underwear. “I have to work in comfort,” 

Stevie quipped in defense of his relaxed wardrobe. Comfort being the operative 

word here, I could’ve stayed the rest of the day. Thanks for a great interview and a 

wonderful Friday afternoon guys! 

Next time you’re looking to get that ultimate piece inked, stop by Stevie Moon 

Tattoo for the best South Florida has to offer in quality tattooing. The shop is located 

at 2336 NE 26th Street in Fort Lauderale, just south of Oakland Park Blvd, off of 

Federal Highway. Check out their website at www.StevieMoon.com. Call (954) 565- 

4470 for more information. Tell them Little Jen from WeMerge sent you! 


The South Florida Camera Club Photo Gallery 

What you see before you are 14 photographs from 

members of The South Florida Camera Club, 

a local club for photographers of all ages and levels 

of skill. The club meets twice a month, has monthly 

photo field trips, competitions, and guest speakers. 

Many of their members attend the monthly gallery 

night that takes place on the 2nd Friday of every 

month at UNCOMMON Gallery in Ft. Lauderdale (2713 

Tracy Mendy - TracyMendy.com 

Keith LeBlanc - Pbase.com/kleb7842 

Vionette - VionettePhotography.com 

George Quiroga - Qnetx.com Jack Levy - ImagesByJack.net Jessica Savidge - SavidgePhotography.com 

Malcolm Kahl - mhklaw1@earthlink.net 

John Marks - jcmarks@bellsouth.net 

E. Commercial Blvd., UncommonStock.net), which is 

a great event to go to if you are looking to chat with 

some of the club’s members and find out more about 

why they like being a part of it. The club’s president, 

Danny Hammontree, is usually there too, so introduce 

yourself to him, and tell him that WeMerge Magazine 

referred you. www.SouthFloridaCameraClub.com 

(danny.hammontree@gmail.com). 

Lew Lautin - LewLautinPhotographer.com 

Danny Hammontree - DannyHammontree.com 

James McCallum - Flickr.com/bocaphotography 

R. Lewis Hooten - UncommonOrchidPhotos.com 

Linda St. Hilaire - AllOccasionsByLinda.com 

Adilia Ortega - AdiliaOrtega.com 


30 


Poets t Painters t Rappers t Comedians t Bands 

Sculptors t Performance Artists t DJs t Actors t Tattoo Artists t 

Authors t Graffiti Artists t Producers t Dancers t Singer/Songwriters t 

Cartoonists t Martial Artists t Make-Up Artists t Magicians t 

What does WeMerge look for in an artist submission? 

1. Talent 

2. Commitment to their art (gigs, portfolios, credentials, etc.) 

3. Professional packaging (high quality photos & logos) 

4. A willingness to participate in 

promoting the issue you’re 

featured in 

WeMerge Magazine is 

always accepting artist 

submissions. We 

catalogue them all 

for possible inclusion in 

future issues. 

Our advertisers are 

very important to our 

survival. For this reason, 

artists who can 

provide advertising 

referrals will have thier sumbissions 

reviewed immediately. 

Visit our website and fill out our Talent Submission Form. 



y Renda Writer 

When I walked into Eternal Ink in Davie 

on a Sunday afternoon and found Christa Z 

and Frank La Natra both hard at work on this socalled 

day of rest, it became evident once again 

why they are a true “power couple.” 

I had stopped in to chat with them about what 

they’ve been up to since we shared their story 

in our last issue, and as expected, they have 

both been super busy. Frank seems to have 

been blessed by the gods of publicity, having 

racked up features in five magazines in just the last few 

months, including “Tattoos for Men,” “Tattoos for Women,” 

“Skin Art,” “Tattoo Society,” and “Savage.” While doing a 

touch up of some fairy wings on a woman’s back, Frank 

responds to my question about how he stays so busy 

and accomplishes so much by saying, “I don’t stay busy 

by choice. I guess my talent is just keeping me in demand. Being more of a regular 

artist helps too because people like my artwork and want to collect it... and so 

getting a tattoo from me is a good way for them to have one of my pieces.” From 

there, he goes on to tell me about how he has been booking guest spots at tattoo 

shops around the country and has dates reserved all the way out until next August, 

with upcoming appearances at Monkey Ink in North Carolina and Broadway 

Tattoo Lounge in New Jersey. His more immediate plans include preparing for 

the upcoming Tattoolapalooza convention in San Diego, where he will be one of 

the featured artists and will also play a big role in organizing the whole event, just 

like he did for the South Beach Tattoolapalooza back in July. Christa also helped to 

produce and organize the summer convention, which is why the couple barely had 

a chance to celebrate their 2 year anniversary that same weekend. 

