Tonight’s episode of “BBQ USA” on the Food Network is entitled “Battle on the Bayou” and it will feature the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Operation Smoke Sheaux. Ryan Gonzales, assistant director of Veteran and Military Students at UL-L said the Food Network is showcasing their annual fundraiser Operation Smoke Sheaux.
“This is our third annual event. We’ve raised almost $30,000 for our student veterans. It has grown exceptionally from our first one,” said Gonzales.
Gonzales said their first event was one of the largest BBQ competitions in the state. So big that it grabbed the attention of the Food Network, and they filmed the annual event back in April. Gonzales said the episode follows six competitors throughout the contest.
“And go through their trials and tribulations of getting the pits ready and getting the food prepped and during the competition all the cooking. Then follow them all the way through the award ceremony,” said Gonzales.
And while he wouldn’t reveal the winner of the competition, Gonzales is thrilled about the national exposure the fundraiser will receive and hopes even more contestants come to the Bayou State to showcase their skills next year.
“The opportunity for some of the outside competitors from around the nation a view of the competition and hopefully get them to come in and compete next season in April,” said Gonzales.
Funds raised from the event aid student veterans facing extreme hardship and that includes health issues or natural disaster recovery. The episode airs at 9 PM tonight on the Food Network.
Comments