the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
spring 2019
get in,
LO S E R
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
spring 2019
meant to
broken
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
spring 2019
The
S ins
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
spring 2019
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i s s u e n o. 3 9
spring 2019
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in the loop
6 the guide
48
h e a l t h & we l l n e s s
26 s p e c i a l s e c t i o n : v i c e s
58 f a s h i o n 7 2 m a i n eve n t
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contents on the rocks
8 11
get tatted
get in, loser
16
20
cocaine cowboys
28 32
i hate myself full house
35
39 50
the candy shop
the sins
zero gravity zen 54
moon dust
60 66
made for shade 68
74
meant to be broken
magic city hippies 78
2
pore me
DISTRACTION
Introduction
the american desert
letter from the editor Study drugs, late-night blackouts turned early morning wake-and-bakes, chicken tenders for lunch every day of the week, juuling and tiny plastic bags of white powder. One of these doesn’t sound quite like the other, and yet they’re all vices. Mine just happens to be the chicken tenders, admittedly the most innocent of college students’ typical vices. College is basically a four-year coming-of-age experience in which students discover new sides of themselves, including their weak spots. This issue’s special section is an ode to our Achilles’ heels. Brush up on your history in our piece on Miami’s Cocaine Cowboy era (page 28) and see age-old vices visualized in our seven deadly sins photo series (page 39). Turn the page on your dark side by sifting through UM’s very own thrift store (page 16), getting a lesson in breaking every fashion rule in the book (page 68) and discovering indie-funk band and Frost School of Music alumni Magic City Hippies (page 74). The first step toward doing better is knowing better, so read up, dig deep and #getdistracted.
LYGC,
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
spring 2019
Model Jordan Kiser not only defies gravity in this shoot, but his Canadian tuxedo defies the denim-on-denim fashion rule, too.
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
spring 2019
art_direction & photo_olivia stauber.
meant to
art direction_staff. photo_gianna sanchez.
broken
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
spring 2019
Get in, loser. We’re going to UThrift – UM’s very own student-run thrift store, filled with racks of your next vintage outfit. You’ll be happy you shopped by.
the
magazine of the students of
get in,
LO S E R
the university of miami
spring 2019
The
art_direction & photo_natalie rey.
The only thing better than a kid in a candy store is a bunch of 20-somethings running around Coral Gables buying as many discount gumballs and lollipops as they can possibly find.
S ins
For Distraction, the deadly sins on deadline are ice cream, chips, early 2000s bops and gluttonous amounts of Starbucks. This cover calls out our photo series on the real seven deadly sins. art direction_staff. photo_sonia broman & gianna sanchez.
Spring 2019 DISTRACTION
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team
the Chiropractic Adjustments One Direction
Teddy Willson Editor-in-Chief
Isabella Vaccaro
Gabby Rosenbloom
Jorge Chabo
Managing Editor
Executive Editor
Digital Editor
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
Joey Haas
Co-Art Director
Michael Haring
Creative Director
Olivia Stauber
Sonia Broman
Gianna Sanchez
Elizabeth Pozzuoli
Co-Photo Editor
Co-Photo Editor
PR Manager
Co-Art Director
Dry Sandwiches
Trisha Paytas
4
DISTRACTION
Introduction
behind
what is your guilty pleasure?
The Staff
the scenes
ASMR
The Guide Editor_Callie Jardine In The Loop Editor_Kathryn Ford Special Section Editor_Olivia Ginsberg Health and Wellness Editor_Kayla Foster Fashion Editor_Abby Podolsky Main Event Editor_Elisa Baena Assistant Art Director_Kelvine Moyers Assistant PR Manager_Keagan Larkins Assistant Fashion Editor_Allegra Turner Social Media Manager_Anja Reese Business Manager_Andrew Leonard Faculty Adviser_Randy Stano
Paint Mixing Videos
DISTRACTIONMAGAZINE.COM Assistant Digital Editor_Gabby Lord Web Editor_Tiana Torkan Culture Blog Edior_Abigail Adeleke Fashion Blog Editor_Makayla Manning Food Blog Editor_Dakota Regan Travel Blog Editor_Marissa Vonesh
Distraction staff gets oh-so-boho at the fashion shoot, located at a field in the middle of who-knows-where.
Contributors Jacqueline Dubois, Designer Jess Morgan, Designer Giselle Spicer, Designer Natalie Abatemarco, Writer Anya Balsamides, Writer Gabrielle Lord, Writer Ana Macouzet, Writer Shianne Salazar, Writer Abby Washer, Writer Sydney Burnett, Photographer Alec Chao, Photographer Gabriela Nahous, Photographer Natalie Rey, Photographer Noah Vesey, Photographer Elinor Howells, Videographer Charlotte Fox, Videographer Jonathan Fernandez, Videographer Dana Musso, Illustrator Melonie Chinnici, PR Katelyn Gavin, PR Jaime Harn, PR Corinne Issa, PR Devon Laffey, PR Eliana Litos, PR
Dr. Pepper
“I feel no guilt�
section opener illustrations_dana musso.
Multiple sugar highs were had at The Candy Shop shoot. Good thing our dentists are on speed dial.
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The Guide
The Guide
The Guide captures the thoughts of the Miami hipster and slaps them on a page. Despite being in-the-know, pretentious is not in The Guide reader’s vocabulary. Starbucks is out and typewriters are in. If you ever need a suggestion for the best kombucha in Miami, The Guide has you covered.
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on the roc k s We’ve all been there: chugging Skol from a plastic handle, mixing Burnett’s with off-brand cranberry juice. Well, here’s a college millennial’s hot take: we shouldn’t have to sacrifice flavor for price. With these easy, yet affordable, drink recipes, you’ll be the best bartender at the party. words_anya balsamides. photos_gianna sanchez. design_elizabeth pozzuoli.
Negroni Take a trip to Florence without ever leaving your apartment with this simple, yet sophisticated Italian drink. Meant as an apéritif to be enjoyed before dinner, the Negroni’s refreshingly bitter flavor is definitely an acquired taste. You’ll certainly have fun wandering the aisles at the liquor store looking for these ingredients. Be adventurous and pour the sweet vermouth, Campari and gin in a glass, adding large ice cubes and garnishing with an orange slice or twist. 1 1 1
ounce sweet vermouth ounce Campari ounce gin Large ice cubes Orange slice or twist for garnish
Moscow Mule Although the famous Moscow Mule doesn’t actually involve Moscow or mules, it certainly has its own history. This American favorite was born from a perfect storm: a surplus of vodka, a new brand of ginger beer and a unique connection to the copper mug industry. Simply combine vodka – yes, your leftover Smirnoff will do – and lime juice, then add the ginger beer and a few ice cubes. To make a true Moscow Mule, swap your red Solo cup for a copper mug, and add a lime wedge. 11/2 1/2 1/2 1 1
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fluid ounces vodka fluid ounce lime juice cup ginger beer lime wedge for garnish cup ice cubes
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The Guide
Mojito Still wondering what to do with that leftover Bacardi on your shelf? The mojito, which hails from Cuba, could just be your new favorite drink. In a large glass, crush mint, lime and sugar together to release the mint oils and lime juice – you can use a muddler to crush them if you’re fancy. Make sure you don’t strain the mixture. Fill the glass with ice, add your Bacardi, or any white rum of your choice and fill the rest of the glass with club soda. After trying this minty, refreshing drink, you’ll never feel the need to drink straight from the bottle again.
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fresh mint leaves lime, cut into 4 wedges tablespoons white sugar, or to taste 1 cup ice cubes 11/2 fluid ounces white rum 1/2 cup club soda
Dark and Stormy Feeling daring and ready to ditch the drab vodka-cranberry or rum and coke? Impress your friends with a Dark ’n’ Stormy, a popular drink from Bermuda, the shipwreck capital of the world. This deceptively simple drink combines black rum, the “dark,” with ginger beer, the “stormy,” to create an image of storm clouds racing across a turbulent sea. Simply fill a tall glass with ice, add Gosling’s Black Seal rum and top it off with ginger beer. For an added taste of the tropics, add some fresh lime juice and garnish the drink with a lime wedge.
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fluid ounces Gosling’s Black Seal Rum 4 fluid ounces ginger beer 3/4 fluid ounce fresh lime juice Ice cubes
Black Russian Looking for a drink that will keep you dancing all night but tired of your go-to Vodka Red Bull? Try a Black Russian, whose coffee-flavored liqueur will give you that needed boost of energy, as well as a veil of mystery. Just swap the Red Bull for a coffee liqueur, such as Kahlua, for a rich, sophisticated drink that was created at the beginning of the Cold War. To impress your friends, fill an old-fashioned glass with ice, pour the vodka, then add the coffee liqueur.
11/2 fluid ounces vodka 3/4 fluid ounce coffee- flavored liqueur 1 cup ice
Old Fashioned The name of this drink pretty much says it all: it’s old. In the world of mixology, though, things get better with age. The Old Fashioned, which has been around since the birth of the cocktail itself nearly 200 years ago, remains a favorite drink to this day. Whiskey lovers: this is the drink for you. The Old Fashioned begins by mixing the simple syrup or granulated sugar with bitters and water in a small glass until the sugar has dissolved. Then, fill the glass with ice and stir in your choice of whiskey. If you’re drinking on a budget, feel free to incorporate an inexpensive brand of whiskey. Finally, don’t forget to garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
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teaspoons simple syrup or 1 teaspoon granulated sugar 1 teaspoon water 2 dashes bitters 11/2 fluid ounce whiskey 1 slice orange 1 maraschino cherry 1 cup ice cubes
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TIPS FROM YOUR
BARTENDER Make your own simple syrups. All you have to do is pour equal parts of water and sugar into a saucepan and heat until the sugar is dissolved. The liquid should be completely clear. Then, you can pour your syrups into jars and create your very own flavors, like mint, vanilla or even lavender.
Remember the garnish. The look, as well as the taste, can define the drink. What would an Old Fashioned be without its classic orange and cherry garnish? Would you even recognize the Mojito without its signature sprigs of mint?
Buy the best affordable alcohol. Everyone’s trying to save money, especially college students, but when it comes to creating certain cocktails, the quality of the alcohol can make or break your drink. If you’re torn between the $18 Smirnoff or the $25 Absolut, do yourself a favor and go with the Absolut.