In discussing the success of the South Beach convention and her role in helping 

to put it together, Christa says, “That was a whole different experience for me. I never saw myself doing that... putting 

together and being a part of a show of that scale. So it was kinda weird, but a great experience overall… and I painted 

a 4x4 acrylic of Bob Marley live on stage, and sold it for $350.” Later in our conversation Christa gave me a flyer for a new 

book that she was invited to be a part of called “Pint Size Paintings” (PintSizePaintings.com), which will be released in 

early 2010, promoting a newly popularized genre of small sized art, which is in great 

demand these days and will hopefully lead to the financial success that Christa 

desires and deserves. 

She emphasizes her 

goals by saying, “I’ve got 

a lot of prints I need to 

sell. I start at $10 and go 

up to about $150, and I 

work with people on the 

prices too.” 

Never too busy for 

each other and always 

intelligently managing 

their priorities, Christa 

will be accompanying 

Frank in his travels 

throughout the coming 

32 


Power Couple 

Christa Z & Frank La Natra 

christa Z painted a 4x4 acrylic of Bob Marley live on stage, 

which sold for $350 

months, and the two will be taking a semester off from their studies at The Art 

Institute of Ft. Lauderdale while they focus on their current projects. 

I left Eternal Ink that Sunday afternoon thinking about one of our slogans here 

at WeMerge, “We help artists that are helping themselves,” and about how well it 

describes why we were glad to write once again about this couple that is working 

so hard to advance in their art careers and stay happily in love along the way. 

MySpace.com/paintingsByChrista MySace.com/LaNatra 

Other Local 

POWER COUPLES 

Let us know who you would 

like to read about next: 

Deb Sullivan & Kevin “Kevro” Rouse 

Well known in Delray Beach, Deb 

& Kevro are artists, photographers, 

and co-owners of Kevro’s Art Bar. 

They compliment and balance each 

other well and are always working to 

enhance the art scene in Palm Beach. 

KevroArt.com 

Trina Slade-Burks & Anthony Burks 

Trina is a published poet and Anthony 

is an artist whose work is coveted 

by several prominent collectors. 

As husband and wife, they are very 

active in the art community and work 

relentlessly to keep art alive in the local 

area. The two met while attending The 

Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and are 

Class of ‘88 Alumni. 

AbsoluteArts.com/portfolios/a/anttri/ 

MySpace.com/ArtBarGallery 

Yvonne Colon & Garo Gallo 

These two have made waves most 

recently by opening up The Bubble in 

downtown Ft. Lauderdale, a warehouse 

that they converted into an art gallery, 

live music venue, and destination 

site for cool events and cool crowds. 

They have been promoting the local 

music scene for several years with 

their organization, IWAN, and Garo is a 

member of the band dooms de pop. 

MySpace.com/BTWMusicproductions 

IndependentWorkingArtistNetwork.com 

Leah Brown & Peter Symons 

They moved here from New York City 

just over a year ago and Leah and 

Peter are making some very solid 

connections to become more involved 

in the Ft. Lauderdale art scene. Their 

newly opened 18 Rabbit Gallery in 

downtown is sure to soon become one 

of the go-to places for people seeking 

art and culture. 

18RabbitGallery.com 

LeahBrownArt.com 

Flickr.com/photos/petersymons 

Amanda Watkins-Ginther & JR Linton 

There really isn’t much that this couple 

doesn’t do. Amanda’s yearly Stitch 

Rock event is always successful and she 

continues to thrive with her House of 

Sweets cupcake business and JR has 

credentials as both an artist and a tattoo 

artist that have grown 

RockTheStitch.com 

HellcatTattoo.com 

Slushbox.com 




ALL GRAFFITI SHOTS WERE TAKEN FROM ONE CONTINUOUS WALL IN MIAMI OFF THE EAST SIDE OF I-95

Steve Minotti The Love 9ART DMAC - WeMerge Magazine

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