Rockers In Recovery

March 2012

AN INTRO

TO ROCKERS

IN

RECOVERY

RICKY BYRD JOINS

ROCKERS IN RECOVERY TO CARRY MESSAGE OF HOPE

12 STEP MUSIC FEST Featured Artist:

RICHIE SUPA

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Rockers in Recovery Magazine

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INFO

CREDITS Publisher Layout Design Ad Design Editor-in-Cheif

Visions I Design Philip Salvagni John Sullivan Alexander Armstrong

Contributing Writers: Kevin King R. Scott Armbruster Harry Lipton Mother Henry Deborah Frost

Left to right: Ricky Byrd, John Hollis and Richie Supa

CONTACT 954-826-4920 825 NE 12th Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33060 www.rockersinrecovery.com john@rockersinrecovery.com

Johnny B. and The Road Dogs

RIR Concert May 28, 2011 4

Rockers in Recovery Magazine

CONTENTS

FEATURE STORY Rockers in Recovery.......................................... 6

ARTICLES Left to right: Ricky Byrd and Richie Supa

HCS Services Inc. Proudly Supports Rockers in Recovery.......................................... 8 An Innovative Approach to Addiction Treatment.............................................................10 A Night to Remember.......................................12 Memorial Day Weekend..................................14 12 Step Music Fest...........................................16 Ricky Byrd Joins Rockers in Recovery to Carry Message of Hope.............................18 About the Delray Beach International Tennis Championships.....................................24

Joe Dixon Thrown Alive

FEATURED ARTIST Richie Supa..........................................................22

CALENDAR Upcoming Events...............................................26

DIRECTORY Business Directory............................................26 www.rirconcerts.com

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FEATURE STORY

Rockers in

Recovery A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT AND LOVE

By Kevin King

I

t was just last spring when I began to realize how powerful Rockers in Recovery truly is. It was at one of the shows in Pompano beach with Ricky Byrd and Richie Supa as the headliners. While they were on stage, I began to observe the crowd.

What I saw was an amalgamation of both old timers and newcomers to recovery all being captivated by the passion coming out

promoting and networking, he was in the presence of his own vision being brought to life. That’s when I realized Rockers in Recovery wasn’t just made for individual growth; it was built as a community of support and love.

John Hollis is the embodiment of Rockers in Recovery’s vision. For many years, John tried to fight addiction without the help of the 12 Step Program. When times got especially dark, he would refer to a testimony given by Eric Clapton a b o u t his own experience, strength and hope.

E v e n though J o h n himself was using at the time, he would still feel the power of Eric’s message regardless of his own weakness.

In my opinion, that is exactly Left to right: Ricky Byrd, John Hollis and Richie Supa what John is trying to do–to get his message out there of these two men. Then I turned to my left for all those battling addiction to hear. So and witnessed as John Hollis, overwhelmed even if they’re not able to stop themselves, by all that was surrounding him, broke out in they’ll still feel the hope that survivors have tears. After all the time he put into creating, 6

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FEATURE STORY

gained.

partnered with the promoter of the How to Save a Life Foundation, an organization in which the founder, Marti Hottenstein, had lost her son to addiction because she did not have insurance for him. She held the concert to raise money to pay for those

The Rockers in Recovery radio show is the main vehicle to convey it’s message of inspiration. A typical show consists of musicians as well as those in the recovery community sharing their personal experiences. One show that sticks out in my mind was when Richie Supa debuted his song, “Last House on the Block.”

When it was playing, I remember everyone in the studio being emotionally impacted by the song’s theme. The song tells a story of a heroin addict who is driven by the hopelessness set forth by his own addiction.

Later that year, Richie’s song was given the Prism “Song of the Year’ award. This is a prime example of the power that the song brings to the listener, which is why it can be heard in rehabs for newly recovering addicts to reflect on the forces of addiction.

Left to right: Ricky Byrd and Richie Supa Another song that had debuted on the show was Ricky Byrd’s, “Broken is a Place.” Even though the song highlights the use of drugs as a means to cope and the salvation found from it, that strength is relative to all people who are getting rid of an unhealthy outlet.

They fool themselves into thinking that it is bringing benefits when it really only brings pain, while also symbolizing that the pain is the touchstone of growth. So no matter how broken someone thinks they are, it can always lead to the bettering of themselves.

