LAKEPORT >> Last year’s Rookie of the Year choice Fresh & Bangin’ Eatery was this year’s winner of the Celebrity Judges’ Choice award. Celebrity judges Dave Faries, managing editor of the Lake County Record-Bee, retired superior court judge David Herrick, and certified financial planner Jennifer Strong, owner of Strong Financial Network, selected the Wingin’ It team put together by People Services as Rookie of the Year.
Team Smokin’ Aces, led by Adam Bruch, took top People’s Choice honors at this year’s Grillin’ on the Green barbecue cook-off while the Delta Iota Tau sorority earned “Best Decorated Booth” honors.
The grilling team known as Beef Cake, led by Jesse Richardson, was runner-up; and the Lakeport Lions took third place in the voting. Walt Southard took “Best Car” honors with his 1931 Chevy.
The winners were selected following the competition and festivities Aug. 6, at the seventh annual fundraiser at Westside Community Park.
The event attended by more than 370 people garnered over $19,000 in revenue from ticket and drink sales, sponsorships and donations.
“The Westside Community Park Committee is grateful for the support of the community for this year’s Grillin,’” said Dennis Rollins, committee chair. “It was our biggest crowd yet — a wonderful turnout. The grillers and other food providers, our sponsors, volunteers, the car clubs, the horse council, and the people who came out to enjoy the evening in the park all made for a highly successful event. We thank Paul Larrea who acted as our master of ceremonies and kept the program moving between announcements and music.”
There were 10 cook-off teams including One-Fifty- One Squad Club, sponsored by Jimmy’s Deli; JQ, led by Jason Strickler; Passion for Food; and Livin’ Made EZ.
“We have enjoyed the best barbecue every year and super support from the community,” said Cindy Ustrud, chair of the event committee. “The food is outstanding. I can’t thank the grillers enough for their enthusiasm and generosity.”
Competing teams and their sponsors supply the food and volunteer their time and services to the fundraiser.
Attendees were treated to additional dishes such as salads, beans and snow cones to complement the barbecue tastes.
Several attendees took advantage of free horse-drawn wagon rides provided by Susan and Kenn McCarty of the Live Oak Belgians Ranch.
“For the second time at the Grillin’ event, the wagon rides were well received,” said Rollins. “Dozens of people took the rides through the future equestrian area. The committee thanks the McCartys and the Lake County Horse Council for providing the popular activity.”
Car enthusiasts also showed off their vehicles at the event. Participating clubs included the No Name Car Club, Clear Lake Car Club, The Model A’s, The Lake Lords and The Antique Automobile Club of America, Mt. Konocti Division.
“The display of vintage vehicles is always a favorite of attendees,” Rollins said.
Westside Community Park is Lakeport recreational facility that has been in development since 1998. The nonprofit park committee is developing the park in conjunction with the city, volunteers and numerous contributions by individuals and businesses dedicated to constructing a recreational facility. More information can be found on the park’s website, www.westsidecommunitypark.org.
