4 • November 2013
Business Bama Brew & Cue becomes first sanctioned barbecue competition in Tuscaloosa By Haley Moody
T
he Young Professionals of Tuscaloosa held its first inaugural Bama Brew & Que on November 1 and 2. The Old Farmers Market was packed with RVs normally seen around campus on game day. Instead of sporting their normal collegiate colors at their tailgating sites, each of the 17 teams were preparing to compete for the title of this year’s barbecue champion. While Tuscaloosa is known for its delicious barbecue, there has never been an opportunity for people, both local and out-of-town, to compete in the city. “There is not currently a KCBSsanctioned barbecue competition in the city. We thought it would be a great family-friendly event that would fit right into the Tuscaloosa atmosphere of fun, food, and football,” said Hannah Lansdon, co-chair of Young Professionals of Tuscaloosa. The Kansas City Barbeque Society, or KCBS, is a nonprofit organization that sanctions more than 400 competitive barbeque cooking competitions from coast to coast. Patrons were able to walk around and talk with each of the competing teams while viewing their individual cooking techniques. As each team allowed their various meats smoke to perfection, patrons and team members were able to enjoy the delicious “brew” offered at the event. “Bill Lloyd with Casual Class Catering and Greene Beverage provided the alcohol,” Lansdon said. “In addition to the normal staples of Budweiser and Bud Light, we also carried a local brew from Druid City Brewing Company.”
Photo credit: Haley Moody
Live music was provided by local country and Southern rock bands throughout the event. Tequila Mockingbird and URI performed Friday evening, while Madison Wilson, Sean Rivers, and The Wheelers all performed Saturday afternoon and evening.
Barbecue
A panel of judges from throughout the state tasted and critiqued each of the teams’ sauce, chicken, ribs, pork and brisket submissions. Around 4 p.m. on Saturday, the top teams from each category were announced, along with Continued on the next page
Photo credit: Heath Hendrix