Richie and Ricky are just a couple of examples of the amazing support that this program has gained. The feedback received has been diverse to say the least.

Listeners and hosts spans the spectrum from Yale to jail. From one guest who teaches the genetics behind addiction to an inmate whose warden makes it available for them to listen and call in. Not only is it broadcasted in studios, but it is also on live broadcast at conferences and concerts. For instance, one broadcast that was recorded live from Philadelphia was

who were as unfortunate as she was. It is another illustration of how Rockers in Recovery associates themselves with all groups who promote the well-being of their communities.

As I recollect on all of that Rockers in Recovery encompasses, I understand why those tears in John welled up that day. It is true that they were tears of brokenness and shattered dreams, but they were also tears of joy and hope for those who believed they were hopeless, reinforcing that the essence of Rockers in Recovery is that it’s possible for people to share experience, strength and hope to benefit others. « Community and media events are the cornerstone of Rockers in Recovery (RIR) and holding an event can be an exciting and important way to make a difference in our community. The impact this organization can have by spreading a lasting message of recovery throughout the community can be beyond measure.

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ARTICLES

Holistic Counseling Services Inc.

Proudly Supports

Rockers in Recovery

By Michael Bruscin

others can provide invaluable support and direction.

A

Holistic Counseling Services Inc. (HCS), a non-profit 501(c)(3) was created to provide support and funding for anyone in need. Holistic Counseling Services Inc. philanthropic focus is to provide direct and indirect support to those in need. Our donors are encouraged to participate in current initiatives and foster communication regarding HCS activities, priorities, and intellectual resources to external and internal organizations within their respective zones of influence. By initiating and developing opportunities that encourage interaction between HCS and its fellow donors, we help donors maintain meaningful and rewarding connections to our organization.

ddiction is defined as the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, such as narcotics and alcohol, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma. Addiction can also be viewed as a continued involvement with a substance or activity despite the negative consequences associated with it. Gratification or liberation from actual or perceived ailments would have originally been sought; however, over a period of time involvement with the substance or activity is needed to feel normal. Some now mean ‘addiction’ to include abnormal psychological dependency on such things as exercise, video games, shopping, watching TV, sex, pornography, computers, internet, work, gambling, adrenaline, idolizing, food or certain types of non-pornographic videos, spiritual obsession and self-injury. The number of those who are “addicted” is rapidly rising at an alarming rate.

Those in need encompass all age groups, race, religious denomination, geographical location and economic status. Substance abuse has become an ever widening epidemic that destroys lives, devastates families and weakens our society.

Unfortunately, many in need of help cannot afford access to the services and support they need to overcome their destructive lifestyles and seek “recovery.” Recovery is defined as restoration or return to any former and better state or condition.

Our organization exists for these crucial reasons. Recovery is not an event but a lifetime journey. Along this path, the aid of experienced guides and the fellowship of 8

As HCS and the need for our services continues to grow we depend on networking with others for funding. HCS is in the process of utilizing leading social media outlets, as well as emerging communication technologies to extend our reach to as many groups and individuals that are willing to contribute to our organizations greater good. We believe that alumnus, those who have successfully completed their treatment, and their family members joining with various philanthropists are the key components in our continued success. Through this involvement, HCS will continue to grow stronger and better serve all those in need while supporting educational preventative measures and community awareness.

Holistic Counseling Services Inc. proudly supports Rockers in Recovery (RIR) in all that they do. Combining music, pop culture and awareness for substance

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abuse, is what makes them unique. Their safe recovery platform is of the upmost importance, due to the fact that the reality of substance abuse and its effect on our society is very real and can be very close to home. Therefore, bringing the idea of recovery to the forefront and allowing those who are aware of addiction to be involved, while educating individuals who are mostly unfamiliar with addiction. The importance of community awareness and the educational purpose behind research and development allows for communities and society as a whole to be equipped for those in need. John Hollis, founder of Rockers in Recovery, is not only a colleague but also an example of perseverance, integrity, and selflessness. While being a respected member of the recovery community, John , not only had a vision but also the courage to bring it to the world.

individuals as possible. HCS supports security deposits for those entering sober living, necessary transportation costs, and partial or full scholarships for addiction treatment centers and other like support services. We also provide funding for outsourced research and development for the advancement of new evidence based holistic treatment modalities. Together we encourage everyone to take part in our mission to help the less fortunate. With your help we know that HCS’s light will continue to shine for years to come.