Buy a muddler. Muddlers act like a bartender’s pestle, allowing them to reach to the bottom of the cocktail shaker and smash the ingredients, releasing the natural juices and oils. They’re cheap, handy and allow you to effectively use fresh fruit and herbs in your drinks. Trust us, you’ll wonder why you didn’t buy one sooner.
Take care with citrus fruits. When using limes, lemons and oranges, it’s important to squeeze them before using them, which releases more juice. You can actually throw your lime in the microwave for five to ten seconds and get as much as 50% more juice. Also, don’t store them in the fridge.
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words_kathryn ford. photo_ gianna sanchez & noah vesey. design_olivia stauber.
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“It doesn’t matter how old you are or what your background is – everyone’s getting tattoos now,” said Maria Acevedo, an artist at Iris Tattoo. The inky artistry of tattoos has become one of the sincerest forms of self-expression. Spontaneous or not, getting a tattoo requires at least a little thought.
STYLE You won’t make it very far in the tattoo parlor if you haven’t chosen your ideal style first. There are dozens of styles to choose from, but some of the most common are illustrative, realistic, watercolor, tribal and traditional. Our best piece of advice: make Pinterest and Instagram your best friends. Social media platforms are often the best ways to get a taste of the styles of tattoos out there, what you’re in to and what you can visualize being inked on your body. Pinterest is the easiest way to create a “board” of all your favorite styles and designs. Because there is such a variety in styles, many artists focus on their favorite. Acevedo, who has been tattooing for just over a decade, was inspired to become a tattoo artist when she became a mother. Drawn to the arts her whole life, Acevedo decided it was time to find a steady job, as opposed to waitressing and bartending gigs, before she had her son. This is when she found tattooing, which allows her to work creatively every day and show her son the importance of pursuing creative passions, even if it is not along the typical career path. When she started working at Iris, her co-workers encouraged her to pursue styles she was passionate about,
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rather than being asked to create designs she wasn’t personally drawn to. Since then Acevedo’s art has evolved from big and colorful to simplistic, modern and geometric. Also passionate about self-expression, Acevedo said that tattoos “mean that I can do whatever the f*** I want with my body.” She continued, emphasizing that tattoos are not necessarily representative of a shady background or jail time. As trends change, the negative stigmas around tattoos have begun crumbling. Watercolor tattoos, in particular, have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. This new trend is exactly what it sounds like; artists have mastered the precision of ink to create the appearance of watercolor on skin. “The representation I wanted was something bright and pretty,” said Sarah Ruttenberg, a senior at the University of Miami, who opted for a watercolor design. Every color of the rainbow is delicately placed, yet they seem to move fluidly throughout the tattoo, showing her pride in her LGBTQ identity. At the moment, Ruttenberg has two watercolor tattoos but is interested in looking into other, simpler styles, as well.
Getting inked might be more common than you think. In just the United States, 38 percent of people 18-29 have a tattoo, according to a Pew Research Center study. “Times are changing,” Acevedo said. “When I started 10 or 11 years ago, the stigmas around tattoos were still there, but everyone gets tattoos now.”
COLOR Selecting an artistic style is a huge step in the right direction, but you shouldn’t downplay the importance of color. Simply put, some styles pair better with the traditional all-black look, while some are best complimented by bold, vivid colors. Before landing on your favorite electric blue or bubblegum pink, determine whether the color is right for your skin tone. Bright colors pop on pale skin, but keep in mind that colored ink is more expensive and has the possibility of fading. Medium skin tones take to darker colors, but don’t pair well with yellow and orange tones. Dark skin tones generally opt for black or red ink, as both create the most striking contrast. As a general rule of thumb, it’s always a good idea to consult a tattoo professional to figure out what colors will work for you. “I have enough tattoos to the point where it’s part of my style,” said Nicole Bozkurt, a freshman at the University of Miami who has five tattoos. Two of her most unique tattoos are on her wrists: a mountain on one and a wave on the other, which connect seamlessly and beautifully when her wrists are put together. These tattoos, Bozkurt said, started with the idea of balance in life. Though she went to Pinterest for her initial inspiration, she likes to let the tattoo artist run with the idea so that his or her own creativity may unfold. Ultimately, she and the artist worked together to come up with the design that she now loves.
WHERE TO GO Bozkurt went to Inkaholik Tattoos, a parlor in Miami that has become popular among students. For our tattoo virgins, however, Iris Tattoo is a safe bet if you’re even a little intimidated by the traditional-looking parlor. Located in Wynwood, Iris is “big on customer service and making you feel welcomed and comfortable,” said Acevedo, one of the in-shop artists. One of the best things about Iris, though, is that its website features the extensive portfolios of its staff, allowing customers to match their desired style with the right artist. Regardless of where you go, the best thing to do is research, research, research. Instagram is a great source of inspiration, as well as a place to examine each artist’s specific work. Every tattoo artist has their own styles and specialties, so don’t hesitate to stalk their page and make sure you like what you see. When you finally find yourself in the chair next to the artist, be sure you are ready and, most importantly, excited to have this piece of art on your body forever.
Eager to boast your first tattoo, but don’t have the time or money to go to a professional? Stick and poke, the most common at-home tattoo method, is an easy way to give yourself simple tattoos that could pass for professional at a fraction of the price.
HOW TO To get started on a stick and poke tattoo, all you need is a needle, string, a pencil and some ink. You can easily build your own rig by attaching the needle to the pencil. Next, wrap the string around the needle just up to the tip. When you dip the needle into the ink, it will be absorbed by the string, leaving just enough on the needle to make a small dot when stuck into the skin. Since you can only do one needle-sized dot at a time, the process can be slow, so it’s a good idea to start out simple. Small tattoos are the easiest for both the person giving the tattoo and the person receiving it. Stick and poke can be less accurate than a professional tattoo machine, and it can take a long time to perfect the technique.
WHERE TO BUY At first, the thought of an at-home tattoo may be scary for a lot of reasons – one being safety. It is possible to buy sterile and safe materials, but nowadays you can find stick and poke tattoo kits online, starting at about $10.
CARE You should care for your stick and poke tattoo the same way you would a professional tattoo – extremely carefully. You should only use gentle soaps and lotions, and make sure to keep it as dry as possible for the first few days.
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14 DISTRACTION In the Loop
In the L oop
In the Loop is the yin to The Guide’s yang. Take your favorite, feel-good topics and dig a little deeper. From the delicious foods that everyone knows and loves, to the hobbies that you never knew you would come to love so much, In the Loop takes what’s in your heart and places them deeper into your mind.
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Models Adriana Vega Pernia and Sebastian Holsvik Garcia sport UThrift’s trendiest ensembles. One of the many benefits of this on-campus thrifting center is its accessibility. Students simply have to venture to the Foote Green and visit the farmer’s market in order to explore the vast options that UThrift has to offer.
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Nestled in between the Hibachi and Dim Sum tents at the University of Miami farmer’s market lies a haven called UThrift – a student-run thrift shop where students are encouraged to recycle their old clothes and take new (old) ones, too. words_teddy willson. photo_natalie rey. design_teddy willson.
“Imposter passion” might just be the common characteristic of the millennial student. We attend class, become enlightened, craft politically charged posts on Facebook proclaiming our simple solutions to multifaceted problems and feel self-righteous, despite our lack of action. Among the list of issues that we preach from our pedestal profiles is sustainability. We’re all too proud of our vegan diets and reusable water bottles, but any inconvenience and our green lifestyles get pushed to the back burner. We pick and choose which areas of our lives to live greenly and turn a blind eye to those in which we fall short. Fashion falls into the latter category. Being green may be cool, but we have yet to approach what is perhaps culture’s trendiest sector, fashion, with this eco-friendly mentality. UThrift aims to change this. Founded last fall, the organization, which is sponsored by GreenU, takes the initiative of making sustainability in fashion approachable. What started as a re-use store full of office supplies has transitioned into UThrift. “We completely rebranded the store to make it cooler and more exciting for the UM student,” said Veronika Seider, UThrift director. “That’s why we decided to make it more geared toward clothing and accessories.” Now a staple of the weekly farmer’s market, UThrift sets up shop every Wednesday, its white tent shading the racks and tables of donations. It’s the only booth where students don’t even have to reach for their wallets – everything is free. Anyone can thumb through the store and take what they like. In order to encourage donations, UThrift offers a deal that’s hard to deny: donate any number of pieces and take that many, plus one, in exchange.
It’s no secret that fashion standards at the University of Miami are pretty lofty. Running shorts, oversized tees and Birkenstocks just don’t cut it. That’s what makes Miami a prime place for an on-campus thrift store. Free People and Urban Outfitters are selections typical of the shop. “I remember seeing a Free People top hanging at the store and realizing that it probably retailed for around $100, and it was just sitting there waiting to be picked up for free,” said Bhargavi Pochi, UThrift impressions manager. Trash bags full of Forever 21 and Zara pieces litter the UThrift scene each week at the market. UThrift sees products donated from some of the most notorious fast fashion culprits breaking their cycle and receiving new life. “Our adviser dropped off a bunch of little boys’ clothes, but girls were snatching them up pretty quickly because they were Ralph Lauren vintage-styled polo shirts that could be worn as crop tops or jean shorts that cinched at the waist,” Pochi said. “It’s funny how it might not have been the initial market but now that it’s out there for free, people take it without any preconceived notions about the piece.” UThrift exists at the intersection of fashion and sustainability. Students get a kick out of sporting vintage or reimagined pieces that become one-of-a-kind with each new owner. At the heart of UThrift, though, is sustainability. University of Miami students are so fashion savvy that there is a heightened susceptibility to the ever-revolving cycle of fast fashion. If sustainability is a goal of this generation, though, then it needs to be incorporated into even the most prided areas of our lives – including our closets. Instead of ditching outfits with only one wear for the newest street styles, upcycle your wardrobe and make green your color this season.
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KODAK 400TX
G E T I N, L O S E R
At its core, UThrift’s mission is grounded in sustainability. Veronika Seider, director of UThrift said that they “want to mitigate the fast fashion cycle.”
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The founders of UThrift had no real training or experience with branding, advertising or marketing. To gain visibility, they took advantage of every outlet to which they had access. “Slowly but surely, we’ve been getting more clothing donations every week,” Seider said.
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When we decided to make candy our food of the issue, we knew we were going to have to get creative. Using a compact mirror to display the nonpareils was an out-of-the-box, innovative way to capture the essence of both the candy and our staff.
