Kids Can Get Involved in Ham Jam

Maybe you've seen the shows where kids cook. There's even a program where they grill in competition. Such a competition is coming to Effingham later this month.

The Chamber Foundation of Effingham County will hold the 2nd Annual Kids Q BBQ Competition as part of the EffingHAM-JAM event. This event is scheduled for Saturday, July 29 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm in downtown Effingham. The Kids Q is sponsored by The Equity and Illinois Pork Producers and is open to kids 8 to 13 years of age.

Teams may consist of one or two children with at least one adult (18 years or older) present to assist with set up, lighting the grill and checking and cutting the meat. Each team will be provided with six pork chops to prepare for blind judging. Each team is responsible for all recipe ingredients, garnish, tents, utensils, cookware and holding temperatures. The contest will provide the meat, grill, charcoal and lighter fluid. There is a $20 entry fee per team.

Professional Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) judges will serve as judges for the contest. First and Second Place awards will be given for Overall Best Pork Chop with judging based on appearance, tenderness, flavor and overall impression. Prizes will be awarded during the Ham Jam Awards Ceremony at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 29.

For more information, contact Becky Brown at 217.342.4147 or bbrown@effinghamcountychamber.com. Contest entry forms and a full set of rules can be found at www.effinghamhamjam.com/#contests and are also available at the Chamber office, 903 N Keller Drive and at The Equity, 201 W Roadway.