Holistic Counseling Services Inc. authentically welcomes all donations to support our mission of offering scholarships and funding to accompany as many

Please feel free to contact us at Hope@holisticcounselingservices.com

Currently, the combination of Rockers in Recovery, the International Tennis Championships and Holistic Counseling Services Inc. has one unified goal; Life. The idea, that with supporter’s financial and moral gifts, the world will not just be a better place, but will also have better people in it. 

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ARTICLES

Truly

an Innovative Approach to

Addiction Treatment

By Jim Bevel

B

eing faced with an addiction issue can be a rather daunting situation.

Whether you are the one suffering or it is a loved one you are trying to help, it can be a confusing lonely task to seek out help. Where do you turn? If you call your insurance company you can be certain that their top priority is to direct you to the least costly resources. You can reach out to some type of government-funded organization, but these agencies are overwhelmed, underfunded and understaffed. So you go to the Internet where you find thousands of sites all claiming to be the best; some even disguised as help lines. Once you get past the feeling that you are shopping for a used car, you press on and call one of these places. Many treatment centers are well meaning but at the end of the day their livelihood comes from filling their beds regardless of whether they are the best fit for you or your loved one. Never the less, you push forward and make a phone call, then you are asked to give your insurance information. You are then told that you will be contacted shortly. A few hours later you get a phone call and the representative informs you that your insurance will not cover their services and you will either have to pay thousands of dollars or go back to the drawing board–that is if you are not so frustrated by now that you give up. This process can be repeated several times.

Unfortunately, the above scenarios are not uncommon. What is even more disheartening for me is, as a professional, after providing a client or their family with our quality proven options, we find out that all of their resources have been used up on alternatives that were clearly not the right fit for their needs. Nothing is more frustrating.

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This is why we created Treatment Solutions Network. Almost seven years ago during the Cape Cod Symposium on addictive disorders, I had a conversation with some colleagues over cigars. That conversation was the beginning of what has become a new approach to addiction treatment.

The addiction treatment vocation is an immature vocation, which has primarily been doing the same things over and over and expecting different results. Call me crazy, but isn’t that what we tell our clients is the definition of insanity? This vocation has been ripe for someone to step out of the box and do something innovative. That night in Cape Cod we took the first step out of the box. We have created a place where people seeking help can come to with confidence, knowing that within a couple of hours a client’s needs and resources will be evaluated and effective options for treatment will be given. These options are based solely on what the best fit for the individual’s needs are and that can be realistically obtained with the available resources with no other motivation. With one phone call to our Assessment and Placement Center, you can rest assured that you will find a friendly voice on the other end who will remove the confusion and loneliness from the process. We don’t stop there. All clients who are admitted to our facilities are guaranteed a minimum 30 day stay regardless of any insurance issues which may arise after they have been admitted. However, we don’t stop there. We follow our clients for a year after they discharge to assist them in following through with their discharge plans and support them in their recovery.

We are constantly looking for new ways to service a population that has been largely misunderstood. The people we help come from all walks of life and socio economic demographics. They are not the derelicts portrayed in many movies and in

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the imaginations of well meaning people who are ignorant to the disease concept of addiction. Who knows, they may be your neighbor or your children. I have helped thousands of people’s grandmothers who were addicted to prescription medication.

So, if you or someone you love is suffering,

call us and discover a truly innovative approach to addiction treatment. ÂŤ Clinical Oversight - (866) 359-6320 casemanagement@tsnemail.com

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ARTICLES

A Night to

Remember

By R. Scott Armbruster

I

was in Pompano Beach, Florida this weekend meeting with several Addiction Recovery centers to discuss the results of their In-Clinic Sound Pillow® Sleep System tests (more on that in the future) and supporting my friend John Hollis as he staged the first Rocker’s in Recovery concert.

John Hollis and Rockers in Recovery were looking forward to seeing everyone for the Valentine’s Day Weekend Love of Recovery free concert. The headlining musician was Ricky Byrd along with special guest rocker, Richie Supa, with over 1,000 concert goers arrived.

It started at 1:30 pm on Saturday, February 12th. Well, that’s when the concert started.

The idea that actually got this “rock rolling,” was dreamt three months ago.

