Over the past 20 years the annual Grey Brothers Party has become a staple of the Jamestown community.
Every year the Greys attempt to make the party even better, and this year is no different. The 21st annual Grey Brothers Party will not only be a way for area residents to gather together for a good time; it will also serve as a benefit for Jennifer Anderson.
The party will be held on Friday, beginning at 5 p.m., at the Morton Club on Pratt Avenue in Jamestown. The event will feature two local bands; Smokehouse and Smackdab. Smokehouse will play from 6 to 10 p.m. outside on the patio and Smackdab will play from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. inside on the main stage.
In addition to the live musicians DJ Felony will provide music between sets. There will be a Chinese auction and T-shirt sales to raise money for Anderson. And, special guests The Nasty Boys will be attending the party to meet with fans and help raise funds. Pre-sale tickets are available for $15 at the Gametime Sports Bar and Grill on Foote Avenue and are $20 at the door. Admission includes access to a beer truck, live music and a chance at winning a flatscreen television. The event is 21 and over.
Smokehouse has played in previous years on the patio. But, new to this year's event is the teaming up of the Grey Brothers and John Streed of Blue Moon Management to feature Smackdab.
"I've seen Smackdab at Mojo's and other venues like the Great Blue Heron Festival, and I figured let's take a shot at having them headline," said Grey. "They have a following, are very popular and it gives us a chance to branch out. And, I believe John Streed represents Big Leg Emma. Who knows? Maybe they might be in the future for the Grey Brothers."
This year's theme entitled, "Grey Solo Cup" will feature grey solo cups for every guest to enjoy a cold brew from the beer truck.
"We have a lot of fun with it," said Grey. "Everybody knows this time of year to go to the Grey Brothers Party, and we like to keep it fun, safe and so that everyone has a good time."
Anderson, who will benefit from the proceeds of this year's party, was diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension in 2007. She has undergone several surgeries to place shunts in her back that drain spinal fluid into her stomach instead of into her brain. She is currently trying to stay healthy so that she can return to work as a registered nurse.
"As long as my wife allows me and as long as we can raise money for worthy causes I'll continue to do it," said Grey. "This year is important because Jennifer is still with us, and she is still fighting. She's been part of our group from the beginning. So, I thought it was fitting to use my party as a vehicle to help her out."
Due to the success of last year's "Two and a Half Greys" party, Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake was influenced to spread the word. He caught the attention of pro wrestlers Jerry Sags and Brian Knobbs (The Nasty Boys). While on the CWI East Coast Invasion Tour, The Nasty Boys needed a ride from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, and Grey was quick to oblige. That's when they asked Grey if they could attend one of the parties.
"I've never been to a Grey party, but I heard it was crazy and had to go to one," said Sags. "So, we're getting ready to go down there, and we're going to be up with all the people down in Jamestown to do it up Nasty style."
The Nasty Boys try to spend as much time as they can attending events that raise money for good causes.
"We don't even think twice when it comes to that," said Sags. "We're there for anybody that needs us, and we want to help out in any way."
Hailing from Allentown, Pa. The Nasty Boys spent a lot of time in Western New York.
"The Jamestown and Buffalo area is where we grew up, so it is kind of like coming home for us," said Sags.
In addition to their wrestling careers, The Nasty Boys have appeared on television on several occasions. Fans of "Hogan Knows Best" may recognize Knobbs as being a close friend of Hulk Hogan. And, those who enjoy "Man Vs. Food Nation" might recognize Sags from the Davy Jones Challenge.
For more information about the event search for "Grey Brothers Party 2012" on Facebook.