Photo courtesy of Vincent Keiman
The Shalom Food Pantry’s seventh annual “Battle of the BBQs” competition is set for Sunday, June 30. The event at the Albany JCC, 340 Whitehall Rd. begins at 4 p.m. and continues until 6 p.m. The proceeds from the competition will be given to the Shalom Food Pantry to help those in need.
The Shalom Food Pantry is an organization that provides food packages to individuals and families in the Capital Region who are struggling financially. According to Shalom pantry administrators, the food support respectfully protects people’s privacy and dignity. The food pantry provides over 2,300 meals worth of groceries each month.
The goals of the barbecue competition are to bring the community together, create awareness of the Shalom Food Pantry, and raise funds for its services, said Chanie Simon, co-director of the Shalom Food Pantry.
Teams representing local Jewish organizations will compete. Attendees will get to sample each of the teams’ chicken wings, steaks, and portabello mushrooms. There will also be all-you-can-eat sides, including vegetarian options. Music and activities for children are also planned.
“The competitors will have a great time while giving back,” according to Simon. “Each year, there is a great atmosphere among the teams while they are barbecuing, as teams sample one another’s sauces, offer tips, and share some of their secrets.”
All attending, in particular the non-competitors, may vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Admission with a reservation, through June 25 is $25 p.p. After that date admission is $30 and $10 per child. Children 5 and under and may attend at no cost. Organizers report that there are also honorary committee options. Reservations may be obtained for the “Battle of the BBQs,” by e-mail [email protected] or www.shalomfoodpantry.com or by calling 518- 439-3310.