John Hollis, the originator, producer and host of Rockers in Recovery, woke up around 3:00 A.M. with a craving for ice cream and a dream. As he sat and enjoyed his early morning ice cream, John formalized this dream and said, “I want to put on a Rockers in Recovery concert.” He finished his ice cream, placed his vision in God’s hands and when the sun came up, he reached out to his supporters and network to see what the reactions would be. The responses were a resounding “Yes!” And the rock began to roll.

Ricky Byrd and the recovery rockers featuring Richie Supa 12

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The morning of the event brought rain, but what can you do, but continue to leave it in God’s hands? By the time the sound checks began, the rain stopped, the sun made an appearance and the audience began to show and flow for the next seven hours.

a great day of community, rock music and fellowship; without drugs or alcohol nor the problems that accompany their influences and effects, especially at a concert with this much diversity packed so closely together.

Ricky Byrd and Kasim Sulton

They came in brown leather, white sweaters and pink t-shirts. They arrived by foot, motorcycle, on bicycles, in SUVs and even on skate boards. We were Black, Asian, Hispanic, Caucasian, Indian, Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, and Muslim.

We were all welcome and we all had the same motivation for attending – to enjoy

The Keep Coming Back Band

As John often says, “It’s a beautiful thing.”

It truly was something to experience and I feel blessed for having been a part of it. I think I’ll go have some ice cream now, I will make it Neapolitan. «

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Memorial Day

Weekend

By Harry Lipton

T

he Rockers In Recovery (RIR) Concert on May 28, 2011 with over 3,000 people in attendance was absolutely incredible. The RIR venue was at the 1st Step Sober House in Pompano Beach, Florida, where the 250 residents got to see recovery fun happening right outside their door.

The day started out with Thrown Alive. Joe (drums) and Roger (lead guitar) came to the sober party with a blistering set to kick off the day.

The concert went on to bring great local and regional s o b e r bands like Rhetoric, J o h n n y B. and the Road Dogs, plus the Keep Coming Back Band.

The final act of the day was none other then the Rockers in Recovery Band, featuring Ricky Byrd on lead guitar, Kasim Sulton on bass, Richie Supa on rhythm guitar, along with 14

Ralph Decurzio on drums, and the late Bob Abernathy on keyboards. This two and a half hour show of R&B/Soul was excellently performed to the point you wished it would go on for another two hours.

Community events are the cornerstone of Rockers in Recovery, and holding an event can be an exciting and important way to make a difference in your community. May 28, 2011 in Pompano Beach was proof that people can recover f r o m ad d i c t i o n .

Though this platform, RIR lets the community know there is help.

Make no mistake about it, getting clean and maintaining recovery is a one day at a time function.

But this e v e n t proves you can work hard at your recovery and have some fun along the way too. In 2012, if you get a chance to see an RIR show, don’t miss it! Family fun for all without the side effects of chemical use. 

Rockers in Recovery Magazine

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12 Step

Music Fest

By Mother Henry

I

took a trip to the 12 Step Music Festival in the Florida Keys on November 5, 2011. I had heard about the Rockers in Recovery Super Group they had lined up and was curious to hear them play.

I was a bit pessimistic, as I usually am when it comes to events such as this, but I was dumbfounded when I had the opportunity to hear them in action. I knew about the

What they did, which is truly unique in this day and age, was they enhanced one another’s talents, interacted on stage and challenged each other to push further with each song. It is rare to have talent of this caliber on stage at the same time, but the most astonishing part was their enthusiasm and cooperation. First of all, not only were they exceptionally talented, but they also dressed for a professional show and not just some gig in the Keys.

2012 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominee

Richie Supa, Ricky Byrd and Christine Ohlman

various band members that were playing, although there were several that I was not aware of.

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Ricky Byrd, of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, was as gifted as ever with great vocals and guitar. Each time I have seen Ricky Byrd, he has been better than the time before. Ricky

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then introduced Christine Ohlman, longtime lead singer for the Saturday Night Live Band. The Beehive Queen herself, sang in her soulful voice and got down and dirty singing the blues. I was truly impressed.

Richie Supa, singer and songwriter from Aerosmith, demonstrated his extraordinary guitar skills and his deep, heartfelt voice brought it home as he always does.

