I’m all verklempt about all the support that’s bubbling up in Chicago, all the benefit shows that are coming together to help Gary Schepers defray his horrendous medical bills. Here’s a list of shows in the Reader. Here’s a longer profile in the music section, from a few weeks ago. Here’s an article in today’s Tribune. Another one in the Sun-Times. There are dozens of shows happening and more being planned. I’ve honestly never seen anything like it, but I’m not at all surprised either. Because we, the music community here in Chicago, do tend to pull together in good times and bad. So I’m going to make one last plea to you guys, whoever can come out to one of those shows, please do. The one I’m playing is on Sunday night at the Hideout starting at 8pm… I’m pretty sure it’ll sell out so get your tickets now if that’s the one you want to see. Frankly I don’t care which one you see, just get yer ass out there! If you’re out of town and you can help with money, any amount would be very much appreciated. Bloodshot has helped set up a trust for that purpose; donations can be made payable to the "Gary Schepers Trust", you can take them to any National City Bank branch or send ‘em via snail-mail at National City Bank, 1520 N. Damen, Chicago, IL 60622. I never do this, I don’t beg people to come out to my shows, but this is obviously a time to put all modesty aside and ask for y’all’s help. I know, this is just one guy and maybe you don’t even know him, and yeah maybe there are a lot of people who need help and aren’t getting this kind of exposure from the local media… but still, that’s neither here nor there. Let’s do this, let’s help get this guy back on his feet. Okay, rant over.
Gary Schepers is an old-school Chicago soundman and musician who’s been hospitalized due to complications from diabetes. I’ll be playing at one of MANY benefits for him, on a bill with Califone and Chris Mills at the Hideout. Doors are at 8pm and tickets are $20 — all proceeds go directly to Gary and boy howdy, he really needs it now. There’s more info about him and all the benefits that are coming together over here. Please come out to one of them and show your love… whether you know him or not, this is a person who’s helped a great many of us Chicago musicians get to where we are today.