Distraction dove in for a night of candy cocktails and sugar highs. The result? A CandyLand-esque dream. Learn how candy has jumped cultural, social and generational bounds to bring people together. Warning: you may need to call your dentist. words_olivia ginsberg. photo_gianna sanchez. design_joey haas. illusration_olivia stauber.
C
andy has been around since the dawn of human existence. They say cavemen were smart enough to concoct their own primitive taffy out of dried honey. The candy we are familiar with today is far from that of our ancestors, which was made with natural ingredients like fruits, nuts and honey. Today, when peering reluctantly at the ingredients on a candy wrapper, it may be impossible to decipher, much less pronounce, the foreign ingredients that make up those tasty little sweets.
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hard candy How it’s made: Hard candies like lifesavers, lollipops or those nameless goodies you find in your grandma’s purse, are all made using a process of boiling sugar to around 160 degrees. According to Martha Stewart’s recipe for candy gems, once the sugar is removed from the heat, it is poured into molds of all shapes and sizes. Finally, artificial flavors and vibrant colors are added to make it look like the candy that we know, love and devour. Origins: The first hard candy may not have been a candy at all, but rather a cough drop that was first produced in 1852 by the Smith Brothers Co., according to candyhistory.net. In the late 19th century, cough drops left their medicinal properties behind and gained popularity as a treat when Clarence Crane invented the famous lifesaver.
bubble gum How it’s made: Chewing gum has a base made of synthetic latex. Initially, it came from a naturally occurring latex called “chicle,” which was eradicated due to safety concerns. The base is melted and mixed with softeners and sweeteners to make the timeless chewing experience pleasurable. Origin: Believe it or not, bubble gum wasn’t born as the favorite pastime of major league baseball players. It originated with our ancient ancestors who chewed similar substances made from bark and naturally-occurring latex, according to thoughtco.com. In the 1860s, modern chewing gum was farmed from tropical evergreen trees. Created by Walter E. Diemer in 1928, Double Bubble and the era of bubble gum as we know it was born.
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jelly beans How it’s made: You probably aren’t giving any thought to what’s inside jelly beans as you pop them into your mouth by the handful, but these little drops of joy begin as pure sugar. The sugar is heated and poured into bean-shaped molds where it sits for 24 hours to dry. At the end of the process, granular sugar is added to the machine which creates the hard, outer shell, giving them their signature crunch. Jelly beans are packaged by flavor, from the famous Harry Potter Bertie Botts to cocktail and cookie varieties. Origin: Jelly beans are the original combination of the chewy inside of a Turkish delight with the hard, outer crunch of a Jordan Almond. They became a phenomenon in the 1920s when they were sold with other penny candies at general stores in the United States, says candyfavorites.com. Their egg-like shape also suited them perfectly for Eastertime.
gummies How it’s made: Those colorful, squishy gummies that you pop in your mouth aren’t as innocent as you thought. You’ve probably heard it before – gummy candies aren’t vegan – but what animal product could they possibly contain? The answer is gelatin. Gelatin is actually a mishmash of ground up animal parts. The gelatin, combined with a slew of sugars, are molded into different shapes and sizes like peach rings, coke bottles, sharks and even ten-pound-bears. Origins: Gummy candies started their journey in the form of their much chewier cousins: Turkish delights and Japanese rice candy. After Jell-O was created in 1845, gelatin was consumed more widely, according to Bon Appetit Magazine. In 1920, the first gummy bear was created by Haribo in Germany. The gummy treats eventually migrated to the U.S. during the Roaring ’20s. The craze took off from there with new gummy shapes popping up to match the ebb and flow of societal trends.
Cue Post Malone’s “Candy Paint,” and take a sugar trip into the history of your favorite sweets. We hope these sprinkle paint brushes brighten your day as much as they did ours.
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which candy are you?
Life Savers: Clumsy Queen
Grammy’s Caramels: Soul Sister
It’s been said that lifesavers were invented to prevent choking, and that’s exactly why you eat them. You’re probably the most uncoordinated person on Earth, but you look cute while falling down the stairs!
You’re an old soul. You listen to classical music and meditate in your free time. With age comes experience, so you are the best person to come to with a problem.
Bubble Gum: Bubbly Babe
Jelly Beans: Rowdy Rascal
You’re not afraid to snap your bubble gum in class. You probably dress like an actor from “Clueless,” and you might be a little shallow. However, you’re probably the hottest person in the room.
You are the embodiment of a kid in a candy store. Forget trying to keep your attention for more than a second. Your mind jumps from one subject to the next before you can process what you’re saying.
Gummy Candy: Quirky Cutie
Chocolate: Classic Beauty
There’s a chance that you still have a Barbie collection and a book filled with Hello Kitty stickers, but you have a cool sense of style and are super creative.
You are stunning without much effort. You wake up looking like a timeless beauty. Unlike wine, you probably won’t get better with age, but that’s all right.
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20 TICKETS
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26 DISTRACTION Special Section: Vices
Special Section: Vices
Vices. We all have them. It’s a fact of human existence that we are flawed. Vices are the intricate stitching that make up the unique fabrics of our personalities. This Special Section encourages you to acknowledge your vices and explore their effect on culture and self.
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COCAINE C O W B OY S
words_isabella vaccaro. photo_ sonia broman, olivia stauber & courtesy of the miami herald. design_isabella vaccaro.
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2:28 P.M.
JULY 11, 1979 MIAMI, FL A pair of Latino cocaine dealers saunter into Crown Liquor Store inside a bustling Dadeland Mall, spew two other men in a non-stop barrage of gunfire and flee the scene, firing their machine guns every which way and leaving an ominous white truck in their wake.
The illustrious Brickell skyline and crop of South Beach resorts would not exist without cocaine. It’s true. Cocaine destroyed and built the city of Miami in one fell swoop. Corben says the Cocaine Cowboy era is “the story of where we come from.” He added, “it’s almost this twisted love letter to our home.”
But it wasn’t just the shooting that was so shocking about what came to be known as the Dadeland Massacre – it was the way in which it happened. It was broad daylight. There were people everywhere. The gunmen fired their machine guns as if they were ruffians in a Western. They didn’t seem to mind leaving a truckload of deadly weapons behind for police to find, and they didn’t bat an eye while opening fire on innocent civilians in the parking lot. The Colombian cocaine traffickers had come to murder two rival dealers that day. Little did they know they’d be the ones to start the War on Drugs, or what many Miamians refer to today as the “Cocaine Cowboy” era.
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B
illy Corben grew up in Miami. He went to first grade here, had his first kiss here and saw his first dime bag here. Corben returned to his working-class neighborhood after school most days to new pastel-colored Porsches in his neighbors’ driveways. It seemed like everybody was adding a second story to their tiny, one-family homes and putting in swimming pools they’d probably never use. Corben – only one year old when the Dadeland shooting happened – grew up alongside the city of Miami. The difference between the two? One was built on protein and veggies, the other on cocaine. “Everybody had a little extra cash kicking around, and those people were not necessarily in the drug business,” said Corben, director of both Cocaine Cowboys documentaries. “But in Miami, you had high-level drug operators generating billions of dollars in illicit, tax-free revenue into the economy and keeping it all here – buying real estate, buying homes, buying condos, buying cars, buying jewelry.” South Florida was the closest entry point into the country for South American smugglers. The late ’70s and early ’80s had marijuana and cocaine pouring into Miami ports like champagne at Liv Nightclub. The Medellín Cartel, founded by Pablo Escobar and made famous by vicious drug lord Griselda Blanco, changed this game. Hailing from Colombia, the high-functioning cartel brought in, easily, $60 million in daily drug money. The cocaine industry would no longer warrant the title “industry” – it had become a bloodbath. “It was a wild time,” said David Ovalle, a crime reporter with The Miami Herald. “I even remember people telling me that back in the ’80s, our old building Downtown overlooked Biscayne Bay, the editor-in-chief was able to look out and see bodies floating around, and you’d call the police,” Ovalle said. Ovalle said that in the ’70s and ’80s there were more than 500 deaths related to the Drug War in Miami each year. In 1981 in particular, there were 621 murders in the city-gonerogue. Why? The competition. Hitmen lurked about the city, hired by their South American drug lord-bosses, with intricate plans to murder important pawns in other cartels. If you’re still not grasping what Miami looked like in these days, picture this: the rule of law meant almost nothing back then. Police dealt with so many drug-related crimes – especially murder – that they were desperate for help. They hired just about anyone, even drug dealers. Everyone wore a gun because it just wasn’t safe to go into the streets unarmed. Drug lords had so much money that the cops and government answered to them. Drug money was choking the banks. But worst of all, in the ’80s, people all over the world knew that Miami was the most dangerous place in the world. Thirty years later, the Cocaine Cowboy era has left a nasty scar on the fabric of Miami. But, according to Corben, Miamians are obsessed with the idea of that era. They eat it up and spit it out, proudly. Even ex-hitmen, whether still in jail or living quietly off the remains of their illegal cash, will do anything to tell their stories. “There’s never a good ending to any of these stories but, believe it or not, they are aspirational,” Corben said. “We like these stories of banditos and killers and outlaws. They are, in their own way, kind of twisted tales of the American dream by any means necessary. In a way, it’s like the appeal of this President. We like the idea that people will give the finger to the establishment and show them!” Corben recalls trying to line-up ex-convicts to interview for his documentaries. Guys like Jorge “Rivi” Ayala, one of Griselda Blanco’s star hitmen, and even Miguel “Miguelitto” Perez, one of the most terrifying killers of the time, couldn’t wait to tell their stories to the world. “He’s the guy who attempted to murder Papo Mejia [a
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“As
long as
life is cheaper than coke,
they’ll keep
killing.” competing drug lord with Blanco] with a f***ing bayonet coming out of customs at Miami International Airport,” Corben said of “Miguelitto.” The anarchy of these decades is as addicting to Miamians as the cocaine itself. And to say the cocaine culture is dead in Miami would be a lie. In October, The Miami Herald reported that the U.S. Coast Guard stopped three boats carrying a whopping 3,516 pounds of cocaine into Miami Beach. According to CBS Miami, in November, 18.5 tons of cocaine tried its way into Port Everglades but was stopped by the Coast Guard, too. There is significantly more regulation nowadays, but no system is perfect. “Instead of people driving cheesy Porsches and having pastel blazers like on Miami Vice, now it’s guys on Instagram, you know, living it up with their Bentleys,” Ovalle said. “The look has changed, but also a lot of the imagery that people want from the cocaine trade kind of remains the same.” Cocaine still runs thick through the veins of Miamians, especially the partying youth of the city. University of Miami students say they are enticed by the drug just by living here. “If you told me my senior year of high school that I would be doing that [cocaine] in college, I’d freak out,” said John Doe, a sophomore at the University of Miami. “But it’s a big part of the culture here. Miami is such a big advocate for it.” University of Miami students know better than anyone about the status attached to cocaine. If you have it, you probably have the money to keep up with the expensive habit. “I don’t ever need it, but it’s one of those things where whenever we do it, we know we’re going to have a good time,” said Jane Doe, a sophomore at the University of Miami. Ovalle said that the cocaine industry today is much less “overt” than it was back then. Drug dealers know that they cannot get away with the blatant violence and money laundering they paraded in the ’80s. “Back then you’d have bails of cocaine floating up on the beaches, and the coastguard was routinely interdicting huge, crazy loads of drugs,” Ovalle added emphatically. “You still get it now, but you don’t get it as much.” The cocaine craze of the ’70s and ’80s will probably never pillage and burn the streets of Miami like it once, so vicously, did, but those days were no more than an overstatement of the America we live in today. “When you take away the drugs and money, Cocaine Cowboys is about immigrants, children and gun violence,” Corben said. “And what are we talking about in America today but immigrants, children and gun violence?” Corben’s theory rings a little too true, if you really think about it. The Miami of the ’80s, spattered in bloodshed and corruption, is the America of today.
