It’s Your Life / People, Places and Things to do. : BENEFIT CONCERT : The Beat Goes On in Fight Against AIDS

Drew Setterfield was about the coolest bartender of all time. Not only did he survive scores of Raging Arb & the Redheads gigs at the legendary Charlie’s in Ventura, but he was always ready with a Bass Ale and a smile. A longtime daytime employee of Green Thumb International nursery in Ventura, the 40ish Setterfield died of AIDS on March 13.

A benefit will be held tonight at Nicholby’s in Ventura featuring local artists with ties to Charlie’s. Headlining will be Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, the king of swing and the top-drawing band at Charlie’s.

Also on the bill is Extract, named for lead singer Marjorie Extract, who swears that’s her real name. This will be the first local appearance for Extract, formerly J. D.’s Last Ride, those peerless purveyors of rockabilly and roots music. Opening will be folk singer Bill Coffey, former lead singer of the Mudheads and survivor of many a gig at Charlie’s.

The benefit is being organized by Tracy Conroy, who says all the money collected at the door will be donated in Setterfield’s name to AIDS Care Inc. of Ventura. Suggested donation is $10.

* Drew Setterfield benefit, Nicholby’s, 404 E. Main St., Ventura; 653-2320.