Presents

Stars to the Rescue XIX - Walnut Creek, California
Saturday, January 9, 2010
 

It was a star-studded evening at ARF’s 19th anniversary Stars to the Rescue in Walnut Creek, California! The crowd was treated to incredible performances, including John Anderson, California Transit Authority, David Nail, Chas Elstner, Tim Martin Gleason, Black Diamond Ballet, and more. The special appearances by the “Prodigies” from Friday night were a real treat.

ARF would like to thank the performers for donating their time and talents, the sponsors who made the evening possible, the volunteers and staff who brought everything together, and those who joined us for this wonderful benefit event. We hope you had a great time helping save the lives of cats and dogs. See you next year!

(P.S. - If you can’t wait for next year, you can join us in St. Louis, Missouri on Sunday, January 17!)

Jon Anderson
One of the most recognizable voices in progressive rock, Jon Anderson of Yes was a major creative force and band leader throughout the band’s classic period, from the release of their debut album in 1969. The band went on to have phenomenal success for eleven years, until Jon left the band in 1980. He spent several years working on solo albums and collaborations, most notably with Greek synthesizer composer Vangelis. Yes reformed in 1983 to create 90125, which featured the number one hit, “Owner of a Lonely Heart.” After another brief departure from Yes in the late 1980’s, Jon returned to the band; they continue to make albums to this day.

California Transit Authority (CTA) – Danny Seraphine & Larry Braggs
One of the world’s most highly-respected rock drummers, Danny Seraphine was the drummer, percussionist, and a founding member of the Grammy award-winning band Chicago. In 2001, Seraphine put a band together to play for several charity benefit shows. The response was overwhelming, and CTA was born. Larry Braggs handles lead vocals for CTA’s recordings and live appearances. His flair, soul, and showmanship—not to mention his three-octave range—make him a superb front man. Braggs is also lead vocalist for Tower of Power, and continues to tour with that band as well.

David Nail
Growing up in a small southeastern Missouri town, David Nail might’ve chosen to follow any of the dreams that drifted by like the riverboats on the mighty Mississippi: but in the end, it was music that called his name. His dream became a realization with I’m About To Come Alive, a collection of songs that captures the highs and lows and the hometown flavor of his own experiences. Hard knocks and heartache, good times and bad, small towns and big cities – it’s all in his music. Nail counts Vince Gill, Glen Campbell, the Beatles, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, and Ray Charles among his influences.

Chas Elstner
Chas Elstner has been a stand-up comic for over 24 years and has written, performed, and produced two comedy albums: “Is This Stuff Too Real For You?” and “A Man’s Home Is Her Castle.” With numerous television appearances, such as MTV’s ½ Hour Comedy Hour and VH-1’s Standup Spotlight, Chas has performed as the opening act for many recording artists, including Gloria Estefan & The Miami Sound Machine, the Pointer Sisters, Mr. Peabo Bryson, and The Marshal Tucker Band. Chas has developed a humor to captivate audiences of all ages. He is a master of mouth sound effects and has an array of character voices which add to his energetic approach to comedy that leaves you with a lasting and entertaining impression.

Tim Martin Gleason
The longest-running Raoul in American history (playing the role more than 2,600 times with three different American companies), Phantom of the Opera’s Tim Martin Gleason has returned to the national tour, this time as the masked man himself. Prior to Phantom, Tim originated several roles, including Romeo in Terrence Mann's musical Romeo & Juliet at Goodspeed and Adam Gernstein in The Rhythm Club at Signature Theatre, a role for which he received a prestigious Helen Hayes Award nomination.

Marc Russo
Marc Russo began his career playing saxophone in the San Francisco area, recording with many of the world’s top stars, including Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and Steve Winwood. A member of the legendary Tower of Power, he also toured and recorded extensively with Huey Lewis and the News. During the ’80s Marc was a part of the contemporary jazz group The Yellowjackets; they recorded five albums in seven years, winning two Grammy awards (1986 Best R&B Instrumental performance and 1988 Best Jazz fusion performance.) Marc spent a number of years as a featured performer in the Kenny Loggins band, and is currently a member of the Doobie Brothers. He has been ARF’s Stars to the Rescue musical director for many years.

Proceeds from Stars to the Rescue provide essential support for ARF’s lifesaving programs for animals and people.

ARF needs your help more than ever — event sponsorships are an exceptional opportunity to showcase your company and support a worthwhile cause. For more information on sponsorship opportunities and benefits please contact Development Director Bobbe Bartlett at 925.296.3149 or bbartlett@arf.net. Silent auction items are also greatly needed!

Thank you to our event sponsors:

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