Michael Ayers mural spotlighted

Former Beacon Journal artist Michael Ayers’ finished mural of jazz greats on the outside wall of the Akron Civic Theatre at Lock 3 was “unveiled” tonight by putting a spotlight on it.

Michael, in the BJ community relations and marketing department till he was downsized out the door in 2007, spoke briefly, identifying the jazz stars in his mural.

The mural “unveiling” came during intermission of the Peggy Coyle Trio jazz concert.

Lock 4 is adjacent to Lock 3 in downtown Akron, in a smaller outdoor venue.

Michael and Patricia Ayers have a daughter, Allison Michelle Ayers.

Michael’s brother, former Beacon Journal editorial cartoonist Chuck Ayers, watched his brother’s moment in the spotlight. Chuck drawns “Funky Winkerbean” and “Crankshaft” cartoons written by another Kent State graduate, Medina’s Tom Batiuk.

There would have been a photo of Michael and Chuck Ayers with the mural in the background, but it turns out I’m not that with-it in using a cellphone camera. I took the photo, but forgot to save it for posterity. I did remember to save a photo of the mural, though. Michael named all the jazz greats in his mural, but I only identified those that I remembered, with help from Paula.