BBQ for our troops

[michiana mark]

Has anyone heard anymore about this happening in MI? I would be glad to be involved.

Proud father of a US Sailor.

[spydermike72]

Scott is working on this, the last we knew it would be at somepoint in July. They are pretty tight with Troop Movement information, so as soon as we get more info we will be blasting that out to everyone. I am very excitied about this too!!

[sfisch]

Yeah, no new information. I'm going to email they guys again in a couple days and will post anything I find out.

Scott

[Big Al]

Sounds like a great oppurtunity to help out. I'm willing to lend a hand.

[michiana mark]

Yeah, no new information. I'm going to email they guys again in a couple days and will post anything I find out.

Scott

Thanks Scott.

[crossczek]

Count me in, family schedule/funds permitting.

[sfisch]

Update emails been sent, will let you know what info I get.

Scott

[jerry516planes]

Do we have any idea how many people we will be cooking for?

[sfisch]

Jerry,
no idea at all. Gov't doesn't let that kind of info out to far in advance.

Scott

[EatonHoggBBQ]

I'll be keeping an eye on this thread also. Sounds interesting.

[sfisch]

Spoke on the phone with Dave in Ohio yesterday. He said that the Michigan National Guard is not as cooperative yet as the Ohio National Guard but he is working on it. Once he gets some okays, he will let us know when and where.

Scott

[jerry516planes]

Thanks for the update!

[sfisch]

Heres some info I got today. Looks like the event will happen on Sunday, October 11 in Jackson, Mi. I do not have a number yet or any specifics on where the meat is coming from, who's paying for it etc.. but at least we can mark our calendars.
As soon as I get an approximate number, we can start to get organized in regards to cooking equipment available and manpower needed.
Thanks a bunch to everyone wishing to participate.

Take care,
Scott

Scott,
Here is the note we were waiting for. The Jackson Armory has a date for
the Welcome Home event. Unfortunately, this date is one I can't make because
of my job. We have Inventory twice a year, and this is the date. I am the
Asst. Mgr, and there is no way I can get off.
Please let me know if you and the Great Lakes BBQ Assn. can be there for a
BBQ to thank these Soldiers and their Families for their sacrifice in serving
our Country. It is important to remember that not only the Soldier served our
Country, but also their Family, as they had to carry on without an important
member to help them through the last year.
If you can commit to this date, I will help in any way I can short of
being there at that time. My best friend Mike, lives in Howell, and may be
able to assist if you need help. Also, most of my family lives in Michigan,
they also may be available to help. I am truly sorry I can't make this date.
If needed, I have a Lang #84, and I can make sure it is there for you to use.
Thank you for your help, I have carbon copied Kris and Brandy, your
contacts if you can do this.
Check out our Ohio schedule below...
Thank you sir,
Dave
440-225-0900

David Waun CBO (Chief BBQ Officer) Smokin' Brothers BBQ
www.bbqforourtroops.com <blockedhttp://www.bbqforourtroops.com/>
Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you:
1. Jesus Christ. 2. The American G.I.
One died for your soul, the other for your Freedom.


--- On Tue, 5/12/09, krislt@comcast.net <krislt@comcast.net> wrote:



From: krislt@comcast.net <krislt@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: Michigan BBQ for our Troops
To: smokinbrothersbbq@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2009, 9:41 PM


Hi, I did email you about the date in October, it is actually Oct
11th, that is a Sunday, Col Peters thought that when the families come to
watch the soldiers get awards that would be a great time for the BBQ since
they won't be in such a hurry to get home.
Yes I will never understand the military either, but we can put you
in contact with other FRG's that would love to utilize your blessings

[Richtee]

Update emails been sent, will let you know what info I get.

Scott

HEY I just got this from a cousin in OH that they are trying to get it going here...what's the poop???

[sfisch]

Here's the latest info I got today.
Over the next few weeks I will be putting a list together of what we will need in regards to equipment, manpower and food and will let everyone know to see what they can come up with.
Start putting your feelers out.
Thanks a bunch
Scott


Oct 11th is the date.
Jackson is where the event will be held. Exact location will be announced later.
I just wrote Kris, and asked her.
42 Soldiers returning from 3 different areas of Iraq.
Guessing at this point, there will be 2-3 family members at the award banquet with them, which could make the total in the neighborhood of 175-200 depending on if some local dignitaries will be there. We are dealing with the military, even the date may slightly change.

Menu: We try to have 2 meats, not everyone will eat pork. We cook Beef Brisket, Pork shoulders, Beans and cole slaw. Hamburger buns, ( I figure 1.5 per person when families are there.) though some will eat the meat just on the plate. Down here, 10 lbs of slaw feeds 75. I ask the Armory to supply the drinks, it will be easier than you getting it and trying to keep it cold, or worry about coffee/sugar/cream. They are so appreciative for what you are doing, drinks are not even an issue.

