Rusk, Texas- The Cherokee 4-H Parent & Adult Leaders’ (PALS) Association has partnered with the Texas State Railroad in Rusk to sponsor the Texas Hobo Cook-Off & Gyspy Jamboree. The event will be held on the grounds of the Texas State Railroad Campground in Rusk on Saturday, July 3-4.
Though 2015 is the inaugural year steps have been taken to ensure it becomes an annual cook-off. It has been sanctioned by the International Barbeque Cookers’ Association (IBCA) as a State Championship Event and recognized as such by Senator Robert Nichols through Senate Resolution 1029. It has furthermore been recognized by the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational BBQ (aka “The Jack”) in Lynchburg, Tennessee and the American Royal in Kansas City, MO as a qualifying event. Therefore, the grand champion winning cook team will automatically receive an invitation through the IBCA to cook at the American Royal and also win a chance to cook at “The Jack”. The American Royal is considered the World Series of BBQ events and “The Jack” considered the Super Bowl.
This year’s Texas Hobo Cook-Off will also feature a custom car & hot rod show, professional fireworks display and live concert by the Beau Walker Band. As the Cherokee County 4-H PALS Association created this event as fund-raiser for the county-wide 4-H & Youth Development Program, all proceeds will benefit its ever-growing membership. The Texas State Railroad has also allowed PALS to invite the individual local 4-H clubs to participate in the festivities. Keeping with the train inspired “Hobo” theme, this portion of the event has been titled the Gypsy Jamboree. All funds raised through the individual club booths will directly benefit that club. Several other local vendors have been invited to attend to provide a well-balanced festival feel.
Make plans to mingle with the Hobos and Gypsies this August! Bring the kids; there will be plenty to keep them busy. Bring your fishing poles and bank fish on the 20 acre stocked lake for $5.00 (payable at the park office) Don’t forget to say “Hi” to Hobo Joe if you see him!
For more information contact: Willie Arnwine
(903) 683-5416 Office