Friday, August 29th, 2025 Church Directory
THE FIRST PLACE TEAM, Smoken’ John was presented a certificate and a prize envelope. (Submitted Photo).

Smoken’ John wins Pulled Pork Cookoff

The Big Eagle Lake Improvement Association (BELIA) successfully hosted its 7th Annual Smokin’ Pulled Pork Cook-Off fundraiser at Lupulin Brewing last Saturday.

Despite challenging weather conditions, including high winds and two inches of rain, the 11 dedicated teams of pit-masters delivered exceptional culinary experiences. The association extends their gratitude to each team for their outstanding preparations and tireless efforts, providing everyone with delightful treats despite the lack of sleep. 

The participating teams included Jeff Hegle (Backyard Smokers), Patrick Hirsch (Bison BBQ), Dan Lundt (BBQ Boys), Joshua Bohnen (Bohnen BBQ), Michael Grossmann (Smoke It like You Love It), Matt Falck (Lucky Brisket BBQ), David Thompsen (Meat Madness), John Davis (Smoken’ John), Eric Watson (Low N’ Slow Bros), Todd Orgon (Pig Pen BBQ), and Ryan Schaff (Pig and a Pint). Congratulations to the winners:

First Place: John Davis and ‘Smoken’ John’; Second Place: Eric Watson and Low N’ Slow Bros.; Tied for Third Place: Dan Lundt and BBQ Boys, and Matt Falck with Lucky Brisket BBQ; People’s Choice: Jeff Hegle and Backyard Smokers.

BELIA also expresses their appreciation to George and Raquel Wallen for donating three Vikings vs. Philadelphia Eagles tickets for our raffle. With three hundred tickets sold, congratulations goes to JR McGuire for winning the raffle.

BELIA’s heartfelt thanks go to Lupulin Brewing for their generous support of this fundraiser. 

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who participated in the event, including those who joined us for the Silent Auction, Wine Wall, Boat Race, and to all our volunteers for their invaluable contributions,” said BELIA Secretary Lori Andreen.

“We also thank our sponsors, whose support was crucial to the success of our Silent Auction,” she said. We ask that customers continue to support and acknowledge these businesses for their commitment to Big Eagle Lake.