September is getting a good spanking this year, no more lazing about as the month when summer feels like a leftover. Labor Day weekend will be one-upped this season as the ‘Grand finale’ of lake fun wraps up major events with an ‘ace in the hole’ two weeks later from Sep. 16-19.
Grand Lake has never seen the likes of what Spankfest 2010 has up its sleeve in its second year running. This festival has laid the foundation to become an annual event of increasing proportions, anticipating three times the attendance of last years’ introduction. Hosting a bike rally and poker run to heat things up just when everyone thought summer was on its way out, combined with a whole new package to sweeten the sizzle. The common stop for most major poker runs, Spanky’s has saddled up to host their own and to create something that brings attention from the four-state area like Buffalo Run Casino has managed with July’s $101,000 run. The offer differs slightly, with a bang-for-the-buck ratio overshadowing the money pot. The weekend won’t be a gamble when it comes to excitement and atmosphere.
Uniquely designed by J.R. Spanky’s, this original idea is the first of its kind in many regards. Bringing together all the best things people love about the lake, throwing them into a blender with two shots of tequila, and blending it into something intoxicatingly fresh and new. “This ain’t your grandma’s poker run, this ain’t your daddy’s poker run; this is J.R. Spanky’s poker run,” said Russ Arnold, co-owner with brother Jim Arnold, the brothers make the “J” and “R” of Spanky’s named after an ass they’d never forget- the beloved donkey owned throughout their childhood, inspiring the donkey-tonk watering hole that has a whole new way of thinking to spice up your way of drinking. Literally building the bar together, brick by brick, they maintain a family owned and operated establishment, every member fills a niche. Jim’s son, Jimmy, plays drums for Western Justice and mans the sound board and electronics. Jim’s daughter, Amanda Arnold Duffy, event coordinator extraordinaire, has her hands full, as well as their schedule, almost constantly.
The upcoming poker-run defies the traditional practice touted each year by every bar lakeside and local to introduce the event as equal opportunity fun. No bike, no boat, no problem. Plane, train or automobile, transportation is irrelevant. “We don’t care if you parachute in, go by car or ride a bicycle, as long as you get here, and have a good time,” welcomes Russ. There’s something for everyone in the three day feature, including bikes, bands, camping, casinos, games, vendors, bikinis and beer. The cool combination will be gracing Grand’s scenic route of Highway 10, northeast of Grove, Okla. south of Grand Lake Casino.
The surrounding casinos will be stops included along the poker run where purchased tickets will be stamped as proof of participant’s visit for the required five stops listed in return for a five card hand. With ticket purchase is the immediate fun in refunded free-play offered at each casino, $10 at three different locations to try Lady Luck’s favor and play your way through the best gaming offered in the area. From the time of ticket purchase, available since July 18, the casino free-play is redeemable at the convenience of each player. The winnings will be announced Sep. 18 at 8 p.m., and all tickets are due by 4 p.m. - a new concept and an unmatched value, surpassing any festival hosted locally by redefining how they are funded and operated. Ingeniously designed, the novelty alone will be an experience.
Ticket purchase also waves the door fee for Thursday evening entrance and includes a free cold beer on the house to welcome everyone for the weekend. “This will be a different kind of bike rally,” said Jim, “we’re all like family around here.” The event will have hired security and safety surveillance to reinforce the element of a fun, drama-free, well-hosted party. “We’re not on this earth for a long time, but we’re here for a good time,” said Jim. The aim is to safely accommodate everyone who wants to attend, across the spectrum, just like inside the bar.
Player incentives combined with the three headlining acts on the permanent, outdoor amphitheatre in the center of generous acreage for audience with separated areas for camping, Spankfest has the capacity to entertain thousands comfortably. The indoor stage will likely also have a band in the evenings, offering people a double-sided venue to suit different tastes. The rock-solid outdoor lineup has Saving Abel Friday night to get you “Addicted” for at least “18 Days”, with their number one singles on alternative and rock charts. A new name getting a lot of attention in the charts and MTV is Taddy Porter. Their single “Shake Me” has the rock anthem party sound wrapped through every chord and a new sound that will get you on your feet and moving.
Saturday will be like “Two Tickets to Paradise,” featuring Eddie ‘The Money Man’ Money, who’s cassette has been in my mom’s car since the ‘80s and in regular rotation. [I could personally recite more lyrics of his than I could from Mother Goose, being raised on music by a mother who always let me sing along to the artists that shaped the ‘80s. This is one musician who immortalized early adulthood with songs about first loves, driving fast and growing out of your friends.
For a motorcycle festival, this event makes everyone a winner. Proceeds will be donated in characteristic fashion by Spanky’s to the Shriner’s Hospital and Grove Humane Society, and personal donations will be appreciated at any of the collection locations. Don’t leave getting a ticket up to chance or luck, take advantage of the $35 deal early before it is sold out or later increases to $45. “This event is about offering our community a great time at an extreme value. Times are tough, and if we can stimulate the economy while raising money for charity and have a great party at the same time, then we’ve accomplished what we’re after,” said Amanda Arnold Duffy. Significant time was spent planning this year to extend the party so everyone has a great experience. That’s a spanking that just can’t be passed up.
Check out their Web site for more information and a map of the location, www.spankfestbikerally.com, or friend them on www.myspace.com/jrspankys and Facebook to keep posted on weekend bands and anything new.