BBQ & Blues 2010 is behind us, but the taste of smokin’ barbecue  is no doubt still on the lips of many of its admirers.  One such admirer – Cushing Chamber of Commerce director Brent Thompson.  It was a first for Thompson, and in spite of some challenges, he’s not singing any blues.

Thompson, who is a regular Tuesday guest on the Donna and Molly Show (weekdays, 7 – 10 a.m. on 1600 KUSH radio), said he was pleased with the outcome.  “Considering we had a new location, I thought things went very well.”

One of the most impressive things for Thompson – the unique smoker.  “It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before,” he said.  “Whoever designed it is very talented.”

As if by magic, texts came in from a listener with the names of the two men who designed and built the smoker centerpiece – Mike Anderson and Phil Smith. 

Individual smokers attached to each “arm” or “snorkel” are designed and built by the participating companies.

Also during his visit, Thompson announced Centurion Pipeline, L.P. (previously Tepco) won this year’s Judges Award for the best barbecue with the People’s Choice Award going to Plains.

“It was a great time – great barbecue, great blues,” Thompson said.  “But I think I’ll take a breather for a day or two.”

He admitted it would have to be a short breather, though – next week the Chamber has teamed up with Oklahoma PRIDE – a program teaching frontline employees “basic hospitality skills – with a distinct emphasis in how employees can make their community more attractive to visitors and tourists.”  The first of three sessions will be held Wed. June 16th at Big Robs BBQ.

“And then…it will be time to start gearing up for Festival in the Park,” Thompson continued.  “But that’s what the Chamber does – it always has something going on…”

For more information on Oklahoma Pride sessions, contact Brent Thompson at 918-225-2400.

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