October 29, 2016
October 29, 2016 marked a very special night for the Smithereens, their fans, family and friends, as all four original members played together again for the first time in over a decade to honor the memory of the late Betty Babjak. Bassist Mike Mesaros joined his former bandmates to play a set that included their first album “Especially for You” as well as Smitherens classics and nuggets such as the theme from Batman and "White Castle Blues". During the set, 400 White Castle burgers were delivered and distributed to the band and members of the audience.
Also on the bill was Buzzed Meg, Jim Babjak’s side project (with Dennis Diken, Kurt Reil and Kristin Pinell of The Grip Weeds, and Vince Grogan) as well as Snow Blind featuring Tommy Babjak on drums.
The event was held at the Hungarian-American Citizens Club in Woodbridge NJ, where Jim and Betty Babjak frequented when they first dated. Proceeds from the show went to benefit The Betty Babjak Memorial Fund to establish a scholarship for Rutgers students who have lost a parent to pancreatic cancer.
Thanks to all the fans who came as well as everyone who participated in making the event an unforgettable experience. Please visit the Smithereens Official Facebook Group for Band for fan photos and videos.