The Cocaine Cowboy era is foreign to most people, therefore it is wildly intriguing. Corben believes that “we love that bandit, outlaw, two middle fingers to the world kind of mentality. Most of us don’t live life that way, so we admire those who throw caution to the wind and tell the world what they think of them.”
COCAINE
Corben and his crew had an interview lined up with one of Griselda Blanco’s infamous hitmen, Miguel “Miguelitto” Perez, for their Cocaine Cowboys documentary. However, after Corben and his crew arrived at the prison and set up the dolly and lights, Miguelitto revealed that his lawyers instructed him not to speak. Corben was disappointed, to say the least, because they “never got that side of the story.”
C O W B OY S
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It’s sweaty. The tension surges between two opponents, both shielding their faces with red boxing gloves. Just seconds before the bell rings, one of the opponents throws both paws into the air, slings a bitter punch back onto his own face and surrenders. This is self-deprecation, and it’s as harmful to your mental health as a boxing match blow. words_jorge chabo. photo_natalie rey. design_jacqueline dubois.
Pete Davidson, a stand-up comedian on Saturday Night Live, is notorious for not just poking fun at himself, but also for making very dark statements – and in a surprisingly nonchalant manner. When these declarations are met with laughter, it’s not because we all think it’s a joke, it’s because he wants us to laugh with him. It’s his way of coping. “Yeah, and after observing John’s life, I publicly threatened suicide,” said Davidson, the audience erupting in laughter. “I’m sorry, I know I shouldn’t make that joke, but it is funny.” The audience continued to laugh as Davidson updated the public on “The Weekend Update.” The clip currently holds 2.8 million views on YouTube, and though the comments are mostly positive and funny, why are we laughing at his pain? “Laughter is just one of those fundamental things,” said Tej Joshi, a senior at the University of Miami studying broadcast journalism, who aspires to be a comedy television host. “I don’t know what the name of the emotion would be – maybe happiness. But, if I had to put it down to one phrase, comedy is the ability or the wanting to make other people laugh.” Comedy comes in many different flavors and tones. From stand-up to late night to sketch, the way people react to jokes
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reflects a need from the audience. Today, political satire and self-deprecation are the fastest growing trends in comedy. With the current state of politics and all its divisiveness, political satire has transformed into a new form of entertainment. It now not only makes us laugh, but is a source of news. Late Night with Stephen Colbert, for example, provides an opportunity to laugh your head off and consume updates on the world and current administration. Media has evolved from hot takes to informed jokes, and with every new comedian talk-show, the demand continues to grow. “It’s informative, which is what people want to see. It’s infotainment,” said Joshi. “The idea of comedy and news coming together is continuing to grow in more shows.” At its core, self-deprecation stems from the philosophies of stoicism which say that happiness is a virtue and judgment should be based on behavior, rather than words. It says that we don’t control and cannot rely on external events, only ourselves and our responses. In a sense, self-deprecation is a way of proving that your self-esteem is strong enough to take a hit without losing your sense of humor. Of course, sometimes laughing at your pain with the rest
Model Isabelle Harouche masks her insecurities with pieces of paper representing the traces of self-deprecation that sneak into our daily lives. Millennials may tout glorified selflove, transforming it into a sudden trend rather than a sincere aspiration, but the irony lies in our way of backward thinking.
Students said... I can’t do this I suck at this I hate myself I hate my life Why do I try
of the crowd can be healthy because you’ve accepted your shortcomings and aren’t afraid to shed light on them. It’s both a display of confidence in yourself and an exercise in humility. “A lot of what I find funny is pointing out the weird things people do and don’t notice,” said Jeremy Erdheim, executive producer of UMTV’s comedy show, Off the Wire. “You start to notice that a lot in yourself. You walk out and just got Chipotle and they say: ‘have a good meal’, and you respond: ‘you too.’ Then you say: ‘I don’t know why I said that.’” Erdheim uses self-deprecation as a way of owning his quirky peculiarities, while also using it as an ice-breaking technique when meeting new people. When things are framed in a comedic way, it allows for a more intimate connection. It is a balance, though. When these statements start to shape who you are and become a prevalent part of your identity, a vicious cycle begins to form in which you can be quickly consumed by a black hole of negative energy. There’s a fine line between keeping yourself in check and putting yourself down. The sinister side of self-deprecation lies in consistency. Consistently telling yourself you’re not something, that you’re not good enough, doesn’t build you up. There’s no resilience of the mind when your biggest critic is yourself.
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A purple sad face balloon masks model Isabelle Harouche’s true feelings, as the sinister side of self-deprecation hides in plain sight. Self-awareness is the fine line between comedy and protecting your mental health.
your thinking is your
and your perception is your
“When it goes from ‘what can I do?’ to ‘this is who I am,’ that’s it,” said Dorothy Addae, a psychology doctoral intern at the UM Counseling Center. “When it starts becoming the identity, that becomes harmful.” The difference lies between telling yourself you suck or vocalizing it to your surrounding peers. Exclaiming how much you hate yourself while you cram for a final exam serves a purpose. It’s the notion of commiserating that brings the group together. It’s a common struggle toward a common goal. It adds a layer of comedic effect as you compare the worst of these moments to the worst things in life no matter how ridiculous of a comparison that may be. Psychologist Natalie Kretsch promotes self-compassion, the opposite of self-deprecation, through her practice, which is centered around the idea of the common humanity. She stresses that we are all imperfect people who have imperfect lives and live in an imperfect world, and that suffering and pain are part of the shared human experience. At our worst, the idea of common humanity is remembering that imperfection is okay – this is part of being human. “In that moment of sadness or failure, being able to realize
that other people feel this way too, that this isn’t just me. This is part of life,” Kretsch said. Your thinking is your perception and your perception is your reality. Self-awareness plays a main role in this, because if you don’t recognize the pattern, then calling yourself a loser directly impacts your emotions. The act itself goes hand-in-hand with the idea of knowing yourself. It’s about being able to not just identify and capitalize on your strengths, but also being comfortable with your weaknesses. We are not all tall, charming, mathematicians, painters, engineers or writers – but we are all human. “It’s so important to remember that you are a human being,” Addae said. “You have goals, and dreams, and hopes and wishes. You have things that you are good at, or you excel at or you have talents in. And then you have things that you struggle with. You are more than things you are doing, more than what you are striving for. * If you or a loved one is in need of support, contact the University of Miami Counseling Center at 305-284-5511 or the Coral Gables Counseling Center at 305-445-0477.
words_abby washer. photo_gianna sanchez. design_olivia ginsberg.
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Addiction is a tricky thing. For some, addiction is something to beat. For others it is the only thing that makes the world spin. Gambling is no exception.
T
The first online casinos and gambling sites were established following the passage of permissive legislation in Antigua and Barbuda in 1994. Since then, the industry has grown exponentially, with an estimated capital volume of $59.8 billion by 2020.
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he game of chance takes uncertainty to a new level, subject to the unpredictable nature of luck and strategy. The lure of gambling is an undeniable ploy and a debated topic among fanatics, psychology professionals and government officials. For most, gambling is an exhilarating experience typically paired with a celebratory trip to Las Vegas and topped off with an empty wallet, bruised spirit and even larger chip on the shoulder. Everyone reacts differently to that chip; some are pulled back in the name of vengeance, while others keep a healthy distance, scarred from the injustice of the game, never to return. That once lighthearted bet can ignite something potentially dangerous for those who come back for more. For some, the ability to make something out of nothing is enough encouragement to slap their money down on the table. Just like the lottery, laying down a small amount has the potential to yield massive profits. This concept alone lures thousands of hopefuls to casino doors. Finding excitement in risk-taking is only human nature, as it often results in what many people seek on a daily basis: an adrenaline rush. The initial appeal of gambling often starts at a young age, as children are taught simple card games or participate in supposedly harmless family bets. Austin Fink, a junior at the University of Miami, had his first interaction with gambling at nine years old when his dad taught him how to play poker. Since then, gambling has been a huge part of his life. “I won a Texas Hold’em tournament with family and friends when I was 11 and got $600, which was a ton of money, especially for a kid,” Fink said. “It was the excitement that got me hooked from a young age.” Young adults, in particular, are at high risk for developing an issue with gambling. Human brains do not fully develop until the mid-20s, rendering anyone younger incapable of fully balancing emotion and logic. So, they act on impulses. As people grow up, they develop newfound responsibilities like managing their own health and making judgement calls. Overall, gambling problems among college students are seen as much less severe or even unnoticeable when compared to more common addictions like substance abuse. “If someone spends half the day gambling, no one pays that much attention,” said Tristan Lambert, a senior at the University of Miami. “But if you see someone walk into class drunk, you immediately think that kid has a problem.” According to a study done by the New York Council on Problem Gambling, the rate of problem gambling among college students is double the rate of the general population. The dramatic increase of accessibility to technology only
FULL HOUSE
Finding excitement in
risk-taking is only
human nature ...
