**5th Annual BBQ Challenge**

**Benefit for the Cunot Food Pantry**

**General Rules and Regulations**

1. **Reminder:** This event is a fundraising opportunity for the Cunot Food Pantry. Please maintain a lighthearted spirit and contribute to the cause while enjoying the culinary delights. This year, we are seeking donations for the utilities fund.

2. **Entry Fee:** The entry fee is $30.00 for beef, pork, or chicken. You will only be charged $30.00 for entering one or all three categories. All entry fees are directly remitted to the Cunot Food Pantry.

3. **Team Preparation:** Teams are permitted to prepare their offerings at home or on-site. All meats must be stored in separate containers and maintained at appropriate food-safe temperatures at all times. Seasoning and marinating are encouraged.

4. **Beverage Availability:** The store will provide beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and water. Contestants are prohibited from selling beverages due to local regulations.

5. **Fuel and Fire Safety:** Gas, charcoal, wood, or cooking pellets are the only acceptable fuels. Remember to contain all fires. Ash cans will be provided for disposal of ash. Trash cans will also be available. Please maintain a clean and organized area, and empty full cans into the dumpster.

6. **Grill Safety:** All grill fires must be contained. Use a charcoal starter (chimney) or start the fire in the cooker.

7. **Water and Ice:** Some water will be provided via hose. Ice is available for purchase.

8. **Pets:** Pets are not permitted on the premises. This is to ensure the safety of all attendees and the food.

9. **Setup:** Setup can commence on Friday at any time. Last year, participants continued cooking into the evening. We are not responsible for any items left unattended. Feel free to set up your tent, camp, or find a suitable spot to rest and enjoy the festivities.

10. **Consequences of Non-Compliance:** Failure to adhere to these rules may result in disqualification of your team. Our primary objective is to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all participants.

11. **Positive Attitude:** A positive attitude is essential for a successful event. Negative behavior will not be tolerated and may result in consequences.

12. **Electrical Hookups:** Electrical hookups are limited on a first-come, first-served basis. If you require electrical power, please bring a quiet generator. There will be designated charging stations for phones and other devices.

**Note:** Electrical hookups are not available for powering all attendees in the venue.

There will be two judging processes: a public vote and a judged vote.

**Public Vote:**

a. The Cunot Food Pantry will sell $5 tasting cups (2 oz portion cups) for the public to sample each contestant’s cooking.

b. Doors will open at 1:00 pm, and tasting cups will be available for purchase.

c. Each contestant will be listed on a scorecard provided to the public.

d. We request that contestants provide a sufficient sample for the public, as the 2 oz cups were chosen for ease of use. Providing more than 2 oz of meat may be excessive and impractical.

e. Contestants are welcome to offer their food for sale. They are responsible for providing plates, napkins, condiments, and any other necessary items. Additionally, they should be prepared to provide change for patrons, as the store will not be able to serve as a cash register for the 20 contestants. There are no restrictions on the prices contestants may charge.

f. The entry fee and commitment to provide samples are direct donations to the Cunot Food Pantry. We appreciate your support.

**Judges’ Vote:**

a. Contestants will provide a sample large enough for five judges to try, in a Styrofoam container (provided), at the designated turn-in time (TBD). The samples will be numbered for anonymity.

b. Turn-in times will be posted in advance. Contestants will have a 10-minute window to prepare their entries. It is essential that the judges have hot food to evaluate.

c. Awards will be presented to the top three in each meat category. The “GRAND CHAMPION” award will be determined by the public vote.

d. Judges’ decisions are final. Bruce will be available to provide guidance on the rules and answer any questions. All contestants will adhere to the same rules.