Food, please try to do what you all can, to get the food. If you looked at the whole letter and saw Ohio's schedule, you see I have a lot of work to get what we need down here.
When we get closer to the date, if you are having problems, I'll do what I have to, to get what is needed to make the BBQ happen.

[Dave]

Sounds like a great event. Unless something major happens, count me in...

[BruceB]

Count me in Scott.

[spydermike72]

Ok, now we need to start working on donations and stuff!! Scott will have some more info next week on what we need to work on.

[sfisch]

Right,
I just don't want to get too far ahead of myself yet in regards to the donations.
Probably the first thing that would be helpful would be to know who lives the closest to Jackson that could bring rigs to cook on. Chime in and let me know.

Thanks
Scott

[michiana mark]

Scott, count me in. I have the Lang 60. The wife and I would gladly donate a case of butts or brisket. We're less than two hours from Jackson.

Proud father of a US Sailor, and possibly a Navy dentist.:)

[spydermike72]

Count the 84 in, and anything else that I have or may have at that time!! We can discuss further details this weekend as we are in Dayton.

[jerry516planes]

I know I can get a donation either cash or meat. Let us know what all we will need.

Looking forward to this!!!!!!!!!!!

[Capt Dan]

I think I would like to be involved in this too. I live about 60-70 minutes away, and could bring the 60. I may als be able to secure some meat or food donations. If nothing else, just come to help serve and clean-up!

[sfisch]

Been in touch via email with some of the military personnel, setting up a phone call for early next week to get some specifics and I will post asap.

Scott

[Richtee]

SF..please email me..I have a valid email here "on file". Thanks...

Rich

[sfisch]

Rich,
sent you a PM.

Scott

[sfisch]

*UPDATE*
Please mark your calendars for October 11. The date is certain for the BBQ for our Troops cook.
The troops actually arrive home in July but on October 11 they are holding a "Freedom Salute" during which awards are presented etc..
Don't have a number yet, somewhere in the area of 200, the Armory building which has a full kitchen will most likely be the building we use to feed everyone and it has tables and chairs.
I'm going to get in touch with Dave and ask him to take a trip over and have the rep's show him the armory so we know what we have available for our use.

They are working on getting me the agenda for the Freedom Salute which will include the times so we know when to have the food ready and will keep me updated in regards to the number of people believe to be attending.

COOKERS: Who is the closest to Jackson with what kind of cooker, lets plan on needing ones big enough for 250 people, just don't know what meats we want to cook yet, Ribs and chicken obviously will cook the fastest or maybe we could pre-cook butts too.

FOOD: We will be responsible for supplying all the food. Mike and I are going to get in touch with Restaurant Depot and see what we can get from them and then I will post for some help from all of you.

MANPOWER: How many of you can attend for certain?

Think thats enough for now, I'll keep you posted as I get new information.
Thanks a bunch!
Scott

[Bbq Bubba]

Great job Scott!

I'm sure that we'll have plenty of cookers and help. Looking VERY forward to this! ;)

[BruceB]

Count me in Scott. Great job.

[Dave]

I've got a meeting set up with the Armory for this Thursday, June 4th. I'll update everyone regarding the facilities after the meeting.

[sfisch]

Excellent, thanks Dave.

Scott

[EatonHoggBBQ]

Calendar marked. May have 4 to 5 volunteers for you.

[bbqbull]

Me and my partner Mark might be in for this.
I can drag down the big Klose, let me get back to ya on this one.

[Capt Dan]

Count me in for sure w/or w/out the smoker. Makes no difference to me. Thanks for the info and the continued hard work!:)

[Bbq Bubba]

Anybody have any marketing ideas as far as trying to get donations?

Scott, you want me to hook up with some Brethren in the BBQ For the Troops, Mid-west chapter?
They might have some great ideas for us as they've been doing it some time now. :D

[spydermike72]

Anybody have any marketing ideas as far as trying to get donations?

Scott, you want me to hook up with some Brethren in the BBQ For the Troops, Mid-west chapter?
They might have some great ideas for us as they've been doing it some time now. :D

We are going to talk to the Restaurant Depot next week, hoping for a big score there, if not we will come out with a Plan B.

They are the folks who approached us and got this ball rolling. We will take help from anywhere!! :D

[sfisch]

Bubba,
got all that covered in regards to the other chapters, have been in touch with Del who is the originator, he actually is the one who first got hold of us to help out. Also been in touch with Dave from the Ohio area.

There will be lots to do but we have alot of time to properly plan this and make it a classy event. I will keep you all posted when it looks like we need stuff. For now, we have a good plan and are moving forward nicely. Thanks for the help.
Scott

[sfisch]

Thanks Bull,
Right now Dave Luce has (2) Lang 84's available just a few minutes away from the armory. As soon as we get the menu figured out I'll be able to figure how many more cookers we will need.