Poker may be one of the world’s most famed card games, but few people are aware that variants exist beyond twocard Texas hold ‘em. A set of rules known as the Pineapple variations have gained popularity in Australia and Colombia and were devised as recently as 2010.
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FULL HOUSE makes it easier for young adults to gamble under the radar. With a new sense of financial control, college students are more likely to abuse their freedom and push their luck. Young adults fall into tricky, little psychological traps set by their underdeveloped brains. There are many motivations that glue consistent gamblers back to the casino tables even after suffering large losses. Mark Griffiths, a psychologist who focuses on behavioral addictions, says that gamblers let pride get in the way of accepting their losses, reducing their ability to make smart judgment calls. “There are always games that should have been avoided, but players end up staying in them long after they knew it was a mistake,” Griffiths wrote in an article for Psychology Today. “None of us like to lose to who we think are weaker players or admit that the game was too hard.” Beau Parker, a 25-year-old graduate of UM, gambles on a daily basis and puts no limits on his spending. “When I gamble in the casino, I probably put up $200 per bet,” Parker said. “I gamble basically any time I can, mostly online for sports bets.” Just like all addicts, compulsive gamblers can’t help
themselves. They don’t have the capacity to care about a loss, no matter how substantial. Aware of his compulsivity, Parker acknowledged that he never stops himself from going too far. “I am already down 15 for the year, so if that doesn’t stop me, I don’t know what will,” Parker said. “15,000.” While gambling was once thought of as compulsory and an impulse-control disorder similar to kleptomania, it’s now classified in the category of Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. As the impulse worsens, so too does the magnitude of the risk. This pattern can be found in people with substance abuse issues as well. As tolerance builds, an increased need for stronger “hits” to get high develops. Compulsive gamblers pursue even riskier ventures to achieve the same thrill. Legal or not, gambling at any age should be done with monetary limitations and judgment clear enough to know when to walk away. Tossing a couple dollars onto a table might be harmless, but struggling to refrain from betting on a sporting event might be a gambling addiction gone too far. *If you or a loved one is in need of support, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1(800)-522-4700 or go to www.ncpgambling.org.
University students are among the greatest proponents of online gambling. According to a University of Connecticut study, 23 percent of college students have gambled online, and 6.3 percent of that cohort did so on a weekly basis.
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Transgressions, flaws, vices, sins. However you phrase it, we all have them. Join us on our exploration of the infamous seven deadly sins.
The
S ins photo_gianna sanchez & sonia broman. design_olivia stauber.
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Lu st \'l st\ noun. e
unusually intense or unbridled sexual desire 40 DISTRACTION Special Section: Color
Greed \'g red\ noun.
a selfish or excessive desire for more of something than is needed Spring 2019 DISTRACTION 41
Pr i d e \'prĐłd\ noun.
proud or disdainful behavior or treatment 42 DISTRACTION Special Section: Vices
S l oth \'slá˝ th\ noun.
spiritual apathy and inactivity Spring 2019 DISTRACTION 43
Wrath
\'rath\ noun.
strong vengeful anger or indignation
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Env y
- noun. \'en-ve\
painful or resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by another joined with a desire to possess the same advantage Spring 2019 DISTRACTION 45
Gluttony - noun. \'glÓ™t-ne\
excess in eating or drinking 46 DISTRACTION Special Section: Vices
Bid Day Fashion “After the long, stressful and agonizing process that is formal sorority recruitment comes what most sisters deem as the best day: bid day.” Read More 13
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I Do, But Not Yet, If Ever “Perhaps instead of viewing marriage as a cornerstone of life, millennials are viewing it as a capstone. The ever-moving personal goal combined with finances, changing social norms and the ability to find a spouse push the marriage day back...” Read More
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Apples & Roses “What would your Valentine’s day be without roses and sugary treats? ... [Here’s] a recipe for a treat that’s simply beautiful and delicious. It’s both easy and fun to make and being that it is only made up of a couple ingredients, it won’t break the bank either.” Read More 4
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48 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
Health & Wellness
Genuine, bohemian and free-spirited, Health and Wellness gives our readers a wholesome take on physical, mental and spiritual restoration. Living by the mantra “my body is a temple� can be just as easily done as it is said with the wisdom that Health and Wellness has to offer. Sit back and soak up our insights.
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Z
ero GRAVITY zen
Aerial yoga is an effective way to stretch and engage muscles that are typically ignored. Instructor Tina Ruiz, nicknamed Cosmic Consciousness, displays a classic inversion. Her form impeccable, she is clearly an expert.
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It’s a stressful world. Information flies at us so quickly that by the time we notice the change it’s over, and we’re on to the next thing. It is important to take time to unwind. Hang out – pun intended – and be present. Give yourself permission to use this sport as a means of liberating your body – it’s the only one you’ve got. words_gabby rosenbloom. photo_sonia broman. design_gabby rosenbloom.
A
relatively new kind of workout, aerial yoga was invented by Broadway choreographer and professional aerialist, Christopher Harrison, in 1997. Beforehand, Harrison owned and operated an acrobatic troupe called AntiGravity and, after a trip to India, made the decision to incorporate yoga practices into the performances. This gravity-defying form of yoga has been added to the long list of variations on the practice. Taking some of the most wellknown poses and suspending them several feet off the ground adds a level of thrill and excitement. Since its creation, the practice of aerial yoga has taken flight, and studios across the world have installed the hammocks and rigs token of the sport. Aerial yoga is deeply rooted in the pursuit of trust. “Every time I teach the fundamentals, the trust and safety of it is the first thing I cover, because everything starts with coming into a safe space,” said Jo Eckardt, owner and founder of Stardust Fitness in Doral. “Part of letting go is opening your mind to opportunity.” Stepping, or rather, stretching out of your comfort zone is always, well, uncomfortable. This practice pushes people to their limits. It gives yogis the nudge they need to take their first jump. After that, they’re flying.
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Physical Benefits After spending hours upon hours hunched over a computer or carrying a seemingly-10,000-pound backpack all day, it is no surprise that students’ bodies are in less-thanmint-condition. It is not uncommon for the psychological burdens of being a college student to manifest physically, perhaps in the form of headaches, muscle spasms, stiff neck and back pain. It is difficult to make time for self-care, especially when it seems rather mundane. Aerial yoga, on the other hand, is a fun way to explore the needs of your body. “I also have found it to really help stretch certain muscles that sometimes are difficult to reach,” said Paige Cilluffo, a junior at University of Miami studying theatre arts and public health. “But with the silks, there is so much more room for creatively and freely working your muscles.” The way the inverted poses allow the spine to decompress is something that cannot be replicated in another sport. “If you’re coming back from a back or neck injury, it’s truly the best kind of physical therapy since you’re moving differently than you ever have before,” Eckardt said. The freedom to hang upside down releases pressure in between the vertebrae and aids in the healing process. In a report released by Health.com in 2016, Dr. Allan Stewart, director of aortic surgery and co-director of the Valve Center at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, noted that the inversions can increase flexibility, as well as improve your blood pressure and cholesterol. He recommends that patients dealing with herniated discs should attend an aerial yoga class in order to ease the painful symptoms. “It can lengthen your ligaments and at least temporarily relax your muscles,” Dr. Stewart explains. The dreaded head rush from being upside down for too long is, believe it or not, a good thing. The increased blood flow to your face mimics the effects of lymphatic drainage – a massage method that excites your immune system. Organic Spa Magazine says that this stimulation of the lymphatic system is great for stressed individuals. “It puts you into a calmer state as it sedates the fight or flight stress response in the body, restoring balance in the nervous system promoting a feeling of deep relaxation,” the publication notes. Aerial yoga is also proven to enhance the function of the cardiovascular system by steadying your rapid heart rate and improving circulation of your blood.
Psychological Benefits The psychological toll of simply being a full-time student is immense. Aerial yoga can provide a haven for the people who feel like their heads are going to combust if they look at a biology textbook or memorize facts for one second longer. “When it comes to psychological benefits, aerial yoga helps you set goals and achieve them,” said Amanda Ribnick, a freshman at the University of Miami majoring in musical theatre. “Scientifically speaking, whenever you have motivation and a goal, your brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter often referred to as the ‘feel-good hormone.’” Ribnick attributes her ability to stay level-headed in high
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stress situations to her time practicing aerial yoga. When the brain releases dopamine, there is an immediate psychological response that leaves people feeling noticeably calmer. Eckardt is also able to speak to the immense emotional growth that comes when you practice aerial yoga. “It’s not only physical, but mental,” she said. “The body and the mind grow when you take them to the edge.” The meditative component of aerial yoga is what Cilluffo appreciates most. “Aerial yoga instills the sense of clarity and meditative serenity within you,” Cilluffo said. “It also has allowed me to take risks and come out of my comfort zone.” It is frightening to take the time to consider ourselves. We are so concerned with the world around us that we let our own wants and needs slip through the cracks. The feeling of accomplishing a goal that you’ve set for yourself is unparalleled. When you are finally able to check off that task that’s been lingering oh-so-arrogantly at the bottom of your to-do list, it’s like taking a sip of lemonade on a hot August day. So, go ahead. Take the risk. Take flight. Self-care is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.
Safety First Despite all the benefits of aerial yoga, it is important that you take the practice seriously, as it has the potential to be dangerous. There is always a risk factor when putting yourself in precarious situations, particularly ones that require you to hang upside down. Keep in mind that your instructor is there to guide you. You must trust yourself, trust your instructor and, most importantly, trust the silks.
In The 305 Although it may seem like a tremendously foreign concept, aerial yoga happens to be highly accessible here in Miami. There are numerous studios in close proximity to the University of Miami campus in Coral Gables. Stardust Fitness, based in Doral, is undoubtedly unlike any classic yoga studio you’ve ever entered. When owner Eckardt walked into the space for the first time, she realized a lack of windows. Downtrodden and desperate for a solution, she was struck by a rather brilliant solution. Black lights – a concept typically reserved for forensics and nightclubs – were her saving grace. Hanging bright white hammocks and shining the black light in the room instantly created what Eckardt has coined as a “secret society.” The energy in the room is electric. Instructors and students alike swing from the rigging in the ceiling, and they are transported. The Stardust motto, “Find Your Wings,” seemed, to Eckardt, the perfect fit for the transcendent environment since she so firmly believes that the purpose of aerial yoga is to “take the leap and let yourself fly.” AMLI Dadeland is yet another beautiful studio accessible to students and locals. AMLI is an apartment complex located only neighborhoods over from the University of Miami Coral Gables campus. Home to many students, AMLI caters heavily to the desires of college-aged individuals. Installing an aerial yoga studio in their gym was a creative and effective way to bring in a new kind of resident.
