Effingham, IL, July 25 – The vibrant streets of Downtown Effingham witnessed an epic showdown at the 2023 EffingHAM-JAM Hometown Throwdown BBQ Competition this past weekend. As amateur BBQ enthusiasts gathered to showcase their grilling skills, the event transformed into a sizzling spectacle of flavors and camaraderie. The competition featured 12 participants vying for the coveted cash grand prize and prestigious John Boos & Co. trophies, elevating their status as BBQ champions with bragging rights for years to come.
The winners of the 2023 EffingHAM-JAM Hometown Throwdown BBQ Competition are as follows:
Grand Champion:
Wonkey Donkey
Top Hog Amateur:
Wonkey Donkey
Top Hog Corporate:
Holy Smokers Rub Co.
Chicken Category:
1st Place – Porking Lot Smokers
2nd Place – Wonkey Donkey
Pork Category:
1st Place – Wonkey Donkey
2nd Place – PearHead BBQ
Sauce/Rub Category:
1st Place – John Boos & Co.
2nd Place – Wonkey Donkey
Side Dish Category:
1st Place – Dan Hecht Chevrolet-Toyota
2nd Place – PearHead BBQ
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our EffingHAM-JAM presenting sponsor, Koerner Distributor, Inc., for their unwavering support in making this event a tremendous success. Additionally, we wish to express our gratitude to our esteemed Hometown Throwdown sponsors, The City of Effingham, Land of Lincoln Credit Union, and Effingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, for their contributions and commitment to the community.
Excitement is already building for the next showdown, so mark your calendars for the highly anticipated 2024 EffingHAM-JAM scheduled for Friday, July 19 next year. Prepare for another thrilling gathering of BBQ enthusiasts and a chance to crown new champions!
The Chamber Foundation of Effingham County Scholarship Program receives the net proceeds from EffingHAM-JAM, providing $1,000 scholarships to outstanding area high school seniors and adults pursuing further education. Since its inception in 1996, this program has awarded a remarkable $245,000 in total scholarships to 207 deserving recipients.
For more information and updates, visit EffingHAMJAM.com and EffinghamCountyChamber.com, or follow us on Facebook at @effinghamjam and @effcochamber.
Pictured at booth (left to right): Wonkey Donkey Team Members Bob Shafer & Mitch Stanciu
Pictured with awards (left to right): Effingham County Chamber President & CEO Lucinda Hart, Land of Lincoln Credit Union Representative Stephanie Harrison, Bob Shafer, Grant Cooper, and The City of Effingham Commissioner of Streets and Public Improvements Libby Moeller.
About EffingHAM-JAM:
EffingHAM-JAM is an annual BBQ competition hosted in Downtown Effingham, celebrating the love of grilling, and bringing the community together in a festive atmosphere. The event features a range of categories for both amateur and corporate participants, offering exciting prizes and an opportunity to showcase their culinary prowess.
About the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1917, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce is the county’s leading advocate and champion for business. The Chamber works to create a climate of growth and success in our community by providing leadership opportunities as well as volunteer programs and business-building initiatives that focus on the critical priorities of Effingham County businesses. By leveraging the support, talent, and resources of our members, the Effingham County Chamber is leading efforts to achieve business success and community growth.
About the Chamber Foundation of Effingham County
The Chamber Foundation of Effingham County is the philanthropic arm of the Effingham County Chamber. The purpose is to promote education, social and civic awareness in Effingham County. The Chamber Foundation of Effingham County is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization. For US Federal Income Tax purposes, donors may be able to deduct their donation(s) as a charitable contribution. For more information, please consult with your tax advisor.