Who lives the next closest to Jackson that can bring a cooker and what is it?

Take care
Scott

[bbqbull]

Unless things change around here, im in.
My buddy/teammate is willing to come down and lend a hand.
No hunters saftey class scheduled to muck up my plans, like Dayton Oh.

[jim]

I live in Ypsilanti, but my cooker isn't quite as big as a Lang 84. I've got a Quality Grill 48 inch stick burner with a 36 inch vertical. Grill can be used to grill quite easily for chicken and dogs or something for the kids...if needed.

Jim

[Big Bears BBQ]

I will also help out I have a Lang 60D i'm an hour from Jackson,Mi.

Just let me know........ Dave

[Dave]

I met with the people from the armory today. It is going to be a great location for this event. We will have access to a full kitchen, including two convection ovens for cooking/wariming the side dishes, prep tables, frig, freezer,etc... the only thing they asked is that we leave it as clean as we found it, which obviously will be no problem. I will stay in touch with them, and make final arrangements as the date gets closer. Everyone there is very excited about the BBQ and looking forward to it. I'll keep everyone updated as details are confirmed..

[spydermike72]

Thanks Dave!! Scott and I have a meeting with Restaurant Depot next Wednesday!!

[sfisch]

Dave,
Thanks for making the trip over. Sounds like we have a really good start. I got a lead last night to call the Ohio Cattlemen's Association. Apparantly they have been active with the bbq for our troops in Ohio. I'll see what I can get from them before Mike and I go to Restaurant Depot on Wed.
I'll keep the rest of you informed on what we need and who we need to do what. Did that make sense?

Scott

[jerry516planes]

Keep up the good work! We are really looking forward to this! I have rounded up a couple of volunteers as well!

[Big Bears BBQ]

I'm still on board to help out. One of our part time Dep.s is a Recruiter out of Jackson I'll check with him to see what info they have..............

[crossczek]

Sorry to just chime in. I'm 1 hour away due East, and more than willing to bring The Monster (about 25 square feet of reverse flow cooking space).
And, I'm sure I can get a couple of volunteers, too.
Hope I'm not too late to get in on this.

[sfisch]

Mike and I met with Restaurant Depot last week, I've got a GFS rep checking with their company, Emails off to the Michigan Cattlemens Association, Ohio Cattlemens Association and Michigan Pork Producers all in regards to monetary donations to make the meat purchases. Will keep you all posted as info comes back.
In regards to cooking equipment, the other Scott's (Crossczek) monster and Dave's (2) Lang's should be enough to cook on but again as we get a little closer we'll re-assess that.

Scott

[tonto1117]

Great news and work guys!! If the date stays the same count us in. Scott, please let me know if there is anything we can do.

[sfisch]

Latest update 8/5/09
I got Dave some papework for a Military Assistance Program (MAP) grant that comes from the National VFW Headquarters in Kansas City, Mo. He has a contact at the Jackson VFW who will complete it and see if the Nat'l organization will fund pretty much the entire event. Hopefully will know within the month. I got a quote for everything needed from Restaurant Depot.
Dave has also graciously designated his cookers for us to cook the food on so no one should have to haul any cookers.
While waiting for the financing portion to come in, who for sure knows that they will be able to attend and assist. The event is Sunday, October 11, times to be announced.
The menu includes Brisket, Pulled Pork, beans and slaw for 250 people. We will need to begin cooking on Saturday and get the pork pulled hopefully early Sunday morning. Dave says there are hotels in the immediate area for those of us who will have to spend the night. There is a complete kitchen available for us to use at the armory.
Just let me know who can make it for sure so I can start adding up bodies.
I was also thinking it would be cool if we all had matching aprons of some sort, anyone have any sources?? I'll email the Restaurant Depot and see what price he can give me on aprons and maybe we can get the GLBBQA logo printed on them or Camo ones!

Thanks
Scott

[BruceB]

Scott,

I will be there for sure.

[spydermike72]

I will be there on the 11th (Sunday) for sure!!

Restaurant Equippers has Aprons for approx $4.00 each...

[sfisch]

Mike,
I have put in a request to Restaurant Depot to donate some aprons. Will keep everyone posted.

Scott

[Neil]

Marci and I will be there to help if you need us.

[sfisch]

Neil;
looks like we will have to go over on Saturday and begin some of the cooking. Are you available for both days?

Scott

[crossczek]

I volunteer for any late night or early morning cooking.
Let me know what you need.

Scott, I'll PM you with my cell phone number so you can contact me for scheduling.

[sfisch]

Dave says the VFW has submitted the grant, the national assn wanted more info, got that for them and we are just waiting for their answer. Will keep everyone posted.

Scott

[Richtee]

Scott- let me know if it appears you folk are gonna be short on bodies. I SHOULD have a walking cast by then, and could help trimming, pulling, tending cooker, that sorta stuff.

