Friends of Chris Ayres are organizing a concert to benefit the longtime Truckee local, who has been battling colon cancer for two and a half years.
‘This could be Chris’ last few months on Earth,’ says Laura Cook, who has known Ayres for 35 years. ‘I said, I think it’s time that you take some of this burden off your shoulders. There’s so many people that want to help you. You will see what a wonderful community you live in and see that people are generous of heart.’
Cook and Ben ‘Jammin’’ Martin, a regular at open mic nights around North Tahoe, are organizing a concert featuring a variety of local bands performing classic rock. Bob Dylan, the Beatles, Van Morrison, Jackson Browne, Crosby Stills & Nash, and Neil Young are just a few of the artists whose music will be featured. Artists confirmed for the concert include Martin, Crystal Boutelle, Kimba Madsen, Garrison Green, and Steve Kershisnik.
‘Music can pull people together,’ Cook says. ‘Chris just really wants to celebrate life and have a party.’
Funds raised at the concert will go towards Ayres’ medical bills, as insurance has not covered all of the costs associated with treating the cancer. Cook says the idea for the concert came from members of a mediation group that was organized to help visualize Ayres’ recovery.
‘A few of us from that group said there must be something that we can do to help,’ Cook says. ‘Both [Chris and her husband, Bob] are music aficionados and have a lot of musical friends. They love music, and it’s been a big part of their lives. I said, why don’t we put on a little concert?’
Local bands will donate their performances. Snacks and a no-host bar will be sponsored by the Truckee Lions Club, and there will also be a raffle at the event.
Friday May 7. Doors at 7pm, music begins at 8pm. Tickets $45. To purchase concert tickets, send checks payable to Chris Ayres Benefit Fund to Trinkie Watson, P.O. Box 2539, Truckee CA 96161. Info: Laura Cook, (775) 815-1609; Trinkie Watson, (530) 582-0722
