Registration for competitors is open for the annual ‘Cue for a Cause barbecue competition. Barbecue enthusiasts of all levels are invited to see how their smoked rib and chicken techniques stack up against other backyard grill masters.
2024 marks the 10th anniversary of what has become a Labor Day weekend staple in Elmhurst. The ‘Cue for a Cause is the major fundraising event for the Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network (EWAN).
The date for this year’s event is Sunday, Sept. 1, and will take place in the city lot at York and Vallette streets. In addition to the grill action, there will be live music, food and drink, auctions and raffles, and a fun play place for kids to enjoy.
Typically, around 20 teams compete at the ‘Cue. While there’s an option to prepare just ribs or chicken for the panel of judges, most teams opt to gun for the Grand Championship, which is determined by the combined score for ribs, chicken, and sauce. A prize for “People’s Choice” for sauce is also awarded, as determined by votes from the public tasting the sauces.
This year the ‘Cue will feature an added throw down, a “Beat Jim Lawshe” competition. “Barbeque Jim” is well-known in Elmhurst for his delicious barbecue, and has sold his award winning dishes at the ‘Cue every year. Among his countless accolades, he has five first place wins in the Illinois State Championships and a Grand Championship in the Iowa State BBQ Championship. His brisket has taken second in the Memphis in May World Championship.
Competitors in the Beat Jim Lawshe competition will pay $100 to put their ribs in a blind judging pool that will also include Jim Lawshe’s ribs. If Jim’s ribs come out on top, all proceeds will go to EWAN. If another competitor wins, he or she will split the winnings with EWAN. Challengers do not have to participate in the general competition to go against Lawshe.
To learn more about both competitions and to register, interested parties should visit the EWAN website, elmhurstwalkin.org/cue.
The deadline to sign up is Aug. 19.
The Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network is a non-profit that provides local families with financial assistance during a difficult time. It has given neighbors in need over two million dollars in help since its founding in 1997.
