On Sunday, June 12th Alper's True Value Hardware sponsored the 3rd Annual Barbeque Festival, now officially coined “Karmacue” for the benefit of the Community Chest of Port Washington. Close to 500 Port Washingtonians descended on a closed Irma Avenue off Main Street to support the Community Chest and to enjoy everything barbeque that Alper’s and Port Washington had to offer. The main attraction was the Cook-Off where twelve teams comprised of local, backyard barbeque enthusiasts competed to be crowned 2011 BBQ Champion of Port Washington. In addition to trophies and prizes, bragging rights were on the line in three categories, chicken, ribs and overall. Representing Port’s professional barbeque restaurants, Harbor Q Bistro and Wings Plus, were on hand to sell food to festival attendees. Baked to Perfection cornered the dessert market with rich and delicious ice cream. There was also a wings eating contest sponsored by Wings Plus, live music from NTOR, Rooftop Manor & Evil Prince Ludwig; face painting and children’s arts and crafts sponsored by Peace/Love Art Studio and Om Sweet Om Yoga and family games with prizes. Profits from all concession sales were donated back to the Community Chest.
After careful scrutiny by a panel of judges the Champions of the BBQ Competition are: Chris Pattie of “TBD III The Return of Ray” took first place for the best barbeque chicken, and first place overall; Steven Edelson of “LaDiliQ” (the 2009 Champion) was second in the chicken category and third in the ribs category while placing second overall. Michael Schwartzstein of “BrainCore Smokers” took third place in the chicken category and third place overall. And Dan Bettan of “BBQ’s Brothers” won the Best BBQ Rib title. The competition was steep and the participating teams competed hard while having a lot of fun. The winner of the Wings Plus, wings-eating contest was Steve Rama.
The Town of North Hempstead was a co-sponsor of the event and provided the Parks Department Showmobile for the day’s events.
Alper’s Hardware has always been supportive of non-profit organizations in Port Washington. As event organizer (and 4th generation Alper) Adam Novick pointed out, “Each year we do one cohesive fundraising event that benefits the Port community that has supported us for the last 100 years. The Community Chest fits with our approach as a donation to the Community Chest benefits over 20 local area charities.”
“A barbeque is a perfect choice for Alpers because it is one of our core departments and let’s face it, everyone loves barbeque,” said Novick. On an overcast (and slightly chilly for June) day, weather conditions couldn’t be more perfect for enjoying the spicy hot BBQ and “rockin’” outdoor entertainment. Over $5,000 in proceeds from the event went to the Community Chest, a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to raise funds for distribution to local charities dedicated to improving the lives of Port Washingtonians. Community Chest grants support programs for senior citizens, children, teenagers, and others in need; programs that serve approximately one in four Port Washington residents. To learn more about the Community Chest of Port Washington or to find out about volunteering, contact the Chest at (516)767-2121 or visit their website at www.portchest.org. For a list of 2010-2011 funded organizations go to http://www.portchest.org/funded-organizations.html.
SAVE THE DATE FOR THIS YEAR'S KARMACUE ON SUNDAY, JUNE 10, 2012.
Port Washington’s 4th Annual BBQ Festival, called Karmacue, benefiting the Community Chest of Port Washington, is looking to crown its “2012 Port Washington BBQ Champion”. There is fierce competition in three categories -- RIBS, CHICKEN and OVERALL. An independent, expert panel of judges selects the winners. Alper’s Hardware, who sponsors the event, is holding a free lottery on April 10th for the final six “Title Contenders.” The first six spots are held for prior years’ winners. Email Alper’s Hardware at
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or speak to Adam at Alper’s to enter your name in the lottery. The lucky lottery winners get to make a $60 donation to the Community Chest as their entrance fee to the exclusive competition. Save the Date for 2012 Karmacue when 100% of event proceeds are donated to the Community Chest of Port Washington by Alper’s Hardware: Sunday, June 10th from 11:30am to 4:30pm for great food, games, face painting, prizes, and live music.