| REMARKS FROM
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors and Committee Members of the Lakeland Pig
Festival, are proud of their achievements over the past several
years, and especially proud of the many volunteers, whose hard work
and dedication make it all possible. Each year has seen an increase
in the number
of professional and backyard teams competing in the event, an increase
in attendance, and an increase in revenue . . . and, as the event
grows, so do the contributions to the many worthy charitable organizations
within our communities. We are making a difference in our communities!
On behalf of the individuals and organizations listed below, we
invite you to join us as another proud participant of the Lakeland
Pig Festival. If you would like to become a sponsor or make a donation,
or if you have any questions at all concerning our event and its
goals, we would be happy to discuss them with you.
KANSAS CITY BARBECUE SOCIETY (KCBS)
PROFESSIONAL COMPETITION AND JUDGING SCHOOL
KCBS is “the largest international organization of barbecue
enthusiasts” and has sanctioned the Lakeland Pig Festival
since its first contest in 1997. Professional teams travel from
all over the U.S. to compete in four categories: Ribs, Chicken,
Pork and Brisket. They come for camaraderie and the Florida sunshine
(what could be better than Florida in January!) . Some of them are
even interested in the $10,000 in prize money. Over 200 teams from
17 states
have competed in Lakeland since 1997. Many return year after year.
Judges also travel great distances to participate in the Lakeland
Pig Festival. Judging for every pro contest has been 100% by KCBS
trained and certified judges. Since 1997, 183 people from throughout
the U.S. have completed the Judging School right here in Lakeland,
held a few days prior to the contest. We’re proud to say that
the Lakeland Pig Festival is considered to be one of the finest
events sanctioned by KCBS.
PUBLIX BACKYARD COMPETITION
Publix Super Markets and Publix Charities have been major sponsors
of the Lakeland Pig Festival since 1997.
The Publix Backyard Competition teams compete in the same four categories
of Ribs, Chicken, Pork and Brisket. The difference is that the backyard
group is composed of local teams, competing for bragging rights,
ribbons and trophies. The backyard contest also follows KCBS rules
and regulations, and at the 2002 contest, the KCBS representative
announced that the Publix Backyard Competition has grown to be the
largest of any backyard competition. Many members of the backyard
teams attend Judging School to learn what the judges are looking
for in taste, tenderness/texture and presentation. When they feel
they’re ready, many go on to compete in the pro competition.
COOKS’ PARTY
The annual Cooks’ Party has become one of the most popular
events of the Lakeland Pig Festival. What started out as a party
for the “pro teams” hosted by the “backyard teams,”
has quickly grown from a small number of people in 1997 to over
400 hundred last year.
Rather than traditional barbecue, the volunteers for the Friday
night Cooks’ Party came up with a menu that truly reflects
our “Southern hospitality.” Who can resist fried turkey,
collard greens, baked beans and hush puppies, and all the trimmings
. . . and the favorite dish of all, Florida alligator—the
best you’ll ever eat!
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