ION INDIE MAGAZINE May 2016, Volume 24 | Page 4

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Music by CRUCIFIX “Steal My Shine” This Editor—along with Managing Editor for ION, JB BRIDGES, were out and about to cover some local live music—something that we don’t get the opportunity to do very often. The occasion was the appearance of our featured band from last month, SOUTHERN EXPERIENCE—along with singer/songwriter MICHAEL TRACY—in Marietta, GA. You will find JB’s photo layout inside this issue capturing some of the evening’s highlights. Thank you to these talented artists for a night of exceptional entertainment and gracious southern hospitality! Also, we’d like to extend our gratitude to ANITA SAYAGO of EDANA ENTERTAINMENT for making all the arrangements. Y’all (southern) RAWK! The featured artist for this magnificent May issue is New England singer/songwriter MIKE GACEK—brought to you by ION Senior Photojournalist DANIEL “THE DAGDA” JOHNSON. This busy performer is well-known to his wide fan base for his bluesy Americana/Pop/Rock sound and story-telling songs. Learn all about Mike Gacek inside this issue! Congratulations to TWISTERS MUSIC! Our own JERE PERRY, Senior Journalist and Broadcast Media Coordinator for ION, was on hand for this valued promotional partner’s “Birthday Bash”. Jere presents his report on this momentous occasion for the readers of ION in these pages. We are stoked to announce that the Owner/DJ of Twisters Music, BRUCE LENZI, is expanding his role with ION as our “Godfather of Florida”—so to speak. Bruce will be our acting liaison for music coverage in the Florida region. I’d like to express my gratitude to Bruce for his continuing support of this magazine and all of his efforts on behalf of ION. Puh-Pow! Senior Photojournalist TIMOTHY SCHUMANN is all settled in with his new photography gig in the French Quarter of New Orleans and is back in the saddle with his captivating concert photography. His coverage of the DISTURBED show at THE HOUSE OF BLUES is here in these pages for your viewing pleasure! You will also find a couple of other talented folks you might recognize in this May issue--JOE SATRIANI, LITA FORD and LIZZY HALE of HALESTORM all “struck a pose” for Senior Photojournalist MARK MYERS. You will find Mark’s electrifying photography inside. Also, congratulations are in order to Mark, on the opening of his new photography studio, MARK MYERS PHOTOGRAPHY, located at 40 Thorndike Street, Concord, NH. You can learn more about rockstar photog Mark’s new studio by visiting his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MarkMyersPhotography or book a session with him by phoning 603290-2546. I have no clever closing words this month—except for…Rest in Peace, sweet Prince. Kiki Plesha CEO/Editor-in-Chief The Fairy Rock Mother ION Indie Magazine