CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Elks Lodge will fire up the smokers Sunday, Oct. 4, for a new barbecue competition honoring the life of Jonathan “Jonboy” Nethery, a friend and fellow Elk remembered for his love of cooking, competition and fellowship.
The inaugural Jonboy Smoke Off will be held at the Cullman Elks Lodge, located at 1525 Brantley Ave. NW. The first competition turn-in is scheduled for 2 p.m.
Nethery died only weeks after participating in this year’s Stoke & Smoke competition. Lodge members said the new event was created to keep his personality, friendships and passion for barbecue alive.
“Anyone who knew Jonathan knew how much he loved smoking meat, competing, hanging around the lodge and spending time with friends,” the Cullman Elks Lodge shared in announcing the event. “After losing Jonathan just weeks following this year’s Stoke & Smoke competition, we wanted to create something that keeps his spirit, friendship and love for BBQ alive for years to come.”
Organizers intend for the Jonboy Smoke Off to become an annual tradition bringing together food, music, friendly competition and the kind of fellowship Nethery enjoyed.
Competing teams will prepare both chicken and ribs. The entry fee is $50 per team, and participants must provide their own meat, grills or smokers, generators and other necessary supplies.
Each team must include at least one Elks member. Teams without an Elk must be signed in by an onsite member who remains at the lodge for the duration of the event.
Camping will be available at the lodge on the night before the competition. The Oct. 4 gathering will also include live music on the patio, games and activities throughout the day, smoked meat and pulled peanuts, which organizers noted were among Nethery’s favorites.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Cullman Stoke and Smoke Committee.
A Google Form for official team registration will be released at a later date. Organizers have not yet announced the event’s general start time, judging format, prizes or additional attendance information.
For questions or information about competing, contact Jessica Atchley at 256-527-8916.