Thanks!

[sfisch]

A little more update info.

The food needs to be served at 11:30 am. They aren't sure if they are going to have a large tent outside or use the VFW hall nearby but will let us know soon.

I will be getting in touch with each of you who said you can help out to see if you will be there both saturday and sunday or just sunday. If you don't get a pm or phone call from me by next week please jump in here and remind me.

We will be needing some chafers. I'm guessing 2 for pork, 2 brisket, 2 beans and 2 cole slaw and keeping them filled from foil pans kept warm in cambros. I WILL NOT TOUCH THE CAMBROS.
Who would like to volunteer to bring some?
Food service will be thru a food line with our volunteer serving, that goes quicker than the patrons scooping their own food. I'd like to put on a good show and was thinking 1 glbbqa volunteer per chafer, we can get by with less if we have to.

Think thats enough for now.
Scott

[Rich Parker]

I would like to volunteer but it looks like I will be working that weekend.

Has the money situation been taken care of by donors or is there a need for monetary donations?

[sfisch]

We are still awaiting an answer in regards to the monetary grant.

Scott

[sfisch]

I sent out several PM's today with this information, well some of this information:
The cook for 250 Soldiers and their families will be on Sunday, Oct 11 beginning at
11:00 am in Jackson at the National Guard Armory.
Dave Luce will let us use his 2 Lang 84's to cook with at his BBQ Restaurant located not too far from the Armory. We will cook on Saturday.
I'll need a list of who can come on which days. We will need help with setting up and serving on Sunday. I will also post a list of motels in the nearby area for those spending the night

Those of you who did not get a PM, do not be offended, I got a finger cramp from cutting and pasting so much.

Scott
yes, this one

[spydermike72]

I will be there on Sunday.

[sfisch]

The PM's I sent had the wrong date, it is Sunday, October 11.
Thanks Theresa for the heads up.
Scott

[Capt Dan]

I noticed that too Scott. I would like to help on sunday if I could. If we need more help, I can bring my two sons. I'll be in touch. Thanks again for the hard work organizing this.:)

[sfisch]

Here is a list of hotels in the area, Dave said the first two are the closest.
Scott

Country inn & suites
3506 O'Neill Dr
Jackson
517-788-6400

Country Hearth Inn
1111 Boardman Rd Jackson
517-783-6404

Fairfield Inn of Jackson
2395 Shirley Dr
Jackson
517-784-7877

Jackson hotel and conference center (old holiday inn)
2000 holiday inn drive
jackson
517-783-2681

[sfisch]

Great news,
got a email from Dave Luce, the local VFW received word from the National level that they accepted the grant request for a little over $400 that will pretty much fund most of the cost of the event.
I need to know who is available to help cook on Saturday. We are getting good responses for Sunday.

Thanks
Scott

[BarberQue]

How about beer? Are they alowing beer for this event? I could possibly bring a few kegs of beer, would need to know asap so I can get started.

[sfisch]

Um, dont know about the beer, will send a email to the military reps and find out.

Scott

[BarberQue]

Ya, I was wondering because you are serving food before noon. Not sure how that works with donated products?

[sfisch]

Got this latest information from member Dave Luce.
We have alot of volunteers for Sunday to help serve but are in need of some help prepping and cooking on Saturday.
Besides Dave and me, who can be there Saturday or really early Sunday morning to help pull all the butts?
We are serving the food at 11:30 am.
Scott


As far as schedule goes, here is a quick potential scenario:
>
> 1800-1900 hours- start prepping pork butts and brisket
> 2100-2300 hours- put meat on smokers
> 0600-0800 (approx) take butts off and start pulling place in holding
> cabinets.
>
> Looks like most of the work will be prepping, then pulling. I will
> be there all night so I think 2 or 3 of us could tend the smokers,
> rotate meat, wrap, etc....or 4 would make an even number for eucher
> or something...
>
> I also have a few chaffing dishes we can use if needed, two cambros
> we can use. the armory had a full kitchen with all utensils, so we
> should be good there.

[BruceB]

Scott,

My brother and I will be there both days.

[sfisch]

Thanks Bruce!

[michiana mark]

Scott, I plan on being there both days. Arrival time to be determined. PM your cell # to me .

[sfisch]

Thanks Mark,
PM sent.

Scott

[BruceB]

Scott, I plan on being there both days. Arrival time to be determined. PM your cell # to me .

Looks like I'll need to buy another bottle of Jack.:eek::D

[sfisch]

oh boy

Scott

[sfisch]

Right now Dave Luce has 2 Lang 84's he will let us use to cook on but he needs them Saturday til about 6pm to get his restaurant cooking done on. After that we could cook the troops food all night.
I would like to see if we could get another Lang 84 or something of similar size that would hold approx 200 lbs of meat total.
I'd like to start cooking early in the day on Saturday, get it all done, the pork pulled and then put the food away overnight to warm up Sunday morning and serve. That would keep us from being up all night and most likely a little less stressful.
So, does anyone have a cooker that they would be willing to bring to Jackson early Saturday?

