Cook'en in the Park Dutch Oven Cookoff

I received a packet this afternoon for Cook'en in the Park on Saturday, May 21, 2005. I expect to compete in the Dutch oven cookoff. It's being held in a park along the Sacramento River in Red Bluff, California.

WHAT: Cook'en in the Park is a Dutch oven cookoff. You may compete in one, two or three pots -- it's your choice. Categories are main dish, bread and dessert. Each team will be given a 12- by 12-foot cooking area with a table, tablecloth and two chairs. You will be cooking in the open. The organizers recommend that you bring a shelter (like a pop-up shelter or beach umbrella) to protect you and your teammates from the blazing summer sun. Teams may consist of one to three persons. Western dress and table decorations are encouraged, but not required.

WHERE: River Park, Red Bluff, California. River Park is located one block east of Main Street at Willow Street. From I-5 north or south, take the Antelope Boulevard exit (exit 649) and head west toward Main Street. Turn left onto Main Street. Travel south on Main to Willow Street, about four blocks. Turn left onto Willow. Willow dead-ends into Riverside Way. Follow the signs to the cookoff.

WHEN: Saturday, May 21, 2005; registration begins at 7:00 a.m.; cook's meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m.; and judging commences at 1 p.m.

HOW MUCH: There is a $20 entry fee. $50 will be awarded to the first-place team for each category. Remember that you could win each category and go home with $150.

CONTACT: For more information, contact Don Mason at (530) 527-1027 or iron_kettle@hotmail.com.