It’s time once again for local grill masters to put their smoking skills to the test by registering to compete in the 2023 ‘Cue for a Cause benefitting the Elmhurst Walk-in Assistance Network (EWAN). The event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 3 in the City parking lot at York and Vallette (behind the Knights of Columbus).
Teams can compete in ribs, chicken, and sauce, but to win the Grand Champion mega-trophy, the $250 cash prize, and major bragging rights, they must compete in all three categories.
Last year’s champion, Mike Juneman of Big Daddy Q, was the first competitor to win in back-to-back years. Mike has since channeled his success into a small barbecue catering business, “Mike’s BBQ,” but he began competing as a complete novice.
“My first year of competing, my cooking partner, Steve Infante, and I had zero expectations,” he said. “I gave it a shot because I love to barbecue and, after attending the event the previous year as a spectator, I knew it would be a great day regardless of the results.”
The 9th annual cookoff provides the perfect backdrop for Elmhurst residents to come together for summer’s last hurrah. Three live bands—School of Rock, Common Area Maintenance, and Forget Hannah—will play throughout the day.
This year will bring a full complement of food trucks. Barbeque Jim will be back with his award-winning barbeque, and will be joined by grilled cheese, taco, and pizza trucks. The root beer float stand will be back in action as well. Kids will enjoy, an inflatable slide, face painting, balloon twisting, crafts and more.
Attendees will also have the chance to win raffle prizes and silent auction bids.
All skill levels are welcome in this competition. To register a team, go to elmhurstwalkin.org/cue. The deadline for entry is Sunday, Aug. 20. Space is limited, so register early.
Proceeds from the event go to benefit EWAN. In its 25 years of operation, EWAN has provided nearly 1.75 million dollars in financial assistance to Elmhurst neighbors in need.
For more information about EWAN or the ‘Cue, visit elmhurstwalkin.org.