Scott

[tonto1117]

Scott,
PM sent.

[jerry516planes]

Right now Dave Luce has 2 Lang 84's he will let us use to cook on but he needs them Saturday til about 6pm to get his restaurant cooking done on. After that we could cook the troops food all night.
I would like to see if we could get another Lang 84 or something of similar size that would hold approx 200 lbs of meat total.
I'd like to start cooking early in the day on Saturday, get it all done, the pork pulled and then put the food away overnight to warm up Sunday morning and serve. That would keep us from being up all night and most likely a little less stressful.
So, does anyone have a cooker that they would be willing to bring to Jackson early Saturday?

Scott

I would be glad to do that, but ours only holds about 100 lbs.

[sfisch]

LATEST UPDATE:

COOKING PLAN A.
Bubba said he is now available and that we could cook all the meat on FRIDAY at his place, get it pulled, panned and he can keep it in his fridges. I kind of like this idea because we know it will all be done and we wont have to worry about the meat. We can warm the meats, cook the beans and make the coleslaw up Sunday morning and serve at 11:30 am.

PLAN B
If we can get a cooker or two over to Dave Luce's in Jackson we could meet early Saturday, get the meat cooked, pulled and he can hold it at his restaurant. We could do the beans and slaw Sunday morning and serve at 11:30 am.

FOOD SERVICE:
Originally I thought we could just set up serving tables with chafers on them, our volunteers would man each chafer and serve as the people went thru the lines.
Dave Waun from Ohio who does many of these said he usually serves the family members at their table. Our volunteers would bring the foods to the tables and serve there.

Since this is our first event, I think the serving line would be easier and more controllable.
What do you all think??

Scott

[spydermike72]

Plan A is not available, the Lang will be at my house, I have a catering event on Saturday... However if you want to come to my house on Friday and cook them no problem I will be cooking for my event on Saturday....

[Bbq Bubba]

Troy was right....

[spydermike72]

Troy was right....

Yeah but about who ??? :D

[BruceB]

Scott,

I like the serving line idea, it will be a lot easier to manage especially when the number of volunteers are not known.

As far as all the other stuff; which plan, who's got the cooker, whether Troy was right or wrong (he's never wrong by the way)...that's all too confusing, just let me know where and when and I'll be there.:rolleyes:

[spydermike72]

Didnt mean to confuse you Bruce... Didnt know it would be so easy... :p :D

[sfisch]

With alot of help from Michiana Mark we now have a plan. I have a email off to Dave Luce to make sure it is alright with him. I will post the final plans as soon as I hear from Dave.

Thanks everyone
Scott

[BruceB]

With alot of help from Michiana Mark we now have a plan. I have a email off to Dave Luce to make sure it is alright with him. I will post the final plans as soon as I hear from Dave.

Thanks everyone
Scott

So this would be Plan C?

[BruceB]

Didnt mean to confuse you Bruce... Didnt know it would be so easy... :p :D

Yep, Troy was right.

[sfisch]

Okay PLAN C:
Michiana Mark will bring his Lang 60 to Dave's restaurant around 4pm on Saturday. Dave will most likely have one of his Langs available then also. We will prep the meats and put them on the smokers. Mark has graciously volunteered to "bitch" the rigs all night but will need some help when the butts reach foiling temp.
He guarantees the meat ready by 6am at which time we will need volunteers to start pulling the pork, prepping the beans and cole slaw unless we get froggy and do it Saturday night.

So for Saturday I believe we have volunteers:
Scott
Bruce B
Bruce B's brother (whats his name again? Fred I think)
Mark
Dave Luce
Bubba

I think that should be plenty to prep the meats.
Who else can be available early Sunday morning 6:00 ish to start pulling butts?
Mark will bring his Lang to the actual site also to help hold the food if necessary but also for some "show" and smoke.

I like the idea of the serving tables, think we will stick with that. With a chafer for the butts, brisket, beans, and slaw we will need
(4) volunteers to serve and (4) to back them up.

Dave Luce is coming up from Ohio, he does a bunch of these cooks.

Let me know who can come when.
Thanks, especially to Mark for getting a final plan.

Scott

[Bbq Bubba]

Nice job puttin this together in less than 5 plans! ;)

[Dave]

Scott, are you trying to tell me something?? Where am I going to be in Ohio??

[sfisch]

Dave,
My mistake, ITs Dave Waun from Ohio, I go too many plans in my head, the voices are mixing everything up!!

Scott

[michiana mark]

Looks like I'll need to buy another bottle of Jack.:eek::D

Always good to have a back-up plan.:)

[bbqbull]

Scott, do you have enough bbq pits now?

