Famed Chicago Cubs and Chicago Wolves national anthem soloist Wayne Messmer will headline a fundraiser for the NSYMCA for the second year in a row, organizers have announced.
Performing with his quartet, Messmer — also a professional speaker, author and broadcaster among other titles — is “generously donating” his talents to the “Live on the Lawn” fundraiser to benefit pool needs and building improvements during the Sept. 8 event, according to a news release.
For nearly 40 years Messmer has performed the national anthem at professional Chicago sports events, and has also sung for the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Blackhawks and the Chicago Sting.
More Top Picks Tractive Gps
Messmer credits his career as a philanthropist to narrowly surviving a shooting as he was leaving a restaurant on Taylor Street in April of 1994, after performing at a Chicago Blackhawks game.
“The opportunity to lend support to such an important community resource as the NSYMCA is a calling I am proud to answer,” said Messmer. “My life and career nearly came to an end in 1994 when I was shot in the throat point blank as an innocent victim of a random act of violence. Surviving that dramatic ordeal with the use of my voice was nothing short of miraculous. It has given me a direction in my life to use words and music to spread kindness wherever and whenever I can.”
His philanthropy work also includes singing monthly at Honor Flight Ceremonies, supporting veterans groups, and other others such as the Special Father’s Network, Illinois Fatherhood Initiative, Bank the Blue and the Knights of Columbus, among others.
“We are proud to have the Messmer Family as Y members and even more humbled to have them support our Y and believe in what we do for our communities,” says Kathy Fielding, CEO of the NSYMCA. “Last year’s event was such a success, and so we are thrilled to again have the support of Wayne Messmer and his Quartet.”
Also performing will be keyboardist Chris White, bassist Sean Jacobi, Dave Katz on trumpet and fluegelhorn and Messmer on vocals.
“Live on the Lawn” tickets are $40 per person in advance and $50 at the door. Organizers said the event will be held “rain or shine.” Beer, wine, soda and water along with light food and snack items will be available for purchase. Bringing a blanket or chairs is recommended.
Tickets are available under Wayne Messmer Quartet At the NSYMCA | North Suburban YMCA www.nsymca.org/wayne23