Owner and founder of Stardust Fitness, Jo Eckardt, firmly believes that serenity is one of the most important parts of the practice. “There is a certain meditative quality to this practice,” she said. Seated poses are usually placed at the end of a class to close out the session in a peaceful way.
Zero Gravity Zen “It’s not only physical, but mental. The body and mind grow when you take them to the edge.”
Strike a Pose Aerial Lunges This pose is a great starting point for beginners. Stand in the middle of your mat and lift one leg, hooking on to the hammock at your knee. Make sure the grounded foot is facing forward. Put your hands on your hips and lunge forward on an inhale.
Half Boat Pose Stand at the front of your mat with the hammock behind you, just close enough so it’s touching your glutes. Grab on to the hammock from both sides and slide your hands down to hip level. Bend your knees slightly and shift your weight backward, bringing your legs apart.
Reclining Angle Pose If hanging upside down is the thing that drew you to aerial yoga but you’re unsure of where to start, this is the pose for you. Start in half boat, lean backward while keeping your legs far apart. Once you feel stable, release your hands.
One-Legged King Pigeon This pose looks scary, but don’t worry – it’s actually pretty easy to get in to. If you start from reclining angle, bend one knee and hook your foot on the opposite side of the hammock.
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PORE ME
54 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
Pesky pores and blackheads galore – for some, acne might just be the most triggering word in the book. The enigma of skin may never fully be solved, but if you’re battling excessive oil, dryness, flaking, or something in between, follow three of Distraction’s own on their journey to clear skin using nothing but natural remedies. photo_gianna sanchez. design_giselle spicer
OILY SKINCARE words_shianne salazar.
If you find yourself stocking up on blotting sheets like a junkie in need of a fix, ready to blame the fiery Miami temperatures for the extra sheen on your face and your inability to tame it, you may simply have oily skin. Over the past week, I stuck to an easy morning and nighttime cleansing routine aimed at combating oily skin, consisting of affordable and natural products.
1
CLEANSER
I made an easy to follow face wash utilizing the trendiest carbonaceous element on Instagram. Activated charcoal is the DIY cleanser of the moment because of its ability to trap toxins and absorb moisture. I combined one cup of organic coconut oil, six activated charcoal capsules (or substitute with one and a half teaspoons of activated charcoal powder), two tablespoons of pure baking soda, five drops of lavender oil and five drops of rosemary oil. The mixture proved miraculous for my greasy pores.
2
DIY MASK
A great oily skin mask only takes few common household items and around 20 minutes. Adding one tablespoon of lemon juice to two tablespoons of baking soda creates a quick and easy oil reduction mask that will leave your skin refreshed. I combined the two until the baking soda started to bubble, applied it to my face with a small brush and left it on my face for 15 minutes. Rinse it off with warm water and enjoy your fresh face!
3
OIL IS YOUR FRIEND!
After all of our talk about oil, the next step may seem counterintuitive, but I’ve found that the best post-wash cleanser is, believe it or not, more oil. Mix one half cup of shea butter and two tablespoons of coconut oil and put it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until firm. Whisk in ten drops of lavender essential oil, five drops of rosemary essential oil and three drops of tea tree oil and then store at room temperature for future use. After just three days my face began to exude a natural matte look – Instagram-approved, I might add.
Back to basics: revamp your skincare routine with organic ingredients like honey, greek yogurt, brown sugar, lavender and coconut oil. Sit back, relax and let these natural remedies work their magic, giving you a healthy glow.
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Ditch abrasive chemicals for natural alternatives. Feeling dry? Incorporate coconut oil into your daily regime but remember to pace yourself: a tiny bit goes a long way.
COMBO SKIN CARE
DRY SKIN CARE
words_ana mazcouet.
words_natalie abatemarco.
Craters, bumps and a myriad of colors. That’s what I see when I look at my skin in the mirror. I have combination skin and have been seeing a dermatologist for as long as I can remember. Every time I go, they give me the same thing – a topical medication and a routine that “fits” my skin type. After years of trial and error, I tried some DIY remedies at home.
Whether your skin is cracking from a day spent in the sun sans sunscreen or dried out from a weekend trip to the crisp northern air, life can take a major toll on your skin. Despite humidity and warm temperatures, South Floridians are not immune to dry skin, or so I’ve learned.
1
FACE WASH
Wash your face with water, Johnson & Johnson’s Purpose face wash, and a washcloth. I found that this face wash didn’t leave my skin feeling completely stripped of its natural oils, but rather it felt clean and fresh. I fell in love with the facewash. It is extremely gentle and as a bonus – it’s great at removing residual makeup! My face was less red, probably because of the absence of harsh chemicals in the ingredients I chose to use.
2
MOISTURIZER
I crafted a homemade moisturizer using green tea, glycerin and vitamin E oil. I mixed one tablespoon of each ingredient together and applied to my face. Sadly, this homemade moisturizer was a failure. The parts of my face where I applied the moisturizer broke out and notably flared up after using it.
3
FACE MASK
This step, unlike steps one and two, is only to be done once a week. Step three is to make a face mask by mixing an egg white and a tablespoon of plain yogurt. I mixed it until it was airy and fluffy and applied it to my skin. I left the mask on for 15 minutes and removed it with water. After I took it off my skin was glowing; it looked and felt significantly softer to the touch.
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1
DIY FACE SCRUB
Store bought scrubs can be harsh on the skin, and many people are too rough when applying them in hopes that the dry skin will vanish with more force. Luckily, I found a homemade solution right in my pantry. I mixed brown sugar, a little bit of honey and olive oil to give my skin a smooth finish. First, add ¾ cup of brown sugar to a bowl. Add ¼ cup of olive oil. Lastly, mix in honey. Spread the scrub evenly all over your face, especially in the particularly dry spots. I left the scrub on for approximately five minutes, then rinsed with warm water and pat it dry. My newlyhydrated skin really thanked me!
2
DIY FACEWASH
Try making your own face wash at home and avoid confusion with hard-to-pronounce ingredients. I used CeraVe cleanser as the base and then mixed in a tablespoon of honey as well as two tablespoons of coconut water. I shook it up, evenly distributed it on my face and rinsed with warm water. Don’t forget to pat dry and moisturize, and you’re golden.
3
TROUBLESHOOTING
On days when my skin felt especially dry, I mixed a teaspoon of coconut oil with the CeraVe lotion in my hands. When incorporating coconut oil in your regimen, you should apply a thin layer to the dry areas of the face overnight. But remember to wash the oil off in the morning, because leaving it on for an extended amount of time can clog pores. Luscious coconut oil is hard to resist, but try to limit your use to only twice a week. I found that coconut oil helped minimize dryness more than any lotion, scrub or face mask.
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Fashion
Fashion keeps an eye looking forward, showcasing the best in style. Whether it’s breaking out a new look or bringing back retro styles of the past, our readers are given a peek into what’s on the come up. Fashion is about making a statement, whether it’s an expression of yourself or the world around you.
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moon
dust
photo_sonia broman. design_michael haring. styling and makeup_abby podolsky. models_ maddi brown, alessia cusumano, sarah deco, keagan larkins & noah vesey.
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On the heels of the lunar new year, Distraction fashion took to the untouched wilderness of the Everglades to kick up some fresh dust - lunar, that is. February’s supermoon spun snow and ice across the north and left us spinning in the fields just west of our everyday Miami metropolis. In an unscathed landscape where weeds grow as tall as trees, the whimsy of the natural world inspired an updated, 21st century take on the fashion of the wild west. Spring 2019 DISTRACTION 61
moon PRETTY IN PAISLEY Loose and flowy is the name of the game to stay cool on the road. This peachy paisley jumpsuit with a bowed front feels like a reimagined bandana fresh off the wagon.
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COTTON CRUSH A staple fabric used widely in textiles during western expansion has stood the test of time and style. This cotton gown keeps it simple with crocheted flowers that feel hand-stiched.
BREEZY BOY Cotton pinstripe shortsleeve button-down paired with canvas trousers and suede strapped sandals create a look of breathability.
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JOHN WAYNE A classic take on a western-inspired paisley print button-down updated in silk with a baroque flair.
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GINGHAM GET-UP A lightweight checkered fabric is reimagined in a strappy, angular jumpsuit.
moon
dust
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Function has been taking a back seat to fashion. Light-colored lenses, which protect the best in moderate to low-level light, have become increasingly popular.
MADE
FOR
SHADE Sunglasses are like cats. They may have nine – or 10, 11 or 12 – lives, and they are the fiercest, yet most overlooked animal of any outfit. Cat-eyes, aviators or shield – each is trendy in their own right, but your taste is the ultimate deciding factor. words_gabby lord.photo_gianna sanchez & gabriela nahous.design_jess morgan.
Fashion icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly set the stage for the trendsetters of today by opening the floodgates of self-expression through eyewear. In the past, the fashion savvy probably turned to magazines or movies for the latest trends, but now, they can simply scroll through social media. Celebrities and social media influencers alike use the immense power of their posts to affect the public’s views every day. “I definitely think that social media and seeing sunglasses around campus has not only influenced my taste in sunglasses but inspired me to go out of my comfort zone to try new things,” said Haley Lanzoni, a freshman at the University of Miami and co-host of “Behind the Seams” on UMTV Pulse. Lanzoni’s favorite trend of 2018 was small sunglasses, not only because they were featured on models such as Bella and Gigi Hadid, but also because they fit her face shape. Emma Erickson-Kery, a senior at the University of Miami, agreed that Instagram is where she felt most inspired by fashion accounts such as Hypebeast and Hypebae. Hypebeast targets men, while Hypebae draws in female readers.