Im not committing at this time, too much stuff happening here in our lives, but really want to come down and help on this gig.

[sfisch]

Yes, we have enough rigs, would love to see you again Bull.

Scott

[sfisch]

Great news, Dave Luce says the check has been received from the National VFW!!

Manpower to date as follows:
SATURDAY:
Scott
Bruce B
Bruce B's brother (whats his name again? Fred I think)
Mark w/ his Lang 60
Dave Luce w/ his restaurant
Bubba

Who can be there early Sunday morning to begin pulling pork, I'm guessing close to 7am?
Hopefully everyone else can be there between 9-9:30 to paper the tables and just get things set up. If time works out right we will prep the slaw and keep in Daves restaurant coolers Saturday night and we can throw the beans on a smoker early Sunday morning.

THanks
Scott

[BruceB]

Scott,

Do you have the name and address of Dave's restaurant?

[sfisch]

Yes.

Scott

[sfisch]

The address to the BBQ Shack is 918 N. Wisner St. Jackson

Scott

[michiana mark]

Scott,

Do you have the name and address of Dave's restaurant?

Dave's restaurant

BBQ Shack
918 N Wisner St.
Jackson MI 49202

[BruceB]

Thanks Mark...see you next Saturday! Bring your glass!

[Capt Dan]

For me and Justin(my son), where would you like us to be upon arrival on sunday morning, and what time? We will be comming from Kalamazoo. Is there anything that we need to bring to be the most helpfull, don't say money, cuz I am all out of that.He is the workhorse of the two of us, I am limited somewhat on my physical abilities, but I do play well with others!:D

an address and time would be kindly appreciated.

see everyone on sunday.:cool:

[sfisch]

Dan,
If you could, can you be there around 6:30 am to help begin pulling the pork? That would be really helpful. No need to bring anything else, think its all covered. Thanks for helping out, see you Sunday.

Here's the place some of us are staying at in case anyone else needs to book a room.

Country inn & suites
3506 O'Neill Dr
Jackson
517-788-6400

Scott

[BruceB]

Scott,

Do you still need me to bring the chafing(sp) racks, pans and some sterno?
Anything else?

[Capt Dan]

I will try to be there by then. I also have 8 chaffing racks and a few full pans we can use, no sterno though. Do I just go to that BBQ shack then, or are we gonna be pulling pork at a different location.:confused:

[BruceB]

I will try to be there by then. I also have 8 chaffing racks and a few full pans we can use, no sterno though. Do I just go to that BBQ shack then, or are we gonna be pulling pork at a different location.:confused:

Page 9 of this thread at the bottom under Plan C, it appears to me that we will be pulling at the restaurant in the 6am-7am range. Admittedly, it's kind of vague...hopefully Scott will chime in.

[Capt Dan]

OK, good enough. I guess I missed that page!:confused:
We will be there around 6-6:30 do you guys need extra chaffing racks? let me know. I have about 12 of them.I might see if I can round up another to help.

[BruceB]

Dan; I only have 3 here so I'm bringing those and if we use them great if not well we've got them if we need them. I'm also bringing some full size disposable aluminum pans for the racks.

[sfisch]

Hi all,
yes the pork pulling and most of the food prep will be done at Daves restaurant. New plan A1 (:)) is to take Marks Lang 60 to the site also and use it to heat up the beans and keep the food warm and for presentation purposes also.
Chafers, pans & Sterno:
Since we are serving PP,brisket, beans, slaw, I think we will obviously need 4 chafers unless we double up to see if food service will go faster.
Dan, since you have 12 of them, how about bringing 8, that will cover the chafers.

Pans: Mike has some he is bringing, if you have room, how about whoever has a few bring them.
Sterno: I will buy 12 cans and bring them.

Bavarian Smoke and Pork of the North teams are coming down also and should arrive around 8:30 am.
Any thoughts or ideas are very welcome. Weather looks a little iffy, gonna be chilly if not wet too.

Thanks everyone for your help.

Scott

[Capt Dan]

do we need canopies, or is the serving inside? I have 1 ez up we can use if need be. I will bring the chaffing racks and some full pans for water.

[Rich Parker]

Looks like I am off the hook for work on Saturday but unfortunately not Sunday.

Do you guys need another volunteer?

I can get down to Jackson by around noon - 1pm if needed.

[sfisch]

Rich,
Things wont get going on Saturday until after 4pm but you are more then welcome to come hang out. Going to start prepping the meat around that time.

Dan,
Bruce is going to bring an ez-up, if you have room and want to bring one it may be nice to have one in case the weather is bad and we need to cover the smoker. There is supposed to be a large tent that the event is being held under.

Thanks
Scott

[Capt Dan]

You got it mr.

[Rich Parker]

Where are the pics??

[Bbq Bubba]

Where are the pics??

