In partnership with Southbound Brewing Company, Friends of Statts will hold a fundraiser and beer release on Friday, May 3, 2019 from 5:30pm to 9pm. Daniel Weiner, auction winner at Statts Fest for a big brew day at Southbound, brewed a special Black IPA with Lead Brewer, Jeremy Hammons, and chose the release to benefit the Friends of Statts Fest Organization. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Jason Statts, 44, who was rendered quadriplegic during a 2008 armed robbery in Ardsley Park.

The brainchild of longtime peers (through Statts’ many associations as a 1996 alumni of SCAD, a professional art director, illustrator, and local musician), the inaugural Friends of Statts event was held at The Jinx in 2009. Over the years FOS has rallied in various venues and formats, but the essence is always the same: On this occasion in Savannah, we’re all Friends of Statts.

Since being shot through the neck and spinal cord, Statts is unable to move except for the limited use of his arms or hands. He keeps up with reading, films and music, though, and stays in touch with friends via social media. Over the years, Statts’ experience includes severe nerve pain, extended hospital stays, and increased difficulty navigating outside his home. Evolving circumstances require more assistance, and more cash. Event organizers are grateful they can contribute to their friend’s mounting medical expenses, and hope they can make him smile, too.

At the Statts IPA Release Party, the suggestion donation for entry will be $10 and the event will feature a 50/50 raffle, silent auction items and music from Bottles & Cans and The Trainwrecks. Chazito’s Latin Cuisine food truck will also be on site. Southbound Brewing Company is located at 107 E. Lathrop Avenue, Savannah, GA 31415. Take a Lyft to the brewery and receive 50% off your ride home!