Looking for best barbeque in Coweta

A simple question, one might think, but it goes much, much deeper than this.

One applicant, Mr. Briggs, pointed out the deep-rooted connection we as Cowetans and, dare say, Americans have with our barbecue.

“Being originally from Texas, there are four things that I take very seriously (God, Country, Football and BBQ),” he said. “I have always wanted to enter a BBQ contest, and thanks to Coweta Up in Smoke I now get my chance. Thanks.”

How does it get any more American than that? So once again, for those who boast a secret recipe or sauce, which one has the best barbecue in Coweta County?

Organizers of the Coweta Up in Smoke Barbecue Cook-off hope to answer that question July 23.

The event, while being a cook-off, will have activities for the whole family. Some of the events scheduled include an antique car cruise-in, antique tractor display, arts and crafts, rock climbing wall, children’s activity zone, various public safety displays, music, and great barbecue to eat.

This event is open to any individual or team in Coweta County from the backyard griller, to church, civic and corporate teams, to professional restaurant teams. There will be three meat categories: pork shoulder/butt, rib, and beef brisket. There will also be a Brunswick stew category. The cost to enter the competition is $25 per category. If you enter three categories, there is no charge to enter the fourth category.

There will be winners crowned in each category and a grand champion for the event. To be crowned as grand champion, a team must enter all three meat categories. The winners of each category will win $75 and a trophy. The grand champion will win $150, a trophy, and bragging rights, which are priceless in a county that is proud of its barbecue.

In addition to the professionally judged competition, there will be a people’s choice competition. Teams will be given the option to enter the people’s choice competition where festival attendees will be able to sample the different entries and judge them.

The Coweta Up in Smoke Barbecue was organized to be a family event, and that goal is reflected in the admission. The event costs $5 ($3 for children 3-10 years), which includes admission, a barbecue plate and drink. There is a small additional charge in an attendee wishing to participate in the people’s choice judging.

Proceeds from the event will go to the newly reorganized Coweta County Community Chest and Civic Council. The Community Chest serves as a local clearinghouse for all those in need, and those who have both time and funds to give. It will provide the people of Coweta County a place to seek funding without having to go door to door. The chest will provide other charitable organizations with profound need a place to come to seek funds and volunteers. The Coweta County Community Chest and Civic Council provides volunteer opportunities as well as a network of services for anyone in need in Coweta County.

For more information on the Coweta Up in Smoke Barbecue Cook-off, visit their Web site, or call Tim Higgins at 770-301-0292, Rob Cole at 678-770-7114, or Larry Griggs at 404-579-0799. Also, visit the Coweta County Welcome Center on Walt Sanders Memorial Drive in Newnan.


		Friday, July 1, 2005