The two drummers, Liberty DeVitto and Woody Geissman, were tight, completely synchronized and didn’t miss a beat. The horn Left to right: Will Grayson, Richie Supa and Ricky Byrd players, Chris Anderson and The one thing which was great to know Neal Pawley from Asbury Jukes, enjoyed is that this band has also been doing gigs themselves immensely as they too moved under the name NYC Hit Squad since 2003, in tandem and remained tight with every with the exception of Richie Supa and note that they played throughout the show.

Woody Geissman. Both are big supporters of the Rockers in Recovery Network, as well Keyboard player, Jeff Kazee from Southside as the NYC Hit Squad.

Johnny and Bon Jovi, was a wonderful surprise. He is a multi-faceted talent who has a voice that knocked everyone’s socks off with his rendition of Van Morrison’s “Domino”.

I plan on attending, as you should too, any events featuring the NYC Hit Squad, A.KA., the Rockers in Recovery Super Group. «

Left to right: The NYC Hit Squad - Liberty DeVitto, Ricky Byrd, Muddy Shews, Jeff Kazee, Christine Ohlman, Chris Anderson and Neal Pawley www.rirconcerts.com

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ARTICLES

Ricky Byrd

Joins Rockers In Recovery to

Carry Message of Hope

By Deborah Frost

for that matter) have for Ricky Byrd, it’s what he’s got for us. And it is a surprise.

“W

Byrd is probably most closely identified with the monstrous power chords that helped define Joan Jett and the Blackhearts’ platinum cover of “I Love Rock & Roll,” and ensure its eternal rotation daily throughout the universe. His blistering rhythms and soaring leads played equally powerful roles in the Blackhearts’ subsequent great hits. Byrd remains eternally grateful for the opportunity to orbit the globe more frequently than the space shuttle and live out the “Number One with a Bullet” dream most mortals only fantasize about. But after a dozen years, it was time for a change.

And the confines of what Joni Mitchell has so poignantly called “the star making machinery” could never have satisfied, much less revealed, the soulful, complete musician and mature artist Byrd proves himself to be on what is, astoundingly, (for a dude who’s been making major label albums for decades), his solo debut.

hachoooooo got for me?” asks Ricky Byrd, in the d istinctive born-in-theshadow–of-Yankee Stadium speak that no number of tours with superstars Ian Hunter or Roger Daltrey (to name merely two of his former employers) or hobnobbing with guitar slingers Woody, Pagey and Keef has ever knocked outta ‘dis boy from da Bronx. But the question, as

“I know I can play guitar,” he laughs with a characteristic modesty that has made him the consummate go-to team player whose classic Brit/Am blues, soul and rock n’ roll gifts have been appreciated by innumerable connoisseurs from the late Steve Marriott to Southside Johnny, merely a few of the notches on Byrd’s impressive resumé.

Southside, a frequent collaborator, also contributed to “Streetwise*Heart Foolish”.

Ricky Byrd

anyone who is welcomed into his humble presence on or offstage, (even before being wrapped in his warm, unaffected bear hug,) realizes fairly immediately: the question is not what we (or anyone else 18

“Thing is,” he continues, ”for this CD, I wanted to pull out all the stops and show what I can really do. That goes for songwriting and singing as well. When I was a kid this is the kind of music that molded me into who I am as a musician and that’s the kind of CD I wanted to make, PERIOD!! Love me or leave me!” he cracks.

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Although he received writing credits for numerous Joan Jett originals and has subsequently had many other tunes covered by various artists, his accomplishments in this area may be one of the industry’s better-kept secrets. In addition to Southside, old friend and song writing guru Richie Supa occasionally lent a pen and a brain to pick, but Byrd proves perfectly capable of turning out great songs all on his own as well as performances largely recorded and co-produced with Bob Stander in his aptly named Byrd Sanctuary home studio. Work initially began in Nashville with Ray Kennedy, perhaps best known for his work with Steve Earle.

But who knew he could sing? Never mind that he may very well be, as recent warm-up shows (when he’s not too busy backing legends and goddesses like Mavis Staples, Ronnie Spector and Darlene Love for shows he does fairly regularly at the lil’ ol’ Rock Hall of Fame) attest, one of the most affable frontmen since Rod Stewart “staggered n’ swaggered” with the Faces.

“I grew into my throat,“ Byrd laughs, “like I grew into my nose.”

