Registration is now taking place for the 2012 Best of the Butts competition. The best-tasting Boston butt will net $1,000 for the winner’s favorite charity.
“Do you know a grill master and want the chance to win $1,000 for your organization?” event organizer Martha Pierce asked. “The winning charity will be determined through the crowd’s popular vote.”
Best of the Butts will take place Aug. 10 during the fourth annual Smokin’ in McMinnville cookout at McMinnville Civic Center. Ten teams will battle it out in the Boston butt competition.
Judging will be done by the public from 5-7 p.m. Admission is $5. Individuals will be given a ballot for judging the competitors.
 “Judges will also be given sides,” said city administrator David Rutherford. “We will have baked beans, slaw and rolls. We had a problem last year with the competitors running out of samples. We have taken steps this year to ensure that doesn’t happen.”
As judges go to each competitor to obtain a sample, their ballot will be marked to make sure they have been to each station once. No repeat visits will be allowed.
Last year’s event was won by City Cafe which donated its prize money to Junior Auxiliary of McMinnville.
Smokin’ in McMinnville is presented by the city of McMinnville and Warren County Chamber of Commerce. In the past, the event was over a three-day period. This year’s event will be reduced to two days, Aug. 10-11.
The event will still feature professional teams from Kansas City BBQ Society, along with a local backyard grill masters competition, and Best of the Butts. There will also be live entertainment, sports competitions, games, vendors, a children’s play zone, and access to the Jungle Jym.
More details more activities will be released closer to the event date.
“This year’s barbecue festival should be action packed,” Pierce said. “Make your plans to join us Aug. 10 and Aug. 11 for a wonderful family time.”
Registration for Best of the Butts will be taken until the 10 spots have been filled. The entry fee is $100. Applications can be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce or taken from the website at www.smokininmcminnville.com.
For more information, contact the Chamber at 473-6611.