Whoa, the inaugural Texas Barbecue Festival, after 2 years of intense planning, is behind us. I think we'd all agree by the public's reception and interest that it was indeed a success but we very much want to focus on ways to improve the festival and assure the association's continual growth. We had vendors running out of food by 3pm or having to go and get more food in order the serve food through out the entire festival. The weather was absolutely beautiful, while the music made a great background for the lively panel discussions on the panel stage.

Yes, the planning has already begun for next years festival and we have some money in the bank. Unbelievable!

The sponsors we would like to Thank first is The Austin Chronicle for all the support they've provided for this event. For those of you who didn't see the October 7^th issue of The Austin Chronicle (call me and I'll get you copies-477-2529) the cover story was entitled 'Sausage Shrines- A Pilgrimage' which was a 7 paged article devoted to Barbecue! It was awesome especially since as you already know this years festival focus was sausage.

Secondly, A huge Thank You Lone Star and Shiner Bock for providing a $1000 cash donation to help produce the festival. John Fisher of Capital Beverage has been behind us now over a year right from the beginning with last year's open house and we greatly appreciate all he has done for the association and festival.

Other sponsors we want to Thank are KVET who sent music talent Ryan Turner and afternoon drive time personality Janice Williams to act as our MC's. In addition to running public service announcements, the Thursday prior to the festival the Sammy and Bob Show had a special appearance by yours truly, promoting the festival and the association.

Lastly, we would like to also Thank KEYE's Byron Webber and his summer long contest

In other news the Central Texas Barbecue Association is now a registered federal non-profit organization with a bank account. We are considered a 501 c (6) which is the same thing the City Chamber of Commerce is. Also the individual member's Barbecue Guild is growing by leaps and bounds and we really want to focus and expand the Business Membership. Particularly north, west, and in Austin itself.