YOU were suppost to be there taking them! ;)

[Rich Parker]

YOU were suppost to be there taking them! ;)

I know..I know... I was home working :rolleyes: And playing with my new toy (pics to follow)

[Capt Dan]

I got some, I'll get em loaded and posted soon.;)

[Capt Dan]

OK, that was fast :D

Justin and I arived around 6:15 to Daves Q shack, and met Him ad talked a bit about his business. What a great set-up he has there in Jackson.Out in the parkin lot we had these things a going strong!

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/feedthetroops2.jpg

and the master pitmaster was Mark( michiana Mark). He did a great job and never missed a beat.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/Feedthetroops1.jpg

The pork was almost pulling itself as I watched the guys doing there job getting the meats in pans and ready for later in the day.The points of the packers were pulled and chopped to ad to the beans, and the Flats were sliced later at the armory by Jerry and Mark.

[Capt Dan]

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/feedthetroops7.jpg

and here are some pics from inside, the serving lines. Both of them!!:rolleyes:

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/feedthetroops4.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/feedthetroops8.jpg

[Capt Dan]

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/feedthetroops6.jpg

and the families enjoying the food with their soldiers.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/feedthetroops5.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/Captspanky/feedthetroops3.jpg

I had a great time with all the volunteers and even some of the troops.What a great bunch of people, and they aere very appreciative. I gotta say the Scott did a great job getting this thing done. I know he was a bit frustrated, but we all kept it together and got the "mission accomplished". M Mark did a great job with the food, and Dave was very instrumental in making this happen. Very comfortable prepping at his store, and he had all the greatest toys in his kitchen.

I think we should all be very proud of our GLBBQA members who worked on this along with the guests and friends they had to assist us with the task.

There was a reporter there and I would expect some type of good publicity from the event.It was so nice being involved with an event that had plenty of help. It makes it so much easier on everyone.

I wish I woulda got more pics but, I was busy for a little while. The pic I didn't get was that huge burner/kettle combo that the dirty rice was prepaired in.What a neet concept.

Well, thats all I got, Justin and I both had a good and rewarding day, and its always good to see my friends again.

[spydermike72]

Hey Gang, first off I need to apologize for my absence at this event. My event the night before went a little too well if you know what I mean. It looks like everything went great and I want to thank all of the members that came out and helped. Especially Dave and Mark. Scott had a big job and I understand got a few curveballs, and handled them well, thank you!! I am very proud of the GLBBQA this morning (and every morning)!!

[Rich Parker]

Glad everything went great for you guys.

Scott deserves a lot of praise for putting this event together.

[sfisch]

Ok, got a good nights sleep and took a few valium but I am fine now.
Firstly, I want to thank Bruce B, his brother Gary (aka Fred), Jerry and his wife Barb, Dan and Justin, B-Mac, my wife Debbie, Dave Waun, his wife and two friends who came up from Ohio, for helping make this happen, but honestly without Mark and his wife Lindy, and Dave Luce for helping and letting us use his restaurant and supplies we would have been in a little trouble. Mark stayed up all night in the freezing cold tending the meat making sure it was done in the morning and I have to say it was awesome. Those soldiers and their families got some great grub.
We were thrown some curves when we arrived such as the exact location, no where near the kitchen, inside not in a tent, the time, 1/2 hr sooner and even the food, they prepared beans and slaw, burgers and hotdogs. The biggest problem was that the Col. wanted (2) serving lines. We were prepared for (1), chafers, pans, sterno, personnel. Our wives stepped up, put on their paper big boy hats and we were able to get enough equip and people to put together a second serving line. Original serving time was 11:30, the Col. wanted it 11:00 and I think we were able to start at 11:20. Justin looked pretty good down there with the dogs and burgers and Jerry I think liked being the only guy in his line!!
All in all when it was said and done there were alot of happy soldiers and family members who enjoyed themselves so it was all worth it. The Col. later told me she thought we served around 200.
You guys are the best. I've said it before but I think events like this is what the heart and soul of the association is all about. Sure comp's are fun, there are always big turnouts for them but those of you who choose to put your personal time and money into making events like this happen need to be really proud of yourselves.
I can't thank all of you above enough, guess just being able to say we are friends will work.

Take care,
Scott

P.S. Dan, I should be in more of the pictures but I know there really wasn't alot of time to be taking pictures.

[Dave]

Scott, great job of organizing the event and adapting and adjusting as needed once on scene. It was great meeting those of you I haven't had the pleasure of meeting before, and enjoyed seeing everyone else again. It truely was a great event, and feel proud to have been a part of it. Thanks for letting me tag along.....

[BruceB]

Scott, and this goes for Fred too; you did an awesome job organizing and eventually pulling this off. Saw a lot of smiling faces on the troops and a lot of them looked really full when they got through the line for the third time.