With refreshing self-awareness and candor, particularly in a weird pop moment when anyone with a goofy outfit and autotune is immediately proclaimed the greatest treat since fried peanut butter, he confides, “I’m not a natural singer. But I’m a history buff— of music. Good music. The Temptations, Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, Joe Tex, Wicked Wilson Pickett as well as good ol’

drunken sailor music like The Stones, Faces, Chuck Berry, and Humble Pie. It’s all in my brain. Stylistically and emotionally I know all the riffs – it’s getting that to translate to my throat that’s the tricky part!” Byrd notes in typical self-deprecating style, “Sometimes I sound like 30 miles of bad highway!”

And what highway—good or bad—doesn’t include at least one detour?

Especially when dealing with a Runyonesque raconteur whose encyclopedic knowledge of riffs is not merely musical and anything but mundane.

To experience Byrd in full plumage is to be plunged into a raucous cornucopia of juicy characters from the finest street corners of the world.

Imagine Jackie Gleason riding a tour bus instead of driving the Honeymooners. Or Don Rickles breaking into Doo-wop with Dorothy Parker and you may begin to come close, if not quite ready for your cigar.

Then again, the young Byrd’s chops were honed by the demands of Catskills resorts, playing the riff to “Honky Tonk Women” more frequently than a jukebox before most of his contemporaries were brazen enough to sneak into Max’s Kansas City, where he met Carol Kaye, a beautiful girl who shared

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his passion for music and has since shared his life. Ricky answered a “guitarist wanted” ad placed in The Village Voice by a band that had just moved to NYC from Boston called Susan. Carol brought her old friend Tommy Mottola down to watch them rehearse at a midtown studio and he signed them on the spot to a management deal that included a recording contract with RCA. Ricky’s introduction to the “Big Leagues” was largely memorable for the 50-odd Elvis albums Ricky managed to finagle out of his A&R guy from the RCA vault and a tour opening around the country for Graham Parker breaking “Squeezing Out the Sparks.”

“When we got to LA we stayed at the legendary motel, the Tropicana,” He remembers fondly. “8909 Sunset Boulevard—I still remember the address.

I was sitting by the pool and I turn to my left and Marianne Faithfull was reading a book of poetry on the lounge chair next to me. Two minutes later Tom Waits comes walking out of a bungalow— Rock and Roll, baby!” he laughs.

All of these raucous vibes, delicious humor and wicked vibrations come startlingly alive on “Streetwise”. One of the tunes off the CD, Dream Big (a drunken sailor riff if there ever was one), perfectly articulates this passionate road warrior’s hard earned optimism and faith.

Byrd is rightfully proud of his now 24 years of sobriety and his many ongoing contributions to help others recover, which, like his family, (he and Carol are proud parents of ten-going-on wisenheimer Francesca) take top billing in his life these days. That is partly why this debut, which Byrd originally began with Ray Kennedy in Nashville shortly after 9/11, has been a long time simmering. The song “Turnstile,” co-written with Kennedy, 20

in fact, was his immediate response to the terrible immutable events he witnessed that day like so many fellow New Yorkers, first hand. But its visceral impact lands like a fresh body blow. And the sheer honesty that infuses songs like “Married Man,” “Ways of A Woman” and “Foolish Kind” with indelible warmth and rare cheer, along with virtuosic guitar playing that seems to reach new spiritual peaks somewhere on basically every cut, is more than worth the wait.

“If I never make another record, I can show people what my version of classic rock, roll and soul guitar playing is,” says Byrd, who credits the intimate Jeff Beck Iridium nightclub tribute to the late Les Paul as the incentive that sent him back to the proverbial woodshed for months.

The powerful results on “Streetwise*Heart Foolish” certainly testify to his determination to try to live up to the level and inspiration provided by Beck, one of his earliest role models, on that rare, unforgettable night.

“I have nobody to answer to with this record and no meter running, which is why I took my time,” he explains. “What you hear on this CD has always been my style of guitar playing, but sometimes you have to adapt to the artist you’re working with.” Still, there’s a whole lot more than a riot of jaw-dropping guitar finesse going on. In songs like the profoundly moving “Wide Open,” Byrd exposes a vulnerability many people, as well as artists, might prefer to run away from instead.

This is not some wannabe rock star trying to strike a cool pose. This is an adult talking about adult life. And it all rocks like hell. « For more information visit www.rickybyrd.com

Rockers in Recovery Magazine

A Night of Comedy with Mark Lundholm Event Details Date February 18, 2012 7:30 - 9:00 P.M.

