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Annual Pig Jam Is Much More Than Competition

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By DAVE NICHOLSON The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 24, 2007

Updated: 10/16/2007 06:55 pm

PLANT CITY - The Pig Jam turns 5 this year.

Organizer Jodi Smith predicts 'more barbecue teams and more families' than ever at next month's event.

Barbecue chefs from across the country will be on hand for the Pig Jam, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex, 1810 E. Park Road, about 2 1/2 miles south of Interstate 4. It's more than a competition, with entertainment, kids games and the chance to taste some of the best barbecue around.

For college football fans, there will be a tent where they can view the games on big-screen televisions, Smith said.

Guests will be able to sample barbecue ribs, pork, beef brisket and chicken for a fee. Also for sale will be such items as rubs, grilling supplies and accessories.

There is no admission charge; parking is $3 per vehicle.

The idea for the annual contest showcasing the region's beloved food is credited to Mark Poppell and Fred Williams. Friends and barbecue cooking partners, Poppell and Williams had attended the 2001 Big Pig Jig in Vienna, Ga. At that time, Poppell was on the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce's board of directors and brought the concept back to Florida.

Everyone seemed to like the idea of a similar event in Plant City, and the Pig Jam was born, Poppell said.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 754-3707 or visit www.plantcity.org.

Reporter Dave Nicholson can be reached at (813) 865-4432 or dnicholson@tampatrib.com.

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