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“I think Instagram is the best place to find trends, whether it’s for a major person in the fashion industry like Virgil Abloh or a small influencer who just has amazing style,” Kery said. Kery’s go-to trend is also tiny sunglasses, because they evoke a ’90s streetwear vibe that she emulates in her day-to-day style. Too often you go into a sunglass store with a clear vision of what you want, and after hours of research, you’ve finally committed to buying them. So, you try them on, but the vibe is simply not what you hoped for. You are swarmed by pushy salespeople, eager to make a commission, and leave with a pair of aviators. Let’s face it, you probably didn’t really want or need them, but they’re reliable and won’t let you down. You know that they complement your face shape, and sometimes that’s the most we can ask for. “I’ll have women come in wanting small Prada sunglasses, but they leave with Ray-Ban aviators, because that’s what looks better on their face shape,” said Morline Cadet, a manager of Sunglass Hut at Lincoln Mall. Cadet said that most customers have a designer or style of frame they have in mind when they go shopping, but
end up with something completely different. She believes that shopping for sunglasses is less about what looks good on models and is more about complementary shapes that enhance one’s facial features. Take model Chrissy Teigen. She is usually spotted wearing aviators or square frames. It adds dimension to her rounded face, segmenting and elongating it. “Ray-Ban, Chanel, Prada and Michael Kors are our top selling designers, but there’s no ‘one shape fits all,’” Cadet said. This year’s sunglass trends are far from boring. In 2019, patterns aren’t just for your clothes. Many brands, Fendi and Moschino among them, are taking on creative and unusual patterns for their frames. Bedazzled sunnies are also making a comeback after Dolce & Gabbana sent its models down the runway in glasses with pearls and jewels. This style may have been made fun of in the past, but at Milan Fashion Week, the Italian brand was praised for returning to its gaudy roots. High-end fashion designers have always been key sunglass trendsetters with the looks they feature in their runway shows. But, there are near identical dupes on websites such as Pretty Little Thing, Quay and Fashion Nova, which are a mere fraction of the original price. Remember the tiny frames Millie Bobby Brown wore on Saturday Night Live? The original pair by Roberi and Fraud are almost $200, but there is a quality look-alike on Amazon for $12. Sunglass trends come and go so quickly that it isn’t always practical to spend a lot of money on the latest style. If you do decide to splurge, though, don’t worry. It might go out of style, but it probably still has another life or two in it.
STYLING YOUR FACE SHAPE SQUARE
A square face has a broad forehead and prominent jaw line. Avoid: frames with harsh angles that segment facial features. Try: aviators, butterfly or any other circular frames
OVAL
A circular face has less defined angles. Avoid: circular frames that make the face seem extra round Try: rectangular, square, wrap or shield frames to add dimensions to the face
HEART A heart-shaped face has wide temples and a narrow chin. Avoid: oversized or teardrop-shaped frames that will shield your facial features from the world Try: aviator, rimless or shield frames to highlight face shape
CIRCLE
An oval face is symmetrical and generally longer than most circular faces, but is great for many sunglass styles. Avoid: oversized frames that will throw off facial symmetry Try: any and every style that covers below the eyebrow to the top of the cheekbone – the bigger the better
SUNNIES SUNNIES
Mainly popular in the ’50s and ’60s, cat-eye glasses are coming back in many different varieties. Model Jessie Lauck is pictured sporting a more vintage look.
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B meant to
broken
The rules are meant to be broken, but don’t stop there – add a scarf, a chunky necklace and an ensemble of exotic prints. Fashion has no boundaries. words_keagan larkins. photo_olivia stauber. design_joey haas.
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T
he most important job of a fashion designer is to throw the most obscure, most groundbreaking trends onto the runway for the ultimate surprise and astonishment of the public. But for the consumer, it’s all a game of follow-the-leader. It’s time to stop being a rule-follower. Take back control of your closet and be your own style icon. These so-called “fashion rules” were first created as a way for women of old money to distinguish themselves from the rest of society in an age of drab clothing and new money – their unspoken law of style set them apart. The rulebook preached that white was off-limits after Labor Day. It also lauded the pure white color of vacation linens as a sign of wealth and luxury. But soon, even fashion houses like Louis Vuitton or Gucci began to nix these outdated ideas. High-fashion idols include white in their collections year-round. Mogul Coco Chanel had white in her collections, no matter the season, as early as the 1920s. Today, Virgil Abloh, the recently-named artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear line parades iridescent bags, utility vests and brightly-colored chains along the catwalk. Fashion rules are meant to be broken by those who can pull it off – but luxury brands are not the only ones allowed to upset popular trends. University of Miami senior Virtue Jean shatters fashion norms as a way of claiming her eccentric identity. “It’s all on the individual, it’s all on how you feel,” Jean said. “You can’t judge someone’s expression.” Take inspiration from New York or Paris Fashion Week, but know that you can mix it up in the weirdest, most elaborate ways. Having a list of fashion do’s and dont’s is a thing of the past, so here are a few rules that you should immediately break.
“ it’s all on the individual, it’s all on how you feel”
Jordan Kiser shows his love of denim by mixing a darker jacket with a lighter washed denim jean. Playing with different washes and textures can result in a very cool and refined look.
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meant to be broken don’t wear white after labor day.
don’t wear denim on denim.
This is one of the most dated rules in the book. If Coco Chanel wore white year-round, then so can you. An all-white outfit creates a fresh and modern feeling, and can be a real head-turner in the winter. A pair of white jeans is an easy way to break this trend, no matter the season.
The “Canadian Tuxedo” can be a very chic look without going full Britney and Justin, circa 2000. Designers like Junya Watanabe are pushing the boundary when it comes to denim, combining this rugged fabric with the timeless techniques of dressmaking. Mixing different textures and weights of denim can create a sophisticated look. Play around with the wash, as well. And don’t be afraid to experiment with distressed denim or dressing up your denim with embroidery, embellishments or pinstripes, either.
don’t mix prints. Mixing prints is an easy way to create a bold outfit that is sure to snag some stares. This trend has been seen on the runway for many seasons. Brands like R13 have become experts at breaking this rule, combining intricate florals with bold plaids and animal prints. Gucci fuses gingham with stripes and plaid on the regular. The street style community has happily adopted this trend. A surefire way to ease your way into this trend is to use leopard print as a starting point before turning it up a notch.
don’t mix metals.
shop according to your gender. Don’t limit yourself to your gender’s side of the store. This doesn’t mean that all men need to go out and start buying dresses – unless that’s the vibe you’re going for, in which case, work it! Experimenting with pieces from the other side of the store can create unique outfits. Men can easily pull off a women’s graphic tee or a pair of high-waisted jeans, while women can explore men’s denim for the true boyfriend jean look or invest in an oversized blazer to rock the loose-suit trend.
By pairing a patterned top and textured bottoms with a black jacket, model Hallie Purcell allows each piece to stick out in a very subtle way. She completes the look with a white sneaker, resulting in an eclectic and eye-catching combination.
Almost everyone has heard the rule of not combining gold and silver jewelry. The key to breaking this rule is to make it look deliberate. It’s a simple way to add dimension to any outfit that could look boring. Don’t limit yourself to only gold and silver, either. Incorporate yellow, rose, white gold, copper and bronze.
Rule-Breaking Inspo – Miami Edition
don’t mix blue and black.
Neon
Booties
Whether it be yellow, green, orange or pink, bright colors mirror the neon signs that light up Ocean Drive. Miamians are not afraid to rock these highlighter hues on bags and shoes.
Thigh-high boots, while perfect on Ariana Grande, are not exactly the easiest shoe to wear in the sticky heat of Miami. Floridian fashionistas opt for their shorter cousins. Whether it be western-inspired, sportswear or a classic patent black or white, ankle-high boots pair perfectly with a killer pair of jeans.
Blue and black are both neutral colors, which means they can be easily combined. The fact of the matter is that black matches anything and everything. The trick to dodging this rule is to make sure the blues and blacks are different enough that the combination looks intentional rather than accidental.
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Animal Print Miami trailblazers are famous for their use of animal print. Dare to mix cheetah, zebra or snakeskin with another print or color. Don’t be afraid to explore your wild side.
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Main Event
Main Event feeds your craving for the intellectual and worldly. Whether it means revealing the local significance of an international issue or discussing topics that are too often ignored, Main Event has something to offer each of us. Set aside your responsibilities for a bit and divulge in Main Event.
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MAGIC CITY HIPPIES Decked out in floral button-downs, sunglasses and stone-washed jeans, the Magic City Hippies exude South Beach vibes. This distinguished and well-dressed indie-funk band has picked up major speed within the past few years trading the Miami bar scene for national tours and sold out venues.
M
words_kelvine moyers. photo_courtesy fro rojas & magic city hippies. design_kelvine moyers.
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C
O
n the streets of Coconut Grove, Robby Hunter crooned soulful tunes and hip-hop throwbacks for the passersby. A solo artist at the time, Hunter dominated the neighborhood with his loop-based setup. It wasn’t long until the local police intervened, suggesting that he “get a real gig.” Conceding, Hunter recruited guitarist John Coughlin and drummer Pat Howard to join his act. They called themselves Robby Hunter Band, and together they took over local dive bar, Barracuda Taphouse & Grill. Barracuda was an essential stepping stone for the trio. Coughlin coined it as “the cauldron that created the band.” Barracuda’s owner offered the group a weekly gig that paid in free beer – a common currency for up-and-coming artists. Every Friday, they played for hours on end, sometimes until two in the morning with no designated rehearsal time or cut-off time from the bar. “We called it: play until we were too drunk to stand,” Coughlin joked. At that time, Coughlin and Howard were undergrads at the University of Miami. Coughlin was double-majoring in music and math while Howard was studying music engineering with a minor in electrical engineering. Both were Frost School of Music scholars, but they didn’t become friends until later into their undergraduate careers. Coughlin recalls that one evening, a mutual friend introduced Howard to him as a “sick drummer.” They’ve been friends ever since. Senior year, the duo moved into a house located behind the University Village, soon after, naming it “the Hippie Castle.” For the sake of the band, Coughlin, who also serves as the band’s producer, converted his bedroom into a fully functioning recording studio. “We spent five years there,” Howard recalled. “We were actually supposed to pass it to the next generation of music students, but we ended up just staying.” The Castle is where the band produced their first album, Magic City Hippies and EP, Hippie Castle, which was named after their notorious bungalow. Upon the release of their debut album, Robby Hunter Band rebranded itself as the Magic City
“We put all the music that we listen to in the meat grinder of our brains and pop out something different.”
