Written by Beth Lacey

On Sunday, February 29th, friends, family and even a few people who had only heard of the horrible incident that occurred on November 11th 2003, showed up at Valentine's on New Scotland Ave in Albany to pay tribute to Chris Bascom's legacy. The turn out was incredible. Between the 50/50 raffle, donations and revenues brought by the show itself, $4,023.50 was raised. This money will go in the Chris Bascom Scholarship Fund, which is being kept at SEFCU. The scholarship will recognize one student each year who exhibits similar qualities that Chris himself possessed. Some of the qualities include love and devotion to family, respect and love for other people, helpfulness, sense of humor, fun-loving, appreciation of history and a great interest in sports. The concert itself was unbelievable. The family would like to send their deep thanks to This Time Tomorrow, The Outcome, Overthrown and Imperfect for donating their time. All four bands put on a great show. Of course, the two more poignant aspects of the night were the slideshow and a speech given about Chris by A.J Fudge. The slideshow was astonishing. Each picture of Chris brought back memories in each person who knew him to any degree. It was truly touching. Same goes for the speech, which went like this:

“Let me start off by thanking everyone who came here tonight. The people here and the ones who couldn't make it are the reason our beloved friend is smiling down on us.

Once in a great while God sends us a gift. A gift such as this comes in many forms. This one in particular has a name. Chris Bascom...Now, I can't tell you why we deserved such a wonderful gift, but I know for a fact that my life was better because of it.

He has been there for me, and I know he was there for many of you as well. He was there through all the times, good and bad, even when I made mistakes, he was there. He could wash away your pain and sorrow with his words, bright blue eyes, and that wonderful smile. Everyone's day was better
because he was in it. Now, our dear Chris has been taken from us much too soon, and a great void has taken his place. I am here tonight to remember and replace my sorrow with the love and memory of Chris.

Gather with me tonight, the friends of Chris, the family of Chris, and the one girl that meant so much to him, Katie Madeline...in a prayer to wish our beloved on a SAFE TRIP to the great beyond. What came from God has now returned. Chris we know you can hear our prayers right now.

Remember this one last thing...
We will always remember you!”

Naturally, none of this could have been possible without the help of Howard Glassman at Valentine’s and his amazing staff who donated their space and time to this cause. Thank you to everyone who came to the show and contributed to the efforts, which made this night possible. Chris Bascom himself will never be forgotten, he will stay in our hearts and memories forever.