Band lineup, premier sponsor set for Blues, Brews & BBQ
With an exciting lineup of new and returning talent, an expanded Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned barbecue contest and key sponsorships aligning, this summer's Blues, Brews & BBQ already is creating a stir.
D.C. Cobb's McHenry's co-owner Dan Hart said he and partner Josh Carstens are excited to partner with the Rotary Club of McHenry as the premier sponsor of the seventh annual fest, scheduled for Aug. 17-19 at Petersen Park.
"When the Rotary presented us with this opportunity, we thought it was a great way to launch D.C. Cobb's in McHenry and support a big event right out of the gate," Hart said. "We're new in town. The town is supporting us, so we want to make sure that we're also supporting the town."
The premier sponsorship is a $5,000 commitment to help defray costs of coordinating the event, and club officials expressed gratitude.
"Sponsorship is so key to making Blues, Brews & BBQ not only fun, but meaningful in terms of the positive outcomes it provides," said event co-chairman Don Tonyan, referring to the club's funding of numerous scholarships and other charitable causes with funds raised at the fest. "We thank Dan and Josh, and we hope others follow their lead."
In fact, others already are. Among this summer's band sponsors will be Adams Auto Body and Service Center, which is presenting the event opener, the John Todd Band. That leaves eight band sponsorships - and numerous other sponsorship opportunities - available.
Along with the John Todd Band, the Aug. 17 lineup includes Big Dog Mercer and John Primer. Performing Aug. 18 will be Jimmy Nick & Don't Tell Mama, Brother John Kattke and the Blooze Brothers. On Aug. 19, it's Alabaster, Eric and the Dynamos, and Delmark Recording artists Dave Weld and the Imperial Flames, Demetria Taylor and Mike Wheeler.
Openings for the KCBS-sanctioned contest have increased from 36 to 48 teams, and total prizes have increased from $5,000 to $8,000. To peruse sponsorships, learn more about the bands, apply to compete or for other event information, visit mrbbb.com.