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M
Hippies (MCH) – a name better fitting for the group’s laidback vibe and bewitching sound. In 2015, they merged with the bass-keyboard duo, The Flying Bellisario Brothers, a perfect supplement to their sound. They’ve since labeled their genre as indie-funk, a smooth and eclectic blend of rap, soul and indie-pop. “Indie-funk is not really a thing, we just call it that,” Coughlin admitted. “Funk, because all of our mellow songs have this backbeat groove that’s rooted in feeling good and inciting dance. The term indie just opens up the genre.” Although always rooted in indie-funk, MCH’s unique vibe evolves with its environment. No album sounds alike. Miami’s cultural melting pot plays a big role in their versatility. MCH finds itself continually pulling inspiration from an array of music categories: Afro-Caribbean, salsa, reggae, hip-hop and even electronic dance music. As Hunter gracefully noted, “we put all the music that we listen to in the meat grinder of our brains and pop out something different.” When producing their music, they’ve learned to utilize a rather Machiavellian approach. This means that they do whatever it takes to get it to sound right – even if it requires swapping instruments in the studio. Luckily, they are all multi-instrumentalists. This unconventional approach, however, does pose the question “how will they play it live?” “You have to listen very closely to everyone on stage,” Coughlin began. “All of our songs are very rhythmic, so you have to feel connected to everyone around you. It creates this intensity on stage that’s very nice.” “Nice” is a humble way to describe MCH’s electric performances, and they have numerous sold-out shows across the United States to prove it. “To sell out a show as a headliner, for us, is a new experience, and it’s insane,” frontman Hunter said. The release of their 2015 EP, Hippie Castle, garnered some well-deserved attention. “Fanfare,” the EP’s opening track, hit #1 on Spotify’s Global Viral Top 50 list and has since accumulated over 8 million listens. From there, it’s been a huge success story for the band.
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In 2017, they embarked on their first ever national tour with notable indie-alternative band, Hippo Campus. They followed that with their first headlining tour this past fall. The tour, which kicked off in Nashville and ended in Tampa, was missing just one city: Miami. South Florida’s lack of appropriate venues forced MCH to skip its hometown on the tour. “We would hate everyone to think that we don’t want to play in Miami,” Coughlin stated. “Playing in Miami is the best thing in the world – we love it. It’s just so hard to find the right spot, the right ticket, the right time, all that stuff.” It’s no secret that the band has outgrown its days of dive-bar performances, but South Florida is missing an entertainment space that caters to their needs. A venue between the size of the Fillmore and local pubs would more directly fit their style. In the past, Magic City Hippies has worked around this by partnering with Prism Creative Group, a driving force and proponent of Miami’s creative community, for pop-up events like Miami Flea and Rooftop Unplugged. In the meantime, they’ve earned coveted spots this summer at the following music renowned festivals: Bonnaroo, BottleRock Napa Valley and Peach Music Festival. This will be their second time appearing at Bonnaroo; their first appearance was in 2017. It’s only the beginning for these South Florida hippies as they continue to make waves in the music scene.
C
John Coughlin, Paul Howard and Robby Hunter have devoted their lives to finding their eclectic and authentic sound since 2013. The multi-instrumentalist component of their recording process that involves the band members swapping instruments mid-session is unique to MCH.
MCH PLAYLIST We’ve cultivated a Spotify playlist of our favorite Magic City Hippie tracks. Use your Spotify code scanner to locate the playlist and give it a listen! 1. FANFARE 2. HEART WANTS 3. BULL RIDE 4. HUSH 5. FRANNY 6. LIMESTONE 7. FOUR OF A KIND 8. NEVER SAY NO 9. CORAZON 10. MAGIC CITY HIPPIES 11. ¿QUÉ PASÓ?
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The
American DESERT words_elisa baena. photo_gianna sanchez. design_michael haring.
Many fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s are more abundant in lower income areas resulting in high rates of malnutrition.
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H
e has his first full meal at school – and his last. He is given an apple and a small carton of whole milk for breakfast in the cafeteria. He can smell the off-brand disinfectant on the table-top. At lunch he is given a cheese sandwich, a bag of vegetables and whole milk again. When he gets home from school, there is nothing but a jar of mayonnaise in the refrigerator. He will have to wait for his mom to pick up dinner on her drive back from work. Today is McDonald’s, yesterday was Taco Bell. This is food insecurity: not having access to adequate food. The U.S. Department of Agriculture further defines it as “a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food.” Hunger and food insecurity are separate phenomena, but they are not mutually exclusive. Food insecurity means having limited access to nutritious food because of a lack of financial resources, while hunger is the physical sensation of discomfort resulting from insufficient nourishment. One in eight Americans were food insecure in 2017. This is 40 million Americans, 12 million of whom are children, according to Feeding America, the country’s leading domestic hunger-relief organization. Feeding South Florida reports that in South Florida alone, over 700,000 individuals are food insecure. 34 percent are children under the age of 12. That is the same percentage as millennials with Instagram accounts. The stereotype of someone who suffers from food
The drought of healthy food options and accessibility that plagues low-income neighborhoods across the country is an epidemic of colossal proportion, and it all begins beneath the golden arches. insecurity is unemployed, homeless, a single parent or a minority. To say that this profile is clear-cut, though, would be a gross inaccuracy. “We always say here that hunger does not discriminate,” said Sybil Brown from Feeding South Florida. “What a lot of people don’t know is that over 60 percent of our families have at least one working adult. These are not people who are trying to look for handouts. They’re working jobs and doing their best, but at the end of the day they can’t make ends meet.” Feeding South Florida is the state’s only branch of Feeding America and serves 25 percent of the state’s food insecure population. The organization distributes over 50 million pounds of food annually. That covers roughly 42 million meals. They are partnered with over 500 retail stores in Florida to recover food that would have otherwise gone to waste. “Every year in this country, roughly 40 percent of everything we grow, distribute and make gets thrown out and ends up in landfills,” Brown said. “We try to connect with local food industry partners such as Publix, Costco, Walmart and then farmers, and then try to recover some of that 40 percent that’s being thrown out.” While 83 percent of the food insecure population in South Florida qualifies for food stamps, the program only provides about two to three weeks-worth of food per month. Relief organizations like Feeding South Florida and local food pantries help keep families afloat during this gap. But there is still that 17 percent of food insecure individuals who do not
According to Sybil Brown from Feeding South Florida, “Every year in this country, roughly 40 percent of everything we grow, distribute and make gets thrown out and ends up in landfills.”
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qualify for federal nutrition programs and need to rely on higher wages in order to get by. Dr. Linda Parker, a research assistant professor at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, believes that homelessness and low wages are at the root of food insecurity. A licensed dietician and nutritionist who completed her doctorate and master of science degrees at Harvard University, Parker specializes in nutrition in relation to HIV disease, dietetics, nutrition and women’s health. Food insecure individuals are at an increased risk of acute and chronic diseases, with common nutrient deficiencies of Folate, Vitamin C, Zinc, Iron and Vitamin B12. “Nutritional deficiencies lead to low levels of immunity,
“They’re working jobs and doing their best, but at the end of the day they can’t make ends meet.” pica, obesity or being underweight, poor growth in children, low birth weight and high infant mortality in infants,” Dr. Parker wrote. An important component of Dr. Parker’s work is educating food insecure individuals on how to get the most out of their limited resources. For example, a bottle of soda and a bottle of milk could be the same price at a fast food restaurant. An increase of the minimum wage and an expansion of the SNAP (food stamps) program could begin to alleviate and address the issue of food insecurity in America, but these efforts are often met with opposition at the federal level. “I think if we look at changing some of the programs, that takes looking at what Congress wants to do and what the voters want to do. And it’s difficult. From what I’ve read, our current president is not interested in increasing the minimum wage in any shape or form,” said Dr. Parker. The conditions surrounding food insecurity are not much more hopeful in Miami, either. Though Feeding America reports that Miami-Dade County has decreased its food insecure population, the cost of living in Miami continues to rise and is 7.6 percent higher than the national average. The Miami Herald reporters Annie Lord, Janisse Schoepp and Sara Haas wrote in their 2018 article that “62.7 percent of renters in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties spend more than a third of their income on rent, while 33.8 percent of renters in the region spend more than half of their income on rent.” A Hunger in America survey from 2014 found that many households that visit charitable organizations for assistance find themselves having to make the choice between food and medical care, food and transportation and food and housing. This puts parents in pressing situations in which they have to determine whether to buy food for their children or pay rent to keep a roof over their heads. For some, fast food is a once-in-a-while treat for road trips or late nights. But for the food insecure, it is often the only kind of meal they can afford. The boy has gotten used to eating fast food most days out of the week, but sometimes his mom can’t bring anything home. If she runs out of cash before payday on Friday, the boy will eat at school exclusively when she can’t go to their local food pantry. Tonight, his stomach whimpers as he goes to bed. A cheeseburger from the dollar menu can wear off pretty quickly.
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Due to the high quantity of processed foods in their diets, the food insecure are at an increased risk of acute, chronic illnesses.
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SHOOT OUR EDITOR-INCHIEF, TEDDY WILLSON, AN EMAIL AT TDW41@MIAMI.EDU OR CHECK OUR INSTAGRAM TO FIND OUT OUR MEETING TIMES AND COME MEET US.
WHAT’S THE PROCESS LIKE?
FIRST WE BRAINSTORM
THEN THE BUDGET IS CREATED
YOU PICK UP STORIES TO WRITE, DESIGN OR PHOTOGRAPH
WE COLLABORATE
SEVERAL ROUNDS OF EDITING
WE PUBLISH ONCE IT’S PERFECT
DISTRACTION’S DIGITS
39 ISSUES
28
CORE STAFF MEMBERS
500
AWARDS & COUNTING
COME TO THE DARK SIDE
www.distractionmagazine.com Distraction Magazine @Disractionmag @DistractionUM
Looking to venture outside your comfort zone? Explore your darker side and join our awardwinning staff. We’re always accepting writers, designers, photgraphers, videographers, PR pros and business-savvy sales reps. However you’d like to indulge in your depravity, we have room for you on our staff. Contact our Editor-in-Chief, Teddy Willson, at tdw41@miami.edu for more information. Anyone is welcome to contribute!