VW Rib Cook-Off back in usual location

Van Wert independent/CVB information

“The weather looks to be perfect, the excitement is growing daily, and we are looking for the best-ever rib cook-off this year,” said Larry Lee, executive director of the Van Wert Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.  “We have been getting calls from all over the area about our event and especially about the appearance of blues great, Tinsley Ellis.”  Lee said he has gotten calls from as far away as Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Toledo.

Lee would like to remind everyone that the rib cook-off site, which had originally been planned on the infield of the racetrack, has been changed to its former location at the south end of the fairgrounds. Only gate 5 at the southwest corner of the grounds will be open to the rib cook-off.  Parking is free all day.  There will be a $2 cover charge after 5 p.m. for anyone age 12 and older.  Lee said this will be the first time there has been any type of charge, but due to the cost of evening entertainment, will help pay the expenses.

“People need to realize that we (the CVB) earn nothing from the sale of ribs,” Lee explained. “Each vendor keeps all his own profits.

“While we do acknowledge with much gratitude the support we receive from various sponsors, it is not enough to cover the entire cost of putting on this event,” he added.

Lee said many of the out-of-town people he has spoken with are surprised the cover charge is only $2 – with most saying they would gladly pay a $5 or $10 cover charge to hear Tinsley Ellis.

The price of ribs is being kept the same as last year — $18 for a full slab, $10 for a half slab and $5 for a sampler. Each vendor will also be serving sandwiches and sides. Lee added that there will also be food for kids this year at reasonable prices.

“We want to invite everyone out this Saturday for a day and evening of great food, good fun, and outstanding entertainment,” he concluded.