Dave; great place in Jackson, your "Q" is great and the your business is steady, good combination in these times. Thanks for the use of "The Shack."

Michiana Mark, pitmaster supreme, great job tending the pits and cooking that meat in some tough conditions.....SORRY about "overjack-ing" you that one time.:D

Good to see Capt. Dan and his son and rumor had it that Bruce Mac was going to show and lo and behold he did...to all the wives and to those who helped out, and I'm sure I'm forgetting some a huge THANK YOU and it was great working with you and it was a great event.

Now on to Senior Q...

[michiana mark]

After a few naps during the Nascar race, did they actually run 500 miles? And then a nice nights sleep, I'm alive and able to talk about it.

Lindy and I were very happy to be a part of this BBQ for the troops. We both had been looking forward to this weekend for a while. Glad the weather was nice, a tad chilly in the morning, but nice overall.

Scott and Deb, you did a fantastic job on this event. You looked like you had done a few, hopefully we'll all get a few more chances to watch you hone your skills a little more. Plan, prepare, and execute, make mid course corrections as needed.

Dave, great hospitality and grub at your place. Looks like you have the makings of a good business. Care to trade sauce secrets for brisket secrets?

Bruce B and Gary aka Fred. Always good to see you brother, and your friend Jack. I just never know when is the right time to say STOP. Great to talk and visit with you, and you were always willing to lend a helping hand. Tell Gary, he can rub my butt anytime. Happy to have meet him this weekend.

Jerry and Barb, it was good to see you both again. Thanks for the help in getting the butts and brisket on. Also thanks for slicing some of my overcooked brisket.

Bruce M glad to see you made it, and Thanks for all you do for the GLBBQA

Capt Dan and Justin. A pleasure to meet both of you. Thanks for the assistance of wrapping brisket, by then I was pretty tired, the Jack had begun to wear off. Great to see Justin in the serving line. Dan, your'e in our prayers.

Got to meet Mike and Dave from Ohio. They had done 11 BBQ for the troops this year. WHOA!!!!!!!!!!!!! Truly a commitment of Love on their part. They had said that they have a request for next year already. I believe it was June 5th or 6th in Grayling MI for 1500. Sounds like a good time to me.


To everyone, Thanks for what you done for the soldiers and their families. Stay in touch.

Proud father of a US Navy sailor.

[Bbq Bubba]

OK, what happened to **** and Larry?

Too cold? :p

[BruceB]

OK, what happened to **** and Larry?

Too cold? :p

I think they had a class reunion or something....:rolleyes:

[spydermike72]

I think they had a class reunion or something....:rolleyes:

I deserve that... :eek:

[sfisch]

Oh, Mikes awake.

Scott

[Dave]

The local newspaper did the BBQ article in todays paper. Scott, Capt Dan and his son Justin are on the front page. go to www.mlive.com and click on the jackson tab and it should come up. The only time they mentioned the bbq for the troops was the caption under the picture, the rest of the article was on just bbq in general, but at least we got a little press for the GLBBQA..

[sfisch]

Guess the photographer just knew who had the prettiest faces!!!!!!

Scott

[spydermike72]

Since Scott doesnt know how to post pics I am doing it for him. You might notice a trend in these pics... :D

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i254/spydermike72/bbq4troops/004.jpg

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i254/spydermike72/bbq4troops/005.jpg

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i254/spydermike72/bbq4troops/006.jpg

[spydermike72]

And one more...

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i254/spydermike72/bbq4troops/007.jpg

[Rich Parker]

Nice article!

http://www.mlive.com/news/jackson/index.ssf/2009/10/jackson_area_is_home_to_growin.html

[Capt Dan]

I feel kinda crappy about stealing everyones limelight. I guess I just happened to be there at the right time. I surely didn't do very much, and the guys who did the most and hardest work were kinda lost in the article. I hope they realize how important and appreciated they really are in this effort.

Hats off to you guys.;)

[michiana mark]

I feel kinda crappy about stealing everyones limelight. I guess I just happened to be there at the right time. I surely didn't do very much, and the guys who did the most and hardest work were kinda lost in the article. I hope they realize how important and appreciated they really are in this effort.

Hats off to you guys.;)
If your lucky in life, they say your famous for 15 min. Enjoy the sunshine, while the sun is shining on you. Teamwork baby, teamwork!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[BruceB]

There's no "I" in team Dan....when you shine we all shine!:)

[jerry516planes]

There's no "I" in team Dan....when you shine we all shine!:)

I agree! It is a fun loving picture and Scott is center stage!

[sfisch]

I'm just the most photogenic!!

Scott

[bbqbull]

I'm just the most photogenic!! :D:D:D

Scott

Thanks for everybody pitching in to make this a big sucess.

Had my knee been feeling a bit better I would have been there, just to assist in feeding the troops.

Great job to all who assisted, my hat is off to everyone.