Location Miniaci Performing Arts Center Nova Southeastern University 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Blvd.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33314

Tickets Cost of admission is $25

Mark Lundholm has performed in all 50 states and 10 foreign countries. From world-renowned musicians, heads of state, fortune 500 companies to rehabilitation centers and convicted felons, Mark has truly entertained on the world’s stage.

He’s appeared on Comedy Central, Showtime, A&E, CBS, and NBC. Mark wrote and performed his own one-man show off-Broadway in New York City reaching critical acclaim, and in his spare time created the now staple DVD series, “Humor in Treatment” and the Recovery Board Game.

One thing is clear about Mark Lundholm - he’s not slowing down anytime soon. With a new DVD series slated for this year, a book coming our in 2012 and a television series in development, there are plenty more laughs coming from this revolutionary entertainer!

Sponsored by

For more information call 866-759-4673 www.rirconcerts.com

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FEATURED ARTIST

Artist of the Month

Richie Supa

By RichieSupa.Com

R

ichard “Richie” Supa (born Richard Goodman in Massapequa, New York) is an American songwriter and guitarist best known for his work with Aerosmith and Richie Sambora.

Richard Supa released several albums under his own name, including Supa’s Jamboree (1971, Paramount 6009), Homespun (197?), Lifelines (1976, Epic PE34277) and Tall Tales (1978, Polydor PD-1-6155). Richard’s song “Stone County Wanted Man”, which appeared on the Supa’s Jamboree album, was recorded by Johnny Winter for his Saints and Sinners album.

and co-wrote the song “My Interpretation” from Mika‘s debut album Life in Cartoon Motion. He also co-wrote “Back on Earth” for Ozzy Osbourne.

Richie’s career was launched via the legendary Long Island band, The Rich Kids, who were signed by Clive Davis to Columbia Records. Richie also went on to a career on Broadway where he had the lead role in the

A longtime friend of Aerosmith, he has made a number of musical contributions to the band and has offered moral support. He temporarily replaced Joe Perry when he left the band in 1979 until a replacement was found.

Additionally, he helped co-write several songs, including the hits “Chip Away the Stone” (1978), “Lightning Strikes” (1982), “Amazing” (1993), and “Pink” (1997), among others.

Supa co-wrote most of the songs on Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora’s second solo album, Undiscovered Soul. He also wrote the song “Misery” for the album Missundaztood by Pink, on which Aerosmith’s singer Steve Tyler and Richie Sambora collaborated 22

Richie Supa

Rockers in Recovery Magazine

FEATURED ARTIST

hit musical Hair. He became a household name in the Northeast, which helped to launch his now 30 plus year career.

Artists who have cut his songs reads like a who’s who of the music industry, with over 50 million records sold. Richie’s songs have appeared in Disney movies, feature films and on network television, including the hit show, Melrose Place. Richie cowrote with Richie Sambora on his most recent solo album and tours with Sambora on his solo project. He currently makes Nashville his home away from home working with some of the best writers in town, bringing his rock and blues edge to the modern Nashville

sound.

Richie collaborates with hit song writers such as Brett James, Dave Berg Stephony Smith, Keith Follese, Big Kenny of Big and Rich and Shelly Fairchild. Richie’s love for music keeps him writing and producing in the studio whether it’s rock, pop, or country.

He keeps his skills honed by busily playing his hits live at songwriter events all over the country, along with his passion for helping with charities involved with children. « For more information visit www.richiesupa.com

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ARTICLES

About the Delray Beach International Tennis

Championships

By Chuck Smith

T

he Delray Beach International Tennis Championships (ITC) is the only ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) tournament in the world featuring an ATP Champions Tour event and an ATP World Tour event in the same week at the same venue. When the event gets underway February 24 - March 4, 2012 at the Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center in Delray Beach, Florida, its $500,000 ATP World Tour tournament will be celebrating its 20th year (14th in Delray Beach) and the ATP Champions Tour its third. Each year the ITC attracts the best tennis players in the world and thousands of visitors to Delray Beach and Palm Beach County.

