Rain didn't dampen spirits at 'Magic City Egg Fest' in Colon

Laura Kurella
·2 min read
First place in the ribs category went to Chicago natives Bob Lewandowski, Tony Balsanto and Jeff Hart of the Pork-a-holics.
First place in the ribs category went to Chicago natives Bob Lewandowski, Tony Balsanto and Jeff Hart of the Pork-a-holics.

Intermittent rain Saturday didn't deter a large gathering at the third annual Magic City Egg Fest in Colon, a culinary festival and barbecue competition held for the benefit of American Legion.

This year’s fest featured smoked baby back ribs, roasted chicken and wood fired pizzas, all cooked on the Big Green Egg grills, a brand which helped to sponsor the event.

Earlier report: 'Magic City Egg Fest' set for Saturday in downtown Colon

Not letting a few Intermittent showers dampen their spirits, a lineup formed to feast on the barbecue creations from 20 teams who competed in three round.

“This year’s fest was our best yet,” said the event Director Tim Taylor. “Even despite the intermittent rain showers, the size of the crowd remained strong and energetic throughout the entire day.”

Nine judges, divided into three groups, were designated to taste and rank the dishes made for a specific round. Dave Lorenz, vice president of Michigan.org., served as a judge in the chicken competition.

“Just like a family meal, events like this bring people together,” Lorenz said. “This is something we sorely need these days. I really enjoyed being part of the gathering.”

Other judges included sponsor and Clemens Food Group General Manage Joe Hughes, Mike Stiles of WBET; chef Jimmy Hill; “Behind the Mitten” podcast host John “Gonzo” Gonzales; competitive barbecue cook Angie Brady; Dickie’s BBQ former owner Matt Stritzinger; Pitmaster Les Adams; and Sturgis Journal food columnist Laura Kurella.

“As first-timers at 'Magic City Egg Fest,' we were impressed with the friendly and spirited competition,’ said Joe Scheidler, a first-time competitor from “Oh J’s BBQ,” who received honorable mention in the pizza round. "We were all there to win and we’re looking forward to raising our game for next year’s competition.”

First place in the chicken and pizza categories went to Sand Lake Party Store. From left, Eric Anderson, Shawn Fabian, and Bryant Fabian.
First place in the chicken and pizza categories went to Sand Lake Party Store. From left, Eric Anderson, Shawn Fabian, and Bryant Fabian.

Winners at this year’s event included Chicago natives The Pork-a-holics, taking first place in the rib competition. Returning Nottawa favorites Sand Lake Party Store finished first in both the chicken and pizza competition rounds and Magic Capital Grillers received Taster’s Choice.

Also featured were a magic show, a cornhole tournament, beer garden and a variety of food vendors, which included Big Moe’s Barbecue and Gramma Nettie’s Cheese Cake.

Proceeds were donated to Colon American Legion post 454.

“It was a great event that can help do great things for our veterans, their families and the local community,” Taylor said. "I am grateful that our efforts, and the large and enthusiastic crowd helped to make this year a great success.”

This article originally appeared on Sturgis Journal: Rain didn't dampen spirits at 'Magic City Egg Fest'