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Last November Melissa Erkkila was working the door at the Rendezvous, when she caught the eye of local musician Jeff Marshall, and at the end of the night he gave her his email address. A few days later Erkkila asked Marshall if his band would play a benefit concert for a girl she knew who was really sick. Marshall asked Erkkila if the girl was a close friend of hers. He already knew the answer when she told him, “It’s me, dummy!”
Erkkila will soon be having surgery to treat ovarian cancer, and will be unable to work her two part-time jobs at the Canterbury and Rendezvous. Her employers are very supportive but during her recovery from surgery, Erkkila will be unable to cover basic living expenses like rent, bus fare and groceries. There are too many other people facing similar situations.
As they began organizing, Marshall asked, “Why aren’t people doing this all the time? This is a great opportunity for progressives to channel their energy and bring emerging bands together with local celebrities and businesses to assist people in our community dealing with major medical issues.” The idea to form a foundation to facilitate more benefits was met with much enthusiasm and support.
The first ever “Bad Fruit Benefit,” was an outstanding success. The show, featuring local bands Solyoni, Jeff Marshall and the Law, and The Shut Ins, was the most packed Tuesday night at the Rendezvous in years. CK Graphics donated publicity services for the event and kick-ass raffle prizes were donated by several local businesses including Holy Cow Records, Singles Going Steady, and many others. Also, Roberta Miner, of Blash and Raver Books, has offered to spearhead the transition from one-time fundraiser into a formal foundation.
For information on how bands, businesses and individuals can get involved, write to badfruit@hotmail.com.
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