Smokin is back this Saturday

By Alan Carman
The Imperial Republican
    The air will be filled with the aroma of barbecue Saturday, June 28, as the 9th annual Smokin’ On Broadway is back at the Chase County Fairgrounds.
    Back for the popular event will be the smoking competition, live music, community meal and the Imperial Community Foundation Fund’s Chase County Challenge.
    There are twelve teams registered for the annual smoke-off competition that will be held as part of the Midwest BBQ Association’s annual points competition.
    Teams will begin prepping their meats Friday evening and smoke throughout the event. Each team will receive two briskets, three pork shoulders and six racks of ribs in an effort to win the $4,000 cash prizes.
    After judging is complete, the public will be able to enjoy the delicious food beginning at 5:00 p.m. There will be a suggested donation of $10 per plate and run until the food is gone. Providing beverages for the event will be the Beverage Barn and Broken Arrow Cellars and Hanging Horseshoe Brewing Company.
    Those entering the grounds will need to provide an ID and will be given a wristband. There will be a gate on the north and south side of the expo area.
    Also beginning at 5:00 p.m. will be free bingo with prizes coming in the form of Chamber Bucks. Eighteen Chase County Challenge Non-Profit booths will also open at 5:00 p.m., providing fun and games as well as the opportunity to donate and learn about each organization.
    The booths will be open until the headliner goes on at 7:00 or later if they wish. Updates on the amount raised for the Chase County Challenge will be given periodically throughout the concert by Imperial Community Foundation Fund members.
    Charley Colton with the Chase County Historical Society will also be doing a presentation in the 4-H Building.
    Capping of the evening will be Chase County Schools grad and Imperial Native, Chris Larson, who will kick off the free concert at 6:00 p.m. followed by Kelsey Jo and the Wildcards out of Greeley Co. at 7:00 p.m., offering an upbeat mix of classic country mixed with a bit of rock.
    Music will continue until 10:00 p.m. Those attending are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs for the concert.