Sanctioned barbeque contests set for May 5-6

 

March 12, 2023

Marione Martin

Sgt. Ron Vasquez (left) answers questions from the City of Alva Tourism and Convention Development Committee Wednesday concerning the 2nd Annual Cars, Concerts and BBQ Contest. At right is committee member Scott Kline.

The first year of the Cars, Concerts and BBQ Contests drew only four barbeque contestants as a non-pro event. Sgt. Ron Vasquez says they hope to do better this year with a Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned pro-series with a goal of about ten contestants. He presented a request for $16,750 in tourism tax funding to the City of Alva Tourism and Convention Development Committee Wednesday.

Norville Ritter from R.A.C.E. attended the meeting. The car enthusiasts group handles the car show portion. Ritter said last year, they had 50 vehicles entered.

In addition to the barbecue contests sponsored by the Alva Police Department, the Greenleaf Fire Department plans to hold a cornhole tournament. The Little Red Hens also plan activities including inflatables. The two-day event is set for May 5 from 10 a.m. to 11 pm. and May 6 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Alva's downtown courthouse lawn.

Sadie Bier asked where the event will be advertised. In addition to local advertising, Vasquez said they will have information online and through KCBS as well as distributing flyers around the area. He wasn't certain of the price on entry fees, but winning contestants will be awarded trophies. He said they received many compliments on the specially designed trophies for the event. There will also be cash prizes. The mini car show will distribute winner trophies provided by R.A.C.E.

Last year the group requested $10,250 for the event. This year the request was increased to $16,750 to pay for cash prizes and awards, trophies, supplies, lodging for judges and advertising. Proceeds from the fundraising event will go to the Alva Police Department. Vasquez said they used funds to buy some duty weapons. "My goal is to get in-car computers," he said.

Bier made a motion, seconded by Scott Kline, to approve the request for $16,750. The motion carried by unanimous vote. Kline commented, "Barbeque always draws a crowd."

In addition to Bier and Kline, committee members present were Chairperson Melinda Barton, Terri Parsons and Angelica Brady. Barton welcomed Brady to her first meeting as a new committee member.

Normally the committee meets the third Wednesday of each month. This meeting was moved to March 8 due to spring break. The next meeting will also be moved up to April 12 as the regular meeting date, April 19, is the beginning of the Lt. Governor's Turkey Hunt in Alva.

 

Reader Comments(0)

 
 

Our Family of Publications Includes:

Arc
Newsgram

Powered by ROAR Online Publication Software from Lions Light Corporation
© Copyright 2024

Rendered 03/28/2024 06:11