In 2010, the event received the Palm Beach County Visitor and Convention Bureau’s annual Providencia Award for its extraordinary contribution to tourism, and it was also honored in 2003 with the ATP Award of Excellence. The ITC is one of 12 ATP World Tour events in the United States and hosted the firstever ATP Champions Tour event played on US soil. Including both Tours, the event’s total player compensation is more than $1 million. For more information, please visit www.YellowTennisBall.com.

The ATP is the governing body of the men’s professional tennis circuits - the ATP World Tour, the ATP Challenger Tour and the ATP Champions Tour. With 62 tournaments in 32 countries, the ATP World Tour 24

showcases the finest male athletes competing in the world’s most exciting venues. From Australia to Europe and the Americas to Asia, the stars of the ATP World Tour battle for prestigious titles and South African Airways 2011 ATP Ranking Points at Grand Slams (non ATP members), ATP World Tour Masters 1000, ATP World Tour 500 and ATP World Tour 250 events.

At the end of the season, the world’s top 8 ranked men’s singles players and top 8 doubles teams, based on their performance throughout the year, will qualify to compete for the last title of the season at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals. Held at The O2 in London, the event will officially crown the 2011 ATP World Tour No. 1 in singles and doubles. For more information, please visit www.ATPWorldTour.com.

The ATP Champions Tour brings together many of the greatest tennis players in history for nostalgic, competitive and entertaining tournaments in cities all around the world. There are currently eight round robin events on four continents featuring former ATP World Tour players who fit one of the following criteria: formerly ranked No. 1 in the world in singles, a Grand Slam singles champion or finalist, or a singles player on a winning Davis Cup team. Players must also be retired from ATP World Tour competition and each event can invite two wild card entrants of its choice. Players receive points throughout the year that contributes to their standing in the South African Airways Rankings. The Circuit culminates at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England in December. «

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CALENDAR & DIRECTORY

CALENDAR FEBRUARY February 18, 2012 @7:30PM - 9:00PM EST A Night of Comedy with Mark Lundholm Nova Southeastern University 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314 Cost of Admission is $25 For More Information Call 866-756-4673

MARCH March 3, 2012 @12:00PM - 10:00PM EST Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center (6,000 ticketed capacity) 201 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444 1 mile East of Atlantic Avenue (Exit 52) off I-95 Here is the lineup for Saturday night March 3rd (THE LAST MATCH OF THE DAY IS DONE Approximated start 4:30 to 5:00PM -7PM EST) Comedian Mark Lundholm (MC) and The Rockers In Recovery Band Featuring - Ricky Byrd- Musical Director (2012 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominee and Formerly of Joan Jett and the Black Hearts), Richie Supa (Aerosmith and Richie Sambora), Kasim Sulton (Todd Rundgren), Liberty DeVitto (Formerly - Billy Joel Band for 30 years) and Mark Stein (Vanilla Fudge).

NEXT ISSUE We will be reviewing an event featuring the Rockers in Recovery Band at the ITC (International Tennis Championships) in Delray Beach, Florida...PLUS a feature story on “The Beehive Queen,” Christine Ohlman!

DIRECTORY Treatment Solutions Network PO Box #7670 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33338 Toll Free Helpline : (866) 359-6320 www.treatmentsolutionsnetwork.com

PetzLife (Oral Care For Animals) P.O. Box 316 4264 Shoreline Dr. Spring Park, MN 55384 (888) 453-4682 www.petzlife.com/rockers.php

South Florida Personal Injury Attorneys 901 E. Atlantic Blvd.

Pompano Beach, FL 33060 (954) 941-8363 www.southfloridaattorney.com

1st Step Sober House of Pompano Beach 623 East Atlantic Blvd.

Pompano Beach, FL 33060 (954) 942-7414 www.1ststepsoberhouse.net

All Florida Bail Bonds 4101 N Andrews Ave., #101 Oakland Park, FL 33309-4769 (954) 565-2424 (866) ALL-BAIL www.afbb.us

Sound Pillow 1123 Patricia San Antonio, TX 78213 Toll Free: (877) 846-6488 www.soundpillow.com

National Institute for Holistic Addiction Studies 1590 NE 162nd Street, Suite 500 N. Miami Beach, FL 33162 (786) 279-0841 www.nifhas.com

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Jacko’s Complete Auto Service 1141 W. McNab Rd #1 Pompano Beach, FL 33069 (954) 330-7672

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Rockers in Recovery Magazine